#Healer Milly

[mika-no-sekai-blog]

Part IV

Word count: +4300

Warnings: angst (the scene with father made me cry while I was writing it), mentions of blood and frostbites, not properly proofread (sorryyyy)

Part III | Part V

An hour later, I was still standing in front of the mirror, calling his name and trying to open the passageway to no avail. Clearly, this was the reason why I didn't need to know how to get to Kallias' chambers that Millie mentioned before, but how - for the love of Mother - was I supposed to open it? I tried pressing ornaments on the frame, I even touched the glass like Kallias did and nothing. Did he block it? Or.. did I need magic to open it?

At last, I gave up, sitting on the edge of mattress, thinking. If it could only be opened with magic, then I wouldn't be able to use it - not that I wanted to bother Winter prince in his bedroom. After I had my one and fortunately only outburst of fire magic as a child, I did everything I could to extinguish the flames within me and suppress any powers I had. I had no idea how to summon even the smallest bits of it nor how to wield it.

Eventually, I crawled under the warm blankets, mentally and physically exhausted. Yet sleep kept eluding me and I spent the rest of the night tossing around. It gave me enough time to think about, well, everything. By the time morning came, I had made several important decisions.

I thought a lot about Kallias and his feelings for Viviane, and I realized that I didn't want to stand in his way. For some reason, I already liked him quite a bit and cared for him. If possible, I'd like to be his friend and support him, maybe even help him be with the one to whom his heart belonged.

That also meant that I couldn't fall in love with him in the process, which was probably the hardest part of my plan as he was too attractive and nice. I couldn't imagine a person who wouldn't like someone like him. The fact that he was also my husband, made it even worse. While my head was clear about it, my heart kept whispering. I had no claim on him nor his feelings and I knew it. Demanding such things from him just because we were forced into marriage, wasn't right.

I was in the middle of contemplating how to refrain from falling in love with him when a knock sounded on the door.

"You can come in," I said as I sat up and hissed when a sharp pain shot through my head. Exhaustion wasn't a strong enough word to describe how I felt. After not sleeping at all, I felt weak and nauseous. I definitely wasn't in state to get up, but today was the day my father would return home and I wanted to spend as much time with him as I could.

Millie peeked in. "I saw young master and thought you might be up, milady." She frowned when she noticed the mostly untouched bed, but the dark circles under my eyes were convincing enough.

"How.. how did he look?"

"Like he didn't sleep much, I'd say." She opened the curtains, letting in the rays of morning sun. I squinted, my headache getting instantly worse.

"Uhm."

"Is something wrong? Should I get you a healer?" Millie hurried to me with worry.

"It isn't necessary," I pushed through clenched teeth. "I just need- uhm.."

"Headache, right?" Millie was immediately on her feet, running to what I guessed was walk-in closet. "I think I saw it somewhere around here," she mumbled as she searched one of the dressers inside. "Ah, there it is."

After getting my medicine, the pain subsided to a bearable level and soon I was able to stand up and change. Millie was so kind that she brought the breakfast to my room, and I wobbled to the sitting room.

"Milady, your father would like to visit you, but if you're feeling unwell, I'll tell him that you can't-.."

I put my tea down, surprised. "No, please. I'd like to talk with him, too."

With a bow, she left and soon my father appeared at the threshold. I was so relieved to see him. This was our last chance to spend some time together for a while. Both of us knew it and we both wanted to make the most of it. Father was quite worried when he saw my face, asking me a lot of questions. Unfortunately, for many of them I couldn't provide an answer. With every question I couldn't answer, his brows furrowed more.

"So at least tell me - is the young prince good to you?"

"Yesterday, he was really kind and mindful. I think we will get along well once we get to know each other better. Did you speak with him?"

"I had the pleasure. He appeared in the High Lord's office before the ceremony. When I finished speaking with his father, he offered to show me around and asked me all sorts of questions about you. I didn't tell him about your powers - that's something I will leave up to you and your judgment - but I made sure he knows about your health issues. He seemed like a good male to me. And surprisingly, so did his father."

"Yeah.. I have a similar impression," I mumbled weakly.

"He reassured me that we can see each other any time we'd like. So if something happens or you need anything, just send me a message and I'll come. If necessary, I will take you back home, my sweet girl." His eyes were gleaming with tears and I also had a hard time holding back mine.

Then we talked about anything that came to our minds, just as we usually did. It was nice to be able to do so, yet it saddened me even more. Back home, we did this almost every day. Knowing that from now on, he would be too far for maintain our tradition, hurt. After having lunch together, a servant stopped by to announce that the sleigh was ready. As we descended to the ground floor, the feeling of uneasiness I had felt last night reappeared, making it hard for me to draw a full breath.

Kallias and his father were waiting in the foyer, kind smiles on their faces. Again, I couldn't but notice how similar they were in appearance as well as behavior. Their goodbyes were so shockingly warm, as if they were bidding farewell to a dear friend and not to someone they had just met the day before, making sure my father knew that he was always welcome to come again. However, when Morena appeared, their behavior was rather reserved and aloof.

While my new family exchanged farewells with the old one, my attention moved to Kallias, whom I hadn't seen since the incident last night. Just as Millie told me, he looked tired and pale, maybe even a bit uncomfortable. His gaze was focused solely on the leaving guests. I hoped I would have the chance to talk with him later. I wanted to explain events of last night and reassure him that it wasn't his fault.

I followed my father down the stairs to the waiting sleigh. Millie, who trailed after us, stayed near the doors, giving us privacy to say our goodbyes. Morena dryly recited the parting words and got into the sleigh. Father raised a brow, experiencing her coldness toward me for the first time, but I only shook my head.

"Are you sure you can't stay here longer?"

"I'd love to, my little girl, but I need to return to the borders. Solstice is getting closer and I have to ensure every village is prepared and stocked with enough food," he caressed my cheek.

"I will miss you," I sobbed, unable to hold my tears back.

"Me too," he pulled me into a hug, protecting me from cold wind.

"I have a bad feeling about it," I admitted for the first time.

"No need," he rubbed my back. " I will write you a letter as soon as we arrive and then every day after."

"That's not the same."

"I know, believe me, I know. Without you, our home will feel so lonely and empty."

"Please, take good care of yourself."

"You too, Y/N. Be a good girl as usual and don't be afraid to let others know when you need help. Don't suffer alone. If anything, trust at least young Kallias, your husband. He swore to take good care of you and I hope he'll keep his word. Be happy."

With a last squeeze and a kiss on my forehead, father released me and got into the sleigh, taking a seat next to visibly displeased Morena. I instantly felt so cold and lonely without his presence.

The sleigh slightly jerked as it began moving, taking my only family away. Even though I was shivering, cold biting into my body, I stood there watching them until they passed the gate and disappeared into the labyrinth of streets and even long after that, until the sound of jingle bells faded into the distance. I waited a bit longer, hoping that wind would bring their distant sound multiplied by an echo in the gorge as they traveled down the narrow road to the gates, but the only things I could hear, were distant sounds of life in the city.

I tugged my fur cloak closer and slowly turned back to the castle, admiring its tall towers, so different from the castle where I grew up. My new home. My heart sank at that thought. Could I really call this place home?

The icy-cold north wind brought a few snowflakes, swirling and freely dancing in this open space, and I shivered, already losing feeling in my fingers, tears freezing on my face. The headache was growing stronger again, pain coming in waves. I took maybe three steps before I felt something warm and wet coming out of my nose.

Oh my, how embarrassing, I thought, trying to cover it with hand.

Honestly, I thought it was just snot, but when I checked my fingers, they were stained red. After that, everything happened too quickly. It wasn't my first nosebleed nor did it scare me. At that moment, my only concern was to get in quickly and find the closest bathroom. I managed to reach halfway up the stairs leading to the castle's entrance when my body swayed, my legs buckling, and world started to tilt to the side. A sharp pain blinded me and the last thing I remembered was the feeling of falling.

I was groping in the darkness, freezing and burning simultaneously. Later, I wasn't sure about it, but I thought I had dreams, flashes of light when I saw Kallias leaning over me, brows knitted together, his lips moving without making a sound. Sometimes he just sat there, watching me, sometimes he reached for something I couldn't see or gently touched my cheek.

In that state I completely lost track of time. The sense of feeling was the first of my senses to awaken. I was surrounded by warmth, comforting yet heavy, pressing on my chest and pushing me into something soft beneath me. After a while, I cracked my eyes open, blinking away the pain. This place was so bright, light pouring in through the open curtains. As my eyes adjusted, I recognized my new bedroom. How did I get here?

I search my memory, but last thing I clearly remembered was rushing up the stairs outside because my nose was bleeding. Groaning, I pushed the heavy blankets aside and sat up. Carefully I checked on myself. The dress had been replaced by soft cotton nightgown and I felt tired, but headache was gone for now as was the nosebleed.

"Thank the Mother, you are awake, milady," Millie's a bit high-pitched voice snapped me out of my thoughts. She had just come in from the bathroom, wiping her wet hands on her white apron, and she rushed to my side. "We were so worried when you suddenly passed out on the stairs. If it hadn't for young master, you could have seriously hurt yourself."

She hopped up, sitting on the edge of mattress and pressed her cool hand to my forehead and my hands. "Thankfully, the fever is now completely gone and you aren't freezing anymore. You really had us worried. Even the best healer in the castle couldn't say what was going on."

"I don't understand," I blinked in confusion. "Didn't I just pass out because of a migraine?"

"Well, you probably did, but I wasn't here the whole time and didn't hear everything the healer said. I had to leave to bring blankets and other things she ordered me to fetch. The young master spoke with her. I returned in time to hear her explaining to him that your body was burning with fever while freezing and that she had never encountered anything like that. To be honest, I don't understand much to that."

"I see.. I'm sorry for worrying you, Millie."

"It's nothing, milady. I'm happy you feel better already."

I fiddled nervously, unsure how to ask about the certain thing that caught my attention, my cheeks heating up "Millie.. umm.. You mentioned that Kallias caught me?"

Her eyes grew bigger, a wide smile adorning her heart-shaped face. Her expression conveyed a pure adoration. She placed hands over her heart, leaning closer. "You should have seen it, milady. I saw something wasn't right with you, but I knew I couldn't get to you in time. I was so scared. I already pictured you hitting the stairs, breaking a bone or even worse when suddenly, the young master appeared, right next to you. He caught you mid-air and scooped you into his arms. It would have been so romantic, if you hadn't been bleeding so much," she retold the events enthusiastically, gesturing about. It certainly wasn't the first time she had told this to someone.

I hated to admit it, but my heart was hammering in my chest as her story unfolded. Adding random small details, she vividly described how Kallias carried me to my room, took me to the bathroom to stop the nosebleed, and then carefully placed me on the bed when the healer arrived. It was hard to imagine he would go such lengths for someone like me, but apparently he did.

"And then the young master stayed by your side all night, taking care of you completely alone until early morning when finally your fever went down," she concluded her story with a dreamy expression.

I sat there, speechless, trying to convince myself that he did such things solely because he was a good person and because of the promise. Who knows, maybe father somehow tricked him into taking an oath. I knew his heart already belonged to someone else, so why didn't mine want to accept it, whispering sweet lies?

"Are you okay, milady? Perhaps you should lie back down," Millie gave me a worried look, again checking my temperature.

"I'm fine," I tried to smile. "Actually, I'd like to change and go down for breakfast."

As expected, Millie protested and I had to convince her to let me get up. An hour later, I walked into family dining room, much smaller than the one where the wedding party took place, yet impressive in its size and decor. Sets of round and long tables were randomly placed around the space, each chair and bench inviting one to take a seat and eat the delicious-looking food arranged on plates and trays in the middle of tables. Several spots were already taken by importantly looking lords, but aside from Lord Isen who delivered High Lord's message, I didn't recognize anyone.

My eyes wandered to the long table in the back of the room, near the window, and there, sitting on the bench, I spotted him.

Dressed in a uniform that seemed to be his usual attire, Kallias looked even more tired than the last time I saw him, but his posture was relaxed, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. He was immersed in conversation with Viviane, who sat next to him and was currently laughing at something.

I hesitated. Maybe I should let him enjoy those moments and try to thank him later.

Yeah, that would be for the best.

I was about to leave when Viviane looked up, her shock immediately replaced by a bright smile.

"Y/N! Come! Come and sit down, dear!" she called, making space between them for me. Kallias quickly looked me over and then looked down, that sweet smile gone. I bit the inside of my cheek. Now that they saw me, it would be strange to leave.

"Hi, Viviane.. Kallias."

Viviane patted the bench between them, her brows knitting slightly together. "How are you, dear? We all were so worried when we heard what happened. Do you feel better?"

"I'm fine now," I smiled and stepped to Kallias' other side. Surprise flashed across his features, but he moved closer to Viviane to make room for me on the end of bench. "I'm sorry for worrying you."

Viviane pouted her full lips, her gaze darting to Kallias in silent question. He slightly shook his head, his shoulders a bit tense. It took a few minutes, but at last, conversation had picked up again, with Viviane cheerfully leading it. I took it as a good sign when Kallias relaxed and continued with his breakfast, matching our pace and occasionally adding something to my plate. When it happened for the first time, I was more than surprised. He mumbled something about me needing to eat properly to get stronger and returned to his meal.

Viviane's attention focused solely on me, asking me random questions, completely ignoring Kallias. He seemed content watching her expressive face, flashing a grin here and there, though I could say that he often felt awkward and lonely, sitting between us like an invisible wall. That's why I tried to turn the conversation to him at every opportunity.

We were almost done with the breakfast when, out of nowhere, I felt an urgent need to look up. The unpleasant feeling of being watched made me turn to the doors. The person I saw there.. I didn't expect that..

My stepbrother Zima just walked in with arrogant smile, his gaze burning holes into me. All the blood drained from my face, the contents of my stomach threatening to return. This couldn't be... He was supposed to leave, so why?

Dipping his chin in acknowledgment, he headed to the table where Lord Isen was seated, his eyes still on me.

"Y/N.. What's wrong?" Both Viviane and Kallias watched me warily, probably expecting me to faint.

"W-what is he doing here?"

I didn't need to say his name. They exchanged glances. Viviane was the one to answer me.

"I heard he is so worried about you feeling lonely in your new home, that he decided to stay. Aren't you glad he's here?"

I couldn't answer. I had such a bad feeling about this. I'd never felt safe around him, but I had confidence in my father's protection as if it could hold him back from seriously hurting me. But here..? I was stripped of the only security I had in my life. What could keep him on chain here? This place was huge, full of strangers who couldn't care less about me. If he pushed me into some dark corner in a deserted part of the castle, who would bother looking for me?

The more I thought about it, the less I could control the tremor of my hands, so I put down the fork and hid them in my skirt, hoping that my companions hadn't noticed. Thankfully, they seemed to be fully focused on cleaning their plates.

After they were done, Kallias was the first to leave. Not wanting to stay in the same room as Zima alone, I hurried after him, focusing on my previous plans.

I caught up to him in one of many corridors.

"Kallias? Would you have a minute?"

He stopped but didn't look at me.

"I'd like to apologize for what happened t-that night. You have been avoiding me since then, even though it wasn't your fault."

"I hurt you," his voice was distant. Under the thick layer of ice that was protecting him from outside world, I heard hurt and remorse. "It won't happen again. I assure you."

As he said what he needed, he was ready to leave me behind. I wouldn't allow that.

