#and she wants to join MY rebel army

[thehighpriestess1]

Be Mine : The meeting

Summary : After finally waiting for 20 years Gojo Satoru finally met the woman he has been in love with. But love is not easy to conquer even for the strongest.

Pairing : Yandere King Gojo x Knight reader

Warning: Yandere themes. Mentions of violence and death. Minors do not interact!

Master list : Ask Box

It was not unusual for a woman to be a knight or a soldier. Although it was a bit unfair to those of your kind. In this kingdom were two kinds of people, one who had power, the sorcerers, not the kind of power that comes with a position but the kind you are born with. Power that is used to protect the others against the army of curses that have plagued the world for centuries. No one knows where these curses come from. No one knows how to eradicate them forever. But as goes the law of balance, there are people that are born with the power to kill these curses and the most powerful of them all, the man who is said to possess the kind of power that comes once in a century, the king, Gojo Satoru. 

The second kinds, your kind, people who are born without power. Even if they are born into the wealthiest of families they are bound to live in the shadows of sorcerers. You were neither born into a noble clan nor did you have any power. All you had was your strength and grit. 

You joined the forces to fight against the curses. What use were you to the kingdom without power? They always needed people like you to do the menial tasks during the war and use your sword to the best of your abilities. That you did very well. In a span of four years you climbed through the ranks fighting against the sexism and the casual disdain against you. It has changed you, hardened you. Now you were a rebel amongst legends and infamous amongst the infantry. 

But unbeknownst to you, there was someone who was watching your every move. Before the time you joined the ranks to the day of your knighthood. You were good. Fearless. Kind. But you were too far. Too far for his liking.The only way to fix that was to bring you closer to him. He wished he could reach out to you when he saw you on the battlefield. While he did protect you on the field with his powers, he wished desperately to be able to mend your wounds and kiss the pain away. But it was not ideal for the king to run across the battlefield and cradle a foot soldier. He wished he could lay next to you and wipe your tears but he could only watch from his ivory tower. It was the best use of his six eyes. When he was presented with the list of names to be considered for King’s knight he didn’t even look at it and presented his own recommendation. Who dared reject the king’s recommendation?

Gojo lay on the silk bed sheets as the moonlight filtered through the curtains. He stared at the ceiling with a smile on his face. Tomorrow he will finally have you close to him. He still remembered the first time he met you, 20 years ago. He was out in the kingdom with his father and had run off from the procession and snuck into a back alley of a bakery. There instead of sweet delicacies he ran into the sweetest girl he had ever seen. She sat at the steps of the bakery in a red dress with two pigtails with a white ribbon tied at the end. Gojo was dumbfounded and simply stared at her. Was she the fairies his mother told him about?

“ The bakery is closed! Come after 2 PM”. She said as she took a bite of her cupcake.

“What’s your name?”. He asked as he stepped towards her.

“My grandma told me not to talk to strangers”.

Gojo was dumbfounded. He stared at her blankly.

The girl rolled her eyes, “What do you want?”.

Gojo snapped out of his thoughts. “I…I want to buy…I want…I want what you are having”. 

She got off the steps and stood in front of him. She extended the half eaten cupcake and shrugged. “This is the last one and the bakery is closed”. 

Gojo stared at the cupcake, he had never eaten a half eaten cake. Heck he had never had to share anything in his life. But he stretched his arm forward to grab the cupcake and right before he could grab hold of the sweet delicacy the girl withdrew her arm and shoved the entire cupcake in her mouth. She grinned with lips littered with crumbs and mouth full of cupcakes. To his surprise instead of anger or contempt his heart was filled with this foreign feeling. It made him feel warm and he smiled at her.She was the embodiment of light, her toothy smile made his heart race and time stop. Before he could ask her name or give her his’ the guards surrounded him and led him back to his father. Before they could drag him away he stretched out his arm and grab hold of one of the silk ribbons.That’s all he had of hers now. For years Gojo tied that ribbon on his wrist. When it got too small for his wrist he tied it to his bedpost. The Kingdom grew and wars were won but he remembered the bakery and he remembered her. She never left his mind and once he was old enough to command power he had her details in front of her. Y/n L/n. 

-X-

Gojo stared at his reflection in the mirror. After two hours of going through an array of clothes, he finally decided on the staple navy blue with velvet red cape. He looked at the watch and realized there were still hours before the ceremony. It was getting harder for him to wait any longer, he had to see you once so he took the cape and the medals off and wore a long black trench coat and snuck out of his room.

He knew where all the to-be-guards would be waiting. He stood behind the curtains at the entrance and scanned the room for you but he didn’t see you. Did you refuse the position last minute? Did something happen to you on the way? He frowned and turned around to walk back to his room but stopped in his tracks when he saw you walking next to another man. Your hair was toed back neatly and your smile…it made time stop.But rage filled his nerves as she saw you laugh and punch the other man on the shoulder. Why were you touching him? Why was he making you laugh? Your silver batch, indicating your knighthood, shone brightly as you walked past him without sparing him another glance. His heart broke. You had forgotten him. He spent every day of the last 20 years thinking about you and you didn’t even remember him! Your scent lingered in the air as he stood there basking in it. Was he that forgettable? What was he going to do now? With anger in his eyes and sadness in his veins he was about to walk away.

“Oi!”. Someone called out from behind but Gojo was so lost in his thoughts he ignored it. 

“Oi white hair!”. 

Gojo frowned and clenched his jaw. Who dared speak to him like that. He turned around ready to order his men to behead the imbecile but his anger evaporated when he saw you standing behind him with a smirk on your face. You were talking to him. You were talking to him!

“Ye…Yes?”. He asked hesitantly. Unsure of whether you knew who he was or not.

“I owe you this''. You extended your hand forward and held a cupcake in your hand. 

Gojo stared dumbfounded at the cupcake. His heart raced faster than the best horses in the kingdom. You remembered him. All those years of planning to get you here was not a waste. You remembered him. He looked at you and let out a shuddered breath at how beautiful you looked. Your hair was in a neat ponytail above your head, even the metal armor you wore looked so delicate. Your eyes held the same hope and your smile, Gojo was ready to wage wars for that smile.

“You…you..remember me?”.

You chuckled, “Of course I do! Do you want this one or should I shove it in my mouth?”. 

Gojo chuckled and took the cupcake from your hand. “Thanks”. You looked different up close. Better. Prettier. You carried the same light within you as you did 20 years ago. 

“Are you here for the ceremony as well?”. You chirped.

“Yes…kind of”. 

You nodded your head and looked at him. He was just the same. Shy. Timid. “You have really pretty eyes''. You said absentmindedly. You didn’t know how the words fell out of your mouth but god were they true. 

Gojo’s eyes widened. You just complimented him? This was the first time you had complimented him! 

“Ummm yeah..thank..thank you”. He said, too shy to meet your eyes. He didn’t know what was happening to him. He wanted to be confident and strong for you and yet he was stuttering like a child.”What are you doing here?”. He feigned ignorance.

“I am about to be knighted to be the King’s personal guard”.

“Congratulations”. He smiled politely. 

“Thank you. What about you? I haven’t seen you in the ranks so…I guess you are not a knight”.

Gojo cursed himself mentally. “Umm yeah. I work in ….administration”. Not a lie, Gojo thought to himself.

“Nice.By the way, have you ever met the king? I’ve heard some pretty interesting things about him”. 

“No…I haven’t met the king..”. Gojo said, confused. Who was spreading rumors about him to you? Before he could ask any further about the baseless rumors another man came from behind him and wrapped his arms around you. 

“Niko! My man! So good to see you!”. You said as you returned the hug. 

Gojo watched you exchange formalities with Niko. When Niko had taken his leave you turned towards Gojo once again. “You were saying something?”.

“Is that guy your….man?”. 

You frowned and looked at Niko, “oh him? No. I mean not like that. We have been in the ranks together since the beginning and he has saved my ass so many times!”. 

Gojo smiled and looked down at his feet. If only you knew how many times he saved you from getting killed. “I see…what were you saying about the king?”. 

“Oh right! I have heard that he thinks only those with curse techniques deserve to occupy the ranks! Can you even believe him?! What a jerk! If that was true then people like me would always be treated like shit and would never get a chance to fight those curses!”. 

Gojo hummed. Though it was true that he believed that, you were here weren’t you? Though he believed it would never be acted on because he understood the importance of balance. “But..If that were true then…you wouldn’t be here”. 

“You see that’s where you’re wrong. It’s not about what he does. That fact that he says those things gives sorcerers even more reasons to..to bully us. Because now their ideology aligns with that of the king and the so called sorcerer king can never be wrong. What a joke!”. 

Gojo chuckled nervously. That stung Gojo. But you were right. It’s not only actions but also his words that have a ripple effect and eventually hurt the one he loves.

“But..wait…how do you know that I am not a sorcerer?”.

“I can tell”. Gojo added immediately, cursing himself. “Why did you join ranks?”. He asked immediately, hoping to change the conversation. Though he had a faint idea about it.

You smiled sadly,”You remember the bakery? It was owned by my grandmother. When the war began, the curses destroyed the town and ..killed her. So I decided that I will fight them until I am satisfied that I have avenged her”.

Gojo sighed. He remembered that war. Many died and many went missing. He was about 20 that time. The war had lasted for over a week and after a week he was able to create a shield around the kingdom to prevent any curses from getting in. He felt guilty now, if only he would have been strong enough back then he would have been able to save the bakery and you wouldn’t be risking your life everyday. “I’m sorry to hear that”. 

You sighed and shrugged. “That’s alright. Anyway we should go before the so-called ‘strongest’ arrives”. 

“I have something to take care of, you should go. I’ll see you soon”. 

“Okaaaay. What’s your name though? Or would you rather I call you snow white?”. 

Gojo smiled fondly and took a bite off the cupcake. “You can call me whatever you want”. He winked and turned around and walked aways. 

“Who was that?”. Niko asked you when you finally joined him and the others. 

“Just some nobel guy I met years ago”. 

“Ooooh you are fishing already?”. Niko smirked.

“Oh! Fuck off! I am just happy to make friends”.

“He seems weird”.

“Maybe, he was just nervous. It is a pretty important day”.

Amante, another woman in your ranks joined in, “I think he was quite handsome”. She smiled sweetly. But that was Amante, she was too sweet and too polite to be in this line of work.

Niko shrugged, “You know what they say about these noble guys right? They don’t last long in bed! His handsomeness alone is not enough”. 

You rolled your eyes at his comments. “Don’t listen to him, Amante. If you want I will happily introduce you to him and you are right, he is quite handsome”.

“Do you really think so?”. Niko asked, sipping from his chalice. He stood tall next to you, his brown hair neatly combed back and his sharp jawline freshly shaved. But from this angle you could tell the places he nicked himself. His brown eyes looked like honey in this light and though you would never admit it, you were jealous of his eyelashes.

“Yeah. I think he was quite good looking”. 

“Better than me?”. Niko smirked. 

You shook your head and ignored his comment. He was just being..Niko.

-X- 

It was a closed ceremony, only those to be knighted to be king’s guards were allowed to be there. The other ranks were commemorated by the chief of troops while you waited at the back and watched with pride as your friends got their lapel decorated. You wondered when it would be your turn and would you get to meet the king today? It came as a surprise that you were the only one appointed as the King’s guard, a non sorcerer vowing to protect the sorcerer king. Suddenly it didn’t feel right.

“Ma’am, he’s waiting for you”. 

You turned and looked at the older man bowing next to you. “Who is waiting for me?”. 

“His highness the King”. 

You blinked blankly and looked at your friends in the other end of the room. You nodded your head and got up to follow the man. 

You walked two steps behind the man wondering why was your coronation held separately and why couldn’t the king take some time off to know the people who swore to protect him a few rooms down the hall. 

“What’s your name?”. You asked, looking around and admiring the heavy velvet curtains.

“Ijichi”. The man replied in a tired tone. 

“How do I address you?”. 

“You may call me Ijichi”.

You hummed. “May I ask you a question Ijichi-san?”.

“Yes”.

“What is the king like?”.

“He is the strongest sorcerer”. 

You chuckled. That's what everyone says anyway. “I mean…as a person”.

Ijichi let out a tired sigh that made you wonder whether he didn’t like the king or he didn’t like you. “He is ..Eccentric”.

“Eccentric?”. You corked a brow.

“Yes. You will find out soon”. 

You didn’t want to trouble him anymore so continued to follow him quietly. 

Soon you found yourself outside a large wooden door with gold handles. Ijichi turned towards you and smiled, “His highness is waiting inside. If you need anything, you may call me anytime”.

“Thank you, Ijichi-san”.

“-and…The King is a good person. So don’t be hasty in making your judgment”. Ijichi smiled.

It was probably the first time you heard a little life in his voice. You smiled and nodded your head. “I’ll keep that in mind”. 

Ijichci took his leave and you stood outside the door staring at the gold inlay, wondering why would the strongest sorcerer appoint a non-sorcerer as the King’s guard?. Your heart was beating loudly and fear crept into your heart. You fought curses with just your sword and yet you were questioning yourself, it didn’t make any sense. 

“I can sense you standing outside”. The voice echoed from inside making you jolt backwards. He knew you were here. There was no going back now.So you took a deep breath and pushed the door open. 

“Snowwhite?”. You chuckled as you saw the back of the head of your old friend but when he turned around your smile dropped and eyes widened. You saw the medals on his lapel and the seal on his collar. Your eyes drifted to the crown kept on a stand nearby and your throat ran dry. You immediately kneeled on one knee and brought your fist to your heart and bowed in greeting to the king. “Your Highness”.

“Stand up, y/n”.

You got up but refused to look him in the eye. You could sense that he was walking towards you and suddenly the rose on the carpet was covered by a pair of black boots. 

Gojo placed his index finger below your chin and tilted it up, to look closely at the face he has been dreaming about. “Hello, y/n”.

You took a step back and stomped your feet. “It’s an honor to meet you, your highness”.

Gojo sighed, “Drop it already, will you?”.

You looked up at him, confused. “I..don’t understand you-”.

“Drop the formalities. We are friends. You can call me Satoru”.

You bit the inside of your cheeks. “I..I am sorry your highness…for..what I said”.

“Why? You were right”.

“I..meant the terms I used to describe you..”

Gojo laughed. “That’s alright. You are my friend so that’s okay”.

“I am supposed to be your guard, your highness”. You said sternly.

Gojo realized it will take time for you to open up to him, he had waited years now, he could wait a little more.

“Alright, do what feels right for you. If you have any questions then do not hesitate to ask me”. Gojo smiled as he clasped his hands behind his back.

“I do have one…question”. 

“Go ahead”.

“Why did you choose me to be your guard? I am not a sorcerer and you are the strongest sorcerer”.

Gojo smiled to himself. He had expected this question which is why he prompted you to ask in the first place. “Because you are capable. You are more capable than some of the sorcerers. It is not the curses I need the protection from, it is non-sorcerers”.

His response left a bittersweet feeling in your heart. “I don’t have any more questions, your highness”.

“Are you sure?”. Gojo corked a brow.

“Yes, Your Highness”.

“So you don’t want to know what I was doing at the bakery that day and why do I remember you?”.

You were taken by surprise. You had heard of his powers but many were still hidden, was mind reading one of his powers?. Regardless, you were determined to keep things professional between the two of you, you had already offended him enough. “Your Highness is kind enough to remember me”.

Gojo’s jaw clenched in irritation. This was not his kindness. This was his love. You were his love. But of course how could you know that? For you, you had met him after two decades. Unlike him you were not aware of his life. “It’s more than kindness y/n. You were the second person ever to treat me like an equal. I consider you my friend and friends , protect each other”.

You smiled politely, “Yes, Your Highness”.

Gojo smiled and straightened up. “Let’s get to business shall we?”.

“Yes, Your Highness”.

“First things first, I do not place much value on the old rituals of reading out your duties and having you take the oath. You are an honorable woman and I trust you that you will do your duty diligently”.

You stomped your right foot and pressed your fist to your heart, “Yes, Your highness. I promise you I will put my life on the line for-”.

“Everything except that”. Gojo cut you off. “I don’t want you to put your life on the line for me. Do not even think about sacrificing your life for me. Just stay by my side and…that’s it”.

You gulped nervously. “Ye..Yes, Your Highness”.

“Now, where were we?...right! You don’t need to wear that heavy armor anymore. I have asked the atelier to take your measurement and have your uniform ready. Ijichi will show you your room after your fitting, you can rest today and explore the palace grounds, in the evening we will meet at the stable where you will get to pick your horse, then you will join me for dinner. Is that clear?”.

“Yes, You-”.

“Just a yes will do”.

“Ye..yes. Clear”.

Gojo smiled. “Good. Tomorrow you will show up at my office at 7:00 AM and accompany me throughout the day”.

“Yes”.

-X-

You walked towards his office in your newly fitted uniform. It was eerily similar to his’. Navy trousers paired with a white shirt and a heavy navy blue overcoat. Your Knight’s badge shone on the left lapel and your cufflinks were just like his’. You wondered if it was on his demand or was just a norm. But your favorite part of the uniform were the stitched white roses on the inside of the overcoat. Absolutely hidden from the outside world, they were your own personal ornament. Your horse too was the same as his. A beautiful white beast with flowing silver hair. When standing side by side it was hard to differentiate between the two horses. When you asked Ijichi, he informed you that the other horse, the female counterpart, was bred and trained to be a companion to the male counterpart and Gojo had forbidden everyone from riding it. A part of you thought that he was saving her for you but that can’t be true right? How was he to know that you would meet after all these years. It was a surprise that he even remembered you.

Even your old sword was replaced with a newer one. To fight the curse, every non-sorcerer needed a special blade which needed to be pierced in the head of the curse to eradicate it. As the soldier moved up the ranks the sword was replaced by a more powerful one. As a King’s personal guard you were sure this was the most powerful blade to exist. But fighting alone was not enough. To protect yourself from the attack, you had a shield embedded in your amulet. All you needed to do was unclasp the lock on your inner wrist and a tiny amulet was turned into a full sized shield. Your new amulet was made out of white gold and had roses carved into them. It made a pretty shield. 

Your room was thrice the size of your old house. It was too spacious and you couldn’t believe that it was all yours. Everything from the carpet to curtains was made out of finest quality material. Your bed was soft as a cloud and your wardrobe was filled with your uniforms for different occasions. Your tattered leather bag seemed out of place in this opulence. You walked to the window and to your surprise you could see right on the King’s balcony. Maybe it was a security measure. You thought about him, how he treated you like an old friend even after all the things you said about him. He was not how others, especially Niko, had painted him out to be. He wasn’t aggressive, or crazy. He was gentle, Kind, and considerate. You didn’t realize you were staring at his balcony until he walked out and you immediately stepped back, hoping he didn’t notice you.

After a long sleepless night of thinking you decided that it would be best to stick to your rules rather than obey  his’. He might be kind and considerate but he was still a King, a sorcerer king, and a sorcerer and non-sorcerer can never be friends. You had never hated sorcerers. Not until the war. When you saw your grandmother lying unconscious on the floor you developed a deep seeded hatred for sorcerers. If only this was a world without sorcerers and curses then your grandma would still be alive. You joined the ranks because the only thing you hated more than sorcerers was curses.

You knocked on the door sternly, “Your Highness, may I enter?”. You asked. You could almost hear him sigh on the other end before granting you the permission to enter.

“I told you not to call me that”. He chuckled and shook his head. He sat behind the oak desk resting his chin on his knuckles.

“That’s the appropriate way to address-”.

“”I decide what is appropriate”. Gojo cut you off. 

“As you say, your highness”. You smiled and took your place next to him. You stood with your hands pressed to your sides and your gaze fixed on the door in front. 

“Are you going to stand all day?”.

“Yes”.

“What if I ask you to sit?”. He looked up at you.

“I can best react to a threat in this position”.

Gojo bit the inside of his cheeks, “Threat? What threat is there now?”.

“A threat does not extend an invitation…not even to the king”.

Gojo clenched his jaw. Who turned you against him? Everything was fine yesterday, whom did you meet? What did they say?. He frowned and cleared his throat. “I don’t need you to protect me”.

“I see”. You hummed. “So I am just an accessory here”. 

Gojo stood up immediately and turned you towards him. By protocol, you refused to meet his eyes. He placed an index finger below your jaw and tildted your head up, “Look at me”. He whispered.

You slowly lifted your gaze up and looked into his deep blue ones. “I apologize for my rudeness ,your highness”.

“Did someone say something to you?”.

“No, your highness”.

