#a slowly growing collection... ❤

[shinxthecreator]

Overstimulation with Nanami Kento

You ask your husband Nanami to try overstimulation with you

❤︎ Warnings ; SMUT, fem!reader, overstimulation, unprotected sex, p in v sex, spanking, cunnilingus, fingering

I think that’s it, if I missed any let me know! Enjoy

It was a Sunday afternoon and you were lounging on the couch next to your husband, Nanami. You were squirming in your seat as lewd thoughts took over your brain. There was something you’ve been wanting to try for a while, and you decided today was the day to bring it up to your lover.

“Kento?” You spoke quietly. His hand lightly squeezed your thigh where he had been lightly caressing a moment prior.

“Yes my love?” He looked over at you. You paused for a second, collecting yourself. It was now or never and this was something you really wanted.

“There’s something I’ve been wanting to try with you,” you started. You now had his full attention as he turned his body towards you. His eyes began searching yours as you paused.

“What is it?” He asked.

“Well, I really want to try overstimulation…” your voice got quieter as you finished the sentence, head now hanging down to avoid making eye contact with him. It was silent for a moment, causing your nerves to strike and you peeking up to look at him. What you saw made your breath come short.

His eyes were dilated, and you noticed his hand stopped moving on your thigh. Within a moment of catching your eye again, a smile slowly grew on his face.

“Are you sure darling?” He checked. If this was something you were going to try, he wanted to make sure you were 100% sure about it. He can’t lie though, even just the idea excited him, and he hoped to the heavens that you were sure. You took a second to think about it, and with one final breath you answered.

“Yes.” That was all it took for his mouth to end up on yours, kissing you gently at first and getting deeper as the seconds passed. His hand on your thigh squeezing tighter into your flesh. Soon enough, he grabbed both of your thighs before wrapping them around his waist. As soon as they were secure, he stood up, hands cupping your butt and massaging as he walked you both to your room.

He continued to kiss you the whole way there, before breaking apart to lie you down on the bed. You both began taking off your clothes and as soon as you were both bare he began kissing you again. His hands roamed your entire body, squeezing at your flesh. He started at your thighs, and then slowly moved up to your breast, caressing your body on the way. He began playing with your nipples, pinching and lightly pulling them, making you moan into his mouth.

“K-Kento, please, more” you breathed in between kisses. His mouth moved down to kiss your jaw and then your neck, stopping to suck bruises into your skin. Once he was satisfied, he moved down to your chest, taking a nipple into his mouth and sucking while his hand massaged the other. You were breathing heavily now and your hands found their way into his hair, brushing it back from his face and using it to hold his head in place. After a minute, Nanami pulled off and looked at you.

“You’re so beautiful, I can’t wait to ruin you.” He said breathily. Your heart rate sped up at this confession, and you felt your core twitch with excitement. He began placing kisses all over your stomach, moving lower until he was face to face with your clit which he quickly licked and sucked into his mouth.

Immediately you let out a loud moan, head thrown back into the pillows. Your hands grabbed at his hair, now tugging the strands. Nanami continued to lick and suck at your clit. His tongue swiped at your entrance, and soon enough his tongue was plunging inside. He began fucking you with his tongue, his nose simultaneously rubbing at your clit as he did so.

“FUCK Kento, ‘s so good, please, please, please” You pleaded. You weren’t exactly sure what you were pleading for but you just knew you wanted more as you felt the heat growing in your lower belly. Within the next few seconds you were having your first orgasm, rubbing frantically against Nanami’s face, pulling harshly at his hair to which he moaned deeply. He continued to lick at you, slurping up all your wetness. When you stopped convulsing, he came up to look at you.

“You taste so good baby,” he kissed you, allowing you to taste yourself on his tongue “Now gimme another one.” He breathed against your mouth. You then felt a finger swipe against you, collecting your juices before thrusting into you.

“Mmf Kento, more, please” you begged. His free hand caressed your cheek as he lightly shushed you before adding another finger. His thrusts slowly became faster, and he brought his thumb to circle your clit at the same time. You began breathing harder and felt yourself building up again quickly. The sounds of squelching from his fingers riled you up even more. Nanami then grabbed both your legs with his free hand and pushed them up to your chest. You started moaning even louder at the new angle, his fingers hitting the right spot with every thrust.

“F-f-fuck Kento, baby, I’m gonna cum, gonna cum” your voice became higher in pitch as you reached your climax once again. Nanami moved his hand faster as you began squirting clear liquid all over his arm. He stared right at your center with hungry eyes, watching as you squirted just for him. He removed his fingers and immediately went back down to lick you clean, moaning with every swipe of his tongue. You were so sensitive at this point you began to shake and push at his shoulders. You let out a squeak as he swiftly smacked your ass.

“I’m not done with you yet, you have to do that again for me darling” he spoke from between your legs. Nanami was no monster, so he gave you a few seconds to relax as he lightly massaged your thighs. However, once those seconds were up, he quickly flipped you over onto your stomach, grabbing you by the waist to lift your ass into the air.

“I’m gonna fuck you now baby” he said as he swiped the tip of his dick in between your folds. You let out a broken moan at the feeling, feeling so used and loved at the same time, and you absolutely loved it. This is exactly what you wanted and he was giving it to you. After a moment, you felt the tip of his dick slowly begin to enter you. Once the tip was in, Nanami immediately pushed his hips against yours, bottoming out in a second. You let out a small squeal of surprise, immediately followed by a moan at the feeling of being so full of your husband.

“I’m sorry baby I just need you so bad right now” Nanami grabbed both your wrists and held them against your back with one hand, his other holding your waist as he began to fuck you. Fast, hard, and deep thrusts which had you moaning continuously. You could hear Nanami grunting behind you which made you even wetter. His dick continued to hit your g-spot with every thrust and his balls slapped your clit. It was absolutely delicious and you were lost in the feeling. You felt so good it almost felt like you couldn’t breathe, lost in the pleasure. Soon enough you began to feel the telltale signs of your impending orgasm.

“K-Kento I c-can’t” you attempted. You felt Nanami’s grip on your waist tighten a bit before he answered.

“Ssh, it’s ok baby, just let go I got you.” With that, you let out a loud moan before cumming on his dick. You could hear how wet you were through his continued thrusts, riding you through your orgasm. You knew that you definitely squirted again. After another minute, Nanami came inside you, thrusting deep to push all his cum inside. When he was done he collapsed by your side. Still firmly seated inside you, he wrapped his arms around your waist and pulled you into his chest.

“How was that, my love, are you satisfied?” He asked. You couldn’t help the smile that grew on your face at the question, going over everything that just happened in your mind.

“Yes, absolutely, thank you Kento.” You grabbed his hand and kissed it before returning it to its original spot around your waist. You both were sure that this was definitely something you wanted to try again in the future.

[arlerts-angel]

ONGG i just read ur softdom!armin x shy!afabreader and wanted to request – what if armin found out reader has started to steal his hoodies so she could get off somehow because she didn’t know how to ask him for pleasure? 🤭🤭 (‘m sorry the meds are making me crazy-)

note: are you kidding me!! 😩🤤 this was so much longer than i intended hnjksjshdj i love this anon!! i hope you enjoy too ❤︎ also!good morning, i've finished proofreading this at 10:30 am lolol

cw: armin x shy!afab reader are roommates, olfactophilia, voyeurism, masturbation (m! and f!), pet names (angel, pretty)

18+ ❀ minors kindly dni ❀

for a couple of times now, you've raided armin's hamper of previously worn clothes. it's too intimidating to ask him to help you get off, so you instead take his hoodies to aid in pleasuring yourself. you smell them, taking in his scent. his clothes smell so warm and inviting, like he'd swallow you whole in a hug or rearrange your guts. either one would suffice.

you take the hoodies back to your room and strip down to your bra and underwear. you lay back on your bed and begin to touch yourself as you breathe in his scent. you let out a few soft and quiet moans. though you are alone, you're still too bashful to make lewd sounds any louder. when you're aroused enough, you slide the second hoodie over your pillow and rise to your knees, placing the pillow between your thighs. you bring the other up your nose and begin to grind your clothed pussy against the pillow and let your imagination of armin run wild.

"armin–" you moan. freudian slip. you shut your mouth, but unbeknownst to you, the "damage" is already done. armin came home quite early from the library today. your door was ajar, giving him just enough of a view. he indulges in the scene before him, getting hard at the sight of you.

he slowly unbuttons his pants and slides his boxers down just enough to free his cock, hard and leaking precum. he spits in his hand and begins to stroke his cock as he watches you. he knows good and well he could just walk in and fuck you right then and there, but it was more exciting trying not to be caught. he has thought of this very moment many times, more than he'd probably like to admit.

you grind against the pillow covered by his hoodie more desperately now. your bed squeaks slightly and your slew of curses and moans of his name bring him close to his orgasm. his strokes grow faster and his breathing becomes unstable.

you moan his name one last sinful time and ride out the high of your orgasm. the sound of his name leaving your lips sends him over the edge. stringy ropes of cum collect in the palm of his hand. he dashes to the bathroom to clean up. you throw on a big t-shirt and walk back to return the hoodies to their designated hamper.

you are stunned by his presence like a deer in the headlights. he looks at the hoodies in your arms and back at you, his eyebrows raised. "what are you doing with those, y/n?" he asks innocently, as if he didn't just see a thing, much less cum to it. you're a stuttering mess trying to come up with an excuse. he grabs your chin gently and looks into your eyes, grinning devilishly.

"you're so sweet..." his voice trails and so does his hand. he gently grabs your hair in his fist and lifts your head up slightly, earning a soft moan from you. he looks in your eyes, still grinning. "i've got something that feels much better than my hoodies, angel."

shit, he saw. your heart is in your throat, but you manage to ask what he means. his grip on your hair tightens a little more, making you wince. "you know what i'm talking about, don't you? tell me what you were doing with those." he replies. why the hell is this turning me on? you think to yourself.

"i-i was, masturbating." you admit. you are well aware that he's loving this. he nods and lets go of your hair, his hands sliding down your body, stopping at your waist. "now... tell me y/n, do you want me?" he asks softly in your ear. you nod in response. "use your words, pretty. tell me exactly what you want." he coos.

"i want you to fuck me." you say without hesitation. he picks you up and carries you to his bedroom. "see? that wasn't too hard. just say that next time, angel."

[jyotishdiaries]

Hello! How are you? I hope you're happy and healthy! Can you speak on AK saturn in mrigashira ♉ 8H and AMK sun in purva bhadrapada ♒ 5H please? Thank you so much for your energy and wish you best luck! ❤

Hi! I am well ❤ Thank you for your wishes. Let’s break it down and explore what it might feel like to carry AK Saturn in Mrigashira in the 8th house and Sun in Purva Bhadrapada in the 5th:

Saturn (AK) in Mrigashira, 8th House

First, Saturn as Atmakaraka shows a core soul lesson you are here to master. In the 8th house, Saturn brings karmic weight and a deep desire to uncover truths, both of the world and of yourself. And Mrigashira brings curiosity, restlessness, and an explorer’s mind.

What this creates:

A soul that craves answers. You may go through many transformations or psychological breakthroughs in this life.

You could have had to grow up quickly or experienced early life situations that made you question what’s safe or stable.

Mrigashira gives you the ability to observe quietly and process deeply. It’s a nakshatra of wandering, and Saturn here may bring lessons around trusting your own pace and accepting life’s uncertainties without fear.

Because it’s in Taurus, this Saturn wants security, but the 8th house brings constant emotional or situational change. That creates tension. You’re learning to feel rooted within yourself, rather than external structures.

Saturn AK in the 8th = someone whose power comes from having faced the dark, survived it, and slowly grown into a wise guide.

Sun in Purva Bhadrapada, 5th House

Now here comes the contrast. The Sun in the 5th is expressive, radiant, and creative. It wants to shine. But Purva Bhadrapada is a deeply spiritual, intense, and often paradoxical nakshatra associated with lightning, transformation, and a “piercing” inner vision.

This Sun says:

“I want to lead with purpose, but I’ve seen too much to be naïve.”

Your creative expression might come from confronting taboo topics, exploring the unknown, or channeling deep emotional wisdom.

