#PAPAS SPECIAL BOY HAS ENTERED MY HOUSE AND HOME AND I CANNOT GET HIM TO LEAVE NOR DO I WANT TO

[acatpiestuff]

IM GOING TO ULTRAKILL HIM

[tododeku-or-bust]

I love your fanart with Pyrrhus and Philia together! If you don't mind, can you share more of your current hcs on this AU where they coexist? Thank you!

Thank you! It was an adorable thought I had.

Disclaimer: now, I explained before the main reason I didn't include Pyrrhus in my modern AUs with Patroclus and/or Philia is because I was interested in approaching it from an angle involving race and culture! So you have been forewarned that those topics will be brought up!

Some Headcanons:

Philia is an early riser with Achilles when she's little, while Patroclus and Pyrrhus often sleep in. So Phi is often at his door starting around 9 waiting for him to wake up. "It's time to wake up! Wake up time!"

the parents can always tell when the Kids are awake together bc there's going to be NOISE. Something is always crashing. They learn the difference between good and bad crashes. Phi is usually the first to cry.

Pyrrhus loves Patroclus' cooking. To be fair, everyone does. But he especially likes his breakfasts; they're one of his favorite parts of his visits.

Pyrrhus comes over every Friday-Sunday. They pick him up from school.

It was a rough ass beginning, tbh. Pyrrhus bitterly struggled (and still does, even into young adulthood) with the idea that Deidameia and Achilles aren't a thing. Sometimes he wishes that he could have his dad all to himself, he doesn't want to share his parents. It took some time for him and Patroclus to come to a comfortable peace.

Pyrrhus actually likes being an older brother! He'll grumble and groan, but he used to demand to hold and rock the baby to sleep. If Philia cries (and it's not his fault), he got very defensive over her.

They are very much the "you can hit me back don't tell Papa" kids lmao shit gets broken and it's skedaddle we don't know WHO did it Daddy!

Unfortunately Phi's not a good liar and they're children so it's pretty easy to tell who did what 🤣 (the super sword move breaking the vase? Pyrrhus. The concoction of soap (potion) in the sink? Phi.)

At some point, Achilles and Patroclus have to sit them down for one of the Difficult Talks. That is, Pyrrhus has to learn that unfortunately, people are going to treat him and Philia (and Patroclus) Differently because of how she looks. Not everyone is going to be nice and treat her the way they treat him, and he has to know what that means. For example, he can't tease her about or tug on her hair- because you shouldn't be touching anyone's hair without their permission anyway, but it also is racist.

By the time they're grown, there's a special camaraderie between the two to where Pyrrhus cannot WAIT for her to bring Calix home. He is Team Petty with Achilles. Feel bad for the boy, fr. Terrifying house to enter.

[lostbbygorl]

AN UNLIKELY VILLAIN (LEVI X F!READER):