“Y/n… I want you to remember that no one, in this entire kingdom holds any power over you. No one can remove you from my side, not without my permission…and that I would never grant. So tell me now, what happened?”.

“Nothing happened, your highness”. You said, it was hard to avert your gaze from his eyes. They were hypnotic, like they held the secrets buried deep beneath the oceans. If you looked long enough, you were sure you could count each speckle. They changed color when he moved his head, you had never seen anything of such beauty. You had heard about the secrets of six eyes, the power they held. But now you wondered, maybe their biggest power is their beauty. Anyone who looks deep enough would find themselves trapped in the infinite void. 

“Y/n,?”. Gojo called out to you, snapping you out of your thoughts.

You jolted and stepped back immediately, “I apologize, your highness!”.

“What were you thinking?”. Gojo asked, sitting on the edge of the table.

“Nothing, your highness!”.

“I order you to tell me the truth”. Gojo smiled. If you were going to abide by the protocol then so would he.

“I..I just..You have beautiful eyes, your highness!”. You declared like you were rallying a message instead of speaking your mind.

Gojo smiled to himself. It was the second time you had complimented his eyes.. “You have told me that already but thank you. Now I order you to speak freely to me. Tell me every thought that crosses your mind, is that clear?”.

“Yes..your highness!”. 

Gojo raised a brow and tilted his head, indicating you to speak up.

“Firstly, I am sorry for what I said to you yesterday outside the hall. Clearly I did not know whom I was talking to. Secondly….”. You bit the inside of your cheeks. Your rebel attitude might have gotten you far in troops but this is the King you are talking to. He can blow a hole through your body.

“Secondly?”. Gojo asked.

Aahh well fuck it. If you die then you die speaking the truth. “It was your fault!”. 

“My fault?”. Gojo asked, confused. 

“Yes! What were you doing there? Why were you sneaking around in your own palace? Are you that bored? Why didn’t you tell me that you were the king? Or were you spying on me? Did you have fun teasing me?”. You blurted out in one breath, prepared to take your last any minute now. 

Gojo chuckled. Then he laughed. “Wow…okay. You’re right. It was my fault. I apologize”. 

Your breath hitched and you looked around hesitantly. Did he just… Did the king just apologize? To you?

“What else is bothering you?”. He asked.

You scoffed, “I didn’t realize this was a therapy session”. 

Gojo chuckled. “This is…get to know my guard session”. 

“Speaking of guards…I know why I am here. By your side”. 

Gojo’s heart skipped a beat. Did you really…

“Why is that?”.

You took a deep breath, “I heard the counsel talking … while I was going back to my room. I didn’t mean to snitch! And I am not complaining either!”.

“What..what did they say?”. Gojo asked irritatedly. He hated the counsel, always breathing down his neck, interfering with his work, demanding answers, but above all he hated them because of their mindset. Now he had another reason on his list.

“Well…They said that the only reason you chose me was because if you had chosen someone more powerful..a sorcerer then it would have become easier for them to keep you in line. So to keep them at bay you chose me because of my reputation but also because I am of absolute no use to you..”. You looked down at your hands clasped in front. “…or anyone actually”. 

Gojo gritted his teeth. Those rotten old raisins dared make you feel this way. He was going to avenge you. It was only fair. He sent a signal, invisible to your eyes and sat back in his chair. “Take your position, we are going to punish them”. Gojo winked.

“But you don’t even know who they were. I don’t even know they were”.

“Only two people will have the audacity to say something like that”. 

Soon two men walked in with their heads bowed down. “Your highness”. 

You watched them keenly. It was definitely them. But you wondered what Gojo would do. 

“Hizashi-san! I have good news for you!”.

The taller one out of the two straightened up. “Your highness you have honored me enough”. The old man smiled politely. He looked at you sideways and Gojo wanted to gouge his eyes out.

“Clearly not enough, Hizashi-san”. Gojo added. “Would Hizashi-san and Kyoshi-san appreciate the opportunity to help  advance our understanding of curse techniques?”. 

The other man stood up and looked at Gojo wide eyed. The last time Gojo had presented this opportunity to someone, That man was sent on a tour around the world and became a millionaire overnight. No one would dare refuse this opportunity.

The two men exchanged glances. Having been partners in crime for over two decades the two of them had the same vision in mind, leave the conservative kingdom and their annoying families behind and travel the world to meet exotic women! All they had to do in return was write a small thesis which they could fake because who was going to verify it anyway. They agreed right away and after discussing other small matters with him they left with a satisfied smile on their faces.

“I didn’t think you would reward them”. You commented with a sour taste in your mouth.

Gojo chuckled. “No. I did not reward them. Tonight when my soldiers will go to pick them up, they will be expecting to be led to the royal ship and begin their world travel. I am sure they would soon spread the news and before lunch everyone would know about it. But my soldiers will not lead them to the royal ship”.

You bit the inside of your lip, “Where will they be going then?”.

“They will be led to a dungeon outside the palace walls, where they will be thrown in with curses”.

“But they are sorcerers, experienced sorcerers?”.

“I am sure you are aware that even sorcerers have grades, the curses they will come across will be far beyond their imagination. I can assure you they won’t survive the torture till morning”.

“Torture?!”. You gasped.

Gojo smiled. Your innocence was sweeter than any honey head tasted. “Not every curse wants to ..kill. Some just want revenge from humans that created them. Death is too easy of a punishment for such…people”.

-X-

You lay awake at night in your bed. Thinking about how Gojo just condemned two people to death by torture only because they insulted you. You couldn’t sleep, thinking about the two men, who would now be on their way to death, blissfully unaware, excited by the prospects ahead of them. It dawned on you that the curses were not the that would torture them, it was Gojo. You groaned in your pillow. You needed a drink. 

The communal kitchen was open at all hours of the day. It was mostly used by guards looking for a late night snack after the night shift or sleepless guards who needed a drink to wash away the events of the day. You remained quiet as you poured the wine from a wooden flask into a glass. It was strictly against the rules to take away any eatables and wine back to the room but you were oh so tempted to take the entire flask back to your room. So you did. The rules be damned. 

If you had the ability to sense curse energies then the surprise awaiting you would have been spoiled and maybe you could have saved the flask of wine. But as soon as you opened the door, you saw the white haired sorcerer standing near your window with his hands behind his back, and the flask slipped from your hand, spilling the wine between the two of you, creating a small puddle of red. “Your Highness! I..I didn’t get your summon!”.

Gojo shifted his gaze from the puddle of wine to you. “Tough night?”. He smiled.

“I’m sorry. I know it is against the rules but I..needed something strong. I was going to return the flask! I swear!”. 

Gojo chuckled. “I understand. But now I feel guilty for ruining your plans”. He smiled.

“Oh no. I..I can clean it up in no time”. You rubbed the back of your neck. “Did you need anything, Your Highness?”.

Gojo suddenly realized that he did need a reason to see you. He couldn’t tell you that it was getting tough for him to sleep without you.”Oh! Right! I uh..I could not sleep either …..so..I..do you want to drink together?”.

“Now?”. You asked, wide eyed. There were no rules about drinking with the king so maybe it was allowed..

“Yes. I can get someone to clean up your room”.

You bit your lip nervously as you considered the offer. “I don’t know…I have to work tomorrow and…”.

“I am sure I can convince your boss to let you arrive a little late”. Gojo smiled his victory smile which left a fluttering feeling in your stomach. In moments like this it didn’t feel like he was the king. He felt like a friend. You liked that feeling.

-X-

You sat on the floor with Gojo, your head resting against the couch, giggling like long lost friends. One empty bottle of wine and one half filled bottle stood tall between the two of you.

“Tell me more about your life”. Gojo prompted.

“It is quite boring”. You added and took a sip from the crystal glass.

“Not to me”.

"Are you that bored of your life?”. You raised a brow.

“Not bored of my life, just interested in yours”.

“Well then, what would you like to know?”.

Gojo hummed and thought for a second, “Have you ever been married?”. Gojo asked. He knew the answer to that but he couldn’t ask directly if you had a boyfriend.

Your smile dropped for a second and Gojo’s heart sank. “I didn’t mean to-”.

“It’s fine”. You cut him off with a smile. “It was quite long ago so it doesn’t matter anymore”. You shrugged and took a sip. 

“So you were….married?”. 

“Engaged. Well..almost engaged”. 

Gojo’s heart was now beating loudly against his chest. How did he miss this?. “Why not, completely engaged?”. He asked, trying to keep his anger out of his words.

“Well because the guy…he cheated on me”.

“What?!”. Gojo frowned. How could he miss such an important detail? Who was this vermin who caused you so much pain?

“Yeah. We were together for quite some time but we managed to keep it hidden from everyone around us. When I decided to join the ranks he…didn’t like it. We had plans, you see. We wanted to work together to save enough money and re-build the bakery, get married, and all the other rosy-dosy stuff. I wanted to join the ranks because building the bakery was not enough for me. I wanted to avenge my grandma. Anyway, One day I returned from my training and found him with one of my friends..and I knew I couldn’t stay there anymore”. You took a deep breath and sniffled. “So I left the place and stayed with the troops and here I am”. 

Gojo remained silent. He knew you were currently in a legal battle with a man over the bakery but he did not know that this was the back story. He could have the bakery renovated and signed over to you before the sun rises but that would only drive you away. He wanted you to share these things with him so he could freely help you and gain your trust. “What happened to the bakery?”.

You swallowed painfully. “He took it from me. When I left, he forged the papers and took the bakery from me. He comes from a strong clan and I couldn’t do anything. I filed a case two years ago and there have hardly been four hearings”. You gave a defeated shrug, “It is highly unlikely it will go in my favor”.

Gojo hummed. Now he could make his move. 

“Enough about me, If I may be bold enough to ask, have you ever been in love, your-highness?”.

Gojo smiled to himself, “Yes. I have. In fact I am still in love with her”.

For some reason, the last part left a bitter feeling in your heart. You felt sad. But you shook it off to too much wine. “And..will we be getting a queen soon?”.

Gojo chuckled. “It is not going to be easy. I am not sure whether she feels the same”. 

“Who can reject you?”. You spoke almost too immediately, making Gojo laugh. 

“You think so?”. 

“Yes! I mean.. You seem like a good person and you are…good looking and of course you are the king”.

“The problem is that I am the king”.

You straightened up immediately and looked at him wide-eyed. “Is she a commoner? Or from a different kingdom?”.

“She is not from a different kingdom”. Gojo added.

“Wow!..you are in love with a commoner”.

“She is not a commoner either”. Gojo chuckled. He was having too much fun teasing you.

You frowned and looked confused. “So..if she is a noble-woman then what’s the problem? You can just go up to her and tell her that you love her”.

“Can I really do that?”. Gojo took a sip and looked at you from behind the rim of the glass. 

Even though you were slightly drunk, you were sure you felt the atmosphere shift. His voice turned an octave lower and the way he looked at you left your nerves tingling.

“I mean..yeah..Only a fool would reject such an offer”. You stuttered. 

“I want her to love me but not because I am the king”.

“Wow..you are really something. Respect!”.

Gojo threw his head back and laughed. 

“Wait! Is that why you appointed me? So you could ask me for tips to impress a woman? Oh my god your-highness!”. You laughed and shook your head. “Such a terrible decision!”. You shook your head and continued to laugh.

Gojo looked at you, it had been years since he last laughed like this. Since he was this happy. He watched your curly dance in the air as you shook your head, how your lips were tainted wine red and he was sure they would taste heavenly, the blush on your cheeks had his head spinning. He couldn’t believe that this was finally happening. He had waited twenty years for this moment and he was glad he did. 

“Alright, Your highness, I should leave now. Can’t be drunk and sleep deprived on duty”. You began to stand up and Gojo followed. Blood rushed to your head and dark spots lined your vision and you tripped backwards but instead of falling back you balanced yourself in the last second, leaving Gojo’s arm hanging behind you. “Woopsie! Sorry about that”. You chuckled and kept your glass on the side table. 

Gojo smiled and shook his head. Sometimes he forgot that this is all new for you. He had to be cautious and earn your trust the right way. One wrong move can push you away and he could not afford that. “Goodnight, y/n”.

“Goodnight, your-highness”.

Gojo stood on his balcony, leaning against the marble railing and sipping the last of wine but from your glass. Somehow it tasted sweeter. He watched your window keenly, waiting for you to reach. When the lights flicked on, he smiled to himself. He waited until the lights turned off and walked back in with a smile on his face.

-X-

The sun shone bright in the sky as you and Gojo sat under the shade of the tent and watched other soldiers spar. It was part of the regular training and it was his duty as the King to be present and motivate the soldiers. You sat next to him in a less ornamented chair and watched keenly. Few years ago you had been one of them, though you doubted if Gojo ever came to see you fight. But regardless, two hunks sparing was a sight to behold. Yes you were on duty but you could indulge in some eye candy. The soldiers fought in only loose trousers hanging low on the hip, you watched as their muscles flexed and relaxed under the sun.

“Y/n..”. Gojo called out to you but you seem distracted. “..y/n!”. He called out again and you snapped your head in his direction. 

“Yes! Your-highness!”.

“Enjoying the show?”. Gojo asked, frowning at the slight blush on your cheeks.

“Who wouldn’t?”. You retorted. 

Gojo bit the inside of his cheek and nodded. He turned his head towards the soldiers and cursed himself for bringing you here. What was he thinking, letting you watch half-naked soldiers brawl with each other?  He stood up and started unbuttoning his coat. 

You stood up behind him, “Your-highness, what are you doing?”.

“I think it would be really motivating for the troops to see me fight, don’t you agree?”. Gojo smirked as he handed you the coat and began unbuttoning his shirt. 

“I don’t think that’s a good idea”.

“Why not?”. Gojo asked, struggling with one particular button.

“It can be dangerous”.

Goojo paused and stared at the ground. It was a massive hit on his ego. You thought him to be weak. “What did you say?”.

You sucked in a sharp breath and clutched his coat in your hand. “I..I mean that, you are a sorcerer and these men are not. It wouldn’t be a fair fight”.

“Who said that I was going to use any curse techniques?” He frowned. 

You could sense that you had offended him to some degree but there was no going back. He had an innate ability to sense lies and you did not want to risk lying on top of insulting him. “These men have relied only on their capabilities and strength to survive on battlefields. That’s all they know”.

Gojo hummed. “Pick one”.

“Pick one..what?”.

Gojo turned towards you with his shirt half buttoned and you had to fight every instinct to not avert your gaze. “Pick the strongest soldier”. 

“I don’t think that’s a good-”.

“y/n…Pick one.Now”. Gojo spoke sternly.

You remained silent, your quick tongue had gotten you into this place. You stared at him blankly, hoping that he would give up his pursuit soon. “You are the strong-”.

“Y/n!”. Gojo yelled, you flinched, everyone stopped and stared.

You let out a shuddered breath and looked at the row of soldiers, standing tall with their hands behind their back. Each of them seemed capable, yet your eyes landed on the one at the very end. He was almost as tall as Gojo and twice his size.You were unsure if you should really pick him or go for someone slightly weaker. But, Gojo had caught your gaze, he looked at the man and smiled like a devil. “Him? You think he is the strongest?”.

“Ye–yes, your-highness”. You admitted.

Gojo hummed and gestured for the man to step forward. He removed his shirt over his head in one quick motion and threw it on the chair. When you saw just how physically fit he was, it felt like someone punched all the air out of you. Who, in a million, years would have guessed that this existed beneath all those layers of clothes. Sure he was tall and broad but who could have guessed that he was this fit? You had spent years in camps with some of the strongest men in the kingdom but you knew now that they didn’t call him the strongest for his curse techniques alone. When Gojo stood opposite to the other soldier, you suddenly felt bad for the poor man. Gojo not only, towered over the man but also there was hardly any difference in their physical form.

They shook hands and bowed curtly and began. You were erect in your place, like a statue of a shell-shocked woman. As you watched Gojo deflect and attack in the same breath you wondered if it was even possible to do so.It was a move you had tried many times but failed to perfect and Gojo did it like it was as easy as breathing .The dust from the ground now clung to his skin and when the two men locked hands you knew it was over for the other guy. You realized…witnessed the difference between size and strength. Though you were no sorcerer, it was evident that Gojo was not using any curse techniques. Everything was raw and real. You could see the other soldier struggling to retain balance as Gojo landed one attack after another, hardly letting the other man catch his breath. The soldier was getting angry too, you could tell it was a matter of self respect for him as well and he was really giving it his all.You looked at Gojo and swallowed painfully, He was angry .A gust of wind had you covering your eye with the back of your hand to shield it from the dust, when the wind settled and you brought your hand down, you heard cheering and clapping. Amidst the cloud of dust you saw Gojo walking towards you, he had no expression on his face. He wasn’t happy that he won. People were cheering for him and yet it didn’t faze him. He refused to look at you and took the coat from your hand and walked away.

“Your-highness!”. You yelled as you chased after him. He didn’t even bother to look back as you ran through the corridors after him. “Your-highness!”. You huffed as you caught up to him but he refused to stop and kept walking. You tried your best to keep up with his long strides but it wasn’t easy. He had never walked this fast. “I..I apologize for my-“. 

Before you could finish that sentence, with one flick of his finger Gojo shut the door on your face. You stepped back and stared at the door. He was mad at you. “Fuck”. You muttered under your breath and took your place outside the door. 

Gojo rested his head against the rim of the marble tub and closed his eyes. His anger was slowly fading away with the ache in his muscle. He had to do it, he thought to himself, he had to show you that he wasn’t physically weak only because he had cursed techniques. It hurt him that you undermined him. It hurt him that you thought he needed protection when it was his job to protect you. He remembered the glint in your eyes as you saw the men fight, it was only natural for a fellow soldier to admire and respect the strength of others but it hurt him. Only he deserved to be admired by you. It hurt him to not see you the entire day, but he couldn’t. He couldn’t bear the look of admiration for another man in your eye. 

Gojo stepped on the balcony in his velvet robe and looked at your window, the lights were off. It was well past dinner time and usually this was the time you would be in your room, reading a book. Then why are your lights off? Why weren’t you in your room? Were you out with someone else? Your friend, Niko? Or one of the men you met today? His blood boiled and he stormed out of his room and walked down the hallway connecting his bedroom and office through a back door. He was hoping to find you in the office, waiting for him with a bottle of wine but he found the office just as dark and empty as your bedroom. He sighed and ran his hands through his hair.His mistakes finally caught up to him and now he couldn’t shake off the look on your face when he yelled at you. He closed his eyes shut and cursed himself, he treated you badly. He realized that now. He had to apologize to you, He had to correct his mistakes.He was about to send a signal to locate you when he heard a faint noise coming from the other side of the door.

Gojo walked slowly towards the door, immediately turning on his infinity. He pressed his palm flatly against the wood, trying to catch a hint of curse energy but found nothing. He frowned and slowly opened the door. 

“Your-highness!”. You straightened up immediately when you saw Gojo through the crack in the door.

“Y/n?”.Gojo frowned. “Yes, your-highness!”.

Gojo opened the door completely and looked either way but found no one. “What..what are you doing here?”.

You bit your lip nervously as you tried to keep your eyes away from his partially exposed chest. Now that you had seen him, it was hard to not imagine what lies underneath the robe. “You haven’t dismissed me yet, your-highness?”.

Gojo opened his mouth to say something but shook his head, “You..you have been here all day..because I didn’t dismiss you for the day?”.

“Yes,your-highness!”.

Gojo’s heart sank to his stomach. He looked at you, even in the dim lights, he could tell you were tired. “You are dismissed for the day”. Gojo added. He could see your posture relax as you indeed and gave a curt bow. 

“Goodnight, your-highness”. You turned around to walk away but Gojo was quick to grab your wrist.

“Stay”. He said. 

You turned around, and glared at him,”Why?”.

Gojo let go of your wrist and took a deep breath. “Have dinner with me”. 

“Is that an order?”. 

Gojo sighed, “No. It’s a..request”.

You raised a brow, “It didn’t sound like one”.

“Will you…please…have dinner with me?”. Gojo asked, hesitantly. This was probably the fourth time in his life he had to request something. 

“Are you still mad at me?”. Gojo asked, as he watched you finish your second bowl of rice”.

“Yes”. You replied, not looking at him and leaning over to grab the bowl of soup. 

“Why?”. Gojo whined and slid the soup bowl towards you.

“You yelled at me!”. You said, slamming the bowl on the table

“You undermined me in front of everyone”. Gojo added.

“I didn’t undermine you. I was just protecting you. That’s my job!”. You replied, while struggling to open the bottle of wine.

“No! You..you thought that I was not strong enough!”. Gojo grabbed the bottle from you and opened it in one go.

