#Fenn and his busy hands…

[chirp-a-chirp]

Fenn: Hehe, as you wish Guy!

Guy: Get your hands off me!

[pocket-vvardvark]

Playing in West Weald makes me think of Fenn's quest 😭. I had to write some jealous Alethia 👉👈

Alethia was never jealous. Not even as a child. She never fought over her sister's toys, didn't bother vying for the affection of her parents over her sisters, and always sought to be fair. Jealousy never clawed it's way around her heart until now. There's a bitter taste on her tongue, like something she just cannot shake off. Her heart beats anxiously in her chest at the newfound feeling. There's no amount of prayer to Mara that can purify these thoughts. Alethia scoffs, biting the inside of her cheeks. Of course Ursilia made it to the party on Beragon's balcony. How thrilling. Instead of grinding her teeth to nubs, she smiles politely. 

"Glad to see you could make it." She draws up to them standing side by side, and it makes her skin crawl. 

"Alethia." Fennorian smiles warmly, "I heard all about your adventures here from the arcanist. Another amazing feat, my friend. You always make the Ravenwatch proud." She sinks her fingers into her palms. 'Friends'. 

"Thank you, Fennorian." Her smile doesn't reach her eyes. "That's kind of you to say. I see Ursilia received my invitation." She says innocently, "It's nice to see you again." Not.

Ursilia let's out a sigh, "Yes, I heard you played the role of hero for the region today. You've been busy. Oh, it's nice to see you too...not caked in the blood of my ex-husband and glaring daggers at me." She smirks, and Alethia blushes. Ursilia had made the connection far earlier than she'd expected to. "Oh, don't blush." Fennorian attempts to find Alethia's gaze, but she skittishly looks away. Her jealously morphs into dread. "I know you're jealous of our previous engagement. Honestly, I'm surprised you're fawning after a vampire. I've heard your surname used to carry weight in the isles, but perhaps an aprax wouldn't know." Stubbornly, Alethia refuses to be embarrassed at her own celebration. Like a pouting child, she turns on her heel to leave. 

"Alethia, wait!" Fennorian calls out to stop her. He gives Ursilia an admonishing look before rushing after her. Merryvine estate is too far, so Alethia makes a bee-line for the fertile respite. He manages to catch hint of her delicately braided red hair before she slips past the doors of the inn. The air is heavy, like any inn, and filled with the belches of drunkards. Fennorian has to push past half-aware men and mer to see Alethia rush to her room. He clambers up the creaky wooden stairs. Just as she's about to close her door, his hand stops it ajar.  Alethia gasps, her shoulders tensing upwards like a spring.

"Alethia." His brows pinch together as he catches his breath. "I know her words were sharp, but Ursilia isn't used to life outside of Summerset. Don't take her words to heart." 

Alethia frowns, her eyes already brimming with unshed tears. "You honestly think that's what upset me?" 

His brows turn up, an expression of confusion contorting to concern. Fennorian sighs, letting his hand slide down the doorframe. The metal bolts groan as his grip eases. He smiles sheepishly, "Sorry." 

The accident earns a little chuckle from her, "It's okay. Come in." The faded green door clicks once she shuts it behind him. The room is dark, save for a few candles lit nearby the bed. She sniffles, "I don't care about being called an aprax, Fenn. I'm...embarrassed about what she implied regarding our relationship." Her hands wring together anxiously. 

Fennorian smiles thoughtfully, "There's no need to be embarrassed, Alethia. She was teasing. I know the boundaries of our friendship." Gods, she wants to tear her hair out! How could he be so dense?

She supresses a grimace, "Do you? Are you sure you know what I want, Fenn?" She utters. His eyes catch hers in an electric glance. The air is thick as it settles in the stuffy room.

Her heart thumps in her chest as his boots creak upon the floorboards. "Then let me ask you this, Alethia. What do you want?" Her breath catches when he pinches her chin between his forefingers, gently tilting her face upwards. For a moment, she can only stare into his eyes in awe. Something raw and surly rushes through her veins as she changes their positions. He falls against the plush sheets of her bed as her body hovers above his.

She watches him with a narrowed gaze. "You're unfair, Fennorian. I can't stand this stupid game anymore. You must have an inkling of what I feel." Her lips ghost his throat, hot breath fanning against his cold skin. "You know what I want. Why do you torture me?" She whines, dragging her lips up his throat to his cheek. 

With a shuddering breath, he responds. "I had hope you shared my feelings, but I couldn't be sure, Alethia." His eyes shimmer in the dim candlelight, reflecting amber. Gingerly, as if one would touch a frightened animal, he strokes his knuckles across her fair cheek. "I regret holding these feelings in every turn I was too afraid to tell you. I love you, Alethia." 

She smiles warmly, cupping her hand onto his. "I love you too, Fennorian." She bends down, her eyes fluttering shut as she meets his lips in a slow kiss. She gasps as he catches her forearm, flipping her over easily with his enhanced strength. She whimpers pitifully as his fingers crawl up her blouse. His fangs catch the soft skin of her throat, brashly sucking until her back is arching. A growl rumbles through his chest, pooling heat in her shaking core. Frantically, her fingers grip the shoulder of his leathers while his stinging kisses follow lower until they're just above her pelvis. She pants softly beneath him, eyes half-cracked in pleasure. His fingers curl over her trousers, tugging downwards. The hot coil in her belly tightens with a lurch in excitement. That is, until her sleeping wolf pounces on Fennorian eagerly. Snowbouncer covers Fennorian's face in warm licks. The sweet sight causes laughter to bubble past her lips. 

"Ah...Snowbouncer. I'm afraid I don't have any treats for you, boy." Fennorian chuckles, patting the wolf's fur. Snowbouncer whines, pushing his snout against Fennorian's stomach in search for the missing treats. Alethia grins, "It's about time I fed him." Her eyes tear away from her wolf to Fennorian. "Care to stay the night?" 

His eyes crinkle, "I'd love to." 

[ithseem]

Drawing Henna Tattoos On the Consorts' Hands (S-Ranks edition)

"Why are you writing this?" Because no one else will. And because it's fucking fun

Saligia is full of wack flora and fauna, and since you've finally found something resembling a henna plant that can actually leave a stain and doesn't make you hallucinate or some other odd shit, you decided to crush some of the leaves up and make a batch. There was an upcoming festival, so this is a good opportunity to put those skills to use

Guy

Oh boy...The amount of puppy-eyeing you need to do 💀

He does eventually cave though, only because it's you. His own curiosity definitely has no part in this, what are you talking about?

He's going into this knowing that henna stains may take a few hours to set properly before he could wipe the dried paste off.

Because of that, he'd get all his stuff done before sitting down with you. You'd better do the same too.

He'd moisturize his hands and forearms as per your advice and hold still long enough to see you work your artistic skills, and he's quite impressed (He may or may not voice this).

He can see that working with henna can be fiddly, seeing how focused you are.

The small smile on his face after you finished means your mission was successful.

Lynt

You want to draw a tattoo with henna on his hand? Alright. It looks like it'd take a while to draw so he'd try and stay still if he'd fall asleep.

"Would you moisturize my hands for me? 🥺" is is excuse to feel your hands before you start your work.

He does fall asleep about half an hour in. He saw how focused you were, and the design already looked pretty good, so he trusts that he's in good hands (not that he has a reason to distrust you).

You did tell him ahead of time that the henna would take a few hours to properly set, so he'd try not to move his hand too much

Lynt's pretty sensitive, so once the henna feels properly dry, he'd wipe off the paste.

He seemed so pleased with the design that it seems a shame to use that hand too much. He'll ask Tino to do a bit more work until the stain wears off (Not that Tino minds)

Roy

When you told Roy about drawing tattoos with crushed leaves, he knew he'd want to try it. Especially on festival days.

Though he is a busy man, he'd make some time for you to do his henna and wait for a few hours to let the stain set. Probably on a day off or something.

He can't help but watch you while you put your artistic prowess to work.

And the design? It is absolutely gorgeous.

"That look of intense focus is quite captivating, you know? And the design looks gorgeous" - Roy Invidia

Fast forward several hours and he's wiped off the dried henna.

He wears the stain like a medal of honour.

Soon enough, all the girls found out about it and drew some designs on their own to wear on special occasions

Toa

He can't say he isn't curious about this custom, so he'll indulge you. And he wants to spend more time with you and watch your artistic skills in action.

Before his day off he made sure everything is done without any mistakes (he does that anyway, but he does this more meticulously than usual)

He washed and moisturized his hands before you got to work.

Drawing with a tube of paste can be fiddly, so he held still as possible (he was going to anyway, he just really doesn't want to break your concentration)

He has to admit, the design looks exquisite. You really put a lot of care and thought into it

The next day, you see him teaching his classes with the henna stained hand in plain sight.

He let his class in on this once his lecture finished.

Needless to say nigh everyone had a henna tattoo on ball days after that.

Fenn

You want to draw a tattoo on him? Using crushed leaves? He would love that!

He doesn't mind sitting still for an hour to see you work on something so beautiful.

Hands and forearms? Clean. Skin? Hydrated and moisturized by you (he likes feeling your hands). Hotel? Trivago.

The design you're working on is beautiful yes, but it pales compared to you. Especially right this moment since you look so focused.

The urge to try and fluster you is too strong, so he does when you lift the tube for a few moments.

The stain set a few hours later, and my goodness was the final product gorgeous.

And let me tell you: nigh everyone drew a tattoo with henna. Especially before ball nights

Rio

Rio would be more than happy to let you draw a design with henna on his hand, but he is a bit concerned about how he's going to eat his food. That henna(?) stuff doesn't seem too appetizing and he doesn't want to ruin your work. (Thoma volunteered to take over for his work for tending to the vegetable patch)

You opted for a simpler design on his forearm or on the back of his hand so it doesn't get too in the way of his food or work. Rio doesn't mind though. He knows what you'll create will be beautiful regardless

His hands and forearms are clean and moisturized and he's rarin to go (not without a few snacks to share with you, of course)

He can't say he's too well-versed in this art form, but you look like you know what your doing, and he likes the design.

The wait was definitely worth it, and he wears that stain like a badge of honour.

[darlingzelda]

Guy Avari x MC (Retsuko)

"A festival?! Guy, look!” Retsuko points excitedly to the advertisement board in the S rank lounge, patting her paramour on the arm as he read a book amongst the other S rank princes.  

“What.” he looks up for only a moment, then goes back to reading with a neutral expression on his face.  

“I believe she is referring to the upcoming Winter Festival, Master Guy.” Roy interjects from the next chair over, smiling over a cup of tea.  

“There is no need to bother with such trivial matters.” Guy replied, looking up from his book finally. “Festivals are unimportant. Jasper- coffee.” he says shortly, turning to his valet with a curt nod.  

“Yes, sir.” Jasper smiled, handing him a cup of steaming red coffee. “If I may, Miss Retsuko, you seem to be quite interested in Saligian holiday practices. The Winter Festival celebrates the season of Holy Night, and it is held in town every winter season.”  

“Really?” Retsuko’s interest was piqued. “I’d love to know more about it when you get the chance!”  

Jasper bowed respectfully. “Perhaps we can speak when you return to Prince Guy’s chambers this evening. I would be pleased to relay all that I know to you.”

Retsuko sat down again next to Guy, who had disinterestedly returned to reading his book.  

“Why do you not like festivals, Guy? Have you ever been to one before?” she asked curiously, peering into his dark crimson eyes.  

“As I have already said, they are pointless. Trivial wastes of time.” he responds, appearing to be slightly annoyed. Lynt, who was seated on the other side of him, leaned on his shoulder with a heavy yawn.  

“I think Retsuko is saying she would enjoy attending with you, Guy.” the Akedian prince looked up at him with sleepy green eyes, to which Guy scoffed.  

“We have better uses of our time.”

Retsuko frowned to herself. She knew Guy didn’t particularly care for frivolous events, but it would have been the Christmas holiday season back on Earth. Part of her wanted to figure out how to organize something festive to show him how much the holidays mean, but she’d need sage advice on his preferences to get him to participate in such a thing.  

“Jasper? Would you actually mind helping me with something a little later? I think I have an idea.” she said, turning to Guy’s valet.  

Jasper chuckled. “I will do my best. Although, knowing you, Miss Retsuko, the idea is somewhat of a large ordeal.”  

“Wha- hey!” she protested, and Guy shot an irritated look at his laughing servant.  

“Jasper. Refrain from such ridiculous commentary.”

“As you wish, Sir.” the valet replied, shaking with silent laughter.

Retsuko spent the rest of her day trying to come up with ideas. She even asked around among the Princes for opinions, but their ideas were all very different and out of sorts. Roy had suggested cooking traditional Earthen food for Guy to try, Lynt told her to set up a cozy atmosphere and relax with him by the fireside, Rio wanted her to surprise him with a present such as was given on Christmas, Fenn told her to try introducing him to Christmas traditions from her family, and even Toa offered the idea of preparing an array of traditional holiday sweets.  

However, there was no way to combine all of them into one huge surprise, so she decided to ask Jasper about each of them and see what he thought.  

