#THE LONG AWAITED CHAPTER 13 | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

moonbaby26 · 10 days ago

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Title: Breeding Grounds

(Chapter 20 of Doflamingo’s Marine Series)

*Crossposted to AO3 Here*

Chapter Pairings: Doflamingo x Fem!Reader

Chapter Warnings: language, animal behavior/breeding comparisons, but otherwise pretty clean actually except for some nudity, petting, and kissing. in other words, reader finally gets a little break? *gasp!* 😅

Chapter Synopsis: Doflamingo had made prior arrangements to personally pickup the serum he commissioned from Caesar for you. But on a whim, or perhaps a growing need to never be parted, the Heavenly Demon decides you��ll be accompanying him on this trip as well.

Chapters: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20

Fic Masterlist

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——————————

It was only one day since the news had first broken worldwide about Doflamingo’s marriage proposal to you and his resetting of your relationship’s chaotic timeline in the colosseum.

Just one day since that man had cornered you in an oversized closet and confessed to killing his own marine double agent of a brother in supposed self defense, while in the very next breath saying he wanted to make a family with you instead.

Only one damn day since you were made to swallow pool water and further irritate your injuries, only to swim to him and force his paralyzed body out of harm’s way just as he’d intended.

“You still refuse to read about us?” Doflamingo’s taunting voice now carried from the bathroom, in reference to that newest newspaper on the nightstand.

“I was there. I don’t need to read Morgans’ take on it.” You answered only because you felt you had to. Doflamingo would just press more if you didn’t.

And the warlord’s resulting chuckle came easily through that still open bathroom door. “Public perception is all part of the game, love. Don’t discount its uses so easily.”

He had been up long before dawn. Back and forth between this royal suite and his office down the hall you assumed.

But he’d insisted on you waking and showering with him. So you now lay on the bed afterward, still wet and watching him with instinctive caution.

His back was to you, not a piece of clothing or towel to cover him at all. Purposeful you were sure as he stood before the full length mirror, performing such a disconcerting imitation of a normal man’s routine.

You could see his tight ass of course, his waist, and the backs of his thighs. All toned and far too perfect while he just made small talk with you like it was something normal, moving a long razor blade up along his throat and jaw as he did.

The Heavenly Demon was shaving.

And you couldn’t yet admit that whatever thick cream he’d lathered along his skin had smelled amazing too before you’d come over here to wait on his bed.

Yes, you supposed you’d never seen even a hint of blond stubble across that lean face. As far back as you could possibly remember he’d always looked clean and well groomed.

But it didn’t make it comfortable to witness.

Still wholly bothersome to you somehow as Doflamingo tilted his face this way and that, getting every contour carefully with that blade.

Maybe it felt better to him than his strings. Maybe he preferred the moisturizing aspect of the lather or its scent as well. Maybe he just liked to feel pampered.

Yet even a view of the best ass in Dressrosa, both literally and figuratively, couldn’t distract you forever.

Your mind was still churning, wondering what fresh trauma really awaited you next.

“Doffy.” You said, with your hand tightening into the bedsheet.

And you saw his head turn. Just enough for his good eye to look back at you. He was wiping the bottom of his face with a washcloth after rinsing off the razor blade by then.

“When are you going to let me use a phone again?” You asked somewhat without warning. But quieter than he deserved. Because you still weren’t wanting to fight again yet. You had to recover at some point. You had to at least try to anyway.

But he had taken your snail after the incident with Crocodile. And you’d noticed his own snails were never left alone with you.

He was controlling all lines of communication out of this castle. Even as he’d made such a show of claiming to trust you at the pool yesterday.

But Doflamingo didn’t say anything back at first. He tossed that washcloth, leaving it for the maids to clean up later. And then he was walking towards you out of the bathroom.

You still weren’t used to how fast he could really cross a room. Even if he was in no particular hurry with those long legs.

“My eyes are up here, darling.” He chided, watching you intently.

Your eyebrows lowered at the callout. “Well, wear underwear for once.” You retorted. His length was swinging with his strides even at full rest. “Who wouldn’t look?”

“I don’t like underwear.” He smiled, pleased for the acknowledgement of his size. “It chafes.” But his equally uncovered eyes glinted with the hint of further mischief. “I can stand something smaller though. G-strings and thongs aren’t so bad. Care to see some examples?”

“You’re trying to change the subject.” You correctly pointed out at that, though with an embarrassing heat creeping into your face regardless.

“Nice mental image isn’t it?” Doflamingo reached the bed’s edge with another taunt, before turning and flopping right onto his back beside you.

It actually made you come off of the bed just that slight amount as the force of his weight went briefly through the springs below.

You splayed one hand out behind you for balance, somewhat sitting up. And then his still wet hair was in your equally naked lap as he rolled over onto you.

“You really should be looking at this like a vacation instead of manufacturing things to complain about.” He fussed a little, but with no real bite to it before a string picked up your other hand to set it onto his face.

“Stop doing that.” You huffed.

“Then learn to take a hint. I told you I get headaches on the left side.” He moved his face, that blind eye partly closed while he pushed his temple further against your palm.

“You’re having one right now?” You asked skeptically. He was going to do anything to keep from discussing his clear isolation of you, wasn’t he?

“Just help me.” He sounded more impatient there, edging back towards petulance.

But you were stubborn too, even though you still had to be careful. You kept talking even as your fingers did move by your own freewill then. You massaged Doflamingo’s temple and into his high hairline above that milky left eye. “Are you going to let me contact HQ again or not?”

Both his eyes started to close fully as you’d rubbed him. He only frowned a little when you’d still spoken.

“You just can’t leave a good thing alone, can you?” He asked. But noticeably relaxed despite the retort, letting your hand continue to work. “Careful what you wish for, darling. Because you may just get it.” He continued. “I didn’t tell you. But I decided we’re going out today. And you won’t be the only white coat once we get there.”

————————————

“He’s off island? Where?” Vergo questioned, albeit in his usual monotone.

“The young master left for Punk Hazard earlier today with that girl. He said he didn’t wish to be disturbed.” Gladius answered with similar evenness.

But Vergo did hesitate briefly at that on the other side of the snail, considering the weight of this new information. “It’s risky to go there now. The rank and file are already up in arms about all of this. Did he give a reason?”

“No. It seemed impromptu. One of his whims. But I assume he doesn’t like leaving her alone here with us either. Not after what happened before.”

At this suggestion, Vergo did finally offer a little more emotion in his words. It was a tone of judgement towards his fellow officers actually. “Yes. I heard about Trebol’s screw up. He should have known to wait for Doffy, and not to take anything into his own hands when it comes to her any longer.”

“Yes. But it has been just one thing after another since the young master found her again.” Gladius had always liked routine and order. The last few months had been far from that.

“Doffy always knows what he wants. He’s invested so much into this already. It’s our responsibility to support him no matter what.” Vergo contended, voice getting even a bit more stern in response.

“Yes, Vergo-san.” Whether Gladius added that term for the more senior officer out of genuine respect or just the new wish to hurry the call along was unclear.

“But that’s not what I called about. I wanted to warn him about Orlinde.” Vergo carried on regardless.

“What about it? That’s already done.”

“No, it isn’t. Because whatever amateurs you hired to take care of it are now leading a trail right back to Doffy.”

And at only this was Gladius then at concerned attention while Vergo continued.

“After they left Orlinde, your hires apparently decided it’d be best to go get drunk on a nearby island and start running their mouths. The navy already had informants all over those bars. One of which reported that a crew was bragging about getting paid well recently for a big job in the area. A young crew with smiling faces tattooed on more than one of them.”

“Goddammit.” Gladius’ quill like hair began to lengthen already as his fist tightened near the snail on the table. “It was that fool Bellamy then. He can’t control his own people! I’ll have to deal with it.”

Yet there was another pause on the other end of the call to this.

“The Bellamy Pirates? What about them?” Vergo questioned, abruptly puzzled in that infuriating way he could sometimes be.

To which Gladius only bristled further, no longer having time for this at all. “You just said it, Vergo! Young idiots with our jolly roger! Who else would that be? Bellamy the Hyena was who we sent to burn down Orlinde!”

The snail quieted yet again.

“But that isn’t who the navy has identified on these reports right here in my hand. By the time a marine ship got to the port that the informants said these pirates were docked, some kind of fight was already going on. The only vessel seen with a smiling jolly roger escaped beneath the surface before the marine ship could stop them. A yellow submarine.”

“The Bellamy pirates don’t have a damn submarine. The young master would never waste that kind of beri on them.”

“I’m aware. This report says some new group called the Heart Pirates are the ones that razed Orlinde to the ground. Because they were the ones that escaped in the submarine. I don’t yet have any photos of their jolly roger or that vessel though. But no one else in the marine files has a smiling face quite like Doffy’s for their signet to get confused for his. So I assumed…”

“Never heard of them. And if they’re really using our symbol without permission, then they’re already dead. No one gets to do that.”

“Hmm.” Vergo still sounded contemplative. “If you truly don’t know them, I’ll look into this further then. Maybe it is just a lucky case of misidentification. And they can take the blame instead.”

“Maybe.” Gladius offered, beginning to calm down at the idea that this may not be the level of problem it had originally seemed.

“Oh, I’ll make sure the evidence points the way we want in the end.” Vergo confirmed though. With falsifying things to pin a crime on a whole other pirate group not being beneath him either. “Don’t tell Doffy for now then. He’s busy enough. I’ll figure out who these Heart Pirates are and get back to you.”

———————————

He had given you no real choice of course. Lingering at the open window in his bedroom not so very long ago.

You were either going to get into his arms like a good girl. Or he would have thrown you out of that window to start this journey anyway. Though, perhaps more gently than at the pool yesterday.

Because Doflamingo was in a very good mood. Again riding these highs of having so many successes all at once.

He had you soundly in his possession. There was already a ring on your finger and a marriage certificate on file in Mariejois. The newspapers were still clamoring to explain it all. And the final piece was now what he was on his way to Punk Hazard to acquire.

Also, he knew the Nefertaris had tried to call yesterday to extend some sort of invitation to the two of you. He knew Tsuru had abandoned her post in Lyra and that her warship was now at full sail on its way to Dressrosa.

Everyone was reacting to him.

But no one was stopping him.

He stayed rather low on his flight path this time. Not too high over the ocean, where the air was still warm as it rushed past you both.

He was doing his best to slow down and smooth out the transitions from one set of strings to the next. Keeping the ride far less bumpy as he released one group of strings just to be pulled further on by the subsequent ones which ran all the way up to the clouds.

There was so much precision and timing in every single movement that he doubted you would know to appreciate it as he watched you put your head down against his chest.

Not out of affection he assumed, but just from you trying to turn your face out of the wind again.

Even with the borrowed pair of Baby 5’s goggles that he’d made you protect your eyes with, the nonstop blast of air got tiresome he was sure.

The only thing he didn’t like was how difficult it was to hold a conversation even at these lower speeds. You’d both be yelling over the wind, and that would hamper the romantic mood he would prefer to be setting.

Doflamingo knew well the risks of bringing you with him today. But, after seeing that protective look in your eyes yesterday as you’d forced his paralyzed body up from the pool steps, and now knowing Tsuru would be here soon…he didn’t want to lose any moment he had left to really be alone with you.

Even in exchange for the much shorter time it would have taken him to go to Punk Hazard alone on his errand at full speed.

And this was now an excuse to spend more time with you in slightly more neutral territory.

It was a date.

Which he was considering as having already begun as he leaned his head back down as well. He kissed the top of yours when you’d buried it against him now.

Doflamingo could generate strings from any part of his body. He didn’t need his hands free to keep pulling against the clouds. Nor did he need to hold you up at all though. He’d already put plenty of near invisible tethers between your body and his so that you couldn’t have fallen this time even if you’d tried.

Your bodies were practically stitched together as one of his hands massaged down your back again.

He felt you squirm a bit as his fingers had teased down either side of your spine, and that made him smile.

He knew you hated this lack of control. And being told what to do and where to go by him all the time now.

Very soon you’d understand that everything had a purpose though. And that he could reward you just as easily as he could punish you.

Yet today was meant to be a reward.

———————————

You’d never known yourself to be afraid of heights. You could climb a ship’s rigging as quickly as anyone. Far up above deck with only seagulls to then keep you company as you’d helped to make repairs whenever needed.

Yet this was wholly different. And your stomach couldn’t seem to forget the last time you’d been dropped all the way from the clouds.

Doflamingo had told you to dress for duty. Back in your full marine attire, the white fabric fluttering as you now stayed coiled against his open shirt.

And he’d practically thrown a bag you’d never seen before at you earlier, telling you to carry it while he carried you.

Yet he’d been grinning all the while as he’d opened the bedroom window and hopped onto the windowsill like an overgrown spider to beckon you to him.

He hadn’t said where he was taking you. Only that there would be other marines there. Of course that only left so many options in your mind.

Yet all you’d known for sure is that what started as an invitation would have become an absolute demand if you hadn’t taken his hand as you’d eventually stepped up into that open window with him.

The last time you’d flown together, it’d been sunset and soon nighttime. So even through Baby 5’s slightly scratched goggles, you’d gotten to briefly see a much clearer aerial view of Dressrosa today.

With his hand cupping your ass just against the bottom edge of your skirt all the while anyway. You’d had to ignore his pressing fingers copping a feel even as the city and then the outer cliff face of Dressrosa had passed beneath you both to leave only open ocean again.

There wasn’t much talking after that either. Just the rush of air and the occasional sound of his strings plucking and snapping as he forced the two of you along.

But he never quit rubbing you, touching you. Maybe not even willfully at times. He would look up sometimes from the distraction of you though, like checking on the clouds that were still in the distance.

He was charting his path you thought, confirming it as still passable. Weather could change in the New World so quickly.

Even the biggest ships could get into trouble fast when things went wrong. Yet you never thought for a moment that someone like him wouldn’t have contingency plans.

Doflamingo seemed perfectly at ease.

Enough so that you’d finally tired of watching only open water. You’d put your face back against him fully to get it more out of the wind.

And then you’d felt him kiss the top of your head in response.

Those wandering fingers had teased along your spine not long after too, pressing just hard enough to make you nearly shiver.

He was clearly enjoying this.

But were you?

Well…he wasn’t hurting you. You weren’t fighting one another. And no one was yelling or specifically upset in this moment.

You could still feel the rhythm too when he moved from the tension of one batch of strings to the next. But after awhile it was more like coasting over gentle swells of waves rather than being jarred too much this way or that.

Like being in your bunk during an easy day at sea. It was comfortable.

It almost felt safe.

—————————

“Wake up, sailor. Land ahoy.” Doflamingo’s voice rumbled against your ear.

And you weren’t asleep. But you hadn’t moved for long enough that you couldn’t be insulted at his assumption as you did open your eyes.

Your head was back up, gaze focusing through those goggles for so much vibrant green to be the very first thing of note in the far distance.

And no boat traffic below at all as you tried to identify where in the hell you now were.

But Doflamingo suddenly banked left before you could think much more about it, making you grab his shirt in reflex as if that would have actually done anything to help you.

He laughed immediately when you’d startled, his altitude dropping while that lush jungle rushed closer and closer.

You still saw no identifying landmarks, yet he seemed to know exactly where he was going.

“We’ll head around the back side.” His lips were nearly to your ear again, voice just loud enough to be heard before palm fronds were soon rustling in his wake beneath the two of you.

And then you saw the first security fence pass below in a blur. And another and another, bisecting the thick jungle in seemingly random intervals.

About the same time that you heard a mechanical wail far in the distance. A type of siren you easily recognized then.

It was a marine security alarm as that mix of additional surprise and possibly even dread settled within you.

There was only one place this could then be within the range you could guess you now might be from Dressrosa.

But your transportation only chuckled darkly to that new noise. “Heh, they’ve added better snail cams then. Coming in this way used to work fine. Though I am usually faster than this…”

And he rolled, slowing further with those words. But still flying the two of you along as he reached within his feather coat. He pulled out a baby snail, waking it as he keyed in a quick number on its shell.

Doflamingo’s other arm tightened further around your waist, still holding you like a bad habit while that snail trilled for a bit.

As soon as the line did connect, the siren could also be heard louder in the background from it before a flustered voice broke through.

“Hell- oh, turn those damn things off already! I can’t hear! Hello!?” The mystery voice complained loudly.

“It’s me. I tripped the sensors.” Doflamingo spoke right over the other voice. “Tell them to calm their asses down, Caesar.”

“Ah, Jo-,” The voice sounded even more excitable then. “I mean, Doflamingo! But…you’re early!”

“Heh.” You saw that cocky little smirk you already knew too well. “Is that a problem? I won’t be coming by the lab until later though. We’re heading for the lake right now.”

“Wha…we?” The other was struggling to keep up. The sirens were still going off fully in the background.

“Me and my fiancée of course. We’re just taking a little break from the paparazzi and all our well wishers back home. So keep your nosy bodyguards inside.”

——————————

“I absolutely do not have clearance to be here. Just so you know.” Were the first words out of your mouth as your boots finally met the ground again. You were very glad to remove the goggles as well, pulling them down to hang around your neck so that you wouldn’t have to carry them.

That thick jungle initially seen from above was now what you were both standing within.

Everything looked the same though. It’d be so easy to become lost you were sure.

But Doflamingo was just grinning once more as he now shouldered the mystery bag he’d had you carrying the entire time before now.

“Welcome to Punk Hazard, love. Home of unspoiled wilds, diverse flora and fauna, and the most egregious of the World Government’s human experimentation.”

You didn’t fail to notice the almost chipper way he’d said that last part too. But he just began to walk afterward, expecting you to follow.

Doflamingo’s head was down and slightly forward to keep from scraping against all those palm fronds and vines in the dense overhang of foliage.

He really didn’t care about your clear worries of not belonging here though. But why would he? He was a warlord. In all honesty, this island was likely considered part of his own jurisdiction to protect. If something went very wrong here, Doflamingo would be the nearest government weapon to call in to handle it.

But to only a captain like you, even setting foot at a place like this was all a bit much. Initially at least. Maybe nothing was really too insane to you any longer once it had enough time to settle. Yet you still couldn’t help but ask, looking up as you had to move quicker to keep pace with his longer strides. “Is Dr. Vegapunk actually here today?”

And Doflamingo scoffed a little at your continued worry. “Why? Are you a fan of his or something? He’s still just a man. An oversized brain floating around in a bag of meat like all the rest.”

“Lovely.” You answered with a roll of your eyes to that, stepping over tree roots while Doflamingo cut more brush out of the way with a few flicks of his fingers.

“Don’t blame me for unpleasant truths. But shut up for a minute.” He chided anyway as if his voice wasn’t still the louder of the two of you. “I landed out here so we wouldn’t scare them off.”

Them?

And he was starting to crouch further as he still moved forward, like an apex predator now lurking through the jungle.

But he reached back, taking you by the hand again.

Which was still a gesture that did something to you every time his larger hand closed that warmly around your smaller one.

Doflamingo was soon pulling you along, his thumb rubbing across your skin as he did so. Like it wasn’t even a choice any longer, but a reflex or a need for him.

That simple touch distracting enough to you actually that you were watching his grip instead of straight ahead, and bumped into him when he abruptly stopped again.

“Look. There’s a damn hoard of them out here today.” His voice was quieter then as he ignored your having just run into him. He pulled you around in front, to peer through the sudden end to all the trees.

There was a very large clearing just ahead. Flat in comparison to all else, with a body of brilliant blue water framed against even more jungle rising steep behind it.

This had to be the lake he’d spoken of to the person on the phone.

And the “them” were apparently the peppering of tall pink all throughout those tranquil shallows as your eyes widened.

A small sound of disbelief left your throat. Even if you knew better than to give in this quickly. You were still in uniform. You were still at one of the most infamous facilities in all the world. This was not shore leave or the time to goof around.

But you had never seen even a single one in person. Your home island had had no zoos. And even books could only be read if stolen by you.

If you hadn’t seen something yet in your time sailing with Tsuru, then you hadn’t seen it at all.

And oh, how Doflamingo must have realized that from the depth of your reaction as his smile grew from ear to ear. “I told you I didn’t keep any at the palace. But I never said I didn’t know where to find them.”

He crouched down further too, squatting almost to be more at your eye level. “You know, we never got all three of our days in Scylla like we’d planned to either. We got shorted on visiting their aviary and gardens together. So consider this my substitution until we can go back there, darling…let’s relax a while and enjoy it.”

And at that, he moved back past you gently, still keeping his full height lowered as he lead you out by the hand.

The two of you soon crossed a stretch of soft grass together to reach the banks of the lake.

Many slender necks rose up to watch your approach, but the birds did not take flight.

“I’ve only ever flown over this valley, not stopped at it. No humans come out this far from the labs. These birds may not even know what the hell we are.” Doflamingo reasoned quietly, still smiling as he looked out over that water and all the examples of his very namesake within it.

He and you both were keeping your movements slow and deliberate without even needing to discuss it.

You didn’t want them to leave.

But when you were on the bit sandier, yet fully flat bank of the lake, he finally let go of your hand before he slid that mystery bag he’d taken from you earlier off of his shoulder.

You were glancing back and forth, as curious as the birds then while he unzipped it.

“Monet packed this for us. Let’s see how well she did.” He offered, though sounding already pleased and expecting just what he wanted all the while.

The first recognizable thing was a blanket. Very tightly rolled to have fit within the bag. But also impressively large when he stretched it out on the bank.

The fabric was long enough even for him as he then sat on it while continuing to dig through the bag.

“Well come here, love.” He didn’t take long to invite you over either, noticing you still standing there on your own for a moment.

This newest intimate scene was so surreal for you all over again of course. But you did listen. You sat down beside him on that soft blanket while more things kept emerging.

A wine bottle, two cups, and what appeared to be hand wrapped packages of food came out from the bag next.

He opened and laid each thing neatly out too, as purposefully as if setting a table before the two of you on the blanket. There was even silverware that you recognized with his signet on it from the palace.

“How long did you plan this?” You asked with increasing disbelief.

“Hmm?” But you could tell he was trying not to laugh. He was being playful now. “Why would I have to plan time with my own wife?”

And the word remained far too new for you. Even with that engagement ring still on your finger. No one else really knew you’d already signed those papers. That legally you were already wed.

Just legally you thought.

You stared at him long enough though that he smirked again before more legitimately answering. “I had an errand to run here tonight anyway. But I didn’t decide to fly in earlier and make an afternoon of it until this morning. I’ve got a theory that you’re entirely different when I get you alone in neutral territory. Am I on to something with that?”

He was so effortless when he wished to be.

You barely even felt his arm snake around behind you until he’d abruptly pulled you closer. Hip to hip then on the blanket before he bent down to steal a quick kiss.

His face was practically nuzzling yours while he smiled again after. “I have to take care of you too though, don’t I?” He said. “You still barely eat whenever my crew is around. Don’t think I haven’t noticed.” And he pinched the flesh of your hip a little. “I’ve already mapped out every curve of yours, darling. I see when you’ve been skipping meals. But I want my woman to have the energy to fuck and fight whenever she likes…”

Even just that much attention brought some new heat to your face too. It was objectification in a way, yet very personal all the same. And he kissed you again, like he couldn’t help it at all as his hand then wandered over your thigh to squeeze that too.

He was massaging the fabric of your leggings beneath your skirt soon enough. As if he’d prefer it not to be there at all while his tongue moved into your mouth.

That embarrassing warmth just kept rising in you too with every further movement of that long muscle against yours. Until finally he broke the deeper kiss like coming up for air. “Damn, that’s not even fair. Trying to distract me again…” He accused. But he was chuckling.

He was enjoying everything actually, kissing you even once more before turning his gaze back to the food from behind those glasses.

“You’ll have to give me your opinion on this. I told the head chef everything I could remember of that ravioli we had in Scylla.” He said to you, then unwrapping the first package of food as he still sat side by side with you on the blanket.

And you stared. Because it did look just like it. The same size and shape entirely while Doflamingo handed you a fork.

Yet he just started opening the wine bottle next while he bid you to have the first taste of that lobster filled delicacy.

“Shit, it’s really good.” You confirmed immediately, after stabbing one and putting it in your mouth to chew. The cream sauce alone was probably something a person could drink if allowed. It was that flavorful.

“But the same kind of good?” He questioned, as if this was suddenly the most important thing in both of your lives.

And it was something else unspoken. You had just stabbed another of those ravioli onto your fork after swallowing your first one. He still had the wine bottle in one hand but was looking only at you.

You didn’t think to do it. You just did it, as you offered that ravioli up to him on your fork. And he took it as if it were second nature, bending down enough for you to feed it to him.

The Heavenly Demon let you move it into his mouth as he gladly accepted it, pulling the cream sauce with it to clean off your fork with his lips.

“Well?” You asked him as his cheeks moved while he chewed. That nagging warmth in your chest still spreading even more while you watched him.

“Fuck, I’m going to have to give him a raise.” Doflamingo answered before even swallowing.

He was right too. About that and more.

Because you were different with him when outside of your normal territories. You both were as he poured the wine next. He had completely relaxed.

And every single piece of that ravioli ended up eaten between the two of you. As well as the dessert he’d also brought.

It was those flowers made of pastry layers overlapping like the petals of a rose. The ones he’d had to tell you the name of again of course. Flores de hojaldre.

He’d remembered that you’d never gotten to actually try one the last time they’d been presented to you, though you had admired them.

During that very first dinner together in his palace. The one that had dissolved into a screaming argument and drugged sex instead that you hadn’t had much say in.

You still knew better than to see this gesture as a real apology though, even as he smirked at you while you’d tried one and messily ended up with a bit of powdered sugar on your face before he’d wiped it off for you.

He ate them far more cleanly than you too as he’d explained how they were made and how he preferred his with powdered sugar and honey, but no fruit. Though he’d said even in Dressrosa recipes varied wildly, with some savory varieties existing as well with fish wrapped into the pastry layers instead.

It’d just been so low stakes by then. Sitting here, drinking wine and talking about pastries of all things while watching the still wary flamingos walking around in the water before he’d finally laid back on the blanket when done eating.

“You really never experienced much as kid, did you. Besides just surviving in that brothel?” He asked you.

A question not entirely unexpected as you looked down at him and his sunglasses now reflecting that sunny sky above.

“We didn’t have pastry chefs, no.” You answered easily. “Or exotic birds.”

He smiled a little again, but it was not a mocking one for once. “I didn’t always have those things either.” He eventually offered back. “I was without them for more years than I had them.”

And you raised an eyebrow. You weren’t sure if he was inviting you to pry further or not. Maybe you were too honest for your own good though.