“And you proved me wrong so congratulations you won!”. You huffed, pouring the wine in two goblets.

“Then why are you still mad at me?!”.

“Because…you slammed the door in my face, refused to listen to me, and made me stand out there all day!”.

Uncomfortable silence lingered in the air. Gojo could see how hurt you were and it pained him. He didn’t touch his food because he was convinced that he didn’t deserve to eat.

“I..I’m sorry.. I should not have done that”. Gojo said.

“It’s not like it matters anyway”. You bit your lip and looked away from him.

“It does. It hurts me that I have hurt you. So please forgive me y/n. Tell me how do I make it up to you?”.

You looked at him with a frown on your face and then it hit you. Your frown turned into amusement and you stood up slamming your palm on the table, “Train with me!”. 

“What?”. Gojo chuckled.

“If you want to make it up to me then train with me”. You shrugged.

Gojo threw his head back and laughed.Were you really asking him to physically brawl with him? Like he could even bring his body to attack you. .“That’s not possible”. He added, shaking his head.

“Why not?”. You leaned forward, slamming your fist on the table. “If you can spar with those men then why not with me?”.

“Because..you are..you!”.

You poked your cheek with your tongue and nodded your head as you sat back down. “I see. Is it because you are the King?”.

Gojo looked at you, he wished he could tell you that it was because he cannot bring himself to hurt you even if it was for practice. “Yes..”.

You hummed in response. Obviously a King could not just train with you. It didn’t make any sense and you felt silly for even asking, “I guess then I will have to ask one of those men to train with me. I can’t-”.

“But I will make an exception for you!”. Gojo cut you off. The moment you said that his mind went into a frenzy. Another man sparring with you? Touching you? Throwing you on the ground? No. No. No. This was the perfect chance for him to get close to you.

“Seriously? Would you really?”. You asked, wide-eyed and excited.

“Yes. If it means that you forgive me”.

You smiled widely, “forgive you for what? You didn’t do anything wrong! You are the best King ever!”. You squealed with excitement.

Gojo laughed at how adorable you were. He rested his chin on his hand and watched you excitedly drink wine.  “So you agree that I am strong?”.

“Oh! Don’t even get me started on that! I don’t usually enjoy being proven wrong but I was pleasantly surprised!”.

Gojo watched with a satisfied smile as you went on to describe every move he made animatedly and how you wished you could do that instead. He didn’t even need to touch his wine to get drunk. Your words, your eyes, your smile was more intoxicating than all the wine of of the Kingdom combined.

@arisucat @bubera974 @ritsatoru @yevene @sofi786 @mokonasenpaiposts @allofffmypeaches @monsieurgucchi

@lilith412426

[brainrotlesbian]

I think one of my favorite parts about the Lunar Chronicles is how Carswell Thorne was minding his own damn business and then suddenly he’s part of this rebellion against the fucking moon. He didn’t really have a reason to be part of it, not like the others did.

For comparison, Cinder is the missing Lunar princess Selene, so duh she’d be involved, it’s up to her to stop her crazy aunt. Kai is a whole emperor of a country and is the one being very pressured by Levana into marrying her. Scarlet was also kinda minding her business but then the police didn’t do their job so she got swept up in the wolf army and that’s pretty reason enough (also her grandma died at the hands of the wolf army). Ze’ev is a rogue wolf soldier who wanted to make his own decisions and a life for himself. Cress was Levana’s best hacker and a witness/victim to the systemic mistreatment of shells like herself. Winter, being the Queen’s stepdaughter and one of the first and closest victims to Levana’s cruelty, had every reason to turn on her stepmother but she would never turn her back on her people, especially the servants and other lower-class citizens who saw her and her refusal to bow to Levana’s demands/use her Lunar gift at all as an act of rebellion itself. And Jacin had been silently rebelling against Levana since he was 15; he is Winter’s closest (and only, it seems) friend on Luna, so he too was witness to many of Levana’s atrocities, along with the atrocities of the thaumaturges he assisted.

But Thorne? He’s a petty criminal. He organized a prison riot over fucking soap. He has no personal connection to a rebellion. He joined cause he wanted to cause chaos. And I respect that.

[guilty-pleasures21]

Dragon!Miguel - kidnapped!

The main fic turned out much more popular than I expected, so I decided to spoil you guys with a short side story 🤭.

@captain-liminal possible art of Dragon!Miguel x Phoenix!Reader ?

Hope you guys enjoy!

Warnings: brief mention of violence.

----------------------------------------------------------

     He marched out of the throne room, glad that the meeting had finally ended: now he could fly off to his wife’s kingdom to join her while she visited her family for a few days. She’d left earlier that day, wanting to spend as much time back home as possible, and though he hadn’t liked the idea of sending his wife off alone, he could never say no to her.

     “Your Majesty!” A palace guard’s frantic voice broke into his thoughts of his pretty little wife and Miguel frowned as he looked up at the man. But then the guard continued and Miguel’s blood ran cold at his words. 

     “The Queen!” he exclaimed, slowing to a stop in front of Miguel. “She’s been kidnapped! We have received a ransom letter - from a group of rebel orcs, it would seem. They caught her midway through her flight back-” He broke off suddenly as Miguel flew down the hallway, racing towards the front entrance of the palace. The guard followed after him, calling after his King in a panic, but Miguel refused to slow down. 

     “Your Majesty!” 

     “Send an army!” Miguel commanded, calling back to him as he soared away from the palace. His body lengthened into its full dragon form as he climbed higher in the sky, his eyes narrowing into reptilian slits and his skin darkening into deep blue scales. He’d make them pay. He’d make sure there was nothing left of those half-witted, foul-breathed, repugnant monsters once he was through with them.

     The orc whom she supposed was the second-in-command snarled at her from between the bars of the cage they’d locked her in.

     “Just give us a feather, Princess! Or else we’ll have to let Lumdum take it from ya,” he threatened, prompting a gleeful snicker from his friend. 

     “Yeah!” Lumdum agreed. “Let me at ‘er! I got a few new fancy tools I been meaning to try out on a pretty little birdie …”

     X shuddered as the orc leered at her, his cracked lips stretching wide to reveal patches of missing teeth. She grabbed the bars of her cage and drew her brows together to galre at them in what she hoped was a threatening manner - Miguel always said she looked especially cute whenever she frowned at him like that. But she didn’t want to be cute now: she wanted to be taken seriously! 

     “You and I both know you will not be getting what you want out of me,” she said, glad that her voice came out steady despite her nerves. “The best you can hope for is to let me go this instant so that my husband might take the smallest shred of mercy on you and not obliterate you into pieces!”

     The orcs glanced at one another for a moment. Then they all burst into laughter, bending over and clutching their stomachs at how adorable she looked, wrinkling her nose at them. 

     “We’ll take our chances, Princess,” the leader - Varbu, she thought she’d heard the others call him - assured her. He started creeping towards her and X moved back to the other end of the cage. She sucked in shallow breaths, trying to stop herself from transforming out of fear - phoenix feathers were one of the most powerful objects next to dragon scales, able to wipe out an entire battlefield’s worth of soldiers if they were set aflame at the right angle, so she didn’t want to give these demented creatures a single opportunity to get one of hers. She whimpered as she pressed herself against the bars, wishing she had even an ounce as much of power as Miguel had - then she could have at least tried to defend herself against these brutes. Her heart thudded in her chest as Varbu’s fat green fingers closed around the iron bars, then the both of them froze as a loud roar echoed throughout the valley. X looked up and a felt wave of relief crash over her as she saw her husband swooping towards her, his deep blue scales glinting in the sunlight, his fiery eyes burning with rage when they landed on her.

     He drew a deep breath into his lungs, then released it again, bathing the valley in flames. The orcs scrambled around in a panic, desperately trying to put out the fire eating away at their clothes, but Miguel refused to grant them a second of respite before he staged his attack. He dived lower and picked up one of the orcs to throw him over the mountains, ignoring his terrified screams as he flew through the air to his death. Then he swiped at another with his claws, splitting him open as he batted him into the now scorched forest nearby. He descended on the last one before he even had a chance to blink, closing his jaw around his head and flinging him far out of his reach from his wife. 

     She transformed into her phoenix form as he released another barrage of flames, allowing the warmth of his fire to heal the injuries she’d sustained when she’d been snatched out of the sky earlier. She cooed happily as her husband made his way over to her, the ground trembling with every step he took. Miguel grabbed hold of the bars and pulled them apart, bending the metal to create a gap for his wife to exit through.

     She was so graceful in her phoenix form, stepping out of the wretched cage and arranging her dazzling feathers before she finally looked up at him with those big, beautiful eyes of hers. Miguel relaxed slightly at the sight of her safe before him and grunted softly before lowering his head to nuzzle her affectionately. His wife wriggled against his cheek, delighted to be reunited with him and he sighed at how soft she felt. Dios, she was perfect. He’d never let her out of his sight again. 

     She stretched her wings as he curled his large body around her and let out another coo to catch his attention. Her husband raised his head in question and she gestured to the sky, eager to get home and see her parents. Miguel snorted in disagreement as he straightened, refusing to let her travel by herself again. Instead, he turned his head to his body, gesturing for her to get on. X rolled her eyes, but flew up to his back anyway, transforming back into her human form and wrapping herself securely around him. He took off into the air once she was comfortable and together, they continued their journey to her parents’ home. 

     The King and Queen of Risendelle paced back and forth in their throne room, anxiously awaiting any news on their precious daughter. Finally, a palace guard burst through the doors, grabbing both of their attentions. 

     “Your Majesties!” he exclaimed between shallow breaths. “It is the Dragon King! He is almost here!” 

     The King and Queen rushed to greet their son-in-law, the both of them holding their breaths as they watched him ascend to the ground. They ran over to him once he’d landed and let out twin sighs of relief when they saw their daughter safe and sound on his back. X slid to the ground and let herself be wrapped up by her parents, hugging them back as tightly as they did her. 

     “My baby!” the Queen screeched. “Are you all right? Did they … Did they hurt you?!”

     “Your brother left as soon as we received the news!” the King informed her before she even had a chance to respond. “He brought some of the army with him, so they should-”

     Miguel huffed in interruption, surrounding the three of them in a circle of smoke. He grunted when they all turned to look at him, then shrank back down into his human form. His arms came around his wife almost immediately, pulling her back against his chest and holding her close. 

     “There’s nothing left of them,” Miguel informed his wife’s father. “The prince may return to spend time with his sister.”

     The King reached up and gave his son-in-law’s shoulder a grateful squeeze. “Thank you, son. We appreciate your intervention.”

     “My wife-” A growl escaped his throat as he tried to respond and Miguel tightened his grip on X as he took a moment to calm himself down. X brushed her thumbs across the back of his hands where they were clasped around her abdomen and Miguel felt some of the heat dissipate from his body. He cleared his throat and tried again. “My wife is my most precious treasure. I will never let anything happen to her!” His fangs shot out in anger and he let out an involuntary snarl at the thought. The Queen nodded in understanding and brushed a loose strand of X’s hair behind her ear. 

     “Thank you, sweetheart,” she told Miguel, glad that her daughter had found someone so enamoured with her. “Perhaps the two of you would like to get some rest after your journey? We’ll have the maids call you when dinner is ready.”

     X twisted her head back to look up at her husband, blinking at him with her curly lashes. Miguel lowered his head to nuzzle the crook of her neck with his nose and she turned back to her mother to place a hand on her forearm. 

     “We’ll see you at dinner, mother,” she agreed, before walking into the palace. Her husband’s arms stayed glued to her waist as she led them both down the hallway, making her way towards her childhood bedroom. Miguel tugged her back to him once they were alone and bent over to press soft kisses to her skin, his lips making their way up the side of her neck to her cheek. X giggled at the ticklish feeling and turned around to face him, delighting in the feeling of his hard muscles as she placed her hands on his broad chest. She stretched onto her toes to give him a quick kiss, then cupped his face in her hand when she’d lowered herself back to her feet. She brushed her thumb across his cheek and Miguel pouted down at her, allowing himself to be vulnerable enough for her to see the terror that had overcome him at the thought of her being hurt. X wrapped her arms around his neck, her fingers making their way into his hair, and pressed a tender kiss to his cheek as she held him close. 

     He stroked her back gently, focusing on the familiar smoky scent of her to soothe his pounding heart. He pressed his lips to the top of her head, showering her with the occasional kiss as she tickled his scalp softly. Finally, he pulled back and trailed his gaze over her, taking her in and reassuring himself that she was safe. She stretched up to kiss him again and Miguel bent over to repeat the gesture before taking a step back. He shook his arms out and transformed into full dragon form, his large body taking up the entirety of the room. X raised her eyebrows at him in question and he circled the room before settling down on the ground, his head resting on her bed. 

     She could still feel some leftover adrenaline from her ordeal, but she didn’t want him to panic any more than he already had. So, she sighed and flashed him an exasperated look, her lips curling at the ends with amusement. Miguel gave her a beseeching look in return and she shook her head before transforming into her phoenix form. 

     He wagged his tail excitedly as she fluttered into the little nest he’d created for her with his body. She was so beautiful in her creature form, her golden feathers glimmering in the light, her brown eyes wide and alluring, her slender body stretching out so gracefully. He reached over to nuzzle her with his cheek, relishing the feeling of her silky feathers against his scales, then he rested his head back on the bed. He watched quietly as she shifted around, getting herself comfortable. Then she closed her eyes and drifted off into sleep, safe in the knowledge that her husband would protect her. Miguel lifted his head to stroke her feathers again, unable to resist how adorable his pretty little wife was. X opened one eye and cooed at him in irritation, and Miguel gave her one last nuzzle before laying his head back down and quickly falling asleep himself. 

     The maid knocked on the door to the princess’s bedroom, then gently pushed it open. “Ma’am? Dinner is- Oh!”

     She startled as she was met by an enormous dragon filling up the entire space. Miguel opened one eye to look at her, his expression unreadable as he flicked his tail back and forth, waiting for her to speak. The maid gulped and lowered her head before gesturing outside. “T-The … The Queen … D-Dinner … is ready … Your Majesty.”

     She snuck a glance at Miguel and he huffed at her request before nodding to his wife, firmly asleep in his embrace. The maid nodded quickly, her eyes widening with understanding. 

     “O-Oh!” she gasped. “Yes, Your Majesty. I shall inform the Queen that the Princess is still resting.” She fell into a bow as she backed out of the room, staunchly avoiding Miguel’s gaze as she closed the door quietly and left. X wriggled around as she started to awaken and she blinked up at Miguel sleepily before cooing at him in question. Miguel reached over to brush her feathers with his cheek, gently nudging her back to sleep, but she transformed back into her human form instead.

     “Miguel? ¿Qué pasó, querido? What time is it?” She patted his nose, then started trying to climb over his tail to get to the door. Miguel transformed back as well and rushed over to grab her waist, turning her around and pulling her against him. His wife laughed as she wrapped her arms around his neck and he sprinkled kisses along her cheek and down the side of her neck. 

     “Querida …” he whined, not wanting to leave their little cocoon just yet. “Te amo, mi reina.”

     “I love you, too, Miguel.” She ran her fingers through his hair, then smiled up at him when he straightened. “But I’m starving, mi amor! Let’s eat!”

[thesunfyre4446]

It's really that hard for them to say Rhaenyra was a coward? 😂

The Cope. pleaseeee. are they sure they want to go down that rode?

yeah, he fought with everything he had. rhaenys died during that fight because she was sent there BY rhaenyra who didn't allow her sons to join. aegon could've just sent aemond with vhagar, but he chose to lead his army himself.

he was badly injured, was basically in coma for a year and was smuggled to dragonstone, managed to reunite with his heavily injured dragon because their bond slayed, managed to turn the people of dragonstone against rhaenyra, was ambushed by baela and her dragon and survive that fight as well - killing baela's dragon in the process, took dragonstone ambushed rhaenyra and killed her, got back to KL to fix the mess she made, was poisoned.

now let's talk about rhaenyra. didn't fight at all, managed to take KL because of the efforts of others, was betrayed by the random people she gave dragons to (wow def did not see that one coming) and tried to murder the few innocent dragonseeds who didn't betray her - resulting in her husband and hand abandoning her, ruled for half a year and it was a disaster, "the bastard tax", got a 2yo toddler killed, the entire city rebelled against her, the storming of the dragonpit because people were THAT done with her BS, fled to dragonstone after her dragon got randomly killed, was ambushed and died.

and let's not forget TB characters roasting rhaenyra :

"When word reached Dragonstone that Princess Rhaenys had fallen, angry words were exchanged between the queen and Lord Velaryon, who blamed her for his wife’s death. “It should have been you,” the Sea Snake shouted at Her Grace. “Staunton sent to you, yet you left it to my wife to answer and forbade your sons to join her.” For all the castle knew that the princes Jace and Joff had been eager to fly with Princess Rhaenys to Rook’s Rest with their own dragons."

aegon may have lost, but at least he never expected people to do his fighting for him.

[sleeplesssmoll]

Reverse 1999 Analysis: Why do people follow Vertin?

There is a common theme among arcanists in the Foundation, Manus Vindictae, and the Timekeeper's department: desperation.

Note: You'll see snippets from my other posts and Asks in here since I used them as the outline. If you have deja vu, its me not you.

Before looking at Vertin, we should take a step back and consider the world of Reverse 1999 as whole. There is a long history of humans associating arcanum with demons, evil, and witches. Humans are the majority in Reverse1999 and consider arcanists dangerous due to their unpredictability and powers. The discrimination against arcanists precedes the Storm, however as Manus Vindictae makes the Storm public, arcanists realize they have yet another enemy in a world that doesn’t want them.

With that established, we can look at each faction.

Both Manus and the Foundation use fear and hysteria to herd arcanists like sheep. The Foundation weaponizes humanity’s paranoia against arcanists while Manus utilizes the Storm for their agenda. Both factions also steal the agency and freedom of their followers. 

The Foundation seeks out children because it's easier to train and indoctrinate them to die as martyrs for mankind. They provide basic necessities but they strip their martyrs of their identities and cultural backgrounds. Conformity is a way to instill control. Diversity introduces too many factors and inspires ideas. The Foundation uses lies and corruption to hide the abuse they put arcanists through in the name of humanity but they also provide “shelter”. To choose the Foundation is to choose to be a dog on a leash (unless you're human), but at least you'll be safe from the Storm and you’ll have a roof over your head. They also capture “rogue” arcanists like Regulus if they deem them dangerous.

While the Foundation parades as an important and noble cause for the peace of mankind, Manus Vindictae plays the role of “savior” for suffering arcanists. However, revenge and violence are at their core. You can even see this in their name. 

Vindictae: ceremonial act claiming as free one contending wrongly enslaved; vengeance 

While players usually see these extremists as evil mustache-twirling villains, it's important to look at the role they play in the bigger story. In Nouvelles et Textes pour rien we can see an example of propaganda where they airdrop resources and pamphlets near the Foundation. This is a common tactic used in real life by rebel/fringe groups. If they only caused destruction, no one would join the cause. Their acts of "kindness" are part of a bigger scheme to recruit people to their cause by playing the part of the hero. “You don’t bite the hand that feeds you," encapsulates this mindset. They must bring people to their side to raise an army and grow support for their war against humanity. They will provide the desperate with food and shelter. In return, the arcanists must fight in the name of revenge. Then they brainwash them to take away their agency. However the fear of the Storm and the discrimination against arcanists make them one of the few viable options for arcanists seeking shelter from a world that despises them.

Finally, we can look at Vertin. Why do people follow her? 

Many of the arcanists Vertin’s recruits are cornered and don’t have many options to begin with. 

Regulus recognized the fact the Foundation would chase her down no matter how much she runs, which isn’t the freedom she wants. Jessica is scared of isolation and rejection from the outside world. Joshua is a troublemaker who doesn’t conform and suffers consequences. These arcanists already have a motive/reason to follow her. Another thing to consider is what would happen if they did not? They would be stuck in their current situations for who knows how long. Vertin gave them a way out.

Another important tidbit is Vertin’s approach. In the most simple terms, Vertin listens to people. Unlike the other factions, Vertin hears people’s concerns and addresses them directly. She isn’t herding them with lies or manipulating them with fear, she finds the source of their troubles. She does not make false claims and outright admits she will do what is in her power.

Examples: She wanted to understand Schneieder’s anger and reason for obeying Forget-Me-Not even while under fire. She appealed to Regulus’s love of freedom and appeased Jessica’s fear of rejection by the world. She recognized Druvis’s grief and tried to show her a glimmer of hope.