AU: PRIDE AND PREJUDICE BY JANE AUSTEN

~~~~~~

Lady Katrina was careful not to make a sound as she stalked her niece and nephew to the piano room. Isabel had dragged

Mr. Ackerman by the hand to the piano room, and the duo had shared countless looks and whispers throughout the ball which took place on that very night at the De Lancey mansion. As nosy as ever, Lady Katrina intended to discover the subject of her niece and nephew’s hushed yet frantic discussions.

“ A union between you and Amanda will be disastrous, brother! You cannot lie to our aunt, Amanda, and yourself forever! You’re a grown man, have a spine! It’s Y/N who gives you a purpose to live in this world, and it is Y/N you must chase and marry”, Isabel scolded Levi.

“ You are a child, Isabel, don’t tell me what to do. Besides, you know of our aunt’s stubbornness. Do you really think she’d happily accept a marriage between me and someone of Y/N’s standing after I’ve been engaged to Amanda my whole life?”, Levi reasoned.

“ I wouldn’t be meddling with your life if you acted like the grown up you are and defied our aunt! If Y/N can do it, so can you! I will not sit around and watch my older brother spend the rest of his days in acute misery”, Isabel said, decidedly.

“ I know of the letters you and Ms. Y/N exchange frequently, and I know for sure, as a young woman, that she loves you back now. It’s what you’ve been waiting for her to do all this time, Levi, why are you suddenly so obedient? Where’s the headstrong, independent Levi I know? Things must change around here, and you’ll be starting it”, Isabel finished definitely. The fire in her eyes made Levi know that Isabel wouldn’t back down till he was united with the woman he loved, and moreover, her words had motivated Levi to live by his own rules, which he had always done until Lady Katrina started discussing his engagement with Amanda more seriously. After learning of Levi’s feelings for Y/N and confronting him about them, she decided to have them married in 2 months instead of next summer, thinking that this change of plans would squash all hope in Levi. Lady Katrina angrily stomped back to the ballroom. To her displeasure, Amanda was deep in conversation with a blonde boy with blue eyes who she vaguely remembered as Armin Arlert- and she was smiling! An extremely rare occurrence indeed. This was an absolute nightmare for Lady Katrina! The world was turning upside down! Lady Katrina was determined to put a damper on this! So, the very next morning, she boarded her carriage for a journey to Trost.

Y/N’s household was much quieter than usual, now that Sasha was gone. Papa and Mama were bickering as old married couples usually do, and Mikasa was helping Ella with a sewing project. The eldest sisters were in the chicken house discussing Mr. Smith and Mr. Ackerman whilst petting baby chicks.

“ Mr. Ackerman’s been writing to me more regularly nowadays. It’s so refreshing to see him come out of his shell and open up”, Y/N said.

“ Mr. Smith says he’ll come visit Trost as soon as he has some urgent business seen too”, Christa squealed enthusiastically to a wide eyed, gasping Y/N.

“ And you tell me this only now? Christa, I can guarantee he’s coming to see you”, Y/N promised. Suddenly, the entrance to the chicken house burst open, and a heavily breathing Ella stood in front of them. Ella looked like she had some important news.

“ Ella, are you alright?”, Christa asked to which Ella nodded.

“ Christa, come to the living room immediately! You have a special visitor”, Ella said, catching her breath. The three sisters ran back to the house. When Christa entered the living room, she was shocked to see a beaming Mr. Smith sitting on the sofa talking to Mrs. L/N. Mr. L/N came back from the kitchen with a pot of tea and some muffins. Mr. Smith’s attention shifted to Christa as soon as she entered the room, and everyone intensely stared at the pair, who had hearts in their eyes when they made eye contact.

“ Ms. Christa, it has been too long”, Mr. Smith bowed.

“ Mr. Erwin, it truly is lovely to see you in flesh again. It’s been ages since we last met at Stohess”, Christa replied.

“ I agree. I notified you in my letters that I’d be visiting Trost after some urgent business was seen to. Well, all matters have been fixed much earlier than I predicted, so I thought I might surprise you”, he explained. His tone and his posture were confident, but if you noticed the way his hands clenched and unclenched on repeat, you’d notice he was nervous and obviously had something important to spill.

“ And I am surprised!”Christa laughed, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

“ Then I am successful. Ms. Christa, I have come here to speak with you about a matter most serious. Everybody, may we have some privacy for a short while”, Mr. Smith politely requested as he looked around at all the faces staring at him. At once, everybody scurried out of the living room. But they didn’t leave Christa and Mr. Smith alone, oh no! Mrs. L/N and Ella pressed their ears to the door as soon as they closed it. Mr. L/N and Y/N whispered amongst themselves about what the motive behind Mr. Smith’s sudden visit could be.

“ Do you think he’ll propose to Christa?”, Mr. L/N asked Y/N.

“ I’m not entirely certain, but something tells me that is his motivation”, Y/N said, heart beating in anticipation.

Meanwhile inside the room, Christa was crying tears of pure joy, and Mr. Smith smiled the widest he ever had in his life. Twinkling in the sunlight that shone through the windows of the living room was a gorgeous pear shaped diamond on Christa’s ring finger! Mr. Smith had apologized to Christa for abandoning her so suddenly, and came back to ask for her hand in marriage. With their arms linked, Mr. Smith and Christa exited the room, smiling at the faces of their eavesdroppers.

“ Everyone, me and Mr. Smith are hereby engaged to each other”, Christa squealed, and all at once, chaos commenced inside the house! Mr. L/N wrapped his arms around Mr. Smith and congratulated him before making him swear he’ll keep his beloved daughter happy. Mrs. L/N was glad that she’d have yet another one of her children married off, and this time to a filthy rich gentleman! Ella, Mikasa, and Y/N tackled Christa with a bear hug and Y/N loudly exclaimed praises and jokes at Christa. Mr. Smith stayed over for lunch, and he took Christa on a ride with him to Dauper village afterwards for some bonding time as an officially affianced couple.

The rest of the day went rather peacefully. Mr. L/N and Y/N relaxed in the library. Mr. L/N was reading a novel, while Y/N wrote to Sasha and Nifa about the engagement. Christa returned to the house just in time for dinner, just as Lady Katrina had reached Trost!

Y/N lay in bed, not even a tiny fraction of sleepiness in her. Her head still buzzed with joy and excitement after Christa’s engagement. Could Mr. Ackerman really be behind all this? Was he really mending his ways after Y/N had criticised him, and solving everybody’s problems? For the umpteenth time, Y/N lay awake at an ungodly hour thinking of Mr. Ackerman, and letting her insecurities eat away at her. Mr. Ackerman loved her, no doubt about it, but it was Amanda who was getting in her way! Now, a good natured person like Y/N could never hate an innocent young lady who had no intention of hurting her, but god, it really would be blissful if Amanda didn’t exist! She was plain and dull, but she had all the wealth and connections. Y/N was losing all hope of ever reuniting with Mr. Ackerman, or of giving her hand to him. But she was rudely jerked out of her thoughts when it began raining unexpectedly, and heavily too accompanied by a boisterous thunderstorm! But it wasn’t only the loud rain that bothered her, it was the sound of wood being knocked on. It took Y/N a few seconds to realize that somebody was knocking on her door- and very roughly too!

Y/N flocked downstairs to see her family surrounding a short, plump woman in expensive, elegant clothes with her gray hair tied in a tight bun. It was Lady Katrina! But what was she doing here at Trost, in her home, at 3.00 in the morning?

“ Where is Ms. Y/N L/N?”, Lady Katrina demanded, her striking grey eyes shining angrily by the flames of the fireplace as she searched for Y/N. Y/N was taken aback! For a brief moment she locked eyes with Christa, who pointed her chin at Lady Katrina’s direction with a confused expression, silently asking Y/N who this lady was and why she barged into their home at such a late hour.

“ I am here, your ladyship”, Y/N answered.

“ May I ask why you’ve woken me and my family at 3.00 AM in the middle of severe rain to seek me out?”, she asked.

“ Now, Y/N, that’s no way to treat a guest. Would your ladyship like a cup of tea?”, Mr. L/N butted in.

“ Not at all. All I would like here is to talk privately with Y/N. Where might I sit and talk with her alone?”, she asked with a serious tone.

“ Let me lead you to the library, my lady”, Y/N answered, guiding Lady Katrina there. Once inside, Lady Katrina circled Y/N, giving her no scope to seat herself.

“ Ms. Y/N, I am here because a most alarming report has been made to me two days ago, and you are to debunk it”, Lady Katrina said in a matter of fact voice. Y/N was curious.

“ I have no idea as to how I could ever be in the middle of your problems, madam, so please provide me with a backstory so I may understand”, Y/N requested.

“ Ms. Y/N, I must warn you that I am not to be trifled with. The report made to me states that you intend to marry my nephew, Levi”, Lady Katrina clarified.

“ I know this to be a scandalous falsehood, and I came here as soon as possible to confirm my sentiments on the matter to you”.

“ If you believed a marriage between me and him to be impossible, why did you take the trouble of coming so far to confront me about it?”, Y/N queried.

“ To hear it from your own mouth. Why do you pretend to be ignorant of it? Have these statements not been industriously circulated by yourself?”, Lady Katrina challenged.

“ They haven’t, and I deny all accusations of them having been spread by me”, Y/N replied confidently, though her heart was cracking the more Lady Katrina spoke. All her insecurities about her relationship with Levi were seeping out.

“ So you declare that there isn’t any foundation for it?”, Lady Katrina asked.

“ I declare nothing, as I’ve just been informed of these rumors now”, Y/N said.

“ Then let me ask a clearer question which to my knowledge has no answer excluding yes or no. Has my nephew made you an offer of marriage?”, Lady Katrina interrogated.

“ Your ladyship has declared it impossible”

“ Let me be understood! Mr. Ackerman is affianced to my daughter. What do you have to say now?”

“ Only this: that if your words are kosher, he wouldn’t have a reason to ask for my hand”, Y/N said, riling the woman up! Why wouldn’t Y/N just give her straight answers?

“ Ms. Y/N, do you know who I am?”Lady Katrina loudly quizzed her.

“ I am his closest relative, so therefore I am entitled to know all of Levi’s most important concerns”, Lady Katrina stated.

“ But you aren’t entitled to know mine”, Y/N countered her, making Lady Katrina put a hand on her chest in offence. She took ragged breaths in an attempt to calm herself. She closed her eyes, and once she was more clear headed, she opened them again.

“ The engagement between them is of a peculiar kind”, Lady Katrina started again, her tone softer.

“ Their marriage was decided during their infancy, and it is the favorite wish of my Amanda’s late father and Levi’s”, she explained.

“ A matter as delicate and final as this shall not be hindered by the hands of a woman of inferior birth who possesses no fortune or connections, and worse: no sense of propriety! You have influenced my nephew and lured him in, and I will not stand it!”, her ladyship cried.

Y/N was offended and hurt beyond comprehension! How dare this busybody barge into her house at midnight, and insult her very being? Though tears welled in her eyes, she stood her ground, and unflinching, she faced Lady Katrina.

“ I’ve come this far, and my journey was tiresome. I won’t leave until I am satisfied. Now, Ms. Y/N, tell me that you promise to refuse Levi your hand should he ask for it”, Lady Katrina ordered.

“ I empathize with the exhaustion you face due to your long journey, and I’ve been compelled to admit clearly that I am not engaged to Levi Ackerman. But I will not make any promise to you, madam, and especially not a promise of the respective nature”, Y/N deadpanned to the thunderstruck Lady Katrina!