You weren’t even supposed to be having alcohol while in uniform either. But you finished your cup, finally just damn asking him. “Is your past some kind of big secret or something?”

Yet you then found yourself laying right beside him no sooner than those words had left your mouth.

He hadn’t used strings. Just his arm around your middle again after pulling you down, and his other now back behind his head.

You were both laying there together on the blanket then, looking up at the passing clouds that abruptly.

He rubbed your side before he spoke again. “I had it all. Then I lost it, and I had to fight for it all over again.”

“You were born wealthy?” He didn’t seem defensive. So you just kept going. Tentatively, but still trying to understand more if he’d let you.

“Very.” Was his next simple answer.

And you believed him. You thought of the pet swans he’d once mentioned, and the ways he’d carried himself amongst the other nobles in Scylla. The graceful waltzes and the condescending words to others.

But also his story of being a young boy fleeing violence with his father and brother. Starving in the war torn area where he’d first met Tsuru.

“Did your home country have a revolution?” You asked even more quietly, feeling warm again against him.

The government didn’t always rush in in every case you knew. Sometimes they wanted islands to fall depending what ulterior motives might really be at stake.

They’d left Charybdis crumbling for ages now.

“No.” Doflamingo clarified though. Yet his hand tightened on your hip again. He turned his head so he could look at your face.

You saw yourself in those red glasses again.

“I have more enemies than you realize.” He said instead then, just staying like this beside you. “They’ll be your enemies too if anything takes a turn.”

Your eyebrows furrowed a little. It felt like you’d already experienced that with Crocodile in just the first few days in Dressrosa. But you still asked anyway. “Who?”

Doflamingo turned his face even more then, so that it touched yours. His skin was still quite soft from whatever lather he’d used this morning. His scent was heady and pleasant.

“All the way at the very top, my love.” He teased then, his voice quieting further like these words were truly only for you. “The gods have an axe to grind when it comes to me. And that feeling is entirely mutual.”

“Just because you robbed the Dragons’ tribute ships?” You responded just as quietly, as his lips started to brush your temple.

The sheer balls of that heist only a few years ago had been the final straw that put Doflamingo’s name in everyone’s mouths across all the seas.

You remembered Tsuru being beside herself, furious as she’d cursed in her office when Sengoku had called your crew with the news first. Even before it ever made the newspapers.

The sheer audacity of the Donquixote family to pillage a world government transport ship filled to the brim with beri meant as heavenly tribute had been a terrible embarrassment to the marines at the time.

But that was also the very same stunt that had had Doflamingo bullying his way into the seven warlords’ roster not long after.

And then he’d become a king.

And then he’d taken you.

You were hardly as valuable as the riches owed to the gods, or the ownership of an entire country though.

Yet he seemed so content here and now. At least enough to roll over onto his side, facing you with his whole body then.

He pulled his feather coat around you both, bringing you against his chest. “Oh, they hate me for far more than just taking my cut retroactively.”

It was an odd choice of words, and your face likely said as much.

“Not yet.” Doflamingo smiled to your expression of additional question however, choosing not to explain that particular answer any further. “I only just got you back into a good mood after all.”

“Is that what this is supposed to be? My attitude adjustment?” You countered, accepting that that would be all for now then. But you were also watching that smart mouth hovering near yours again. He was still holding you against his chest, enveloped in pink together.

“Mmhmm.” He purred warmly. “You love this. It’s why you’ve been too busy staring at me instead of noticing what visitors have been creeping up on us all the while. No sudden movements, darling.”

But you raised your head anyway. Not understanding what he meant until you surprised both yourself and the birds.

It must have seemed like your disembodied head abruptly rising from the pink feathers that would otherwise be so familiar to them.

Because there was an immediate flutter of wings, with the curious birds that had gotten this incredibly close then startling as they ran into one another after your surprise movement.

They were all legs, necks, and wings then. But they still didn’t fully leave. They stumbled and bounced off of one another in their confusion. It was the most awkward thing you’d ever seen out of an animal so beautiful.

But that wasn’t the thing that tilted your brain into genuine humor.

It was the sound they made as they did this. They’d been fairly quiet in the distance all the time before, warily watching you both while they’d only walked and fed in the shimmering lake waters.

But in this upset of being frightened enough to fall and stumble, their small exploratory group now broke out into a cacophony of indignant honking.

It was so loud and ridiculous. A sound that didn’t match their exotic, elegant bodies at all. It was as embarrassing as a common goose now having a fit before you.

And you burst out laughing with that unexpected contrast. Which only made them honk more, and you laugh further, feeding one another’s reactions.

You finally had to bury your face against Doflamingo’s shirt to quiet yourself with your shoulders still shaking a little.

His arm tightened around you again as soon as you did, and you could hear that huge smile without looking up.

“Hell, maybe I do need to bring a few home with us then. That’s now only one of two things I’ve ever heard pull a real laugh out of you.”

Yes, you never did this. Not around him at least as you had to regather yourself.

The birds still hung around though after they eventually settled back down. The ice broken so to speak now that they had seen you both up close and neither of you had actually harmed them.

You turned your head to watch them again even as your cheek stayed against the warlord. “I can’t help it…they honk. No book ever said anything about that.” You told him.

And now he chuckled, that lighter kind even though it still rumbled up from his chest. “You’re such a cute little mutt sometimes.”

That term that should have been insulting, wasn’t either right now. Not when you could hear the real pleasure in his own voice still.

The happiness.

Doflamingo was happy.

Yet he was already ready for your full attention again too. His hand came up, catching your jaw to make you lift your head back towards his own.

Enough so that he could kiss you once more. Again and again actually, but slow and soft while the birds remained around you.

And with you both still nestled in all Doflamingo’s pink feathers yourselves, you may as well have been another pair of them here on the lake’s edge. Oblivious to the rest of the world in this brief escape with your partner.

——————————

“You’re a voyeur! I never want to hear your holier than thou admonishments again!” Caesar scolded the other scientist gladly. Not seeming to take into account how fully his own golden eyes had never once looked away from this security monitor now either.

“It’s unexpected isn’t it?” Dr. Vegapunk only answered with a question, not insulted at all as he had stopped holding any weight to Caesar’s habitual outbursts years before now. Of course he was interested in what he was now seeing. But not for the reasons Caesar accused of.

Donquixote Doflamingo had arrived dramatically to the island earlier as he typically did. But after a brief call to announce himself, he’d just stayed to the virgin wilds this time. On the other side of the mountains from the laboratories.

The warlord had never lazed or lingered like this before today. Everything was always business, in and out as fast as possible. And he was always alone.

Yet not right now as Vegapunk and Caesar still watched a distant view of you and the so called Heavenly Demon in one another’s arms, being a bit intimate again while laying on a large blanket.

Even the flamingos had surprisingly accepted this new oddity, just walking around unbothered again and preening or resting near you both on the banks of the lake.

“Is this very strange to you as well Caesar? You know him better, don’t you?” Vegapunk asked that additional question with his brows still furrowed in wrinkles all the way up his tall forehead. “I had assumed she would only be a pawn in his control unwillingly. Yet he doesn’t appear to be using the parasite ability of the String-String fruit.”

And Caesar made a noise, pale face flushing slightly as he saw the pink of Joker’s tongue edge against your face. “Well, maybe she isn’t wholly stupid!” Caesar had always assumed the majority of marines were. Because who would willingly sign up to be fodder for any and all enemies of the government? “She wants to be rich, obviously! The treasury in Dressrosa is worth submitting for!” Caesar projected his own desires with that idea of course.

But Vegapunk still looked doubtful. He was watching far more than the obviously budding hormones and physical aspect of these interactions.

He’d seen the two of you talking and laughing too, though even his advanced snail cams couldn’t pickup the actual words from this far away.

But he could see the gestures and the body language the same as any biologist might while observing courting animal species. While you fed one another, and nested together. It was all a process.

And in the thoroughness of his ever analytical mind, Vegapunk was determining this as an anomaly. An already mated pair on far more equal footing and with a higher level of consent than the two of you had any natural right to have.

Because he now knew what Doflamingo really was. It was all over those incestuous lineage factors he’d stayed up all night sifting more thoroughly through.

The Donquixote name itself, and even the epithet of Heavenly Demon were obvious clues to begin with. But names could be falsified, public personas created at random.

The real proof was in the fact that there was only one land in all the world with exactly those same poor genetics, brought on from centuries of no immigration and no mixing of bloodlines outside of an original nineteen families.

Vegapunk had never seen a Celestial Dragon who could accept the company of a human in this way.

This was something new.

“Caesar, go ahead and call that man to tell him his medicines are ready early. But I want to have a private word with him before they leave.”

———————————

T⨂ BE

CONTINUED

———————————

Thanks for reading!

Author’s Note: Yes, Punk Hazard (pre Caesar blowing it up anyway) does have a flamingo lake! 🥰 It was one of my greatest joys to find out. Even though it’s probably just an anime filler scene. It’s shown in Brownbeard’s flashback. Episode 589, timestamp 13:36.

Also, those flower pastries…I am obsessed with the google images of them. I want one. 😩

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maybeyoullfindthissomeday · 3 months ago

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Squares

36 years it shall be at midnight, and if you do the simple math, it'll be the sixth of my rollercoaster life. and I reminisce when you were 25, the fifth of your years, when our paths crossed, when you inadvertently helped to calm all of my fears, offering me a protein bar during a hurricane of self-doubt and dread; your compassion unraveled the webs in my heavy head. A decade ago I would’ve bet every single dime that there’s no way I reach 49, yet in this moment I long to arrive. So bear with me as I try to jinx fate, but the next 13, if they’re spent by your side, I can boldly await, dancing them away as seasons slowly unwind, while we learn how to love once more as our years intertwine. Would you pardon me as I reveal my hand of hearts and shoot the moon to intrepidly wish the next chapters won’t tear us apart?

#poetry #spilled ink #gold #36 #only you carls #i don't think we would be best friends right now if you never handed me that bar during interviews... can you imagine?#and yeah i clichedly rhymed heart with apart #happy bithday to me

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flowerandblood · 11 months ago

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The Fall from the Heavens (13)

[ canon • Aemond x Strong • niece female ]

[ warnings: angst, arranged engagement, violence, swearing, trauma, regret, depression, mention of a suicide attempt ]

[ description: A cool distance turns into friendship and more when two children see that they can find refuge and understanding in each other. However, naïve dreams collide with the reality in which every event has consequences and what once could have been love becomes a dark, newly painful obsession. Angst, sexual tension, obsession, violence, madness, very dark Aemond. ]

The story in this series is an alternate reality from the oneshot Stay and love, leave and die, in which Aemond reads the letters his niece has sent to him over the years. They are the same characters and it shows what would have happened between them − I have changed the background story from their childhood slightly for the sake of the plot.

Characters & Series Moodboard Lady Strong Moodboard Aemond & Lady Strong Moodboard Aemond & Lady Strong Childhood

* English is not my first language. Please, do not repost. Enjoy! *

Next chapters: Masterlist

_____

Daemon understood better than anyone what it meant to be the second son, the one who would inherit nothing. It seemed to him that, in contrast to Viserys, he was a blazing fire like a true dragon, giving warmth, light and shelter to those close to his heart, burning those whom he saw as his enemies.

Viserys was always blind, soft-spoken, lacking strong character and clear opposition when things got too far out of hand.

This trait of his had been carefully exploited by Otto Hightower over the years, putting himself in the role of his friend and adviser, playing his part with an extraordinary devotion from which he felt like throwing up.

He knew it was pure courtesy, perfectly calculated, taking advantage of the mourning of the entire Red Keep and his inattention after Aemma's tragic death he slipped his brother his daughter under his nose.

Looking at her on their wedding day, standing in a long, ornate gown he thought she looked like a child on whom someone had put layers of cloth and precious stones; overwhelmed by it all she looked down at her feet, around her nails the red wounds he had seen on her hands ever since.

On that one day, knowing what was awaiting her, he truly felt compassion for her.

After that, however, he stopped.

She could have built her independence, committed herself to the needs of the kingdom, she, however, in the company of that cunt, Criston Cole, gave herself over to prayer and mortification, obediently following her father's orders.

As a woman, she was in his eyes pitiful, weepy, whiny, merely pretending to be saintly and virtuous, having in fact nothing to do with these qualities.

His feelings about her and her father moved involuntarily to her children.

He recognised the dragon's blood in them and treated them differently from the Hightowers, yet he was unable or unwilling to bond with them, seeing how they were suckled to their mother's breasts, which did not allow them to think or breathe on their own.

He watched from the sidelines, observing from afar as Rhaenyra and Alicent's children trained together, how a divide formed between them. He knew that once they grew up and understood what was really at stake, they would throw themselves at each other's throats.

He knew perfectly well whose right to the throne he would support.

Aegon was a drunkard and a cunt, Helaena was quiet and withdrawn, Aemond was sullen and vindictive − he thought with amusement that each of them had inherited the worst from his brother and their mother.

However, he couldn't help but show at least a little compassion and understanding for his brother's second son, who had been punished by the gods, left without a dragon of his own.

Some part of him wanted to speak to him, to get to know him, to see through him as a kind of reflection of himself, but on those rare occasions when he was with Leana and his daughters in the Red Keep he never made such a gesture, which he later, though he did not want to admit it to himself, regretted.

Perhaps things would have turned out differently then.

He could see with what admiration he looked at him, how much he longed to hear at least one word of appreciation from him, any gesture of interest.

He knew that if he could decide who his father-figure would be he would choose not Viserys or Cole but him, and he pretended not to notice that.

Once though, he noticed something that surprised him; strolling through the cloisters of the Red Keep he spotted his nephew and Rhaenyra's only daughter standing side by side in the square, leaning over the table filled with the various weapons. He smirked under his breath as he walked closer, wanting to listen to their conversation.

They were betrothed.

A clumsy attempt by his brother to avoid what he felt in his bones had to happen.

He saw his niece point her finger at one of the weapons lying on the wooden tabletop, a steel black spiked ball hooked on a chain to a special handle.

"What is it? It looks scary." She said with amusement, her voice light and pleasant; he thought with surprise that his nephew's grim and stormy nature did not deter her.

Alicent's son grunted loudly, lifting his chin slightly in a gesture of superiority and intelligence that he hated so much about the Hightowers, clearly proud to be able to speak on a subject in which his knowledge was extensive.

"It's a flail. A very heavy weapon requiring great strength and agility in its use. It literally crushes the opponent." He said, forcing himself into a low, mature, masculine voice, standing with his hands clasped behind his back, his hair in a slight disarray from the few duels he had already had.

"That weapon looks like the kind you die from in agony." Mumbled his niece, tentatively touching her fingertip to one of the spikes – her uncle pushed her away immediately, surprised by her gesture, grabbing her hand by the wrist.

"Are you insane? What are you doing? It's sharp after all, you could have hurt yourself." He said angrily, but she only blinked, surprised by his outburst, and smiled indulgently, showing him her finger.

"I know, silly. I wouldn't want something like that to hit me in the face." She sneered, raising her eyebrows in amusement, joy in her gaze and embarrassment at the fact that he still hadn't let her go.

She took a step closer to him, but he stepped back quickly and lowered his gaze, he noticed in disbelief that his pale cheeks had turned scarlet.

"Not here. Later." He muttered letting go of her wrist immediately. He heard her quiet sigh of disappointment as she nodded and walked away without another word.

He watched as, a moment later, his nephew cursed under his breath, pulling off his leather gloves and moved after her, grabbing her at one of the side entrances by her arm. She turned to him with a smile as if she was sure he would follow her, her lips placing a quick, brief kiss on his cheek.

He let her go, embarrassed and blushing, looking sideways, muttered something, and she nodded and disappeared behind the walls. His nephew returned to the square as if nothing had happened, a lazy, barely visible smile on his face; Aegon looked at him from afar with a look full of pity, as soon as his younger brother came closer he said loud and clear:

"What a twat you are."

He snarled under his breath as he heard Criston Cole immediately respond to his remark by saying that it was inappropriate for a prince to use such vocabulary, his younger brother only gave him a grim look indicating that he himself was torn internally, ashamed of his weakness.

He thought then, moving ahead, amused, that his brother had inadvertently contributed to something that was certainly not his original plan.

These kids really wanted it.

He felt shame because, looking at them, he wondered how he really felt about his wife. He recognised that she was his companion and lover, whom he respected and cherished, but she was not his friend, he could not allow her into the depths of his heart.

Only when he saw Rheanyra did he feel something more; he had the feeling that the air around them quivered when they spoke, he sensed that she understood perfectly the source and reason of his impulsive nature.

Despite this, he found his life peaceful and prosperous, and the death of his wife in childbirth was something shocking and painful to him. He covered his grief with laughter, the thought that he had wasted years of her life, a wonderful, beautiful woman who deserved someone to love her with all her being, giving her something more than a substitute of affection.

Then, however, his nephew lost an eye and everything fell apart like a house of cards, showing how weak their family actually was.

The events that followed wove together in his mind, the closeness of Rhaenyra and their later nuptials brought him a sense of relief, as if two parts that belonged together had been joined.

He watched her daughter from afar, the sadness and grief painted on her after all still so young and innocent face made her seem to him pale and lifeless, at once beautiful, cool and inaccessible, walking around Dragonstone like a ghost, not speaking to anyone despite how much his daughters tried to get close to her.

She was warm, helpful and welcoming when anyone approached her, but did not raise any discussions herself, eating and drinking little at suppers, immersed in her thoughts.

He knew that she was with them only in body.

He decided not to make the same mistake as with his nephew and offer her his interest, his support in the ironic and mischievous form peculiar to him, the only way in which he could show his affection to anyone.

What surprised him was how much she clung to him, how often she cried during their walks together; despite her innate vulnerability she had a strength of character that he appreciated – she was inclined to rash actions or anger, but she was also not docile or naive, she tried to find order in the chaos that surrounded her.

Only he and his niece had been invited to Aegon's nuptials to Helaena; Alicent had expressed in her letter her concern that the meeting of their children might affect them badly and reawaken old wounds, which his wife took as a reasonable argument, and indeed, albeit reluctantly, it was only the two of them who travelled to the Red Keep.

The whole ceremony in the Great Sept dragged on endlessly for him; he looked around, bored, unwilling to stare at the horrified, sad faces of his nephew and niece, testament to the fact that neither of them wanted this marriage.

The wedding supper held in the fortress was lavish with dancing and music, lords from all over the kingdom descended and gathered in the throne room at large, long oak tables filled to the brim with food. Sitting down in his seat next to his wife, he glanced sideways and noticed a figure looking at him intensely, the One-Eyed Prince staring at him coolly, his lips pressed into a thin line.

He raised his eyebrows in disbelief and admiration, finding that he looked like a man, well-built and muscular, tall, his hair much longer, a black eye patch covering the left side of his face.

He grinned with amusement and mockery, wondering to what he owed his attention, and his nephew only hummed under his breath, looking away, apparently discouraged by his reaction.

He wondered, looking at him, taking a sip of wine from his goblet, if he had shown him fatherly concern then, taken him under his wing, separated him from Alicent and Otto, he would be a different man now.

Several toasts were made to the bride and groom, during each of which Aegon drank his cup to the bottom, clearly intent on fulfilling his marital duty completely drunk.

"Stop it. You've had enough." Growled his younger brother, taking his goblet from him with an aggressive flick of his hand, setting it impatiently far from his older brother's reach.

Aegon slapped him angrily on the shoulder, mumbling something under his breath; his younger brother stood up, towering over him, showing him wordlessly that if he touched him again he would regret it.

"Aemond." Said their mother, this green whore, who was looking at them in pain, her hands folded in front of her as if to pray.

His nephew rolled his eyes and left the hall by a side entrance, furious, unwilling and unable to look at it apparently; Aegon with a wide grin reached for his cup again and to his despair took the empty seat next to him that had been occupied earlier by his wife, now conversing with the King.

"Uncle! So many years." He mumbled, tapping him on the back in a friendly, masculine greeting. He rolled his eyes, amused, smelling the stench of alcohol and sweat from him.

"As you can see, everything stays in the family. I don't know how I'm going to survive this. After all, she'll surely cry. Fuck." He muttered, taking a deep, catchy sip from his cup, tilting it so that he drank it all at once.

He ran his tongue over his lower lip, feeling discomfort at the thought that he felt compassion for Helaena for what was about to happen to her.

He glanced at her sad, petite figure; she sat gazing off into the distance somewhere, dreamy.

He wondered as he watched her if she realised what awaited her.

"She doesn't seem to fully understand what I will have to do to her. After all, she's my sister. I don't want to hurt her. She's odd and I don't understand her, but I don't want her to fucking cry." He mumbled out covering his face with his hand, his voice breaking with his every word – he drew in air loudly as if he was out of breath, and he looked at him not knowing what to do.

What was he supposed to answer him?

"Be gentle and kind. Make her feel as little pain as possible. You know very well that how it will look lies in your hands. If you want her to suffer as little as possible, stop drinking because it will take you a fucking hour." He growled, taking the cup from his hand just as his younger brother had earlier, and wondered if that was what he meant then, if he knew his condition would only worsen whatever was to await them next.

"You pity yourself and you smell of alcohol and sweat. Go take a bath or do you want to lay on her like that? Give her some dignity for goodness sake." He said coolly, looking ahead indifferently; his nephew swallowed loudly, sitting beside him like a little rebuked child, playing with his fingers.

He wondered, looking at him out of the corner of his eye if his brother had ever spoken to him about it, if he had prepared him and explained to him how he should behave.

"All my life I've envied him. My brother. He had someone of his own who cared about him. I think he really loved her, uncle. Now I barely recognise anyone myself. I'm not sure any of us are the same person anymore. Only Helaena has remained the same − innocent and ignorant. That's because she doesn't step outside her mind. If she did, she would have gone mad like we did."

It turned out that he was partly right.

What he didn't expect was that when they arrived all together as a family after several years in King's Landing to defend Luke's rights to inherit the Driftmark these two would be lying in bed with each other on their very first night.

"If you tell me you still want to marry him, I will help you. I'd rather you be his wife than lead you and him into a scandal that could destroy your mother. Your betrothal has never been called off, the king will easily prove that no other plans for you can be in force against his decision. But if you decide not to, I will personally see to it that you never see him again and that no letter of yours leaves Dragonstone. Make a manly, mature decision with all its consequences, and stop wallowing over yourself."

He told her then, wanting her to understand that they could not stand in the middle, that they had to choose, or their decisions would drag them all down.

Watching them in the throne room audience, however, the greedy, desperate gaze of his nephew fixed on her as if he wanted to devour her gave him no illusions.

What this boy was telling himself was one thing, but what he was feeling was another.

It was this thought that made him decide to question Alicent's decision in front of everyone, wanting to hear his brother's opinion on the matter, the only one that really counted. He had expected nothing but objections from both sides, however, against the desperate attempts of their mothers, his nephew and his niece's daughter made a decision that did not surprise him at all.

It was enough for her to get up from her seat and walk out to make him press his lips together in rage and follow her out, exactly as he had done then, in the courtyard, when he had thrown himself after her, and she knew perfectly well that he would do so, knowing his nature.

He wondered if she had kissed him this time too, if the tension between them had eased.

He thought that this marriage might actually calm the emotions a little, especially as his brother was over his deathbed.

This union was forcing both parties to be cautious, which could be mutually beneficial.

"She has decided that she wants to stay in the Red Keep until I return." His wife said to him, putting her black leather gloves on her hands, walking beside him towards the dragon's lair. He stopped, looking at her in disbelief, furious.

This was not the plan.

"What?" He growled, looking at her as if she had completely lost her mind. "You're leaving my daughter in the care of that whore and her father-traitor?"

He saw that she smiled at his words emphasising that in his eyes she was his child, that he had taken responsibility for her and protected her as any true father should.

"She asked me to do this. I imagine they both want to clarify a lot of things with each other. Since the nuptials are to take place as soon as possible there is no need to fret, I will personally take her back in a few days." She replied calmly, and he let out a loud breath, impatiently licking his lips.

It was a bad idea, he could feel it in his bones, but he didn't protest and that was his mistake.

The next day he lost two of his daughters.

Rhaenyra, his brother's heir to the throne fell with a groan when envoys reported to her that her father was dead, that her brother had been crowned king, that they had imprisoned their daughter.

She cried out loudly in pain, clutching at her womb; at first he thought it was despair, but then he saw the pool of blood beneath her feet, her terrified gaze, her lips parted in agony.

They both knew it was too soon.

Their daughter already looked like a tiny infant, but sadly her fate was sealed; she wasn't moving or breathing, she was cold, looking more like a doll than a human being.

He felt that he had to leave the fortress; he followed exactly where he always went out with her, with one of his daughters, to the sea itself, and he fell to his knees, breathing heavily, not knowing what he was supposed to do with the rage and chaos that overtook his mind.

He wanted to mount Caraxes and burn them all.

However, his cousin and daughters had cooled his ardour, recognising that they needed to prepare, gather an army, make a plan of action.

He recognised that it was only female sentiment, a weakness that kept them from making the risky decision that his whole life consisted of.

When his wife finally recovered from her brief mourning, despite his entreaties, she did not listen to him and decided to send her sons as her representatives, wanting to extract the pledge of allegiance from those who had paid her tribute many years ago.

He had thought it nonsensical, however, when Luke returned from Storm's End it turned out that his step son had been a naive idiot.

"You flew after him? You flew after him knowing he could imprison you, use you as your mother's weakness? Fucking fool." He growled, turning away from the table with fury, massaging his face with his palm, not believing he could have done such a thing.

"Daemon." Said Rhaenyra in a voice trembling with despair; she looked at her son, trying to calm herself. "What happened next?"

"He brought her. Someone hit her, mother, and I think she tried to take her own life. There were cut marks on her wrists." He muttered, forcing himself into a calm tone of voice.

He turned towards him, looking at him with his heart beating fast.

She had done this for them, so they could attack the Red Keep without fear.

She wanted to make a manly decision, to sacrifice herself, his brave daughter, his little dragon.

"Gods." Said his wife, clutching at her womb, apparently involuntarily recalling the moments when she had carried her under her heart, the maternal tears of pain in her eyes.

"And then?" He finished for her, seeing that she didn't have the strength to get anything else out, Luke swallowed hard, afraid to look at him.

"I told her to run away with me, but she didn't agree. She told me to tell you that she loves you and that she remains faithful to you, mother." Said with difficulty, Jace slammed his fist on the table, furious.