"Kallias! Please, listen to me!" He froze in mid-motion, finally looking at me over his shoulder with a raised brow. Now that I had his full attention.. I lost my courage and with it, the whole speech I had prepared for this occasion vanished.

"I-.. You already know that I'm not like others. Honestly, I'm weak.. What happened that night.. if it had been someone else, they wouldn't even have noticed.. So don't blame yourself for my.. incompetence.."

He said nothing, but it was clear he didn't believe me. Well.. I had to prove my point then. Before he could stop me, I yanked the closest window open and grabbed the thick icicle blocking the view. The pain of burning was immediate and I hissed. In the blink of an eye, Kallias was next to me, pulling me away from the window.

"Are you crazy?" He kept his voice low. He checked if we were alone and then carefully opened my hand. The entire skin of my palm and fingers was red with small blisters here and there. He was mad now for sure. "Such recklessness!"

He pushed me into the empty sitting room and warded the door. Placing an armchair closer to the hearth, he bid me to sit down. The Winter prince dropped to one knee in front of me, closely inspecting my palm. He let out a shaky breath.

"I'm sorry. Thinking it's for the best to keep my distance I caused.. this," he sighed. He was having a hard time, looking for the words. "I meant to give this to you sooner, but I didn't know how-" He pulled a small container from his pocket and opened it. The well-known smell of herbs tickled my nose and I hummed, knowing what it was. He dipped a finger into the cream and with feather-light touches, he began spreading it over the irritated skin. The relief was immediate.

"Thank you, and thank you also for yesterday. Millie told me.."

"Millie?" he halted, thinking. "Ah, you mean your maid.."

He again scooped a bit of cream on his finger and continued his careful treatment.

"Would you-.." After a while, he broke the silence, mumbling. "How is it even possible that you are this fragile? I've never heard of this. It's - to be honest - hard to believe that one can get this hurt just by briefly touching a piece of ice. All the halflings I know, inherited at least some resistance to cold."

He said it calmly, without any taunts or prejudices. I wondered whom he was talking about and where he had met them. Halflings, as he referred to someone like me, were rare in seasonal courts and were always looked down upon. We were seen as a mistake of nature, something that shouldn't even exist. Solar courts, on the other hand, were quite welcoming and didn't care for one's origin - or so I read in the books my father had in his library. As a Winter prince, Kallias certainly had many opportunities to travel. He probably met them while visiting other courts.

I bit on my bottom lip, thinking how to explain my handicap without revealing the real reason - thus that it was caused by suppressing my fire magic, my true nature. "Well, it wasn't always like this," I started hesitantly. "I remember playing outside in the snow as a child, touching it even without gloves. I used to spend hours outside and my parents had a really hard time getting me inside to at least eat."

Kallias' lips curled into a small smile. He was focused on my hurt hand, but he was listening intently.

"It happened shortly after my mum died and father-.. They were mates. My father was disappearing before my eyes. I was scared I would lose him, too," shiver ran down my spine and I tugged the fur cloak closer with my good hand. Just remembering that brought tears to my eyes. Kallias sat back on his heels, his gaze narrowed at me.

"I gradually got weaker. At first, I had just less energy than before. After some time, I had to stop going out without proper clothes. Years later.. I got this weak. Fevers, migraines, nosebleeds, this," I waved my slowly healing hand.

"I see," was all he said. I could literally see that he had something on the tip of his tongue. He didn't say it aloud, though. I grew scared that I revealed too much and that he guessed the real cause. A lump rose in my throat, my pulse quickened.

He closed the container he still held, and taking my healthy hand, he placed it on my palm. "Thank you for.. your honesty," he smiled kindly, but it did nothing to settle my fear. "If you run out of this, let me know. I'll get you a new one."

I just nodded. As if sensing my unease, he reached up and cupping my cheek, caressed me. "You can trust me. No need to be hesitant or scared. I'm your husband, after all. No matter what, I'll protect you from now on."

Taglist: @tenshis-cake

[crossroadsglade]

Mehar grumbles before getting her phone and calling the Tsarista

The phone was then answered by Millie “Who is this?”

“My name is Mehar, I am calling on behalf of Natalia to ask the Tsarista a question.” Mehar replies

“Ah, give me a moment.”

”Natalia.” Mehar calls out to Nat as the mad scientist approaches the edge of Sumeru City. The nurse approaches her, calm as can be. “You’re on a downward spiral.”

@crossroadsglade

No, I'm not.

She doesn't stop walking.

[an-au-blog]

okay, i figured it out: Trigun in a Dungeon Meshi world, where Kni became a dungeon lord and that's why Vash wants to go in (to save him), Ww just goes in on the regular and is often payed to be a companion if you want to get deep fast (he's used to the dungeons because Livio lives there). And Milly and Meryl are a healer and mage who heard about the dungeon's unusual behavior and wanted to investigate but the problem is that they're not very experienced and the little experience they DO have is on the top levels.

[crossroadsglade]

{Open starter} Pandemos huffed as she leaned against the arm of her divan, dressed only in her nightgown as she shifted through some paperwork that Millie had brought in. “I see Lviv is suffering from a flood because of their dam failing.” The Tsarista says, holding up the paper with the report on it.

“That it is, your Majesty.” Rai says as she sets a plate of blini and grapes on the coffee table in front of the divan.

“I will have Pantalone send the necessary funds to them then. I will also send some healers and builders there too.” Pandemos says, setting the report on the table with a sigh. She then picks up a grape, plopping it into her mouth before looking through the other reports. “Any news of the Doctor? Is he behaving himself?” The Tsarista asks, lowering the papers as she glances towards Millie as the brunette came in with a dress for her.

“He is still holed up in his lab. I’m sure your last meeting with the Doctor has given him much to think on.” Millie says, disdain clear in her words as she says ‘meeting’. As if Dottore being caught looking through her Majesty’s papers could be considered a meeting. She hangs the dress on a stand as Rai takes the papers from Pandemos when there is a knock on the door. The ladies in waiting look to her Majesty and she nods calmly.

Rai quickly walks to the door and opens it slightly to see who decided to disturb her Majesty so early. “State your business that you felt is so important to disturb her Majesty at this time.”

[maesterchill]

Coming in hot with that Dronarry, what is Rebuild about?? 😍🔥

Hey chiquita!! Thanks for asking about this one. This one I was hoping to write for Dronarry fest 2024 I think... (or 2023, haha i have lost track), but as usual I bit off more than I could chew and then got distracted by other projects.

It's an eighth year fic set against the backdrop of the rebuild of Hogwarts, so not many classes, more spells and physical work. Ron and Harry are a casual couple. Draco discovers a lightning scar on his body, and so does Ron. 👀 Later Pansy disappears and Harry and Ron help Draco to find her. Feelings ensue😏

This is the opening scene:

~

The only person Draco tells about the scar is Pansy. Pansy is delighted, of course, the cow, casting a Lumos under the bedsheets, and then smoothing her fingers over the zig and zag of it, her eyes dramatically wide. 

“What’ve Mungo’s said about it?” 

Draco laughs right in her face. As if, after all of the shame and carnage and awfulness, he would honestly waltz into a Healer’s office and say, ‘Yes, hello, how do you do? I have a lightning scar on my stomach. You know, like that chap who just saved the world. That sort of scar.’ 

No, Draco won’t be doing that

“Pomfrey, then? She might know.”

“No, Pans. Just drop it. It’s just a coincidence.” Draco buttons his pyjama top back up.

“But you said the Dark Lord used an Avada on you. That's— there's no way you’d survive that.”

“Maybe I misremembered,” Draco says tiredly, flopping his head back onto the pillow. He knows he didn’t though, the cold enunciation of the words was crystal clear, the jet of light that hit him unmistakable in its sickly greenness.

“Unless.” Pansy rolls closer to him, smirking. “Unless it means that you’re the next Chosen One.”

“Har bloody har,” he replies. “Who’d choose me? And for what?”

“I would Draco. You know I would. I could put you to very good use.” She slides closer, her big boobs pressing against his arm, all soft and fleshy.

Draco groans. “Go to sleep, you horny old hag.”

She laughs. “I’ll never turn you, will I? Such a shame, the most beautiful boy at Hogwarts.” She strokes his hair and he closes his eyes. He’s so grateful for her. For Greg too, and the others. 

He feels the delicious pull of sleep, tugging at him softly. Perhaps tonight he’ll avoid the nightmares. It’s been better having Pansy next to him. Holding him. They comfort each other. She’s always had anxiety—he’s known that for years—but the war worsened it, cracked her open in places she used to hide. This is the only way they sleep now. 

Millie and Greg have been sharing a bed too, both grieving in their quiet way. 

“You’ll need to tell Potter,” she whispers. “He ought to know.”

“Wrong on both counts,” Draco mumbles back.  He throws an arm around her waist and pulls her closer. She rests her head on his shoulder. Her hair smells of tea tree. “Now shut off that meddling brain and close your eyes.”

~

[peachy-posy]

Ride This Out - Vash x Reader (Chapter 1)

Summary: After putting yourself in a dangerous situation, you and Vash have one of your first major arguments.

A/N: Third Trigun fic, woohoo! This was my first time writing something with the 98 versions of characters specifically in mind, so I hope everything feels in character! I tried my best hehe Last chapter will have smut (my first time writing any hhhh), minors DNI!!! Cross-posted to my AO3 <3

Chapter Tags: Established relationship, canon-typical violence, minor violence/injuries, hurt/comfort

Word Count: 3.1k

Traveling with only men is decidedly… not very fun, in your opinion. At least not the ones you're with. You lean your head in your hands, listening vaguely as Vash and Wolfwood argue between themselves in their good-natured, but annoying way. You tuned them out about half an hour ago when the conversation started heading in that argumentative direction. 

You miss Milly and Meryl. When the boys start debating and arguing, the three of you have your own conversation, laughing and joking with each other. The insurance girls had been sent to a neighboring town several days ago, promising to meet back up with you three in a week or so. That day could not come sooner. 

Your eyes, which have been glazed over for some time now, focus as Wolfwood huffs, leaning back in his chair. Vash does the same, but you don’t feel any real malice between them as usual. Seems like they are finally done. 

You glance over at the blonde, feeling his turquoise eyes on you.

“Everything okay, Mayfly?” He questions with a smile, reaching across the table to take your hand. 

You smile, even as Wolfwood groans something to the effect of ‘Oh, here we go.’

“Yeah, everything’s fine. I was just thinking about Meryl and Milly,” you answer, prompting a bright smile from Vash at the mention of the two girls. 

“Aw, what, we aren’t fun enough for ya, sweetheart?” Wolfwood asks, his tone teasing. 

You glance at him tiredly. “Unfortunately not. Sorry.” 

He feigns hurt, over-exaggerating his reaction. “You wound me!” Vash chuckles to your side, and you share an amused smile with him. This ramps up the theatrics from the preacher, and he looks at Vash. “How can you lie down and take this? You’re included in that statement, you know.” 

Vash shrugs, rubbing his thumb across your knuckles. Your heart flutters at the action. 

“Oh, please. Get a room,” Wolfwood remarks. You can’t help but snort, even as Vash puffs up. 

As he begins to reply, gunshots echo from somewhere outside: perhaps near the town square. You jump, slightly surprised, and Vash’s hold on your hand tightens as he hears shouting from outside. 

You know what comes next. 

Wolfwood grabs his Punisher, stretching casually as he stands. Vash stands as well, walking over to you briskly, kneeling at your side. He takes you by your shoulders, locking eyes with you, and calls your name.

“You’ll be okay on your own for a bit, right? Don’t come out unless one of us comes for you.” 

“I know the drill, Vash. Be careful,” you reassure, giving him a quick kiss for good luck. He smiles against your lips, able to get lost in the moment, but only for... well, a moment. More gunshots and screams ring out, and he stands up with renewed urgency, meeting Wolfwood at the entrance with long strides. 

Vash glances at you one last time before exiting. You blink and the two are gone, leaving you behind in the old tavern. The few patrons that were there as well had gone to investigate the commotion, leaving you alone. 

You sigh, unwanted frustration with your situation bubbling up in your chest. Unfortunately, it’s like this all the time. After all, you aren’t some incredible, talented gunslinger. You’re just a healer in love with one. 

You slowly stand up, leaving the table you three had been occupying, scrutinizing the room for a good place to hide. After a few minutes, you find yourself a nice little spot behind the bar. It’s not necessarily perfect, but it’ll do. 

You lower yourself to the floor, preparing yourself for the waiting game. You wonder how long it’ll take for them to come back today. Fifteen minutes? Thirty? An hour? 

You hear more gunfire and shouting in the distance, and you try your best to ignore it for now, despite the uneasiness settling in your chest. There’s nothing you can do for anyone until the danger is over. You know that this general course of action is what is safest for you. You hide yourself away, waiting for the ‘all clear,’ then tend to any and all wounded people who happen to get caught up in whatever happens, a reassuring smile plastered on your face all the while. This is how you do your part in the small group you’ve found yourself in. 

It also allows Vash to not be worried about your safety while actively dodging bullets. 

You’d worked in a small clinic before meeting the Humanoid Typhoon what feels like ages ago. Your role as a doctor’s assistant made you happy at the time; it made you feel fulfilled and helpful. And it still does! 

That said, you sometimes find yourself wishing that you could protect others the way Vash and Wolfwood can. Not that you want to throw yourself into the fray of battle, but you hate feeling so… useless at times like this when the fighting first breaks out. Weak. Like something that needs to be tucked away and protected. 

Vash adores that you are a healer. He’ll sometimes sit with you on quiet nights, his fingers rubbing affectionate circles into your hands while he holds them, saying that your hands were made for saving people. You tell him that his hands were too, but he denies it every single time. He says his hands were made for violence. For destruction. 

You couldn’t disagree more. 

Not when you see all of the good he does, protecting those around him with the very hands he swears will bring destruction to everything they touch. 

You are startled out of your thoughts by the sound of a bullet ricocheting particularly close by. You hold your breath, trying to gauge how far away the person who fired it is. You can hear voices in the distance that sound closer than wherever the main incident is. You bite your lip, considering if you are hidden well enough. Slowly, you begin to notice the sounds of… crying? 

You know Vash doesn’t want you to put yourself in harm’s way, but what exactly would looking through a window do? Besides, the crying sounds too much like a child for your comfort. 

You rise slowly from behind the bar, finding your resolve to investigate. Making your way over to a nearby window on light feet, you carefully peek outside. At first, there is nothing that you can see. Suddenly, though, a small child running down the street comes into view. He’s crying, dust coating his hands and knees. He’s bleeding from a few small cuts that you can see from your current view of him, but otherwise seems physically unharmed. 

You gasp as the boy trips, tumbling hard into the dusty ground. He sucks in a sharp breath, bottom lip wobbling. In the blink of an eye, four men concealing their faces with bandanas are upon the boy, one of them grabbing him roughly. 

The child shrieks, thrashing in the man’s hold. To your horror, another one of the men points a gun at him. He can’t be more than five years old. The sight of it makes you nauseated. 

“You’re gonna regret running, you damn brat,” one of the men rasps angrily at the sobbing child. 

“Bring him back to where the other townspeople are. Make sure you don’t lose any this time,” one of the other men orders. 

“G-got it,” one of them replies nervously. 

“If it happens again, it’s your head.” 

It seems like this gang took some hostages when they got here, and this boy escaped. You can’t let them take him back. They don’t seem to have any issue shooting him, as you heard that gunshot earlier as they chased him. Your hands are trembling and clammy, but you know you have to do something. 