“ Insufferable, headstrong, selfish girl!”, Lady Katrina furiously hissed.

“ You have insulted not me, but my beloved kin as well, and that is an offence I can never forgive you for. It was wrong of you to force yourself inside my abode, uninvited and unannounced, to confront me about baseless rumors and personal matters. It is now 4.00 in the morning, and the rain has stopped. Your escort must be waiting, your ladyship. I will not be disturbed any further! Goodnight and goodbye”, Y/N said the final words.

Lady Katrina exited the house angry and displeased, cursing the situation and Y/N’s character as she stormed out. Finally, Y/N began crying. She ran out of the library to make her way upstairs.

“ Darling, what happened? Is everything okay?”, Mrs. L/N asked, concerned.

“ It was a simple misunderstanding. I’m off to bed, and you all should be too”, Y/N sniffled, trying to escape them.

“ Darling, talk to us-", Mr. L/N started only to get interrupted.

“ I have no desire to. For once in your life just leave me be!”she shouted before locking herself in her room to cry.

Lady Katrina had reached Shiganshina after hours of travel, and she seeked her nephew out immediately.

“ Levi, come here at once!”, she called. Levi curiously walked downstairs, Isabel following him suit.

Lady Katrina explained everything that had happened between herself and Y/N to Levi, thinking he’d be appalled by her behaviour. What the poor lady didn’t realize was that her recount had only made Levi exceedingly proud of Y/N, and deepened his feelings towards her. Isabel gaped at Levi the entirety of her aunt’s heated speech, knowing what her brother would do next. She smirked, an action which went unnoticed by Lady Katrina.

“ Oh my, auntie, what horrible offences you’ve had laid against you”, she said, feigning astonishment. Isabel entertained Lady Katrina and pretended to sympathize with her while Levi sat on his horse for a long ride to Trost- all in his nightwear! Levi silently thanks the lord for the fact that he had another chance with Y/N, and the closer he got to Trost, the gladder his heart became.

Lady Katrina on the other hand was much dismayed! Amanda had broken off the engagement from her part, and revealed that she was now affianced to Armin Arlert, a friend she fell for after meeting at the never ending balls.

“ I’m sorry to have disappointed you, mother, but I can’t allow myself to be under your control any longer. I’ve done everything you instructed me to these past 23 years, but all that ends now, for I do not love Levi Ackerman, I love Armin Arlert”, she sternly broke the news to Lady Katrina.

And before walking out the door one last time, she turned around and said:

“ Before I go, I will instill upon you some heartfelt, priceless advice that I believe will be most helpful in the future: don’t arrange marriages between two individuals while they’re still in their cradles. It encourages zero admiration or affection, and plans of this kind always find a way of souring”.

[teamhook]

Captain Swan Supernatural Summer - Second Contribution

Hello! Well, before the cssns was announced I was already thinking about writing this story but I wasn't sure, I needed a sign and then Krystal posted the signup for the event. So I went with it. It's a supernatural story that I had been playing with.

Thank you @kmomof4 for enabling all us, and organizing the event.

Thank you, @hookedonapirate for being my Beta.

Thank you, @revanmeetra87 for your support even though supernatural fics aren’t your thing.

And last but not least @kymbersmith-90 for being there for me, when I freak out at the craziest times.

Originally my idea was fusing in a few things together. I loved the storyline for Dracula 2000 and to be honest I think Captain Swan should be all movies. I was going to use a few points of the story but it evolved into something else. It has hints of some of my favorite movies and tv shows.

Sadly, after my computer crashed I felt lost, for a moment the story was eluding me. I confess it was hard to get back to it because so much of what I had planned had vanished and now I'm slowly getting my groove back. There will be mentions of different types of creatures but I will not go into great detail about all of them.

I give you Captain Swan Supernatural Summer my new multi-chapter story.

|AO3|  |FFN|

...

My Fate is Darkness

A/N: Is there light in darkness? Throughout the realms, there are all sorts of supernatural creatures roaming the lands. And there are those who are tasked with protecting the innocent. Fated to be enemies, can true love find its way through time?

Chapter 1

...

In the outskirts of the small town was a small cabin with a loving mother singing to her baby boy as she gazed into his loving blue eyes. Her soft voice carried throughout the home, soothing the little bundle in her arms.

"-And fondly I watched her

Move here and move there

And she went her way homeward

With one star awake

As the swans in the evening

Move over the lake-"

Pausing near the end of the song, she peeked out the window when something caught her attention. The shadows by the trees moved unnaturally. The hairs on the back of her head stood up; she hadn't felt this uneasy in years. She quickly moved the rug on the floor, lifted the small cellar door and grabbed her small son, hushing, "Killian, sweetheart, please stay quiet for mum. You are such a good baby." His blue eyes looked deep into her own as she slowly lowered him into the small wooden bassinet. She closed the door and rose to her feet, grabbing a dagger from the small trunk under her bed. Cautiously stepping outside, she slowly closed the door behind her.

She walked around the house looking for any broken tree branches or indication of unwanted company. She had to move quickly because Brennan and Liam were due to return from the docks and she didn't want them to be caught by surprise. Her boys loved to watch the ships arrive at the little town.

She had circled back and was assessing the area one last time before she deemed it safe. The yellow eyes pierced through the foliage. The distance between them was now obvious. He was just a few feet from her favorite berry tree just before reaching the forest entrance.

She hadn't moved that fast ago in years - since her last hunt. Her motivation was a lot more primal than the thrill of a kill; she was protecting her family. Years of training had resurfaced when she saw standing before her a yellow-eyed demon. He came at her, taking swings at her head, stomach and wherever he could reach. She fought back, blocking and landing some punches before finally putting the dagger to use, but it felt as if he were toying with her. He could've used some of his powers on her to end it swiftly, but his arrogance would not allow it.

She finally managed to get the upper hand.

"Darkness is coming, Hunter and you will lose." The demon spat black blood at her.

"It may be coming, but you will not be here to see it. This is where you fall down." With that, she gave the final blow, and blood was splattered everywhere. She pulled out the dagger and wiped it clean with her brown blouse.

She turned to look at the house and ran towards it, feeling queasy as she approached; the air was hard to breathe. She ran inside and found a cloaked figure standing were Killian's empty crib was.

"Where is the boy?"

"What do you want with my son?" She tried to step closer but was suddenly frozen in place.

"Oh, I have plans for him. Now answer my question: here is he?"

"He is not here."

"Tsk tsk; don't lie to me, Hunter. I know he is here. I can smell his sweet blood. He gets that from you, you know."

Alice made a face at the comment. "I have no idea what you're talking about."

"The older boy has it too, but it doesn't match the young one. I had hoped to be finished by the time you came back in from dispatching my soldier, but you hid the boy. I will find a way to get him, and you will not be here to protect him anymore." He lifted her body with an invisible force and pushed her against the ceiling wall, knocking the wind out of her. With a flick of his hand, suddenly the cutlery flew toward her.

As he walked out, the flame of a small candle near the window ignited the curtains, causing a fire.

She'd never expected to feel this way. She had heard that a person's life flashed before their eyes, and they reflected on their lives as they neared the end. But she was at peace, unafraid and happy, knowing Killian was protected by the enchanted wood the cellar his bassinet was hidden in was made from.

Alice Jones had always done what was expected of her. Since she was a little girl, she was told what to do, who she was supposed to be and who she was meant to love. Pesky little birthmarks and soul mates were overrated, even when she thought she had taken control of her fate and had decided who to love. She had done what she was supposed to do, but sometimes one cannot escape fate.

As she surrendered to her fate, her thoughts lingered on the road so far.

The truth about monsters and all that goes bump in the night is simple - they are real. Just because you don't believe in them, doesn't mean they don't believe in you.

Demons, vampires, skinwalkers and the occasional werewolf are a few of the otherworldly creatures that plague the worlds and have to be terminated. It'd been an almost eternal battle to protect the innocents and the light.

There had been an unnatural amount of activity in all the realms; hunters were struggling to keep up and were forced to hunt alone, no longer in pairs.

Paranormals would jump realms on occasion, which meant there would have to be a hunter or a guardian close behind. They would travel from Oz to Wonderland and all the realms in between in order to protect the light from the darkness that threatened to extinguish it. They've traveled from realm to realm at times to fight and protect the innocents or to take the survivors to a sanctuary.

The land without magic was one of those realms. This world had been touched by evil and because of its lack of belief in the unknown; the view of these events was altered. History gave a different account of the unknown. One of the most well-known accounts took place in London. For there had been a terror in the late 1800's (the exact year was hard to pinpoint). Jack the Ripper had not been a simple serial killer. Many had fallen victim to him; he did not discriminate. There was no known pattern; the only similarity is that the bodies were drained of their blood. Two tiny twin puncture wounds would be found in the lifeless human body, so small sometimes it was missed. The truth was Jack was a different kind of killer; he was a vampire. His reign of terror had ended at the hands of hunter Evangeline Van Helsing, Alice Burkhart's usual partner.

Like most hunters, Alice had spent time in all of the realms. She hated the difference in the time periods from realm to realm. It could make anyone dizzy. She never looked forward to jumping between realms. It was hard going unnoticed when the wardrobe made her stand out. Her favorite realm was the one that held her home. Beyond the land, far out at sea - that is where Haven Isles lies hidden to the naked eye. The Enchanted Forest was the closest land to her home. After her last hunt, she had decided to eat a warm meal at the little pub at The Den's Inn. She sat with her back to the wall, always paying attention to her surroundings to ensure no surprises were coming her way.

A group of men entered the Inn and asked for the stew of the day. One of the men looked at her and smiled. She couldn't help herself and reciprocate the gesture. He approached the table. "Hello lass, may I join you?"

She gestured for him to sit.

"Thank you, my name is Brennan Jones. May I inquire the name of my lovely companion?"

"Aren't you a gentleman? My name is Alice Burkhart."

...

Not far from the little house, a man holding a young boy approached the home.

"Papa, look - fire!" The boy pointed at the small house now set aflame.

"Liam, please wait for me here. Do not move."

The boy nodded in agreement as Brennan frantically ran into the house. He opened the door and ducked as the flames attacked him. He saw his wife lying lifeless on the floor, her hand resting on the cellar door handle. He looked around and couldn't see his youngest boy. "Killian?" Of course, the boy could not answer his call, but Brennan knew he was there. He picked up his wife's body and noticed the door handle was still within her death grip. He opened the door and saw Killian looking at him with his deep blue eyes, barely making a fuss. He grabbed the bassinet as he threw her body over his shoulder.