In the 5th house, this can make you an unforgettable teacher, artist, or romantic partner because you bring depth into spaces where others only skim the surface.

It’s in Aquarius, so you’re likely someone who thinks for the collective, but doesn’t always feel ���understood” by it. You care about truth, justice, and awakening consciousness, but may also carry a sense of loneliness or alienation at times.

Together: Saturn AK in 8H + Sun in PB 5H

A mix of maturity and intensity. Your Saturn wants inner stability and long-term understanding of power. Your Sun wants to shine.

You’re here to:

Walk between worlds: spiritual and material, personal and collective, seen and unseen.

Transform pain into purpose, and express something sacred through creativity, insight, or teaching.

Hope that helps! Happy to look at some of your other placements too.

[novaursa]

After having processed it, my thoughts on Lion's Folly's ending:

Poor Eddard is practically dancing in his grave at this point from all the turning he's doing; Sansa's forced to watch his death and was held captive by his enemies, even forced into a marriage with one of them, Robb gets murdered alongside his beloved wife, Arya, Rickon, and Bran are scattered across the land in haphazard places, and his eldest daughter is forced to marry arguably the last guy in Westeros Ned would approve of. Then on top of all that, instead of allowing his wife the peaceful respect of a final rest, she gets resurrected wrong and ends up murdering his first daughter.

Even dead, the poor guy can't find peace.

Also, my condolences, Jaime. In another life, she survived the execution attempt and you got everything you wanted. Just not in this one. Sorry, man. Better luck next time. Kudos for growing as a person... kinda.

And poor Y/N. Offed by her own mother's orders. The girl lived the epitome of a shaggy dog story. I'm glad she didn't die alone and had one final moment to say goodbye. It was clear she knew she wasn't going to survive, and at least there was a final understanding.

Winter, you are best boy and she could not have been given a better direwolf. I know I speak for all the story fans when I say that our hearts collectively broke for you and your loss. Run free and find somewhere to belong. You deserve the most out of anyone in the story. ❤

Lady Stoneheart killing her off for being married to a Lannister makes me worried for Sansa. Maybe the wedding is considered voided since it was never consummated, but I'm not sure the vindictive zombie-ghost is operating at peak capacity logic-wise. For all we know, Sansa might be next and Jon, too, if she can't tamper down her hatred of him. 😱

Nova, thank you for sharing this masterpiece. I've read the first half maybe 40 times in the weeks you spent slowly updating it. I'll probably read through the entire thing another 40 times, let's be honest.

Thank you, for reading it and sticking with me through it all. 🫶

(and that you for sharing your thoughts with me)

I've said it before and I'll say it again: I wouldn't be here without you guys. I'm glad my works can bring you comfort and a way to escape this crazy reality, at least for a little while.

I hope to see you on the next adventure with me. Take care. ❤️

[antishaman]

self indulgent personal headcanons that i will be adopting on to my blog canon timeline❤

all of this is cult era

it took suguru roughly around 8 months to establish complete control over the time vessal association, with a lot of the help coming from shiu kong, in which suguru turned the temple into a cult worshipping himself. that's not to say that he's self-centered and narcissistic, but he holds shamans to be on higher pedestals, so it only makes sense for them to worship him

he and shiu have a strictly business relationship where he acts as a mediator to luring people afflicted with curses to the temple, or suggesting to people to stay the night at the temple if they're not locals (easier to dispose of their belongings). this is because the temple serves many functions, and part of that is acting as a hostel for tourists or travelers to stay for the night if they have no where else to go. some of these rooms have veils set in place for curses to eat the unsuspecting visitors, in which suguru will wait for the curses to get stronger before ingesting them. shiu also handles blackmailing corrupt politicians, priests, landlords, ceo's, etc. these people are then forced to drain their bank accounts, transferring that money into suguru's cult, and then being killed once they serve no more purpose

on the topic of veils, he has many set within the temple. people snooping around where they shouldn't enter a veil and cannot leave, ultimately being fed to the curses lurking. beneath the temple, he has one in place specifically as a torture chamber for the people who target either him or his family. in there, there are curses that will slowly eat away at these people but never kill them. the only way that they'll die is if the veil gets lifted, so they could just be getting eaten forever and be suffering

suguru often takes care of the recruitment for officers in his maniacal dream (the ones he refers to as his family), and then those officers handle recruiting others with cursed energies and techniques into his army. a lot of these people do join because they develop a surface level crush on him, but he has a series of tests put in place to ensure that they're trustworthy enough to join. failing any of these tests just means death.

his mental health is declining during the ten years he's overseeing his dream. he's a lot more sassy, unhinged when it comes to people (monkeys), and has nasty mood swings when dealing with them. he has no patience for disobedience, for his rulings being questioned, for people coming up to him in casual mannerisms. his disgust grows stronger each day, but he never makes his family reciprocate his ill feelings. miguel isn't the only one to notice suguru's mental decline, but they've established a solid relationship, and miguel wants to see everything through to the end

while he doesn't hold these grudges against other shamans, he does hold any that plot against and attack his family in contempt. coming after him is fine; he may even try to recruit them lol

during this time is when he met naraku. they started off with a business-like relationship with a strict understanding that both could very well betray the other. naraku was to help suguru with his plan while suguru helped to find the scattered cursed objects known as the shikon jewel shards. what he didn't know is that naraku already had a bunch found, and what naraku doesn't know is that suguru had every intention of devouring him once the jewel was complete and naraku turned into a stronger curse

their relationship started to slowly turn a bit more ambiguous. naraku is a curse born from ages long past with knowledge that's faded and been lost to time, and suguru was willing to accomodate him for this knowledge. he let naraku eat curses that suguru had been fattening up, let him eat the money collecting monkeys that were drained dry, etc etc. neither of them fell in love with each other, but they both enjoyed this dangerous game of toeing the thin line of enemies to confidants

they are both manipulative to the other, however suguru thinks he has more control when he really doesn't. this works out in naraku's favor as he starts realizing how fractured suguru's mind really is, and works on breaking it more. suguru being self-destructive, starts to pick up on these poisonous seeds that naraku has been planting closer to his death, in which it doesn't matter anymore

[ibelieveinghost]

7/20/24

more hot and humid days. stayed in and basically blocked everything out + read fanfic last night... i feel better now. less drained. gosh, it's all moving so fast now. hope i'm getting better at navigating madness like this. i am. ain't i?

had a meeting with my future boss/who feels like a friend now yesterday. was very pleasant and uplifting in a way, haha. i think i'll enjoy working at that new position! a lot to be learned! right now i kinda need to continue working on my Japanese. and learn to pace myself better and not burning out too soon/too often. that might be the biggest challenge! but yeah, challenges. those are what i live for haha

anyway! gotta keep going. gotta figure it out along the way!

since i haven't been posting any photos at all i am going to throw in a few. oh they are gonna be so random lol my photo feed has been chaotic as hell lately

（view from our hotel room window at shodoshima)

(slowly putting my room together/50% done. just built my bed today, rearranged a bit, and waiting on my old desk to be picked up and delivered. everything should be in place by the end of month. loving how it's turned out so far)

(house warming gift my mom got me during the trip!!!)

(my growing pin collection)

(this train)

(this mall/train station complex thing. i fell so hard for it)

(green❤）

(yea we boarded this completely by accident and needless to say i was very excited that day haha)

(and like what are the chances of accidentally boarding another super cool limited express train that only runs a couple of times a day???)

(prob my 20th time visiting Yokohama lol. now that i live so much closer i can see it happen even more often)

still got a lot more but i'll stop for now:)

[siffrins-therapist]

Fic authors self rec! When you get this, reply with your favorite five fics that you've written, then pass on to at least five other writers. Let’s spread the self-love❤

🥺🥺🥹 Thank you! ❣️

Cinder-Maddie Ame/nyoCan. It's a Cinderella retelling, and Maddie sneaks away to a masquerade ball being held at the palace. There, she meets a gentleman who seems to be growing more concerned about her wellbeing me more Maddie mentions her family.

Their Little Agreement canonverse Can/Ame. I don't write canonverse much, but this was fun, and I really like the vibe I got, Alfred struggling with his Puritan upbringing but choosing fun and indulgence is how I like portraying him in the rare instances I'm not writing an AU lmao

Specifically chapter 7 of this ger/ita collection. It's based on an old RP that never got finished, but I still really like the idea, and Omegaverse is fun to play with. I'm not always sure how well I'm writing Feliciano, but I really like how I wrote him in this, and it's just mostly fluffy sweetness with some mild angst (but not lingered on).

This is Why We Sing Anyway Pru/nyoGer. There's only 1 chapter up so far and it's on hiatus for now, but I still love this AU 💞💞💞 Spiritfarer helped me alot when something happened that I don't want to post about here. I haven't been able to play lately, but I love it so much and loved thinking of Monika taking up the responsibility of being a new spiritfarer and all the people from her life seeing her again, while Monika slowly pieces together what her life had been like 💗💗

Will You Catch Me This Time? Pru/Ger. Okay, this fic ia kinda my baby, ngl. Monika inherited a condition from her dad that makes it so she turns into a man (Ludwig) every night and becomes a woman again during the day. She's been struggling keeping a job and friends because of it, so when her brother Gilbert offers her one at his company, she agrees. I've changed the outline to this fic like 5 times now, and I'm still not 100% on how it'll end, but I love all the drama, Monika slowly coming out to more people, losing and gaining friendships and getting reacquainted with her brother, who almost feels like a stranger at first since they'd lost touch for so long.

[orcelito]

Current persona manga collection 👍

I decided to get the 3rd volume of mementos mission and the 9th volume of the p5 manga since I have a Bit of free spending money now. It makes me very happy to have a growing collection 😊

[omgkatherine01]

The Sun in the Dragon House - Chapter 3 - Training Disaster

Series Masterlist

Chapter 2, Chapter 4

Pairing: Aemond Targaryen x fem!reader & Aegon II Targaryen x fem!reader & Jacaerys Velaryon x fem!reader

Please comment, like and share ❤

Morning light filtered through the curtains of their family chamber as Criston sat at the small wooden table, breaking his fast with bread, cheese, and a small cup of watered wine. Vera joined him a short while later, her hair freshly braided and her face washed clean. The stiffness from the previous evening seemed to have melted away overnight.

They ate in companionable silence for several minutes, the only sounds the gentle clink of cups against the wooden table and the distant calls of birds outside their window. It was a peaceful moment, one of those quiet interludes that Criston treasured amidst the constant vigilance required of a Kingsguard.

"Father," Vera began innocently, breaking the silence as she reached for a piece of bread, "have you given any more thought to teaching me how to use a sword?"

Criston nearly choked on his wine. He set the cup down carefully, regarding his daughter with a mixture of exasperation and disbelief.

"Sweetheart," Criston started, setting down his cup, "we discussed this yesterday. And the day before. And the day before that." He counted off on his fingers. "In fact, I believe this is the ninth time you've asked me this week."

Vera blinked up at him, her dark eyes growing wide and mournful. Her lower lip protruded slightly in a practiced pout that had melted many hearts throughout the Red Keep, including Queen Alicent's on numerous occasions. It was an expression Criston had come to recognize as particularly dangerous to his resolve.

"But Father," she said softly, her voice taking on that pleading quality that usually weakened his determination, "I only want to learn to protect myself. Isn't that what you've always taught me is important? Being safe?"

Criston pressed his lips together, steeling himself against the sad eyes that had so often swayed his decisions in the past. "There are guards to protect you. And myself, of course."

"But what if you're not there?" Vera persisted, leaning forward earnestly. "What if something happens and I'm alone?"

"That won't happen," Criston said firmly. "You are never without protection in the Red Keep."

"Ser Harrold showed me his sword collection yesterday," Vera said, changing tactics swiftly. "He explained all about the different types and their uses. He said I asked very intelligent questions."

Criston nodded slowly. "I'm sure you did. Ser Harrold appreciates curiosity. But I notice you said he showed you the swords--not that he let you handle them."

Vera's pout deepened. "Well, no. He didn't let me touch them." She picked at a piece of bread on her plate, crumbling it between her fingers. "But that's exactly why I need you to teach me! I want to know how it feels to hold one properly."

"The answer is still no, Vera," Criston said, his voice gentle but firm. "A lady does not need to wield a sword. You have other lessons to focus on--your letters, your history, your needlework."

