#I can't draw children lord help me

[somethingsomethingrenga]

I really wanted to draw them in Miya's school uniform :3 Also baby version, because middle schoolers are basically babies to me anyways

Poor Langa forgot he doesn't need his winter wear at his new school - but Reki saw they were both wearing green and decided they were besties!

[meara-eldestofthemall]

Gee, thanks DC! You Just Turned Bruce Into An Irredeemable Ass.

So, at the end of Gotham War Bruce has officially lost everything. Alfred is still dead, Selina is "presumed dead" and Bruce is both financially and morally broke. Why, you may ask, is Bruce so much worse off this time? Let me count the ways.

He preformed a psychic lobotomy on Jason

The "it's for your own good" excuse only makes the mental rape undertaken by Jason's own father that much more heinous.

Just when you think Bruce can't sink any lower he does. When Dick recognizes that Bruce has lost it, he attempts to use a failsafe disconnect that Bruce himself built into the system. How does Nightwing get thanked for that? Well that brings us to number two on the list.

Batman attacks up his eldest son for doing what he's supposed to do when Batman has gone rouge.

Bruce beats him up because nothing proves you are in control of your sanity like hitting your children. While Dick is holding back, Bruce does no such thing. He hits Nightwing hard enough to send him flying. It could have gotten even worse if Tim hadn't shown up.

Tim arrives and attempts to talk some sense into Batman.

Tim tries to talk Bruce down. It doesn't go well. When Robin is trying to help, as he always does, Batman uses the attempt to reason with him to put the smack down on his son. Bruce could have killed Tim but apparently feels no remorse or guilt.

If there was any teeny tiny little doubt that Bruce will not win the Father of The Year award in 2023 it died a horrible screaming death when Batman abandons his children to potential arrest. Yes, he left a batarang for Dick and Tim but any glimer of possible hope associated with that action was instantly extinguished by Damian's reaction to Batman's callous betrayal.

Bruce abandons Damian.

Look at Dami; he's devastated. Since he came into Bruce's life, Damian has struggled with feelings that he can never earn his father's love and respect. Well, that negative self-image was reinforced in way that may never be repairable. Bruce just utterly destroyed a 13 year old child because of his inability to feel any kind of empathy.

And how does this all end? The best part is that Bruce takes all of his parental responsibilities and dumps them onto Dick.

Thank you Chip Zdarsky and Trini Howard. You've taken Batman from being an edgy anti-hero and made him into a callous monster. Part of me hopes that Bruce never comes back because he doesn't deserve his family.

The only positive aspect in this convoluted mess is that Damian and Tim will be far better off with Dick than with Bruce. Yes, Tim is mostly independent but he still needs guidance (particularly since Tim's first instinct is to try and save Bruce). Damian is essentially Dick's son emotionally anyway so this might help to sustain the positive character growth we've seen in him as of late.

The point of this rant is to wonder what on earth DC thinks they're doing. This story arc has been pure character destruction as far as Bruce is concerned. It's bad storytelling too; rushed, frenetic and massively disappointing.

Hasn't the popularity of Good Dad Bruce in Wayne Family Adventures proved that fans are tired of Bruce being a dark depressed and brooding edge lord? We all accept that Batman is a character with deeeeep issues who is in desperate need of therapy. I, however, draw the line at Bruce being an abusive a**hole.

In years to come when fans wonder when Batman jumped the shark, this is the plot line they'll point to.

[thisgirlnamedblusy]

Ohmygosh

Little sister Donna and big sis Alcina is a family dynamic I didn't know I needed before reading your stories.

Could I maybe ask for a story about Donna asking Alcina for advice on how to woo reader? I can just imagine nervous wreck Donna calling her sister when she realises she got a crush.

And thank you for your stories :)

Yesss!!!!! Don't thank me, I'm the one who has to thank you for reading them!!! Thank you for your request!!! I hope you like it and sorry about the language mistakes!!!!

A little help from my sister

Pairing: Donna Beneviento x Fem! Reader

Warnings: Some angst, fluff, Donna's POV, Donna being Donna

Word count: 7,892

Summary: I can't tell her... I need someone to help me...

N/A: Sorry about the language mistakes!!! Requests are open!!! I'm waiting yours!!!! I love you all!!! :))

Mother Miranda's words echoed in the four walls of the church. Always the same prayers, always the same phrases.

I sat next to my siblings, I don't even remember if I ever occupied another seat, if I was ever in the place of the villagers. New faces, different faces, children who grew up, old people who never returned... A bitter cycle of life and death, a cycle that I was condemned to endure, forever.

Donna Beneviento, Lord, doll maker, that was me. I wondered if I was ever something else, something more than a dark shadow next to some monsters, or, on the contrary, if I was just one more of them.

My appearance confirmed my fears. My face stopped being that of a woman, a human being. It had been too long, I had already gotten used to the veil that covered it, and also, to the loneliness.

Yes, I had Angie, my dolls, but, it was not enough to make me not realize that I lived in a house too big for me. Like everything else, it soon stopped mattering to me.

Torturing, killing, reading, working, sleeping, what a routine. Too many years had passed for me to regret the sentence that Mother Miranda cast upon me that night, the night I stopped being a person, to become a monster.

My only eye wandered around the church, to those faithful faces, devoted to the Black Gods. I liked to play at seeing who would return, and who would not. I suppose that is what a monster does, study its victims.

But, for some time now, one of those faces had caught my attention: a village girl, hidden in a bunch of stupid people a young, beautiful girl, one who always came back, one who decided to behave and not try to escape from that place.

Every week I looked at her, every week I got lost in her dress, in her gaze… It was like an addiction, an addiction that always made me thankful for existing, for having lived long enough to see her grow, to be lucky enough to see her beauty. I knew they were stupid fantasies but… Well, at least I had a reason to leave my safe place, to leave my house.

“Donna, dear,” a soft voice distracted me from my feat, from the weekly vision of her body, her face, one that was increasingly sad, increasingly beautiful.

My sister Alcina was always there to remind me that girl was unreachable. She was an angel, I was a monster.

“What are you looking at?” the lady of the castle asked, positioning her eyes in the same direction as mine. I shook my head, said nothing, did nothing, as always. “Am I missing something interesting?”

“No,” I whispered hoarsely, in a voice I didn’t usually use. I couldn’t make Angie speak for me, it would draw too much attention and, although it didn’t seem like it, Miranda kept talking.

“Mm,” Alcina murmured, squinting, searching hard for the reason for my distraction. Luckily, she didn’t get to do it.

“We wait for the light of dawn…” they all said at the same time, all except us, of course. “In life, and in death, we give glory, Mother Miranda.”

“May the Black Gods have mercy on your soul,” the priestess said, stretching out her arms. I know she enjoyed it, I know she enjoyed making the villagers just be a stupid flock of sheep.

“Let the lycans devour our flesh,” the villagers repeated, finally getting up from the pews.

At least that torture was over.

“What do we do now, Donna?” Angie asked, leaving the church in my arms, containing that euphoria that always accompanied her.

“Let’s go home,” I whispered discreetly, my gaze fixed on those villagers, searching for something, searching for her gaze.

“Home? How boring,” the doll protested, crossing her arms. I shook my head, with an amused smile.

“I have a lot of things to do,” I whispered again, walking away from the crowd, disappearing like a shadow, like the shadow they said I was, the shadow of a monster.

“How are you going to do it, silly Donna? We don’t have any fabrics, remember?” the doll said, pointing at me with her finger.

I sighed, realizing that she was right, that my time in the village was going to be prolonged. I hate the village, I hate the villagers. I hate people.

“Okay…” I murmured, looking around for the Duke's carriage. “I'll talk to the Duke and then we'll go.”

“Yes, yes, Duke, Duke!” Angie said, excited, as always.

At least it would only be a moment, at least all the villagers seemed to have better things to do than wander around the village…

“It has to be a joke,” an unknown voice reached my ears as I approached the carriage. It was a sweet voice, but somewhat nervous.

“I never joke, (Y/N), and even less so when we talk about money…” the merchant said.

I stood on the ground. It was her, it was that beautiful girl from the church, she was there, alone.

“What are you doing?” Angie asked, seeing that I was unable to move. I had never had her so close, I was never able to see her beauty so close to me. “Come on, Donna, move…”

“Oh, certo…” I sighed, walking again.

The girl seemed nervous, that calm look she always entertained me with seemed disturbed. I approached slowly, trying to make my presence go unnoticed.

“1000 lei for a medicine?” the young woman asked, showing the merchant what looked like a bottle of pills.

I pretended not to hear, I hid in the shadows of the carriage, looking, touching the fabrics I needed. Surely the Duke had already noticed my presence, but, as always, he ignored it. It was the best for him, and he knew it.

“Medicines are scarce resources, (Y/N). They are not easy to get,” the man said, shaking his head, looking at me out of the corner of his eye, with a shy gesture of greeting. I returned it, touching those fabrics, trying to concentrate on my task, and not on those bright eyes.

“I don't have that money,” the girl said, (Y/N), apparently, a beautiful name for a beautiful woman.

“Oh, but didn't you have a vegetable store?” the Duke asked, counting coins mockingly.

“Of course I have, but we can't do anything if my father’s sick,” the girl said, crossing her arms. “Please, he is, he is very... The, the fever is consuming him.”

“It's a pity, (Y/N)…” the merchant sighed.

“Please, Duke, he, he's dying…” she said, clasping her hands together, her eyes shining from the moisture of the tears that were beginning to form in them. It was a sight that stopped my heart, but which I pretended not to pay attention to.

“I'm sorry, dear, but I don't do favors… It's 1000 lei,” the fat man sighed, shaking his head.

“Do you have no feelings?” she asked, clenching her fists on either side of her hips.

“In this job, (Y/N), you better don’t have them…” the Duke sighed, disinterestedly.

“Ugh…” she growled, kicking the snow. “Damn it.”

“Do you want anything else?” the merchant asked. “I have more customers to attend to.”

“Fuck you!” the girl yelled angrily, making me shift in place, stop caressing the soft fabrics.

“There's no need to be rude, don't you think?” the Duke said, amused, as the girl walked away from him, heading towards me and hitting my shoulder as she passed by.

“Hey, stupid villager! Watch your step!” Angie shouted, pointing at her in a contemptuous manner.

(Y/N) didn't turn around, she continued on her way among sobs and curses.

That incredible beauty was suffering, crying, very far from her usual tender smile, her eyes were red from rage. I didn't know why, but I couldn't stand it.

“Well...” the Duke laughed, amused by her suffering. I growled with rage, approaching him in an unpleasant way. “Lady Beneviento, I beg your pardon for this incident… Are you here for fabrics for your dolls?”

I nodded, following the young woman with my eyes. She seemed so desperate…

“We'll take them all, Duke!” Angie shrieked, with an exaggerated gesture of her arms. He laughed with satisfaction while I, in the most abrupt way possible, threw him a bag of coins.

“Good… Good,” he laughed, satisfied. “I'll come by this afternoon to take them to you… Do you need anything else?”

“Anything else, Donna? Anything else?” Angie said, moving in my arms, starting to get nervous.

I gently shook my head, but my gaze fell on that bottle of pills, on that medicine, on the reason those beautiful eyes were crying. Slowly, I leaned down to pick it up and look at it. It looked like a medicine to lower the fever, she wasn't lying.

“Are you feeling sick, my lady?” the Duke asked, studying my gestures. I shook my head slowly, looking at the place where she had disappeared.

“We're taking this too,” Angie said, with my voice, speaking for me as I showed that vermin the bottle of pills. The Duke frowned, but nodded disinterestedly.

“Of course…” he whispered without paying attention, counting that huge amount of coins that I had thrown at him. Of course, I should have imagined that a Lord would never pay 1,000 lei for something as basic as a medicine.

Moving away from the carriage, I looked for (Y/N) with my eyes, looking for her footprints in the snow and slowly following them.

“What are you doing, Donna?” Angie asked, taking the bottle of pills and examining it comically. “What’s this?”

“There you are…” I whispered when I saw (Y/N) walking slowly towards a cabin, stopping to rub her eyes. The sadness she conveyed shrank my heart. No, she couldn't cry, she shouldn't cry. Her beauty couldn't be destroyed by tears, by helplessness.

Little by little, I approached, reaching out my hand to rest on her shoulder, calling her attention. She turned around and the sadness turned into fear, immediately moving away.

“Lady Beneviento,” she whispered confused, shaking her head, searching behind her for a way to escape. There wasn't one, she was trapped. “I... I don't...”

I didn't say anything. I simply stayed next to her, with a calm pose, unintentionally intimidating her, scaring her.

“Silly villager,” Angie said among mocking laughs. I shook her discreetly to shut her up. No, I didn't want to scare her. I didn't want her to be afraid of me.

“Gods, I…” she sighed scared, kneeling on the ground, pressing her hands together, lowering her head. “I'm sorry, I'm sorry I hit you, I didn't mean to.”

I sighed, hurt by that attitude, by the reality I was unable to see when I looked at her in the church, by knowing that those eyes would never look at me any other way, that they would only see… A monster.

“Please, my, my father is sick, I have, I have to take care of him, please, don't hurt me,” the young woman begged, lowering her head even more. That situation began to overwhelm me. I didn't know why I did what I did. Maybe I should never have done it.

“Taci,” I whispered with my voice, speaking for myself, controlling Angie's movements. She was impatiently waiting for her turn to scare the girl.

“I beg you, have mercy, have…” she murmured trembling with fear, trembling in fear for me.

Not wanting to see that look, to notice those tremors in her body, I just threw her the bottle of pills, one that she picked up confused, blinking repeatedly.

“What…?” she sighed shaking her head.

I had seen enough, I had received the fear of those beautiful eyes, of that beautiful face. I didn't want to stay there, I couldn't do it, I couldn't remember that I will never stop being a Lord, that she would never… Never notice me.

I turned around with a sigh, walking away from her, ignoring her.

“Wait! Wait a minute! Why?” she said nervously, while her voice became more and more camouflaged. “Wait! Wait, please!”

I didn't hear her, I kept walking. I had seen enough, I had to go home.

The days were a terrible, but comfortable routine. After that encounter I couldn't think of anything else. I acted automatically, helping that beautiful young woman, the one who didn't know I already knew, the one who didn't know had been the only image in my mind for a long time.

While I was making my dolls, I thought about her, her scared face, her bright eyes, her pleas... The porcelain I was working with stopped being soft, it stopped relaxing me, I was nervous, and I didn't know why.

“Donna, Donna,” Angie said, distracting me from my tasks, from my thoughts. “What are you doing, silly Donna?”

“Look,” I said with a smile, showing her my new creation, one with those new fabrics I bought from that horrible man, that man who made (Y/N) cry. “Do you like it?”

“Ohh...” the doll sighed, taking the object carefully, nodding effusively. “It's cool.”

“Cool?” I asked, amused, shaking my head and picking up the doll from her hands, arranging its new hair. “I guess so.”

“It looks like the idiot from the other day,” Angie commented, making my hands shake. Same hair, same eye color, same dress. I frowned, sighing, leaving that new doll carefully on the table.

“Maybe it does,” I commented, feigning disinterest.

“She’s a pretty girl, don’t you think, Donna?” Angie hummed, climbing onto my lap and nudging me. I shook my head, unable to stop my cheeks from blushing.

“Yes, she is,” I whispered, in a sad, bitter tone, acknowledging for the first time that maybe, just maybe, I was starting to have feelings for her. It was crazy, it was impossible but… Well, I was crazy.