…Years later…

Brennan Jones still mourned his long lost love. He still could not wrap his mind around the fact that she was gone. So many unanswered questions; the dagger she had on her body. The craftsmanship of the blade was incomparable. The cellar had been made with enchanted wood and she had requested special designs carved into it. She was knowledgeable of magical items to an extent that he had questioned her about it only to receive a smile in return.

They weren't given enough time. And now he would never see her smile or look into her eyes ever again.

He would stare at his youngest son and get lost in memories of Alice; Killian looked so much like his mum. And now she was gone and he was still here.

Brennan had become the shell of his former self. He drank away the few coins he earned instead of providing the essentials for his sons. He just wanted to disappear and fall into the void. He couldn't go on without her. He was running away and kept moving what remained of the small family from village to village along the coast.

He raised the boys to the best of his ability. They were getting so big and Liam was already becoming a young man. Brennan had caught Liam doing small chores for whomever that would provide him with a coin. Killian on the other hand still didn't understand why his mum was gone, even if he didn't remember her.

At least Brennan didn't believe so.

The broken-hearted man slowly slipped further into despair. Soon enough he had accrued debts he couldn't pay for, even after selling the last physical connection he had to Alice - the dagger she had when she died. He had gotten silver and some gold doubloons, but it didn't last. He then started stealing, and soon his thievery caused him and his young sons to be on the run.

"Liam, please help Killian get ready; we are going on a grand adventure out at sea. We are to sail on one of those ships that you boys love so much." Brennan smiled and wobbled away, almost falling to the floor.

"What did you do? All you do is drink and gamble."

"Liam, I just want to be a good father to you and your brother. I know I've made mistakes and because of those mistakes, you've had to grow up. You take care of Killian and yourself."

Liam looked at his little brother and quickly helped him dress. He still kept an eye on his father; almost two years had passed since the time Liam caught him trying to sneak away. His father had told him that the kind spinsters that lived next door would have gladly raised them.

"Papa, we are ready," Liam told his father as he held Killian's hand.

Killian stretched his small hand for his father to hold and once his father reached for it, he offered a sweet dimpled smile.

They arrived at the docks and soon the salty sea air filled their noses with the fragrance of adventure.

They boarded the merchant ship and soon were led below deck next to the crew quarters. Brennan had spent his last coins getting them the last cabin of the ship. The ship had finally set sail.

Liam was the one to speak, "Papa, where are we going?"

Brennan extended his arms to reach for both of his sons and pulled them to his lap, one on each side. Liam was getting too big, but Killian clung to Brennan with eagerness for his father's affection. He hadn't done this in so long. He held them tight.

"The ship is traveling to Wayward Port. A small port just outside of the Maritime Kingdom"

Killian fell asleep in his father's arms.

"Liam, you should sleep and let the waves lull you into sleep like Killian did."

Liam looked at his father still holding Killian in his arms and slowly approached the bunk on the other side.

"Son, sleep and I will tuck Killian in. I shall share the bunk with him. He is still so small even at his age. Don't worry, just sleep."

Liam pondered his father's request and decided he could not go anywhere. He closed his eyes and fell asleep.

A few days at sea had passed and Jones had enjoyed his time with his sons. He knew in his heart it would've made his Alice happy. Now they were up on deck watching the water.

"Papa, I like this ship. Can we stay forever?"

"I'm afraid not, son," he replied to Killian. We will soon make port and find a new home."

Killian couldn't hide his disappointment at his father's response.

"Come on little brother; let's go to our room so you can take your nap."

Brennan gazed out over the vast ocean as the boys walked away. As soon as they were gone, someone tapped him on the shoulder.

"Mr. Jones, may I have a word." The man gestured for Brennan to follow him to the most secluded part of the ship.

"Captain Silver, is there a problem?"

"I'm afraid I have some bad news for a family man such as you. It has come to my attention that at Wayward Port there are some people awaiting our arrival; more specifically yours. You will be arrested upon arrival."

Brennan's face went pale as all of the blood drained from it.

"I may have a solution, if I may make a suggestion? As you are aware, the ship has a rowboat. I could offer it in exchange for some extra coins. I'd settle for some copper."

"That would be lovely if I had any. I used the last to pay for the room. I have nothing else of value."

The Captain considered his answer. "I believe you are still in possession of something of value. I'm in the need of a cabin boy or two. Does that help?"

Brennan looked at the man as he processed his comment. He couldn't attempt an escape with the kids with him. It could be dangerous and they would get hurt. He knew his capture was inevitable and what would happen to the kids? He had no family to take them and Alice never talked of her family. Their best chance was on that ship.

"How long would they need to serve you for?" Brennan couldn't believe he was considering the proposition.

Captain Silver pondered the question. "Each of your boys will serve for a mere ten years. Please, consider that they will be together and have nothing to worry about. They will be better off with me than if the authorities get a hold of them. Imagine them in an awful orphanage."

The thought of Brennan's boys in an orphanage killed him. At least with Silver, they would be at sea and his sons loved it.

"You have a deal. I will take the rowboat once it is dark. The kids will be in the room."

"I would hurry if I were you. It seems there is a storm coming," the Captain informed him and walked away.

Brennan headed below deck to his room. He opened the door and slowly entered only to find Liam and Killian napping on one of the bunks.

He watched as his sons slept. Suddenly, lightning flashed, and the ship swayed, tilting abruptly, waking Killian in the process."Papa, I'm scared."

"There is nothing to be afraid of son. Before you know it, you're going to be a man, so I'm just trying to prepare you 'cause then you're going to have to answer life's big question: what kind of man are you going to be?"

Killian smiled. "I want to be like you, Papa."

Brennan looked at his son and knelt by him. "No, Killian, promise me you will be a better man. Don't be like me."

Killian's eyes slowly closed and he fell asleep.

Brennan kissed his forehead and whispered, "I wish I could be the father you deserve." He rose to his feet and moved toward Liam and kissed him as well. "Liam please look after Killian." With his final words, he slipped out of the cabin, into the night and disappeared.

Early the next morning the sun shone brightly, leaving no evidence of a storm.

Liam woke first and noticed the other bunk was empty. Killian was still asleep, so he slowly got up, careful so as not to wake his brother up.

He dressed and hurried to go look for his father. The bunk had not been slept in.

As he was running to the deck, he bumped into someone.

"Boy, where is the other one?"

"What other one are you referring?"

"I believe he is your younger brother."

"He is asleep; I was looking for our father. Have you seen him?"

"Oh, he is long gone."

"Gone? But we are still here."

"That is because you are now part of the crew."

"What are you talking about?"

"Your father needed a rowboat and I needed some extra help."

"He just left us?"

"I'm afraid so. You are both now my property. I think it is time to wake up the other one. There is work to do before we arrive. And don't get any ideas."

Liam walked away and headed back to the cabin. How was he going to explain to his brother that their father had left them?

[lafaiette]

Hey ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) How about some angst. I really really love your writing, and I was thinking.... What if.... There was some angst about Solas and Scarlet with their children? I dunno, something that either hurt the parents' feelings OR made them worry sick? Ofc it would have a happy ending~ I know how you crave fluff.... But would you maybe consider this... 👀

YES ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) 

Actually, I already wrote something like this, a long two-chaptered fics where Fenor is a teenager and wants to explore the world, freaking the shit out of Solas who gets pretty protective.

It’s called Dirthara Lothlenan'as and I think it’s exactly what you were looking for. I wrote it after getting a similar request on AO3 and it’s got all the themes you described - rebellion, angst, worry, but also a happy ending, of course.

BUT since you were so kind, I wrote a short snippet to thank you!

“Will you be alright?”

Scarlet looks at him with big, attentive eyes, looking for the answer on his face before hearing it. Solas nods, a small, cooing Fenor held tightly in his arms, and he tries to smile, although it doesn’t look so good.

“Yes.” he says, hoping he sounds confident and certain, but it sounds like a lie even to his ears and he blushes and tries again: “I will, vhenan. We will, I promise.”

“Solas, I know you will do a wonderful job. I just…” She caresses his cheek, presses her palm onto it, and he kisses it. Her sweet smile is back on her lips and he wishes she didn’t have to leave. He wants Dorian to call her again, right now, to tell her her presence isn’t requested anymore.

“I just don’t want you to feel bad. I know you tend to… panic a lot, in these situations.”

It’s true, he still isn’t able to keep calm and control himself when Fenor starts crying or fussing. He fears he won’t be able to help him, to feed him right; he is afraid of hurting him, of holding him wrong, of scaring him somehow.

He wants to be a good father and even though Scarlet constantly tells him how good he is, doubt still gnaws at his heart and the weight of his past, enormous mistakes presses down on him like a Titan.

“Don’t worry. I won’t give in to panic.” he promises, smiling again, brightly this time. “This will be a good chance to learn how to do better.”

“You already do it perfectly. You just need to relax.” She kisses him, chuckling softly. “But you’re right. This is a good occasion.”

She then smooches Fenor, who laughs happily as his mother peppers his face with loud kisses and cooing words. Tears form in her eyes, because she doesn’t want to leave; even if she will be gone just for a few hours, away to help Dorian with some delegates, they will feel like many more, because of the nearly still flow of time.

“I’ll be back soon.” she promises, both to Solas and Fenor, and she says it out loud also to reassure herself. Solas holds back his tears - they haven’t been separated one day since the successful fall of the Veil and the subsequent Restoration and even this handful of hours will feel like a painful eternity.

They kiss one last time, then she enters the eluvian they have hidden in a quiet part of the forest they live in. It will take her to the Crossroads, where she will be able to reach Minrathous in just a few seconds using the right mirror.

The light of the eluvian disappears and Solas lets out a long, deep kiss, already missing his vhenan. But then Fenor makes a tiny, funny noise and Solas looks down at him with a huge smile, which the child returns.

“Why don’t we go eat something, da’fen?”

The cute nickname perfectly represents Fenor’s appetite: he would eat anything, at any hour of the day, without pause. He is a healthy and florid child and Solas knows that he would accept to eat even in the middle of the night.