But with what? You don’t have a weapon. You desperately look around the tavern, and your eyes land on a knife and empty bottles. Acting quickly, you grab one of each, a messy and dangerous plan forming as you go. 

All you have working for you is the element of surprise. You can’t fight, but you know where to hit someone to make it count due to your medical training. You just hope you’re fast enough. 

You look outside once more, and you notice that two of the men are gone. The other two that remain are talking to one another for the time being, distracted. One holds the child in a punishing grip, surely causing bruises to form on his small wrist. He's wailing in earnest, despite the captors' barking at him to quit. 

It’s now or never. You open the door as quietly as you can manage, gripping the bottle. You’ll have to hit one of the men as hard as you can in the head with the bottle, then use the knife you’d pocketed to strike the other. Your plan is to slash the ligaments behind the knee, immobilizing the person. The bottle isn’t very ideal, but you’re worried your lack of skill with a knife will cause you to accidentally lose the weapon in a body if you try to use it for both men. 

Unfortunately, you know your plan has little chance of success. Once you attack one, the other knows you’re there. Your best bet is to incapacitate the one holding the child first and to assess in the moment if you can deal with the other. There is a large chance you’ll just have to grab the kid and run as fast as you can, hoping you find Vash or Wolfwood if you make it to the town square. You look down at the threshold of the tavern, trying to will your legs to move forward. Your body is frozen, unable to walk outside. 

Suddenly, one of the men turns on his heels, striding back down the street where they originally came from. That gets you moving. 

You hide yourself behind the door hastily, praying you haven’t been spotted. Several terrifying moments pass where you wait for them to descend upon you. You can hear your heartbeat thrumming in your head, throbbing in anticipation of the worst. 

The attack never comes. They haven’t seen you.

You can’t believe your stroke of luck. You may actually be able to pull off incapacitating a single person, even with your limited capabilities in combat. 

You carefully set the bottle on the ground, reaching for the knife you grabbed. You peek around the door, eyes finding the man and boy immediately. The man is yanking the child, trying to get him to cooperate. His back is towards the tavern. 

You grip the kitchen knife firmly, trying to control your shaking hands as you emerge from behind the door. You approach as swiftly and quietly as you can, soon finding yourself within striking distance of your target. 

Just slash the back of his knee. He shouldn’t be able to chase you if you tear a ligament. 

Steeling yourself, you aim for the back of the man’s knee, slashing with as much force as you can muster. 

You know you succeeded when he howls in pain, immediately letting go of the child and grabbing his knee, falling to the sandy, dusty street. He is bleeding, gripping his knee tightly, and he turns to look at you with a shocked glare, his eyes filled with malice. 

You drop the knife in shock, your bloody hands making you nauseous. 

Time to go! 

The child is pale, shaking like a leaf as you scoop him into your arms. The man shouts from the ground, and you see him start fumbling around, looking for something. 

“Get back here! You bitch!” 

You turn on your heels, sprinting as fast as your legs can go. You hear a deafening gunshot, flinching as a bullet hits the dirt nearby. You realize that he had been trying to get his gun, and unfortunately for you, he found it.

He shoots again, but you have already begun weaving as you run, hoping to throw his aim off. The child is clutching onto you fiercely, burying his head into your shoulder. More bullets hit the ground around you, and your heart is hammering wildly in your chest. As you turn the nearest street corner, you find yourself shocked and relieved your plan is working. You just might actually be able to save this child. 

Your thoughts come to an abrupt, violent halt when you notice a dark blur in your periphery. A man slams his gun into your head with a snarl, and you are thrown towards the ground. On your way down, you attempt to shield the boy as best you can, wrapping your arms around him tightly and trying to absorb the shock of slamming into the ground. The breath is knocked from your lungs as you collide into the street with a groan of pain. Your head is swimming, but you unwrap your arms, trying to sit up as quickly as possible and get the boy to his feet. He seems relatively unharmed, but terribly shaken up. 

“Run! Now!” You scream, and he thankfully listens. 

He darts off, right as the man reaches you. You see him start to move after the boy, but you lunge for and grab one of his legs, causing him to stumble with curses spilling from his lips. He whips his head down to look at you, and you do your best to not recoil from his gaze. 

“You just don’t know when to quit, do you?” He scowls, kicking you off him. You gasp, hitting the ground once more with a painful thud. Your ears ring, and your vision is blurring. 

“Just who do you think you are?” He kneels in front of you, gripping your shirt’s collar and yanking you up. You whimper in pain, your head throbbing as he jostles you. 

“I hope it was worth it. You can take his place.” 

“I’m not scared of you,” you lie, managing to catch his eyes. Truth be told, you're terrified. But you’d never tell this scumbag that. 

He lets out a low, threatening laugh. Chills race down your spine. “Oh, you aren’t very smart, are you?” He laughs again, gripping your collar tightly. “You’re lucky I haven’t killed you yet. I’m still deciding. How about I rough you up a little till then?” 

You feel the burn of tears in your eyes, and blink quickly to dispel them before they can form. You refuse to cry in front of him. 

You desperately hope the boy is safe. You’re so close to the town square. Vash and Wolfwood should be right near here. 

Through your blurring vision and pounding head, you see the man rear his hand back. You shut your eyes tight, bracing yourself. 

Instead of feeling the collision of his hand, you hear a sharp intake of breath. You crack open your eyes hesitantly, vision blurring. 

Your breath is pulled from your lungs, tears of relief flowing immediately. Because even with blurring vision, you are able to recognize the long, red coat blowing in the wind. Standing behind the man who tackled you is Vash. He’s holding the man by the wrist, and he looks furious . 

“Vash,” you breathe out, voice trembling. 

The man drops you from his grip, and you fall into the ground, immediately using your heels to scoot away from him. After blinking several times to focus, you take a good look at Vash. You’ve never seen him so angry before. The hand he’s using to grip the wrist of your assailant is trembling with restraint.. 

“I-I know you! You’re Vash the Stampede!” The man realizes with wide eyes, his face pale. 

Vash says nothing, his eyes narrowing. The man continues his nervous rambling. 

“L-look, I didn’t… we didn’t know you were here. If you want this town, it’s all yours. We’ll leave.” 

You hold your breath, watching to see what Vash does next. Your heart aches for him, knowing that he is bothered by the rumors that precede him. That said, that infamous reputation is pretty convenient right now. 

Vash uses his gun to knock out the man without a word. He immediately goes limp, crumpling to the ground as Vash releases his wrist. You release the breath you’d been holding, noting the pain in your head and body, but mostly feel great relief. Vash’s gaze remains trained on the unconscious form before him, his expression complicated. Several beats of silence pass, and you feel yourself becoming slightly anxious. Why hasn’t he said anything this entire time?

“Vash?” You call hesitantly, voice quiet. 

Your voice snaps him out of his daze. His eyes flicker up to yours, relief washing over his features as he races forward, throwing himself on his knees in front of you. 

“Oh Mayfly, god, look what they did to you,” the words spill from his mouth as he holds you in a bone crushing hug to his chest. 

You let yourself be cradled in his arms, disappointed slightly when he pulls back after a moment. He looks pained. 

“Your head,” he murmurs, hand gently reaching for your temple. You hiss when his fingers graze the throbbing, painful area. He retracts his hand, the blood on his gloved fingertips making you realize you’re bleeding. 

“I am so sorry. I’m so, so sorry,” he whispers, holding you close again. 

You furrow your brow and shake your head, trying to ignore the dizziness it causes. 

“You have nothing to be sorry for. It was my-” 

The words die on your tongue as you hear a familiar voice chattering animatedly around the corner. Both you and Vash turn to face the noise, seeing Wolfwood strolling around the corner of the building nearby, holding a child in his arms. You feel the tension drain from your body fully at the sight of the familiar little boy unharmed. 

You hastily stumble to your feet, trying to get over to him, doing your best to ignore the dizziness that overtakes you from the sudden movement. Vash scrambles after you, holding onto you as you sway. 

“Easy, easy! I think you have a concussion,” Vash implores, but you press forward stubbornly. 

The child sees you, squirming from Wolfwood’s grasp to reach you. With dried tears on his face, he looks up at you with big, worried eyes. You feel Vash’s hand at the small of your back, gently steadying you. 

“Well, looks like we found her! Good job, bud!” Wolfwood praises, ruffling the kid’s hair. 

A bright smile forms on his little face. He reaches out and snatches your hand. 

“Come help me find my mommy!”

[pinovapie]

DRDT Warrior Cat Au

So i used to be obsessed with Warrior Cats as a kid and uh. I still really like the concept so... Here's my Warriors Despair Time AU! Forgive me if everything is really rambly,,, ft. Redesigns of the cat designs i made before- also, feel free to ask questions, talking about it will probably help me expand it.

Words: (just in case you don't know warriors, if there's anymore i missed lmk-)

Kittypet -> House cat, a pet belonging to a human

Twoleg -> Humans

Nest -> Bed or Home (a Twoleg Nest is a house)

Den -> House (Warriors den is where warriors sleep etc.

Medicine Cat -> Healer, Clan doctor. They can also (usually) communicate with the dead as well as receive visions and omens.

Medicine Cat Den -> Infirmary /Hospital for cats

Starclan -> Where the dead cats go. Heaven for cats ig?? Starclan cats are covered in stars c:

Twoleg Place -> A collection of houses, street, town, city, etc.

Thunderpath -> Road

Monsters -> Cars, Vans, Trucks, etc.

Mono TV -> Monostar

The ' leader' of the newly formed 'Despairclan'. Really they're the deputy for the true leader. No one knows why the leader stays hidden but they do. They're kind of incompetent but they do a decent enough job (despite their love of violence...). The clan is a mismatch of random strays and kittypets/house cats.

Eden Tobasia -> Thymeleap

A very friendly Kittypet that joined the clan by mistake after getting lost. She keeps trying to persuade her clanmates to come back to her twoleg nest so they can find proper, warm, safe homes for everyone. So far it hasn't really worked but in the meantime she'll do whatever jobs are required to help everyone. She has convinced Butterflylake, Orchidgleam and Lilypetal to occasionally wander near twoleg place to look for her home. They haven't found anything yet but her friends (and Lilypetal i guess?) are always happy to try and help her home.

Arturo Giles -> Lilypetal

A medicine cat. He's not the best medicine cat in terms of personality and ability to speak with starclan, but he knows a decent amount about herbs and healing. He's not a fan of healing and prefers to use non essential flowers to cover wound dressings so he doesn't have to look at cats' 'disgusting mangled fur' whilst they're in the medicine cat den. He's also a fan of decorating his own fur to look prettier. In this AU he's obsessed with Kittypets and their 'pampered' lifestyles.

Veronika Grebenshchova -> Veronika /Centipedeslaughter

A Kittypet that's obsessed with clan life. She constantly tries to help the clan by bringing them more prey or fighting rouges and loners. She's regarded as an honorary clan member by Monostar and usually spends more time in camp then at her twolegs' house. She usually decides to sleepover with Lilypetal or Horsejump (who do not like her one bit-). She often recounts the horror films her twolegs' watch as some kind of spooky story to scare her clanmates. She chose the warrior name Centipedeslaughter herself.

Ace Markey -> Horsejump

He used to be a farm cat named Horse. He got abandoned because he kept getting scared of the mice rather than catching them. He was given the suffix 'jump' after joining the clan due to his skittish nature. Despite being terrified of them, he can speak to and understand horses (like how Millie could talk to dogs in canon warriors). Rather than having an ED due to jockeying, in this AU he doesn't like eating 'raw meat' (he's used to cat food-) so he tries to avoid eating it as much as possible.

Teruko Tawaki -> Stumblespark

A very clumsy and unlucky cat. She stumbled into the clan by mistake and decided it's safer than wandering stray. Stumblespark seems to suffer misfortune after misfortune. Lilypetal is not fond of the near permanent medicine den patient. Thymeleap, Xander and Rosecurl all to their best to help her feel welcome. Veronika often pesters her for her 'dramatic scar stories'. Due to her luck she's been hit my monsters and survived multiple times.

Charles Cuevas -> Charles -> Viperfang

He used to be a kittypet until a tragic event left him wandering alone. He became a medicine cat due to being de-clawed (he doesn't remember why). However, he only handles small cuts and non bloody ailments due to dislike of blood (he closes his eyes when eating -).

Whit Young -> Whit -> Heartwing

Was a kittypet living near Charles. Originally, they didn't get along but after Viperfang's trama was brought up by a certain event, they bonded due to Whit helping. He used to pester and annoy Viperfang by just showing up on the territory and following him around. After the event however, he joined the clan officially to help his friend. He's taken on the role of a part time mediator (not a canon thing in the books as far as i'm aware but shush-). He usually just listens to cats vent rather than giving advice but it usually helps a lot.

Rose Lacroix -> Rosecurl

The lead medicine cat. She's an expert at creating the right mixes to cure things. Her perfect memory also allows her to know exactly which herbs to use and where to find them.

Hu Jing -> Hu Jing ->Butterflylake

An elegant kittypet that was mistaken for a stray and released miles from home. To respect clan traditions she picked a name similar to the translation of her kittypet name. She's taken on a deputy-like role in the clan by organising patrols and sharing prey evenly between clanmates. She often tries to comfort and care for new arrivals and quiet members of the clan. However, her lack of patience and experience when dealing with stray cats often causes her to see things with a black and white mindset. Enjoys hunting to provide for the clan and often goes with Eden as a hunting partner.

Nico Hakobyan -> Quiettuft

A cat that was abandoned by a breeder after being left for months, after all their littermates were bought. When they first came to the clan they were quiet and kept to themselves. For some reason, Horsejump hates them. Is he just a bully? Did they know each other before the clan? Who knows. Quiettuft is annoyed by them constantly picking fights with them. However, for some reason, even though they've noticed Horsejump's dislike of 'raw meat' they haven't told anyone.

Xander Matthews -> Xander

He was the leader of a gang of rouges before being dragged into the clan. Before he joined the clan he was part of a colony of cats. However, he was caught by twolegs due to disease running rampent. He was the only one they managed to save. He still feels guilty about it. He had a truce with Pebbleroll when they were both rogues. When joining the clan he immediately respected Hopeeye due to a past incident. Hopeeye distracted a pack of dogs by being super friendly then darting away once the confusion wore off. This action saved Xander as well as a couple of fellow rouges. Even after joining the clan he insists on keeping the name Xander.

David Chiem -> Hopeeye

He used to be the leader of an old clan. He was a loved an respected leader, always inspiring and supporting his clanmates. Until one day a giant flood hit at the same time as a whitecough (lethal disease) outbreak. He tried to stay positive and reassure his clanmates that they could make it out! Many cats passed away, believing in Hopeeye's reassurance. After 2/3 of the clan were wiped out, he retired and left the clan, feeling like a liar and a poor leader for letting them down. After meeting Xander properly, however, he's regained a little bit of spirit.

Levi Fontana -> Orchidgleam

A very large fluffy stray, was orignally from a 'bad' clan but left for unknown reasons. was one of the ones to find Horsejump on patrol. Up until a bad argument (and even afterwards-) he saw Horsejump as a cat that needs protecting. As a result he tends to follow him around (even if Horsejump is not happy about it-). Before the argument, Horsejump would pick fights with clanmates and then immediately run and hide under Orchidgleam's belly. Unfortunately, that argument seems to have stopped that from happening and Orchidgleam feels a little guilty that he's no longer considered a safe space. In other news, he's a big fan of decorating his fur with plants and tends to annoy Lilypetal by tagging along to find flowers.

