#I missed my happy go lucky swordsman | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

ibijau · 4 years ago

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Burn it down AU // on AO3 // extras on AO3

Nie Huaisang doesn't let Lan Wangji know who the man he loved in his youth was and just like that, their fate is changed

(aka the one where nhs and lwj fall for each other instead of pining after men who turned away from them)

warning for self harm

Lan Wangji went to meet his husband, now sect leader Nie, to offer him comfort one last time before returning to the Cloud Recesses, and to gift him a small porcelain bird. He found the other man drunk and clearly depressed, but still appreciative of the present in spite of his state.

“A magpie,” Nie Huaisang sighed. “They’re clever, you know? Mate for life, or so it’s said. Don’t know why anyone would do that, but they do.”

“Hm.”

Lan Wangji sat near his husband, unsure what to do or say to comfort Nie Huaisang when he was so obviously distressed.

“I’ve heard that the Lans too only ever love once,” Nie Huaisang continued, carefully putting away the bird.

“Hm.” It was an old tale, one Lan Wangji had never given much consideration until recent years. He still wasn’t sure how he felt on that matter.

“Do you ever regret that it was Wei Wuxian?” Nie Huaisang asked.

“No,” Lan Wangji replied, the very thought of loving anyone else impossible, repulsing almost. It had always been Wei Wuxian. It would always be Wei Wuxian. To consider anyone else would have felt like a betrayal, like giving in to the voices around him.

“Lucky you,” Nie Huaisang chuckled bitterly, taking another sip of wine. “If I could, I’d choose someone else. Maybe you. At least I’d know where I’d stand if it were you, and I think you wouldn’t be a bad person to love instead of him.”

Lan Wangji frowned. “Huaisang is in love with someone?”

His husband starts laughing, only for it to quickly turn into heavy sobs. Lan Wangji immediately leaned closer to pat his shoulder, as he had done more than once in the past weeks. Nie Huaisang’s tears only doubled in strength. He moved as if he might try to hug Lan Wangji, only to stop himself at the last moment, curling up on himself instead.

“I just want it to stop,” he whined. “I just want things to be good. Nothing has ever been good since the war. I miss the time before, when I didn’t even know I loved him and it was easy! But now I’ve lost all my friends, and I’ve lost Da-ge, and I’m losing you and A-Yuan and… I was happy, I was so happy with you two! Wasn’t it good, all three of us?”

“It was,” Lan Wangji agreed, partly to comfort him, but also because it was true. They had gotten so comfortable together. It had taken a while to get used to this situation none of them had wanted, but… happiness was a good word for what they had built.

Lan Wangji too was sad to lose this, but he knew by then that nothing good ever lasted.

Nie Huaisang arrived in the middle of the night, furious and panicked, ranting about his brother’s body having disappeared. Lan Wangji took him to the rabbits’ pen so they could discuss what they had both discovered about the tomb, about a song played wrong, about betrayal from a man Nie Huaisang had called his friend and trusted as a brother.

“I needed to tell someone,” Nie Huaisang sniffed when he was done explaining. “And there’s no one… I can’t trust anyone except you. You’re Hanguang-Jun, you’re the best person I know and I… I can’t do this alone. I need your help.”

For a moment, Lan Wangji stared at his husband, his ears ringing with those words he had desperately wished to hear from another mouth. Once, he would have given anything to be asked for his help by the man he would have wanted as his husband, only to be rejected time and time again.

It wasn’t the same. It wasn’t the right man who had run to him, and Lan Wangji wondered if Nie Huaisang would have turned to him at all, had he had any other option. But it still made something shift inside his chest to have his assistance finally wanted like this.

“Of course I will help.”

Nie Huaisang smiled at him, a weak little smile without much joy to it, but one that spoke of trust and gratefulness beyond anything Lan Wangji had ever received.

Lan Xichen was devastated when Lan Wangji and Nie Huaisang told him about what Jin Guangyao had done, but he believed them and offered his support.

“You have a good husband,” Lan Xichen said when he was alone with his brother. “I’m… glad things worked out.”

“I’m glad too,” Lan Wangji admitted. “I am glad you chose him.”

Lan Xichen smiled. It looked so forced that his brother could only notice it, but he kindly chose not to comment on it. After a day filled with such difficult conversations, it did not surprise Lan Wangji that his brother found it hard to rejoice at that time.

The trip to Nightless City did not go quite as planned, and what they found there horrified both of them. Lan Wangji was glad neither of them had tried to go there alone, because neither of them would have managed without the other.

It was odd that he had come to make such a good team with Nie Huaisang. Lan Wangji would never have expected that. He’d always believed that whoever shared his life would have to be an exceptional cultivator, his match in all the art, a swordsman beyond compare with who he would go on Night Hunt to right the wrongs of the world. Nie Huaisang was none of those things, but he had proven that he was not a bad person to have at one’s side.

Still, as they rested at an inn that night after attempting to contact Nie Mingjue’s soul, Lan Wangji worried for his husband. First, because Nie Huaisang had been wounded in the fight with his brother’s arm, and was only then finally letting Lan Wangji treat his wound. Secondly because Nie Huaisang was never this quiet normally. His mood worsened with every passing moment, until he looked almost as severe as his brother did sometimes.

“What is on your mind?” Lan Wangji asked as he finished bandaging Nie Huaisang’s throat.

Nie Huaisang shrugged.

“We’d had an argument before he died, about Jin Guangyao. I think he still hates me. He was the only person left in my life who liked me and I’ve made even my brother hate me.”

Lan Wangji’s hand stilled against his husband’s neck.

“Not the only one.”

“A-Yuan doesn’t count. He’s just… he’s still a baby and I’m like family. He just hasn’t grown out of it yet.”

“I like Huaisang,” Lan Wangji corrected.

Nie Huaisang made an impatient gesture.

"You're used to me, it's not the same. If you'd had a choice in this, you would have happily gone the rest of your life never talking to me."

Lan Wangji fell silent, taking a moment to consider that statement. It was true that he only became close to Nie Huaisang because they were forced to spend time together. But the same might have been argued of any pair of friends. Without the right circumstances, people failed to get close even if they were perfect for one another.

He liked Nie Huaisang. It was a different emotion than the one provoked by Wei Wuxian. Less reluctant. Less desperate also. It was oddly easy to like Nie Huaisang, because their life together had been easy, as if they had been old friends from the start, or old spouses rather. There was no one else Lan Wangji would have trusted so much with A-Yuan, no one else he would have managed to talk to about his worries and hopes. He had never managed to reach that sort of trust with Wei Wuxian, no matter how he had desperately wanted to. But with Nie Huaisang…

It really had been so easy to like his husband, and it had been painful to lose his constant company.

"I like Huaisang," he insisted once he reached that conclusion. "I'm glad you were chosen for me."

"I'm not the person you really want at your side though."

"Wei Ying never wanted to be at my side."

It hurt. After so long it still hurt. It might never stop hurting to have been rejected again and again by the person he had most wanted, but… but Nie Huaisang gave him a crooked half smile, and took his hand, which soothed some of that old ache.

"His loss," he said with a warmth and affection that had become rare since his brother’s death "Wangji's side is a good place to be."

It took a while to prepare that final corpse finding spell, and all the while Nie Huaisang’s mental state became worse and worse. It brought back terrible memories for Lan Wangji, of seeing Wei Wuxian slowly crumbling into pieces before his eyes, unable to do anything to help.

Nie Huaisang too tried to push him away, but he wasn’t as good at it, or perhaps he was simply less reluctant to be helped. After what was probably the first true fight of their marriage, Nie Huaisang gave in and agreed to have Cleansing once again played to him. It did not take all his pain away, but he no longer seemed so desperate, and stopped talking about slaughtering every single Jin.

Then finally, after months of patience, the spell was ready for use.

Lan Wangji left A-Yuan with Hou Tianjian as soon as he received the news from Nie Huaisang, warned Lan Xichen that he had to go, and flew straight to the Unclean Realm. Nie Huaisang immediately took him to his house, and started explaining how this would go. It was an unpleasant spell to say the least, using methods that Wei Wuxian would have probably not frowned upon. It made sense that the Nie sect did not want these methods of theirs to become too well known.

"This one will work for sure," Nie Huaisang said, emptying a small vial of blood on a compass. “It has never once not worked since its creation. We’re going to get my brother back, Wangji!”

Lan Wangji dared not asked where the blood came from. At best it was an animal's, at worst a criminal's. Either way, he would rather not know.

But just as Nie Huaisang promised, this time they got a reaction. The compass’s needle started moving, pointing them toward four different directions. It was not a surprise to find that Nie Mingjue’s body had been cut in parts, they’d been expecting it, and yet it was still a shock. Nie Huaisang paled and trembled at this confirmation that Jin Guangyao had truly desecrated his brother’s body in such a manner. Lan Wangji grabbed his shoulder so he wouldn’t collapse, half wishing to pull him into a hug. It seemed like something that Nie Huaisang might need. Before Lan Wangji could act on that impulse, Nie Huaisang had himself back under control and was taking notes as to the direction they should head to first.

They did not go very far for the first part of Nie Mingjue.

They did not even leave the lands owned by Qinghe Nie.

To both their horror, they found the legs of Nie Mingjue inside a mausoleum belonging to the Nie sect. Nie Huaisang explained its purpose while they searched it, his voice growing increasingly desperate with each new use of his blood compass which seemed to point at nonsensical directions once they were inside.

“The walls,” Lan Wangji said when his husband finished explaining how that place worked, what it did, and the horrifying understanding of what Jin Guangyao had done dawned on him.

Nie Huaisang furiously shook his head, tears forming in his eyes that he would not allow to spill.

“It can’t be! I was there when we repaired it! I supervised it, I wanted to be a good sect leader, to take responsibility, I… I would have seen it! All the bodies were whole, I saw it, I saw them!”

“Yet Chifeng-Zun must be there.”

Nie Huaisang wiped his eyes with the back of his hand, and together they opened the wall in the place the compass pointed to. There was a body there, a whole one. They exchanged a look, and without a word Nie Huaisang started undressing that man, checking first his right arm since they had found the left one already, then his torso. Nie Huaisang cried out in horror at the sight of a line of careful stitches attaching foreign legs to that man’s torso, their skin a different shade than the rest of his body.

Nie Huaisang roared like a wounded beast.

“I trusted him!” he shouted, breaking into tears. “I trusted him, I liked him so much! But Da-ge was right, he was always right! I trusted him and he did this, I trusted him…”

Lan Wangji looked at his husband, kneeling next to the half body of his own brother, curled up and shaking from tears and rage. He moved without thinking, kneeling next to him and pulling him in his arms. It did not bother him when Nie Huaisang’s arms encircled his waist to cling at his back, when the other man buried his face against his chest to sob.

Nie Huaisang had long ago become one of those precious few people whose touch Lan Wangji welcomed.

More than welcomed, perhaps.

Lan Wangji rubbed circles on his husband’s back, silently trying to comfort him, to show him that he was not alone, that there was someone else for him to trust. Someone who would not turn on him the way Jin Guangyao had.

Nie Huaisang cried and cried, until he had no tears left, until he was just sobbing and hiccuping in Lan Wangji’s arms, until he calmed down, still clinging to his husband’s back. They remained like this a long while, longer than was safe in such a place. But Lan Wangji refused to be the one to break the contact, not when it felt right to be holding Nie Huaisang who so clearly needed it, and it seemed Nie Huaisang as well refused to be the one to give up on it.

They only let go of each other when they heard the voice of a Nie disciple calling out to them, surprised to find them there on his patrol.

Nie Huaisang quickly tore himself from Lan Wangji’s embrace and went to meet his disciple to feed him a lie about an anomaly he’d detected with one of the entrapped corpses, and how it would need to be discreetly replaced.

Lan Wangji tried not to think too much about how right it had felt to be holding his husband this close.

Fierce corpses and conspiracies he could deal with, but this he was not ready to face yet.

It took Lan Wangji over a week to finally understand where the blood used in the tracking spell came from.

When he entered their room at an inn and found Nie Huaisang cutting into his own arm to get fuel for the compass, Lan Wangji felt stupid for not understanding sooner.

“It’s the only way!” Nie Huaisang hissed before his husband could say a word. “It has to be a blood relative or it doesn’t work. If you don’t like it, go away, I’ll find him on my own!”

Lan Wangji said nothing. He closed the door behind him, and put down the tray of food he had bought for their dinner. Still silent, he came to kneel next to the bed on which Nie Huaisang sat, and grasped his husband’s arm. Nie Huaisang barely resisted before letting him inspect the cut. It was deeper than it probably needed to be, and longer too. Lan Wangji sent some spiritual energy into it so it would heal faster.

“I have to do it like that,” Nie Huaisang insisted, nearly pleading now. “I didn’t want to tell you because I knew you wouldn’t like it. It’s bad magic, I know, but…”

“I don’t like it,” Lan Wangji agreed. “Not because it is bad. Because Huaisang is hurt.”

Nie Huaisang huffed, and tried to pull his arm away. Lan Wangji did not allow it.

“Ah, Wangji, careful with what you say. I’ll start thinking you care about me if you say things like that!”

“I do,” Lan Wangji protested.

Nie Huaisang was his friend, his husband, the other father of his son. Of course he cared. He thought he had made it clear.

He would need to make it clearer, because Nie Huaisang gave him a very odd look, as if he were almost scared to hear those words, and that wouldn’t do. He needed Nie Huaisang to know he was appreciated.

“How much blood is needed?” Lan Wangji asked, hoping that subject would be less distressing to his husband.

“That full vial every time.”

It was not a lot of blood as such, but they had been using the compass every day. Even for a stronger cultivator, this would not have been ideal. Lan Wangji quickly gave the situation some thought.

“We stop using it every day,” he decided. Nie Huaisang opened his mouth to protest, but Lan Wangji silenced him with a gesture. “We do not need it every day. We will take note of the direction and follow it. If the direction changes, we act accordingly. Your diet must also be changed to help you replace that blood. I will be monitoring your health.”

“It’s not necessary, I’m just fine,” Nie Huaisang pouted. “It’s just a little blood, who cares?”

“I care,” Lan Wangji reminded him, distractedly stroking the skin of the arm he was still holding. “I do not want Huaisang to be hurt.”

Nie Huaisang stared at him with an intensity neither of them could quite handle, forcing both of them to look away.

“You don’t have to do this,” Nie Huaisang muttered, weakly trying to pull his arm away again. And again, Lan Wangji refused to allow it.

“I have to do this. You are important.”

“To A-Yuan,” Nie Huaisang huffed, a spot of colour on his cheeks.

“To A-Yuan,” Lan Wangji granted him. “To me as well.”

More colour spread to Nie Huaisang’s face, and Lan Wangji felt the other man’s heartbeat quicken. He looked intently at Nie Huaisang, wishing to say something that he could not yet quite put into words, not even in the secret of his own mind. He wanted to explain just how important Nie Huaisang was to him, how much he cared, how deeply it saddened him that Nie Huaisang couldn’t see it, how he wished he were better with words to say it the way it needed to be said.

Lan Wangji hadn’t found it so hard to speak on any subject since he had made a similar realisation about Wei Wuxian, years before.

That, perhaps, ought to have been a clue as to what was happening.

But before Lan Wangji could fully process his own thoughts, Nie Huaisang started complaining about being hungry. That took precedence over Lan Wangji’s internal ramblings. He finally let go of his husband’s arm and went to pick up again the food he had brought. He made sure that Nie Huaisang ate his whole share, even when he accused Lan Wangji of being a nagging mother.

Someone had to take care of Nie Huaisang, and Lan Wangji did not mind being that person.

It had been good luck to meet Song Lan, more so than they realised at first.

Of course, Lan Wangji was a little star struck at first upon meeting such a renowned rogue cultivator and being offered to travel together since they were headed the same way. It was hard to say if Song Lan noticed, but Nie Huaisang did and teased him mercilessly over it every time they were alone. Lan Wangji did not mind. If anything, he was glad that Nie Huaisang’s mood was decent enough to think of joking this way. It had become rare since his brother’s death, and Lan Wangji had missed it.

It was good to have met Song Lan.

They only understood how good that had been when a blind girl led them to the place where she lived to meet a man that she claimed was Xiao Xingchen, and they found themselves facing Xue Yang instead.

Lan Wangji and Song Lan fought against him, while Nie Huaisang forced the blind girl to come with him so they could warn Xiao Xingchen of what was happening. Furious to see whatever nefarious plan he had come up with fall apart like this, Xue Yang pulled out every dirty trick he could. In a moment of distraction Song Lan was hit with corpse poisoning, distracting him just long enough that Xue Yang would have had a chance to slice open his mouth, if not for Lan Wangji’s intervention.

It was then that the fog already present around them since the start of that fight grew thicker, blinding Lan Wangji. Xue Yang was light enough on his feet that it made his attack nearly undetectable, the only warning his killing intent.

Thankfully Xiao Xingchen joined them at that point, and it seemed that not being able to see was not a problem for him. Lan Wangji, at that moment, guessed it had to be that the rogue cultivator’s level was simply great enough for it. He only understood later the true reason behind his ease, and cursed Xue Yang all over again.

It was a thrilling fight. To be side by side with two such renowned cultivators, trying to capture a black hearted villain whose crimes could not be denied because he had confessed to them with dark glee… it was the sort of life Lan Wangji would have dreamed of in his youth.

It only occurred to him too late that if Xiao Xingchen was there, then Nie Huaisang might have returned as well. Lan Wangji would have expected his husband to wisely remain hidden, since he was no fighter. And perhaps Nie Huaisang did remain hidden, but not well enough, because Xue Yang found him.

Lan Wangji’s blood froze in his veins when he heard Nie Huaisang’s pained cry coming from inside the fog.

He dashed ahead, following the sounds of a commotion. In the thick fog he spotted two figures struggling, the taller one having the clear advantage, the smaller one trying to protect a third shape curled up on the ground. Later, the blind girl who wasn’t blind in the least explained that Xue Yang had stumbled into the place where she and Nie Huaisang were hiding, and that he had wanted to make her pay for her betrayal. Nie Huaisang had tried to protect her, only to be stabbed. When Lan Wangji found them, Nie Huaisang was trying to stop Xue Yang from pulling his sword away so he could not strike again.

Distracted by this struggle, Xue Yang could not defend himself when Lan Wangji attacked, slashing at him with enough strength to sever his arm. The shock of that wound was such that Xue Yang could not resist the talismans Lan Wangji and Song Lan, alerted by the noise, threw at him to immobilize him.

With this taken care of, Lan Wangji turned to his husband. They were close enough that even in that fog he could see Nie Huaisang smile at him.

“I knew you’d rescue me,” Nie Huaisang said, before collapsing on the ground.

Lan Wangji heard a shout, which he did not realise then was his own. He rushed to Nie Huaisang’s side, inspecting his wound with trembling hands. He swiftly removed Xue Yang’s blade from his husband's body and poured as much spiritual energy into healing the wound as he could, desperate to heal him.

He could not lose Nie Huaisang.

Not him as well.

Lan Wangji was not sure he would have the strength to survive another loss.

He wasn’t sure he’d have the will to survive this.

The universe must have taken pity on him that day, because Nie Huaisang’s wound reacted well to Lan Wangji’s spiritual energy and soon stopped bleeding. Xiao Xingchen, although clearly shaken by everything that had happened, promptly offered to take them to his house so they could better care for Nie Huaisang and make sure that Xue Yang was properly chained up.

Lan Wangji picked up his unconscious husband in his arms, holding him close to his heart as they made their way to the house in question.

Later, when Nie Huaisang’s life was certain to be in no danger, when it was sure that Xue Yang would not escape, Lan Wangji came to sit on the side of his husband’s bed. He took the other man’s hand, needing to feel its warmth, and set out to patiently wait for Nie Huaisang to wake up. Before too long, he had the surprise of being joined by Song Lan.