"That fucking bastard purposely made her stay. He planned this, he never had any intention of marrying her!" He said red with anger and he glanced at him indifferently, sighing heavily.

"And then what? He let you just walk away? No one else saw you?" He asked further, pretending not to have heard his outburst; Jace pressed his lips together, furious. Luke shook his head quickly.

"N-no, I was surprised, but no. Forgive me, I had to see her, make sure that she is still alive." He muttered, and he sighed heavily, placing both of his hands on the table, leaning over it, and closed his eyes, trying to focus.

He let her see him without any other witnesses and then let him go even though he hated him, even though he could have trapped and humiliated him.

Why?

A memory flashed through his mind, the way his nephew cursed as he fought with himself to finally run after her, her smile full of reassurance as she turned to him knowing he would follow her, his blush of embarrassment and lazy smile as her lips placed a soft, warm kiss on his cheek, her proof of her devotion and affection that he craved so much.

He had never stopped loving her.

This stone-cold, dangerous man had done something for her, surely after she had tried to take her own life.

"Bring me a parchment and a quill. I need to speak with my nephew."

_____

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madaqueue · 9 months ago

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Practice Makes Perfect | Chapter 13

synopsis: you and yuji have been best friends basically as long as you can remember, and you made a promise to each other to stay friends and help each other be the best versions of yourselves for your future partners. but will things change when yuji finally starts looking for a relationship?

pairing: yuji itadori (18+) x f!reader

themes/content: modern college au (characters aged up to 18+). language, smut. kissing, hair pulling, fingering, oral (f and m receiving), sex. 18+, MDNI

word count: 2.3k

a/n: the finale!!! it's been real you guys :') hope you enjoy <3

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Yuji leans over you, pink hair tickling the top of your forehead as he brings his lips to brush against yours, his breath hot against your skin as he awaits your answer.

You swallow, trying to figure out what to say, but before your mouth can move, you feel heat building between your legs. He tilts his head to the side, grin transforming into a smirk. “What, can’t get your thoughts out, pretty? C’mon, you know how much I love when you use your words,” he teases.

He’s so close to you now, his padded fingertips tracing your skin, the feeling making you nervous for some reason as a mix of sweet butterflies and sinful desire grows inside of you. “Y-yes,” you stutter out.

“Yes what?” he whispers against your mouth.

“Fuck me,” you breathe.

You feel his lips pull wider into a full smile before they press into yours. He moves his teeth around your bottom lip and gently bites as you sigh into his mouth. His tongue moves past your lips and glides over yours. The hand that was drawing circles along your hip moves down to the waistband of your pajama shorts. Your hands move down to tug them off, tossing them across the room.

Yuji lets out a quiet laugh against your lips at the movement, loving how well you anticipate his thoughts without having to even say anything. Moving his fingers lower, he traces over your clothed cunt, feeling the wet spot in your panties that slowly formed beginning the first moment he placed his hands on your skin.

“Wow, s’wet for me already, sweets?” he teases between kisses.

“You wanna play that game?” you taunt. Without separating your lips from his, you reach a hand down his torso, over the waistband of his sweats, and down until you feel the bulge straining against his pants. His cock twitches as your fingers caress over it through the soft cloth, causing Yuji to whine into your mouth.

“That’s what I thought,” you chuckle against him.

Suddenly he shifts so he’s fully on top of you. He pulls away from your lips and you open your eyes, only to be met with his half-lidded brown ones above yours. Now between your legs, he slowly thrusts his hips up so his cock drags against your pussy. The sensation makes your eyes flutter closed and back arch, even through two layers of fabric. A soft, “F-fuck,” leaves your lips as you try to grind your hips back against him, desperate for more.

He moves so his mouth settles into that spot between your jawline and ear, the one he knows you love, as he whispers, “Not so cocky now, are we?” He tries to hide how his voice shakes, the sensation of you moving against him threatening to send him over the edge before he has even begun.

Briefly pulling your skin between his teeth, he sucks just enough to leave a pretty bruise on your neck. Letting everyone know you’re his. The thought alone makes his cock twitch and he moans, bucking his hips up against you.

The realization sets in that if he keeps moving like this, he’ll finish before he’s able to do anything for you. Pulling away from your neck he shifts his eyes to your face. Your eyes blink open to look at him, your cheeks flushed as you bring one hand up to rest in his hair. The feeling makes him melt into your touch, but he knows he can’t stay here forever. His eyes trace down your body, landing on the soaked panties still covering your sex. He bites his lower lip as his gaze moves back up to meet yours and you nod, knowing what he is asking.

His eyes light up at the shared understanding and he repositions himself with his head between your thighs. He slides your panties down your legs before returning his sights to the beauty before him. Your bare cunt, glistening with how wet you are, your perfect folds and-

“Yuji,” you whisper, pulling him out of his thoughts.

His eyes flit up to yours and he grins before diving into your pussy. He laps up your essence, moaning softly into your wet skin. “S’sweet, s’good,” he murmurs to himself, tongue tracing up and down you.

He brings one hand off the bed, slowly applying pressure to your entrance before sliding it in. You let yourself moan, knowing he likes it, as your back arches slightly off the bed. Another finger goes into you as he begins curling them toward your sweet spot. Flicking his tongue over your clit, he latches his lips around you and gently sucks at the sensitive bud.

Tension builds in your stomach as you feel yourself getting close, the rhythmic pulsing of his fingers inside you combined with the roughness of his tongue becoming too much for you to bear. Your grip on his hair tightens, eyes closing.

“Yuji, I’m gonna-” The words cut off as he suddenly brings you to your first orgasm. Your thighs try to close around him but his hands hold your shaking legs apart. You feel yourself clenching around his fingers as you ride the blissful high.

As you return to your senses, there is only one thought in your mind: you need more.

Yuji sits back at the end of the bed, grinning at you with pride. As you open your eyes, you feel the deep desire, the need, within you growing. You lean up on your forearms to steady yourself before slowly crawling forward towards him, eyes locked on his lips.

“That was pretty damn good, don’t ya think?” he says, almost laughing before his eyes suddenly meet yours. Your wide pupils, flushed cheeks, and slow breathing make him gulp. He has no idea what he’s in for.

“Off,” you state, glancing down at his sweatpants, now adorned with a slight damp spot from his precum. He takes in a breath at your sudden forcefulness before immediately ripping them off and throwing them across the room, allowing his cock to stand fully erect.

You place a hand on his chest and gently push him down against the bed before shifting your weight back so your face is aligned between his legs. The sight of his dick makes your mouth water - the slight flush of his tip, the drops of precum glistening, the veins that cover his length - it’s all so perfect. Looking up at him, you slowly open your mouth and stick out your tongue, allowing the saliva that had been building in your mouth to slowly drip down. It hits Yuji’s tip as he hisses from the sensation, closing his eyes momentarily.

Lowering your head down slightly, he once again reaches his hands up to gather your hair and hold it above your head. You smirk - you even remembered a hair tie today, but you say nothing. Tongue still out, lips parted, your mouth finally reaches his cock. You swirl around his tip for a moment before closing your eyes and taking his entire length down your throat at once. The sudden feeling of your warmth around him makes him moan, forcing his hips up off the bed involuntarily. Your eyes water at the additional pressure, but you know you can take it.

Pulling back slightly, you take another breath in before plunging your head back down. Yuji seems to control himself better this time, but you can still feel his cock beginning to twitch against your tongue as you move up and down him.

“H-hey,” he whispers softly. You hear him, but you can’t stop, addicted to the feeling of him knocking against the back of your throat. Suddenly, you feel a tension at the back of your head as Yuji pulls your hair, yanking you off his dick with a pop from the suction you had created. You whine at the mixture of no longer having him inside your mouth and at the rough sensation of him pulling you. He holds you so you can look him in the eyes and he takes in the sight of you: pupils unfocused, mouth hanging open in a loose smile, with a mix of drool and precum slipping out the corners of your lips. The sight makes him somehow impossibly harder. “I-I’m gonna cum if you keep doin’ that, sweets,” he murmurs.

You pout in response, knowing you would struggle to form words at this point. He chuckles at your reaction. “I know, I know, but remember, there’s something we’ve gotta do first,” he says, leaning back over you, a smirk forming on his lips. “I still want to fuck you.”

His hands release your hair and instead move to take your top off, lifting it over your shoulders with ease. He then places his palms against your ribcage and gently pushes you onto your back as he moves himself on top of you. One hand steadies himself on the bed while the other reaches down to his base, aligning himself with your entrance.

“You lemme know f’I’m goin’ to fast or too slow, okay?” his words starting to slur together from desire. All you can do is nod eagerly as you look up at him. You sense his need, too, through his half-lidded eyes that refuse to look away from your lips.

He presses into you slowly, stretching your walls around him as his tip enters you. He groans from the sensation. “Fuck, s’wet, s’warm,” he breathes.

Pausing for a moment to ensure that you’re okay, he glances down at you as your cunt clenches around him, demanding more.

“Please Yuji,” you whisper, “please.” The two words were the only ones echoing in your mind, the only thing you can think of is your need for him.

Continuing again, he slowly moves further into you. The feeling of him stretching you, expanding to fit him perfectly, nearly brings him to the edge. But for you, it’s not enough. You arch your back as you move your hips up, trying to fill yourself with him. Yuji falls forward at the sudden warmth along his length, catching himself with his forehead against your shoulder. With one final movement of his hips, he bottoms out. The feeling of him fully inside you, fully yours, is almost too much for the poor boy as he rests against you, shaking, trying not to finish from his first thrust.

“Yuji?” you whimper.

“Mhm?” he hums against you, still not able to lift his head from your shoulder as he attempts to steady his breathing.

“Faster, please?”

He grits his teeth at your pleas. He can do this; he has to do this, for you.

Moving his hips back he drags himself out of you, eliciting a moan as you tilt your head back into the pillows beneath you.

Suddenly, his hips lurch against you, his pelvis hitting the skin between your legs as he thrusts his full length into you. A soft scream leaves your throat as you move your legs off the bed to wrap around the back of his torso, his back warm against your calves.

Your eyes blink open for only a moment before you feel his lips crash into yours, his mouth open immediately as his tongue swipes against you. You part your lips in response as your tongues glide against each other. He pulls out and pushes in again, this time causing him to moan into you.

Finding a steady pace, he continues the circular motion of his hips as he presses his cock in and out, your legs holding him in place against you. The heat of your bodies, bare chest against bare chest, builds between you as you breathe into each others’ mouths through the kiss.

You feel so full, so full of Yuji, so full of love, so full of everything. Each thrust ignites flames inside you, burning hot in the pit of your stomach. The pressure becomes too much to handle.

You pull away from his lips for a moment. “Yuji,” you moan, “I’m close.”

“I know, sweets, me too,” he mutters against your lips.

His movements become sloppy, imprecise, driven purely by physical need. His cock pushes up deeper and deeper inside you and you feel yourself getting closer and closer to sweet release.

It hits you. You throw your head back against the pillows as your vision goes black. Your pussy fluttering around Yuji’s cock sends him over the edge with you, thick ropes of cum painting your insides white. It’s impossible to distinguish the origin of the moans filling your room as you both soar to ecstasy. Shaking, screaming, you both grip tightly to each other as wave after wave of pleasure hits you.

Finally, your breathing slows and you feel the weight of Yuji’s body pressing against yours, his head buried into the crook of your neck. His hips have stilled but his breathing is still ragged against your skin. Reaching your hand up you gently twirl his hair around your finger, the action making him shiver in your embrace. Both of you lay there for a while, panting, bodies intertwined as the silence of the room wraps around you.

Eventually Yuji lifts his head up, resting his forehead against yours, both slightly damp with sweat, as his eyes meet yours. His sweet, soft brown eyes, so full of love as he gazes down at you: his treasure, his one and only. He tilts his head down, softly placing his lips against yours.

“I love you,” he whispers.

“I love you, too,” you respond, bringing your other hand up against his cheek, rubbing your thumb against his flushed skin.

This is what it was all for. This, this moment, is perfect.

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andreafmn · 1 year ago

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Speak | Chapter 13

Word Count: 3.1K

Summary: Bella Swan was a disaster when Edward had left. Deciding she needed a little help, Charlie Swan receives with open arms his younger daughter (Y/N) Swan. She helps Bella during her depression and becomes inseparable from her long-lost friend Jacob. What she didn’t expect was falling for a hotheaded short-tempered silver wolf.

A/N: I know I didn't post anything last week, but I wasn't feeling the best or very inspired. But I am posting this long awaited chapter early 😬😬 and y'all should know, we are getting closer to the long awaited truth reveal 🫣🫣 TAGLIST CLOSED check notes below as to why

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Paul didn’t know what his plan was. Storming into the Black house and wolfing out would not have been the most ideal situation, but he needed to do something. Jacob had done an unforgivable thing, and Paul would make sure he knew he had.

But anger was running through him too fast to be contained. As much control as he had mustered with (Y/N), Paul could feel it running out. And he knew the worse thing he could do was reveal the long-kept secret of the reservation to Jacob before his time. As much as he wanted the wolf inside him to rip the other boy to shreds, he knew better now than to let that kind of anger control him.

Still, he found himself putting his car in park on the long dirt road that led to the red cabin, his body shaking as he tried to keep the wolf at bay. He knocked on the front door harder than he had anticipated. The sound reverberated deep inside his ears, echoing the quick beat of his heart. If Jacob was the one to open the door, it was more than likely that his fist would collide with the boy’s jaw.

“Mr. Lahote,” Billy smiled, opening the door wide. “What a surprise to see you here. To what do I owe this pleasure?”

“Is Jacob around?”

“He is not,” the man responded. “He is most likely with his friend Quil still. But if there is anything I could help you with, please let me know.”

“I don’t think this is something you should know,” Paul struggled. “It’s… I don’t know. I don’t think you want to hear this.”

“Try me, Paul.”

The boy kept quiet for a second, mulling over whether telling Billy was the right thing to do. It was stupid and juvenile to speak of the problems between two people that –technically—had no business with him. It was not his place to air their quarrels out. “I think you need to talk to your son, Billy,” he sighed. “I don’t know what’s going on in his head, but he can’t keep doing what he’s doing.”

“What has he done, Paul?” Billy asked sternly, his fist gripping at the sides of his chair. “Something tells me this has to do with (Y/N) Swan. And I know my boy has not been the kind of person I raised him to be. So, please, do not sugarcoat things for my sake.”

“I really wish I could say that it is not my place to speak about this, but I can’t just stand by and let him hurt her.” Paul took a steadying breath, the coldness in the air stinging his lungs as it filled them. “Jacob went by to see her today, to get her to find a way to get Embry back into his group. But we both know why he has felt the need to take a break when it comes to their friendship. Now, I don’t know how he came to the conclusion that (Y/N) would be able to do anything, but he basically told her that if Embry didn’t come back, that he would break up with her. For good. And maybe it was an accident like she says, or maybe he knew exactly what he was doing. But he either pushed her, or he let her go, and she got hurt, Billy. The skin on the palms of her hands is completely broken, and she has a massive bruise that covers her entire hip. So, I am hoping that it was an accident and he didn’t see her. Because if I find out that he drove away after she got hurt and left her there, I might just take matters into my own hands.”

Something like a mix of anger and disappointment flashed across Billy’s face. A gaze that chilled even Paul. “I can’t believe this,” Billy scoffed. “That boy has truly lost his mind. Thank you for bringing this to my attention, Paul. Believe me when I tell you that the wrath of the gods will rain down on him. But I do want to ask you one thing, and I hope you answer truthfully.”

“Uh, sure. Anything.”

“Did you imprint on the girl?”

Paul felt his throat tighten at the mention of the bond. He had managed to get the pack to stop pestering him over telling her, and in two weeks, they had yet to mention the supernatural link that tied him to (Y/N). But, for some reason, he didn’t think that he was that easy to read.

He could have lied to the man. Tell him that (Y/N) was nothing more than a friend. That he didn’t want anything more than to make sure she was safe. “I did,” he confessed. “But I haven’t told her about it.”

“I gathered as much,” he chuckled. “Would you care to indulge this old man for a quick chat?”

“I should be heading back,” Paul said, rubbing the back of his neck. “Patrol and everything.”

“Sam will excuse you for being late just this once,” the man smiled. “Please?”

“Uh, sure. I guess I can spare a few minutes. I'm already late as it is.”

He followed Billy inside, his steps tentative behind him. The elder pointed at his couch, inviting the boy to sit and listen. Something he was not good at. Listening to things he didn’t want to hear.

“First thing’s first, why haven’t you told (Y/N) about the bond? I figure it would make it a lot easier on everyone if she did.”

“I just…” Paul stammered, running his hands up and down his thighs to calm himself down. I don’t want her to be in the middle of this screwed-up world. I couldn’t live with myself if she ever got hurt because of our secrets. Much less because of me.”

“Doesn’t it hurt her more to keep her shielded from things that involve her?” Billy retorted. “(Y/N) is a special girl, and she has been stuck in the shadow of her sister for as long as I can remember. Unfortunately an afterthought to the Swans. I thought that my son would be the one to help her see her worth. That he would care for her in a way I don’t think she believes she deserves.” He took a second to sigh deeply, calming the anger that was bubbling inside him. “I will admit that I had hope that those two would work out because –between you and me—I’ve always had a soft spot for the girl. Having her be a part of my family in a more permanent way would have been great. But I can see that I was wrong about that. Now I understand that the affinity I thought she held for this land was because of you.”

“Getting closer to her will only hurt her in the end,” Paul said, his gaze dropping to the hands on his lap. “She needs someone that can be good for her. Good to her. I don’t think I am that person.”

“And yet the universe believes you are,” he offered. “I can’t say I felt the effects of the imprint bond. I didn’t even shift. But I’ve known love. And when things are meant to be, the universe finds a way to make it rightfully so. (Y/N) deserves to know there is someone out there that is on her side. Someone that will care for her unconditionally. Someone that only wants the best for her, even if it hurts them. She has a right to know about the things happening around her. Because at the end of the day, she is already in this world. Her sister ran with the Cullens and is friends with my son, who –given his behavior—might be getting closer to his shift; she is your imprint; she is still my Jacob’s girlfriend. This world is already happening to her. She just doesn’t know it yet.”

“What if that just pushes her away?” Paul worried. “It has been hard enough to build a friendship with her. I can’t lose that. I won’t lose her.”

“And what if it doesn’t? What if it brings her closer? She deserves the truth, Paul. And you know it can only come from you. I wouldn’t like to see what would happen if she was made aware by anyone else.”

“I… I’ll think about it,” he said, trying to convince himself that he would. Because everything Billy had said was true. She deserved everything and more, and maybe he could be the one to give it to her. At least a fraction. “But I do have to go now. Sam will probably have my head if I am another minute late.”

“I’ll give that boy a call,” Billy chuckled. “But I do hope you decide to tell (Y/N) the truth. It might open roads neither of you thought to walk down.”

Paul felt his head buzz with the words Billy spoke. As they joined the endless talks given to him by Jared and Sam, he knew avoiding the topic could only hurt them both in the long run. But the demons that breathed down his neck were too close for his liking. They held him in their grasp, their claws sinking into his skin every day that passed. He wasn’t sure if he could keep them at bay or even fight them out before they could make their way to (Y/N).

When he got to the Young cabin, he felt exhausted. Definitely not in the best shape to run around the woods in search of nothing. All he wanted to do was lay down and be done for the day. Or better yet, to run back to Forks and hold (Y/N) once again. For the first time since he had shifted, he wanted to avoid his responsibilities and put someone else first.

“Paul,” Sam’s voice broke through the silence of the night, surprisingly startling him. “I just received a call from Billy Black. Seems like you two had a talk.”

The alpha joined Paul on the bench he sat on, not a single drop of anger in his demeanor. “I’m sorry for being so late tonight,” he sighed. “I’ll go on watch now.”

“No need for that. Embry took your shift,” he said. “You should thank him for his beginner’s can-do attitude.”

“I will,” he sighed. “Thanks.”

“So, what happened?”

“(Y/N) got hurt, and she called me,” he shrugged. “We actually… well, we were together when you called. And then my anger took me to the Black residence.”

“I already knew all of that, Paul,” Sam reminded him. “I’m asking about all the things that happened that I don’t know about.”

“I don’t…”

“So, you’re all talked out for tonight? Or do you think you’ve heard enough?”

Paul’s gaze fell onto the night sky, staring at the twinkling stars above. “I don’t think there is anything else to say about the matter,” he sighed. “It’s just me and my messed-up head to work through.”

“Well, I know a thing or two about messed-up heads,” Sam chuckled softly. “And there’s always something more to talk about, Pauly-boy. But only if you’re ready to confront those things that you fear so much.”

“I… I don’t think I am, Sam. Not right now.”

“Well then, can I ask the same question I have been for almost two months?”

“I haven’t decided yet on telling (Y/N) the truth. I just need a bit more time to think. To make the best decision for her. At the end of the day, all I want is the best for her. Even if it doesn't include me, Sam.”

Jacob walked into the house late that night, as carefree and nonchalant as ever. He was ready to shower off the day and lay down to rest, hoping that when he woke up the next morning, everything that had gone wrong would resolve itself. But he wasn’t expecting to find his enraged father waiting for him in the living room.

“Dad?”

“Sit down, Jacob,” he said sternly, his tone sharp and pointed. “Now.”

“What’s going on, dad? Why are you so mad?”

“I think you can guess, son. But I won’t make it too hard on you. This is in regard to (Y/N). The girl you claim is your girlfriend.”

“What about her, dad?”

“Acting dumb is not a good look on you, Jacob,” Billy said through gritted teeth, his cheeks growing red in anger. “But since that is how you want to play this. I’ll let you know that it had come to my attention that you have physically hurt her.”

“Look, I don't know what you think you know, but I didn’t do anything to her, dad. All I did was talk.”

“Let’s say it was an accident, then. That she did slip on the ice, and you didn’t notice that she was hurt –which is a very unlikely scenario, boy. But you dangled your relationship in front of her like it meant nothing. You wavered it like a bargaining chip over something she had no control over. I don’t know who this is sat before me, but I can say this is not the son I raised.”

“And you’re gonna believe her over me, dad? I didn’t do anything like that,” Jacob whined. “All I did was go over to my girlfriend’s house to rant about my best friend avoiding me. Anything else is a complete fabrication. I…”

“Enough!” Billy exclaimed. The man rubbed at his temples, his anger settling into his head, creating a pounding headache. “(Y/N) didn’t tell me anything. But I know a lie when I hear it, son. And I know that you have been dragging that poor girl along in hopes that something might happen with Bella. I turned a blind eye because I hoped you would fall for her in the same way she had fallen for you. But you have done nothing but break her down. That girl loves you, boy. And you don’t deserve that.”

“How can you say that? I’m your son.”

“My son would have never treated her that way. My son would have stayed to make sure she was okay when she fell. My son would not have used that poor girl’s feelings against her,” he reprimanded. “I told you to let her go if this was what you were planning. You have hurt (Y/N) enough, and I will need you to man up and tell the truth.”

Jake was at a loss for words. He was sure he had never seen his father with so much anger running through his eyes. But he couldn’t admit the mess he had made of everything. How things had gotten out of hand and had blown up in a way that he never expected them to. He couldn’t admit that everything he had done was wrong.

“I didn’t hurt anyone, dad,” he said instead of the truth. “Why don’t you believe me?”

“I think it’s best if you head to bed now, son. I’ve heard all that I needed to hear.”

“Dad?”

“I need some time to cool down, Jacob. So, whenever you feel the urge, to tell the truth, you know where to find me,” his father said. “I’ll see you in the morning.”

Back in the Swan residence, (Y/N) was finding it hard to fall asleep. Her hip felt like it was on fire, and her hands pulsed in pain. But it was the warmth that had been rushing inside her since Paul had been there that kept her up. She decided to tire herself with the TV, but it was the images in her head that she had been paying attention to. Her fingers were on her lips, trying to imagine just what would have happened if that call hadn’t come in.

She was back in the bathroom. Paul’s hands were still warm on her skin, her heart hammering on her chest. He’s right there. Only centimeters away from her. She can almost feel his lips on hers. She could already feel the warmness of his breath. Only this time, she does kiss him, and it makes sense. Kissing him feels right.

“(Y/N)?” Her father’s voice startles her out of her dreaming. A live representation of how much time had already passed. “What’re you doing still up?”

“I couldn’t seem to find sleep,” she shrugged. “Figured the TV would fry my eyes into slumber as it seems to do for you but no such luck.”

“Very funny, kid,” he chuckled. Until his laughter died when he saw his daughter’s bandaged hands. “(Y/N), what happened?”

“I lost my balance on the driveway after Jake left and crashed onto the pavement,” she said. “I tried to catch myself with my hands, but I forgot I have Swan blood running through my veins, and clumsiness is in our genes. I scratched them up good, so I covered them up.”

“Why didn’t you call me, kid? Are you hurt anywhere else? Do we need to go to the hospital?”

“God, dad, no,” she chuckled awkwardly. “I’m okay now. It’s all taken care of.”

“Are you sure? You know the hospital is open twenty-four hours.”

“I am sure, dad. I’m okay. Just a little banged up.”

Charlie slumped onto the armchair in defeat, exhaustion taking over his body. “Sometimes I feel like I am failing you girls,” he sighed. “I’m so over my head with this whole parenting thing, and you two are the ones paying the price.”

“No, dad…”

“You don’t have to guard my feelings, (Y/N). I know I’m not father of the year. I’m sure there are so many things I’ve missed since the time you’ve been here, just like there were so many things that I missed with Bella. And I can’t help but wonder if it would have been better if you had gone back home with your mom like it was originally planned.”

“As much as I love and miss mom, I don’t regret for a second coming here, dad. In the short time I’ve been here, Forks became home. It’s not perfect, much like no place could ever be, but it is home. And I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”

(Y/N) didn’t understand her feelings. She didn’t understand wanting Paul to kiss her. The complexity of liking to people at once hadn’t even crossed her mind because she didn’t think it was possible. Not in its entirety. And for the first time, she felt an ounce of relief at the prospect of Jacob leaving her. Maybe then she wouldn’t have to confront these confusing feelings and she could follow what felt right.

But it was only an ounce.

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sevenboarproductions · 3 months ago

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[IDOLiSH7] [Part 6] Chapter 13: Towards the Promised Hour

6.13.1. - Those days passed by

Takanashi Tsumugi: And thus the day of “Black or White Live Showdown” has come.

Takanashi Tsumugi: Good morning, everyone.

Nanase Riku: Good morning, manager.

Yotsuba Tamaki: Morning!

