#and rose noble just jumps in with the most out of pocket things to help distract people

[headcanonthings]

The Doctor: Do you think you’d actually notice if someone didn’t cast a shadow? Or if their limbs were just slightly too long? Or if they had just a little too many teeth? Like how many times have you passed Something on the street and you just didn’t Notice It? Rose Noble: Stay woke monsterfuckers your love is out there!!!!! The Doctor: Y'know what? Not my point at all in any way whatsoever, but I’m glad I could be an inspiration.

[alj4890]

I got an ask we know Riley gets kidnapped by Anton but what if Anton was in love with her and he didn’t wanna kill her but makes her his. What if Olivia killed Claudus for shooting drake.

I love the way you think, Nonny! I actually would have eaten this up with a spoon if that had happened in canon. To be honest, I really liked Justin in book 2. If he had been a new love interest, I would have done a play through just to see what happens if Riley chose him ���🏻 Of course then we find out he is behind all the bombings and such so...oops, LOL. When I first saw your request, I made an aesthetic with just Justin/Anton and Riley in mind. I completely forgot to add a definite OTP of mine, Drake and Olivia, to it. Smh. The story though will definitely include them along with Riley and Justin. I am so tempted to turn this into a series 🙊

@gkittylove99 @krsnlove @kingliam2019 @texaskitten30 @yourmajesty09 @mom2000aggie @ofpixelsandscribbles @twinkleallnight @lodberg  @amandablink @neotericthemis  @mm2305 @sfb123 @iufilms

Masterlist

True Intentions

It had happened when he had not been paying attention. It shouldn't have happened at all. He had one goal. One mission. Nothing had ever come to mean more to him than that. Nothing. No one.

Until Riley.

He knew he shouldn't have spent so much time with her. He shouldn't have helped Maxwell in picking the right dresses for her. He shouldn't have stuck around to see her come out of dressing rooms, an excited smile upon her face, as she twirled around for them to give their opinions.

It had taken all his will power to keep from telling her what he truly thought. Riley's beauty was simply stunning, not because of her outer loveliness, but more that he saw her inner beauty shining through each trial she faced. Her strength amazed him. Her wit brought a smile to his face. Her kindness touched his heart.

It made him begin to long for things he shouldn't. They shouldn't be a part of any dream or plan he had.

And yet...she was beginning to crop up in his thoughts. In his dreams.

In his plans.

He winced as he tried to get comfortable.

His plans hadn't exactly gone as he had hoped. In fact, he should have talked to his men and explained that Riley was not to be a target.

Thank God for Drake. If he hadn't jumped in front of her, she would have been taken from me.

His lips twisted in another painful grimace.

"Are you in pain?"

Justin looked up and tried to smile. "Just a little."

His nurse shook her head. "I told you to buzz before it got too bad." She gently checked his wound.

"I don't want to be a bother." He mumbled.

"You aren't." She patted his hand. "You aren't any trouble at all." Her nose wrinkled. "We had a few nobles cause unnecessary problems when the attack happened."

"Really?"

She rolled her eyes. "Some were knocked down during the chaos and demanded they be admitted."

He chuckled softly. "Sounds like something they would do."

"It's a shame that good people like you were seriously hurt while those spoiled nobles try and take all the attention." She readjusted his covers after administering some more pain medication in his IV. "I don't know why King Liam is so hellbent on bringing them back to court."

"What do you mean?" Justin tried to fight the effects of the pain medicine. "What's he doing?"

"He and Lady Riley are going on some type of tour to some of the major houses to personally invite them to their wedding."

His brow furrowed.

A unity tour. That would work on these small minded individuals. It was a smart move. The public were already Team Riam. Once the royal couple convinced the most powerful houses to come to their wedding, all the other minor lords and ladies would follow suit.

"Well played, Liam." Justin's eyes drooped closed. "Well played."

**************

He couldn't believe that they not only convinced Madeleine's entire family, but also somehow got all of Portavira on their side.

"What's the plan?" Claudius asked.

"We need something big to remind everyone that we aren't a one trick pony." Justin told him.

He looked out the window. Leaves were beginning to change with the first hints of autumn in the air.

A hint of a smile appeared as a plan began to form.

"It would be a shame if Cordonia's apple orchard had a bad year, wouldn't it?" He eyed his second in command.

Claudius chuckled. "It really would."

******************

Justin watched as every channel showed the devastation of the orchard near Applewood. He couldn't help but smile over Riley making the people love her even more for her righteous anger. Her promises to bring those responsible to justice along with making the orchard bigger than before made him nearly burst with pride.

She had grown into her role more so than he had ever imagined. Gone was the timid young waitress from New York who uttered no comment when reporters surrounded her. She was a confident woman now who could think on her feet.

Justin thought she was more attractive than the first time he had seen her floundering in front of the cameras, in desperate need of a hero. It hadn't been a bother to rush to her side then and put his arm around her. Her wide eyes had lifted to his and he had nearly melted from her beauty.

He still couldn't believe that she forgave Liam for choosing another over her. Granted Madeleine impressed him with how she could manipulate reporters into spinning a story to her advantage, but Riley was so many things that the cold countess was not. She deserved better than what she got.

And he planned on giving it to her.

*****************

A week after the orchard burning, he turned to see the one rarely far from his thoughts.

"Justin!" Riley rushed over to engulf him in a hug.

"How's my favorite media darling?" He asked.

She leaned back and gave him that smile that was brighter than flash bulbs. "Much better now that I know you're recovering." She playfully glanced about before whispering, "Save me from Madeleine!"

He laughed as he hugged her once more. "I don't know. I've seen her work and can't find fault with it."

Riley pouted. She linked her arm with his as they walked down the hospital hallway. "I prefer your guidance to hers." Her nose wrinkled. "It's weird being told how to act by Liam's former fiancée. I know there wasn't anything between them, but still."

Justin patted her hand. "Tell you what. If Madeleine is unable to do her job or you decide to fire her, then I will gladly step back into my old position." He dug around in his pocket for the earpiece she had used during Liam's engagement tour.

Her smile reappeared. "Old faithful."

"I'm always Just-in-time." He teased.

*****************

It had been too close. He hadn't expected Riley to go anywhere near Constantine. And there she was, by Liam's side, graciously accepting some necklace from the old man who had destroyed her initial happily ever after.

His heart had nearly stopped as he watched rubble fall around them. Riley had frozen in fear over Liam's safety. It was a nightmare come to life as pieces of the wall and ceiling began to collapse.

At least one good thing had come from this: one king was dead.

It sadly wasn't the king he needed to die.

Justin began to plan how he would comfort Riley once Liam was gone. He wouldn't have to tell her it was he, himself, who orchestrated his death. But he would make certain to enjoy the benefits of it.

His eyes narrowed over another slight problem he had.

He was going to have to kill his own wife too.

******************

Lythikos...

It had been almost too easy. Madeleine was already in need of a distraction after hearing Liam gush over how excited he was to marry Riley in a few weeks. Once she requested a fruity cocktail, he knew then that the poison could go undetected taste wise.

The bartender left to go replenish the champagne. Madeleine's irritation over having to wait on a refill was drawing attention.

"Here." He grinned at her. "Allow me to make you another."

Her eyes widened. "Aren't you that press secretary that helped Riley?"

"I am." He began to mix a strong cocktail for her while adding the poison, all right under her nose. "And I must say you are the best I've ever seen."

Madeleine's irritation disappeared over the compliment. "I am, aren't I?"

"Riley's lucky to have someone so knowledgeable in ways of both the court and public like you." He added.

"Yes, she is." Madeleine muttered. "I'll do anything for my country, even if it is a thankless job."

"You should be recognized for your sacrifice." Justin handed her the deadly drink.

"Yes, I should." She took a gulp.

"How is it?" He asked.

"It's the only good thing here." A tipsy grin appeared on her face when she saw Riley. She grasped Justin's hand and pulled him in her wake. "Let's go say, hi."

"Boooooo!" Madeleine giggled when Riley turned around. "It's the ghosts of press secretary past and present."

"The what now?" Riley lips trembled with suppressed laughter as she looked up at Justin for clarification.

"I'm the ghost of press secretary past." He winked at her.

"OoooOooo!" Madeleine swayed where she stood.

"Whoa, there." Riley tried to steady her. "You okay?"

"She's had a little too much." Justin mimed drinking.

"It's a party!" Madeleine slurred. "It's in the worst place ever but it's a party and I'm going to...going to..."

"Enjoy it?" Riley offered.

"Extractly!" Madeleine's brow wrinkled over that not being the right word. "Expactly?"

"Exactly." Justin corrected.

"That."

The crowd quieted around them when Olivia took the stage to offer a final toast of the evening to Liam and Riley's wedding.

"Woo!" Madeleine cheered.

Riley and Justin tried to shush her.

Her giddy smile fell as her rosy cheeks drained of color. "Somefing's not..."

"Madeleine?" Riley lost her grip on her when she swayed violently to the right. "What's--"

Madeleine hit a table, causing the plates to clatter and the vase of blood red roses to fall over.

"I hate this place." She collapsed on the floor.

"Madeleine!" Riley dropped to her knees and tried to bring her to. "Liam! Mara! Come quick!"

Justin stepped back as the two came to see what was wrong. He watched as Olivia made her way through the crowd to find out what the all the fuss was about.

"What's wrong with her?" Riley asked.

"She's been poisoned." Mara whispered.

*******************

Justin loved seeing the delighted surprise once more on Riley's face when he said he would take over Madeleine's duties for the rest of the tour. It would have been a perfect moment if Liam had not been standing there. He was ashamed to think of his nearly giving himself away when he panicked at the sight of Olivia walking in behind him.

He wished Lucretia would quit trying to push Olivia into going into the family vault. She had a sick sense of humor in wanting her niece to discover she was already married. For some reason, she did not approve of the way her niece depended on her friends for support.

Justin knew the power friends could have. Had he not been trained by his own parents' friends, he wouldn't be the worthy man next in line to the throne. His comradery with his own men inspired their loyalty and willingness to die to make him king.

He needed to distance himself from Lucretia the moment they got out of Lythikos.

****************

She was supposed to come alone! Why did she bring Riley? I can't kill her. I need her. I deserve to have a choice in the one I want ruling by my side. The people already adore her, much more so than they admire Olivia. I was supposed to become free of this marriage. Once she and Liam are dead, I'll be able to be king and have--

"Justin?" Riley's eyes were clouded with confusion as she looked first at a picture of him dressed in a royal uniform. "What is this?"

"I'm sorry, Riley." His voice cracked on her name.

Justin reached in his pocket and pulled out a revolver.

Lucretia cackled with glee as she told her niece the truth about her marriage.

Justin stood there silently as the woman he loved shook her head in denial.

She's so incredibly sweet to doubt a friend could be the bad guy. I hate that I can't pull her away from all this and simply explain why I should be the ruler of Cordonia. I deserve it. I worked for it. My entire life was made for me to take the crown. She would be able to understand that. Look how far she's come in her own life. Who could imagine a waitress from some dive bar in America would come to be the next queen of a small European nation?

"Do it already!" Lucretia hissed. "Shoot her!"

He couldn't do it. Even as he held the gun steady, pointed directly at the woman he loved's heart, he couldn't shoot Riley.

"Get away from her!" Liam ordered.

Justin spun around to see the king and guards filling up the narrow passageway.

"I thought you said this was secure." Justin snapped at Lucretia.

"It was." She held her hands up in surrender.

Justin watched as she stepped forward, pretending to stumble.

His eyes widened as once again his love was trapped within a collapsing room.

He managed to see her safely end up in Liam's arms before escaping through a hidden passage.

He left Lucretia to the guards. She had served her purpose and was sadly of no use to him any longer. Now he could plan what he truly wanted to happen.

*******************

Liam and Riley's wedding day...

"I don't care who you kill. Olivia and Riley are to be taken alive." Justin told the small team of men he was sending in. "If you have to wound them to get them here, make certain Riley's is non life threatening.

He ignored the questioning look Claudius sent his way.

"Bring them both to our stronghold." His eyes narrowed. "Do not fail me."

****************

Later that night...

"Good work." Justin straightened his jacket. He wanted to look his best when he saw Riley again.

Claudius smirked at him. "Just think of all the men we would still have if you had let me go alone."

Justin chuckled. "True, but at least we are free of our weakest links." He smoothed his hair back. "Now take me to our guests."

***************

"I know the real Justin is somewhere in there." Riley leaned as far forward as her bindings allowed. "You helped me gain the love of the people. You know that if you kill me, the people will not readily accept you as king."

He couldn't help but smile. "I know and that is why I don't intend to hurt you."

"Then why kidnap us?" Olivia demanded.

He turned toward her. "If I'm to be king, then I have to take the necessary steps to claim the throne." He motioned for Claudius to come in.

"You're the one who shot Drake!" Olivia shouted, struggling against the ropes biting into her tender skin. "You'll regret that."

"And you tried to kill me!" Riley added, narrowing her eyes.

"That was a mistake." Justin quickly said. "You were never to be harmed."

"Then why all the attempts?" She asked. "Why do you persist in--"

"You weren't supposed to be here, Riley." He knelt down in front of her. "You should have stayed in New York until the time was right"

Her eyebrows drew together. "What are you talking about.

Justin asked Claudius to remain with Olivia while he took Riley somewhere private.

"If you think for one second that I will remain with this man while you take her away go do only God knows what," Olivia's chair creaked at her straining to break free, "then you don't know what a Nevarkis is truly made of!"

Justine rolled his eyes over her rant as he untied Riley from her chair. He kept her ankles and wrists bound together. He swept her into his arms and carried her out.

Olivia's shouts were silenced by the sound of a hard slap.

Riley struggled in Justin's arms. "What did he do to her? OLIVIA?!" Tears streamed down her cheeks. "Justin, please don't--"

"Nothing's happened to her." He took her into a surprisingly clean, yet drab, sitting room.

Riley was dropped on a chaise lounge. She eyed the door then Justin.

"I'm not going to hurt you." He repeated. He gently cupped her cheek, fingers brushing along her jaw line. "I love you too much to ever harm you."

Riley stilled. She looked up at him. "You what?"

He knelt before her. "I'm in love with you. It didn't hit me until you told me you had accepted Liam's proposal on the train. I didn't plan it, but I refuse to hide my feelings any longer." He smiled at her. "You've proven yourself as the rightful Queen of Cordonia. Once Liam and Olivia are dead, you and I can rule this country as we see fit. We'll--"

Riley shook her head. "Justin," she believed he was deranged and knew she had to handle this carefully, "I'm flattered. Really I am. I mean, we both know I would never have gotten this far without you."

His smile grew at her realizing she owed him for her meteoric rise within the court.

"But if you kill Liam and Olivia, the people will not feel any love or loyalty for you." She tilted her head as she studied him. "Surely you see the problem with this plan."

"People respect power." He explained. "They respect someone who fights for what is rightfully his. Since my birth, I have been meant for something greater. My parents, Olivia's family, even my soldiers realized that I alone am worthy to rule over this country." He focused once more upon her. "And I've seen that you are the one to do so by my side."

Riley shook her head. "Justin, I am honored," her voice cracked on that lie, "to have your love but I can't accept it." Her eyes filled with tears. "I'm in love with Liam."

"Riley, he didn't choose you." Justin argued. "He left you on your own to fight against nobles, the press, even his own father. You deserve so much more than being an afterthought."

Tears slipped down her cheeks once more. "That wasn't what he did. He was trying to protect me. And I--"

He leaned down and kissed her.

She froze at the touch, refusing to participate.

"Once Liam's gone, you will see the truth." Justin promised.

"I won't." Her eyes narrowed. "As long as I live, I'll hate you with everything within me for taking him from me."

"You don't have it in you." He shook his head in amusement. "You've forgiven everyone. Olivia, Penelope, Madeleine, even Constantine. You never hold a grudge."

"You'll be my first." Riley vowed. "Liam is the love of my life. If you ruin my chance to finally be with him, I will never forgive you. As long as there is breath in my body, I will find a way to destroy you."

"You are amazing." He murmured, knowing she was speaking from her heart. He couldn't wait for that devotion to be for himself.

"Anton?"

The two turned to see Claudius in the doorway. "Liam should be here any moment."

Justin nodded and told him he would meet him and the rest of the men downstairs.

He lifted Riley in his arms and placed her back in the cell with Olivia.

His wife had the bruised imprint of Claudius's hand on her alabaster cheek. Blood had dried on her bottom lip. No tears had fallen from the force of the hit. Her left eye was bloodshot as she glared up at him.

"Liv?" Riley choked out. "Are you--"

"I'm fine." Her harsh answer echoed in the chamber. "It will take more than some two bit thug to hurt me." Her eyes did a quick scan to make certain Riley wasn't hurt.

"If you will excuse me, I have to go prepare for Liam's last night on earth." He retied Riley to her chair.

She threw her head back with all her might to connect with his face.

His glasses broke from the force of her strike. Blood poured out his nose as he stumbled away from her.

"Don't ever," his voice dropped to a hiss, "do that again, my love." He gripped her chin and jerked her face up toward his. "You will learn how to behave soon enough."

He slammed the cell door and left them alone.

"Did he hurt you?" Olivia whispered.

"No." Riley bit her bottom lip. "Not yet."

*****************

"Where is my wife?" Liam demanded.

Justin couldn't help but be impressed. The young king was standing before him, completely outnumbered, yet didn't show the slightest flicker of fear.

He asked the one question that he himself would have asked if Riley was taken from him.

"She is well." Justin replied. "Which is something I can't promise about your own well being."

"I want to see her." Liam bit out. "Now!"

Justin's chuckle was interrupted by a hastily whispered message from Claudius. His head jerked around to search the dim hallway as if doing so would reveal the missing prisoners.

How had they escaped?

"You don't get to make demands here." He snapped at Liam.

"Let Riley and Olivia go." Liam ordered. "And I will take their place." His eyes narrowed. "I know it is a temporary one."

Justin couldn't help but smile. The man was indeed brave to trade his life for Riley and Olivia's.

"No!" Riley screamed out from the stairs.

Chaos broke out as she led the charge to attack the Sons of the Earth. Justin watched as she ran over to protect Liam's back.

The couple were doing their utmost to protect the other from harm.

Their friends were taking his well trained soldiers out one by one. It was embarrassing to see how pitiful his men fought.

Olivia moved into his line of sight. Fury blazed across her delicate features.

"I'm impressed." He told her, unsheathing his sword. "I should have searched you myself."

"Trust me." Olivia circled him. "It will be the last mistake you'll ever make!"

She lunged at him. He easily parried her attack. "I think you've forgotten that it was your parents who gave me the same training you had."

"I think you talk too much!" She twirled about, bringing her daggers up to stop his sword from meeting her shoulder. He grunted from her heel piercing his leg as she pushed off to break his hold.

They continued to try and deliver punishing blows to the other. She was desperate to kill the man who was after her friends and country. He was anxious to be free of their marriage.

He noticed from the corner of his eye Claudius and Drake fighting. His second in command stunned the commoner with an uppercut to his jaw, causing Drake to stumble back into a wall.

Olivia heard the scuffle and followed Justin's line of sight. Her face paled at Claudius moving towards Drake to end him once and for all.

With a flick of her wrists she not only slashed Justin but threw her other dagger at Claudius. It struck true along the side of his neck, cutting into his jugular. He let out a garbled scream as he fell to the floor.

Justin hissed at the deep gash she had made along his ribcage.

Seeing that it was a lost battle, he hopped the banister and began to rush upstairs. He would have to go into hiding once more before orchestrating another attack.

"This ends now!" Riley yelled out at him.

He spun around to see both her and Liam rushing toward him. He raised his sword, determined to put an end to the man who stood between him and the throne. He hesitated when Riley jumped in front of her husband.

"You're not taking him from me!" She raised her battle ax. "Every time you try, I will stop you."

Does Liam know how lucky he is? She waited on him to choose her. Twice! And now she stands here, ready to defend him to the death. How could any man not fall in love with Riley?

His refusal to fight her was his downfall. He was pushed over the banister by the royal couple. While his breath was knocked out, Maxwell and Hana bound his hands together behind his back.

He looked about at his fallen and captured comrades. His attention was drawn toward Olivia and Drake. The pair were covered in blood and bruises, yet they were leaning against each other. Drake had his arm around her while softly speaking. Whatever was said caused Olivia to press even closer to his side. Her arms slipped around his waist. Her eyes were closed tight as she allowed him to hold her.

Justin had suspected something more between the pair. It looked like his coup for the throne had accomplished something for them.

Bastien and the rest of the King's Guards rushed in. After talking to the king and new queen, he collected Justin and hauled him outside.

On the way, Justin met Riley's eyes.

There were so many things he wanted to explain to her. He believed she would have been on board with his plans for the kingdom. Once he had killed Liam and Olivia, he would be the benevolent king the country needed. Gone would be the purpose for pompous nobles. He would have established a council of Cordonia's citizens from all walks of life to advise him. People would be rewarded and honored for their service instead of simply being born to the right parents.

And she would have been his queen, guiding and protecting all she deemed worthy.

"Riley, I..."

"You will never ever hurt those I love again." She hissed.

"Take him away." Liam ordered, keeping his arms locked around his wife. "He will be dealt with in the morning."

Justin knew then that it was pointless to try and explain. She would never give him a chance after all that had occurred.

For the first time in his life, he realized that his intentions didn't matter to the one he loved most.

[fictionadventurer]

More Than All the Gems On Earth: A Retelling of Diamonds and Toads

My mother beats me black and blue while I cast diamonds at her feet. The gems fall from my lips with every apology and plea for mercy, and they scatter across the rough-hewn floor like bits of broken glass. My mother would crush them if she could, and she hates them all the more because she cannot destroy them. The vipers from my sister’s lips slither among the diamonds, cold-blooded creatures born of poison words.

“You did this!” Mother screams, twisting my arm in her iron grip. “You spiteful little wretch! You’ll pay for this!”

It has always been this way--my sister makes the mistakes and I am punished for them. Olive’s task had not been difficult. She had only to walk to the well and give a drink to the old woman who asked. A mere moment of kindness. Yet Olive failed to give even that, and received toads and vipers as her reward.

"I’m sorry!” I cry, and I am. It’s a frightening punishment, even for someone as cruel as my sister. I pity her more than I ever have.

Olive has never felt pity. She slaps my face with the back of her hand. “Witch!” she spits. The word turns into leopard snake as long as my arm; it falls to the floor and twines itself around my leg. “You said she was a beggar, not a princess!”

I try to avoid the toads created by Olive's words as I struggle to escape from Mother. She is pulling me toward the cellar, the place of my most feared punishments. Why is it my fault that the fairy chose another shape? Should it not have been easier for Olive to show kindness to a grand lady?

“No, please!” I scream. A desperate plea for mercy. For understanding. For love.

I had thought that my jewels would make Mother love me, but not even my diamonds were good enough for her. They had to come from Olive. Her hatred of me has destroyed them both, and as always, I am the one to blame.

The thought hardens in my heart like the sapphire that forms in my mouth. They will never love me. They despise the very diamonds I give them simply because they fall from my lips. There is nothing for me here but hatred and misery.

As she strides toward the cellar, Mother steps on a bulbous toad. Her shriek of horror splits my ears, but her grip on my arm loosens. I pull away and sprint out the open cottage door. I flee into the forest with nothing but the clothes on my back and the gems that fall from my lips.

#

Standing by the stream, my words turn into pearls. Milky white, blushing pink, and one as large as my thumbnail that’s as warm and black as a soft summer night. I let them fall into the soft mud of the bank, smiling as I watch the pile grow. Though gems are now common as sand to me, I haven’t tired of their beauty. I speak poems to the sunrise just so I can watch them fall.

I pick out the purest ones from the pile, leaving behind the very small and very large, the ones that are more difficult to use as payment. I brush the rest into the stream, hoping the current will carry them on adventures. Perhaps they’ll be a windfall to a widow in need. A surprise catch for a fisherman. The prize a prince needs to win the heart of his true love.

I put the rest into my pocket, preparing for another day of silence. Which village shall I travel to today? My legend has spread to most of the countryside. Most believe me an eccentric princess. Others accuse me of thievery. I stay where people will accept me and not question my muteness or my money too closely. I’ve paid for nights at an inn with an emerald that could buy a lord’s palace. I buy dresses with pure pink rubies, groceries with chips of diamonds. Most people can’t fathom the value of the gems I give them, but people are starting to suspect, and I’ve become more wary of strangers.

Perhaps it’s time to settle down. Speak myself a fortune that will buy me an estate and servants. Walls to hide behind and people to protect me. For a price, of course.

It’s a cold, uncomforting thought. Would I really be safe among people whose loyalty was bought by my jewels?

The sky darkens with my mood as I travel along the forest path. Is this the best I can hope for? A wandering, lonely life with only as much security as money can buy?

My tears fall with the first raindrops. The cold rain drips down the neck of my gown. Chills run up my spine. I remember the cottage of my childhood. The snug roof. The warm kitchen fire. So long as I avoided Mother’s wrath, it wasn’t a bad life. At least I had a place. A purpose. Sometimes I find myself longing for a hearth to clean or a kettle to scrub.

When thunder rumbles, I remember the cellar. The slam of the door blocking out all light. Long, cold nights with bruises forming on my arms and legs. Mother’s red face as she slapped me that last day. Olive’s snakes winding along the floor.

The memories are too much, and I curl up beneath a tree to weep. I have no past that isn’t tainted by pain. No future that isn’t fraught with fear. I have only myself, and she’s a pitiful comfort in this rain-filled forest. The fairy called me beautiful and good. What use is either to a girl forever alone?

A voice from above, warm and deep, cuts through the cold rain. “Are you hurt?” 

I look up to see a young man on a horse. His clothes are finer than my ruby-bought dress, though he’s rain-soaked and roughened with forest dirt. He carries a gun, and three red and white spaniels stand beside his horse, but he’s no huntsman. I cannot mistake the ring on his hand.

Curled up as I am, I require only the slightest shift to fall prostrate. “Your highness,” I say. Two amethysts fall, hidden beneath my down-turned face.

I hear him jump from his horse. His footsteps are soft in the damp earth and stop mere inches from my ear. “Are you hurt?” he asks again, voice full of concern.

I shake my head in denial.

“Then there’s no sense laying in the mud,” he says. He offers a hand and helps me to my feet. He examines my mud-stained silk dress, my rain-soaked hair, the pack over my shoulder. He meets my eyes and says softly, “You’ve been crying.”

I nod and wipe away a tear, or perhaps a raindrop.

“Why?”

I cannot refuse a question from my prince. After months of silence, it almost feels good to have the choice taken from me. I give him the simplest explanation I can. “My mother has driven me from my home.”

Two roses, a lily, three sapphires, and an emerald the size of a blackberry fall into the mud. The prince watches them fall in astonishment. He picks up the lily, running a reverent finger along a pure white petal. He looks at me. His eyes are like a child’s, wide and innocent and bluer than the sapphires at my feet.

“Why?” he asks again, the question barely more than a whisper.

I don’t know if he’s asking why the flowers fell or why my mother cast me out. Since both questions have the same answer, I tell him my story, beginning with the old woman at the well and ending with my flight from the snake-infested house. Gems and flowers pile at my feet, one for every word I speak--diamonds and daisies, pearls and pansies, rubies and roses. When I finish the story, he takes in the bounty through eyes as wide as dinner plates.

The prince closes his eyes and shakes his head like a man snapping free from the effects of a spell. Then he gives me a sympathetic gaze. “You’ve been alone ever since?”

The sorrow in his voice steals my breath. I haven’t heard such sympathy since my father died. My mother certainly had no concern for my emotions.

Struck speechless, I can only nod.

“Here in the woods?”

I shake my head. “I’ve stayed in inns. Traveled town to town.”

Four more flowers. Four more gems. He watches them in wonder.

“With a fortune falling from your lips?”

“I never speak around people.” I catch five pearls and put them with the bounty in my pocket.

He notices the action and his eyebrows rise. “Yet you carry gems with you. It’s a wonder you haven’t been robbed.”

I can only nod in agreement. Nobles with far less wealth than I have been waylaid on these roads. Now that my story is spreading, I’m not sure how long I can safely travel alone.

He holds out a hand. “Come home with me,” he urges.

I step beneath the sheltering trees, shaking my head. “I don’t know you, sir.” Four carnations and one perfect diamond disappear into the undergrowth.

He sweeps into a courtly bow. “His Royal Highness, Prince Simon Everill.”

Propriety demands I curtsy in return, but I do not speak.

Softly, the prince says, “It’s not in my nature to abandon young women in the woods to fend for themselves. The castle often takes in travelers. You can stay for as long as you like.”

I’m not sure if it’s me he’s inviting or the pile of gems at my feet. But what other option do I have? Miles of walking in the rain, to a town I’m not certain will accept pearls as payment? Days upon days of looking over my shoulder and waiting for highwaymen to find me? This prince, stranger though he is, may be my best chance for safety.

I dip a deeper curtsy. “Thank you, sir.” I catch the three seed-sized diamonds that fall and place them into his palm.

He brushes them away. “No payment,” he says. “Not for hospitality.”