And since it’s not night, Fenor is even quicker to agree and he shows his joy with a flailing of chubby arms and other funny sounds.

“Papae, Papae!” he babbles, touching his father’s chin with his short, soft fingers, and Solas kisses them, then his cheek, making him laugh. He laughs, too, and thinks that this won’t be so hard. He just has to relax, just like Scarlet said.

He enters the cottage and sits Fenor down on the high chair Blackwall carved for him; he brushes back his hair - red like Scarlet’s, while the impatient eyes that are looking at him are blue like his - and he smiles, asking: “What would you like to eat, da’vhenan?”

That name is sweeter and tells another truth: Fenor is now part of his heart just as much as Scarlet. The wolf wags his tail whenever he’s around his child, growls at whatever dares bother or hurt him, be it a bug or an uncomfortable pillow.

“Cake!” Fenor points at the cake his parents baked the previous day, standing half-finished on the counter of the kitchen. Solas bites his lips, looking at the light outside the windows. Still too early to eat cake, the rules are clear and Fenor knows this, but he’s a clever boy and knows his dad might change his mind, now that mom isn’t home.

It’s terribly hard to be the serious, stern parent and neither Solas or Scarlet are good at it. They are able to say ‘no’ and put rules, of course, but it hurts them to see disappointment on their little cub’s face or hear the first noises that predict a wail.

“Please?” Fenor insists, making puppy-eyes at him, even sticking out his lower lip. It’s his special technique and it always works and Solas thinks those puppy-eyes are way too powerful for such a small child.

“Well…” He looks at the cake again and sighs. It’s a good cake and his sweet tooth demands him to take a bite, too, even if dinner is still far and fruits would be much better at this hour of the day.

He must be strong and let the child understand he can’t always win the food he wants that way. That’s actually the only thing Fenor ever fusses about; he’s a little saint for everything else and he always listens to his parents, sweet and calm, playful and giggly all the time, the sun and treasure of their cozy house.

“No, da’fen. It’s too early for the cake. Why don’t we eat something else?” The words hurt like glass on the roof of his mouth. Fenor’s face falls and his eyes are full of disappointed surprise, now.

Solas desperately tries not to feel like a bad father. He’s not bad, right? He’s just making sure his child’s tummy won’t hurt later and that he won’t ruin his appetite.

Still, anxiety slowly carves his guts into something twisted and painful and he tries not to cry as Fenor’s lips start to tremble and his cheeks get redder.

This is a silly thing and yet he can’t help but feel like a monster.

“W-Wait, da’vhenan.” he says, trying to fix everything, hoping to succeed. “We will eat the cake later, alright? With Mamae, we will eat it all together. It’s fairer that way, don’t you agree?”

Fenor remembers his mom isn’t there and the meaning of the memory of her leaving through the eluvian changes in his mind, now, it makes him worry. He also isn’t still good at sensing how much time has actually passed and the slow flow of time makes him believe she left much long ago, even if just a few minutes have actually passed.

“Mamae, where is Mamae?” he asks, tears in his eyes, and Solas panics.

“She is with Uncle Dorian!” he tries to reassure him, taking him in his arms again, but Fenor looks terrified, he never saw one of his parents leave and it is disconcerting not to see and hear Mamae in the house.

“She is in Minrathous, da’fen, where Uncle Dorian lives. She will come back soon, do not worry.” Solas kisses his hair, strokes his back, but Fenor is now upset, both by Scarlet’s absence and the lack of cake. His lips tremble again and he makes a choked sound, the beginning of a sob.

Solas feels wretched.

His hands start shaking and he swallows his tears, trying desperately not to make things worse. He looks around, looking for a way to reassure his son, but the only thing he sees is the cake.

He is about to give in and give a slice to the child when a spirit enters the kitchen and stares at the scene, perfectly quiet, perfectly still.

That visit is enough to temporarily distract Fenor, who waves at the spirit with a wet, timid smile, while Solas returns its stare, which turns into a glare.

“Why is the child crying?” it asks and Solas feels even more terrible, a disgusting failure.

“I… He…”

“Have you learned nothing, Wolf?” the spirit continues, shaking its glowing head. “Is your habit of making mistakes still so strong?”

A big lump blocks Solas’ throat and he cannot reply, but then something marvelous happens.

Fenor blows raspberries at the spirit and sticks out his tongue at it when it stares at him with offended disbelief.

“Papae is good!” he exclaims angrily, scowling at the spirit. “Warm and kind like Mamae! Go away!”

The spirit floats back, still looking outraged, but then Solas recovers from the initial shock and says coldly: “Didn’t you hear my son? Leave our house.”

The spirit disappears at that, after scoffing, and Solas thinks it probably was a spirit of Command - or Pomposity - like the one they met in Old Crestwood, so many years ago.

“Papae is good.” Fenor repeats, talking to him this time, and his tears are gone. There are only his smile and chubby hands, now, and Solas kisses them again, before nuzzling his cheek and making him laugh.

He sniffles, pushing back his tears, but the panic and anxiety in his heart are gone, he can breathe and think better, and things suddenly feel easier, because they are.

“Thank you, da’fen.” he says with a smile and he really believes him.

When Scarlet comes back, two hours later, she finds her husband in his wolf form, playing in the garden with their son, chasing him and letting him chase him in return. They hear her immediately and Fenor trots to her, giggling excitedly, calling “Mamae, Mamae!”.

Solas turns back into his elven form and approaches his family as Scarlet scoops up the small, squealing elf and kisses him all over his face, exclaiming: “Oh, da’fen, I missed you so much, little cub!”

Then she looks at Solas, smiling proudly at him, and he is smiling too, almost timidly.

“I missed you too, vhenan.” she says softly and he gets into her arms, hugging both her and Fenor and pressing his lips and nose against her cheek. He breathes in her perfume and sighs, relieved.

Fenor’s cheerful giggles fill the garden and the sun shines brighter in the sky.

[owlways-and-forever]

Summary: Lily Evans thought her life would be normal. Well, as normal as it can be for a muggle-born witch in England. But when her boyfriend turns out to be the prince of the wizarding world, and tensions begin to rise among factions of wizarding society, Lily must find her way in situations she never anticipated, and try not to lose sight of her identity. Word Count: 2,762 (21,619) Links: ao3 | FFnet | Tumblr: Ch 1, Ch 2, Ch 3, Ch 4, Ch 5

A/N: This might be a shorter chapter, but the good news is that I've decided to add a few chapters, so we're looking at something in the 20ish range ultimately. This chapter is closing in on the end of school, and a lot of things are starting to feel different. Thank you so much for reading this story, and please leave feedback and share it with your friends!

Chapter 6

They were summoned to the Great Hall for dinner, a notice posted in every common room and the library, an announcement made in each class during the last period of the day. They were all to proceed directly to the Great Hall. It was unusual, normally they were free to come and go as it suited them, and sometimes they could take dinner, albeit a simpler fare, in the common room or elsewhere if they were busy. It was only on special occasions that dinner in the Great Hall was compulsory, feast days and the like, and they always knew about those in advance. Never, in their 7 years at Hogwarts, had they been called to dinner like this. It meant the air was full of mystery as dinnertime approached, but the moment the students of Hogwarts stepped into the Great Hall, it became abundantly clear that they were not being summoned for good news.

Black banners hung high in the air, fluttering gently on currents of air. The teachers all stood in front of the long staff table, all of them robed in deep black. A sombre mood hung in the air, thick and heavy and hot enough to choke them all. Lily reached for James’ hand as they moved farther into the Great Hall, dread growing in her stomach. The entire student body moved in silence, taking their seats as quickly as possible. When everyone was seated, Dumbledore finally stepped forward.

“It is with great sorrow that I must tell you all of the passing of one of our own students,” he began, his voice deep and booming, filling the Great Hall. “David Abraham Gudgeon, known to most of you as Davey, did not return from the Hogsmeade trip yesterday. It is believed that Davey used the opportunity to return home to see his family, fearing for their safety. After searching for him, Davey’s body was found in his family’s home, along with the bodies of his mother, father, and younger sister.”

A gasp shuddered through the room at Dumbledore’s words. The older students knew more about the war that was brewing outside of Hogwarts, they knew that it had come dangerously close to them, stealing away family members and pitting students against each other, but this was the first time it had reached inside the walls of Hogwarts, snatching a student away.

“As many of you will know, Davey was a seventh year Hufflepuff, and I have no doubt his classmates will miss him very much,” Dumbledore continued after a pause. “He was kind, and loyal, a gifted Charms student and an advocate for others who were less fortunate. He demonstrated all the virtues of a true Hufflepuff, and for that he will be remembered.”

The students and the professors all bowed their heads in silence, remembering Davey. Lily had known him best through prefect duties, bonding over the muggle things they missed from back home. He had helped her study for her Charms O.W.L, when she had been nervous about it, and she had often joked that he should take over the position of Charms teacher when Flitwick retired. He had promised to help her study for her N.E.W.T.s again this year, but they hadn’t gotten to it yet. She felt an immense sadness wash over her at the thought of missing out on that friendship.

“There has been talk going around,” Dumbledore began again after a respectful amount of time had passed, “for some months now, about the war that is coming. You have heard frightening things, felt the tension growing in the castle. There have been clashes between students in these very halls. We strive to protect you here, as best we can, but this has always been a school based on inclusivity, and that has meant that students from all backgrounds have been welcome here. I urge you all to think about what side you will fight for, because there is one thing to be sure of - there is no staying neutral in this war. I will not… I cannot tell you who to side with. I can only hope that if each of you examines your conscience, you will make the right decision. Remember Davey Gudgeon when you make your choice, remember all who have been taken already in this war, all those yet to come, and choose wisely.”

He strode around the staff table and took his seat in the ornate gold chair reserved for the headmaster, steepling his fingers and watching the crowd of students carefully as the rest of the professors took their seats at the table. Food began to appear on the tables, but no one felt very hungry. The Great Hall was quiet, silent, as everyone sat, pushing food around idly.

Dumbledore was the first to excuse himself, sweeping through a side door, closely followed by the four heads of the houses. Students began filing out soon after, returning to their common rooms to grieve privately - the library and quidditch pitch would be silent tonight.

Lily wrapped her arm around James’ waist as they walked back to Gryffindor Tower. Ahead of them, Sirius and Remus were whispering together, leaning into each other for support, while Dorcas had reached out to Peter. Marlene and Mary had stayed behind to talk to some of their Hufflepuff friends for a little while.

“It’s awful,” Lily whispered as the six of them stepped into the common room.