"Needlework," Vera muttered with such disgust that Criston had to suppress a smile. "What good is embroidery when someone is attacking you?"

"You could perhaps stab them with the needle," Criston suggested dryly, "though I imagine it would not be terribly effective."

Vera glared at him, clearly unamused by his attempt at humor. She crossed her arms over her chest, her breakfast forgotten as disappointment clouded her features.

"It's not fair," she declared, slumping back in her chair. "What about the warrior queens from Dorne? Father, we're Dornish! Surely you know those stories. Queen Nymeria led ten thousand ships! She must have known how to fight."

Criston raised an eyebrow, impressed despite himself by her historical knowledge. "Reading beyond your assigned lessons again, I see."

A flicker of pride crossed Vera's face before she remembered she was supposed to be upset with him. The pout returned in full force.

"I could be careful," she promised. "We could start with wooden swords, like Prince Aemond uses. No one would even have to know."

Criston reached across the table to take her small hand in his. "Vera, listen to me. The life of a warrior is not a game. It's not glamorous or exciting like the stories make it seem. It's dangerous and painful."

"I know that," she insisted. "I'm not a baby."

"No, you're not," he agreed, his expression softening. "You're growing into a fine young lady. One who will find many ways to be strong without needing a sword in her hand."

Vera withdrew her hand from his, her disappointment evident in every line of her small body. She pushed her plate away, appetite gone.

"May I be excused?" she asked stiffly.

Criston nodded, watching as she rose from the table with as much dignity as her ten-year-old frame could muster. She didn't look back as she headed for the door, her shoulders set in a stubborn line that reminded him painfully of himself.

As the door closed behind her, Criston sighed deeply, running a hand over his face. He knew this wouldn't be the end of it. Vera had his determination—a trait he usually praised, except when it was turned against him.

----------

A few hours later, Vera sat on the wide stone steps in the hallway leading to the library, her fingers moving absently over the carved wooden chess pieces arranged on the board between her and Prince Aemond. Sunlight streamed through the tall windows, casting long shadows across the polished marble floor.

"Your move," Aemond prompted, studying her face rather than the board.

Vera blinked, forcing her attention back to the game. She moved her knight without much thought, a mistake that Aemond immediately capitalized on by capturing her bishop.

"That was careless," he said, setting her piece aside. "You're not playing like yourself today."

Vera shrugged, her usual competitive spirit notably absent. She stared at the board without really seeing it, her thoughts clearly elsewhere.

Aemond leaned forward, his silver-gold hair falling across his forehead as he lowered his voice. "What's wrong? You've hardly said a word since we started playing."

When she didn't immediately respond, he reached across the board and gently tapped her hand. "Vera?"

She sighed, finally meeting his violet eyes. "It's nothing important."

"It must be something," Aemond insisted, "for you to sacrifice your bishop so carelessly." A small smile played at his lips. "You never let me win so easily."

Vera's shoulders slumped. "I asked my father to teach me how to fight."

"And he refused," Aemond guessed, his expression knowing.

"Again," Vera confirmed, twisting a pawn between her fingers. "Nine times now. I've kept count. So did he." She set the pawn back on the board with more force than necessary. "He won't even consider it. Says it's not proper for a lady."

Aemond nodded thoughtfully. "Ser Criston is... traditional in some ways."

"In all the wrong ways," Vera muttered. "He's a knight sworn to protect others, yet he won't teach his own daughter to protect herself." She moved another piece without strategy, her frustration evident in the jerky movement. "It's not fair, just because I'm a girl."

Aemond studied Vera's downcast expression, his brow furrowing in concern. Deep down, he didn't know what to do to cheer her up. The chess game lay forgotten between them, pieces arranged in a battle neither was truly fighting anymore.

Vera suddenly looked up, her dark eyes meeting his violet ones. "You could teach me," she said, the words coming out in a rush.

"Me?" Aemond blinked in surprise. "But I'm still in training myself."

"I know," Vera acknowledged, leaning forward eagerly. "But you do know how to handle a sword. Better than most boys your age."

Aemond hesitated, rubbing the back of his neck. Her words held truth - Master Ormund had often praised his form and dedication. Still, the thought of going against Ser Criston Cole, the finest swordsman in the Kingsguard...

"I don't want to go behind your father's back," he said carefully. "He would be furious if he found out."

"No one needs to know," Vera insisted, her voice dropping to a whisper. She glanced around the empty hallway before continuing. "We can find somewhere private to practice. There are plenty of places in the Red Keep no one ever visits."

Aemond's fingers drummed against his knee as he considered her request. Teaching Vera would mean defying not only her father but also potentially angering his own mother if they were discovered.

But when he looked at Vera's pleading expression, the hope shining in her eyes, he found his resolve crumbling. He couldn't bear to disappoint her the way her father had. Besides, wasn't it unfair that she should be denied the chance to learn simply because she was a girl?

"All right," he said finally. "I'll teach you."

Vera's entire face transformed with joy. Her smile was radiant as she reached across the chess board to squeeze his hand gratefully. "Thank you, Aemond! You won't regret it."

"I already do," he muttered, but there was no real resistance in his tone. "We'll need wooden practice swords. I can probably take two from the training yard without anyone noticing."

"When can we start?" Vera asked, already gathering the chess pieces with new energy.

"Tomorrow," Aemond decided. "There's an old storeroom in the east wing that no one uses anymore. Meet me there after midday prayers, when everyone is resting."

Vera nodded eagerly, her earlier melancholy completely vanished. "I'll be there."

Aemond watched her practically bouncing with excitement and couldn't help smiling despite his misgivings.

----------

The following day, Vera slipped away from her chambers the moment Septa Eglantine dismissed her from her midday prayers. She had spent the morning in a state of barely contained excitement, earning several reproachful looks from the septa for her fidgeting during lessons.

The east wing was quieter than the rest of the castle, its corridors less traveled and dimly lit. Vera moved quickly, her soft leather shoes making little noise on the stone floor. When she reached the abandoned storeroom, she found the door already ajar, a sliver of light spilling into the hallway.

"Aemond?" she whispered, pushing the door open wider.

The prince stood in the center of the room, which had been cleared of its dusty furniture to create an open space. Two wooden practice swords lay on the floor beside him. He had changed from his usual finery into a simple tunic and breeches, his silver-gold hair tied back from his face.

"You came," he said, looking both pleased and nervous.

"Of course I came!" Vera closed the door carefully behind her. "I wouldn't miss this for anything."

Aemond nodded toward a small bundle beside the swords. "I brought you something to change into. Those skirts will trip you up."

Vera lifted the bundle to find a pair of breeches and a linen shirt that looked like they might have belonged to Daeron. "Where did you get these?"

"Don't ask questions you don't want answers to," Aemond replied with a small smirk. He turned his back politely. "Hurry and change. We don't have much time."

Vera quickly slipped behind a large wooden cabinet and changed into the borrowed clothes. The breeches felt strange against her legs, but there was a freedom to them that she immediately appreciated. When she emerged, Aemond was testing the weight of one of the practice swords, swinging it in careful arcs.

"How do I look?" she asked, extending her arms.

Aemond turned and nearly dropped the sword. For a moment, he simply stared, something unreadable flickering across his face. "Different," he finally managed. "But good different."

Vera grinned and moved to pick up the second practice sword, but Aemond shook his head.

"Not yet," he said. "First, I need to show you how to stand."

For the next hour, Aemond proved himself a surprisingly patient teacher. He showed Vera the proper stance, how to position her feet, how to hold the wooden sword without straining her wrist. He corrected her form with gentle touches to her elbow or shoulder, always explaining the reason behind each adjustment.

"Your balance is important," he explained, demonstrating by shifting his weight from one foot to the other. "If you're off-balance, you'll fall with the first strong blow."

Vera mimicked his movements, her face set in concentration. When she finally got to hold the practice sword, the weight of it surprised her, making her arm dip momentarily.

"It's heavier than it looks," she admitted.

"This is actually lighter than what we train with," Aemond told her. "Master Ormund says we build strength by practicing with heavier weapons than we'll use in battle."

By the time their hour was up, Vera's arms ached pleasantly, and a thin sheen of sweat covered her brow. She hadn't managed anything like actual swordplay yet - Aemond had insisted they focus entirely on stance and grip - but she felt a deep satisfaction nonetheless.

"Same time tomorrow?" she asked hopefully as they prepared to leave, her back in her dress.

Aemond hesitated. "We should be careful not to establish too regular a pattern. Someone might notice." He thought for a moment. "Three days from now."

Vera nodded, trying not to show her disappointment at having to wait so long. "Three days, then."

They fell silent as they walked down the corridor, the afternoon light casting long shadows through the high windows. Vera glanced sideways at Aemond, noticing the thoughtful expression on his face as he stared ahead.

"Aemond?" she said softly, breaking the silence between them.

"Hmm?" He turned to look at her, his violet eyes questioning.

"Could you..." Vera hesitated, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "Could you teach me High Valyrian?"

Surprise flickered across Aemond's face, his eyebrows rising slightly. "You want to learn High Valyrian?" he asked, studying her with newfound curiosity.

Vera nodded, suddenly feeling self-conscious under his gaze. "Yes."

Aemond considered her request for a moment before shrugging lightly. "Sure," he said, his voice casual though his eyes remained thoughtful. "I can teach you."

They turned a corner, passing a pair of servants who bowed respectfully as they walked by. When they were alone again, Aemond glanced at her. "Are we still meeting later at the library?"

"Yes," Vera confirmed with a nod, "if you didn't find something better to do."

Aemond slowed his pace, a shadow crossing his features. He seemed to wrestle with something before finally asking, "If Jacaerys knew High Valyrian, would you have asked him instead?"

The question caught Vera off guard. She blinked, considering his words before shrugging uncertainly. "I don't know. I guess so." She tilted her head, studying his expression. "Is that a problem?"

"No," Aemond said quickly, shaking his head. But something in his eyes told Vera he wasn't being entirely truthful. "No problem at all."

They walked in silence for several more steps before Vera gently bumped her shoulder against his. "I asked you because I trust you," she said softly. "And because you're my friend."

The tension in Aemond's shoulders eased slightly, though he kept his gaze fixed ahead. "We'll start tomorrow then," he said, his voice lighter than before. "After your lessons with the Septa."

"Thank you," Vera replied, a warm smile spreading across her face.

As Vera and Aemond walked through the corridor, the sound of rapid footsteps echoed against the stone walls. They paused, turning to see who approached with such urgency.

Lucerys Velaryon came bounding toward them, his brown hair tousled and a wide grin lighting up his face. Behind him, Jacaerys followed at a more measured pace, his expression carefully composed as he caught sight of Vera and Aemond together.

Aemond's posture stiffened instantly. He let out a barely audible sigh, violet eyes narrowing as the Velaryon boys approached. The annoyance on his face was evident—another moment with Vera interrupted.

"Lady Vera!" Lucerys called out excitedly, skidding to a halt before them. "We're going to sword lesson. Are you coming to watch?"

Vera glanced briefly at Aemond before offering Lucerys a smile. "I suppose I could," she replied, tucking a strand of dark hair behind her ear.

Jacaerys stepped forward, his brown eyes meeting Vera's. A small smile played at the corners of his mouth. "You might get bored rather quickly," he warned, his voice gentle. "It's mostly just drills and footwork today."

"I won't get bored," Vera assured him confidently. "I find swordplay fascinating."

Aemond's lips curled into a smirk as he regarded Jacaerys. "Why wouldn't you want her there, Jace?" he asked, his voice dripping with false innocence. "Could it be that you're not particularly skilled with a sword? Afraid to embarrass yourself in front of her?"

A flush crept up Jacaerys's neck as he glared at Aemond, his hands clenching into fists at his sides.

Before the tension could escalate, Lucerys reached for Vera's hand. "Come on!" he urged, tugging her gently. "We don't want to be late or Ser Criston will be cross."

Vera allowed the younger prince to lead her away, casting an apologetic glance over her shoulder at Aemond. Lucerys chatted animatedly as they walked, describing the new move their master-at-arms had promised to show them today.