“You like her,” she mocked in a shrill tone.

“What if I like her?” I asked ironically, with a serious look, taking out my frustration on my only friend. “It doesn't matter.”

“She might like you…” Angie whispered amused. It could be a joke, an attempt by the doll to cheer me up, but I didn't see it that way. Angry, I hit the table with my closed fist, breathing with difficulty.

“Don't… Say… Nonsense,” I hissed, glaring at the doll, who immediately got off my body. “It's impossible.”

Admitting reality was important, stopping dreaming, stopping thinking about her could be a good solution. She would never notice me, she would only be afraid of me. She would only run away because of my appearance, she would never get close. For her I would always be a monster, there was no solution, there was no other way.

If I didn't forget her, I would be in trouble. My obsession would grow to madness, until... Until maybe my disturbed mind decided to hurt her for hating me. I didn't want to get to that point. I fought with all my might to forget those bright eyes.

I couldn't do it.

The following week came without me realizing it. I was so lost in her gaze that time passed like a sigh. Everything reminded me of her, my hands could only paint her face on my dolls. I could only give them the color of her eyes. I was losing my mind. I was losing it for her. Every night I counted the hours left to see her again, to watch her from afar again.

It would be the closest I could be to her, and I knew it, I always knew it.

There she was, in the third row. Her eyes no longer betrayed sadness, that tender smile had returned to her face. But something else happened, something that caught me off guard. Her head turned, her eyes rested on mine, she was looking at me.

Her smile crossed me. It grew bigger when it made contact with my dark figure.

I, shy, embarrassed, looked away, I couldn't keep it, I couldn't stand that light, that smile, those eyes that stared into mine, that seemed to even pierce my black veil.

“Anything interesting over there?” a velvety voice pulled me out of that timid exchange of glances. Alcina, as always, seemed more attentive to my movements than to Miranda's speech. Well, I couldn't blame her for that.

“No,” I answered, as usual.

“No? Well, I think there was a little bird that kept an eye on you, dear...” Lady Dimitrescu whispered, laughing softly, looking at the same place, where your gaze lowered, surely intimidated by my sister's dangerous eyes.

“It's the fool that Donna likes,” Angie said, climbing the lady up to her ear. I got very nervous, but I didn't want to draw attention. Miranda's grey eyes had already fixed on our movements.

“Really?” Alcina said, laughing softly, arching her eyebrows. “How interesting...”

“Angie, basta,” I reprimanded the puppet, taking her down from my sister.

“Is everything okay?” Miranda asked, with an annoyed tone.

I nodded nervously, controlling the doll's protests. Miranda sighed, spreading her wings to end the speech, mobilizing the villagers, making (Y/N)'s gaze get lost among the people.

Not wanting to find her, wanting to wait for everyone to leave, I stayed seated. Unfortunately, Alcina stayed with me.

“You should come to the castle for tea, Donna, I think we have a lot of things to talk about,” the lady in white said, finally standing up, when it seemed that all the people had left.

I shook my head, doing the same, ignoring her proposal.

“There is nothing to talk about,” the doll whispered, speaking for me. I was too nervous to do so, nothing strange.

“Oh… I think… There is…” Alcina sighed, placing a hand on my shoulder, pointing to a figure that remained standing near the pile of offerings to the Gods, (Y/N). “I think someone is waiting for you.”

I froze, watching as those beautiful eyes looked back at mine, as her shy gaze rested on me, only on me.

“I have things to do,” I whispered indifferently, trying to turn my body to face the door, something that I couldn’t do. Alcina's huge hands settled on my shoulders, pushing me closer to her, too close.

“See you, dear,” my sister whispered, amused, bending down to cross the door, to leave me alone with her.

When the vampire walked away, (Y/N)’s body turned towards me, her hands playing clumsily with each other, her lips were pressed together, and her head remained looking at the floor. I stood still, wanting to get out of there, but at the same time wanting to stay, to enjoy her beauty a little longer, just a little longer.

“My, my lady,” (Y/N) said, with a clumsy whisper, with her nerves making her body tremble. “I, I would like to talk to you.”

“To us? What do you want, silly, silly?” Angie said, with an annoyed tone, scaring her.

“Well, I…” she stammered, playing nervously with her gaze. She didn't know who to look at, who to talk to, me or Angie. I couldn't blame her.

“Talk to her, silly, silly, she doesn't bite, but I do...” Angie said amused, chattering her teeth, making her back off. I, tired of the puppet's irreverent attitude, lowered her to the floor.

“Angie, leave us alone,” I ordered her in an almost imperceptible whisper. The doll looked at me and then at her shrugging her shoulders and moving away.

“My, my lady, I... I wanted...” the girl said, coming a little closer to me, not daring to look at me. I could still feel her fear, the subtle trembling of her body. “I wanted to thank you.”

Her voice was beautiful. It penetrated my ears like soothing music. I nodded slowly, clasping my hands in front of my body, feigning a stoic pose, the pose that was expected of me.

“My, my father is much better thanks to the medicine and… It, it wouldn't have been possible if… If you didn't…” she stammered, running one hand through her hair, searching with the other for something in her pocket. “I'm not going to ask your reasons but… Still, I still thank you, really.”

“It doesn't matter,” the words came out of my lips, I didn't have to make any effort, I had to seem stronger than her, braver even if I wasn't, even if her beauty intimidated me much more than the Black Gods.

“Yes, Well… I…” she said, with a nervous smile, unable to meet my gaze. “The, the Lords don't usually help poor villagers like us… It's… It's a gratifying surprise and…”

I relaxed my shoulders. No matter what she said, she still feared me. I could see it in her eyes.

“I'm sure you've heard terrible things about me,” I said without thinking, letting out a feeling of frustration for not being able to hear her speak clearly, for hearing her beautiful voice without fear on it, in her words.

“Well... I have,” she admitted, looking away again. “I, I guess they're wrong.”

The smile returned to her face, her gaze lit up again, as did mine. She couldn't see me, she couldn't see the blush on my cheeks. She couldn't see my errant eye not knowing where to look.

“I just felt sorry for you, that's all,” I said with a calm voice, but angry at the same time. I never knew how to act, how to deal with people, how to behave in front of her beautiful presence, in front of those bright eyes.

“Pity is something you can’t see usually in a place like this,” she murmured, shaking her head, saddening her expression and taking something out of her pocket. “I... I wanted, I wanted to give you this.”

(Y/N) extended her hand towards me, a hand in which there was a kind of bracelet made with small bones and decorated with black feathers. I picked it up, touching her soft skin, one I didn't know.

“I wish, I wish I had something else to give you, but, well, I, I made it myself,” she said nervously while I looked at that curious bracelet. I was so focused on her gift that I didn't even notice how close we were.

“Ohhh, a gift...” Angie murmured, appearing out of nowhere, startling the girl, who relaxed instantly nodding with a sincere smile.

“It's, it's for you... My, my father says it brings good luck and... Well, it's, it's what I wish for you, Lady Beneviento,” she said elegantly, lowering her head again while I played with that bracelet in my hands.

“Just a bracelet? Hey, silly, silly, we saved your father's life,” Angie joked, pointing at her with her finger.

“Angie...” I sighed annoyed, dedicating a fiery look to the doll, who was hidden behind my dress.

“No, She, she's right, my lady,” the girl said, putting a hand on my arm, drawing my attention with the heat of her skin through the fabric of my dress.

(Y/N), realizing her boldness, immediately withdrew it with an apologetic look.

“It's, it's nonsense, and, and it doesn't show the gratitude I feel,” the young woman, shaking her head.

“I don't need your gratitude,” I murmured in a somber, clumsy voice.

“I, I know but... Well, if you want me to do something for you... I, I’ll do anything you want,” (Y/N) offered, with open eyes, staring at me, waiting for an answer that wasn't a dark murmur.

“Ohh,” Angie sighed, coming out of her hiding place. I squeezed the bracelet tightly, nervous. “Anything?”

The girl nodded under the doll's soft laughter. I really wanted to deactivate her.

“Then you have to have tea with us, silly,” Angie said, walking cockily.

“Tea?”

“Angie, basta,” I protested, trying to reach the doll, who laughed amusedly as she ran away from my hands.

“It would be an honor to have tea with you, my lady,” (Y/N) said, making me stop, looking at her slowly, surprised by that answer.

“You…” I whispered distrustfully. “Do you want to come… Come to my house… To… Have tea?”

She nodded with a sincere smile, sighing.

“Yes, my lady, it is the least I can do, my lady,” she answered laughing amused, surely due to my sudden nervous attitude, far from my position as a Lord.

“Is this afternoon okay with you, silly?” Angie asked, standing in front of me.

“Of, of course,” she said, shaking the wooden hand that Angie extended to her.

“Cazzo, Angie, can't you keep quiet?” I said furiously, entering my house again, returning to the safety of my home, to its comforting darkness.

“Donna is swearing…” the doll sang while I got rid of the black veil, thus revealing my flushed face.

“Shut up, you're driving me crazy,” I protested, moving my leg against the floor.

“You should be grateful, silly,” Angie mocked, pointing at me with her finger. “I got you a date with your sweetheart.”

“A date? Don't talk nonsense...”

No, of course it wasn't a date, it was a duty, a deal that (Y/N) and my doll made. Having tea didn't mean anything. There was nothing that told me there was any chance that... Nevermind.

“Sit down,” I ordered the girl when, punctually, she appeared at the estate with a slow, shaky walk. No matter how much she denied it, she was still afraid of me.

The girl obeyed, looking around curiously. I couldn't blame her, but my sick mind saw that attitude as a threat.

“What are you looking at?” I asked, annoyed by her beautiful, indiscreet eyes. She shook her head with a shy smile, a slight blush on her cheek.

“Oh, nothing, I was just... curious,” she replied, settling down on the couch, suffering from my dark presence in front of her. “You have a very... beautiful house, my lady.”

“Sugar?” I offered, ignoring that complacent comment. She nodded, sighing in relief at not having to continue with those false words about the darkness surrounding me.

“Yes, please,” she said, bringing her cup closer to me, letting her skin brush against mine again. It was a too good feeling for me, one I hadn't felt in a long time.

Time passed slowly, in silence. Neither of us was willing to talk. I could feel her discomfort, I could feel it from afar. I could sense the trembling of her hands.

“You're nervous,” I said, moving my veil aside so I could drink some tea, a gesture at which she looked away as a sign of respect. Of course, she didn't want to see me. She couldn't see that I was... A monster.

“I'd be lying if I said I’m not, my lady,” the girl said in a soft voice, playing with her hands on the fabric of the sofa.

“You're afraid of me,” I said again, in a darker tone.

I had to know, I had to hear her voice telling me how much she feared me, I wanted her own words to end this obsession I felt for her.

“I don't know anyone who isn't afraid of a Lord, my lady,” she said in a soft voice, looking away as she sighed.

“But you came to have tea with me,” I said, looking for a way to stop being me, to stop scaring her. There was no way to do it, I was a monster, and she knew it.

“Well, I promised to do it,” (Y/N) said, leaving the cup on the table.

“You could have not come,” I said, crossing my arms, waiting for the moment for her to run away, to flee from me, to make sure she could never feel anything for me.

“I never break my word, my lady,” she whispered, raising her gaze to me, catching me in her eyes again.

“I see,” I sighed, removing that beautiful glow from my face. “(Y/N), right?”

She nodded shyly.

“I'm surprised you remember my name, my lady,” she said amused, more relaxed, smiling again.

“Why are you surprised?” I asked curiously. “It's a beautiful name.”

“Thank you, my lady,” she said shyly, blushing at my clumsy compliment. “Well, I normally doubt that the Lords would care about the lives of some poor villagers.”

I laughed, shaking my head. I wished I wasn't a Lord, I wished she would stop shaking every time she spoke to me.

“But, but, well... I didn't expect one of them to save my father's life either, so...” she murmured, frowning, being very careful with her words.

“Stop it. I've already told you that it's not important,” I protested, nervous, trembling, almost panicking. She had been near me for too long, letting me contemplate her beauty for too long.

“For me, it is,” she said, with a serious tone, with a serene look, stopping shaking. “Seeing some light among so much darkness is... comforting.”

“Light?” I asked with an ironic tone, with an accent that was too marked, revealing my nerves. “Don't talk nonsense. There is no light in this place.”

“I can see light in you,” she murmured, leaving me speechless, giving silence a new opportunity to fall upon us.

It was a different afternoon, too silent, too strange. Silence reigned, only interrupted by your soft words, by your smiles that tried hard to get me to return them. They succeeded, I smiled, too many times, more than I thought I would do in my entire life.

She would never know. She would never be able to see my smile, my tender, studious gaze, my eye that tried hard to retain in my head all the details of her skin. She was perfect. She was sweet, kind, with a big heart. My obsession worsened, now I saw her in dreams, on my dolls. Without living without her, she was with me, always in my mind, in my thoughts.

But those feelings that I refused to have were finally released when she decided, on her own, to come to my house from time to time, to have tea with me without me asking her. It was a miracle, a stroke of luck, something that shouldn't happen. She couldn't want to see me, she shouldn't want to. She was an angel and I was a monster.

As time went by, laughter and kind words replaced the tension, the nerves her presence caused me, the fear that mine caused her. Her comments about her life became more and more frequent. A relaxed pose began to form on her body. She was no longer afraid, she no longer feared me.

(Y/N) said that I was light, that I was different from the rest. I would have liked to believe her words.

“I had a great time, my… Lady,” she said timidly as we walked to the door. Two months of visits and she still called me that… I hated it.

“Donna,” I said, wanting to get that nickname off her lips, not wanting her to keep calling me that. I really hated it.

“Donna,” she repeated, with a shy smile, nodding. “I hope you like the vegetables, Donna,” she said, pointing at the box of vegetables she started to bring me, some that, according to her, were possible thanks to me.

“I'm sure they're delicious,” I commented with a different tone, calmer, pleased by her presence, sad because she was leaving. I didn't want her to leave, that was my biggest torture.

“Do you want to stay a little longer, silly?” Angie asked, peeking out of my dress. I should thank my doll. Angie did everything possible to make her stay with me a little longer, even if it was just a few minutes. “We can play cards.”

“Oh, I'm, I'm sorry but... It's, it's late, I have to go,” (Y/N) said, bending down to be at the doll's level. “We'll play tomorrow.”

I sighed, watching her walk away again, how she disappeared into the fog, how she abandoned me. The promise she would return the next day was no longer enough for me. Her ephemeral presence, her shy smile, her gaze, soon became an addiction that I could no longer bear.

I could do something, I needed to do something, but I couldn't. Every night, like that one, I looked at myself in the mirror, contemplating my deformed face. What would be the point of spending more time with her? Sooner or later she would discover what I am like, my horrible appearance, the face of... Of a monster.

I knew I was deluding myself, I had to stop dreaming of her, of her saying those words I so needed to hear. It wasn't possible, it would never be possible.

“Cazzo!” I screamed furiously, hitting my reflection, breaking the cruel mirror into a thousand pieces, furious, losing control again, the control of not being able to... Love her.

“Porca miseria! Ti odio!” I shouted, taking out my frustration on the vanity table, letting the crystals fall to the floor, sparkling, camouflaging themselves with my tears.

I hated myself, I couldn't stand myself. I couldn't stand seeing my ruined face, one you could never fall in love with.

“Donna, Donna!”

Angie, as always, came to my aid.

“Sono... Sono un mostro...” I sobbed, burying my face in my hands, crying inconsolably.