Song Lan, with that cold politeness of his, enquired about Nie Huaisang. He appeared relieved to find that the other man was stable. His own corpse poisoning had been handled already. Aside from Xue Yang, nobody would have lasting sequels from that fight. Not physically, at least. It would probably take Xiao Xingchen a little time to recover from the ways Xue Yang had manipulated him, but he was a hopeful person and already making plans to leave Yi City so he and that not-so-blind girl could start travelling with Song Lan, exactly as he had once done before Xue Yang ruined his life a first time.

“Sometimes, life gives you a second chance,” Song Lan said, looking outside where Xiao Xingchen and A-Qing were putting their things in order.

Lan Wangji nodded, his hand still holding Nie Huaisang’s. His husband would be fine with a little rest. His ridiculous, impossible husband who should have known better than to put himself in danger but had done it anyway, because Nie Huaisang was nothing if not dedicated to doing what was right.

It had never occurred before to Lan Wangji how much Nie Huaisang trusted him. Even though the other man had turned to him time and time again since his brother’s death, Lan Wangji had told himself that it was simply by lack of choice. But the way he had said he knew Lan Wangji would rescue him, as if it had been an evidence to him… and he was not wrong. Lan Wangji had come running at the first sign of trouble. Lan Wangji would have done anything to protect that husband of his, this man he cared so much about that he did not know how to handle it.

Satisfied with that conversation, Song Lan left the two of them alone. Through the window, Lan Wangji saw him walk up to Xiao Xingchen to help him with something. Once, it would have filled Lan Wangji with envy to see the two of them work together like that, their every movement speaking of trust and habit even after years apart. But there was no envy that day. There would not be envy again, Lan Wangji realised.

It took him a moment to notice when Nie Huaisang woke up, but Lan Wangji eventually noticed the more rapid pulse in the hand he was still holding. When he looked down at the bed, he found his husband looking back at him with an expression he could not quite read.

“You saved me,” Nie Huaisang whispered.

“You knew I would,” Lan Wangji replied, letting go of his husband’s hand to push away the hair that had fallen before his eyes.

Nie Huaisang smiled weakly, leaning into that touch. Without thinking about it, Lan Wangji cupped his cheek, which made the other man’s smile widen.

“Ah, Wangji, Wangji,” he sighed. “I’ll be getting ideas if you keep being so nice to me, so you should stop.”

“They would be the right ideas,” Lan Wangji calmly replied.

He felt Nie Huaisang flinch, saw his eyes widen as if in fear.

“Wangji, don’t make me hope for something I can’t have,” he whispered. “I can’t go through that again. I know who you want, who you love.”

“I want a man who stands at my side and is happy there,” Lan Wangji said as he gently stroked Nie Huaisang’s cheek with his thumb. “I love a man who sees me and finds me worthy of trust.”

“Lans only love once.”

Lan Wangji huffed at that old tale. He had never thought of it in his youth, before clinging to it with desperation when everyone tried to order him to turn away from Wei Wuxian. Now, though, it felt as nothing more than a story, a cautionary tale to encourage Lan children to be careful with their affections.

“Not all Lans,” he stated, leaning forward to carefully kiss his husband.

Nie Huaisang gasped against his lips, but did not push him away.

It was a sweet first kiss, Lan Wangji thought. Different from the one he had stolen on a tree, so many years before. Nie Huaisang’s lips were a little parched but retained a certain softness, and he was leaning eagerly into the kiss rather than fighting to escape it.

When they parted, Nie Huaisang was smiling more brightly than he had in months. More brightly than he ever had before, Lan Wangji thought, and the realisation that he was the cause for such happiness made him smile as well.

He then kissed Nie Huaisang again, simply because he could, because it was allowed, because it was welcome, because he loved this man he had married, with whom he was raising a child.

Lan Wangji loved him and after that second kiss Nie Huaisang returned those words to him before kissing him again, and again, both of them too happy to stop.

#lan wangji #nie huaisang #wangsang #I guess that's the ship name?#mdzs #mo dao zu shi #burn it down au #this is the end folks! I probably won't write again on this one unless I do manage to do that prompt for xisang eloping #if you're wondering yes they still take down jgy but I'm not sure they'll save wn because they have less incentive to do so #also lwj will probably start living more in the unclean realm #and lxc will find a nice woman to marry and have a family with and he'll learn to be happy witht hat because he's a reasonable man #jau writes

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psychedelic-ink · 4 years ago

Photo

This is my commission for @smol-fatale ! Sorry for the delay, I had to work on this a bit longer then I anticipated since the ones I wrote before never felt right :’) Thank you so much for commissioning me and letting me post it! I hope you enjoy this!

Pairings: Chiara (OC) x Sanji , Zoro x Sanji (established relationship) , Sanji x Chiara x Zoro (implied)

Genre: Hurt/Comfort, Romance

Word count: 2.5k

Summary: After Chiara sacrifices herself and gets injured, Sanji is angry that she would put herself in harms way without thinking about the consequences.

Commissions | Ko-Fi

Chiara gritted her teeth as her eyes darted between the marines who surrounded both her and Usopp. Honestly, they were just supposed to get a couple of supplies and return to the ship, it wasn’t supposed to be a life or death situation. Sure, maybe she was over exaggerating, this wasn’t the first time they were surrounded by marines but the amount of the soldiers just seemed to be unend this time. How long were they supposed to fight these fools?

Quickly her gaze went from the soldiers and to Usopp, she could tell that he was thinking the same thing as her. The sniper sighed and pulled down his goggles. He shot a quick glance at her.

“Let’s try to make an opening,” he said as he pulled out his trusty slingshot. “And run for it when we do.”

“Aye aye.”

━━━━━━━━┛ ✠ ┗━━━━━━━━

Chiara groaned as she felt herself being laid on a bed. By the smells alone she could tell that she was in the sick bay. Feeling two hooves holsting her shirt up, Chiara tried to remember what had happened. The last thing she remembered was fighting a shit ton of marines with Usopp, then...a bullet shot, but it wasn’t aimed at ther it was aimed at the sniper.

“What happened, Usopp?” Chopper’s worried voice reached her ears.

“W-We…” he stuttered, sounding equally distraught. “We were fighting marines, I don’t know how they found us but there were so many of them...one of them fired and she pushed me out of the way.”

“Did she get cut anywhere, do you know?”

“It should be just the bullet wound.”

Oh, so that’s what happened.

“Alright, you can leave Usopp, I’ll let you guys know when I’m done.”

Chiara felt Chopper put something plastic over her nose and mouth, her eyes fluttered as she was lulled into a deep slumber.

━━━━━━━━┛ ✠ ┗━━━━━━━━

When Chiara came to her senses, her whole body ached. Tongue sticking to the roof of her mouth, her eyes darted to the bedside table in hopes to find a glass of water. But in addition to finding a pitcher full of crystal clear water, she also found Sanji sitting next to her. He hadn’t noticed that she was awake, his eyes were glued to the side and he was shaking his leg furiously. He bit his bottom lip and Chiata recognized the signs of withdrawal. Has he been here long enough to crave a smoke so bad?

“Oh you’re awake.”

Sanji noticed her gaze on the pitcher and quickly filled her a glass of water, he helped her straighten up and placed the glass on her chapped lips. Normally, she would’ve just snatched the glass away from him and done it herself, but her arms felt too weak to actually do such a thing.

The water was soothing as it went down her throat, with big gulps Chiara finished the glass in seconds. Sanji placed the glass back on the table and held the pitcher.

“Do you want another glass?”

“No,thanks.”

Sanji removed his hand from the pitcher and started to tweak at the ends of his shirt. Chiara could sense something was off, but to be honest something always was off when the two of them were alone. She could tell there was something bothering him, something that he itched to just say.

“How are you feeling?” he asked instead.

“Better.” she replied simply.

“Good.”

“Just spit it out Sanji.”

This seemed to take him by surprise. His only visible brow was raised as his eyes widened. The cook sighed and leaned back into the chair, scratching the back of his head, he stared at the ceiling.

“Why did you jump in front of a bullet?”

Chiara, her eyebrow raised with visible confusion, shot him a puzzled look. Sanji was unaware of this as he continued to stare at the ceiling, his leg still bobbing up and down.

“I didn’t jump in front of it just for the fun of it you know,” she replied, slightly agitated. “If I hadn’t done that Usopp would’ve gotten shot.”

“How is it better if you get shot?”

Sanji had lowered his gaze back to her. Her eyes were cold and pierced through her. She started to sweat and her pulse quickened. Chiara was surprised that her body reacted so strongly towards a look, especially a look that Sanji gave her. She swallowed. Her mind scanned along all the things she could reply with and none of them felt like something the cook would be happy to hear and none of them held any consolation. But lucky her, Sanji continued to talk.

“You shouldn't just sacrifice yourself like that,” his voice now raised a bit. “Usopp’s body can handle it, you’re a wo—”

“You gotta be kidding me,” Chiara cut him off before he could finish. “I am so sorry Sanji,” she snapped rolling her tongue. “I’m not going to let one of my crewmates get shot instead of me because I’m a “woman”.”

“You could’ve died!” he snapped back, his brow visibly twitching with anger.

“Usopp could’ve died too!”

“He should’ve been protecting you, not the other way around!”

“What do you care, just leave me alone.”

Chiara’s voice had grown eerily low, almost like a whisper. She sounded cold and her words were like weapons. Sanji had visibly stepped back with that, his leg finally stilling as he got up. He didn’t look at her, turning around, his heart felt heavy in his chest.

“Fine, get well soon.”

Chiara let her head fall back against the wall, staring at the sealing, tears stung the corner of her eyes. Why did he have to make everything so complicated for her? She was confused, confused as to why she felt so hurt, so angry. Whenever they were alone she ended up feeling so undeniably naked and bare in front of him. She had no right to feel this way and she certainly had no right to make Sanji feel like that as well.

The door closed and she let out a long sigh.

When was everything going to stop being so complicated?

━━━━━━━━┛ ✠ ┗━━━━━━━━

After the incident everything was pretty much normal except for Chiara’s and Sanji’s relationship. Their friendship was already on thin ice but after their discourse it seemed like even that fell under water. They never talked, only if they had to, no one really seemed to notice but Chiara’s mental state was suffering. Despite being angry at the cook’s misogynistic words that she should be protected just because she was a “woman”, she did miss talking to him.

Sanji had seemed to crawl into a shell as well, he seemed more dependent on Zoro. Sure, he would still flatter the females of the ship with countless desserts and sweet words but something was off in the way he did it. Chiara saw the two men fade into the back of the ship and converse for what seemed to take hours. Chiara was curious but then again she couldn’t really say anything. But the fact that she could so clearly feel Sanji’s distraught made her feel even worse.

The days continued to go on like this, Sanji avoiding any kind of contact with her and her doing the same, only looking at him when his back was turned or during combat. He didn’t seem to notice any of it. It seemed like he was only focused on not bothering her in any way.

And now Chiara sat among Nami’s tangerine trees, listening to the leaves rustled and taking in deep breaths of the citrus smell. She was trying to clear her mind, if such a thing was possible, and maybe try to figure out a way to fix everything.

“Hey,”

Chiara jolted and turned her head towards the voice. Zoro appeared between the leaves, he had a gentle smile on his face as he stared down at her. Chiara pulled her knees close to her chest and averted her eyes with a pout. She heard Zoro sigh and sit down next to her, cross legged.

“You can avoid the cook forever you know?” he said and she could feel his gaze staring into her soul.

“I know that,” Chiara mumbled. “I just don’t know how to talk to him, he makes me so angry.”

“I get that, he pisses me off too.”

Chiara shifted her gaze to Zoro, she was curious as to why Zoro was actually here, talking to her. To be honest Chiara always admired the swordsman and always felt some sort of closeness, she couldn’t quite name it and opted to call it an admiration of strength and level headedness.

“He was really worried about you,” he continued, locking his dark eyes with hers. “I don’t agree with what he said, but believe me that he wasn’t trying to upset you.”

“Well yeah I know that much,” she said, rolling her eyes. “But does his intentions really excuse his weird ass behaviors?”

Zoro chuckled, “Well...no but you two could at least talk about it. You two might seem opposite from each other but you’re more similar to him than you think.”

“Is that so?”

Chiara’s mind faded into her own thoughts. It didn’t seem like Zoro was going to elaborate on what similarities they had. Maybe he wanted her to figure it out on her own? Or maybe he just wanted her to talk it out with Sanji. Chiara didn’t quite know how that conversation would go but then again she trusted Zoro and his views. If Sanji was bothered about the situation enough that Zoro felt like he had to intervene, the situation really must be dire.

But then again she really wouldn’t know what to say so she decided to be straightforward.

“What should I say to him?”

Zoro thought for a bit as he looked off into the distance, then shrugged.

“Just be honest.”

━━━━━━━━┛ ✠ ┗━━━━━━━━

A week had passed since her conversation with Zoro. Chiara really wanted to talk with him but her overthinking and the fact that Sanji was avoiding her, as kindly as he could, made it difficult for her to catch him alone.

Finally as a last resort she decided to ambush him while it was his turn to be on the lookout. She climbed up the crows nest as silently as she could, and gently creaked the door open. Chiara couldn’t help but smile when she saw Sanji looking out with a soft blanket around his broad shoulders.

He flinched at the sound and turned around, Chiara couldn’t tell if he was relaxed or nervous to see her.

“Hey,” she began, closing the door after her. “Whatcha doing?”

Sanji gifted his gaze back to the window and continued to watch the horizon.

“Lookout.” he said nonchalantly. “You?”

“I…” Chiara quickly made her way and sat down next to him. Sanji stiffened but didn’t oppose to the fact that their shoulders were touching. “I wanted to talk.”

“About what?”

“Us.”

That seemed to snap Sanji out of his trance. He looked at her, wide eyed and his eyes quickly scanned her features as he tried to understand if she was serious or not. His over the top reaction made Chiara sight and contemplate whether Sanji was ready or not to have such a conversation. Her eyes fixated on the floor she attempted to get up.

“You know what, never mi—!”

Before she could fully stand up, however, a strong grip took a hold of her wrist and pulled her back down. Chiara let out a groan as she fell back to the ground right next to Sanji, he was looking at her with a piercing gaze, seeming much more calm than before.

“What did you want to talk about?”

Sanji let go of her wrist and Chiara took in a sharp breath, startled. She pulled her knees up to her chest and directed her gaze towards the sea.

“I think we’ve been misunderstanding each other and... I want to stop.” Sanji stood in silence, prompting her to go on. “It’s just… I hate it when you act as if I can’t be strong because I’m a woman but in reality I am strong and it pisses me off that you can’t see that-”

Sanji cut her off, “I know you’re strong, it’s just… I was worried and hate it when you do stuff without giving a second thought of what might happen to you.”

Chiara wasn’t ready to hear how Sanji’s voice trembled. Her eyes wide, they shifted back to him. The cook was staring directly at her with a pained expression. A knot forming in her throat, she swallowed. She wasn’t the type to think about herself when someone she cared for was in danger and she never thought that self sacrifice could so easily hurt another.

“I…”

Chiara was lost of words, gazing into each other's eyes, they inched closer without even knowing. The blanket that Sanji had laid across his shoulders pooled to the floor, the ship gently swayed them, she felt as if she was put into a trance.

Then Chiara felt Sanji’s lips.

It was soft, tender and full of love. Then Zoro’s words echoed in her jumbled up thoughts “just be honest” , the swordsman wasn’t talking about being honest with Sanji but to herself. She felt so afraid to be vulnerable in front of people, in front of them for the longest time. But truth be told, maybe she had fallen for two men instead of one.

Sanji’s the one to break the kiss, his gaze immediately shifting to the floor. Chiara could read the traces of regret all over his face.

“I’m sorry.” he quickly muttered, his fingers ghosting over his lips. “I wasn’t supposed to do that.”

“It’s...okay,” she took in a shaky breath. “It was nice.”

“Do...do you have a crush on me?”

The question caught her a bit by surprise but she couldn’t help but smile at his shy tone. A hint of pink decorated his cheeks.

“I do but...I’m a bit confused since it seems I might like Zoro as well.”

“We actually talked about that.”

Chiara shot Sanji a confused look, the cook was quick to explain what they had been discussing with the swordsman and apparently they had been discussing it for a while. Zoro liked her too but wanted both Sanji and her to work it out before they proposed anything. Chiara was both happy and worried. She didn’t want to disturb their already established relationship and...to be frank she felt like she was a mess. Way too much to deal with.

“I don’t want to come in between you two,” she voiced out her thoughts. “I don’t want to disturb anything.”

“You won’t.” Sanji replied, quickly. “We both care for you Chiara. Both of us and you care about both me and Zoro right?”

“Y-Yeah.”

Sanji pulled her into an embrace, he placed a soft kiss on her cheek.

“You don’t have to answer right now, we can talk to Zoro before you decide anything.”

Chiara nodded, happy that she could talk to both of them. After weeks of silence from Sanji, they were finally talking again. Realized that there was something more to share then friendship.

Chiara was excited of what the future held.

#one piece #one piece oc #one piece imagine #writing commission #sanji x oc #sanji x zoro #zoro x oc #hurt comfort #romance #commission

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claudemblems · 5 years ago

Note

Fluff headcanons of post time skip yuri x reader where yuri discovers the reader's dimples for the first time plz?

AAAA after this I have one request left in my inbox :,) I’ve been playing Three Houses and I’m so in love with Yuri I just,,, I want him,, I want that boy,, AND I GOT HIS FIRST SUPPORT WITH BERNADETTA but that’s besides the point. Here are some headcanons of my love, my sassy pastel swordsman.

---

Seeing Yuri smile—genuinely, that is—is an extremely rare occurrence. But when he does smile, it’s like sunlight softly streaming in through the windows. You can’t get enough of it.

However, the same could be said of you. Especially since the war broke out, it had been hard to get yourself to smile.

Yuri’s known for many years that you’re not the sort to put your feelings out in the open. He understands that since he’s the same way.

But he couldn’t help but want to see you really happy, not faking smiles or being too aware of those around you.

You were also extremely self-conscious about your smile; you often covered it with your hands.

Eventually, Yuri had enough of not knowing what that precious smile of yours looked like, and he decided that he was going to make you grin like an idiot, even if it killed him.

The moment you’d finally showcased your true smile was when the two of you were talking late into the night, catching up about what you’d both missed during the last five years.

You’d mentioned that Yuri had helped you overcome some of your fears, and that he was the only person you’d ever felt truly comfortable being yourself around. You supposed some of his personality was rubbing off on you.

“I’m not so sure that’s a good thing, [Name]. Next thing you know, you’ll be having nobles falling at your feet for your charms. And I know I’m the one who’s going to have to deal with those consequences.”

Then you’d laughed. You laughed so loudly, throwing your head back, unconcerned about restraining it. And there was your smile: effortless, mesmerizing.

Wait...you also had dimples?

It really had to have been his lucky day. All he wanted was to just see a smile, but you also had the cutest dimples any human being had ever possessed. It kind of embarrassed him that they made his heart flutter like that.

“I didn’t know you had those.” “What?”

Your face had turned rose red when Yuri leaned close and tapped the corners of your lips. “Dimples.”

You short circuited. You couldn’t function. He took an arrow and it landed straight in your heart.

“I think I’ll make it my mission to get you to smile as often as possible because those dimples are just as cute as your adorable face.”

#fire emblem three houses #fire emblem three houses headcanons #yuri leclerc #yuri x reader #claudemblems writes

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kileyrose-2003 · 5 years ago

Text

Jenny Lind x Fem! Reader

A/N: Hello lovelies! This wasn't really a request but more something I decided to write for my dear friend @merci-bitch If you guys like this enough, maybe I'll open up request for Jenny.