Aemond's smirk widened as he looked at Jacaerys once more before deliberately brushing past him to follow Vera and Lucerys down the corridor. Jacaerys remained where he stood for a moment, his jaw tight with unspoken words, before reluctantly following after them.

The training yard was already bustling with activity when they arrived. Squires and pages rushed about carrying equipment, while servants filled water buckets for the thirsty fighters. Prince Aegon stood in the center of the yard, practicing lunges with a blunted tourney sword. Ser Criston Cole supervised him closely, calling out corrections to his form.

As Vera entered the yard with the three princes, her father looked up, surprise crossing his features before settling into a questioning frown.

"Ver, what you doing here?" Criston asked, stepping away from Aegon.

"I was invited to come and watch the training," Vera answered, her voice carrying a hint of defiance despite her innocent expression.

Criston's eyebrows drew together. "You have a lesson with the Septa," he reminded her, his tone stern.

Vera's eyes widened slightly as realization dawned on her face. "Oops..." she murmured, having genuinely forgotten her scheduled lessons.

Behind her, Aemond and Aegon exchanged amused glances, both poorly concealing their smirks. Criston observed his daughter for a long moment before sighing in resignation.

"All right, we'll speak to her later," he conceded with a nod. He gestured toward a wooden bench at the edge of the yard. "Go sit there."

Vera settled onto the bench, smoothing her skirts as she watched the princes take their positions. Ser Criston returned his attention to the boys, his demeanor shifting noticeably as he addressed them. When he spoke to Aegon and Aemond, his voice carried encouragement, with a firm but patient tone. But when he turned to Jacaerys and Lucerys, his words became clipped and cold, his dark eyes regarding them with barely disguised disdain.

She'd always known of his dislike for the Princess's sons, of course. When she was five, he'd even tried to forbid her from playing with them. Vera had responded with a day of complete silence—refusing to speak a single word to him until he relented. It had been, according to Criston himself, the worst day of his life.

As the training continued, Vera observed how her father consistently favored Aegon and Aemond, spending more time correcting their techniques and offering praise when they executed a move correctly. Meanwhile, Jacaerys and Lucerys received only cursory instruction, their efforts met with critical remarks regardless of how well they performed.

Criston clapped his hands sharply. "Enough drills! To the dummies, all of you. Show me what you've learned."

The princes moved quickly to the straw-filled practice dummies arranged along the eastern edge of the yard. Each boy selected a target, drawing their training swords with varying degrees of skill and confidence.

A new figure appeared at the entrance to the training yard—Ser Harwin Strong, his broad shoulders and imposing height making him instantly recognizable. He leaned against a wooden post, arms crossed over his chest as he observed the princes' training with particular attention to Jacaerys and Lucerys.

Vera noticed her father's jaw tighten at Harwin's arrival. The tension between the two men was palpable even across the yard.

At the castle wall King Viserys had sat on his chair, with Lord Lyonel Strong, the Hand of the King and Harwin's father, at his side.

Jacaerys lunged forward with particular enthusiasm. He drove his practice sword deep into the belly of his training dummy, the impact sending straw flying. His moment of triumph was short-lived.

Aemond approached silently from behind, his movements quick and purposeful. With a precise strike, he knocked Jacaerys's sword from his hands, sending it clattering across the stone pavement.

Jacaerys whirled around, his face flushing with anger as he glared at his uncle. Aemond stood with his practice sword still extended, fighting visibly to keep a smirk from forming on his lips.

"Don't stand too upright, my Prince," Criston called out, his voice carrying across the yard as he observed the two boys. "You'll get knocked down."

The advice, delivered with such casual indifference, only deepened the color in Jacaerys's cheeks. He turned away, striding toward the weapons rack to select another sword.

Aemond watched him go before returning to his own dummy with renewed vigor, his strikes becoming more precise, more controlled, as if Jacaerys's humiliation had somehow improved his own technique.

Vera's attention shifted to Prince Aegon, who was attacking his dummy with ferocious intensity. Each blow landed with impressive force, sending bits of straw flying in all directions. His silver-gold hair clung to his forehead with sweat, his face flushed with exertion.

The sound of feminine laughter caught Aegon's attention. He paused mid-strike, his head turning toward two young maidservants who were crossing the yard with baskets of linens. A slow smile spread across his face as he straightened, running a hand through his hair in a gesture that was clearly meant to be impressive.

The maids noticed his attention, exchanging quick glances before lowering their eyes and quickening their pace, their expressions carefully neutral despite the prince's obvious interest.

Vera couldn't help but roll her eyes at Aegon's behavior. At thirteen, he already fancied himself irresistible to any female who crossed his path. The fact that these girls clearly weren't interested seemed to escape his notice entirely.

"Aegon!" Criston's voice cut through the yard, stern and commanding.

The prince turned toward the Kingsguard, not at all abashed by the reprimand. Instead, he gestured to his thoroughly battered dummy with a triumphant smirk.

"I've won my first bout, Ser Criston," he announced, his voice carrying a note of smug satisfaction. "My opponent sues for mercy."

Criston nodded, his stern expression softening slightly with amusement. "You'll have a new opponent then, My Lord of the Straw," he replied, striding toward the weapons table. "Let's see if you can touch me." He selected a blunted tourney sword, testing its weight with a practiced hand. "You and your brother."

Aegon's eyes widened with excitement at the challenge while Aemond's expression turned serious. The younger prince glanced at Vera, seeking her reaction, before returning his attention to her father. Both princes moved toward Ser Criston with determined strides, wooden practice swords gripped tightly in their hands.

Vera felt someone approach and turned to see Ser Cedric Blackpool take a seat beside her on the bench. The young Kingsguard knight gave her a friendly smile.

"Hello, Ver, what you doing?" he asked, his Northern accent still noticeable despite years in King's Landing.

"Hello, Ser Cedric. The Princes invited me to watch today their training," she replied with a bright smile. Her eyes drifted back to the scene unfolding in the yard, a mischievous smirk playing across her lips. "And to watch my father beat them up."

Ser Cedric's laughter rang out across the yard as he settled more comfortably on the bench. "That he will, little lady. That he will."

In the center of the yard, Aegon and Aemond had taken positions on either side of Criston, attempting to flank him. The Kingsguard knight stood relaxed, his stance deceptively casual as he held his practice sword with the ease of a man who had spent a lifetime mastering its use.

Aegon attacked first, lunging forward with a powerful overhead strike. Criston sidestepped effortlessly, the wooden blade missing him by inches. Aemond seized the opportunity to thrust toward Criston's exposed side, but the knight pivoted smoothly, deflecting the blow with a subtle twist of his wrist.

Vera noticed Ser Harwin Strong watching the fight with particular intensity, his eyes narrowed as he studied Criston's movements.

"You're gonna have to do better than that," Criston said with a smirk, not even breathing hard as the princes regrouped for another attack.

Aegon and Aemond circled Criston, exchanging glances as they coordinated their next attack. Aemond feinted left while Aegon moved right, trying to divide Criston's attention. The Kingsguard remained centered, his eyes flicking between them, anticipating their movements.

Aemond charged at him again, his practice sword raised high. Criston blocked the attack with his sword, sliding it down Aemond's blade with practiced precision. In the same fluid motion, he extended his reach to lower Aegon's incoming sword and swung his hand in a swift arc, catching Aemond squarely in the chest.

The impact sent the young prince sprawling to the ground with a heavy thud.

Vera winced and let out a soft sigh as she watched Aemond hit the dirt. Beside her, Ser Cedric chuckled at the display.

Taking advantage of Criston's momentary focus on Aemond, Aegon ran towards him with his sword pointed directly at his chest. The reckless charge made Vera chuckle lightly—despite her father's earlier words, he had taught her enough about swordplay to recognize the foolishness of such a straightforward attack.

True to her expectations, Criston ducked beneath the thrust with graceful ease. As Aegon's momentum carried him forward, Criston pivoted and smacked the prince's backside with the flat of his practice sword.

Aemond pushed himself up from the ground, brushing dirt from his training clothes. His eyes immediately sought Vera at the stone bench. She gave him a small smile of encouragement, which he returned with a slight nod before walking toward Aegon, who was now leaning on his sword.

The brothers exchanged quiet words, likely plotting another strategy against their formidable opponent. Their conversation was interrupted when Ser Harwin Strong stepped forward from his position at the edge of the yard. He tore his eyes away from Criston and looked at Jacaerys and Lucerys, who had been watching the sparring session from the sidelines.

"Weapons up, boys," Harwin called out, his deep voice carrying across the training grounds. "Give your enemies no quarter."

Vera looked from Harwin to her father, noticing how Criston was now staring at the Strong knight coldly. The transformation in her father's demeanor was stark and immediate. Gone was the patient instructor, replaced by something harder, colder. The way he was staring at them... he looked so much different at that moment, which made Vera shiver.

"It seems the younger boys could do better with a bit of your attention, Ser Criston," Ser Harwin said while walking around the training grounds, his tone deceptively casual though his eyes remained challenging.

Criston's jaw clenched visibly. "You question my method of instruction, Ser?" The words came out clipped and dangerous.

"I merely suggest that method be applied to all your pupils," Harwin replied evenly, stopping a few paces from Criston.

Jacaerys and Lucerys stood next to Aemond and Aegon, their expressions a mixture of nervousness and determination. Aegon, still flushed with exertion, gave Lucerys a playful push, sending the younger boy stumbling slightly to the side. Lucerys recovered with a small chuckle.

Meanwhile, Aemond and Jacaerys locked eyes, their mutual dislike evident in the hard stares they exchanged. Neither boy made any attempt to hide their animosity.

Criston surveyed the four princes, his expression calculating. "Very well," he announced, his decision made. "Jacaerys, come here."

With a swift movement that took everyone by surprise, Criston grabbed Jacaerys by his collar, pulling him forward. The boy stumbled slightly, caught off guard by the rough handling.

"You spar with Aegon," Criston declared, releasing his grip on Jacaerys's collar.

Aegon and Aemond immediately broke into laughter, exchanging pleased glances. From her seat on the bench, Vera frowned, her brow furrowing with concern as she watched the scene unfold.

"Eldest son against eldest son," Criston announced as he stepped back, a satisfied gleam in his eyes.

Jacaerys flinched visibly when Criston let go of him. His eyes darted frantically toward Ser Harwin, seeking support. The Strong knight was glaring at Criston, his large hands clenched into fists at his sides.

"It's hardly a fair match," Harwin protested, stepping forward. His voice carried the weight of barely controlled anger.

Criston turned to face him, his expression coldly amused. "I know you've never seen true battle, Ser, but when steel is drawn, a fair match isn't something anyone should expect."

Vera bit her lower lip, conflicted. Her father's words held truth—she'd heard him say similar things many times during his rare discussions of combat. Yet watching Jacaerys's pale face as he gripped his practice sword, she couldn't help but worry. Aegon was not only older and stronger but also known for his lack of restraint.

Aegon swaggered past Jacaerys, patting him on the shoulder with mock camaraderie. The wicked smile that played across his lips promised no mercy in the coming bout.

Criston took his position at the edge of the training circle, his satisfaction evident as he looked between the two eldest sons. "Blades up," he commanded.

Lucerys stood at the sidelines, his young face a mask of anxiety as he watched his brother prepare to face the much larger opponent. He gulped visibly, his fingers twisting together in a nervous gesture.

Nearby, Aemond leaned back casually on his sword, the tip pressed into the dirt as he smirked at Jacaerys's obvious discomfort. The younger Targaryen prince was clearly enjoying the spectacle.

"Engage."

Aegon wasted no time. With a battle cry that echoed across the yard, he charged at Jacaerys, his practice sword swinging in vicious arcs. Jacaerys retreated hastily, focusing on avoiding the onslaught rather than attempting to counter.

The flurry of attacks drove Jacaerys backward across the yard. Lucerys and Aemond had to dodge quickly to avoid being caught in Aegon's wild swings, the younger boys scrambling out of the way as the uneven match continued.

Despite his disadvantage, Jacaerys managed to parry several blows, his footwork proving more nimble than expected. For a brief moment, it seemed he might hold his own.

Then Aegon changed tactics. Feinting left, he stepped in close and used his superior weight to shove Jacaerys hard. The younger boy lost his balance and fell backward, landing hard on the packed earth of the training yard.