“It was only a matter of time before it was someone we knew,” Remus replied heavily, almost resigned to what was happening in the world around them. He seemed tired, weary, as if the war was taking a physical toll on him and slowly draining him of life.

“I want to fight!” Sirius swore. He slammed his fist onto a tabletop, making the others jump in surprise.

“We all do,” Lily agreed.

“I wish there was something we could do, right now,” James said, changing the topic slightly. He hated discussing joining the fight, since he knew it wasn’t an option for him.

“Like what?” Sirius spat. “What could we possibly do that would be helpful?”

They were all quiet, knowing that the answer was likely nothing. There was nothing they could do, not until they graduated when they could become soldiers in this fight.

“Emotional wellbeing is important too,” Dorcas whispered, her eyes fixed on the flickering flames in the fireplace like she read something in them.

The words hung in the air, penetrating their minds and taking root there. Sirius scoffed and turned away, pacing across the red persian rug. But the rest of them exchanged glances trying to read each other’s thoughts across the empty spaces.

“What if we planned some kind of service?” James suggested after a long moment. “A memorial or something?”

“How would that help anyone?” Sirius snapped. He turned to look at his best friend and for a brief moment regret flickered across his face.

“It would give us a chance to grieve,” James answered sullenly, as if he had lost all confidence in his words and his idea.

“And it would be a show of support, a public declaration that we’re all against these tyrannical monsters,” Lily added, nudging James encouragingly with her shoulder.

“I could talk to Dumbledore about it,” James offered, “and get permission to put something together, if you guys would be willing to help me.”

“Of course,” Dorcas agreed, and the others all nodded their agreement.

o . o . o

“Mr. Potter, please stay behind,” Professor McGonagall called as the seventh year Gryffindors all began to pack up their things.

James nodded to Sirius and Remus when they offered him an inquisitive look, and they followed Peter through the door. Lily squeezed his hand quickly before ducking out with the rest of the class, and eventually they were all gone, leaving James alone with his Head of House.

“Come with me to the Headmaster’s office,” she said at last, sweeping towards the door.

“Have I done something wrong?” he asked, suddenly nervous. He’d be much better about following the rules lately. Graduation was looming and he was acutely aware that once it arrived, all the details of his school life would likely become public knowledge. He didn’t want to let his family down with stories of how unruly it was.

“Not by my standards,” Professor McGonagall cryptically, her lips pursed as though something were thoroughly annoying her.

James didn’t ask what she meant, and they walked the rest of the way in a tense silence.

King Fleamont stood by the fireplace in Dumbledore’s office, his back to the door, and he did not turn around as James entered the room. James knew that his father was aware of his presence, and he waited for something to be said. As the seconds ticked by, James felt his stomach turning to lead, twisting into heavier and heavier knots.

“Am I to understand that you are organizing a memorial service for a boy by the name of Davey Gudgeon?” the King said at last, his voice icy.

“Yes, Papa,” James answered, trying to brace himself for what was coming.

He watched as his father took a deep breath before exploding. He slammed his fist against the mantle of the fireplace, and several delicate, spindly looking instruments shook in Dumbledore’s bookcase.

“YOU KNOW BETTER, JAMES!” he bellowed, whirling on his son. “THAT BOY DIED IN THE WAR, WE CANNOT TAKE SIDES!”

“PAPA, WE MUST TAKE SIDES!” James yelled in return, stepping farther into the room. “How can we possibly stay neutral? This isn’t just politics, Papa, people are dying!”

“It makes no difference, James, if we want to keep our position, we cannot be involved,” King Fleamont argued, shaking his head. Anger and frustration were rolling off him in waves.

“Oh sod our position!” James shouted, tossing his hands in the air. “This war is a moral battle, we must do what is right, Papa, we must!”

“And would you feel the same if people you care about were not implicated?” the King hissed, stepping close enough to James that he could feel heat radiating off his robes from his time standing near the fire.

“Lily? You think I only care because Lily is muggleborn?” James scoffed, laughing harshly at his father’s words. “You must not know me at all. I will not stand by and ignore what is being done. Our people are being persecuted, Papa, and you are letting it happen. You are just as a responsible as the monsters casting the spells.”

“How dare you,” his father seethed, and for the first time in his life, James thought his father might strike him, but he schooled his features, straightening his spine and staring his son down. “When you are king, you can do as you like, and tear the monarchy to pieces. But for now, you are a prince, and you will do as you are told. Am I clear?”

“I will publicly remain as neutral as I have always done,” James spat, “but I will not give up this memorial. Davey was a friend, and he should not have died, not the way he did. I will plan this memorial and I will attend it. This is the business of James Potter, not the Prince, and believe me, I relish my last few weeks as him.”

“Do you not understand, James? Everything you have done as James will become the Prince’s actions the second you graduate from Hogwarts,” the King replied harshly. “There are not two separate people, just the one, and you must realize that, the sooner the better.”

“I am aware, Papa,” James said, “but it will not change my mind.”

The King turned looking as though he were listening to another voice, and James had no doubt that his mother was whispering in his ear. The two of them had numerous methods of communicating with each other discreetly, which James barely understood. After a moment, he turned his attention back to his son.

“I must go now,” he said, his tone making no secret of his displeasure. “Do not think this conversation is over. You may be sure that your mother has much to say on this topic as well.”

“Good, I can’t wait to have this little chat again,” James replied snidely.

With a final huff, the King stepped into the fireplace, green flames erupting around him and whisking him away back to the Palace.

James stomped out of the Headmaster’s office without another word and marched through the halls in a blind rage. How could his parents be so infuriatingly stuck in the past? How could they not see that this was different? His feet took him toward the Black Lake of their own accord, and he was not at all surprised to see Lily sitting beneath his favourite beech tree when he got there.

“I figured that whatever was going on, you’d need to talk afterward,” she explained, closing her Potions textbook as James sat down next to her. “What happened?”

“My father,” James answered, closing his eyes and clenching his jaw to try to regain some modicum of composure. “He wants me to stop with the memorial, to disassociate myself from it.”

“He thinks it’s too political,” Lily clarified, and James nodded in acknowledgement. She sighed deeply and reached out to take his hand, running her fingers soothingly across his skin. “We knew this would be a fight, James, to have some involvement in what’s going on. It was never going to be easy. But you have to be the kind of prince, the kind of king, that you want to be. You have to be the kind your heart tells you to be.”

“I know,” James sighed, relaxing into her touch. “I guess, on some level I thought that once things got bad enough, my parents would understand. I thought they would see that we couldn’t stay out of this. But my father… he accused me of only caring about the situation because you’re muggle born.”

“Oh James, I’m so sorry,” she consoled, continuing her fingers’ ministrations. “I know that you’re not in it because of me. I know that you care for all the right reasons, and that’s exactly what’s going to make you a great king. You know this is wrong, not because I’m in danger but because it just is.”

“I wish they knew that too,” James said, his eyes drifting across the surface of the lake.

“You can’t make them do what’s right,” Lily replied, squeezing his hand until he looked at her. “All you can do is make sure that you’re doing everything you can, and hope that they come on board eventually.”

“I guess so,” he conceded.

“So did they give you permission to do the memorial?” she asked hesitantly.

“Not exactly,” James explained. “But I said I wouldn’t back down, and he said he had to go, so… I’m still gonna do it.”

“Okay,” Lily said with a smile, and standing with her hand held out for him. “Ready to get back to work then?”

“Lily, I…” he paused for a second. “I don’t know if I can do it?”

“What?” she asked, sinking back to the ground and looking at him intently.

“Have this public image of neutrality and only fight in secret,” James answered. “How do I pretend to the world that I don’t hate these people with every fiber of my being? If I don’t actively disavow them, doesn’t it kind of seem like we condone their actions? Doesn’t it add fuel to the fire?”

“Yes,” she agreed solemnly.

“What do I do?” he asked, his eyes wide and desperate.

“The only thing you can do,” Lily said, reaching out to push back a particularly unruly lock of his hair.

“What’s that?” James pressed.

“The right thing.”

[tellytantra]

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Bela does puja. She offers aarti to everyone. If Tai ji, Tau ji and Rakesh Bhaisahab agree for Naina and Sameer’s wedding then I will offer 11 coconuts in temple. Preeti jokes that if that happens then Naina will break them on her head itself. Everyone smile. Anand is positive it will happen. Bela is suspicious but he tells them not to be tensed in front of Sameer and his family. Bela and Anand go to talk to Tau ji. Preeti wants to celebrate by having something special. Naina is panicked but Preeti convinces her to be happy and positive. Tai ji and Rakesh tell Tau ji to not pay heed to whatever Anand says. Be firm. Just tell that the guy we have chosen is final. He owns his own juice shop after all. Tai ji advises Rakesh to stay quiet. Anand and Bela meet them there. They discuss about Naina’s wedding. Anand proposes Sameer’s name for Naina. Rakesh gets angry. You will get my daughter married to that loafer? Tau ji calms him down as neighbours look on. They head inside. Tau ji reprimands his brother for shouting in the corridor as soon as they are inside Tau ji’s house. They close all the doors and windows from inside. Tau ji tells Anand to give them poison instead. Rakesh is hell bent against the idea as well. Tau ji is against the idea owing to different castes. Rakesh calls Sameer loafer again. Anand speaks well of Sameer. Tau ji insists that the good boy eloped with Naina. Anand says sometimes what we see isn’t right. Tai ji tells him to lecture someone else instead. They both like each other. Tai ji says what if she brings a Punjabi, Bengali or someone else some other day. Rakesh rejects the idea. Bela speaks positively about Naina and Sameer. Anand somehow manages to explain once again. Sameer isn’t a bad guy. He is from a nice family. Rakesh, Tau ji and Tai ji say we have seen it yesterday. Why do you wish to make her life hell? Anand replies that naina’s happiness is of utmost importance to him. I have raised her like my own daughter. Tau ji is worried about the society but Anand continues speaking in Sameer and Naina’s favour. Bhabhi has always prayed for a SIL like Sameer. I cannot ignore your words but we elders should also understand what the youngsters want. I assure you that Sameer will keep Naina very happy. Tai ji and Tau ji are sure Sameer’s family wont agree. Their cars are parked in a bigger place than our home. Rakesh adds that if he should beg them to accept his daughter as their DIL. I will prefer to die but I wont beg them for anything. Anand shares that none of them will go to Sameer’s home. Tai ji asks him if Sameer’s family will come to their home to fix his alliance with Naina. Anand nods. Sameer closes the window as the wind blows all the papers. Vishakha enters just