When she came to Guy’s chambers that evening to visit, the prince himself was seated on his settee with a cup of coffee as Jasper opened the door for her.  

“Ah. Miss Retsuko has arrived, Prince Guy.” he bowed, allowing her to enter the sitting room.  

Guy looked up from his coffee. “Sit.”

She crossed over and sat near to him, watching Jasper add more to the pile of paperwork on the table before them. “Are you busy, Guy? I can leave if I’m interrupting your work-”  

“Not necessary.” Guy interrupted, using magic to motionlessly lift her into the air and seat her on his lap.

Jasper gave his master a knowing smirk. “Oh dear. It seems I am interrupting yet again. I will go and fetch a beverage for Miss Retsuko.”  

“Do so.” Guy answers, his red eyes not leaving Retsuko’s.  

When Jasper leaves the room, he pulls her close so that her head rests on his scarlet and gold-clad chest. “I have sorely missed your company.”

Retsuko smiled, nuzzling closer into his chest. “I missed you too, Guy. What are you working on right now?” she eyed the stack of papers with interest.  

“Business regarding trade policies. It should not take much longer for me to complete them and send them back to Avari.” he responded. “However, I am not busy enough that I should have to ignore your company.”

“I remember that Jasper said you were busy!” Retsuko recalls, causing Guy to scowl.  

“That meddling Jasper.”

“You called, sir?” the valet came in with a teasing smile on his face, holding a cup of steaming tea for Retsuko.  

“Jasper.” Guy frowned, unamused by his jokes.  

He handed Retsuko the tea, and Guy let her slide off his lap and onto the settee beside him.  

“I have urgent business I must attend to. Stay here until I return shortly.” he stood, his regal attire sweeping the floor as he promptly left.  

“I believe you wanted to speak to me, Miss Retsuko?” Jasper seated himself in an armchair, looking expectantly at the young lady.  

“Yeah. I want to make a really fun surprise for Guy for the holidays, because it reminds me of loving Christmas back home- but I’m not sure what he’d enjoy. All the other princes gave me suggestions, but I really want it to be something Guy would participate in with me.” she frowned, putting a finger to her chin.  

“Ah.... I believe I understand what you mean. His highness enjoys spending time with you most of all, so perhaps that should be the largest factor in your surprise.” Jasper pushed his glasses up on the bridge of his nose. “Other than that, I might be able to persuade him to take a step away from his work for a day or so for you to enact your surprise.”

“Perfect! I think I can get everything together in time! How does tomorrow sound?” she asked, leaning forward excitedly, eyes gleaming.  

“I’ll see what I can do, Miss Retsuko.” Jasper nodded, giving her a smile.  

“Thank you, Jasper!”

Guy came back a few minutes later, looking thoroughly disgruntled. Seating himself again, he glanced at Retsuko. “Curfew is coming up soon. See that you return to your own chambers, lest Qelsum have reason to catch you wandering the halls past dark.”  

“All right, Guy. Goodnight! I'll see you tomorrow.” she stood up, swiftly delivering a kiss to his cheek.  

He glanced up, following her receding figure with his crimson eyes. “I will see you again tomorrow.”

As soon as Retsuko set foot in her own chambers, her feline familiar curled around her legs happily. “Welcome back, Milady! I have been waiting for you to return from Prince Guy’s chambers!”  

She reached down to scratch the black fur between his ears. “Hello, Iggy.”

“Will you begin your holiday preparations tomorrow?” he leapt up onto her bed, sitting beside her as she got herself undressed.  

“Yes. Jasper’s going to persuade Guy to finish his work early so I can have him to myself for a while!” she said excitedly, patting the little cat while she slid into a nightgown.  

“Hooray! What a pleasant turn of events for you, milady!” Iggy mewed, his fuzzy face breaking into a smile.  

She retired to bed, turning the lights out and allowing her familiar to curl at her side. She thought about Guy as she drifted off, wondering if he was thinking of her too....

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

When she arose the next morning, all Retsuko could think about was getting her surprise together for Guy while she dressed herself.  

She slid into a white collared shirt with frills at the sleeves, opting to put a red sleeveless dress over it for a layered effect. “Guy will be so surprised! Hopefully Jasper can work his persuasive magic......”

The first thing on the task list was getting a place set aside. Toa, who was generally in charge of academic affairs and rules, would have the ability to grant her access to S-rank exclusive spaces for the day, so that was what she opted to do as she headed for the princes’ lounge.  

Guy was absent, she noted, probably due to Jasper’s persuasion to do his work earlier in the day. However, Roy, Lynt, Fenn, and Toa sat conversing with one another idly, all enjoying beverages of different sorts.  

“Toa?”  

The Qelsan prince looked up from his assortment of chocolates. “Have you need of me?”

Retsuko nodded nervously. Since she was asking for something related to Guy’s enjoyment, he was less likely to grant her access. “Actually, I was wondering if you’d let me reserve the lounge for a celebration I was going to put together for Guy.”  

Toa’s eyebrows shot up. “Avari....?”

“Yeah. I wanted to show him how the holiday season can be fun, and, you know.... so he’d participate in something with me. He’s been working so much lately.” she explained, anxiously twisting her fingers together.  

Toa gave her a disgruntled look. “For his personal pleasure...? I suppose, since it’s you asking.... I will let you use this room for one night and one night only. You must tidy after any messes you make and have the room the way it was before when you leave.” he said finally, sighing.  

“Oh, thank you, Toa!” she cheered, smiling winsomely. “I promise I’ll do exactly as you said!”

“See that you do.”  

The princes all wished her good luck and filed out of the room, each giving her an encouraging pat on the shoulder.  

“Right!” She put her hands on her hips and surveyed the room. “I need a couple of things to make it more festive in here. Maybe Sherry and Violet could help me, they could probably source decorations and set them up.”  

Thankfully, neither of the two women were busy when Retsuko went to find them. She explained what she needed, and both agreed to help quite cheerfully.  

When all three returned to the room, they were laden with several different boxes, full of supplies to make Guy’s surprise come together.  

“Thank you for agreeing to help me with all this!” Retsuko pants, setting down a large container of tinsel, ornaments, and red lanterns.  

“Oh, tosh. Anything for you, dear Retsuko!” Sherry placed her boxes of food onto the coffee table, giving Retsuko a sweet smile.  

“Quite! I must say, Guy will appreciate all the effort you put into planning all this, dear.” Violet set hers down as well, looking around the room with interest.  

“Alright, ladies. Let’s get to working!” Retsuko smiles encouragingly, and they set to decorating the S rank lounge.  

Retsuko draped a red and gold tablecloth over the coffee table and helped Sherry lay out different seasonal foods, which Jasper had made with Retsuko’s careful instructions. Violet hung tinsel over the hearth, starting a merrily crackling fire below.  

Lanterns were hung around the cozy seating area, and blankets draped over the cushioned chairs and sofas. Jasper had prepared cakes, a ham glazed with Invidian honey (courtesy of Roy), a fine-looking array of aged cheese, and Luxurian red wine that Violet got from Fenn.  

Retsuko also hung little chains of paper snowflakes from the ceiling, creating an ambient look of gentle snowfall. Meanwhile, Sherry and Violet ran to fetch Jasper to look over it all and provide information on Guy’s status.  

When he saw the state of the lounge, Jasper smiled in admiration. “It looks quite wonderful, Miss Retsuko. I’m sure His Majesty will delight in the fact you did all this for him.”

“How’s he doing, by the way?” Retsuko asked curiously, setting out the Invidian silverware, glasses, and plates given for her to borrow from Roy.  

“He is finishing as we speak. I have informed him that you would like his company here in about five minutes, but he has no idea of what you have planned.” Jasper replies with a polite bow, his black ponytail swishing.  

“Oh, that’s perfect! Thank you ever so much, Jasper!”  

“Best of luck, Miss Retsuko.” he guided Sherry and Violet out of the lounge, and all Retsuko could do was wait anxiously at the door for Guy to come.  

Would he really be pleased, or was this another thing he would dismiss as nonsense? Half the things she tried getting him to do with her either were rejected or he didn’t look too enthused about it, but put up with it silently for her sake.  

She was interrupted from her thoughts by a sharp knock on the door.  

“Gah!” Retsuko’s shoulders jumped, and she turned the handle. “Guy, is that you?”

She opened the door to see her paramour standing there, his crimson eyes unreadable. “Jasper told me that you have need of me. What could you possibly need at this hour of the evening? You have not come to my chambers once today.”  

“About that..... you should probably see this first.” she opened the door wider to allow him to see the room. “Surprise, Guy!”

His eyes went wide as he took in the scene of the room, its peaceful air much different than what it usually was. “What is this?”

“Jasper helped me set up a Winter celebration for you! Since you didn’t want to go to the festival with me, I thought to create a personal celebration that would help me share how special the holidays on Earth were to me.” she said sheepishly, blushing furiously. “Do.....you like it?”

Guy’s eyes roved around the room and came to rest on hers. “So this is why Jasper would not speak a word of where you were.” he sighed with a frown. “You are troublesome.”

“Guy...” Retsuko complained, although she knew that he really felt relieved that she was okay and was trying to hide it.  

“You did well.” he said finally, following her inside and looking at everything she had prepared. “So this is what Holy Night looks like where you came from....?”

“Yeah! I did my best. Jasper even made traditional food for us from my instructions.” Retsuko answered happily, sitting next to him by the merrily crackling fire. 

Guy glanced at the food-laden table. He was not one to put any meaning into holidays or celebrations, at least usually. However... since Retsuko seemed to enjoy that sort of thing, he indulged her by staying silent about his misgivings and participating- at least grudgingly.

He knew how it felt to miss family tradition. His mother was the only reason he did so as a child, and since she was gone, his Father became cold and distant. Therefore, his reason to participate in such a celebration had disappeared almost entirely.  

“You did all this so I would enjoy the holidays, but I would rather have you by my side alone than spend the winter months amongst others.” Guy stated, looking at Retsuko possessively.  

“You would....?”  

Guy gave her a stern, irritated look. “I have said it before, and I will say it again. You are my woman. I will not suffer your company to belong any other. You. Are. Mine.”  

Retsuko smiled. Guy liked to express his passion this way, even though it may not sound passionate. He had his own way of expressing his feelings.

“All that you are is mine.”

Toa had lent her one of his prized record players for the evening, and it played soft classical music in the background as the paramours sat together, basking in the warmth of one another’s affection.  

Guy abruptly stood up, offering his hand to Retsuko with a slight, soft smile. “Dance with me.”

“What? Here? By ourselves?” she blushed, taking his hand and letting him pull her into his gentle embrace. Guy nodded. “You have provided music, so we might as well make use of the time we have together while Jasper is not here to make his teasing remarks.” he replied.  

He put his arm around her waist, the other holding her hand with a mild softness. This gentle and caring side of him was rare, only ever visible to Retsuko.  

She mirrored his actions, looking up at him with a fond, wondering expression.  

“You are only ever mine. Everything you are belongs to me.” he swayed with her, pulling her closer with the arm around her waist.  

Retsuko blushed furiously. “Guy, I’m not property...”

“I know.” he answered. “And all that I am belongs to you. No other woman has ever or will ever enter my line of sight.”  

“Guy.........”

He pulled her flush to his body, pressing a sweet and chaste kiss to her lips.  

The air outside swirled with the cold howls of darkest winter, but in that room, at that moment, the soft glow of the lights and the warmth of the two lovers glowed brighter than the darkest shades of night.

[atomsminecraft]

MC using a spray bottle on the S-Ranks when they misbehave. I just wanna see Guy SOPPING WET

HOLY FUCK I’M SO SORRY THIS TOOK SO LONG I LITERALLY HAVE NO CONCEPT OF TIME(I was also busy and being a lazy bi-)

Ok so like, they might not be 100% what you asked for but I’m the writer so I’ll write these the best I can haha-(Please don’t hate me)

I’m also not very good at their wording(or writing haha-) and how they act so please forgive me for any inaccuracy-

Warning: Not proof read(mostly)

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

Fenn.

It was a surprisingly normal day today, I grabbed my bag(That's a surprise tool that will help us later-), went to class, talked with Sherry and Rio, and now it's almost lunch time.

"Treasureeee" Oh god not this again, of course it can't be a normal day. What was I thinking? I feel an arm go around my waist into a half hug.

"Afternoon, Fenn." I say.

"Treasure, what say you spend time with me during lunch? I promise I'll make it worth your while." I feel his hand lower and grab my ass.

"Fenn." I stare at him and get ready to grab the little surprise tool in my bag. I take out the spray bottle and give him a spray from it. Haha now his face and hair is wet.

Fenn pouts, "You're no fun," He lets go of me and puts his hands back and wipes his face. "Is that a no to the lunch offer?"

I cross my arms, "It's very much a no."

"Well, the offer still stands if you change your mind." He winks at me then leaves, for the time being at least.

Guy

(I don't have many ideas after this so please forgive me)

(some of you are gonna hate me for how long this is gonna be so I'm sorry)

I was talking to another student about something in class they had a problem with. Why did they ask me? I have no idea. From what they said, I understood it better than they did and the professor left before they could ask any questions after class. Oh yeah and they were also acting very nervous around me.