Aegon stood over him, laughing triumphantly before turning and walking away, his posture radiating smug satisfaction.

Jacaerys's face flushed red with humiliation and anger. Rather than accepting his defeat, he scrambled to his feet, his chest heaving with each rapid breath. Something in the boy's eyes changed—the timidity replaced by a fierce determination that seemed to transform him entirely.

Without warning, Jacaerys bolted forward, wooden sword gripped tightly. The sudden counterattack caught Aegon completely off-guard. The older prince barely had time to turn before Jacaerys was upon him, driving him backward with unexpected strength and speed.

Aegon's eyes widened in surprise as he stumbled backward, desperately trying to regain his footing. Each of Jacaerys's strikes came faster than the last, the practice sword whistling through the air with newfound precision. The training yard fell silent except for the sharp clack of wood against wood and Aegon's increasingly labored breathing.

Ser Harwin's face split into a proud grin as he watched his charge force the arrogant prince steadily backward. King Viserys leaned forward in his chair, suddenly attentive, while Lord Lyonel Strong's eyebrows rose in appreciation of the display.

Aegon's back hit the training dummy, leaving him nowhere to retreat. Panic flashed across his face as Jacaerys pressed his advantage, wooden sword raised for another strike. In a desperate move, Aegon ducked behind the straw figure, grabbing it with both hands and heaving it directly at his opponent.

The stuffed dummy flew through the air, straw spilling from its seams as it hurtled toward Jacaerys.

"Aegon!" Vera cried out, leaping to her feet in outrage.

Ser Harwin was already striding into the training circle, his face thunderous. "Foul play!" he bellowed, positioning himself between the princes.

Criston's head turned sharply at the sound of Vera's voice, his expression changing as he seemed to suddenly remember his daughter was witnessing the entire scene. Something shifted in his demeanor—a subtle softening around the eyes, a slight lowering of his shoulders.

"I'll deal with him," Criston stated firmly, meeting Ser Harwin's challenging gaze. He beckoned Aegon with a sharp gesture.

The silver-haired prince approached sullenly, his earlier triumph evaporated. Criston placed a hand on Aegon's shoulder, leaning close to speak words too quiet for others to hear. Though his face remained stern, there was none of the harshness he typically showed when disciplining the Velaryon boys.

Across the yard, Ser Harwin crouched beside Jacaerys, offering similar counsel. The Strong knight's massive hand rested supportively on the boy's back as he spoke, his expression encouraging despite the circumstances.

Vera returned to the bench beside Ser Cedric, her dark eyes still tracking the unfolding scene with concern. She caught her father glancing over his shoulder at her, his expression unreadable before he released Aegon with a final word of instruction.

The moment Criston stepped away, Aegon's face contorted with fresh anger. "You!" he shouted, pointing accusingly at Jacaerys.

Vera frowned deeply as Aegon stalked toward the younger boy with renewed purpose. Jacaerys pushed Ser Harwin gently aside, squaring his shoulders as he prepared to meet Aegon's renewed attack. As Aegon launched into another series of attacks, Jacaerys focused on evasion, ducking and weaving with surprising agility.

"Close with him."

Aegon listened to Criston's words, and Jacaerys began to realize in a panic that he was not going to win this fight. Aegon tried to attack him at close range, which made it impossible for Jacaerys to dodge or really fight back with his sword.

"Press him backward! Close with him! Stay on the attack! Use your feet!"

Aegon kicked Jacaerys down to the ground.

"Don't let him get up."

Aegon started attacking again, Jacaerys didn't have time to get up.

"Stay on the attack!"

"Enough!" Ser Harwin yelled, lunging forward with startling speed for a man his size. He grabbed Aegon by the shoulders and threw him bodily away from Jacaerys, sending the prince sprawling across the training yard dust.

Vera let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding, her knuckles white where she gripped the edge of the bench.

Aegon scrambled to his feet, his face contorted with rage and disbelief. "You dare put hands on me?" he shouted, his voice cracking with fury.

"Aegon!" King Viserys called sharply from his seat, the warning clear in his tone.

Criston stepped forward, his hand resting meaningfully on the hilt of his sword. His eyes were cold as he addressed Harwin. "You forget yourself, Strong. That is the Prince." He nodded toward Aegon, whose chest heaved with indignation.

Ser Harwin's massive shoulders tensed as he stood protectively near Jacaerys. "This is what you teach, Cole?" he asked, his voice dangerously quiet as he began collecting the scattered practice swords from the ground. "Cruelty... to the weaker opponent?"

Harwin walked past Criston, deliberately ignoring the wooden sword that was tossed at his feet.

"Your interest in the princeling's training is quite unusual, Commander," Criston remarked, his voice carrying across the suddenly silent yard.

Vera frowned deeply, recognizing the dangerous edge in her father's tone. She'd never heard him speak that way before—the words seemed coated in venom.

Harwin bent down, focusing intently on gathering the remaining swords, his back rigid with tension.

"Most men would only have that kind of devotion toward a cousin..." Criston continued, turning to face Harwin directly. The training yard had gone deathly quiet, every eye fixed on the two knights. "Or a brother... or a son."

At that final word, something snapped in Ser Harwin. He stood abruptly, the swords clattering to the ground as he clenched his jaw and whirled toward Criston. His fist connected with the Kingsguard's face with a sickening crack.

Vera gasped, jumping to her feet in horror. Beside her, Ser Cedric leapt up as well, rushing forward to intervene.

Harwin's massive fists pummeled Criston with frightening speed, driving him backward against the weapons rack. Blood sprayed from Criston's nose as he struggled to defend himself against the larger man's fury.

Jacaerys and Lucerys backed away from the violence, their faces pale with shock. Aemond grabbed his brother's arm, pulling Aegon back with him toward the edge of the yard.

"Father!" Vera shouted, her voice cracking as she rushed forward. Two guards moved with her, racing to separate the brawling knights.

Before Vera could reach the brawling knights, strong arms wrapped around her waist from behind, lifting her clean off her feet. She let out a startled cry as Aegon pulled her away from the violence, turning swiftly to position himself beside Aemond.

"Let me go!" Vera struggled against Aegon's grip, her eyes fixed on her father's bloodied face. "I have to help him!"

"You'll only get hurt," Aegon grunted, tightening his hold as she twisted frantically in his arms. His breath was hot against her ear as he added, "Be still, Vera."

Aemond stepped in front of them protectively, his violet eyes wide as they watched the chaos unfold. Ser Cedric had reached the fighting men now, his white cloak billowing as he and two guards attempted to pull Ser Harwin's massive form away from Criston.

"Breakwater, help me!" Ser Cedric shouted to one of the guards, straining against Harwin's bulk.

The guard grabbed Harwin's right arm while Ser Cedric secured his left. Together with the second guard, they managed to drag the enraged knight backward, his boots leaving furrows in the dirt as he fought their restraint.

"That's enough!" King Viserys's voice thundered across the yard. He had risen from his seat, Lord Strong at his side looking ashen.

With a final heave, the guards and Ser Cedric pulled Harwin away from Criston, who slumped against the weapons rack, blood streaming from his nose and a cut above his eye. Harwin continued to struggle against his captors, his face contorted with fury as he spat curses at Criston.

Only when Ser Harwin was fully restrained and being dragged forcibly from the training yard did Aegon finally release his hold on Vera. The moment her feet touched the ground, she bolted toward her father.

Taglist:

@thenovelcarnival, @mynameisbaby9, @carriellie, @parizparis, @xcharlottemikaelsonx, @daddysfavoritesexkitten, @uselessbutinteresting, @hc-geralt-23, @babyblue-chaos, @azaleapotterblack, @hydrationqueensworld,

[howl-fantasies]

Very special talent

A/N - So! Since I'm back from the dead, let's work here on this lovely request sent by @flaysthings : "Is there anyway you can do another Oswald x assassin/hitwoman reader?? Yet more in the romantic side? You can do whatever you want, but can the reader be the more dominant one? It doesn't have to be smut, but reader is just more in control 😅"

In this OS, the reader is not in relationship with Victor. She’s Oswald’s trusted hitwoman and work alongside Zsasz from time to time, but that’s it. I didn’t wrote smut here, I was on a fluff spree but kept the reader being the more dominant one, Oswald being the cute simp and dork we all know and like ❤

I hope you’ll like it :). 

Warning : bad words, mention of violence, torture, Gotham - yeah it’s a warning in a way 🤷‍♀️ - English mistakes, it’s not my first language, I’m working on it. 

Word count : 2,505

“Excuse me, come again?” Asked the standing woman, her bored tone betrayed nothing of her surprise if she had any. Seated just in front of her on a crate in the back of Fish’s ex club, Penguin sighed with his face in his hands. 

His shoulders were pretty tensed and she could clearly see his growing distress, just looking at how he rubbed his hands on his forehead. 

“I said, Fish escaped! Pay more attention Y/N! Victor called this morning to inform me. And since Butch didn’t come to work today, I suppose he was the one who broke her free!” He snapped, only to see her blink, not bothered the slightest by his terrible mood. 

He was truly amazed by her capacity to stay calm when he yelled, threaten or break everything around him. Like she always did, she just stay silent and wait for him to collect himself, her eyes now looking absentmindedly at something on his left, indicating she was somewhere in her beautifully complex mind, maybe analysing what he told her and how to act knowing Fish Mooney would probably be somewhere, plotting something against him. 

She had to blink a few times when Oswald’s fingers snapped a few centimeters away from her face and focused on him again. “Happy to see you back, my dear. Care to share what took you away from our current major crisis?” Asked Cobblepot harshly, not really liking to be the only one to panic right now. She couldn’t help herself and chuckled a bit seeing his frustration taking the best of him. 

“Relax, Oswald. The mean Fish isn’t behind you pointing a gun on the back of your head”, She chuckled again and didn’t resist the need to tease the little man in front of her who jolted like the thunder had just stroke him and glared at her, seeming ready to behead her with a broken glass bottle. 

“Relax? RELAX? Are you losing it Y/N?!” He asked, making a disbelieving face, like he was at this very moment questioning her sanity. “HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO RELAX WHEN FISH IS PLANNING TO KILL ME WITH ONE OF MY CLOSEST GOON, WOMAN?!” He yelled so loud she could see the walls shake. 

Y/N sighed deeply and suddenly put her hands on his shoulders to stop his ranting and furious movements. “Enough.” She demanded in a very cold voice, which surprised him so much he froze. Never before the woman talked to him like this. 

She also rarely touched him. His astonishment reached another level though, when he felt her hands move from his shoulders to both of his cheeks, holding his face so she was able to look him straight in the eyes.

“Oswald.” She spoke in a commanding tone. He only gulped, too shocked to answer and not really sure about what to say or how to act with the woman’s face now very close to his. His blue eyes, couldn’t help but note the intensity of the e/c one pinning him on his spot. 

“I said, relax.” She continued. “Fish doesn’t have any ally in town right now. She can’t do anything for the moment. And since she’s an intelligent woman, she will try to flee far away from the city to wait until things cool down.” She slowly nodded, as an encouragement for him to do the same. Which he did. She had a point. 

“Now Butch, said the woman, isn’t really a problem. Victor told me a bit about how he conditioned his mind last time. Since he’s good at what he does, I think Butch would still be obliged to obey you. So you’ll just have to order him to do something conflicting, like killing that bitch, and he would be struggling between his loyalty to you and her. He would be literally unable to do anything. Isn’t it great?” She beamed. 

This piece of information made him frown a bit. “I don’t know if I should be glad or highly disturb by the fact that Victor and you talked about torture as if you were chatting about the weather...” He muttered, making her shrug a bit. 

“Well just be grateful I could stomach it and learnt a possibly valuable thing”, She sighed, slowly moving away from him and making him regret the warmth of her hands and the comforting effect they had on him. 

He would never tell the hitwoman, but her cool-tempered personality always helped him to calm down and focus his sharp mind on the next steps of their survival instead of throwing the china all around the room. Yes, THEIR survival. 

He would never tell her that too, but he she was one of the few he could really trust to have his back, maybe the closest he had to a friend with Ed and sometimes Jim. 