It’s important to recognize each character’s decision and situation instead of giving all the credit to Vertin. She should be receiving credit for her empathy and understanding of the situation, but not the final decision the arcanist made.

Unlike Manus and the Foundation, she genuinely wants to save people like the other factions claim to do. She’s proven it from her scheme with Regulus after Sonetto appeared in the Suitcase and when she tried to fulfill people’s wishes in Tender is the Night. In comparison, you had the corrupt Foundation taking bribes in Chicago and Forget-Me-Not blowing up people’s heads. Also, Her allies witnessed her and Schneider sacrifice themselves in order to slow Druvis down so the others could escape. Sotheby, Druvis, Sonetto, and their men all witnessed this sacrifice. If we look back in the story, we can see Vertin's selfless acts are done in the presence of others, meaning they know more than just talk.

Vertin is a girl, not an institution. She still depends on the Foundation. She was an insignificant piece of a larger machine where her only job was to record the end of eras. However, she earned very powerful allies because she cared about their wellbeing. Suddenly, the Foundation gave a damn. They were unsettled by her little army. 

Vertin is only as strong as the people behind her and her crew took that risk. They chose to stay with her and fight for her because she fought for them too. Vertin was trying to keep them under her protection instead of letting the Foundation have their way, which is the conversation she had with Madam Z.

Later, Constatine ordered to have her held hostage in a coma and her legs bruised for good measure to hinder Vertin's efforts. Luckily she had Madam Z and Sonetto to pick up her baton.

Vertin is the hero in the player's eyes but in the larger picture, she’s a girl who dared to care too much in an unforgiving world. This is why I believe the crew needs more credit because they are not only fighting for their freedom, they want to enjoy it with the person who gave it to them. Dare say, they have their own motives and compassion. They made these informed decisions on their own so it's not fair to attribute everything to Vertin being a charismatic cutie pie (but she totally is and I get how it's easy to overlook their contributions since we see most of the story through Vertin’s eyes).

[kneelingshadowsalome]

This is my third time in your inbox, I'm so sorry 💀💀

Can we get more insight on Konigs childhood? You mentioned abuse from his father. What exactly did he do to Konig and his mother? Why did he cut his face up? Why did his mother not leave him? Where are his parents now? Was his childhood the reason he joined the military? Will he fully open up to the reader abt it?

Ty for tolerating me 😭🙏🏾

Please. My inbox is always, always open and I love these questions! (Like... someone wants to hear my ramblings about mentally unstable, fictional men?? You are godsend, my friend 💖)

Thoughts on König's childhood:

CW/TW: emotional, verbal & physical abuse, talk of personality disorders (by someone who is not a psychologist lmao), aggravated assault/murder, self-hate

So, I wrote König as a sociopath (otherwise known as antisocial personality disorder) with borderline pd. He's also neurodivergent (prob. ADHD). Now I don't know shit about these things but I tried my best to do some research on different pds and neurodiversity and thought this potpourri might fit well in König's character profile.

Unlike psychopaths, sociopaths are made, not born. So his dad had a definite hand in creating one out of König. He thought his only son (K is an only child in my canon) was a freak because he was bigger than "normal" kids, tall and lithe and on top of everything else, behaved oddly. König was bullied at school which made him even more asocial and anxious, which in turn made his dad project his own insecurities onto König even more. He needed to imprint it on König that he's a freak by cutting him.

There was a strict routine and order in his childhood home: dinner was to be served at 6'o clock sharp, every piece of clothing had to be pedantically ironed, no tv past seven, etc. Any misstep on these rules and there would be violence, mainly verbal and emotional but at times, physical too. König's mother was never enough, nothing she did was ever enough. König for sure did everything wrong by simply existing. For a boy of his size, he learned to become surprisingly invisible at a very young age.

Sometime during his teenage years, he started to have enough. He started to rebel, learned how to walk tall and straight, started to jog and train inside his room, do 100 pushups every morning. The idea of joining the army was born during these times as well, and becoming a sniper was soon König's biggest dream.

He enjoyed when his schoolmates, even some of the teachers, began to fear him (if you cannot be loved, better be feared than ridiculed). He was the odd, silent, big freak who was only getting odder, bigger and more silent every day. People at school literally feared the day König would arrive at class with a gun.

His father started to cut him even more when he began to show signs of independence and grit. At some point König realized he could easily beat his own dad if he wanted to. At 15 he started to go to the gym, and a year after, when he saw his father yell at his mom about something utterly insignificant, he finally snapped, took a simple kitchen knife and drove it to daddy's ribs (16 times).

His mother had a tiny mental breakdown after that. She didn't want her child to get into trouble, but seeing such a violent murder was the last straw for a woman who had tried to keep the peace by playing by this crazy tyrant's rules. The reason she hadn't left was because she feared he might kill them both. (Also the breakdown was far more severe than the one reader had after the break room incident, and it def. brought back some not so fond memories)

König got the minimum penalty for the crime because he was a juvenile offender. His mother forgave her child quite soon and deemed that her husband was evil and that König did the right thing for freeing them from such a man.

Things got better after that, but his mother was forever damaged from everything that had happened. She began to blame herself for not divorcing her husband sooner, for then he would still be alive and König wouldn't have suffered so much in his hands. One of the reasons König started to wear the hood was because he didn't want to remind his mother of what had been done to him. Instead, the mask only caused her only more pain. She started to avoid her own child, even fear him, feeding into König's insecurities and anxiety even more.

When König finally joined the army at the age of 17, it was to get away from home and pursue his dreams to become a sniper. He thought it might be best for his mother, too, if he wasn't around the house to remind her what had gone down and how her only child was not only a monster, but a murderer, too.

König's childhood is so filled with trauma that he has pretty much distanced himself from it. The geographical distance helps too, and he's not keen on taking reader on a vacation to Austria, for example. But he will open up about his past if and when he sees it's safe to do so. Sadly enough, the thing that bugs him the most about it is he fears he might look weak in reader's eyes. He's been in a survival mode for so long that he doesn't quite understand that he was a child at the time, and should've received love and care.

Btw I totally got inspired by @random-thot-generator 's gospel truth on how König's first kill was his own father! Also the Conan t-shirt as his (first) mask is my canon now

[loganofthenorth]

For those that saw my other Shera Swap AU post, sorry this took so long. I got invested in an SMP Minecraft Server recently and forgot about this. 😅

For those who haven’t, I’m making a Shera Swap AU! I’m designing the characters in Hero Forge because I don’t have the patience to draw.

Anywho, here is Adora as promised! More info below the cut off, warning for spoilers if I actually write this.

In this swap AU, Adora isn’t the one to find the sword and be chosen by it. Catra is. Ergo, she is not convinced by Bo and Glimmer to snap out of it, but instead Catra ends up leaving the Horde to join the Princess Alliance and Adora, being a rule follower that sees Catra as a traitor, stays loyal to the Horde.

Her design at the start of the story is pretty much just cannon Adora with her Force Captain Badge:

But in ‘season 2’ of my AU, she looks very different. Mostly due to loyalty to the Horde and battles with Catra.

I’m thinking Catra scratches her face in a desperate attempt to escape, or out of anger for something Adora says to her. Either way it’s enough to leave a scar so it will most likely be a really intense scene.

Also thinking Adora gets her hair burnt off, either in a fight with the Princess Alliance or by Shadow Weaver. Catra will taunt her for it regardless.

She gets edgier too, since when she starts to realize the problems in the Horde’s logic she digs her feet in the ground. She doesn’t want to admit that she turned against Catra, then eventually Bo, and lost so much of herself fighting the wrong battle.

Also when Catra gets her cool Shera Sword Adora gets huge Sword Envy so Bow makes her a cool sword.

Adora is still a people pleasing perfectionist in this AU. Even more so, actually, since she doesn’t end up turning against the Horde. She becomes even more vulnerable to Shadow Weaver’s manipulation after Catra leaves, and often just does whatever she’s told by Shadow Weaver. Glimmer will eventually start rebelling against Shadow Weaver and pushing for Adora to advocate for herself and her team.

As Adora gets more confident, more frustrated with the Horde’s lack of progress, and more angry towards the Princesses, she ends up climbing the Horde’s ranks through her own strategic genius and skills. I think the turning point will be Princess Prom, when Catra captures Glimmer and uses her as a bargaining chip against Hordac. Hordac pretends he doesn’t care, but Adora can tell he does. So she plans an invasion on Bright Moon to get Glimmer back. While in there, she manages to steal documents about Bright Moon’s defences in order to make more efficient plans in the future. Unfortunately they lose Entrapta during the invasion, more on that later.

There will probably be a point during the invasion where Catra catches Adora and they fight. Catra tries to break Adora from Shadow Weaver’s manipulation, but Adora has already broken free from her mentor’s influence. “You captured my best friend and used her as a hostage. I don’t need Shadow Weaver to tell me right from wrong anymore, I can see for myself what needs to be done to establish peace and order. Shadow Weaver is a coward, and won’t allow the Horde to succeed. I am willing to take matters into my own hands.” ~ said before calling on Entrapta to send an army of robots to invade Bright Moon.

Adora often works as the team’s leader, and supervises everyone else’s roles. She’ll often give herself the responsibility of dealing with Catra. She’s a lot more respectful to her team than Catra was in the cannon show. She takes into account their strengths, weaknesses, comfort levels, etc when assigning them roles.

She often gives Kyle the job of fetching supplies for the others, and encourages him to motivate the rest of the team. Kyle is never given anything to do alone because Adora is worried he’ll get hurt.

Bow is often tasked with making sure Entrapta and Glimmer don’t do anything too reckless and settles disputes within the team. Basically takes over the leader position if Adora isn’t able to. Bow’s role in plans is usually to hide somewhere strategic and snipe enemies with his bow, or help Entrapta in a Mission Control kind of role.

Glimmer is usually the muscle in plans, and one of the people fighting alongside Adora.

Laudie and Rogelio also fight alongside Adora by default, but they’re usually Adora’s go to people to send elsewhere if the group has to split up.

After the Bright Moon invasion, Adora is hard on herself for losing the Horde’s greatest asset. The only reason Hordac doesn’t obliterate her for it is because she did succeed in saving his daughter.

After learning that Glimmer has a connection to the Moonstone, Adora plans *another* invasion on Bright Moon to steal the crystal. Shadow Weaver refuses to allow it, but Hordac is concerned by how weak Glimmer gets after her connection with the stone made her stronger. Shadow Weaver is imprisoned when she agrees to assist in the invasion, only to betray Adora and sabotage the mission.

The Horde succeeds in stealing the Moonstone and brings it back to the main base, but retreat immediately afterwards due to being overwhelmed by Bright Moon’s improved defences. Stealing the Moonstone does lead to the Whispering Woods withering, but Bright Moon has a sudden tech boost that helps to protect them despite this.

Weird

Anyways

Glimmer gets more powerful, and more headstrong. Bo is very concerned by this development but is supportive of his friend.

Adora tries to get Shadow Weaver’s help in understanding the Moonstone and why Glimmer is connected to it despite not being a Princess. She tries to convince Hordac not to obliterate Shadow Weaver even though she’s dangerous to the Horde and its cause. Shadow Weaver manipulates Adora into helping her escape, but brings Adora with her to Bright Moon. She tries to convince Adora to switch sides with her and maintain balance in the world. Adora refuses to listen as they are both held prisoner.

Adora learns that Entrapta betrayed the Horde, that Glimmer was a clone of both Hordac and Bright Moon’s former Queen, that Adora herself is from another planet, and that Hordac is trying to bring an alien invasion to the planet. She also sees that Catra is happier in Bright Moon. Adora gets overwhelmed, has a breakdown, then manages to escape Bright Moon and return to the Horde despite Catra trying to stop her.

Glimmer manages to convince her father not to eliminate Adora.

Instead, however, Glimmer, Bo, and Adora get sent on a mission to the Crimson Waste because Bo thinks there are materials there that can help him upgrade their tech.

Now I’m not entirely sure how the Crimson Waste goes. Adora survives in cannon because of extremely specific circumstances and she isn’t as cut throat as Catra. Since this is a Swap AU, I could make it that Huntara used to be part of the Princess Alliance but left it when Queen Angelica and King Micah were captured. So she can still help Adora and the group survive due to wanting to gain the Horde’s trust so she can find out what happened to the King and Queen she’s loyal to. Adora is still naive and very gay for Huntara so the manipulation’s not hard.

Speaking of manipulation, Double Trouble is basically the same in this AU. At least in how they’re introduced. They approach Adora similarly to how they approached Catra, though they don’t get along with her nearly as well during their time working together.

Catra finds Adora after taking over the Crimson Waste and turning them against the Horde. She tries again to convince Adora to switch sides. Adora, at this point, is convinced that she’s making life worse for her friends, and that Catra and the Princess Alliance are better without her. She captures Catra and takes the Shera Sword from her because Hordac needs it for the portal. She thinks that if she earns Hordac’s forgiveness then she can fix all her mistakes.

Things get crazy after that.

Glimmer finds out at some point that her Mother is on Beast Island and wants to go there so she can find her. Adora knocks her out to stop her from going somewhere so dangerous.

Bow doesn’t think the portal will work and wants to warn Hordac. Adora doesn’t want Hordac to hurt Bow so she knocks him out too.

Catra and the other Princesses infiltrate the Horde base with Shadow Weaver’s help. They don’t have Glimmer’s teleportation magic but I feel like Castapella and Shadow Weaver’s magic would be strong enough to make a teleportation ritual. Then Scorpia and the Garnet can help boost Shadow Weaver’s powers.

Shadow Weaver lectures Adora for her idiocy after Huntara grabs Glimmer and takes her to Beast Island. Adora breaks down and forces Hordac to activate the portal.

I think the painful part of this AU for me is that it doesn’t work on Entrapta’s end if Hordac still cares about her so there’s no: Where’s Entrapta? I need her!

I love Entrapdac with a burning passion

Entrapta’s my favourite character honestly

But I think I can have Double Trouble play some sort of role instead. I dunno.

But yeah anywho, perfect reality happens. I’ll have to chew on what everyone’s perfect reality would be in this AU.

I might have to rewatch Shera because I forget what happens after the portal stuff is dealt with.

I think it’s basically Adora trying to convince Hordac not to execute her for Glimmer’s disappearance

Adora is breaking down mentally.

Hordac is breaking down physically.

The only reason Adora isn’t executed for Glimmer’s disappearance is because Hordac thinks she was captured in the invasion and Adora convinces him that he needs her in order to get Glimmer back.

Meanwhile Bow is like: Bullshit I’m out

Bow switches sides to the Princess Alliance and helps them get to Beast Island to save Glimmer. They get Queen Angelica and King Micah back in the process. Entrapta, who went with them, wants to stay on Beast Island. Bow apologizes to her for how they treated her in the Horde and tries to get her forgiveness. Catra bribes Entrapta with letting her drive the space ship.

Adora goes bat shit insane because all her friends left her. Even Kyle, Rogelio, and Laudie are like: Fuck this shit I’m out

She only has Double Trouble and they don’t even like her. They end up giving her false information and lure her into a trap for the Princesses.

At this point Adora goes into a fawn survival response. She apologizes to Catra for everything. Catra doesn’t forgive her, however, after all the hardship she’s caused. Bow and Glimmer avoid her, most of the Princess Alliance is hostile towards her. Scorpia and Sea Hawk are the first to give her the benefit of the doubt. Perfuma tries to be nice to her for Bow and Scorpia’s sake. Catra avoids her. Shadow Weaver attempts to console Adora in her own strange way. Shadow Weaver also becomes a close mentor to Glimmer. Entrapta quickly forgives Adora though and accepts her.

Adora becomes close to Angelica as the two of them help each other understand everything they didn’t know. They’re both people pleasing perfectionists and they become close because of it. Inadvertently, however, Glimmer hates Adora for having an easier time getting close to Angelica than Glimmer does.

Glimmer does get close with Micah though even though they aren’t biologically related in this AU. He quickly sees her as a daughter and Castapella reluctantly agrees to treat her as a niece. Castapella also isn’t happy about giving the throne back to Angelica but Shadow Weaver promise that they will take back Mystacor for her.

Catra refuses to talk to Adora and Adora goes insane from it. She tries to go back to the Horde with Glimmer and get the Moonstone back to Bright Moon to make it up to Catra but doesn’t realize that reconnecting Glimmer to the Moonstone while Catra is with Light Hope will result in the weapon activating.

Hordac catches Adora and Glimmer and tries to kill Adora. Glimmer saves Adora, but then Horde Prime finds them and brings them on his ship.

Catra is pissed off that Adora did something so stupid and now she has to go save her. She pretends it’s just her agreeing to go with Bow, Entrapta, and Angelica to save them.

So yeah intergalactic war stuff happens.

Adora just gives up when she’s brought in the Prime’s ship. She advocates for Glimmer’s survival, since Horde Prime wants to kill Glimmer for being an abomination, but not her own. She insists that she’s the abomination, not Glimmer, because of all the people she’s hurt. Glimmer feels sympathy for Adora, and advocates for both of them. She convinces Horde Prime that Etheria is a weapon, she’s part of it, and Adora knows how it works.

I’m thinking Adora is just shut down and disassociated the entire time on the Horde Ship and Glimmer is trying to keep her alive and get her responsive. She responds when Catra is brought up, and Horde Prime determines that he can use her as bait for Catra. Horde Prime sends a signal to Catra’s ship and tries to use Adora as a hostage, but Adora fights against him. She tells Catra not to come for her, that she isn’t worth it. Catra, however, doesn’t like being told what to do.

Anywho gay shit happens. Catra lectures Adora for being an idiot while Adora’s possessed and tries to break her out of it. When Adora falls, Catra jumps after her. Catra regains her Shera form saving Adora. When Adora wakes up, the two argue constantly because Adora thinks Catra should have left her behind.

Adora: You have no reason to forgive me. I know you all hate me.

Catra: I never hated you! I already forgave you! I hated seeing you get used! I hated Shadow Weaver and Hordac using you like a tool! I hated being away from you.

Adora: Then why avoid me? Why act like I’m dead to you?

Catra: Because it hurt! It hurt that you thought so lowly of me that you never bothered to listen when I finally started taking control of my life. When I became a better person, you became worse, and I hated myself for it.

Ha ha ha

These two both need therapy in every universe

I also want to give Adora and Catra more time together so they have more time to heal, grow, change. I want them to be friends and healthy before their gay love saves the universe.

Adora gets Swift Wind instead of the magic dog Catra gets. Not talking like Swift Wind but a horse with wings with magic powers.

I’ll talk about Catra’s wolf companion when I talk about Catra.

Adora’s people skills end up helping the rebellion a lot especially when they get to the surface and have to undo a lot of brain washing.

Catra crushes hard when Adora stands up to Shadow Weaver’s attempt to trick Catra into sacrificing herself

Catra gets pissed off when Adora tries to sacrifice herself in Catra’s place (as if that could even work). Adora reminds Catra that she promised they’d always stay together, and she already broke that promise when Catra left the horde. Wherever Catra goes, Adora will, even if it kills her.

I wouldn’t want the story to turn into Adora living for Catra, since Catra kind of ends up back in Adora’s shadow in cannon. So I’d probably give Adora her own ark around this part of the story where she leaves the camp to do something to help the Rebellion. Maybe she’ll be investigating something to do with Shera or with the fact she was an alien before and find out that she was originally supposed to be given the sword, but Light Hope chose Catra feeling that Catra would be more capable than Adora. Then they both get to be Shera (maybe I’d give Adora a new Shera design and hers can be called Aura or something like that.)

But yeah I’d want to have them be friends longer too and develop their individual issues separately before they get together in the end. Also longer time actually exploring their feelings for each other. I’ll probably make Horde Prime a bit less powerful but have him slowly get more powerful as time goes on so that the story isn’t so urgent to get through quickly.

At the end scene both Catra and Adora are trying to destroy the weapon together. When they start to falter they help each other stay up. Just as they think they’ve failed, they’ll confess their love for each other, then proceed to have the gay kiss that saves the Universe.

So yeah, that’s Lawful Evil turned Lawful Neutral turned Lawful Good Adora. I still have to rewatch the show and plan everything out properly, but I’m excited to see where this goes.

Glimmer will be next!

[warsamongthestars]

Back on my bullshit.

I've got a lot of questions, on how the TBBshow works exactly?

Cos yeah, its been clear for a long time, it doesn't want you asking questions because it will just, fall apart at the seams and go from Frankestein's monster to Frankenstein's ground floor beef.