But for other things, perhaps? What plans does he have for my future?

He helps me onto his horse, then mounts behind me. What is your name, my lady?” He asks.

“Agnes,” I say. The word drops to the ground as a flawless ruby.

#

Simon and I sit on the hillside, the castle wall a comforting guardian behind us. We laugh as a spaniel chases away a flock of sparrows. Another spaniel, less zealous in our protection, sits with her curly-eared head in my lap. I run my fingers through her fur and feel a warm thrill in my chest. I have food, clothes, comfort, companionship. I have never been so rich, and it has little to do with the store of gems beneath my mattress. 

Simon has kept my secret during these weeks. At least he says he has. I’ve gotten strange stares from the servants lately, like they don’t know what to make of me, and during a few sleepless nights I’ve wondered if the story I told Simon has been making the rounds. It’s more likely that they wonder about my extended stay, but I can't quite silence the doubts. 

Simon tells me a story of his last visit to the River Kingdom, and I pepper him with questions. When we are alone, I don’t guard my tongue. My words blow away as buttercups on the breeze, and we let pearls scatter on the hillside like seeds for the sparrows. Even if someone were watching from a distance, I doubt they could make out the miracle among the waving grasses. 

When Simon’s story is done, I am breathless with laughter. I’ve never met anyone as gifted with words as he is--high praise from the girl whose voice creates jewels.

Simon smiles at me as I wipe tears of mirth from my eyes. “Agnes,” he says, “You are the most charming girl I’ve ever met.”

“Because I laugh at your stories?” I ask, my tone teasing. Daisies dance away from us.

He takes my hands between his. “Because you’re beautiful, and kind, and gentle and generous and you have more patience than I could show in ten lifetimes.”

The praise surprises me. I’ve long known I’m pretty--I do have a mirror--but I’ve never received compliments on my personality. Mother and Olive made it clear that I was a weak, stupid, spineless thing, and given how long it took me to escape their clutches, I’ve never had reason to disagree.

I feel a blush burning on my cheeks. “You don’t need to flatter me.” The words fall as dull, uncut shards of brown topaz.

“Agnes.” His eyes burn like sapphires in the sun, his voice desperate as a man reaching for a lifeline at sea. “I hadn’t known you three hours before I knew there was no woman in the world who could compare to you. Please, marry me.”

He pulls a golden ring out of his pocket. Within it sits the perfectly-cut ruby that fell when I first told him my name.

I pull away, heart racing. I wonder if it’s possible for my eyeballs to fall out of their sockets from behind my too-open lids. “Simon,” I gasp. His name is a diamond that blinds me with its brilliance. “I can���t. I couldn’t.”

“Why not?”

The whole universe has been built upon such things being impossible. I can’t explain reality in a few simple words. I settle for saying, “I can’t marry a prince. I have no title. No family.”

“What does that matter? My father would never forbid it. The gift you have is worth more than any dowry.”

My heart hardens like the sapphire that I spit at his feet. My weeks of happiness here fade away like the childish dream they were. This has been his plan from the beginning. The invitation, the conversations, even his silly little story as we played with the spaniels. All given in hope that I would let my guard down and let him claim every word I speak for the rest of my life.

The ruby in his hands now gleams like a drop of blood from my beating heart. He had gone back to retrieve it, without a word to me. Has he hoarded all the other gems I’ve dropped during our conversations? Have I ever seen the real Simon? Or has this all been an act to get me to the altar? I think of Mother in a million moments of my childhood. After her worst outbursts of temper, she would sigh and beg forgiveness, saying such sweet things that I rushed to her open arms, desperate for long-withheld affection. The moment I came within her reach, she would hit me so hard that my ears rang. I am suddenly certain that Simon’s real face will emerge the moment we marry. I will be his precious trained pet, speaking only to fill his coffers.

I would rather live in Mother’s house again. And I would rather die than do either.

I leap to my feet, gathering my skirts.

“Agnes!” Simon leaps up, alarmed.

I back away from his outstretched hand, tears flying. “No!” I gasp. The word is a dead daffodil. “No, never!”  The last word is an opal, and I fling it at his chest. Then I clamp my lips shut. I will give him no more of my treasures.

I race down the open hillside. Though Simon is taller, he cannot catch me. Years of living in terror have given me speed. The spaniels race after me, barking in alarm, but I soon outpace even them.

I disappear into the forest, trailing silent, worthless tears.

#

It’s an apple blossom morning. My orchard is full of the fragrant blooms, branches weighed down with millions of pale pink and cream flowers. Matching blossoms fall from my lips as I speak my morning prayers. The flowers land lightly on the rain-dampened earth, a carpet of silk for the would-be queen.

I haven’t seen Simon since last summer, and I’m glad of it. I’m proud of the life I’ve built outside of his palace prison. I spent the first weeks in terror, certain he would send soldiers to scour the country and bring me back to the palace in chains. When my first whispers of courage appeared, I traveled on foot to a northern city, one large enough to hold several jewelers. I sold off a month’s worth of words for a small fortune. I bought a modest house on the outskirts where the city kissed the open countryside. I hired servants from agencies, then replaced them until I found people I believed I could trust. My housekeeper has a moral spine of steel. I speak freely in her presence, and she does nothing more than lift a disapproving eyebrow toward the gems that cover her clean floor. She believes my habit to be extravagance bordering on indecency. My butler is a sweet old man, half-blind and half-deaf. I don’t believe he notices my flowers or gems. I sometimes slip him one as a present, spinning some tale of a grandmother’s jewels that I’m giving away.

The garden I care for myself. I’ve planted some of my word-flowers as cuttings, and I hope they will grow. I think the roses have the best chance of taking root. I spend hours out here whenever the weather’s warm, letting the silence and sunshine and blessed hard labor wash every thought and emotion from me. It is only on mornings like this that I let myself feel anything at all.

Something rustles the tree behind me. In the corner of my eye, I see a million apple blossoms rain down. I turn, expecting to see a bird or a particularly heavy squirrel.

It’s Simon. He stands beneath my apple tree in all his palace finery. He is still pale from the winter, but his eyes are bright as ever. He bends at the waist, an apologetic bow. “Your housekeeper let me in.”

Of course she did. Greta can’t refuse entry to a prince. I’m reminded again of how powerless I am before him.

I stand in silence, waiting for the renewal of last summer’s offer. I steel myself in advance against his declarations of love, his flimsy praises of my person, the lies upon lies upon lies he will spin to snare my heart in his web. I scan for movement along the garden walls. Has he brought servants? Soldiers? If he has, there’s nothing I can do, but I won’t give him victory by showing him how frightened I am.

He doesn’t speak. He barely moves. He could be a new statue I bought for the garden. Finally, he asks, “Are you well?”

I nod.

“It’s a lovely house,” he says. “These trees are exquisite.”

Another nod.

Simon’s eyes stay on the blossoms. “The neighbors say you never have visitors.”

Of course I don’t. My gems can buy a house, but they make a social life impossible. How could I attend card parties and balls with diamonds falling with my every word? A mute heiress is a curiosity, but never a friend.

Simon runs a hand along a branch. A dozen petals fall. “Are you lonely?” he asks.

I am, but I hate him for asking. It makes me sound pitiful. I want to be alone. Loneliness is safe.

A falling tear betrays me. The eyes that can spot a partridge across a field watch it fall to the petal-strewn ground. “I thought so,” Simon murmurs. “That’s why I brought this.”

He reaches behind a tree and slides out a basket. Something inside rustles and whines. I step toward it, too curious for caution.

Simon lifts up a squirming puppy. Russet patches blaze on its white fur. I gasp and run my fingers through the silky curls of its ears. It’s so young and warm and alive. I gather it into my arms and let it lick the salt water from my face.

Puppies don’t care about dowries. Diamonds are nothing more than pretty stones for them to chase. They care about food and fresh air and the sheer joy of being alive. I could have no better companion.  

I bury my face in the puppy’s fur. “Thank you,” I breathe, crowning the puppy with apple blossoms.

Simon’s grin makes me think of a summer sky. “She’s fine hunting stock, and I think she’ll make an excellent guard dog someday.”

I don’t care about the future. She’s mine now, and I cry from the sheer joy of having a friend.

Two friends, a tiny voice in my mind insists. Even if this is only a ploy to capture my heart, it’s a very kind stratagem. “Thank you,” I say again.

Simon nods and gathers up his basket. “You can write me if you wish. Tell me how she’s doing.”

My heart shies away from the idea, from another strand that could tie me closer to the crown. But I know what Simon’s dogs mean to him. Refusal would be pointless cruelty. “I will,” I say.

The words fall as a perfect pink pearl. The puppy treats it as a toy.

#

Leaves fall in clumps of color, crimson and orange and gold. Lady wrestles with them while I read my letter; my dog knows better than to disturb me while I read on this bench. It overlooks the orchard and seems the only fitting place to read letters from Simon.

We’ve exchanged more than twenty in the past six months, starting with mere updates about Lady’s health, and slowly expanding to include tales of our days, stories of our childhoods, discussions of philosophy and our feelings about the world. It’s a relief to use as many words as I want without worrying about the flowers and jewels that fall, and I filled five whole pages, front and back, with crossed writing in my last letter. Simon’s reply is nearly as long and I devour every neatly scrawled word, delighting in the sentences that seem to carry the sound of his voice.

His stories are as engaging in writing as they are in person, and before I realize it, I’ve reached the last page. These words have not been crossed; only one set of neat sentences covers the half-sheet.

Darling Agnes, he writes. The endearment shocks me like a thorn among roses. My heart is more yours than it has ever been. I wish with everything I am that those diamonds would dissolve to dust, if it would help you believe that I love you despite your jewels. I repeat my offer from two summers past, and I hope you know me well enough to rightly judge my sincerity. I can only pray you will pity a foolish prince who has done nothing to deserve a wife so far superior to himself.

The pages of the letter fall like flakes of snow, and I tremble like the leaves that cling so precariously to the apple trees. The last months dissolve like a dream and I’m back on that hill outside the palace, back in the cellar with my blossoming bruises. Love is real, I know, but it is never given to me. Simon cannot be offering it, not truly. These months of friendship have been glorious, but a few heartfelt letters are not the same as agreeing to be a man’s wife, giving him my heart to treasure or cast off at will. He will cast it off, I know it. In a day or a week or ten years, it will be thrown into my face as a weapon, my heart aching all the more because I gave it so freely to someone who despised me.

I race into my writing room, pull out a paper, and dip a quill in the ink. My hand shakes violently, but it doesn’t matter. The page only needs one word.

No.

#

Snow covers the garden like diamond dust. The jewels I speak disappear into the drifts behind the house. I cast them out for Lady to chase, and my words of praise provide gems for the next game.

When Lady tires, we walk to the front garden. Two of my yellow roses took root last summer and have become tiny spindles of bushes. I brush the snow from their branches to keep them from being crushed. Dogs and roses--the only things I can safely love.

“Such kindness,” says a voice from outside the gate. I look up to see a gray-haired crone in a ragged cloak. She smiles with crooked teeth. “Do you have any for an old woman?”

I hurry to the gate, reaching under my cloak and pulling coins from my purse. I regularly exchange my jewels for coins now, and I always keep a supply for the poor. I place five of the largest in the beggar’s hands, enough for a month of meals and a comfortable room.

The woman gives it a satisfied smile. “Bless you.” She tucks the coins into her glove. “You’re seen as something of a ministering angel among our kind, lady,” she says. “Beautiful and kind and as mysterious as the holy mountain.”

I laugh. I’ve gotten better at holding back my jewels when I need to, so I feel safe saying, “I’ve been very blessed.”

"Then why are you so sad?” the woman asks.

Her gray eyes pierce me, making it seem pointless to hide my secrets. I give her the least dangerous part of the truth. “I have no family.”

“Girls with that problem usually try make one of their own. A lady like you must have a hundred beaus to pick from.” 

I pretend to cough into my hand, and I slide eight tourmalines into my purse. “Only one,” I say.

“And what a one,” the woman says, leaning over a fence as if to share a secret. “The prince himself pining away for you in that great palace.”

I gasp and forget to stop the daisies from falling. “How did you...?”

“Half the town knows about the royal seals on those letters,” the woman says, “and knows the postman hasn’t seen one for four months, about the same time that the prince stopped attending social functions.”

My blush burns so hot that the beggar could warm her hands by it.

The woman places a comforting hand over my trembling one on the rail of the fence. “You’re being very unkind to that poor boy. Do you think you’re the only one in the world with a good heart?”

It’s like she sees into my soul, and I suddenly remember a gap-toothed woman by a faraway well who knew my history just by looking at me. This woman is shorter and darker-skinned, but those gray eyes hold similar secrets.

So I speak to her like I’ve spoken to no one else--pitiful, pathetic words. I sound like a frightened child as I reply, “It’s the only heart I can be sure is good.”

“Nonsense. Ain’t you talked to him? Seen him? What has he said, promised, done? Has he ever been cruel? Angry? Wicked?”

No, no, and no. He gave me shelter, friendship, love. He let me run away from him. He brought me Lady. If he wanted my jewels he could have sent a hundred men to drag me back to his palace in chains, but aside from the ruby for my ring, I’m not sure I’ve ever seen him touch one of my precious words. The only monstrous things he’s done have been inventions of my own terrified imagination.

But my imagination won’t give up so easily. “He could be one day.”

“So could you,” the woman counters.

“I couldn’t throw him in the dungeon.”

The woman closes her eyes and sighs. “Love is a risk. Trust is a great gift. Will you hoard it all for yourself or find the courage to give it away?”

I let out my breath in one long, weary sigh. “I don’t know if I can,” I say. The first words are daisies and chips of diamonds. The last one falls as a perfect ruby in my gloved hand.

The woman presses both her hands around the hand with the ruby. When she pulls them away, the jewel is set in a ring of pure gold.

“Try,” she says.

#

Simon steps into my writing room, looking disheveled and a little bewildered. He brushes snowflakes out of his hair and steps toward my desk. He holds up a hastily scrawled letter. “You called?”

I step toward him and place the ruby ring in his outstretched hand. “I would like,” I say, the words creating a bouquet of roses in my arms, “to make a proposal.”

#

Simon and I kneel before the priest. The pearls from a thousand grateful prayers are draped in long chains across our shoulders and arms. Simon is radiant, a million silent words speaking of his love. He makes his vows with unhesitating enthusiasm, then the priest places the same questions to me, asking me to take Simon as my husband, whatever may come, to the very end of our days.

“I do,” I say.

The sapphires that fall from beneath my veil gleam like tears of joy.

[2manyfandoms2count]

I love you (not) - Chapter 6

Aaaand we're back on the main fic! I am very proud to announce that I managed to fit an AU in here without it being weird (I think). It was really fun to write! Feel free to ask me more about that universe if you feel like it :) Hope you enjoy!

@marichatmay

First | Previous | AO3 | Next

---

Chapter 6: In which we change worlds but it makes sense, I promise

“Princess!”

Marinette stirred in her sleep as she heard the call and the distinct sound of curtains opening. She felt the morning’s soft light warm her face and sighed contently.

“Princess Marinette, you need to wake up! Today’s the day!” The feminine voice called again, closer, this time.

Her eyes flew open and she sat up, feeling her heartbeat quicken with excitement.

“Oh Tikki, you won’t believe how well I slept!” She jumped out of her canopy bed, her white nightdress flowing in her wake as she rushed towards her handmaiden, who stared out of the window. “I really thought I wouldn’t sleep a wink, but really, the herbal tea you gave me worked wonders!"

“I’m glad to hear it! It worked well on Chat Noir, too, apparently. I ran into Plagg, his squire, in the kitchen earlier.”

“Good,” Marinette sighed with relief.

“Come on, now, we need to get you ready!” Tikki took her hand and led her to her dressing table. “How are you feeling about your engagement day?” She asked as she started brushing the princess’ hair.

“Very good. I’m very happy about the outcome of yesterday’s rounds - I know I’m not supposed to have favourites within the contestants but…” Marinette paused, hesitating to say anymore. It wasn’t a matter of trust (she’d known Tikki long enough that the two had become close friends, despite the rank difference); she was just unwilling to criticise the way things were too soon.

“You have every right to be, your Highness. The Joust of Valour explores your suitors’ ability to protect you, but there’s more to marriage than just that. It’s good that you feel comfortable with the two final contestants.” Her handmaiden smiled warmly, starting to braid her hair. “If I may, does your Highness have a soft spot for one contestant in particular? I could pass the message to the relevant people, maybe it would give him some extra luck for today…”

“I don’t, Tikki,” the young lady said firmly. It wasn’t a lie; she’d asked herself who she’d rather see emerge victorious of the tournament as she fell asleep the previous night, but she hadn’t reached a solid conclusion. It was better this way, really. Whatever the outcome, she wouldn’t be disappointed. “Anyway, you said Chat Noir was doing well?...”

Tikki repressed a smile, and told her what she knew.

---

Marinette proudly walked up to her place in the stands, her arm linked to her father’s.

For once, she would be the one sitting front and center of the Royal Balcony, relegating her parents, the King and Queen of the Croissant Kingdom, to the back of the stall with their guest. Neither King Tom or Queen Sabine seemed to mind, though; both were beaming as they waved to the crowd that had travelled for the event. Their cheers lifted the princess’ spirits so much that even the stern figure of King Gabriel of the Butterfly Kingdom failed to make her mood waver. Maybe this was what growing up felt like.

“Mesdames et Messieurs!” The voice of the announcer boomed over the ambient noise. “Welcome to the final round of the Joust of Valour! The joust will soon commence. Sparring for the heart of our beloved Princess Marinette, having victoriously arisen from all their duels, are Prince Adrien from the Butterfly Kingdom, and our local Knight Chat Noir!”

The crowd roared as the two men came forward, leading their horses.

Prince Adrien’s silver armour glistened in the sunlight, and so did his smile as his gaze met hers. Her heart skipped a beat. Her crush on him, which she’d developed during one of their first encounters as children, really hadn’t faded much over the years, despite what her friend, the Duchess Alya, had told her.

On the other hand, Chat Noir’s appearance was a lot starker. His whole armour was black, matte, the whole hint of colour being his forest green spear. There was something radiant about him, though, in the way his tousled blond hair danced in the breeze, in the way his green eyes sparkled with laughter and mischief as he approached the stands, that drew her to him. He’d been at her side for years, valiantly working with her when she’d been taken hostage by one of the Papillon’s sbires. They’d brilliantly defeated him, earning him his knighthood at the age of only fifteen, and a place in her personal guard. Despite her father’s warnings that Marinette shouldn’t meddle with the Papillon’s affairs, Chat Noir still managed to get her involved. They were a team.

“I hope I’ll be up to the challenge, dearest Marinette,” Adrien squeezed the hand she presented to him; she squeezed it back and smiled as she watched him head towards his noble steed.

“My Lady Princess,” Chat Noir bowed reverently before her, “please accept this rose as a token of my affection.” He pulled a pink rose out of seemingly thin air and presented it to her. The crowd gasped delightedly. Then, delicately taking her hand, he pressed a kiss to the back of it with a wink; Marinette felt herself blush.

“Thank you, Chat Noir,” she barely managed to enunciate.

He bowed again, and went to ready himself.

Marinette looked at the rose, and noticed there was a piece of paper wrapped around the stem, maintained by a thorn. She made the most of everybody’s attention on the contestants to unravel it.

My dearest Lady Princess,

I’m sorry.

Love you always, CN

“Princess Marinette will now announce the beginning of the joust!” The announcer declared, startling her as she tried to understand what Chat Noir had meant by his message. She rapidly shoved it in her pocket and stood up uneasily, hoping all the eyes trained on her wouldn’t detect her fluster.

“Best of luck, gentlemen! May the best man win!”

The two horses set off towards each other, spurred on by their riders. The contestants’ spears crashed against each other’s shield, unsettling them a little. Both knights trotted to the end of the track and prepared to set off again.

The crowd oohed and aahed during the next rounds, both men barely wavering at the other’s assaults. Marinette held her breath each time, anxiously awaiting the outcome, only to let out a relieved sigh when neither fell.

Then, as the two men were about to set off again for the thirteenth time, Marinette saw Chat Noir’s helmet turn briefly towards her, and she felt her stomach drop. She didn’t need to see his face to know what was about to happen. The rose slipped out from her fingers as she realised what the note had meant.

As the knight and the prince came up to each other at full speed, Prince Adrien’s jousting spear collided violently with Chat Noir’s chest, and the latter fell to the ground with a deafening clank .

The crowd erupted in clamour as Adrien started to tour the track at a low trot, a victorious smile on his lips. Finally reaching the royal stand, he elegantly jumped off and extended a hand towards her.

“I’m truly honoured to be your future husband, your Royal Highness.”

He kissed her hand before guiding her out of the stand and helped her up to ride his horse with him. She smiled the whole time, but it didn’t reach her eyes.

Those were looking for Chat Noir.

---

In the middle of the boisterous banquet, Marinette felt like she couldn’t breathe anymore. She had to get out of the hall, before her plastered smile broke, and she exposed her true feelings.

She excused herself, reassuring Prince Adrien that it must have been her prolonged time in the sun and her unusual mead consumption, and made her way to her quarters.

There, she rapidly grabbed a cloak from her trunk and sneaked out, head hung low until she’d exited the castle’s gates.

She started running. Her legs carried her as her mind raced, as her tear-ducts gave way to her tears.

She hadn’t thought the joust’s outcome would mean so much to her. She thought she’d be happy, whatever happened on the track. But as much as she’d dreamed of this match… It just didn’t feel right.

She tripped and fell to her knees, out of breath, and recognised her surroundings. The clearing had been where Chat and her had been taken hostage, and where Chat took her to practise fencing when he knew no one was looking.

A rustling sound startled her and she put her hands up defensively, although she didn’t feel like getting up.

“Hi, Princess,” Chat Noir emerged from the trees, carrying a bag. “I couldn’t find you in your room, but I figured you’d be here.”

“You had no right to sacrifice yourself like that,” she sobbed, her hands dropping to her knees.

“You know you’ll be much happier with Prince Adrien, Princess.” He smiled sadly. “You two are meant to be - you’d already be betrothed to him, were it not for the Kingdom’s Joust of Valour.”

“You don’t know what would make me happier,” she angrily wiped the tears from her eyes.

“You know I’d do anything for you, my Marinette.” He rushed to her side and cupped her cheek.

“Then run away with me.” She looked straight into his eyes.

“Why?” He whispered, his face inching closer to hers.

“Because Prince Adrien might have my hand…” She started, her breath hitching as she computed their proximity. “... But you have my heart.” Her eyes fluttered shut as she closed the distance between them and…

BIP-BIP-BIP-BIP

Marinette woke up with a start as her alarm clock started blaring. Her heart raced in her chest at the already fleeting memory of her dream. She caught her disappointment at not having witnessed the outcome, and covered her face with her hands. She felt like she was burning up.

She was so confused. The dream had been so out of place. So unexpected. What did it mean? She didn’t love Chat Noir! And she definitely didn’t want to run away with him. How absurd.

She only had a week to hold out for, she thought as she got dressed. It wouldn’t come soon enough.

She didn't know if her heart would survive another trick of her brain.

[seanfalco]

What a Christmas, huh? | Duncan Taylor x Reader

Word count: 2.8k Prompt: thigh riding Requested by: @gurlimtired​ a/n: Direct continuation of Where’s Your Holiday Spirit?  I just really wanted to write that smutty conclusion, but a little angst snuck in there.

(gif credit)

You had no self respect.

Or at least, that’s what you kept bitterly telling yourself as you made your way down the corridor toward the main lounge.  At this hour on Christmas eve, most of the crew were asleep, taking advantage of the extra time off, and that suited you just fine, not exactly wanting an audience to your shame.

As you turned the corner to the lounge, the Christmas tree the only thing lighting the dark room, disappointment filled you as you found the space empty, the one person you’d been looking for not to be found.

No, this is good, you told yourself.  This gave you an out.  Just because you hadn’t been able to get Duncan and that stupid kiss beneath the mistletoe… or his proposition shortly thereafter off your mind didn’t mean you had to act on it.  Like you had before...

Taking a deep breath, you gave the soft lights of the tree one last wistful look before resigning yourself to heading back to your bunk for the remainder of the evening when you turned, coming face to face with none other than the man you certainly weren’t looking for.

“Duncan!” you gasped.

“[y/n]!” he practically yelped in return, surprise getting the better of him for once, before he quickly regained his composure, fixing his usual shit-eating grin back into place, but for a brief moment you’d seen it -- that flash of genuine surprise and… hope?  Hope that you might have been looking for him as it seemed he was for you.

“What’re you doing out and about on a night such as tonight, when not even a creature was stirring, or however it goes,” he asked, cocking a smug eyebrow at you.

“I could ask the same of you,” you pointed out with a shrug, dancing around the real reason you both knew you were out here.

“It wouldn’t have anythin’ to do with sneaking out to give me an early Christmas present, would it?” he asked, studying you with amusement.

“Don’t be ridiculous, Duncan,” you scoffed, “I was just going for a-a walk, since I couldn’t sleep,” you lied almost smoothly, bracing for the snarky innuendo he no doubt had ready and waiting on his tongue.

Instead, he shrugged.  “Fancy a nightcap, then?” he asked, pulling a small bottle of liquor from his back pocket to slosh enticingly in your face.

Chewing your lip you thought it over.  Though his offer didn’t come with an obvious disgusting proposition like usual, you knew how this was going to end if you said yes; you knew what this entailed.

But wasn’t that what you wanted?  Wasn’t that why you’d been searching for him in the first place?

“Yeah, alright,” you said, carefully keeping your expression neutral.

“Lovely,” he smirked, “I know just the place for it too,” he murmured and you gestured for him to lead the way.

“Where exactly are we headed?” you asked as you walked and Duncan glanced over at you with a cheeky grin.

“Someplace quiet, where we won’t be interrupted… unless you’re into that?” he teased when you frowned.

“I think you’re getting a little ahead of yourself, don’tcha think?” you pointed out, “who said I’m planning on shaggin’ you tonight?”

Duncan shrugged, “I guess we’ll see, won’t we,” he mused, stopping in front of a seldom used supply closet and sliding the door open.  “After you, luv,” he said, stepping aside to let you pass.

“I can’t see a bloody thing,” you grumbled, banging your shin on a storage container at your feet.

“There should be a lantern nearby,” Duncan exclaimed, huffing a laugh at your pain.

Reaching out blindly, you found it and switched it on to the dimmest setting, still grumbling to yourself.

“Ah, perfect,” Duncan announced, jumping up to sit on a large crate at the back of the room, patting the spot next to him invitingly and you reluctantly sat.

Twisting the cap off the bottle of whiskey, he took a swig before handing it to you and you followed suit, letting the alcohol warm you as it burned its way down your throat.

“So,” Duncan prompted and you glanced at him warily, his fingers brushing yours as he took the bottle back.

“So?” you asked, tilting your head toward him.

“So, what made you join up?” he asked, the question taking you off guard, not expecting him to actually care about your personal life.  “Let me guess,” he mused, tapping his lip thoughtfully, drawing your eyes there.  “Some noble calling to protect our failing planet?” he asked, his voice thick with sarcasm before he took another drink,” or was it like me, for that sweet sweet paycheck?”

“Is that the only reason?” you asked instead and Duncan shrugged, leaning back against the wall as he offered you the bottle.

“Let’s just say, if I could find anything planetside that paid better than this, then I wouldn’t be here,” he answered.

You nodded.  “Yeah, I guess it's pretty much the same for me,” you mused, “guess we’re stuck in this together, then,” you pointed out wryly, the whiskey in the bottle sloshing as you took another drink, the bottle nearly half empty now.

“Suppose there’s worse places one could be,” Duncan murmured, glancing at you from the corner of his eye, making you pause, you didn’t think he’d meant you to hear that.  “Maybe we’re not so different after all,” he said, louder, smirking as he took the bottle back.

Any other time and you probably would’ve bristled at that remark, but maybe it was just the alcohol… or maybe it was something else, but you merely nodded in silent agreement.

“So… you, uhm, got anyone back home waiting for you?” you found yourself asking, unsure what had prompted all this curiosity in you.

Duncan snorted, “y’mean, like a girl or somethin’?” he asked and your face heated.

“No, I meant, like family,” you clarified, not caring for the skeptical look he threw you.

“Uh huh,” he murmured, his lips twisting into a grin.

“Ah, no.  No, not really,” he answered after a moment.  “And no, I don’t have a girl, or anyone else planetside waitin’ for me, just in case you’re curious,” he added coyly.

“That’s not what I meant,” you repeated, “though that’s not hard to believe,” you muttered, snatching the whiskey back, “I don’t see how anyone could stand to date you.”

“Wow,” Duncan scoffed, covering his heart with his hand.  “Tell me how you really feel about me, why don’tcha?  No, no, don’t hold back on my account,” he insisted wryly.

Sighing, you tilted your head to look at him, a long suffering expression on your face, though you almost felt bad… almost.  “Oh, c’mon Duncan, you know I can’t stand you.”

His thick eyebrows rose nearly to his curls.  “Oh?  Could’ve fooled me,” he replied lightly, amusement dancing in his eyes.  “If that’s the case, then why do we keep finding ourselves in this situation, then?” he asked, cocking an eyebrow.