Min Jeung -> Minnowfur

A cat that prefers sticking to the warrior code. Learned a decent amount of herbs after learning who the clan med cats are. She doesn't get along with Xander due to his tendency to break the code, often for his own morals that she doesn't quite understand.

Arei Nageshi -> Pebbleroll

After being tormented by her siblings, she left her previous clan and became a feared and respected cat among rouges. Eventually, after opening up to Hopeeye and defending Thymeleap during and argument with Lilypetal, she joined the clan with the goal of making genuine friends.

J Moreno -> Jasmine -> Jayshadow

A kittypet of a celebrity that hated the attention and her owner. So she ran away. She hates her kittypet name since it's 'too girly' and instead chose the name Jayshadow because it's 'cool' and 'badass'. Lilypetal constantly bothers her about her previous life which she hates. One of Xander's rouges bit part of her tail off. On one hand she thinks it makes her look badass, on the other she's pissed at Xander for being obnoxious and reckless. She rolls in plants to make her fur so scruffy she can't be recognised by her owner. Ryan is the replacement cat her owner got, she even called him Jasmine as well.

Obviously, once the killings happen the deceased go to Starclan. From my memory canon Starclan is a mess so y'know- i would include the Dark Forest (cat hell-) but i don't think we know enough about why characters are the way they are to say they definitely deserve cat hell y'know?

[alma-amentet]

Hi! I saw in the tags that there's no Millicent and her sisters in your AU Haligtree fam. Can I ask why? Tell me your headcanons!

Oh, thank you for the ask. I love headcanon dumping! Though still can hardly find time to do more often... Need to do better (asks like this could help 😉)

I liked this theory. Always thought the same: Millicent and her sisters were parts of Malenia, they had to return to let her recover and live. So it was a right and noble decision for Millicent in the end.

In my headcanons, don't see Malenia doing parenting. Just saw an interesting short vid on themes of motherhood in Elden Ring, they said Malenia was an 'unwanting mother', to the kindreds, to Milli and her sisters. An interesting thought. At least it made me remember to finally finish editing this post ☺

I'd rather focus on Malenia's relationship with Lyra. They are like children themselves in some ways, despite everything (learning to live a more peaceful happy life bc the girls deserve it!).

Not that I'm opposed to maternal characters. There are some, including Loretta, who has an adoptive daughter and cares for her greatly. Or some of my OCs: Waldemia (one of Miquella's best healers), mother Svenja (crucible touched lady, more human-looking than our typical misbegotten, which helped her survive, also a healer).

Then there's Miquella. In my AU he's really a chill and reasonable guy, def more maturte than his ladies 😆

Millicent played important part in Lyra's story, helping her fully regain her memories. When Lyra just awoke, at first, all she could recall was her name, her death and bits of recent life prior to it (one distant kingdom across the sea from the Lands Between, she was exiled there and tried to return later, but died in the storm - other story. Probably she's been to Roderika's homeland, that would be a nice detail). Many important things were lost. How in the older pre-shattering days she left Caria to serve the Haligtree (enough in common with Loretta 😊 Maybe that's why they became friends later). Slowly, one by one, she could recollect those bits... Millicent offered the last and most important piece of the puzzle: after meetimg her, Lyra remembered something crucial. Including her devotion to Malenia. Then she decided to return to the Haligtree, to serve it again.

Lyra felt that part of Malenia in Millicent, that's why she grew attached to her. But all good must end... for the sake of something bigger. Sacrifices and losses are needed, too.

Then, I consider this story a 'sunshine AU', the one with a more or less good ending and brighter tones - something we can't naturally get in a Fromsoft game... But too much sunshine is no good, it's blinding and burning.

It's just the way I feel it. Of course, I enjoy other people's headcanons, including those where Millicent is actually present alongside Malenia.

I def like drawing her, so here's one of the studies I did:

[courtney-deserved-better]

gen 4 overwatch main headcanons

mk - the most annoying yet effective sombra main ever, constantly sneaking onto objectives to capture them and hacking ppl and then killing them, so frustrating to play

caleb - lifeweaver who forgets he can do damage sometimes, always says you're welcome when people thank him for heals

emma - bloodthirtsy dva main, will get distracted from the objective to chase down players that annoy her

axel - dps moira with insane mobility skills. or maybe orisa. either way she has the most kills on the team. but if someone is rude to her when she's playing moira she'll refuse to heal them for the rest of the game even if it costs her team the win

zee - mercy so they doesn't have to shoot ppl unless they're backed into a corner, very distractible but it kinda works cause they bounce from teammate to teammate. caleb has had to lifegrip them out of certain death multiple times

millie - widowmaker so she can hide away from the fight and pick people off, will switch to ana if her team needs a healer but refuses to put herself in the line of fire to heal people

bowie - pharah who is incredibly hard to hit but has fantastic accuracy with his rockets. also zarya because he heard zarya was hard to play, went "bet" and became a great zarya

chase - bastion solely because he can easily get play of the game and brag about it.

wayne - lucio mostly for the vibes and the speed, loves booping people off the map

raj - hammond because he thinks it's awesome he can be a hamster and to match wayne's speed

scary girl - you would think reaper, but no, it's tracer, because she likes to jumpscare people by suddenly appearing next to them

julia - says she's a mercy main if anyone asks but she actually plays reaper because she loves killing people

ripper - mei because he likes to annoy the hell out of people. he's actually a really good reinhardt and his team always begs him to switch

nichelle - tried playing as kiriko once, did terribly, spent months practicing, and now she's an unholy terror as kiriko

damien - zenyatta because the controls are simple and he'll panic if he has to worry about too many things. he's a very jumpy player and if someone sneaks up on him he'll scream and fire blindly but still manage to headshot them 65% of the time

priya - has somehow mastered every single character and picks whoever best fits her team's composition and counters the enemy team. but she really just wants to play hanzo (she never gets the chance)

[mercysought]

APPROVAL: Gatt recruiting her brother because chevaliers suck but he loves her, Emilie

approval + (prompt) // not accepting // @skyheld

She ran.

She ran when she saw him return; she ran because she had heard he had encountered some splinter groups of Chevaliers. She ran because she could hear his heartbeat, and she wondered - she hoped that her brother was with Gatt. That he was one of the many wounded streaming into the courtyard. She ran down the halls, down the stairs, pushing past the cold in the thinner robes. Her breath visible as she slipped on the snow, and kept running.

If he is not there, if Gatt did not find him, she would keep looking. There were so many chevaliers still reeling from the consequences of the war. There is hope, but she should consider... She should lower her expectations. Realistically - she should be dead. And Abel? They had told her family he had died in the exalted plains and—

Loser strands of hair brush against the sensitive, burnt skin on her flesh. It swings at her back, she pushes through the curious crowds that look upon the damaged golden and black armour that had belonged to once shinning Chevaliers. She pushes through them all, not even stopping to ask them to forgive her for it.

He was there. He was there, she could feel like - like a call to blood in the way that her heartbeat in her drum rumbled like one of war. He was there.

When she feels herself in her body, her hand is around Gatt's arm, pulling his focus away from the inner circle to her. His eyes meet hers and she doesn't wait for him to speak:

   "Did you find him?"

Her eyes do not linger on the Inqusitor, instead immediately looking at the crowd. Her hand still atop his sleeve to ground her. To keep her from being torn asunder by the wind, from keeping her heartbeat from deafening her. Her fingers claw at his armour, eyes scanning the crowd.

Not him. Not him. Too skinny, not the right hair colour. Not him. Her lips twist, her tongue feeling dead in her mouth, she scanned the crowd once more, feeling her chest rumble with the wind as well.

Further back, more arrive, now accompanied by some healers, Orlesian and Inquisition. Helped either in makeshift beds or by their shoulders —

   "Abel?!"

Brown hair, wavy and caked with blood. He was thin and wore none of the chevalier armour. He leaned against one of the Orlesian healers. When the light eyes, exactly like her own, lift to focus on her, she hears it again: his heartbeat. The shock twists his gaunt face, his arm moves away from the healer who protests. His body collapses forward against the weight of a walking stick.

Émilie is running again.

   "Millie? Maker, Émilie!" she crashes against him and he now curls around her. She is ten again, having managed to detangle herself from the clutches of the templars in their home and hugging the figure of the young boy of her brother. He felt like air against her and for a second she thinks that if she holds him too tightly he will turn into air and so she just sinks into her brother, digging her feet and her knees into the cold, snowing ground she feels Abel collapse by her. Tears and laughter spilling uncontrollably out of her mouth as she holds his face.

émilie de clair greatly approves

[khande11]

Millie Winchester- Season 2

In My Time of Dying- 2

Dean was still staring at his dead body, when his siblings entered the room. Sam had cuts on his face, but he was mostly healed, while Millie was in a wheelchair for the cuts on her stomach to heal, the bruises around her neck still purple. Sam was pushing her into the room, but they both froze when they saw the state of their older brother.

"Guys! Sammy! You look good... considering... Millie, you not so much, but it's good to see you alive." Dean chuckled.

"Oh, no." Sam whispered, as Millie's breathing began to get quick and shallow.

"Man, tell me you can hear me." Dean pleaded. "How's Dad? Is he okay? Come on, Sammy, you're the psychic. Give me some ghost whispering or something."

The doctor walked into the room. "Your father's awake. You can go see him, if you like."

"Thank God." Dean breathed a sigh of relief, but his siblings weren't as calm.

"What about our brother?" Millie asked.

"Well, he sustained serious injury. Blood loss, much like yourself, contusions to his liver and kidney. But it's the head trauma I'm worried about. There's early signs of cerebral edema"

"Well, what can we do?" Sam asked.

"Well, we won't know his full condition until he wakes up. If... he wakes up."

"If?" Sam and Millie asked in sync, looking horrified at the notion that their brother couldn't wake.

"I have to be honest-"

"Oh, screw you, Doc, I'm waking up." Dean snapped.

"- most people with this degree of injury wouldn't have survived this long. He's fighting very hard. But you two need to have realistic expectations."

"Come on, guys. Go find some Hoodoo priest to lay some mojo on me. I'll be fine." Dean told his siblings as they tried to take in what the doctor had told them. "Sam? Millie?"

***************

"All right. Here." John said, taking a card out of his wallet. His arm was in a sling and he was lying on the hospital bed. "Give them my insurance."

Sam took the card and smiled as he read the name. "Elroy McGillicutty?"

"And his two loving sons and daughter. So... What else did the doctor say about Dean?"

"Nothing." Millie sighed, shaking her head as John lowered his. "Look, if the doctors won't do anything then we'll have to. That's all."

"Yeah. I don't know. I'll find some... Hoodoo priest and lay some mojo on him and..." Sam began.

"We'll look for someone." John nodded. His kids nodded. "But, Sam, Millie... I don't know if we're gonna find anyone."

"Why not? I found that faith healer before." Sam shrugged.

"All right, that was one in a million."

"So what? What, then we just sit here with our thumbs up our ass?" Sam snapped.

"No, I said we'd look. All right? I'll check under every stone." John assured them. He paused before turning to his kids again. "Where's the Colt?"

Sam and Millie looked at their Dad in shock.

"Your son is dying, and you're worried about the Colt?" Millie asked, angry tears in her eyes.

"We are hunting this demon and maybe it's hunting us too. That gun may be our only card."

"It's in the trunk. They dragged the car to a yard off of I-83." Sam told him.

"All right, you've gotta clean out that trunk before some junk man sees what's inside."

"I already called Bobby. He's like an hour out, he's gonna tow the Impala back to his place."

"All right. You go meet up with Bobby. You get that Colt and you bring it back to me. And you watch out for hospital security." John ordered Sam, as Millie was in no condition to leave the hospital yet.

"I think I've got it covered." Sam smirked, starting to head out.

"Hey." John called him back, handing him a piece of paper. "Here. I made a list of things I need. Have Bobby pick them up for me."

"Acacia? Oil of Abramelin? What's this stuff for?" Sam asked.

"Protection."

"Hey, Dad? You know, the demon? He said he had plans for me and children like me. You have any idea what he meant by that?" Sam asked, while Millie stared at her hands contemplating something.

"No, I don't." John said. Sam left the room disappointed. He and Millie didn't notice the suspicious look on John's face, but Dean did.

"Well, you sure know something."

John noticed the look on his daughter's face. "What is it?"

Millie looked up and stared into her Dad's eyes. "I love you."

John was surprised. "I love you, too, sweetheart."

Millie paused, thinking how to word what she had to say next. "And I really want to respect you... but I need to hear you say something first."

"What?" John asked, as he and Dean stared at her confused by her serious tone.

"Tell me... that you care what is happening to Dean." Millie told him.

"Of course I care. He's my son." John said, looking surprised that she could ask him that.

"Tell me... that he is at the top of your priorities. Not revenge. Not the demon. Dean." Millie said, furrowing her eyebrows as she pleaded with her Dad to show he cared about her older brother. 

"I swear it." John promised. Millie sighed and nodded, before wheeling herself out of the room. Dean watched her go with a warm smile.

"That's my girl."

***************

Sam looked down at the wrecked Impala, with Bobby by his side.

"Oh, man. Dean is gonna be pissed." Sam sighed.

"Look, Sam, it's- This just ain't worth a tow. I say we empty the trunk and sell the rest for scrap." Bobby suggested.

"No. Dean would kill me if we did that. When he gets better, he's gonna wanna fix this."

"There's nothing to fix. Frame's a pretzel. The engine's ruined. There's barely any parts worth salvaging."

"Listen to me, Bobby. If there's only one working part, that's enough. We're not just going to give up on..." Sam trailed off. Bobby realised Sam was thinking of Dean's condition.

"Okay. You got it."

"Here, uh, Dad asked for you to get this stuff for him." Sam said, handing Bobby the list. Bobby looked over it with a frown.

"What's John want with this?"

"Protection from the demon?" Bobby gave Sam a look. "What?"

"Oh, nothing. It's just-"

"Bobby? What's going on?"

***************

John and Millie were at Dean's bedside. Millie was resting in her chair, while John watched over the two. Dean approached the pair, unbeknownst to them.

"Come on, Dad. You've gotta help me." Dean pleaded. "I gotta get better. I gotta get back in there. I mean, you haven't called a soul for help. You promised Millie that I was important, but you haven't even tried. Aren't you going to do anything? Aren't you even going to say anything? I've done everything you've ever asked me. Everything. I have given everything I've ever had. And you're just gonna sit there and you're gonna watch me die? I mean, what the hell kind of father are you?"

Dean paused hearing a rumbling in the distance. "What is that?"

He went into the hallway and a spirit rushed past him, causing Dean to leap back. He turned back to his Dad, who was still sat down. "I take it you didn't see that."

He made his way down the hallway in the direction the spirit had gone. The spirit appeared again and entered a room. Dean followed it and saw a woman lying on the floor, choking.

"Help! Help!" The woman gasped.

"Hey, I need some help in here!" Dean yelled, but no one could hear him.

"I can't... breathe..."

Dean leant down to the woman's side, when suddenly she stopped gasping. Dean looked helplessly at the dead woman.