Like, basic shit. Here's the Plot breaking questions:

HOW DID THEY RECRUIT STORMTROOPERS SO FAST? If they could just, recruit people out of the blue like that, like, Immediately Post-War side, not even 24 hours after the destruction of the Jedi Temple. Where the did they come from? And if they could just, come in like that, why weren't there any natborn armies during the Clone Wars itself? Recruitment takes a long time. Boot camps, at minimum, take 3 months real world. So, Plot Hole 1: Spawning Stormtroopers with Cheat Codes.

WHY DIDN'T THE CLONE ARMY REBEL? If the argument is, that the chip just Wears off, and we know that our troops can and will just rebel against bad officers (We've seen it happen), and that they all do have a pretty strong moral backbone in general... ... How come when this, so called "Wear off" occurred, we didn't see a rebellion enmass? Especially after Kamino's destruction? Still can't recruit and train people that fast, and there's still an entire clone army, and its pretty clear that the show claims there are lots of clones in the ranks and hiearchy... Clearly, it must not just "Wear Off". Plot Hole 2: Attempting to claim that established Sci-Fi Brain Tumors isn't Sci-Fi Cancerous.

WHY IS EVERYTHING EVERWHERE ELSE? Where is Cody? What's going on with Rex and his Rebellion? Why did Echo join that exactly, and how come the Batch couldn't be convinced? Why the fuck is Ventress even There. The story (and its writers) keep wanting to push that "Everything is going to occur at a later time". Well, mothers and fuckers of the audience, if Star Wars were to end tomorrow, like full on Vault Sealed Forever, or nobody has access to these "other stories" either by money or medium--then no, the Story didn't happen somewhere else--it simply Didn't Happen at all. Thus, teasing stories that simply Aren't, and refusing to fill in the story that Is. Plot Hole 3: The Excitement is Farther than the Galaxy Far Far Away

PABU The Empire knows about Pabu, it bombed it for the sake of the Force. You tellin' me that, after Tantis was done, Pabu just magically regerated with anti-Evil Empire shields? And that it wasn't immediately placed under Imperial control like EVERY PLANET TBB HAS ESTABLISHED SO FAR!? Plot Hole 4: You don't need to see their identification, this is not the planet you are looking for.

EMERIE KARR I like her concept, so I'm gonna be picking on her execution. So female clone that is effectively a narrative clone of Omega, except if Emerie existed at the same time as the Bad Batch (likely as its hinted 5th member) and the Clone Wars, as we're supposedly meant to believe that Omega did--how come Omega didn't know about her before. Where the fuck was she. Why would Hemlock be finding a random clone in nowhere space and decide that she was sexy enough to be the sexy lady evil scientist? Her concept is great, but current execution breaks the timeline. Plot Hole 5: Omega split into Omega 2 by Mitosis

HOW ARE THEY BROTHERS EXACTLY? How are our Main Characters brothers? I don't mean in the literal sense, I mean in the sense of "These guys are brothers in arms thick and thin, been through so much shit and came together in support in the face of adversity" And yet, the only thing we see is, bickering, no conversations, refusal to confront topics that directly affect them with each other, obsessing about anything else but actually talking to each other, abandoning each other at a moment's notice for one bullshit thing after another without discussion. Utterly ignoring each other when lives are on the line... Leaving one for Dead... Claiming that they're trying to protect their child sister in order to give her a place to grow up, but insist on bringing her on every dangerous mission ever, treating her as a child soldier... ... When they could've just robbed the stupid lizard bitch and been on that isolated planet they were talking about in Episode 2 before the end of Season 1. After a certain point, I think I should be calling The Galactic Child Protective Services Plot Hole 6: With Brothers like these, who needs enemies?

KILLING A MAIN CHARACTER (Aka "oh my gods they killed Kenny") In congruent to the above Plot Hole. They killed Tech, where's the fallout? Where's the effect? Are you telling me that Mayday, a random one episode clone, was more narratively important than Tech, who's been with us for years? And that's just the written death. The narrative deaths have occurred to all the Bad Batch. this bad ass squad who works together like instinct, is suddenly failing at everything, like its their first day off Kamino. Even though, by the show's own visual environmental storytelling, the Batch have been performing missions together since the first battle of Geonosis. They're more experienced than the Republic Commandos by those tally mark counts in their room wall. And yet, inspite of the visual story telling and the Clone Wars, and every piece of Clone Media prior to this Ever, they're suddenly the big bumbling buffkins who can't operate without running headfirst into the nearest beehive. Character deaths themselves occured... ... From Hunter being a generally snarky, one of the guys, who puts on a show of leadership for the Reg's sake--because a shallowed out parody of Optimus Prime and Captain Rex. ... To Crosshair, a snippy, keen if cruel sniper but with a heart of empathy, reduced to a hyper soldier even without the tumor. When this is the kind of man who would pick a fight with god on toothpick power alone. ... To Wrecker, whom for some reason, suddenly lacks skills he had in the Clone Wars. ... To Tech, who no longer gives out fun facts, or even has an emotional reaction to people getting hurt, like he used to in his first introductory episodes. (Remember the horror he had when he realized the Algorithm had a Human voice?) ... To Echo, once bold and audactious, guised beyind a clone who is a seeming rule stickler--now a bitchy side piece who eventually just leaves instead of having a conversation with the very team that took him in, who reduced his once partner-batchmte Fives to a foot note. One story written death, Five Narrative Deaths, Five Character Deaths, because what was had in the Clone Wars--of which the TBBshow explicitly says its a direct sequel to--clearly wasn't here when this started. Whoever these guys are, they aren't the Bad Batch. Plot Hole 7: Fell at Sunrise and Was replaced by Mirrors

PLOT HOLE: the Rush A special mention plot hole that occurs when you place too much action in too short of time with too little thought. Effectively attempting to turn a TV show, subscription serivce or not, into a 25 minute long tiktok-vine-ytshort. Its exhausting, its Patience killing, it has no Pace; and to believe that this is a good thing, means that you are Also affected by the Rush and should probably pick up a real book or maybe play Pokemon Generation 1 or pick up a text adventure, because you are going too fast for your brain to handle it and it is not good for you. Its commercialism techniques. Don't make them the new norm.

If I've missed any plot holes, lemme know, I'll take a look. Even with my SPECIAL EYES (MY BRAND!) I can't spot everything.

[pricescigar]

Vampire!Price & Elvira Wolff Lore

Even though I've written Vampire!Price twice, I'm going to dump some new lore between Vampire!Price & Elvira Wolff

I have been brainstorming for a while because why not >:)

(And also because I've been too shy to share it lmao)

You could say I got heavily inspired by Bram Stoker's Dracula / Castlevania because it's my brainrot ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

ANYWAYS... LETS BEGIN

John Price lore

Captain John Price, also known as "Dracula." "Prince of Darkness." "King of the Night."

Before he became a Vampire was of course a famous captain in the British army in the Medieval era ranging from 500AD to 1500's. John was born at some point in the early 1060 A.D. exactly date, month, was deemed to been long forgotten. The older you get, of course you forget your age and the people around you who are long dead now.

In his human years standing proudly at 190.50 cm / 6ft3 , short brown hair that was always slicked back. His blue eyes shone in the sunlight. Chizzled mutton chops, always neatly shaved regardless of time and place.

At a young age he joined the army, leaving the life he knew behind. He became an excellent swordsman, leader & strategist. He was a young man after all, well built, strong like any man.

Knowing the basic means of survival thanks to all what his father taught him, his father's name forever unknown to everyone else but John.

He sought his enemies to be dead upon the battlefield, always the one to rush into Battle. With his great courage and bravery he quickly became captain, leading his men into Battle with no hesitation. Despite all of the Battles he had won, he wanted more. Of course, John was immensely recognised by his bravery, leadership. He wanted more; He wanted to be King.

At the time had a supposed lover by his side. Despite how forbidden it was for a Knight to have fallen in love with a Princess, he did fall in love with her. He wanted nothing more to take her hand, and make her his. Yet... she soon passed away due to a grave illness, which also made him angry and guilty.

Greed & Power could only get a man so far. With deadly consequences, he betrayed the King, the same one who knighted him all those years ago. Taking the Throne for himself, his other relatives had been slaughtered, taking no second chances. While he sat ever so proudly at the Thone, killing anyone who had defied, dared to betray him.

(That had also meant most of his soldiers for that matter)

To be the Kingdom's forever ruler, John sought out means to possess immortality. He heard of many rumours that of a "Crimson Stone." By any means necessary, the stone got into Price's possession thus he gained immortality. But at a cost.

He became a Vampire. His appearance changed as a whole, all forms of humanity, forms of emotions were gone.

His skin became paler, his ears almost pointed. Teeth sharp like canines, sharp nails that could easily cut you at the slightest touch; Standing now at a staggering height 213cm / 7ft.

With his powers he managed to revive his men forming an undead army, at the bend of his will. Raging War on anyone. With his now gift of immortality, he also gained knowledge of Necromancy & master of Sorcery. Although he gained the common abilities of a Vampire. Price was the most special one of all.

Under the restrained rule of John Price, a band of rebels formed a resistance. A band of powerful sorcerers. With Price's newfound powers, it raged a powerful battle. Almost defeating Price he transformed into a bat, escaping just in the nick of time before his ultimate demise.

One of the sorcerers that almost killed him was a member of the Wolff family. Escaping England for good, moving far away to another foreign land. Yet over time, Supernatural forces grew despite Price's dissappearence, Vampires spawning everywhere causing destruction everywhere.

Soon a Hunters Regieme was formed to tackle the supernatural creatures.

-

Elvira Wolff lore

The Wolff family became strong as the generations went by, one of the many few families built the Hunters Regime, and what it became of in this day and age.

Elvira's mother passed away during birth, so it's been herself and father that stuck through thick and thin. Along with Elvira's godfather, godmother and uncles in their family estate.

Elvira was trained from a young age to be a hunter like her family members, from the age of 5 her training begun. Her knowledge was built on by reading various books about the supernatural creatures; How to fight them, how to deal with them, what to do when you encounter one.

(The list goes on)

By the age of 10 Elvira already had basic knowledge of supernatural creatures, but that was a starting point of her career path.

As she grew older her father got attacked and seduced by a Vampire and eventually turned into one. Bit by bit, all forms of humanity dissapeared within him.

Elvira's godparents, and uncles died in the hands of her father as they tried protecting her but to no avail. Dietrich always had the upper hand.

Elvira became a captive in her own home, each night she heard the various screams of men, women, being dragged into the family estate so Dietrich could feed on his eternal hunger.

Elvira did all she could to save them but that would only result in punishment, when she turned 21 in 1476. She risked her life to do the inevitable. Eliminating her father.

She risk burning down her family estate, trapping her father in it. By the time she got out Elvira was gravelly inured, yet she survived.

The Hunters came and nursed her back to health, yet due to her father's betrayl she had to work hard to regain their trust once more.

Her mission was to kill the Vampire King, John Price. Elvira had everything she needed to make the mission successful.

Yet the moment Price set his eyes on Elvira, the young woman reminded him for his long lost princess... His lover.

[thebadboyfanclub]

Grow Forever, Never Yield (Aemond x Reader)

This was actually the easiest one to write, I loved writing this character and wanted to write a slightly enemies to lovers type of thing, this was requested by @aegvn I hope this is what you imagined and you enjoy it as much as I did

“The prince has surpassed me in his sword fighting skills I am no longer a worthy opponent to him, I would like to invite another skilled warrior to court”

“Whom will that be Ser Criston?”

“The lady (y/n) Phoenix”

“Of firebend? They would never allow their own to join our court”

The house of Phoenix at the firebend land was amongst the last of the rebels and as allied themselves with the Dornish during the age of Aegon the conqueror, inevitably they came to a treaty of peace with the Targaryen king that allowed them somewhat freedom if they agreed to acknowledge Targaryens as the true kings, in retaliation they decided to make the words of their house be

“Grow forever, never yield”

The lady (y/n) was the second child of Nevan Phoenix, she was known for her skill at yielding a sword amongst all of 7 kingdoms, the girl was young, mayhaps a year or two Aemonds senior still she had established herself to be a legend and a name that could install fear to any knight with a mixture of the men wanting to meet this legend that came from the far lands of firebend.

“Who would be better at preparing a prince for any battle other than what they call “the strangers' daughter”?”

The house of Phoenix had been in battle when she was just at the age of 14, thankfully the girl seemed to scoff at death, (y/n) had come victorious and led her brothers' army better than any man would have, to gaze upon her stallion as she held her sword and waited to give the signal to charge was a sight only a few could witness,

“If you die, die with honor”

(Y/n) would often say to her soldiers, some even whispered that even though she got injured she kept on fighting, hence the nickname of her being a descendant of the God of death.

Otto leaned back in his chair, it would be a great opportunity to remind the Phoenix of their treaty, with Viserys getting weaker and Rhaenyras claim shaking if Aegon had Phoenix on his side then others would follow only out of fear of facing her in battle.

“I suppose sending a raven would not be so bad”

“I will arrange it, thank you, lord hand”

-

(Y/n) was already bored of kings landing, the place reeked of piss and the common folk is starving, she had opened the window of her carriage and she could already count dead bodies that lay on the streets.

“What is the purpose of dragons and glory if you cannot even take care of your land and people?”

“Unfortunately some kings do not see past their noses and tall castle walls”

Her father responded he was not pleased with the visit either, howbeit he had given up his seat as the lord of the land to his firstborn son Henley since Nevan had phrased it as

“I am too old to support my family, I shall pass the torch and legacy to a mind full of ideas and a heart full of zest for life”

Henley was a noble and wise young man, peaceful and certainly diplomatic, he could talk his way out of anything before his opponent could even comprehend what had happened.

(y/n) was close to her dear brother and was immensely proud of the man he had grown to be, Henley’s first decision was to announce (y/n) as the First Lady commander of the knights, she was the reason he was alive.

“Why did we even agree to this? I do not wish to train a spoiled brat of a prince”

“Aemond Targaryen is a prince and mounts a very large dragon, as much as we are rebels at heart we must pick our battles wisely”

Her father advised her making her blow bubbles out of boredom mixed with denial of his words standing true, they could have easily found a way to deny the invite, she was certain that her brother hid behind this act of kindness, to keep their end of the bargain and appear as a pacifist leader to avoid conflict.

Before (y/n) could utter another smart remark and ridicule the name “Targaryen” even further she was interrupted by the carriage coming to a halt, she took a deep breath as a way to steal time and gather herself along with restraining her attitude.

“Let’s get this over with”

She spoke in a gritted tone before she got off their carriage to stand next to her father, before she was standing at the queen and lord hand, along with a young girl and boy, the queen did her best to hide her surprise at the young lady’s appearance, however (y/n) picked up at the widen eyes and clench of the fists which only made her smirk.

“Queen Alicent, I must thank you for the invite to your court”

“Welcome to kings landing lord Phoenix, it is an honor to have you and your daughter here”

(Y/n) chose to stay silent, her demeanor was cold and stoic as she held her head high and her chest puffed out, she mirrored her father down to his core, a true warrior.

Her copper hair was pulled back to one thick braid making her scar that overtook almost the entire left side of her face even more intense and visible, it was quite ironic since Aemonds had lost his right eye whilst the lady was missing her left.

The scar she held was twice the size of Aemonds, whoever did it wanted to cause pain and even craved to disfigure her, Aemond thought that not only did that person fail but since the lady was standing and had created a legend out of her name the person was unsuccessful, she was the most interesting person Aemond had ever seen, he never thought he would say a such thing but “she wears it well”

Her clothing was a dark dress but if you took a close look the detail of it was marvelous, you could even observe the drawing of a Phoenix at the hem of it, it was certainly eye-catching yet it embodies her character.

“Is this why you asked us to train the prince? You believed I would be best because of our similar injury?”

(Y/n) was visibly offended by this coincidence, it was truly not Ser Coles's intention nor reasoning behind his choice of a teacher, it all came down to the tales of her talent that he had heard amongst other soldiers.

(Y/n) spoke in a calm tone yet her voice was stern and demanding, she stared at Aemonds soul with fire in her eyes, Aemond was also taken back by the lady, it was the first time he had seen someone as young as him that has suffered the same fate as him.

“No, my lady, we do not wish to offend you, we merely admire your accomplishments”

Ser Criston took a step forward as he was the one responsible for (y/n)s arrival to court, silence overtook the group as Nevan was also skeptical now that he was present, he also did not want to intervene since it might make the matters worse knowing his daughters' temper stops at nothing when she feels disrespected or threatened.

“We have heard tales of you but you are beyond our expectations, my lady, we just wish for our prince to learn from the best”

“Very well, I think we had enough pleasantries, we are not here to sweet talk one another, I shall rest for the rest of the day, I will see the prince on the morrow at your training yard, I do not want to be disturbed by anyone unless it is my father until then, whom will escort us to our chambers?”

-

(Y/n) had whipped the prince to shape, she was resilient, cunning, and tireless, Aemonds entire body ached so bad that he had to sit in a bath of scorching water just to ease his muscles for at least an hour.

(Y/n) had once barged in and laughed at him, she ridiculed him with her words as Aemonds face showed no emotion as she spoke, well mostly as she laughed at him from her high horse “Was she also in pain? Probably too stubborn to admit that the practice also took a toll on her” he thought as he watched her go back and forth in front of him, though he was filled with rage from her little stunt, how dare she walk in at a such vulnerable hour.

“What type of lady walks in so shamelessly when a man is bare? I take it as a sign of you not being a true maiden?”

“Is that all you got? Your pride is so bruised that you cannot think of a better insult than one of my virtue? I suppose it suits a man, still, I would take not being a maiden if I had to choose to be that or laying with my brother or uncle”

Aemonds next move was something that she did not even expect, he rose revealing every single part of him, to Aemonds surprise (y/n) was unfazed and just eyeballed him straight in the face, she did not even glance for just a minute past his neck nor was there any sign of her being uncomfortable.

“I understand that in your land you have different customs but you are in kings Landing now, Vhagar is quite peckish around this hour and you would surely be a delectable snack to her”

“You can do as such that is true, are you sure you want to face the wrath of my family? We did not name our land firebend for nothing”

(Y/n) had a way of pushing his buttons, sending him to madness, and forcing him into losing his cool was her favorite hobby, one would suppose it is befitting if you take into consideration that her family's entire legacy was to oppose the Targaryens and remind them that they would always be the thorn that bled their reputation, even going as far as to making their sigil a Phoenix with its wings spread, the animal that is known for rising amongst the ashes, the ashes of dragon fire in this situation.

Aemond relished walking in the garden upon the hour of the ghosts, it was the only time this forsaken castle was quiet, Aemond had lived almost his entire life in solitude, not a child that made friends naturally and that worsened after Driftmark, the silence brought him comfort as the breeze went through him was refreshing.

“Incoming”

A voice erupted as someone attacked him from the back, luckily Aemond was quick on his feet and ducked just in time to miss the spike of a sword only by an inch, Aemond was unharmed and forced to defend himself with his bare hands.

“You sneaky bitch”

He spat as he went into defense, he could barely see her from the darkness that surrounded him as she marched at him with full force, you could hear their grunts as they had a go at one another.

“You think every war will be in broad daylight and fair? Some bastard can attack you even when you take a piss”

She taunted him, (y/n) did not hold back nor empathized with the prince who was put in a situation that wasn’t beneficial to him whatsoever, on the contrary, she was thoroughly enjoying seeing him struggle.

Aemond had suffered from attacks ever since the incident, in this moment he was pulled back into the time he was a boy and had to come out alive after his nephews resorted to violence over Vhagar, his breath was short and sharp as his eye squinted and had started to sweat.

Aemond grew vicious, not caring for precautions or if he made some serious damage to her, in his delirium he was placed in a death or life situation and he would be damned if he did not come out of this alive and well.

(Y/n)s laughter was replaced by a loud grunt and a thud once her back was forced against the wall and Aemonds hand was by her neck, his fingers clenching her airway making it harder for her to draw a breath.

“Yield”

He commanded in a low tone at her as she struggled under his grasp, he detected the struggle in her eye, even then her pride was strong, visible since she refused to make a sound and did her best to keep her composure, she did not want to give him the satisfaction of taking her as weak.

At that moment something in him changed, instinctively his chest collided with hers, the warmth of her body was inviting and her scent of vanilla was mouthwatering, he didn't even realize how close he had come to with his nose tracing her neck.

(Y/n) grew goosebumps at the strange sensation though she was thankful that Aemond was distracted enough to loosen his grip, she remained still as she took a few breaths to relax her system and regain her strength.

“What are you doing?”