“What situation?” you asked, as if you didn’t know, freezing as he leaned in, his lips pressing to yours in answer, your breath catching in your throat as you found yourself kissing him back, slowly at first, though growing in fervor.

Before you knew it, you’d climbed into his lap, straddling him as his arms snaked around your waist, trapping you against him, his tongue warring with yours.  He tasted strongly of whiskey, but you realized you probably did as well, your head swimming slightly, and not just from the booze.

“This situation,” Duncan murmured as you caught your breath, his mossy eyes boring into yours.  “See, I can’t help but notice I’m getting some mixed signals here.”

Opening your mouth to ready a comeback, it died on your tongue as Duncan shifted his hips beneath you, the bulge in his pants pressing against your core and you barely bit back the moan that bubbled out of your chest, Duncan’s cheeky grin flashing in the dimly lit room.

“Just admit you might not hate me as much as you let on, huh,” he pressed and you bit your lip.

“Are we gunna shag, or what?” you asked instead, a flustered huff entering your voice and Duncan barked a laugh.

“Oh, believe me darling, we’ll get to that, but first I wanna unwrap my Christmas present and play with it a little first,” he drawled, his hands lingering at your waist by the hem of your shirt.

Begrudgingly, you lifted your arms, letting him peel it up over your head before he reached behind you, unclasping your bra to bare your tits, his hands immediately covering them, kneading and pinching, rolling your pert nipples between his fingers as he watched your face.

“That feel good, princess?” he asked and you let out a shaky breath, the aching thrum between your legs unable to be ignored any longer, your arousal reflected in your eyes, your pupils dilating with want.

“Duncan,” you whined, a petulant edge to your voice that only made his grin grow.

“Oh, don’t worry, luv, you’ll be bouncin’ on my cock soon enough, but first--”  His hands left your chest to circle your waist, shifting you so you were now only straddling one of his thin thighs.  “If you wanna get off on my cock, you’re gunna have to get off on my thigh first,” he drawled and your mouth fell open.  

“I wanna see how desperate you are for it, how much you want me, to be filled by me.  How does that sound, pet?” he taunted, his expression darkening with lust as his eyes bored into yours, the new pet name sending a shiver through you.

You could just get up and leave, you know, a tiny voice in the back of your head whispered, and you hesitated, considering it.  But you don’t want to, do you?  Maybe Duncan’s right--

No, you replied, cutting the voice off.  All you wanted was to get off, that’s it.  There was no other reason it had to be with Duncan other than he was willing.

“I’m waiting, sweetheart,” he taunted, giving your nipple a tweak and you jumped, refocusing, your lips twitching into a frown.  

Rolling your hips, you ground slowly against his leg, snaking your arms over his shoulders to stabilize yourself, a shuddering breath leaving your lips.  Trying to ignore the pleased smirk he wore, you chased your pleasure, grinding harder against him, your breathing growing heavy, but damn did the friction feel good against your aching cunt.

“That’s right, such a needy thing, can’t get enough of me,” Duncan murmured in your ear, his lips brushing your jaw as his curls brushed your cheek and you gasped as he bit down on the sensitive flesh at the nape of your neck.  You could feel his tongue move against you before he planted his lips to suck, the sensation driving you mad as you writhed against his leg, your soaking panties starting to rub you raw, but you didn’t stop.

“God, I can feel how wet you are through the leg of my trousers, you’re gunna leave a wet spot, how lewd,” he purred, delighted, his hands at your waist helping you.  “Hurry up then, the sooner you cum, the sooner I can ruin that tight little twat of yours.  So, come on, luv, cum for me,” he encouraged and with a shudder, you did, the friction too much, pushing you over the edge and you rode through it, Duncan capturing your lips as you finished.

“There, now,” he drawled as you gasped, catching your breath.  “That was fuckin’ hot,” he said, pride filling you at his praise, followed by disdain that he’d made you feel that way.  

Slipping off his lap you shimmied your pants and ruined knickers down as he freed his cock and you let your gaze fall to it as you wet your lips, the idea of seeing him squirm for once, highly appealing, til you realized what you were thinking, snapping yourself out of it.

“C’mon, sit on ol’ Saint Nicky’s lap,” he teased, patting his lap and you shot him a disgusted frown.

“Do not put it like that,” you exclaimed as he laughed, catching your arm and pulling you closer til you were straddling him once more, hovering over him, the tip of his cock brushing against you temptingly.

“Come here, luv,” he murmured, the strain in his voice belying how much he wanted this, wanted you, and as you eased yourself onto him, wriggling your hips slightly, wanting to tease him back a little, the pleased sigh that left his lips made your stomach flip and you bit your lip as you watched his face, the way his mouth fell open and his long eyelashes fluttered.

“Oh, fuck, you feel bloody amazing.”  When he opened his eyes once more, however, the dominant Duncan was back, his predatory grin returning.  

Smirking, he thrust up into you suddenly, pulling a surprised gasp from your lips as he pushed deeper into you and you moaned brokenly as you rolled your hips, grinding against him, writhing in his lap, focusing on your pleasure.  

“Oh, Duncan,” you whispered breathlessly, your eyes fluttering shut, and he lifted you, urging you to bounce on him, his fingers biting into your hips as he guided you, your tits bouncing as he fucked you.  

“Ahh--!” you cried, Duncan’s lips crashing into yours muffling you and you kissed him back sloppily, drawing his bottom lip between your teeth to bite roughly, drawing a hiss from him.

“Oh, you bitch,” he gasped, his hooded eyes catching yours as you continued to bounce, pleasure coursing through you with each rough thrust.  “Do that again,” he demanded and you obeyed, relishing in the guttural groan that left him as he forced you closer, holding you tightly as you nipped at him, a gasped giggle leaving your lips.

“Oh, God, what you do to me,” he murmured, his voice strained and you wondered if he was as close as you were, that hovering white hot pleasure just waiting for you around the corner.

“Duncan, I’m gunna-gunna cum,” you keened with a gasp, plateauing almost as soon as the words were out of your mouth, tensing in his embrace, your muscles going rigid even as you continued to ride him, and though you’d not wanted him to cum inside before, you were past caring at this point, a choked whimper nearly leaving your lips before you clamped your mouth shut as Duncan gave one last deep jerking thrust, crushing you against him with a grunt, his face buried in your chest as he came inside you.

For a long moment neither of you moved, focusing on catching your breath and you realized you were holding Duncan against you just as fiercely as he held you, your hand tangled in his mussed curls and finally you felt him loosen his hold on you, tilting his chin up to look at you, a strange expression on his face you weren’t used to and it seemed as though he were readying himself to say something that might complicate your already complicated feelings further.

Suddenly afraid, you cleared your throat, quickly extricating yourself from his arms and slipping out of his lap, hastily reaching for your discarded clothes and dressing, trying hard not to think about how much you’d wanted to kiss him instead of running back to your bunk.

“Well, Happy Christmas to me,” Duncan chuckled, tucking himself back into his pants before looking up, a confused frown twisting his features as he watched you.  “What’s the rush, luv?” he asked.

“I, uh, this was a mistake,” you stuttered.

“Whoa, whoa,” he exclaimed, catching your arm before you could hurry for the door.  “What’s gotten into you?”

“This, what we’re doing here,” you said, gesturing between the two of you, “it’s wrong.  If anyone finds out about this, we’re both--”

“Hey, no one’s gunna find out,” Duncan exclaimed sharply, not letting you go, though you feebly struggled to pull away, shaking your head fiercely. 

“We can’t do this again, Duncan,” you insisted, silently pleading with him to let you go.  “I don’t even know why I’m shacking up with a guy who’s clearly only in it for the sex.”

Duncan scoffed, his grip on your arm finally loosening.  “You’re the one who’s always saying how much you can’t stand me.  If anyone’s only in it for the sex, sweetheart, it’s clearly you.”

Huffing incredulously, you turned on your heel and stalked to the door before he could follow.

“[y/n]!  [y/n], hey!” he called after you, but you didn’t stop, unsure exactly where you were going, just that you couldn’t be around him a moment longer, a flurry of emotions urging you on.

What a Christmas, huh?

------------------------ Tag List: @magic-multicolored-miracle​ @midnightseance​ @gurlimtired​ @super-unpredictable98​ @iamsexytrash​ @misskittysmagicportal​ @robertsheehanownsmyass​

[kbmercer]

Chapter 2: A New Beginning

[Life’s A Journey]

Summary:

A lot had happened after they parted ways. Nevertheless, the threads that tie them together remained. From children to adults, a reunion that’s long overdue leads the trio to embark on another journey.

Just like old times.

Word Count: 3.8k+

The first thing (Y/n) does when they enter Sonia’s room is divebomb onto her bed. The plush mattress effectively absorbs the weight of their descent and the trainer curls in on themselves like a Litten.

“Don’t get too comfortable,” the redhead giggles as she swiftly usurps her pillow from the resting spot.

“We have a lot to catch up on,” she says as she shoots a glance at Leon. He had relegated himself to sitting in her vanity chair.

“Yeah. Let’s not let this time go to waste!”

“Ugh. Don’t we talk to each other over the phone already?” Leon laughs as Sonia beats (Y/n) with the pillow.

“I’m kidding!” They laugh as they feebly block her attacks.

“There’s no doubt that we have a lot to catch up on, even though we do talk on the phone—especially with you.” They playfully point an accusatory finger at the violet-haired man.

Leon scratches the back of his head abashedly. “Yeah…It’s been a while…”

“I swear, both of you are so limited on time. Sometimes I feel like I’m the one keeping you two in check.” With a hand on her hip, Sonia’s lip juts out in a mild pout and (Y/n) hums.

“Not just you. Hop is mighty loquacious. I’d even go as far to say that I talk to him more than the both of you.”

While Sonia let’s out a noise of surprise, Leon chuckles.

“I suspected as much. If it’s not Gloria or me, then it’s you.”

“Ah, the new champ? I can’t believe it’s been over a year already. How’s she holding up?” (Y/n) moves from their lying position to prop their head onto their hand. Leon shifts in his seat.

“She reminds me a lot of myself. I love the battles and putting a smile on the people of Galar’s face but outside of that—paperwork, meetings with businessmen, sponsorships—it’s not the best. I see the same happening with her.”

“Oof. That’s a bummer. Though, I’m sure she’s a smart kid and will push past that.” Leon agrees with a nod. As he looks back, his business relations weren’t all too terrible. As he grew into the Champion role he had the likes of Rose and Oleana to assist. He will be forever grateful for that help and has been using that knowledge to do the same for Gloria.

“The Galar League is very different from all other regions. While the League is a big deal everywhere else to some extent, Galar is on a different level entirely. It’s like battling here is integral to life, even if you don’t progress very far…”

“That may be true, but I still think that in terms of overall prowess, Galar has a lot to work on.” Leon’s expressive contemplativeness elicits quiet laughs from them and Sonia.

“Stop it. Give Galar a lil’ more credit!” They sit up and cross their legs.

“You’ve still held on to that dream, huh.” Sonia says admirably. Her phrasing was more-so a statement than a question.

It was as if the temperature grew a bit warmer as both (Y/n) and their red-headed friend watched the fire in Leon’s bright eyes glow.

“The dream to make the people of Galar the strongest in the world. A noble endeavor,” (Y/n) teases though Leon pays no mind.

“I meant it then and I mean it now. If I can contribute to making that goal a reality I’ll do what I can.”

“You’ve already done more than enough…” Sonia smiles and (Y/n) intercedes.

“You’re such an over-achiever!”

“You’re ones to talk,” the ex-Champion counters. He swiftly moves from the chair and scoops (Y/n) off Sonia’s bed. They sputter a protest as they’re lifted. The strength that both of their friends possessed was astounding.

“Speaking of champs—congrats on becoming the Unova Champ, mate!”

(E/c) eyes stare into the man’s amber before they begin laughing once more.

“You’re a little too late. Have been Champion for a few years now.”

“Yes, and in those few years we’ve yet to see you. I think it’s high-time to give a proper celebration don’t you think?” They huff before landing a light punch to his chest.

“You don’t have to do that.”

“No no. I want to.”

“Don’t let this opportunity slip, (Y/n)! We need to make the most of this while we can!” Sonia presses. (Y/n) was never one for parties but seeing both her friends adamantly agree to the idea is something that they couldn’t bring themselves to reject.

“Fine,” they concede with a sigh. “But don’t get ahead of yourselves. We’re keeping it small.”

Both nod happily. Even though Leon and Sonia are relatively private people, they weren’t above going wild at grand parties.

             “I also think it’s high-time that we have a battle for old times sake!” (Y/n) huffs at his enthusiasm.

             “Always the one to jump right into it, yeah?” Ah, well, it’s not like I didn’t see it coming.” They shrug as a smug smile grows on their face.

“I’m sure Hop gave you the Mega Stones?” Leon’s eyes grow as he is reminded of this. In his excitement for meeting (Y/n), he had forgotten about the items in his possession. Fishing them out of his pocket he showcases them to the two in the room. Sonia gasps, the academic in her rears its head.

“A Charizardite X?! These stones are so rare to find! How’d you get your hands on them?! Her verdant irises analyze the items. The ex-champion hands them to the professor to further examine to which she does with vigor.

“During my time in Kalos, I came across a hiker that was selling ore. It happened to be within the bunch.” Crossing their arms,  (Y/n) lulls their head to the side. “It’s been sitting in my bag for a while and that’s just a waste.” They jut a thumb toward the violet-haired man. “There’s only one person I know that has a Charizard.”

“It’s nice to know that you think of me whenever Charizard is a topic.”

“Hmm. My colleagues like to drag me on escapades after the League challenges end. So, I’ve been dragged into helping study Mega Evolution.”

“You said that you didn’t find out anything new?” Sonia asks. She was fully aware of the work her childhood friend had been doing but had never gotten close to an artifact closely linked to the profound Evolution.

“We haven’t. The stones are a thing we’ve known about for a while, there just isn’t a whole lot of information about Mega Evolution’s history. As much as I’d like to explain further, we’d be here all day. Plus, it’d be better to learn first-hand right?”

“Go on then,” she agrees giving the item back to Leon and they head out the room and down the stairs.

             As the trio make their way out the house, they join with Hop and Magnolia. The younger brother was busy tossing a ball out to the slew of pokémon that occupied the field. (Y/n) and Leon both had released their teams for some exercise, and it looked like they were having a blast. Most of them were passing the play-thing around before returning it to the teen while Magnolia stood elsewhere leisurely waving a feather toy at Babe and Yamper.

Noticing the pokémon’s attention being shifted away from the ball causes the boy to follow their line of sight.

“Done having your convo already?”

“Not quite,” Leon says as he rolls his shoulders. “We’re gonna take the pitch and have us a good battle.”

“This will be a one-on-one for now. We’re testing things out.” While the explanation was pretty vague on it’s own, Hop understands what the Unova Champion means. He was about to see what Mega Evolution was all about.

With a small cheer in anticipation, he is quick to help corral the pokémon away from the violet-clad battlefield. Sonia and Magnolia meet together on the sidelines and the former professor hums.

“I will take the position of referee if that is alright with you all.”

(Y/n) smiles, “Not at all.”

“That’s more than alright, Gran. Besides, I want to document as much as I possibly can.” She pulls a memo pad from her coat pocket and calls her Rotom Phone forward to record.

“Alright, Charizard. You’re up.” The fire-flying type gives out a sprightly roar and takes a battle stance on his trainer’s end of the pitch.

Lulu, (Y/n)’s Lopunny is called forward. With a prompt explanation, the rabbit pokémon shares a determined look with her trainer and confidently enters the field. Leon takes note of the pink bow that (Y/n) wrapped around the pokémon’s left ear, a stone similar to Charizard’s was in the center but in shades of yellow and brown.

             The tension in the air is palpable. Both pokémon keep their eyes on each other as they stand off. Seconds feel like minutes, then Professor Magnolia commences the battle with the stamp of a cane. In a split-second, Charizard and Lulu are already at each other. Padded paws grip sharp claws as both pokémon dig their heels into the sturdy ground, their strength being pushed against one another prevent any sort of pushback before the two ultimately separate. Jumping back to their ends of the field, both pokémon lunge at each other once more to meet in the center.

“Charizard, use Dragon Claw!”

“Counter with Mega Punch!”

The physical attacks make impact, the force of both coming together leaving a blast of air in their wake as it billows throughout the area. (Y/n) feels it flow through their clothing and Leon felt it weave through his hair. The greenery that surrounds them rustle loudly as the fight continues.

             “Fire Fang!”

             “Dodge and use Shadow Ball!”

Taking a leap over Charizard, Lulu creates a sphere of ominous energy in between her paws and brings it down on her adversary, though Charizard is quick on his feet and redirects. The Shadow Ball is destroyed as he brings his heated fangs down on the attack. The spectral power is enough to nullify his Fire Fang however, and the flames in his maw dissipate. Lulu gives a teasing snicker and Charizard releases a low growl blowing the aftermath of smoke from his nose.

“Brutal Swing!”

“Breaking Swipe!”

Both trainers had shouted their commands in unison. The two pokémon go for a sweep but are caught at an impasse once more. (Y/n) hums amusedly. If their attacks were going to constantly be nulled, this match was going to be a lengthy one. Leon appears to share the same sentiment.

             “I guess some things never change! Even now we still manage to hold each other off!” The glint in the former champ’s warm amber eyes showed a sense of renewed spirit and anticipation. (Y/n) responds in kind.

             “You and I have only gotten stronger since times past. It’s only natural we’d be neck and neck with each other again.” Their smile was prideful, (e/c) eyes harboring mischief. “But we also understand that one of us will slip-up eventually. Regardless of who that may be, Lulu and I will give our 110 percent!” Leon lets out a joyful laugh.

“Well said! We won’t lose, so prepare yourself!”

As they stand by, Sonia and Hop can feel their hearts race. Spectating Leon and (Y/n) as both stand assertively and give quick-witted directions to their pokémon was a sight to behold. Swift and graceful movements between Charizard and Lopunny almost look like a dance. Neither of them let up and devote all their focus on both the opponent and the commands of their respective trainers. Directions continued to be shouted and every time both pokémon went to deal damage it would only end in a stalemate. The clock ticks and Sonia soon begins to notice that the two creatures are starting to grow tired. Movement starts to slow down little by little. Room for exploiting weak points were gradually opening for them both. Meanwhile, Hop and Professor Magnolia gauge the Mega Stones that Charizard and Lulu wear. Both had gradually begun to glow the longer the two butt heads. It was only a matter of time before their power took effect.  Though, the call to transformation was a two-way street.

(Y/n) is quick to make the call.

“Alright! I think it’s time we speed up the process. As much as I love a good battle, I don’t have all day,” (Y/n)’s words are teasing as they move their hand to wrap around their Key Stone. The Key Stone activates, and Lulu’s Mega Stone reacts. The symbol that lie in the center of Lulu’s Lopunnite glows radiantly and the warm mix of yellow and brown is overtaken by an ethereal rainbow. The multicolored aura expands, encasing the pokémon in a prominent crystal before it breaks open to reveal the Lopunny’s transformation. Her appearance is more dynamic with the fur on her ears being shaved down—the tuft being more prominent at the top of the head in the reminiscent form of a butterfly. Voices of wonder flow through the audience. With a flourish, Lulu takes an arm and sweeps a long ear away from her face before taking a boxing stance.

Leon had watched their actions intently and the activation to Mega Evolution seemed simple enough. He is quick to follow suit.

“I’m game for a quick-fire round. Let’s make things more interesting!” He takes his hand and places it over the brooch he’d pinned to his outfit and the glow of the Charizardite X does the same. Charizard is encased in a similar crystal before it falls away. There was no longer a trace of warmth in the skin with orange being replaced with black. His wings have become more pointed and perhaps the most notable feature resulting from the transformation was the bright blue flames that kindle at the jaw and tail. The new power elicits a booming cry from Leon’s companion as he regards his opponent once more. Then the two fighters continue to exchange blows.

“Iron Tail,” Charizard’s tail moves hit Lopunny and she braces for the impact. The damage taken was minimal as the rabbit pokémon listens for her trainer’s orders.

“Ice Punch.” In one swift movement, Lulu utilizes their close distance to hit Charizard on the chest, giving an effective blow. With a grunt, the fire-dragon type jumps back to make space.

“Dragon Pulse.” He opens his mouth as the fire between his jaws grows larger before blowing the flames.

“Use Agility and dodge it,” Lulu just barely bypasses the heat and increases her speed.

“Go for another Ice Punch!” Frigid crystals enclose around Lulu’s fist once more as she goes in for another strike.

“Not a chance!” Leon interjects before giving another command. “Let’s take this up high!” He points skyward with vigor and Charizard follows the order, spreading his wings and lifting off the ground.

(Y/n)’s lips press into a thin line, though it’s gone as soon as it appears. It’s clear that Charizard was now at an advantage, but surely Lulu is more than capable of taking that away.

“Alrighty, Lulu. Let’s meet ‘em there with a Bounce.” In one swift motion, the normal-fighting type gauges Charizard’s location in the air before reaching him in the sky with little to no effort.

“Chip-away with Acrobatics!” With whatever momentum she had in the forever space, Lulu flips and kicks at Charizard utilizing every part of her body—arms, legs, and ears to hit at him rapidly. She manages land a few but is quickly met with retaliation.

“Take her down with an Air Slash!” Leon’s command is instantly met with the action as if they were in synch.

Charizard flaps his wings rapidly to create a razor sharp current of air to which Lopunny takes the blunt force of, being sent back to solid-ground. (Y/n)’s jaw clenches for a moment but they think fast on a method to break their partner’s fall.

“Use Acrobatics once more and land on your feet!” Having heard loud and clear, Lulu tucks in on herself as she speedily descends. Doing a few flips mid-air, Lulu lands on the battlefield safely albeit the velocity. Charizard remains in the air as it seems that Leon is banking on this tactic. It was time to change that.

“Use Bounce! One more time!”

Lulu meets with Charizard in the air once more and the fire-dragon rears for another Air Slash—a mistake that could very well hand them the match.

“Perfect. Go for the wing!” Before Lulu can suffer another super-effective blow, she intercepts by using another bout of Acrobatics to nullify both of their flying-type attacks. Lulu takes the split-second after the nullification to latch on to Charizard’s wing. This action served as a surprise to everyone watching as the rabbit pokémon utilizes Charizard’s weight to swing, using his appendage like a trapeze. Releasing the wing from her grasp, Lulu moves into a 180 back-flip effectively landing on Charizard’s back.

“Drain Punch, let’s go!” A hefty strike to the back destabilizes Charizard’s flight and in the shock brought on by the sapping of his energy, he starts to rapidly fall. Leon’s brows furrow bringing wrinkles to his forehead as he feels the pressure of the fight get heavier. While he’s had plenty of experience in battles, (Y/n)’s unconventional strategies always found a way to turn the tables. It’s something he had noticed back when they’d battled in the Gym Challenge as children. Now as adults battling once again, he’s noticed that their skill in unconventional thinking hadn’t gone away. If anything, it’s gotten stronger alongside their team. Lulu had not missed a beat despite the large risk and managed to pull through. Her partner trusted them completely—relying on them to make the correct calls and obeying without hesitation. Unfortunately for (Y/n), he could say the same for he and Charizard.

“Use this descent to your advantage! Take her down with you and use Heat Crash!” (Y/n)’s eyes widen at this command watching on in growing disdain.

Charizard moves to shake from Lulu from his back avoiding her attempts to take hold and remain on his back. The strong blue flames that flowed from his mouth along with the flame at the end of his tail grew larger and crept along Charizard’s body until he was wholly engulfed in the flame. He feels no pain, but Lulu does and continues to feel the searing heat as they torpedo into the field. Obviously, Charizard uses his opponent to break the fall and (Y/n)’s heart races—faster than it had in a long time. A crater was made in the ground kicking up chunks of dirt and leaving a larger dust cloud.

             (Y/n)’s teeth grind together before they call out to their partner. Both trainers wait a bit as the cloud in front of them disperses. Taking a breath, they grin. Both partners remained conscious on the field thought they both look petered out, though Lopunny looked too worse for wear. She had endured and the Unova champ felt nothing but pride.

This conflict was reaching its end and if they wanted to win, they’d have to do it quickly. Both pokémon remained in close proximity to each other, creating distance wasn’t an option anymore.

             “Dragon Claw,” Leon shouts.

             “Swift,” (Y/n) commands in tandem. The star-like projectiles that come of the attack are easily destroyed by the Charizard’s heavy swipes, but they only served as a distraction.

Gotcha.

“Low Kick,” without a second to spare. Lulu kicks out their legs using his weight against him. The disorientation that follows is exactly what they need to bring this to a close.

“Alright! Finish the job with Play Rough!” Lulu holds Charizard down and uses the remainder of her energy to thrash with the fire-flying type. The dirt and debris that accumulated throughout the fight created yet another opaque cloud within the battlefield though (Y/n) didn’t need to see pass to know that the brawl was over.

Sure enough, as the dust settles, Charizard is down for the count. He had reverted back to his normal self—no black seen in his skin, just the warmth of orange. Lulu managed to stay standing but just barely. The rabbit stood in a fighting stance despite the outcome and only falters at the words spoken by Magnolia.

“Charizard is unable to battle. Lulu is the victor.”

The pokémon’s Mega transformation dissipates as the pokémon falls forward and into a kneel. The jovial cheers of their spectators mixes with (Y/n)’s own as they’re quick to assist Lulu in regaining her health.

             “You did wonderfully, Lulu! I’m so proud of you!” They bring their companion in for a hug and she reciprocates in kind before separating. Turning to see Leon tending to Charizard, the Unova champion praises the winged creature.

             “I’m honestly very surprised. For a first timer, he did a top-notch job.” Leon smiles as he looks up at (Y/n) from his squatting position.

             “That’s good to hear,” his gaze shifts to look back at Charizard. Despite the loss, his partner was in high-spirits— more enthusiastic than he was before the fight, in fact.

             “It’s one thing to see the photos and read about it. Obviously, utilizing the change in battle is a completely different experience.”

             “So what’d ya think?”

             “I think it’s great. Maybe the reason Charizard could get the hang of it so quickly was because the transformation is sort of like Gigantamax in a way. They change form and unlock strengths and abilities that they wouldn’t have otherwise.”

             “That’s why I’m so interested in it. Dynamax and Gigantamax seem to be a capability that is exclusive to Galar with the use of hotspots and wishing stars, but Mega Evolution is something that can be utilized anytime and anywhere, no matter the region. All you need are the proper stones and a close bond with your partner.” They take their hand to make a fanning gesture.

             “I’ve kinda already spieled about this, so I’ll cut to the chase. Keep the stones and add them to your arsenal. It won’t hurt to shake things up a little bit.” Leon had since moved from his squat to stand.

             “Sounds like a plan. We’d never reject this opportunity to get stronger, isn’t that right?” Charizard grunts in affirmation. (Y/n) laughs.

             “And we’ll look forward to it.”

After the post-battle the exchange Magnolia, Sonia, and Hop meet them on the field.

             “That battle was so awesome!” The teen enthused with a twinkle settled in his already bright eyes.

             “I’ve only ever seen a few Mega Evolution battles in my lifetime, and they never cease to amaze me.” Magnolia agrees.

             “I’m so glad Rotom was recording. My heart was beating out of my chest that I failed to take notes,” Sonia whines. “At least I can re-watch it…”

             “You’d best make use of this great power and hone your skill of it, ya hear?” The elder presses to which Leon nods his head with no hesitation.

“Definitely.”

****************************

 I started shiny hatching and just never made it back…I managed to obtain 8 new shinies in the span of a month. Hyper-fixation at its finest.

Relegating Pokémon move sets to only four at a time is boring, so I removes that aspect. I understand why this is a thing in-game, but this is a story. I feel like pokémon should have access to their entire move pool—both learned and through TM/TR.

[crystalgirl259]

The Flame and the Dragon Chapter 21

Chapter 21: Don’t Fall In Love

Bansha's teeth chattered loudly as she followed Morro down the alleyways, starting to regret her life choices. Now Banshaa would never question Morro, but he could tell he had completely lost his senses. Morro kept telling her that he needed Kai for his plan to work. He may be strange, but he was the best. But the man they were going to see was a child-broker, and he absolutely terrified her. A tremor of fear, not cold, rushed through her very being.

Her heart skipped beats radically each time she gazed at the all too familiar alleyway.

Morro kept insisting that he will have Kai as his husband and if he must take drastic measures to make him see sense, he shall. Bansha tried to speak up, but she flinched when Morro turned around and glared at her. Harsh green eyes burned with determination and desire. Bansha bit her lip to keep from speaking and kept her head down. She refused to look up when an all too familiar building came into view. The building where the Child Broker did his business, safe from the law, safe from anyone who would dare tell him otherwise.

She struggled to keep up with Morro's pace.

The Duke stormed up the steps and bounded on the door harshly, screaming demands to be let in from the heavy snow. A call that the door was unlocked was all he needed. Hastily, Morro turned the lock and grabbed Bansha, dragging the reluctant woman inside, out of the cold. The two of them stripped their soaked cloaks and took their seats in the two plush armchairs. Morro shook his dark hair, scattering the water from the melted snow everywhere.