Angie's footsteps broke the glass, climbing my body, hugging me as always when I lost control. I wouldn't have done it without her. I would have probably given up.

“Come on, Donna, don't cry... You're not a monster,” the doll said, patting my back.

“(Y/N) will never feel the same way about me, not with this look...” I sobbed, confessing my own feelings, my love for her, an inevitable, intense love.

“Enough of complaining, silly Donna,” Angie said, sick of my increasingly frequent attacks, attacks that I had when (Y/N) left, always when she left. “Are you stupid?”

“What?” I asked furiously, raising my head. “Angie, I'm not in the mood for nonsense.”

“You're the nonsense, Donna,” she scolded me. “You've been crazy about that girl for months and you haven't done anything, anything!”

“What do you want me to do?” I asked nervously, surprised by the puppet's very different attitude.

“Well, I don't know, something, for example. You can't complain about something you haven't even tried, even I, who am just a doll, know that,” she said, with a cocky pose.

“But, but, Angie…” I stammered, confused, knowing that she was right, that I was a coward. I always was.

“No buts, silly Donna, you have to tell (Y/N) that you love her,” she said, leaving me glued to the chair, stepping on the glass that I broke, seeing my horrible reflection in it.

“No, I can't,” I said, looking away from the glass.

“Fine, then don't complain,” Angie joked, making an unpleasant gesture with her hand.

“What the hell do you want me to do?” I asked, angry, clenching my fists tightly. “Do you expect her to fall in love with me just like that?”

“Tell her, silly Donna, use your charms,” the doll indicated, leaving me pensive, laughing nervously.

“I don't have any of that,” I sighed, passing a hand over my forehead.

“Mm... Maybe you need a little help...” Angie murmured. “Come, Donna, I have an idea, come, come.”

“What, what do you want?” I asked, following the doll's jumps, jumps that took me to the basement phone.

“Alcina, call her,” the doll said, extending the phone towards me. I shook my head.

“Alcina? No, no way,” I said, crossing my arms.

“She knows how to deal with women, not like you. If you stop being so proud and ask her for advice, maybe you'll stop smashing mirrors at night,” the doll said, dialing a number, leaving me alone with the phone.

“Hey, wait,” I said nervously, when the signal started to ring.

“Hello, hello, this is Dimitrescu Castle...” a mocking voice said, to which I rolled my eye. “If you want to order wine, dial one; if you want to be one of our maids, dial two; if you want us to rip out your guts and feed the crows with them for disturbing us at this time of night, please wait...”

“Daniela...” I sighed, recognizing my niece's voice. She was always that sinister. “It's, it's me...”

“Who are you? Apart from a new meal for mother...” the vampire asked. I gritted my teeth and sighed, thinking about whether to hang up or let her talk. Maybe asking my sister for advice wasn't such a bad idea.

“D-Donna,” I stammered without being able to help it. My body was shaking, and so was my voice.

“Oh, Aunt Donna! How nice to hear your voice!” the young Dimitrescu shrieked, making me have to move the phone away from my ear. “How are you?”

“F-Fine,” I stammered again, clearing my throat. “Is, is your mother there?”

“Of course… MOTHER!” she shrieked again.

I sighed, waiting impatiently, not knowing what I was going to say to her, what exactly I wanted.

“Daniela, don't be scandalous…” I heard on the other end of the phone. My nerves were getting worse. “It's Aunt Donna, mother.”

“Oh, Donna, what a late… Surprise…” my sister joked, with a seductive tone, as always. I didn't want to think about what she was doing.

“A, Alcina…” I murmured, scratching the back of my neck, looking for Angie with my eye. She wasn't there, that cowardly doll had left me alone. “I have, I have to talk to you.”

“Mm, at this time of the night? What’s wrong, dear? Have you had a crisis?” the lady in white asked. I nodded.

“Too many,”  I answered briefly.

“I see… Do you want me to send you a maid?” she asked kindly, relaxing the seduction of her usual voice.

“No, no,” I shook my head abruptly, nervously holding the telephone cord. “I want, I want to talk to you… It's… It's something personal.”

“Mm, wow, you've caught my attention,” she said amused, laughing softly. “Tell me, dear.”

“I… I don't really know where to start,” I said, controlling my breathing, which prevented me from speaking clearly.

“It's that girl, right? The girl from the church…” she said, using that ability for people that I was incapable of having.

“Y-Yes,” I said. There was no need to lie.

“You haven't hurt her, have you?” Alcina murmured in a serious tone.

“No, of course I haven’t,” I said, annoyed by that accusation. “I… I… I'm… I'm… in love with her, Alcina,” I confessed, closing my eye, letting out my feelings from my heart, some that I couldn't, that I didn't know how to express.

“How sweet of you, Donna,” my sister joked, laughing, as if she was making fun of me. “What's the problem? According to what I've heard, she spends almost every day at your house.”

“Y-Yes, but… but… I, I don't know if she…” I murmured, fighting my words, which refused to sound as they should. “I, I don't know how…”

“Mm, you don't know if she feels the same,” Alcina finished for me. I nodded again, with my eye wet with tears.

“No, I… I want to, I want to tell her but, I can't,” I sighed, passing a hand over my forehead.

“You're blind, Donna. Let's see, why would a villager like her go to your house every day?” she asked with irony. “That girl is crazy about you, I tell you, I know those looks.”

“I don't think so,” I murmured with a sad voice. “No one, no one could feel anything for me…”

“Oh, Donna, not again,” the lady in white sighed. “Your only problem is that you are such a coward.”

“I told you…” an unexpected Angie whispered in my ear, startling me.

“Angie, I'm talking,” I protested with my hand on the device. “Yes, I am a coward… But, but if she felt something for me, she would have done something about it.”

“You are so naive, my dear…” Alcina mocked, dragging out her words. “Wake up, you are a Lord, she is a villager, do you know what that means?”

“No,” I said in a stern tone, tired of everyone laughing at me.

“It means that she would never believe that someone as powerful as you could notice someone like her, do you understand?”

“No…” I sighed tired, wanting to hang up and break down in tears again.

“Donna, for Gods' sake, react,” Alcina said, with an impatient tone, making me jump. “If you don't do anything, she won't either. Stop being that... stupid.”

“I didn't call you to insult me,” ​​I said with a dark voice, hitting the table with my fingers. “I, I called you to help me. I, l, love her very much and I don't, I don't know what to do.”

“Mm, I guess being direct isn't your thing, huh?” Alcina whispered, with a different voice, but without losing that mocking touch. “Then you'll have to do something... Make her fall in love with you.”

“That's easy for someone like you but... I, I don't... Cazzo, Alcina, it's the first time I feel that way for someone... I'm completely lost,” I said almost desperately.

“I understand,” she said, with a cold tone. “Well, then start with something simple, why don't you invite her to dinner?”

“Dinner?” I asked confused.

“Mm,” the lady murmured. “They say you cook wonderfully, it could be a good point. You know, a delicious meal, some candles, maybe romantic music… If she doesn't notice with that… She's even more stupid than you.”

“It's not funny,” I growled at that mocking tone, but thinking about that idea, one that didn't seem so bad.

“It's not a joke, dear… Listen to your older sister, mm? Invite that village girl to dinner with you, and the rest… Well, I'm sure it will come by itself.”

I thought about that advice, that proposal, a lot. Alcina had hundreds of women at her disposal, but I wasn't Alcina, I was… A monster.

But nothing she said seemed to want to hurt me. I knew she cared about me, she really did. Try or lose (Y/N) forever, what a dilemma.

But luck seemed to be on my side. It was a simple, nervous request, but one that (Y/N) accepted without thinking.

In less time than I would have liked, she was with me, dining by candlelight, enjoying my food, my company, almost as much as I did hers.

“Do you, do you like it?” I asked fearfully, starting a conversation that had not existed until that moment. (Y/N) looked at me and nodded with a smile, taking a sip of her glass of wine.

“It's delicious, Donna,” she said in a soft voice, her features adored by the candlelight, her cheeks flushed by the wine, or by embarrassment.

I laughed shyly, playing with my food, not knowing what to do, or say, as always, that was never going to change.

“I, I used your vegetables,” I said awkwardly, catching her attention again. “They are of excellent quality.”

“Mm, thanks,” she said amused, winking at me. “You know what? You never cease to surprise me,” the girl commented, sighing.

“Why do you say so?” I asked curiously, looking cautiously at the phone off the table.

I didn't particularly like Alcina listening to everything, but at least she was kind enough to offer to lend me a hand, to help me if things weren't going well.

“Well... You save my father's life, you're kind... You cook... Wonderfully... Who are you?” she asked amused, playing with her fork.

“I, I guess I’m Donna,” I said nervously.

“Ahem, ahem,” a distorted clearing of throat sounded in the living room, making me blush. It was Alcina, there was no doubt.

“What was that?” (Y/N) asked, looking at the source of the sound.

“Oh, it was nothing, it was probably Angie,” I said nervously, diverting her attention.

“She can't help it, huh?” the girl joked, with a tender smile. I laughed nervously, shaking my head.

“It's true,” I commented, drinking some wine, accustomed to her looking away when I moved my veil.

Stars shinin' bright above you

Night breezes seem to whisper, "I love you"

Birds singin' in the sycamore tree

Dream a little dream of me

The music interrupted our conversation, a slow, romantic music that I hadn't put on. My doll got off the record player, making me groan nervously.

“Angie, fermate la musica!” I yelled at the doll, who ran away.

“No, no, wait… I like this song,” (Y/N) said, stopping my attempt to go to the player with a soft hand on my wrist. “You don't?”

“I… Um, yes, I do…” I sighed having her so close to me, hearing the soft humming that accompanied the song.

“Do you want to dance, Donna?” she asked, getting even closer, taking my hands by surprise, causing an inevitable tremble in mine. Automatically, without wanting to, I shook my head.

“N-No… I… I don't know how to dance,” I said shyly, letting myself be carried away by the swing of her hand in mine.

“Dance, damn it!” a furious squeal came from the phone, increasing my blush.

“What?” (Y/N) asked, with a confused smile, returning her gaze to mine after a few seconds. “Calm down, I'll show you, come…”

“Okay, okay,” I said nervously, letting (Y/N) drag me to the middle of the room, moving my hand to her perfect waist while she placed hers on my shoulder, starting to move slowly, very slowly.

A slow, clumsy, but intense, comforting dance. Her hand on my waist, our fingers intertwined, was the closest I would ever be to paradise.

“Dream a Little dream of me…” she murmured, when the song ended, with her body still pressed against mine, lowering her hand to gently grab my waist, opening her eyes, looking at me strangely. “You haven't been bad at all, Donna…”

“… I… Thank you…” I stammered, letting myself be carried away by my instincts, also grabbing her waist while her expression changed, raising her hands to my covered face. I acted reflexively by putting my hands on her wrists.

“Stop, (Y/N),” I whispered, trembling, trembling with fear. She couldn't see me, or I would lose her.

“I would like you to take off your veil, Donna, so I can kiss you,” (Y/N) whispered, with a sincere look, leaving me glued to the floor, with my hands shaking on her wrists.

“Kiss me?” I asked distrustfully, letting her hands remove the black fabric from my face under her watchful gaze. “You, you don't…”

“Oh… You're beautiful,” she said, caressing my cheek, my trembling body. I should have gotten angry, I should have screamed, I didn't. “Let me kiss you, please…”

“Please…” I said, approaching her, closing my eye, brushing her lips with mine, melting into the pleasure of my first kiss, of our first kiss.

“I wasn't wrong about you,” she said amused, moving away from that kiss, from that first kiss that left me almost sobbing. “I wasn't wrong to fall in love with you.”

“Ugh, finally!” Alcina shouted as we kissed again, with more enthusiasm, laughing at those voices. I wonder if (Y/N) suspected who was on the other end of the phone.

[marymary-diva17]

Hello. Maybe you could write a bridgertoon story where the y/n is forced to marry an abusive partner? And, after his death, y/n turned into a really famous person as the only heir to his husband fortune? Maybe they couldn't have children because of the husband infertility?

Marriage in Ton society and regency era could either be a warm or cold. A society built on that marriage is everything and anyone should be, lucky enough to get marred to any suitors that came calling. When for one young women she had gotten a cold marriage, and a cold life away from her family and everyone else she held close.

y/n " ......." you are sitting in drawing room of your husband house in the countryside. The peace and quiet was something that made you happy, but you still miss your family and friends back in London.

Butler " my lady my lordship Alexander said he shall not be home for dinner once again" your husband Alexander was not the best of husbands, among the ton and that was very easy for everyone in the house to see.

y/n " thank you for telling me"

Maid " what shall we do about the dinner plans"

y/n " well we still have the dinner we can't let the chef hard planing go to waste, that will be rude and something I rather not have happen"

Maid " yes my lady" the maid and butler had exchange looks with each other, that had gained your attention as you soon cleared your throat.

y/n " why don't you both have a sit as it seems like you two have something, to speak and I will love to hear it"

butler " yes my lady" the butler and maid soon sat down on the couch facing you.

Maid " my lady all the staff has noticed and been talking about the lord and his family .... how could you stay with someone who so cold towards you, they have been blaming you for not having a child yet and everything else"

bulter " you are kindhearted my lady and we having you here with us"

y/n " thank you all for being worried about me and caring for me as well, I stay with him because his family is in business with mine I need to do what best for my family .... as I love them dearly and rather not have my broken marriage effect them"

maid " so what will you do my lady spend the rest of your life with the lord and his family"

y/n " yes for the sake of my family, the staff, and the towns near by as it seems like my husband and in laws have failed on their duties here"

butler " you are great at both my lady everyone has bene benefiting since you came here, and started helping around"

y/n " that brings a smile to my face"

Maid " you know you could write to lady whistle down and have her teach him something, and we know so much about him to his life here and his affairs"

y/n " I will love to but we shall stay away from that"

Butler " maybe in time a miracle might come" soon the door bell had rang getting everyone attention.

butler " I shall get the door my lady" the butler soon got up as he had went to go answer the door, as the maid had soon stood up from her seat.

butler " my lady you have some guests that have come to pay a visit"

y/n " who are our guests"

butler " your family" you eyes had soon widen as you got up to see you whole family walked into the drawing room.

Violet " dearest" Voilet soon hugged you as you looked at her and your siblings, happy to see them as well missed them all dearly.

y/n " mother siblings welcome I didn't know you all will be coming"

Anthony " well our dear mother had become worried and missed you, so we all came to see you my dear sister"

Colin " don't like you missed her as well brother"

Daphne " we hope we are not interrupting anything sister"

y/n " oh no it good to see you all here"

Maid " I will get some more sweets and tea for our guests my lady"

y/n " thank you "

bulter " I will inform the staff our our guest and the chef as well, if we have guest over for dinner"

Benedict " we will love to if our sister shall have us"

y/n " yes you all can stay for dinner"

Bulter " then I will make sure everything is ready and send word to my lordship" the butler and maid soon left leave you with your family, as everyone took a sit.