Even if Y/N and Oswald’s official collaboration started a few months ago when Carmine Falcone asked her to be his personal body guard, assassin or whatever he wanted, they already met and had the occasion to work together, her being the Godfather’s emissary to collect informations about Maroni, Fish and Nikolaï from him. 

Contrary to the three of them, she always was polite with him, really was interested in his answer when she asked him how he was feeling, being a double...triple...quadruple? agent and even a few times offered him her help if he needed it. 

When he asked her if Carmine was the reason why she was so “kind” - as much as one could ever be in a city like good old Gotham -, she grinned sadistically before laughing, pretty hard at that.

He took offense, he remembered, but she explained him her generosity wasn’t because of Falcone. In fact, she talked about three reasons she had to act like she did with him. 

First, she knew what game he was playing with the main underworld’s protagonists, and thought he played it remarkably well knowing the constant poor hand he seemed to have. 

Second, because she saw the pure intelligence he tried to hide behind his weak reactions and persona. “Don’t get me wrong, without the element of surprise, you would be dead in a fight.” She said. “I know it but more importantly, you’re clever enough to know it too, Mr Cobblepot, I respect you greatly for that. And since you’re aware surprise is one of your best weapons, you always find a way to create one with this brilliant mind of yours, it’s a very special talent you have here.” 

If he was a flustered mess after her praise, he definitely created a very new shade of red when came her final reason : “I don’t know why and can’t really explain it but I seem to have a soft spot for you, my dear.” He wasn’t able to articulate an intelligible word for a long time after her absolutely illogical last explanation. 

Oswald wasn’t stupid, he knew pretty well good looking women like this one wouldn’t really want to flirt with him. He wasn’t strikingly beautiful, didn’t have tons of money to woo them with, like he suspected Carmine did with that Liza girl at first, before investigating her case, and didn’t have that much power at this time. So hearing someone as Y/N saying she had a soft spot for him confused him beyond measure.

Fingers snapped in front of his face brought him back to present. “Welcome back boss, care to share what took you far away from our major crisis?” She mocked with a mischievous grin when she saw him paying attention again. Oswald perfectly felt his cheeks starting to burn in embarrassment as well as his ears and his neck. 

He had to clear his throat once to be sure his voice wouldn’t fail him and make him more ridiculous in front of the woman, who spoke again. “Someone was thinking about something inappropriate or are you simply catching a cold with your sorry ass seated on a poor crate in the back of your brand new HQ?” She teased, looming a bit and worsening his flustered state. 

“Dont use those foul words Y/N! it’s not ladylike!” He snapped, jumping on the scolding excuse to avoid having to explain where his thoughts drove him a minute ago. “But you have a point here, ma chère, I’m not going to stay prostrated here waiting for everything I work so hard to have to collapse because of Fish and Butch escape.” He said while gritting his teeth. 

In a second, he was on his feet, grabbing her hand  without even realizing it, and pull her out of the room until they reached the main office of the club. Now, he had to think and fast, to be able to secure his new position and ensure Fish ex men wouldn’t try to turn against him when they would hear Falcone lost her. 

He limped to the huge leather armchair and graciously sat on it, one of his hand curled in a fist under his chin while the fingers of the other rhythmically tapped on the polished wooden desk in front of him. 

Next to him, on his right, she was standing, waiting patiently for the inevitable to come : “Y/N.” He called, after ten good minutes, turning slowly to be able to look at her properly. 

She didn’t answer but was attentive, he could tell, judging by how her body slightly leaned towards him. “Go find all Fish’s ex allies, make sure they’ll stay loyal to me. I trust you to make an offer they can’t refuse.” He said with a cunning and vicious grin growing on his face. 

She mimicked him, her answer only being the clicking sound of the security of her gun being lifted and a little mocking reverence. As she was turning away, she had to stop when he spoke again. “And Y/N. I want regular updates of your progress on this task, don’t you dare missing a text or a call”, he threatened. 

His demand was a first. Oftentimes, he just ordered and knew she would obey and succeed. His sudden paranoia earned him a raised brow from her, then a sadistic grin and a low “Worrying for me boss? Aren’t you the cutest?” She couldn’t help but tease. 

Though, her jest didn’t make him blush and screech like an angry bird as it would usually do. Instead, Cobblepot piercing blue eyes found hers, their intensity surprising her. “It’s the two of us now, Y/N. Fish, Maroni, even Falcone, they are all waiting for a false move from us to annihilate us.” He said in a low tone. 

She nodded once. “I know, Oswald. But they’ll have to beat me first if they want to reach you. Even Falcone. I told you once, I perfectly know what throne you are aiming in this little game of yours, and I decided to join your side. 

“No threat from Maroni, no plot from Fish and no order from Falcone would make me change my mind. At this point, not even Zsasz’s conditioning could. I said I would protect and help you and I will. Until you or I die, which would be pretty difficult to achieve to be honest, I’ll follow you, so don’t worry too much.”

He didn’t move, or blush, or even talk for a long minute, but she could tell he had something more to add from the way his lips were moving. “Please, Y/N”, He finally spoke, his voice now weaker and his eyes glassier, “don’t do anything reckless.” He pleaded. 

“Don’t die on me and let me alone in this beautiful but cruel city, you’re one of my most precious friend and I can’t stand the mere idea of walking in the dark all alone.” He muttered, now looking at his hands. 

She was stunned. He absolutely took her off guard. If she usually couldn’t stand whiny, clingy and too emotional people, it never bothered her when it was Oswald. 

Y/N blinked a bit and finally sighed deeply, walking back to him, still watching his limbs like the dork she knew he was. 

The man nearly jumped out of his skin when he felt one of her warm hands on his left shoulder, the other stroking his right cheek. And he nearly died when he saw her lean towards his face until her lips touched his left cheek. 

He loudly gasped and by reflex, turned his head to be able to face the reason of his surprise, only for his nose to bump against hers and his eyes to open widely noticing the close proximity of their faces.

“Careful now Os, I don’t think you’re ready to take the next step here”, She purred a bit mockingly but with one of her rare soft smiles. He wasn’t, indeed. God, He wasn’t even able to describe what happened a second before and what was happening inside of his twisted head. 

Though, he was perfectly able to describe how his heart skipped a beat when she moved up a bit to be able to kiss the tip of his nose. “Maybe another day, uh? Got some potential foes to deal with” She teased again, slowly moving away from him but never breaking eye contact, enjoying how his entire face was now bright red way too much. 

“Wha-w-why d-did y-you do-...” He stuttered like an idiot, watching her turning the door handle. She threw him a last glance with the most mesmerizing shit-eating grin he had ever seen.

“Seems like you used your very special talent on me, brilliantly taking me by surprise.” She said, leaving the room and earing a “Who took who by surprise here Y/N?!” which made her chuckle. He was really too cute for his own good.

She only took a few steps outside before feeling her phone buzzing inside of her back pocket. 

-------------------- 1 New Message ------------------

Oswald

Conversation isn’t over, Y/N. 

...

Be careful outside. 

... 

Again don’t do anything reckless.

...

Call me if things go south. 

... 

Or Jim if I can’t answer. 

... 

But I will. 

... 

I’ll find a doctor. Just in case you’re injured. 

... 

Come back as soon as you finish. 

--

Y/N 

Aren’t you the most lovely gem? ❤

...

Should be back for your goodnight kiss. If not, morning kisses then. Take care 😘

------------ End of message -------

She chuckled imagining the poor man all flustered in his office, with his red face held between his hands, throwing all the proper insults he knew at her. Well, she always liked a good challenge. 

And Oswald Cobblepot oblivious and stubborn mind was one of the most appealing she ever face. Oh and how she planned to win this one, she thought as a crooked grin she couldn’t control bloomed on her face. He was just too adorable for his own good. 

--

A/N - I hope you liked it! Have a beautiful day/night my dear and take care 💐🥰

[the-slasher-files]

hiiii bree! hope you're doing well. as you know, i'm v much in love with your collector!arkin and have a request for him whenever you get the chance! (no rush at all of course)

maybe something where s/o reader is trying to come to terms with the business but not fully accepting it yet? maybe if you want to take it in an nsfw direction, a situation where they get into an argument over it and it leads to a hatefuck/makeup sex (whatever you see fit for your interest!! i'd love to leave that up to you honestly =w=)

tysm in advance. lots and lots of love from @pharmacykeys' main 🐾 ❤🐾

HI! Sorry for taking sooooo long with this! I hope this will be worth your wait. This gets into possessive and rough sex that I never really thought of with Arkin before but I love it... Hope you enjoy 🔪💕

MASTERLIST - REWIRED SERIES

MAKE IT HURT - REWIRED PT 3

"Arkin?"

Your voice was faint as you called his name, only covered in one of his old band t-shirts and simple underwear where his remnants pooled from just an hour ago of being tangled in the sheets.

"Where... where are you headed?" Another broken question rolled off your tongue. You knew the answer but you denied it, covering it up like rotted roots.

Just standing in the bedroom doorway you walked forward uneasy in the evening blue light, watching the man that was forever changed. He wore the same flesh, but the insides were being eaten away slowly and constantly. Arkin didn't spare a glance back at you as he grabbed his jacket and collected his keys on the entryway table.

"I'll be back in the morning" He mumbled with less than a caring thought.

It had been a year of this. Restless nights without him. Calls from people he knew asking about how he was and of course, all you could do was lie through your teeth with a smile that never met your eyes. A wound was open in your heart and you tried desperately with each day to repair it.

Arkin looked over his shoulder before he was going to turn the sliver door handle to see you with closed eyes, jaw tense and blood about to spill from your tongue as you bit it to keep sinister words at bay. A struggle so obvious within you, both lovers fighting the venom that wanted to rise but instead just festered inside. With a sharp inhale he began to stalk towards you, reaching both hands out to cup your cheeks. The warmth was still there in Arkin's hands and it still made you have the need for him all the same.

"I know, baby. I know" He lowly said, resting his forehead on yours.

"Arkin," Barely a whisper stumbled out of your lips begging for the man you fell in love with to come back and he could feel it.

"Ssshh-"

"Don't. Fucking don't!" You shook your head and roughly pulled his hands away.

The lump in your throat was constricting and there were no more words you could speak. Arkin wanted you to just accept the new him and you willed yourself to but there was only a shell left for something else to step in like a demon finding a host- A larva growing and feeding off a corpse. Furrowing your brows you waiting for that unrelenting care and protection from him like there always was but something replaced it. Something darker filled those blue eyes.

Taking a few strides back into the bedroom, he followed. Turning his head to the dresser and picking up the dark nitrile gloves with a smirk. Arkin slipped them on as your heart pounded against your ribcage, tongue darting over your bottom lip from the nerves he set on fire.

Finding your courage as you met those dark eyes your voice was brittle as you spoke, "What the fuck is wrong with you?"

You stood your ground, wanting- needing the man that was stalking towards you. "Is this not what YOU wanted? Someone to fight for you?" There was venom on his tongue that had never been there before, but truth laid strongly in those questions, it's all you wanted from him, to save whatever the fuck kind of relationship you had.

Once he stood before you, it was like Arkin read your mind. Reaching a gloved hand to grip your jaw "You're never leaving me, and I will never leave you"

There was torment behind his sinister edges, a man fighting against horrors he will never be able to release. Leaning in, lips brushed together in the thick air, his gloves shining in the low light as they collected a few tears rolling off your flushed cheeks.

"I will stalk you until your last breath" He whispered hotly watching your eyes widen but a deep need grows in the pit of your belly, "I am what you need no matter how much you hate me" Arkin hissed.

The pot boiled over and before you knew it you kissed him, kissed with your all-consuming need for your man. You missed him and he missed you. Passion exploded in rapture, lips needy, teeth hungry and tongues fought against each other as Arkin's strong hands gripped the back of your thighs, lifting you to wrap your legs around his waist. Hands clawed at his back with moans and drawn-out breaths feeling your back meet the cold bedroom wall.

"Please, please fuck me" A breathy whimper sounded, feeling the bulge grow in his dark jeans that was now being pressed between your legs.

His lips moved down to assault your neck, nipping and marking you as his. A grunt of appreciation followed once your hands went down between your bodies, cupping and stroking his hard erection.

"You will always need me... always" Arkin was gruff in his words feeling your hard nipples through the thin fabric of your t-shirt and your hands release his leaking cock.