I haven't been that well with my stress levels and mental health lately and she's been there to ground me and keep me as sane as I can possibly be. This is for you Tina. I love you and appreciate you and sincerely hope you enjoy this. Side note for all the people who have requested fics from me, I have not forgotten you. I know I'm behind and I will be getting to all of you eventually. Love you all and I hope you are all well. Stay safe, lovelies!

Warnings: Sexual content, implied mentions of self harm.

"...May I now present the most beautiful bird of song in our ring. Miss Y/n Y/l/n." The crowd cheered wildly as you stepped on stage. The spotlight making you sweat through your millions pound of caked on makeup as you forced a dazzling grin.

They say Phineas is The Greatest Showman but really if there was a true actor among people in the circus, it was you. To the crowd you came off as this charismatic, happy go lucky girl but you were far from that.

You were happy once but that seemed a dream now, hanging off far in the distance with all the stars shining in the sky.

You were born into a family of the musically elite. Your mother was a lyricist and your father, a prominent composer. For the first few years of your life were fairly pleasant.

You never wanted for anything and anything you desired within reason but something was always off when your parents were together. Exchanges of words that were once long and loving and had exchanges of pet names on the end of it were a thing of past and you couldn't help but wonder what happened. What changed.

They simply couldn't love each other anymore and then came the next two years of hell. The divorce. It was painful and confusing seeing two people who loved you fighting over you. Neither of them budging on which one would have primary custody of you.

You didn't feel like a person anymore. You felt like an object. A doll that only either of them wanted when they felt in the mood to play house. Because no man or woman that either of them dated would want to deal with their "baggage"

That's what you were. You were baggage. It killed your self esteem. Made you feel weak. Made you feel useless. Because if your own family looked at you like that, certainly you were useless, weren't you?

Desperation and depression set in and you wanted to find a way out. Find an escape to some place warm and kind where you could cry and have someone listen to you. Tell you 'I hear you' and 'I believe you'. You tried to find that place. Sometimes in the worst ways you could but you failed. Luckily.

When people would ask why you wanted out. Why you didn't want to deal with it anymore it was hard to talk about it. Because no one believed you. No one ever believed you about of the things your parents girlfriend or boyfriend said to you or what they did to you. No one ever believed you when you said you were hurt or needed a hug. The moment you would try to talk about what made you sad or angry you'd be brushed off to the side like a piece of garbage and so you refused to their answer their questions on why you wanted it to end, and learned the art of smiling.

You quickly learned people liked it when you smiled and acted preppy and in ways, you enjoyed it too. There weren't as many questions you were asked and had to answer and you were fine with that. It didn't make you feel any better though. At the end of the day when you looked at yourself in the mirror, you didn't see yourself. You didn't know who your reflection was besides a lie. An empty shell of yourself you wanted to curl up into and just cry.

You went on like for a while until you turned 16. That was when the "accident" happened. You could still remember it so clearly in your mind. Going to visit your father and finding a trail of crimson on the cake white tile flooring. A red hue that would never truly be erased from how ironic you found the colors to be. The white being the small tattered piece of childhood innocence you once held onto so tightly slowly fading away with the red which shone of what horrible events happened before you got there before you even see what happened.

It truly was only you and your mom after that and you were never the same. Hearty laughs you would bark out at jokes that once made you laugh were replaced by a fake giggle and no longer did you even bother with smiling. You were hurting and because you were hurting, your mom hurt too. Reality finally setting in on the fragility of your mental state that no person or form of tenderness could fix and even after everything your parents put you through it hurt you to see your mom hurt.

You ran away from home not long after that. Phineas was the one who found you on the street, dirt matted in your hair and a mess in every way imaginable. He was kind to you. Offering you a warm meal and a family and so you let him take you back home with him.

It took you a while to get used to the Showman's antics but you eventually got used to it. Though you never got used to his wife though, Charity. Something about the woman just rubbed you the wrong way. She always seemed so stiff but she was motherly in a way and you eagerly accepted her affection. The two of them built up your confidence. Made you feel at least somewhat whole again and not as empty.

When Phineas first brought up the idea of the circus, Charity thought it was ridiculous. You didn't though. You found it unique.

"And what would you provide for entertainment? Bafoons?!"

"People of talent my dear. Acrobats, swordsman, tightrope walkers, you name it you can find it!"

"And where would you find these people? Do we even know anyone talented to enough to even provide a simple song."

"I-i can sing." Your voice was sheepish and made the couple stare at you as if they never even seen you before. "What?"

"I-i can sing. Both my parents were musician. I was raised around music." When the shock finally fell off of Phineas' face he managed to form a full sentence. "Can-can you show us?"

You nodded and took a deep breath in and sang a bit of opera you remembered from your childhood. "..Il n'a rien dit, mais il me plaît."

"Stop! Stop!" You jumped at the abruptness of his words and waited for a response. "Y/n, why didn't you tell either of us you could like this before?"

"You like it?" You were in shock. Besides Phineas and Charity, no one ever really recognized your talent before and you never thought it was anything to brag about. "Like it, is an understatement my dear. You have the voice of angel."

"Well I guess you found your singer," Charity mused sipping a cup of tea.

It wasn't long after that Phineas started posting help wanted signs around the city. You were there with him through the entire process. Sitting through some of the best and worst auditions you'd ever heard.

Charity was skeptical of the whole thing at first but she eventually came around. Attending most of your performances and comforting you back stage before you went on. For the first time in the longest time, you felt complete. Like you had a family and people who loved and cared about you.

The show became a hit and eventually you moved into your own apartment but you stayed close with Phineas. You were one of the first ones to find out about the Queen's Invitation to the palace.

" ..Phineas, Phineas! I know I told you I signed up for this so whatever you dealt my way, I'd deal with, but this. I did not sign up for this." You chased after the showman as he threw clothes in your suitcase.

"Nonsense, my dear. The Queen calls upon us to grace her presence and what she wants, she shall receive." The smile on his face was obnoxious and you wanted to smack it off.

"Yes but Phineas, I don't know anyone there and you know how I get around new people." You looked down at the ground, trying to hide just how small you were feeling in the inside.

Phineas stopped what he was doing and took your hands in his, fatherly gaze gleaming in his eyes. "I know but you know me. Think of it like a show. That's all it is. All you have to do is smile, greet people as you normally. If you get, perform as you normally would, sing, floor the audience with your incredible voice and then we go home. If I didn't think you could do this, I wouldn't ask you to come with me."

The grin he gave you made you feel warm inside and you let out a throaty noise. "But what will I wear?"

"Don't worry about that." You rolled your eyes as he carried your trunk out of your room. "When are we leaving?"

"Tomorrow." Your eyes widened. "Tomorrow?!"

"Royalty doesn't wait for excellence." You let out a groan and looked at yourself, seeing that girl again. The girl you locked away a long time ago, never wanting to see her again but today she made herself prominent and you hated it. "Fuck off!" You put your hands over your face and let out a sigh. You really didn't want to do this but you made a promise to when you joined the circus that you'd do something better with yourself, make something of yourself and now you had that opportunity laying in front of you on a silver platter. "God help me make it through this.."

....

The palace was even prettier than you could imagine. The lighting from the ceiling cascaded all around, highlighting the gold trim on some of the paintings. You caught a glimpse off your own necklace and it reminded you of being on stage. The lights shining down on you. You were next to be announced and all the sudden it felt as if the world came crashing down around you.

"May I present, Miss Y/n Y/l/n."

In that moment it felt as if the entire world had their eyes on you stood their for a moment, your body stiff and stuck in the moment. 'This can't be real. None of this is real.'

You could see the other guest staring at you for a few seconds until you heard your name being called. "Y/n! Y/n, come here." Phineas. You pulled yourself out of your trance and walked over as elegantly as you could, trying not to make your anxiety evident.

"Yes, Phineas?" A butler came by with a tray of champagne and you quickly took the glass, holding it up to your lips as if it was a comfort mechanism. "Y/n, there's somone I want you to meet."

'How lovely,' You thought to yourself and took a sip of the liquor. "This, is Jenny Lind." The red head infront of you smiled and you nearly choked on the alcohol. "How do you do?" You stood their for a moment with lack of words. She was probably one of the most beautiful women you ever seen. Her red hair complementing her olive green eyes and her white dress creating this aura of welcoming glow around her yet left you questioning what thoughts layed in that pretty little head of her because something to told you the woman infront of you wasn't as angelic as she seemed.

"Very well, thank you," You finally managed to mumble after a while. The other woman eyed you up and down as if she was analyzing you. "Y/n is a singer as well, Ms. Lind."

"A singer you say? How lovely. Perhaps we can do a piece together sometime, dear. I am told to be quite the piece of work." Her eyes interlocked with yours and you felt your cheeks growing red, letting out a slightly nervous giggle.

'Piece of work isn't even the right word for it.' You thought to yourself. Phineas seemed to pay no mind to what Jenny said and she smiled. "I'm sure she'd love that, wouldn't you Y/n?"

"O-of course.." You muttered. "Then I'll make it a point to see you again before the evenings events come to an end. Now, if you'll excuse me. I have some matters to attend to. It was a pleasure Mr. Barnum, Miss Y/n." She gave you a nod of acknowledgment and you laughed nervously as she was walked away.

"She's lovely isn't she?" The corners of your lips twitched into a smile. "That she is." Yours and Phineas' eyes interlocked and he gently patted your back. "Are you okay?"

"Of course, why?" You smiled. "You just seem a bit off, my dear." You waved your hand dismissively. "I'm just tired, that's all. I'm sure the liquor isn't helping any either," You chuckled and Phineas nodded in agreement. "Tis true, you are a tiny little thing and people with such delicate stature as your own tend to be a bit light weight it comes to liquor. Would you like to get some fresh air?"

"Please." You nodded and Phillip took your arm. "Come on, I'll take you out." You clung onto his arm tightly, breathing in deeply as the cold air brushed against the sides of your face. "You're alright?"

"Yes Phillip, I'm fine." He nodded hesitantly. "Alright..if you need anything let me know."

"Sure," You mumbled softly and leaned against the balcony. You heard him walk away and breathed a sigh of relief. Rubbing your face and staring out at London. The lights though far away burned so bright and you felt small.

"You know, I've made a lot of people flustered in my life but never have I seen someone react the way you did." You spun around to look at Jenny and coughed. "Y-you scared me."

"If that's what you want to call it sweetheart, sure. We can call it that." You smiled and blushed slightly. "What do you want Jenny?"

"To chat." You heard her heels clicking against the floor and the singer moved dangerously close to you, looking out in the distance. "It's beautiful, isn't it?" She gestured to all of London.

"It is. I've never seen anything like it before." She furrowed her brows. "You've never left America before this?"

"Never..but I'm glad I did."

"Did you not want to come initially?"

"To be frank, yes..I guess you could say I'm a little shy. Large crowds terrify me. There's something about the crowd though with singing that makes me feel at ease. Like it's the one true way I can express myself."

Jenny eyed you up and down as if she was inspecting you and smiled slowly. It was unsettling grin at first but you felt at ease when she brushed your cheek with your thumb. You just this woman? Why were you so comfortable with her?

"I think all singers can relate but someone as beautiful as yourself shouldn't be afraid of the crowd. For it's all the more people that love and adore you..and I my dear, already adore you?"

The way the light glistened on her face made your stomach flutter and it felt as if in that moment, you and Jenny were the only people alive. She leaned forward as if she was reaching out to touch you.

"Miss Lind!"

"What?" Phillip. "Miss Lind, Mr. Barnum-"

"Tell Mr. Barnum, I'm preoccupied with his lovely singer and I shall be with him in a moment." Phillip looked surprised by her attitude and nodded. "Sure..my apologies."

"It's fine, Phillip. We'll be out in a minute." You smiled and gave a slight wave as he walked away. Jenny let out a groan. "Is he always like that?"

"Sometimes but he means well. They all do. Phineas, he's like a father too me. Always has been and always will be."

"Is he married? Actually are either of you married?" You looked at the Swedish Nightingale, slightly boggled by the question. "H-he is but I'm no-"

"Such a same. For a tyrant he seems like a nice man." You felt yourself growing slightly annoyed with Jenny and was taken off guard when she cupped your face. "You both seem like such nice people. Phineas doesn't deserve you."

"I-"

"If you ever need me, this is my address. I'd like to keep in touch after this whole function, darling girl." You blushed and Jenny laughed. "My, you are such a precious creature and one so beautiful and rare for the eyes to behold."

"Y-you flatter me."

"I can tell. Come, darling. I'd hate to keep your beloved Phineas waiting longer he has..."

...

"..Oh please, don't be daft Phineas!" You downed another glass of wine as Jenny laughed, trying to become oblivious to the tension that was radiating from the two people next to you. "I don't mean to cause a row, Miss Lind but my proposition was for you to come for us. Not for you steal away my top singer."

"Well you're trying to steal me away from my own obligations so wouldn't it be fair to offer the same?" The smile on Jenny's face was sarcastic and you could see Phineas' face turning several shades of red. Jenny lifted up your chin with her index fingers. "She is quite darling, Mr. Barnum. Wouldn't you agree?"

"Yes, she is and she's her own person who makes her own decisions. Am I correct, Y/n?" You nodded limply, seeing the tension in his eyes. "Which is exactly why I offered her. Because she can make her own decisions." Her eyes were full of lust and you tensed as you felt her caress her cheek. "What do you think, darling? Doesn't a life in Sweden sound nice?"

You felt Phineas' eyes burning daggers into you as if it was a test of your faith even though he knew very you knew where your alliances laid yet you found yourself so drawn to Jenny. "I mean-" You let out a giggle, attesting to your drunkenness. What was muttered between the two next, you didn't know. You glanced over at Phineas who snapped his fingers. "Yes sir?"

"Will you take Y/n back to her room please? I'm afraid she's been spent for the evening. Aren't you, my dear?" You nodded in agreement. "Sure. Goodnight, Jenny."

"Goodnight, darling." She kissed your hand. "You know where to go if you need to find me?" You met her eyes as if to say yes and left with Phillip.

What happened after you left, you would never know. All you could remember was someone changed you into y/f/c nightgown and being woken up by the heavy treading of feet down the hall followed by the sound of numerous voices. You were still slightly drunk and were too dazed to pick them up but you could hear what they were saying.

"So what she did say when you offered?"

"She refused, of course! I don't know what to do at this point. I can't force her to come and I'm certainly not going to just give up Y/n. She's family."

Eventually after a while the voices faded away and you laid in bed, staring up at the egg shell white ceiling. The words replaying over and over on your mind. Surely Jenny was quite flirtatious with you but she didn't mean anything serious. Did she?

Memories of how she caressed your face so tenderly ran through your mind and you felt yourself swelling up inside with what was a mix of lust and adoration.

You didn't have to be around her for a while to take the hint she was a good time girl but it was driving you mad. You had to know and you had to know now. You turned the lamp on in your room and searched through your trunk, pulling out a pair of flats and slipped them on. Not even bothering to change out of your pajamas. You still had the address of where Jenny was staying hidden in your bra and you took the paper out, memorizing the street and room number before grabbing your room key. The halls of the hotel were completely and you glanced at the old grandfather clock at the end of the hall.

"3 AM." You shrugged, quietly walking downstairs. The lobby was completely empty with most of the lights off but it didn't bother you. What mattered was making it to Jenny.

Rain was pelting down from the lit up sky, the light illuminating the cool liquid that caressed your cheek. You shivered slightly from the cool breeze outside but pushed it aside. Walking through the wet streets on London.

You were getting soaked and you were sure your y/f/c nightgown was becoming see through but you paid it no mind. 'Jenny will probably enjoy it,' You thought snidely. Her hotel came into sight and you walked past all the rooms until finally finding her room number. Ever so hesitantly you knocked on the door.

There was pause, an agonizingly long one. You debated on knocking again when the door swung open. Even with bed messed hair and scantily dress she was still one of the most beautiful women you ever seen.

Her eye makeup was smeared, highly the disdain in her eyes. "What the hell are you doing here? It's three in the morning." Her voice came out as low growl and you found yourself surprised. Her voice was so smooth the entire evening and you could never picture it being as nasty as it was now.

"Can we talk?" You asked softly. "At three in the morning?! Wow darling, you must truly be desperate." You seen her eyeing you up and down like a piece of meat and you shifted uncomfortably as you seen her eyes eagerly sizing up your breast.

"Maybe but does it matter?" Jenny let out a humming noise. "I suppose it doesn't. Very well, come in my sweet."

You stepped inside and Jenny shut the door before tossing a nightgown at you. "What's this for?"

"Because you're soaked. You might of pissed me off but how well mannered would I be to leave you cold and wet?" You shrugged, as if silently saying yes to what she was saying and turned your back as you stripped your clothes off.

Changing into the warm outfit. You could feel her eyes like little beads on the back of your neck but said nothing. Not knowing what you would even say to her. The situation was incredibly awkward as it was and you didn't want to make it any worse.

You turned around as you finished changing and Jenny smiled at you. "That's better." She sat down on one of the sofas and you followed her motion. "Now, tell me darling. What brings you here so late? Did the tyrant send you as a ploy or are you seeking out for a new..experience?"

The words came out so voyeuristically you had to do everything in your power not to shudder. 'What a milf.' You thought to yourself before responding. "Neither."

"Oh? Enlightenment me, Y/n. For now, I'm curious."

"I want you to come with us." Jenny laughed. "Phineas must be truly desperate." Her expression was so snide and you wanted to smack her across the face. "Actually, I want you to come."

Jenny choked on the water she was drinking. "Me, come with you? My dear, the offfer was you come with me."

"Yeah well, compromise is needed in both love and war. Don't you agree, Miss Lind?" You met her eye with a certain sassy glance Jenny found so attractive. "We're off first name basis?"

"We are negotiating business, aren't we?" She hummed softly and smirked. "Yes, we are...give me one reason why I should come with me. I am a very busy as you know. I know Chopin, people at the Music Academy.."

You said nothing and Jenny grew impatient. "Speak!"

"I-i feel connected to you..like I can trust you." She laughed. "Oh darling, do you honestly think I'm going to fall for that?"

You furrowed your eyebrows at her. "I'm speaking the truth!"

"Are you sure it's not for another reason?" Her eyes found their way back down to your chest again and you cringed. Jenny stood up and placed two of her fingers underneath your chin, caressing your cheek with her other hand. "You are quite the precious thing. Aren't you? My precious thing."

"I-i belong to no one." You tried your hardest to sound firm but knew it wasn't working. "Sure you don't. When do we leave, darling?"

"Y-you're going to come with me?!" Your eyes lit up with pure joy. "Only because you asked so nicely." She climbed into bed and held her arms out for you. "What are you doing?"

"It's three in the morning and I'm sure darling Phineas won't be looking for you a while. Now come." Hesitantly you slipped into bed next to the older woman, letting her run her fingers through your hair. You knew it wasn't right but it felt so nice just to be there in that moment. Could you be having..feelings for her?

....

To say yours and Jenny's friendship was a peculiar one was an understatement. No one could wrap their heads on the dynamic between the two of you. The two of you were surely best friends as wherever you went, Jenny was and vice versa but the two of you were very physically affectionate with each other.

Jenny always kissing your cheek before she would leave the seem and it seemed more often than not the two of you were either holding hands or hugging each other.

Not that the others minded but they just couldn't quite wrap their heads around it and you always seemed to have an excuse for her when people would ask why she was always all over you.

"I just think she's trying to be sweet." You smiled as you sat down next to Anne after one of the shows.

"I think she's trying to be a milf." You furrowed your brow at Anne. "What do you mean?" She shrugged. "Have you not seen all the people that come in and out of her trailer?"

She was your partner. It was hard not to notice or know about how much of a flirt she was, especially towards Phineas, but it was none of your business anyways as far it was your concern. You and Jenny worked on a policy that the other wouldn't ask unless you wanted to tell and you were fine with that.