Rokuya Nagi: Good morning! It’s finally the long-awaited morning, isn’t it?

Takanashi Tsumugi: Yes! Today, it will finally be time for “Black or White Live Showdown”.

Nikaidou Yamato: Yeah.

Izumi Mitsuki: That’s true.

Takanashi Tsumugi: Ever since I learnt about “New Black or White” until now…

Takanashi Tsumugi: There was no time when I didn’t think about this day.

Takanashi Tsumugi: I was wondering if everyone else actually felt like that, too. How is it for you?

Ousaka Sougo: That’s true… For me, it was especially about the new song. In the back of my mind, I was always thinking about it.

Izumi Mitsuki: Aah, I get that. Even while going about my life, I’d be like, “Aah, that idea just now might be nice”.

Izumi Mitsuki: I was thinking “I might be able to use that in the live” a lot.

Nanase Riku: I was imagining it before I went to sleep, too! In my head, I’ve done this year’s Black or White about seven times already!

Rokuya Nagi: Me, too! We won and everyone congratulated us!

Yotsuba Tamaki: Me, too, me, too! Sometimes, the setlist changes too.

Izumi Iori: Please don’t change it for no reason.

Nikaidou Yamato: You’re worried because the time where you can’t change it anymore has come. Like “Is this setlist fine…?”

Ousaka Sougo: I get that. I changed up the order in my head and did some trial and error…

Izumi Iori: It’s a perfect setlist. It’ll be fine.

Takanashi Tsumugi: Riku-san, Tamaki-san, please try to recall the stage the two of you imagined.

Nanase Riku: Uhm…

Yotsuba Tamaki: Like this?

Takanashi Tsumugi: Tonight, IDOLiSH7 will be on a stage that’s even more wonderful than that one.

Nanase Riku: Manager…

Takanashi Tsumugi: That special stage performance that everyone took their time to create…

Takanashi Tsumugi: I’m sure it will be a live that reaches the fans’ hearts!

Takanashi Tsumugi: To everyone who’s been attending our lives with so much love and enthusiasm…

Takanashi Tsumugi: I am so grateful!

Takanashi Tsumugi: The real event is today, but the days leading up to it were a very precious time to me, like an irreplaceable treasure.

Takanashi Tsumugi: I learned a lot from being able to create a live from scratch together with everyone.

Takanashi Tsumugi: More than anything, it was really fun and I’m so happy we were able to do this!

Rokuya Nagi: OH… Me, too. I am very, very happy.

Nikaidou Yamato: Me, too. Coming up with everything from the theme of the live to the setlist together was fun.

Nikaidou Yamato: It might be an exaggeration since the competition hasn’t been decided yet, but I have the feeling that we are creating the culmination of who we are.

Takanashi Tsumugi: Yamato-san…

Nikaidou Yamato: I remember how we got started.

Nikaidou Yamato: When I heard it was gonna be an audition, I was planning to walk out that door.

Izumi Mitsuki: That’s right… You tried to leave as if you were just letting us pass.

Nikaidou Yamato: I didn’t want to become an idol… But it’s different now.

Nikaidou Yamato: Thanks for stopping me, manager.

Nikaidou Yamato: I should be thanking you, but…

Nikaidou Yamato: Tonight, I’ll make these guys win.

Takanashi Tsumugi: …Yamato-san…

Nanase Riku＆Yotsuba Tamaki: Waaah…！

Rokuya Nagi: Oh my god…

Ousaka Sougo: Wow, Yamato-san’s cool…!

Nikaidou Yamato: Now, now, don’t get too excited.

Izumi Mitsuki: This old man finally said it.

Izumi Iori: Seems like he is finally realizing his role as the leader.

Nikaidou Yamato: Please be a bit nicer, Izumi brothers. Well then, getting back to the point…

Nikaidou Yamato: I’ll show you how the idols you, as our manager, named IDOLiSH7 become the number one in Japan.

Nikaidou Yamato: Thank you for putting all your effort into planning and preparing for the live despite being so busy.

Nikaidou Yamato: Once we go on stage, it’s our job. Leave it to onii-san.

Takanashi Tsumugi: …Yes…!

Takanashi Tsumugi: From the bottom of my heart, I am proud to celebrate this day together with everyone!

Nanase Riku: Manager! Give us your support until the end!

Nanase Riku: The one who first told us to do our best was our manager, right?

Nanase Riku: Please cheer us on like you did back then!

Takanashi Tsumugi: Yes… I will!

Takanashi Tsumugi: Iori-san!

Izumi Iori: Yes.

Takanashi Tsumugi: Yamato-san!

Nikaidou Yamato: Yeah.

Takanashi Tsumugi: Mitsuki-san!

Izumi Mitsuki: Yeah!

Takanashi Tsumugi: Tamaki-san!

Yotsuba Tamaki: Yo!

Takanashi Tsumugi: Sougo-san!

Ousaka Sougo: Yes!

Takanashi Tsumugi: Nagi-san!

Rokuya Nagi: Yes!

Takanashi Tsumugi: Nanase-san!

Nanase Riku: Yeah!

Takanashi Tsumugi: I love IDOLiSH7 more than anything in the world! Please do your best…!

IDOLiSH7: Yeah…!!

–

Woman: Waa… So many people…! Aah…. So that’s what it feels like at a live?…

Woman: This is not the time to be impressed! I wonder if I can still get live goods…

Woman: Ah, that person might be a fan of Riku-kun. And that one seems to be a ŹOOḼ fan!

Woman: Everyone is smiling… Everyone looks really happy! …I’m getting excited as well!

Woman: I decided on it on a whim, but I’m glad I applied for tickets and got to come here…

Passerby A: I’m glad I could come today~! I’m looking forward to it so much I could die!

Passerby B: I’ve kinda been too nervous to sleep for a week!

Passerby A: Ahaha! For a week!

Woman: Fufu… Everyone’s saying the same thing. I’m kind of relieved.

Woman: We like the same things and we’re looking forward to the same thing; it’s like everyone here is friends.

Woman: Alright! Let’s have lots of fun! I hope everyone else does, too…!

Woman: So that everyone here moves toward the most happy new year!

Mage Takara: Haa… I couldn’t sleep…

Mage Takara: Thinking that TRIGGER is going to sing the song I wrote today…

Mage Takara: Oh my god… I said it… Even though it’s top secret information…! I gotta stop breathing!!

Mage Takara: …Waah… I almost died…. Kujou Tenn…

Mage Takara: Yaotome Gaku… Tsunashi Ryuunosuke… Okay, I calmed down…

Mage Takara: When I’m nervous, saying TRIGGER’s names is the best… Oh my god… I might die…

Older Sister: Oh my god, I might die… Do you think ŹOOḼ will win today!? Torao-kun is so cool!

Girl: Are you okay, onee-chan!? The one who will win is IDOLiSH7! I’m glad I get to see Riku-kun…!

Mage Takara: …Those sisters are amazing… They’re able to hold a conversation on the edge of that line…

Nervous Man: I feel kind of bad… Even though you invited me…

Sunohara Ruri: You’re fine, you’re fine! Please support your future brother-in-law! I want to introduce you later.

Nervous Man: W-we can do it another time. Since it’ll be right after a big job.

Sunohara Ruri: But Yuki-san wanted to meet you as well.

Nervous Man: I’m a stranger to Yuki-san, so why…

Sunohara Ruri: I’m looking forward to Re:vale-san’s live! I hope they can stay Japan’s number one!

Mage Takara: …They have matching rings… I’m a fan of Re:vale as a couple…

Mage Takara: It would’ve been nice if I could’ve brought my girlfriend. I don’t have one, though.

Mage Takara: Ah… a beautiful blonde IDOLiSH7 fan. Maybe a RabbiTuber…

Thorvald: ＜Well then, Prince Seto. Until I enter the venue, I will continue to provide live coverage.＞

Seto Ranvalt von Northmeir: ＜Yeah. I’ll leave it to you.＞

Thorvald: ＜This is the venue where today’s “New Black or White” will be held. There’s a takoyaki shop over there.＞

Seto Ranvalt von Northmeir: ＜Oh. Is there a any connection between lives and takoyaki?＞

Thorvald: ＜There isn’t- This is the live t-shirt. Later on, I’ll show you how it looks when it’s worn.＞

Seto Ranvalt von Northmeir: ＜This is a beautiful design. I appreciate it.＞

Thorvald: ＜Thank you very much. On behalf of the merchandise production team, I would like to express my gratitude.＞

Seto Ranvalt von Northmeir: ＜Yes.＞

Thorvald: ＜This an item used to cheer people on. It lights up when you bend it, but I will not do that yet. ＞

Seto Ranvalt von Northmeir: ＜I know that one. It’s because the light slowly starts to fade, right?＞

Thorvald: ＜That is correct. By the way, Prince Nagi’s color is yellow.＞

Seto Ranvalt von Northmeir: ＜I know that, too. For his next birthday, I’m planning to give him a yellow sports car.＞

Thorvald: ＜That’s wonderful. I’m sure His Highness Nagi will be very pleased as well. The next thing I’d like to introduce to you is an uchiwa fan…＞

Mage Takara: He’s showcasing the live goods… What a way to spread word about IDOLiSH7 to the world!

Passerby C: Aah, my heart’s pounding! Since I have a great seat today, maybe ŹOOḼ will notice me!?

Passerby D: They’ll notice you for sure! I mean, you talked to them before, right?

Passerby C: Yeah! I even gave them a letter directly…!

Mage Takara: …Directly!? That’s amazing. But to take it properly from them, ŹOOḼ must be surprisingly serious…

Mage Takara: Ah… I wonder if the tough-looking old men over there are idol fans, too…?

Passerby E: But it’s surprising~! Didn’t expect big bro Kuma to be interested in idols!

Passerby F: Yeah! My oshi is the reason why I rediscovered myself as an illustrator!

Mage Takara: Ah, an illustrator, huh? You shouldn’t judge people by their appearance.

Mage Takara: A lot of people are here. Ah, oh my god, my heart is pounding… My song will be sung in front of everyone…

Mage Takara: What do I do… If Kujou Tenn suddenly said that he will dedicate this song to Magechon…

Mage Takara: …No, I offered it. Calm down, come to your senses… Aah, I can’t stop imagining stuff like that…

Mage Takara: Start quickly!

Mage Takara: No! Don’t start yet!

Mage Takara: Even though it feels like the best right now, even better things are still coming up…!

Mage Takara: It’s the last day of December, but it’s not cold at all!

Mage Takara: “New Black or White” is the best…!!

~ to be continued ~

6.13.2. - To that place we longed for

Isumi Haruka: Haa…

Isumi Haruka: Finally, it’s time for “New Black or White”...

Inumaru Touma: Don’t be nervous, don’t be nervous!

Natsume Minami: You’re the one who’s too tense, Inumaru-san, your shoulders are too stiff.

Midou Torao: Even Minami is blinking a lot.

Isumi Haruka: And Torao is looking at the clock too much.

Utsugi Shirou: It’ll be fine. Everyone, please relax.

Isumi Haruka: What will be fine?

Midou Torao: How can you know that?

Inumaru Touma: Relax…

Natsume Minami: I would if it was that easy.

Utsugi Shirou: It is difficult, isn’t it… First, let’s go with a smile. Try smiling, please. 3, 2, 1…

ŹOOḼ: …Haha…

Utsugi Shirou: …That’s fine! Okay, this is the waiting room.

Isumi Haruka: Wah… look at all those flowers!

Natsume Minami: There’s enough to fill the room…!

Inumaru Touma: We also received some from the “BLAST” team and music programs, but most of the flowers in this dressing room are…

Midou Torao: They’re from Moonlight Ichirou…

Inumaru Touma & Natsume Minami & Isumi Haruka: …

Isumi Haruka: …Ahaha! Ryou-san, you’re overdoing it!

Natsume Minami: All the flowers look expensive. It seems like a thing Ryou-san would do.

Inumaru Touma: Ahaha! That sure is a surprise, but they’re pretty. What’s up with this Moonlight guy…

Inumaru Touma: …A lot of things happened, but if that guy hadn’t been there, we wouldn’t be here right now.

Inumaru Touma: I hope he’s watching us from somewhere tonight.

Isumi Haruka: I’m sure he’s watching. He’s calling our names.

Natsume Minami: That’s true… Let’s deliver our victory all the long way to that person.

Natsume Minami: We had enough defeats. We won’t lose again.

Midou Torao: Yeah. …That’s true. Should we at least take a photo and send it to Ryou-san? Utsugi-san, will you do it?

Utsugi Shirou: Of course. Everyone, please gather around here.

Isumi Haruka: Got it. How do we do it? Do we glare at the camera?

Inumaru Touma: No, it’s not a work shoot, isn’t it fine if we smile?

Midou Torao: That’s true. Since we only might be smiling for now…

Natsume Minami: Please stop. With the negative talk, I mean. We will be smiling in the new year, too.

Midou Torao: Surely. There’s no way I’d lose, after all.

Isumi Haruka: We will win for sure! Yay!

Inumaru Touma: Oh, that’s nice! Ryou-san, we will win!

Utsugi Shirou: Let’s go, one, two…

(click)

Utsugi Shirou: I think I got a good shot.

Natsume Minami: Thank you very much.

Utsugi Shirou: Even though he couldn’t come here, Ryou-kun did a good job. He made everyone smile.

Isumi Haruka: Haha… That’s right.

Isumi Haruka: When we stand on stage, we have to make the fans waiting in the audience seats smile, too.

Isumi Haruka: We will give ourselves our own applause and flower bouquets. We’ll swallow both wins and losses alone. I am prepared for that. But…

Isumi Haruka: When we stand on stage, I want to see dazzling smiles and cheers.

Inumaru Touma: Haha… You’ve changed. The old Haru never cared about the fans…

Isumi Haruka: I wanted to be acknowledged by Kujou. I wanted him to praise me, I wanted to be told I was amazing.

Isumi Haruka: After my affection for him ran out, I was singing to stick it to Kujou Tenn. But since both of those things are gone now...

Isumi Haruka: The ones in front of me as I sang were our fans.

Isumi Haruka: Even though I don’t like it all, and I don’t care. Obsessively calling my name…

Isumi Haruka: You’d fall in love with that, right? Saying thank you, thank you, you’d want to reward that, right?

Inumaru Touma: …That’s true…

Inumaru Touma: I was happy that they smiled in front of me… That’s why, when they turned their backs, I was anxious and sad, and I couldn’t do it.

Inumaru Touma: I was scared of being abandoned. But… That is a small matter.

Inumaru Touma: It’s not about me being thrown away. Rather, I won’t abandon anyone. Not you guys, not the fans, not this dream.

Inumaru Touma: I will love everyone who loved me, even if it was just for a moment. Even if it’s unrequited love, I won’t throw it away.

Natsume Minami: Easy for you to say, ‘unrequited love’. Aren’t you the one who made us feel that, Inumaru-san?

Inumaru Touma: Uhm, when?

Natsume Minami: Are you saying you don’t know?

Utsugi Shirou: Can he be that dense…

Midou Torao: See, that’s the kind of guy you are. Even though you didn’t notice, there might have been people who had feelings for you.

Midou Torao: Even when NO_MAD ended, there may have been fans who would continue to always think of you.

Midou Torao: Maybe even now.

Inumaru Touma: That’s crazy… That’s almost an eternity already. Even if I lost my form, they still love me.

Natsume Minami: Even if we lose our form, the feelings remain forever. As long as this unforgettable scenery remains in our hearts, we will not lose anything.

Natsume Minami: Sakura-san was who I admired. Even when I couldn’t meet him, even when were far apart, I thought about him and admired him.

Natsume Minami: And if that’s the case, isn’t it the same now? Even if he was in North Meir, even if he’s in heaven…

Natsume Minami: A slightly wicked old man I admire, I support, and don’t see very often.

Natsume Minami: It’s because I was able to meet Sakura-san, that I am here tonight.

Natsume Minami: Hey, I… This year, I want the Black or White trophy.

Midou Torao: I’ll listen to your request. We’ll take it away and make it ŹOOḼ’s.

Inumaru Touma: That’s right! This time, it’s our turn to win!

Isumi Haruka: We’ll win for sure! That’s what we came this far for! Let’s do this!

Midou Torao & Inumaru Touma＆ Natsume Minami: Yeah!

Utsugi Shirou: You can definitely win. Here’s one last thing before the big showdown: let’s do image training.

Isumi Haruka: Image training?

Utsugi Shirou: Yes.

Utsugi Shirou: ŹOOḼ, congratulations for winning today’s “Black or White Showdown”!

Inumaru Touma: Image training for winning!? Even though we just arrived at the venue!?

Utsugi Shirou: Although it’s presumptuous, I’ll lead with three cheers for you. ŹOOḼ, hurray!

Midou Torao: We’re doing this to the point of the cheer!?

Natsume Minami: If someone hears us from outside, won’t people think it's a provocation!?

Utsugi Shirou: Of course it’s a provocation. Let’s go to the point of no return.

Utsugi Shirou: Because it was our company that was at fault, over the past year, I was busy bowing my head to the other agencies to apologize.

Utsugi Shirou: I think it’s natural, I feel how big of a responsibility that is. However…

Utsugi Shirou: On the last day of the year, with your victory, please let me feel some relief.

ŹOOḼ: …

ŹOOḼ: Hurray!

Utsugi Shirou: Hurray!

Everyone: ŹOOĻ, hurray!

Okazaki Rintarou: They’re doing three cheers for ŹOOḼ… They’re really provoking us, huh?

Yuki: We won’t lose to something like provocation, though? Should we do something, too, Momo?

Momo: …

Okazaki Rintarou: What’s wrong? Are you scared, maybe?

Okazaki Rinto: Hey, president…! Momo-kun can be quite delicate to the point of losing his voice, okay!

Okazaki Rintarou: That’s not it! He won’t provoke them! I just thought it was rare.

Yuki: Momo, are you okay?

Momo: I’m okay…

Momo: I’m okay, I’m okay, I’m okay. I’m okay, I’m okay. Invincible, invincible, invincible, invincible, invincible.

Yuki: …Are you really okay?

Momo: Yeah. No, aah… Ha—...

Momo: This is bad, I’m so nervous. What should I do? Aah, I shouldn’t think that. I shouldn’t, I shouldn’t…

Yuki: It’s not bad. I’m here. I’ll make you relax.

Momo: How… how will you?

Yuki: An old story.

Yuki: Actually, there was a time I thought about quitting music and no longer going on stage.

Momo: …That’s about Ban-san, isn’t it?

Yuki: Wrong. It’s like… When things didn’t go well…

Yuki: I was anxious and wondering if my music is really reaching anyone.

Momo: Something like that happened to Yuki…

Yuki: But during that time, I received a certain letter and got back on my feet.

Momo: A certain letter? What kind of letter…?

Yuki: That’s right…

Yuki: It’s embarrassing, so I won’t tell after all…

Momo: Eeeeeh!? Now that I’ve heard this much, I wanna know…!! What is that certain letter!?

Yuki: Next time.

Momo: Haaaa!? I feel jealous when I hear such a special story, though!?

Okazaki Rinto: Ah, Momo-san started to feel better.

Yuki: I’m glad.

Okazaki Rintarou: The letter that brought Yuki back to his feet. Maybe it has something to do with me?

Yuki: It doesn’t.

Okazaki Rintarou: Actually, I wrote it. I’m the type of person who writes well.

Yuki: Don’t think so.

Momo: I’m super curious…!! Yuki, if we win, tell me! Who the letter was from!

Yuki: …

Yuki: Haa… Fine…

Momo: Why are you so shy!? Aah, this is definitely Ban-san’s! Momo-chan’s jealousy is erupting!!

Yuki: Momo erupting from jealousy, that’s cute.

Momo: It’s not cute! Sorry, IDOLiSH7!! I’ll definitely beat you!!

Yuki: Nice. With that momentum, we’ll beat TRIGGER and ŹOOḼ as well.

Momo: Of course! Re:vale are the eternal champions!!

Okazaki Rinto: Haha, that’s reassuring!

Okazaki Rintarou: Losing is fine, too. As long as you show us your stage, that is enough.

Re:vale: We’re saying we'll win!

Okazaki Rintarou: I get it, I get it. I said it to relax you.

Okazaki Rinto: Yuki-kun, Momo-kun. Re:vale continuing to win until now wasn’t a coincidence.

Okazaki Rinto: Because it was the two of you, you were able to keep winning. Re:vale is the best duo. In the past, present and forever in the future.

Momo: Okarin…

Okazaki Rinto: IDOLiSH7, TRIGGER and ŹOOḼ are aiming to defeat Re:vale…

Okazaki Rinto: Doesn’t that sound king-like? Please be prepared to make a stand.

Okazaki Rinto: Only you two know the pain of constant victory.

Okazaki Rinto: The confusion of your adored kouhai becoming formidable rivals, too.

Okazaki Rinto: However, you are being attacked by tremendous obstacles, rivals and pressure…

Okazaki Rinto: And re:vale will definitely enjoy it and overcome it.

Re:vale: …

Okazaki Rinto: Leave the role of taking stomach medicine to me.

Okazaki Rinto: Enjoy what lies beyond that stage, whether it’s heaven or hell.

Okazaki Rinto: Please show me your coolest Re:vale.

Yuki: Haha… Because Okarin likes us being cool.

Momo: Then… Let’s show you our cool parts, shall we.

Momo: Thank you, Okarin.

Okazaki Rinto: No, right back at you.

(knock knock)

Okazaki Rinto: Ah… Seems like someone came to check on us. I’ll go and check.

Okazaki Rinto: Ah…You are…

Yuki: Ah…

~ to be continued ~

6.13.3. - With each step closer

Anesagi Kaoru: Well then, you guys! The long-awaited “New Black or White” is here!

Anesagi Kaoru: Don’t get too nervous, but do give us your best performance! I know you three can do it!

Anesagi Kaoru: After all, you came all the way back here using your own strength,

Kujou Tenn: Anesagi-san…

Anesagi Kaoru: I know you were told this before… That we’re in uncertain times right now, so people choose safe things to love.

Anesagi Kaoru: That they don’t even look at those who are hurt. That they are scared of getting hurt themselves, so they let go of them.

Anesagi Kaoru: But that is wrong.

Anesagi Kaoru: There was an incredible number of people who never let go of you and kept cheering you on.

Anesagi Kaoru: It’s because you guys were the real deal. Even the people who were shaken by doubts and anxiety believed in TRIGGER and came back.

Anesagi Kaoru: You were born in the light, then swallowed by the darkness… And once again, you have obtained the light.

Anesagi Kaoru: You are the only idols like that.

Anesagi Kaoru: Ryuunosuke.

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: Yes.

Anesagi Kaoru: On that stage at the Tokyo International Music Festival, you didn’t run away and sang by yourself.

Anesagi Kaoru: Because you sang there, TRIGGER exists as it is today.

Anesagi Kaoru: Everyone’s hearts were moved by your courage and resolve then, by you saying that you wouldn’t ever let this go to waste.

Anesagi Kaoru: They felt like as you connected from there to the future, there was nothing to be afraid of.

Anesagi Kaoru: It was an amazing performance. You did a good job.

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: …Thank you so much.

Anesagi Kaoru: Tenn.

Kujou Tenn: Yes.

Anesagi Kaoru: Even now, I clearly remember the street performance on that rainy day. I was crying out of frustration.

Anesagi Kaoru: But as you sung in that hell-like rain, you smiled and told your fans this:

Anesagi Kaoru: “I’m glad I sang this song.” I still remember your face, your voice that day.

Kujou Tenn: …This is embarrassing.

Anesagi Kaoru: There's nothing to be embarrassed about. At that time, I was thinking I will definitely take you back to that dazzling stage again.

Anesagi Kaoru: An idol who says he’s glad he sang, even while singing in hell.

Anesagi Kaoru: It felt so wrong that a kid like that couldn’t stand on stage in this world.

Anesagi Kaoru: It was like your crying face lit a fire within my and the fans’ hearts. We decided to start a revolution.

Anesagi Kaoru: It’s like the tears of that day are connected to the present.

Kujou Tenn: Thank you very much. Anesagi-san…

Anesagi Kaoru: Gaku. You did a good job on both “Crescent Wolf” and “Zero”.

Anesagi Kaoru: Regarding what happened to you guys, you must have been the one who was the most frustrated and hurt.

Anesagi Kaoru: You’re straightforward, you have a lot of pride, and get agitated easily, after all.

Anesagi Kaoru: Even though you were the one who was against Yaotome Productions’ aggressive sales tactics the most, you became a victim of that promotion.

Anesagi Kaoru: We made you go through a hard time.

Yaotome Gaku: That goes for you as well. You must’ve had a hard time, too, Anesagi.

Yaotome Gaku: But no matter what, there was no giving up.

Anesagi Kaoru: That’s true. You never gave up. Even though you were hurt head-on, you didn’t avert your eyes; you just kept looking straight ahead.

Anesagi Kaoru: Whether in an agency or independently, your strong pride and your competitive spirit never changed.

Anesagi Kaoru: You’ve always been the real thing. Even when you were hurt and beaten down, there was never a moment of misery.

Anesagi Kaoru: Seeing you unchanged, everyone started believing in TRIGGER once more. It was what made them want to come back.

Anesagi Kaoru: Tonight… Lead TRIGGER to victory. You’re the leader.

Yaotome Gaku: Of course. Together with these guys, I’ll definitely win!

Yaotome Gaku: I’ll hold up a huge trophy and show it to the fans who came with us…!

Anesagi Kaoru: That’s the spirit! This era belongs to TRIGGER!

Anesagi Kaoru: Idols who know both the top and the depths of hell. That’s you guys!

Anesagi Kaoru: Before long, people will start saying that idols who only know what’s in the light are outdated.

Anesagi Kaoru: TRIGGER can reach for glory already! Go ahead and do it to your heart’s content…!

Kujou Tenn: Yes!

Yaotome Gaku: Yeah!

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: I’ll sing as best as I can!

(door opens)

Yaotome Sousuke: How are you guys doing?

Anesagi Kaoru: My, it’s the President!

Yaotome Gaku: Dad…

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: President, you came!

Yaotome Sousuke: TRIGGER will be joining the battle for the top spot, after all.

Yaotome Sousuke: I’ve never seen Black or White at the venue, but I felt like I wanted to be there today and cheer you on.

Yaotome Sousuke: I will witness the moment history changes in person.

Yaotome Gaku: Yeah, leave it to me!

Yaotome Sousuke: And also…

(door opens)

Kujou Takamasa: Hey.