Bansha took her seat and meekly kept her hands folded in her lap.

After an abnormally short wait, a tall man stormed into the room. He shed his own coat and hat and hung them on a nearby coat hanger, revealing a short mop of silvery-gray hair. His brownish amber orbs shone with annoyance, but with the pale laughter of a child. Banshaa shivered and kept her eyes focused on her lap. Morro sat up straight as the man took a seat behind the desk and sat with his hands folded in front of him.

"Good evening, Master Noble; thank you so much for coming out at such an hour to see us." He flashed a bright smile and spoke in a voice of fake appreciation. Master Noble's face remained neutral.

"Please don't try playing me, Morro; I don't appreciate being forced to leave my orphanage in the middle of the night." He groaned with annoyance. Expecting this, Morro removed a small sack from his pocket and dropped it in front of the man. Gold coins and jewels spilled from the opening. His eyes scrutinized the contents then returned to the duchess. "Alright, I'm listening."

"I can tell you're a man of simplicity, so I'll just get straight to the point, you're familiar with the Smith family correct? I believe your services were required after the unfortunate death of Ray and Maya?"

"My services were not required at all, both Kai and Nya were beyond legal age and were able to take care of Lloyd," He groaned, at the statement of the obvious.

"Well you see, Kai is far too selfless, God Bless him, he refuses to see that his siblings are holding him back from his potential, his future, and when I offer him his heart's desire, he refuses me."

"Oh really?" He cut the duke off and drew out the word in a mocking manner. "I heard of your arranged ordeal, are you sure it wasn't your decision to arrange an entire wedding on his front yard mere moments before you all but demanded he marries you?"

"It's his fault! If he wasn't so naïve, I wouldn't be forced to take such drastic measures!" Morro screeched as he jumped to his feet; enraged that he would speak so frivolously of his humiliation. Quickly, he composed himself and returned to his seat, clearing his throat.

"Not that this isn't humorous, Morro, but I fail to see what your failed courtship with Kai has to do with me," He joked playfully. Morro's fist clenched but he reigned in his composure.

"I want Kai as my husband, but so long as he believes his siblings are in need of his help, he won't leave them." He smirked. "You're aware of young Lloyd's health condition, correct? His chest problem? I heard his last attack caused his heart to nearly stop, such a sick child needs proper care, not to be a burden to his siblings who have no knowledge of medicine, don't you agree?"

"Lloyd is far from a child, under-aged, perhaps, but he's what thirteen? He'll reach manhood in less than three, four years, and both Nya and Kai know the remedy to soothe him, from what I've been told." Noble explained. "It would be a waste to put Lloyd in child care."

"Perhaps, but everyone knows Kai would do anything to protect his little family." He growled. "Even perhaps, make a deal to keep his younger brother from being taken away from Nya, if Nya was rendered unfit to care for him?" He asked as a sinister smirk crossed the duke's face. Banshaa's face contorted with horror as her eyes flew to her master. A shiver racked her entire body she gazed at the menacing smirk of victory on Morro's smug face.

"Perhaps, but then again there is also the problem," Noble replied, twirling a gold coin beneath his fingers. "From what I've been told, Nya and Kai have done a stand-up job raising Lloyd and makes more than enough to support each other; I doubt there is anything I could say or do that would convince the town taking Lloyd away from them would be in their best interests, and I do care for my reputation."

"Nya is unfit!" Morro shouted as he rose to his feet again. "Kai has been missing for almost two and a half months with no word of him, and not a week after they supposedly left for a trip, did she and Lloyd come screaming and pounding on my door in the middle of the night, ranting and raving about how their brother had been kidnapped by a dragon? A dragon, of all the ludicrous things!"

"What?" Noble frowned.

"It's been well over two months and all they have done is go back and forth in those woods and repeat this tale to anyone who would listen to them! Ask anyone! I thought they were only joking at first, which is why I waited so long to come to you, but now I'm convinced Nya has lost her sanity and she's spreading it to her brother!" He bellowed. Noble rose a brow at this new information.

"Really now? A dragon? Are you sure about this? I have heard rumors of people becoming lost in those woods, perhaps what they found was the old monarch's castle." He replied curiosity. "Of course, the monarch hasn't ruled nor had a regent in almost a hundred years so it must be abandoned by now."

"It matters not, the point is, if Nya is insane, she can't raise Lloyd correct?!" Morro snapped, slamming his fist against the table while Noble's face remained neutral.

"I suppose, but before I make any final judgments, I'd have to see for myself; are Nya and Lloyd at home this evening?"

"No," Banshaa said softly. Her body shaking and her eyes focused on the ground, knowing if she looked at him her voice would break. "We stopped by this evening to see, but their shop was closed, it looked liked it hadn't been opened in weeks, and there was only a sign on the door saying they would be going into another town to seek help, it did not say when they would be back."

"You see? Now she's taking Lloyd on a wild goose chase when she should be searching the woods for my fiancé!" Morro continued. Realizing that he was still standing, Morro cleared his throat and sat back down as a king on a throne. "Now do you understand my proposal?" He asked as a wicked satisfaction shined in his dark green eyes and his lips curled into a smirk.

"So Morro, if I understand you correctly, you wish for me to declare that Nya is an unfit guardian and threaten to have her arrested and Lloyd confined to foster care until he is deemed fit to live on his own unless Kai agrees to marry you?" Noble asked, then pinched the bridge between his nose.

"That is precisely what I mean," Morro smirked evilly. Noble threaded his fingers through his silver strands, his elbows braced on the table, and his face a mask of discomfort.

"Oh Lord in heaven, that's despicable, truly repulsive," He replied as his face vanished behind a curtain of hair until a low, maniacal chuckle escaped him. His face emerged shocking both Morro and Banshaa. It was the face of a mad man. "I love it!"...

****************

The next few weeks passed by in a blur of bliss for Kai. Winter had settled in nicely over the whole valley. Snow filled the world, deeper and deeper. The trees and gutters of the castle towers glittered with icicles. Windows glistened with frost, and the ponds and streams had frozen in sheets of ice. With the approaching frost, the house was busier than ever. Shade kept the staff busy gathering enough food for the winter months and enough coal and wood to keep the castle warm and alive.

Things had been going so great between Kai and Cole that the brunette thought he should get him a present.

The only problem was that Cole hadn't really shared his own interest with the teen, and that made Kai feel horrible. Cole knew what Kai loved most in the world were his books and all those stories. That was why the Dragon Lord had given him the library. That was what Kai chose in the end. He was going to give Cole a story. But not just any story, one written and illustrated by Kai. Kai hoped this would open more doors for him and he hoped that if he got to know Cole, they would find more things to say.

Kai vowed that one day he would reach him, there has to be some way.

He might have been a loner back in the town, but even Kai knew that everyone needed someone there for them, so Cole must need someone as well. If Kai got to know him better, he knew exactly what he would do He would read him stories from picture books, all filled with wonder. Magic worlds where the impossible becomes the everyday. They would find a mountaintop and some moonbeams to sit under, and Kai would lead because he knew the way there.

There was so much to discover, but Kai did it all the time. He could live inside bright pages, where the words all rhyme.

They would slay the dragons that still followed Cole around, and the prince would almost certainly smile as his dreams left the ground. He would read him stories about mermaids, kings, and sunken treasures. Kai knew a place, just a dot, too small to measure, and Kai will take him there because he knew the road. He would tell him stories about heroes who overcame their deepest despair, and hope that they put hope into his heart again and that Cole will cherish it every day.

Cole could find a better world and the strength to face tomorrow.

Kai was sure that if Cole knew the road, he would want to stay. Kai really hoped Cole liked his little gift. After he had sneaked into Cole's room and placed the nicely wrapped present on his bedside table, he left to go and find something to do. As amazing as this castle was, there wasn't that much to do when you're confined inside for the rest of your life. That was why he jumped at the invite Jay, Echo, Nelson, and Ronin gave him. They were all going to this frozen lake somewhere in the forest to do some skating.

Since they had all been working so hard, they thought everyone would enjoy some time outside.

Kai was a little worried about leaving the castle grounds, especially when he gave Cole his word, but they promised him it would be fine. They would only be gone for two hours at the top and Cole spent most of his time looking up in the towers or his room so he wouldn't even know they had gone. That managed to convince Kai, so he grabbed his winter clothes, some spear skates and followed the group to the lake. They rode their on Flame to get there faster. Eventually, they reached the falls, and Kai had to admit that the view was worth the hike.

Three separate streams of water were frozen in incredible, twisting pillars up the side of a cliff that was taller than the castle.

The basin at their bases was equally impressive, the water frozen in curling waves. All of the ice was a beautiful, glittering white that shone even with the sun hiding behind clouds. As soon as they reached the lake, they all got their skates on and started having fun.

"Eat my snow, Ronin," Jay laughed skating backward past him.

"Is that a challenge!" The competitive man grunted and kicked across the ice to gain extra speed. Echo flopped onto his stomach while Nelson did a large figure eight then did a few spins in the air. Kai leaped over Echo and swirled in a half-circle, then bent over to help him up. Across the lake, Ronin and Jay continued their race and from the childish teasing and roars of frustration, Jay was winning.

"Hey you two, are you going to do that all day?" Kai asked, using his hands to amplify his voice. The two boys turned to face him then crashed into the snow. The three remaining skaters burst out laughing; their fallen companions crawled out of the snow and shook their heads. Ronin removed his earmuffs and shook the snow-free from his hair. Jay just laughed like a kid in a candy store. None of them noticed the smirking eyes watching them through the darkness of the woods...

****************

Cole sighed in frustration as he listened to the clock ticking loudly. He had wanted to do something nice for Kai, so he got all dressed up and ordered Shade to make them the nicest, most spicy, romantic dinner he could. He knew Kai loved spicy foods and books. Hopefully, with this and the library, he and Kai could grow closer and closer together. Sure, they seemed pretty solid now, but it was better to be safe than sorry and strengthen their bond while he could.

After he was dressed and the food was ready, Cole sent Zane to look for the brunette, but that was almost an hour ago.

The castle and the surrounding grounds might be very big, but it shouldn't be hard to find the only human in the entire castle. He sighed again as the clock kept ticking, growing more and more impatient as the seconds ticked by. He didn't know why he was being kept waiting.

"ZANE!" He bellowed so loud it shook the entire castle. Within seconds, the white yeti burst into the room with a silver trolly with a whole tea set on it

"Alright, sir, hold on." Zane smiled as naturally as he could. "Such a brisk day, you look positively chilled to the bone!"

"Where's Kai?" Cole demanded, keeping his gaze out the window, not seeing Zane gulp nervously.

"How about a nice pot of tea, sir?" He suggested as he began to pour the warm liquid into a nice China cup. Cole said nothing as he took the tea and drink it all in one big gulp, shocking his servant for a second.

"A bit more tea, sir? Good for the heart, you know."

"No, thank you." Cole declined politely.

"Just a spot?" Zane pushed.

"No more."

"But there's always room for tea."

"I said no more!" Cole shouted as he whipped around to glare at Zane, now seeing how uncomfortable and nervous he looked. "Zane, are you trying to distract me?"

"No, sir." Zane denied and an awkward silence filled the room as Cole seemed to stare directly into his soul. "Are you sure you don't want more tea?"

"Enough! Where's Kai!?" He shouted and Zane sighed in defeat, knowing that he could never hide anything from the dragon hybrid.

"We can't find him, sir."

"What?!" Cole exclaimed, not wanting to believe it, but he knew Zane would almost never lie to him. "Leave me!" He ordered and Zane quickly fled the room. As soon as the yeti was gone, Cole grabbed the magic mirror. The mirror appeared as an ordinary mirror, silver in color, with intricate rose and vine decorations. An ornate lion-like creature encapsulated the handle of the mirror with its mouth. On the back of the mirror, there was a symbol that somewhat resembled a fleur-de-lis.

This magical mirror allowed its users to see anything he or she wished to see on its glass and in its current situation.

Ashamed of his monstrous form, Cole concealed himself inside his castle, with this magic mirror as his only window to the outside world.

"Show me, Kai!" He ordered and the reflective surface of the mirror was enveloped in a golden glow as an image began to form. It showed Kai with Jay, Ronin, Nelson, and Echo out in the snow with Flame. Cole's eyes widened in a mixture of sorrow and confusion, believing that he was running off. His sadness quickly evaporated into anger at the thought of Kai breaking their agreement. He vowed to bring that spoiled, ungrateful brat back, but there was a voice in the back of his head.

It was a voice telling him that Kai had abandoned him.

He should listen to his instincts as they have never steered him wrong or lead him astray. He should have listened when he first believed Kai would break his heart. The quickest way to break a heart, to make someone depressed and ill, was to get them all tangled up inside. The side effects could kill. If Cole must love someone, he may as well just love himself. He would never leave and he would find he got more rest and he would always feel as good as new.

His freedom was the most important thing.

He couldn't talk for hours, send flowers, write poems, or sing songs and dance beneath the stars that shine above. As soon as someone's heart rules their head their life was not their own. It's hell when someone was always there and it's bliss to be alone, and love of any kind is bad. Whether it be a dog, a child, or a cat, they always took up so much precious time, and to Cole, there was no sense in that. Love took the wildest heart and made it tame and emotions were a thing all great men overcame.

Cole knew he couldn't get attached to anyone or anything because there was nothing worse than things that cling.

He might turn to drink and he would never rest. He might end up mad, and looking like some poor demented dove. He could never fall in love. Cole suddenly let out a feral growl and left the room in a rage. He was going to drag Kai back to the castle and make him wish he had never broken their deal. As the dragon prince left the castle, he failed to hear the faint, hollow laughter of supposed victory as a shadow melted into the halls of the castle...

[doverly]

How Forbidden

My (admittedly late) submission for Friday Night Frights 6/14/21.

A recently conquered princess sents out on a journey to find her secret lover.

~3.5K Words

“Your Highness, it isn’t only your reputation at stake, but our entire peoples'” the knight insisted with a grave expression.

“My reputation shouldn’t be at risk for loving another woman,” she spat back, words shaking and unsteady. “You can’t tell me that there’s any sense to it!”

“I cannot,” the knight admitted. “Nor can I do anything to stop you, unless the Duke orders so. Whatever you do, don’t let it come to that.”

Even though Lady Diamond knew the risks she still couldn't abandon her lover. Her knight had been leaning close to her hear, whispering his urgent warnings as she fingered the letters of her love, but when her ladies got back from the powder room he jumped back. Like he had always been a respectful distance behind her. Like he hadn't watched her read intimate letters night after night. Like he was nothing but a loyal guardsman.

Most of Lady Diamond's ladies were orphans or otherwise left with nowhere to go. The recent absorption of the Kingdom of Ardenne into the Empire hadn't helped their situation, in fact, it had changed everything completely. In the new Dukedom of Ardenne-Chance, no one knew their place. Suddenly the beloved princess was nothing but a Grand Duchess, and countesses and dukes found their rank completely diminish. Diamond was trying her best to find them husbands or stable living, but it was hard.

In the evening light of her dressing room she and her ladies, under the watchful eye of her loyal old guard, played little games and talked of meaningless gossip. Even though their empirical absorption had been bloodless, the meer might empire had warranted an immediate surrender from Diamond's brother, it had still rocked their world. Little inconsequential games and talk really helped Diamond and her ladies feel at ease.

Diamond lost soundly, but with good cheer. By the time the sun went down the ladies were in good humour and left to their respective chambers with a spring in their steps. Diamond was left in her dressing room with Sir Garrette, everyone knew that he would try nothing with the lady, he was like an uncle to her. When everyone left Diamond left the game table and practically sprinted to her writing desk. From a secret compartment, unlocked by a little key that Diamon kept on her at all times, Diamond unlocked it and took out the most recent letter.

"My love, my heart, my everything. While I am a patient gentlewoman my heart yearns for you, and I have decided that I would like to meet you. I understand that you might be apprehensive my love, I can see the cute little frown on her face as I write this, I cannot live without you, my dear. And I realize now that I have not been living. Ever since we first met at the masquerade in the capital I have been dead. Seeing you, dancing with you again, touching your bare cheek with my hand, will bring me to life again my love."

"Please if you have any desire to see me come to the Equinox Mascequrade in the capital, I have had an invitation sent to you and your family. I know parties such as these are only for adultery and debauchery but it is the only way for our love to remain secret. If you don't come I will continue to love you from afar. I will be wearing the deep blue coat trimmed in silver and a gown of your favourite colour. I cannot wait to see you trimmed in jewels and diamonds. The thought of you sends my heart into shivers

Your servant,

Imperial Gentlewoman

Lady Diamond swooned in her chair, reading and rereading the passionate words. Finally, she would be meeting her imperial lover outside of the borders of secret letters and messages. As the gentlewoman had predicated Diamond was a bit nervous, but excited as well. Her heart quickened in her breast. When they had last met Ardenne had just become the Dukedom of Ardenne-Chance. Her little brother had been whining, at seven years old his only concern had been why he wasn't called "king" anymore. Only Diamond and her mother, the regent, understood what was truly at stake. Diamond had been so focused on trying to ingratiate herself and her ladies with the imperial nobility that she hadn't noticed when a masked gentlewoman led her away. They had danced, oh they had danced, but before she knew it Diamond was home, her imperial partner gone across the mountains. When the first letter came, Diamond had been ecstatic.

The next day Castle deAudinot was in an uproar of packing. Beds, linens, servents, and gifts were being loaded onto balloon wagons to be lifted over the mountains. With her mother supervising the packing and the final alterations of their ball dresses, Lady Diamond was left minding her brother, the boy Duke, Isaac. Unlike other little children with incredible power Isaac, Diamond thought, was very well mannered and polite. Always minding his tutors and his governess.

Diamond's ladies doted on Isaac, asking him about books he read and asking him to try their homemade sweets. Isaac loved the attention, but was still bashful, as a boy of 8 usually was. Diamond looked down at the commotion with a smile, she was sure that Isaac would be an amazing Duke when he was older.

Isaac's guard, Sir Patrick, stood near the door with Garratte, both knowing that the coming days would bring stress. Everyone was trying to keep their minds off of the chaos to come. Even Diamond, she occupied her hands and her mind with what seemed like a meaningless craft. "Gentlewoman" was what her lover called herself. Meaning that both gender and class stood in the way of them being together. Diamond was the Grand Duchess of Ardenne-Chance, first in line to her little brother's thrown. She didn't care, but being of a lower rank probably meant that the gentlewoman didn't have the comforts that Diamond was used to. Even the imperial family probably didn't have some of the things that Diamond was used to. Namely jewels. Ardenne-Chance was nothing but mountains, beautiful mountains sure, but mountains nonetheless. But inside of their blue-gray rocks housed a fortune. Sapphires, rubies, emeralds, agates, and even her namesake, diamond, were found in blunk in the Chance Mountains. Lady Diamond's mother, the regent, suspected their wealth was part of the reason the empire had wanted them in the first place.

In anticipation of their meeting Diamond was making her gentlewoman a pocket watch. Well, the watch had been made by a watchmaker, but Diamond was decorating it. Spread out on a work table was a wealth of multi-covered diamonds. Only diamonds, when her lover looked at the watch she wanted her to think of her. But, Diamond couldn't help but think, she may already be used to such luxuries. She had been having doubts for months now. Her "gentlewoman" seemed too educated, too serious, too philosophical to be a simple gentlewoman. Diamond knew that her lover might be lying about her identity, but she didn’t care. She loved her “gentlewoman”, no matter who she was.

Diamond did up the watch face with dark blue and white diamonds, making miniature mounts that shimmered in the light. Their white caps were like a dusting of fresh snow, and their blue expanse was breathtaking. It was the Chance mountains. When her lover used the watch, Diamond had also decorated the hands with blue diamond dust and the numbers with white, she would see Diamond’s birthplace and the most important and beautiful place to her. It was the perfect gift, and it would never break, not with the new jewelry epoxy that had been developed recently by court inventors.

And it was finished just in time. Diamond hardly had time to slip the gift into a papered box and into her pocket before she had to bundle up her brother and her ladies into a half dozen fine balloon coaches. With the guiding fire being controlled by an expert balloonist they glided over the mountains in style, passing over tiered farms and glittering mountainside mines. As they passed over villages Diamond leaned out of the carriage window to wave, savoring the sight of her subjects waving back. Her mother had been the main driver of the unification treaty but Diamond had worked diligently from the sidelines, keeping everyone happy and open-minded, all for the good of her people. When they were flying over the poorer mountain communities, villages packed tightly in rocky outcroppings and nestled onto small plateaus Diamond dung into her purse. Children ran under the carriage hoping to catch the luxuries she threw out. From the other carriages as well the rain began. Even though the economy of Ardenne-Chance was quite tightly controlled, the wealth of gems could lead to rapid deflation if left alone, the nobles still tried to give back whenever they could. From her carriage Diamond threw crystalized roses and elegantly shaped sapphires, waving all the while. It was the highlight of her day, knowing that a simple handout from her would prevent starvation for several seasons. And for her mother, the regent, it was a guarantee that there would be less grain on the national poor service.

After two days of constant travel, they were finally at the capital. Verdun was an amazing city, just as it had to be. Its white spires and paved roads were a testament to the empire’s power. The power to build up cities out of nothing, to give everyone a home, and still have money left over for huge palaces and museums. The Ardenne-Chance delegation touched down in front of the Eastsinger Palace. It was an imposing, but surprisingly beautiful place. Large glass windows and towers carved out of purple-hued rock. The moat was full of crystal clear water with flowers growing from the depths.

“I’ve always hated this place,” Diamond’s mother, Gwen, whispered in her ear, “Pretending they are all nice and airy, while in truth their hearts are as cold as ice.”

Not all of their hearts Diamond thought.

Palace servants and even some nobles immediately flooded out of the front doors to help them get their things in order. Gwen had been shocked when the invitation to the Equinox Masquerade came, but she had taken it in stride. She had arranged for them to arrive a week early for diplomatic meetings, ceremonies, and games. Diamond and her brother were going to be busy, but she had made sure to clear her schedule the morning after the ball. Normally, back in Ardenne-Chance, Diamond was busy reviewing policy, talking to the council, and asking the citizenry how legislation affected them. In the empire, they had no official duties, but perhaps the work they would be doing would be harder. Diamond was naturally kind, but she had been taught cunning and intrigue by her mother. Her mother was confident in her skills of subterfuge and diplomacy, but Diamond was nervous about dealing with the imperial nobles. They were said to be more cunning than Ardenne-Chance nobles, and Diamond just hoped that she didn’t accidentally get caught up in any imperial intrigues.

Diamond got to her rooms without problem, though she did walk a little faster than normal. The imperial guard seemed large and unwilling, without a smile anywhere near his face. Her ladies also seemed nervous, Diamond’s lady of honor, Prudent, practically bolted the door once they were inside. The rest of the ladies had to be escorted to their own chambers, but Prudent was sleeping with Diamond. She normally did, the nights in Ardenne-Chance got cold even when they were indoors, so it was nice to sleep next to another person.

“There is tea in an hour, we should change quickly,” Prudent said, slightly out of breath.

Diamond tried to slow her racing heart because she knew Prudent was right. Another downside of their packed schedule was that they would have no time to catch their breaths. Quickly, in time for tea, Diamond and Prudent changed. Diamond, knowing that her mother wanted to make a show, bedecked herself in a light blue silk gown with gold trim and matching gold and sapphire rings, bracelets, and a tiara. Prudent was richly dressed in yellow, but not that richly dressed. Diamond found the rules on her lady’s dress were ridiculous, with the number of gems that Diamond wore there was no way they could outshine her, but her mother didn’t think like that.

As they were walking to tea, escorted by two more ladies and guards, Diamond looked around the castle. The walls were covered in rich tapestries and the floors in gleaming wood. Diamond couldn’t imagine the wealth of servants that were needed to keep up with everything. Beautiful paintings were hung on each corner, but Diamond thought their subjects ruined the image. At one corner there was a large portrait of the imperial royal family, the Cold Emperor with his dark furious stare, the Eternal Bride Queen with her youthful smile and blushing cheeks even at 55, the Mysterious Twins one with a dark smile and the other with a playful smirk, and the Freezing Princess she stared out with piercing brown eyes seemingly aware that she would have to step over her brothers to get the imperial throne. While the Queen was beautiful and happy, the rest of the family sent chills down Diamond’s spine. She was happy when they finally sat down for tea in a comfortable green papered sitting room.

After tea, it was the drafting of joint legislation with her mother and Isaac, after the legislation was done there was dinner, after dinner, there was a small play to attend. The next morning Diamond got up and did it all over again. The only thing that kept her going, through the odd looks and lingo she didn’t understand, was the letter she got from her lover.

Again the fact that the letter was able to appear inside of her writing desk testifies that her lover wasn’t a simple gentlewoman. Perhaps she had an important position in the palace? Diamond didn’t know how else a random woman would be able to have access to her, a Grand Countess’s, chambers. Still, that didn’t stop her from soaring the letter.

My heart, it is a happy day now that you are here. Thought guilt creeps into my thoughts. I know you, I have seen you laughing, sparkling in your gowns, about the palace but you have not seen me. Even if you did see me you would not know me, and I would cry at the thought of your chocolatey diamond eyes sliding over me like I was a stranger to me. Still, soon you will know me, just as much as I know you. My mask shall be in the style of a golden eagle and I shall lift my wings for you, my love. Soaring above the clouds is nothing if you aren’t there with me.

Soon, my dear, soon. Wait for me,

Imperial Gentlewoman

Diamond was waiting, and she was waiting patiently. Every night, before crawling into bed with Prudent, she brushed the smooth, silky purple feather velvet of her dress every night and tried on her amethyst studded mask. The ball couldn’t come sooner.

Eventually, the ball did come, and the Ardenne-Chance delegation met in the regent’s rooms to get ready. Even though Diamond was a natural leader she let her mother take the lead. Her ladies, her little brother’s entourage, Gwen’s own ladies, and other various Ardeen, paid rapt attention as Gwen spoke. She and Isaac were at the center of the room, Gwen telling them who and who not to speak to and in what way, and Isaac just standing there in his little cream and diamond suit looking adorable. Isaac had been brought along to every important meeting and legislative drafting, Gwen thought that it was important for him to learn what it was like.

With the strategy meeting over, everyone put on their masks. Full face masks were the dress code, but everyone could tell they were from Ardenne-Chance. No one else would be wearing as many jewels.

Getting into the marble ballroom, Diamond was stunned and Isaac audibly gasped. Even though she had been in the ballroom before, it always stunned her. It was in excellent taste. Gold liveried servants glided around holding trays of crystal glasses full of golden wine and the band played on a circular stage in the middle of the bright place. The high ceiling was covered in skylights, letting in silver moonlight that contrasted nicely with all of the gold.

Diamond had already arranged everything, within her mother’s guidelines of course. From the last masquerade, she knew the routine. Plenty of flirty buoyed by plenty of alcohol. Everyone drinking and dancing. Diamond had pre-scheduled her dances, as was the custom, but she had arranged it so they carried her further and further away from her friends and family. Her dances also allowed her to scan the entire ballroom, looking for a golden eagle mask or deep blue coat. When her dances were running out, she had scheduled 15 in advance, Diamond started getting worried. The count she was dancing with was sweet, but she wasn’t looking for a sweet man, she was looking for her lover.

The end of her dances came up and Diamond was left with tears forming in her eyes on the edge of the dance floor. She could see Prudent on the other end of the ballroom and Diamond had just started walking toward her when someone tapped her shoulder. Before she turned around Diamond prepared an appropriate response, tapping a Grand Countess on the shoulder was an odd gesture of impotence and Diamond was kind of scared. But when she turned around, Diamond’s heart melted. She should have known who would be so bold as to tap her on the shoulder.

From the ground up she was wearing a modern light blue gown, royal blue coat with gold buttons, and an elegant tapered gold mask with golden feathers. For the first time in her life Diamond was speechless and it seems like her lover was as well. Diamond didn’t consider herself especially attractive, especially with the mask, but her lover seemed blinded by beauty.

“May-,” her lover paused as her breath hitched, “May I have the next dance, your grace?”

Unlike the confident passion of her letter in real life, her lover seemed nervous. They didn’t dance on the main floor, instead, they danced off of the floor and out of the ballroom. They didn’t speak while they were walking, only the retreating sounds of the ball and their own footsteps. Diamond was aching to rip off her lover’s mask and finally see the face of her beloved, but she was patient. Instead, she let her lover lead her down narrow halls and a few of what she assumed were secret passages. There was no time to ask where they were going, Diamond just had to trust her lover.

Eventually, they got to a small balcony overlooking the city. Unlike in Ardenne-Chance, where the mountains seemed dark and haunting, in the empire, the lights of the city were clustered close together. Lantern bearers were comets streaking across the city and clubs were stars, sparkling in the darkness. Her lover leaned over the railing and when Diamond leaned in close her lover put her arm across her shoulder. The warmth of her coat was intoxicating, Diamond smiled and looked upon the golden mask.