Eloise " dear sister I love the books you have here"

y/n " well I'm happy you do they are all ones from home and ones I brought as well"

Francesca " such a beautiful garden as well sister"

y/n " thank you all I and my staff have done so much work on this home"

Gregory " where is Alexander I thought he will be here as well"

Hyacinth " don't ask for anything like that Gregory that is highly rude"

y/n " it okay there have been some other matters that kept him away"

Anthony " I was hoping to have some words with him but, that can wait for later on dear sister"

Voilet " yes let enjoy our time here with your sister ... so how has married life been my dear"

y/n " it been okay there is much things to get use to mother, but it has been okay here mother"

Daphne " sister you most come attend lady Danbury ball with us, along with your husband it shall be fun"

y/n " I will ask my husband if he wishes to attend he not that much into balls"

Colin " you can still some with us sister it will be fun and maybe you can, help save us from mama trying to find us wives or husband"

y/n " dear brother I don't think I can help with that"

Voilet " well a mother most always look out for her children,even when they are married"

Maid " I have brought over some tea and sweets my lady"

y/n " thank you"

Maid " word has been sent to your husband about out guests"

y/n " good thank you we will call if we need any help" the maid had nodded her head before she walked off, leaving the family together.

y/n " well let enjoy some sweets and tea"

Gregory " my favorite sister you remember"

y/n " I always remember little brother now enjoy" as you younger siblings began to enjoy their sweets and making conversation, you are happy to have you family here but you worry about what they will see and hear.

Later that evening

y/n " It has been good to have you all here today as I have longed for home and family as well"

Colin " well maybe you can stay in London for sometime as you are no longer be away from us, and you can still attend all the social events as well"

Benedict " maybe even help antony finally found a wife where mother has failed"

Anthony " our brothers could use marriage as well sister don't forget them"

Voilet " boy nor fighting in your sister home"

Anthony/Colin/ Benedict " yes mother" there was soon a loud bang on the front door, you knew it was your husband Alexander returning home.

Butler " welcome home my lord"

Alexander " yes I'm finally home"

Alexander " y/n where are you my wife we need to talk" you soon looked at your siblings as they look at you as well. You had soon slowly got up and went to go meet you husband.

y/n " yes Alexander I'm here"

Alexander " good you can hear me and you are here"

y/n " Alexander my family is here we need to clam down"

Alexander " hello bridgertons welcome I didn't know you all will be here"

Colin " my sister had sent word to you Alexander"

Alexander " oh yes that letter I didn't have time to read your sister notes, I have more important matters to deal with then her"

Benedict " well if you most know we came here to see our sister your wife, and to talk about business as well later on"

Daphne " sister are you okay you seem overwhelmed"

y/n " I'm good Daphne I and my husband will go speak in other room"

Alexander " yes my wife correct as we shouldn't fight in front of others" Alexander and you had soon left the room to go speak into other room.

Alexander " my wife why I have been told you were paying off some bills"

y/n " well they were left overdue and I wanted to make sure all the workers got paid, for all they had done Alexander as they haven't gotten paid by you or your family it unfair"

Alexander " you are my wife you have no reason and power to go behind my back and my family as well, remember you standing in the family" Alexander was yelling at you loudly getting everyone out of their seats, as your brother and mother made their way towards you.

Alexander " when I was told I was to marry you I will get a wonderful wife who will give me children, and be good for my family but you have failed at the job time to time again ... I would of been better off I married your sister daphne or one other better ladies of the ton then you"

Alexander " now you are going around acting like you are better then me, when are you just nothing you will never be as beautiful as your sister and never worthy enough as your brothers.... I'm happy I have another women as a wife as I rather be with her then the like of you, even my family and her have asked me to divorce you and marry her ... then everything for you will be over all because of me ...." soon Alexander had gotten punch in the jaw by Colin who was standing over him.

Colin " don't you dare speak of my sister like that you fool"

y/n " Colin"

Alexander " you foolish boy" Alexander had gotten up and hit Colin back, but that when someone else had hit Alexander hard enough making him fall down.

Benedict " sister are you okay"

y/n " yes Colin" you soon went to attend to your younger brother who looked hurt.

y/n " are you okay Colin"

Colin " I'm fine sister I came to see who you were doing when I heard him yelling at you"

Anthony " Alexander" you and your brothers had looked up to see your mother, Anthony, and sisters standing there as they looked on.

Voilet "my children what has happened to you three"

Benedict " this foolish man had hit your son for defending his sister, from her horrible husband"

Colin " he was speaking poorly about her and said he was cheating on her, and wish to divorce she to be with their other women .... him and his lover family support this scandalous relationship and wish to ruin our sister"

Anthony " Alexander"

Alexander " she is failure and has failed to give me child, good mother where have you gone wrong with her" Violet glared at the man and soon walked up to him, and then she had slapped him hard in the face leaving a mark.

Daphne & Eloise " mother"

Violet " dearest you are coming with us and staying with us until, we can help you end your marriage with this awful man for good"

y/n " yes mother"

elosie " come on sister lets go we are here for you"

Daphne " I hope lady whistle down find out about this and bring ruin to your family Alexander" you family had taken you to their home that night, as you stayed up and told your mother and Anthony everything.The rest of the family soon knew and had been there for comfort you, as everything made you feel good now being with them. Soon the ton had found out about your marriage ending, as you returned home.

Weeks later

Anthony " sister I'm sorry I couldn't help you I thought this marriage will be good for you ...."

y/n " brother yo have noting to say sorry about I should to spoke up but I was scared it will all effect you in a bad way"

Violet " now we are here as a family and will shall defend you from your ex husband and his family"

y/n " thank you all"

Violet " Alexander is a cruel person but you shall not let him win, as you will move on with your life in time and live your best life my daughter"

y/n " thank you mother"

Colin " sister mother brother"

violet " we are in here dear" soon the rest of your siblings had come into the room.

Daphne " sister you have been mentioned in the newest article of lady whistle down"

y/n " what"

Eloise " yes it seems like lady whistle down had been told of you marriage, and she had dug up the truth and wrote all about it" you had read the article word for word, and saw it spoke the truth as you looked at your family. Your mother had soon read the article and pass it towards Anthony who read it.

Benedict " well it looks like lady whistle down is a fan of your sister, and see how this has so much details on all your ex husband and his family, along with that women and her family it safe to say you will have some peace"

Anthony " I will remind the staff if any of them come to send them away, if they leave any letter we will look into them and toss away any stupid gifts"

y/n " thank you brother " you had been able to find peace and happinesses back at home, making a life of your own as well. The faith if your ex husband and his family, along with his lover and her family had been well know among the ton. They had to pay your well in the divorce settlement and had kicked out from their social circles, as well many engagements had been called off as well. It seems like the ones who were saying they were going to have a better, life didn't end up getting at in the end. A perfect husband will come for you the next year and you will find the happiness, you always wanted and dreamed off at the end.

[ionlydrinkhotwater]

I have some theories (take it with a grain of salt) about how the mafia stuff works in aftg

So let's start with the Main family vs branch family. Based on what Nora said the treatment of the branch/younger son is dependent on the head of the family and their own feelings towards them. According to Nora Kengo and Tetsujis father was a lot more kind towards his younger son and not only allowed Kengo and Tetsuji to become close but let Tetsuji pursue his own interests (like co-inventing Exy) and giving him the means to make his own stadium and stuff. Nora also mentioned that Tetsuji had talked about lil Kevin and Kengo got rid of Kayleigh Day in order to give Kevin to Tetsuji as a present, Nora said that Tetsuji didn't talk to his brother for ages out of anger on behalf of Kayleigh. Which is interesting cause it shows Tetsujis power in his relationship with his brother where he is still subservient but allowed to give some attitude. Very different from Riko and Ichirou.

According to Nora Kengo unlike his own father was much more strict about drawing the line between the branch family and the main family. He and Ichirou never even acknowledged or visited Riko and Tetsuji did not afford Riko the same freedoms he himself enjoyed.

Another thing that always seemed odd to me was that the marriage between Mary and Nathan was arranged because as per Kevin's explanation in TRK:

"Your father was Lord Kengo's right-hand man, the most trusted weapon in Lord Kengo's arsenal. The territory he held, he held for the Moriyamas. He was the force that kept the empire in line and the name that would take the fall if the government ever caught on. "His power made you a loose end. You could never inherit his syndicate," Kevin said. "Lord Kengo handpicks his people very carefully to bolster his throne. Nepotism fractures that upward loyalty and leads families to think of their own successes first. He could have had you killed to keep things simple, but he gave you a chance to earn your keep."

What would be the point in an arranged marriage or producing children if they can't inherit? Like yes the alliance came with trading some access to territories but that could have been negotiated between the two families why the marriage and offspring?

Well I have some theories, first we don't know how old this rule of Kengos is, his father may have been fine with (perhaps even encouraged) his associates to marry and produce offspring to inherit their parents roles. Kevin says that this is Kengos choice to hand pick his people, not that this is standard Moriyama practice. It could be that when the Hartford/Wesininski alliance was made it was under Kengos fathers rule OR it was before Kengo decided against nepotism. It would also explain why these criminal families had children despite them becoming redundant once Kengo got rid of the old inheritance system. Neil clearly remembers being taught some of the ropes by Lola and Nathan when he was small so at that point it may have been understood that he would inherit.

I also have a pet theory that this is why Mary didn't leave with Neil until she did. Neil gives us strong hints that his mother was a coldly competent criminal:

"On the run his mother had always stayed in control, weaving the perfect stories and choosing ideal marks to help them."

And

"He thought about his mother standing unflinching in the face of his father's violent anger and her ruthlessly leaving bodies in their wake."

Almost all of Neil's criminal skills are from Mary (he says in TFC that his lockpick set is hers).

Based on what Nora says Mary was married off to Nathan by her family and based on her age when she died (38 according to Nora)she would have been at least 20 if not younger when she married him.

I can't imagine a woman like her being happy playing obedient wife to Nathan. And although this is just speculation I suspect she may have resented being used for an alliance rather than be a potential player in the family criminal empire with the skills and intelligence and ruthlessness she had (Neil says his mother taught him all the ways to shoot someone without killing them or how he watched her interrogate a man who tried to rat them out to Nathan). My theory is that she was biding her time until Neil could take over as the Butcher, maybe wait until he's a little older, arrange for Nathan to have an accident and she would be the real boss behind her son. But Kengos new policy of hand picking his people destroyed that ambition. The final nail in the coffin was Neil's sale to the Moriyamas as an Exy serf, completely eliminating any chance he'd have of taking over from Nathan. It also acts as a way of forcing her good behavior since they could use Neils safety to keep her behaved and the Hatfords in line as well. Win win for the Moriyamas and Nathan. Hence her decision to leave that day.

Additionally her arranged marriage to Nathan may be why she never went back to her family for help as there may have been some resentment on her part and indifference on theirs, keep in mind Neil says Stuart is the one who gave Mary his contact information and a list of contacts, he is not the only Hatford alive but he's the only one who actually offered help, it may be the rest of the family didn't care but this is me speculating based on what Neil said

"His mother married into an American crime family, but she'd been raised in a British one. Her brother, Stuart Hatford, gave her the list when she ran away from her husband. She in turn gave it to Neil when she died"

But I digress

The question is why did Kengo draw such hard lines with the branch family and get rid of inherited titles? Well I think it's because he knew he was sick.

Kengo is not that old, despite Tetsuji walking around with a cane he's not that old either, remember Tetsuji would be about Kayleighs age so Tetsuji would be in his 40s and Kengo is just a bit older than that. He died quite young from a serious illness.

So if your Kengo you need to consider some things

First a sickly head of the family is susceptible to being overthrown and a healthy, athletic, successful younger brother (Tetsuji) is right there to replace him if anyone wanted to gather power around a rival. So keep your illness a secret and make sure the branch family knows their place. Keep them away from the business and make sure no one can see them as a viable option.

Second set up your heir for future success. The associates loyal to Kengo won't necessarily be loyal to Ichirou and the age of the kids who would eventually inherit his associates positions are much younger than he might be comfortable with (Neil and Jean are only 19) and he knows that Ichirou will have to inherit early cause he is dying. His associates may be loyal to him but they may balk at following a twenty something year old young man, they might prefer Tetsuji instead whose older. So if Kengo hand picks his people rather than let them inherit power from their parents he can vest all power in himself, prevent any of them from forming alliances against him or Ichirou and ensures that when he dies Ichirou would have an easier time.

I have a theory that Kengo got the idea of hand picking his people from his brother using skills in exy to earn spots on the team. And after throwing his son and Kevin to the Ravens he realised he had created a perfect place to send unwanted children of his associates.

And in the end Kengo was not that paranoid, it's clear when Stuart tells Neil

"They only let us come here unchallenged because we promised we would take him alive." Nathaniel finally found his voice. "The Moriyamas?" "No," Stuart said, so harsh Nathaniel leaned away from him. "Do not speak that name tonight. You cannot pull them into this. They were not expecting their Butcher to die"

They may not have wanted Nathan dead but that doesn't change that they were clearly working with the Hatfords (who obviously hate Nathan) to bring him in rather than asking him to report to them voluntarily. This suggests tension between Wesininski and Ichirou since that very morning Neil sees on TV that Kengo was in the hospital again. And it was the Stuart's loyalty to his family that made him disobey the Moriyamas, exactly what Kengo said would happen with nepotism causing "families to think of their own successes first."

And to be honest we can see how perhaps Kengos illness left some cracks in his operation, his Butcher was arrested, his spare heir was running wild behind his and Ichirous back:

"Riko had an alarming amount of pull and he was working with just scraps."

It is interesting that for whatever tension may have existed between Ichirou and Nathan, Ichirou seems to value the nepotism system a bit, after all he says this to Neil

"you are your father's son, and your father was someone to me. He is the reason I came down here myself when I could have sent anyone to speak to you."

But I also think he valued the Intel on Riko that Neil provided him.

The fact is we don't know everything that went on between these criminal groups cause Jean and Neil were kept out of it.

Neil even says when Kevin is shocked at how little he knew

"My mother didn't tell me why we were running," Neil said. "I never asked her why she finally had enough. I was just glad to get away. We never talked about anything real after that. It was always about the weather or our current language or the local culture—the next time she had anything meaningful to say to me was when she was dying. Even then she didn't talk about my father. Not once did she mention the Moriyamas"

It's fun to speculate though and perhaps in TSC2 we may learn more.

[y-rhywbeth2]

'The demigods Bane, Bhaal, and Myrkul walk among mortals, personally seeking followers to their cause. More than once. it's rumored, the trio has even trod the streets of Baldur's Gate. [...] 'Some claim that Bhaal himself regularly visits the temple, his presence contributing to the city's high murder rate.' - Descent into Avernus

Which begs the question, are the gods in the city, or have the Chosen just been helping that rumour along by standing in for them? Or do they qualify as avatars at the moment? I mean if Durge walking around leads people to believe they're actually Bhaal that's not exactly wrong...?

How neurotic do the eight Bhaalspawn resident in the city get when/if dad comes to visit, I wonder?

Also they're demigods now? I'm fine with that to be clear... although aren't demigods now classified as quasideities? God I hate the way the ranking systems keep changing.

'Since the time when the Bhaalspawn Sarevok plotted to start a war between Baldur's Gate and Amn as a path to claiming Bhaal's power, awareness of the Lord of Murder's children has grown. Baldur's Gate maintains a grim draw for Bhaalspawn, whether due to some foul influence in the city itself, or merely because of Sarevok's lingering reputation.'

I thought they were all supposed to be dead?? Or has Bhaal been making more recently during his adventures? ...and if so, please tell me he's the only one of the Dead Three doing that. (BG3 saying he can't is meaningless. Then again, Descent into Avernus gets Bhaal's alignment wrong so it too will be taken with a grain of salt.)

[thebigpapilio]

Okay, Mario Fandom, hear me out.

@elitadream @akiiame-blog @palskippah I hope you don't mind me tagging you again!