He listened to me intently, taking notes, even! I actually kinda liked this feeling, it felt like I was the teacher for once! I continued to answer any questions the dude had about the topic until he suddenly looked really nervous as I felt someone loom over me.

"I- I think I got it now, thank you!"

"Wait but I wasn't done-" Aaaaand the student ran away. I looked behind me to see Guy standing over me. "Did you need something?"

"Why were you talking to that student?"

"He was asking a question about a lecture me and him had."

Guy scowls, "He should have asked the professor or asked someone else."

"The professor had to leave so he couldn't ask any questions." I answered.

"He clearly asked for other reasons. You're mine, I won't let anyone else take you." His "You're mine" comments really aggravate me. Was this the only reason he wanted to talk to me?

"I don't belong to anyone," I glared. "Was that all?"

He huffed and grabbed my arm, not rough enough to hurt me though. "Come with me." He pulled me towards the direction of the dorms and I soon got tired of trying to get out of his grip. When we got to his room, he finally let go of me and sat down.

"Gotta really appreciate the consent in bringing me here". I said sarcastically. "What did you bring me here for anyways?" he huffs and doesn't say anything. I roll my eyes, I swear to god he really needs to learn to communicate with others. An idea suddenly pops in my head and I grab the spray bottle.

"Communicate." sprits "Your," sprits "Emotions." sprits

For a moment he looked shocked then glared at me and grabbed my spray bottle and sprayed me with it. Oh boy this was gonna be fun.

(Sorry I had to make this a little light hearted haha- please don't hate me)

Toa

Lectures were going on and at the moment Toa is my professor.

GOD DAMN IT WHY WON'T THIS WATER TURN INTO WINE, IF JESUS COULD DO IT SO CAN I

I continued to try and concentrate on turning the water into wine but I feel the judgment of someone staring at me and it temps me to look to the side of where the feeling is radiating off of and I see- HOLY FUCK IT'S TOA. I jump in my seat because he's literally standing next to me and I didn't even hear him or see him.

We continue staring at each other until I decide to break the silence. "Do you need something...?"

"How is it that you've done everything else correct but doing something as simple as turning water into wine?" He asks. Wow thanks for announcing that to the class. How about you tell me how a car is made now?

I shrug, "I don't know, I just can't seem to do it." I hear some students snickering.

Toa sighs, "Speak to me after class." And with that, class continues...

After the bell rings, I grab my stuff and walk to the front of the class and to Toa. It’s a shame this is my last class, I could have used the excuse of saying I need to get to my next class then say I forgot about him wanting to talk to me.

“Since you appear to be unable to do the assignment, I will be having you practice here until I excuse you.” Hey, at least it’s not him having me read tons of books. That memory gives me war flashbacks...

“At this point, I don’t even know I can do it anymore. I’ve tried countless times and-”

“I didn’t ask for your excuses. Sit down near the front and I will watch you and point out what you’re doing wrong.” One part of me really wants to see if I can run out of this classroom, the other part of me knows that if I try he’ll scold me and make it more difficult for me. That and I’ll likely get in trouble. I sigh and take a seat and a cup of water is set in front of me. Welp, time for another round of failure...

It feels like hours have gone by, though it was likely only an hour, and Toa continues telling me the things I’ve been going wrong; my posture, the position my hands are in, moving around too much, too stiff, my visualization, me zoning out and not paying attention, etc. I really am tired of this.

“Toa.” I say. He looks at me confused for a moment then surprised then annoyance after I grab the spray bottle from my bag and spray him with it. “Toa, stop with that Spartan way of teaching and be nicer.”

“My what-”

“Stop being so strict. I’m unable to help the fact I can’t do this “simple” spell that you keep shoving in my face.” He looks at me for a moment before sighing.

“I’ll stop bothering you about it then. You are dismissed.” I smile at him and he looks away.

“I don’t mind you teaching me in private, just try and be less strict and I’ll be able to tolerate it more.”

“I’ll... Keep that in mind.” Toa goes to grab papers on his desk and I look back at the water in front of me. I close my eyes for the manyith time and imagined what I wanted to happen. Water turning into wine. A sudden warmth suddenly appeared in my hands and when I opened my eyes, the water was wine. I looked up to see Toa staring at me, smiling. I smiled back.

(I know Manyith isn’t a word, let me make up words haha)

Roy

(oh boy time to put my thinking caps on cuz now I have no idea what to do with the rest of the S-Ranks, sorry if they’re short. Pray for me ya’ll, this gonna be made very yes after this)

Wow, great day, very sunny. I really don’t know what to say. Sherry dragged my outside and into the courtyard because she wanted to show me something apparently and she’s refusing the answer my questions.

“Can you tell me who or what you’re looking for?” I ask. Sherry has been looking for something for the past, I don’t know, 30 or so minutes.

“Hehe, not yet. It’s meant to be a surprise!” I don’t like the tone she’s using, this means she has some mischief planned. I wonder what, though... Before I can finish my thought, I hear Sherry celebrate in victory and I look over to see she has a hose. Oh god please tell me we’re gonna prank someone with that

“What are you planning on doing with that?” I tilt my head slightly in confusion and she laughs.

“You know that spray bottle you carry?”

“Um. Yeah? What about it?” I’m even more confused. Sherry’s smile gets bigger and she backs out of the way as I suddenly feel water spray on me from behind. “Hey!” I yelp in surprise and look back only to see Roy with another hose.

Roy laughs, “Revenge for last time,” he winks at me and suddenly I’m being sprayed by both Sherry and Roy. I’m being ganged up on by the brother and sister combo! I grab my spray bottle and start chasing Roy with it and occasionally Sherry, though she ran away after some time and so I got ahold of her hose and started chasing Roy with it. We continued to spray each other with water until we tire ourselves out.

Lynt

(Oh poor baby, he doesn’t deserve such bullying)

Where did he go? I swear he should have been in the courtyard like we planned. I spotted Tino and ran up to him.

“Tino, have you seen Lynt anywhere? I haven’t been able to find him.”

“Miss MC!” I guess I surprised him, whoops. “My apologies, I have not seen the young master. Have you checked his quarters?”

“I’ve checked everywhere I thought he would be. We were meant to meet up at the courtyard but he wasn’t there either.”

“Oh stars... I shall help you look for him then! That is if you don’t mind.”

“Thank you,” I smile, “I would appreciate it. If we can’t find him in an hour let's meet back here.” I get Tino’s approval for the plan and we walk our separate ways. Should I double check where I’ve looked? I probably missed some areas, I can look there again. Hmm... Maybe he’s sleeping somewhere in the courtyard? Hopefully I’m right...

I walk back to the courtyard and go on my search. Maybe if I’m quiet enough I’ll hear him? I stop and look around at potential hiding spots. I spot some strangely colored green near a flower bush and walk over. “So you were hiding here...”

Lynt opens his eyes then smiles at me, “Oh, MC, what are you doing here?”

“We agreed to meet up at the courtyard so you can speak to me, remember?” While I do find his behavior cute at times, it’s really annoying when he just forgets things like this. I’d rather not have my time waisted, even if it’s worth spending some extra time with him.

“Oh yes, that,” He still looks tired. He better not fall aslee- Lynt closes his eyes once more and I can just feel the upcoming headache this will cause.

“Lynt.” No responce. “Lynt, wake up.” Still no response. I really have no other choice now, do I?” I sigh and I grab my spray bottle and kneel down and softly squirt his face. My hand is suddenly grabbed and I’m pulled down onto Lynt chest.

“Sleepy... Would you sleep with me?” WORDING, AKEDIA, WORDING.

“But what about-” He’s already asleep before I can respond to him. God damn it. Whatever am I going to do with him...

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

FINALLY

I FINISHED WRITING THIS

IT’S BEEN 15 YEARS /j

If I missed someone please tell me my memory is just a big no

[imabeautifulbutterfly]

Once Upon a Time on the Razor Crest

Summary: Din gives you a brief layout of his home.

A/N: Hello lovelies,

Another week, another chapter. It's funny as I'm editing, the story keeps getting longer. Lol.

Just want to remind everyone that the Razor Crest story is going to be a series of short stories dealing with the life of the Razor Crest Ranch, Ann's past and their future.

Once one series is done, there will be a two to three week break before the next series is posted. I hope that made sense.

Love oo.

Due to the past history of the OC there will be discussions alluding to past domestic abuse, please note that as it could be a trigger for some.

Warning: feelings of safety, discussions of comm connections, mentions of protection, family endangerment, feelings of mistrust, I think that's it. If I miss anything please let me know.

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THE RAZOR CREST SEVEN

CHAPTER SIX

The way she looked around the room, made Din pause for a brief second. He couldn’t help wonder what exactly had she gone through. Yet, at the same time he had no right to inquire, it wasn’t any of his business to know about her past. 

He pushed the thought aside, as his mind focused back on showing the room.

“There’s a closet right here,” Din motioned to the door to his left, “it’s not very big. There’s some extra blankets and pillows if you need in the bedroom bench” he opened the end-of-bed bench as he spoke, showing off the various blankets and their varying thickness. 

Camilla was an avid blanket aficionado and adamant when it came to blankets, stating over and over again whenever she walked into the house with a newly purchased one, they were a necessity. Each blanket was unique and served a different purpose, just because you might use one in winter, doesn’t mean you would use the same one in spring, and having just one blanket for each season was never enough.  

As I stood in the room, this feeling of complete safety washed over me. I finally felt safe. I’m not sure if it was because of the remote location, or due to the man I met not even an hour ago who was willing to take the chance on me, or because I had an escape route with Cobb and Fenn if I needed. 

For the first time in a long time, I finally was able to let out a breath of relief, tears were welling up in my eyes as a lump formed in my throat, which I quickly tried to swallow down. I didn’t want to cry.

Din watched her not quite able to understand what she was thinking or feeling. There was just a blank expression on her face as she glanced around the room, he couldn’t tell if she was upset or pleased with the room, however, he figured it was better to play it safe and assumed the former, “I’m sorry it’s not more, but feel free to make it your own after you complete your three months.”

“No” I shook my head, turning to look out the window as I discreetly wiped a tear, “No, it’s great. Cozy.” I cursed myself as my voice trembled. I took in a deep breath turning to look at Din, “Thank you. It’s quite lovely.”

The expression on her face stunned him for a second, her face bloomed with joy, the only way he could describe the radiance she seemed to have was that she finally found hope. It made her look enchanting, he glanced around the room focusing his attention elsewhere.  

“I’m glad you like it,” he nodded. 

“Oh, before I forget,” he continued, “personal comms sometimes have a hard time working out here. We have internet which technically should be harder to get out here, but nope that’s easy to access.” He shrugged as she tilted her head at him as to ask why, when he held up his hand, “Don’t bother asking why one and not the other. I have spent a lot of time trying to fix it, so my personal comm could work, but I’ve finally given up. I think it has something to do with the minerals in the mountains that are at my door step. Anyway, there’s a landline in the kitchen, in the bedrooms, as you can see from the one in your room” he motioned with his head to the non-portable comm, “There’s also one in the study, living room and barn. If you ever need to use the phone, you can use one of those, just not the one in my bedroom. After three months, we can talk about getting you a private line, if you wish.”

I nodded in agreement, but really who was I going to call. I couldn’t call any of my friends or family or it would put them in danger, learned that after the first time I tried to leave. It was better not to make deeper connections with anyone, yet Cobb and Fennec both said that now things were different. They’d be able to watch out for me, and provide me a layer of protection I didn’t have before, there was a hope things would be getting better. I still wouldn’t be able to reach out to my family, at least not until they’d be able to set up some way to contact them discreetly, the sheer idea of having that option weighed heavily on my heart. However, it wasn’t important to focus on that, especially since that was not a guaranteed possibility. Instead, what I needed to focus on was the here and now. 

“Appreciate it. Don’t worry, I wouldn’t be entering your room unless it’s to clean or grab the laundry.”

Din simply shook his head, “Not even then.” There was a quizzical expression on her face, ion response to his statement. 

“You don’t have to clean my room, I’ll do it. You can simply leave the fresh bedding on the chair in front of the door to my room. Anyway, laundry room is off the back entrance, and I have a laundry shoot that goes directly into that room. You may find on occasion some dirty clothes or towels in the mud room which is beside the kitchen and in front of the laundry room. We have a storm cellar, filled with essentials for the occasional tornadoes, the entrance is in the kitchen. There’s a faux pantry door, which leads you down there, I’ll show you when you’re ready. It’s also where I keep the wine and liquor.”

“How long could someone stay down there for?”

“Depends on the amount of people, but if it’s two or three people, I would say about four to six months. If there’s more, we’ll go through our rations a lot faster.”

My eyes widened in shock, “How … how big is it?”

“Big enough to house, two bedrooms, washroom, living room, kitchen, study, rec room/work out room and storage room.” Din chewed on the inside of his cheek wondering if maybe he made a mistake revealing too much too soon. 