"I-I can't take it anymore. I need you" Brokenly you choked, making him pull away slightly. Tears glazed over your eyes making them shine as the moonlight began to pour in through the sheer curtains. For a brief moment, he was back to the man you fell in love with seeing the pain in your eyes and taking his gloved hand, Arkin stroked your cheek before putting a piece of hair behind your ear.

A delicate gesture was all but gone when he realized he wanted to see more of that pain in your eyes, it fed him, he latched onto it and pulled your soaked panties aside, plunging his big cock inside you without warning. Your head there back in pain and pleasure with a high-pitched cry.

"So fucking tight, my angel" He pushed through gritted teeth feeling you choke his veiny cock.

Your hands clawed and pushed against the man, disgusted yet lust-filled you pushed your hips forward. "Make it hurt, love me, Arkin"

A fight within you was as strong as it was in him too, when he was missing it broke you both. Horrors in your mind controlled you as Arkin lived the horrors. Both tangled in a trap, clawing your way out to seek some sort of normal you both craved and pretended you had. You needed to feel something again, not caring if it was love or pain, tired of the fake emotions you displayed and needing something real again.

[willowfolksong]

Christmas mornings, Fukurodani edition

- Akaashi Keiji x Reader/Bojuto Koutaro x Reader

- SFW

a/n: Thank you for all your comments and encouraging words @qualitygiantshoepsychic . You've been a great source of support, especially with my 🧣 Red Love Story Collection, and I couldn't appreciate you more. You're a wonderful beautiful person. Merry Christmas! 🎄❤

Akaashi Keiji

You wake up alone in bed, and you instantly miss Keiji's warm by your side. So you rub the sleep out of your eyes, frown at the clock that says it's already 9 a.m, and then get up to look for your husband. You stop for a moment in front of your baby's bedroom, and push the open door slightly to find it empty. You smile at your husband's antics and keep walking.

The Christmas lights shine brightly on the handrail— all blue, and green and red on your way down the stairs. Keiji must have turned them on when he woke up, and now they cast a rainbow of colors everywhere in the house.

You stop at the bottom of the stairs, taking in the sight in front of you.

Your husband of four years, still clad in the pajamas you bought for him last Christmas— a onesie with reindeers and Christmas trees— is standing in front of your own tree with your baby in his arms, pointing at every little decoration you put up and explaining softly what each of them mean. Your baby, still nine months old and very much impressed, gurgles and claps at everything Keiji shows him, adding a bit of incoherent baby info to all of them.

"And this is because your dad works for a manga shonen magazine" Keiji says, pointing at a current popular anime show ornament "I wonder if you will like reading manga when you grow up" he wonders, and rocks your son softly from side to side "I don't mind if you do, but still try to read other books too"

"We should wait to introduce him to Jane Austen tho" you say, and Keiji looks back to you, a shy smile on his face. Your baby seems immediately delighted to see you, and you walk up to them to kiss him on his chubby baby cheeks "At least... you know. Until they can actually understand what England is"

"We were just spending some father and son quality time" Keiji explains, leaning down to peck your lips "He started crying and you were sleeping so peacefully, that I just got up and went to him without calling you"

"Father of the year" you whisper, and let him hug you tight. When you lean your head on his shoulder, your little baby blinks and does the same, smiling. Your heart melts for your little family "Merry Christmas, Keiji"

"Merry Christmas"

Bokuto Koutaro

You have two little kids.

Two.

A beautiful three years old girl that loves to run around the house, and a five years old son that gets too excited about everything and anything.

And yet, the one that jumps in bed to wake you up is none other than your husband of four years, Bokuto Koutaro, professional volleyball player for the MSBY Jackals.

You yelp, sitting up and not fully registering that it's indeed him jumping up and down on the bed, excited grin on his face.

"Wake up, babe!" he yells, and shakes you down by your shoulders. You groggily look at him, yawning loudly "It's Christmas morning!"

"What time is it?" you ask, and he glances to the clock in your bedside table and then back at you, smile only growing bigger.

"It's nine in the morning!" he tells you, and jumps on top of you to kiss you full on the lips, and you don't know how he can part your lips with his tongue and leave you all hot and bothered in a second, only to immediately stand up again and run to the door. "Hurry up! The kids are downstairs already!"

It's when you feel something crash outside, and a muffled 'Sorry, mom!', that you actually drag your legs out of bed, stretch your arms over your head and slowly make your way out of your bedroom.

Sometimes, to strangers that don't know much about you, you say that you have three kids instead of one. Koutaro is, after all, still a little kid. A very bulky, tall muscular one. But still a kid inside.

"Babe! Here's your present!" he says, handing you a box that you already know what has inside, because your husband is the worst at hiding gifts "You're going to be so surprised! I can't wait to see your face!"

You smile, push your hair out of your face and sit down beside him, leaning over to kiss him. He melts in your arms, and even lets out a little moan when you move to pepper kisses behind his ear.

Until your kids start gagging, and you have to break away with an eye roll.

You kiss both of their little heads and bring them into your lap, so you can watch them closely as they open their gifts. It's most of the toys they wanted, some cute clothes for the winter, and more little trinkets and quirky souvenirs Koutaro has amassed during his travels, and waited until then to give to them.

It's all smiles and sweet words in the Bokuto's household, the smell of cinnamon and pine coating the air— the perfect picture of a beautiful family on Christmas.

Until your little boy opens his last gift.

A replica of the same t-shirt the MSBY Jackals wear.

Oh no.

"But dad!" he whines, and you're not quick enough to stop him from saying what he already said to you once during a game, and are only left to sigh, surrendering to what's to come "I don't like the MSBY Jackals! I'm a fan of the Schweiden Adlers!"

When you have to spend the rest of your Christmas morning comforting your miserable curled up in the couch husband, you realize once more that you're not too far away from the truth when you say to strangers that you have three kids instead of two.

[cheritzssebba]

For the ask game thingie: top 5 fictional characters? From any media, or if that is too broad, you can choose a specific piece of media!! :)

First of all thank you for sending ask 😎 second of all, you have been warned, this post is incredibly long and infodumpy.

I was going to include other media but as I started I just got more and more invested in Nameless

If you don't know who these characters are or where they're from I'll take this post to strongly recommend checking out the otome visual novel Nameless the One Thing You Must Recall, made by a collaboration between dating sim company Cheritz and ball joint doll company Crobi Doll. You can play the demo(?) or buy the full game on Steam or watch a variety of play throughs available on YouTube but since this post is about the characters instead of the game I will stick to just that- this is my main blog and therefore spam blog but it is first and foremost a Nameless blog ;)

This is long so I'll put it under the cut ^^

Up first of all is him, the one, the only, the man, the myth, the legend, the hero of the hour: Red from Nameless the One Thing You Must Recall :) could anyone have possibly predicted this? /s

He is the character ever, I will not apologise. He is the perfect man. He is everything I am and aspire to be. Number one himbo and most precious being in existence. My bpd bestie and husband, til death do us part.

I cannot possibly relate to him or his struggles anymore than I already do, he is so fucking unbelievably underrated in what little fandom this game has, he deserves so much more. He literally just does his best and never does anything wrong and the very little he does do wrong he sincerely apologises for and never does again ❤

He is the knight in shining armor who tries constantly to achieve an impossible goal because he believes himself worthless otherwise and slowly comes to realise that all he needs to do is stay right by Eri's side to be enough because, in her words "you are great as you are right now", a quote I will never forget

Coming up next-

It's her. The her of the game ever. It's Eri.

She is the main character, she is literally me.

I think her character especially is such a good protagonist for a game like Nameless cuz I also appreciate just how fleshed out she is, with her relationships - to her grandpa, her parents, Nameless (the character), her friends and the dolls - especially with how she holds every single one of them so dear to her.

Nameless' such strong themes of abandonment and grief are shown in her character really well cuz for some of the dolls their reactions to their own abandonment can be sort of abnormal or extreme (ex. Tei, Nameless), but I think Eri's reaction is so so human and childish (in a good way) cuz it's almost like she never grows up because of it. Her parents work overseas so her grandfather looked after her until he passed away and she began to just live on her own in his apartment. Her parents very rarely ever visited and she struggled to make friends so she only has 2, so as she grew and learned how to live on her own she developed a hobby of collecting ball joint dolls from the company Crobi Doll which makes dolls with souls so they feel alive.

She deals with the abandonment of her parents and the loss of her grandfather by escaping reality with playing with her dolls and dressing them up but I think another way she copes with it of note is how she doesn't ask for help when she needs it cuz she doesn't wanna bother people. It's never explicitly stated in the game in comparison to how the doll's issues are so explicit but you can definitely infer that how she learned not to ask for her parents to give attention to her cuz she didn't wanna bother them bled into her future interactions with ppl and not asking for help when it's needed. The wording of that feels incoherent but I hope the point gets across??

Anyway I love her so much, I hope you can tell 😅

In third place I have selected the Ice Prince, Lance :)

He's pretty funny. Lol.

Ok but I really really love how good of an introduction he is to the game. There isn't a set order to play all of the routes in but the recommended order is: Lance -> Yeonho -> Yuri -> Tei -> Red -> Nameless. With the themes of not only grief and abandonment but the empathy/connection to inanimate objects, his route really really compliments those themes well, especially in the chapter in which he and Eri search for her lost phone and especially his rain scene.

His route as a whole is quite sweet, his growth is very cute and the end to the festival scene is absolutely hucking filarious. Ooh and I love his relationship with Red and how they compliment each other so well but are in constant competition at the same time. I feel like they would be the stars of a romcom or something, I would love to see some kind of dlc or spinoff which solely focuses on them trying to tolerate being roommates with each other 😂😂

In fourth place I am choosing Mr Yuri :3

I think out of all the other characters he's slightly misplaced? I've played the game over multiple times and his route still confuses me a bit since I'm not really sure what struggles his character arch is supposed to be a comments of. He's a bit of a difficult character to read and he can even come off as quite unlikeable because of his flirty and carefree attitude but despite all of the confusion I really can't help but love him and his route - I can do nothing but find it incredibly sweet and cute :)

Out of the whole game my favourite scene is the one pictured above, his rain scene. I love how different it is to Lance and Yeonho's rain scenes because theirs revolved around Eri rushing to find them in the rain and comfort them thru whatever they were dealing with, but Yuri's rain scene involves Eri rushing to save him from the rain only to find that he is warm and dry and calmly playing the piano whilst Eri is the one who needs comforting after being in the cold and storm.

He's very flirtatious and boasts about how much women love him and he loves them in return but Eri learns that he's actually quite an empty person who only gives back as much love as he is given from others. He lacks the understanding of sincerity because he is so used to giving love only to be polite and so is overwhelmed upon realising his sincere feelings for Eri.

I suppose on further inspection he's more like a person who surrounds themself with fake and shallow love to feel whole whilst lacking any deep true connections and understanding of other people? He understands love through flattery and money instead of the intimacy of personal connection.

Because of this I think that the title of Red's opposite is less fitting of Lance as it is Yuri to be honest. Lance is too similar to Red to be his true opposite, they're only opposite on the outside. Red is someone who doesn't particularly understand empty love like that, he is someone who only understand sincerity, whose character is defined by his unabashed and unapologetic empathy.

Also I love him cuz he's funny. For a competition on the funniest Nameless character he is up there. Seriously.

In last place it's kind of tie between Soi and Shinbi.

^ edit by @welcome-to-banjul - will reblog original post after uploading this one

It's a little bit cheating to put 2 characters into the 5th spot but okkkk they don't count as 2 different people, they are a package deal ok??? 😂😂😂

Both Soi and Shinbi so cute just look at their designs alone!! They are amazing :)

They compliment each other so well and are so supportive of Eri it's adorable. I especially love their interactions at the end of Lance's route when Eri finally gets the courage to share with them her passion for dolls and to her surprise they react so well and accept her wholeheartedly and even seem to show an interest in it themselves :)

They're both really nice palette cleansers from the insanity and depression of the boys' routes as the majority of their scenes are very lighthearted and wholesome as well as hilarious especially around exam time. Soi's over the top dramatic reactions blend really well with Shinbi's cool and calm attitude. Did you know Shinbi's name can translate to mystery? Quite fitting for her :)

One thing though that I don't like about them is that I wished they played a bit more of a role in the story and although they do serve more purpose in Red and Tei's routes I wish their roles were more positive than conflicting. Plus I wish that Shinbi played more of a role too. And!!! They were done so dirty when Yujin of all people was given a dlc but for Soi and Shinbi??? Nothing!!! Come on!!! >:(

And. You cannot convince me that they aren't in some kind of relationship. Romantic, platonic or what, I don't know, but I do know for sure that those two share everything with each other and I have a relationship more intimate than a married couple.