I know we don't have anything modern and concrete about Peach's parents, but hear me out about this poly crackship I've developed:

Toadsworth x the King and Queen of the Mushroom Kingdom.

Imagine Toadsworth, a staunch ally of the Toadstool Royal Family since the matriarch and patriarch wandered into the Mushroom World (some people fan-call it Nin, if I recall correctly), falling in love with them.

(I like to think Toadsworth has the charisma to get with anyone, maybe even having a slew of past partners, but choosing King and Queen Toadstool in the end.)

Imagine the Queen getting pregnant. Imagine the day Peach was born. Imagine the day Toadsworth saw his youngest ward for the first time, and bursting into great tears that never quite washed out of his bowtie. Imagine Toadsworth watching his princess grow up.

Imagine the Koopa Kingdom declaring war on the Mushroom Kingdom. Imagine Toadsworth helping the King and Queen as best he can protect his home, their home, their kingdom, all the while biting down the feelings he never had for anyone else in his life. Star Spirits know they have more on their plate than I'd wish on anyone. They have a kingdom to run and another to fend off - professing my affections for them aren't going to do any of us any good.

Imagine the day Toadsworth's lord and lady were ambushed while on a walk with him, blasted with a deadly spell by Magikoopa. Imagine Toadsworth and his fellow stewards poring over every book of magic they have available, seeing if there's a counter-spell, a cure, anything to keep the pain away from their eyes.

Imagine the day Toadsworth lost them.

Imagine Peach becoming Toadsworth's raison d'être, because while the whole kingdom mourned, nobody grieved quite as much as him and the Princess. Imagine the night that Peach woke Toadsworth up screaming from a nightmare. Imagine Toadsworth fervently promising her he won't leave her for as long as he draws breath.

Imagine Toadsworth picking himself up every day for the sole purpose of making sure Peach wouldn't be alone or unprepared to lead the kingdom when the fateful day he couldn't hold out any longer came.

Imagine Mario and Luigi appearing in the Mushroom Kingdom. Imagine Toadsworth seeing everything he and his lord and his lady were and could have been in Mario and his princess, and deciding he deserves nothing less a Game Over in the deepest pit the Underwhere can find if he can't get those two together before he's gone.

Imagine the day Mario and Peach get their acts together. Imagine the day Mario asks Toadsworth's permission to marry Peach. Imagine the wedding, and Mario being nervous Peach will back out. Imagine Toadsworth telling him his side of the story about Peach's parents, and that neither he nor Peach nor Luigi would let Mario hear the end of any cold feet.

Imagine Toadsworth and Mario's mama and papa getting drunk on the best liquor they could find on Earth, crying about their children and how far they've come.

Imagine when Peach tells Toadsworth they're expecting, if you'd like to headcanon that they have kids. Imagine him freaking out for all the best and worst reasons for the next nine months, the fretting not stopping until his grandchild is asleep and swaddled up in their Mama and Papa's arms.

Imagine Toadsworth holding his grandchild (grandchild, yes; Peach and Mario made it clear Toadsworth was their nonno) for the first time, wishing with all his heart that the man and the woman who he loved and never had enough bravery nor got enough time to tell them are able to see him and Peach from the Overthere.

[ask-cinnavanillamelody]

(I was gonna draw this out, but I have a headache and it'd be tedious so please use your imaginations! I'll make the writing as descriptive as possible, -Mocha)

Sanori inhales and looks at his wife Xanaria, then says,

Sanori: "We need to go see them"

Xanaria didn't need to ask what he meant, and nodded slowly.

Xanaria: "Together..?"

Sanori: "Of course."

Xanaria: "Let's go then, before we change our minds..."

The two lovers head to Twilight's castle together. A sense of dread over them. As they enter, the two figures they came to meet seem to have been apprised of their arrival, as they wait in front of them.

Xanaria steps forward first, Sanori staying close next to her as she dissapates her disguise.

Thorax's eyes widen a little in surprise, as she opens her mouth to address him.

Xanaria: "Hello, Father"

Sanori similarly looks the Dragon Lord in the eye.

Sanori: "Grandfather, nice to see you"

Koro inhales and lets Thorax go first, collecting his thoughts on what to say.

Thorax: "Xanaria-! I-I'm so glad you're safe but- w-why have you run from your hive!? Left your fiance- he's found a new queen but- we can find you a new hive to rule-"

Xanaria: "No father."

Thorax: "what-"

Xanaria: "I'm already married. And I have three wonderful children. I never wanted to rule a hive like mother. And I still don't."

Thorax: "Xanaria it's your duty- you can't just not fufill your royal obligation-"

Xanaria: "I don't care! You will not force me to go back to being a glorified prisoner! I don't want to be a queen! End of story."

Thorax sighs, "Will...you at least come home..? Please...?"

Xanaria: "My home is here. Non negotiable. and if you want to meet your grandchildren you will let me stay here."

Thorax: "...Very well...my daughter...I, grant your request...I suppose I will see you later, I have to return to our hive now, i've been away too long. "

Xanaria: "Goodbye Father."

Thorax leaves solemnly, and starts his journey back to his hive.

Xanaria exhales, a weight off her chest, Sanori smiles at her, but it is short lived as he hears Koro say his name sternly.

Koro: "Sanori."

Sanori: "Yes- Grandfather...?"

Koro: "You are to return to the Dragon Lands. You've been around ponies too long, we'll get you back in line back home"

Sanori: "Come on- you expect me to just leave the family i've made here?"

Koro raises an eyebrow. "Is that a no, boy?"

Sanori: "y-yeah- yeah! It is a no! I ain't going back to those stuffy lands just to be berated by you and father for the next 300 years! I want to watch my kids grow up, spend time with my wife, and my husband, and my other wife. I refuse."

Koro sighs and chuckles. "We thought you might say that. Very well, you can stay."

Sanori: "R-Really?"

Koro: "But, your father and I picked some Companions for you to keep you out of trouble."

Sanori: "Eh."

Koro snaps his claws and two dragons walk up behind him, a red one, and a cream fluffy furred dragon.

Koro: "These two are Jimmy and Koinu. Jimmy will make sure no one messes with you or your family, and Koinu's gonna help with your impulsiveness and anger issues. "

Sanori scoffs, "I don't need babysitters, i'm a full grown dragon"

Koro: "It's either you stay and have them, or you come back with me and have them. Your choice"

Sanori: "Fine, they can be around or whatever"

Koro nods to the two dragons and they approach Sanori and bow.

Jimmy: "Honor to serve you Prince Sanori, i will protect you and your children with my life" Jimmy says.

Koinu: "Happy to be of service Prince Sanori! I'm really good at calming people down, so you won't ever have to worry about being in trouble again!" Koinu says cheerfully.

Sanori blushes at the two using his official title

Sanori: "J-Just call me Sanori alright-?"

Jimmy: "Negative." Jimmy responds. "It's disrespectful"

Koinu: "Jimmy's right, we have to use your title Prince, so you'll just have to get used to it"

Kodi's never gonna let me hear the end of this Sanori thinks to himself as Koro walks past him and ruffles his hair.

Koro: "I wanna see my grandkids too, took ya long enough to make em"

Sanori: "Grandfather-!"

Koro chuckles heartily as he flies off.

Sanori looks at Xanaria and sighs.

Sanori: "Well, we did it love..."

Xanaria: "We're finally free to love each other..." she smiles up at Sanori as the two, (Plus Jimmy and Koinu) Return home.

[that-angry-noldo]

Eonwë feels him, rather than sees.

Arafinwë's presence is one of a booming light. His steps, sharp and quick, echo with war drums. Eonwë closes his eyes and takes a breath.

"My Lord!" a guard declares. "The Ñoldóran wishes to see you."

Wishes is a weak word, Eonwë thinks. The Ñoldóran is ready to tear me to shreds and burn my remains.

He feels, rather than sees, Finarfin's menacing impatience, takes another breath, and nods to his guard.

Arafinwë storms into the tent, and the air immediately shifts to something dark, heavy, and sparkling. There's spear in his hand; his glowing hair is in dissaray. Eonwë sends a weary prayer to Manwë.

"I've heard some strange news, o Herald," Arafinwë begins, his sweet voice laced with poison. Eonwë shifts his wings. "Pray tell, are they true?"

Eonwë moves to his armour stand carefully. "This, my friend, depends on what you're talking about. If the news of supply shortage reached your ears, you shall not worry; it has been dealt with already."

"Hmm," Finarfin draws, tilting his head. "Try again."

Eonwë can't help but notice a predatory spark in Arafinwë's eyes, a hostile tension in his moves. He feels unease settle in his stomach, and shuffles his feathers.

"Well," he says, "if you're talking about remaining groups of orcs scattered across the continent, then yes, it's a problem, but nothing we cannot deal with."

Arafinwë stares. Eonwë is suddenly uncomfortably aware of the spear in his hand.

The Ñoldóran closes his eyes, takes a deep breath, and glares. "Eönwë. Fourty-eight years. Fourty-eight years have we spent on this accursed land. Forty-eight years have we fought, side-to-side, against Morgoth and his servants. Fourty-eight years have I known you, and forty-eight years have I deemed you a friend. Tell me: did all of that mean nothing to you?"

"You forget yourself, Arafinwë," Eönwë straightens at that, and glares, too. "Your accusations are not only unfair, but hurtful."

Finarfin snarls. He looks at the Herald, nothing but rage and despair behind his eyes.

"Eönwë," he growls. "Tell me, where is Sauron?"

"Arafinwë," Eönwë begins, and Finarfin snaps.

"You had ONE JOB!" he screams, and the air changes, rage and power and hurt swirling around the King, and Eönwë is caught between wanting to cover and to step forth, to bring his hand on his friend's shoulder; he stays firm in place. "ONE JOB! We brought him here in chains. We stripped him of his power. I trusted you, Eönwë! And now -"

"I have not betrayed your trust," Eönwë says, daring and angry. He is not a betrayer. He will not be called so. Finarfin's face is desperate, tears rolling down his cheek, lips twisted and trembling; Eönwë hesitates but, despite himself, reaches forward, and Finarfin snarls.

"Don't touch me," he spits. His hands are shaking. "Don't you dare touch me. Don't you dare acting like it's not your fault."

"Arafinwë," Eönwë repeats, quietly now, and tries to reach to his mind. Finarfin shuts it completely.

"My sons," he whispers, voice shaking. "Findaráto died in darkness, tormented by him. Angaràto and Aikanàro fell to his fire. Artaresto fell to his army. But I am only one of many fathers who weep for their children. I have not experienced his cruelty myself. How many more did he slay, how many more did he torment? What did he tell you, Eönwë, to convince you to release him?"

"I did not release him, Arafinwë," Eönwë says again, and makes a step forward; he freezes when Finarfin tenses, and lowers his hands. "I promise you: I left him chained and guarded. There was no treachery on my part."

"We could have stopped him. We could have stopped him if we knew on time, we-"

"Arafinwë," Eönwë whispers. "You could not."

Arafinwë jerks his chin. Tears shine in his eyes, and Eönwë is seized by the need to stop it, to wipe them away, to wrap his wings around his friend and protect him from anything that might happen; he doesn't give in to it.

"It's not yours to decide, what I could and what I couldn't. It wasn't yours to decide whether to chase him or to let him be."

"I would not let you go after him." I would not let you throw yourself in danger so recklessly.

"I wouldn't ask you, Eönwë. Not then, not now."

"You will not find him. Even if you go after him, you will not find a trace of him - Arafinwë, please. Please, listen to me," Eönwë tries again, and he feels helpless when Finarfin's steel eyes look at him. "Please, Arafinwë, do you trust me?"

"No," Arafinwë answers. "Not on this. We ride at dawn."

Eönwë searches the face of his friend. Arafinwë is cold; there will be no changing his mind.

"Arafinwë," Eönwë whispers instead of answering.

And the Ñoldóran knows their attempts will be futile; he knows their enemy is forever lost. Eönwë knows there will be no search party, and he knows Finarfin thinks about his people too much to make them wait another day, or month; he places a hand on Arafinwë's shoulder.

Arafinwë shudders, turns away, and leaves the tent. Eönwë is left alone.

I'm sorry, he offers through their bond.

Finarfin doesn't answer.

[dem1verse]

﹏ ❛ all you gotta do is call me.⠀⠀⠀äs nodt.

˖⁺ ⊹୨ ★ the one where you form a friendship with the malevolent enity.

content disclaimers ╱╱ gn!reader. young!reader. HEAVY religious trauma and themes. angst to comfort. vollstandig!äs nodt. mild body horror. wc: 830.

YOU HAVE (1) MESSAGE UNREAD !⠀⠀—⠀⠀“the 2nd halloween short of the month! this one may have been inspired by czs horror history analysis of the man who can't breath from insidious and i might have used my own religious trauma as a base for this. i wrote this with christianity in mind (mainly nigerian christianity). anyways, enjoy 💃🏾”

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀YOU DON'T REMEMBER THE LAST TIME YOU PRAYED TO HIM.

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀With the number of times you've been called an abomination before the eyes of the Almighty God, it's no surprise you'd see yourself as an unclean mix of flesh and blood who did nothing but wallow around. Sinner. Sodomite. Witch. Those were a few of many names that followed you around, hanging over you like a haunting veil of shame. Your relationship with your mother had always shown signs of strain, but you couldn't hate her. If anything, it was your fault for not being the ideal child, rebelling against the heavens. She was trying to guide you. Children of God don't act like this. Good children of God don't say that.

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀God must hate me, you affirmed. The Lord God above would never approve of you. You swear he's looking down on you this moment, shaking his head in disappointment. Years and years of Christian sermons crept around in your mind, festering in your conscience. You'd be happy, they said. He's the only way, they said. You can depend on him. He'd be there when you called for him. Surely he'd comfort you in your darkest times. Where was he now? You silently cried out to the sky, tears already spilt and stained your cheeks, questioning your faith. That was the first time he showed up.

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀The second time he showed himself, you'd been jolted awake by a nightmare. You'd gone downstairs to grab a glass of cold water, leaving the sticky heat of your bed. As you opened the cabinet, you couldn't help but notice how cold it'd gotten, the frigid atmosphere making you shiver. That's when you saw it. The man in white. His long, brittle hair shone in the moonlight. His eyes were rolled at the back of his head, drawing tears of blood from his sockets. Your eyes widened in silent fear, shuddering at his appearance. He bore a long white cloak, a prominent and bloody stitch running from the middle of his throat to the bottom of the robe, revealing gory muscle and bone. And his mouth. His teeth were left in the open, lacking the protective soft appendages. His blue star halo hung on the top of his crown, shining brightly.

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀Your goblet had long hit the floor, bits of sharp glass scratching your feet and the floor. Your mother had caught wind of the incident, screaming at you for having broken such a fragile object. She ranted on, but you were too focused on the man standing behind her. Were your eyes deceiving you? Could she not see him? You silently went to your room, ignoring your mother's verbal vomiting and eager to forget the past event.

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀By the time you saw him again, he spoke. You were alone, your mother leaving you home in favour of church service. You lay on your bed, feeling drained and sleepy. As you turned over on your back, you opened your eyes, only to be met with those same eerie scleras. You screamed, the apparition looming over you menacingly. Slowly, the man raised a pale, bony arm, and caressed your cheek, paying no attention to your crying and erratic movements. Being raised in a heavily prayerful home stuck with you, no matter who you grew up to be. You've always been taught to condemn the devil, resist temptation and you'd be blessed with favour and prosperity. Yet here you were, finding solace in a demonic entity. You soon stopped crying, the man's nurturing touch gradually lulling you to sleep.