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@littlemisspascal@sprout-fics@liadamerondjarin @badbatch-simp24 @spicymcnuggies @lady-ren @firstofficerwiggles @darkangel4121 @discofern @kavecika @monako-jinn-stories @ladykatakuri @avathebestx @theroguesully @furyhellfire66 @carodealmeida @ciramaris @twinkofthedink @dindjarin-mandalorian @tortor-mcgee @sarcasmismyonlydefense24 @chiyo13

[abugwritesstuff]

The Princes React to MC Being Sick: Lance

last one! i love writing lance so this was fun. enjoy!

---

The tavern was livelier than usual and it was giving Lance a headache. At least, he was fairly certain that was what it was. It could’ve also been the sound of Fenn and Hawke’s overly loud banter back and forth, which he’d been unfortunately caught between. Usually such noise was bearable, but this evening was proving to be too much for his nerves. Gritting his teeth, he swished the last remaining dregs of his whiskey around in the bottom of his glass before sending it back and slamming the glass to the counter. 

“Ah, already finished? Will you go another round with us, then?” Fenn’s arm snaked around his shoulder and he leaned in close enough for Lance to pick out the precise liquors in the other man’s most recent cocktail. 

“‘Fraid not,” Lance grumbled. He pushed back from his seat and shrugged his coat back on, then dug in his pocket for change, depositing it on the bar and nodding to the bartender. “I’m heading back now.”

“Oi lad, kind of an early night for ya,” Hawke slurred, his eyes wide. “Sure you don’t want another before you go?”

Fenn grinned and reached across to give the professor a hearty slap on the shoulder. “You’re forgetting he has a girl to go home to these days,” he teased. “Perhaps his mind is just… elsewhere.”

Hawke feigned offense and clapped a hand to his chest. “Are we not entertaining enough for ya, lad?”

Lance scowled. “Shut up, you. It’s none of your business anyway. I’m just tired,” he retorted, sending a sharp glare at both men- who after sharing a brief look of their own, burst into drunken laughter and turned to the bartender to order their next round. 

Outside, the cool night air and relative silence calmed Lance’s nerves. It wasn’t entirely off-base for them to accuse him of thinking of his paramour, really. And he had become somewhat more straight-laced in the time since he’d made her his girl. He even attended classes most days, to the extent that he’d elevated rank alongside her. Not that it was difficult, mind you, but bothering with the effort to go about it at all was entirely because she’d pouted at the suggestion he’d remain a C rank out of pure negligence. Her face… did things to him. Strange, un-Lance-like things. 

Now that they’d put the idea in his head, Lance found himself turning in the direction of the dorms. He hadn’t planned on doing anything other than retiring to his chambers, smoking a bit, and passing out, but now that he was thinking of her, he craved seeing her. The hour was late, but perhaps she wasn’t quite asleep yet.

Sneaking up the stairs was easier this time of night since prefect Toa was off-duty, he noted. He crept up the stairs and turned the corner to her chambers, knocking twice on her familiar door. He’d really only been a few times, but he’d memorized the route just in case. Strangely though, there was silence and no response. His stomach sank with disappointment as the seconds stretched on- no light came from underneath her door, so thinking her asleep, he turned to leave.

“Ah, Prince Ira?”

He looked over his shoulder to find the tiny Invidian princess standing there at the next door down. She was clad in a long pink nightgown and was rubbing her eyes blearily. “Sorry,” he apologized. “I didn’t mean to wake you. I’ll be off.”

“Wait. You are looking for MC, yes? I’m glad you came. I don’t believe I saw her return to her chambers this evening.”

“...Pardon?” Lance turned around and stared at her. “What do you mean?”

Sherry folded her arms, looking worried. “She remained in the library to study after Rio and I left. I thought I would see her in the refectory or later when she returned to the dorms, but I didn’t. It is awfully late for her to be out.”

Lance took in a breath. It was true that she didn’t often stay out late. Curfew had passed, so she certainly wouldn’t be out of her own volition. She wasn’t a delinquent like he was, after all. There were only two options: she’d been detained somewhere, or she’d remained in the library. Shaking off the nerves of the first possibility, Lance nodded his thanks to Sherry and waved at her. “I’ll find her. No need to worry, Princess.”

“Thank you, Prince Lance.”

“Just Lance is fine.”

Lance snuck back down the stairs and headed for the library. This was another route he’d become increasingly familiar with in his time since meeting her. The girl spent a truly inordinate amount of time there, much to his dismay. When she dragged him there to complete homework assignments it was practically an academic jail sentence: he knew he wasn’t leaving anytime soon. 

When he entered the library, a few lamps were still lit. Lance lit a ball of light in his palm to guide his way, scanning the aisles of bookshelves and study tables for signs of his paramour. Finally, in a back corner of the library he spotted her, slumped over a table strewn with books and paper filled with notes. Relief crept over him and he sped to her side to rouse her. 

“Oi, wake up. It’s late, you ought to get to bed. Properly, not here.”

“Hmmph…?” she mumbled, then started, sitting up abruptly. A piece of notepaper stuck to the side of her face and Lance peeled it off, leaning on the table to get a better look at her face. “Oh, Lance…? Why are you here…?”

“Because I was looking for you. Have you any idea how late it is? Can’t sleep here, you’ll catch a cold,” Lance replied, holding out a hand to her. “Come now, off to bed with you.”

She stared at his hand for a moment, disoriented. As she began to reach out her own hand, her face screwed up and she turned quickly, sneezing so hard the papers around her fluttered, sending some flying off the table. She sniffled a bit and blinked up at him.

It was at this moment that Lance took note of the puffy look around her eyes and the labored sound of her breath. He sent the disrupted papers back to the table in a pile and took her by the hand, pulling her to her feet to examine her face up close. “...You’ve already caught a cold of some sort by the looks of it,” he declared. He sighed. “This is why you oughtn’t stay out in the library late like this. Come now.”  

He dragged his slightly disoriented paramour from the library- and instead of taking her to her own bedroom, he took off his cloak, settled it onto her shoulders, and led her off to his own chambers. 

“...I appreciate all this, but just a little cold isn’t all that serious. I could just rest in my own room and I’m sure I’d be fine tomorrow,” she protested weakly.

While this was technically true, Lance found himself rebelling against it internally. And that said, her condition seemed to be worsening the closer they came to dorm Nivalis. Her steps had slowed considerably and her breathing had become more labored. All in all, it appeared to be the beginnings of a rather nasty illness. Lance had more than enough reasons to take illnesses seriously. 

“You’ll stay with me.”

“It’s no problem?”

He raised an eyebrow. “It’s never been a problem. Never will be.” He placed a hand on her back and ushered her into the room, then onto the bed, immediately turning to start a fire in the fireplace and tp set the kettle to boiling for a pot of tea. She watched as he rifled around in the drawers for clothing, which he then tossed in her direction beside her on the bed. “Go ahead and change into those. A bit big for you, but warmer than what you’ve got on.”

She picked up the clothing and slowly began the process of peeling off her clothing. Out of courtesy, Lance usually kept his back turned- it seemed like the right thing to do, even if she was his paramour, but casting one glance over his shoulder he saw the fatigue creeping into each movement, her fingers moving clumsily and slowly over each button. Sighing, he walked across the room and sank to his knees in front of her. 

“You’re going to freeze if you take that long,” he huffed. With a flourish of magic, her clothes peeled off and pooled at the floor, and Lance took to swiftly redressing her in his own oversized clothes, which hung off her frame cartoonishly. Throughout the process her face turned pink- something Lance elected to pretend he didn’t notice but privately found rather amusing. 

“You’re awfully quick with that,” she mumbled, rolling up one sleeve of his sweatshirt around her wrist as he rolled the other. 

“I’ve had to do it for Christoph from time to time,” Lance explained, standing. “He fell into the pond once in the winter. Would’ve been frostbitten if I hadn’t been quick about it.” With that, he turned and poured a cup of hot water- then squeezed a bit of lemon and honey and tipped in a healthy dash of whiskey. He passed it to her silently and after a single sip, she stopped and stared down at the drink quizzically. 

“Does this have alcohol in it?”

Lance nodded. “Yes. Good for the throat, that is. Drink all of it.”  

She rolled her eyes a bit. “Yessir,” she mumbled against the rim of the cup. But she did as told, so Lance was satisfied and he pulled up a chair beside the bed and leaned his chin on his hand, watching her as she sat cross-legged on the bed drinking. She glanced in his direction and raised an eyebrow quizzically. “Are you just going to sit there and watch me?” she asked.

He shrugged. “...Perhaps.”

After a few moments, her gaze softened and she reached over to run her hand across his hair. “You’re a little bit of a worrier, y’know,” she murmured. Through the haze of her burgeoning illness, Lance could see the mischievous, teasing glint in her eye and scoffed, sitting back in his chair. 

“Not hardly,” he replied. “I just know not to take these things too lightly. You’re a bit reckless. Someone ought to take care of you.”

She gasped, feigning offense. “Me, reckless? Who’s the one that skips out on class and breaks curfew every night?”

Lance laughed. “I don’t do that nearly as much these days. Besides, this evening you broke curfew all on your own. Perhaps we’re rubbing off on each other,” he teased. “We have to keep the balance some way, eh?”

With a giggle she hid her face in her mug and drank the remaining drops of the drink and smiled as Lance took the empty cup and placed it on the table for her. “You’re really very motherly, you know.” 

Lance’s face screwed up. “Motherly?”

She leaned back against the pillows, grinning. At that moment, Lance pulled back the covers and laid them over her, pulling them up to her shoulders. She laughed aloud, amused. “Yes, you just did it right then. You’re a bit of a mother hen. To me, Christoph, Gruscha, even Xavier a little.” 

He huffed in annoyance, but rubbed the back of his neck as he thought it over. Perhaps he was a bit doting from time to time, but motherly? No. He shook his head and sat on the bed beside her. “So? What’s the matter with that? Maybe you need it.”

Smiling, she leaned in close and pressed the tip of her nose to his. “I definitely do need it. Thank you, Lance.” With that, she leaned in close to rest her head on his chest.

Lance wrapped an arm around her and pulled her in close, relaxing into the warmth of her body as he laid down on the bed beside her. “Like I said. Never a problem,” he whispered against the top of her head before placing a kiss there. When she moved to look at him, he pressed her head back down against his chest gently. “Go to sleep, then. Or else you won’t get well.”

She laughed but said nothing else- and soon enough she was fast asleep, snoring lightly into the fabric of his shirt. Besides that the room was silent, save for the occasional crack and pop of the fire across the room. He stared up at the ceiling above them. The quiet of the moment was soothing and he thanked the stars he’d decided to abscond from the tavern early, both for her sake and his own. One night with her, no matter the context, was worth a million of the best nightcaps, he thought to himself- a sappy sentiment he hadn’t thought possible before he met her and she’d insisted on being a part of his life. He sent another silent thanks to the stars for that tenacity in the face of his rough exterior.

As the night progressed, her breathing evened out and with a sigh of relief, Lance closed his eyes and fell asleep beside her.

[onedayimgonnasnap]

So I’m basically gonna be changing the MC’s personality for this fic (Because of why not)

Also I haven’t finished the Tino route 💀

But I’ll be remaking some of the parts from his route to mix in with MCs new found personality. so if you’re confused that’s why

Anyways Enjoy-

———————————————————————————

Tino X Mean Reader

(The MC’s gender is up to the reader’s own perspective)

Warning: Inappropriate language

“What makes you so special?”

“Yeah you’re pretty average looking!”

“I can’t believe you even regret and avoid the princes special attention! You’re so weird.”

Is what a bunch of female students were yelling at you about. You started to grow annoyed due to the fact this wasn’t any of their business.

After seeing Fenn’s special affection towards you during class, they grew jealous and had you outside in the garden cornered basically all surrounding you. Just to insult you.

You stared at them before speaking; “Well maybe if you guys weren’t so busy stalking any of the princes from afar maybe, just maybe they’d ask you how you’re day was” You put your hand over your mouth to add a dramatic gasp.

“What are you trying to say yourself, we talk to the princes and you’re just a harlot who seduced them.” One of them spoke out starting a whole feud of insults and questions yelled out at you.

“You know… I was thinking about this a lot- But when was this any all of your businesses?” You raised your eye brow at them slowly grinning.

“Of course this is our business we trying to protect them from the likes of you!” Yelled a girl angrily.

You put your hand over your chin to pretend to think. “Hmm… you know you still could yell at me for the most stupidest shit, you could tell the short girl with the black hair and glasses how you slept with her brother.” You smirked.

You basically decided to get a rise out of all of them for you to run away while they were arguing. And you overheard the girl crying outside how guilty she was to her other friend.

They both preceded to yell at each other. While the other girls tried to get them to call down as they were going that, someone was heard walking through the bushes.

A tall man around your age, blonde hair and green eyes walked over out of a bush accidentally gaining all of the attention on him. He looked afraid, looked back at you and the cult members.

“I apologize, but has anyone seen Master Lynt?” He spoke out anxiously. The girls all looked at him with pity.

“No Im sorry none of us have.” One of the girls spoke while frowning.