Kujou Tenn: Kujou-san…

Kujou Takamasa: I’m looking forward to seeing you guys on stage. Do your best.

Yaotome Sousuke: Originally, Kujou-san was supposed to be the head judge. But he declined.

Yaotome Gaku: So that’s why the special judging system was removed.

Kujou Tenn: Why did you refuse?

Kujou Takamasa: Because I am biased and I would end up voting for TRIGGER.

Kujou Tenn: …

Yaotome Gaku: Seriously? Even though you called us second-rate.

Kujou Takamasa: That was my mistake. I apologize. I am very sorry. I just didn’t want to lose Tenn.

Kujou Takamasa: You’re all first-rate idols. You sincerely love your fans, never stopping to improve yourselves, and you sincerely believe in both yourself and your teammates.

Kujou Takamasa: You’re a great team. To the point where I am jealous.

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: …Thank you very much. Hearing that the creator of the Zero era is jealous is the greatest compliment.

Kujou Takamasa: Likewise. Since I am a TRIGGER fan, too.

Kujou Takamasa: More than anything I am just happy to see your new live tonight. I’m looking forward to it.

Kujou Takamasa: May you three be left with no regrets. Winning or losing can come after. Do your best.

Kujou Tenn: Yes… Thank you very much. I’m glad you came to show your face.

Kujou Takamasa: Yaotome-kun invited me. I assume it was difficult for him to come to the dressing room by himself.

Yaotome Sousuke: Wha—… That is not true. It is because you said you had free time during the New Year holidays.

Kujou Takamasa: You invited me.

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: It’s heartwarming to see how well the old guys get along.

Kujou Tenn: Do they?

Yaotome Gaku: Really?

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: You don’t think so…?

Anesagi Kaoru: Anyway! The president and Kujou-san both came to cheer you on!

Anesagi Kaoru: Give it your all in your own way and enjoy yourself to the fullest!

TRIGGER: Yes…

Nanase Riku: Ha…

Izumi Iori: Are you okay, Nanase-san?

Nanase Riku: I’m fine. I ended up being really nervous, after all…

Izumi Iori: You probably didn’t get much sleep, did you? You woke up several times last night.

Nanase Riku: If you know that, Iori, that means you couldn’t sleep either.

Izumi Iori: Well…

Nikaidou Yamato: I always end up wide awake before a live. Especially since it’s “New Black or White”...

Izumi Mitsuki: Don’t worry, don’t worry! Let’s overcome this with enthusiasm!

Rokuya Nagi: Are you ready!?

IDOLiSH7: Yay!!

Yotsuba Tamaki: King!

IDOLiSH7: Pudding!

Izumi Mitsuki: We can do this, we can do this, we can do this!

Ousaka Sougo: Forget about the sleep deprivation and pretend you’re in your best condition!

Izumi Iori: I assume the other groups are similar to this, too. ŹOOḼ in particular are the type who can’t sleep in this kind of situation.

Ousaka Sougo: TRIGGER seem to be the type who sleep properly. The kind who gets up early so they can sleep well.

Nikaidou Yamato: Re:vale are probably used to this kind of thing, after all.

Izumi Iori: Speaking of which, Momo-san seems to be really motivated this year.

Nanase Riku: A Momo-san who’s this motivated seems like trouble! Aah, stop scaring me!

Izumi Iori: No. Change your way of thinking.

Izumi Iori: There is no doubt Momo-san is a formidable opponent, but it is because he felt we were formidable opponents that he was fired up and took lessons.

Rokuya Nagi＆Izumi Mitsuki＆Nanase Riku＆Nikaidou Yamato＆Ousaka Sougo＆Yotsuba

Tamaki: …

Izumi Iori: We are the ones scaring Re:vale.

Yotsuba Tamaki: …A-Aren’t we kinda cool…!?

Nanase Riku: We are!! They think we’re tough!

Izumi Mitsuki: Alright! We can do this, we can do this, we can do this!

Rokuya Nagi: Burning! Our fighting spirits are burning!

Ousaka Sougo: I think I’m feeling more confident!

Izumi Iori: Nikaidou-san, please tie things up cleanly as our leader.

Nikaidou Yamato: R-Right… Alright!

Nikaidou Yamato: Listen, you guys!

Rokuya Nagi＆Izumi Mitsuki＆Izumi Iori＆Nanase Riku＆Ousaka Sougo＆Yotsuba Tamaki: Yeah…!

(door opens)

Yuki: Yamato-kun. I brought Shizuo-san…

Nikaidou Yamato: Let’s beat Re:vale and have IDOLiSH7 take over the world!

Rokuya Nagi＆Izumi Mitsuki＆Izumi Iori＆Nanase Riku＆Ousaka Sougo＆Yotsuba Tamaki: Yeah…

Izumi Mitsuki: Ah, Yamato-san, behind you…

Nikaidou Yamato: Your voice is too quiet!

Izumi Mitsuki: Sorry.

Nikaidou Yamato: Are you listening!? We’ll crush Re:vale and get the whole world to call for IDOLiSH7…!

Rokuya Nagi＆Izumi Mitsuki＆Izumi Iori＆Nanase Riku＆Ousaka Sougo＆Yotsuba Tamaki: Yeah…

Nikaidou Yamato: What’s that “Yeah…”? Put your energy into it like last time and say, “Yeaaah!”...

Yuki: Yamato-kun.

Nikaidou Yamato: Whaaaaat!?

Chiba Shizuo: That you, Yamato, would want the world to call IDOLiSH7’s name…

Nikaidou Yamato: Whaaaaat!? What are you doing here!?

Rokuya Nagi: OH! Chiba Shizuo!!

Izumi Mitsuki: Hey, hey, hey! You’re Chiba-san, right?! H-hello.

Chiba Shizuo: Nice to meet you. I am Chiba Shizuo.

Izumi Iori: I am Izumi Iori.

Izumi Mitsuki: I’m his older brother, Mitsuki.

Yotsuba Tamaki: I’m Yotsuba Tamaki.

Ousaka Sougo: I am Ousaka Sougo.

Rokuya Nagi: My name is Rokuya Nagi! I am your fan! Nice to meet you!

Nanase Riku: I’m Nanase Riku! Yamato-san is a great leader to us!

Chiba Shizuo: Likewise, you have also been a great help to Yamato. I’m sorry for how sudden this is. Yuki-kun brought me here…

Yuki: Look at you talk. Wasn’t that your intention?

Yuki: You came to Re:vale’s dressing room, so we brought you here. Come on, Yamato-kun.

Nikaidou Yamato: What…

Yuki: He’s your dad.

Nikaidou Yamato: I know…

Chiba Shizuo: No, I’m sorry for bothering you before such an important event. I think it’s time for the older people to leave.

Nikaidou Yamato: Ah, sorry. It’s just… It’s not that I don’t like that you came. I was just surprised, so…

Chiba Shizuo: I know. Yamato…

Nikaidou Yamato: …

Chiba Shizuo: Please take over the world with IDOLiSH7. And make them call your name.

Nikaidou Yamato: Please forget that I said that.

Yuki: I’m glad I didn’t bring Momo. You said you were going to crush Re:vale.

Izumi Iori: But that is certainly not a lie, because we will do it for sure.

Yuki: You just declared war politely, huh.

Yuki: We won’t lose, either. Since Momo would be sad if we lost. And I don’t want to make Momo sad.

Nanase Riku: We won’t lose, either! So we can become the greatest IDOLiSH7!

Nanase Riku: Isn’t that right, Yamato-san!

Nikaidou Yamato: Ye… Yeah!

Rokuya Nagi & Izumi Mitsuki & Izumi Iori & Nanase Riku & Ousaka Sougo & Yotsuba Tamaki: Yeah…!

Nikaidou Yamato: We are the ones who will stand at the top!

Rokuya Nagi & Izumi Mitsuki & Izumi Iori & Nanase Riku & Ousaka Sougo & Yotsuba Tamaki: Yeah…!

Yotsuba Tamaki: Yama-san, you’re so cool!!

Rokuya Nagi: Yamato! You’re the hottest!

Yuki: Oh? I’ll be sure to remember that.

Chiba Shizuo: You’ve become an adult… Win or lose, you’ve grown up splendidly.

Yuki: Shizuo-san. Please cheer me on as well. We’re friends, right?

Chiba Shizuo: Of course, I want both of you to win. Yuki-kun, do your best. Yamato, do your best.

Rokuya Nagi: Good ahead and enjoy it! Here’s a penlight with Yamato’s color.

Chiba Shizuo: Thank you. Looks like I could use that to strike someone down.

Nikaidou Yamato: Stop making that kind of joke!

Nanase Riku: Ahaha! Chiba-san is funny as well!

Nanase Riku: It’s 12 o’clock… The venue opens in seven hours, huh…

Nanase Riku: A new music festival, “Black or White Live Show Down”, begins!

Nanase Riku: Please make it so we can put on a performance we won’t have regr… (coughs)

Nanase Riku: We won’t have regrets with!

Rokuya Nagi & Izumi Mitsuki & Izumi Iori & Nikaidou Yamato & Ousaka Sougo & Yotsuba Tamaki: Yeaaah…!

Izumi Iori: …

~ to be continued ~

6.13.4. - With our unwavering hearts

Mr. Shimooka: “Backyard MAGIC”.

Mr. Shimooka: I had to do the title call by myself because Mitsuki-kun isn’t here, how lonely~!

Mr. Shimooka: Now, time to pull myself together… Everyone! There’s only a little time left this year!

Mr. Shimooka: Everyone knows the reason why Mitsuki-kun isn’t here, right?

Mr. Shimooka: The long-awaited “Black or White Live Showdown”. The male idol division finals!! It starts in one hour!!

Mr. Shimooka: In this program, we will be showing you the real faces of the idols who will be competing!

Mr. Shimooka: Everyone, thank you!

(clapping)

Mr. Shimooka: Wow, this is so exciting. Re:vale, TRIGGER, IDOLiSH7, ŹOOḼ are all really fired up.

Mr. Shimooka: Mitsuki-kun should be at the venue right now, too. Good luck, everyone~! Then again, they probably don’t have the time to watch this?

Mr. Shimooka: Well then! In this program, we would like to give you some advance information so that you can “Black or White” to the fullest!

Mr. Shimooka: Here's the one who will give the explanation!

Mr. Shimooka: It’s Producer Matsunaga, the producer of this show and the person who started "New Black or White"!

Producer Matsunaga: Thank you for having me.

Mr. Shimooka: Well then, let's get started! Can you tell us about the rest of today's schedule?

Producer Matsunaga: Yes. Since you will be the host, Mr. Shimooka-san, I'm sure you already know…

Producer Matsunaga: The show and streaming will begin at 7 P.M.. The opening ceremony for "Black or White Live Showdown" will then begin.

Mr. Shimooka: The opening ceremony! I'm looking forward to it! It looks like it's going to be very exciting!

Producer Matsunaga: Yes! Please be sure to check out the idols' performances as well.

Producer Matsunaga: And then the mini lives begin. The mini lives consist of four songs. Please pay attention to the stage set and costumes.

Mr. Shimooka: The set list is still a secret, but the order in which each group will sing…

Producer Matsunaga: Has already been decided. It was decided by drawing lots the other day. There is also a video of that.

Mr. Shimooka: Ooh, let's take a look!

–

Staff: Inside are sticks with numbers from 1 to 4 written on them, please draw one.

Kujou Tenn: Understood.

Nikaidou Yamato: Who’s going to represent us?

Nanase Riku: Someone who’s lucky should go! Someone who drew a great fortune this year!*

Nikaidou Yamato: Eeh!? I don't remember anything about the beginning of the year, though.

Izumi Mitsuki: Leader, leader, go!

Nikaidou Yamato: No, at times like this, I end up being the last one to perform…

Rokuya Nagi: Tamaki, you had great luck in the gacha the other day!

Yotsuba Tamaki: Right! I did a 10-pull and got 3 SSRs! Isn’t that amazing!?

Ousaka Sougo: How amazing is that?

Yotsuba Tamaki: It’s an amazing probability! Almost as amazing as winning the lottery!

Izumi Iori: I wish I would win the lottery…

Rokuya Nagi: Tamaki, you're my angel!

Ousaka Sougo: Riku-kun, didn't you win the convenience store lottery?

Nanase Riku: I did! I won an Usamimi Friends pencil case!

Nikaidou Yamato: So it's Riku or Tama. You’ll play rock-paper-scissors and whoever wins can go.

Nanase Riku＆Yotsuba Tamaki: Rock, paper, scissors!

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: Which one of us is going?

Kujou Tenn: Isn’t Gaku fine for that? He seems like an auspicious guy.

Yaotome Gaku: Alright. Leave it to me.

Kujou Tenn: You didn’t ask "Why?" or anything.

Yaotome Gaku: I also think I'm an auspicious guy.

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: You’re so dependable! Let’s put our hands together.

Yaotome Gaku: Hahaha. Looks like a jizo!*

Yuki: Momo, you can be the one to draw the straw.

Momo: U-Understood. Yuki, which one do you like best?

Yuki: The final act.

IDOLiSH7＆TRIGGER＆ŹOOĻ＆Momo: Ooooh…

Yuki: I don't like being first because I don't think I'll be mentally prepared in time.

Isumi Haruka: I don’t wanna be the first either… I’ll definitely be nervous…

Inumaru Touma: Let’s aim for anything other than going first! Who’s going?

Natsume Minami: Wouldn't Midou-san be a good choice?

Midou Torao: Why?

Natsume Minami: Somehow, I sensed an aura similar to that of an animal mascot beloved by the New Year deity once every 12 years from Midou-san ...

Natsume Minami: I think it might be Midou-san this year.

Midou Torao: I’m not sure, but if Minami who’s into fortune telling says it, I’ll draw the straw.

Staff: Then, please.

Nanase Riku: Here I go! Then, this one!

Yaotome Gaku: I’ll take this one.

Momo: That one!

Midou Torao: That one! Please!　

Staff: We’ll pull after I say “go”. Ready… go.

Nanase Riku: …Second…！

Yaotome Gaku: Third!

Momo: Whoaaaaa! We’re the final act!　

Midou Torao: Whoaaaaa! We’re first!　

Isumi Haruka: That makes us the opening act…!

Yuki: Good job, Momo.

Nanase Riku: Second! Second is just right!!!

Izumi Mitsuki: Just right, just right!

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: Isn't being third nice! We're three, after all!

Izumi Iori: Ah… It's in order of who debuted last, from the newest, ŹOOĻ-san, up to Re:vale-san.

Ousaka Sougo: That might be true… It's like the idol eras are going backwards.

Natsume Minami: That might be interesting, it's like following the feeling of history.

Isumi Haruka: But we're first…

Inumaru Touma: Don't worry! It’s when the audience is the most pumped up! And you can just go out with a bang!

Nanase Riku: I'm sure the audience will be all warmed up after ŹOOḼ, so things will be easy, thank you!

Inumaru Touma: Y-Yeah.

Yaotome Gaku: Perfect, we're in the right distance to pull the trigger on the champions. This year, we'll take the win.

Yuki: Fufu. We won't let you have it.

Momo: We definitely won't lose!!

Yotsuba Tamaki: We won't lose, either!!

Producer Matsunaga: …That's the result of it.

Mr. Shimooka: Oooh! I see!

Mr. Shimooka: There will be mini-lives with four songs each in the order of ŹOOḼ, IDOLiSH7, TRIGGER and then Re:vale; it'll be the best singing contest of all time!

Mr. Shimooka: Isn't that right, Matsunaga-san?!

Producer Matsunaga: Indeed. For the specific times, please look at this.

Mr. Shimooka: From 7 p.m., the opening ceremony begins. ŹOOḼ’s live is at 8 p.m.. IDOLiSH7’s live is at 9 p.m…

Mr. Shimooka: TRIGGER’s live is at 10 p.m... Re:vale’s live is at 11 p.m…. And at 11:45 p.m., results will be announced!

Mr. Shimooka: It seems like it will become an unforgettable New Year's Eve!

Producer Matsunaga: Before the lives, there will be a video message from each group.

Producer Matsunaga: Everyone at the venue, everyone in front of their TV, everyone watching this show; please feel free to listen to the idols’ enthusiasm!

Mr. Shimooka: This is the first time and all, but seriously, I really cannot imagine which group will win!

Producer Matsunaga: That's true. Every group has the skills deserving of winning.

Mr. Shimooka: I will explain how the winner is decided once more!

Mr. Shimooka: There are three ways to vote! You can use the special “New Black or White” app to vote! You can vote via your TV menu!

Mr. Shimooka: And you can vote by dialing our dedicated phone line!

Mr. Shimooka: From now on, there will be no special votes by the judges, right?

Producer Matsunaga: That's true.

Producer Matsunaga: I considered having them, but the person I was considering for the position of head judge rejected, and….

Producer Matsunaga: He said that if we are judging the live itself, all people who have seen the live should have an equal right to do so.

Producer Matsunaga: It is as he said. They came this far because they treasured the perspective of the viewers; the perspective of the audience the most.

Mr. Shimooka: A new era of Black or White… It's a very “Black or White Live Showdown”-like initiative!

Mr. Shimooka: Well then, before we show you the messages from the idols…

Mr. Shimooka: We are showing you a message from the people involved in the lives!

Mr. Shimooka: Behind the beautiful stage, there are many people, many talents sparkling just as much as the idols!

Mr. Shimooka: Built up by many people, today we finally have this stage!

Mr. Shimooka: So that even more people will love this stage!

Mr. Shimooka: Let's take a look at the backyard of “Black or White”! There you go!

Concert Promoter: Congratulations on the "Black or White Live Showdown"!

Concert Promoter: The idols on stage, the audience at the venue, and everyone watching via live stream…

Concert Promoter: From the bottom of their hearts, all of our staff will work together to do our best to provide you with the best possible experience!

Concert Promoter: So many talented people have come together with the honest aim of making someone happy and inspire them.

Concert Promoter: It will be the best New Year ever. You definitely won't regret it! Look forward to it!

Re:vale Costume Designer: Congratulations to everyone on the "Black or White Live Showdown.”

Re:vale Costume Designer: I am really happy to have the opportunity to be involved in this huge festival as Re:vale's costume designer.

Re:vale Costume Designer: I'm a bit worried about whether I did a perfect job, but they really liked my costumes…

Re:vale Costume Designer: How can I put it.... I think Re:vale wearing my costumes is the coolest thing in the world.

Re:vale Costume Designer: Ah, I'm getting too cocky. Fufu…

Re:vale Costume Designer: We've been making adjustments to match the atmosphere of the song and the choreography, so please look forward to it.

Momo: Please look forward to it!

Re:vale Costume Designer: Ah, Momo-san.

Momo: Ahaha! Sorry, I was listening there!

Re:vale Costume Designer: It's super embarrassing….

Momo: Not at all! You're so handsome! Ah, after Yuki, that is!

Re:vale Costume Designer: Fufu, I know.

TRIGGER Stage Designer: Well… Congratulations on the "Black or White Live Showdown.”

TRIGGER Stage Designer: Looking at the set design, the set design... What can I say in one word? I shouldn't give away any spoilers, right?

TRIGGER Stage Designer: ...That's difficult…

TRIGGER Stage Designer: This time there are four songs… That is less than 30 minutes long. And what's more, they have to perform within that short time.

TRIGGER Stage Designer: So I tried to create a sense of immersion and a worldview that was on par with what you'd get from watching a two-hour movie or a three-hour play.

TRIGGER Stage Designer: I think we were able to create a stage worthy of TRIGGER. Please look forward to it.

TRIGGER Stage Designer: ...Hmm? Who will I root for? TRIGGER, of course.

TRIGGER Stage Designer: Ahahaha!

ŹOOḼ choreographer: Congratulations on the "Black or White Live Showdown”—!

ŹOOḼ choreographer: Wow, it's quite exciting... I want ŹOOḼ to win, but even just entering the competition is impressive.

ŹOOḼ choreographer: That alone is enough… No, I really want them to win after all!

ŹOOḼ choreographer: Everyone at ŹOOḼ has strong fundamental skills, is clever and highly technical... And what's more, they're not afraid of challenges.

ŹOOḼ choreographer: It's an honor to work with them! I'm sure tonight will be another great night!

ŹOOḼ choreographer: ŹOOḼ! Do your best！

Inumaru Touma: Wah, what are you doing？

ŹOOḼ choreographer: Touma-san！

Inumaru Touma: I just heard you tell me to do my best.

ŹOOḼ choreographer: The interview! The BackMagic one!

Inumaru Touma: Ah! Thanks for your work.

ŹOOḼ choreographer: Do your best at winning Black or White! ŹOOḼ! Do your best!

Inumaru Touma: Yeah. I'll do my best.

IDOLiSH7 producer: Congratulations on the "Black or White Live Showdown”!

IDOLiSH7 producer: I'm very happy to be able to take part in this wonderful stage with lots of tradition.

IDOLiSH7 producer: And the members of IDOLiSH7, whose stage production our team was able to support…

IDOLiSH7 producer: As well as TRIGGER, Re:vale, and ŹOOḼ are all truly wonderful people who love and are loved by so many people.

IDOLiSH7 producer: Tonight, I believe that the greatest stars will bring their best smiles and their best sparkle to see your smiling faces.

IDOLiSH7 producer: Let's keep this miracle-like sparkle in this world just a little longer, stronger…

IDOLiSH7 producer: I will do my best to make sure that many people can see it and that these wonderful people receive more love.

IDOLiSH7 producer: Please, please, look forward to it…!

Oogami Banri: The opening ceremony is about to start in 30 minutes. Is everyone ready?

IDOLiSH7: Yes!

Takanashi Tsumugi: Do your best!

Takanashi Otoharu: Everyone, do your best!

Izumi Mitsuki: Yes! Everyone, we’ll do it!　

Yotsuba Tamaki: Whoaa！Let's do this!

Rokuya Nagi: Let's enjoy the best New Year's party!

Nikaidou Yamato: That's right! Let's forget about winning or losing for a moment and let's entertain the people watching!

Nanase Riku: Yes! I'll do my best…!

Ousaka Sougo: …

Izumi Iori: Ousaka-san, what's wrong?

Ousaka Sougo: Ah, no…

Oogami Banri: Sougo-kun, can I talk to you for a second?

Ousaka Sougo: Yes…

Oogami Banri: I just checked the seats, and there's no one there in the ones reserved for your parents.

Ousaka Sougo: …Is that so…

Oogami Banri: I thought it would be bad if you got upset when you get on stage. If anything changes, I'll let you know.

Ousaka Sougo: No, it's okay… I don't think they'll come.

Oogami Banri: Sougo-kun…

Ousaka Sougo: It's better this way. Thank you for letting me know. Thanks to that, I feel better now.

Yotsuba Tamaki: Sou-chan, are you alright?

Ousaka Sougo: Yeah. Let's do our best, everyone!

IDOLiSH7: Yeah…！

~ to be continued ~

6.13.5. - Up on that stage

Woman: …It's about to start…

Takara Mage: …My heart is pounding…

Kujou Takamasa: …

Kujou Aya: …Kujou-san…

Kujou Takamasa: Aya… I thought you wouldn't come.

Kujou Aya: I was hesitant, but… It's my big brothers' big day.

Kujou Takamasa: That's right. It would be a shame to miss it.

Kujou Takamasa: We are witnessing the beginning of a new tradition, after all.

Audience: Kyaaaaah...

Mr. Shimooka: Welcome to “Black or White Live Showdown”...!!

Audience: Kyaaaaah...

Mr. Shimooka: The renewed monster show has powered up and descended upon the country tonight!!

Mr. Shimooka: I'm your host, Mr. Shimooka! I’ll be in your care!

Audience: Kyaaaaah...

Mr. Shimooka: As you all probably know, this is the venue where the top male idols will compete!

Mr. Shimooka: It's up to you all to decide who will be the winner...! Please cheer as much as you can so that there will be no regrets!

Audience: Kyaaaaah...

Mr. Shimooka: Are you ready!?

Audience: Kyaaaaah...…

Mr. Shimooka: Ready!?

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah...

Mr. Shimooka: So, let's invite them in! The four groups aiming for the throne! First off...

Mr. Shimooka: ŹOOḼ……！！

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah...

Mr. Shimooka: Here they are, ŹOOḼ! They're appearing in the costumes they wore for "Poisonous Gangster," their stunning debut song!

Isumi Haruka:: …

Audience: Haruka! I love you…!

Inumaru Touma: …

Audience: Touma! I'll always cheer you on!

Natsume Minami: …

Audience: Minami-kun, you look cool...!

Midou Torao: …

Audience: Torao-kun, you're the best...!

Mr. Shimooka: The event started with some intense music! The opening dance performance!

Mr. Shimooka: Perhaps with their debut song in mind, they've done some intense dancing with a gangster-like story! Cool, isn’t it...!

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah...

Audience B: ŹOOḼ's dance is so cool...! I wonder if we'll be able to see all the other groups too!?

Audience A: Oh my god!　I’m about to cry…！

Audience A: Everyone at ŹOOḼ… Even though you're surrounded by amazing idols, don't be intimidated, just do your best in your own way...!

Audience A: So cool and gangster...! ŹOOḼ, I love you...!

Inumaru Touma: …Ha…

Inumaru Touma: ŹOOḼ！We’re in your care!

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah...

Mr. Shimooka: Thank you to everyone at ŹOOḼ! The next group to appear is...

Mr. Shimooka: IDOLiSH7！

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah...

Mr. Shimooka: IDOLiSH7 appear in the costumes, which they wore when they won in their first Black or White competition as challengers singing “MEMORiES MELODiES”!

Nanase Riku: …

Audience: Riku-kun…！Riku-kun, I love you…!

Izumi Iori: …

Audience: Iori~! Do your best~!

Nikaidou Yamato: …

Audience: Yamato-san...! He’s cool...!

Izumi Mitsuki: …

Audience: Mitsuki~！　I love you…！

Yotsuba Tamaki: …

Audience: Tamaki...!! He’s the best...!

Ousaka Sougo: …

Audience: Sougo-san...! I love you...!

Rokuya Nagi: …

Audience: Nagi-kun! I love you...!

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah...

Mr. Shimooka: A dance performance by IDOLiSH7!

Mr. Shimooka: A refreshingly prince-like, poppy, light-hearted dance to go with the aristocrat-like costumes!

Woman: ...It’s R-Riku-kun.... I finally got to meet the real Riku-kun...

Woman: ...That's amazing, so amazing.... We're in the same space right now... I was so happy that tears came to my eyes...