In My Time of Dying- 3

[annachum]

Some more HCs about the Sigyn variants in tow in my Loki S2 ideas :

. Classic! Sigyn becomes like a Mary Poppins like aunt figure to the rest. She understands what all her variants have been through and shit and tries her best to offer them empathy

. MCU! Sigyn defo is a rebel leader in this Loki S2. However, Even tho she becomes a Princess by marriage. She lacks experience in comparison to Classic! Sigyn, which can sometime leads to tough spots. Nevertheless, she often looks to Classic! Sigyn for advice and is an empathetic person who tries her best to make everyone feel included

. 616! Sigyn.....sadly becomes a deconstructed version of a Classic Princess trope and basically, at those points, becomes a shell of herself and even FORGOT what it's like to enjoy some of the things she enjoyed before. Through the rest of the Sigyn variants in tow, 616! Sigyn remembers who she is, and her life changed forever

. Fox! Sigyn is a playful and sometimes flirty fox who also loves animal fashion related shit and can be FERAL in attack. She is sweet AND fierce

. The Sigyn variants in tow basically become a superhero group that leads a Rebellion against the TVA

. They all just eventually came to hate Sylvie altogether cuz honestly Sylvie has become insufferable

. Like Sylvie constantly whines about her struggles while all the Sigyn variants in tow are like, '.....We get that you been through shit but they way you keep whining about it is becoming REALLY annoying. "

. Justice Friends! Sigyn aka Sigrid kinda reminds me of Glinda the Good Witch, Sugar Plum Fairy and Millie( Helluva Boss ) in some ways. She basically loves space pop related matters, got a beautiful silvery magic wand and also has a sweet tooth

. Valhalla 1986! Sigyn becomes a therapist of the Sigyn variants - defo is skilled in Healer related shit and TRIES her best to offer solace to the rest of the Sigyn variants. She defo SOBS with 616! Sigyn after hearing about 616! Sigyn's heart wrenching story

. These 2 Sigyn variants may not appear in Loki S2 - it's just a fun idea of mine

. Ofc they defo regularly compliment each other on their magic styles

. And then they probably bet on WHEN Sylvie is gonna turn her back on the rest of the Loki variants in tow

. Cuz ALL the Sigyn variants in tow sensed something fishy with Sylvie from the start

. ALL of them would LOVE the Barbie movie ( I LOVE THAT MOVIE TOO!!! ) 🤩🤩🤩🥺🥺🥺

[massacr3machin3]

TOTAL DRAMA REBOOT CAST AND WHO THEY WOULD MAIN IN BRAWL STARS (and why)

Caleb = Colt ("he just like me fr")

Nichelle = Maisie + Lola ("they just like me fr")

Julia = Emz ("she just like me fr")

Bowie = Angelo (first "openly gay" contestant, first "openly gay" brawler... "he just like me fr")

Wayne = Buster ("he just like me fr", matching with Raj)

Raj = Fang ("he just like me fr", matching with Wayne)

Emma = Janet + Piper +Amber (I couldn't decide lol but I feel like she can't decide either and would play all these)

MK = Belle ("she just like me fr")

Priya = Shelly (basic choice, like her, sorry Shelly and Priya fans... "she just like me fr")

Millie = Nani ??? (honestly I have no idea...)

Ripper = El Primo + Tick (because he thinks it's a gigachad choice, and he likes to piss people off )

Damien = Brock + Ash ("he just like me fr" and D&D interest go brrrr)

Axel = Bibi ("she just like me fr")

Chase = Mico + Edgar (ANNNOOOOOOOOYIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIING (just like him fr...))

Zee = Doug ("he just like me fr" and he loves being a healer)

Scary Girl = Colette ("she just like me fr" but so much worse...)

[gentle-giant-swag]

Gentle giant swag

Apricot bracket semifinals battle 2

GIRLBOSS BATTLE1: MILLY THOMPSON (trigun) vs HOLLY (super lesbian animal rpg)

Propaganda under the cut!

Milly propaganda

Big silly women win forever

Best girl :)

She’s a lovely himbo with a big ol gun that shoots these metal restraint things? I dunno it’s basically a giant stapler. She’s very gentle

Cute, optimistic, carries a huge gun under her dress

Because when I was a 5'11" goofy spacey ten year old girl I saw milly thompson on my TV and damn near cried. There really weren't many Big Huge anime girls back then and she's SO. GOOD. and she's gentle!! and wants to do right by others!! and she's strong and competent and a career woman too!!

I believe she qualifies as a herbo.

Holly propaganda

She's an enormous woman, like takes up 2 game tiles in width and has extra dialogue if you talk to her from the side asking you not to speak into her armpit huge, and she's the most absolutely buff character I have ever seen rendered in pixel art. She is a massive mound of muscle who is fond of wrestling. She works for the Paladin Brigade as a healer and town guardian. She's super friendly and gets along really well with Allison in particular. She's such a fun character. She gives Melody her starting weapon for free, the bent staff she has in the promotional art (which was originally designed that way so it would just bend out of the way of covering her face), and even the tooltip says it's quite obvious how it got bent that way.

She's big and buff and she's a healer. Her hat is just a tiny knight helmet that couldn't fit on her head, so she wears it like a fez. She holds cage matches. She has so much love in her heart.

[thecandywrites]

The Switch Chapter 15

Second to the last chapter. I will miss this story, but at the same time, I need to hurry up and get it off my plate (along with a few others) so I can focus on other stories.

The Switch 

Chapter 15

Three Months Later…

Millie sat at the vanity getting her wedding makeup applied as she was both excited to finally get married, but also, to finally be reunited with you. But most of all, to see her wedding present- her skyship. Named The Radiant Contessina Especial. “The Special Radiant Contessina”. Which was supposed to be bigger and grander than the Contessina Originale that Kragan had drawn up on your wedding day at the start of the season. And with her wedding date being put back to right before the highest of the high holidays. She didn’t care if there was snow on the ground and she’d be have to cover her dress in a fur to finally see it. She would be using it to sail to Wakanear to have the honeymoon to end all honeymoons in a tropical paradise. It was literally a fairytale come true and then after that, she would get to travel the world, and while some Radiance Skyports were still being finished, over a dozen had been finished and were ready for her to come and enjoy them when she would be done with her honeymoon. 

It had been an agonizing wait for this moment, for the last few weeks, royals had come from all over the world to stay at the grand houses of Nobility and even others staying at the skyport itself. The greatest ones staying with the King and Queen and then herself and with the Lavines and the wedding gifts had already begun to start pouring in. 

And she was ever so grateful for the expansion of the skyport because otherwise there was no way everyone could be accommodated. 

 And while you had showed her via messengerari- certain rooms and more details to make sure it was built to suit her tastes as well as Ron’s, she wanted to see her ship in all of it’s glory. And for what Ron and his family had already sunk into it, even with the discount, she had very high expectations of it. And only hoped it would be as perfect as everything else. The same way she did of herself on this day. Everything was going perfect so far and she had planned every tiny detail so it would be the perfect day to start off the perfect new year. 

The skyports, both for Salgria Shipping and The Order of Radiance Skyports- known simply as The Radiance Skyports- had already been built and the Salgria Shipping port and skyport were in a constant state of movement from ships coming and going to both ever since they were erected. But The Radiance Skyport had even been decorated in the same manner that Millie’s wedding had been for after the wedding and reception, the party could move to the skyport so all of her guests could view her ship and hopefully all fawn and awe at the perfect gift for the perfect bride. And then get to see all the others that would be unveiled soon after. And there were massive clouds in the skies that the mouras themselves had made to hide the fleet of ships until the right moment. But the way the sun would shine through the clouds, one could still make out beautiful details as the whole country had their eyes skywards, both towards the skyport and the ships in the skies, hidden by clouds. You and Kragan were actually taking up a suite on the Skyport as you had helped make the top “flower” perfect for her reception. And because of the advancements, a feast to end all feasts would be fed to the many royal guests. 

You had been in contact with her all week, finalizing the very moment she wanted you to come, even as large as you had become in your pregnancy. Which thankfully had- since it’s discovery- gone very well, thanks to Agnes’ intervention and the further healing you had received at the hands of the healers at Audrey, Sarah and Benyana, since that fateful day five months prior. And when Saffiro had come home, he had done so with none other than Samantha as his bride.  Who you had personally appointed as your Radiance De Major of The Order of Radiance Skyport. Which made her acceptance into the family easy and warmly welcomed. 

And while Millie had felt a little irritated that Samantha was instantly loved by her parents as much as they still loved and favored you. She had to remind herself that to her own inlaws, she was treated and viewed the same. Because to Millie, Samantha had no breeding or impressive lineage. She was a Souja, from Fitsdale and supposedly an heiress from there. So Millie felt superior to her, but was displeased when that view wasn’t mirrored by Samantha. And while Samantha was polite, Samantha also would not be fawning over Millie the way everyone else was. But thankfully you had reminded her that after today, Samantha would be sister to her in name only. And that after today, Millie would be far too busy all around the world to be bothered to have any dealings with Samantha. Which had been enough for Millie to leave the matter alone. 

Because Samantha was very no nonsense, all business kind of person. She spoke plainly, to the point and directly and did not mince or beautify her words, which your parents adored, especially your father. Especially when she had been so similar to you- in that she was extremely intelligent and very practical, kind and discrete but didn’t put up with any bullshit either. Plus, Saffiro and her genuinely loved each other, and were the perfect team and helped each other and communicated very well. And were very much like your own parents in that respect, which Millie found herself agreeing that for that- she could admire the match. And she could agree that Samantha would see to it that Saffiro would be the heir he was always meant to be. And for that, Millie was grateful. According to Saffiro- he and Samantha had rather spontaneously fallen in love at first sight, which Millie couldn’t speak for- only because that’s the way it had been for her and Ron. 

But now, after so many months of hard work and negotiations, it was Millie’s day and Millie was relishing it. It was her time to shine and she would be damned if she didn’t sparkle like the diamond she knew herself to be. Now all it needed was her ship. 

But that wasn’t her only cause for excitement. No. The famed King and Queen of Yekmeni were supposed to come along with Prince and Princess of Wakanear as your personal guests to her wedding and she couldn’t be happier about it and would be having them sit at the same high table she had set up for the King and Queen of Solowards along with the Crown Prince and Crown Princess, who were themselves, eager to see them. Especially the Crown Princess  especially to see what gifts they might bestow upon her on such an important day. 

And the “additions” to the skyport also got to go into production because you were sure this was going to be a thing from now on at every skyport all around the world. To have The Radiance Skyports be the preferred dining halls for all major weddings in all the countries. And the spaces could be “docked” on the lower decks to simply make the skyport seem larger, but when the additions would be flown to dock into place, it would make it almost look like a daisy blooming, setting it’s petals out wide like a table. Although, you were sure that from now on, you could change them to suit just about any other flower most popular in each country. And the fees you could charge for such a thing, could be anything you wanted them to be and also help the skyports- earn quite the income from hosting future events. 

“You ok?” She heard Kragan’s voice out in the hall as Millie’s ears perked up to hear his deeper voice below all the other girl’s soft but high voices. 

“Yeah, just…I have to go to the bathroom again.” Millie heard you answer back. 

And thankfully you could slip from the hall to her bathroom and as much as she wanted to get up and come to you, you needed privacy before you entered her room with Mildred as Millie’s bridal party, the younger sisters of your friends were all excited and eager to see you and especially see your large belly bump. 

“Tessa!” Everyone cheered as they came into the room from the bathroom as they all came around to hug you and kiss your cheeks as you kissed theirs in turn.

“Oh my goodness, are you sure you should be out? Aren’t you afraid you’ll go into labor at any moment?” They asked. 

“No, I still have at least a week, if not two. I’ll be ok.” You reassured them before you finally got to hug and hold Millie as tight as you dared. 

“I’m so happy you could make it.” Millie began to tear up as she hugged you as tight as she could. 

“Me too. I wouldn’t miss this for anything.” You answered her before Serena seemed to kick at Millie before you both started erupted into laughter. 

“She likes me!” Millie said as she pulled back to press her hands to your belly to feel your daughter’s kicks. 

“Oh yes. He’s ecstatic. He’s seen to it that every place we would ever think of laying our heads has the perfect nurseries for her. He’s even built a small little bassinet, that floats like the ships do because he got tiny little anti-gravity discs that will keep the bassinet like it’s a buggy, but without wheels. And it looks like a tiny little rowboat, it’ll even rock and swing if you press different buttons on it. That way, even if she’s sleeping, she’ll always be within reach. He’s practically been over the moon since we found out. And once we settled on the name, he’s been buying nappies and clothes for her. She’ll surely grow out of things before she’ll ever get a chance to wear it all.” You revealed happily. 

“She sure does.” You laughed as all the others came around to do the same.

“So Kragan really is happy and elated to have  a daughter?” Millie questioned as she was still wrapping her head around the notion. 

“Well you look truly radiant, I see you’re well and pregnancy suits you beautifully.” Cassandra offered sweetly. 

“Thank you.” You thanked her happily. 

“So is my crown ready?” Millie asked giddily. 

“Crown? What crown?” You teased with a giggle as all the other ladies started giggling with you as Millie rolled her pretty blue eyes but couldn’t stop from smiling while crinkling her nose at you as you mirrored her. 

“Yes. It’s ready. As is everything else, including your glorious ship. It’s still being kept hidden for now. But you should love it. It shines white and gold like pearls from heaven.” You hinted with a wink. Because you had actually put a fine veneer on all of the white surfaces of powdered pearls. It had been an extra expense, but it had come out so beautifully and you could only hope Millie would approve. 

“Yes!” Millie cheered happily and bounced on her toes as she clapped her hands happily. 

“Everything is all set and ready. We just need to wait for the perfectly auspicious appointed time. Ladies, don’t forget to eat a few bracing bites between now and then, can’t have any of you precious jewels fainting can we?” You urged them once a new snack tray was delivered before you went over and grabbed a quick plate full while the others did too before you left the room to make your way over your old room, where Gwen was hiding out and practicing her music piece she had composed for the event as you noticed all of her jewelry was still in it’s case on her vanity, as were other bottles of perfume. But they were practically ignored from her place on the piano forte as she was still changing a few notes to suit her highly trained ear before you sat with her and added the notes she seemed to be searching for. 

“Thank you!” She exclaimed as she wrote those notes into the new music sheets. 

“You’re welcome. It was getting too high and sweet, it needed balance.” You noted. 

“Well Millie didn’t want it to be too dark, and hint at doom or gloom.” Gwen griped. 

“Millie will be too distracted by her ship by this point. She won’t even notice or care about anyone or anything else.” You tried to reassure her before you reached into your pocket and slid her a special coin across the piano’s board which helped pull Gwen’s focus to it. 

“What is this?” She asked as she picked it up. 

“It’s your badge. You’re going to be sailing around the world and find members of your artisan guild, who will receive these. And this will be the way you will recognize each other.” You explained before you gave her the other artisan guild. Whether they have a craft of knowledge, or skill to create art of all kinds from all kinds of mediums.” You explained as she gasped softly to take them and noticed each coin like badge was it’s own work of art as she noticed that you had a few of each kind of medium of art on them. 

“Do you like them?” You asked. 

“I love them.” She smiled happily and hugged you the best she could. 

“Oh my goodness, Serena! You’re blowing my sister up like a balloon!” She teased your unborn daughter as she reached over and held your belly in her hands as Serena kicked at her hands which got you both to giggle. 

“Nah, she’s fine. I just don’t want her getting too big in there. Cause I still have to push her out.” You grimaced slightly at the thought. 

“Well, you’ll have your moura friends, won’t they help with the pain part?” She asked. 

“They will, but still, a big baby is still a big baby and it’s hard not to fall over, because between her, and these, I feel like my breasts and belly enter a room a good five minutes before the rest of me does.” You joked. 

“Well, I’m sure Kragan doesn’t mind that though.” Gwen candidly remarked. 