Thinking about using this whole situation to my advantage; “Hey! I Can help you Look for him, if you’d like!”

His eyes soon started sparking like with happiness. Before any of the girls could deny he grabbed your hand and walked off happily thanking you.

.

.

.

As soon as you both were out of sight from them he let go of your hand.

“Maybe we should look in the lounge area where all the S-Ranks usually hang out!”

He suggested extremely grateful.

Unfortunately for him however, you didn’t wanna waste your time on something so idiotic.

“Listen that’s great and all you wanna look for the Prince however, you were just my escape plan. Have fun on your own.” You gave him a dark closed eyed smile at him.

This threw him off guard at what you said and he looked extremely sad. It reminded you of a kitten in a shelter beginning you to bring it home with you.

You were about to leave, but you quickly turned back as he looked down in sadness,

“You know what? Never mind I’ll help you look for him.” You groaned

His face soon brightened up with joy hearing this from you.

.

.

.

As you both were looking for Prince Lynt he began to introduce himself to you.

His name was Valentino Maes, he was Lynt’s valet, you could tell a lot about him from the information he told you about, his body language, his voice and tone when he got excited about anything.

He was being super moronic trusting someone like this especially with this type of information he was giving out.

You frowned at the thought.

He was pretty friendly and kind you could tell, but to much of a door mat where anyone could step on him.

And based on how anxious he gets you could already tell something or someone happened to make him this way.

He’d always apologized to you, in fear he offended you.

It was quite annoying.

“Oh my stars! I’m so sorry I didn’t think before I asked how was your day, I’m so sorry.” He bowed over and over again at you.

You smacked his head hard, from the top giving him a good hit.

He put his hands on his head almost in tears.

“Stop apologizing to me, you just asked a question. It wasn’t even personal, it’s just plain manners to ask. And if I hear you apologize for something stupid like that I’ll kick you in the stomach.”

You gave him an annoyed look, you felt bad for it unexpectedly but you were not going to baby him.

“I understand!” He said quickly composing himself quickly.

You both eventually became unexpected acquaintances to each other after talking to each other and basically getting to to know one and another before you found Lynt of course.

After you both found Lynt, you felt happy a little for their ruination, but quickly shook it off and went to go say good bye to one and another.

———————

The next day you woke up along with Robin to find a basket with bread in it, with a thank you note from Valentino.

You smiled and brought it inside for you and Robin to consume.

.

.

.

After lectures you accidentally bumped into the man in question who basically have you free breakfast.

“Oh my! I’m sorry MC.” He apologized again which made you frown.

“Valentino calm down it wasn’t a big deal stop making a fuss over it.”

You stated with your hands on your hips showing him your frown.

“You know you can call me just ‘Tino’” He gave you a small smile to distract himself from making you upset again he also showed you a preference.

“Alright Tino.”

“So did you enjoy the bread I brought to your dorm door step?”

He said clearly trying to change the subject embarrassed how you spoke his name.

“The bread was good, did you make it yourself?” You asked.

…

You learned that he loves to bake in general and learned different type of ways to make bread and prepare food because Lynt doesn’t like to eat that much

————

Tino’s presence started becoming more bearable on you slowly, but surely from the coincidences you’d see eachother.

You thought he looked like a happy golden retriever, especially from the joy he gets from seeing you consume the food he’s prepared.

But the joy is nothing compared to the joy he feels when Lynt eats his food.

You taught him to basically have a little more self respect as a human and rolled up a piece of paper to hit him with it if he didn’t.

He began to do better and better and it looked like he had lost a couple of bricks of weight off his back.

In return from the influence from him, you started to be alittle more sympathetic towards other. But still remained petty and prideful as ever.

.

.

.

One day as you were walking from you lectures, you over heard a conversation.

“Don’t you think they’re a stuck up know it all?”

“I mean It still doesn’t change the fact that they are really bad at magic.”

You wished you care less but however you heard a familiar name.

“Don’t you agree Tino?”

One of the girl said, you were about to get mad about what the hell you are assuming what was going on.

“No, I don’t agree with that at all!”

The voice of Tino could be heard.

“MC is kinder than you think! They are an extremely respectable person.” He stood up for you.

Soon your face grew red and your heart started beating rapidly at the embarrassment as you got up and left.

—-

Ever since that fateful day, you began to see Tino, in a different light. Did you always see him that way? You don’t really know when exactly.

Sherry the self proclaimed match maker and it caught her attention. She’d make comments from time to time about you and Tino. You both would be awkwardly blushing and spitting around random things to change the subjects.

Tino couldn’t help but feel this happiness towards you, he wished to be near you more and more. His heart would race at the thought of you both holding hands.

He respects you a lot, your sense of humor, your favorite dishes, your odd language. All of it would make Tino happy in general.

He slowly started to love himself more and it was all because of you teaching him that having boundaries is ok, and he shouldn’t try to please everyone around him.

.

.

.

One day Tino invited you personally to come to the library with him go hang out, as you arrive there you could tell he was feeling super anxious once again.

“Is something wrong, are you alright?”

You asked raising your eyebrow.

Tino immediately flinched and jumped. Looking both at you and as his shoes awkwardly.

“You know I can leave if you’d like?”

You asked awkwardly getting up from your seat and walking away, immediately before you can go Tino grabs your hand gently trying not to hurt you.

“Please don’t go yet, I wanted to tell you something.”

He pleaded looking at you, with tears in his eyes.

“Ok then, when you’re ready.” You sat back down looking at him expectedly

Tino began to relax under your gaze, as he took a seat along side with you.

He all of the sudden had a serious look in his face.

“Listen, I wanted to thank you for helping look for Master Lynt that day. Even when you didn’t want to you complied to help someone who I would assume to be pathetic in your eyes.-“

“Tino. You shouldn’t be little yourself especially assuming what I think of you not knowing for sure, and if I thought that way then who cares-“

He cut you off and held both of your hands refusing to break eye contact.

“But I care! I care about what you think of me, you amaze me with everything. I want to be by your’s and master Lynt’s side forever!

I enjoy the days Im able to see you laugh, to see your concern for me! Even when you tell me stop belittling myself and think more of myself, im happy that you care so much about me!”

Your heart started pounding at how he was describing you gave him an unknown look.

He soon thought it was rejection to which he backed down.

“Im sorry, I didn’t mean to come off so strongly.”

He apologized looking down.

You soon grabbed both of his hands and asked the big question.

“Will you be my Paramour?”

You asked while blushing.

He quickly shook his head up and down to afraid that anything he will say will leave a negative impact.

“MC, could I… kiss you?”

He asked while blushing extremely hard, trying his best to maintain eye contact with you.

You shook your head up and down mimicking him from earlier. He then proceeded to lean down slowly to give you a peck on the lips.

[subqtaneoussmut]

The Tea Girl's Gambit, Chapter Five

My legs were hurrying me to class but my head was a-swirl with confusion, shame and, unmistakably...envy. Not just shame at the envy, which was familiar in the way a toothache is familiar, but also shame at having been actually, actually seen committing the envy. I was reeling with the peculiar sense of having been recognized. My depths measured and plumbed and somehow known. It was terrifying. My heart was smashing frantically around like a bird trapped behind glass.

I turned down a rarely used servant’s passage, leaned against the wall and slumped down to sitting. I heaved a deep breath. I was over-reacting. There was no way that girl could actually know anything about me, right? I was fairly sure there hadn’t been any spellcraft involved. She had just looked at me.

I shook my head, bemused. Why had she looked at me? Nobody else did. People’s attention slipped off me like oil slipped off of water and I liked it that way. It was safe.

My heart was slowing down. There was no way she could have known what I was thinking when I saw her. I had never spoken my secret to another soul other than Kisma, never written it down. I knew the consequences of my yearning, even as a quiet child among the older, rougher kids of Stuhkrad.

The adults of the town hadn’t liked to talk about the small, moss-covered statues scattered in the forests and ravines around the milltown, but the older kids couldn’t gossip enough about their mingled, hybrid bodies. The town children called them kuffa. Most of them had been smashed and buried by the Imperial settlers when they’d driven out the native forest people a generation ago.

But once, exploring in the woods beyond the clear-cuts with my brother Carame and his friends, we’d found a narrow cave and slipped inside. I would have faltered, but Carame was fearless and his courage was like a drug to me. One of the boys had swiped a chemical light-stick from the Foundry. He broke it with a hiss and a sizzle of reagents mixing and the darkness flooded with brassy, white light.

I remembered the rich, earthy reds and browns and yellows of the little shrine. I remembered the little pots of unguents, the glittering quartz, the figurines and the swell of their breasts and their cocks. I remembered the older boys shouting with glee as they smashed everything and urinated on it. I remembered Carame pausing in the frenzy to turn and look at where I stood frozen against the wall, his face deep in shadow, unreadable.

I took a sharp breath and staggered to my feet, pushing down the razor-edged feeling in my throat. I was late to alchemy class.

I slipped into Advanced Principles while professor Yvell was still lecturing, my face numb and dry. I tried to concentrate but everything seemed very distant and hard to understand.

Memories continued to flood my head. The rattle of stones against brickwork around me as I ran from a gang of bullies, my whole back stinging, lungs burning. Every day, running after school. Hiding in the Foundry, a sprawling complex of workshops and labs that also contained the town’s singular, tiny, non-private library. The Foundry was Gresha’s domain, and I liked Gresha. She was a tall, stooped, squint-eyed and white-haired and gruffly kind. She gave off the smell of burnt leather and quenched iron.

Gresha was busy, because the Foundry fed the mill and the loggers with a constant supply of carefully machined new gears and cleats and plates and wheels to replace broken parts as well as chemical lights and waxes and lubricants and a hundred other things. All the same, Gresha let me read by the wood stove while she mixed powders or grumbled around in the next room, the whine of the lathe cutting on and off.

She had other staff doing piecework and delivering finished orders. Fenn had a big, calm face and limitless patience and I liked to watch his clever hands as he worked. He was mute, but he pointed carefully at each tool he used and re-positioned the light so I could see what he was doing with them. I watched him fix the boiler so many times that soon I began doing it in his stead, so he could finish his orders sooner and maybe have more time to bake a tasty treat for everyone.

Heather was a brisk, no-nonsense, ruddy-cheeked woman, Gresha’s lifelong ‘companion’, who had a sharp tongue for Gresha but a soft spot for me. She liked to rouse me from my reading nest of burlap bags by the stove to sweep or to chop onions, but always made sure I had a full belly.

The accredited town alchemist lived very handsomely in a whitestone house at the top of the hill and charged customers dearly. Gresha wasn’t officially an alchemist, had certainly never trained at a university, but she had a keen, methodical mind and she was brilliant at seeing what a thing might be able to do.

She casually nudged me towards certain books and when I came to her for more, she hmph-ed and her eyebrows, which were always growing back from being burnt off, climbed in the way they did when she tried something and it worked to her satisfaction. She asked me questions about the books—did the long-winded descriptions of how to render materials down to their basic underlying principles bore me? What about the chapter on crystalline liquids had I liked best? I found that I liked to impress her with my responses and quickly learned to see past the ways she tried to hide it.

Soon, she started dictating her notes while she was elbows deep in a project and had me scribe for her. She would look over my shoulder and poke at the page with a blunt finger and show me how, no, this is the abbreviation for sulfuric acid and that’s not how to copy a cipher correctly, try this, see? She began to check less and less often for mistakes, and I ate up the tiny signs of her satisfaction with glowing pride.

Carame had begun working in the mill and came home more and more hollow-eyed every night, ate, then slept and left again in the pre-dawn darkness. Without him to protect me, the everyday torture of school intensified and I got thrashed in the street and pelted with stones even more often. To give my bullies the slip, I began to spend more and more time at the Foundry and made fewer trips at odder hours to the shouting, crowded graybrick tenement that my older brothers and sisters and mother occupied.

My sister Kisma had started working nights at a bakery. I still risked visits to see her before her shift started and we slipped away to the roof among the flapping lines of laundry to smoke her halfpenny tobacco and giggle and watch sunset bands of pink and orange melt into the dark blue dusk. She told me about sneaking leftover dough out of work with her friends one night and stuffing it in the mouths of the vainglorious statues that lined the town square, so that all the pigeons came and ate it all and covered their strong chins and proud barrel chests with runny white streaks, so it looked, she laugh-snorted, “like they’d all been eating bird ass!”

I told her about when Gresha had set me to mixing up some bio-phosphate to dope an set of passive light emitters for the hanging walkways at the mill, I’d had some left over, and mixed the extra into the bowl of slop that Heather left at the Foundry door each night for the town’s stray cats. For a night, all the street cats of Stuhkrad had run around glowing neon blue and meowing their exasperation. Heather had such a fright she’d scolded me about it for a week.

“What! Eli! That was you?” Kisma sounded simultaneously amused and reproachful. “You’re lucky nobody started a witch-hunt. And how did you know the cats would be alright?!” She shook her head. “Maybe leave the pranks to your big sister, kid.”

My feet were hanging over the edge of the building. I kicked them, pouting. Truthfully, I wasn’t usually so daring and had only done the deed so I could impress my older sister, for once.