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀A fight with your mother was never pretty. Silence and dissociation were your sword and shield during those times. Heartbroken at her cruel words, you slammed your bedroom door, heaving and sobbing. The reason for my stagnation, she called you. Nothing could've prepared you for that moment, her mocking shattering your heart and breaking your resolve. Curling yourself up in a ball, you tried your best to give yourself the scarce bit of consolation you had left. Then you heard him. His heavy, raspy breathing. The only sound in your room besides your wailing. He extended his sickly white limb towards you. He took hold of you, his body no longer radiating the icy temperature. You felt like a baby in its mother's arms, the entity stroking your hair. He gave you the nurture and care you've been looking for this entire time. You were no longer going to look above for alleviation. God wasn't there for you when you needed him, so why call him again? On the other hand, the spirit held you in his grasp, emitting a sense of security.

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀And in that moment, you came to an epiphany. You didn't whether you'd be thrown in hell or not, you could always count on the man in white to be there for you. Even when you were dead, and long gone, you could always count on him. You just had to call him.

DEMI'S POST-IT⠀❞⠀ok im actually kinda proud of myself for writing all of this in like, one night. i also may or may have not nearly started crying in the middle of writing this. i hope this helps somebody with some sort of trauma stemming from religion. kinda based this on my experiences in my life, the ending is kind of how im feeling currently.

template by @tinytowns! taglist: @ue-projectz

[lilabella12]

1300 - Day 1

Meet the Norwood family..... they live on a small farm in the outskirts of Windenburg, a fief of Lord Gilbert de Clare.

William inherited this farm from his father when he passed while William was just a child. He never had any siblings but found a responsible wife in Eva. She's happy when she is surrounded by people while her husband is the exact opposite.

Together they had 3 children who help out around the farm.

The youngest is Evan who is responsible for the chickens, even though his big brother keeps a watchful eye out... He knows that his little brother likes to cause mischief.

Evan turned 7 not too long ago and has developed some other interests.... He takes to archery quite well

Tara is the middle child of the family. She helps out with planting and harvesting in the garden but most of her time she spends out in the forest... The family doesn't really understands what draws her to it but Eva is always thankful for the supplies she brings home.

Finnian, the eldest son, mostly manages the crops and goes out hunting with his father when the pantry need filling. He has a really good relationship with his sister.

The year 1300 catches them a little bit off guard. They used up most of their supplies in the last winter and William goes out to hunt almost every day. Eva is worried that they will run short in a few days.

"Finnian, do you think you could run an errand down at the Bishops? I asked him to set aside some fish for storing and I just want to know if he has had any luck catching some.... I would do it myself but I'm feeling faint today."

"Of course mother, you should rest today. Don't worry, I wanted to talk to Emma anyway. We wanted to go to curch together before Easter."

When Finnian leaves, she lies done immeadiatly. She isn't feeling good lately, there were even a few fainting spells... If it doesn't get better she knows she need to go to the village doctor.

Finnian meanwhile has walked over to their neighbours, the Bishops. He's anxious about his mothers illness but happy that he can see his childhood friend, Emma.

"Sorry, but my father is out fishing today, he didn't catch much the last few days. I'll be happy to come by and bring some if he catches any."

"My mother is really worried, I think I'll just go there and ask him myself... or... We could go down to the river and try to catch some?"

"Sure, we can try... but don't be disappointed when we don't catch anything."

They don't catch anything but at least they had time to talk. For some time now Finnian is drawn to Emma's company but he can't quite put together why.... They decide to go to church together next week to pray for a good harvest at least.

But Finnian didn't need to worry. When Emmas father returns shortly after they get home, he shares a bountiful catch with him.

Emma watches him leave with a smile on her face. She's happy that he feels a bit calmer now.

When he comes home that evening, he's happy to see that his mother recovered somewhat she sits together with the neighbours who brought over some food so share.

"Look, Finnian, the neighbours brought some pheasants they hunted today, I can prepare it for tomorrow."

"That's nice, mother. The Bishops also had some fish to share. Are you feeling better?"

"Yes, love, thank you. Let me take those to the pantry."

The neighbours look at their exchange fondly.

"Well, Finnian, you've grown up to be quite the responsible young man. Eva, would you like me to bring over my daughter sometime? He should start to think about marriage soon."

Finnian smiles awkwardly and looks away. Emma's smiling face shows up in his mind.

| next |

[inlovewithregencyera]

Elmsworth House, July 4th, 1818

Sarah: Oh m'lady I hope I did your hair how you wanted it to be!

Aurelia: You did a wonderful job, Sarah, I'm not sure anyone else could've done this.

Sarah: *giggling* I sure hope your beau likes it!

Aurelia: Sarah!

Sarah: I'm only partially teasing m'lady.

Aurelia: Sarah, would you happen to have any information on the Carews? This is all so sudden, and I don't believe I've dined with them before. I'm sure Papa, Mama, Georgiana, and Charles know of them, but I must express I do not.

Sarah: No, I do not, but I hear from downstairs that the family consists of two brothers and three sisters, but the youngest sisters aren't old enough to be attending such a dinner! I also happen to know they've been of the gentry for nearly 150 years, but they were originally traders.

Aurelia: Ah, alright. Do you know the ages of the children?

Sarah: No, but I know more of their personal affairs!

Aurelia: I'm not a big fan of gossip Sarah.

Sarah: Yes m'lady, I know. But this is very bad! The younger son is an atheist!

Aurelia: Dear God!

Sarah: Yes m'lady! And that's not all, his father wants him to be a clergyman and he refuses! Instead, he spends his time writing poetry!

Aurelia: Oh how scandalous! I can't think of anyone who wouldn't want to serve God!

Sarah: Oh m'lady, forgive me if I speak out of terms, but perhaps you may understand him if you got to know-

Aurelia: I have no intentions of getting to know a man who has no relationship with God, I'm sorry Sarah.

Sarah: Oh well I don't blame you, m'lady! I'm done fixing your hem, you may head downstairs.

Aurelia wasn't sure who to talk to. The drawing room was so busy and bustled. Of course, she couldn't talk to any of the Carews without a proper introduction from someone, so she instead engaged herself in more conversation with Martha about the secret she told her earlier.

Elizabeth: Oh and God I can't stand that Laurence! Are we all to be brought to shame and scandal by his ways? Who in their right mind doesn't believe in God?! We did NOT raise him in such a way!

Helena: Oh my dear friend, I'm not quite familiar with the circumstances of your situation, but I can mutually agree that both of our sons disappoint us. Luckily, you have another one.

Emma: Oh Papa! But you must introduce me to her! I simply love her blue dress, it compliments her skin so well! Oh, and I love how she adorned her hair with those flowers! Please, Papa, introduce me to her!

John: I will approach Ms. Ramsbury my dear, and she will introduce us to her properly! You must remember etiquette protocols.

Emma: Oh yes! Thank you, Papa!

Ashley: My dear, navy blue suits you so well! You must wear it more often.

Patience: If you wish my dear.

*growling stomach noises*

Frederick: Mr. Ramsbury, do your cooks always take this long?

Peregrine: No, Lord Worthington, they do not. I'm not sure what they're doing.

William: I'm not sure if I can go through with it Laurie. My nerves aren't well.

Laurence: William Carew, be a man! What more would you like me to say? It was a mutual agreement. It's good for her family and ours.

William: Oh you're right.

Martha: *whispering* Yes, that's Laurence and he's an atheist. He also writes a bit of poetry. William is in the process of convincing him that God is real, so fear not! Perhaps he needs the additional help, if you'd like I could introd-

John: Ms. Ramsbury! I'm sure you know my daughter Emma.

Martha: Oh yes, how rude of me not to converse with you, dear Emma! I'm sure your poor Papa would rather spend time talking to the other males. May I introduce the two of you to my first cousin, Lady Aurelia Grey, daughter of the Duke of Hollow.

Aurelia: An honor to make your acquaintance!

John: Oh the honor is all ours. Emma, if you'll excuse me.

Martha: Emma has just turned fifteen! She's not yet out in society, but has come here for this very special day between our families!

Emma: Oh yes, what a lovely dinner it will be! Oh and Lady Aurelia, I simply love your dress! You look so beautiful! I also like yours, Ms. Martha, you look quite lovely as well.

Aurelia: You're too kind Ms. Carew. Oh, and I love how your ribbons match your eyes!

*Emma blushes*

Martha: Oh won't you look at that, they do. I'm sure you'll be swept off the marriage market immediately next Spring!

Emma: Oh, I do hope so! I want to get married as soon as possible, that would please Mama a great deal. Papa-not so much.

Martha: Well you see Emma, my dear cousin will be approaching her twentieth year in four days! She will soon be a spinster if she's not married soon. Would you do her the honor of introducing her to your brother, Laurence?

Aurelia: No that's not neede-

Emma: Oh, I've never introduced anyone before! I'd be honored!

Aurelia: ....

Emma: William, Laurence, allow me to introduce you to my newest friend, Lady Aurelia Grey, daughter of the Duke of Hollow! *whispers to Aurelia* Did I do it right?

*Aurelia nods her head up and down*

William: A pleasure to make your acquaintance Lady Aurelia.

Aurelia: The pleasure is all mine!

Laurence: Hello Lady Aurelia. I'm Laurence. A pleasure to also make your acquaintance.

Aurelia: Yes, I know.

Laurence: Do you?

Aurelia: I know who you are, yes.

Laurence: Is the pleasure not all yours?

Aurelia: No, it is not with pleasure.

Laurence: Alright, let's try this. Bonjour, Lady Aurelia. Vous êtes très belle dans cette robe bleue. Je suis Laurence Benedict Carew, et je suis honoré de faire votre connaissance.

Aurelia: Votre Orléanais est très bon. Mais je n'ai toujours pas le plaisir de me lier d'amitié avec un homme qui n'accueille pas Dieu dans sa vie.

Laurence: Prenez ma main.

Aurelia: Non.

Laurence: J'aimerais que vous n'ayez pas de préjugés à mon égard. Je ne crois pas en un Dieu. En effet, comment un Dieu pourrait-il mettre une créature aussi belle et magnifique devant mon visage et s'attendre à ce que je ne devienne pas fou ? Votre Dieu n'est pas aimant, s'il l'était, je n'aurais pas à résister à l'envie d'embrasser vos lèvres pulpeuses et d'étreindre votre silhouette parfaite...

Aurelia: Mr. Carew...

Laurence: Permettez-moi de vous prendre la main.

Laurence: Maintenant, permettez-moi d'embrasser vos tendres articulations.

[batsyforyou]

Of Elves and Men Part 16

Pairing: Beleg x reader

Warnings: I refer you to part 1

You knelt beside the young boy, Húrin’s son Túrin, and grasped his hand. “Please, if I have earned your favor, fulfill my request.” 

The boy looked up at you and steeled himself, “Of course! What is it?” 

You smiled and passed a thick envelope into his hands. “If I don’t make it back, go to Doriath there you’ll find an elf named Beleg Strongbow, he is one of the march wardens there.”

Túrin seemed shocked, “An elf?” He asked. 

You melted wistfully looking up into the bright sky and bringing a hand to your heart. 

“He is my greatest love. And I haven’t had the time to meet with him the way I used to. I would oh, so love to see him again.” 

“Oh.” With both hands he examined the paper, “I haven’t seen an elf up close before, but I suspect that I will see them soon. What is he like?” 

“He’s perfect.” 

The trumpets called and you kissed Túrin’s head and parted ways.

Beleg shook his head, his silver hair glittering in the moonlight as crickets chirped in his ears. He stood leaning against a strong oak tree, his arms crossed as he looked up at the sky. 

He felt . . . bereft and sad though he did not know why. 

He sighed. 

“Ah, at last I have found you.” 

At the rustling of bushes he turned to look, spying the eyes of Mablung. Frowning he did not greet his friend and merely looked back to the stars. 

“I had heard of your mood but did not believe it myself till now.” 

Mablung came and stood beside him and looked to see what had caught his attention. “What ails you, my friend?”

He sighed, long and heavy. “I am uncertain.” 

His friend raised a brow. “Does this have something to do with your human friends?” 

Beleg looked at him mournfully and Mablung cocked his head, curious. “Did something happen while you were there?” 

He nodded and pulled his gaze skyward again. “They confessed their love for me.” 

Mablung hummed. “Which one?” 

Beleg glared at him. 

His friend stepped back and raised his hands in defeat. “You have many human friends, I merely wish to know which one you speak of.” 

Beleg shrugged, it was a valid point. “Y/n.”

“Ah, I see.” 

Beleg shook his head. “We cannot be together. I can never grow old with them.” 

“But you wish to.”

Beleg hung his head low. “Is it so obvious?”  

“To some but not to others.” Mablung clasped his shoulder. “They cannot be with you forever.” 

Beleg raised his head to stare determinedly. ���But I could be theirs.”

Mablung frowned. “Can you see yourself being able to live happily without them? Can you imagine life after their death?” 

Frowning, Beleg rested his head against the bark of the tree. “I can see a life with them being filled with happiness and laughter. Of possible children and tending to them in their old age. I can't see my life after their passing.” He snuffed the toe of his boot into the dirt. “I know that loving one whose life is so fleeting, in comparison to mine, is a dangerous choice but I can’t help but feel—” he gestured with a wave of his hand— “Empty? A great longing rests in me and I am afraid and enchanted by its pull.” 

Mablung crossed his arms. “In mortal marriages, they often say ‘till death do us apart.’ Is that something you would want or even withstand?” 

He smirked. “And after death, whether I withstand the grief or not. I believe I will see them again.” 

“You love them?”

Beleg took a moment to consider this, drawing his gaze to the stars again. “I would say I do.”

Mablung nodded. “I am sorry that you were called back before you could come upon this answer yourself.”

Beleg frowned, curious. “Why was I called back?” 

Mablung sighed and reached up with both hands to grab a tree branch and leaned his weight forward. “The King heard news of how Lord Húrin and the Noldor planned an attack against Morgoth. He did not want you caught up in it.” 

Shoving himself away from the tree he rushed to his friend's side. “But that is foolhardy! Did he not try to dissuade them?” 

Mablung shook his head. “I do not know.” 

Beleg swallowed tightly around the lump in his throat. 

“But what about Y/n?!” 

Amidst the heart of the battle you fought alongside your men. The sounds of screaming, swords clashing angrily and the groans of the dying flooded your ears but you could not stop. 

A mighty roar came shaking the ground and sky and many stumbled off their feet, men and elves and orcs alike. 

Falling to your side you grunted with the impact, hard steel pressing into your ribs. Panting and shaking with adrenaline, you looked up and watched in horror as Fingon was snared by his enemy’s whip. 

“No!” You cried. “Fingon!” 

You tried pushing yourself to your feet but couldn’t manage it as another roar came and shook the earth. Gothmog raised his ax and you screamed and watched in horror as your friend's head toppled from his shoulders. 

Your ears rang and you were left in shock. Eyes trailing up the body of the fallen King and watched, sick, as red blood dripped from Gothmog’s black ax. Fiery red eyes meeting yours. 

Bjorn charged up to you and yanked you to your feet as the horns of the elves sounded. “My liege, the elves are pulling back!” 

Turning your face from the Barlog you listened as Lord Húrin rallied the troops and commanded that they cover the elves retreat and you knew—

You would all die here. 

Shouting to your men, you led them forward to join the line, your face stern and determined, as you listened to your Lord’s command.