“I was imagining a blade gracing this gorgeous neck of yours”

“Strange, I would love to do the same to you”

Aemond let out a sound of pain at the sudden move of (y/n) kneeing him in his stomach, she wanted to go for the crotch still she decided it would be best to spare him this one time.

Aemond took a step back however he laughed between his agony at her stubbornness of not wanting to admit that she enjoyed the intimate encounter as much as he did, his arms hugged him to soothe his stomach from the pain while she looked down at him, her hands were shaking and for a minute she wanted to run away, hide after being caught like a little girl that was eyeing the stable boy.

“It was silly of you to ask me to yield, you have forgotten I am a Phoenix, a word of advice for next time, never lose focus”

“I never lost focus my lady, I had no weapon, so I used what was available, my charm”

“Well judging by the fact I only kneed you and did not draw my sword from the belly button to your shoulder then never do that again”

“Was it truly that repulsive or are you just so prideful that you do not crave to admit that you liked it?”

“Don’t be ridiculous”

“Am I? Sweet (y/n)”

His voice was melodic as he got closer to her once again, now it was her that was defenseless and she was back again to the wall, the eye contact between them never broke as Aemonds hands found their way to the sides of her waist, (y/n) was frozen, for once in a life she did not know what to do.

Aemond was in full control when his nose brushed against hers and (y/n) closed her eyes letting out a breath that parted her lips ever so slightly.

“Seven hells, let us not do this”

“Why? The sweetest bite comes from the forbidden fruit”

“Mayhaps, but I am no fruit, I am a warrior and you are a stuck-up, obnoxious, little prick”

“A little prick that has you blushing, it is alright, I am a gentleman, and I will not expose you if you choose to take a bite”

Requests are open!

[glitterp0prhaps0dy]

Bad Hair Day

It was Friday night, which meant Carol and Riff were in the house. Floyd, now equipped with crutches since his sprained ankle had healed but his leg remained broken, sat on the floor, taking it easy. Barb lounged on the couch behind him, busy styling his hair into whatever wild creation she pleased. Meanwhile, Carol had gathered an assortment of ingredients, concocting something slimy-looking.

Riff occupied the house phone, ordering a pizza for the evening's indulgence.

Thrash had planned to spend the evening at home, but plans took an unexpected turn when Sid Frett decided to drop by for a visit. Sid wasn't alone; accompanying him was his unusual but charming pet bat, which nestled comfortably in his lap. As Carol busied herself concocting one of her infamous slime recipes, Sid assisted by passing her various ingredients, all the while gently stroking his bat.

Meanwhile, Rebel was on a mission throughout the house. She was diligently collecting blankets, pillows, sheets, and a variety of plushies. Her goal was to transform the living room into a cozy fort where everyone could gather, relax, and enjoy the playful ambiance of their makeshift hideaway. The evening was shaping up to be one of those spontaneous gatherings that promised laughter and a touch of whimsy.

Carol triumphantly lifted the bowl above her head, her face alight with mischievous glee. "BEHOLD! My latest masterpiece! Bow before the might of my slime creation!" she proclaimed, her voice echoing through the room.

Sid chuckled, shaking his head in amusement. "You've outdone yourself, Carol. That looks... interesting."

Riff, from his spot on the couch, smirked and called back, "That thing's more terrifying than half the horror movies we've watched!"

Floyd, still fiddling with his crutches, couldn't help but laugh. "Just don't get any of that goo near me, please."

Roxanne, the bat, seemed particularly captivated by the glittering slime. With a swift flutter of her wings, she swooped down, snatched the bowl from Carol's hands, and ascended rapidly, perching herself high on a bookshelf where no one could reach.

"Hey! Roxanne, bring that back!" Carol shouted, jumping up in an attempt to retrieve her creation.

Sid stood, trying to coax the bat gently. "C'mon, Roxanne, let's not start a slime war here."

Riff joined in, "Maybe she wants to add bat artistry to it, eh?"

As they all tried different tactics to persuade Roxanne, the bat seemed to consider their pleas. With a sudden decision, she tipped the bowl and dropped it right as Rebel walked into the room. The slime cascaded down, landing with a splat on the left side of Rebel's head, covering her hair and shoulder in sticky, glittery goo.

Rebel froze, wide-eyed and slimed. "Seriously? Right when I thought this day couldn't get any stickier," she groaned, wiping the goo from her face.

Carol burst into laughter, even as she rushed over with apologies. "I swear it's good for your skin... or hair... maybe?"

Riff couldn't contain his mirth. "Looks like you've been officially initiated by Roxanne's slime baptism!"

Floyd, still safely away from the slime fiasco, grinned. " It's not a proper hangout until something weird happens."

Rebel playfully hurled a bundle of blankets at Floyd, sending him toppling over with a surprised yelp. The soft landing cushioned his fall, eliciting a small puff of air as he landed. Next, a barrage of plushies flew towards Carol, who welcomed them with a triumphant shout of "MY ARMY!" She gathered them around her protectively, as if preparing for battle.

With everyone suitably equipped for the fort-building mission, Rebel distributed the remaining items she had gathered. She then made her way to the kitchen, intent on washing off the sticky remnants of slime from her encounter with Roxanne's playful antics.

Barb followed Rebel into the kitchen, grabbing a towel as she entered. "Need a hand?" she asked, pitching in without waiting for a reply.

"Thanks," Rebel replied, turning on the faucet and adjusting the temperature. "How's your day been?"

"Usual chaos," Barb chuckled, helping to work shampoo into Rebel's hair. "Carol's experiments never cease to amaze me—or terrify me, depending on the day."

Rebel laughed, her head under the stream of water. "Yeah, her creativity is something else. I'm just glad her enthusiasm is mostly contained to non-explosive materials these days."

As they worked the suds through the tangled locks, they soon realized the slime was stubbornly clinging on. They exchanged a glance, a mix of frustration and amusement in their eyes. "Well, this is going to be tougher than I thought," Rebel sighed.

Rebel and Barb were at their wit's end trying to remove the stubborn slime from Rebel's hair. They had already tried multiple remedies, from dish soap to mayonnaise, but nothing seemed to work. The slime clung to her hair like it was meant to be there permanently.

"Okay, let's not panic. We'll figure this out," Barb reassured Rebel, though her own confidence was waning.

Carol, feeling responsible for the mess, joined in. "Let me try something else," she suggested, fetching a bottle of vinegar from the kitchen. "This could help break it down," she said with hopeful eyes. Despite their doubts, Rebel let her pour the vinegar over her head, wincing at the smell.

"Anything?" Carol asked, her voice filled with hope.

"Just a stinky head," Rebel replied, frustrated as she rinsed her hair yet again, only to find the slime mocking their efforts.

Seeing the ongoing struggle, Floyd limped in with a new suggestion. "What about ice? Freeze it and maybe it'll peel right off?"

"That sounds... a bit extreme," Rebel hesitated but agreed out of desperation. They wrapped her hair in ice packs, waiting for a miracle that never came. The slime remained, unaffected by the cold.

Riff entered the scene with a confident stride. "I've got it—club soda. Works on stains all the time," he announced, pouring the fizzy liquid over Rebel's head. Everyone watched anxiously, only to sigh in disappointment as it too failed to dislodge the sticky mess.

The frustration was palpable when Carol, out of ideas and feeling guilty, blurted out, "Well damn... Well, it looks like we're gonna have to cut it out."

"YOU'RE NOT CUTTING MY HAIR!" Rebel shouted, the very idea pushing her to her limits.

After a tense silence, Rebel finally relented. With a resigned nod, she allowed Carol to grab a pair of scissors and begin snipping away at the slime-encrusted hair. Piece by piece, the slime-coated locks fell away, revealing a surprisingly stylish side shave haircut underneath.

As the last of the slime-coated hair fell away, Rebel examined her new 'do in the mirror, a mix of surprise and amusement crossing her face. "Well, I guess this is one way to shake things up," she remarked, a hint of a smile playing at her lips.

Everyone regrouped in the living room, each member of the group ready to dive into the fort-building project. Floyd, still navigating with crutches, showed no signs of slowing down as he directed the placement of cushions and blankets. Together, they draped sheets over chairs and tables, transforming the space into a cozy enclave. Pillows were strategically placed for comfort, while plushies scattered across the ground added an extra layer of softness.

As they were setting the last blanket in place, a knock echoed through the room. Riff, ever eager, dashed to the door. His face lit up as he greeted the pizza delivery person, the aroma of freshly baked pizza filling the air as he brought the box inside. The group gathered around, each taking a slice, their fort-building efforts momentarily paused in favor of the delicious treat.

With their energy replenished, the movie picking session began. Carol kicked things off with her choice, a bizarre sci-fi called "Galactic Goo Monsters from Mars." Floyd selected a classic action-packed thriller, "Skyline Heist," known for its spectacular stunts and explosive plot. Barb, ever the romantic at heart despite her tough exterior, surprised everyone with a little-known indie film, "Whispers of the Heart." Riff rounded out the selection with a horror flick, "Nightmare on Crow Street," which he claimed would keep everyone on their toes.

With a stack of movies lined up, the group settled into their plush fortress. The lights dimmed, the first movie began, and laughter mingled with the occasional shriek filled the room. As the night wore on and the final credits rolled on their movie marathon, the group decided to break out Monopoly to keep the fun going.

The game started friendly enough, with each player strategically acquiring properties and building their empire. However, as the game progressed, the competitive spirit took over. Sid found himself relegated to jail after a risky decision didn't pay off, spending turn after turn unable to escape. Riff, on the other hand, thrived, amassing almost all the game's money and properties, becoming a Monopoly mogul. Barb wasn’t as fortunate; her finances in the game mirrored a rollercoaster ride, ultimately leaving her bankrupt.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

As the night deepened, the energy of the room gradually wound down. The once lively banter and laughter subsided into a comfortable silence punctuated only by the soft soundtrack of their final movie flickering in the background. One by one, the group succumbed to the warmth and coziness of their makeshift fortress. The plushies that once lay scattered on the ground now served as soft, makeshift pillows or cuddly companions as each member found their spot under the expansive blanket ceiling.

Sid, exhausted from his extended Monopoly jail time, was the first to drift off. He nestled into a snug space between Floyd and Riff, his head resting on a particularly fluffy stuffed dragon. Floyd, managing to adjust his crutches beside him, leaned back against a pile of cushions, his breathing slow and even as he too fell asleep. Riff, ever the night owl, stayed awake a bit longer, his eyes barely keeping open as he watched over his friends like a protective older brother. Eventually, even his eyelids grew heavy, and he joined the others in slumber, his hand still clutching a handful of Monopoly money as if guarding his empire even in sleep.

Barb, known among her friends for her ability to sleep through almost anything, was out like a light. She had inadvertently turned Carol into her personal pillow, her head resting comfortably on Carol's shoulder. Carol, slightly less comfortable but too amused by the situation to move, watched Barb for a few moments, smiling softly at her friend's gentle snoring before her own eyes closed, and she too drifted off.

Rebel found a quiet corner of the fort, away from the gentle chaos of her friends. Roxanne, curled up in the crook of her neck, both finding comfort in the presence of the other. Rebel's breathing was soft and rhythmic, a peaceful counterpoint to the occasional snuffle or shift from the others.

As the movie ended, the TV cast a soft glow over the room, illuminating the peaceful scene. The fort, filled with friends and laughter just hours before, now hosted a serene tableau of connected lives, the outside world forgotten for a few precious hours. In this safe haven of blankets and dreams, they shared more than just a space; they shared a bond that nights like these only deepened.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hours later, as the night deepened into the wee hours, Thrash returned home. The house was quiet, the only sound the gentle hum of the refrigerator and the soft murmur of the TV left on low. As he entered the living room, he spotted the group of sleeping teenagers, nestled within their cozy fort. Their peaceful slumber brought a warm smile to Thrash's face, a rare moment of tranquility in their often chaotic lives.

However, his serene reverie was abruptly shattered when his gaze landed on Rebel and her unexpected companion. Roxanne, the bat, was curled up beside Rebel, nuzzled against her neck in a display of unusual affection. Thrash's eyes widened in shock, his mind racing with a million questions and concerns.

He stood frozen for a moment but then started retreating to the safety of his own room. In the end, his instinct for self-preservation won out. With a mixture of fear and bewilderment, Thrash turned on his heels and hurriedly ascended the stairs, seeking refuge in the solitude of his bedroom.

[sangyeonsmuse]

BREAK THE WALLS | Kim Hongjoong

Chapter 8 | Chapter 9 | Full Chapter List

🀥 Government agent Hongjoong x Rebel Oc

🀥 genre | dystopian society, halazia x geurilla concept , enemies to lovers

🀥 word count | 1.1k

🀥 Summary | An organization by the name of Sector 1 was well known for their work in the underground, theyve been well known for the recruiting of teens and using them to form an army since the year 2034. Collecting strays for their rebellion against those in higher power. Now the year is 2064 and the organization still runs strong they run like a family, with the new technology theyve found ways of keeping alive those that have been scorned in any past battles theyve had against the government.

When the government sends in 7 of their best men to infiltrate the organization. What will they do when their cover is blown and their true intentions are revealed? Will they join the rebellion or will they continue to let the government pull their strings like the little puppets they once were?

Bjvjb

Skylar district September 20th 2064

"This is what all of you have trained for, their recruitment day is getting nearer and you need to make sure that every single one of you makes it in. We didnt take them all out the first time but i'll make damn sure we take out every single person in that organization this time." A government official spoke authoritatively as he stood on the end of a long office table.

"Yes sir." Seven men all respond in sync at the mans words

When the meeting was over they all found themselves in a large practice room, a place where the seven of them all seemed to spend most of their time since they first started their work for the government.

"Oo what do you think it'll be like down there? You think they serve good food?" One of the seven rambles on curiously.

"Wooyoung this isn't a vacation or tropical getaway, that should be the last thing you worry about."

"Seonghwa is right, we need to take this seriously. If we pull through and succeed with this mission we become officials."

"I have also kinda wondered what things are like down there as well though Joong. I mean I know that Eden has told us a lot but he's never been down there right? What if it's a lot tougher than we thought?" Another chimes in

"Tough or not we need to go into this with our heads straight and our minds set on the right things san, he gave us 8 months to figure out their plans, that means we got no time to waste." Hongjoong responds making them all go silent.

Skylar district October 14th 2064

"You know just because your body doesn't operate like a humans now doesn't mean you should spend all your time in the airlock, Tahani." Eris nagged at the girl as she made sure that everything in the girl's new body was functioning properly. "And i don't wanna hear you whining about your name again, i refuse to call you anything but Tahani."

Knowing that the girl really would continue to call her by her birth name she simply just sighs in defeat as she sat compliantly on the cyber scanner.

"I want to be ready this time, I'm more than sure that Loren knows we'll be coming for him which means he'll prepare diligently. You know hes always been a fucking coward so in more than sure he wont be alone when we aim for the alaura tower." Tahani had it all planned out, every calculation, every possible outcome, she had thought of them all. This time even if they once again saw them coming she would make it her mission to make sure Loren suffered.

"Tahani Loren has been off the grid since that day, hasn't been spotted once, we don't even know if he's still in the city." Eris responds as she disconnects the many wires and tubes that had been locked tight against Tahanis body moments prior.

"Even if he isnt I owe him the most merciless death, he got my family killed and wiped out half of the Sector without a second thought. Our friends are dead because of him. Even if I have to search this entire god forsaken damn planet when the mission is done i'll do it. Life won't satisfy me until they're all dead."

With those final words she pushes herself up from the scanner and leaves the OASIS. As she pushes past the doors her body slams into someone on the other side.

"Sorry didnt see- you. What are you doing down here? This area isn't within your jurisdiction." Tahani found herself glaring at one of the seven that she had seen walking around with Jongho moments prior.

"I kinda uhh...got lost, there were like 8 different hallways to take and I couldn't remember where the Jongho guy said shared living quarters were." The tall silver haired male rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. For some reason he found himself shrinking down at the girl's presence.

Tahani simply rolled her eyes before pushing past the boy. Thinking she meant for him to follow her he found himself running after the girl before stopping at her side.

"None of us got to introduce ourselves earlier by the way, I'm Mingi. Uh, your name was Hira right?" Even though Tahani hadn't shown the least bit of interest in the boy he continued to ramble on

"Jongho said you've been here for four years? You must be one of their most skilled by now then." It was then that an annoyed sigh spilled from Tahanis lips.

"Listen, Mingi? It is Mingi right ? I'd rather walk in silence if you don't mind. Weren't you supposed to be looking for your living quarters or something anyways?"

"Wait- so you weren't taking me there? I thought you wanted me to follow your lead or something." Mingi stood there dumbfounded at the fact that he followed her even further into the hallway all for nothing. It was then that he looked up and his eyes caught sight of a large G on the wall behind the girl.

"Oh I get it you were just messing with me cause im a new recruit right? You really did walk me here." He responds cheerfully with a laugh before pushing past the girl and into the door behind her.

"I'm sorry what- wait you cant go in there." And as she followed the silver head boy inside she was forced to stop dead in her tracks as her eyes landed on Jongho, Leedo and the other six men all chatting as if it was a daily occurence.

"Why are they here?" Her loud voice caused all attention to fall on her.

"They're training for the G unit.." Leedo responds in a tone that implies it was something she should have already known.

"I'm sorry but come again? What the hell do you mean they're training for the G unit?"

"Hira..its been two years you have to let go." Jonghos response only angered the girl more.

"Let go? You want me to let go? Mingyu promised he fucking promised we wouldnt replace any of them. Now these guys show up, seven men who Im not sure i even want to fucking trust and you tell me to just let go? You look at me Jongho, all of me and tell me. If you ended up how i did would you be able to let go?" And with that she storms out of the room leaving the nine boys to simply just look around at one another.

[teakookssi]

Before I Leave You [Eren/Levi x Reader FF]

[ full story can be found here or here ] [Overview & prologue] ➺ pairing: levi ackerman/eren jeager x fem!reader  ➺content: mafia au, crime, arranged marriage, enemies to lovers, angst, lol so much angst ➺warnings: violence, blood, strong language, guns/weapons, and illegal activities are all mentioned but hey, that’s aot for you, so if you can handle that, you can handle this (: 

chapter 14: here comes a consequence

You’re sitting across from Jean and Connie in the dimly lit parlor of your home playing cards on the coffee table when Sasha walks in, silent as a wraith. Only Bear, who had been at your feet playing with his toy mouse made out of wool, sprints out the door the moment she arrives.

Sasha herself lingers by the door wearing a grim expression on her face, but she does nothing to make her presence known. Just continues to watch you, Jean, and Connie play for a while longer.

You don't acknowledge her either, knowing that she has come to report something you probably don’t want to hear. But there’s also an open bottle of whiskey in the center of the table and a cigarette in between your fingers — two of your main sources of comfort—so you reckon that should be enough to keep you amicable, or as close to it as you are capable of being.

The room itself has a calming ambiance so she has that in her favor as well. The velvet emerald green curtains behind you make the room’s lighting even darker against the forest green walls, while the smoke of the lit cigarettes in the room surround you like a hazy blanket; impairing your vision to anything beyond so that the world outside seems distant and inconsequential.

Eventually, your patience wears out.

“You just going to stand there all day?” you question Sasha without looking up from the cards in your hand. “Or are you actually going to speak?”

Connie and Jean look to you with a puzzled expression on their faces before quickly realizing you’re not talking to them after noticing Sasha standing by the door behind them.

“Sasha!” Jean calls to her in surprise from his seat, craning his neck slightly at the door behind Sasha to look left and right. “Where’s Mikasa?”

“On patrol,” Sasha replies back simply. After a brief pause, she then adds tightly, “As am I.”

You take a long drag from your cigarette and languidly exhale the smoke into the air, already aware of this.

Mikasa had come to you late last night to inform you that she and Sasha had been assigned to join your father to visit Armin's new territory the following morning. This wasn’t surprising to you. Ymir most likely wanted to check how business was doing and if there was any problems he needed to be aware of regarding the sudden change in leadership within the sector.

“Well, let’s hear it then,” you prompt, placing a card from your hand on the table to draw another from the deck in front of you. “Has Armin managed to meet my father’s expectations or is he set on replacing him with one of his own?”

“He seemed satisfied enough,” your wraith reports.

You raise an eyebrow, taking in her worried expression. “Then why do you have that look on your face?”

Sasha’s scowl deepens. “My spies have told me there have been rumors going around the Colossus Sector. Of rebels trying to instigate an uprise against Armin’s leadership—people loyal to Bertholt’s family. Before we left, I confirmed this with Armin.” She steps forward and hands you a piece of paper while Jean and Connie exchange glances. “He gave me the names of the ones he suspects are leading the revolt.”