Thank you so much for sending the ask!! ^^ I really appreciate it and I hope you enjoyed the word vomit 😅 I shall end this with a poll

[leagueoflegendsimagines]

Can I request some hcs about Thresh (the "old" or the "new" that came out recently at the event) in love with a human, and that human also falls in love with him after a while and becomes all cute and adorable with Thresh? Like, how would he react and feel about something like this? Ah, and I would like to say that I'm happy to have another imagines blog about league of legends and I'm excited for your posts ❤

Thank you for the request! It's greatly appreciated. Since you didn't mention what type of headcanons you wish for, I will divide them into SFW and a little bit of NSWF.

As a warning, this is a long post - I enjoy going into detail and I lose myself a little bit in the writing. I hope you don't mind, dear anon.

SFW:

- You first him by accident. Your life became... strange, after that.

- As a travelling scholar, you stopped for a few hours to rest at an inn in Noxus. Tired and weary from such surroundings, you tried your best to attract as little attention as possible. - As a student in the works of healing, you couldn't help but feel sorry for the inn worker. Bullied by everyone - even if he used to be a bad person, he touched your soul through his optimism and positive way of thinking. Many others would've ended their lives by now - or was this the way of the Noxus? You were horrified by their cruel way of living life. - You attracted him through the purity of your soul. You weren't perfect - every being had those smudges of darkness attached to them: envy, greed, lust, anger... - You had your own. But they were overwhelmed by your kindness and tenderness. - He saw them as weaknesses. Endearing traits - but weaknesses nonetheless. And how could he pass the opportunity of adding such a... frail and precious soul to his collection? - Fortunately for you, he didn't take you then. Things would've ended for you much... much differently.

- Instead, he watched you eat your meal from the outer shadows of the broad dining room, inspecting your form with greedy eyes. His curiosity only grew as he watched you try to help the cursed, hopeless man of the inn.

- You were not special. But you managed to stand out in the mass of cruel and cold people long enough to catch his attention. In some ways, that was your doom. - But are you really doomed if you grow to love your reaper? - He let you leave, no matter how tempting it was to take and cage you at that very moment. Keep you as his precious pet. - His obsession grew as time passed. He followed you around, wherever you would go. Noxus, Bilgewater, Ionia - but the doom truly manifested itself in Shurima. - You were cornered by a band of bandits - worshippers of Renekton, the bloody God of the desert. You refused to think about what they would've done to you hadn't he arrived. - You did not know what he was. What being could rip through those men in such a flawless and effortless manner?

- But despite your fear, you took his hand. And despite the instinctual terror and awe you felt in his presence, you... - You couldn't let go of him. He intoxicated you. - It wasn't only his aura. It was his way of being. Malicious but kind in his own twisted way. He protected and pampered you like no one had ever done - not even your own parents. - You tried to refuse . By this time, you were somewhat friends. He insisted on keeping close to you, as you had the same destination - you were needed in Noxus. He told you he was a lord there. As much as you felt like the best decision was to refuse him, you... didn't. You couldn't. - He was a master of seduction and manipulation. He decided he wouldn't hurt you, no matter how much his sadism wished for your blood. You warmed up his undead blood. You made him feel alive. You had never witnessed his true self, his bloodlust, his... hidden pain. For even a cruel and dark soul as him needed companionship and desired for love. - Slowly, but surely, you fell in love with him. By this time, he was obsessed. You would never know that he fell in love with you much faster than you did. You would never know the struggles he went through to become a better lover, a better partner, a better friend - something almost impossible for a being like him. But he did it for you. He didn't wish to keep you by force. He didn't wish to force you to love him. - He wanted true love from you. He wanted to see your soul burning with passion, love and desire. And he wanted to know that he was the cause of it all.

- You would never know how caged you became. He was the master of illusions. While he loved you more than anything else - more than his own twisted, wrecked soul - he was still a very dark and macabre spirit. - He cherished you more than he ever cherished anything else. He stayed up with you into the late hours of the night, a book in his hands while his gentle and elegant fingers caressed your hair. You would study harder then. You wished to impress him. And he wished to motivate you. - You were his. You would become a strong, capable woman. - He was a murderer. You were a healer. Oh, how he loved such twisted ironies. - Anything you desire, it would be yours. This is his love philosophy. You were too precious... too important to him. You would have everything waiting at your feet - no matter the cost.

NSFW-ish (doesn't go into details, but still adding this as a warning):

- Thresh is an old being. While he doesn't indulge too often in carnal desires, he has a very broad and extensive experience when it comes to sex. - In his unbound form, he is.... beautiful. Not the traditional type of beauty - but something else entirely. He told you he was in his 40s. Being in your early 20s, you knew this relationship might prove bad for you.

- But he was such an addictive and pleasant presence for you. He was incredibly intelligent - you had never caught him off guard with any type of knowledge, no matter how varied or complex - and so, so charming. He was just the type of man a mother would warn young girls about. - Luckily for you, he had good intentions. As good as anyone like him could have. Possessive and macabre, he didn't allow you to see his darker, deeper secrets. He was loyal - why would he need anyone else if he had you? - but he kept you tight under control. - You had him wrapped around your little finger, while he had your heart caged within his lantern. - It took a long time for you to become intimate with him. You felt nervous - a man such as him... and you? You possessed no past experience and you felt insecure, like many girls your age. - But it was so hard to resist temptation when he looked at you with ardent, longing eyes. His dark eyes, always crying for more. Always wanting more. - You were sure he would slowly devour your soul. But you knew that, even if he did, you wouldn't mind. - In such a situation, it was hard to resist temptation. When he was close, you could feel your feminine nature weeping. - As your love grew stronger, so did your lust. So did the tension between the two of you. He could feel your longing, your deepest desires. He could read into your soul with so little effort. But it didn't matter. You were his. And you desired him. - It was incredibly hard for him to not take you, with or without your direct consent. It would've been so easy, after all - for him to seduce you. And you would've enjoyed every little second. - But he wanted you to come to him. To give in. And Thresh didn't go easy on you for that. - Every little touch, every little brush of his fingers against your shoulders and collarbone, every little kiss... every little gaze he sent your way, be it in the intimacy of his study or at an evening ball - they destroyed you, little by little. - It all came to an end abruptly. Vladimir, curious about the pet of a strange being such as Thresh, tried to "play" with you a bit at one of the capital's grand balls. - It was an incredibly bad move on his part. That night, you truly saw Thresh. You saw a part of his naked soul. He kept his beautiful, aged face. But... he was different. - And you should've seen him as a monster. - But you didn't. You fell right back into his arms. - That night he took you. He ravaged you. He made sure not to hurt you... but he wasn't gentle. He was rough and full of passion - and desperation. That night he almost lost you. And he would never make the same mistake ever again. - He marked you as his, after waiting for years. Now, he would never let you go - not after he got a taste of everything he could truly have. - You were his. And you would always be his. - Even if he had to stop time.

[twisted-wonderland-shenanigans]

Hello~

I would like to know about Jade and Cater in your Deity AU! For example: what are they gods of, what are their powers, are they venerated by many or are they ore of a "hidden" deity, what blessings do people who venerate them receive or how do they help those who ask for their help... things like that!

Either headcanons or free-for-all so you can explain to your heart's content

Thank you ❤

Hello there! So glad you asked! UvU

So, to start things off I will go ahead and clarify that the deities in this AU are “hidden” deities in that they’re invisible to most humans. They can show themselves as they are to mortals, but very few actually do this or feel the desire to do so. Those who do, they tend to take on either a human form or an animal disguise—or simply go as they are to spook a few humans. However, there are some instances where they’re invisible to all but a select few, and even then, it could be mistaken as a flicker in the corner of their eye—but trust me when I say these humans are always quite the novelty to them when they’re discovered!

Now, on to the two you’ve been waiting for, starting with Cater~!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Cater is the God of Art and Artistic Vision (can also be interpreted as Artistic Inspiration), known for his love of art and creativity. His ability to “split” allows him to spread out as far as he desires in search of creative humans to inspire, be they artist, writers, photographers, painters…any form of media and self-expression he absolutely adores with all his heart! His split selves can be considered “muses” to humans ages past who have seen them, and some say you can see depictions of one or multiples in old paintings and murals.

Much like inspiration itself, his interest can be “fickle and fleeting” if he feels over or under stimulated by the creative flow, though it’s by no means the mortal’s fault. Sometimes he simply needs a little time to decompress and take a break—after all, his power may be great, but maintaining so many copies of himself and fanning the flames of creativity can get tiresome after a bit! He doesn’t completely abandon them, however, and instead tries to gently nudge the human into taking a break—to recharge their own creative batteries by resting and taking a moment to “smell the roses” his fellow deity Riddle has so kindly helped grow. This doesn’t always work though, so it saddens him to see his favorite creative spirits slowly wearing themselves down to try and keep up a pace they cannot maintain.

His powers do follow his Twisted Wonderland counterpart in that he can split himself into multiple copies, though it’s less limited so he can cover more ground. As the God of Art and Artistic Vision, his ability to bestow “inspiration” can come from a single tap of his finger to the forehead or a touch to the shoulder…just depends on how playful he is! He also loves to take “ghost memories” of humans he’s particularly fond of, so if you see a flashing glare of light on a reflective surface, it may be a moving car or it could simply be him preserving the “memory” of you so he can add to his collection of humans he cares about.

One of the few deities who will likely take on human form to mingle with humans for a day or spend time at cafes—though strangely enough he does not have that much fondness for sweet things like the others in his pantheon.

/

Now Jade, however, is an enigma of his own right. The God of Rivers, Jade is seen as calm and ever flowing like the rivers he commands, yet his emotions can cause once gentle waterways to become raging torrents capable of destroying bridges and sweeping poor unfortunate souls standing too close to the edge into the water. Thankfully, however, this rarely happens unless Floyd decides to cause a storm himself to add more water to the rivers and cause chaos. He simply finds it more amusing to see what strange creatures venture close to his realm, as it can get so dreadfully boring after a time.

As a River God, he has control of all fresh water sources, altering and changing the course of rivers and streams and even creating lakes in which he calls his home. The water he dwells in, near, or blesses is said to be the purest water, his very presence capable of purging toxins and pollution itself. Humans who fall into the water may see a glimpse of him and his home in the water, though those who manage to escape the river attribute this to an oxygen-deprived hallucination rather than coming face to face with a God.

For someone to catch his attention and earn his favor, however, they must truly be a unique and unusual mortal. With his control over water, he can create a pocket of air that allows them to breathe underwater should he deem them worthy enough to visit his abode. To reach that point, however, is a long process in itself as he will observe them from afar at his leisure. If the mortal should somehow see him, he will be amused and bestow a gift—either a charm or a bauble he created from the water itself. One such gift is a small, transparent sphere filled with water that reacts to the emotions of its owner and can help soothe their troubled soul. A rather simple yet charming gift, though one can’t help but wonder if there’s more to these gifts. He certainly won’t tell.

While not as prevalent as his Twisted Wonderland counterpart, he does hold the ability to “see” the truth from those he asks a question using one of several floating globes of water that follow him. If it shimmers and fills with a cloud of gold, they are telling the truth. If it starts filling with a cloud of red, however, they are dishonest…now why would you ever want to lie to a god? Perhaps you think yourself brave…or foolish.

He has considered taking on a mortal guise on occasion, though he much prefers observing mortals as is without disruption.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Whew! That was a lot, and honestly, I’m sure there’s going to be so much more to develop with these two as with the others! I had so much fun and I can’t wait to answer more and brainstorm more for this AU! >w<

[sailorsun546]

Framed my print from @wusdiswusdat today!!! I love this piece so much ❤💕❤💕❤💕 My collection of violent unicorn art slowly grows stronger!!