then. She is about to step on them but stops just in time. I had a word with your Papa. What time do we have to go there? Sameer replies absentmindedly but then realises what she just asked. Are you joking? She denies. He hugs her. Thank you Mummy. I love you. She tells him that she has agreed to go to Naina’s home for his sake. Sameer is in disbelief. He ends up slapping himself playfully to make himself believe if it’s true or not. She denies. It is true. We have decided to give a chance to you guys. We are going there only for your sake. Hope we are not insulted there. She goes. Tau ji asks Anand who told him that Sameer’s family will come over to their house. Did Naina say so? Anand denies. Sameer told me himself. Tai ji questions it. Tau ji reasons that they must be coming upon their son’s insistence. Tai ji speaks badly about Naina. Sameer is like a hero while Naina is so plain. Bela says Naina lacks nothing. Tai ji taunts her on that. Preeti too speaks positively about Naina. Anand suggests letting bygones be bygones. We should think about what is going to happen in evening. Tai ji tells him to stay in his dream world. They will never agree to let their son marry Naina. Rakesh says even if they agree, I wont. I would prefer drinking poison instead. Anand speaks of the good qualities of Sameer. He is coming over himself. Tau ji is stuck with the societal norms. Anand says it does not matter what society thinks or says. Our daughter’s happiness is what matters the most. Tau ji gives up on him. Do whatever you want to do! Anand requests him not to say so. Vishakha wonders what they should take with them. Bobby replies that they don’t need to carry anything. Sameer is excited as to what he should wear. Vishakha tells him to wear anything. Everything suits you. He says I am going to my in-laws’ house for the first time. It should be special. He gets shy noticing everyone around. Munna and Pundit start singing Aaj Mere Yaar Ki Shaadi Hai. Mami tells them to stop the drama. There is no wedding! They are sure it will be fixed sooner. We will carry a colourful fruit basket very soon. Vishakha says it isn’t required. She covers up saying that they have made the preps already. Munna and Pundit decide to help the groom get ready. Poonam brings snacks for them. They ask for tea and head inside Sameer’s room. Mami ji stops Poonam from going after them. Mami ji says I thought I will bring a beautiful girl for my handsome Sameer but! Poonam completes he sentence – he fell for that Mehendi girl Kammo! Vishakha asks her what she means. Mama ji shares that Naina came to their house once in the disguise of a mehendi girl. Poonam speaks nicely about Naina but Mami ji disagrees. She is in no comparison to Sameer. Mama ji adds that Naina is way too smart. Be careful Didi. Bobby tells Mama ji that Vishakha is a simple person but he isn’t. After today, your nephew wont be able to realise / understand what actually happened. Anand says let’s welcome them nicely. Tau ji tells him to do it himself. Anand requests them to meet them once. All 3 of you are the elders of the house. Meet them once and decide then. Tau ji agrees to meet them. We are not in agreement with this. Rakesh refuses to come in front of them at any cost. I wont let my daughter get married in that house. He walks out in a huff. Tai ji remarks that they will come in evening. They too leave. Bela is worried what will happen if Naina’s father wont be present in such a situation. Anand says considering his temperament and disagreement on the matter, it is better if he isn’t there in the evening. Voiceover – Naina:A rainbow is considered to be very beautiful but my rainbow was going to be incomplete that day as Papa wasn’t going to join us. Precap: Naina and Sameer are getting ready for evening. Update Credit to: Pooja

http://cattybilli.blogspot.com/2018/12/yeh-un-dinon-ki-baat-hai-21st-december.html

[bridgetttheodor-blog]

✅ Mama's Time Presents.

BEIRUT (Reuters) - The mother from American media reporter Austin Tice, who has actually been actually skipping in Syria for over three years, believes her boy is alive and effectively and prompted Washington as well as Damascus to work together to free of charge him. If their dad was actually not there certainly during this crucial phase, at that point that is actually going to tougher for the male to have apart type their mama. Limits could end up being teachable moments for both mommy and also child, as they press both ahead toward adulthood, by abrogating the concept of unconditional strength to all behaviors, whether bad or even good. Otherwise, Open up Door Policy likewise makes for an amazing gluten-free option, along with festive specials like Seafood Benedict saturated in pink sparkling wine hollandaise and spiced avocado, and the ever sinful pile of french tribute attic that our team cannot obtain sufficient from. If you are actually looking to treat your mommy to an experience, go for Argentinean flavours and also participate in boCHINche's brunch session with complimentary glasses of Rutini Trumpeter Rosé de Malbec Sparkling for the day's special females. They are actually specifically frustrating for a narcissistic mother that right now finds she is paving the way over she is receiving. She enters the ideology from being actually a nursing, operating mommy as well as aiding you along with all the practical bits too. Energy: An extra relative 400calories is actually required by a lactating mother to restore the electricity lost in the development of boob milk. Sandra Brosam is actually the mother of four children, 2 well-balanced young adults, and 2 kids who died. I want to tell every person as parents our team must have possessed a chance to know wonderful parenting skill-sets coming from our own parents and also those arounds our team. In my point of view that will be much better to acknowledge an opportunity to boost a mamas understanding of greatest parenting practise through revealing her specifically what to accomplish as opposed to possessing a perfect to pursue and designating just what is actually an excellent mother and also just what is actually not as you run the risk of several mommies experiencing inadequate which subsequently is going to affect their little ones. Nonetheless, they positively really liked to roam the back yard from my mom home along with another fantastic exterior pet dog. My hubby as well as I have actually been gotten married to 28 years and simply this weekend, our company possessed a blow-up along with my step-son entailing the x-wife, his mama. Among one of the most proficient wild animals digital photographers in India, Rathika Ramasamy shares, Each time I press the shutter, that takes me one step deeper to Mother earth! Tina Turner was actually birthed Anna Mae Bullock, in a a timber house shown her dad, Richard, which was a deacon, her mother Zelma as well as sister Alline. At 7 I was so personal http://hannah-Beauty-blog.info/ conscience since my mother regularly chewed out me saying I walked comical. Your mama was actually the one that handled you coming from the very first day that you were actually birthed till this day that you actually possess a little one from your personal. There is actually nothing at all the issue with choosing a dress for mommy that she can easily furthermore put on in the workplace - and also precisely, that could working from both the congregation and also on the road flooring at the in the wake of get-together! Simply her more mature sibling and sibling survived as well as they were actually 19 years apart so my Mommy had to hide everyone by herself. Anyway my mama obtained wed to my papa simply at the age of 29 as my daddy was actually performing his degree before that.

[teamhook]

Captain Swan Supernatural Summer - Second Contribution

Thank you @kmomof4 for enabling all us, and organizing the event.

Thank you, @hookedonapirate for being my Beta.

Thank you, @revanmeetra87 for your support even though supernatural fics aren’t your thing.

And last but not least @kymbersmith-90 for being there for me, when I freak out at the craziest times.

Thanks to @searchingwardrobes for letting me vent and your patience.

I give you Captain Swan Supernatural Summer my new multi-chapter story.

|AO3| |FFN|

My Fate is Darkness

A/N: Is there light in darkness? Throughout the realms, there are all sorts of supernatural creatures roaming the lands. And there are those who are tasked with protecting the innocent. Fated to be enemies, can true love find its way through time?

Chapter 1

...

In the outskirts of the small town was a small cabin with a loving mother singing to her baby boy as she gazed into his loving blue eyes. Her soft voice carried throughout the home, soothing the little bundle in her arms.

"-And fondly I watched her

Move here and move there

And she went her way homeward

With one star awake

As the swans in the evening

Move over the lake-"

Pausing near the end of the song, she peeked out the window when something caught her attention. The shadows by the trees moved unnaturally. The hairs on the back of her head stood up; she hadn't felt this uneasy in years. She quickly moved the rug on the floor, lifted the small cellar door and grabbed her small son, hushing, "Killian, sweetheart, please stay quiet for mum. You are such a good baby." His blue eyes looked deep into her own as she slowly lowered him into the small wooden bassinet. She closed the door and rose to her feet, grabbing a dagger from the small trunk under her bed. Cautiously stepping outside, she slowly closed the door behind her.

She walked around the house looking for any broken tree branches or indication of unwanted company. She had to move quickly because Brennan and Liam were due to return from the docks and she didn't want them to be caught by surprise. Her boys loved to watch the ships arrive at the little town.

She had circled back and was assessing the area one last time before she deemed it safe. The yellow eyes pierced through the foliage. The distance between them was now obvious. He was just a few feet from her favorite berry tree just before reaching the forest entrance.

She hadn't moved that fast ago in years - since her last hunt. Her motivation was a lot more primal than the thrill of a kill; she was protecting her family. Years of training had resurfaced when she saw standing before her a yellow-eyed demon. He came at her, taking swings at her head, stomach and wherever he could reach. She fought back, blocking and landing some punches before finally putting the dagger to use, but it felt as if he were toying with her. He could've used some of his powers on her to end it swiftly, but his arrogance would not allow it.

She finally managed to get the upper hand.

"Darkness is coming, Hunter and you will lose." The demon spat black blood at her.

"It may be coming, but you will not be here to see it. This is where you fall down." With that, she gave the final blow, and blood was splattered everywhere. She pulled out the dagger and wiped it clean with her brown blouse.

She turned to look at the house and ran towards it, feeling queasy as she approached; the air was hard to breathe. She ran inside and found a cloaked figure standing were Killian's empty crib was.

"Where is the boy?"

"What do you want with my son?" She tried to step closer but was suddenly frozen in place.

"Oh, I have plans for him. Now answer my question: here is he?"

"He is not here."

"Tsk tsk; don't lie to me, Hunter. I know he is here. I can smell his sweet blood. He gets that from you, you know."

Alice made a face at the comment. "I have no idea what you're talking about."

"The older boy has it too, but it doesn't match the young one. I had hoped to be finished by the time you came back in from dispatching my soldier, but you hid the boy. I will find a way to get him, and you will not be here to protect him anymore." He lifted her body with an invisible force and pushed her against the ceiling wall, knocking the wind out of her. With a flick of his hand, suddenly the cutlery flew toward her.

As he walked out, the flame of a small candle near the window ignited the curtains, causing a fire.

She'd never expected to feel this way. She had heard that a person's life flashed before their eyes, and they reflected on their lives as they neared the end. But she was at peace, unafraid and happy, knowing Killian was protected by the enchanted wood the cellar his bassinet was hidden in was made from.