“No he does not.” You snickered a laugh as you both giggled. 

“Have you seen what Millie’s medicine has done to her breasts? She looks like a stick with two cantalopes stuffed into her corset.” Gwen asked. 

“I did. They felt unusually hard and stiff. Very unnatural.” You frowned and shook your head. 

“She insists that they’re just firm. But they practically have a rind at this point.” Gwen muttered under her breath which made you laugh even harder with her. 

“They do!” You cackled. 

“So, I wanted to ask you something.” You prodded when you seemed to calm down a bit from your laughing fit. 

“What?” Gwen asked. 

“How would you like to spend tonight on my ship with me? I have some friends I really want you to meet.” You invited. 

“I would love that!” She beamed happily. 

“Good, Mamah and Papah will be too busy showing off, as will Millie and everyone else. I don’t think anyone in the family will notice your absence.” You grinned. 

“Why do you have that mischievous twinkle in your eye?” Gwen asked. 

“Because I have your first group of artisans for you to see them and their works of art and sculpture and to hear their music. Several composers and musicians to talk about music with. Just…like minded people to be around. Who like their privacy just as much as you do and who don’t like the huge masses of crowds.” You hinted. 

“I would love that.” She smiled gratefully. 

“Plus, tomorrow is the bidding war, which thankfully Samantha is handling. I no longer have the patience and my politic tongue is practically worn out. It will be nice to finally get a reprieve before Serena comes.” You admitted. 

“Can I stay with you for your confinement too?” She asked hopefully. 

“Do you really want to?” You asked her. 

“If it’s on your ship, yes. I can’t even leave my rooms without feeling like I step into the halls of court in this house. I…I just want to be close to you and away from everyone else, Papah has already gotten so many proposals for my hand and I already know I’m going to be paraded around even at Millie’s wedding. And…I thought I had more time to prepare myself and I’m terrified of doing such a thing.” She confessed. 

“Then of course you can Gwen. Besides, all you have to do is smile and wave and not commit to anything ok? All you have to say to invitations to go anywhere, is ‘I will have to check my schedule and get back to you, what’s your messengerari number?’ And write that number down. And then say that I got you a new messengerari that you haven’t gotten the new number memorized yet. That’s it. That’s all you have to say and give ok? Get numbers, don’t give any.” You coached her. 

“Thank you.” She thanked you before she practiced that line with you until she was more comfortable with it. 

“Perfect, you’ll be ok. It’s only a day, it doesn’t have more hours in it than any other. It will pass soon enough. I know my wedding day did.” You smiled. 

“But yours was so different. Yours was romantic and so private it bordered on intimate and one that I wish I could have and that I wish could have lasted forever. I feel like everyone is looking to me to somehow top both your financial success and Milie’s production. And I can’t do either.” Gwen admitted in a small voice as her eyes looked so sorrowfully at her piano. 

“Quite the opposite, Dearest. I’m looking to you, to find the private places of rest. Which is something I know you have a natural inclination for. And the more private and the more secluded, the better. Where you can be left alone to the quietness and simply be in awe of the creation around you, to enjoy it in serenity. Something I know you can do and will give you excuse enough to avoid any and all stages at all costs.” You encouraged her as you wrapped your arm around her shoulders. 

“Thank you.” She thanked you. 

“Now, that jewelry looks a bit much. Even for you. Would you like me to try to find something smaller? Or does Millie demand you be as gaudy as her?” You asked as you nodded over to where the jewelry is. 

“It was a gift by our guests. Mamah and Papah insist I wear it to show my own gratitude in it’s acceptance. But it pinches me and I do not like it.” She frowned. 

“Oh, well it’s a shame I love it so much that you were inclined to give it to me as a way to help boost the guests' relationship with me then huh?” You offered. 

“Really? You would do that?” Gwen asked with sweet, relieved eyes. 

“Yes, don’t worry. I got this.” You encouraged her as she helped you get to your feet again as you walked over to it and inspected it and frowned at it’s flashy nature but seeing why and how it would pinch the wearer.

“Well this certainly won’t do.” You shook your head and poked your head out into the hall and whistled lowly to get Kragan’s attention as he was sitting in a nearby chair and writing something down in his notebook while he patiently waited for you to have a few moments of privacy with your other siblings.

“Yes My Love?” He asked as he practically jumped to his feet to get to the door. 

“Hey, I need you to get me something real quick. You know in my jewelry room on the ship?” You whispered as you went through your keys on your keychain to get the right one. 

“Yeah?” He asked with a quizzical brow. 

“You know how I have it color coordinated? I need you to get to the yellow section. And third drawer up from the bottom. I need you to bring me the jewelry set that’s second set from the left in that drawer, oh and use the staff staircase, it’s just through there, it’ll be quickest to the ship on the roof.” You specified as you handed him the keys he would need to get into it. 

“Yup, you got it.” He nodded and got the keys and practically disappeared down the hall after he found the door to the back staircase. 

“I love it that he just…does whatever you ask of him.” Gwen sighed dreamily. 

“Well that’s only because I would do anything I could for him too.” You smiled. 

“Ok, I need another potty break.” You admitted before she helped you to the bathroom and helped you get on the toilet without messing up your gown. 

“Serena practically uses my bladder like it’s a pegasus springboard.” You admitted as you sat there, annoyed when it was barely a spoonful of pee.

But the remark made Gwen snicker a laugh. 

“It could be worse.” Gwen tried to offer. 

“Oh? How?” You asked. 

“She could decide to break the water…” Gwen began to tease before you put your hand over her mouth to keep her from finishing that sentance. 

“Don’t even say such things out loud! I do not want to tempt fate more than I already have. Don’t you dare. I would never live it down if Serena tried to come right now and take any spotlight away from Millie.” You practically hissed as you fixed her with a sharp look. 

“It’s bad enough that my back is killing me and my feet are so swollen I can barely fit my feet into any shoes.” You admitted. 

“Here, then wear this. It’s underwear with sponges, just in case.” Gwen encouraged you. 

“Where did you get such a thing?” You asked as you looked it over. 

“I made it. Because I was worried.” She admitted. 

“Oh, you sweet thing, Yes, I love it. And yes I will wear it, just in case.” You readily agreed as you changed from the underwear you were wearing to this.

“Granted it feels like I’m wearing something of a nappy. But I do feel a bit better about this.” You admitted once you had her help you up and pull it up under you voluminous skirt, which she teased was like a proper circus tent which got you to bop her head under your skirt which only caused her to snicker a laugh even harder before there was a knock on the door as you both nearly tripped on each other to try to answer it which got you both to laugh even harder as you were grateful you were wearing it to catch the few drops of pee that escaped from the laughter as Kragan came in to see you leaning against the sink and laughing so hard, your chest was heaving and shaking while crying, while Gwen battled your layers of skirts to escape. 

“Worst circus in the world in there.” Gwen laughed once she was able to crawl out on her hands and knees before she laid on her back on the floor and hugged her middle as she laughed in delight. 

“I got so lost, I had to stop and ask your legs for directions, got turned around several times.” Gwen laughed so hard, she began to cry and streak her mascara as Kragan helped her to her feet as you helped her with her makeup. 

“Are you two ok?” He asked the two of you. 

“Yeah, we’re ok. Just…just needed a good laugh.” You waived off. 

“Ok, well I couldn’t remember which one you needed from which side so I just brought…all of them from the drawer.” Kragan admitted as he gestured to his bag. 

“Oh, sorry, I should have written it down so you didn’t have to carry all that.” You apologized. 

“No, it’s fine. Better to be safe than sorry.” He waived off before he put them down on the counter and opened them as you went and got the other one. 

“Which one do you want to trade this with?” You asked her. 

“This one?” Gwen said as she pointed to one in particular. 

“Oh, see then it’s a good thing Kragan brought the whole drawer, cause this was not the one that first came to mind.” You smiled before you helped her put it on. 

“Much better.” You cooed once you put it on her and smiled when she seemed much more comfortable. 

“Could you put these back please Dearest?” You requested of Kragan. 

“Of course.” He smiled and took the others and left you with Gwen as you were happy to sit in your old sofa, your body secretly longing for the piece of furniture. 

“I’m so happy you’re happy. This was not how I imagined you coming back home would ever look or be like.” Gwen admitted as she sat into the sofa with you and was happy to simply keep her hands on your belly to feel for kicks. 

“Me either. But I prefer it this way. Millie will finally be the star of the show, you and I will happily slink back to the shadows to keep her in the spotlight for as long as possible.” You admitted before there was a knock at the door. 

“Yes?” You and Gwen both answered at the same time. 

“It’s just me.” Samantha admitted as she slipped into the room. 

“Hey stranger. How are you?” You asked. 

“Pregnant.” Samantha blurted a bit anxiously which caused you and Gwen to snap open your eyes open and look over towards her in surprise.

“Congratulations?” You and Gwen both offered to see Samantha there looking, conflicted and  anxious but palming her belly nonetheless. 

“Yeah, um, I’m apparently 5 months along.” She admitted. 

“Ah, and you’ve only been married to Saff for three.” You realized. 

“Yeah,” she nodded with a huff. 

“Do you need to talk about it?” You asked her. 

“Well no, well, yeah, well, I don’t know. I just hugged Audrey and she congratulated me. And I didn’t know I was to be congratulated and it was just…odd and awkward and Saff wasn’t with me, he was talking to your dad on the other side of the room and I really, just…don’t want your parents to find out.” Samantha admitted. 

“I think they already knew.” Gwen offered. 

“They did?” You and Samantha both repeated. 

“Well, yeah, I think that’s how Saff got you to be his Lady without my parents putting up any kind of a fight about it. I think probably the morning after you slept together, Saffiro was already in love with you and was bound and determined to love you any way you’d let him.” Gwen ventured. 

“Oh, oh.” Samantha realized. 

“Were you really so busy that you didn’t notice you didn’t have your cycle for almost 6 months?” Gwen asked. 

“Well I mean look at me! How do I look pregnant?” Samantha asked asked as she turned to profile herself and flattened her dress over her belly which was remarkably still trim. 

“It’s possible that you’re in such good shape that the baby has just moved upward rather than outward.” You offered. 

“Well, yeah, I guess.” Samantha had to nod in agreement. 

“I just…I just don’t want this to take away from that.” Samantha said as she gestured to herself then gestured to the door. 

“I don’t either. I don’t think it will. If you’ve kept mum about it until now, another week or two won’t kill you or hurt anything.” You offered. 

“And if you’re really worried about the timing, you could always go back to Fitsdale, and no one will pay any mind if you come back in several months with a baby. And no one will remember to compare the dates or anything.” You added. 

“Yes, that would solve the dilemma quite well, plus you’ve been quite homesick for Fitsdale anyway.” Gwen added. 

“But what about you?” Samantha asked Gwen. 

“Oh I’ll be just fine. I’m staying with Tessa for the next few months anyway to help with Serena.” Gwen smiled happily. 

“Do you really need the help?” Samantha asked you. 

“No, but Gwen needs the escape after today.” You shrugged. 

“Well, when you’re done, then you can come and stay with me if you need to.” Samantha offered. 

“Thanks.” Gwen smiled happily. 

“Oh speaking of today, did you need help with Mrs. DeWinters and Mrs Danvers?” You asked. 

“Yes.” Gwen all but whimpered. 

“Girl, I got you.” Samantha offered before she turned on her heel and left, and passed your Mamah as she did so. 

“Oh there you are my Darlings.” Your Mamah cooed as she came in. 

“Your dance cards for the evening.” She offered to Gwen as she handed Gwen her already filled out dance cards for the reception. 

“Mamah…” Gwen whined when she saw that the first two pages were just prince after prince.

“Oh hush. Besides Millie, you’re Belle of the ball tonight, you’ve only been promised to dance. You haven’t been betrothed yet.” Your mother rebuffed her before you took it and looked it over and just shook your head. 

“I hate to remind you of this Dearest, but it is only for tonight. This is your last act as filial loyalty of your last night here at home. I promise it’ll be over before you know it. And besides, Prince…” You began as you told her about the princes you’d already met and knew of. 

“See? Even Tessa approves, so you must follow through. You’ve been well prepared. After Millie says her vows, it will be your time to shine.” She admonished Gwen. 

“She’ll be ready Mamah.” You reassured her. 

“Good, listen to your sister in this regard.” Your mother urged Gwen before she left. 

“You’ll shine like a firefly in a field. Only a glimmer before you disappear into the darkness.” You murmured to her once your mother left. 

“Promise?” She pleaded. 

“Promise.” You reassured her before Samantha came back with “reinforcements”. 

“I have someone I want you to meet. This is Lieutenant Lucas Hampton. He will be your forest through the trees. He has two more sentinels that are out in the hallway. And this is Ashurah’s sister Ashanti. She knows, literally every language everyone else will be speaking tonight and she will also probably know everyone else there tonight as well.” Samantha proudly proclaimed. 

“And the sentinels will give Mrs. Danvers and Mrs. DeWinters a run for their money.” Samantha added. 

“Hi, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” Gwen offered to Ashanti first. 

“A pleasure to meet you too.” Ashanti smiled as they shook hands. 

“At your service your Ladyship.” Lucas offered as he bowed and kissed her hand as Gwen grew bashful but allowed it. 

“Thank you for coming Lucas.” She smiled happily. 

“Do you two know each other?” Samantha asked. 

“Yeah, Lucas answered the messengerari when I called Tessa the other day when she was busy with her other call and kept me company while I waited for Tess to finish with the other person. That’s all.” Gwen immediately offered. 

“Thanks for doing this Lucas.” You smiled at him. 

“I’m happy to be of service.” Lucas smiled happily. 

“Would you know who these people are?” Gwen asked Ashanti as she handed her dance book over to Ashanti once she got her hand back from Lucas and tried to focus on Ashanti rather than Lucas’ rugged good looks and charm. 

“Oh yes,” Ashanti nodded before she began to go though them all, one by one, giving Gwen a small rundown of them all. 

“Oh thank all the gods you know who they are.” Gwen blew out a breath of relief. 

“They are princes who court Dorierran brides, of course I know them.” Ashanti chuckled. 

“Oh really?” Gwen blinked in surprise. 

“Oh yes.” Ashanti nodded. 

“My parents are expecting her to shine like a jewel in a crown. If you could help her glow more like a firefly in a field, only to appear for a moment and then disappear again until she needs to glow again, that would be most appreciated.” You offered from the couch. 

“Yes please.” Gwen nodded in agreement. 

“Understood.” Lucas nodded in agreement as you couldn’t help but grin a little to see Gwen looked relieved that they understood before Kragan came back. 

“Hey, so this is where you pulled him to.” Kragan noted to Samantha as he nodded over to Lucas. 

“Yup.” Samantha beamed proudly before Kragan came over to you. 

“No, I’m one with this couch.” You mock complained before you dissolved into giggles as you hid your hands under your arms to keep him from pulling you to your feet.

“Do I need to have this couch moved with you on it?” Kragan asked as he laughed with you and gestured to you. 

“Yes. I forgot how much I missed this couch.” You admitted. 

“I can have it moved to your ship.” Gwen offered. 

“No, it’s your couch, I have others. I just…have a lot of sentimental attachments to it, that’s all.” 

“Like your desk, yeah I get it.” Kragan nodded. 

“Come on, up, it’s about time to start making our way down there. With as slow as you’ve been moving we have to go now to get there in time. Plus there’s like five bathrooms between here and there that I’m sure you’ll want to hit.” Kragan urged you.