You take the paper from her and find two names written in Armin’s slanted handwriting. You read the names aloud. “Colt Grice and Marcel Galliard?”

Sasha nods grimly.

You recline back on the couch, cards still in your hand, and though you appear relaxed, your muscles are taut. You poke at the inside of your mouth with your tongue, annoyed. “My father knows about this?”

Sasha looks uneasy. “When Ymir questioned him about the rumors, Armin assured him there was nothing to worry about. That the situation had been handled.”

“But it hasn’t?”

Sasha remains silent.

You nod. “So he lied to my father.”

“Considering your current situation, Armin didn’t want to worsen your situation by telling your father just how actively his enemies are plotting his demise. But Armin thinks these loyalists will make their move soon and urges we be on high alert for any suspicious activity.”

“Annie and Reiner have been awfully quiet since Armin took over the Colossal sector,” Jean points out.

Sasha gives a small shake of her head. “There has been no evidence tying them to these rebel groups.”

“They were close allies to Berthold,”Jean argues back. “Do you really think they’d stand by and let him be humiliated and stripped of his power the way he was without doing something to avenge him?”

“Maybe it’s one of the other sectors allying against us?” Connie offers.

“Regardless of who else is behind it,” Sasha cuts in, arms crossed against her chest, “we have the beginnings of a rebellion in our hands. And Bertholdt’s loyalists are leading the charge. That much we know to be true.”

You rub your temples, fighting off a headache. You’re growing agitated so you reach for the bottle of scotch in front of you to pour yourself a glass.

“It is to be expected, isn’t it?” Connie says absentmindedly. “After the way their leader was treated.”

You down your drink in one swing. “No,” you correct harshly with a growl, wiping your mouth with the back of your hand. “This is what happens when we choose to let them live.”

If your father had just let you kill them all, this would have never happened.

“It was the only way to gain legitimate power over their territory,” Jean reminds you carefully, as if hearing your very thoughts.

You roll your eyes and toss the rest of your cards on the table in frustration, signaling the end of the game.

“Well, it doesn’t matter, does it?” Connie asks. “They’re not stupid enough to step foot here.”

“Armin thinks they are,” Sasha tells him, “which is why he’s sent a warning.”

You rise to your feet, dropping your cigarette in the ashtray. “Then I trust you all to deal with them accordingly,” you say to them through gritted teeth, “before my father decides to lock me up in here for the rest of my life.”

You snatch the bottle on the table by its neck on your way out the door, needing to drown in your frustrations. Hating that you had to rely on others to dispatch your enemies for you while you were trapped in here like some domesticated animal incapable of surviving on its own out in the wild.

But the moment you pass Sasha at the door, she swiftly takes hold of the bottle in your hands, holding it hostage from you and keeping you in place. You frown at the intervention and when you try yanking it back, she gives you a knowing look.

“Fine!” you growl at her viciously, shoving the bottle at her chest. “Take it!” You wave your arms dramatically in the air, gesturing to your surroundings. “Take everything away while you’re at it! Everyone’s doing that already, right?”

You storm out of there and up the stairs to your room the way a child behaves when denied of her sweets, but Sasha, Jean, and Connie know this is more than some childish outburst or tantrum.

You don’t notice the pained look on their faces as they watch you walk away from them, but it’s there. Plain and visible to see. They hate seeing you this way. They know you’re hurting and lonely and struggling with the darkness threatening to consume you, but they have no power or say to alleviate your suffering. All they can do is watch over you helplessly and hope you don’t stray too far away from them they can no longer reach you.

—

Later that night, you’re taking out your frustrations in physical combat and trying to gain back some sense of control with Jean down in the basement. You’ve been at it for the past two hours without pause. You’re both tired and drenched in sweat but you haven’t called it quits yet and Jean knows how much you need this so he won’t stop until you do.

He’s holding a body pad in front of him to serve as your target and to shield him from your kicks and punches. You’re about to throw another series of hits his way when movement over your shoulder catches Jean’s attention. He straightens and bares his teeth, turning hostile.

“You,” Jean snarls over your shoulder in disgust.

Your back is to the door so you don’t see who it is that’s just walked in, but you know there’s only one person that can get Jean riled up that way. You let your fighting stance fall and turn to the door behind you to find Eren walking down the steps leading down the basement. Historia follows right after him, both of them still in their office attire.

Eren’s bright green eyes are blazing and firmly locked on you as he cuts across the room to confront you, looking every bit upset.

“You’re being targeted?” Eren asks you angrily. “You knew about this and you still left last night?”

A muscle in your jaw twitches at the bold accusation, very much aware of Jean’s presence behind you. You’re not facing him but you can imagine the level of shock on his face at Eren’s words.

“He was with you last night?” Jean demands. There’s a hint of jealousy in his voice mixed with outrage at hearing how you let Eren accompany you rather than someone from your inner circle. But instead of answering him, you throw an accusatory glare at Historia who stands beside Eren like some mother hen guarding over her chick despite him towering over her. Connie must have told her about Armin’s warning regarding Bertholdt’s loyalists and for some reason found the need to tell Eren about it.

Yet the girl doesn’t look as apologetic as she should.

“If Eren’s the only one Ymir is allowing to be around you,” Historia reasons with you, “he deserves to know.”

You scoff dismissively. “What good is he going to do? He needs more saving than I do.”

Eren’s cheeks flush at the memory of what happened at the train station the night before and he averts your gaze, ashamed.

You smirk, his reaction proving your point, and you turn away to practice your knife throwing with the cardboard shooting target stationed at the back of the room, thinking you’ve put an end to this conversation.

But Historia is quick to follow after you, not at all done with you yet.

“So train him,” she urges as you collect some of your favorite daggers from where you had laid them out on a nearby table with the rest of your weapons and holsters. “There’s no harm in him learning how to fight.”

You ignore her as she continues to talk, taking aim and releasing a few of your blades at the intended target in front of you, each of your daggers hitting home with deadly precision and landing with a sharp thud.

“If you give him a gun and some time to practice he—”

“Enough Historia!” you cut off, whirling on her and slicing the air between you with the remaining dagger in your hand to silence her.

She backs away, unnerved by the weapon in your hand as you take a menacing step towards her. “Despite what you like to believe, I am not running some damn charity ward. If I invest my time in someone, it’s because they have something worth investing.” You point to Eren behind her with the blade in your hand. “And he has neither the strength, the skillsets—least of all the spine—needed to survive here. You want to hand him a gun to play with? Be my guest. But when it comes down to it, he will never have what it takes to pull the trigger.” Your eyes lock with Eren. “No amount of training or fighting will change that.”

Losing your desire to continue training, you leave for the door, clutching the blade tightly in your hand to keep you from completely losing it as you roughly brush past Eren and Historia.

Eren curls his hands into fists and grits out quietly, “You don’t know what I’m capable of.”

You stop in your tracks, unable to let this slide. “Oh, you’ve shown me exactly what you’re capable of,” you drawl out dryly, turning on your heels to face him again. “And you, Eren Yeager, really don’t want to die.”

Eren lowers his gaze, flexing his jaw, unable to deny the way he cowered against death the night before.

“Not that there’s any shame in that,” you add with a shrug. “All men fear dying, especially when death is staring you in the face. You reacted just as any normally sane human-being would react.”

Anger quickly replaces Eren’s shame as his eyes snap to you. “And what of your reaction? Why put yourself in that position at all? To prove a point? Your father trusts me to keep you out of—”

“My father?!” you snarl incredulously, annoyed by his own ignorance. “Have you not realized it yet?” Your head tilts to the side as you commence to approach him. “The sole reason my father assigned you to me wasn’t because you asked him to. Or because he saw some godly potential in you.” Eren frowns as you draw nearer, subtly noting how violently you’re swinging the blade in your hand as you speak. “Make no mistake. My father wants you dead. If he agreed to your request, it was to punish me. Because he thinks you have some hold over me.”

Eren braces himself as you come to stand before him with eyes cold and hard as stone. “But he miscalculated. Whether you live or die makes no difference to me.”

Fighting back a flinch, Eren forces himself to swallow down your words.

Historia, on the other hand, is a different matter. “So you’re just going to let him die out of spite?” she asks in disapproval, unable to tamper that caring nature of hers. “He’s risking his life for you! The least you could do is provide him with the means to survive.”

You flash her a crooked smile. “OR I could just kill him now. Why prolong the inevitable, right? We all know his number was up the day he crossed my path anyway.”

Historia glowers at the suggestion, hating that you were mocking her, before exhaling sharply, her fists still curled tightly at her side.

“Fine,” she hisses through her teeth. Without warning, she turns on her heels and moves with fierce strides towards the armory room in the back of the training room. “If you won’t train him, then I will.”

But the dagger is out of your hands and strikes the wooden door of the armory across the room like lightning, making Historia freeze in place as it lands inches away from the side of her head.

“No,” you tell her firmly. “You will not.”

Eren whirls at you, eyes wide with alarm, but you ignore him as your gaze slides over to Jean in warning.

“None of you will,” you say to him. “Is that understood?”

Historia turns, aghast. “Then you’ve sentenced him to die!”

You throw Eren a meaningful look, reminding him that you had given him the chance to leave last night and he refused to take it. “He has done that himself.”

“To protect you!” Historia cries out, moving towards you, but Eren quickly steps in her path, holding her back.

“Historia, don’t,” you hear him urge, wanting to calm her down. “Please, stop. It’s okay.”

You watch her struggle in Eren’s arms with a look of disgust. “You have heart, Historia—I’m painfully aware of that,” you say, taking a few steps forward to look down on her. “And I tolerate it because you are useful to me and my father. But if you don’t like how I run things, by all means.” You point to the stairs leading out of the room. “There’s the door. Leave.”

Historia stumbles back, stricken. Your threat hits home, making her look over to Eren helplessly because as much as she wants to help Eren she won’t go against you. She feels too indebted to you for all you’ve done for her to try.

Just then, the door to the basement opens and Levi comes walking down the stairs. Alone. He’s still got his dark coat and gloves on which means he’s come straight from dealing with underground business. Still, he doesn’t look hurt or covered in blood so whatever type of work it had been was done quickly and clean.

His deadpan gaze does a quick survey of the people in the room before resting his grey eyes on you.

“We need to talk,” is all he says to you, but based on that dark look on his face, you’re sure as hell not going to like it.

Jean and Historia get the hint and start to leave. Eren starts to follow right after but Levi throws a hand over Eren’s chest and shoves him back.

“I didn’t say you could leave,” Levi growls at him.

You raise an eyebrow and cross your arms over your chest while Eren, Historia, and Jean all frown in confusion. But Eren does as he’s told and stays put while Historia and Jean leave the basement to give you all some privacy.

When its just the three of you, Levi exhales sharply. “Lord Reiss is hosting a charity event this weekend,” he begins to inform you slowly, “and your father has been invited to attend. He expects you, me, and Eren to join him—”

You let out a sharp laugh and walk away before he can even finish his sentence. “Like hell.” Just the idea of being trapped in the same room as those duplicitous, stuck up fiends with their false smiles and empty laughs was suffocating enough.

“Anya,” Levi chides behind you.

“No.”

“This isn’t a request.”

“I don’t care. I’m not going.”

“You will if you want him to terminate your confinement.”

You stop dead in your tracks, hands curling into fists at your side. Annoyed that your father knew you wouldn’t be able to turn away from this.

“He doesn’t need me there,” you insist through clenched teeth, keeping your back to him. “You’re his business partner, not me,” you add petulantly, glowering at him over your shoulder before resuming your exit. “You deal with them.”

“You’re his daughter and heir,” Levi counters. “He needs you there at his side, to support him.”

You turn on your heels to face him. “Support him with what?” you demand. “He knows I detest the whole lot of them. I have no reason for being there…” You cross your arms over your chest and raise an eyebrow, offering him a sly grin. “Unless he wants me to burn the place to the ground? If so, I’ll gladly help him with that.”

Levi replies to you with a dark smile of his own. “Darling, if you so much as threaten anyone or give off the slightest impression of looking someone the wrong way, your father will not hesitate to take you back to the countryside. And I, for one, will do nothing to stop him.”

“Do it and you’ll be dragging my dead corpse back with you,” you snarl, eyes unyielding. You refuse to step foot in that cursed place for as long as you live.

Levi growls in distaste at your threat. “Then do as you’re told.”

Before you can counter back, Levi turns to Eren. “As for you. Despite my deep opposition, Ymir insists on keeping you as part of the company.” He shoves a manila envelope at Eren’s chest for him to take. “You have until the night of the event to familiarize yourself with the guest list and the names of the ones highlighted. If you’re as good as they claim, you’ll have them eating out of the palm of your hand in no time. So find yourself a suit worthy for the night. This is a black-tie event, so play the part and act like you belong there.” Levi’s sharp gaze cuts to you and adds, “Both of you.”

You answer him by flipping him off and walking away.

—

On the night of the charity event, you make your way out of your room with a deep sense of unease nestled in your chest.

There’s a reason your father wants you present at this event — it can’t be solely just to torture you. But if you don’t see this through, as your father evidently wants you to, you won’t ever know why. So you force yourself down the hall towards the staircase whilst ignoring the way your insides burn at the thought of what this night might entail.

As you reach the head of the stairs, you find Levi waiting for you at the bottom of the staircase looking aloof and dangerous as always. But bloody hell, even from this distance he looks more handsome and more human than you’ve ever seen him. And you don’t think its possible but you feel yourself falling even more in love with him.

Your fiancé wears a finely tailored black tux over a white dress shirt that makes him appear sharp and elegant. Nothing like the dark tailored suits he usually wears when out in the field that give him a far more lethal, rugged, and intimidating appearance. His dark curtained hair that usually hangs over his eyes is parted to the side and combed back, giving him a more boyish, princely appearance that painfully reminds you of when he was a boy…Perhaps because his mother used to style his hair in that same manner. The bow tie pinned at his collar doesn’t help in the least.

You would have stood there and admired him all night long, but your black heels announce Levi of your presence at the top of the stairs and he swiftly turns to you in attention, ready to escort you to Lord Reiss’ estate—not only as his fiancée but as the daughter and heir to one of the most highly influential businessman of his time, Thomas Ymir.

But Levi is not prepared by what he sees before him.

As a testament of your father’s well-established nobility, you wear a strapless, skin tight black dress with a high molded waist-line and elbow length black gloves, all made of the finest material. Your long hair is held up with hairpins sharp enough to stab a man’s arteries and fashioned in a loose up-do with a few stray strands left at the front to frame your face. But underneath, strapped to your thighs and tucked inside your gloves, are daggers of all forms, sharp enough to pierce a man’s heart.

The second Levi catches sight of you, he swallows heavily, looking stunned and completely mesmerized. Yet it’s the way he watches you descend down the stairs, eyes running down the length of your figure that makes your stomach twist with longing. And you suddenly think, maybe this night is worth all the hassle, if it means him looking at you the way he does now. Like you’re the most beautiful creature he has ever seen and he can’t afford to look away.

You smirk in spite of yourself.

“Are you impressed, my lord?” you ask as he offers his hand for you to take the minute you arrive at the foot of the stairs.

His eyes drop down to your tinted, blood red lips as you speak. They linger there as he replies softly, “I’m always impressed by you.”

He leans forward, aching for a taste of you, but despite your attraction to him, you’re still upset with him for making you come to this event with him. Before he can touch his lips with yours, you pointedly turn away. This rewards you with a resentful smile from him, but he gets the message and doesn’t try again.

That’s when you notice he’s holding something in his other hand. A medium sized, dark navy, velvet jewelry box. You raise an eyebrow. “Is that meant to impress me?”

His eyes flicker to where your attention is drawn and he straightens, attempting to recover from your teasing. He opens the box to reveal what looks like a fifty something carat worth diamond necklace and matching earrings.

“A gift,” Levi explains. “From your father.”

You stare at it for a moment, breath-taken. But its beauty is not what has your heart caught in your throat. You feel Levi take your hand and walk you over to the closest mirror in the foyer, wanting you to see how it looks on you.

As you stand in front of the oval shaped mirror, you watch through your reflection as Levi removes the necklace first from out of the box and clasp it securely around your neck. You feel the coldness of the stones against your skin instantly but it brings you a strange sense of comfort. Makes their existence all the more real.

“He wishes for you to wear it tonight,” you hear Levi say beside you, studying your reaction closely in the mirror. “He says it was—”

“My mothers,” you finish distantly, touching the stones around your neck and admiring the way the diamonds sparkle against the light of the hallway like newly dead stars in the night sky.

Your eyes glisten with nostalgia as you remember of the times you saw her wear it for your father. The most expensive, luxurious thing he first bought your mother after Ymir & Co became legalized.

“He’s really trying to make a statement with this, isn’t he?” you say as a means to break out of your reminiscing. “Pulling out something so valuable.” You reach for the diamond earrings still in the jewelry box and put them on yourself. “What is this all even worth, like 80k?”

Levi chuckles, placing the empty jewelry box on the console under the mirror. “You’re worth much more than that, love.”

You turn to face him with a raised eyebrow, confused.

“Darling,” he tells you, raising a hand to caress your cheek tenderly, “his most prized possession isn’t something so easily replaceable. What he values most is you.”

There’s an intensity in his gaze as he says this that lets you know he isn’t just speaking for your father anymore, but for himself. And you might believe it, if either one of them was the least bit capable of expressing it on their own.

Guess it runs in the family.

[reunionatdawn]

My Analysis of the Best Paired Endings in 3H (Part 3: Claude/Hilda)

Byleth: (His easy smile is striking… But that smile doesn't reach his eyes…)

Claude is a Leo, a fire sign ruled by the Sun. Leo traits include being confident, comfortable being the center of attention, drama-adoring, ambitious, loyal, fiercely protective of their nearest and dearest, generous, luxury-loving, sunny, and big-hearted. Like Edelgard, his goal was to usher in the dawn of a new age as supreme leader.

He bears the Crest of Riegan, which is associated with The Moon arcana. The general meaning of The Moon is that everything is not as it seems. It is also the Major Arcana of intuition. It tells you that something about a situation or person in your life is not what it appears to be, and you need to trust what your instincts are telling you in order to see past this illusion.

Claude: When I first saw you wield the Sword of the Creator, I wanted to use your power to my advantage. I wanted to use you to make my dream of a new world come true. But before long, I realized what I really wanted was to see that new world…with you by my side. I still feel that way, you know. I always will. That's why I have to leave.

Claude was taking advantage of female Byleth's romantic interest in him to achieve his dream. He admitted as much himself in his S-Support. That explained why his Goddess Tower scene was all about his political ambitions and lacked any genuine romantic undertones. Supposedly he fell in love with her somewhere along the way. But something felt off to me. He couldn't even attend Byleth's coronation?

Byleth & Claude After ascending the throne as the first leader of the United Kingdom of Fódlan, Byleth sought to rebuild the war-torn towns and villages and to help guide the reformation of the Church of Seiros. After a few months of peace, remnants of the Imperial army joined with those who slither in the dark and marched upon the capital city of Derdriu. The new kingdom lacked the power to repel the invaders, but when defeat seemed imminent, a battle cry rang out from the east. Claude, the newly-crowned King of Almyra, led a mighty army that broke through the rebel forces with ease. This show of solidarity forever altered the course of history, heralding a new age of unity.

If he is paired with Petra, he postpones his return to Almyra for years due to his love. With Lysithea, his love for her compels him to give up the throne entirely. Even when he does return to Byleth like he promised, it's to defeat the remnants of the Imperial army and TWSITD. That earns him the title "King of Unification". But there's nothing in their paired ending to indicate a marital union.

Claude did care about Byleth as more than just a tool. But to me, it felt like the writers were trying to portray that he didn't love her romantically, albeit in a very subtle way. Which I actually found to be a very great idea. He definitely had a reason to marry Byleth for political purposes, considering his dream. And I liked that his reputation as a schemer finally amounted to something in the end after all. Besides, he had more chemistry with Hilda, anyway.

Hilda: It's just a legend, sure…but I prefer to be cautious about such things. One of the guys was pretty handsome, and he came from a good family… But that doesn't really tell you what a person's like on the inside. I want a life partner who's good-hearted and good-looking.

Claude is a very flirty person in general and has a lot of chemistry with most of the girls he can Support with. But he was particularly flirty with Hilda. Even their C-Support was surprisingly sexual. But their connection gradually developed into more than just physical attraction. The tagline for the game was, "Sweet memories twisted by time's cruel hand". Claude has many sweet memories of his childhood and Hilda is the only one who takes an interest in them.