Alice Jones had always done what was expected of her. Since she was a little girl, she was told what to do, who she was supposed to be and who she was meant to love. Pesky little birthmarks and soul mates were overrated, even when she thought she had taken control of her fate and had decided who to love. She had done what she was supposed to do, but sometimes one cannot escape fate.

As she surrendered to her fate, her thoughts lingered on the road so far.

The truth about monsters and all that goes bump in the night is simple - they are real. Just because you don't believe in them, doesn't mean they don't believe in you.

Demons, vampires, skinwalkers and the occasional werewolf are a few of the otherworldly creatures that plague the worlds and have to be terminated. It'd been an almost eternal battle to protect the innocents and the light.

There had been an unnatural amount of activity in all the realms; hunters were struggling to keep up and were forced to hunt alone, no longer in pairs.

Paranormals would jump realms on occasion, which meant there would have to be a hunter or a guardian close behind. They would travel from Oz to Wonderland and all the realms in between in order to protect the light from the darkness that threatened to extinguish it. They've traveled from realm to realm at times to fight and protect the innocents or to take the survivors to a sanctuary.

The land without magic was one of those realms. This world had been touched by evil and because of its lack of belief in the unknown; the view of these events was altered. History gave a different account of the unknown. One of the most well-known accounts took place in London. For there had been a terror in the late 1800's (the exact year was hard to pinpoint). Jack the Ripper had not been a simple serial killer. Many had fallen victim to him; he did not discriminate. There was no known pattern; the only similarity is that the bodies were drained of their blood. Two tiny twin puncture wounds would be found in the lifeless human body, so small sometimes it was missed. The truth was Jack was a different kind of killer; he was a vampire. His reign of terror had ended at the hands of hunter Evangeline Van Helsing, Alice Burkhart's usual partner.

Like most hunters, Alice had spent time in all of the realms. She hated the difference in the time periods from realm to realm. It could make anyone dizzy. She never looked forward to jumping between realms. It was hard going unnoticed when the wardrobe made her stand out. Her favorite realm was the one that held her home. Beyond the land, far out at sea - that is where Haven Isles lies hidden to the naked eye. The Enchanted Forest was the closest land to her home. After her last hunt, she had decided to eat a warm meal at the little pub at The Den's Inn. She sat with her back to the wall, always paying attention to her surroundings to ensure no surprises were coming her way.

A group of men entered the Inn and asked for the stew of the day. One of the men looked at her and smiled. She couldn't help herself and reciprocate the gesture. He approached the table. "Hello lass, may I join you?"

She gestured for him to sit.

"Thank you, my name is Brennan Jones. May I inquire the name of my lovely companion?"

"Aren't you a gentleman? My name is Alice Burkhart."

...

Not far from the little house, a man holding a young boy approached the home.

"Papa, look - fire!" The boy pointed at the small house now set aflame.

"Liam, please wait for me here. Do not move."

The boy nodded in agreement as Brennan frantically ran into the house. He opened the door and ducked as the flames attacked him. He saw his wife lying lifeless on the floor, her hand resting on the cellar door handle. He looked around and couldn't see his youngest boy. "Killian?" Of course, the boy could not answer his call, but Brennan knew he was there. He picked up his wife's body and noticed the door handle was still within her death grip. He opened the door and saw Killian looking at him with his deep blue eyes, barely making a fuss. He grabbed the bassinet as he threw her body over his shoulder.

…Years later…

Brennan Jones still mourned his long lost love. He still could not wrap his mind around the fact that she was gone. So many unanswered questions; the dagger she had on her body. The craftsmanship of the blade was incomparable. The cellar had been made with enchanted wood and she had requested special designs carved into it. She was knowledgeable of magical items to an extent that he had questioned her about it only to receive a smile in return.

They weren't given enough time. And now he would never see her smile or look into her eyes ever again.

He would stare at his youngest son and get lost in memories of Alice; Killian looked so much like his mum. And now she was gone and he was still here.

Brennan had become the shell of his former self. He drank away the few coins he earned instead of providing the essentials for his sons. He just wanted to disappear and fall into the void. He couldn't go on without her. He was running away and kept moving what remained of the small family from village to village along the coast.

He raised the boys to the best of his ability. They were getting so big and Liam was already becoming a young man. Brennan had caught Liam doing small chores for whomever that would provide him with a coin. Killian on the other hand still didn't understand why his mum was gone, even if he didn't remember her.

At least Brennan didn't believe so.

The broken-hearted man slowly slipped further into despair. Soon enough he had accrued debts he couldn't pay for, even after selling the last physical connection he had to Alice - the dagger she had when she died. He had gotten silver and some gold doubloons, but it didn't last. He then started stealing, and soon his thievery caused him and his young sons to be on the run.

"Liam, please help Killian get ready; we are going on a grand adventure out at sea. We are to sail on one of those ships that you boys love so much." Brennan smiled and wobbled away, almost falling to the floor.

"What did you do? All you do is drink and gamble."

"Liam, I just want to be a good father to you and your brother. I know I've made mistakes and because of those mistakes, you've had to grow up. You take care of Killian and yourself."

Liam looked at his little brother and quickly helped him dress. He still kept an eye on his father; almost two years had passed since the time Liam caught him trying to sneak away. His father had told him that the kind spinsters that lived next door would have gladly raised them.

"Papa, we are ready," Liam told his father as he held Killian's hand.

Killian stretched his small hand for his father to hold and once his father reached for it, he offered a sweet dimpled smile.

They arrived at the docks and soon the salty sea air filled their noses with the fragrance of adventure.

They boarded the merchant ship and soon were led below deck next to the crew quarters. Brennan had spent his last coins getting them the last cabin of the ship. The ship had finally set sail.

Liam was the one to speak, "Papa, where are we going?"

Brennan extended his arms to reach for both of his sons and pulled them to his lap, one on each side. Liam was getting too big, but Killian clung to Brennan with eagerness for his father's affection. He hadn't done this in so long. He held them tight.

"The ship is traveling to Wayward Port. A small port just outside of the Maritime Kingdom"

Killian fell asleep in his father's arms.

"Liam, you should sleep and let the waves lull you into sleep like Killian did."

Liam looked at his father still holding Killian in his arms and slowly approached the bunk on the other side.

"Son, sleep and I will tuck Killian in. I shall share the bunk with him. He is still so small even at his age. Don't worry, just sleep."

Liam pondered his father's request and decided he could not go anywhere. He closed his eyes and fell asleep.

A few days at sea had passed and Jones had enjoyed his time with his sons. He knew in his heart it would've made his Alice happy. Now they were up on deck watching the water.

"Papa, I like this ship. Can we stay forever?"

"I'm afraid not, son," he replied to Killian. We will soon make port and find a new home."

Killian couldn't hide his disappointment at his father's response.

"Come on little brother; let's go to our room so you can take your nap."

Brennan gazed out over the vast ocean as the boys walked away. As soon as they were gone, someone tapped him on the shoulder.

"Mr. Jones, may I have a word." The man gestured for Brennan to follow him to the most secluded part of the ship.

"Captain Silver, is there a problem?"

"I'm afraid I have some bad news for a family man such as you. It has come to my attention that at Wayward Port there are some people awaiting our arrival; more specifically yours. You will be arrested upon arrival."

Brennan's face went pale as all of the blood drained from it.

"I may have a solution, if I may make a suggestion? As you are aware, the ship has a rowboat. I could offer it in exchange for some extra coins. I'd settle for some copper."

"That would be lovely if I had any. I used the last to pay for the room. I have nothing else of value."

The Captain considered his answer. "I believe you are still in possession of something of value. I'm in the need of a cabin boy or two. Does that help?"

Brennan looked at the man as he processed his comment. He couldn't attempt an escape with the kids with him. It could be dangerous and they would get hurt. He knew his capture was inevitable and what would happen to the kids? He had no family to take them and Alice never talked of her family. Their best chance was on that ship.

"How long would they need to serve you for?" Brennan couldn't believe he was considering the proposition.

Captain Silver pondered the question. "Each of your boys will serve for a mere ten years. Please, consider that they will be together and have nothing to worry about. They will be better off with me than if the authorities get a hold of them. Imagine them in an awful orphanage."

The thought of Brennan's boys in an orphanage killed him. At least with Silver, they would be at sea and his sons loved it.

"You have a deal. I will take the rowboat once it is dark. The kids will be in the room."

"I would hurry if I were you. It seems there is a storm coming," the Captain informed him and walked away.

Brennan headed below deck to his room. He opened the door and slowly entered only to find Liam and Killian napping on one of the bunks.

He watched as his sons slept. Suddenly, lightning flashed, and the ship swayed, tilting abruptly, waking Killian in the process."Papa, I'm scared."

"There is nothing to be afraid of son. Before you know it, you're going to be a man, so I'm just trying to prepare you 'cause then you're going to have to answer life's big question: what kind of man are you going to be?"

Killian smiled. "I want to be like you, Papa."

Brennan looked at his son and knelt by him. "No, Killian, promise me you will be a better man. Don't be like me."

Killian's eyes slowly closed and he fell asleep.

Brennan kissed his forehead and whispered, "I wish I could be the father you deserve." He rose to his feet and moved toward Liam and kissed him as well. "Liam please look after Killian." With his final words, he slipped out of the cabin, into the night and disappeared.

Early the next morning the sun shone brightly, leaving no evidence of a storm.

Liam woke first and noticed the other bunk was empty. Killian was still asleep, so he slowly got up, careful so as not to wake his brother up.

He dressed and hurried to go look for his father. The bunk had not been slept in.

As he was running to the deck, he bumped into someone.

"Boy, where is the other one?"

"What other one are you referring?"

"I believe he is your younger brother."

"He is asleep; I was looking for our father. Have you seen him?"

"Oh, he is long gone."

"Gone? But we are still here."

"That is because you are now part of the crew."

"What are you talking about?"

"Your father needed a rowboat and I needed some extra help."

"He just left us?"

"I'm afraid so. You are both now my property. I think it is time to wake up the other one. There is work to do before we arrive. And don't get any ideas."

Liam walked away and headed back to the cabin. How was he going to explain to his brother that their father had left them?