“Including this one.” You agreed as you let him pull you to your feet again and help you back to the bathroom. 

“Plus I got you this. From Grandma Agnes.” He whispered as he handed you a flask. 

“What is it?” You asked. 

“She said it was a fortifying bone broth, to help you through today and keep Serena from coming today.” He offered. 

“Oh thank the heavens.” You breathed as you took it and chugged it. 

“Oh it’s really good too.” You admitted between long pulls before you practically had to pee all over again once you finished drinking it. 

“Can you get more of that?” You asked him. 

“Oh you mean like this?” He said as he traded flasks with you. 

“Yes please.” You readily traded the empty one for the full one and drank that one down too. 

“Refill those and come back to me ok? I think I have to poop now.” You admitted. 

“Ok.” Kragan chuckled and kissed you sweetly before he did just that. 

“Are you ok?” Gwen asked as she slipped into the bathroom once Kragan left. 

“Yeah, just Serena doesn’t like my bladder to have more than a thimble of pee in it, or else it encroaches on her space.” You chuckled as you cleaned and wiped yourself up before she helped you back to your feet and helped you wash your hands. 

“Is Lucas going to be ok? Or do I need to change him out?” You whispered. 

“No. He’ll be fine. It’s just..why does Kragan always have the most handsome guys as his friends? How am I supposed to dance with princes when I have Mr. Dashing nearby?” Gwen breathed in a whisper. 

“I don’t know. Is it too much of a temptation?” You asked. 

“No. No, please don’t take him from me. It’s so wonderful to have someone I already have a rapport with rather than a stranger.” She readily offered. 

“Ok. I’ll keep Mamah and Papah preoccupied so that, should any of those people not show up to dance with you, you might have Lucas stand in instead. And I could always dump whatever drink I’m drinking on it too.” You offered. 

“Now that’s too tempting.” Gwen giggled softly. 

“Ok.” You smiled before you got out of the bathroom and into her rooms to see your couch missing. 

“Where did it go?” You asked. 

“I had Lucas and Kragan take it your ship. You need your couch.” Gwen smiled victoriously. 

“Oh my goodness, that’s ridiculous.” You laughed before they were back momentarily and Kragan took you while Lucas escorted Gwen to the site of the ceremony where your parents were already there at the front and receiving the guests who were streaming in as you were grateful to get to sit down in the cushioned seat and sit beside Gwen while Kragan and Lucas stood off to the side to talk while others seemed to come to you and come around you and chat before others came and soon the church was stuffed to the brim. 

“Hello again Father Edward.” You cooed to the priest who had only, not that long ago, performed the wedding ceremony for you. 

“Hello, it’s always a pleasure to see you again my Daughter. I see the gods have been very good to you and answered many prayers.” He happily said as he leaned over to kiss your forehead after taking your hand and squeezing it. 

“Yes they have, they’ve been extraordinary in their answers.” Kragan offered as he reappeared beside you to see Father Edward again.

“Oh, look at the pair of you, so happy and healthy and expecting a girl I understand?” He asked. 

“Yes, can we still count on you for the baptism?” Kragan asked. 

“Of course, of course. Are you still settled on the name?” Father Edward asked. 

“Yes, Adorabella Seraphina Magdelainluna.” Kragan repeated, his daughter’s name rolling off his tongue with all the love and pride that yours usually did. 

“Oh, such a beautiful name, surely she will be just as beautiful as her mother.” Father Edward praised. 

“Both inside and out.” Kragan smiled with a nod as you reached up over your shoulder to squeeze his hand that had settled on your shoulder as you looked up at him proudly. 

“Of course.” Father Edward agreed before Serena kicked to hear Kragan’s voice again before you broke out into a laugh before Father Edward leaned and touched your belly. 

“She is most fond of her father’s voice.” You explained. 

“Of course, children usually are, both in the flesh, and in the heavens.” Father Edward cooed as he happily felt Serena’s kicks and squirms. 

“I pray she does not come today of all days though.” Father Edward quietly whispered. 

“Us too.” You whispered back as you smiled and crinkled your nose. 

“Well, I must excuse myself, it seems the Holy Pontifix needs reminding of who he is marrying today.” Father Edward murmured to see the Holy Pontefix already out and almost staggering as he shuffled his feet in his holy robes as you and Kragan both gave each other a meaningful look before he came around and sat beside you. 

“In case anyone wonders that such an office should come with an age limit.” Kragan breathed in your ear as you did your best to stifle a snickering laugh, lest you practically be smited in this temple. 

“Stop, you’ll get us smited.” You urged him before the Holy Pontefix came over and you had Kragan help you to your feet o receive him as respectfully as you could. 

“Oh, the holy Serephina, the angels themselves guard her, the lovely Serephina, she comes.” He praised as he came over and gestured to your belly. 

“Thank you, Your Holiness.” You thanked him as your cheeks flushed. 

“Yes, yes, she comes soon. Make ready for her.” He urged you. 

“Of course, we stay at the ready.” Kragan tried to offer. 

“Yes, yes, she comes to you with blessings and good tidings. And she does not come alone.” He said. 

“Excuse me?” You asked, the smallest bit of worry coming from your tone. 

“She does not come alone. Many others there are here.” He said as he gestured to the other ladies who were pregnant as you smiled in understanding. 

“Yes, it is the season for new life to bloom in the cold of winter.” You offered. 

“To hurry spring.” He nodded in agreement before he turned and wandered back to the front before you and Kragan looked at each other curiously before you sat down again. 

“There should only be one of you in there.” You murmured to your belly. 

“If there was two, Audrey and Sarah and Agnes would have seen them.” Kragan reminded you. 

“I know, it’s just…why would he say that?” You asked. 

“He’s old and senile.” Kragan excused. 

“It feels like it’s more than that.” You shook your head as you went to push in on Serena to make sure she was head down and in position. 

“My Love, please don’t get yourself worked up over this. It’s just Serena in there, don’t let his comment get to you. He just noticed you were pregnant as is just about every other woman in here today.” Kragan murmured. 

“Including Samantha.” You murmured under your breath back at him. 

“She’s what?” Kragan blinked. 

“Don’t say anything, she just found out herself today and doesn’t want anyone else to know or detract from Millie’s attention today.” You whispered to him. 

“Well, I mean, it’s not a surprise, they’ve been married for a few months now.” Kragan breathed as he turned towards you and wrapped his arm around your shoulders and held your hand and squeezed it reassuringly. 

“The pregnancy is older than the marriage.” You breathed as you looked around you to make sure no one else overheard you. 

“Well, that doesn’t surprise me either.” He admitted. 

“No, me either, just…the poor thing is worried sick about my parent’s reaction and wants to go back to Fitsdale.” You revealed. 

“Nah, I think she’ll be fine. I don’t think anyone will notice or care.” Kragan shrugged off. 

“Except for the people who matter the most to her.” You gently argued. 

“I’m sure it’ll be fine. Again, you have Serena to worry about it. And she’s more than enough as she is.” Kragan gently contested. 

“True.” You had to admit. 

“It’ll be ok. Everything will work out. You just have to trust that it will. Serena will come when she’s ready and if she’s anything like you, she’ll be well worth the wait. And she’ll be perfect, just the way she is and just like you are.” Kragan reassured you. 

“Please don’t let the Fates be listening to you and think that you’re challenging them.” You offered in a teasing soft laugh as you looked up towards the ceiling and took a cleansing breath as you tried not to let Kragan’s sweet words render you to sweet tears that he clearly loved you and loved Serena so completely. 

“No, of course not.” Kragan murmured with a soft smile before more and more people came into the temple and you got a new flood of visitors at your seat before the wedding was announced to begin to commence so that others could get their seats while you were happy to have Gwen on one side of you and Kragan on the other as Ron took his stand up at the front with His Holiness and the other priests, cardinals and bishops as you had never been so happy that he was not your groom as you locked eyes with him for a small eternity. 

‘Thank you.’ He mouthed to you gratefully from his spot. 

‘Thank you.’ You mouthed back to him as the two of you smiled fondly at each other before the wedding procession came down the aisle and your attention, as well as everyone else’s went to the gaggle of flower girls, practically looking like little angels as they practically floated down the aisle and tossed flower petals all around. 

Then all of Millie’s 30- bridesmaids and her three maids of honor as you fought not to roll your eyes. 

And then when it was Millie’s turn, you and the others stood and in that moment you could only smile pleasantly as Millie walked at a glacial pace, soaking up every single second of this. 

And Millie did look like- the picture perfect bride. The perfect tiara, the perfect hair, the perfect face and cosmetics, the perfect skin, the perfect jewelry, the perfect dress, the perfect gloves and slippers and just..everything was almost uncannily perfect and you wondered if the more magic heavy guests were perhaps adding glamors and magic charm to her and her appearance. Her train followed for good twenty paces behind her, heavy with embroidery, fur and jewels. 

But for you, to look over and see Ron crying a few glistening tears as you had never seen him smile so brightly and happily before. 

You were sure he had never been as happy at the birth of his own bastards and you could only shake your head and look at the ceiling to keep your own tears from flooding your vision at the thought of how they must have been locked up for such an event as this, surly to be kept from making a scene to detract from the occasion. 

You all sat down as Millie then knelt in front of His Holiness with Ron at the altar. 

“I thought Serena was going to be born and baptized before Millie made it down that aisle.” Kragan muttered to you as you elbowed his side as Gwen and Lucas snickered a laugh. 

“Me too!” Gwen whispered. 

“Both of you hush.” You shushed them with warning looks, but not missing how Lucas slipped his fingers in with Gwen’s, as Gwen’s cheeks flushed prettily as you began to wonder just how…friendly those two had gotten since they first “accidentally” made each other’s aquaintances only a few months prior. 

But you let it go and put a serene smile on your schooled features. 

You could have sworn your parents paid the Temple ten years worth of tribute for this service to end all services that rivaled every high holiday all rolled into one. You looked over to see many start to lose interest and grow bored as even a few grew tired as the sun set in the windows, coloring the temple in color from the stained glass windows as His Holiness used the best versions of the holy texts for this service as the choirs had to be changed out five times to keep the poor children who were singing various hymns during the service from losing their voices all together. And you were ever so grateful for that broth because you could hear more than a hundred stomachs begin to growl all around you. 

It wasn’t until the first one fell asleep and began to snore that the entire congregation looked over and all but snickered at the poor soul that got jolted awake that they finally got a move on for the service itself and when the children’s choir got the addition of the adults that you had any hope that this was going to end at a merciful hour before they finally got to the vows and finally got to kiss and be proclaimed man and wife and you had never been so happy to stand and clap as the certificate was signed and sealed as it seemed the entire temple breathed a sigh of relief that it was finally over. 

You went with Kragan to the skyport and were ever relieved when everything was right on time and perfectly timed so that the moment the guests flooded in, they were greeted by an army of servers with all kinds of trays of little bites to eat while “grazing” tables were featured throughout from foods from all over the world that many of the guests appreciated to get a bite of familiar food and get a chance to converse with others. 

You could see Samantha was still working, closing as many deals as she could, while she could. You were sure she had a messengerari in her holy book to keep doing business while she was in the temple itself, as were most of the royals in attendance as you were relieved to simply, once again, sit at the table and have just about every single waiter or waitress offer you what they had while Kragan was happy to finally get something to eat himself, because you had heard his stomach growl the most and the loudest through the whole service. 

“I seriously thought Serena was going to be born and baptized, maybe learn to walk and talk by the time Millie made it down that damn aisle.” Kragan muttered as you snorted a laugh. 

“Me too. But I dare not say such things and tempt Fate any more than I already have.” You admitted as you were happy to practically gorge yourself on the offerings. 

“Ooh, grab a few more of these for me.” You urged him. 

“Yeah, on it.” He nodded and made a whistle call and every single server within earshot flocked back to you as you blushed but gratefully took it as you apologized for the loud call, but they were all happy to oblige and soon your own plate was piled high with a bit of everything before Lucas brought Gwen back to the table, with a heaping plate himself before he slipped half the food from his plate, to hers, since it was clear she was trying to only get “appropriate” amounts. 

“Ooh, that looks good. Where’d you get that?” Kragan asked. 

“Oh, that one.” Lucas answered. 

“Here, come with me.” Kragan nodded over to it. 

“So how long have you and Lucas been talking?” You asked Gwen before she looked at her plate guiltily. 

“Not long.” She shook her head no. 

“Yes, I promise.” You reassured her. 

“Dearest. I’m not trying to pry or probe, and I’m not judging you on the matter. It’s just that I’ve noticed there is a familiarity between you, is all. However, if you wish to claim that I proposed Lucas be your companion for the evening and that Lucas was someone I trusted in that respect, I can. I just need to know what and how to answer our parents- when they ask. And they will ask. I just need to know the answer so that our answers match and you do not get any grief over it.” You murmured to her.

“Promise you won’t get upset?” She asked. 

“He picked up the call and talked to me a few months ago when I called you about my job. And from there we’ve just…talked.” Gwen admitted. 

“How often?” You asked carefully. 

“As often as I can get away with.” Gwen confessed. 

“Which is why you’ve called the messengerari in that lounge instead of my usual one in my room.” You realized. 

“Yeah. But we haven’t talked about anything inappropriate or anything untoward.” She insisted. 

“And I would have thought being with him in person would have been odd or uncomfortable, but quite the opposite, it’s been, like I can face every prince in here down and play this stupid part Millie and our parents have demanded of me, but only as long as he’s with me. And Samantha, of course, has been covering for me and letting me steal every moment I can away until today and I was dreading even leaving my room, until he came in.” Gwen confessed. 

“Oh dear, Mamah is coming, please, please don’t say anything.” Gwen begged. 

“Of course not. Don’t worry about it. You just need to play your part tonight ok? Focus on Mamah’s list, remember, they all have to share you tonight. But for every day after today, it’s you and Lucas with me and Kragan on a ship around the world.” You reminded her. 

“I know, I can’t wait.” Gwen smiled. 

“My Darlings.” Your Mamah smiled pleasantly. 

“Gwendowlyn, I need you to go and speak to the Prime Minister and his wife, and in particular their son who is by the fruit table.” She urged as she gestured over to them. 

“Yes Mamah.” Gwen sighed in defeat and got up and obediently walked over as you slid Gwen’s plate next to yours.

“Oh, I see, using Gwen’s plate to satisfy your own hunger?” Your mother noted with a look of relief. 

“Yes, Serena’s hunger grows just as much as she does. I bid her to lave my womb to satisfy it -herself, on every day but today.” You maintained. 

“Oh good, so who is this young man you have with Gwendolyn?” She asked. 

“Won’t you have a seat Mamah?” You invited. 

“I believe I will.” She said before she sat down in the seat Gwendolyn just vacated. 

“He is a member of my security team. The necklace she is wearing, is one of mine, it was given to me by the Raj Mahal of Shrivanka. Because the necklace given to her for today had shoddy workmanship and was pinching her skin and was very uncomfortable, so I am letting her borrow mine, with the understanding that she is to be guarded and keep the jewels safe. Because the Raj is very generous but does wish for the jewels he gives to others the same care they would receive should they stay in his royal treasury. So I asked my most trusted body guard to guard her, because she is one, the second most precious woman here tonight, besides Millie herself. But also, because she just happens to be wearing the largest yellow diamond in the world that is currently known.” You explained nonchalantly.

“Oh! So who is he beyond that?” She asked. 