“Do not show your enemy your fear! And if you die, I pray you take your enemy down with you! Aurë entuluva!” 

With a fearsome cry you all raised your swords and hunted the enemy down. In the rush you and Bjorn became separated and you were overwhelmed. Raising your shield you blocked a frontal attack but was struck in your side and groaned. Losing control of your limbs, you fell to the bloodied dirt and moaned in pain as you felt orcs trample you. Raising your tired eyes, you turned onto your side, looking over the battlefield, looking for friend rather than foe. And gasped for breath and cried pitifully as you met Bjorn's blue eyes as he laid against the ground.

Dead. 

So, you died there between the bodies of the fallen. And you remembered how Beleg’s eyes would crinkle when he smiled and how warm and comforting his touch was. 

Perhaps it would have been better if you had died in that cave. Maybe, then, you would not have felt such an ache in your heart as you do now. Groaning you shove yourself onto your back to take one last look at the dark sky. 

Instead, you saw Evelyn’s smiling face as she leaned over you, the fight still raging behind her. She was beautiful and glittering in her white gown. 

“It is alright.”

“You can rest now.”  

At the sound of the horn to retreat, Beleg scoured over the heads of his kin frantically. 

“Y/n!” 

He and Mablung had come to the serve in the battle and Beleg had tried tirelessly to find you. 

The others brushed past him as they went knocking into his shoulders as he stood there. He rushed forward shoving past the elves going opposite to him. Making it to the otherside of his kin, he looked out and saw the forces of men lining up against Morgoth’s forces. 

Wide open eyes shook with fear at the sight and he shouted. “Y/n!” 

He went to move forward but was stopped by an armored arm coming underneath his armpit and gripping his arm. Glancing to his side he saw the bloody and stoic face of Mablung. His friend pulled him back. 

“Come on! There is no time for this!” 

“But Y/n’s still out there!” 

Two other elves came quickly to him, the lords of the now King, the elf with golden hair frowned and gripped his other side. “It is too late for the others!” He called. 

Beleg shook his head as panic and grief consumed him. “I cannot leave them!” 

Mablung with the help of the stranger dragged him back. “What would you have them do, even if you did find them!? Abandon their men to die!?” 

He shook his head again. “I would die beside them!”

The lord beside him turned behind to watch his friend as sounds of the battle came to their ears. 

Tears trickled down Beleg’s dirtied cheeks and he cried out in agony, unable to tear his eyes away from the scene of the battle. “I didn’t get to tell them!” 

He struggled against them. “Let me go!”  

The other Noldor lord looked over to him at his shout. Mablung shook him as both he and the golden haired lord lifted him from his feet. 

“Your love would not want you to die here, Beleg! And I care for you too much to let you!” 

Beleg cried as they pulled him away. Bowing his head to his chest as he listened to the slaughter continue without him. 

Months later after the great battle of Unnumbered Tears, Morwen bid her son goodbye. And that's when Túrin finally hand delivered your letter. But when the silver haired elf saw the wax seal there was nothing in the world that could have prepared the boy for the pain that crossed the elf’s face.  

To my dearest love, 

You should know how often I dream of you. When I see you, you hold a young babe with dark hair in your arms and they grab at your locks. You have the sweetest smile when I see it and my heart aches because the sweetest illusions are often the cruelest.  

I have so much I want to tell you, but I lack the words. It is funny, isn’t it? After all we’ve been through together, you’d think I’d get to say goodbye, in person, this time. I don't know why I expected this time to be different. . .

Please forgive me. Tomorrow, I ride off to war and I know not what fate awaits me. 

All I ask, is if you’ll remember me? 

With all my love,

Y/n, Loyal Servant of Lord Húrin

Masterlist

[dalliansss]

Forbidden love prompts:

“We were never going to work” Curufin/Finrod, please 🤍

—  ❛❛  //   𝚂𝙷𝙸𝙿𝙿𝙸𝙽𝙶  𝚃𝚁𝙾𝙿𝙴  𝚂𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙴𝚂  ://    𝙵𝙾𝚁𝙱𝙸𝙳𝙳𝙴𝙽  𝙻𝙾𝚅𝙴.        (  please  substitute  pronouns  as  needed.  )    

It was Curufin who found that two-story townhouse. Built at the lower levels, at the side of Tirion-upon-Túna that faced away from the Trees and thus perpetually shadowed, it had been a dilapidated property, and Curufin channeled funds into it, had it renovated and made livable. Outside it looked the same as its neighbors, plain, and assumed to be some pompous lord's rental property. Of course, Curufin wanted it to be thought of that way. And anyway, who in their right minds would think of a prince of the Noldor having such a property in such a terrible location?

It's their hideaway, this. Has been their sanctuary for years, this modest two-floor, three bedroom house sparsely furnished. Though right now the one room upstairs they share lies in shambles around them, and Curufin and Finrod are sitting away from each other, the aftermath of the quarrel silent between them.

Curufin is still in his work clothes, sans his leather apron. Finrod still in his council robes, now rumpled. Finrod pokes at a shattered bottle of wine near him. The contents having long seeped onto the wooden floorboards. He can't help a wince. That will stain...

"We were never going to work, aren't we?" Curufin asks, voice hushed.

Finrod now inspects his nails next. "You were the one who hurried off to wed an elleth that is so incompatible with you I am amazed the marital bond formed at all. And so now you are also the one with the nuisance of a bond in your head, to stay there until the end of Arda."

"I will not regret Telperinquar," Curufin snaps in his direction. Oh this....this infuriating elf, with his golden hair and his smiles and his insane charisma that draws even the Valar to him without even lifting a finger---

"Ah yes, it's all nice when Tyelpe is a baby, an elfling. Yet you will want more children, Curufinwë...and your little wife would either give you another one, or, I don't know, you'll have to take your time in the broom cupboard in the jewelshop."

Fury in Curufin's silver eyes. Devil from Udûn! Wraith from Utumno! This Eru-forsaken Findaráto Ingoldo, infuriating-- beautiful beyond compare yet striking like a snake where he knows it hurts Curufin the most, this--

He crosses the room and yanks a handful of that hateful, but terribly beloved golden hair, and their quarrel flares anew -- shoves and snarls, yanks and pulls and--

Like all their previous quarrels, it ends up predictably, this session. Clothes off, limbs tangled. Curufin simply pulls Finrod closer into his hold, his other hand's fingers possessively twining strands of the other's golden hair around.

"Fuck you, Ugly. You dare criticize me for marrying Helwë," says Curufin. "When you strut around with your little perfect Vanya princess. Hmph. She makes me want to puke, with how she hangs from your arm and how she smiles whenever you tote her around in the great feasts and festivals and balls--"

Finrod laughs. That ugly, snorting, snork-laugh of his that he never does in public. Snorting. Like a damn pig. "At least, I will not shackle myself with a bond that not even death will eradicate, Frogpiss. I will delay as long as I can, citing this and that, this and this, that and that, and I will find a means to--." He abruptly cuts himself short. Curufin scowls deeply.

He grips Finrod by the jaw and makes the golden elf look at him. "You'll find a means to what?" Curufin snarls, his nails digging into Finrod's perfect skin.

"To sail east," Finrod says, pushing on in equal viciousness, spitting the words very much like a snake spitting venom. "Yes, bastard, I will sail east, leave your sorry, pathetic arse -- unless you bundle up your son as I will bundle up Aikanár, and leave with me."

It is only the last part of the statement that makes Curufin stop himself from really hurting Finrod. He studies that infuriatingly beautiful face -- those summer blue eyes, those long, curling lashes, those golden eyebrows--

He kisses him. (They're mad. It's the only explanation for this tumultuous relationship. Whoever sane would keep seeing Curufin when he is wed? Only Finrod was insane enough.)

"Can you wait?" Curufin hisses. "Wait until the boys are grown-- and then we ask them, then we take them along--!"

Finrod shoves him off. "Stinker," the older elf says, already getting up and padding to the bathroom. Curufin snarls. He scrambles up and rushes to follow his lover.

[emanation-aura]

Nahida and Wanderer, 24?

24. "Unless you ask me not to in the next five seconds, I'm going to hug you."

They're out just... people-gazing today, she supposes, if there were to be a word for the strange, indifferent curiosity Wanderer flings at people. They take a spot at the top of the tree trunk of Port Ormos and allow themselves the leisure of not doing anything important for the day.

"A lot of new travelers today," Nahida comments idly. "I wonder if they're tourists or merchants?"

"Tourists," Wanderer mutters under his breath, as if he wants to speculate but doesn't want to let his god 'win' in drawing him into conversation. "Ormos is full of Inazumans, Probably came from Watatsumi."

"Of course! The Sakoku Decree is gone, and Inazuma has had ample time to recover from its isolation. It makes sense that its citizens would choose this time to be adventurous."

Wanderer's eye twitches, and she doesn't need to be the God of Wisdom to know that he's giving her a once-over.

Ample time to recover from its isolation... oops, that could have applied to her, she supposes. Ah, well. Five hundred years of imprisonment felt like a long time, but that's because it was the first five hundred years of her life she could remember— like human children who view childhood as the longest stage of their lives, locked in by social rules they are yet to understand and changing in so many immutable ways. But when they reach adulthood and step into the wider world, that childhood feels like a distant dream, something short and not worth noting.

Right. They're here to destress, not restress themselves about thinking about all the philosophical tangents about life and growth. Nahida returns her focus to Wanderer, except—

"Who the hell is that?" Wanderer growls. His outstretched finger points to a boat that has just docked at the outskirts of the port, from which two people emerge: a bold-looking woman with brown hair and an eyepatch, and a small boy wearing a maple haori, pale hair uniquely streaked with a single strand of red.

Oh. Nahida curls her hands to scan: Kaedehara Kazuha of Inazuma, currently with the Alcor (which she assumes is a ship and its crew). Irminsul scanning... logging information... ah.

Kaedehara Kazuha, father Kageharu, grandfather Hisamichi, great-grandfather... Kaedehara Yoshinori, formerly Niwa Yoshinori.

"Kaedehara Kazuha, from the as-of-now disbanded Kaedehara Clan," she replies, knowing that he does not appreciate the truth being hidden from him. "Descended from Niwa Yoshinori, who was adopted into the Kaedehara Clan 100 years ago."

A sharp intake of breath. Nahida hears rather than sees his fists clench, the creaking of wood in stiff ball-joints. She doesn't have to cheat by using Irminsul to hear his thoughts: all the betrayal and complicated tang of bittersweet feelings about Niwa, written cleanly in the grimace lines on his face, in the twist of his lips.

(Lesser Lord Kusanali does not remember this, but back in a time when 'Lesser Lord' existed to contrast 'Greater Lord', this, too, could be an open script written across her face.)

She can't help the words that fall out of her mouth next: natural, the same way trees reach for the skies, or a dancer whose routine resides in muscle memory. "Wanderer. Unless you ask me not to in the next five seconds, I'm going to hug you."

Wanderer... freezes, likely not having heard that sentence in several hundred years. Nahida waits, ascertains his lack of response as an indicator that he won't obliterate her for touching him, and then pounces.

She's too small to give Wanderer a full, human-sized hug. But that's ok, because she's big enough to jump up and wrap her arms around his shoulders, covering the most important part of any hug: the heart.

(The chamber inside of the hollow puppet goes thump, thump, thump. And the heart of a god who traded away her Heart of God goes, I hear you.)

After seventeen-and-a-half beats, Wanderer turns his head and murmurs, "get off me." Contradicting his statement, his arms come up to wrap around her, too. Logical conclusion: he wants to hug her. Ditto, mission accomplished.

"Niwa lives on," she says, slowly, carefully. "His actions still led to this future, even if no one remembers what his sacrifice was really for."

(Why does this sound so familiar? Nahida tugs on the unease in her mind, but it does not go away, like a particularly stubborn patch of grease.)

Wanderer is quiet, for a second, before he looks away, at the same time bringing a hand up to twirl Nahida's strand of hair through his hands.

He says: "it doesn't matter either way. I remember him, so he'll live forever."

~~

I welcome anyone to send me more of these, my entire fic genre is hurt/comfort. I hope you enjoy!

[aebi12]

"Sinful Desires" - Epilogue

Previous chapters - Masterlist

“Do you find everything terribly strange?”

Aegon jumps at hearing Alyssa's voice.

“I am sorry, darling, I didn't mean to scare you,” she apologizes walking slowly towards her brother, who is leaning on the balcony watching the new soldiers training in one of the castle courtyards.

"You just caught me by surprise," he replies, reassuring her with a smile and offering his arm for support, “Should you be out of bed? Your maid said that you weren't feeling well this morning."

"It's nothing," Alyssa rolls her eyes and looks at her brother, "You seem worried."

Her green eyes scan the young prince’s face, his brow furrowed slightly and his violet eyes tired. When their gazes meet, Aegon shrugs, and Alyssa, for an instant, sees again the little boy he once was. A nostalgic smile is born on her lips while her hand caresses Aegon's face feeling a stubble that manages to draw a sigh.

“Sometimes I still can't believe how much you've grown in these years,” she says

Now it is Aegon's turn to roll his eyes, though he then takes Alyssa's hand and places a kiss on her knuckles, "While you, mother, look more radiant and beautiful than ever."

The princess can't help but smile at his compliment, "Did they also instructed you in gallantries in Riverrun?"

Aegon chuckles and shakes his head, his gaze drifting once more to the soldiers for an instant.

“Talk to me, Egg. You may be a man now, but I can still tell when something is bothering you, what is it?

There is a moment of silence before he speaks, “I don't know if I am ready. I don't know if I can do it"

She doesn't need to ask what he is referring to.

“You have prepared your whole life for this moment, Aegon, yet it is normal to have doubts. I'd be amazed if you didn't."

“I don't know,” he shakes his head, “Everything suddenly feels real now that I am here again. I feel like I wasted a lot of time living in the Riverlands when I could be here, doing more for the realm. Learning more about my duties."

"You weren't wasting time. You were Lord Kermit's squire and it was an honor for him to receive you these last few years in his ancestral home. The visits you made to the other lords of the Trident were necessary. You were too young to remember much about the war, but you know how important it is to keep the peace. That part of the realm was hit the hardest when our family bled, spending this time with them is a way for the Crown to make amends for what happened."

“I know, I know you are right, it's just…” he trails off, clearly measuring his words, “It's weird to be back. Everything looks the same, but feels different. And suddenly I have all these responsibilities. I understand the burden that weighs on my shoulders, and for that very reason I fear that I am not capable enough”

“This is your birthright,” Alyssa assures him, “I know you will make a fine king because you are a good boy.”

“You say that because you are my mother,” he retorts, dismissing her comment.

Alyssa just smiles.

At some point after her wedding to Aemond, Aegon had begun referring to her as his mother. At first, Alyssa had thought he was doing it by mistake, but when he began calling Aemond father, she knew her little brother was doing it knowingly. It had taken her a while to get used to him referring to her that way, but she hadn't tried to correct him. She hadn't pushed aside the memory of Rhaenyra, either.

No. Actually, the biggest challenge she and Aemond had had over the years was being honest with the children. As much as they tried to isolate them from the bloodiest facts of the war, the rumors and whispers were always there. So, after much discussion, they had explained to Aegon and Jaehaera what had happened, the terrible way their family had split into two factions and fought each other almost to extinction.