“I knew the cats would be alright! I did the factoring myself,” I mumbled sulkily. I knew Kisma didn’t really understand the stuff I was learning at the Foundry. But it still stung a bit, that she assumed I hadn’t known.

She raised her eyebrows at me. “You’re really smart, Eli. But you can also be really, really, really dumb, you know that?” She sighed. “Oh, I just worry about you sometimes.”

Truthfully, I was somewhat worried, too. All of my brothers were heading to the mill, or to be bargemen and cart drivers, and when I tried to imagine following them, of living that life, there was only a yawning, all-devouring blankness. I thought Gresha was training me to take her place, and at least that didn’t seem so bad. When she sat me down and told me in her gravelly voice that she was going to aim me at the Imperial merit exams, I spluttered and gaped, but in my belly a tiny circle of light opened. I could leave. I could get out.

I fed and grew that tiny light with long winter nights of obsessive reading and ciphering and memorizing tables and properties and principles until I closed my eyes to sleep and saw numbers dancing on my closed eyelids. I bent all my waking hours towards alchemy, which needed no inherited talent or gift of sorcery. I cut school and rarely went home and spent nearly all my time at the Foundry, working in the shop or studying. Lots of kids my age had already dropped out of the town school to work at the mill or on the steep slopes of the logging clear-cuts. It began to get safer for me to walk the narrow, cobbled streets without risking a beating.

Some nights, rubbing my booksore eyes, I thought guiltily of my sister Kisma sitting alone on the roof, again. But there was so, so much to do. I had seen her last week, hadn’t I? Or was that last fortnight?

And last spring, after four years of study, when the guarded wagons came to Stukrad with the merit tests locked inside, I watched them roll through the cobbled streets and up the hill biting the inside of my cheek so hard that my mouth filled with warm, metal-salty blood.

Two days later, I floated out of the testing hall, my shoulders tense and taut as lashed mill cables, my lip half-chewed through, my stomach a wreck, my eyes bloodshot, my hair a snarled bird’s nest, knowing I had demolished the test. I slept for two days on Gresha’s spare cot in one of the backrooms, waking only to piss and to drink the cold broth she’d left by my head. And cry. I hadn’t been able to cry since I was ten, but some blockage had crumbled, some rusty switch had finally slid into place inside me, and I bit Gresha’s pillow and shuddered with waves and waves of sobs that seemed to rise ceaselessly from someplace deep inside me.

Results from the exams took months to come back. In the meantime, I occupied my hands working for Gresha in the Foundry. I visited Kisma, who was getting married, and brought her a small blue dropper bottle of contraceptive—which I was ridiculously proud of, not least of all because any control by women over the reproductive power of the Democracy was frowned on by Imperial social hygienists. By teaching me how to make it, Gresha had clearly staked her trust in me. I found Carame, who was getting roaring drunk at the tavern with his mates, and brought him similar bottle but with a hangover cure in it instead. I didn’t visit Carame again.

When the results came, Heather insisted all four of us cluster around the scarred table in the kitchen before she even brought out the envelope. I tore it open, scanned it, then gasped and stumbled backwards and tripped over a chair. Heather grabbed the letter, squinted, whooped, and yanked me up and sank my head into her bosom. Gresha grunted, brought out a bottle of peach brandy and conferred upon me (when I had extracted myself from Heather) a sagacious nod. Fenn hefted a steaming, gold-crusted pie as large as wagon wheel out of the oven. I looked around at the three of them and tried to fix their faces in my memory. This is what I wanted to remember, when I thought of home. This good, glowing evening, surrounded by people who cared about me.

~ ~ ~

In the back of the lecture hall, I swallowed my emotions. My throat ached. I missed Heather, and Gresha and Fenn. Starting out at the University had been very lonely. I felt so out of place here. But hadn’t I felt so out of place in Stuhkrad, too? I woke up so many mornings full of relief that I wasn’t back there anymore, and that couldn’t be faked, right? Ididn’t think that I would ever willingly return, even though that probably made me a horrible person. I felt guilty about it, because it was ungrateful and disloyal to Gresha and Heather, Kisma and Fenn, and even Carame, wasn’t it? But when I thought of going back there, even to work with Gresha in the Foundry, I felt such a crushing suffocation. But why?

I had unpleasant memories, but so did everyone. Why did the thought of a life there, with the few and only people in the world who cared about me, fill me with a heavy and endless dread? Why did that life feel like it would be a living death?

My attention was yanked back to the lecture hall as Master Yvell finished a long, droning speech and the assembled students burst into enthusiastic applause. What was going on? Nobody applauded Yvell. Then I saw the sweep of his arm as he looked offstage and realized that he had been introducing someone.

She walked onto the lecture stage and I could only stare.

[forgaeven1]

003, a photoshoot outdoors in the middle of winter. (daiyu & ginny (PLS IGNORE THAT IM ON THE WRONG ACCOUNT TAG ME ON DIONIDAI))

❛ you'd better have gotten a good picture of that one, fenn ! ❜ ginny rattles, not without laughter marring her tone, as she skips down from her broom and manoeuvres the ancient thing into her hands. really, it's ron's old one from his school days, which he hasn't touched in- well, in years, she supposes, since the war, and- and it's nice giving it a bit of a fly. the old thing would've been in the shed gathering dusts anyhow, as ginny had sworn not to touch it for her own short-lived career as gryffindor's seeker and chaser from a dispute she's long forgotten about but still held a vendetta over, and had instead taken charlie's older one as her own.

it's funny now seeing it in her hands — her pride clearly did not matter when ron wasn't around to witness her discarding it. more than that, perhaps it's... simply nostalgia, is all. he'd been so bloody busy nowadays with his auror things, running around with harry, trying to be important. and ginny gets it — she understands — it's for a good cause. dad had said it so, and mum had clearly relayed it over and over again over their kitchen table. perhaps it's naivety, but she'd hoped, after everything, that things would've gone on like it was before. that ron and harry and hermione and neville would be back to school, but they aren't. they wouldn't be.

they have big lives now, and ginny weasley is chasing shadows of their past in an old broom.

she snaps though, quick, looking at daiyu with her ever-charming smile. she'll admit - it's odd finding an acquaintance with someone not of your year, but ginny's beginning to believe that there is a certain affinity to ravenclaws in which she's found herself quite fond of. they're quite an odd bunch, the lot of them. maybe it's the never-ending curiosity. although maybe it works well with her own since she hadn't mind much entertaining whatever that's sprung into their thoughts. she'd always liked what they've got to say. daiyu, included. and this spontaneous photoshoot in the middle of december ? well. no one would ever dare say ginny isn't one up for challenges now, would they ?

the youngest weasley child grin again, brushing her red hair back, nudging at daiyu's side quite affectionately. ❛ c'mon then. will i see the picture, or what ? ❜

@dionidai — set the scene.

[justabadmistake]

“Thank you,” he nods, moving into the main room. He looks around for Jango as he comes to a stop, giving his friend a subtle shake of his head. No killing today, with the kid here.

“Mighty Jabba,” he addresses the slug, holding back his sarcasm, “I come to free one of your slaves and take her with me. Her name is Xana. Xana Fenn.”

“What makes you think I want your business, Mandalorian?” Jabba hums, “I already have one. Fett is enough.”

“I offer you my services as well,” Jed shrugs. “Never hurts to have two hunters. And if not, then have all the credits in this pouch.”

He takes a thick pouch off his belt, throwing it into Jabba’s hands.

Jabba hums again in thought, tilting his head. “I accept this offer. Both your credits and your service.” He turns to the guards, “go fetch the slave. Quickly.”

Jed looks down at you with a proud nod as they go to collect her. “Doing okay?” He checks on you.

I nod quickly, grinning and waving at one of the pretty twi’s since she seems to be looking at me.

[kronulv]

"Aye,   but   I   only   crave   something   that's   true   as   the   North   itself."   And   nothing   belongs   more   to   the   North   than   the   mountain   clans,   the   crannagmen,   those   in   touch   with   the   Gods,   with   the   nature   around   them.   Her   cunt   had   tasted   of   the   North   to   him   and   he   wants   more   of   it.   Many   want   him   but   he   craves   a   woman   that   is   not   afraid   of   a   little   rough,   which   had   been   inside   him   since   the   red   wedding,   that   could   take   what   he   offers   and   push   him.   Thaenna   Fenn   is   not   the   type   of   woman   who   curtsies   and   walks   along.   She   is   one   who   walks   into   his   war   room   and   scolds   some   of   her   men   for   their   poor   defenses,   he   had   know   he   wanted   her   since   those   early   moments   and   soon,   now   that   they   are   back   North,   he   takes   what   belongs   to   him.  

His   grip   on   the   bedframe   is   dangerous   close   to   be   ripped   but   her   moans   and   whines   are   worth   the   strength   he   is   pulling   into   his   movements.   "You   talk   so   much   but   here   you   are,   taking   it   like   a   good   girl.   How   good   does   it   feel?   I   want   you   to   ache   in   the   morning   and   think   of   me."   And   he   is   making   sure   she   does   with   each   thrust.   The   castle   can   hear   if   they   want,   he   does   not   particularly   care   about   what   they   think   of   his   business   under   the   sheet.   He   pulls   one   of   her   legs   closer,   bends   slightly   over   his   shoulder   and   takes   her   challenge   with   ease,   the   new   angle   of   his   hips   to   reach   more   inside   her   as   his   other   hand   joins   his   movements.  

"That's   it,   that's   a   good   girl.   I   can   feel   you   about   to   come.   Come   on   now,   be   loud   as   you   want,   say   my   name."   He   whispers   against   the   skin   of   her   leg,   a   kiss   to   her   calve   before   he   drives   harder,   holding   his   own   end   until   he   can   feel   her   come   first,   thumb   keeping   on   the   pressure.   "Let   me   feel   you   around   me,   Thaenna.   Come."

ㅤㅤㅤ❝ I'M  ALWAYS  MEAN,  ❞  Thaena  lets  out  a  short  laugh,  cut  off  by  her  growing  breaths.  ❝ If  you  wanted  a  good  woman,  there  are  a  thousand  across  the  North  alone  just  dying  to  have  a  taste  of  you.  Yet  I'm  the  one  here  in  your  bed.  ❞  She  raises  to  grab  at  the  back  of  his  neck,  a  hard  kiss  against  the  pulse  of  his  neck,  a  bite  soothed  by  a  lick  of  her  tongue,  and  then  she  bites  lightly  at  the  lobe  of  his  ear.  ❝ In  this  room,  we  are  the  same  kind  of  beast,  you  and  I,  and  we  want  the  same  thing.  A  good  fuck.  ❞  They  both  have  a  wilder  blood  than  most  others,  even  among  their  fellow  Northmen.  Their  gods  are  the  Old  Gods,  and  in  their  sight,  this  is  not  a  shameful  thing.  It's  only  nature.  The  call  of  the  flesh.  She  pities  the  Southerners,  so  ashamed  of  their  bodies  and  their  desires,  it  seems.  She's  never  been  one  to  abstain  from  what  her  body  wants,  especially  not  when  it  feels  this  fucking  good. 

  ㅤㅤㅤEvery  hard  thrust  pulls  a  sharp  moan  from  her;  no  matter  how  she  tries  to  give  some  fight  back  to  him,  to  make  him  work  harder  for  it,  her  body  betrays  her  to  the  pleasure.  Her  hips  keep  moving  as  he'd  told  her,  seeking  his  rhythm  as  the  bed  shakes  beneath  them.  It's  a  good  thing  to  feel,  all  this  force  behind  his  hips,  relishing  every  sensation  as  he  drives  into  her.  It's  a  lot  different  from  fooling  around  with  the  boys  from  the  Neck.  Wild  as  everyone  may  call  them,  they  tend  to  be  too  tame  for  her  taste,  mostly  because  they're  all  afraid  of  her  in  one  way  or  another.  But  the  Stark  King  doesn't  fear  her,  nor  does  he  hold  back.  Gods  above,  how  long  has  she  craved  a  night  like  this?  ❝ Demanding,  aren't  you?  I  should  have  expected  as  much  from  a  king,  ❞  Thaena  scoffs,  but  there  is  a  playfulness  in  her  eyes  as  she  bites  back,  ❝ Make  me  come  first,  and  I'll  let  you  make  your  claim  as  much  as  you  want.  Your  Grace.  ❞  The  honorific  is  a  tease,  her  hands  gripping  to  his  hips.  But  soon  his  thrusts  overwhelm  her,  her  knees  pulling  back  slowly,  opening  her  legs  as  wide  as  she  can  for  him.  ❝ Gods,  keep  going.  Keep  going.  That's  good.  That's  so  good  ─  ❞

[juicyspacesecrets]

Wait, does Jacen have brass knuckles lightsabers? Cause if so that's pretty metal!

punch your enemies to death you funky green baby

[darlingzelda]

Toa Qelsum x MC (Retsuko)

“Try it again.”  