“Thank you for coming, my love, I know that the journey must have been tedious and you have no great love for the empire,” Diamond looked away from her lover’s shining brown eyes. Her mother still blamed the stress of the empire for driving her father into an early grave, but while Diamond was sad about her father’s passing and the situation she found herself in, she was quite neutral on the empire. Their armies were brutal, yes, and their emperor was cruel and callous, but no one can deny their conquered territories prospered after their rule.

“I would go anywhere, and do anything for you.” Diamond blushed as she took off her mask. Her face was a picture of love and devotion.

Her lover took her hands into hers and faced her, “No, my jewel, it is I who will do everything for you.”

The gentlewoman reached up to her mask, Diamond’s heart jumped, but when she took it off it was Diamond’s turn to audibly gasp. Brown eyes that glittered with heat and passion, and an expression like melted ice. Even though the woman before her looked thousands more cheerful and lovely Diamond still recognized her.

“But you are the imperial princess,” Diamond stammered, “You are to be empress.”

“Yes,” Princess Jordan said, her voice melting, “And you are to be my queen.”

Without warning, Jordan kissed her, a soft touch of lips so vulnerable and tender. It was more of a question than an assertion “Do you still love me?” the kiss asked Diamond. And Diamond said yes, she leaned into the kiss and let herself melt into Jordan. Their love was already forbidden, did it really matter how forbidden? Diamond had already learned how to ignore the world, it didn’t matter who Jordan was. All it mattered was that she loved her.

Lol, I love Friday Night Frights. I can never think of prompts, and this one was really good. Have an amazing weekend you guys (I know it's Saturday now, sorry I was tired last night). 😊😊😊

@promptsforthestrugglingauthor

[fenheart87]

Healing the Magic

For @bloody-no-kissu happy belated birthday!

-start-

“Well hello there, sniffer’s no good upwind.” Luka kept his relaxed posture, no need to scare the young woman, especially when he had no way of knowing what she was capable of. "Rest easy lass, just a wee break for the legs before finishing my journey. Beautiful women are welcome to the river beside me, I don't bite."

Marinette snorted and moved closer, much more at ease with the werewolf as he was coherent. Carefully she scooped some water from the flow of the river with a chipped bowl and carefully filled her canteen. Silently she thanked the river spirits that this one was untainted by the illness that was flooding the capital. Once her canteen was full, she filled a few vials and other potion bottles. She would need moon water but that was harder to come by, unless…

"Pray tell furry friend," she smiled at the eye roll and continued, "if I were to say leave a basin to be touched by Sister Moon would you place a watchful eye and help me to gather pure water from a full and a new moon?"

"Moon water aye?" Blue eyes narrowed in consideration and a healthy dose of wariness. "And what would a young lass such as yourself need any type of moon water for?"

"I come from the Agreste ranch, rescued as a healer for the ailing late Madame Emilie Agreste. Since her passing and resting of her soul, I have been helping to use my skills for those in the nearby town, most wounds heal best under a full moon. Other times I must raise defense for myself against those who wish to harm a skilled healer such as myself. I understand if you cannot help." Marinette simply returned to drinking fresh water from the river and making sure she had collected enough for her next round of potions.

"Lilly wheat grows yonder the hill to the west, right along the tree line. It can be tricking to navigate, I swear to watch yer things should you need to gather it."

Surprise covered her features, it was exactly what she was looking for and made her rethink this werewolf and wonder, how did he recognize the potion? "Many thanks, should you need flea repellent, there is thistle burn about two miles east of here."

"Ah the smell would be unmistakable." Nodding his shaggy head in thanks and reclined on the other bank, he seemed to be done with conversation.

"I'll take you up on your kind offer stranger, I'll be swift." Marinette heard the snort but paid it no mind as she gathered her dagger, amulet and her bag for the herbs she had collected. Swapping the jars of water for a few empty ones, she made her way to the west. Humming some disguised spells, Marinette committed the path to memory and found a few alternate routes for future trips. Sure enough she spotted lilly wheat from its lavender and pale blue coloring, it was a hybrid lookalike of wheat and blue bell flowers. Gathering as much as she could to fill the jars to the max and even stuffed her apron pockets to the brim. Making her way back, she heard a few twigs snap and the trees across the river had a slight sway, signalling the werewolf just left.

"Thank you kind wolf!" Upon reaching the middle of the clearing, she noticed both collection jars were missing. Smiling, she made a note to return in a month's time.

________________________________________

The walk helped clear her senses, too much magic and illness in the capitol had clouded Marinette's magical innate ability to sense other beings. Nature was usually at a neutral point unless tainted by those who lived in the area. Out here so far away from anything or even the manor of vampires she cohabitated with was still pure and loved to trade her negative things with a positive rush of natural magic. It was quite a boost and usually she stored it in her crystals, sometimes bringing them with her to recharge if she was able to stay for a long period.

The tree line broke and the sounds of the river filled her ears and the birds sounded louder than before. Marinette basked in the cheer floating in the air and made her way to the natural alter that she frequently used as her desk. Noticing a note hidden under a rock with a gem tied to it. Carefully she pulled the letter free, not wanting to touch the gem in case it was rigged with a spell.

'Hello Witchling,

I trust your fortnight has been fruitful and as you asked, I was indeed able to get both water from the new moon and the full moon. Untouched completely by every element but the collected water and the air itself. The gem is a family heirloom, there is a hidden cave and it shall lead you to it with just a drop of water from the river.

The Big Friendly Wolf'

Giggling to herself, she did as the note bade and with a touch of cursory magic, determined it was harmless. Dipping a finger in the river for a drop of water, Marinette followed the glowing red light to the cave where her collection jars waited for her, completely untouched. Taking care, she poured the water into the marked pots and carefully sealed them for transportation. This would be plenty for what she needed and Marinette made a note to make something for the helpful Were. Leaving the crystal with the note in the cave, she set off to gather the few missing herbs left. It took only a few minutes of scouting when her senses sparked in alarm, there was another magical signature drawing closer and it was unfamiliar. Deciding the risk was worth it, Marinette touched her amulet and teleported back into the agreste stronghold. 

Dizziness filled her vision for a moment and she steadied herself with a few deep breaths. Looking around her room, she noticed nothing out of order and apart from the usual lingering traces of her magic and of Adrien's, everything was still. Grabbing a couple cookies to help her nausea, Marinette teleported back out of the castle and to the nearby wood. It would make it seem as if she skipped over the mountain and river instead of jumping right through every defense that Gabriel had set. Normally the elder vampire had no qualms with her use of magic but he disapproved of it greatly and even forbade Marinette to teach his son. The magic had chosen the young heir and there was not a thing she could do to stop it but that was a long time before they needed to discuss anything if her luck had anything to do with it, she dearly hoped she would be released from their service before then.

The guard, a quiet man whom Adrien called Gorilla, nodded in greeting and let her pass unharmed. Not many could come and go as they pleased, it was a hard earned honor to be rarely granted. Resuming her humming, her magic reached out and brushed against Adrien's, giving her a clear path to follow. Turning left instead of her normal right, the torches illuminated her way. The only thing King Gabriel requested to be enchanted at all times and now only let Marinette or Felix boost them when the stored magic was running low.

"Oh posh, you know as well as I do your father is hardly that." A foreign voice could be heard as she approached the heir's chambers. 

"I'm not having this argument again, either you can shut up or I'll have your tongue." Adrien rarely snapped and it caused the witch's curiosity to peak even more. The moment of silence was her best bet, knocking in a familiar pattern and humming a containment spell, Marinette opened the door and slipped inside quickly.

"Oi! You never told me Tikki was here!" The blurry black form was hissing and thrashing in anger, the spell working like a charm.

"Oh you must be Plagg! I thought Mullo said you were a cute cat with a bad attitude?" Marinette wondered aloud, smiling in greeting to the frozen vampire.

"Mullo?! Wait wait wait! You're Marinette!"

Plagg settles into his hybrid form, acid green eyes and fluffy black ears being the first clear features to show. He stepped out of the transformation smoke and his body clad in black robes became solid, a slender tail flicking in excitement behind him.

"Oh no, you talk about me?!" Marinette shrieked in alarm, dropping the bag she had forgotten.

"Hold on, what in the Hell's Fires is going on here?" Adrien cut in, looking at the Demigod and his healer in anger and confusion.

"Oh Adrien, you know my true talents are not in healing so I know the Demigods when I see them. I've always known you're magic kissed like your mother." She smiled guiltily as the shock filled his face.

"Of course we talk about you, there's only one of you even century if we're lucky. A Destined is something to be proud of and you are definitely a very special one too. I'd love to see what kind of chaos we could create." His smile was full of fangs and a mischievous gleam shone from his eyes.

"Maybe one day, especially since I was forbade from teaching any magic and now you're contracted to Adrien." Marinette surmised, it was the only explanation as to why the demigod would actually be there in person.

"Father will never learn to trust me will he?" The blonde sighed deeply, defeat easy to read in his hunched form. 

"He fears the illness that took your mother will take you as well…" Marinette hesitated, looking to Plagg for permission to disclose the truth; a move that Adrien noticed and pounced on.

"What are you hiding from me?" He rose from the chair, brow furrowed in anger and stalked towards the shorter woman.

"I cannot say, the King has his ways of forbidding even the most noble of truths." She turned her gaze to the floor in preservation, a vampire's thrall wasn't effective enough to hold her for long but it did cause severe damage.

"He marked you." They had nearly forgotten the demigod was in the same room. "That bastard! Touching a Destined with Darkened Magic is forbidden!"

"I had no idea I was a Destined, my powers never came in until I became lost in the Forbidden Woods." Her voice was soft with sadness but still clearly heard. "This means he will have to be put to death doesn't it?"

The silence from the demigod was loud enough in its own right. King Gabriel would pay the price of meddling with the Darkened Magic, the blackest of black magic and required sacrifices of souls and thousands of blood rituals or even contracts with demons. The penalty was raised even more for using the Darkened Magic on a Destined and stunting Marinette’s growth and endangering her life, a Demigod had chosen her and had been denied the right to connect with her because of Gabriel's foolishness.

"You'll rise to your place in the throne then Prince Adrien." 

"You can't be serious, killing my father? For using magic on a witch?" Adrien cried, waving his arm carelessly.

"Boy, Magic Kissed you are but Chosen you are not! I will take you down with him should you choose to go against the wish of the Gods!" Plagg snarled, teeth glinting sharply in the candlelight. 

Adrien started at the show of anger and reacted with fangs bared and eyes darkening to red. The predator was unused to feeling truly like prey, even in front of his father and his fight or flight instinct was set to fight. Marinette hummed herself, layering a few protective spells over herself and Plagg, surprising the demigod enough to whip his head and stare at her in disbelief.

"You're Tikki's chosen…" Adrien calmed a bit and glowered at the two that had suddenly forgotten him.

"I wouldn't know." Marinette whispered, barely heard by either male.

"Look kid, either he dies and you step up to be the man they need you to be or you'll suffer at the end of my claws as well. You have until sundown to decide. Little witchling, I shall keep in touch. There will be three parting gifts in your room and with your smarts you'll put it all together." Plagg bowed slightly, a show of respect to Marientte which had her and Adrien shocked as the demigod disappeared.

"We need to act normal for the time being. I'll see you at dinner." Adrien spoke dismissively, an echo of Gabriel's attitude behind his words. Marinette was left with no choice but to retire to her room.

Her room was alive in the way only a witch could truly achieve, the flora was bursting with healthy green leaves and big bright beautiful blooms. The air carried a weight of the magic she often conjured within the four walls, positive and practice vibes floating playfully past one another to create a safe atmosphere. Little did anyone realize the room itself was enchanted and she could move the entire thing at will, it was difficult as it required a lot of magic but with the help of Moon Water, she could do it and hide away to regain her strength.

"Alright, time to get to work." Marinette opened her chest and humming a light airy tune, the shelves floated off the walls and slowly drifted into the chest, allowing her time to select certain ingredients. Taking a deep breath she changed her tune and her furniture began to shrink and floated into the chest as well. The young witch was about three quarters depleted of her magic, Marinette had suspicions that Gabriel had something to do with it.

"Okay, time to juice up. Just a little bit, nothing major. Nothing ventured, nothing gained after all." She muttered under her breath, trying to shake off the sudden nerves. Tapping into the last of her power, Marinette focused on the new moon water and held the clear quartz above it, near breaking concentration as it began to float. Starting a soft hum, the water took a shiny quality and the crystal glowed in response. Very thin multicolored wisps of smoke drifted back and forth, showing a tangible power exchange between both stored magics. Once the water no longer shined and the smoke faded fully, she stopped humming.

"One more step and onto freedom…" Blue eyes took in the half packed state of her room, fingers already reaching for her Amethyst to charge with the Full Moon water. This was easier as there was only a little need for direction, the power was already there and no need to purify or mix with another essence. Gently she placed the crystal to float on top of the water and with a whisper of a chant, the process began.

Marinette moved around the room and tossed the shrunken furniture into the chest, convincing her plants to sleep for the trip and even getting some to shrink into seeds for packing purposes. Once everything was cleared and stored away, the young witch turned back to the crystal and pot, the process about halfway done. Steeling herself, Marinette grabbed a ring she rarely wore when staying inside the castle, strands of gold layered and twisted to form a beautiful rose. This was one of her more precious gifts, it also lent the ability to disguise everything tattletale from vampires.

"Now to make it through dinner… And hopefully out of here alive."

Dinner was a quiet affair, the tension could be felt by even the servants who were speedy about setting down the dishes and retreating as quickly as they could without triggering a chase from an angry vampire.

"I thought King Gabriel was to join us?" Marinette asked politely, forcing herself to enjoy the cooked lamb at a moderate pace.

"Father had some unexpected business to attend to." Adrien had finished sucking his peice dry and moved on to the goblet of blood wine.

"I hope nothing too strenuous."

"Father can handle anything."

Once she was finished, the table was cleared for dessert. The young witch knew this would be her moment as everyone else had left the room and if things were to go south, they would be spared from Adrien's wrath. Gathering courage, she rose from her seated position and bowed slightly.

"If you have a moment to spare, I would like to discuss something with you." 

"So be it, speak your piece." Adrien leaned back in the chair, his persona more and more like his father every day but never closer than in that moment.

"After the events I am resigning from my position as healer for the Agreste Coven."

"Marinette, there's no reason to have this discussion." He sighed heavily and rose from his seat, turning to leave.

"There's no reason for me to be here any longer Adrien. My original reason for employment has been null for a long time. I feel it's time to leave and further my skills, that cannot be done while in here. There's nothing for me to learn." As a human she knew this would trigger what was left of his humanity and kept her breathing even to avoid the blow up 

Adrien spun around suddenly, knocking off the dinnerware from the table. The plate was a near miss from cutting Marientte's bare feet but she stood her ground, after all no matter how nice Adrien was, there was still a predator in his heart. Green eyes blazed with anger and a low snarl ripped from his throat, it had no effect on her after so long of being in his service. "You dare mock me and then presume to leave me!? For the flea bitten mongrel at that?"

"I'd rather lay with that so-called mongrel and risk fleas than be with you a moment longer than I have to." Marinette calmly stated, pulling on her inner strength to not let her ring fail her and reveal how fast her pulse was truly racing.

"What is this really about Marinette? Did I not give you all the splendor and treasures you could want? I let you choose a trade and keep your money from it, supporting you and never asking for you to repay your debt with me. Have I ever hurt you?" Adrien spread his arms dramatically, appearing innocent except for the look of rage taking over his face.

"Adrien. Do not make this a big deal, Plagg is already watching you closely." Praying to the demigod himself that Adrien wouldn't be able to call her bluff. "I am not a prize to be won or fought over, I am most certainly not yours. You have never hurt me nor have I you, please do not change that."

"Then leave, when you get fleas do not come crying to me." Adrien spun and left the dining hall, anger leaking from him.

Marinette wasted no time, teleporting back to her room and casting a cloaking spell on the chest. The transfer was done and quickly she saved the water for both by sealing the collection pots temporarily. The crystals went onto the pouch at her waist, Marinette noticed that there was more than usual and smiled in relief.

"One of three found little witchling. Best hurry to get out of here before my kitten blows a gasket." Plagg commented lazily, floating above the opening of her door.

"Thank you for your watchful eyes Plagg." Dropping into a quick curtsey and drawing a quiet chuckle from the Demigod, the witch finished packing what little was left. Humming brightly, she gasped as the chest shrunk into a perfect sized bracelet. 

"The least I can do to help rectify the wrong that has been done towards you. Mayhaps you should find a mentor that has knowledge of God's and Divination."

"Consider it done! Master Fu told me if i ever needed anything to go see him at the Temple of Heroes." Marinette smiled brightly and with a wink, teleported into the clearing she favored. She miscalculated how drained she was on magic as something solid but somewhat squishy.

"Well lass, did not expect you to fall into my lap quite like this." The werewolf's deep timber caused a shiver to run up her spine.

"Not quite my intention but I do need help and a certain big friendly werewolf would be quite helpful against the big scary vampires."

"Well lassie, you're in luck. Just hang on." He shifted her to his back and she clung on for dear life with a huge smile on her face. Time to live for herself.

[emrysarthurpendragon]

Let’s hang out sometime!

He had no choices. Merlin keeps muttering these words as he walked past the citadel’s doors. The guards standing there, one at each side of said doors, barely send a curious glance at him. It was not usual for the young warlock to go out in the middle of the night. Most of the time, nightfall – or even later – was the moment he left the city to collect plants for Gaius. Some flowers were blooming away from the sun, while the moon was high and full. For that reason, the soldiers just nodded in his direction and reminded him to be careful. Bandits used to roam the woods around the citadel and his royal pratness needed his manservant. Ok. He added the prat part. Still, after tonight, Arthur and Merlin would belong to the past. The young prince, soon-to-be king, needed not him now. He had seen enough lately to know. Arthur was not the once and future king. He hated magic as much as his father does and will do until the day he died. Morgana had every right to lose her mind, growing up in a place where people like her were burned at the stake, even when they used their powers to help and protect their loved ones.

“He will forget me. After all, we were just manservant and prince … not friends.” As if he wanted to befriend an idiot like Arthur. Real friends don’t throw goblets and various pieces of furniture at you. A sad smile graced the brunet’s lips. He remembered a time, in Ealdor, when Will pop out of nowhere with something to eat for them. They would grab hands and run together in the woods, laughing and playing tricks on the local bullies. They were poor, Merlin even more than Will’s family, but so much happier. Back then, no destiny darkened his future and threatened to crush him if he failed.

After some time, the small way through the trees widened and opened in a beautiful clearing. Here and there, white flowers faced the snowy full moon. Like stars fallen from the sky and to the peaceful earth. The soft wind made them dance shyly, nervous to move under a stranger’s gaze. In the middle of the clearing, surrounded by green grass, an oak stood. Oaks were magnificent. Older than most humans, they waited there and only shared their knowledge with a few chosen ones. Long ago, one of them sent a dream to Merlin. One about a world of magic. A world in which he was free to be himself and not some babbling, goofy, stupid manservant. A world with Arthur, the King, by his side and staring at his people with fond eyes. With kids roaring with laughter in the wide streets of Camelot, chasing each other’s and sending sparkles of magic toward their friends. It happened not long after he first step foot in Camelot and, like an idiot, he thought of a glimpse from the future. If it were, he probably messed it up somewhere. Like he did with Morgana, and probably Mordred too. Well, at least, Mordred had not attacked them for now. He was somewhere with his fellow druids, happy and alive. Hanging from a branch, a liana caught his eyes and merlin waved his wrist, calling it to him and making a knot with what could be called a cord in that case. According to the legend, taking someone’s life sends you to a terrible place in the afterlife. Doing so with yourself condemn the person to even worse … reincarnation where they would suffer even more. Funny enough, Merlin though nothing could be worst than what he was enduring right now. The other day, he barely avoids being caught by Leon, using magic to protect them in an ambuscade. The final countdown before his burning had begun and he chooses to die to his own terms. Not with Arthur’s hateful eyes on him, but with his laugh in his ears and his smile behind his closed eyelids.

“I guess it’s time to go…” whispered Merlin, slowly climbing the tree. For one moment, he turned his blue eyes where he heard a rustle in the bushes below. Probably his imagination. Some part of him wishing for a sudden twist in his fate, in the form of a friend coming to stop him. A chuckled escaped his lips at his stupidity. No one was coming. With that in mind, Merlin straightened the knot around his neck and made the last step between his life and death. “Freya, I’m coming,” the young man whispered and then, nothing. Nothing but the blissful darkness.

 * * *

Gwaine had been at the tavern – again – and stumbled out of the place around the witching hour. Maybe earlier. From the corner of his eyes, he saw the familiar figure of his friend, Merlin, walking down the street and outside the city. As a matter of fact, the knight knew Gaius needed not plants. They met earlier that day and his pots were so full he could probably make a good amount of money selling them to the nobles. Why was Merlin heading out then? Not for Arthur. The Prince never asked his manservant to leave town after dusk. Behind his banters and flying items, the young man cared deeply for his servant and would never endanger him like this. Merlin, on another hand, had that habit to endanger himself. The other day, Lancelot stopped him from falling down the staircases. How was he still alive? Gwaine did not know. Especially with all the adventures they shared since the day they met. Bandits. Sorcerers. Magic creatures. He survived them all but almost kill himself in the most random situations one could imagine. Of course, he decided to follow his friend in a matter of second. Anything could happen in the woods, in the middle of the night. What if the brunet was tricked and killed by an enemy of Camelot? None of them would survive this. Well, they will. But they’ll change in the process. Merlin was their glue. The one whom united them in the first place. A little brother. If something were to happen to him, if Arthur found out someone noticed Merlin and decided to ignore him … let’s say there would be consequences. In a lucky day, even the slightly drunk soldier managed to follow Merlin without being noticed. He stumbled a few times. Cursed when his right foot got stuck in a root. Still, he followed his friend and watched carefully, hidden behind a tree, what happened next. Or he listened. A cold feeling grew in Gwaine when the wind carried Merlin’s word.

“He will forget me. After all, we were just manservant and prince … not friends.” He said. Merlin, the cheerful boy, spoke like a man collapsing under too much pressure. Merlin who joked with them earlier that day, about how Arthur would kill him one day, if he keeps using him as a target during practice. Was he hurt at training? Something they said or did? His thought prevented him from following Merlin and when he reconnected with reality, the younger man was gone. Gwaine searched for him. He looked everywhere for hours. Or it felt like it. Then, the clearing appeared and his blood froze in his body. No. This what not happening. Merlin couldn’t be standing in a tree, face turned toward the sky, a ghostly smile gracing his features. He watched in slow motion the manservant’s movements. Even if he ran really fast, his chances at saving Merlin were inexistent. The wind carried the name of a girl named Freya. Did Merlin lose her? Who was she? His friend never mentioned a special someone before. A better half, lover or even good friend. Thinking out loud, Merlin had always been secretive about his life.

“Merlin! No!” screamed Gwaine, running under the tree. The small body fell and remained limp. From his pocket, the knight grabbed a knife and threw it at the vines. Call it luck, the blade snapped the liana right away and Gwaine caught his friend. Merlin weights nothing in his arms. His skin was pale and his chest immobile. As still as a frozen lake in winter. With shake hands, Gwaine undone the handmade rope and checked for a pulse. Sure enough, no bones had been broken when Merlin fell to his death. He probably chocked, gasping for air until his consciousness faded away.

“Please, don’t be dead. Not on me,” begged Gwaine, practising first aids on Merlin. One. Two. Three. Four. He heard a loud crack as a rib broke under the pressure. “I’m so sorry,” he whispered, repeating the same gestures, giving his own oxygen and forcing in into Merlin lungs. After what felt like eternity, a loud gasp broke the silence. Merlin’s chest started rising and falling again; slightly, but enough to make him alive. “Hold on, I’ll take you to Gaius.”

The way to Camelot never felt so long before. The guards are the door sent worried looks their ways and Gwaine hurried. His loud steps sound like those of some spirit of the dead. With a loud bang – and a startled Gaius – Gwaine stepped into the physician’s office.

“Sir Gwaine? What’s the…” started the old man, before his gaze fell on his ward. “Merlin. What happened?” asked Gaius, hurrying the knight toward the table, where they lay their friend and/or surrogate son.

“I don’t know…” stuttered Gwaine, nervously scratching his neck with his left hand. “Followed him in the woods and … and he tried to… I lose him for a minute and … was hanging in … in a tree… I don’t understand.”

“Oh, my dear boy,” sighed Gaius, checking his books and potions. The thing was, he felt magic was involved in Merlin’s current situation. Lately, the boy had acted off character. Whenever people were not looking, he noticed how his ward’s happiness melted to a grim look. But magic saved him too. Around the younger man’s neck, he felt the golden stream that saved the warlock. His bones clearly snapped the moment he jumped off that tree and repaired themselves to save him. No matter how hard someone had been trying to kill Merlin, the boy’s magic acted like a shield. Or a curse, if legends were true. Legends about Emrys being the most powerful warlock ever, and also an immortal being.

Hours passed and Gwaine ended up snoring on a chair. That is, until Gaius said he did his best and that now, they just had to wait until Merlin felt strong enough to open his eyes again. The sun rose in the distance and the knight yawned loudly.

“I better go wake the Princess. I’ll tell him Merlin’s sick and banned from duties for the time being. Physician’s orders.”

“Thank you, Gwaine. For helping my boy and keeping the secret.”

“He’s my friend too,” smiled Gwaine as he exited the office. Once alone, his smile faded. Merlin almost took his own life. Merlin thought Arthur could lose him and be okay with it. Every single person in Camelot, from nobles to mere peasants knew how close they were. Even that stupid King Uther and his stupid laws knew. If magic truly was involved in it, Gwaine knew it couldn’t force that kind of feeling in one mind. No. Somewhere, even deep inside his heart, Merlin had believed them enough to do so. Or was it about that Freya girl? What if there was no magic here? What if Gaius told him so, just to ease his aching heart?

Without knocking, Gwaine entered the prince’s bedroom and found him fully awake, his back turned to him and struggling with his shirt.

“Merlin, you’re late!” growled the blond.

“Not Merlin, Princess.”

The man froze and turned over. His messy hair poked out of the shirt, quickly followed by the royal’s head with a confuse look all over his face. The moment their eyes met, Arthur asked in a worried voice:

“Where’s Merlin?”

For a second, Gwaine did not find the words. He closed his eyes and saw Merlin’s limp body hanging before him. He remembered how cold he was, how thin … his fear when he realised what had happened.

“He’s sick. Gaius tied him to his bed,” joked the man, trying his best to hide his worry. Thankfully, Arthur was the oblivious type and accepted his poor excuse. He never found out about the truth. Not when they visited Merlin as a group of worried knights. Not when the manservant awoke. Not even when, after a week and a half, Merlin resume to his duties and acted as if nothing happened. The only change came from Gwaine, who stopped his usual stops at the tavern to keep a vigilant eye on his friend.

[cartoonfangirl1218]

Moments of Lightness

This is just for prosterity from Ff.net, written way back during season 1 of EoA so lots of things in here have been debunked. Long time since then. Just four "scenes" of Paloma and Esteban of things I imagined of Shuriki's reign, connecting to present like why they have a rivalry, how Paloma got her fan, why she dresses so conservatively, that yellow neck thing Esteban has, how she got greedy etc. A lot of this headcanon was inspired by daydreamingobsessed.

Esteban tried to avoid flinching at the ear piercing volume Shuriki was emitting as she heard the latest report of the trade deal between Satu and Avalor.

"I want him in!" Shruiki shrieked, "How could Satu have duped us. I said we should be the ones getting more money out of the deal." "Uhh, The Magister of the Guild is a she." A guard piped up to Shruiki's glare.

"What?" She hissed. "You killed Master Mascarenas and his associates last week because you suspected him of rebelling."

"Oh, right" Skruiki smiled, "So who do we have in charge now?" "His ward, your Grace. His daughter." Higgins put in.

"She better have a good explanation." Shruiki looked at the mirror once more, admiring her reflection and preening. "Bring her in."

Esteban's eyes turned toward the door where Paloma Mascarenas walked in. He had seen her around when he was younger, whenever her father came to talk to King Ronaldo. She had been so vain and cocky, what with her father as a very important man in Avalor. She and he would get in the most petty fights.

Paloma looked be in her twenties now. Still pretty with her brown eyes, and slender frame accented by a silk teal gown. Her hair in tendrils to frame her face as the rest flowed down her back. But she looked like she lost most of her arrogance for now. She looked terrified as she stood in front of Shuriki's throne. As one should. Esteban shuddered as he remembered Shuriki ruthlessly taking over Avalon, killing anyone in her way.

"Explain yourself." Shuriki demanded with a tone of steel, "What were you doing? Making a fool out of Avalor? Letting Saturday gain the upper hand. You signed a contract that gave them a quarter of our exports for only a 4th of theirs! What were you thinking? YOU are the one who is suppose to lead the Guild, do you know anything about fine print?" Shuriki sneered.

"I..I thought..I mean in the long run, the trade will work in our favor. By exporting our goods at slightly higher prices than their imports, eventually we.." Paloma tried to gather her thoughts into an explanation but Esteban could see that Shuriki had no patience to hear. She never did. She only cared that things got done.