Because of this, she was the only girl he offered to bring home. Claude is usually a very guarded young man who keeps his secrets close to his chest. He was afraid of his Almyran heritage being exposed because he's been the constant victim of racism. While Hilda made the occasional off-hand racist remark (moreso out of ignorance than malice), Claude still offered to introduce her to his family, showing his trust in her character and her ability to be judge people for who they are on the inside, not their heritage.

Holst: But what if the next king of Almyra turns out to be a kind and decent man? What if Hilda even likes him? Claude: Uh, if Hilda wants to marry that hypothetical heartthrob, I'm not gonna stop her. Look, what's all this really about? Holst: Apologies. My imagination ran free for a moment. If that is what Hilda wants, then I will not stand in her way either. Claude: Your imagination's definitely still running there. Holst: I'm just as worried about Hilda's future as I am about Leicester's—maybe even more so. Claude: I completely understand, so let me just say this… I believe that both Leicester's and Hilda's futures are as bright as they can be. All I ask is that you trust me.

Claude and Hilda don't need Byelth to choose the Golden Deer house to get married. Golden Wildfire proves that. Holst approves of their relationship. His A-Support with Claude even foreshadowed the Claude/Hilda paired ending. So, it definitely feels like it's the one Claude ship that's most rooted in "canon".

Hilda: I don't understand why anyone would want to risk their life for someone else. When you die, no matter how you died, it's over. To me, it's more important to enjoy life. We only live once, after all. It's a waste to spend all your time working and being responsible, right?

Hilda was the only character I did not recruit on my AM New Game+. If I had to guess, I'd say she was probably not even gonna be recruitable outside her home route, similar to Dedue and Hubert. I left her behind because I didn't want Claude to be alone. But also because she truly belonged on that bridge in Derdriu defending him. It's the ultimate fulfillment of her character arc, showing how she's changed from a spoiled and lazy girl into a mature woman who will try her best to not let down the people she cares about.

Hilda and Claude were the only lord and retainer I felt comfortable shipping because their differing social status had practically no effect on how they related to each other. Hilda could see through his fake smile because she was just as manipulative, constantly flirting to get people to do things for her. In CF, she died for Claude because she had fun with him and found him sexy, not because it was her duty as a Crest bearer. Claude expected her to run, but she stood her ground.

As a lord, Claude was in the middle. He was ambitious like Edelgard but not quite as ruthless. He shared Dimitri's distaste for war, but would compromise those ideals in pursuit of his goals. What I liked about Hilda as a retainer was that she supported him emotionally, but she also challenged him on his decisions when it was necessary. She questioned whether being king was really what he wanted when he was a natural free spirit at heart.

Claude: You and I may not hold any grudges, but if you look to our history, you'll see it was the Kingdom who tossed us to the wolves first. When our people were fighting for independence from the Empire, Faerghus attacked and conquered Leicester for themselves.

Claude certainly had good intentions, but in the end, he was perhaps a bit too motivated by self-interest. In VW, he realized that, which is why he stepped down in favor of Byleth. In GW, there is a chapter called "The End of the Alliance". Claude becomes king of the Federation and allies with Edelgard. He announces his intention to eliminate the church and invade the Kingdom using historical disputes as a justification, however questionable that may be.

Claude: If you're going to lead Fódlan, then the Alliance lords will follow you. Back in the day, the Alliance split off from the Kingdom. I'm just putting us back together again.

In AM, there is a cutscene called "The End of the Alliance". Claude puts aside all historical animosity and willingly unifies with the Kingdom. Why the change of heart? He admitted he wouldn't do anything unless he had something to gain, but Byleth and Dimitri selflessly came to his rescue. And because of that, he gives his Hero's Relic to Dimitri, something he did not to for Edelgard. Symbolically this gesture is so important because he always thought he needed the power of the relics to realize his dream. But he doesn't.

Claude & Hilda Trusting the affairs to his comrades with whom he had fought, Claude departed for his homeland. While in Fódlan he was no more than a noble, upon returning to his homeland of Almyra, he was a prince of the realm. Having grown strong and mature, he gained recognition among the royal family and eventually wielded influence in national politics. Several years later, the king of Almyra retired, and Claude succeeded to the throne. Simultaneously, a queen was introduced – none other than Hilda. Leveraging her brother's support, she unexpectedly demonstrated diplomatic prowess, contributing to the establishment of diplomatic relations between Almyra and Fódlan. Furthermore, with two consecutive queens from Fódlan, the values of Almyra began to evolve.

In AM, Claude's fate doesn't change much compared to VW. He still goes back to Almyra, presumably with Hilda if she wasn't recruited. So, I don't even think their VW paired ending would be any different in the AM timeline. And their marital union is what will help Claude achieve his dream. He didn't need Byleth, the Hero's Relics, or to become supreme leader. Marrying Hilda opens Fódlan's Locket. This is the only ending where Hilda gets involved in politics instead of making accessories, but it is better for her character development, and I think she'd be happier that way in the end.

[vyuntspakhkite-l-darling]

Prologue

I wanted to put the prologue of my book (as it is right now) out, so anyone who's interested can give questions/thoughts/feedback :3 Read the tags for content warnings before reading.

Basked in the orange light of the setting sun, Arsioly stood, attentive, and witnessed his third execution.

Most people didn’t see that many in their lives, much less when they were barely pushing eighteen, but it was different for Arsioly. His father was the one who carried them out, and his attendance was expected. At least this one was a little more interesting than the others; it was a public execution, done in the dusky light of the snowy city square with a small crowd watching, as opposed to the secluded nature of the other ones. He supposed that serial insubordination and homosexuality were lesser crimes that didn’t require such a spectacle as this.

The rough voice of Colonel Rasily, his father, echoed out over the small crowd, drowning out the pained huffs and curses of the young rebel who kneeled, bound and beaten, at his feet.

“It is Emperor Vahesy’s divine right to rule over these lands, and all those who oppose him will be punished!” He shouted, sending the ball of his foot into the rebel’s face; drops of blood from her nose glittered briefly in the air before splattering to the ground. Arsioly silently marveled at her ability not to cry out, ignoring the frightened whimper from Visralion beside him, the tightening of the boy’s grip on his arm.

The hits kept coming, and Arsioly watched with fear and pride, paying close attention to his father’s actions, as he always did. The way each strike hit easily despite the girl’s struggles; the way he remained unfazed by the curses she spat at him; the way he didn’t flinch at the freckles of blood dusted onto the pale fabric of his pants. His movements were confident and bold as one hand grabbed a fistful of hair and wrenched the woman’s head backward, and the other drew the shining dagger from its place at his side. He brandished it for the crowd as he cried, “Let this be an example to all of you! For the glory of the Emperor!”

With that, he brought the blade down across the rebel girl’s throat, slicking the snow with a hungry pool of crimson. He wiped his dagger on the shoulder of her shirt before replacing it in its sheath. He released hair he’d grabbed; the rebel thumped lamely to the ground. Once the blood stopped bubbling and gurgling in the body’s mouth, he motioned to the two soldiers standing at attention behind him to clean it up. Arsioly looked on, thumbing the folded paper in his pocket and avoiding his father’s eyes. 

“Arsi, can we leave now? Please?” Visralion asked in a hushed tone, his face hidden against his friend’s sleeve.

He looked down at him, back up at the Colonel, then at Visralion again. He gave him a thin smile and ruffled his curly brown hair. “Yeah, let’s go,” he agreed, turning and walking away with his friend.

The boys made their way through the city streets, taking some of the smaller ones to avoid the other kids who were undoubtedly outside and taking advantage of the weekend. They walked towards the edge of the city out of habit, towards the woods where they often went to enjoy the relative solitude.

Once they’d passed the last building and the flat, grassy strip that separated the city from the forest, Arsioly glanced around to check that he and Visralion were the only ones present before pulling the folded poster from his pocket. 

“Take a look at this, dove,” he said, cautiously unfolding it. He’d lost track of how many months he’d been carrying this around, and he’d rubbed at it so much that the paper seemed likely to tear if handled too roughly.

He opened the paper, revealing a boldly drawn illustration of a soldier with a gun. The uniform depicted didn’t align with the ones that the boys saw patrolling the streets every day. Even more damning than that was the big text written across the top, declaring, ‘Save your homes, join the Freedom Army!’

Visralion gasped, stopping in his tracks and taking a hasty step away. “Arsioly, why do you have that? Are you crazy?”

He laughed and shook his head, grinning. “Oh, calm down, it’s fine. Look— look what it says down here,” he said, holding the poster out to Visralion and pointing to the smaller words along the bottom. “It says that there’s free meals and shelter for anyone who joins.”

“So what? Our Army has that too!” He protested, backing up to a nearby tree, as if the paper held some disease he might catch if he got too close. 

He folded the poster and put it back in his pocket. “But our Army won’t let you or your mom join.”

“That’s fine! We don’t even need that, we’re doing just fine by ourselves…” Visralion trailed off, and Arsioly scoffed, knowing that wasn’t even near to the truth. “Whatever. We still can’t join the rebels. We’ll be killed, like that girl—”

“No, we won’t. Trust me, dove, I’ve been planning this since forever. And think of how great it’ll be! We’ll run away and join the rebels, and we won’t have to worry about money or rules or anything.”

Visralion hesitated, and Arsioly took that as a sign to keep pushing. “And they’re fighting for our freedom, it’s even in the name! Come on, we have to do this.”

“But—”

“But, but, but. I’ll go no matter what. I’m only saying that you should come with me,” he bluffed, even though he was quite sure that he couldn’t bear to leave if his only real friend wasn’t going to be with him. 

Visralion looked down and didn’t respond right away, picking at the frayed ends of his scarf. “Do you promise you know what you’re doing? I’ll only go if you promise.”

Arsioly nodded. “I promise, I know what I’m doing.”

“Okay,” he sighed, walking away from the tree and back up to Arsioly. 

“Good,” he smiled. “We can leave tonight, just pack a little bag with anything you really want to keep. I’ll come and get you when it’s really late so nobody sees us leave. Don’t tell your mom what we’re doing.”

Visralion opened his mouth to argue, but closed it without a word and just nodded instead. 

“Alright…” he agreed after a few moments. “Are you really sure about this?”

“I’m completely certain.”

[markantonys]

I deeply enjoy coming up with WOTshow season structure predictions that will inevitably end up being completely wrong, so behold my rough outline for 8 seasons! I tried my best to think objectively about what's likely to happen, but there are definitely places where I get carried away by What I Personally Want to happen, so let's call this a mix of bona fide predictions and a wishlist.

Season 2

We already know the main structure of this season, so in brief:

Rand wandering alone, then Daes Dae'mar-ing with Moiraine and Lan

Perrin hunting the Horn

Egwene, Nynaeve, Elayne, Mat, Min, Gawyn, and Galad at the Tower

endpoint: Falme

romance checkin: early groundwork laid for Egwene/Gawyn; final letting go of Randgwene on Egwene's side; Rand, Elayne, Aviendha, and Min all meet at Falme

Season 3

Rand, Mat, Egwene, Aviendha, Moiraine, and Lan go to the Waste, then come out of it to take Tear

Elayne and Nynaeve travel to Tear to hunt Black Ajah

Perrin in the Two Rivers

Min, Siuan, and Gawyn involved in the Tower coup; Galad joins the Whitecloaks

endpoint: Two Rivers battle; Stone of Tear battle combined with elements of the TFOH Cairhien battle (such as the Shaido and the formation of the Band) and TSR Nynaeve vs. Moghedien Tanchico battle

romance checkin: Perrin/Faile meet and possibly get together; Rand/Aviendha get together (officially, rather than hooking up and then avoiding each other like in the books); groundwork laid for Rand/Aviendha/Elayne via Rand learning about Aiel polyamory and discussing with Aviendha how pretty Elayne is

Season 4

Rand, Mat, Egwene, Aviendha, Moiraine, Lan, Elayne, and Nynaeve in Tear to start, tackling misc TSR-LOC plot beats (such as: Elayne and Moiraine teaching Rand politics, Mat starting to become a general, continuation of Egwene and Aviendha's Wise One training, Elayne bonding Birgitte, Rand founding the Black Tower, the retaking of Caemlyn, and of course Moiraine vs. Lanfear)

Min, Siuan, Leane, and Logain pass through Tear on their way to Salidar; Nynaeve heals stilling and gentling in Tear; Min stays in Tear to join the main crew; Logain could possibly also stay with Rand to become one of the first Asha'man; Siuan and Leane continue on to Salidar (after Siuan witnesses Moiraine's "death" in an appropriately devastating scene)

Perrin and Faile in the Two Rivers doing some made-up plot before heading off to join up with Rand & co

Gawyn with Elaida's army, Galad with the Whitecloaks

Egwene goes to Salidar and is raised rebel Amyrlin

endpoint: Dumai's Wells

romance checkin: Perrin/Faile in a serious relationship by now; Lan/Nynaeve are reunited; Rand/Elayne get together, so we now have an established Aviendha/Rand/Elayne V with Rand as the hinge; groundwork laid for Elayne/Aviendha; Min grows closer with the other 3 and groundwork for her romance(s) is laid (Elayne/Aviendha romance is a guarantee, but I'm undecided on the likelihood of Min dating Elayne and/or Aviendha in addition to Rand)

I desperately want the Ebou Dar crew to participate in Dumai's Wells, but this poses 2 problems: 1) Elayne being at Dumai's Wells would interfere too much with Gawyn's arc since he'd defect from Elaida's army immediately if he saw Elayne there. 2) Elayne spending the entire season in Rand's plotline means she would Have to be involved in retaking Caemlyn, and if she did that, then she'd have to stay and start her Succession plot early, which I initially was all for, but as I was hashing out this structure I realized that wouldn't leave enough for her to do in later seasons.

So sadly, we may have to send at minimum Elayne, Nynaeve, and Birgitte, if not also Mat, Lan, and Aviendha, off to Salidar/Ebou Dar partway through the season. But Mat, at least, will probably need to still be with Rand for retaking Caemlyn so he can Die And Live Again (and on a personal note I'll be devastated if Rand going apeshit over Mat's and Aviendha's deaths is cut!). This portion of the story is really where everyone ends one plotline and embarks on a new one, so there's lots of room for rearranging various threads.

Season 5

Mat, Elayne, Nynaeve, Aviendha, Lan, and Birgitte in Ebou Dar searching for the Bowl for half the season (midseries climax is Seanchan invasion of Ebou Dar with Mat getting left behind and the others escaping)

In the second half, Mat plans his escape; the others travel to Caemlyn and kick off the Succession

Egwene leads the rebels towards Tar Valon

Rand recovers from Dumai's Wells, meets Cadsuane, defeats Sammael (if he's still around - I've seen theories he might replace Rahvin in Caemlyn, and thus he would already be gone by this season), and fights the Seanchan

Perrin hunts Masema

endpoint: Mat leaves Ebou Dar with Tuon; Rand fails drastically against the Seanchan and realizes a) Callandor is flawed, b) he needs to cleanse saidin; Faile gets kidnapped; Egwene gets kidnapped

romance checkin: Rand/Min get together; Elayne/Aviendha get together; Lan/Nynaeve get married; Mat meets Tuon (note: I strongly hope for Tuon to be introduced in season 4 or even 3 as a character unrelated to Mat who is spearheading a Seanchan plotline)

Season 6

Perrin searches for Faile

Egwene works on taking Elaida down from inside the Tower

Gawyn abandons Elaida's army and joins Egwene's

Mat and Tuon have a plotline that I PRAY is more interesting than the book version of the circus roadtrip and involves actual character development for Tuon

Rand and Min go to Caemlyn early on and the polycule is formalized; Rand leaves Min behind and takes Nynaeve (and Lan) with him for the cleansing, which will be the midseason climax

Elayne, Aviendha, and Min are in Caemlyn doing the Succession (with Min using her viewings to help Elayne), Wise One training, Callandor research (with Elayne and Aviendha using their ter'angreal talents to help Min), and strengthening their relationships with each other (personal hope: first-sisters is maintained as specifically a metamour relationship, and so with Elayne and Aviendha on the path to be regular wives instead of sister-wives, it is instead Aviendha and Min who do the first-sister ceremony. Controversial to take away a major Avilayne moment, I know, but they have so many great moments and Avi & Min desperately need some.)

Rand visits his partners in Caemlyn while recuperating from the cleansing and learns of Elayne's pregnancy, which will proceed to have a major emotional impact on him for the rest of the show, as it should have in the books. The S1 setup of both Rand and LTT as (aspiring) fathers is a strong indication that Elayne's pregnancy and LTT's murdering of his own kids will play a significant role in Rand's emotional arc in the show.

Lan leaves for the Blight after the cleansing

endpoint: battle of Malden; Rand loses his hand to Semirhage; Egwene emerges as uncontested Amyrlin after the Seanchan attack on the Tower (and this structure would mean Tuon is NOT the one responsible since she's still off with Mat, which would assist the arc she should've had wherein Mat's "you're not my enemy but your empire is" line actually makes sense)

romance checkin: we've achieved full polycule formation; Egwene and Gawyn are reunited; Mat and Tuon grow closer

Season 7

Darth Rand

Since Min is still in Caemlyn, Nynaeve is the one Rand almost kills when collared in an early episode, which causes him to subsequently send her away To Protect Her. He does this by ordering her to go investigate the situation at the Black Tower on his behalf, and then the Black Tower plotline is led by Nynaeve and Logain instead of Androl and Pevara (shoutout to @butterflydm for this godtier idea!)

With Min and Nynaeve both elsewhere for the bulk of this season, Rand will actually be completely emotionally isolated during the portion of his arc where he's supposed to be at his most emotionally isolated

But these 2 bullets are definitely my personal wishes, not necessarily genuine likelihood! I just think that in terms of Rand's love life, having S3 focus on Rand/Aviendha, S4 on Rand/Elayne, S5 on Rand/Min, S6 on full polycule, and S7 on Rand alone makes sense and is a much more even distribution of screentime among the various relationships than we see in the books. Plus, sending Nynaeve to spearhead the Black Tower plotline solves the problem of her fading away into a secondary character post-cleansing.

Egwene works on patching up the Tower and hunting Seanchan Bloodknives and/or a Mesaana equivalent (personal hope: Lanfear will take over Mesaana's role in the White Tower)

Adjusting Egwene's timeline to make her already uncontested Amyrlin before Rand's epiphany allows for their first meeting about the seals to be while Rand is still in ruthless mode, which will make their clash and Egwene's wariness of him more believable

Perrin deals with the Whitecloaks and the consequences of his behavior during the search for Faile, finishes wolf bootcamp, and battles Slayer

Mat reaches Caemlyn and Tuon has returned to Ebou Dar to take the throne (personal hope: this is a changed Tuon who's begun unlearning Seanchan conditioning and accepting that she can channel, so her return to Seanchan territory is higher stakes since her worldview now clashes with theirs and Empress Fortuona is only a mask she's putting on to keep them from being suspicious of her)

Elayne ties up loose ends in Andor and with the Black Ajah, then takes the Sun Throne in more detail than she did in TOM

Aviendha completes Wise One training and goes to Rhuidean

Min does something, idk, they're gonna have to do a LOT of storyline-inventing for her throughout since she doesn't do shit after book 4. Hmmm maybe if they were to REALLY overhaul Tuon's arc, she could reach Caemlyn with Mat, make an alliance with Elayne, and then be gateway-ed to Ebou Dar with Min as her Truthspeaker and the intention of trying to end the Seanchan's war against the Westlands?

endpoint: Rand's epiphany

romance checkin: Egwene/Gawyn get together; Mat and Tuon have caught feelings but probably haven't admitted it yet

Season 8

Mat rescues Moiraine, with Birgitte replacing Noal as the person who sacrifices themselves and Siuan possibly replacing Thom for the romance of it all (though I'm unsure how Siuan could cross paths with Mat in time to join the Moiraine Rescue Heist, and I would be ok with Thom still being involved but in a platonic capacity). Unless they want Rosamund back sooner, in which case this could be in season 7.

But they'd have to save at least 1 major pre-AMOL plot point for the last season because AMOL alone is not nearly enough to fill up an entire season. If you condense the repetitive battle scenes it'd be like 4 episodes tops.

So somehow I've gone from "how will they pack 14 books into 8 seasons?" to "wow, 8 full seasons is almost too much time" haha but some seasons are pretty crowded in my structure, so they could shift things around in order to spread stuff out more evenly than I've done using my "the slog scarred me so much that I'll die if the show doesn't resolve every plotline in the same season it's introduced" rule.