Retsuko sat in the library with Toa at one of the study tables, trying desperately to produce results from the lesson she had just been in. They were supposed to be turning a goblet of water into Honey-mulled wine, but she couldn’t figure out how to do it- and Toa had agreed to tutor her until she could produce results.  

He was getting quite impatient, as they had been there for a half hour and she could not seem to focus.  

“How? I’m visualizing, my hand movements are correct, and I’ve read the theory ten times over already!” She groaned, swiping locks of dark brown hair out of her red eyes.  

“You lack concentration.” Toa narrowed his frosty azure eyes, watching Retsuko valiantly attempt it over again. “Shall I have to be stricter with you, or can you focus a moment longer?”  

Toa sat across from her at the round table, arms crossed while he observed her efforts. She tried hard, he knew, but sometimes lacked proper motivation to do so. Retsuko waved her hand over the cup again, and the look of determination in her crimson eyes momentarily startled him.  

“Nonsense.” he said quietly to himself, closing his eyes. “It will not do to distract myself with such frivolities.”

There was a warmth in his chest, but his icy demeanor pushed it down almost instantly.  

“Again. You are not concentrating.” Toa repeated, watching Retsuko wither at the lack of result she had gotten from her efforts. “You must complete this elementary level of magic to pass your exams, and I will not tolerate dishonor on Qelsum by having one of the students I personally tutor fail her first year at the Academy.”  

“I know. I’m trying, Toa! I promise!” Retsuko begs, sitting up a little straighter. “I just need a little more practice!”  

“We will resume tomorrow. The morning is almost to an end, and I must speak with Knight. See that you practice on your own before we meet tomorrow.” Toa gets up, his deep sapphire-colored Royal cloak brushing the ground as he stands.  

He heard Retsuko sigh self-deprecatingly and turned to face her.  

“You did well for today. I applaud your effort, though you may not have produced proper results.” He said with a straight face, and Retsuko’s face instantly lit up from his rare praise. Her smile became radiant.  

“Thank you, Toa! I promise, I’ll have it down to show you tomorrow!” She smiles winsomely, and Toa turns away, walking in the direction of the many tall bookshelves near the rear exit.  

“Toaaaaaaa!” A teasing drawl sounded from behind one of the shelves, followed by the sound of knowing laughter.  

The prince turned, already aware of who was calling him by the sound of his teasing voice. “Fenn.”

The Luxurian prince leisurely strolled out, a sly smile on his face. “You’ve just been with Treasure, haven’t you? You have that look of adoration on your face just now in lieu of your usual scowls.” He leaned on Toa’s shoulder, draping his arms around him lazily.  

“Desist from your mischief.” the Qelsan prince brushed him off, a look of disapproval replacing his light expression.  

“Oh, but your cozy little study session looked like fun! I daresay that if Treasure got any closer to you, you would have wrapped her in your arms! Mind if I join in next time? We could have tons of fun, you know.” Fenn chuckled, his purple eyes containing a look of seductive wiles.  

“Fenn.” Toa gave him a stern look, disliking his manner of speech in the way he talked about Retsuko. “I am merely tutoring her until she produces satisfactory results. That is all. It is required of me as her mentor.”

“Yes, yes. All that fussy work is getting to your head, dear Toa. Perhaps you might seek Treasure out for a bit of a rest, yes? I find resting with another to be quite entertaining indeed.” Fenn once again draped his lilac-clad body on Toa’s shoulders, causing the latter to sigh in frustration.  

“I have business with Knight I must attend to in the Potions lecture hall.”  

“Of course you do.” Fenn sighed as Toa once again pulled himself away and started walking briskly to the library’s exit. “If you wait much longer, she will slip out of your icy fingers, you know!” he called after Toa, who simply ignored his plea.

“Utter nonsense.” The Qelsan prince said to himself as he set a fast pace to the anterior lecture hall. When he arrived, his loyal valet was already waiting for him with a large box of various magical knick-knacks.  

“Toa.” Knight stood up from the bench he was seated in, gesturing to the wide variety of items he had procured. “I brought the things you asked for from town. This should be enough for your next three lectures, I think."

“Good. I will sort through them anon. Have you any word from Qelsum?” the prince glanced at the box, then back at his valet.  

“No, not yet.” Knight shook his head, his blonde hair swaying. “I don’t think Princess Idina has any tasks for you there for a good while.”

“I expected more of my sister.” Toa comments, adjusting his royal-blue drape. “However, I will wait for her word to return to Qelsum. Bring this box to my chambers and have them ready for when I prepare for tomorrow’s lectures. I am headed to the training grounds to oversee the C ranks in their practice.” he turns to leave, Knight bowing shortly.  

“Yes, Toa.”

He had not been even a minute on his way across the Academy when he was stopped by none other than Roy, the Invidian prince. He wore a winning smile, dressed primly in light pink- ever the picture of a perfect prince.  

“Will you stop and come for a chat, Master Toa? The rest of the S ranks and I have a matter to discuss with you.” he requests politely, yellow eyes looking cheerful and bright.  

“I suppose I have a moment to spare.” Toa nods, following Roy into the S rank lounge. The rest of the Saligian princes sat within, all seated on plush armchairs. Lynt was lightly snoozing on Rio’s shoulder, Fenn seated beside them with a teasing smile on his face. The only princes absent were Guy and Lance- Guy wanting absolutely nothing to do with Toa, and Lance sticking to his antisocial tendencies.  

Toa’s eyebrows shot up. “What is the meaning of all this?”  

Fenn crossed his legs as Roy handed him a cup of steaming Invidian tea. “Oh, nothing. We are only concerned for your wellbeing, dear Toa!”

Toa did not deign to respond, seating himself opposite from the other four nobles.  

“We have all agreed that something must be done between you and Treasure, yes? Treasure seems ever so lonely by herself, and it is plain to see that you harbor feelings for her, hmm?” The Luxurian prince said, to Toa’s utter annoyance.  

“I have already told you that our relationship is to be simple and professional at best.” He answers, to which Fenn sighs dramatically.  

“She will lose interest in you if you do not nurture her feelings in earnest. Do trust me, Toa, we have all seen the care you show her opposed to all the other students you interact with.”

Lynt raises his head, green eyes half-lidded with drowsiness. He rarely bothered to come to gatherings, usually electing to sleep through them- so it was a rather rare occasion that he would take active interest in a matter. “I support Fenn’s opinion here.”

“I must admit, they are quite right. Miss Retsuko looks up to you and seeks out your company quite often. Is that correct?” Roy interjects, taking a careful sip of his own tea.  

“Suppose what you say is true and she indeed harbors feelings for me. Qelsum would never allow us to pursue courtship. By royal tradition, I am to marry into a line of nobles, and she lacks royal blood of any kind. There is also the fact that she is a subject of Avari, and our kingdoms carry a deep hatred for one another. You know this.” Toa answers with a sigh of resignation.  

“Dear Toa. You must learn to look past royal duty for now and follow your own path.” Fenn smiles, knowing that he struck a chord within Toa’s reasoning.  

“My own path....” Qelsum frowns, thinking to himself.  

It was possible that his sister Princess Idina would strike out against Retsuko if they were to pursue courtship, and that could harm her or even start a conflict with Avari. However, Fenn did have a point. His entire life, Toa was raised to think his life’s purpose was to faithfully serve only Qelsum to prepare for his inheritance of the kingdom’s throne. Perhaps it was time to start contemplating an alternate path, where balance could be found between serving Qelsum’s people and following his own desires.

“Retsuko deserves to be happy, as do you, Toa.” Lynt said sleepily, bringing Toa out of his own deep thoughts.  

“I for one think that you’d be right pleased with the way things turn out if you just give chase!” Rio said cheerily, holding a plate piled full of cinnamon buns. “You know, give her a little present, write some sentimental letters...?”

“What sort of gift would you suggest?” Toa asked thoughtfully, now entertaining the idea. It was true, he and Retsuko had been spending a lot of time together of late, and he could not deny the soft looks she had been giving him.  

“Everyone enjoys sweets, right? Even you, Toa!” Rio took a large bite of one of his pastries.  

“Sweets are a good idea. If I recall correctly, in Qelsan culture, paramours gift one another homemade chocolates as a display of romantic affection, or as a proposal to become something more than friends. Is that correct?” Roy asked, crossing his legs in a dignified manner.  

“Yes, that is correct. However, I have no knowledge of how to make such things.” Toa frowns.  

“Books on how to do so can be obtained in the library, yes? You should have no trouble following a simple recipe.” Fenn says indulgently, leaning back on the plush red cushions of his couch.

“I suppose so.”  

“I think Retsuko would enjoy sweets. She liked the caramels that you gave her on Holy Night.” Lynt closed his eyes again, curling up next to Rio with a sleepy yawn. “Phwaagh...”

“I will look into it.” Toa says resolutely, standing up to leave and head now for the library instead of the training grounds.  

“We’re cheering for you, Toa!” Rio says with a sunny smile, Lynt opening his eyes to give a lethargic nod. “Indeed. Fare you well, Master Toa! I know Miss Retsuko will be perfectly pleased with your efforts.” Roy adds with a princely smile, his soft pink hair falling into his eyes.  

Toa gave a nod of acknowledgement and set a brisk pace back to the library to find a book for making chocolates from scratch.  

“Making sweets for Retsuko....” he mused to himself, making a mental note to stop by and tell Knight to reserve the S rank kitchens for his use. “I never thought I would go such lengths to please an Avarian woman.”  

The library had an extensive section on culinary instruction, but Toa had never had such reason to look into it before. Selecting several thick tomes, he carried them out and brought them to Knight, who was faithfully waiting in his chambers for him.  

“Knight. I will be spending a few hours in the S rank kitchen tonight to prepare a gift for someone. See that you reserve it for my use.” he came in bearing four thick tomes, setting them down momentarily on his bedside table.  

Knight stared.  

“You, Toa? Cooking?” he had a look of mild disbelief in his blue eyes, watching Toa nod in agreement. “Are you feeling poorly? Come to think of it, your color’s been off lately-” 

“Knight.” Toa cut him off sharply, and his valet closed his mouth.  

“Sorry. But, who are you making food for, Toa? It must be a very special occasion for you to gift handmade.... sweets? Is that for chocolate?” Knight peers at the titles of the tomes, his light blue adornments hanging loose on his arms as he bent down to look.  

“I have been coerced into giving Retsuko a gift to tell her of my feelings.” the Prince admits, causing Knight’s blue eyes to widen in shock.  

“You’re truly telling her, then? I thought you had resolved to keep your feelings secret because of how Princess Idina might react to an Avarian commoner in the Qelsan throne.” his valet asked in a hushed tone.  

“Idina will have to tolerate Retsuko, because I have chosen her above all others to be my Queen... if she so chooses. I would not let Avari usurp her power, nor would my Father permit Qelsum to fall under Avari’s rule if Retsuko should lend her power elsewhere.” Toa states in a quiet voice.  

“Will you tell her of Retsuko’s power, then? She and she alone in all of Saligia has the power to greatly amplify the ancient magic of a Royal. If a kingdom should claim her, it would have the power to then subdue the rest of Saligia if it wanted to.” Knight thinks aloud, and Toa shakes his head.  

“Not yet. The headmaster may decide when Retsuko is to make her power known to Saligia. If every kingdom should know, it is likely a war would be started over her.” he answers. “For now, I will not bring her to Qelsum until she has been given permission to speak of it.”

“Right. So... you’re going to make her chocolate to ask her to be your paramour?” Knight queries.  

“Correct. Reserve use of the kitchens. That will be all for tonight, then your duties will be ended for the day.” Toa rises from his seat and picks up the books, leaving for the kitchens immediately.  

At a first glance through the cabinets, he found everything he needed to get started and laid it all out on the spacious counters.  

“I do not think this should be too hard... But then again. I do not want these to have any imperfections, as they will accompany my feelings for her.” he said to himself in an undertone, reading the instructions as he swept his dark blue hair into a ponytail at the nape of his neck.  

Toa ended up staying in the kitchens for hours on end, frustrated each time with the results of his labor. One batch came out entirely too chalky, the next too bitter, and there was one that just kept falling apart.  

Finally, in the early hours of the morning, he made one last batch that turned out to be his best work. The chocolates were sweet and soft, and they melted in the mouth to reveal a filling of salted caramel and sweet cream. He took care to lay them gently in a gift box, topping them with a layer of thin pink paper and tying the gold box with a crisp white ribbon.  

He would be lying if he said he wasn’t exhausted from working into the morning, but Toa felt a strong sense of satisfaction as he took the small box to his chambers to finally sleep.  

~ - ~ - ~ - ~ - ~ - ~ - ~ -

Knight woke him in the late morning, seemingly distressed over his Master.  

“Toa! Please tell me you didn’t spend all night making those chocolates....” he shook Toa awake, the latter groaning and sitting up to wipe the sleep from his eyes.  

“It was entirely worth it for Retsuko.” the Qelsan prince replied, holding back a yawn. The underneath of his azure eyes was slightly purple from the lack of sleep.  

Knight looked apprehensively at the gift box laying on Toa’s nightstand.  

“Will you give them to her today?”  