"Eventually." Shuriki cut her off, "What does that have to do with now?"

"Your Grace, I thought.."

"You are a failure. Avalor is the best trade city in the world, the height of sophiscation and your mistake could ruin our reputation. It would let other countries think they can deal whatever they want with us. Are you trying to make a fool out of Avalor, Mascarenas? Hmm? You are working like your father. Slowly ruining us from within.." "No! No, no your grace I wasn't trying to do anything against Avalor or you I swear" Paloma cried.

"Silence." Shuriki got up from her throne, taking a knife that the Captain of the guard handed her.

Shuriki came up in front of Paloma, and surveyed her wth a critical eye, "Honestly, I don't know why I allowed you in my service. You should be a prostitute. It would be more fitting considering to your clothing choices." She dismissively waved a hand over Paloma's partially covered shoulder. "That way you can actually make money."

Shuriki grabbed her firmly by the chin, "I won't fire you for now. It's too much work finding people. But if you dare mess the next trade deal and you do not get me the 12 pounds of diamonds I requested. Well..." she made a small slice on the girl's cheek.

Shuriki turned away, handing the blood specked knife to Esteban. "Till next time" she smirked.

Paloma stiffened and walked backwards out the door.

It wasn't until much later in the day when Shuriki was having her daily routine of looking at herself, and Esteban finished any miscllaneous duties, he decided to pay a visit to the guild.

Esteban quietly knocked the office door of the Trade's Guild before he entered.

"Señora Mascarnes, I would like to discuss today's meeting with you." He entered to see Paloma frantically looking through papers, almost on the verge of tears. Her cheek faintly red from the scar. The room was a mess with piles of paper, boxes of trinkets and unorganized seats of furniture compared to the tidiness of the warehouse.

She jumped up with a start, "What? Has she changed her mind? Are you..Are you going to kill me?"

"No" Esteban held up his hands, showing his lack of weaponry.

"I just wanted to know what happened? Your father was very good at his job, I thought he would have taught you the same skills. You have been for the last 4 years."

"Yes" Paloma muttered in agreement, her head down in reverence. Esteban remembered he was in his official uniform of a Chancellor. He sometimes forgot that in the few times he walked in Avalor. He was so used to being in the town, but now everyone looked at him differently due to his position. As Shuriki's right hand man.

"Well? What made you make the deal?"

Paloma slowly looked up at him, "I..I did think it was a good contract. I mean we didn't get as much money but the imports would have been very useful for Avalorian resources and workers so I signed. I really wasn't trying to do anything against Shuriki."

"Isn't there a way you could have gotten more money from it?"

"I'm sure there was." Paloma nodded. "And you didn't?"

"I don't know how." Paloma admitted, "She's right. I don't know what I'm doing. I mean, you see, I was suppose to be in training for 3 more years. Then gradually take over the job. I was suppose to be Master at 30, not now! And..and I can't find anything around here. The guards ransacked my house and the office. They took all my father's belongings. I can't find any contracts, I can't find his will. I couldn't ask for help because all the other officials would love to see me fail and take my position."

Esteban pitied the girl in front of him. Truly she did look younger than she was right then. Vulnerable, scared.

"I have a solution for that though." He said, "I have some experience in financial matters since being in Shuriki's court." He pulled out a fan he had Ben hiding in his inner coat pocket. He had plucked most of the jewels from it's cover so it showed its actual light blue design of flowers rather than the bejeweled design of a rose. "This, you can use to cover your scar if you wish."

He picked out a small pile of rubies buried within the pocket as well. "And this you can use as bribes when you need to."

"Bribes?" Paloma stared at him dubiously.

"Money makes the world go round. And with Shuriki in control, I really don't think we could afford to have too much of a moral compass. Believe me." Esteban thought to when he let Victor get banished. To allowing his family to be trapped in a painting and an amulet respectively. Letting Shuriki kill the king and queen as he stood by meekly.

Paloma looked at him to continue. "I don't know how far along you got to in training but right now as Master of the Guild, what matters is that you make money. That way we can keep Avalor prosperous and keep everyone in standard comfort than poverty."

"Yes" Paloma leaned forward eagerly, greatful that someone was giving her advice.

"We need more taxes. Just for a little bit. Put a price on everything. At this time, everyone wants to decorate to have some cheer in their house. So they are more than willing to pay in decorations, candles, food. But what else, we need a bigger revenue, more of a reason to buy this stuff. So that is why we need to organize sales, competitions. In which you must play the people off one another."

Paloma nodded, calculating the numbers in her head, "A harvesting contest would be good. You need to hire workers to plow and of course, materials which could cost extra since they have to be built.." Paloma continued happily, employing more people was necessary. "That's it" Esteban encouraged

"Good, really good. Everyone is dismissed." Shuriki called to the officials, waving them out the door, "Ah Paloma, you look less whorish. But still quiet vulgar for my court. A slut among nobles." Shuriki smiled at her.

Esteban resisted the urge to roll his eyes. Paloma had been dressing less "slutty” lately. Her dresses covered her shoulders, and any other skin that could be shown, from her ankles to her collarbone. An hour later as they were walking to the docks for a impromptu meeting with sailors, Paloma asked him.

"Esteban, what is it? Do I really look like a prostitute?"

"You never looked like a prostitute. Her Grace, is just...Her Grace. Look, you're young and she isn't, that's all."

"There is a part of Shuriki that is insecure of her looks?" Paloma said dubiously with a look of disbelief.

"Yeah that's probably not it." Esteban admitted, "But if you want to make her stop trying copying her dress. Put your hair up like a married women. Fancier jewelry, I'm sure you could get it."

"So like real jewels instead of plain smith shop work. But what about the blacksmith? He needs the money I pay him for his work..." Esteban gave her a look.

"Right, no moral compasses here. I forgot." She fingered her gold tinted chain that had PXPM carved into the stone in the middle.

"You use your mother's maiden name?" Esteban asked pointing to it. "Oh no, I have two middle names actually." Paloma said, "My parents wanted to name me Paloma Prospera Mascarnes but then my mom died so my father wanted to name me Xiomara after her as well." "How?" Esteban asked softly. He never knew his parents, no matter how much he begged Francisco and Luisa and his aunt and uncle to tell him, he never got the answer. He sometimes would dream of the day they would return from some long journey and come to him and they would spend the days like a family, and he could say "My Mom and Dad" instead of "My Abuelo and Abuela."

"I came three weeks early and there were complications...and my mom's body couldn't.." she took a pause to recollect herself "She died almost half an hour after I was born. I wasn't suppose to live either. I was all small and pale, like a paloma. So..yeah."

"I used to wonder if that is what happened to my mom." Esteban whispered, "But death by childbirth is somewhat a normal occurrence so I thought Francisco and Luisa would tell me. I just wonder..”

Paloma put a hand on his shoulder, "I'm sure they didn't abandon you because it had anything to do with you. After all you were left with your grandparents and they are so..I mean were so kind."

"Well they would definitely abandon me now" Esteban thought to himself, "And my grandparents wouldn't be so kind if they knew what I had helped do."

Esteban mustered a small smile at the girl beside him and tried to push the thoughts away.

Months later, Esteban was walking down the royal palace when he saw Paloma walking ahead. Behind her a guard was obviously trying to look like he was walking casually behind her but Esteban could see him leering at the women's long skirt. Esteban shook his head in disgust. There was nothing to see! She wasn't doing anything and they all looked at her like some sort of sex toy.

Esteban quickly strode up, and shoved past the guard. "Señora Mascarnes, I must have a word isn't you in my study. Right now." He whisked her off to his study and firmly closed the door. "I don't like that man." He growled.

"Why Esteba," Paloma smirked with a mocking tone, "Don't tell me you're jealous?"

"Jealous!" Esteban thought. No, he wasn't. Yes, he didn't like it when other men stared at her. But that only was because they were not gentlemen!

They all saw her as "the prostitute" the pretty girl who had nothing in her brain. He wished they could see what he did. Over the months he worked with her to keep Avalor, prosperous he saw her as educated, and sly and witty, and very well-cultured. She was fiercely protective and determined in doing her job as Magister of the Guild.

He never could have thought of the many ways to squeeze money out of people as she did. And how to outmaneuver the trade deals to Avalor's favor.

But jealous...no he wouldn't let himself. It was something he could never do. He couldn't afford to make that kind of liaison in Shurki's court, no matter the women.

"No" Esteban answered. He thought he saw her smile falter a little but dismissed it as his imagination.

"I was keeping your virtue" Esteban let the sentence speak for himself.

Paloma grew solemn, "Thank you, I appreciate it very much." "I think it's wrong. You are more than that. You are a valuable member in court."

"Thank you again." She blushed, then she straightened like she remembered something.

"I got you this." She pulled out a yellow handkerchief, "I never thanked you for the fan. I got it from Córdoba"

"It is very fine. Thank you for your gift..and your company." Esteban smiled

————————————————————————————————

"Did you not hear that Esteban!" Paloma beamed pulling him into her office, "She didn't say anything about my appearance. She didn't call me a prostitute! I'm finally doing something right!"

Esteban tried to match her feelings but felt like he couldn't. He didn't like Paloma's appearance. It was too..it was like Shuriki's. Formal, somewhat regal but didn't hold a candle to the colors and vibrancy of Avalorian dress. Her long brown hair had been pulled into a bun mimicking how Shuriki wouldn't let one thing out of place. Large, heavy-looking emeralds laid at her neck. A hat with an absurd feather poking out, just announcing her presence. No, it wasn't...

"She didn't call you anything." he pointed out.

"That's music to my ears." She smiled, "This is just the beginning. She'll have to start calling me something. An actual title like yours. Señora or Doña."

"I don't like this." Esteban blurted out. "What?"

"I don't like this" Esteban gestured to her body "It's not you. Neither is this title thing."

"Excuse me. Do I not deserve a title? After all I have done. I have brought more money the past two years than my father has ever done in his two."

"Yes, yes. That is good. But this sucking up to Shuriki." "And you don't?" Paloma argued.

"I have to!" Esteban amended vehemently, "I'm her right hand. I'm the one doing all the royal duties here. If I'm gone, Shuriki would neglect it and let some poor, unefficant soul run Avalor to the ground. I am helping Avalor."

"I'm helping Avalor too!" Paloma retorted "I'm the one that is keeping the economy going, keeping jobs for the people. I'm not letting the other countries take advantage of us."

"You are making the people buy buy buy to run the economy. You tax the lower villages too much." Esteban said.

"What I'm doing is helping them in the long run. Yes, they have to pay taxes but those taxes provide them with food and shelter. You can't get things if you don't give a little." Paloma crossed her arms.

"But you are using some of the inventory to buy that." He pointed to her necklace.

"Just this." Paloma hissed "For my own sake. Do you know how hard it is to be taken seriously when you're called a prostitute by the queen? She calls me that in public everyday in front of officials, in front of guests! Do you know how many have treated me like one. Seven offered to pay for my services. Three didn't even bother with the pretense of paying they just tried to force.." Paloma took a shuddery breath before continuing, "I have to look like I'm a part of the court to do my job, Esteban. I have to suck up and do what Shuriki wants and get the amount of money she wants. I don't know why you think that is different from you. You are so close to her. You might as well helped her to.."

Esteban took a sharp intake of breath, "Because it doesn't matter that you look better now. You are still a lower person even you don't look the part. You only made it because I helped you. You wouldn't make it at all."

"I would." Paloma's eyes flashed with fury "I know just as much. Even more than you."

"I'm the royal here." Esteban said coldly.

"You've been overthrown." Paloma answered icily "I can make it just fine without you. So get out of my office."

Esteban hesitated but with a defiant glare he left. He was the one in the right. He wasn't turning to Shuriki's pet. Right...

So from then on, I imagined it developed into the rivalry they have in the present. Who is the one who knows court life/formalities more? Who is the one who could always come out on top. I also imagine Shuriki could see their tension and helped to pit them against each other so there is that as well.

[alj4890]

Misfortune's Intentions

(Liam x OC*Elisse Millan) (Drake x Riley) in a Choices The Royal Heir fan fiction

A/N We've jumped ahead in this chapter by nearly a month. Liam is returning home after the road trip and Walker family visit for Savannah's wedding. He now has to figure out how to keep moving on now that Drake and Riley are pregnant. Amalas makes a decision that keeps Elisse right where she wants her to be.

@gkittylove99 @krsnlove @kingliam2019 @texaskitten30 @hopefulmoonobject @yourmajesty09 @mom2000aggie

Masterlist

Chapter 2 Confirmation

Liam gave orders to the staff to take his bags upstairs on the way to his study.

The past few weeks spent exclusively with his friends, trapped in a rental car and small farmhouse, had exhausted him. He longed to go up to his room for a moment of solitude. No thoughts. No conversations. No reliving that moment.

He closed his eyes as he sat down behind his desk. Unbidden and unwanted, his mind brought the image of Drake and Riley to mind.

"We have something we need to tell you." Drake said once Liam, Hana, and Maxwell sat down.

"Is something wrong?" Hana asked.

Riley shook her head, unshed tears formed as Drake cuddled her closer in his arms.

The couple locked eyes before taking a deep breath.

"We're pregnant!" They shouted.

Maxwell whooped and jumped up to hug them both. Hana followed, exclaiming how happy she was.

Thankfully no one noticed the only person in the room who remained sitting down.

No, Liam thought. He wasn't sure why that denial whispered through his mind. He only knew he didn't want to hear this. See it. Be forced to witness every moment.

He made himself stand to congratulate them. Somehow the words came.

"I'm thrilled for you both." He even managed to smile. "This is the best kind of news."

"Oh! Let's go shopping for the baby to celebrate!" Hana exclaimed.

Everyone else agreed, making their way out the door. Hana paused, glancing back at Liam.

"Aren't you coming?" She asked.

"Of course." He shook himself out of his daze. "I need to retrieve something from upstairs."

She smiled at him. "Hurry."

As soon as the screen door shut, he allowed his smile to disappear. His steps were heavy as he climbed up the stairs.

He hesitated as he walked past the bedroom Drake and Riley had been using since their arrival at the Walker ranch.

The walls were thin. Too thin. He heard everything at night as he tried to sleep in the other bedroom.

There were many nights that he had to leave the house and take a walk just to escape hearing them express and demonstrate their love to one another.

If they had not gotten pregnant after all that, then they never would, he thought.

The moment he parted from them outside the palace, he felt the stress of keeping his feelings buried disappear. He was able to breathe again. Frown if he wanted to without anyone asking what was wrong. Remain silent for the next few weeks if he was so inclined.

He could focus again what was most important: running his kingdom.

Even if it is for someone else's child.

He pinched the bridge of his nose. Irritation rose within him that he even had that type of thought. He had chosen this himself. No one forced him to. Why was he now experiencing bitterness when he should be rejoicing? His best friends had done what he had asked. They were pregnant with the royal heir.

What more could I possibly ask for?

"Liam? I hope I'm not interrupting."

He stood up with a tired smile. "Not at all. How were things while I was away?"

Regina eyed him for a moment. "Everything went well. We had requests from a few of the visiting monarchs to rent some of the vacant manors outside the capital."

"Oh? Hoping to use proximity to sway Drake and Riley's decision, I take it."

"Indeed." She sat down across from him. "I gave them permission to do so." A slight smile touched her lips. "If nothing else, we will have nearly a year's worth of rent from these people."

Liam chuckled. "True."

Her expression became serious once more. "Liam, dear..."

He cocked an eyebrow when she didn't continue.

"As difficult as this must be, we will need Drake and Riley to be here for a press conference as soon as possible." She averted her eyes when she saw the brief flash of anguish on his face. "The country has been anxiously awaiting for an announcement."

"I see." He rubbed a hand down his face. "I will let them know." He cleared his throat deciding to change the subject. "Which monarchs are staying in Cordonia?"

"Many, like the King and Queen of Auvernal   are dividing their time between here and their kingdoms." She explained. "The only one needing use of a manor for the entire pregnancy is Queen Amalas."

"Really?" Liam's brow furrowed. "That’s strange. She doesn't strike me as the kind of ruler to leave her duties for so long."

"You're right. That's why she intends for her cousin, Viscountess Millan, to be here the entire time and act as her proxy when she is back in Monterisso."

Liam straightened in his chair. "Lady Elisse is moving here?"

"According to Queen Amalas." Regina replied. "As soon as she is back from America, she will be settling at Cranborne Manor."

"She's in America?" He wondered why she would be there. He knew Amalas had surprised Riley and the other ladies at Savannah's bachelorette party. Her brief visit had struck them all as odd.

Was Elisse following us? Is that how Amalas knew where we were?

"Yes, she is. Boston, I think is where the queen said Lady Elisse was going. How was the wedding?" Regina' s voice cut through his thoughts. "The papers here have spent weeks documenting every little thing." She grimaced slightly. "They are eating it up that the Walker siblings made such advantageous marriages."

That's how Amalas knew where to find us. She had seen it in the news.

Liam relaxed some at that mystery being solved.

"Liam?"

"Forgive me." He apologized. "I think the jet lag is causing me to zone out."

"Then you need to go upstairs and rest."

"But I--"

"No arguments." She took his arm and tugged him toward the door. "There is nothing on that desk that demands your immediate attention."

He looked down at her with an affectionate smile on his lips. Once at the main stairs, she released him. Liam surprised her with a hug and kiss to her cheek.

"Thank you." He said softly. "For commanding me to do so."

She gently patted his cheek. "Anytime, dear."

*****************

Monterisso's Royal Palace...

"Don't go, Lisse." Josip rubbed his eyes before launching himself into Elisse's arms.

"I'll be back." Elisse promised, hugging him tight. "And you can come visit me when Mommy comes." She tilted his little cherub face up. "We'll have new places to play." She dropped her voice to a whisper. "And all the cupcakes we want. Your mommy will never know."

"I heard that." Amalas yelled out from Elisse's closet.

Josip giggled at his mother's tone.

"What are you looking for?" Elisse yelled back.

"That black ballgown of yours." Amalas stepped out with hands on her hips. "The one that caused Lord Ashton to trip and land in the punch bowl."

Elisse rolled her eyes. "It wasn't the dress that caused that. It was his vanity in not wanting to be seen wearing glasses."

"I think it was the dress." She returned to her search. A triumphant yell sounded after a few more minutes.

"You're packing this and wearing it." Amalas said in her queenly tone. "That is a direct order, by the way."

"Hmm." Elisse picked up the little prince. "What do you think? Should I mind mommy?"

"Yes!" He replied with another giggle.

"See." Amalas smiled, "even the prince agrees."

"Very well." Elisse set him down. "I can't fight you both."

"I want you to wear it at the next ball Liam hosts." Her cousin instructed.

"Amalas." Elisse drew out the syllables. "Stop."

"Why? You’re clearly attracted to him."

"You know why." Elisse snapped. "I can't--"

"He's already taken care of that!" Amalas argued. "You could be with him without any pressure."

Elisse zipped her suitcase. "I'm going to Cordonia to represent you, not to romance Liam."

Amalas folded her arms. "If you change your mind, know that I would be thrilled both as your cousin and queen for you to be with him."

The viscountess sighed. "I'm not going to actively pursue him."

Elisse couldn't help but think of that moment in Valtoria's ballroom when he asked her to dance. The way it felt to be in his arms. Talking to him.

A smile appeared as she faced Amalas. "But I won't say no if he decides to pursue me."

****************

The Royal Gardens, Cordonia, a week later...

"Drake and I are so excited." Riley told reporters. "I can't wait to meet our son or daughter."

Cameras flashed as she continued to answer questions.

Liam stood off to the side with a well practiced expression of delight on his face. His eyes swept over the crowd of nobles and members of the press.

He paused when he saw Elisse.

As if sensing she was being watched, she began to turn her head from side to side.

Their eyes met. She sent a smile his way, causing his own to respond.

With a tilt of his head toward the back of the crowd, he made his way over as she did the same.

"Welcome back to Cordonia." Liam kept his voice to barely above a whisper.

"Thank you." She replied. "I am glad to be here again."

"How do you find Cranborne Manor?"

"It's beautiful." Elisse responded. "I love being right on the ocean." She glanced over at the press conference still going. "I slept with my window open last night so I could hear the waves hitting the shore."

"I haven't been to Cranborne in years." Liam slipped his hands in his pockets, relaxing his kingly stance.

"Oh?" She lowered her eyes. "You are more than welcome to stop by and see it."

Liam grinned and also looked away. "I might just take you up on that offer."

She peeked at him from beneath her lashes. "I had thought of taking advantage of the perfect weather and spending a day on the beach tomorrow."

"That sounds nice." He lifted his eyes to hers.

"It's a shame I don't know too many people in Cordonia." She clasped her hands behind her back. "I wouldn't mind some company." Her lips curved slightly. "I might even be willing to pack a picnic."

"Might be willing?" His smile turned a touch flirty. "And what should one expect from a picnic you pack?"

She bit her lip, turning slightly away. "Mostly items that no one deems healthy." Her eyes cut to him. "Everything that tastes good and probably wouldn't appear at a formal court dinner."

He shifted closer to her. "That does sound tempting."

Liam cleared his throat. "Hypothetically speaking, what time would you go out to the beach?"

"Around noon." Elisse couldn't control her smile. "Hypothetically speaking of course."

"Of course."

The crowd began to disperse. Members of the press were packing up their equipment while nobles mingled at the garden party.

"Looks like we better catch up."

Liam wondered if he was imagining the faint note of reluctance in her voice.

He offered his arm to her. "Shall we, m'lady?"

She slipped her hand into the bend of his arm. "Thank you, your majesty."

****************

"Who is that with Liam?" Riley asked.

Maxwell craned his neck to see who she was talking about.

"Hmm. Not sure but I think I've seen her before." He muttered.

"That's Queen Amalas's cousin." Hana said once she caught a glimpse. "From what Madeleine said, she will be remaining here to act as proxy for Monterisso's monarch."

"Liam said he would spend time with her to see if the Spy Queen has any hidden motives." Drake added. His eyes narrowed somewhat at Elisse's ability to hold Liam's attention. "I don't trust her."

The group of friends watched silently as Liam made her laugh on their way to join a group of other visiting foreign nobles.

Overhearing Drake's opinion, Olivia stepped up beside Hana.

"Monterisso has been a country that keeps mostly to itself." Her sharp green eyes remained on the viscountess. "I can't recall the last time any representative from their country visited Cordonia."

"Perhaps it is time to flip the tables on them." Maxwell suggested. "Spy on the spies."

"Isn't that what Liam is doing?" Riley asked. Worry for her friend began to appear on her face. "Do you think he is safe with her?"

"Liam can take care of himself." Hana replied. Her own worry reflected in her eyes. "But I'm worried she will use him in other ways."

"Maybe we should talk to him." Riley slipped her arm around Drake. "What do you think?"

Drake's lips parted, hesitating on whether or not they should interfere. "We'll play it by ear for now. Until we see Liam acting differently, we need to stay out of his way as he tries to gain information."

*******************

The next day, Cranborne Manor's private beach...

"You look much more relaxed today."

"I am. I didn't realize how much I needed a break from everyone."

Elisse chuckled before standing up. "Everyone? I suppose that's my cue to leave."

Liam scrambled upright to snag her hand in order to stop her.

With a laugh, she dodged it and ran off toward the water.

His smile came unbidden as he chased after her.

What am I doing?

That thought caused him to falter once he was waist deep in the ocean.

Elisse popped up out of the water, beside him.

"Is something wrong?" She asked once she pushed her damp clumps of hair out of her eyes.

Liam's gaze drifted over her. The wet, coffee colored hair. Bronze skin glistening with suntan oil and drops of water. Lips that were usually turned up in a warm smile were now in a thin, concerned line. Deep brown eyes that reminded him of dark chocolate. The black bathing suit that highlighted her beauty. He took it all in within a second or two.

I really am attracted to her.

He slowly shook his head. "Nothing's wrong, m'lady."

What am I to do now?

Her smile reappeared. "M'lady? I thought a certain king insisted that today we lose all titles."

He chuckled. "He sounds very intelligent."

"I certainly think he is." She reached for his hand. "Come on. There are a number of desserts in that picnic basket that I want to eat but also need an accomplice to finish them off."

"Should I be concerned with your sugar addiction?" Liam teased.

"Only when you find me eating sugar cubes without a pot of tea or coffee nearby." She teased back.

"I'll make certain to have the Royal guards take up sentry duty by the palace pantry."

"That will cause me to have to smuggle sweet treats into your country." She shook her head sadly. "What would the punishment be for such actions?"

"The most severe one we have." His tone playfully turned sinister. "You will have to watch Cordonia's ruler eating it all in front of you without offering you a single bite."

She gasped dramatically, placing a hand over her heart. "I never knew how brutal you could be."

"One has to be with smugglers like you." He winked at her as he helped her unpack the rest of goodies she had brought.

She laughed softly, her own body relaxing in the warm sun and his company.

"I'm glad you took my hypothetical invitation and came by today."

Liam polished off the rest of a vanilla cream puff before responding. "I'm glad you offered it." His lips curved. "Hypothetically."

She opened another container filled with various chocolate covered fruits. Her teasing smile turned a touch serious. "This is my first time living somewhere other than Monterisso."

"It is?"

"Yes." She picked up a strawberry covered in white chocolate. She focused on the waves as she spoke. "I always knew there was a chance of marrying someone who lived in a different country. But, I never imagined living somewhere else alone."

Liam glanced back toward Cranborne. He knew her intimidating bodyguard was most likely watching over them. "You're not completely alone."

"You mean Felix?" She laughed softly. "True. It is hard to ignore his presence." She reclined back on her beach towel. "He's that older brother I always needed growing up."

"Keeps you out of trouble?"

"That and isn't afraid of letting me know when I do something he thinks is foolish." She closed her eyes. "He has stood by me during some difficult moments in my life."

Liam stretched out on his side after removing the picnic basket that sat between them. "It's nice to have a source of comfort."

"Yes, it is." She turned her head and met his steady blue gaze. "It seems you have quite a few that are that for you."

"Yes." Liam averted his eyes. "I suppose I do."

"Liam, may I ask you something personal?" She turned on her side facing him. "If you don't wish to answer, I won't pressure you."

"What is it you wished to ask?"

"Why did you decide to name an heir instead of marrying someone and producing your own?"

His silence made her wish she hadn't ruined this day with her curiosity. He probably despised her for the audacity of even thinking she could ask him something like that.

Though it felt like she had always known him from rereading his file every chance she got, he didn't know her.

Her lips parted to apologize and take back her question.

"I think..." Liam began. "I think I did it out of selfish reasons." He grimaced at voicing what he had hoped wasn't true about himself. "I needed a way to take some time from being pressured about my finding a queen for Cordonia." He lifted his eyes to hers. "And I've used the excuses that I secured the throne and gave an honor to my closest friends."

Liam searched her face for repulsion or disapproval.

He saw nothing but a hint of sadness and sympathy.

"It's horrible, isn't it?" He asked.

"No." She replied. "It's not. From what I know about you, you have been put in some very difficult spots these last few years. You unexpectedly being named the crown prince. Forced to choose a bride to become king. Trying to break away from such tradition. Terrorists." Elisse placed her hand on top of his and gently squeezed. "Who wouldn't want a moment to step back from all that had been asked of him?"

He turned his hand over so he could hold hers. "Thank you, Elisse."

She smiled at him. Her eyes drifted over his handsome face in contented silence.

"May I ask a personal question?"

She nodded. "Of course. It wouldn't be fair for me to be the only one allowed."

"Why didn't you take part in my social season?" Liam braced himself for her answer.

He did not expect the sight of tears forming in her eyes.

"You don't know?" Her voice cracked.

"No." He gently gripped her hand. "I'm sorry, I--"

"Your father didn't want me to take part after the results of his required health examination." Elisse closed her eyes, trying to keep from crying.

"Health examination?" Liam's brow furrowed. "Why would that have any importance?"

"Because you are a king who needs to have heirs for the throne." She said softly.

"Yes, but why would--" Realization came over Liam. "Elisse."

She nodded in a jerky manner.

He couldn't stand to see her so hurt. Ignoring the question his mind asked of why he was doing this, he gently pulled her into his arms.

She buried her face against his shoulder while she silently cried.

Liam closed his eyes, dropping his head against hers. He couldn't help but think how ironic it was. Here was a lady he might very well have realized was the one he should marry that his father kept from him. And yet, he was now a single king with no heir from his bloodline.

If Constantine was not already dead, this surely would have caused it.

Liam looked at Elisse's face when she slowly pulled away.

"I'm sorry." She bit her bottom lip. "I didn't mean to put a damper on our day at the beach.

"You didn't." He reassured her. A bittersweet smile curved his lips. "I had hoped to get to know you."

She delicately blew her nose. "I did too."

Liam tenderly cupped her cheek, drawing her attention back to him.

"Elisse?"

She lifted an eyebrow.

"I think," Liam hesistated. "I wish you had been allowed to come for that season."

She swallowed a touch nervously. "I wish I had too."