Woman: I'm glad I got to know Riku-kun. I'm glad I could come here today.... I'm glad I did my best up until today...!

Woman: I was anxious and confused, but all that was blown away! I made a decision and it was great!

Woman: I love Riku and everyone else...! I love everything I can see right now...

Nikaidou Yamato: …Ha…

Nikaidou Yamato: We’re IDOLiSH7! We’re in your care…!

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah...

Audience: Yamato...! I love you...!

Audience: Nagi-kun! I love you...!

Mr. Shimooka: Wow, the cheers show no signs of dying down! Thank you to everyone in IDOLiSH7...!

Mr. Shimooka: Now, next up is this group!

Mr. Shimooka: TRIGGER！

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah...

Mr. Shimooka: TRIGGER will be appearing in the costumes from their shocking debut song "DIAMOND FUSION" that shook all of Japan!

Yaotome Gaku: …

Audience: Gaku-kun…! You’re the best…!!

Kujou Tenn: …

Audience: Tenn-kun！I came to see you...!

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: …

Audience: Tsunashi-san！I will always, unchangingly love you...!

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah…

Mr. Shimooka: A dance performance by TRIGGER!

Mr. Shimooka: TRIGGER's sexy and mysterious dance feels like an invitation to a secret evening party!

Takara Mage: Whoaaa……！TRIGGER is so cool...!!

Takara Mage: I think I just made eye contact with Ryuunosuke...!

Nearby Woman: Oh my god! I think I just made eye contact with Ryuunosuke-san...!

Takara Mage: …

Nearby Woman: …

Takara Mage: Whoooooa…!

Nearby Woman: Kyaaaaah…!

Yaotome Gaku: …Ha…

Yaotome Gaku: We’re TRIGGER! Let's enjoy the last hours of the year!

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah...

Mr. Shimooka: A thunderous cheer...! Thank you to everyone at TRIGGER...!

Mr. Shimooka: Next up is this group!

Mr. Shimooka: Re:vale！

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah...

Mr. Shimooka: Re:vale are dressed in costumes from “SILVER SKY,” an anniversary song released on the 5th anniversary of their debut!

Momo: …

Audience: Momo-chan, do your best...!

Yuki: …

Audience: Yuki-san, you're the best!

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah...

Mr. Shimooka: Re:vale's dance performance!

Mr. Shimooka: From stillness to motion, these are stunning entertainers! After a stunning debut, they quickly rose to the throne, showing off his charisma!

Sunohara Ruri: Kyah…！Momo! Do your best...!

Sunohara Ruri: Yuki-kun, do your best, too! Re:vale will definitely win again this year...!

Man: Do your best, please—...!

Momo: …Ha…

Momo: We’re Re:vale! Everyone, we’re in your care~!

Audience: Kyaaaah…!

Mr. Shimooka: Thank you to the two of you from Re:vale!

Mr. Shimooka: Now, at last, all the young people competing for the crown are gathered! Who will the goddess of victory smile upon?

Mr. Shimooka: Is it ŹOOḼ!?

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah...

Mr. Shimooka: IDOLiSH7!?

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah...

Mr. Shimooka: TRIGGER!?

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah...

Mr. Shimooka: Or Re:vale!?

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah…

Mr. Shimooka: We'll find out the answer tonight!

Mr. Shimooka: "Black or White Live Showdown", Male Idol Division, Opening!

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah...

Mr. Shimooka: The first act begins at 8 p.m., which is when ŹOOḼ's live will start!

Mr. Shimooka: While we set up the stage, please enjoy a video message from ŹOOḼ!

Mr. Shimooka: Well then, everyone! Let's enjoy the hottest New Year's Eve in the world!

Audience: Kyaaaaaaah...

~ to be continued ~

TL notes:

* Riku is talking about getting “great fortune” in the omikuji you got during hatsumoude * This is a jizo, a common statue. Hello, it's mod Riku again!

This was a long one... and the next one will be even longer (6 sub-chapters), so don't expect it for a while, haha. On the plus side, it is the last one, and we will finish this year unless I literally get hit by a bus! ᴴᵃʳᵘᵏᵃ⁻ᵏᵘⁿ ʸᵒᵘ ᵍᵒᵗᵗᵃ ᶠⁱⁿⁱˢʰ ⁱᵗ ⁱᶠ ᴵ ᵍᵉᵗ ᵇʸ ᵃ ᵇᵘˢ ˢᵒʳʳʸ

First TL note courtesy of Haruka-kun btw, thanks for that!

#idolish7 #idolish7 part 6 #idolish7 spoilers #idolish7 translations #idolish7 translation #i7 translation

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wha-archive · 11 months ago

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Chapter 76 is out now (JP only)! Art of Utowin from Shirahama's twitter, with the caption: "This time, it's a continuation of the main story...but it's a little sidetracked and an unexpected extra story about that person. It was a little short because I was not feeling well...sorry! We'll be back to talking about Coco and the others next month!" ID of this image below also from Shirahama's twitter, with some tweaks:

[ID: Illustration of Utowin as a child. He wears a robe made for cold climates with a fur lining. He holds a stick in his hand and is in a dynamic stepping pose.]

Today also marks the release of Volume 13. Coustas features on this cover - long awaited by us all! Shirahama was very kind to post the isolated image of both him and the background for the cover, images 2 and 3 above. ID for these below:

[ID: Image 2. Illustration of Coustas in his brimhat outfit. He is posed mid-air, leaning backwards.]

[ID: Image 3. An illustrated vista of crop fields in front of a yellow, slightly cloudy sky.]

Links to the volume can be found on a previous post on this blog.

#witch hat atelier #tbna #tongari boushi no atelier #archive update #I'm behind on updating the archive and catching up with the illustrations I missed - work has been a lot recently.#Hoping that if I keep on top of new stuff that'll at least make catching up easier!

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crossfandomskylines · 20 days ago

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In the Space Between: Chapter 18

OTHER CHAPTERS:

Chapter 1 I Chapter 2 I Chapter 3 I Chapter 4 I Chapter 5

Chapter 6 I Chapter 7 I Chapter 8 I Chapter 9 I Chapter 10

Chapter 11 I Chapter 12 I Chapter 13 I Chapter 14 I Chapter 15

Chapter 16 I Chapter 17 I Chapter 18 I Chapter 19 I Chapter 20

Pairing: Glen Powell x OC

Summary: Glen and Gabby savor their long-awaited reunion, starting with a cozy coffee date where they reconnect over laughter and conversation. Back at Gabby’s apartment, Glen convinces her to focus on studying while he tackles some of her chores, finding joy in the normalcy of helping her. Their playful banter takes a turn when Gabby tries to stop him from folding laundry, leading to a lighthearted wrestling match that ends with them tangled together on the bed.

Word Count: 4.6k

Warnings: 18+ Minors DNI! Smut (Light hair pulling. Protected Sex. P in V.) I promise one day I'll right more interesting smut but I'm still new to writing smut so keeping it simple for now.

A/N: Please continue to let me know what you think with Hearts, Comments, and Reblogs! Also if you'd like to be tagged please let me know, and I will get you added to the tag list!

The sun was warm but not stifling as Glen and Gabby strolled down the quiet street toward her favorite coffee shop. The hum of the city filled the air—cars passing, a faint honk in the distance, and the occasional bark of a dog being walked by its owner. Gabby felt the corners of her mouth tug upward every time she glanced sideways at Glen. He was here, walking next to her, his hand brushing hers occasionally as they moved in sync. She had to resist the urge to pinch herself, still half-convinced this was all some vivid dream.

“You’re staring,” Glen said, his voice soft and teasing.

She glanced up at him and shrugged lightly. “I just… I can’t believe you’re here. This doesn’t feel real.”

Glen chuckled, and before she could pull her hand away, he caught it in his, lacing their fingers together. He gave her hand a gentle squeeze. “It’s real, Gabby. I’m here. And I’ve missed you like crazy. I had a small break in filming today and tomorrow and I knew that there wasn’t any other way I wanted to spend it.”

Her chest tightened, and she squeezed his hand back, not trusting herself to speak without her voice breaking.

When they reached the coffee shop, the warm scent of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods enveloped them like a hug. Gabby led the way to a cozy table in the corner, tucked away from the bustling counter. Glen pulled out her chair before taking the one across from her, leaning his forearms on the table as if closing the small space between them even more.

“This place is cute,” he said, glancing around at the mismatched wooden furniture and chalkboard menu above the counter.

“It’s my go-to,” Gabby said, scanning the menu. “The tea here is great, and they make this avocado toast that’s ridiculously good. I’ve heard the coffee is good too, but you know how I feel about coffee.”

“I’ll be the judge of that,” Glen said with a smirk, leaning back in his chair. “Though I think I’d eat just about anything if it meant I could sit here with you.”

Gabby rolled her eyes playfully but couldn’t suppress the blush creeping up her neck. “You’re so cheesy.”

“Maybe,” he admitted, his grin widening.

When their food arrived—Gabby’s avocado toast and Glen’s bacon-and-egg sandwich—they dug in, the conversation flowing easily between bites. They talked about everything and nothing: Gabby’s classes, Glen’s time on set, and the small moments they had missed sharing during their weeks apart.

At one point, Glen reached across the table, brushing his thumb over her knuckles as he held her hand. “You know,” he said, his voice low enough that only she could hear, “I could sit here forever. Just talking to you.”

Her heart swelled, and she blinked back the tears threatening to form before taking another bite of her toast.

The walk back to Gabby’s apartment was slower, more leisurely. The comfortable silence between them was occasionally broken by Glen pointing out little things he noticed—the dog trotting by with its tongue lolling out, a family laughing on the steps of a brownstone, or the way the autumn leaves scattered across the sidewalk seemed to crunch louder underfoot. Gabby didn’t mind the quiet; it felt natural, like they were slipping back into a rhythm she hadn’t realized she missed so much.

When they reached her apartment, she unlocked the door and pushed it open, stepping aside so Glen could enter first. He barely made it two steps inside before a flash of orange fur darted toward him.

“Willow!” Gabby called, half in surprise, half in amusement.

The orange tabby cat skidded to a halt at Glen’s feet, her fluffy tail held high as she circled him. She gave a loud, insistent meow, then rubbed herself against his legs, purring like a tiny engine.

“Well, hey there,” Glen said, crouching down to her level. He reached out cautiously, but Willow wasn’t shy. She nuzzled into his hand, practically shoving her head into his palm as though she couldn’t get enough attention.

Gabby stood frozen in the doorway, watching the interaction with a mix of disbelief and humor. “She… she never does that.”

Glen glanced up at her, his hand still gently scratching behind the cat’s ears. “I mean I’m kind of her favorite. Didn’t you say she’s basically claimed my shirt as hers?”

The cat responded with another loud purr, pressing her face into his knee.

Gabby shook her head, a grin spreading across her face as she closed the door and leaned against it. “She’s really laying it on thick. I think she likes you more than me right now.”

Glen chuckled, standing back up as Willow weaved between his ankles. “What can I say? I’m irresistible.”

Gabby rolled her eyes playfully but couldn’t deny how much the sight warmed her heart. Willow was usually content to observe people from a distance, barely tolerating affection on her own terms.

Glen scooped up the cat effortlessly. Willow settled into his arms like she’d been there a thousand times, her head resting lazily against his chest.

Gabby’s heart ached in the best way as she watched them. How was it possible that he could make her fall for him even more just by holding her cat?

When Glen caught her staring, he gave her a knowing smile. “What?”

“Nothing,” she said quickly, though the warmth in her cheeks betrayed her. “I’m just… surprised, that’s all.”

He walked over, still holding Willow, and gave her a teasing grin. “What, you didn’t think I was a cat person?”

“No, it’s not that. I just didn’t think Willow was an anyone cat,” she shot back.

“Well, I guess we’re full of surprises today,” he said softly, brushing his lips against her forehead.

Willow gave a soft chirp, seemingly annoyed at being ignored, and Glen chuckled. “Alright, alright, I’ll put you down. You’re a little attention hog, aren’t you?”

As he set the cat down, she trotted off to her favorite spot on the windowsill, leaving Glen and Gabby alone again.

“Speaking of pets, where’s Brisket?” Gabby asked noticing that Glen hadn’t mentioned him and the dog clearly wasn’t with him.

“Les is watching him for me. Wasn’t sure what our plans would be…or how much attention he’d get. So she offered to take him until I fly out tomorrow.” Glen explained before changing the subject. “So what were your plans for the day?” he asked, glancing at the stack of textbooks and notebooks on the coffee table.

Gabby sighed. “Nothing exciting. I was going to study for a bit, maybe do some laundry, vacuum, and tidy up. The usual. But now…”

“But now?”

“Now?” she repeated, leaning back against the door and giving him a shy smile. “Now, I just want to spend time with you.”

His expression softened, and he closed the space between them, placing his hands gently on her hips. “I want to spend time with you too,” he said, his voice a low murmur, “but I don’t want you to fall behind because I showed up.”

“Glen-” she started, shaking her head.

“Listen,” he interrupted, his hands tightening ever so slightly. “How about this. You study for half an hour, and I’ll take care of some of the chores. Then we’ll have the rest of the day to do whatever you want.”

Her eyes widened, and she laughed softly. “You’re serious?”

“Absolutely.” His grin was teasing but sincere.

“You want to spend your day off doing my chores?”

“It’s only for half an hour,” he reasoned. “Besides I like doing stuff like that. It makes me feel… normal, you know?”

Gabby tilted her head, studying him. “You’re really okay with it?”

“Gabby,” he said, leaning down to rest his forehead against hers, “if it makes your life a little easier and gives us more time together, I’m more than okay with it.”

Her chest ached with the kind of gratitude that made her eyes sting. She nodded. “Okay. But only if you let me help after I’m done studying.”

“We’ll see,” he teased, pressing a quick kiss to her forehead before stepping back. “Now, go. Books. Study. I’ll take care of the rest.”

Gabby smiled as she grabbed her textbooks and settled onto the couch, the sound of Glen rummaging in the kitchen grounding her in the moment. For the first time in weeks, everything felt right again.

Thirty minutes later the timer on Gabby’s phone buzzed softly, marking the end of her self-imposed study session. She closed her notebook with a sigh of relief, glad to escape the dry material she’d been slogging through.

“Half an hour exactly,” she muttered to herself with a grin, stretching her arms overhead as she stood. She tucked her books neatly back onto the shelf and wandered down the hallway toward her bedroom, curious to see what Glen had gotten himself into.

The sight that greeted her made her stop in her tracks and lean against the doorway with an incredulous smile. Glen was standing by her bed, a neatly folded stack of her laundry already on the corner, and another shirt in his hands that he was methodically folding.

“Glen,” she called out, crossing her arms as she stepped inside. “What are you doing?”

He glanced up at her, completely unbothered. “Folding laundry.”

She rolled her eyes, though the amusement in her voice was unmistakable. “You don’t have to do that. All I needed you to do was load the dishwasher. I can do all this once you leave.”

“I know,” he replied casually, shaking out another shirt and folding it with practiced ease. “But I want to.”

“Seriously,” she insisted, walking closer and trying to take the shirt from his hands. “You’ve done enough already. Let me finish it later.”

“Nope,” Glen said, stepping to the side and holding the shirt just out of her reach.

“Glen!” she exclaimed, laughing as she tried to grab it again.

He grinned, clearly enjoying himself. “What? I’m just being helpful.”

“You’re being ridiculous,” she said, standing on her tiptoes to swipe at the shirt, but he easily lifted it higher.

“Am I?” he teased, his voice light as he dodged her attempts to snatch it.

“Yes!” she said, giggling as she lunged for him. This time, she grabbed his arm in an effort to pull him down, but he was too strong, his stance too steady. Instead, he turned the tables, gently catching her wrist and spinning her around so that her back was to him.

“Careful,” he murmured in her ear, his voice dropping to a playful growl.

Gabby felt her heart skip at the proximity, her laughter trailing off into a breathless chuckle. “You’re impossible.”

“Maybe,” he admitted, releasing her wrist only to scoop her up with ease.

“Glen!” she yelped as he carried her the few steps to the bed, depositing her onto the mattress like she weighed nothing at all. Before she could sit up, he leaned over her, pinning her wrists gently to the bed.

“Say it,” he said, his grin wide and victorious.

“Say what?” she shot back, her voice a mix of mock indignation and delight.

“That I win,” he said, his tone teasing but his eyes locked on hers, warm and full of affection.

Gabby raised a brow, refusing to back down despite the fluttering in her chest. “Never.”

He chuckled softly, shaking his head. “You’re so stubborn.”

“And you’re—” Whatever retort she’d been about to make was lost as he leaned down, capturing her lips in a kiss that was firm yet achingly tender.

Gabby’s resolve melted instantly, her body relaxing beneath him as she kissed him back. His hands released her wrists, one sliding down to cup her cheek while the other braced against the mattress to support his weight.

When he finally pulled back, his forehead rested against hers, his breath warm against her lips. “You were saying?” he murmured, his grin returning.

She let out a soft laugh, her fingers curling into the fabric of his shirt. “Fine. You win.”

“That’s what I thought,” he said, his voice low and satisfied. He brushed his lips against hers once more, lingering as if neither of them wanted the moment to end.

Gabby sighed contentedly, her earlier protests forgotten as she wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him down beside her. The laundry could wait. For now, she just wanted to stay wrapped up in him.

Glen’s lips coaxed hers apart, his tongue sliding inside to explore with a slow, deliberate heat that made her heart race.

Gabby let out a soft, involuntary sigh, her hands gripping the fabric of his shirt as if she needed to anchor herself.

Just as she thought she couldn’t handle another second of the delicious pressure of his mouth on hers, Glen pulled back slightly, his breath warm against her damp lips. Before she could protest, he began to brush his lips along her jawline, each soft kiss igniting tiny sparks that raced down her spine.

“Glen…” she whispered, her voice barely audible, trembling with anticipation.

He didn’t answer, at least not right away. Instead, his mouth found the sensitive curve of her neck, his lips warm and soft against her skin. Gabby gasped quietly as his teeth scraped lightly, his tongue soothing the spot before he began to suck gently. It wasn’t hard enough to leave a mark—Glen knew better—but it was enough to send a shiver cascading through her body.

“I missed you so much,” he murmured against her neck, his voice low and husky, filled with a raw honesty that made her chest ache. His hand slid along her side, his touch warm and grounding, yet it only heightened the heat pooling in her stomach. “You have no idea how bad I’ve wanted this. Wanted you.”

His words sent a surge of confidence coursing through Gabby. She tilted her head back to look at him, her cheeks flushed and her eyes shining with need. For a moment, she just stared at him, taking in the way his eyes burned with the same longing that was consuming her.

“Then take me,” she said, her voice soft but steady, laced with a newfound boldness that left Glen momentarily stunned.

His gaze darkened, his jaw tightening as a slow, almost predatory smile spread across his lips. “Careful what you ask for,” he warned, though the teasing lilt in his tone only made her more sure of herself.

“I mean it,” she replied, her fingers threading through his hair and pulling him closer. “I’m yours, Glen. Just… take me.”

Glen’s hands slid under Gabby’s shirt, his palms warm and calloused against her bare skin. He moved slowly, deliberately, as if savoring every second of the moment. His fingers brushed over her ribs, making her shiver before he gently pushed the fabric up. Gabby raised her arms without hesitation, letting him pull the shirt over her head and toss it somewhere behind him.

His gaze dropped to her, and the way his eyes darkened made her stomach flip. “You’re so beautiful,” he murmured, his voice thick with awe and something deeper, something more primal.

Gabby felt her cheeks flush under his intense stare, but before she could get too self-conscious, Glen reached for the hem of his own shirt, pulling it over his head in one swift motion.

Her breath hitched as her eyes roamed over him, taking in the changes she hadn’t expected. The last time they’d been together, his chest had been smooth, but now, a fine dusting of hair covered his chest and trailed down to his abs, accentuating the defined lines of his body.

Her fingers reached out instinctively, tracing the new texture with curiosity. She let her palm glide over his chest, down to his stomach, where the muscle flexed beneath her touch. The sensation was different, but not unwelcome—it was grounding, a reminder of how much she’d missed him and how time hadn’t dulled their connection.

Glen watched her, his lips quirking into a soft smile. “Like what you see?” he teased, his voice low and edged with amusement.

Gabby glanced up at him, her hand still resting on his chest. She nodded, her lips curving into a shy smile before her confidence surged again. “I do,” she said honestly, tugging him gently back down to her. “Makes you more rugged.”

Their lipsthen met in a kiss that was hungrier this time, fueled by the heat building between them. His hands moved to cradle her face, holding her close as he poured everything he couldn’t say into the kiss.

Gabby’s hands slid up his chest and over his shoulders, her fingers curling around the nape of his neck as she pulled him even closer. The world around them disappeared again, and all that mattered was this—being together, feeling each other, and making up for every second they’d spent apart.

Glen’s lips moved across Gabby’s skin, lingering at her collarbone before he kissed his way back up to her mouth. Each touch of his lips sent shivers down her spine, igniting a fire that had been building since the moment he walked back into her life.

“Gabby,” he murmured, his voice heavy with desire as their foreheads touched. “You have no idea how much I’ve thought about this—about you.”

She swallowed hard, her heart racing. “Then don’t stop,” she whispered, her voice barely audible but filled with want.

He kissed her again, slow and deliberate, before his hands slid to the waistband of her leggings. Gabby arched into him as he gently tugged them down, his touch careful and reverent. When they joined her shirt on the floor, he leaned back slightly, letting his eyes take her in.

“You’re so beautiful,” he said, his voice rough but genuine, making her cheeks flush under his gaze.

Glen reached for the button on his jeans, but as much as he was swept up in the moment, a flicker of restraint passed over his face. He froze, his hands stilling as he took a deep breath.

“Wait,” he said, his voice steady but soft. He leaned back slightly, brushing a hand over her cheek as if to reassure her. “I just… I need to grab something first.”

Gabby blinked, momentarily confused, before realization dawned on her. A faint smile tugged at her lips as she nodded. “Okay,” she said softly, her voice carrying no trace of frustration or impatience.

Glen pressed a quick kiss to her forehead before climbing off the bed, his movements hurried but careful. He retrieved his wallet from his jeans, fumbling with it for a second before pulling out a small foil packet.

When he turned back to her, Gabby couldn’t help but smile at the sight of him—his hair mussed, his chest rising and falling a little faster than usual, his expression a mix of anticipation.

“Sorry,” he said with a sheepish grin as he climbed back onto the bed. “Didn’t mean to kill the mood.”

“You didn’t,” Gabby reassured him, reaching up to pull him down into another kiss. “I’m glad you’re responsible. It’s… kind of hot, actually.”

Glen chuckled and then his hands slid down Gabby’s sides, his touch leaving trails of fire in its wake as he positioned himself between her legs. He shifted his hips slightly and then slowly started to press himself into her.

The moment they connected, both of them let out simultaneous sounds—his a deep groan that rumbled in his chest, hers a soft moan that hitched midway, the sensation a mix of longing and adjustment.

Gabby's fingers clutched his shoulders, her breath catching at the sudden fullness after so much time apart. It wasn’t pain, but the unfamiliarity of it made her tense momentarily.

Glen froze the instant he noticed, his hand immediately finding her cheek. “Hey,” he whispered, his voice low and soothing. His forehead rested against hers as his thumb stroked her skin. “Are you okay?”

She nodded quickly, but her breathing was uneven, her chest rising and falling against his. “I’m fine,” she murmured, her voice barely audible. “I just… It’s been a while.”

His lips pressed a tender kiss to her temple as he stilled, giving her a moment to adjust. “I know, baby. I’ll take my time,” he assured her, his voice filled with nothing but patience and care. “Just tell me what you need.”

Gabby exhaled slowly, her hands relaxing their grip on his shoulders. She looked up at him, her gaze soft but determined. “I need you, Glen.”

His heart swelled at her words, and he brushed a strand of hair away from her face. “I’ll go slow, okay? Just tell me if you need me to stop.”

She nodded, her body gradually relaxing beneath him as his kisses trailed from her lips to her jaw, then down her neck. His hips shifted slightly, rocking gently to let her adjust at her own pace.

Gabby gasped softly, her body responding as the discomfort gave way to the ache of longing she’d been carrying for weeks. Her fingers slid into his hair, holding him close as her legs wrapped loosely around his waist.

“Better?” he asked, his lips brushing against the sensitive spot just below her ear.

“Much better,” she breathed, her voice carrying a newfound confidence.

Glen groaned softly as he felt her starting to clench around him. His movements started growing more confident and intentional. Gabby arched against him, her body responding instinctively to the rhythm he set, every fiber of her being focused on the way he made her feel.

His lips started trailing kisses down her jawline and back to her neck again. Her fingers threaded through his hair, tugging gently as her breaths turned into soft cries, uninhibited and full of longing.

The sounds coming from Gabby spurred Glen on, his pace quickening slightly as he continued to thrust in and out of her. He whispered her name like a prayer, his voice filled with both love and desire, as they reveled in the closeness they’d both been craving for weeks.

Gabby’s hands roamed over his back, her nails digging in lightly as her body moved with his, the tension building until it threatened to spill over. Glen lifted his head, locking eyes with her, and the intensity of his gaze sent a fresh wave of heat through her.

“Let go, Gabby,” he murmured, his voice thick with encouragement. “I’ve got you.”

Their movements grew faster, more desperate, as if neither wanted to waste a second of the precious time they had together. Gabby clung to Glen, her fingers tangled in his hair as her breath hitched, her body arching toward him as the heat coiled tightly inside her, ready to snap.

“Glen,” she gasped, his name breaking from her lips like a plea.

“I’m right here,” he murmured, his voice strained yet full of love, his forehead pressed to hers as they moved together. “Let go for me, baby.”

His words, paired with the way his body seemed to perfectly match hers, sent her over the edge. A cry escaped her, her body trembling beneath him as the waves of release coursed through her, pulling her under in the best way possible.

Glen followed moments later, a low groan rumbling from his chest as he buried his face in the curve of her neck, his body tensing and then shuddering as he found his own release. His arms wrapped tightly around her, holding her against him as they both rode out the moment together, connected in every possible way.

As the tension ebbed, Gabby melted into Glen, her body relaxing completely beneath him. She buried her face in his shoulder, her breaths coming out in soft, uneven pants as she clung to him, savoring the warmth of his body pressed against hers.

Glen shifted slightly, careful not to crush her, but he didn’t pull away. Instead, he collapsed onto the bed beside her, one arm still wrapped tightly around her waist as if he couldn’t bear to let her go.