Screw what other people thought and if you're happy shouldn't they be happy for you?

...

"So I started working on a new piece-" Jenny hummed as the two of walked hand and hand towards the piano. "I don't know what to call it yet but I guess that doesn't matter now though. You well be happy to know that I thought you of you since there are a-" She tapped her finger on the piano. "F5's in here."

You smiled and looked at the woman sitting down in front of you. "I want you to work on this with me. Critique me."

"Oh no, Jenny! I couldn't possibly-"

"Do you know what one of the main claims made by successful musicians and writer's are? They listen to the criticism of others so you can and you will, now sit down." She commanded, patting the empty space next to her on the stool. You quickly did as she asked, not wanting to make her mad and straightened her posture. "You'll do the soprano section and I'll do the alto."

"Yes ma'am." You hummed softly. You noticed a little smirk forming on the sides of Jenny's lip and you bit down on your lip, trying your hardest not smile. "Now, 1 and 2-"

Her long, nimble fingers hit the keys on the lower part of piano and your voices met in harmony. "Everything went wrong, and the whole day long I'd feel so blue. For the longest while, I'd forget to smile, then I met you. Now that my blue days have passed, Now that I've found you at last."

Your echoed her words and Jenny smiled. "With a love that's true always. When the things you've planned. Need a helping hand, I will understand always."

"..Always." Jenny turned to look at you and for a moment you could of sworn you seen a look of something other than lust in her eyes and she leaned towards you.

Despite your inner voice screaming at you stop what you moved closer to her, your lips nearly brushing with her plump reddened ones before she pulled.

"Oh god..I'm sorry. That was-that was inconsiderate. I-i don't know what came over." Jenny's laugh was almost brimming on nervousness and you had to try your hardest not to frown. "I-it's okay. I wasn't thinking either."

Jenny stared deeply into your eyes and for a second you could of sworn you seen a glimpse of love in her eyes.

"I should leave." You shook your head. "No, no! Stay, Jenny. Please, I insist." She shook her head. "No, no, no. This would be inappropriate of me to do."

"Aren't we already inappropriate?" She narrowed her eyebrows. "What do you mean?"

"I'm not blind, Jenny. Nor am I deaf. The others ask me things about us. Why you touch me so much."

"Y/n, my dear, this a step above us holding hands. This is kissing. We are partners. It would never work." She growled. "But you love Phineas, do you not?"

Jenny looked at you almost betrayed and stood up. "That doesn't matter right now! I overstepped my boundaries and made you uncomfortable. Now if you'll excuse me."

"But Jenny-"

"No buts, Y/n. Please! You're just making this harder on yourself but me as well. For us to do this, we would have to live a lie. Do you want to live a lie, Y/n?"

"But aren't we already living a lie as it is?" For the first time since you met Jenny Lind, you could of sworn you could seen that she was at a loss of words. For once.

"Yes, I mean- No! No, we are not! I love Phineas! I want to be Phineas!"

"Then if you love him, then why would you of tried to kiss me?" Jenny's cheek turned cherry red as if she was child caught in the midst of stealing a sweet. "He's married, Jenny! And he's not leaving his wife anytime in the foreseeable future. You're setting yourself up for heart break and I love you Jenny and I want you to be happy!"

"If you love me you'll let me do what I need to do! Now if you'll excuse me, I have matters to attend to." She stormed past you.

"Jenny, I'm telling you-"

"And I'm telling you, to let me do what I do best.." She grabbed the sides of your face, staring deeply into your eyes before kissing your forehead. "Now if you'll excuse me, for the last and final time."

The singer walked past you. Leaving you with millions of unanswered questions and emotions. Did she love you? Did you love her? You didn't even know anymore. You walked out of your rehearsal space, nearly bumping into Phineas.

"Jesus!"

"I'm sorry my dear, I didn't see you coming. I just bumped into Jenny down the hall. Am I interrupting something?"

"No." Your tone was sharp and it made Phineas narrowed his eyes. "Don't ask. It's a long story. Anyways what do you need?"

"Are you performing tonight?" You shook your head. "No, this is Jenny's solo night."

"Okay, I just wanted to ask because she ignored me when I seen her...are you sure you're alright my dear?" You stared at him for a few moments, not knowing what to say. It was an incredibly awkward situation. What could you even say to him. "Yes, everything's fine. I'm just not feeling the greatest."

"Go get some rest then, my dear. I shall see you tomorrow morning." He placed a small kiss on the top of your head. "Goodnight Y/n."

"Goodnight Phineas."

....

"It's not tight enough!"

"How tightly do you want the bobby pins then, Jenny?" You sighed and ran a hand through her red hair as curled it. "Sorry..sorry."

"It's fine, You huffed. There was an awkward silence for the moment. "So are we going to talk about what happened earlier?" You shrugged. "What is there to talk about?"

"Y/n-"

"No, Jenny. I'm not doing this with you. You pushed me away. There is nothing for us to talk about. There is nothing I want to talk about. You burned the bridge. You deal with the consequences."

You finished her last curl and set the iron down. "..I didn't mean to hurt you, Y/n."

"Sure you didn't." Jenny sighed and pulled you into a slight hug. You softened up a little bit and sighed. "Don't do anything brash please?"

"I make no promises."

"Jenny-"

"You trust me right? Trust me enough to make my own decisions?"

"Jenny you know I do but I'm just afraid of you getting hurt."

"I won't. What's the worst that can happen? He turns me away." You shrugged as if to say maybe and Jenny smiled. "Wish me luck."

"Good luck." She pressed a kiss against your cheek and smiled. "Bye, Y/n."

"Bye."

....

The next few hours you laid in bed in yours and Jenny's hotel room, wondering how the show went and what she was doing. She should of been back hours ago. What the hell was she doing?

Your eyes settled on the clock at the far end of the room. 12:55. You brushed it off as maybe she lost track of time but you knew that was too good to be true. Something felt wrong.

A few minutes later you heard the door unlock followed by the sound of heels clicking against the floor and sniffling. "How much did you have to drink?" You joked but there was no laugh.

"Jenny? Jenny, are you okay?" You felt her weight sink down next to you on the mattress. "H-he doesn't like me." You furrowed your brows. "Who?"

"Phineas." You sat up in bed and took her hands gently in your own. "Jenny, what the hell did you do?"

"Remember how you told me the story about your first time on stage and Phineas tolf you, you have to learn to fall before you fly?" You grabbed a tissue out of the box besides your bed and handed it to Jenny. "Yeah.."

"So I thought maybe, just maybe, he'll like me the way I like I like him."

"Jenny-"

"I tried to kiss him. I tried to kiss him but he refused me." She looked so mad and upset. Despite the part of you that was relieved Phineas didn't cheat on Charity, you felt your heart breaking for the woman sitting next to you.

"Jenny.." You wiped some of the tears off her face and she pulled you into a hug. You never seen Jenny act like this before and it shocked you. It was the look of rejection. It was the look of pain. She never had been rejected before.

"And the worse part is, is I thought I love him but I don't know what I feel anymore. I-i'm just so confused." You shushed her and hugged her tight. "It's okay, Jenny. Everything is going to be alright. It's okay to be confused. It's normal. I'm sure everything will work out. Everything happens for a reason. We may not understand why in the moment, but eventually it will make sense in the future. It's going to be okay. I promise."

"Yeah but, where do I go from here? People will talk. Say things about the both of us and nothing is going to be the same after this." She was practically panicking. "Just relax..For right now, no one has word of anything and don't worry about where to go yet. You have time to figure all that out. It's going to be alright." You held onto her tightly, not knowing if you should do more or less for her. "Thanks, Y/n."

You kissed her sweet smelling red hair and patted her back. "You're welcome." The two of you sat together in silence for a moment. Despite not knowing how you even felt about all this, you treasured the silence between the two of you.

After a while, Jenny pulled away from you abruptly and stared deeply into your eyes. "Jenny? Jenny, you're staring at me. What's-" Her luscious red lips smacked against yours and your eyes widened, trying not to melt into the kiss. "Don't speak."

"Jenny..Jenny, what are you doing?!" You rasped and attempted to pull away from her but she grabbed your hand. "It's always been you, you know that right?"

"Jenny, it has not always been me. You basically just told me, you want to fuck Phineas. This is not you acting out of love. This is you acting out of-"

She interrupted you, putting a finger up to your lips. "I've always loved you. I thought I loved Phineas but no, I love you. You and only you."

"I-i love you too..I think? I don't know! I'm so confused! Jenny, people will talk. People will say things about us. Mean things about us. Don't you care?" She kissed you sweetly on the lips. "Who cares what people think as long as we have each other."

Despite how wrong it felt, it also felt so right and you gave into her touch. Praying you wouldn't regret it later as she ran her hands through your hair as she kissed you. "I..I love you my darling."

"L-love you too." You could feel Jenny caressing your sides and you moaned slightly as her lips left yours. "I want you, Y/n. I want you right now." She pressed you back again the mattress and you looked at her wide eyed and terrified. "I-i never done this before."

"Then I'll teach you. No fear, understand?" You nodded in spite of your growing anxiety and Jenny began to pepper small kisses down your face and neck, leaving little love marks here and there. "So, so beautiful." You could feel her hands working at the buttons on the top of your blouse, the sides of her hands kneading your breast.

You bit down on your lip to prevent a moan of frustration and you could of sworn you seen Jenny smile. "Oh darling..by the time I'm done with you, there will be no amount of lip biting to hide those luscious noises."

You blushed in embarrassment as she pulled off your top and bra. Peppering tiny kisses all over your breast before playfully biting at your nipples. You hissed in a mix of pain in pleasure, pulling at her hair as she moved lower down your body.

She looked up at me before pulling all your clothes off, dragging your silk panties along the way. Jenny spread your legs apart before lifting one of them up, placing it on her shoulder. You felt her trail small kisses on the inside of your thigh, your tongue licking alongside your folds.

Jenny's hand took hold of your thighs, holding them in place as she started to lick back and forth with her tongue against your cunt. “So wet and I’ve barely touched you” Your eyes rolled in the back of your head as your head fell back against the wall.

You felt her tounge flicking back and you arched your back. "Fuck, fuck!" You screamed then covered your mouth, not wanting anyone to hear you. "T-this feels so good!"

"I told you..I'm a piece of work!" You heard a hand bang against the wall from whoever had the room next door to you and Jenny sighed. "Oh fuck off!"

She quickly got back to work. The room which felt cold from the rain a outside was now hot like a sauna and the two of you were sweating. You were hitting your peak and you gasped, squeezing onto the white satin sheets.

"I-i can't take much more!" You grunted. "Cum for me, my darling. I want you to." You felt the pit in your stomach growing and you screamed in euphoria as you came. What the hell had you been missing all this time?

As you laid there, still in a daze. Jenny wiped the sweat off your forehead and laid down next to you. "That was...amazing."

"It was always is when you're with me." You slapped her arm and planted a kiss on her lips before burying your head in her chest. "My good girl." She kissed the top of your head and you laid there in her arms, not caring who thought what about anything that just happened between the two of you. None of that mattered now. As long as you had your Jenny.

#jenny lind #jenny lind x reader #the greatest showman

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coza-main · 4 years ago

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Hello yes hi-

I want a one-shot! Pretty pretty please?????

❤️🙂 Don't care about which pairing (though one from Naruto is preferred) but I'd love to read a big kiss as the finale!! 🥺🥺🥺🥺

A/N: I guess I should preface this by saying you do not get what you want at the end, I’m afraid. I hope you are still satisfied nonetheless. It’s been a while since I’ve written and even longer since I’ve published something so hopefully it isn’t too cringy! But I had a lot of fun with it, and I hope you enjoy it on some level.

Also if anyone wants to send any requests, I’ll keep my inbox open. I guess that’s a way I can celebrate 100?

---

Home

Sakura’s laugh was audible from the other side of the door as she fumbled with her keys. Light from the outside world flooded the room as Sakura’s voice became audible. “-well, Ino-pig. I honestly don’t know what you were-”.

Whatever Sakura was going to say was instantly cutoff when she sensed another chakra nature inside her apartment. She quickly pulled the door closed again and turned back to her friend. “Ino! I completely forgot to get us drinks! Do you mind running to the store and grabbing some while I tidy up?”

Ino began to protest, but Sakura quickly shoved a healthy amount of cash into her hand and stepped inside. “Buy whatever you want Ino-pig! I’ll meet you back here in 30 minutes!” Without waiting for a response, Sakura shut the door firmly. She could hear Ino grumbling as she walked away, but that was the least of her concerns right now.

“What are you doing here?” She hissed sharply at the silhouette in the chair. “You need to leave right now. You weren’t supposed to be back for another week. If Ino had seen you-”.

“I’m sorry, Sakura,” he cut her off. “It was...quite urgent.” There was pain in his voice that brought Sakura immediate concern. His words were thick, as though he could pass out at any moment. Now that her senses were alert, she could smell the distinct scent of iron. She cursed herself for not noticing it sooner as she flicked on the light.

“Itachi,” she breathed out, fear shining in her eyes. “What did you do?”. The wound on his shoulder was so deep she could see the white of his collarbone shining through the mixture of wet and dried blood. She was kneeling at his side in an instant, a green glow enveloping her hands.

“Kisame found out.” He flinched as Sakura’s hands touched his skin, but offered no other explanation. Sakura simply nodded, not needing any clarification. If Kisame had discovered that Itachi was actually a traitor to the Akatsuki, there was no doubt that he would try to neutralize the threat. Itachi was lucky that he got away from the swordsman with just this wound.

Sakura’s mind was full of questions, but chose to stick to the professional ones for the time being. “When did this happen? Were you followed? How much blood have you lost?”

Itachi only grunted in response, and Sakura’s eyes flicked up to meet his only to find that his head had begun to lull backwards. “Itachi,” she snapped loudly, waking him back up again. When his eyes finally met hers, she returned her focus to healing and repeated her questions again.

“He caught me right at the border.” Itachi was always short whenever he first arrived at her apartment. He only answered the questions asked, never offering anything more. If Kisame had caught Itachi at the border, he would have been close behind him as Itachi fled to her. And with a nose created to sniff out blood…

“He’s dead.” Itachi’s voice sounded pained, which brought Sakura back from her thoughts. Her brow furrowed as she checked to see what injury she must’ve missed before she realized that a jutsu would not help this kind of pain.

“You did what you had to do. If you didn’t, you would be…” She could bring herself to say dead. Her heart nearly broke at the thought of it. Itachi merely nodded in response, his eyes staring into the distance at nothing in particular. She wanted to help him, but the necessary words seemed locked away, inaccessible to her.

She looked at Itachi’s wound, which was no longer life-threatening, and stood up. She decided to leave the wound tender as an alibi. He would need injuries since Kisame was dead. “Can you move? This’ll be easier to clean up in the bathroom.”

Itachi looked around as if he had just realized the mess he had created. “Ah, yes. I’m so sorry about all of...this.” He started to stand, but staggered backwards. Sakura quickly looped herself under his arm to help him gain his footing as if it were second nature to her.

“Take it easy. You’ve lost a lot of blood. I’ve got you.” Itachi simply smiled softly at her and nodded.

Once they were in the bathroom, Sakura sat Itachi on the ground and wet a rag to begin cleaning off the blood. He still had that sad, distant look in his eyes. And she still had no comforting words to offer him. Medical training had taught Sakura that when you can’t comfort someone, it’s best to distract them. So that’s what she did. She sat down next to him and began dabbing off the blood from his skin.

“Tsunade-sama has me working just about every waking hour in the hospital. It’s hard, but very rewarding.” She wiped away at the blood as she thought back on notable events. “I actually reattached a limb earlier this week! The guy came in so mangled, Itachi! It wasn’t even a shinobi. Just a construction worker in a freak accident.”

Out of the corner of her eye, she saw a faint smile dance across Itachi’s face as he watched her. A sign to keep going. “By the time I finished up with him, he could move his toes. He has a long road ahead of him but he should make a full recovery! Oh, and on our training day last week, I even started talking to Tsunade-sama about Sasuke, which led to us talking about the massacre. I think I may be able to get her to relook-”

“Sakura,” he cut her off, all hints of joy gone from his face as quickly as it had appeared. “I’ve already told you that you are risking your life by doing that. As long as Danzo is in Konoha nothing will come to fruition. I will still be a traitor to the village. There is no reason for you to risk your safety here for something that will only result in your death.”

“But-”

“Stop being a child.” His voice was so unexpectedly forceful that Sakura flinched involuntarily. Quickly realizing his error, Itachi sighed. “I just can’t lose you too, Sakura.”

Sakura stared at him as she tried to comprehend his quick switch in nature. Confusion and hurt danced in her eyes, but Itachi had to remain adamant as he maintained eye contact. “Promise me you’ll drop it.”

Sakura scowled at him and chose to focus on cleaning his wound, rather than answering him. She couldn’t promise that, not when there was a chance that Itachi could return home. But Itachi knew her too well, and clasped his hands around her own. “Sakura. Promise me right now.”

Why was he so unwilling to be happy? Sakura was certain that if Tsunade knew what had occurred with the Uchiha, Itachi would no longer be considered a criminal. He could come back to Konoha, get real treatments for his illness, live the life he deserved to. She wouldn’t have to hide him away. He wouldn’t have to sneak in and out of the village, risking his life in both Konoha and the Akastuki.

“Sakura.” He gave her hand a firm squeeze, bringing her back to the present. It was clear he wouldn’t let this go until she gave her word.

“I promise,” she said bitterly. He seemed content and pulled his hands away from hers. She continued to clean away at the blood in silence, painfully aware that his eyes were always on her now. Once she was content with her work, she looked him in the eyes. “Let me grab you some supplies. Be right back.”

She rummaged quickly through her kitchen drawers to find a makeshift first-aid kit and packed it with antibiotics, pain medication, bandages, and other minor things he may need. Itachi was stable, but she wanted to make sure he stayed that way. He was quick to forget about his own needs and Sakura did not need to see the wound infected the next time he visited her. With the bag packed, she finally spared a quick glance around her apartment.

It had smears of blood throughout it that would take a full day of cleaning to remove. It would probably be easier to get new furniture, but that amount of blood would raise questions to anyone who saw her throwing it away. She would just have to avoid having company over until she could figure that out. Not that she invited many people to her apartment, there was really just Team 7 and Ino.

Ino.

She cursed at her forgetfulness. Ino was probably on her way back from the store at this point. She quickly grabbed a pencil and paper and scrawled down a lame hospital emergency excuse and apology and stuck the paper to the outside door of her apartment.

Hopefully Ino would accept her fake excuse and take the beer as her apology without looking into it further. She grabbed the small bag and flicked off the living room light as she receded back into the bathroom again.

“You should stay the night, so I can watch for infection.” She tried to hide her anticipation as she sat down across from him with the bag in front of her. Her eyes gleamed with the small hope that he would accept her offer.

Itachi smiled sadly and affectionally tapped her forehead. “I need to get back. You know that it’s not safe for either of us if I stay here tonight”.

Sakura didn’t even try to hide her blatant disappointment. Or her fear.

“You could have died today, Itachi.”

“But you saved me. Like you always do.”

“I don’t always save you.” Sakura’s face flushed as she averted her eyes from his. She was once again at a loss for words. The Uchiha seemed to have that effect on her.

Itachi smirked and lifted Sakura’s chin up with his index finger to have her eyes meet his. “Your face is as pink as your hair, little bird,” he teased, making her cheeks burn brighter. This was the Itachi she remembered. He had finally returned to her, which only meant that he was about to leave again.

“I wish you could stay,” she whined half-heartedly. She knew it was hopeless. Once Itachi’s mind was made up, there was no changing it. But it was still worth a shot.