[diaxfeliz]

𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐬 | 𝟐.𝟓𝐤

A Genshin Impact Fanfic

➵ Character/s: n/a

➵ OC/s: Captain Pix, Ichika, H̶̛̰̼̗̖͚̺̘̳̄̂̎͘̕i̴͍̜̙̗̙̯̾͛̊͘̚k̸̢̢̢̨̹̥̥̰̦͍̒̋̈́͝ȃ̶̼̰̬̙͇͔͊͑̕t̵̨͋͝o̶̢̙̹͂͗́̊̇̒̿̿͠͝ğ̶̨̆́̑̔̈̈́ā̴̰͓͍̳̜̗ͅk̴͕̱͉̇̈́̈̾̈́̾͘̚e̶̤̟̅͝ (@a-small-glimmer-of-light​)

➵ Warning/s: none

A/N: I don’t know if you want me to tag you or not but here you go @a-small-glimmer-of-light​​ !!

•

The life of a captain is hard, and even harder being a captain of the Fatui, so once a former faction of the organization (one that the captain did not know about) rises up against against them, things get a little harder.

•

•

•

Soft thuds sound one after another from inside Pix’s office. The sound made the people on the other side of the door curious as to what the Fatui representative was doing behind closed curtains. After the last thud, Pix sighed loudly followed by soft footsteps.

“I was gone for a few weeks.” Pix said to no one in particular in their empty office as they took down the darts that stuck out of their cork board full of reports pinned on every possible crevice. Half of the reports were missing person reports, mostly children, and the rest being either about theft or murder.

At first, Pix didn’t understand the urgent request for them to come back from Liyue by the commissioner, but now that they’re back, they realized the situation was more dire than they initially thought. The Kanjobugyo couldn’t handle the situation alone, and even with the Fatui on stand-by ready to assist however they could, they were useless on their own and needed their captain’s guidance — they needed Pix — and as much as Pix valued their work, they found the current situation ridiculously outrageous. How exactly weren't their troops able to handle the situation?

After dropping the darts into a shallow wooden bowl that sat on their desk, Pix stood in front of the cork board and put a confused hand on their hip. They squinted at the papers, mentally counting them. Too many, they counted, at least more than they were used to having on their plate.

“What happened while I was gone, Inazuma?” they mindlessly let roll off their tongue.

“Captain Pix?” A voice came from the door of their office that successfully broke Pix out of their trance. “It’s Ichika.”

“Come in.” they said with a shake of their head.

With that, in came the Kanjobugyo representative for the Fatui. Pix smiled at the young woman and turned to her as she shut the door behind her.

“Good evening, Ichika. What brings you by?” Pix asked, successfully hiding the pressure the situation had on them.

Before speaking, Ichika looked around as if checking for any potential eavesdroppers. There was a certain mischievousness in her eyes which gave Pix mildly suspicious vibes and it wasn’t exactly helping their job anxiety. As much as they appreciated her, Ichika tends to go over the top when it comes to helping Pix, and they felt this was about to be another time.

“Don’t tell anyone,” Ichika said, and immediately Pix knew it would be another thing they’d get in trouble for. Ichika took out something from her pocket and gingerly held it in her hands. “but I thought you’d want to hold onto this.”

In Ichika’s hands was a kunai sharpened to the tip that the edge gleamed from the moonlight streaming in from the window. Pix’s eyes glinted at seeing the masterpiece of a weapon. In their eyes, there were traces of elemental energy, but the kind of elemental energy that it was, they weren’t sure. Before they drifted off trying to determine the elemental energy of the kunai, they immediately snapped themselves out of their daydream and lifted their head to Ichika. There was a proud smile on her face, but it was one Pix couldn’t reciprocate.

“You said that there was a mastermind behind all this, right?” Ichika enthusiastically began. “Well, I took this from one of the scouts when they said they found it at one of the crime scenes and I just know it’s gonna help you find the man behind it all.”

Pix nervously chuckled. Not only are their own troops a handful, but so is their Kanjobugyo representative and they honestly don’t know how they can keep up with them atop the mountain of paperwork they have to deal with.

“I appreciate the enthusiasm, Ichika, but you know I’m already under so much fire with your supervisors.” Pix explained, a nervous yet goofy smile on their face. “Any more and I’m sure to be ejected back to Snezhnaya.”

“I know that, but listen!” Ichika tightened her fists. Her familiar passion burned in her eyes. “I have an idea where this mastermind is.”

Having known Ichika for almost three years now, Pix knew that when she had an idea, it was going to be a valuable piece of information. They couldn’t remember the last time Ichika gave misinformation or even weak ideas. Every idea of hers was always worth a shot and Pix felt honored that they were the one Ichika tells them to.

“Alright.” Pix sighed and crossed their arms. “Let me hear it.”

“Let’s hope I don't get caught, shall we?”

Pix jumped from roof to roof as they inched their way to the harbor, the kunai Ichika had given (but had technically stolen) hidden in their sleeve. It was a moonless night, perfect for an undercover mission in the eyes of Pix. A black sleeved oversized cloak and a white fox mask they’d picked up at the local mask shop hid their appearance, and with a quick change in their gait and how they spoke, they shouldn’t be readily recognized.

Pix reached the barren harbor in a short time and camped on the roof that overlooked most of the area. Pix laid low, hidden in the shadows as they strained their eyes to watch out for similar elemental energy as that of the kunai. Pix put full trust in Ichika when she said the mastermind would be here.

So far Pix had only seen the blue of the water, green of the crates, and a hint of green in the gentle breezy wind. None of that musky, eeriness was present in the area, but Pix didn’t want to leave just yet. In the corner of their eye, Pix then noticed a Fatui agent by the ships of the nobles of the city. Curious as to why a troop of theirs is out late, they went to confront the man.

As Pix got closer, an unusual feeling began to rise in their chest. It was an oddly specific feeling that they knew they’d felt before, but that was a long time ago. It felt like the shivers they felt when their father told them stories of urban legends and the great beasts of Teyvat.

Pix jumped off the roof and landed a few feet from the agent as he continued staring at a noble’s docked boat. Pix wasn’t even spared a glance.

“Gentleman, might I inquire about your business here?” Pix said. “I had received notice back in Liyue that we were established a curfew.”

“Ah, yes. Forgive me for that, Captain Pix.” The agent began. Suddenly, the eerie feeling rose in their chest. Pix didn’t recognize his voice and they recognized all their troops' voices. ”I’m just here to take care of a few things.”

The agent quickly threw something onto the boat before being harshly tackled by Pix. They pinned him on the ground by his wrists and that’s when Pix got a good look at his uniform. They froze. It was a Pyro agent’s uniform but it was incredibly outdated. Pix had seen all versions of all uniforms and they knew this uniform dated back to before they even joined the Fatui.

The boat they stood in front of suddenly erupted into flames, knocking Pix and the agent into the large crates nearby. The flames roared and glowed brightly against the dark sky and no doubt would you be able to see it from halfway across the city. Pix hurried onto their feet and while the agent was a priority to capture, they couldn’t let the fire spread to the nearby boats.

They jumped into the dark waters, and upon their feet making contact with it, it froze, giving them the ability to walk on water. Their feet went numb casting Cryo energy, but this was a situation they needed to use their Delusion. They frantically ran around the boat occasionally using their Cryo Delusion yet again to shield themselves from the falling debris that chipped off the boat because of the flames. Their arm went numb, but they kept going.

Once they covered the perimeter of the boat, Pix jumped back onto the docks and with a swift movement of their hand. The ice around the boat closed in on the vessel and instantly froze every part of it, the fire going out with a ‘hiss’.

Pix breathed out slowly and rubbed their freezing arms, glad that the danger was gone, but they weren’t exactly glad of the outcome. The mysterious agent escaped and now the whole probably knew of this incident. They were going to face their supervisors' wrath because of this and they wouldn’t be surprised if they were going to receive a notice forcing them out of Inazuma.

Pix took out the kunai from their sleeve and held it up to the starry sky. They now recognize the weapon’s energy to be the same as that of the agent’s, and deep down, Pix knew who that agent was — or at least what group that agent’s part of. Honestly speaking, Pix was a little pissed they weren’t informed of them before arriving in Inazuma.

“I’m so so sorry, Captain Pix! I didn’t mean for this to happen!” Ichika rambled on and on about how sorry she was about landing Pix in this situation while they packed their things.

Unsurprisingly, the incident last night reached the Kanjobugyo and was pinned on the Fatui. Since Pix was their commanding officer, they received all the backlash and was ultimately asked to leave Snezhnaya as the Kanjobugyo would resolve as much as they could before allowing the Fatui to help again. Not to mention them finding the stolen piece of evidence Pix had on their person. Ichika admitted to taking it, but ultimately nothing was stopping the Kanjobugyo from temporarily evicting the Fatui out of the city.

“I am a little curious though…” Ichika began shyly. “Did you… find him? The mastermind?”

Pix hummed at her question and tucked their gun into its concealed holster strapped to the side of their chest.

“Right, him.” they said, flashing back to last night’s events, focusing most especially on the outdated Fatui uniform. “Well… I think we should save this conversation for another time, but let’s say I did.”

Hope flashed in Ichika’s eyes. “That’s good, right?”

They smiled. “Good.”

Pix really resisted the urge to say ‘frustrating’. As Ichika happily pranced around the room, Pix thought hard about them — the Fatui rejects. A long time ago, Pix was told about a faction the Fatui once had, but their personal knowledge on the faction was severely limited. All Pix knew was that the faction rebelled against the main faction, the Fatui, and because of their aggression, the Harbingers had to cut them off. Whatever happened after that, no one knows. The stories mentioned the cutting of ties with the rebel faction was more of them just never contacting each other again and leaving them to fend on their own.

It was frustrating to Pix because they weren’t told that the rebel faction everyone had been referring to all this time was in Inazuma. With the uniforms they still had, they must’ve used to to disguise themselves as Fatui and hid behind the name to protect themselves. They were hiding under their nose this entire time and they didn’t know because, as mentioned, they weren’t told about the Inazuman origins of the rebel faction.

“And of course, when I turned a blind eye on this city, that’s when they caused trouble…” Pix, eyes closed in ponder, thought aloud, catching Ichika’s attention.

“Don’t beat yourself up over it, Captain.” She tried consoling them, thinking she knew what Pix was talking about. “No one would’ve known that trouble would happen the moment you leave.”

“No, no one would’ve, because I was deprived of information.” Pix slung their bag over their shoulder. “I’ll see you soon, Ichika. If you can, keep me posted.”

Ichika saluted. “Will do, Captain.”

Pix swiftly left the office and headed straight for the docks.

They saw the Kanjobugyo littered everywhere desperately finding information on the situation. No one spared them a glance as they passed by and they supposed it was unsurprising by how they thought the explosion was the Fatui’s doing. To Pix, however, getting evicted from Inazuma was a loss for the Bakufu.

They sighed. Hopefully when they got home the Harbingers would believe them when they said it was because of the rebel faction which no one bothered to tell Pix about. They eventually reached the far side of the docks reserved for the Fatui and there were a handful of their troops waiting on the pier. They all lifted their heads when they saw Pix in their peripheral visions.

“Sorry about the sudden leave everyone.” Pix said with a scratch of the back of their neck. “We were framed.”

“Framed?” asked the gunslinger.

They nodded. “Let’s prepare to leave. I can tell you all about it—”

Pix was cut off by the sudden rush of wind. Leaves on the ground were carried away and their hair was whipped back. It was as if someone didn’t want them to go just yet. Out of instinct, Pix turned around them and saw a young man clad in different shades of green both in their clothing and elemental energy that surrounded him. They found them suspicious, and just like they had taught their troops, they found him suspicious too.

“Wait… that was the guy lurking outside of the headquarters last night!” the Pyro agent exclaimed and pointed an accusing finger at him. Immediately, the troops with Pix drew their weapons with an intent to hurt the young man. “Grab him!”

“I don’t really think this is necessary—” Pix tried reasoning but their troops already engaged.

Without warning or even some kind of tell, two copies of the young man made of concentrated Anemo energy separated from him and charged at their group. All of them were caught off-guard by this.

“Protect the Captain!” yelled the gunslinger and fired at the in coming copies.

As the rookies were preoccupied, Pix would’ve face-palmed at the situation if it weren’t for the young man’s sudden movement. In the blink of an eye, he charged at them, eyes burning with determination and familiar revenge. Pix extended their arm and launched icicles in an attempt to not hurt him, but freeze him in place. It was easily ducked as if it were something anticipated, alarming Pix. They didn’t know exactly what happened next, but after the sound of a familiar gunshot of a Fatui-issued firearm, they blacked out.

“Captain!” was all Pix heard before lost consciousness.

If Pix knew any better, their gunslinger misfired and accidentally hit them, but at this point in time, Pix wasn’t surprised. They had an ongoing unlucky streak so why not add feeling a pair of arms wrap around them before feeling their feet leave the ground? If Pix could chuckle, they would, because this was their first time ever being kidnapped.

[soft-stormcloud]

Falling in Love [Royality]

They met outside of a dress shop.

Roman and his friends were passing it when Patton came out, arms full of shopping bags. He was a little flushed, barely noticing them as he started past.

And, of course, Roman had to ask, “Those for a girlfriend?”

Patton had stopped, looking back nervously. He knew he could lie, he knew he should tell the truth; He didn’t say anything.

Roman smiled as his friends rolled their eyes behind him. He shoved his hands in his pockets, his breath fogging against the cold. “They’re for you?” Patton nodded shakily. “Cool. I’m Roman. Want to get a hot chocolate?”

It was like this a lot, and Logan and Virgil never minded. Roman fell easily, and they liked watching it. So when Patton nervously asked about his friends, Virgil had laughed and said he planned on ditching him anyway.

Roman smiled as Patton whined over his burnt tongue in the café. He was so cute, golden hair sticking out in tufts under a white beanie, face still red from the cold. They spent a while talking and laughing, much after they’d finished their drinks, and made plans for lunch later than week. That night, Roman flopped back on the couch, groaning with his head in Logan’s lap, and giddily recalled every moment.

For their lunch date, Patton wore one of the dresses he’d bought- A white one, with black polka dots. He was practically shaking with nervousness as they walked into the restaurant, but Roman slipped his hand into Patton’s and grinned. Patton’s face flushed bright red.

They talked for a while; They talked about Patton’s brothers, and how he hadn’t visited his family in a while and he missed them; About Roman trying to turn his writing into a career, and he worked at a Barnes & Noble for now to keep things together; About their first boyfriends, and a few of Patton’s girlfriends; About Patton being gender fluid and that for him it meant he felt like a boy almost all the time but he still loved conventionally feminine clothes; About how handsome Roman looked; About No, Patton, you’re prettier.

They talked as long as they could, but eventually Roman had to go back to work.

Patton had groaned and complained, “I don’t want to wait another few days to talk to you! Can I have your phone number?”

What had started out as a text every half hour during work quickly turned into four every minute; Over a week, they evolved into phone calls on speaker because they couldn’t stop talking to clean or make food; Over a month, they sent regular videos and Roman spent half his time at Patton’s apartment.

One night, Roman wanted to spend a night in, so he invited Patton over to his apartment for dinner and a few movies. Roman had made a home-cooked meal that Patton adored, gushing over him the entire time, and they cleaned the kitchen together. Patton got soapy water everywhere and Roman kept slipping. Afterwards, they moved to the living room, where Patton begged for them to watch a horror movie Patton hadn’t gotten the chance to watch yet. Roman had been nervous, but agreed. He was never good with horror movies, but Patton had looked so excited.

Patton grinned proudly and made grabby hands until Roman settled on the couch next to him. As the movie played on, Roman got progressively nervous, until he was pressed right against Patton’s side. Patton cooed over him, kissing over his face and hugging him.

Roman ended up with his face pressed into Patton’s neck, giggling every time Patton kissed his head. When the movie was over, Roman peeked his head up and blinked around, disorientated. Patton couldn’t help but grin.

“Roman?” He mumbled, resting his hands on the sides of his neck. “Is it alright if I kiss you?”

Roman’s face had turned bright red, smiling uncontrollably. He nodded happily, and Patton leaned in, pressing their lips together softly. Roman let out a little whine and pulled Patton closer. Patton spent the night, Roman too afraid from the movie to be left alone, and they slept happily cuddled together.

When Roman woke up to the sun sneaking through the windows, Patton tucked against his chest and dressed in one of Roman’s shirts, Roman’s chest filled with glowing happiness.

The next weekend, Roman felt like he would explode if he didn’t dispose of some of his festering emotions- Both good and bad -so he threw a party. He invited Virgil, Logan, and Patton, told them he could invite whoever they wanted, and invited some of his artist and theatre friends. Patton was the first to show up, dressed in a pastel blue flare skirt and a pretty black sweater. He insisted on helping set up the party, and greeted Virgil and Logan when they later arrived with giddy happiness, bouncing on his toes and offering both of them hugs. He squealed in delight when Virgil accepted, tucking his head to his shoulder.

People began arriving fairly quickly; This wasn’t the first of Roman’s parties and people always tended to have fun. For the most part, Virgil and Logan would stick together, while Roman flitted around the room like an excitable butterfly, but Patton managed to keep them all together without anyone getting bored or uncomfortable.

Logan rolled his eyes as Roman set up the karaoke machine, a bunch of people cheering and rushing to get their place. Roman started them off, of course, but instead of flaunting in his usual spotlight for his newest boyfriend, he offered a duet, to which Patton happily agreed. Sometimes Patton was off pitch and Roman did tend to project just a bit too loud, but they were smiling the entire time and they occasionally blended flawlessly.

Logan, Virgil, Patton, and a few others stayed behind after to help clean up, and when Patton stepped out to take out the trash, Virgil and Logan immediately jumped on Roman. They gushed and gushed over how much they loved Patton; Logan pointed out precise actions, words, and characteristics that he found ideal; Virgil rambled and talked himself into corners, constantly using the word “perfect.” By the time they stopped, Patton was back, standing there with a huge smile and tears in his eyes.

Virgil flushed crimson and Logan stuttered a bunch, but Patton just rushed forward and planted a kiss on Roman’s lips. They laughed, and went back to cleaning.

It was a month later, in the thick of January, when they started leaving notes around. Roman had been having a rough day; He’d bombed an audition, run into a massive case of writer’s block, got an awful review on a short story he’d posted, and everything he tried to create turned out like crap. Patton came over, worried when Roman ignored all of his texts, to find him hunched over his laptop, on the verge of a panic attack.

Patton made him something to eat and dragged him practically kicking and screaming away from the laptop to cuddle and nap. Patton woke him up after an hour and had him tell Patton about his day, what was wrong, and how could he help? Patton stuck around for a little bit longer after Roman went back to work, in case he started to get overwhelmed again, but inevitably went home. Roman was about to make dinner when he found the note stuck to the fridge.

Hello, my prince! You better be about to make something to eat! I know today was hard but you’re still the bravest, smartest, most creative person I know and I love you! If you come over tomorrow, we can take a day off and watch movies and stuff. Please don’t work too late! Get some sleep!

<3 Patton

The next day, after hours of Disney movies and cookies, Roman went to hug Patton, only to stuff a note in his back pocket. Patton yelped, squeaking out, “Hey!” Roman had chuckled and kissed him softly, and Patton melted into it.

Patton texted Roman a few hours later,

Oh, I see! It’s on! >:D <3

From then on, notes were scattered everywhere. They sometimes found notes weeks old, but every time they got huge, giddy smiles and didn’t stop thinking about it for the rest of the day.

On Valentine’s Day, Patton woke up before Roman and slipped out of bed to sneak down to his car and retrieve Roman’s present. He hid it in the kitchen and got back into bed. Later, when Roman was fixing his hair and getting ready for their date, Patton presented the flower crown. It was made of deep, rich red roses. Roman lit up when he saw it; He changed his whole outfit to coordinate with it.

They spent all day out; Roman took him to the park to feed the birds, to lunch at a quiet restaurant, to an outdoor concert where they picked dandelions, and back to the park to stargaze with a picnic they packed together. Patton introduced Roman to everyone they talked to as his prince.

Patton slowly became more and more a part of the group. He lasted as Roman’s longest relationship and longer. He was able to give Logan attention on subjects the other two didn’t understand or weren’t interested in, and could comfort Virgil with anxieties the others couldn’t relate to. He made them all ridiculously happy, and he loved them just as much.

Roman fell easily; Logan and Virgil were both aware of this, and adored him for it. There was nothing sweeter than watching Roman fall in love.

If you like my work, please consider donating a few bucks to my PayPal (paypal.me/chemically) or Venmo (maxgraybooks)

[oops-prow-did-it-again]

Pokémon: The World Where Ghetsis Won

Oneshot about the alternate reality where Ghetsis was victorious over Unova in his first attempt. Based on his Rainbow Rocket persona as seen in Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon. 

Warnings: Violence

Notes: Based on my version of Hilbert as presented in my novelization of Pokemon Black (Tumblr, AO3, FFN)

Find it on AO3 and FFN

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Hil clutched the stone tightly against his chest. It emanated a soft, yellow glow from its smooth, silvery-white surface that warmed his fingertips to the touch. Yet, with the warmth came a cold feeling of dread that crept through his veins and slowly turned them to ice. His hands began to shiver. He overlooked a lake with round, wide brown eyes. Noodle, his trusty Servine, nuzzled his hand and tilted his head. His red eyes were upturned in concern. Hil took one look at him and then hugged his knees close to his face. His hand that held the stone fell limp at his right side.

“I can’t do it, Noodle,” he blubbered to him through the fabric of his pants. “I’m not strong enough. I’m no h-hero.”

Noodle nosed his way between Hil’s chest and his thights. Hil left go of his legs a little to give the Servine more room. As Noodle curled up in his lap, Hil’s eyes watered something fierce and he slowly let go of the Light Stone in his right hand, turning his attention instead to the Pokémon curled up in his lap. Noodle’s comfort was warm and welcome; it tore him from the dark, sinister reality that he would have to face Team Plasma’s leader, N, alone, as a hero of Unova. He hugged Noodle tighter and tighter, feeling the cool touch of his leafy body against his own.

Then he felt his right hand brush the Light Stone to his right, and he watched in horror as it started to roll, away toward the lake, and then plopped into its depths. In a blind panic, he shoved Noodle out of his lap and staggered over to the shore, plunging his head into the bitterly cold water. A Basculin then rushed at his face and caused him to jump away from the water. He had been upset, but he had intended to at least give fighting N a try! Had he really lost the Light Stone in such a stupid way?

Noodle dove at the water and shot several volleys of Razor Leaf attacks below the water, but it was no match for the swarm of Basculin that soon began to nibble at its leafy body. He hobbled back out of the water with chunks of flesh missing from his tail and his upper back. He looked up at Hil apologetically and Hil scooped him up, holding him tightly again. “No, no, Noodle,” he whispered, “it’s okay. This is not your fault at all. I shouldn’t have ever come here, I should have gone straight to the League, and…” he gave a shuddery breath. “It’ll be okay… It’ll be okay…”

He pulled his Xtransceiver free from his other pocket and frantically dialed for Cheren, Bianca, and Professor Juniper. He was going to need all the help he could get.

 ------------------------------

The castle was far too quiet. The sprawling room in front of him was eerily empty save for the gentle trickling sounds of water from the pools below the main floor and from the occasional shuffling of feet that came from the small group of grunts gathered, as well as the three Sages, Ghetsis, Bronius, and Giallo. Disappointed, N had to admit he had hoped for better than this. He had hoped somebody, anybody, would have showed up to the castle and try to stop him. Someone to show him that there was another way. As he shifted in the throne overlooking the castle, Zekrom standing proudly at his side, his mind wandered. He thought of the many Pokémon he had met along the way of his recent excursions into Unova’s heartland who enjoyed their trainers’ company and as he had told Hil back in Mistralton, it did break his heart somewhat that he would have to separate Pokémon from trainers who were good friends to their Pokémon.

So, he had hoped Cheren, or anyone, really, would have arrived to prove him wrong. But if nobody could even reach the throne room of the castle, then nobody had the convictions to prove him wrong. It was a sad but not unexpected realization. He knew what he had to do was right, however solemn it made him feel.

The sound of staggering, shuffling footsteps pulled him from his thoughts. He and Zekrom turned their heads slightly to look at the approaching figure. A man cloaked in violet and gold robes, a gleaming, angular red monocle, a lame arm; this was N’s adoptive father, Ghetsis. His failing body was a dastardly disguise. N could speak from experience Ghetsis was many things, but frail was not something one could even fantasize about describing him as. “Our Lord N,” Ghetsis said sharply, “it seems your chosen hero will not make it.”

“It would seem nobody has the conviction necessary to oppose me,” N said in melancholy agreement as he nodded. “I knew there had been a probability, a chance, of that happening. I had just hoped somebody would…”

Even from his throne high above the main floor, N could see Ghetsis’ lip twitch. “You are to give your inaugural speech now,” Ghetsis said calmly. “Our scientists have assumed control over all of Unova’s television stations. Today, Lord N, you set Pokémon free of their suffering by telling all of Unova to release them.”

N raised his chin and narrowed his eyes with noble determination. “Yes, Father,” he said softly as he rose from his throne. Although N’s attention had been drawn elsewhere and so he did not notice, upon being called ‘Father,’ Ghetsis’s lips twisted into a horrible, lopsided grimace thanks to his partially paralyzed face. The elderly man’s body shivered in an anger none of the rest of Team Plasma would have understood. Not N nor even any of the Seven Sages. Ghetsis had been waiting decades for his plan to come to fruition and now that it was finally reaching its success, he found it harder and harder to keep a lid on his true intentions, and his true feelings toward N.

But he knew he could not divulge his true desires just yet. He needed N just a little longer to guilt the people of Unova to release their Pokémon through convincing words. As much as it angered him, he understood that nobody would release their Pokémon willingly if they used force. N’s gentle, passionate words would get him results, regardless of whether he truly understood why or not.

Despite the hero N had chosen not showing up here, however, Ghetsis knew better than to assume that thorn in his side was gone for good. After N was led to the appropriate room in the castle to broadcast his speech by Bronius and Giallo, Ghetsis watched with careful calculation. Once N was out of earshot, he gave the familiar, yet still eerie command: “Shadow Triad, come to me.”

Within seconds the trio of bodyguards appeared, and they flanked him on all sides except directly in front of him. “Yes, Lord Ghetsis?” one of them asked tentatively.

“Find the hero and his friends that N was hoping would show up here,” Ghetsis said coldly, “and kill them. Leave no possible opposition alive.”

“Understood,” a different member of the Triad whispered. Just like that, they were gone again. Ghetsis followed N to the room where he would make his live speech across all of Unova’s television channels. He wanted to oversee the speech and ensure that N stuck to the script. Now, as the true ‘king’ of Team Plasma, Ghetsis was a little worried N would grow bolder and attempt to buck Ghetsis’ control. It would take far more careful manipulation from this point forward to keep his tool in check.

  Within two weeks of Team Plasma seizing control of Unova, they had traversed the region, hitting almost every established town and making more public speeches, and trainers were releasing Pokémon by the dozens. All Pokémon in the computerized storage system had been seized by Team Plasma’s scientists and stored in a private system of their own. N appeared at each and every speech as the face of the movement. His voice, quick and efficient, was punctuated by a determined and triumphant air that permeated gathered crowds like an airborne virus, swaying them to his view easily. N should have felt victorious. Yet, everywhere he traveled, all he saw was devastation.

Gym Leaders had all but disappeared overnight. In Nacrene City, nobody could find Lenora, despite a raid made by Team Plasma members on her museum in a bid to draw her out. The triplets in Striaton City had done a similar disappearing act. Burgh had been spotted but had escaped their grasp by disappearing into the Castelia Sewers, along with quite a few other frightened civilians. Team Plasma agents had been sent within to hunt them down and draw them out, but to no avail as of yet. Elesa had stood her ground and then escaped on her Zebstrika while the Team Plasma agents sent after her recovered. Clay merely locked his city up and waged a nearly one-man war on Team Plasma’s efforts, utilizing a terrifying mix of machinery and Pokémon. Skyla had fled with her airplane and nobody had seen her since. Brycen, much like Lenora and the triplets, had all but vanished, and Drayden, his apprentice Iris, and former champion Alder had retreated along with most of Opelucid City to a small but well-defended village north of Opelucid that primarily used Dragon-type Pokémon as its choice weaponry.

Not only did the Gym Leaders’ refusal to cooperate cause unrest and inflict unnecessary pain on Pokémon, but watching regular trainers release their Pokémon had been far more difficult than he could imagine. Everywhere he went, he was assailed with the thoughts and feelings of distraught, devastated Pokémon. Some had even sought him out and made sure he knew of their anger and pain. How could he feel victorious about saving Pokémon if he had so many telling him every single day he had done the exact opposite? That he had ruined their lives? He could tell his personal partners felt the same. Zoroark was disappointed in the state of the world. Zekrom began to grow angry at Team Plasma and primarily, Ghetsis, feeling they were betraying the ideal Zekrom and N had sought. N couldn’t help but agree.