“His name is Lucas Hampton, he is a Lieutenant Commander of my guard on my ship. Today is the first day they’ve ever been in each other’s company. But the only reason why she knows him at all is because of how close I keep him with me usually. And I do not take Gwendolyn’s safety lightly. Since, not only will she be the belle of the ball besides Millie tonight, but I need to make sure that all of those princes you’ve lined up, get the best Gwen for the few moments they do get to have her. I would not put anyone who I did not implicitly trust with my own life, with her. I know how precious and important she is, especially today of all days. She needs to feel calm and she needs to feel safe. She can not feel like a lamb in a den of wolves, which this assembly very much can turn into at a moment’s notice.” You reassured your Mamah. 

“I do not leave anything to chance any more Mamah.” You added as the two of you watched as Lucas seemed to find Gwendolyn again and simply escort her around the room as she simply double checked her dance cards for the evening. 

“And those two?” She asked as she noticed the sentinels that seemed to shadow Gwen and Lucas. 

“That is Brick and Mortar. The two most terrifyingly impressive body guards I have. But if you look closely, there are six more, not too far away. Meant to blend in and meant to be the forest through the trees. And then of course, there is the mouse.” You hinted. 

“Mouse? What mouse?” Your mother asked as she leaned over towards you as you leaned towards her in turn. 

“Duchess Ashanti. She is the younger sister to Grand Duchess Ashurah. She is there to serve as Gwen’s translator. And because she is Dorierran, she knows each and every single person you put on Gwen’s dance card tonight and will help Gwen transition from prince to prince with ease. And she will remember anything and everything that is said both to and around Gwendolyn.” You reassured her. 

“I see, a mouse, meant to listen in and not really be seen until it squeaks.” Your mother grinned proudly. 

“Exactly. So you see mother, everything is taken care of and you have already gotten Millie and myself to the altar in a single season. I dare say, Gwen may well be meeting her future husband tonight. And what a pool she has to pull from. But don’t put all your eggs in Gwen’s basket, You still have two more sons too now.” You recalled. 

“Well if Gwen is practically all of taken care of, then I believe you are right, I believe I should be focusing on your other brothers, for they have the same magnificent pool too.” Your mother nodded her agreement. 

“Happy to see that Serena did not see that she needed to crash the party either.” She cooed with a pat to your belly before she got up and walked back to your father to give him the answer she just got from you. 

“You shouldn’t have stuck your neck out like that for Lucas.” Kragan remarked as he came up and sat down in his seat next to you. 

“I didn’t do it for him. I did it for Gwen. I can only hope he will not betray such a confidence.” You offered somberly. 

“He won’t, I made sure to explain things to him as I walked with him around the various food tables.” Kragan offered. 

“Thank you.” You thanked him. 

“Don’t thank me yet. We still have the rest of the evening to get through.” He admitted. 

“True.” You nodded. 

“My Lord and Lady, the bride and groom have arrived.” A servant informed you as you had Kragan help you to your feet once again as you stood and made ready to applaud their entrance. 

Ron and Millie looked like a crown prince and princess becoming king and queen the way they entered the large banquet hall and took their seats at the head table at the banquet and you had never seen them so happy to sit so high above everyone else as everyone else got their seats as the banquet was then immediately served. 

“So what did you tell Mamah?” Gwen whispered to you as she took her seat beside you once again. 

“That the necklace you’re wearing is very valuable, and that it needed its own security guard and I put one my most trusted with it and you.” You explained as you ate the first course. 

“Is it really?” She asked. 

“Eh,” you shrugged nonchalantly. 

“Well, I shall act accordingly.” Gwen assured you. 

“You already do. It’s fine.” You reassured her in turn. 

You got through the dinner and it was time for toasts. And to see and hear Millie’s friends basically kiss her ass and Ron’s ass and go on and on about the ‘star crossed soul mates’ and even read “poetry” which was a very loose term to apply to such prose. 

“Thank you.” Kragan began to say to you. 

“For what?” You whispered back to him. 

“For not wanting our wedding to be anything like this. They are gilding the lily and the baby’s breath with all of this. This is practically torture for it’s overly sweet syrupy sappyness that will rot every tooth I have out of my head, and practically rot my brain out.” He complained. 

“Well, in that case, thank you My Love for giving me a perfect wedding. I thought ours was perfectly dignified, still sweet and happy but there was a somber seriousness that suited the occasion. And it really only had the people we cared the most about in attendance. This is just pandering for the sake of pandering.” You replied. 

“Exactly. It’s all theatrics, it’s incredibly insincere. Ours was at least sincere and heartfelt and genuine.” Kragan appraised. 

“And intimate.” You waggled your eyebrows with a grin at him. 

“Oh, don’t start that now, or I’ll just go fully feral and throw you over my shoulder and haul you off if you start talking much more like that.” Kragan warned you. 

“Mmm. Good to know.” You cooed licentiously until you heard your name and snapped your attention to Ron who had stood to give a toast…to you. 

“I won’t make you stand, for you are quite heavy with child, and you’ve been made to get up and down quite enough today.” Ron said as he gestured to you as you flushed when it seemed everyone turned their attention to you as you grabbed Kragan’s hand under the table. 

“As I’m sure all those in Solowardian society know, but for those who do not. I had actually been betrothed since birth to Her Radiance Contessina Salgria since infancy, something I fought most viciously against, because, I knew in my bones that it was not the right match for me. And one that Contessina also knew was not right for her. For we were much more suited to be siblings than fiances. And then His Radiance Kragan Salgria came calling on my beloved and Contessina, being the practically all wise and all knowing genius she is, instantly knew that she and My Beloved had been mismatched, and proposed to switch. I know the gods themselves blessed her and her intuition in this regard. And from there, everything fell perfectly into place. For the gods themselves knew she was capable of so much more than I could ever fathom. Just look around us tonight. Only a genius is capable of envisioning such splendor. And only Kragan could have recognized such brilliance and given her the entire supersphere as her oyster to create such a wonder. But none of this would have been possible, if Contessina had not insisted that she switch. And it was that one, pivotal, yet perfect change that brought all of this about. I couldn’t be happier with her foresight, her forethought and her courage to change something she knew was set wrong at first glance. So I urge you all, to consider this- women are rational and wise, beautiful and intelligent, and that if only they are given the chance to choose for themselves what is best for them, that the world will be better for it. Which is why, from this moment on, The Order of Radiance, will be the only thing that brings law and order to myself and my family.” Ron announced before everyone erupted into thunderous applause as you looked over at Ron to see him giving you a standing ovation before you stood and simply curtsied and sat down to bring an end to this before it was Millie’s turn to give a toast as Kragan immediately reached for his other flask that had a very good brandy in it and spiked his wine cup with it. 

“I too would like to thank my sister for the switch she made at the beginning of the year. For such a switch has brought us all entire lifetimes of happiness. And I would also like to thank…” She began as she brought her ‘list’ for those who gifted her various things just to get an invitation as she made sure to practically spell out who gave what as she publicly thanked them for their generosity which appeased everyone else. While also bringing looks of approval and small sets of applause to all the other royals in attendance. 

Then it was Kragan’s turn to give his “toast” and most importantly, his “gift” to the couple, being his skyships. 

“I would also like to start this with a toast to my wife, who was the inspiration for the greatest ships I have ever had the honor and privilege of designing. On our wedding day I awoke early to a vision of a skyship that had no equal in beauty, sophistication and supreme sailing ability. And would take to the twelve winds as easily as any bird takes to soaring in the skies. The first ship I designed was the Contessina Originalle. From there, over two dozen designs ranging in size from a lightning rider, to the largest airship to ever take to the skies to date- came to be. And it is my privilege to unveil the entire line up. Starting first with Contessina De Minor.” He said as he made a gesture and the first ship sailed around the skyport as applause broke out among the guests to see them. 

“Then the Contessina Honorable`.” Kragan announced as the next flew around. 

“The Contessina Exuberance`.” Kragan continued. 

“The Contessina Champione`." 

“The Contessina Emaculente’.” 

“The Contessina Brilliance`.” 

“The Contessina Originalle`, which is the original design.” He specified. 

“The Contessina Especial.” 

“The Contessina Valiance`.” 

“The Contessina Celebrante`." 

“The Contessina Courageousa`.” 

“The Contessina De Faithful.”  

“The Contessina De Truth.” 

“The Contessina Illumina.” 

“The Contessina Jubilea`.” 

“The Contessina Excellence`.” 

“The Contessina Superiore`.” 

“The Contessina Extraordinaire`.” 

“The Contessina De Jewel.” 

“The Contessina Opulence`.” 

“The Contessina Adorabella.” 

“The Contessina Magdalena Luna.” 

“The Contessina Serephina.” 

“The Contessina De. Crowne De Jewele`.” 

“The Conessina Ethereal.” 

“And last, but certainly not least. The Contessina De Magnifica!” Kragan beamed as the largest and grandest ship of all flew around as everyone else got to their feet to give a standing applause before Kragan walked over and presented the key to Millie and Ron’s ship to them before he presented the key to the Magifica to their Majesties. Knowing that they had already had to make good on their “downpayment” for their ship. And knowing that he all be owned the very National Bank that was financing such an expenditure. 

“Enjoy.” Kragan smiled like ‘fuck you’ was written on his teeth as he was sure this was the hopefully the last time he would ever have to see them face to face before he strutted back to his spot just as the ships docked with the very large platform, it being just big enough that a ship could dock with each part of the platform. 

Millie and Ron quickly cut their cake and did one dance before they opened the doors to the ships so that they and their guests could get a first hand experience with their ships as you were happy to simply sit in their ship’s main salon after using the bathroom so that they could get the grand tour from the butler they had stationed on the ship. 

“Are you happy with it?” You asked once they reappeared and came back to you. 

“Yes!” Millie giddily squealed as she hugged you tightly. 

“I’m so happy you’re happy. Enjoy.” You bid them before they went back to their wedding and you and Kragan slipped away to your own vessel that flew by just long enough for you to get on board and then float away, sailing just above it all as you and Kragan just looked down at it all before a familiar song began to play. 

“Oh, remember? This was the first dance we ever danced with each other at my parent’s ball.” You recalled. 

“I do. Can I have this dance?” He asked before you giggled but took his hand and danced the same dance again, granted, a bit differently because you were now pregnant and couldn’t quite hop and your steps didn’t have the same spring in them. 

“What?” You asked him as he danced with you on the deck of your ship. 

“I’m just realizing how everything is the same yet everything is different. I still felt out of place and awkward, the same way I always felt on Solowardian soil., but a lot less intensely this time. But because I had you with me. It was like, nothing else mattered and that it didn’t matter if I was in crowd that felt innumerable, all that mattered was you and me. And that you are dancing with me, and how after I met you, I knew I didn’t want to dance, or even get to know or be intimate with anyone else other than you. And that has never changed and probably will never change.” Kragan explained. 

“Aww, I feel the same way. I don’t care what anyone else thinks or feels about me or you or us. The only good opinion I need is yours. And as long as you love me and our daughter, and care for me and her too, nothing else matters. Just us and her.” You fawned as you slowed your steps to simply walk in circles, shoulder to shoulder with him before he moved and just began to dance how the music was moving him to, which felt much more natural and happier, having you practically chest to chest and belly to belly but moving gracefully across the boards of the deck, as if they were any other ballroom floor. 

“Always and forever.” Kragan readily reassured you before the song ended and you paused to simply hug each other as the stars were coming out to glitter in the sky the way diamonds did when cast over a sheet of inky blue velvet. You kissed him sweetly but soundly all the same. Before that kiss quickly morphed from sweet, to sensual to needy as Kragan was happy and eager to get you inside and away from any prying eyes to disrobe you and make love to you on the very same couch from your old room. 

“Finally, the sex I always wanted to have on this couch with the one person I was always meant to have it with.” You cooed as you laid back into your favorite spot as Kragan carefully laid over you to kiss you before he leaned back up to pillow your bottom up so that his pelvis met yours just right as you breathed in relief to finally be rejoined with him. To be free of all constraints of jewel and gown and undergarment. Where it was just his body and yours, coming together as one flesh, where if it had not been for the contrast of skin color, it would otherwise be quite hard to tell where he started and you ended. Your pleasured cry of bliss was the most beautiful music to Kragan’s ears as his own grunt and small roar of your name from his lips was your favorite sound in the world.

[ghostofafool]

It's been 7 years since I founded the Fiddlesti ck Adventuring Party. Alongside them, my four friends and I traveled the world. We helped people with bandits, walked them home at night, delivered groceries. We were hired by kings to slay dragons, common folk to steal food, the nobility as bodyguards.

People came and went. Arthur, our Paladin, was sent on another quest by his God one day. I still see him in the taverns, looking for information for it sometimes. We gained a warlock named Millie, who allied with a Goddess of Harvest soon after. She left to go help her hometown during a famine. Eventually, all the founders had moved on. Except for me. I thought I was still needed as an adventurer, even if I'm an adult now. Fiddlestick was only hired by those who wanted to get away with paying less for high quality. No one gives children full wages, after all!

That's what leads me to a fortnight ago. A nobleman offered to pay us handsomely for jewelry from the Fae Wilds. Despite my doubts, our leader took the job. He'd been thinking about retiring from heroism, living a meager life in a village somewhere. We all got to the Wilds easily enough. And we went in, one of us seeing the eyes in the shadows. The Leader recapped our commission. 2000 gold per person left alive for the Heart of the Seel. The Heart of the Seel is a magical gemstone said to contain the power to control the Good Folk of the Forest and bend it to their will.

And we found it. Locked away inside a small sapling in the middle of a clearing, was a green gem the color of leaves in the height of summer. Everyone celebrated, with a ferocity I had not expected from people who'd traveled for weeks for a gem that was so small it wouldn't be used for anything but a ring. Except for me and our druid Nia. Nia recognized it instantly, coming from a family whose trade was jewelry making. It was a peridot, and a perfectly mortal one at that. They explained to the rest of the group, and were called a liar who wanted all the glory. After that, everyone lost it at once.

Everyone started fighting each other after that. Nathan the barbarian teamed up with the Leader Cole to fight Nia, Wizard Desmond challenged our knight, appointed as Sir Marian of the Queen's Guard, and after that it all turned into a brawl. I just stood there, near the entrance of the clearing, not doing anything. It's what I'm best at, according to Cole and Nathan. It's the only thing a healer is good for. Being on standby unless needed. Desmond died first, they always had low defenses. Then it was Cole, happy to retire for good, as he put it. Then the brawl thinned out a little, as more corpses littered the clearing with its stench and that awful pomegranate red.

Nathan died, clutching a broken ax, swearing that he will avenge himself upon Nia. And then the crowd gathered. The crowd of One, who was named Theresa. She was a rogue who Nia was friends with, and because of that hesitation, Nia was stabbed through the chest. I rushed to their side, trying to heal them as best I could. Nia kept fighting, long enough to drag Theresa into the earth and suffocate her. She died in my arms not long after. I wailed and cried and pleaded, wondering why all this had happened.

When I heard a voice, one I knew but was still a stranger. Then more, enjoined in a choir of voices, high and low, big and small. Eventually it started to sound like the buzzing of cicadas, rushing waters, and thunder at once. "The Heart is Alive! Rejoice, for Our Soul has Reunited with Our Lord!" Over and over again, so loud I couldn't think or see or feel anything else.

The only thing I could do was fall to my knees and scream in agony.

You were the healer—the last light of your party. But now your final ally dies in your arms, and there’s no one left to save. The enemy jeers, calling you useless. You look up, eyes hollow and black. The light is gone. The Void answers. You're no longer a cleric. You're something far worse.