“God, I missed you,” he said, his voice rough and full of sincerity as he nuzzled his face into her hair.

Gabby smiled against his chest, her fingers tracing lazy patterns over his skin as her breathing began to steady. “I missed you, too,” she whispered, her voice soft and full of emotion.

For a moment, neither of them moved, content to simply hold each other in the quiet aftermath. Glen’s thumb stroked soothing circles on her hip, and Gabby felt completely at ease, her worries melting away as she lay in his arms.

“You okay?” Glen asked after a while, his voice gentle as he tilted her chin up to look at her.

Gabby nodded, her green eyes sparkling with both happiness and contentment. “Better than okay,” she replied, her lips curving into a small smile.

Glen chuckled softly, pressing a kiss to her forehead. “Good,” he said, his arm tightening around her.

They lay there for a while, wrapped up in the warmth of each other, the quiet stillness of the room making the moment feel even more intimate. Gabby traced her fingers lightly along Glen’s chest, marveling at how real and solid he felt beneath her touch. It was as if her body was trying to memorize every detail of him again after so much time apart.

Glen sighed contentedly, his hand combing gently through her hair. “This is nice,” he murmured, his voice soft, almost sleepy.

“Mmm,” Gabby agreed, her head resting over his heart. “I’ve missed this. Just being able to touch you. Hold you.”

“Me too,” he said, kissing the top of her head. “You have no idea.”

The peaceful quiet lingered until Glen shifted slightly beneath her, sitting up just enough to swing one leg over the side of the bed. Gabby’s eyes opened immediately, her arms tightening around his torso as she pulled him back toward her.

“Where are you going?” she mumbled, her voice still heavy with contentment and just a hint of sleepiness.

Glen chuckled softly, looking down at her. “Relax, I’m just getting a drink,” he teased, reaching for her hands as if to pry them loose, but Gabby clung tighter, nuzzling her face against his side.

“Don’t leave me,” she murmured, her voice muffled against his skin.

His teasing smirk faded, replaced by a look of tenderness that softened his entire expression. Glen turned back toward her, lying down again and pulling her into his arms without hesitation.

“I’m not going anywhere,” he whispered, his voice low and reassuring as he kissed the corner of her mouth. “You’re stuck with me, remember?”

Gabby smiled faintly, her face still buried against him. “Good,” she said, her fingers curling into his side as if she wanted to hold on to him forever.

Glen tilted her chin up gently, brushing a thumb across her cheek. “I’m here, baby. I promise.”

The sincerity in his tone melted Gabby’s heart, and she leaned up to kiss him softly, grateful for every second they had together. As they settled back into the quiet, Glen held her even closer, whispering little reassurances in her ear until she fully relaxed against him again.

“Can I go get that drink now?” he teased after a moment, his lips brushing against her hair.

“Not if it means letting go of you,” Gabby replied, her voice playful but honest.

Glen laughed quietly, his chest rumbling beneath her. “Alright, I’ll survive.”

He pressed another kiss to her forehead, settling back into the bed with her nestled against him. It was moments like this that made the distance and the waiting worth it. Being here with her was everything.

#Glen Powell #Glen Powell Fic #Glen Powell Fanfic #Glen Powell Fanfiction #Glen Powell Series #Glen Powell x OC #Glen Powell x Original Character

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jasonsknight3 · 6 months ago

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Welp, it’s time, the new story has officially begun. This story takes place in Arkham knight. The Halloween that ruined so many lives and brought o the worst of the worst. However, what part do you play in it? How do you fit into the story? Well, fear not because I have to e answer.

Side note: this story is planed to literally take place during the time of the Arkham game and comic book. I will keep it as accurate as possible however, I will be taking and changing some things because I’m adding you in it. It will largely stay the same though. Enjoy!

The longest night

Chapter one

“Memory lane”

Jason. The closest thing to love you felt. Being with him felt good. Even though you were only 15, you felt that you could marry the guy. A match made in heaven. He was your voice when you couldn’t speak up, you were his reason when he had none. The emotional connection between you two was undeniable. Jason was also Robin, a hero, a boy with a heart of gold. Maybe that’s why you felt for him. Despite his rough upbringing and living on his own from 13-15 with his troubles his heart had golden roots.

Shrugging on your jacket, you left your apartment to buy a week's worth of groceries like you usually do every Monday. The fall air was a little nippy but not too bad. The only downside was there wasn’t much foliage in gothams cores so, no colorful leaves to be found unless you went outside the city. The walk to the store is a good fifteen minute walk, your family only had one car to share between the parents and you hadn’t paid your monthly bus pass card yet so, that’s not an option either. However, a nice long walk was just the medicine to clear the chaos at home from your mind. Your family wasn’t bad, not at all. You loved your mom and dad and they you. It’s just that money is extremely tight. Sometimes parents argue. Say things. That’s just how it is.

Whistling a tune the sound of an engine slowing down a little too close for comfort made you pause and turn your eyes to whoever was deciding to cause trouble. All of the unsure feeling melted away the moment you laid eyes on a familiar face. “Well if it isn’t trouble chaser Todd.” You comment with a wide grin. “You flatter me, such high praise (y/n)” he replied, sliding off his bike helmet and setting it down to rest between his legs on his bike with a lopsided grin. “So, where’s a girl like you heading on this…fine evening?” He asked, mimicking a British accent. “I happen to be going to the market on this chilled eve.” You respond in the same manner. “Would thou like an escort fair maiden?” Laughing, you drop the accent. “This fair maiden would love a ride.” Jason held out the biker helmet to you “your chariot awaits.” The helmet was a little big but still would do its job. Jason was special, Everyone would know that if they just took a closer look. He was smart, loved literature, funny, and kind. The ride was nice, clinging to Jason, your head resting against his back as the wind blew your jacket behind you. Since Jason showed up tonight, everything felt like a moment to remember, a moment to think about when you felt low. A core memory. Pulling into the parking lot, he shut off the engine and kicked the motorcycle's kick stand before helping you dismantle the bike.

Walking inside “Got the list?” Jason asked, pulling his hand out of his pocket to take it. “Yea, I got it.” Handing him the list his eyes read over the scratchy writing. “This is the same list from last Monday.” Jason stated his eye locking with yours. “Well, it's cheap and still keeps us fed. Besides, even with all three of us working, my mom, dad and I make only enough to get by.” Looking over the list again he smiled. “I think I can spice up your food selection a little.” You open your mouth to protest but he beats you to the punch. “And before you say “oh you don’t have to do that” I know. I can and want to.” The smile and warmth you felt in your heart was involuntary. Throwing an arm around your shoulder he said “Come on, let’s go get some good stuff.”

As you went through the isles you guys talked about your week so far. His was the usual excitement, fighting crime, school, all the things. Yours was the same as usual as well, school, work, a few screaming fights between the parents about money. Jason enjoyed giving you small gifts and little things here and there for you. Jason selected some produce, fruits, healthy and unhealthy foods. After checking out a d bagging the items it was time for the awkward ride home. It was a small struggle, you held on to a few plastic bags, some evenly divided on the handle of the bike. You had to stop only once to pick up the bags you dropped. Honestly, you were impressed with how well you both did hanging on after the one incident. When you guys got to your home, Jason helped you and your mom unpack the groceries and put them away. Your mom liked Jason but your dad was a little skeptical, as expected. Jason’s kindness earned a homemade dinner and a movie with you, your mother, and himself.

A fond day to cling to now

The sounds of laughter and cocky attitudes echoed in the batcave. “Remember (y/n) keep your hands up to protect your face and or swing, elbows low and in to protect damage to your ribs. Keep light on your feet so you can move quickly. Also-“ cutting him off you lunge at him tackling him to the mat on the floor. Jason cried out in surprise. “Oh shi-“ Alfred cut him off “language Master Todd.” Jason looked up at Alfred. “Sorry Alfred.” Alfred nodded and turned his attention back to nightwing and tending to his physical ailments from the night’s festivities. Jason turned back to you. “Now that wasn’t very fair of you.” Giving a triumphant smile you retort “Aren’t you supposed to be ready for anything?” Pursing his lips he thought about it. “Yea, I guess you're right.” In one swift moment he flipped you on your stomach having you I. A choke hold. No to together though, his legs wrapped around yours locking them I. Place. Your hands automatically shoot up to try and pry his hold off. Jason's breath tickled his ear “admit I’m the best.”

You: “you stink.”

Jason: “say I’m the coolest guy you know.”

You: “You're the weirdest guy I’ve ever met.”

Jason: “Admit I’m smart.”

You: “You have the brain of a toddler.”

Jason: “Say you think I'm sexy.”

You: “Look like a wet dog.” You snicker enjoying the banter. “Ugh, if I wanted to watch teenagers get it on I would rather watch a trashy romance movie. You guys are ridiculous.” Dick commenter to which Jason snapped back. “You’re just jealous I’m able to maintain a relationship.” The expression on Dicks face spoke volumes. Jason definitely hit a nerve. “Oh yea?” He inquired. “Yeah.” Jason nodded. Dick got off the seat. “Get up Todd.” Jason let go and whispered in your ear. “Watch this.”

Getting up you decided to stand next to Alfred who protested against dick fighting falling on deaf ears. Alfred realizing that this was happening whether he wanted it to or not he sighed. “I don’t know what to do with those boys.” Sitting back the duel began. Jason was bouncing on the balls of his feet. “Come on chickenwing! Bawk! Bawk!” Jason taunted with a wicked grin. “It’s Nightwing.”Dick corrected seething. The battle of honor began. Jason swung first, his fist connecting with Dicks lower run cage which seemed to just make Dick angrier. Dick swept Jason’s leg knocking him to the floor before pinning him and having Jason in a tight choke hold. “It's not so fun when it's not your girlfriend is it!” Dick said with a smug look. “Screw you!” Jason yelled anger very apparent in his voice as he jabbed his elbow into Dick’s rib again making him let go. With the new found freedom, Jason straddles him and starts pounding on him, punching him where he could. It was honestly a little scary watching from the outside. “Master Todd! Master Grayson! Enough of this childish behavior!” Jason stopped looking up at Alfred with a guilty expression before a fist connected to his chin knocking him off of Dick. Alfred and you intervene, you take Jason while Alfred takes hold of Grayson. “You mother-“ Dick cut Jason off “I will always do better than you, be better than you.” He said venom in his words. “At least I don't dress like I’m going to a fuckimg disco party to fight crime and look like a little bitch.” Jason yelled at him, that caught you so off guard. You had to fight to stifle the laugh. “I designed the suit myself you ass!” Dick retorted. “Yea, I can tell, Dick.” “Boys, enough for the last time! Separate or so, help me I will tell Bruce to keep you both off missions for a Week!” Alfred is clearly fed up.

Both boys went to their rooms to calm down. “You really did a low blow going after the wardrobe.” You started breaking the silence as the both of you sat on the bed. “He’s an ass.” Jason was still very clearly in a mood. You take his hand, “I dot. Have siblings, but I do have a family. Family can be your worst enemy and your best friend. The rough patch will pass.

It’s a terrible thing, just as they were starting to work things out. He was gone.

Harsh words sounded through the off white walls of the apartment. Same old thing, money this, money that, we have to this, we have to that. After a day of work and school, arguing was the absolute last thing you wanted to hear. What better place to go to escape the noise than the fire escape.

There you were, eyes closed, the breeze gently cooling your skin. A wonderful feeling. That’s when another sensation touched your cheek, a warmth, something soft. Opening one eye you see what you knew was there. Jason’s lips left your cheek. “Hey.” He smiled. You wave your hand in front of your face trying to wave away the smell. “Geez you smell, and you're sweaty, wanna shower?” You offer jokingly but with kindness. “That would be amazing. Thanks.” He commented. “Oh, uh don’t be alarmed by the way. They are just arguing. That’s all.” Jason nodded knowingly, “Alright, I’ll keep that in mind.” Following him inside he tossed his duffle bag to the ground and pulled out some clean clothes and stuffed his sweaty red shirt in the duffles bag before disappearing to the bathroom and turning on the shower.

A few minutes later you found yourself reading a magazine. Something about Bruce Wayne and another charity he supported. Seems like a nice guy. Shortly after you thought maybe you’d be nice and wash his clothes. You needed to do your own laundry anyway. It was starting to pile up. Reaching into the back you pull out the shirt with just your pointer finger and thumb and the shorts. That’s when something caught your eye, something bright yellow. Touching the fabric it felt soft. Pulling it out more revealed the rest of the suit, the yellow turned out to be a cape with black on the other side. Under the cape however…was a suit. Not just any red and green suit, the Robin suit. Your mouth practically dropped to the floor. Is Jason Robin? Is this fake? No it could be, the suit is too well made to be a costume. Wait, if Jason is Robin does that mean Bruce knows? Wait…is Bruce Batman? No that can’t be right could it? The sound of the bathroom door opening snagged your attention. There stood Jason with worry in his expression. “YOU’RE ROB-“ Jason tackled you to the bed, his hand cupping your mouth, his face panicking. “Shhhhh, please, just be calm. Relax. I’ll explain everything.” He took a moment to look at you and recompose himself. “If I let you go, will you be quiet?” After you nodded in agreement he let go and got off of you help g you sit up. “Okay, um, I am Robin. I’ve been Robin for a while now. You know, fighting crime and helping Batman.” You listened as he spilled everything. Putting his trust in you. “I need you to keep this to yourself, okay?” Nodding you agree. “I promise.your secret is safe with me. On a lighter note-“ you smile feeling excited “you being Robin explains so much. Would you be willing to…can you put on the suit and show me. I wanna see it up close!” Jason laughed and agreed,

Sometimes you wonder if you didn’t know if Jason suddenly disappearing and never being able to come back would have made it easier.

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itstheendofthegoddamnworld · 1 month ago

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Swallowed Whole by The Flame (Messmer the Impaler x Tarnished! Reader) 13

MASTERLIST

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Summary: An onslaught awaits Messmer, the man who believes he's truly alone.

A/N: Happy December all! November dragged but I'm hoping to get some more out there! Excuse the writing mistakes, I have been on and off with a cold! Written in Messmer's POV - enjoy!~

A03 link

Chapter 13: Acceptance

One long horn blows in the deadness of the air, and throughout the Keep, everything falls silent.

Messmer has known of the horn all his existence, for it had rung many times for his arrival. He had been on the other side of a conflict, the conqueror who had come to bring the fall of those. It was a call of his arrival and his enemies' doom. Messmer had once taken pride in hearing the noise, for now, it was one he didn't think he would ever hear come for him, ready to bring his pride down.

It had been the noise that made him stop in his movement, his guards paused too as if they had not been expecting such a noise. There was a heaviness to this acceptance. Now replacing the tyrant was a worn and tired man, ready for it all to be over. His guards, however, moved with urgency, performing a protective circle around their Lord, shields and spears up and ready to strike.

"Lord Messmer, my life is yours. Ask of us what you need, and we shall obey." The captain of the group spoke, for Messmer knew what would come to them if he allowed them to follow through.

"Nay," Messmer answers firmly, "taketh thy men and wend to the west wing. I shalt remaineth here."

"But my Lord!-"

"At once." He does need to ask them again, for they reluctantly obey, moving past as Messmer slinks into the only place he knows he can find solace. The Tarnished is gone, and he thinks you have fled. He does not blame you, he was harsh, it was only fair you had found your way back to Miquella. Perhaps your alliance with him was all just falsehood, for he did not want to believe that all Tarnished were low, deceitful creatures.

Messmer clutches his head, for the pain is immense in thinking that he was a fool for allowing you not only into his Keep but into the closeness of his privacy. If his mother could see him now, being a foolish boy, playing at war, she would've called him weak, forever considering a friendship with a Tarnished.

But his mother was not here, and would not come for him. He knew this, even when he prayed for her arrival. It pained him to believe he was now truly alone in this world, ready to face down whatever was coming through those doors.

He feared it would be Miquella, the golden child and his many apostles, with you in the front, leading the charge. How the thought rattled him so much, he did not feel Eos had wound himself around his master's neck, consoling him with a flicker of his tongue.

They come. We must be ready. Eos whispers, but Messmer is in no mood to fight. Fighting comes with more bloodshed and more death, and he is done with it all. He will accept his defeat if it means he can be done with his cruel world. Would his mother care? There was no knowing as she had used him only as her vessel. Her concern didn't matter, more so, it drifted to what the Tarnished would think.

There is no end to this, boy. He can hear Marika's coldness, the same coldness he felt when she abandoned him. You fight, and fight, until the very end.

Heavy is the duty that lays on his brow, for Messmer sits on the cold throne, awaiting the long-awaited doom. Fos and Eos can sense them, and it feels as if there are hundreds of them, charging like wild beasts through his Keep. He cannot know how many are coming his way. The candles in the large throne room dim, leaving only some light, but Messmer is used to the cold, the dark, and being forgotten.

"O' Tarnished," there is a heavy acceptance of his words, summoning his spear to hand just as the doors shudder and thud with each passing second. They've arrived, and death snarls at him, but Messmer does not back down, even when he wishes to. The sound thuds heavily, growing louder and louder and Messmer can only think to you. "Forgive me."

The thudding clashes with the heavy swing of the doors, and pours in the hellish creatures Messmer had spent his lifetime exterminating.

The Hornsent.

He can count nine or ten of them, pouring through with an assortment of weapons, as Messmer leaps down to great them, a flame so hot as he lands, ten feet of the ground erupts into flame, surrounding those close in heat.

Messmer picks them off one at a time, moving around them as they come and go, trying at all angles to try and take him down. The Impaler dances around them, striking as he goes, landing the sharp point of his spear through the back of one's throat, landing with a thud as the others swarm. Flame twists around his hand, surging forward as he keeps close, jabbing and slicing, his serpents his scouts from behind.

From your right. Eos hisses as Messmer dodges a strike that could've left him with a nasty dagger lodged in his ribs. His long arms work to his advantage, twisting to grab the attacker around the scruff of his neck, slamming him into the ground with force, his nails digging into its skin to draw blood. Not a second later, his spear was lodged between his eyes, leaving a garbling, miserable heap as its life ends.

His thoughts drift to his first fight with the Tarnished, how she fought as his mind flashes what could've been, seeing her crumpled body beneath him, her blood on his hands. Focus! Eos says as he narrowly avoids a hit, getting the back of his thigh, blood sizzling as he hisses from the pain, turning to face the small figure. The flimsy sword is not enough, Messmer blocks another hit, knocking it from hand and landing his spear into the attacker's belly. Entrails spill and the smell is intense as he flicks his spear out, leaving the insolent creature to be sliced in half.

Messmer leaps into the air and releases a dozen strikes, blood hisses when wounds are opened to his enemies, and the smell of smoke and cinder burns in his nostrils, but he has come to be one with his flames. They don't hurt him, nor do they feel frightened of them. There is an acceptance to his curse, one he is bound to that he does not wish anyone to suffer.

He thinks to the Tarnished once again, how she had told him the sad reality that Marika would not come to find him, nor would she return to these wretched lands. It burnt in the back of his mind, smouldering and aching to be put out, but his isolation had given him the chance to dwell in his suffering. And now, he had pushed away his only ally, to die in his Keep, murdered similarly to his brother, Godwyn, let not even his mother would know or care to hear of his end.

Messmer thinks to the serpent within him: would he unleash it? It would rid him of these insolent creatures, but he knew it would cost him dearly. No longer would his flesh be his, but tied to the serpent, his mind a wrangled mess. He would be consumed entirely, his mind chewed away until he would forget his name, his purpose, his duty.

You.

He's caught off guard, a yelp leaving him as he's struck in the back, the pain sears as he fights them off like a pack of dogs, picking at him to leave nothing left. He grows tired from their constant attacks, and there seems to not be an end to their numbers. He thinks it's the end, that he will be the revenge they needed all these years. Your face flashes in his mind as he flies backwards, hitting the back of the altar of his mother, cuts to his body he didn't spot.

His mind is hazy as he watches his attackers circle him. No sound comes from outside, and he thinks if he's the only person alive. Did the men die for nothing? All for a cause in believing in him all this time?

"I will not suffer." He grits his teeth as the time has come for him to decide. Only, there is one option he can use. His claw-like fingers reach for his eye slowly, only now, when he does it, he thinks not of his mother, but of his Tarnished.

There is a thunk that brings his attention away from his eye, the garbling, choking noises of one of the attackers grasping at its throat, a dagger lodged through the back of its neck. It falls, and all eyes including his, turn to the figure running through the heavy mist and fog, the cinders and ash, charging through.

Messmer thinks it's another one of them until he recognises the armour, the heavy Nagakiba wielded, slicing through another's chest as the redhead watches on. He's too frozen to realise that the Tarnished is fighting with him, not against him, and his mind screams in relief. She came back. She came back for him.

It doesn't take much for him to join back into the fight, the smaller figure crouches as he fights to avoid her fighting styles, slicing and dancing through the attackers whilst she hacks and dodges. The room has grown so hot that it feels as if it will melt all inside. Like a hundred candles, Messmer feels he stands strong with the Tarnished by his side.

He barely has time to register you've been hit at one point, helping you out as he spears the hornsent from behind, flinging his body away to the nearest corner as he uses his larger body to block another attack meant for the Tarnished, hearing her roll back to give her time to heal.

It would be told in tales, a demigod and Tarnished, fighting alongside one another. How ironic it would be if his mother knew of this, and witnessed him fight alongside a creature he thought was bereft of light.

The few of the Hornsent left are taken easily now he has another to fight with him, their bodies lie around them in a grand heap the old Messmer would be proud of. Now, he is the survivor of a siege, an assassination attempt that could've cost him. His body yearns for sleep, but he is too focused on knowing all is well, turning his head as he tries to show the smallest of smiles your way in thanks.

It's only when time slows, Messmer's face crumples as he watches as the Tarnished begins to sway, knees begin to buckle, and she falls gracelessly to the floor.

It was the urge that drew him towards you, for nothing could stop him from approaching you, running as fast as he could and not resisting drawing your body towards him, to make sure you were fine.

It's only when he realises what has happened: the last attacker had the knife, which had sliced at your jugular just as you hit back.

The redhead inspects you, his fears have come true. You had quickly become a bloodied mess, not far from the many times he had seen you before, but rather than it being you training with his soldiers or your first fight, you had been the husk of yourself.

Your body, too weak to move, was moved to be allowed for him to cradle you, your eyes never leaving his face. Messmer was haunted that you were still so aware of everything: from the way your eyes were fixated on him despite growing slightly unfocused, you were being pulled in and out of a state of consciousness, fighting as you always did. It is what he admired about you, always a fighter, even when death came for you constantly.

You were dying, he knew that just from looking at you, hearing the way your breaths were rattled, your throat shredded, coated so thickly in blood that it was difficult to see the colour of your skin underneath. Still, the blood flowed freely, and with some attempt to keep it closed, he knew there was no other way to stop the bleeding. It was some miracle that was keeping you awake.

He looks to search you, pulling your flask and finding nothing more than the emptiness inside. No, this cannot be happening.

Still, your stubbornness prevented your end, but it didn't stop you from trying to talk to him. Messmer could merely watch as you tried to contort your throat to speak, garbled, choked words came from your throat. Each syllable was a struggle, for you tried over and over, choking down on the blood building in your mouth, rising as you spat some out, dribbling down your chin.

Messmer could feel your hands on him, aware you were trying in any way to get out to him something. If speaking was stopping you, you still had feeble attempts to use your weakening body. Messmer adjusted you in his arms, pulling you closer, taking in your vulnerability, your desperation. He did not stop once to pull you away, cradling you close to his chest. His serpents licked the air by your head, they were both aware of your imminent passing, whispering in communication to one another and him, voicing their concerns. Messmer will not tell you what they say, for the fear stings his heart. Regardless, he shares the same sentiment his serpents do.

Your attempts to communicate with him do not stop. It takes some attempts for him to read your chapped lips, the garbled words were difficult to hear when you choked on your blood, but it hit him. There were two words you were repeating, begging for him to hear, two words that warmed his chest that he accepted. Forgive me.

Messmer's chest tightened so that it felt as if he was going to suffocate. There were feelings he had not felt before that clouded his mind, ones he felt that confused him greatly.

You gained his attention once again when you tugged on his red cape. "Mess-mer-- I'm-"

"Hush now, I'm here." He spoke softly, similarly to comforting a dying animal. He ignored the warm liquid that poured through his fingers when he cradled you by the back of your neck, your life slipping quicker than he realised. What could he say to you? Messmer had been molded to witness the hardships of death, war and grief. It had molded him to be the very image of his mother's regime, and yet, he was frozen in what to say to the dying. All the emotions he felt, he could not speak, so he did his best to show rather than tell.

The largeness of the room felt so noiseless, that Messmer felt as if he could be insane. Even if he called for help, he knew his soldiers would not be there to hear. His soldiers fought to protect him in his Keep, and he was left as the one to protect you.

It was a slow realisation for Messmer.

You had come back for him.

You returned to him when he thought he would die alone.

Unlike his mother, you, a lonely Tarnished, swore to him allegiance, a sign of trust he didn't think possible.

And here you were, dying in his arms when it should've been him.

He knew you'd come back, but part of him thought what if this was the day it wouldn't work? That his mother's grace would leave your body, and you'd be left to nothingness. He knew he had hope: he witnessed it after all, but part of him prayed to whoever would listen to him that all would be alright.

He felt clumsy in the way he held you, not experienced in showing comfort or consolation to another. From what he could remember, his mother gave him her version of love; muted and cold, so he was sure he wouldn't do the same with you.

Your noises grew quieter, small hiccups erupted from your mouth, and more blood seemed to be coughed up, but your eyes were watching his every move. Maybe Messmer thought you'd like a quick death, to be out of your misery so you wouldn't suffer, but deep down, he didn't think he could pluck the courage to kill you.

Those days of wishing you dead had finally come to taunt him, for now staring down on your face, made him realise he was not ready to let you go.

"I'm here," he whispered, his long fingers gingerly finding comfort in stroking your hair out of your eyes, the smell of the oils you bathed in hit his nose alongside the smell of blood that tinged the air. Death loomed, and yet, he did not stall in giving you the words you wanted to hear. "Mine own brave Tarnished."

That seemed to bring a little bit of life back for a fraction into your eyes, already losing the vitality they once had. You continued to hold him, despite losing the strength in your grip, and your raspy exhales grew quieter and quieter.

Messmer watched you give a final breathy exhale, before your body went still, rigid. He waited for your body to turn into the golden ashes he saw the first time, but the seconds passed with nothing happening. He leant over you, feeling the vulnerability he once did so long ago as a child, begging for his mother's return. His serpents moved around him slowly, sharing their master's emotions, wrapping through your hair as he pulled you even closer.