Every time the king of Team Plasma observed his father, however, a heavy stone weighed in his stomach. His mouth would feel like cotton and words became difficult to string together. Having learned common tongues as a secondhand language anyway, they were already difficult to assemble, and the nervousness that flowed whenever he spoke to Ghetsis only exacerbated the issue. He tried to ignore it at first. Consider it growing pains, he had told himself. But the misery didn’t seem to end…

Within a few short months of Team Plasma’s ownership, almost every citizen in Unova no longer had personal Pokémon except for those involved in Team Plasma’s affairs, which was to say most people within Team Plasma still had partner Pokémon of some sort. N had finally been driven to anger when he discovered secretive Team Plasma agents, dressed in more modest, black outfits that almost resembled the Shadow Triad’s except they didn’t show skin, were re-capturing most of the freed Pokémon that wandered into Unova’s hinterland. This had not been the future he had fought for!

He had confronted Ghetsis once they returned to the castle surrounding the Pokémon League. Aside from Colress, who had been handing Ghetsis a deep black staff with a draconian sculpture on its handle, they had been completely alone in that room. The throne room often remained empty except for Ghetsis and N and whoever they wished to see. N stormed up to Ghetsis with purpose, thoroughly fed up with what had become increasingly more and more apparent as a lie.

“Father!” N declared as he stopped just a few feet away. “This is not the future I had promised!”

Ghetsis and Colress exchanged a look. Ghetsis took the staff from Colress and waved him away. The scientist shot Ghetsis a dirty glare but pushed his glasses up smugly and stepped away. Ghetsis took a deep breath and licked his lips as he looked N over. N didn’t like the calculating look in his father’s eyes. “Yes, Lord N?” Ghetsis asked quietly.

“Do not call me that!” N huffed. “I am no Lord, I am not your hero, this is not the future I fought for. I allowed Pokémon to be hurt for this future and instead of liberation, Pokémon are being hurt more and more by the day and your subordinates are catching them for their own personal use still!”

“N, this is a process,” Ghetsis said through gritted teeth. His crimson eyes narrowed darkly. “It’s not easy right now, but in the future, Pokémon will be entirely free of humans.”

“Your subordinates catching and using Pokémon that have been forced to sever from their beloved trainers is not a necessary part of the process!” N spat as he squared his shoulders. A terrible truth was slowly dawning on him, but he didn’t want to believe it. He wanted to believe anything other than what he was worried was happening. “Father…” N paused and breathed deeply. “Is Team Plasma working to liberate Pokémon for their sake, or for Team Plasma’s—or more specifically, your—gain?”

Colress clicked his tongue and N glanced at him, and then back at Ghetsis.

“Perhaps the education I gave you was too much,” Ghetsis mused. He gripped his staff tightly in his unscathed and uncovered arm, and then rapidly raised and slammed it to the floor again. N felt a strange burst of energy overcome him, but not a pleasant one; rather, it felt like a small electrical shock that made his muscles heavy and difficult to move. Ghetsis glowered at N knowingly. “As our king, perhaps it is best I advise you honestly from now on.” Ghetsis then smirked. “There is no reason to separate people from Pokémon, N. People and Pokémon together can achieve great things they cannot do alone. That is fact.”

N gasped and took a step back. He tried to find something to say, but no words would leave his mouth.

“And truth be told,” Ghetsis continued, “I don’t think there’s anything wrong with people having Pokémon. Except for the fact it gives them an avenue to rise up and fight me. I have spent far too much of my life working at this for a freak without a human heart such as you to ruin it for me.” Ghetsis suddenly pushed away part of his cloak, revealing his partially mangled arm; it trembled and convulsed in his attempt to raise it, but Ghetsis was able to grab hold of N’s necklace all the same, pulling him until Ghetsis had his mouth inches from N’s ear. N staggered in surprise, but his intense stare never wavered. “This is my world, and you are just a tool living in it, like every other Pokémon in the world,” Ghetsis growled. “Is that clear?”

N’s mind was reeling, but he writhed under Ghetsis’ grasp, and when he couldn’t break free of Ghetsis’ frighteningly strong hold, N kicked away Ghetsis’ newfound cane. It destabilized him enough to force him to let go and N stumbled backward. He heaved for breath and shook his head at Ghetsis. “That’s not true!” N hollered. “You can’t be serious!”

But N knew he was serious. Ghetsis did not joke. Colress looked N over analytically as he came to terms with the truth. Ghetsis managed to haul himself back to his feet after a few seconds and he practically bared his teeth at N. “You!” he snarled in a breathless voice, “You are nothing more but my tool! You have no control now! You are no hero! There are no heroes! Zekrom, Reshiram, they are just Pokémon all the same! You are a disrespectful, horrible excuse for a human being—because you’re the same as them!” Ghetsis hissed.

N straightened himself out and regained his composure. He set his jaw as he looked at his father. “You are wrong,” N said in a quivering tone. It felt so strange and difficult to tell Ghetsis that he was wrong. Keenly, he became aware that he had never said anything remotely like this to his father before. “Zekrom chose me! We are friends! Zekrom recognized me as Unova’s new hero!”

“What or who it chooses means nothing,” Ghetsis jeered, “because it’s a tool! Anyone with the right training can use a tool! Even a freak like you!”

N tensed at the words but stood strong. “You led me to believe the words of all people were lies besides yours, but yours are no better!” N retorted. “You tried to make it look like the rest of the world was full of abuse, and yet you stand here before me, and lie for your own gain!” N stomped a foot. The gravity of the situation was taking a moment to sink in, but as it settled, he couldn’t begin to describe the hatred that washed over him. He had been utterly and completely used, and Pokémon were suffering because of it!

…And people, good people, were suffering as well…

“What happened to the other hero?” N demanded. “And his friends? Cheren, Hil, that girl Bianca? What became of them?”

Colress gave a snicker that tore both N and Ghetsis’ attention away. He blinked at their stares and shrugged. “Oh, no, don’t let me drag you out of this lovely father-son moment,” he laughed, “I am just surprised the great Lord N here has not yet figured it out.”

“Keep your mouth shut, or else!” Ghetsis threatened him.

Colress merely rolled his eyes. “We don’t go there, Ghetsis, and you know why.”

“What became of them?” N demanded again.

“They were dealt with like the threats to Team Plasma they were,” Ghetsis answered dryly.

N felt as if he had been struck with a physical blow with the way the wind left his lungs. He swallowed hard and shook his head. “Y-you can’t mean that you—”

“Yes,” Ghetsis snapped, “yes, I did. Threats to Team Plasma are taken seriously.” Ghetsis gave a slack-jawed, crazed grin that unsettled N deeply. “Do you want to be a threat to Team Plasma, freak?”

N thought about it for a minute. He would be lying if he said he wasn’t scared. No, it would be downright foolish to say he wasn’t; Ghetsis was terrifying in every sense of the word. Even before his discoveries in the recent months, he had known not to disobey his father from a very young age. He had ignored all the warning signs over the years for the sake of getting to help his true friends, the Pokémon who had raised him, and the broken creatures that he had come to know over the years—the ones whose hearts were so scarred they would never heal. On top of the fear from confronting Ghetsis, he also had mountainous guilt that practically suffocated him. He had helped Ghetsis build this world, after all; how could he have been so blind?

All of that, however, was precisely why he couldn’t stand down. N blinked and drew in a long breath. “Yes,” N growled, “I do. I am Unova’s hero whether you like it or not, Father, and I will fight you on that until my last breath if I must. I am done being your tool!”

“Then you will fight me until your last breath!” Ghetsis shouted. He slammed that cane again, taking a considerable amount of effort to raise in the first place, and added hoarsely, “Shadow Triad, come to me!”

“Zekrom, help me!” N exclaimed as he reached for the dragon’s Poké Ball. He tossed it, but it did not open, and his friend did not appear in front of him. Alarmed, N dove to try to grab the Poké Ball back, to prevent Ghetsis or any of his goons from grabbing hold of it, but he felt an intense pressure on his back and his shirt became a collar as it yanked him away from where the Poké Ball had landed. He landed on his rear and looked up to see the imposing figures of the Shadow Triad looming over him.

N’s eyes darted around the room until they locked onto Ghetsis’ cane. Colress had been fiddling with it moments before N had walked into the room. N turned his attention to Colress. “Why are you helping him do this?” N asked desperately. “What do you possibly have to gain from this?”

“More funding and time to research,” Colress answered with a non-committal shrug.

N glared at them all as he tried to get back to his feet. A member of the Shadow Triad retrieved Zekrom’s Poké Ball from the floor and handed it to Ghetsis. The other two members latched onto one of N’s arms each and held him so tightly he could feel their nails digging at his skin. Just like that, the surroundings of the castle left them, and Ghetsis, N, and the Shadow Triad were alone in an eerie, chilly forest of pine trees. N saw a couple of Absol curiously peak out from some bushes nearby. He shook his head vigorously at them and begged them in an inhuman chuffing sound to leave. Alarmed at his warning, they took him at his word and fled. The rustling of leaves and snapping of twigs told him that more Pokémon had been around nearby and had also decided to leave at his warning.

“Team Plasma has no more need of your speeches,” Ghetsis sneered, “no more need of your ridiculous parlor trick. Shadow Triad! Execute him!”

N threw all his weight into a flipping motion that ripped him free of the two Shadow Triad members’ holds on his arms, and he wildly kicked his legs as he rolled away from them. “Shadow Triad, listen to me! I am N, Team Plasma’s king and Ghetsis’ son! You take orders from me as well, remember?” N howled as the Triad descended upon him. N’s exclamation gave them all pause. They stopped in their tracks and exchanged slow looks amongst one another, and then finally looked to Ghetsis.

“Don’t just stand there!” Ghetsis barked. “Take care of him!”

“We cannot,” one of them answered softly and shook his head.

“He carries your blood,” another whispered.

N blinked incredulously at that Shadow Triad member. “What do you mean?” N asked anxiously. “He found me and he is my father, but we are not blood-related…” N trailed off as he realized the only proof he had of that statement were words Ghetsis and his other two ‘adoptive’ children—N’s childhood caretakers and sisters—Anthea and Concordia, who were likely equally as duped as he was. N panted for breath as the situation continued to get more and more dire, more and more upsetting. “Father, are we related by blood?”

“Yes,” Ghetsis answered swiftly, “but I am not your father, you freak of nature! Shadow Triad, your oath is with me and me only, I renounce the extension of my mastery to N!”

The Shadow Triad still did not budge. It was the third who spoke this time. “This does not change the fact that he carries your blood,” he said pointedly. “We cannot bring harm to him.”

“Then I’ll just have to finish the job myself!” Ghetsis spat after the Triad. The three men simply took a few steps back and watched with the usual, deadpan expression. N had to wonder how he intended to do that but found his question answered when that Ghetsis lunged at him and that cane found N’s open mouth, striking him in the teeth. N yelped and hit the ground on his back. He didn’t have time to assess the damage because in seconds, Ghetsis clambered on top of him and pressed the staff against N’s throat. His frail right arm shook and twitched under the pressure, and N scrabbled at Ghetsis’ face and hands with his own, writhing beneath him. Ghetsis gave a furious yell as N continued to fight him and managed to succeed and pushing the cane up and off his trachea enough to allow himself air again. “I created you and I will destroy you here!” Ghetsis screamed.

N, hands clutching at the staff for dear life, curled his lips into a snarl. “I cannot let the world fall into the hands of someone such as you!” he hissed through gritted teeth. With a surge of strength, he managed to throw Ghetsis off of himself altogether. He seized his father’s cane and held it out threateningly. N’s throat throbbed with pain and he was panting heavily, but he was still alive, and now he had the staff. Ghetsis’ crippled frame would surely give up on him before he managed to overpower him, wouldn’t it…?

Ghetsis seemed intent to prove N wrong as he rushed at him again, this time with his hands outstretched and going for N’s throat. N slapped his arms away with the cane and staggered away from him, turning in circles. N shook his head. This was insane. “Father, listen to me!” N demanded breathlessly. “We can still fix this! We can truly release Pokemon, and release the ones that Team Plasma holds captive! It is not too late!”

Ghetsis stalked about N in a way that reminded N of a Liepard circling its prey. “I have come too far to let you destroy everything I have built!” Ghetsis snarled. He abruptly launched himself at N in a way that shouldered N to the ground and there they wrestled again. Ghetsis took a fistful of his gold and violet cloak and plastered it across N’s face. He used his left hand to stuff a significant amount of the fabric into N’s mouth and was able to use it as a restraint. N may have been swifter, stronger, and younger, but he had almost never been in a physical altercation in his life. His lack of experience painfully showed.

Ghetsis planted his knees on N’s thighs, keeping him from being able to get up, and his arms were gripping the cloth over N’s face, which as a consequence made N’s hands disoriented as he scrabbled and fought to try to throw Ghetsis back off. “You are no hero and you will not die like a hero!” Ghetsis boasted as he gripped the cloth tighter and tighter around N’s face. N dug nails into Ghetsis’ arms until they drew blood. “Maybe if you would beg…” Ghetsis grinned.

“No, I will… will not… At least… I… fought for… making the world better…” N puffed through ragged, pained breaths, muffled by the cloth in his mouth. “My… only regret is… helping you!”

“Even in death, you mock me!” Ghetsis snarled. “How dare you continue to speak as if you have won, you freak!”

“You’re the… freak without… the human heart,” N hissed in his dying breath. He knew he was defeated and there was no way out of it for him at this point. His head swam and blackness deliriously circled his vision. Admittedly, he was quite upset he had not managed to stop Ghetsis as he had intended, but he would not let Ghetsis know that. Maybe he couldn’t actually win, but if he could get under Ghetsis’ skin, then perhaps he could destabilize Ghetsis’ control.

Ghetsis screamed and clamped both his hands around N’s neck, the cloth of his cloak still covering N’s face, and he squeezed. He squeezed as hard as he could, all the while howling at the top of his lungs in an inhuman expression of rage and didn’t stop until N’s body fell still below him and he felt something give way in N’s throat. He then collapsed on top of N in a heap.

He had won, and yet, fury still made Ghetsis’ heart pound wildly. He couldn’t believe N’s audacity to call HIM the freak without a human heart! N was the freak! He was the mistake, the tool used to carve out his new world! He had raised him from nothing and made him king and rather than accept that cushy lifestyle, N had chosen to fight him to… to the death! He growled as he shakily tried to pick himself up off of N. He had been unable to force N into submission, even as he was strangling the life from him, and that made his blood boil. “Shadow Triad, help me!” Ghetsis gasped when he found he could not get up. The fight with N had sapped all of his strength.

He noted that they moved slowly over to him and when they hauled him from the ground, they did so by his partially paralyzed arm, sending waves of pain firing through Ghetsis’ body. He howled in pain and glowered at them once to his feet. “How dare you! You know better!” Ghetsis shot at them.

The three members of the Shadow Triad simply looked at him. Their usual deadpanned expression was different somehow. In their narrow eyes he thought he saw for the first time contempt. Ghetsis curled his lips and said, “Know your place, Shadow Triad! Now, take me back to the castle. Leave him here. We’re out in the wilderness beyond the Giant Chasm, nobody will find him here anyway.”

“As you command,” a member of the Shadow Triad whispered. He spoke so quietly it was almost difficult for Ghetsis to understand him. The three members of the Shadow Triad descended upon Ghetsis and then teleported him back to the castle as he had asked.

[givingitary]

A Real Knight

Ship: Fairytale!Tom Holland x Male reader (William)

Word count: 3448

A/N: I haven’t written anything in a long time, so sorry for this being shitty. Also just so you know english isn’t my first language. Anyway hope you like it. It’s written in a fairytale world

Once Upon a time there was a kingdom. The kingdom was known for its people who were more sorrowful than any other. They had experience pain and sorrow so deeply it was buried through generations. There was a curse upon the Kingdom, worse than any dragon or wyvern. Grieve was set to befall on every family, all having to bear the burden of knowing; that one day their sons would die on the battlefield of blood. The Kingdom had been at war with a neighboring Kingdom for centuries, but the neighbors were far more cruel and evil than any witch or beast. To serve in the army was the greatest honor that could ever be bestowed on a person. Family suffered losses every day, everyone had lost someone to the war. When someone went to serve, you knew that you would never see them again.

William Jackson had only ever seen the Kingdom from afar. He lived a day outside the castle's walls. When he was little, he dreamed of getting the medal of honor. His dad had served the Kingdom in the war and lost his life in the process. As soon as William turned 18, he was ready to serve the royal army, but his mother did not want him to. She was scared of losing him, just like she had lost her husband. When Will was little; he looked up to his dad. He was his hero but after he died and everyone in the village called him a coward; Will never saw his father the same way again. His mother would never talk about him, the pain was just too much for her.

He asked his mother for permission to leave. His mother said, “Fighting is stupid, being right here with me and your sisters is important”. The words were not enough to put his dreams to slumber. William was not going to be a failure, like his father. He knew his family would understand, someday, so he left. To make them proud, and to fill the hole in his heart.

The road to the castle was long but he took his horse and gathered supplies in a backpack he could carry around the satchel; and so, he went on. To look for happiness and adventure.

After a while William started getting tired, it was hard having to ride for that long. He had heard many stories about travelers but being one even if it was just for a day, was completely different. A headache grew and pain in his legs followed. The horse was getting tired too, but there was no time to stop. To get to the castle would take a lot of ambition and willpower. His eyes started to drift away, and he could feel his eyelids getting heavy trying to close in on him. He thought to himself, closing your eyes for just a few seconds will be OK, but he soon went into a small slumber. It did not take long for the rest to be over, because the horse came to her rough stop. William screamed out of surprise, and so did an old lady. He had almost hit her with the horse, but he was fast to act. The old lady had fell to the ground, and William immediately jumped off his horse to help an innocent. “Are you OK?” he asked with deep concern. He noticed her weird clothes; she was wearing something that looked like a cloak and her hair was as red as fire. Her nose big and eyes small; her skin was full of wrinkles and scars. “I'm fine, my dear; don't you worry about an old lady like me” her voice scratchy and abrasive. he tried not to look and her with a weird eye, she was just a nice old lady “I'm Zelda, and who are you? Young man” she looked him directly in the eye - she was not scared. “Ehh, I am William. I am truly sorry.” he was not hesitant to answer, but his mother always taught him to be nice and well adjusted. William looked at the ground trying to avoid her green eyes out of shame from his actions, that is when he saw it, a neckless. He picked it up, and written across the silver stood, “Savior's heart”. “Ma'am, I think you dropped this”, as soon as he rose; the old lady was gone. He placed it in his belt holder, not really thinking more about it. He did not have time to ask questions, because of this little run day view, he would not have time for a break later. Right now, the most important thing was getting to the castle.

Coming into the village, William kept his head high trying to avoid any glances from any villager. After the tournament he would be a part of the royal army, and his name would receive glory. Finding his way through the village was not hard, there were signs everywhere showing people where to go. He followed the other travelers as they all seemed to be heading to a big field. The field was full of tents in all kinds of sizes. Before he could get in, he had to assign. There were many tables on the field. People came from all over the kingdom, to participate in the tournament.  

He raised down from his horse and delivered it to one of the many caretakers provided by the king service. “Hey, you, do you have a number yet?” a young man sitting at one of the tables asked William, taking him out of his thoughts. William took a while before he spoke “Um, no sir. I have not received a number yet” he did his best to straighten his back. There were strong men in a mile of sight, everyone had big muscles and had trained for this since they were small. His eyes wandered around, almost forgetting the conversation, he was having. “God, get your life in check, mate. If you want to be a knight, you can not just stand there looking like an idiot. Okay?”, with the last word, the young man smashed his hand into Williams chest giving him a with the number, 136. To think that they were already that many competitors, made William stomach turn.

He knew that competitors had to share tents. Williams sleeping mates would be number 53 and 17, as assigned on the tents. He stood outside of the tent, not knowing what to expect. He slid through the fabric and walked in hearing two people talking.

“You know I could beat you in a duel any day of the week”, one said to the other mockingly. “Yeah, right, I have always been a better swordsman than you, and you know it”, he commented back. They stopped their conversation as William stands came to a hold. “Hello, I am William Jackson and I am excited to share this journey with the both of you”, William did not notice the confused expression across the two young mens faces as he talked. “Mate, relax, is not like you will be here tomorrow”, the raven-haired boy said in a bitter tone. “Hey James, do not scare him. Do not think about him, he is just a prick”, the young man slammed his hand over the raven-haired boys head.

The blonde man stood up and walked across the tent making his way to William. “I am Thomas”, he said taking his hand out of his pocket for William to greet. “William”, his voice was shaking as they connected their hands, he felled a cold chill run down his spine. He brushed the feeling off, thinking it was just intimidation. Thomas was a Noble man; you could see it on his clothes. He was wearing assessments of a higher caliber. Metals at William had never seen before. He had never seen anyone look as ravishing and elegant. His own appearance now seemed humiliating. “You already said that, mate”, his voice was soft and sympathetic, William felt embarrassed. William looked down trying to avoid eye contact. He made his way over to what was clearly the spare bed.

Conversation was shared about the upcoming tournament, William did not like James that much. He seemed entitled and immature, talking about the girls that would die to marry him after he had won. William would admit James was handsome, but not like Thomas. Thomas had golden curly locks, and eyes as brown as chocolate, his scent was as delightful as roses. He had brood shoulders and a gentle smile. No one in Williams village looked like that. He knew that even though they could act like friends today, tomorrow would be totally different, they would turn on him.

The competition was hard, and there were legends about the blood spilled on that field, but honor came with a great price and William was ready to pay it. He hated the thought of hurting an innocent. The way James talked, made him sick. He could not think that people enjoyed others in pain. It was clear that Thomas did not agree with James values.

As conversation dialed down in the tent, Will found himself thinking about his mom. His mom was not a woman of honor. To her safety was the most important thing – or at least that was what Will thought. She would be proud and admit her wrongs when he came home with a medal. He was going to be everything his dad could not; a real soldier and hero.

He went outside to clear his head all the thinking was giving him a headache so hard it burned. Men were gathered around bonfires laughing and drinking. Will needed to find a quiet place. Today had been too much for him to handle. When he woke up this morning, he could only imagine what being here was actually like. His dad used to talk about the castle like it was a magical land, where everything was possible. As much as he hated his dad, he was right about that.

After walking for a couple of minutes he finally came to an opening, it was a training station. There was a sign saying, “Closed till tomorrow”. William knew then many came a week before the tournament; just to train. He took up his sword from his belt and stood in position ready to fight. Everything he had ever learned about swordsmanship came from his dad. For a man who died in battle, he had some great skills. He started to practice. He tried all the different moves he could remember. His blood started to rise as well as his heartbeat. He was angry, at James, his dad, his mother, but most of all himself. One hit after another in the air and anger filled his bones. He had to succeed. Sweat dripping down from his forehead, as his muscles started getting sore. He did not notice the time passing, but at some point, he cracked and threw the sword directly into a tree. So, Will went to pull it out, but half of the sword was stuck. He could hear a group of guards coming; getting in trouble was the last thing he wanted. No one was allowed to be there after hours, so he ran. He had to give up on the sword anyway, it was scum. He did not talk when he came into the tent, he just laid down on this bed and closed his eyes trying to drift away.

-       “I hate you. You are so much like your father. You are a real disappointment to this family. And I do not ever want to see you step your foot inside my house again.”.

-       “You are at least just as bad as me. I saw you try to practice but you will never be a great warrior with those little girl moves.”.

The next day came as fast as the other ended, and with the sun they all rose. Thomas kept looking at Will, he felt the pair of eyes on him. For Will this was only going to be the day, where his life really started. Will had not brought any food with him. James on the other hand had a whole crew of people bring him food, he did not even want. Thomas chose to share his plate with Will. “Why are you doing this?” Will asked. “Because it is the right thing to do. Come on, I can not let my teammate starve” he smiled back. Thomas handed him a piece of bread; their fingers glanced each other briefly. They all ate in silence, Will and Thomas sitting on one bed and James on his own.

Nightmares were normal for William, being a disappointment was normal for William. That is why bringing honor to his family meant so much to him. He had to be worth something, he could not just be a good for nothing man. His dad died a coward, and that was his biggest fear, being a coward.

Soon they all left the comfort of the tent and went out to fight for honor. As James took out all his weapons, William started to feel lost. Without a weapon he could not compete, no weapon no honor. James left, and Thomas was just about to follow but stopped when he saw the look on Williams face. “You know if you need anything you can just ask” as soft as Thomas voice was, it did not help with Will lose his distress. “Thanks, but I am fine”. Thomas just nodded and proceeded walking out. There was something off about Thomas, but William could not put the finger on it. Brushing the feeling off he rose from his seat.

William had spent 20 minutes getting ready, trying to get all his armor and gear on by himself. There was not long until his third match of the day. When he had showed up to his first battle a random man came and handed him a sword. The sword looked brand new and expensive, but William did not have time to question it. He won easily, gaining back some of the confidence, he had lost overnight. After the third match, there would be a break. So, the rich could gossip and feast. The king was supposed to give an inspiring speech, and everyone had to listen.

William had not hurt anyone yet, and he was not planning to. People came to serve not to die. William was not a killer, he just wanted to help stop the war. He was a fighter. William knew that he would leave a changed person.

Then a man came into the tent he was standing in. Before turning around William thought it was just one of the helpers, but it was not. There standing before him, was Thomas. Even though that just seen each other this morning. He looked a lot different with all his armor, he had a small cut on the higher cheekbone. “Hey” he said. “Ehh, hi”, what was he doing here William thought. “I just wanted to make sure you got the sword”, so he was the one that sent it. “Yeah thanks, how did you know I needed a sword?”, the question came out sounding more defensive than intended. “I saw you last night at the training station. You were quite impressive if I might say so myself.”, he saw me. William grew embarrassed, no one had ever called him impressive. Not even his sisters, who was his biggest fans. “I have not seen you fight but I can only imagine the kind of swordsmanship someone like you would carry.” William walked a step closer to Thomas. “Someone like me?” Thomas took a step as well. “I mean you are already perfect”. “I am not, at least my dad do not think I am. To him I am a disgrace to our family” he had a sad tone over his voice. “My dad was awful too. “If that helps”. Try not to sound so inconsiderate you idiot, Will thought after he spoke. “Was?”, the question hit hard. “He died in the war”, talking about it made Will feel vulnerable. “I am so sorry for your loss”, Thomas said sincerely. “It is OK, like I said; he was awful.”, just thinking about his dad, made his skin crawl. “Still a loss is a loss”, spoken like someone who had felt it. “My big brother died too” he talked again after a small pause. With all the talking William had not noticed just how close they were. Only a couple of inches from each other. William could see Thomas eyes starting to water, he was trying not to cry. “Sometimes I miss him, even though I do not want to” Will said trying to break the silence. Thomas now letting a small huff out moved closer to Will. William did not know what to think, as Thomas wrapped his arms around his torso. First in shock, he did not do anything, but soon he reciprocated the hug. It was nice being so close to someone, to feel safe. Will started to feel his own eyes watering. they both snuff their noses at the same time and a chuckled escaped from both of their lips. They pulled out slowly from the hug, so they were standing face to face. William felt something he had never felt before. He felt happy in this moment.

“Prince Tom, your father needs to see you right now!”, a man interrupted their conversation. Prince, who is a prince. Wait he said Tom - as in Thomas? William almost lost his mind; Thomas was the prince? “Good luck out there. Will I see you later?” Thomas asked calmly, he sounded like he thought William already knew. “Yes”, Williams thoughts were at war. Thomas smiled and left.

Even though William had just won his fight, all he could think about was Thomas. The fact that he was the prince. He should have been happy about all his victories, but now he did not know what to feel. Everything seemed different. He enjoyed fighting - but maybe he wanted more from life. He started walking around waiting for the king's speech, Thomas father's speech. A man carrying mail, went around handing it out. “Are you William Jackson?”, the man asked. “Yes, I am.”, who would have sent me a letter. “Take this” he handed him a beige envelope. He could see his mom handwriting cross the paper. He turned the envelope around and used his fingernails to open the letter. The letter read:

My dear William.

Hope you get this soon. I miss you and I am sorry. I should have been a better mother, but everything got so hard after your dad died. I know that I do not talk about him a lot, but I really miss him. I know that I should have defended him, when the people in town called him a coward, because he was not. He was good hearted, just like you. He cared more about saving a life, then killing. He never got to tell me what happened, but I talked to one of his friends the day of the funeral. He said that your dad had seen a man crying out for help on the battlefield. He was specifically supposed to stay on duty, but he could not watch a helpless man die. He fought his way towards the man and saved him. When he was not on his post people thought he chickened out and ran. He was brave running onto that battlefield saving a man's life. His friend said that when your dad came back with the man, they took him back to the camp. Your dad got hurt along the way, and with the paramedics being occupied saving the man’s life, your dad died form an unknown wound. People started calling him a coward and have never stopped. His friend tried to stand up for him and tell the truth, but no one believed him. That the reason why I have been so hard on you. I know you and your dad share the same heart and helping people is what you do. You have a savior’s heart. So even though it is hard and losing your dad almost killed me, I will support you.

I love you and I hope to see you soon.  

-       Mom

He reached into his belt holder and took out the silver neckless, “Savior’s heart”. He knew what he had to do. He knew what to fight for.