“As do I, Sakura. But it’s not safe-”

“For either of us.” she finished his sentence with an eye roll. “I know.”

He tenderly pushed back her hair from her face and caressed her cheek. “Hey,” he said gently, his voice just at a whisper. “It won’t always be like this, okay? I’ll find a way to make this place my home again.”

Sakura felt herself involuntarily leaning into Itachi’s touch and closed her eyes to savor the moment. She found herself wondering what he defined home as: was it in Konoha or with her? She deeply hoped that he meant the latter.

“You promise?” she questioned, unwilling to open her eyes to see his facial reactions. She didn’t want to know if it was a lie or not.

“I promise.” His voice was barely a whisper, much closer than when Sakura had closed her eyes. She felt his lips press against the center of her forehead and her eyes popped open in surprise. But only black feathers danced around her, Itachi was gone again. She grabbed a feather and clutched it to her chest, trying to ignore the ache that was already forming in her chest.

#so sorry for any typos #asks!#for karla #i was planning on having this short but my mind kinda got discombobulated along the way oops #matchamago original

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sherryaptx4869 · 5 years ago

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Horrible Realization

Read on ao3.

When I first met her, she was just fourteen and I was already a grown ass Shinsengumi officer then (or tax robber as his adoptive earthling father Gintoki fondly taught her). Back then, she was just somebody who can elicit a good reflex out of me. She makes adrenaline pump through my veins. I can already feel the blood surge through every nerve endings in my body, making my muscles taut and I itch for a good fight. I know a strong opponent when I see one.

Unlike those numerous times when I’m trying to annihilate Hijikata from existence, this girl puts up a good fight. Oops, he caught himself. She’s not a girl, not even a woman. She’s an amanto with a face nobody in their right mind would care to take a second look at, and a body with a monstrous strength. I didn’t even care to know her proper name. I just call her China from her outfits. And the brat calls me Sadist. Hell, she even called me Punk Chihuahua and Bastard. Not that I give two fucks about her tacky name-calling.

At first, I was just messing around with her. It’s so easy to get on her nerves. Sometimes I just comment on her dumb face and she gives me the reaction that I want. Boredom is never in my dictionary when we’re around each other.

It’s not everyday somebody can hold their ground and beat the crap out of me. As Hijikata noted, that girl is on par with me, the Okita Sougo, Shinsengumi’s sword prodigy. Being a prodigy, it doesn’t make me proud that I can effortlessly win all the sparring sessions we had at the Shinsengumi headquarters knowing that my sparring partners couldn’t hold a candle to the pro-swordsman that I am. My only joy comes from seeing Hijikata suffer from my underhanded tricks and sometimes outright assassination plans.

When she came along, my innate fighting skills awakened. Sometimes it’s not with katana or umbrella or the kicks and punches she throws at me, but she provokes me with her annoying irrational statements which later leads to an all-out fight.

I woke up one day looking forward to each patrol day when I could be at the park and I could test my strength against a Yato girl. On some days, I got lucky with my timing and I could inflict a considerable hit to China causing her to sprawl to the ground. Resilience is one of her strong suits and she’s back on her feet after a heartbeat. Other days, she could kick my ass and it took me days to be able to walk up straight. Most days, our friendly fights ended up in draws and we would just resort to trash talking each other. Which is fun by itself because I get to see the furious look on her ugly mug when she can't come up with a witty retort.

I like the challenge China presents everytime our paths crossed. My competitive streak tells me that with training and hard work, I could be on par even with a Yato. Days with China around were never mundane.

Our fights became a routine and I feel lighter than before. I can be myself without holding back. Layers of my impassiveness were shed like old, worn rags. With her, I can feel the happiness and the pride swelling in my chest when I beat her. I also feel the raw pain when she beats me to a pulp. I can tease her and she will react to every little thing I do or say. With her, I can be me. Where she can read me like a book, I know her stupid little games like the back of my hand.

Until the war came. We had to go our own ways after winning the war waged by Utsuro.

The first few months were unfamiliar. Life in Edo has drastically changed. The once familiar sights were blown to smithereens. War changed the people, their priorities.

After two years, life in Edo continued, even in the absence of the Yorozuya and the disbandment of the Shinsengumi. Two years. I would have matured and behaved accordingly to my age but here I am fighting that small girl who calls herself Kanna, allegedly the daughter of that damn brat China. Not that I am regressing, but fighting this smaller version of China made me feel those same tingling sensation I had when I was fighting her mother. Every muscle fiber tingles with anticipation of action. I felt the blood rush through my head and awakened me, enticing me to fight with my all even if the opponent was just a kid no more than my waist tall.

“I haven’t felt these goose bumps in a long time. I fought your mom like this all the time”, he was telling Kanna.

“We crossed swords more often than we exchanged words. But at times, swords speak much louder than words!”

Hell, even to his ears he sounded like a lonely old man pining about his and China’s unnecessary brawls. He was just reminiscing, not that he misses that China! Okay, he does miss their silly fights and bickering for the sake of making noise and annoying those around them. He needs to tone his muscles after all and China would be the perfect sparring partner.

A ridiculous idea popped in his head. What if this is one of China’s ridiculous ploys again?

One fight was all he needed in order to confirm his suspicions. Kanna is China. That damn stubborn brat messing with our heads again!

That day, he was not wearing his usual deadpan expression. Seeing that China is well and back on Earth awakened his excitement, and it poured out of him like the river flows into the ocean. It’s uncontrollable and unstoppable. He just can’t stop the smile threatening to escape from his lips. It’s amazing how he found that one person he wanted to annoy for the rest of his life.

As she transformed from Kanna to China, I began to take notice of the changes in her physical attributes. All grown and lovely, her face a little more defined, and her eyes became sharper. She still has the same sharp tongue though. It’s comforting to know that some things never change.

“Yo, welcome back!”, I smirked at her.

“I see you’re still the same old jerk,” she spat at him.

See, we’re on the same page.

As I sat there among the rubbles from when she threw me against the wall, thoroughly beaten up (I’m a bit rusty, I have no proper sparring partner. Even Hijikata had gone MIA on me), a thought crossed my mind.

Watching this fierce and at the same time beautiful creature in front of him, who just beat him up for hurting those important to her, realization hit him like a bucket of ice cold water. Sitting down certainly helped when the crushing sense of horrible realization crept in. I like her too much. There, I said it. But I won’t say it again.

#okikagu #gintama #okita x kagura #okita sogo #kagura #fan fiction

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dat-town · 5 years ago

Text

wish upon the sea

Characters: prince!Brian (Young K) & siren!You

Setting: a bit darker, twisted Little Mermaid au

Genre: romance, action, fantasy

Warnings: mentions of blood, death

Words: 5.7k

Author’s notes: I use the name Brian since Young K in this story is supposed to be the son of Prince Eric and Ariel, so a Korean name would have been weird, hopefully you won’t mind.

Dedicated: happy birthday, my dearest @restlessmaknae! ♥♥♥ I cannot put into words the happiness that feels me becausee of the close bond we share and that we can live through so many wonderful experience together. Thank you for letting me be not just a big sister but a best friend as well. Wish you all the best and welcome to the club among the girls in their 20s! Love ya! ♥

Once upon a time there was a prince who fell in love with a mermaid.

It was a truly heart-fluttering love story, everyone in the kingdom found Ariel lovely and kind-hearted despite her clumsiness and Prince Eric was often jokingly called a lucky bastard to have her by his side.

In a few years the couple had a child, a boy with charms like his dad’s and hair as red as the brightest coral in the sea just like his mom’s. The boy grew up to be a fine swordsman, a chevalier with the softness of the waves of seas on calm spring days. He was a good man, people said, everyone loved their handsome and kind prince and so many daughters wished to be the lucky one to have that golden heart of his. However, the prince's heart was already taken, swimming in fondness for the endless blues as he fell in love with the sea.

Ever since he was a little boy, Prince Brian and the sea were inseparable. As the castle was built on a shore not too far from the water, growing up he had spent a lot of time there playing in the sand, swimming, searching for pearls underwater. He liked the calmness and rhythmical waves coming to stroke his ankle as his feet sank into the mud, he liked the wildness of it when storms were raging over in the open fields and he liked that it had its borders but seemed to sweep through everywhere reaching every part of the world. There was something – something unexplainable and mysterious – about this giant of a sassy lady that attracted him and never let him go. He was under its spell and couldn't escape even if he wanted to.

No wonder he decided to join the royal marines as soon as he finished his training at the Academy. Being a sailor himself, his father (being the king by that time) was proud of him and supported his choice even if it meant the prince being away, on the open waters under the sparkling stars most of the time. But from time to time he came home, just like the tide always returned. He found his way back to the place where he fell for the depth and beauty of the sea.

He often found himself on the sandy beach by the water, watching it change various colours under the sunset. Sometimes he just watched it from the castle and certain times he wasn't even alone.

"Do you miss it?" he asked staring ahead at the endless sea as he stood next to his mother on the balcony. Her long red hair was decorated with jewellery made from sea shells and her locks swirled in the gentle night breeze behind her back. She had that kind of longing in her eyes that the prince couldn't understand until he didn't experience homesickness during his travels. There was no regret in those eyes, just a soft kind of sadness of losing something precious to gain another.

"It's hard not to when the sea calls for me constantly," Queen Ariel said in a gentle voice, almost like a sigh and her son couldn't even imagine the loss she felt. When she had given up on her tail to get legs, it hadn’t been the only thing she willingly let go off.

The sea's rules were strict. You couldn't turn your back on it without paying a price and every merbeing knew what it meant to leave their home behind: they could never go back.

So the prince was curious and he had matured a lot during his overseas training. Hence, he dared to ask the question he never asked out loud before.

"Do you regret it?" he whispered with eyes trained on the azure waves he loved so much.

He had been travelling throughout the Seven Seas for years now but he hadn't had the chance to stumble upon any merbeing like the ones told in his mother's tales. But her family, as she called the tribe, had always been a careful one, avoiding being in the centre of attention until Ursula's short but deadly rule. By now there was peace over the waters again.

"Choosing your father over being a mermaid? No. It's not regret. I only wish there would have been another way," the Queen shook her head staring ahead. Her honey voice was filled with nostalgia and melancholy. "But the sea is a selfish creature, a jealous lover. You can never win against it."

The prince hummed, knowing. This was a lesson he had been taught ever since he was young. He was warned to be always wary of the sea as what it gave, it could take it away just as easily. And yet, there was something out there that attracted him like flame enchanted the butterflies, he had always found his way back to it.

"Will you leave again, son?" Ariel turned her back on the stormy waves and stroke a smooth hand over the young man's face. The red locks he had got after her created a great contrast against the dark night even under the white moonlight. He was as bright as fire in the darkness.

"As soon as the maps are ready," he nodded firmly, worry evident in his eyes as he looked over the horizon. "There are more and more pirate ships around the border. We need to show them they can't hang around here. They should leave."

Politics had been a mess but the ongoing, endless wars against the Pirate Nation had been even worse. There was nothing they could negotiate with. The pirates lived for spilling blood, they weren't satisfied with anything, they always wanted more and more. More money, more freedom, more blood in the oceans. But Brian wasn't just going to let them win.

"Be careful," the Queen patted his cheek with the softest smile only mothers could make because no matter how old her son was, he was still her giggling little boy who had played with crabs and little fish in the ankle-high water by the beach.

"As always, mom," Brian promised, leaning his head into the motherly touch.

Cold breeze passed between them, bringing the forecasting of something bad coming from the sea but neither of them listened. Humans never did.

The sea wasn't a graveyard just for wrecked ships and poor souls but for broken promises and lost loves too. It had buried more than human recollection could hold onto.

And soon, you were going to join the ruins under, you were sure of it.

Handcuffed to the mast out in the open pirate ship, close but still so far away from your precious sea, you already felt like dying. Your human legs had become awfully dry due to the lack of water and every movement hurt as the blood in your veins got warmer than normal. Fever did no good to you as you leaned your sweaty forehead against the wood. Closing your eyes you imagined swimming home without a care. You really didn't want to think of all the possibilities of being sold or that they would scrap the scales off of your tail. Pirates didn't treat you as a woman even if only one huge man shirt was thrown over your bare, lithe body. In their eyes, you were an animal, being half-fish, half-human. They had big mouth, spits and swear words but their eyes couldn't lie. You saw it in their eyes, the fear and the attraction humans had towards mermaids, your unearthly beauty. But without your power, without your song, you were nothing but a tied up barely girl, useless and harmless. You hated being so weak.

"Ship on the horizon!" someone hollered in terrible dialect from the ship's bow and it was enough to stir up the waters around. Pirates all around you got their lazy asses up and with weapons in hands they rushed to prepare the ship for an attack.

"'Capt’ it's the Royal Marines," another one cried out as the three ships became more distinguishable in far-sight.

"Of course, they are," the wood-legged man snorted in disgust but the grin on his ugly face only showed satisfaction. This was just what he wanted, that was why they came here in the first place: to demolish the King's navy. Or at least his precious son and only heir. Victory could never taste as sweet as a revenge upon those who took everything from him.

Being so tired and weak, you were barely able to realize what was going on until someone splashed water into your face and shrieking you awakened from your half-lulled dream.

"The show must begin, little songbird. Are you ready to sing?" the Captain grinned at you, yellow teeth on full display as he was panting so close to your face. Disgusted, you turned your head away.

Or at least, you would have turned it but then suddenly you were yanked onto your wobbly feet by your chains and you almost fell onto your knees being ever so weak in your human legs you never really learned how to use.

"Now listen to me, doll," the pirate continued on, as he grabbed your chin and forced you to look him in the eyes, dark as the deepest pits of the sea. "Don't even think about escaping, I will kill you before you could leave the 100 meter radius of this ship. You just need to awake a storm and sing a pretty song to the sailors coming at us, okay? If you do a good job, then maybe I will reward you or if I'm feeling generous I might even let you go. What about that?"

"I- I cannot sing..." you croaked out, voice hoarse from being kept like a dog for days now. Without water you barely survived, how could he think you were still able to do what he wanted you to?

"Oh, silly girl, you think I don't know that?" the man huffed out and tossed you a huge canne of water. You were like a lunatic on verge of dying because of thirst based on the way you caught on that. You gulped down the oh so sweet, salty sea water and you felt your blood buzzing in excitement. Power, finally.

"Now sing!" the captain ordered once all his men put something into their ears to dull your enchanting voice. This way it couldn't affect. You grimaced at the smart move and when you were dragged to the side of the ship, you opened your mouth to sing.

Whenever you let that lulling melody fall from the tip of your tongue, you felt powerful, almost invincible. But now, you could barely hit the right tones. You thought you wouldn’t be able to summon anything at this rate but the sea, taking pity on you, started stirring up around the ship, clouds darkening above and the first drops of rain felt like a miracle on your dry skin. You closed your eyes for a moment, letting out a deep breath before starting that song again, the one that allured so many sailors into the loving arms of death.

The three ships of navy got closer in the meantime and the first roar of cannon made you tremble. The second made you fall as the pirate holding on your chains lost his balance and pulled you with him. Out of breath, you collapsed onto the wood board. You couldn't keep up. That much of water after being dried under the Sun didn't even give you enough strength to transform back into your full form. You could barely answer to the pull of the sea by finding your voice and that sweet melody.

You stopped singing, pushing him away as his hands grabbed on your shirt to stop you from escaping. Not like you could go far away with those metals around your ankle and the ties around your wrists but at least you wouldn’t be a puppet on string in a useless fight. You couldn’t wait for the ship to sink anyway.

“Why did you stop singing, little birdie?” The pirate clicked his tongue, following you to the mast where you tried to get the chain off in vain. He grabbed on your waist hauling you up.

“I’m not your songbird,” you gritted your teeth, angry, feeling the power of sea so close. You knew it had your back. You were so so mad, you could have killed this pirate with bare hands, only if you’d had your powers!

Everybody was running around on the ship, cannons fire shots, the ship tilted to one side and then the other as it got closer and closer to the maelstrom created closeby. You knew the power of the sea, a vortex like this could drag down whole armadas. A few pirate ships and three navy ones were like a children play.

You hung onto the mast as the navy ship got next to the one you were on in the next circle it took down the spiral. You kicked and hit until the pirate had to put you down and when he tried to lay his dirty hands on you again, you bit into his finger and just as he screamed in pain, you wrapped your own ties around his neck and squeezed it as long as you heard him breathe. Just another dead body as a sacrifice to the sea, you have seen them fall one by one anyway. The marines obviously overpowered them but you didn’t care about the gunshots and the screams and the blood spilling all around. You tried to get rid of your chains with trembling hands.

"There's a girl here! Help, they kept a girl as a hostage!" Someone hovered over you out of the blue. With a knife in one hand, he made a quick job with the rope tie around your hands, getting those off of your bruised wrists but you couldn’t help but flinch when the cold metal touched your skin and for a moment you thought he was going to dig it deep into your still heart. However, he hadn’t touch you like this, his eyes quickly skimmed through your body until he find the metal cage around your bare ankle. Only when he finished getting rid of the chain, you looked up at the stranger.

Marks of the battle were evident on his features in red split lines but his hands were warm and gentle as he covered you with his own jacket probably thinking you were cold in that thin shirt thrown upon you. He put a hand over the small of your back, pulling you up by the elbow with the other. He treated you as if you were fragile, harmless... human.

As if he was a mere fever dream you could only blink at him in awe, at his hair shining like the ardent, burning-hot colour of the sunset, so different from your own ink-like locks. And his eyes, those brown orbs, even with the fighter spirit in them, were so warm even your cold, cold heart felt the tremble as your gazes met.

"You're safe now," he said oh so softly but how a naive soul he was! The battle wasn't over yet and if it were, it wouldn't have been you who had to be afraid. He had no idea what you were capable of, how many hearts you had taken already. He held you as you stared at him, the first one to help you in order to save you from a possible unfair death on a pirate ship and then another cannon ball slammed into the wooden body of the ship.

"Lieutenant, get out of there!" Someone from the other ship brushing so close to this yelled but it was too late.

The fire of the fiery shot had already reached the gunpowder under the deck and it exploded like magical fireworks in the sky. The whole ship shook with the power of it, the wooden floor collapsed beneath you and the two of you fell into the water amongst the ruins of the pirate ship.

As soon as your skin made contact with the salty sea water, it felt like rebirth. Life was breathed into your burning lungs and you finally arrived home. You felt the scars heal, the bleeding stop and in the dark water lit by the orange of fire, you transformed: human legs got colour, covered by turquoise scales. Golden dots tainted tail and breast covered by finlike pattern, you got rid of the shirt and jacket to take a deep breath from the oxygen-filled water.

There were so many different feelings in you that wanted to break out. Anger, happiness and sadness all alike. You wanted to avenge what these pirates did to you but they were doomed to die anyway, the sea, the Mighty, was just as angry as you were. On the other hand you were finally free, you could have just swimmed away, away from this madness not looking back. But as you made the first movement to leave, you saw him, the soldier, the lieutenant who helped you, his body slowly sunk under as his muscles were on the verge of fighting against his lungs screaming for oxygen. He didn't deserve to die, that much was sure. He was caring and understanding even if he didn't know you. He was the first to treat you like a human being and as you watched him close his eyes, hands reaching for the surface, you couldn't just let him die. Not like that.

In a span of a moment, you decided against your life instincts. It wasn't usual for your kind to be kind to humans, much less saving them. But he deserved so much more than being another dead body in the sea among those ruthless pirates. You swam up to him until your bodies collided, flesh against flesh. He looked vulnerable and fragile now with his eyes clothes, body heavy as the sea pulled him down. You filled your lungs with oxygen and pressed your mouth against his, forcing his lips open so you could exhale the sweet air into his screaming lungs.

A kiss of the Sea.

When Prince Brian awakened he didn’t know where he was and how he got there.