“We survived because we understood that House Targaryen must stick together,” she had told nine-year-old Aegon and Jaehaera. Aemond had been mostly silent throughout the entire conversation. He didn't say it, but Alyssa knew that he feared Aegon's reaction to knowing that he had killed his father, “We did many things to keep you both safe and protected, that was always the priority for both of us. For you to be happy, having a better future than ours."

As always, it had been Aegon who had asked the questions. Many of them. And they had responded as sincerely as they could. Jaehaera, on her side, had remained almost silent, her blue eyes more wistful than ever. Alyssa knew that, from time to time, she still had nightmares. And she also knew that the girl, unlike her brother, had experienced firsthand the horrors of war.

In the end, when they had been told everything, Aegon had remained tremendously close to Aemond, assuring that he was the only father he knew and loved.

“I'm saying this because it's the truth,” Alyssa assures him, “Besides, you won't be alone. The small council will help you to rule. As king, it is your duty to listen to them and theirs to advise you in the best way possible. You can trust them. Lord Tyland is a loyal man and I know he loves you well."

"Lord Tyland is a good friend," a soft smile appears on her little brother's handsome face.

"You don't sound convinced"

It takes Aegon another minute to reply.

“I don't want to disappoint you,” he finally admits, “Father has taken good care of the kingdom all these years. I would hate to see all his efforts come to naught on my own."

“Aegon, you could never disappoint us,” she assures him, “We are both very proud of you and your sister. We know that now that we will return to Dragonstone, you both will assume your duties with the best possible disposition and sense of responsibility. The realm is in good hands."

"Do you really have to go?" he asks, his voice denoting for the first time all the nervousness he feels, his face clearly anxious about the task he will have to take on shortly.

“My beloved boy,” she replies with a sigh, taking his hand, “I don't like leaving when you came back so recently, either. But the news was so unexpected and took us so by surprise that we just want…”

"Privacy?" he smiles, “It is fine, mother, I understand. Don't listen to me, I'm being selfish keeping you here when I should have insisted that you leave long ago. You deserve to live this moment as you choose."

Alyssa can't help but feel her tears well up in her eyes as she places her hand on her swollen belly, the baby moving inside her, perhaps sensing how emotional she feels.

"Is something wrong? Should I call Alys?" Aegon asks, noticing a wince on her face.

“No, no, I'm fine, it's normal to be this sore when the moment is so close,” she assures him, “I'm fine,” she repeats, noticing her brother's anxious expression.

And she is.

Discovering that she was with child had been a tremendous surprise. After her last loss in Harrenhal, her moon blood hadn't returned for months. And it hadn't flowed regularly until barely a year ago, though Alyssa had long ago given up hope of being a mother, so she hadn't even taken that fact into account. That was why, upon discovering her pregnancy, she had tried not to get her hopes up too much. But, as the months passed and the baby grew inside her, Alyssa had sent for Alys, immediately entrusting her old friend with the task of taking care of her during her miraculous pregnancy.

"I thought it was impossible," she had said with tears of happiness in her eyes upon seeing the woman after so many years.

"I told you that your body could heal," she had replied, examining her.

Aemond had not left her side for an instant since that moment. And she had had a hard time convincing him that she was fine and that she could carry on with her regular activities since Alys and Jaehaera would keep her company. He had reluctantly agreed, returning to his work with the Small Council.

“We should go to Dragonstone for a while after the baby is born,” he had told her one night a few weeks ago.

"Why?"

“We've waited so long for this,” Aemond had replied, “No, we didn't even imagine it could happen, but now that we'll have our baby after so many years, I want these moments to belong to just the two of us. Or the three of us. At least for a time"

Alyssa hadn't responded immediately.

"You do not like the idea?"

“I like it,” she admits, “But the kids…”

“They are already adults. Aegon is almost eighteen years old. It is time for him to assume his place as king. Besides, we won't be that far. If they need us, they can fly to the island without problem.”

"I guess," she nods.

The idea seems a bit selfish, yes, but the truth is that Alyssa can't wait any longer to meet the baby she's carrying inside. And to imagine that she could get away from the court, from her duties, from the whispers that followed her after so many years of infertility, and simply dedicate herself to watching her little one grow, together with Aemond, is too tempting an idea to pass.

"Let’s go then, for a time," she finally says, "the baby will need its siblings eventually."

"Of course," he smiles, "Besides, knowing those two, they'll surely visit us as soon as they can and we don't even have time to miss them."

Alyssa laughs, "You said the same thing when we sent Egg to Riverrun and he barely writes to us."

"He's young, my love, he must have other things on his mind," the prince kisses her forehead and places his hands on her belly, caressing it and smiling as he feels the baby move under his touch, "Besides, you could have flown with me when I offered it to you”

Alyssa rolls her eyes and doesn't respond. Dragon riding would never be an activity she would choose more than as a last resort. More than once Jaehaera had invited her to ride Morghul, but she had declined.

“I just hope they are okay once we are gone,” she sighs, “they haven't seen each other in years.”

The roar of a dragon and the shadow that casts over them tears Alyssa from her memories, bringing her to the present in the balcony with Aegon.

"Morghul," he says quietly, raising his violet eyes to the sky.

"Why didn't you go fly with Jaehaera?"

Aegon grimaces before shrugging again, "Lord Corlys wanted to talk to me about the situation of the royal fleet”

“Don't drown in your duties just yet, Egg. Aemond is still here, and it won't be long before we return from Dragonstone, you know he likes to feel useful to the realm," they both smile at her affirmation. “You could use some rest. You should take advantage of these days, and spend time with Jaehaera. When you were kids you couldn't wait to mount your dragons. And now that you are both riders, I haven't seen you fly together yet."

"Yes, I might do that"

Aegon sighs and Alyssa watches his expression, which seems to be lost for a few seconds. The princess wonders if her little brother is also worried about staying with Jaehaera in the castle. They had been very close as children, but learning about the war had created a kind of distance between them that Alyssa had thought they had managed to overcome over time. Until Aegon had had to go serve as squire and Jaehaera had resented being left behind.

"You don't have to marry Jaehaera if you don't want to"

"What?" Aegon watches her with wonder in his eyes, his shoulders tense and his brows furrowed once more.

“It's okay if you don't love her that way,” Alyssa explains, “I know it was expected for you to get married and carry on the tradition of our house, but we won't force a union that would make you both unhappy. If there's someone else, perhaps someone you met in the Riverlands,” Alyssa proposes tentatively, “If she's a noble young lady, you could easily make her your queen. Any maiden would be more than happy to marry you."

“And what would happen to Jaehaera?”

“She is a princess, she has royal blood, it would not be difficult to find a husband for her. I think there was talk at one time of betrothing her to the heir of Winterfell. She could… "

"No, no," Aegon cut her off sharply, "Jaehaera will be my wife, my queen."

Alyssa raises her eyebrows, amazed at the possessive, frightened tone she detects in Aegon's voice, "I just thought that…"

“Our feelings are not in question, mother. At least not mine,” he assures her, “It's just that meeting again has cost us a little more than I thought”

Alyssa nods and doesn't answer because suddenly the hooves of a horse hurtling through the castle gate catches her attention. Aegon averts his gaze from the princess, his eyes focusing on Jaehaera, who skillfully climbs down from the animal and adjusts her riding clothes.

The girl seems to sense their scrutiny because her gaze lifts to them, a half smile appearing on her face at the sight of Alyssa.

"Aunt!" she greets a moment later, after almost running to where they were, “What are you doing here? Alys said you should rest. You shouldn't have let her come up here, it could be dangerous,” her last sentence directed at Aegon, an impatient expression on her face as she crosses her arms.

"I didn't know she would get out of bed, I thought she was resting"

"How was your flight?" Alyssa interrupts when she notices that her niece wants to answer

“You know me, I'm always happy when I ride my dragon,” she replies with a genuine smile and Alyssa is amazed, once again, at how beautiful her little girl has become. Her eyes, as blue and long as her mother's, yet her face a feminine version of her father's, "I wasn't far from Dragonstone today."

“Sweetheart, try not to stray too far from the castle next time, it worries me in this weather…”

“No, auntie, please don't start scolding me,” she asks pouting and taking Alyssa’s hands, “Flying is my only refuge these days. I can't be embroidering and reading forever, and not all of us have obligations as noble and important as running a kingdom to keep our days busy."

“I never expressed myself that way,” Aegon replies, sighing.

“I'll go take a bath, I reek of dragon,” Jaehaera says, clearly ignoring him, “I'll see you at lunch.”

The girl kisses her aunt and quickly walks away from them.

***

"I'm frankly worried about those two"

Alyssa is sitting, like every night, on the windowsill. The sea breeze is her best ally now that labor is so close and her body seems to burn from the inside.

"We have to give them time"

Aemond, sitting across from her, strokes her belly gently.

"They don't seem to get along"

"Aegon is crazy about her," Aemond smiles, "He just doesn't know how to approach her."

“And what about Jaehaera? She seems upset every time I see her with him. I will not urge her to do her duty if she is not in love with him."

"Neither would I," her husband assures her, moving closer to Alyssa, "They deserve to know the joy of being married to someone they love, as we have known for almost fourteen years."

Alyssa smiles and reaches out to caress his face. Aemond closes his eye, and presses his face into her hand, a smile playing on his lips.

“It will be fine, being alone is going to force them to confront what they feel”

"Maybe, but..."

Alyssa stops talking as a sharp pain shoots up in her belly. Releasing a gasp of astonishment, she takes her hand to her lower back, trying to massage the area, but another pain as intense as the previous one seizes her again.

"Are you okay?"

“I think… I think you should call Alys. The baby is coming," she replies as she feels a liquid drip between her legs.

There is a moment of absolute silence between the two of them, who only look at each other, half surprised and nervous, before Aemond stands up and calls for the healer.

"Yes, the baby is coming," Alys pronounces a few minutes later, "It won't take long now, princess."

Alyssa clings to Aemond's arm to try to walk, too sore to just lie in bed. Her sweat drenches her nightgown and her messy hair falls down her back and clumps to her face, making her remember the scene so many years ago in Dragonstone, when she was assisting her mother during her labors.

"Is it true? Is the baby to be born tonight?"

Jaehaera is the first to enter the room, still dressed in her dinner clothes. Aegon enters after her a few seconds later.

"Mother, are you okay? They said that…"

He trails off as he watches Alyssa panting, one hand on her belly and one on Aemond's arm.

“Everything is fine,” it is Aemond who answers

“I wish to stay,” Jaehaera says, “I can help.”

“How would you help? You wouldn't know what to do,” Aegon replies.

“I am a woman, we know about these issues by instinct”

Aegon chuckles, “You're not even married, you'd be more of a nuisance. Come, let Alys and her midwives take care of it."

"No, I'll stay," and adds, "You're not the king yet, you don't have any authority over me."

"Enough!" Alyssa almost growls, “Jaehaera, my love, maybe it wouldn't do for you to stay. Births are not always easy. Aegon, take your sister outside and wait there. We'll call you once the baby is born."

Fortunately, they don't protest and leave the room. When they are alone again, Alyssa looks up at Aemond, with an I told you so look on her face, “See now what I mean?”

“It's just banter,” the prince replies, “They'll figure it out.”

"You'd better go to bed, princess," Alys urges her

And she's right because, a few minutes later, Alyssa is in more pain than she's ever known in her life before complete relief and hearing the most beautiful sound she could imagine, her baby crying.

“A girl,” Alys says, picking up a newborn who won't stop screaming and moving her arms and legs.

"Is she healthy?" asks Alyssa

"Is Alyssa alright?" asks Aemond in turn

“They are both very well,” Alys nods, handing the baby into the arms of the princess, who receives her too carefully, her hands slippery with her sweat and blood. The baby stops crying when she feels the contact with her mother’s skin, her eyes remaining open enough to notice her green eyes.

A sound of adoration escapes her throat before tears of happiness roll down her face, her fingers caressing the soft skin of her little girl. Alyssa raises her face to Aemond, who looks enthralled at the little girl, his face serious, but his eye denoting all the emotion he feels.

“Daena,” he whispers close to Alyssa's ear.

“Daena,” the princess confirms, repeating the name they had decided to give her baby just a few days ago, in case it was a girl.

"She is beautiful," Aemond sighs, "She is perfect, just like you."

Alyssa smiles and kisses the little girl's cheek before handing her over to one of her midwives to wash and wrap her up.

Aemond, unable to take his eye off the baby, waits impatiently until the little one is ready and receives her in his arms, cradling her as Alys helps his wife to her feet so the maids can change the bloodied sheets.

“You did a great job, princess,” the woman finally says, “You should rest now.”

“Thank you, Alys, for everything”

The healer nods and leaves the room with the midwives.

“I still can't believe it's real,” Alyssa comments as she feels Aemond sit next to her on the bed.

“She's our miracle baby,” Aemond says, stroking the baby's silver hair with his fingers, “Thank you, my love, you couldn't have given me a better gift.”

“I feel the same to you,” Alyssa replies, kissing her baby, feeling filled of love and adoration.

The noise of a couple of voices starting to get excited outside the door reach them, so they look at each other and sigh.

 “I just hope she's not as a handful as that pair,” Aemond says, half amusement and half seriousness in his voice.

“Well, it will be many years before we get to know that,” Alyssa replies, “Now go, let them get in here before they kill each other. I want them to meet their sister."

Aemond places a soft kiss on both of their foreheads before opening the door and allowing the two kids to enter.

"Oh! She is adorable!" Jaehaera carefully climbs onto the bed, moving closer to Alyssa.

"Congratulations, mother," Aegon smiles as he watches the baby, "and you, father, of course."

Aemond smiles at Aegon and places his hand on his shoulder, patting it, “This is Daena. Your sister"

“Daena,” they almost chant, though Jaehaera smiles, “A beautiful name. I like it"

“I think so too,” Aegon turns away from the prince and stands behind Jaehaera, “I'll take good care of you, little Daena. And I will take you to explore the realm in Stormcloud’s back”

“Yes, but she will ride Morghul first,” Jaehaera replies.

"No, her first ride will be on the king's mount," Aegon looks at her with a smirk.

Jaehaera rolls her eyes, "My dragon is faster."

Aemond clears his throat, "Her first flight will be with her father, and Vhagar."

Alyssa sighs. She had agreed to fly to Dragonstone as it was faster and safer than crossing the sea during the storms they were experiencing. Besides, it was Aemond's dream to fly with his baby like his grandmother had done with his father, and she was not going to take away that illusion.

“You're right,” Jaehaera asserts, a blush rising on her cheeks, embarrassed, “I'm sorry, we're arguing like fools at this happy time. Can I hold her?”

"Of course," Alyssa places the baby carefully in her arms, "Be careful with her head”

“Hi Daena,” Jaehaera says, standing up and cradling her, her nose delighting in the baby scent emanating from her little sister, “I can't wait to have one of my own.”

Alyssa sees that Aemond frowns and wants to comment on his niece's words, so she takes his hand and shakes his head before pointing to Aegon, who has once approached Jaehaera and looks at her, entranced. Jaehaera, feeling her eyes, looks at him and smiles back, pulling Daena closer to the future king.

“You were right,” Alyssa says quietly when her husband returns to her side, “I think they'll figure it out on their own”

“Everything will be fine, my love.” Aemond hugs her and turns his gaze to her daughter. Alyssa rests her head on his shoulder and sighs, filled with relief and happiness to see her family reunited once more.

Yes, everything would be fine.

Because it had been for her and Aemond, and it would be for Jaehaera and Aegon.

And for Daena.

Everything would be just fine.

I have received such support from you guys this past few days!! Thank you so much for reading and giving me your impressions of my story <3