Toa nodded his assent. “There is no better time than now. If I am to convince her to my side, it must be sooner rather than later. I would not have her consider any other man.”

“Alright, if you say so...” Knight sighed, helping Toa into his formalwear. He wore a gray vest, a tie with a clip, neatly smoothed black pants, and his blue drape with golden adornments.  

“Go and assist Hawke with his lesson preparations. He needs help preparing the gardens for his students.” the Prince sent his valet off, and then off he went himself to find Retsuko.  

The young lady was with her frequent lunchmates- Roy's sister Princess Sherry and Fenn’s valet Violet. They chattered merrily as they walked, Retsuko’s face the perfect picture of beauty as she smiled and laughed among her friends.  

“Sherry! I promise, I’ll do it soon! It’s no good to make me do it now, I haven’t seen him at all this morning!” Retsuko pleaded, laughing as Sherry poked her in the shoulder.  

“You’d better! You know, I think Toa really likes you! That little blush shows up every time you look him in the eyes...” Violet chuckles beside them, watching Retsuko melt into a blushing panic.  

“Violet! You can’t say things like that!” she yelped, placing a hand over her heart.  

Toa froze with the gift in his hands. It seemed that the only one who was unaware of the feelings between himself and Retsuko had been,...him. Even the other students in Retsuko’s classes seemed to see the chemistry between them.  

He cleared his throat and strode over to the three women, gift box in hand.  

“Retsuko.”

“Eep!” she jumped, her crimson eyes going wide at the sight of him. Evidently she wasn’t expecting him to seek her out. “T-Toa!”

“I should like your company for a moment.” he said with a straight face, looking her in the eye.  

“Okay....” Retsuko excused herself quickly from the other two young ladies, following Toa as he led her gently away and to the flower- covered rooftop gardens.  

He had to admit, he was left quite breathless with her appearance. Maybe it was the fact that he was just now realizing what she was to him, through the advice from the other princes. Her long, dark brown hair fell in a cascade down her back, held in place with a sparkling blue pin. His gift to her from Dies Amoris, he realized.  

She wore a simple blue dress, almost the same shade as his formal attire. It hugged her body in such a way that he could not help but admire her beautiful form as he walked behind her.  

The flowers bloomed brightly in the rooftop garden as Toa took a seat across from Retsuko at the small tea-table.  

“So, what did you want to talk about? Is this your way of following up on me practicing my lesson?” she quirked her head, eyes big and sparkling.  

Toa shook his head.  

“No, I merely wanted to ask you a question away from prying eyes. Here. This is yours.” He took the package from his lap and set it in her hands, and Retsuko pulled the ribbon, opening the box.  

“Toa, you’re giving me chocolates??”

He nodded simply. For the first time in his life, Toa felt nervous. His heart raced against his chest, and he could not hide the tinge of pink on his cheeks as she examined his handiwork.  

“Wow, these are really pretty! Where did you get them?” she took a bite out of one, smiling blissfully as the taste melted over her tongue.  

“I made them for you. It is Qelsan tradition to gift a person handmade chocolate to express gratitude or if asking a rather personal question.”  

She stared at him. “What?? Toa? You made these?? I didn’t know you were interested in the culinary arts! They’re just....delicious!”

“My thanks. However, I have somewhat of an admission to make to you.” the Prince replied, watching her with a strong sense of relief.  

“Upon the end of our lesson yesterday, I have come upon a realization. You and I have spent quite a lot of time together, have we not? It took the persuasion of all the rest of the S ranks to finally bring these thoughts to light.” he continues, his eyes firmly locked on hers.  

“Retsuko. I harbor feelings for you.”

At that moment, Retsuko froze, her hand stopped halfway between the table and her mouth. “I..... Toa. Wait. You’re...... you’re not joking, right? This isn’t about... Qelsum conquering the magical realm?”

Toa reached for Retsuko’s hand and brought it softly to his lips, keeping eye contact all the while.  

“I cherish you.”  

“Toa.........” Retsuko’s breathing quickened, and tears pricked in the corners of her eyes. “Truly?”

Qelsum nods, guiding her hand to his chest, laying over his beating heart. “Do not mistake my meaning. If you so wish, I mean to make you my paramour and the future Queen of Qelsum.”  

She seemed to be lost for words, instead giving Toa a radiant look of joy. “Toa, I couldn’t ever be happier....”

Retsuko’s joyous expression melted into one of suspicion. “....Toa? You look tired. VERY tired.” she paused for a few seconds, then let out a horrified gasp. “You didn’t stay up all night just to make me chocolates, did you?!”

Toa gave her a resigned nod. “I did. I wanted to make sure they were satisfactory.”  

“Toa Qelsum!” she groans, pulling him up by the arm. “Come on, you look so exhausted! How could Knight have just let you do that??”

“He knew the importance of this confession and so left me to my own devices.” Toa answered, puzzled by her sudden actions. “Where in Saligia do you intend on taking me?”

“To your room. You need sleep.” she responded, tugging on his hand and walking him to the door of his chambers. “You can’t just..... sacrifice your wellbeing like that! I would have been more than satisfied with your lovely confession....”

Knight answered the door, ever the loyal valet. “Toa! And..... Retsuko? I trust it went well, then?” he raised his eyebrows, moving aside to let them in.  

Toa gave a short nod in response. “Retsuko is my paramour from today forward.”

The young lady blushed as she ushered Toa into his bed and under the covers, draping his formal cloak over a chair. “Please, Toa. Rest. For me?” Knight took his leave, sensing that they wanted to be alone.

The room was silent as they regarded each other, finally aware of the meaning in their relationship.

Toa took Retsuko’s hand once again, looking at her longingly. “You will nap with me, yes? I am loathe to be parted from you yet.” He gently pulled her into his large bed, wrapping her in the blankets that covered it. “You are my paramour. I will not let you go.”  

As he drifted off, the last thing he saw before sleep took him was Retsuko’s head, nestled on his chest, with a smile on her face.  

[dotster001]

Meet the Parents

Summary:Fenn Luxure x gn! Reader. Fenn's dad comes to visit, and Fenn would rather you two not meet.

Cw:mild spoilers for book 3 of the consort path

"I would rather you stay in my room while he is here."

Fenn's dad was coming, and he had sat you down to chat with you about it.

"Why?" You asked. You knew they weren't on good terms, but what did that have to do with you?

"He can be," he paused. "He can be a bit much. I just don't want to have to worry that he'll try to hurt you, Treasure."

Fenn rarely took anything this seriously, and it was making you a bit nervous.

"What if we compromise and I stay in my own room?"

Fenn gave you a flirtatious grin. "But then I wouldn't have the pleasure of your company. And you know I have difficulty sleeping without you to lull me to sleep." 

After much debate, and some mediation from Letty, Fenn relented and agreed you could stay in your own room.

                                     …

You were bored out of your mind. It had been a week since you'd promised Fenn you would stay in your room so that his dad couldn't hurt you. He had assured you that you didn't have to wait much longer.

"My beloved treasure," he was gently stroking your hair as he held you from behind. "He is leaving in two days, and then you and I shall be free to roam the grounds again. I know you are bored, but just trust me okay?"

He had looked at you with the saddest eyes. You'd ask him about that later when he wasn't as clearly stressed as he was now. So you'd assured him everything was alright.

Less than 24 hours later, everything was not alright. You were very bored, and hungry. You decided that you would leave your room, get a snack, and head straight back. What were the odds that you would run into Fenn's dad?

You were on your way back to your room, when you bumped into Fenn. You watched his easy going smile slide off face. He ran up to you with the most panicked expression you'd ever seen on him.

He wrapped you up into his arms and whispered into your ear, "Treasure, why are here? Did something happen?"

Before you could answer him, you heard a rather large crowd of people walking your way. When you looked up, you saw a beautiful man surrounded by men and women who were doing everything in their power to be able to touch even one piece of him.

The man's eyes settled on Fenn, flicked to you, then back to Fenn.

"Ah Fenn, I have seen so little of you on my visit, I was beginning to worry."

Oh. OH! This must be Fenn's dad then. Looking closer at him, he definitely looked like him, just a little older. You felt Fenn stiffen.

"I have just been busy father."

Fenn had never spoken so coldly around you, not even to the people you'd seen him break up with before you both were dating.

The man gave a hmph, and looked at you again.

"You. Come," he said with a serene smile.

"The hell?" You whispered, and you felt Fenn's arms tighten around you. "Why should I…"

"You'll have a much better time with us, lovely."

You laughed dryly, "No, Fenn and I are going back to my room, but thanks for the offer."

"Suit yourself." He seemed unfazed as him and his entourage walked off. 

"God, what a jerk. Couldn't he see we were clearly together?" You were outraged until you noticed that Fenn had buried his face in your neck, and was shaking. "Fenn?"

You heard him heave a heavy sigh. "When I said I thought he would hurt you, that was a lie. I thought he would take my treasure away from me."

Now it was your turn to tighten your grip on him.

"But he didn't, Fenn, I'm still here."

Fenn looked  at you with an innocent smile, eyes filled with such joy it made your heart ache. "Yes you are." He gave a disbelieving laugh. "You're the best thing that's ever happened to me, Treasure."

You grabbed his hand, and led him to your room. You spent the rest of the day in each other's arms, just basking in one another's presence.

You decided today wasn't the day to tell Fenn that you had sworn that if his dad ever hurt him again, you would kill him yourself.

[forrestkane]

dottiemunro​:

Dottie was exhausted by the time she finally reached the gate. She clutched her side as she hurried over, stopping to lean on one of the barriers to rest for a moment and catch her breath. Physical activity had never been her strong suit, and it was evident as her chest heaved for a moment or two as her gaze met with Fenn’s. When he took her hands, Dottie grasped the opportunity to lean on him instead. “I’m okay, I’m fine, I just- I need a sec to-” she paused for a beat, “catch my breath.”

It felt like a whole lifetime was ticking by in those few seconds. Sure, she could catch her breath, but there was no way her heart was going to slow. It was racing for a whole different reason. Dottie continued to stare up at Fenn, his expectant eyes holding her there as she built herself up to the biggest confession of her life - it certainly wouldn’t seem big to anyone else but to her it was the whole world, her whole world.

“I have something to tell you.” She finally said, breaking the heavy silence that had fallen between them. “Can we, uh…” she glanced around, sensing that this wasn’t an ideal place to do this, but where else was there? She inched them just a few metres away from the gate line, hoping to be sort of out of earshot. “I was gonna say can we find somewhere private, but I don’t think we can. This place is busy - I mean, of course it’s busy, it’s an airport.” Oh no, she was starting to ramble. She needed to get herself back on track before she lost her nerve. “Don’t go back to L.A., stay here.” She blurted out, less of a tell and more of a gentle demand.

forrest's expression softened, the panic about why dottie was suddenly there in front of him giving way to concern about her overexerted state. “ok, good, that’s good,” he replied softly, quietly relieved that she hadn’t come bearing bad news - or at least, not pressingly bad news. his heart, still beating quickly from all the excitement, skipped as she leaned into him - but his arms didn’t miss a beat as they came up to hold her carefully. for a moment he forgot all about where they were, the flight he had to catch, the person waiting for him on the other side of the country. all that mattered was his best friend - the woman he’d loved all their lives - and her being able to find respite with him. 

when she looked up at him his already gentle expression softened still further, yet he was sure some of his confusion still showed in the pinch of his eyes. his brow furrowed at her declarative statement, surprised at the straightforwardness of it, and when dottie drew his attention to their surroundings reality came rushing back in like a most unwelcome visitor. he followed where she led without a second thought, paying no mind to the gate agent who called questioningly after him. because of course he would go where she did - hadn’t he always? hadn’t that been the exact pattern he’d been trying to break out of with his trial move to L.A. so he wouldn’t keep breaking his own heart? and yet there he went again, following naturally behind her like a moon orbiting its beloved planet. everything returned to its proper place once more. he told himself that he’d let go of her hand as soon as they’d stopped, but he made no move to do so. and then she was talking again, babbling in a way that he’d rarely heard before. he shook his head slightly, now approaching something beyond confusion, and just as he’d opened his mouth to say her name she stopped him in his tracks once again. 

the words might as well have been a punch to the gut for how winded they left him, any oxygen in his lungs immediately abandoning him to his own helpless devices. his mouth worked fruitlessly for a moment, struggling to form the sounds to match, but his brain seemed to have crossed the picket line to join the other organs currently on strike. he had no idea, really, what he’d been expecting dottie to say, but now that the pink thing in his head had bid him adieu, the red thing in his chest was making itself heard in a major way. i told you! it said triumphantly. didn’t i tell you? maybe i was wrong a thousand times before, but aren’t you glad you kept on hoping? 

“why?” fenn finally managed to croak, vaguely surprised at how different his voice sounded to his own ears. because no - no, no, no, no, no, he couldn’t let hope take hold of him again. he was still trying to recover from being hooked on the stuff for so many years, and another fix was the absolute last thing he needed. it wasn’t what he thought, he was probably misconstruing things - hell, maybe he’d even somehow misheard her. but no way in hell was he about to hear something he’d been waiting for his entire life.