Prying his eyes open he could see sand and palm trees, faintly he heard the murmurs of the sea. It didn’t take too much time to figure out that he was washed up to a beach after he fell into the water. With that realization, memories came back to him about the storm, the pirates, the fight and… the girl! He certainly remembered a pure-looking girl with hair like the darkest night and eyes like coal that heat up the castle back home. He wondered what her came to be, whether she survived the shipwreck and he wished to know where the rest of his crew was. He remembered falling into the sea after the explosion but if he had survived, they had to be alive as well, right? They were probably out looking for him.

He sat up, head hurting from the sudden movement but as he looked up at the shore he immediately knew where he was.

Home.

Up there he saw the castle and away a bit there was their bay. He somehow got to the beach he used to play at as a child when he was miles and miles away fighting pirates. Just how long he had been out? How long the sea had carried him on its back? How was this even possible? He wondered but thanked every deity that he had gotten home safely, so he could keep his promise made to his mother.

A moment later a dark shadow moved behind a huge rock by the beach and the prince immediately sprang to his feet.

“Hey, wait! Yes, you, please...” he yelled at the stranger, voice pleading because he had this gut feeling that there was something very important there. When the shadow didn’t move, neither closer, nor farther away, he took tentative steps by the seaside to approach the rock. Just as he passed by the rock, he noticed a girl in the water, the same from the pirate ship with her warm eyes and dark locks, but there was something different about her. At first, his eyes fell upon the naked shoulders of her, her long hair spreading all around her on the surface of the water, then he realized that the most outstanding of it all was the blue of her skin, the gill opening on her neck and the scattered golden scales along her body.

“You… you are a mermaid,” he whispered in awe suddenly remembering all the tales his mother had told him. His miraculous appearance here also made more sense because of it.

“I just wanted to make sure you are alive,” she said in a dulcet voice as if it was natural. He was actually glad she stayed and not just because she was the first mermaid (apart from his own mother of course) he had the chance to meet. He was indeed grateful.

“Did you bring me all the way here?” he asked and she simply nodded, watching him curiously. Brian wondered whether she found him just as interesting as he found her. It wasn’t because she wasn’t human but because she acted like one. Even his mother told him that her kind was brought up by the ruthless sea itself, so they believed in kill or to be killed. Befriending and saving humans was something that went against their own ethical codex. In some tribes it even meant betrayal, yet she took the risk for him, so he felt immense gratitude.

“Thank you,” he told her, words genuine even though he wasn’t sure she understood what it meant for him and why he wanted to know more about her. “Do you oft–”

He wanted to know if she visited this shore regularly, whether they had a chance to meet again, whether she would be up for a talk but life had got in-between.

“Your Highness!” a royal guard hollered and the mermaid swam away with the sound of quick flacks on the sea’s surface following her.

The prince looked after her, at the wavy sea, yearning for something even his heart couldn’t name.

You tried your best to forget him, to not miss him but all in vain. Once you were back with your tribe, you told them about your capture, the fight and how you escaped. It was hard not to tell them about the handsome prince who was there too but it would have been a stupid move on your part telling them that you blessed him with the gift of Sea. Not all of them would have been so understanding.

It was a silly thing, wasn't it? Being so enamoured with someone despite barely knowing anything about them. All you knew was that he was kind-hearted and not disgusted by your type. From a human, it was more than enough.

So you caught yourself hanging around the beach more, his beach to be more precise. He liked to take early morning jogs there - you definitely did not stare - and late night walks. Most of the times he was alone, sometimes he was with a beautiful, elder lady, hair similar to his. You were sure she was his mother but the most surprising thing was that it felt as if she was the part of the ocean too. It was a fading feeling but it was there and for a moment you couldn't believe but could it been? That the legends about the mermaid who became human were true? It would have explained why he behaved so naturally around her and why his crew was prepared enough to not get affected by her song. Everything made much more sense like this and it only added to your growing fascination with him.

You wondered whether the Sea adored or cursed at him? The child of one that got away, one that turned away from the depth? He seemed to be fine on water, he seemed rather fond of it, spending so much time around it, so you were pretty certain he also felt that pull that bind you to your home. It was just another symptom of homesickness.

After a week or so, you saw the prince getting abroad again, proud as the Lieutenant on a new ship heading towards South. You followed them from a certain distant and watched him. You told yourself it was because you didn't want him to stumble upon your tribe but actually your heart yearned for something even you couldn't explain. Maybe you wanted those soft eyes on you again, his gentle touch and kind words. You really weren't sure.

But it seemed like the Sea listened to your untold prayers when a storm came, a powerful one as you felt it in your fibers, the waves crashing to every rock with a power so harsh you trembled. It gave you an excuse to step out of the shadows under the moonlight, when almost everyone was sleeping on the ship. You had seen the prince walk back and forth every night alone on the deck, so that day you waited for him.

You psted at him trying to get his attention when he indeed walked out from his cabin with a simple white shirt hanging from his wide-shouldered figure. He looked around confused then you let out a whisper again and he ran to the side of the ship looking down at the water, seeing you above the service.

"Oh so I was right about being followed!" He muttered but there was nothing negative in his voice only wonder. You didn't even expect him to but then he climbed over the fence after throwing down a rope ladder and he climbed down until his boots touched the surface of water.

"I didn't get your name last time," was the first thing he said and it's ridiculous.

"That's not what's important now," you argued as you held onto the ladder too to keep it up easier against the wild current. "There's a huge storm coming. You need to turn more West to not run into it."

That's it, that's what you wanted to tell him, it's time to go, you reminded yourself and let go off the rope but at his voice you turned back.

"Hey! Don't go," he whisper-yelled after you and he sounded desperate. You had never heard anyone talk to you like that. As if the mere thought of you leaving again had been painful for him. "Why are you helping us?"

"You helped me last time," you reasoned but the prince seemed both a bit doubtful and a bit hopeful.

"Is that it? Just this?"

His voice wasn't accusing but curious and it felt like as if he wanted it to be more. It made you smile.

"What else would be there?" You raised a brow playful and something similar reflected in his eyes too as he leaned closer, letting go of the rope with one hand. What a daring, reckless man he was!

"Don't you feel this pull?"

Oh the one like waves? The one that followed the moon? The gravity? That strange power that attracted you to him? Your smile was like a secret love song whispered to the Sea, yet he caught sight of it as you blushed under the milk honey coloured light.

"To the West. Don't forget, my Prince," you reminded him and swam away with your ever still heart beating crazily against your ribcage.

Of course, Brian listened to you. He had nothing to lose. The journey was a bit longer with that detour which meant a more cranky crew because of they ran out of food and rum sooner than expected. But at least everyone survived. Even like this, the ship was tossed around in the water by the waves that came from the darkened part on the ocean. He knew that if it hadn’t been for you, they would have gone straight to the danger zone. So he was grateful but also even more curious than before. You were more playful than he thought at first, but then again, you met on the rim of death, of course you weren't joking with him back then.

He still didn't know your name and he who had found so many treasures, who had fought so many pirates and enemies, he was determined to change that. So he lost more and more sleep in order to meet you. Because yes, he had caught sight of you some nights when the Moon was high in the sky and your tail shone in all colours of the rainbow. Then at some point, you stopped being shy and only watch the ship from afar, you swam closer and closer until he spent half of his nights sitting on that rope ladder talking to you.

Those midnight rendezvous became your favourite part of the days. Just to listen to him talk about his duties as the prince and lieutenant, his worries about his country, his dreams, places he wants to see. In exchange you told him about your life underwater, your sisters in the tribe and how peaceful the waters had been around here until the pirates came. It turned out you had a common enemy in those dirty men. Both of you wanted to get rid of them, so you offered your help. It was a pretty cool deal, though both of you knew it was just an excuse. The only setback was the danger itself but you had never been one to give into fear so easily. You wouldn't have been alone anyway. Spending time with the prince wasn't too bad either.

"So tomorrow?" you looked up at him one night knowing that the next day you would reach the Triangle of Cages, the bay of pirates where you were told not to be able to leave once you're inside. But you had the element of surprise with you and with your skills you could help the crew.

"Yeah. Tomorrow," the Prince sighed, looking up at the Moon. He had some kind of melancholy in his eyes and you could easily tell that he was worried. Nobody knew how many pirates would be there and he only had a little armada of three ships with around hundred of people. Pirates might have been uneducated and untrained but they were rough, had grown up on the Sea, so they were an enemy nobody should have underestimate.

"It's going to be okay," you told him even though you always hated these kind of cheap promises. It was a simple lie, because how could you know for sure what was going to happen? It was all in the hands of the Sea.

"But if it's not... I wanna give you something," he said, warmth swimming in his dark eyes as he took something out of his pocket. It was a bracelet made of little pearls, it was pretty. "My mother said it once belonged to the Sea. I want to return it," he said as he handed the accessory out for you.

"You want to give it to me?" you blinked at him surprised. You didn't expect him to be so sentimental.

"You're part of the Sea, aren't you?" He raised an eyebrow at you almost challengingly. You had a hard time suppressing a smile but in the meantime it was a situation so much more serious.

"You own a bit of it as well," just like from my heart.

The prince smiled down at you almost as if he knew what exactly you meant and he was gentle as he put the bracelet around your wrist, fingers drawing soft pattern onto the back of your hand as his fingers slipped off you. You immediately missed his warmth.

"I still don't know your name," he whispered which made you giggle. You pulled yourself upwards by the rope on his side and beckoned him closer with your index fingers. You looked him straight in the eyes as he leant closer, breath fanning over your lips as you whispered your name like a secret into the seam of his mouth.

At first he seemed a bit taken aback by your closeness but before you could have pulled back, playfully winking at him, he sneaked a hand behind your neck to keep you there. To hold you when his mouth slid over yours, chapped rum-flavoured lips tasting your salty ones. Your breath hitched before kissing him back, fingers slipping into his burgundy locks. You only pulled back when he almost lost his balance on the rope ladder and fell into the water with you. Both of your chuckles echoed in the night sky as the sea welcomed you back with wide arms, calm waves pulling you under. You waved before you swam under, hiding your blushed cheeks in the water.

By now, you were sure the Sea was just as enamoured with him as you were, you didn't worry about tomorrow.

Twice upon a time, a prince fell in love with a mermaid.

He never lost any more battles on the sea but he always yearned to be out there, under the stars, in her arms. He walked along the line marked with sea-washed wishes in the sand under his feet, never straying far. For once, you didn't have to take his heart because he offered willingly. He loved you more than the Sun and the Moon and all the stars, coming back to you whenever he could. So when this time his mother asked him: do you miss it? He didn't have to think of an answer, it was as sure as his heartbeat, deeply integrated in his system.

"I miss her as I would miss the air, constantly and solidly, always." He smiled but his smile was hopeful because you both knew that no matter how harsh the Sea was, it wasn't only a graveyard, it was also a cradle of your love. Of another love story of which word got around not just in the Kingdom but every wave of the ocean.

#day6 scenarios #day6 imagines #young k imagines #young k scenarios #day6 brian #day6 young k #day6 younghyun #royalty au #siren au #little mermaid au #pirate au #fantasy au #stories

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otterinterests · 5 years ago

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One Piece Secret Santa

Hi @shishiswordsman! I was your secret santa for @opsecretsanta2019. Sorry this took so long to get out. I chose to write ZoLawLu from your character/ship requests, since that’s one I also love and don’t see much stuff for. Since you said you like hurt/comfort fics, I decided to go for that as well. It’s set in Wano.

If you are ok with it, I’ll post it to my AO3 and gift it to you there as well (possibly after I fix it a bit more. I am... not entirely happy with how this turned out after two unintentional rewrites and cringe a bit at gifting it to you).

Anyway, I hope you enjoyed the event! Thank you to Red for organising the event and Narramin for helping admin. My own technical difficulties aside, it was a lot of fun and I love looking at everyone’s works!

“Luffy! Just let me look at it!”

“No! You’ve already got yours, these are mine!”

Zoro lunged at Luffy and the younger man danced out of the way, waving his purple katana and the new prize in the air to keep them out of Zoro’s reach.

“You don’t even know how to use them! And you can’t hold that one in your hand to punch someone with, so you can’t even pretend with it. So give. Them. Here!”

Each word was punctuated with an attempt to grab at Luffy. Eventually, Zoro got a hold on the collar of Luffy’s yukata. Luffy shoved his foot in Zoro’s face in response.

“No!” he yelled, trying to push Zoro off while keeping the swords away. “They’re mine! I need to look like a samurai!”

Luffy pushed again, and Zoro’s grip came loose. Luffy stumbled backwards, and over the edge of the cliff.

“Luffy!”

“Strawhat!”

“Luffytaro-san!”

---

Law let his Room fade with a sigh.

“Will they be alright?” the tall woman asked, leaning over his shoulder.

Zoro and Luffy were laid out on the ground, pale, sweating, and clearly in pain while barely conscious.

“They’ll be well enough to continue on to the ruins in an hour or two,” he told her. “I removed the water and poisons from their system that hadn’t been metabolised. They’ll feel sick for a while, but they’ll live.”

They’d waited for Zoro to deal with the sword-wielding tiger rather than leave him to find them afterwards. Law remembered the incident on Zou. Roronoa couldn’t find his way out of a wet paper bag, let alone an unfamiliar forest—Law was not letting him loose on his own in this country again.

And yet, even keeping an eye on them, Strawhat and his swordsman still managed to get into trouble. There was a river below the cliffs, and Luffy had gone straight in. Zoro had jumped over the edge right after him to fish him out. Law had needed to Shambles both of them back to land. They’d both ingested more than enough of the poisonous water to put them down, and Zoro could hardly climb with Luffy as a dead weight.

He’d done as much as he could, but like Bepo and Kin’emon there was nothing he could do for what was already metabolised. They’d be able to get up in an hour or two, and then be very sick for the next day or so unless they were stupid enough to eat or drink more of the contaminated foodstuffs. Law closed his eyes and took a fortifying breath. It was Strawhat and food. He’d undoubtably end up like Bepo unless the food at hand was safe.

“Hey,” Law said to the samurai. “We need something that won’t poison them to eat or drink. That harbour should have something. Think you could go?”

The woman eyed him, then looked at the two lying down.

“I will return with something safe for Zorojuro-san and Luffytaro-san,” she said. “Please wait here.”

Law put his back to a tree between the two. Nothing to do but wait until they woke up. Law created a room around the three of them, leaned his head back and tilted his hat down, and closed his eyes beneath it. Might as well enjoy the quiet while it lasts.

---

“…ao, I need meat, I’ll feel better after I get some!”

A pause. “Strawhat, that’s not how things work.”

Zoro regained lucidity slowly, groaning at the burn in his nerves and the twisting of his stomach. A hand was running softly through his hair, fingertips lightly scratching at his scalp. He focused on the pleasant feeling, willing the rest of his pain away.

“Roronoa-ya,” said Law, softer than he normally was. The hand in his hair moved down his neck and under his shoulder.

Zoro made a small noise of protest at the loss of comfort.

“You need to sit up,” he continued, a second hand coming under his shoulders and helping him up. There was a cup at his lips. He brings a hand up to hold it.

“It’s clean water. Drink it slowly.”

“Zoro will get better faster if you give him the sake!”

Sake. Yes, that sounded good. Zoro opened his eyes. Law was glaring daggers at Luffy, his captain lying on his side with an unrepentant grin across his face. He didn’t look one hundred percent, still pale and his hair plastered to his face with sweat, but he didn’t look quite as bad as Zoro felt. And if he got some of that sake, he’d be feeling much better.

Law felt Zoro try to lever himself out of his support.

“Don’t try to get up yet,” he said. “What do you need?”

Zoro turned his face to look at the older man. His brows were pinched and lips in a slight downturn, not quite a frown but enough to show worry.

“The sake.”

Law’s face flattens. An eye twitched. Abruptly, Law lets go of Zoro and stands. Zoro sags forwards and nearly drops his cup.

“You’re going to drink your water and lie back down, and not move until the woman returns.” His glare turns from Zoro to Luffy. “Both of you.”

“But Toraoooo,” Luffy whines. “Poisons don’t do much to me anyway! And I really will get better with meat. And Zoro with alcohol.”

His eye twitched more. Zoro watched him, judging his chances, and tried to stand up anyway.

"If you don't lie back down, I will take you apart joint by joint."

Zoro's grin and eyes were sharp.

"A challenge, Torao? You can't cut me."

Law closed his eyes and breathed out deeply. Zoro was lucky to be conscious. Strawhat had some small immunity to poison, and even he was pale and sweaty and miserable, watching them both intently. Zoro would not be able to stop Law if he tried, and swordsman knew it. He was just baiting Law, looking for an excuse to get up. But Law was done with this.

"Just stay down, you idiot. If you’re well enough to sit up I have other things to do," he said. The samurai woman was still scouting around the docks, checking for edible food. If she brought back contaminated items, he might try separating the poisons again…

"Torao."

Law sighed and turned back. "What now Stra-"

He was wrapped around the middle by a stretchy arm and yanked off his feet to ground with Luffy. Zoro had been hauled from his own spot towards his captain as well, the sudden jerking movement pulling a cut-off yell from his throat. His pallor nearly matched his hair when he stopped. All three of their faces were close enough that they were breathing each other’s air. Law struggled a little.

“Strawhat, what are-”

Luffy cut him off. “We’ll stay down if you do.”

Zoro just groaned and sagged in the grip. Law looked between them, then up at the sky for strength. These idiots.

“Fine,” he sighed. “But if either of you are sick on me, you’ll be missing body parts for weeks.”

Luffy laughed and nuzzled his face into the two of them.

#opsecretsanta2019 #one piece #fanfiction #shishiswordsman #secret santa #wow this ended up a task and a half #guess who absolutely fails with technology #I managed to delete this story twice and has to rewrite nearly from scratch #You can probably tell which bits too #Some parts are very... telly instead of showy and I just couldn't get it right again #I was so mad #but I got it done in time still!#two rewrites in a week was a pain #I'm so sorry shishiswordsman #I actually feel kind of bad giving this as a gift #since I know it's not great #when I get home from holidays I'll post up the other ideas I had for you and write you a new one #please forgive me #if you've managed to get this far in my tags #Go read shishiswordsman's stuff if you haven't already #they're amazing #and getting them as my giftee was nerve wracking to an extreme #like shit man I'm writing something for such a good writer #wtf am I gonna do #hhnnggg #I'm gonna go hide under a rock now #and drown myself in assassin's creed

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thewanderingace · 3 years ago

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Hawkeye Finale reactions

As usual, major spoilers below the cut!!

Here we go here we go here we gooooo!!!!

He called her partner! That just made me cry

I am LOVING this montage of them making trick arrows!!! Aahhh Clint has a box of Stark Industries arrows!! Aww it's like a part of Tony is still here. And I spy another Pym arrow! And Kate, labeling them is so funny. 😂

And now I'm crying again because Kate is telling Clint why he's her hero and OMFG I have feelings. Clint needed so badly to hear that. Kate came into his life the perfect moment. He needed her. She needed him. I'm crying.

Yelena's hair looks incredible. Just incredible.

"Let's go for a drink" "Okay. Yeah, sure. Right after I kill Barton"

🤣🤣🤣🤣 YELENA AND KATE!!! I'M DYING!!! They're just hilarious together and I love them! Kate trying to push all the elevator buttons, Yelena stopping her, the banter, the jokes, the kinda fighting each other trying to get in front of the others, them both complimenting each other, Yelena looking offended when Kate fights lol. I love them both so much.

Kate slapping Yelena and her face afterwards.

All I can think about is that scene in Elf with the elevator.

"Stop making me like you." "Sorry I cant help it." Mood. Same Kate lol.

Tracksuit guy thanking Kate for her advice and him telling her they went to see maroon five before she knocks him on his ass was perfection.