"Prithee," he choked, his voice coming out hoarse, "prithee returneth to me."

It had been that that brought him peace, for he felt your body feel lighter in his arms, dissipating into the fine, golden dust. He watched your features as they vanished, telling himself if you didn't come back, he would do all in his power to remember your features.

Two long bellowings of a horn reverberated through the walls, the end of the siege.

Messmer did not move at first, his heart hammered as he could still feel you in his arms, now nothing more than the fine powder he felt on his fingertips. Something told him, no, called to him, telling him to come outside the room. He slowly and sluggishly moved, standing as he walked with some haste towards the entrance.

He didn't think he would see anything, nothing that was out of the ordinary, but only when he heard the smallest whisperings of his name, did he watch in silent awe, witnessing what he believed was the answer that had heard his pleadings.

From nothingness, appeared a golden, luminous remnant of Grace. A breathy gasp left him as he watched, golden roots spread across the floor as if they had been rooted there this entire time that he had noticed. He had more questions he wished to ask but was left unanswered when something else appeared like a fog disappearing. A lying figure emerged from the same golden dust, forming an armoured figure, one he could recognise from the beginning. The figure looked to be asleep, but Messmer did nothing but stare.

It was only after what felt like a lifetime did the figure bolted upright, gasping at her throat as she desperately breathed in the air that had been missing from her lungs. She choked and wheezed, rasping life back into her she had been blessed to relive. Messmer thought that she had not even noticed him standing there until the Tarnished had finally turned to look up at him, a silence that had filled the air.

Even with the helmet covering your face, he knew that your features must've been matching his, for he had been the one to hesitantly move towards you, his eye still holding onto the site of grace, its golden roots dimly glowing in front of him.

"This," he could not find his words, for the right ones were stuck in his throat, "this is not some dream?"

"No," you finally answer him, your hand passing through the roots to show him, particles of golden dust pass through your fingers but do not show any indication of passing onto you. "This is your mother's grace, Messmer."

Indeed it was, he marvelled, for who was he when he was a mere cursed demigod, afflicted with the pain of a serpent within, and you, a Tarnished, were set for something far greater than him in his entire existence. A Tarnished he decided he would pour all into keeping close.

A/N: I hope this didn't feel rushed. I'm hoping to finally start the romance side of Messmer/Tarnished. It's taken him so long to realise his feelings and Tarnished too. Now, all they need to do is accept they like one another and give little smooches.

#messmer x reader #messmer the impaler #elden ring dlc #elden ring messmer #messmer x tarnished #shadow of the erdtree #part 13 #itstheendofthegoddamnworld writes #messmer fic #tarnished! reader #elden ring fanfic

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autumnshighlady · 8 months ago

Text

I've Always Liked to Play With Fire (part 27)

NESTA ARCHERON X ERIS VANSERRA X FEMALE!READER

summary: the long awaited wedding is here

warnings: IC slander, mentions of vomiting

word count: 5.2k

DO NOT REPOST ANYWHERE

a/n: i haven't updated in months and i am so sorry, my life completely spiralled again and someone very close to me passed so it has been rough and i have not been coping well. enjoy this chapter, we have about 4-5 more left in this story

part 1 // part 2 / part 3 / part 4 / part 5 / part 6 / part 7 / part 8 / part 9 / part 10 / part 11 / part 12 / part 13 / part 14 / part 15 / part 16 / part 17 / part 18 / part 19 / part 20 / part 21 / part 22 / part 23 / part 24 / part 25 / part 26 /

read on ao3

✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧✧

READER POV

TWO WEEKS LATER

Your stomach churned as if readying to unload what little breakfast you had eaten all over your skirts. The room seemed too small, too tight, bustling with servants whose sole focus was on getting you ready. The air was thick, choking your throat as you tried to breathe deeply. No matter how hard you tried, your lungs would not expand fully. The chattering voices of the servants, who were once silent shadows working under the dark cloud of Beron Vanserra’s rule, was drowned out amidst the noise in your brain.

Desperately fanning your face, you were lightly scolded by a young servant with bright red hair brushing out your eyebrows. “Don’t do that, my Lady!” She chided gently. “You’ll ruin my masterpiece!”

“Sorry…” You muttered, forcing your hands back to your sides. It had been a long time since you had worn a full face of makeup, and you had missed it greatly. The redhead servant had lined your eyes with kohl, smudging out brown and gold shadows on your lids. Your cheeks had been blushed and bronzed to perfection, and a thin, nude sheen across your lips.

At your apology, she looked shocked for a moment before the tenseness left her shoulders and she relaxed. Your heart ached for her, and for everyone who had worked for the past few centuries under Beron. His harsh rule would be a wound that only time would heal for many. It was evident in the behaviour of everyone in the palace – the surprise when simple mistakes were brushed off after an apology rather than a lashing, the rising warmth of the atmosphere in the palace that had once been silent and cold. Sure, Eris still ruled firmly and it would take a while for everyone to realise he was not his father. But little by little, the icy walls of the Autumn Court were beginning to thaw.

“Wedding nerves, I guess.” You said casually as a set of dangly gold earrings were placed on your ears. Never before had you had this many sets of hands tending to you. A tall male was carefully working on your hair, twisting a loose braid across the back of your head and artfully arranging the rest of your loose hair. Several times, you had attempted to sneak a glance in the mirror to see the full look, but too many servants stood in the way.

“It is certainly a big day for you, my Lady.” The redhead servant agreed, finishing the final touches on your face. Her hands were soft and delicate, light as feathers as she blended any smudges her expert eyes sought out. “An unusual event for the court, too.”

You tensed slightly. “I know it’s not your typical wedding or anything–” you began. But her soft chuckle interrupted you.

“Forgive me,” she said softly. “I did not mean for it to come across that way. It is a new beginning for everyone, and this place could do with some change. The only ones who have an issue with your marriage and title are the old courtiers and males stuck in their ways. But us servants do not share those beliefs. You have our support, my Lady.”

Your heart warmed at her kind and open words, and a smile found its way across your face. “What is your name?” You asked.

“Adelaide, my Lady.”

You gently grabbed her hand, giving it a squeeze. “Thank you, Adelaide.”

Adelaide smiled, dipping her head respectfully before grabbing her supplies and beginning the cleanup process. As the busy hands of the servants began to slow, you realised that the moment was approaching faster and faster with each moment. Finally, you took a deep breath, and when the servants retreated their hands for a moment, you shifted to face the large mirror across from you.

Awe filled you as you took in their work. Your hair was styled beautifully, leaving only a few soft strands framing your face while the rest curled down behind your shoulders. Your eyes were striking, the various jewellery you donned designed to match beautifully. Tears welled in your eyes as you finally drank in the sight of your dress. The soft white fabric had red roses and vines embroidered on the bottom of the skirts as well as the bodice. The sleeves were loose, gathering around your wrists in just the right way. The neckline was a modest V shape, complimenting the emerald necklace sat on your chest. For just a moment, your heart ached knowing your mother would never get to see you married. It made more tears well up.

“Now, now, what did I say about ruining my masterpiece?” Adelaide chided, taking a cloth and dabbing under your eyes to catch any stray tears.

“Sorry,” You winced, forcing your tears back. “You guys have done an amazing job. Thank you, all of you.”

The servants grinned proudly at each other, bowing their heads as they cleaned up at the speed of light. “Your escort should be here shortly to walk you down the aisle.” The male servant who had done your hair said. And then just like that, they were gone. Leaving you with your own thoughts.

Your heart was racing. After all these weeks of planning, it was finally here. You weren’t sure why you were nervous – you loved Nesta and Eris. This wedding, this moment of time, was everything you had worked for and more since your arrival in the Night Court. Every sacrifice, every hard choice, had all led to this day. Yet it hardly felt real, even as you stood in your wedding dress, staring in the mirror in awe of your reflection. Countless hours had been spent helping the staff decorate, tasting hundreds of food samples for the menu, sitting bored out of your mind with Nesta and Eris at various meetings regarding not just the wedding, but the official crowning ceremony as well. All of that led to this very moment. And you were sure you were going to vomit.

Thankfully, a familiar voice sounded in your head, halting your rising stomach juices. Please don’t throw up on your dress, I can feel your nerves from here. Nesta scolded. At the sound of her voice, you felt yourself relaxing a bit.

I make no promises, you replied. How are you so composed right now? I’m freaking out.

She snorted. I can tell. Are you forgetting I spent practically a decade training for this thanks to mother dearest?

Right. How could I possibly forget that?

You’ll be fine. We’ve made it this far, a wedding is nothing.

I wish I could see you right now.

Soon enough, love. Just wanted to check in. I’ll see you at the altar.

Ok. I love you.

I love you, too.

Your heart sung at her words. Hearing Nesta say she loved you was like listening to the most beautiful song you had ever heard, one you would never get tired of. The three of you had agreed to keep dresses a secret, saving the big reveal for the aisle. You were itching to simply run out of the room and seek out Nesta and Eris, desperately wanting to see them before the wedding.

A knock at the door interrupted your urges, and you shook your nerves off as the wood swung open to reveal Lucien. Your jaw dropped as your friend entered the room dressed in heavy green robes with gold accents and a long cloak. His hair was intricately braided back, accenting his chiselled, handsome, face. Lucien smirked at your reaction. “I know, I look hot.” He said, chuckling.

“This is the fanciest I’ve ever seen you dress.” You scoffed.

“Take it all in now, honey. Because it won’t happen again.”

You rolled your eyes. “As High Lady I order you to dress this nicely more often.”

Lucien let out a laugh. “I will defect to Winter Court if this new title keeps inflating your big head like this.”

Your cheeks hurt from smiling at this point. A comfortable silence settled over you and your best friend as Lucien looked you up and down. His voice was full of wonder as he spoke. “You look amazing. Truly.”

“Thank you, Lucien.” You said as you smoothed your skirts. The room began to feel stifling again as you realised he was here because it was time to walk down the aisle to Nesta and Eris. “Oh gods, it’s time, isn’t it?”

Lucien nodded, extending his arm towards you. “Yes. As much as it’s fun to see you freak out over your own wedding, it’s time to get it together. Your partners are waiting.”

You took one last glance in the mirror to make sure nothing was amiss before stepping off the pedestal with shaky legs, grabbing onto your friend’s arm. “Lucien?” You said tentatively, your voice sounding far away as you tried to calm your breathing. “Don’t let me fall.”

Lucien’s voice was gentle. “Never,” he assured you. So you clung onto his arm, willing strength into your body as you lifted your chin and followed him out of the room.

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

NESTA POV

Nesta steadied her breathing, thankful she had put on a brave face for you during your brief exchange. Truthfully, she was just as much of a wreck as you were. True, her mother had spent years priming her for marriage, but this was not what Mrs. Archeron had had in mind for her eldest daughter. For a split second, Nesta contemplated laughing at the image of her mother’s face as she looked up at the from Hell, crying out in horror at Nesta marrying two faeries, one of whom being a female. It would turn her in her grave for sure.

The servants that had scurried away a few moments ago, leaving Nesta with a few blissful minutes of peace before a guard would come to fetch her for her entrance. You and Eris had pressed if she was really okay walking down the aisle herself, considering you had Lucien and it was custom for Eris to walk alone. She had shook off the concerns, insisting she was more than capable of doing it herself.

But looking in the mirror at her red lined lips, beautifully coronet braided hair, and satin dress with a straight neckline, long sleeves, and gold detailing, she couldn’t help but feel like a child again. A little girl who wanted her mom and dad to hold her hand and tell her they were there for her. Not that either of her parents ever had, and for years Nesta convinced herself she didn’t care. She thought she was loved by them at first, too young to know that some types of love could be bad. And then she became tied to her mother, a moth trapped in the twisted spider web of a cunning woman’s plans to groom her young daughter to please men that rivalled her father in age. Her father had let this happen, not once standing up for her or pushing back on her mother’s harsh disciplining. Just like Cassian had with Rhysand.

Nesta shivered, as if shaking off the mere sound of Cassian’s name in her mind and pushing it as far away as possible. The Illyrian general was aware of the wedding most likely, as formal invitations had been sent out to all of the courts. At first, Nesta and you had pushed back against the Night Court being invited. “As much as I do not want them near us, I cannot do that,” Eris had begrudgingly told them. “It is customary for all court leaders to come and bend the knee to the new ruler, or rulers in our case. If they do not, it will tip the already shakey diplomacy scales within Prythian. But fear not, I added a personal note to their invite saying they were expected to come after the wedding ceremony. They will sneak in as we begin the crowning and acknowledge our leadership and then leave. They will not be here long.”

No reply was received, but Nesta knew some of the Inner Circle would be coming. Feyre was likely too pregnant and too ill to attend, and there was no way Mor would be talked into attending, much to Nesta’s relief. Rhys would have to attend, as would Amren. She had no idea as to what Azriel was currently doing, but her stomach churned at the possibility of Cassian and Elain being there. She prayed that they would elect to stay home. Nevertheless, Eris had assured her the dragons would be there behind the throne as they had been upon the wedding announcement, ready to intervene if needed.

As the clock ticked, Nesta felt those hateful thoughts swimming to the surface again. They had quieted in the past few weeks, letting her have peace from her own self hatred. But doubt began to fill her, and suddenly her dress was stifling.

She did not deserve to marry you, or Eris. Nesta was not worthy of your kindness and strength, nor Eris’s help and protection. Cassian had always mocked her for expecting to marry a prince, and not a low born bastard like him. But perhaps she did belong with someone who merely echoed the hateful things her own mind said to her.

Nesta wrung her hands together, practising her mind stilling as her thoughts threatened to consume her. But a gentle knock on the door broke her trance, and she straightened her back and smoothed out her skirts. After making sure she was composed, she said firmly, “Enter.”

It was not a guard who opened the door, but the familiar face of Lirilla. Her wavy auburn hair had been decorated with golden bits of hair jewellery, a red ribbon woven into the long braid that went down the back of her head. Her eyes were bright, her once skinny-figure now more filled out into the beautiful green gown she wore. “Hello, Nesta.” She said, closing the door behind her.

Nesta’s brows furrowed in confusion. “Is something wrong? Aren’t you supposed to be at the ceremony right now?”

Lirilla shook her head. “Everything is okay, my dear. But I come bearing an offer. One that you do not have to take, but I would be honoured if you did.”

Nesta cocked her head, but nodded for Lirilla to go on. “My son mentioned you were walking down the aisle alone, is that correct?”

“Yes.” Nesta said tightly. “I have no family here to give me away, so I will walk by myself.”

Lirilla took Nesta’s hand, rubbing gentle circles along her palm. “Forgive me if I am overstepping, but Eris tells me your relationship with your father was nonexistent, and your mother unpleasant. He said nothing more, but I also know that you were once human. And difficult parents or not, being given away at the altar is a common practice in the mortal lands. Am I correct to assume that?”

Nesta nodded stiffly, forcing the lump in her throat back down. No matter how many walls she put up, Lirilla could see right through her. “You know, I have always wanted a daughter who I could walk down the aisle.” The Lady of Autumn continued. “I understand you claim to be confident in walking yourself to the altar, but I know there must be some part of you clinging to that tradition from your old life. I would love to give you away, if you will have me.”

Nesta was glad she was not wearing heavy eye makeup, because a single tear escaped down her cheek. “I would like that very much.” She said through a choked voice. A mother’s love was something so foreign to her. All she knew of it was a twisted, cruel version that could not be considered any type of love. But the kindness in Lirilla’s face filled that void inside of her that her own mother left.

“Then let us get on with it.”

Nesta happily took her arm, allowing Eris’s mother to lead her from her room of solitude and towards the throne room. The closer they got to the large doors, the more the buzzing liveliness of the ceremony began to seep into her bones. She could feel the energy, the excitement of not only her mates, but the crowd as well. The stream of music began to fade as they reached the door, Lirilla nodding to the guards who spoke in whispers. She turned back towards Nesta as silence overcame the hall. “It is time,” She said softly.

Nodding, Nesta clenched tighter around Lirilla’s arm. It seemed like an eternity of waiting encapsulated in mere seconds as she waited for her cue. She took deep breaths, taking comfort in that bond within her that glowed with the presence of her mates.

Finally, the soft whistle of a flute rang from behind the doors, the start of the entrance music. She counted the seconds in her head, and after the 53rd second mark, the doors opened and she stepped through them.

A crowd far bigger than she had expected stood up. Candles and red, green, and gold flowers lined the aisle, similar decorations scattered across the throne room from every lamp, chair, and table. But Nesta did not look at the people, nor their dragons standing proudly behind the three thrones, their heads arching in through the open space. Her gaze was focused on the male at the altar underneath the archway of branches.

Eris was dressed in the most elaborate set of robes Nesta had ever seen. Gold and red draped his shoulders, a green cloak flowing behind him. A long sword rested on his hip, and a crown of gold sat atop his red hair. Her breath hitched in her chest at the sight of this male, her mate who had done so much to help her escape her prison in the Night Court. She almost stopped walking, but a gentle squeeze on her arm told her to keep going. She felt all eyes on her as she made her way towards the altar, but they were like whispers in the wind fading behind her, nonexistent as she focused on the male ahead of her. The soft music rang in her ears, a beautiful blend of notes that captured every emotion in her chest.

When she came to the end, Lirilla released her arm, giving her a soft kiss on the cheek before taking her seat in the front row. Nesta could barely breathe, barely move as Eris stood mere inches away. Eris smiled softly, his eyes tender as he took in the sight of her wedding dress. He extended his hand, which Nesta gladly took. His warm skin on hers brought her back to reality, snapping her out of her trance. He guided her up to take his place on his left side, just as they had practised.

With one last longing look at each other, Nesta and Eris turned to face the crowd, hands joined as they waited for you.

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

READER POV

Right on time, the guard nodded to Lucien as you rounded the corner, signalling that Nesta had taken her place at the altar and it was your turn. The tune shifted slightly, and you knew it was the two minute and forty second mark you had memorised as your cue. With one last reassuring smile from Lucien, you stepped through the open doors and into the throne room.

Your entire body was both numb and on fire as you took your first steps on the aisle. Never before had you been so grateful for Lucien holding you, for you would surely collapse without his support. You ignored the hundreds of eyes that studied you as you approached Nesta and Eris at the altar, their dragons behind them in the distance. Zorzîmril purred as she saw you, and your lips twitched with a laugh as a few guests flinched at the sound. The tune of the music carried you down the aisle, and with each step you took towards your mates the more confidence you felt. Everything you had done to escape the Night Court had been worth it, and this outcome was far better than anything you could have dreamed of.

Finally, you reached the end of your journey. Lucien bowed his head and kissed your hand before taking his place in the empty seat beside his mother. Your eyes pricked with tears as you drank in the beauty of your mates, from Eris’s elaborate robes to Nesta’s simple yet elegant gown. They looked perfect, and you were relieved that you had not seen them before the ceremony for you surely would have collapsed.

You took Eris’s extended hand, positioning yourself on his right side. After scanning the subjects before you per Eris’s prior instructions, the three of you turned towards each other, Eris stepping back slightly so a triangle could be formed and allow you to hold each other’s hand.

Behind you, a priestess stepped up under the archway, her blue robes shining in the light of the sunset behind her. When you snuck a glance at her out of the corner of your eye and saw familiar red hair and teal eyes, your eyes shot open.

The priestess was Gwyn.

You baulked, surprise evident on Nesta’s face as well momentarily. Eris simply winked, and you bit your tongue to refrain from scolding him for all these surprises. You snuck a glance at Gwyn in shock, and she simply let out a smug smile before composing herself and lifting her chin to address the crowd. A squeeze from Eris’s hand urged you to compose yourself as well.

“Citizens of the Autumn Court,” Gwyn’s voice rang clear and strong through the throne room, and pride swelled in your chest. When you had first met Gwyn, she had refused to leave the library. For her to do something like this for you and Nesta was a testament to the nymph’s bravery. “We are gathered here today to witness the marriage between Eris Vanserra, High Lord of the Autumn Court, and Lady Nesta Archeron, and Lady (Y/N) Dreamfyre.”

You felt Nesta almost go giddy with excitement, and you squeezed her hand. You hadn’t heard your last name in ages, and now it was about to change entirely. It was bittersweet – a farewell to your old life, and the start of a new one.

“It is a day that marks a new era for the Autumn Court,” Gwyn continued. “One that marks the reign of a High Lord alongside two High Ladies. May the Mother bless this day and send good fortune to all within the realm. In the sight of the Mother, I hereby see you these three souls, binding them as one for eternity. Look upon one another and say the words as you bind yourselves in magic.”

In unison, you, Nesta, and Eris all spoke the words you had memorised weeks ago. Words that would be sacred on your lips, a seal of the promises you made to each other. “I am yours and you are mine from this day until the stars collide and eternity comes to an end.” From Eris’s palms, an orange flame emerged, curling around your left wrist and Nesta’s right. It was soft and warm against your skin, flickering gently. A silver flame from Nesta found your other hand, wrapping into it and Eris’s as well. It was colder, like the soothing waters of a creek. You took a deep breath, summoning the power of life within you that you had been practising for the last few weeks.

Bright white light emerged from your palms, tinted with flicks of blue as it eagerly wound itself with Eris’s flames in your left hand and Nesta’s in your right. So the three of you stood, magic entwining and singing a celestial song. Life, death, and fire mixed together, purring against your skin as it hummed. On your ring fingers on both hands, a small tattoo appeared. It was a delicate vine with leaves, wrapping around the finger like a ring. The same appeared on Nesta and Eris’s fingers – a symbol of your marriage, one that could never get lost or fade.

As the light of your entwined magic faded, your throat was thick with emotion as you gazed between Nesta and Eris with nothing but love. Gwyn’s voice continued proudly. “It is time for the exchange of vows, which have been written personally by each of the individuals before me. May you speak these words honest and true in the light of the Mother.” With that, the priestess stepped back slightly, giving Eris a nod before shooting you and Nesta a wink.

Eris cleared his throat. “Many males may envy me, for I have the two most beautiful brides in Prythian before me,” He began. “It is a dream of many to marry the perfect partner, a dream that most people are not fortunate enough to achieve. I am blessed to have not one, but two partners and achieve this dream. But Nesta, (Y/N), you are not just my brides. You are my mates, my equals, the force that binds me to this world and allows me to open my heart up.”

Eris turned towards you, amber eyes glowing with pride as he spoke. “(Y/N), you have a strength that rivals the foundations of the earth. Your selflessness and resilience through hard times is something I intend on admiring until the end of my days. You make this world a better place, your presence is like the sunlight that emerges over the mountains on the morning of winter’s chill. I am honoured to have you as my mate, and I will love you until the end of time itself.”

You could no longer hold back the tears that now flowed down your cheeks. Eris was staring at you with such intensity you felt like you were going to burst into flames right there and then. Long gone was the cold mask of indifference that he had sewn onto his face to survive in the harsh reality of Beron’s court. Everyone in the room could see his vulnerability, his love, how he was willing to open up that part of himself for the world to see.

Eris then turned to the other female beside you. “Nesta, you are as wild and untamable as the sea. A force of nature with a determination that inspires me to make change happen in a world that pushes against you. You have been through so much toil and conquered everything in your path, and you have my utmost respect and admiration. I am honoured that you have trusted me on this path.”

You saw Nesta’s face tight as she tried to conceal her emotions. Her lips stretched into a smile, her eyes giving everything away. You took in a deep breath, knowing it was your turn next. The words had been rehearsed in your head for days, playing in your head on a loop. Normally you hated speaking in public, and the thought of talking about your feelings in front of such a large crowd. But it all fell away in the background, and you spoke confidently. “Nesta, I don’t know how I would have gotten through these last few months without you,” you said to her. “You have been my rock ever since I met you, and within the first few weeks of our time together I knew we would blaze through this world like a wildfire. You are strong, you are smart, and I will love you until there is nothing of me left.

“Eris, you have proved yourself to be the most selfless male I have ever met. I love your witty remarks, your sharp mind that is never still for a moment, always conjuring up various ideas and schemes. I love you, and I cannot wait to begin this new chapter with both of you by my side.”

They gently squeezed your hands, the action sending a warm sensation down the bond. The dragons cooed gently from behind you, the rumble echoing throughout the vast chamber. Beside you, Nesta took a deep breath. It wasn’t a secret that she was the most nervous of the three of you to speak her vows. It was difficult for her to say how she feels even with just the two of you, let alone in front of an audience.

But her voice was strong as she spoke, no hint of hesitance of nervousness. “Eris,” She began, her grey eyes meeting the High Lord’s amber ones. “When we first met, one of the things you told me was ‘like calls to like’. I thought that you were simply referring to our powers, but I now realise that it reflects our relationship as well. You match me in mind and soul, and I owe you a debt I can never repay. Both of you.” Nesta turned her blue-grey eyes towards you. “(Y/N), you saved my life. You picked me up when I was at my lowest point, you helped me turn things around. You showed me that life was worth living and gave me the strength I needed. I love you, and my life would not be the same without you.”

Tears swam in her eyes, making you choke up. You glanced at Lucien in the crowd, who was looking at you both with pride in his eyes. Beside him, Lirilla was dabbing at her wet eyes with a cloth.

“In the name of the Mother, by the power vested in me, I declare you wed.” Gwyn said proudly, voice ringing out clear as day. “Citizens of the Autumn Court, I present to you: Eris Vanserra, Nesta Vanserra, and (Y/N) Vanserra.”

Cheers arose from the crowd, filling you with happiness. Initially, you had expected a strained crowd, filled with disapproving whispers. But if they existed, they were easily drowned out. Leaves fell softly from the ceiling like confetti, and the dragons roared as one. Eris pulled your hands, and the three of you pressed your foreheads together. You were all grinning happily, and the High Lord stepped back for a moment and you pulled Nesta in for a kiss. Her soft hands cupped your cheeks as yours rested on her waist, her lips pressing sweetly into yours as the crowds cheering continued. It was a brief kiss, but passionate nonetheless. Your heart sang as Eris kissed you next, his slender fingers lifting your chin up to meet his mouth. Your insides melted at the pure love pouring from both kisses, mind spinning as you stepped back while Eris moved to Nesta and kissed her in the same manner.

Scanning the crowd, you say a sea of happy faces. It seemed even those who had sneered weeks before had either come around, or learned quickly to put on a happy face. But something tugged at you, urging you to look further. And then you saw them.

At the back of the crowd stood Rhysand, Amren, Azriel, Cassian, and Elain.

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