Jack is such an idiot. I kinda love it. But also why. Why is he here. They literally did nothing with his character. Why put Swordsman in the snow if he was not going to do or be anything.

CLINT FALLING INTO THE ROCKEFELLER CENTER TREE 🤣🤣🤣 THE FUCKING OWL!! 🤣🤣

Omg I love the larpers so fing much. Theu changed because they feel stronger and braver in their outfits. I love them. And when Clint sees them. “We're all gonna die.” 🤣🤣

Omg omg omg they're fighting together on the ice against the tracksuits in their costumes using all the trick arrows I AM IN HAWKEYE HEAVEN!!!!!!

THE OWL IS BACK!!! AND IT PICKED UP THE TINY CAR OF TRACKSUITS OMFG HELP ME I CAN'T STOP LAUGHING!!!

"I gotta talk to Scott about that" 🤣🤣👏👏👏

And I'm crying again but it's okay because this is exactly what I wanted. I wanted a super super emotional "this is what happened to Nat and now we're bonding because of how much we loved her" between Clint and Yelena. I DIDN'T THINK IT'D START WITH THE WHISTLE THOUGH AND NOW I'M DYING

"I loved her so much" "Me too."

KATE FIGHTING AGAINST KINGPIN HOLY SHIT

MAYA!!! YAAS GURL!! Shit I'm so sorry you have to do this. Fuck you Kazi. Maya I can't wait for your tv series.

KATE DEFEATED KINGPIN THAT'S MY GIRL!!!

Maya!!! Aahhhhh you did not!! Holy shit yes!!!

🥰😭😭 Clint telling Kate that sometime someone comes who changes you for the better and then immediately making a joke about the suits was so good. Cue tears number 4.

Awww Clint is thinking about Lucky.

I didn't give two shits about Kingpin because I didn't enjoy the Daredevil show so I don't care about him and if he's actually dead or not but good for Maya. You go girl.

Please make it home, please make it home and pleeeeease take Kate with you.

AHHH ITS THE FARM!! HE MADE IT HOME HE MADE IT HOME! Is Kate with you!?!!!

KATE! YES!!

Oh no. Oh no wait I have a bad feeling. Interviews said I'd cry. I mean I've already cried but thsts cause I'm emotional. I swear to GOD if they walk onto this house and Laura is dead or missing I will RIOT!

Oh fuck thank god theres Nate and Lila and THANK GOD THERES LAURA! Okay I cam breathe and enjoy now. Wow that few seconds nearly gave me a heart attack.

This is so perfect I'm crying again. Lool at them all.

19. Agent 19. MOCKINGBIRD. Yeah! Called it! The watch is Laura's and she was totally a shield agent! I love it! I do prefer Adrienne Palicki as mockingbird but I'm cool with this.

Ooooh they're burning the Ronin suit. Yes. Good. "Finishing what you started." 😭👏 Nat would be so proud and happy for you Clint.

LOL KATE! Trying to come up with her superhero name. Hilarious.

"I've got an idea"

HAWKEYE! IT'S HAWKEYE KATE YOURE HAWKEYE!

Soooo glad that whatever article or whoever said that the finale was gonna be devastating was lying their ass off because I could not have handled that. I wanted a happy ending and I got my perfect happy ending. Thank fuck.

The end credit scene! STOP! 🤣🤣🤣🤣 I 1000% expected it to end with like Bucky or Sam I'm the audience looking disgusted.

Conclusions: I AM SO DAMN HAPPY!!! THIS GONALE WAS SO GOOD AND I GOT EVERYTHING I WANTED!!! I CRIED. I LAUGHED. I WAS SHOOK. I LOVED IT. PLEASE GIVE US A SEASON 2

#hawkeye #hawkeye spoilers #hawkeye finale #hawkeye series #hawkeye reactions #my reactions #stephs stuff

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katedrakeohd · 5 years ago

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#Wacky Drabbles

Prompt #4 we need to identify the source of the problem

For @emceesynonymroll and my fellow:

Wacky Drabblers: @jessiembruno @brightpinkpeppercorn @jovialyouthmusic @sirbeepsalot @bobasheebaby @burnsoslow

@qween-corgis

Rated: PG for swearing

Word count: approx 3000

Dinner Discourse

Drake sits at the kitchen table watching Kate help her mother prepare dinner. He can't help but notice how much Kate and Lorraine look alike in their matching aprons. Although Lorraine’s hair is shorter and contains more grey, it's similar in color to Kate’s, and they're close to being the same height. While Kate chops ingredients for salad, her mother is stirring a pot of sauce on the stove. As they chat quietly at the counter, Lorraine periodically scolds Kate for talking with her hands while she's holding a knife.

Lorraine glances over her shoulder at Drake when he starts chuckling, “I didn't know that preparing food was a spectator sport. Or that it was so entertaining.”

Drake grins back, “I like to watch Kate work in the kitchen. It's such a rare thing to see these days. Besides if you think she looks dangerous talking with a knife in her hand you should have seen her cut our wedding cake with a sword!”

Kate shoots a glare at Drake for mentioning the wedding that her Mom wasn't even invited to. When her Mom's mouth drops open in shock, Kate gestures toward her with the knife in her hand and gives him a disapproving look. Seriously? He shrugs back at her and mouths sorry.

Lorraine admonishes Kate for her reckless behavior, “Seriously? Isn't using a sword a little bit dramatic even if you are a Duchess now?”

Kate pops a slice of cucumber into her mouth before answering. “Well the sword was a wedding gift. At least it was thoroughly cleaned off before the cake cutting. It came in very handy when I was fighting assassins earlier that day.” Kate's amused by her Mom's wide eyed expression when she looks at Drake to confirm what she's just heard.

“Fighting off assassins on your wedding day? You can't be serious.”

Drake gets up from the table and walks over to give Kate a hug from behind and a kiss on the cheek. “Oh we're deadly serious. The two of us were even kidnapped from our wedding reception. Your daughter and I fought off a whole crew of bad guys with the help of our friends. Kate is a total badass.”

Lorraine steps back from the stove, her hand going to her hip as she tries to make sense of what she's hearing. She points her finger at them both. “Oh my God why didn't you tell me any of this? Or that you were in so much danger?” Although the question is directed at Kate, her eyes are glaring at Drake accusingly as if it's his fault her daughter was in harm's way.

Kate leans back into Drake and his arms tighten around her protectively. “Look Mom, it's not like you could have done anything about my situation. I have Drake to protect me, and I have bodyguards and powerful friends who will always have my back. I'm not some quivering flower either. Besides I survived living in New York city by myself long before Drake even met me.”

“All kidding aside Mrs. Darling, I love Kate and I'd never let anything bad happen to her. I've taken a bullet for her, and even won a duel against a trained swordsman in defense of her honor. I assure you she's in good hands.” Drake insists.

Turning back to the stove to tend to the pots and picking up her spoon again, Lorraine shakes her head and sighs. “The fact that you had to put your own life on the line and be so brave to protect my daughter does little to reassure me Drake. As much as I appreciate you being there for her, it's the fact that there are people out there wanting to do her harm that worries me.”

Kate pats Drake on the arm and then he lets her go back to finish making the salad.

“I told you Drake, my Mom's no pushover. You'll have to rope the darn moon to make her happy.”

Lorraine chuckles, “Well I don't know about roping the moon, but he can start by setting the table for dinner.”

Drake nods, “Yes ma'am.” And after being shown where to find everything he goes to work setting the table for four.

Kate steals glances at Drake as he moves from cupboard to table. As she watches him place each item carefully, she can't help but smile. He catches her watching him and winks back with a grin. Lorraine sees Kate blush and look away, shaking her head.

“Geez daughter of mine I haven't seen you blush over a boy since you were in high school. He must really be something.”

Kate grins at her mother, “Oh you have no idea. He's more than just something, he's everything.”

Lorraine laughs, “I used to think the same thing about your Dad, until he ran away with his young Brazilian intern. But look at you going and landing yourself a Duke.”

Kate tosses the vegetables in the bowl with a pair of tongs. “Well ….actually he married a Duchess. He was just a poor homeless shmuck before he met me.”

Drake protests with a laugh, “Hey I wasn't homeless.”

“If I had accepted Nicholas’ proposal I would have so totally kicked you out of the Palace,” Kate teases as she places the salad bowl on the table.

Drake slips an arm around her back, untying her apron strings. “Well then this poor shmuck is lucky you turned him down then. Otherwise taking that bullet to the arm was a total waste of time.”

Lorraine turns around and leans against the counter, her arms crossed. “Oh my goodness you two lead interesting lives don't you? Bullets, assassins, multiple proposals it's like you live in a movie or a novel.”

Kate laughs, “Well actually we do! One of our friends documented the whole thing. I'll have to send you a copy of his book.”

“Well I suppose that's one way to get caught up on what I've been missing. I saw you two on the cover of a magazine at the grocery store, and couldn't believe it. I so wish I could have been at the wedding. It's not everyday that your daughter gets married and becomes a National hero at the same time.”

“Actually to make sure it was extra official we got married twice,” Kate chuckles as Drake wraps her in a hug.

When the oven timer beeps Lorraine grabs her oven mitts and takes the tray of meatballs out of the oven.

“What do you mean twice? Oh never mind, I don't need to know.” Lorraine sighs, turning off the oven.

While Lorraine is busy at the stove, Drake slips his hand behind Kate's apron and places it on her belly. He leans in and whispers into her ear. “Should we tell her?”

Kate tips her head to the side and gives him a kiss. “Sssh, not yet.”

Turning around from the stove, Lorraine unties her own apron and sets it aside. “Ok you love birds, save the smooching and sweet nothings for later. Dinner's ready and as soon as Carol gets home we'll dish up. In the meantime I need to round up the cats and feed them too.”

Kate's eyes light up, “Ooh can I help? I want to meet the kitties.”

She pulls off her apron and tosses it at Drake. “Here hold this for me. Can we trust you all by yourself in the kitchen with all this food?”

Drake's stomach growls. Between all the delicious smells in the kitchen he wasn't so sure he could be trusted. He grins, pulling out his phone. “I make no promises. But I'll try to distract myself by checking in with Mara and giving her a situation report.”

Lorraine frowns at Kate as they exit the kitchen. “Who's Mara?”

Kate reaches out and touches her arm to reassure her, “My bodyguard. She's back in Seattle at the hotel. It was tough to convince her to stay behind today. But I promised her we'd check in regularly, and contact the local authorities if anything bad happened.”

Her mother nods, “Does Drake have a bodyguard too?”

Kate glances over her shoulder back toward the kitchen as they go down the hall, lowering her voice. “He does, but Drake is so used to looking after himself that he rarely sees the need to give him much work outside of Cordonia. He left Preston back in Valtoria with instructions to keep watch over the estate.”

Back in the kitchen, Drake leans against the counter and talks to Mara on the phone. In his other hand is the remainder of his chocolate donut.

“Everything is fine Mara, aside from some delinquent water fowl there hasn't been anything to worry about.”

On the other end of the line Mara sounds agitated and out of breath, evidently she's been pacing the room and waiting for his call. “I don't like it. I should be there to keep an eye on you and Kate. With all the added attention this Royal Heir business has brought upon you both we never know who we can trust.”

With a sigh Drake takes a bite of donut, “Well I'm pretty sure we're safe with Kate's mother. But if it'll make you feel better you can coordinate with the local authorities in Klamath Falls to be on alert in case we need assistance.” Damn what a mother hen she is. Surely this will give her something to do in our absence.

Mara's smile of relief is audible in her voice, “I'll get right on that Your Grace. Oh and at what hour should I expect you and the Duchess back at the hotel tonight?”

Drake chews on his lip hesitantly before answering, “Well considering the length of the drive and that we're just about to sit down for dinner, it's not likely we'll be back tonight.”

“But that's..that's unacceptable and a serious breach of protocol. I insist that you reconsider your decision to stay overnight Your Grace.”

Drake runs his hand through his hair in frustration, “I seriously don't see a problem Mara. There's no foreseeable threat. Just do as I asked and then get some sleep. We'll be back in the morning.”

Before she can protest further he hangs up.

Great. Now she's got me all nervous about being out here in buttfuck nowhere without backup. Thanks a lot.

Out in the backyard in the diminished light of early evening, a fox silently trots toward the poultry pen. Sniffing the air and with his tail held low he discerns no obvious threats. This wasn't his first visit. Poking his snout through the waffled metal fence, he clamps down on the metal wire with his teeth and tugs in an attempt to loosen it from the wooden frame. When it doesn't budge, he paws at the soft ground next to the fence instead and begins to dig a hole.

On the far side of the pen by the gate, Clem is resting with his face tucked under his wing. The sound of scratching jolts him out of his doze and he puffs out his feathers and opens his beak to hiss a warning. The fox stops digging and crouches low to begin wriggling under the fence. With a flap of his wings and a strangled hissing honk, Clem launches himself across the pen to attack the intruder. With gnashing teeth the fox fights back with a yip and a snarl. Clem flaps his wings and beats the fox around the head until he struggles his way back out of the hole. The fox shakes off the dirt from his fur and then sneezes before running away. Clem sees the hole as a new point of escape, ducking his head and attempting to fit under the fence. He only gets halfway through and gets stuck, one wing on either side of the fence. In his panicked state he starts flapping his wings and honking loudly.

In the kitchen the sudden commotion caused Drake to almost choke on the last bite of his donut. What the fuck is Clem up to now?

The headlights of Carol’s Jeep illuminate the front yard as she pulls into the driveway. As she parks next to Drake's rented black Lexus, she can't help but raise her eyebrows. Apparently the Duke and Duchess travel in style.

When she cuts the engine Clem’s loud honking meets her ears. Looking toward the house she's surprised to see a man in a white dress shirt and jeans come out through the screen door carrying a broom.

Well hello there handsome stranger, you must be Drake.

In the glaring flood of her headlights he raises a hand to shield his eyes. Oops sorry.

Shutting off her lights, Carol gets out of the Jeep. “Hi there. You must be Drake.”

Drake smiles, giving a slight nod. “Carol, I assume.”

Stepping forward, Carol sticks out her hand in greeting. Drake wipes his hand on his jeans and then accepts her handshake. Clem continues to honk loudly.

“I see you're armed. Is the darn goose causing problems again?” she laughs.

Drake looks down at the broom in his hand, “It seemed to do the trick earlier, so I figured why not.”

“Well I guess we need to identify the source of the problem then. I'll lead the way.” Carol says, stepping past Drake.

He makes an “after you" gesture with his arm and then falls in behind her. As they come around to the back of the house, the other feathered residents in the chicken coop are also raising a fuss. Carol checks the latch on Clem's pen and sees it still fastened.

“Ok well he didn't get out this way.”

Pointing with the handle of the broom in the dim light Drake says, “Nope, from the looks of things he's found another way. Or at least he tried.”

Clem has stopped struggling and is just laying there wedged and wailing.

“Now what?” Carol wonders.

“Well with his wings out like that he can't really move forward or backward. So we need to get him to fold up a wing and either back up or squeeze the rest of the way through.” Drake offers with a shrug.

“Ok then Sir Broomsalot, which end do you want to tackle? Cuz he's either gonna snap and hiss from the front, or blow shit all over you from the back.” Carol laughs.

“Well he's better off back in his pen than out of it. So I'll tackle him from the front. I have the broom for protection.” Drake says, apprehensively.

“You don't sound so sure about this plan.” Carol says, placing her hand on the top of the gate preparing to get in with Clem.

Drake walks around the enclosure to the opposite side. “Well I'd rather just whack the hell out of him until he pops through, but that's liable to break a wing or maim him in some other way.”

Carol chuckles, “That wouldn't hurt my feelings. But it wouldn't do him any good to die of an infection before we're ready to…you know.”

Drake looks down at the silly goose as he hisses and snaps at him. “Ok here's the plan. I’ll use the broom to deflect his head and neck back toward his body. Then I'll fold in his wing and then shove him back through. Can you grab him by the legs and pull?”

Carol laughs as she gets into the pen, “Ok, it's worth a shot. It wouldn't be the first time the damn bastard has shit on me.”

Drake nods, crouching down with the flat side of the broom as a shield in front of him, “Alrighty then, here goes.”

Clem honks and starts to flap his wings in protest as Drake presses the broom into the side of his face. But with his head and neck turned to the side he stops struggling. Drake braces the broom with his knee and then carefully folds in his wing the best he can. “Ok now pull.”

Sucking in a deep breath, Carol turns her head to the side and then yanks the goose by the legs and whips him off to the side. In a flurry of flapping and feathers, Clem tumbles across the pen and then rights himself again. With a flap of his wings and a shake of his head he seems to be more or less back to normal, save for a few lost feathers.

Drake drops back on his ass on the ground, laughing. Carol scrambles to her feet and gestures for Drake to help her up over the side of the pen. “Hey! Get off yer ass and help me outta here.”

“Oh right.” Drake rolls over and gets up. He sticks the broom down into the pen and Carol steps up on the side of it, and then scrambles over the side with his help.

Glancing around for something to block the hole, she points to a large plant pot nearby. “Can you lift that? Use it to block the hole for tonight?”

Drake frowns, sucking in a breath and then letting it out with a shrug. “Ok sure.”

Carol opens her mouth to offer to help, but then Drake squats and lifts the planter of flowers easily and places it next to the fence.

“Wow, brains and brawn. You're the complete package aren't you.” Carol chuckles.

“He sure is,” a voice says from behind them.

Carol and Drake turn to see Kate coming out of the backdoor. “Uh Carol, this is my wife Kate.” Drake says with a grin, wiping his hands on his jeans.

“Oh my goodness if you're not the spitting image of your mother!” Carol exclaims happily.

Kate nods and laughs, “Thanks, now if you two are done playing duck-duck-goose, why don't you come in for supper?”

Drake bows his head to Kate and gives her a wink and smile, “Yes ma'am.”

Continue to the next part

#long post #drake × kate #TRH-drake x mc #wacky drabbles

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ibijau · 5 years ago

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30 day otp - day twenty four: Xiao

24. X – Xylophone. There aren’t many x words. Xiao, because I am lucky this fandom DOES have plenty of x words, and this lets me stay in the theme of a musical instrument

Set somewhere between the Wens’ archery contest, and the Wen Summer School From Hell

It's been a tough Night Hunt, or so Nie Huaisang is told. He is very glad that he wasn't invited for that one, due to it taking place a little too close to the Wens' territory. His brother's paranoia about Qishan Wen has its good sides when it can get him out of doing anything boring.

But Nie Huaisang is glad as well that Nie Mingjue wasn't alone for this. He can be reckless, but less so when Lan Xichen is with him because he feels responsible for his friend. Nie Huaisang suspects it's some sort of big brother instinct. Or else, it's just the effect Lan Xichen has on people. He is so kind and gentle, anyone would want to protect him.

Not that he needs protecting. For all his beauty and elegance, Lan Xichen is fearsome in a fight. He is a swordsman beyond compare, the best archer of their generation, and has amazing mastery of his sect’s musical techniques. It’s no wonder that, out of all the people he’s met, Nie Mingjue chose that person to become his only true friend.

But Lan Xichen isn’t just a powerful fighter. At the moment, he is playing the xiao to help Nie Mingjue calm down after something during the Night Hunt gave his temper a rise. Nie Huaisang invited himself in spite of his brother’s protests, because he would never miss a chance to listen to Lan Xichen playing. It’s fine anyway, he’s good at making himself invisible, and already Nie Mingjue seems to have forgotten there’s a third person in his room… though that might be due to Lan Xichen’s music more than Nie Huaisang’s skill.

It is not just that the melody is imbued with spiritual energies, Nie Huaisang believes. He’s had the chance to hear other Lans play, and they never have quite the same calming effect as Lan Xichen does. It must be that the personality of the musician matters as well, and in spite of his youth, there is not a person in the world more poised and sincerely peaceful.

It’s a dichotomy that always puzzles Nie Huaisang. He could understand someone with a quiet personality, he’s met a few here and there. And he has also met his share of powerful fighters, an unfortunate side effect of being born within Qinghe Nie. But Lan Xichen is the only person he knows that can be both at once, and it fascinates him.

That’s the reason he thinks so much about Lan Xichen, he figures. It’s just good old fascination, tinted with a healthy dose of admiration. That’s why he can’t stop looking at the other boy whenever he visits, why his eyes are glued to his lips and fingers right now, watching him play with inhuman skill, as if he were hundreds of years old rather than almost the same age as Nie Huaisang. If he watches him so much, it is to understand how a body so slender and graceful can hide the strength to destroy any number of evil creatures in a single blow. If his heart beats so fast every time Lan Xichen looks at him or better yet speaks to him, it’s only the normal reaction to being acknowledged by someone so superior to him in every way.

When the melody dies down, Nie Huaisang can’t help clapping a little. It was so beautifully played that he has to. Nie Mingjue rolls his eyes, but Lan Xichen smiles at him, looking genuinely pleased that his performance was so well received.

He has the most beautiful smile Nie Huaisang has ever seen on anyone. It is a blessing onto the world that he is so generous with it, smiling almost constantly. Seeing that smile now, Nie Huaisang almost wants to…

“You’ve had your fun, Huaisang, now scram,” Nie Mingjue grunts, sounding far more relaxed than before the song. “We have serious business to discuss.”

“Are you going to talk about the Wens again?” Nie Huaisang pouts, a little relieved to be saved from the shameful thought he nearly had. “How boring. Can’t Young Master Lan play another song first? That’d be more fun! You need to have fun sometimes, Da-Ge.”

“And you need to stop thinking only of your own entertainment,” his brother snaps. “Go away, I said!”

“Boring,” Nie Huaisang insists, getting up from his corner of the room. He bows quickly to Lan Xichen. “Thank you for playing for us. I am very grateful to you for taking such good care of Da-Ge, even if he’s the most boring person in the world.”

His brother glares at him, but to his surprise and utter delight Lan Xichen laughs gently and his smile turns impossibly warmer. He is gorgeous like this, amused and happy, and Nie Huaisang is looking at his lips and…

“I am glad Second Master Nie thinks so much of my skill,” Lan Xichen says, sounding more sincere than Nie Huaisang’s silly comments deserve. “If I have time later, I can try to play for you again, if you would like. For now though, I fear your brother is right and we must get to business. Unless you would like to stay and discuss these problems with us? You might be able to provide some interesting insights.”

From anyone else, saying something like that would come as mocking. Everyone knows that Nie Huaisang, while not exactly stupid, is so lazy that in a way it’d be better if he were stupid. But Lan Xichen sounds like he might genuinely value whatever Nie Huaisang could say, and for the first time in his life, Nie Huaisang finds himself tempted to pay attention to politics, just so he won’t disappoint the older boy.

Thankfully, Nie Mingjue comes to his rescue.

“He’ll just be a nuisance if he stays,” his brother grumbles. “Huaisang, leave us alone. How long has it been since you last touched your sabre? Go practice for a while, and stop bothering us.”

Normally Nie Huaisang would protest. Yet for the first time in his life, sabre practice feels like a safe and pleasant option, so he quickly bids the other two goodbye and runs off to the training grounds.

He hates exercise, and he hates getting sweaty and tired, but the more he sees Lan Xichen’s kind smile, the more he thinks how much that mouth looks made for kissing and that’s not a train of thought he wants to face at the moment.

#xisang #nie huaisang #lan xichen #mo dao zu shi #the untamed #and now we've had both of them having the moment they realised they were interested in the other yay #jau writes #30 days challenge #fellas is it gay to looks at your brother's bff's lips and wonder how it'd feel to kiss them?

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blukrown · 6 years ago

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Not Meant To Be - Chapter 2

First Chapter

Also available on AO3

The Clashing Of Swords

The next day came with a sense of relaxation, as Tebanam had the day off from court proceedings. Which meant that he could spend the whole day with Faris.

Already finished exploring the inside of the castle and surrounding area, Tebanam left it up to Faris to decide what he wanted to do. Faris, very much still a man of the sword, was keen to look further into the barracks. Curious to learn a few Hylian tricks with the blade. Tebanam, although knowledgeable of the art, ending up more a hangers-on in the end. But he did not much seem to mind.

So, after a very filling breakfast of eggs, toast and bacon, the couple made their way to the guardhouse, where all security slept, ate and practised.

As it was soon coming to midday, Faris had assumed the training grounds would not be in use. Yet from the far end of the bare space, they could see a figure. Jabbing, slashing and cutting at one of the dummies as they trained.

At first, Faris had assumed it was merely a guardsman who had time off. But was mistaken as Tebanam shouted to the man, "Jazoh!" Aiming to catch the man's attention.

As the prince and his bodyguard walked to join the man, the noble had waved. Then sheathing his fake sword into the hilt at his belt and wiped his face with a towel that was nearby.

"You're still a swordsman?" Tebanam asked after shaking his hand in greeting.

Jazoh let out a small chuckle, "Your tone makes it sound like I quit." His voice one of bemusement as he rolled up the sleeves of his shirt. "If anything I only improved when I was away, there was so little to do apart from work and study. It helped vent my anger."

Tebanam gave a half impressed look, "Well then you'll have to show me your moves."

"In a match?" Jazoh asked, a smile quirking his lip, "I'd be more than happy to."

Perhaps it was just Faris but he was feeling bothered by this odd playful atmosphere the two men had around them. So much so he uncharacteristically spoke up.

"Surely, I can give you more of a challenge?" The bodyguard inquired, sounding friendly as he stepped forward.

Jazoh looked Faris up and down, from his new shoes and tunic - which were given to him on arrival at the castle and almost too new as the cloth was stiff and did not leave much movement - to Faris' restrained mane of black dreads. The guard was not quite sure what to make of it. He was not so much sizing him up this time but judging him, as if he was out of place in the very clothes he had on his back. But the nobleman did not seem too fazed by it as he shrugged, even saying a 'why not' as he looked between Faris and Tebanam.

Tebanam more than happily sat under one of the single trees which gave some shade on the mock battlegrounds. He had given Faris a questioning look but did not seem worried. Only saying before he left his lover's side, "Have fun."

Jazoh waited patiently while Faris chose his weapon, his right hand on the handle of his sword, which appeared to be a wooden copy of a rapier from what Faris could tell from a distance. He looked over the array of weapons, very much impressed by the large selection. From Gerudo sabre's to Sheikah katana's, Faris was almost spoiled for choice. All of course made out of wood for the use of practice, making them practically harmless if one was not to use much force.

Faris was not too particular but when the idea of losing came to mind, seeing himself at the mercy of Jazoh's blade, he decided it was best to go for what was most comfortable. Remembering Jazoh's chosen weapon, he decided on a long sword. It was his provided weapon back when he was in the arena and used often throughout his time accompanying Faris.

Returning to Jazoh, Faris gave himself ten paces space from his opponent. Removing his tunic so as to only be wearing his undershirt and trousers. He then took up his stance, both hands on the hilt, legs spread to be aligned the width of his shoulders and lowering his body ever so slightly. Jazoh followed suit, feet pressed side by side with one hand tucked behind his back. His hand was slow as it drew his sword, letting the whole of the mock blade leave the sheath before swiping the air in one harsh cut. His left foot then moved forward, his right behind and used for balance. His unused hand going behind his back.

They were both ready.

"Tebanam," Jazoh spoke, not looking from his adversary as he got the prince's attention, "Would you do us the honours of a countdown."

Faris' eyes darted to where his boyfriend sat and he looked more than happy to contribute in some way. "Not a problem." The man got to his feet, looking very much excited from what Faris could tell as he lifted his right arm.

“On my mark," Tebanam spoke, voice raised so as to be heard clearly from where the two swordsmen stood, "Three . . . Two . . . One . . . Begin!” His right hand chopping the air to show the spar had just now commenced.

Perhaps Faris was slow or distracted as within a second Jazoh was in front of him, sword at his side as he tried to stab at him. Faris was lucky, his reaction speed was fast enough to dodge the blade. The noble not seeming too bothered, let the sword sweep across as it tried to hit Faris’ side.

Faris was ahead of him as his sword shielded him from harm, the sharp ‘clunk’ of the timber's first contact ringed in their ears. Jazoh was now the one on the defence as Faris parried his sword, dragging the rapier away. Forcing Jazoh to open his guard while his right arm flew away with him.

Charging in, Faris aimed for the stomach. He could see the look of shock as Jazoh must’ve known he was going to be hit. But suddenly, the nobleman vanished, forcing the bodyguard to still follow through his motion as he stabbed through the air. It wasn’t until he was retreating his sword again to ready himself when he suddenly felt his legs come from under him.

Jazoh had ducked down and let one of his legs sweep at the man’s feet, causing Faris to fall.

Faris was surprised, although he was not extremely knowledgeable of Hylian practice, he knew that the style did not use dirty tricks. But perhaps this man won so often for that very reason, as he did not abide by any rules.

Faris let out a grunt as he landed on his backside. Looking up when a shadow cast over him as Jazoh jumped and aimed to cut him down the middle. The bodyguard stopped the attacked with the sword's blade, one hand holding the hilt and his left supporting the makeshift barrier by the point, gritting his teeth as he would yield. Jazoh seemed to quickly realise the bodyguard wasn’t going to budge so he dropped away. Allowing space between them while Faris got to his feet.

Faris could hear the soft clapping from where Tebanam sat, occasionally cheering words of encouragement to the both of them.

"Looking good Faris, keep it up."

"You're in great form, Jazoh."

This only bothered Faris further. Sure, maybe Tebanam was trying to be fair, as it would be unsportsmanlike to leave one of them without any support. But at least give Faris some special treatment. The ex-Garai tried to push these distracting thoughts aside, however.

Faris decided to charge in, shortening their distance as he attacked. The harsh point of his sword aiming true to the nobleman's chest. Jazoh tried to parry the blade but Faris was too quick. Pulling his sword back to his side, Faris went for a barrage attack. Using the length of the long sword to its advantage, he kept the shorter and slimmer rapier from getting anywhere close to touching him.

Jazoh was clearly in trouble, the weight of the long sword easily overpowered any blocks the man tried to defend against. And what with Faris being so used to the sword's size and distribution, it almost felt like air as he easily swiped through the air.

Suddenly, a cloud of dust blocked the nobleman from Faris' sight. Making the bodyguard's eyes water.

"Shit," Faris swore, realising this must be another one of Jazoh's backhanded tricks.

Jazoh suddenly reappeared through the dust and Faris could only just see him through his watery eyes. Going for his legs, Jazoh hit the taller man's ankle. It was light, as Faris still found his body trying to dodge it.

In a real fight, that cut could have very well sliced through his tendon. Making his leg almost useless and surely leaving him defenceless. Which would leave Jazoh to give the finishing blow.

Luckily, he was not in the coliseum, he was not a slave and he was not the Skullcrusher. He was a free man named Faris, fighting a nobleman in an effort to impress his lover. Honestly, when one put it into context, Faris supposed he was acting immature. But the fight must continue. Faris could not allow thoughts of embarrassment or anger sway his focus.

The dirt that had been kicked up was now clearing and Faris' eyes, notwithstanding the fact that they stung, were clear. He could feel his heart racing in his chest and sweat starting to wetten his forehead and palms of his hands. It had been a while since he had fought someone of this calibre. It did not excite him but it did make his blood pump fast. Adrenaline coursing through him as both his body and spirit were not ready to give up the fight. Not while it was against this supposed ex-lover nor while it was all in front of Tebanam.

Faris, wanting to win back the advantage. Did not leave the nobleman any breathing space as he took the needed steps so he was within the reach of his sword. Turning the sword from left to right Faris targeted the Hylian's side.

The Garai, however, may have been too eager to cut Jazoh down, as he abandoned his left shoulder very much open as he missed and slashed air. Lifting his blade just in time to stop the counter, the fake rapier mere inches from his skin.

That was close.

Faris cursed his own enthusiasm as he parried the light sword away from him. Jazoh, possibly coming to understand just how Faris fought, used that to his advantage. Pulling his sword away, the man slashed the air and focused on Faris' right.

For all the bodyguard knew, eagerness was getting to the both of them, as Jazoh left his head open for the taking. Faris had the thought that it may be a trick but with the over exaggerated follow-through of the nobleman attack. Even if it was an imitation, he would not have enough time to save himself.

Faris, with a spring in his back leg, kicked forward. His sword going straight for the head. As if to cut it right off from his shoulders.

The nobleman's body reacted, as anyone would, trying to duck away but to only find his legs were not ready to redistribute his weight. Forcing him to fall to the ground. Rapier loose in his hand and unable to assist him.

Defenceless, Jazoh could only stare at the end of Faris' blade as he aimed it to his throat.

Faris could see the anger, of losing but also something more. Bitterness and no sign of accepting that he was the losing party.

Faris reached down with a hand, offering the nobleman a lift back onto his feet. The bodyguard would not have known if he would've taken it as Tebanam was cheering the two as he reunited with them.

"Impressive." He said, his smile bright as he looked between the two swordsmen. "It was so close. It could have been anyone's win."

Whatever emotions were hidden in Jazoh's eyes disappeared when he looked to the prince. "I very much doubt it. Your Faris is very skilled. I doubt I could beat him."

"But still, I can tell you have definitely improved," Tebanam said, extending a hand for Jazoh to take.

Faris had unconsciously withdrawn his hand, to straighten as Tebanam had joined them. But in the back of his mind, he had a strong feeling Jazoh would not have taken it. But the nobleman seemed more than happy to take Tebanam's aid.

"Thank you," The nobleman said, getting back on two legs and dusting himself down. "You are very much worthy of being Tebanam's guard." He said, giving Faris a smile.

"Indeed he is," Tebanam agreed, looking to Faris with a proud look that had the bodyguard very much proud of his accomplishments.

Tebanam reached to hold onto Faris' hand but recoiled making a noise of disgust. "Ugh, I'm sorry my dear but you're going to have to have a bath." Faris let out a small huff, though still amused by how Tebanam fussed as he watched the prince wipe his sweat covered hand on the fabric of his pants. A look of over exaggerated disgust scrunching his face. "Will you join us, Jazoh?" The prince asked.

Jazoh nodded, "Yes, I will. Just after I finish a few things here." Offering to take Faris' mock sword from him.

Tebanam did not seem too bothered by the nobleman's delay in joining them. Raising his hand in a wave, he walked beside Faris as they left the barracks.

Faris only looked behind him once, seeing the handsome nobleman standing where they had left him. Watching them.

Jazoh Spegeil observed the prince and his bodyguard leave the sparring grounds. His eyes very much lingering on the scarred man who had held a sword to his throat just moments ago.

Looking down, one hand held his rapier sword, which had failed him in battle. The other held the long sword, which the quiet Faris used to defeat him. Jazoh clenched his jaw, feeling a sense of anger as he let the long sword drop from his hand.

The nobleman was furious, quietly feeling the flames of disappointment and frustration lick at his chest. Making it almost ache with how harshly his pride had been shaken.

To see himself lose in front of Tebanam. The prince. And to a man who was clearly not of his calibre.

Faris was not a swordsman. He was a warrior. He did not follow the art and grace. His movements had been messy yet horrifyingly precise. Jazoh hated to imagine what could have happened if they had truly been enemies, and used real steel in combat.

Lifting the rapier up, he was left in thought. Remembering how many times he lost to that ancient woman back at the farm. Easily flooring him with a couple of swipes. Showing no sympathy she would always say, 'Be resourceful, that is the Spegeil way.'

The words ringed in his head.

He hated that the old shrew was right. Jazoh had promised not to use such dirty tactics unless when necessary. Especially when he lived in the grounds of Hyrule castle. To both use such schemes in front of Tebanam and lose, Jazoh glared at the rapier as if he wanted to break it.

Jazoh knew of Faris' was once an ex-gladiator and yet he may have perhaps let his pride of being a well-trained swordsman get in the way of any feeling of caution.

Swiping the sword through the air. The familiar sound brought back memories that nulled the frustration which bubbled in his core.

Tebanam just a bit older than sixteen, falling onto his back and losing to Jazoh for the third time that day. Letting out a sigh when he sat up to rub his aching behind.

"Are you alright?" Jazoh had inquired, quickly going over to offer a helping hand.

The prince had laughed, "Of course I'm fine, you're going to have to do more than that to hurt me."

"Surely that is enough for one day, your majesty." Jozah had said.

Tebanam had glared at the nobleman. It was not a sincere look of anger but more of a child pouting. Jozah had remembered thinking he looked especially adorable. "I told you Jazoh, call me by my name."

"But . . ." Jozah looked around them. There were soldiers who also occupied the sparring grounds. All giving occasional glances to the two boys, as they were very much concerned for the youngest prince's safety. "Why?"

Tebanam had combed a hand through his short orange hair, thinking for a moment before he answered. "Everyone else treats me like I'm made out of glass. I don't feel like I'm even a person in their eyes. Besides, no one wants to spar with me." He looked at his surroundings, grimacing as he did. "The guards don't think I'm at a suitable level for them, my brothers and father are too old." The prince had then looked up at Jazoh, who was still slightly leaned over with his outreached reached hand. "At least you treat me like a normal person."

Jazoh had frowned. That was the complete opposite of how he treated Tebanam. He treated him like he was a king. Worthy of praise and deserving everything he could ever want. But if his prince wanted it so, he could act like he was just like any other boy.

"Very well, T-Tebanam." Jazoh cringed at how he stuttered, trying to keep a cool face as he still felt discomfort from calling the prince by his first name. Although there was a very strong sense of joy.

Tebanam seemed satisfied. "Just one more round, alright? Then we can retire for the day."

Jazoh had smiled, "I'll be more than happy to put your ego down a peg, your maje- I mean, Tebanam."

Taking his hand Tebanam had gotten to his feet with a decent amount of ease. But perhaps one of the boys had miss matched their footing, as when the prince stood, he was very close.

Jazoh could remember the prince's bright orange eyes, glittering with a look of surprise. His tanned skin not completely hiding the slight presence of freckles that dotted his cheeks. He was sweaty, both his face and hand damp with perspiration and Jazoh found that he did not much mind it. His lips were supple and a slight tinge darker than the rest of his face. Jazoh could remember he was so close to him he could feel the soft outtake of breath that came from the prince.

Tebanam had then taken a step back, blinking as he ducked his head, "Sorry." He had muttered. A soft tinge of pink colouring his cheeks and peak of his sharp ears.

It had been in that moment that Jazoh knew that there was something between them. Something lingering, words that were at the tip of his tongue, feelings which squeeze at his chest, lips that he wanted to kiss.

That was nearly ten years ago.

Jazoh felt his hand squeeze the hilt of the sword. It almost felt like yesterday to Jazoh, as if his life on the Spegeil farm was but a mere nightmare. But clearly, that did not seem to be the case for Tebanam.

But Jazoh did not heed those thoughts much mind. the noble only felt determination. So he picked up his things and made his way to the baths.

"Patience as well." The words of the elder woman whispered in his ears. "Spegeil men are known for their patience."

Chapter 3 - Chapter 4 - Chapter 5 - Chapter 6

This fic is based on the Zelgan au by @figmentforms

The Zelgan babies, as well as Faris and Jozah, are created by @s-kinnaly

And special thanks to @ridersoftheapocalypse for writing the main fanfic about Tebanam and Faris, which inspired this fic

I highly recommend you look at their content on this to have a better understanding of the story

#zelgan #zelgan babies #Not Meant To Be #romance #angst #tebanam #faris #fanfic

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