#and the shadow girls are the storm twins like i said

[dreamcast-official]

why cant i find any sunny dolls in the stores btw. where is she. i have literally never seen one

[hotreadingwitch]

Bucky x Reader - Cabin Fever

Content Warnings/Kinks: age gap (dbf!bucky), daddy kink, praise kink, light degradation, nipple play, light spanking, masturbation, fingering, cum swallowing, oral sex, unprotected vaginal sex

Cabin Fever

The weekend getaway ahead loomed before Y/n like a giant shadow as she drove on the snowy backroads. Was she glad to be spending the holidays at her father’s winter cabin, of course, but was she happy to see his mysterious (and massively sexy) best friend, Bucky Barnes, not so much. The pair had been colleagues for a little while now, since Bucky had transferred to her father’s firm, and Y/n had only met him once before at her Dad’s Fourth of July barbecue earlier in the year. Fireworks had immediately flown between them when they had, causing Y/n to lock down the blooming feeling of romance quickly before it could ruin everything from her father’s perspective of his “little girl” to her own sanity. If she thought for even one second about how much she liked Bucky Barnes and truly wanted Bucky Barnes, she feared she might just crash her car. 

A call came through the speaker of her vehicle then, her father Steve’s familiar voice crackling through, “Y/n?” 

“Dad?” She answered with a light laugh, “Where are you right now a dungeon? Your service is awful” 

“Sweetheart the snowstorm is blocking the highway, I won’t make it up to the cabin until morning, I’m gonna stay at a motel tonight…” he said, his voice sad like he hated to miss out, “It’ll just be you and Bucky for the first night, hopefully, that won't be too much trouble”

“Why would that be any trouble Dad?” Y/n’s voice sounded strained, even to her. 

Her father paused, “I know you don’t like him Y/n—no don’t interrupt me—it’s okay, you don’t have to, I just hope you two can get through the night together peacefully…it is the Holidays after all”

Y/n swallowed the lump in her throat, “Alright Dad, yeah, I’ll see you in the morning”

When she finally pulled up to the snow-trimmed cabin, she wasn’t surprised to see Bucky’s luxury car parked in one of the available driveway spots. 

“Hi,” she greeted once she stepped inside, her cheeks flushed from the crisp December cold and her arms full of wrapped gifts. 

“Let me help you with those” Bucky instantly offered, rushing over to her, their fingers brushing as he took some of the tissue-stuffed bags from her cramped hands and took them over to the tree. 

His eyes flicked to hers and she could’ve sworn she saw his own cheeks tint slightly red above his scruffy beard. 

“How was your drive?” He questioned after they’d arranged them, making easy conversation. 

“Not too bad, well better than Dad’s anyway” she winced slightly before breaking the news, “He’s blocked by the storm, won’t be here until tomorrow morning…it’s just us tonight” 

“You don’t seem so happy about that” Bucky cocked his head. 

“Bucky…” she hesitated. 

“I knew it” he breathed, almost to himself, “I knew you lik—“ 

“I need to take a work call” she blurted, interrupting whatever he was about to say. 

Y/n practically skidded out of the living room and down the hall to the room she’d be staying in for the weekend, that she’d been staying in all her life. Her Dad had luckily switched out her old twin bed for a queen a couple of years ago but that didn’t erase the memories she had here. The colourful quilt laid over the sheets, the rocking chair in the corner. Each element of the space was a comfort to her, especially now as her heart threatened to beat right out of her chest. 

“Fuck” she groaned to herself. 

~ an hour or two later ~ 

Snow was piling up outside as Y/n stewed in her bedroom, mulling over the situation she’d somehow found herself in. She liked Bucky and was stuck with him for the night but almost worse than that was the fact that he knew she liked him. Her groaning into her pillow was cut off by a small knock on her door. 

“Yes?” She croaked. 

“I’m making hot chocolate…” Bucky’s hesitant voice sounded through the wooden door, “I won’t bother you tonight if you don’t want but I just thought I’d ask” 

With a sigh, she walked over the door, opening it to find Bucky in a slightly distressed t-shirt and light grey sweatpants that hugged him perfectly in all the right places. She gulped, startled as she realized she was literally eye-fucking him instead of answering his innocent question. 

“Sure, I’d like some. Thank you” 

Following him into the kitchen, she found her gaze trailed from his toned figure to the wintery scene outside. The snow was packed almost halfway up the window, no doubt blocking the front door too. 

“Guess we’re stuck inside whether we like it or not” Y/n sighed with a small smile that she simply couldn’t help, causing Bucky to chuckle and shoot her a quizzical look. 

“Yeah” he replied easily, after pouring the hot liquid into two cups, “Here”

“Thank you, Bucky”

“Oh, no problem” he replied and Y/n swore she saw him blush again. 

They sipped on their hot chocolate, slowly draining the mugs in companionable silence. After a while, she attempted to break it. 

“How’s work?” she tried, grimacing at how awkward the question sounded. 

“You don’t really want to ask me about work Y/n” he stated plainly with a small sigh, the heated look in his eye deceivingly telling her exactly what he meant. 

“Bucky…” she strained, setting her mug down. 

“You keep saying my name but never in the way I’d like you to” he came toward her, his large frame instantly consuming the small space of the cabin’s kitchen, “I know you want me Y/n and I’m sure you can see I want you…” 

Her eyes flicked down to his crotch, a small moan slipping out of her mouth at the sight of his hard cock in his cozy sweatpants. 

“Stop worrying about what your Dad might do and kiss me” he challenged, putting it all out there. Her surprise must have been evident on her face because Bucky backed off immediately, “Unless that’s not what you want” 

His sweet hesitance was all it took for Y/n to practically throw herself at him, cutting his words off with a passionate kiss that melted instantly from incredibly heated to perfectly warm like their mugs of steaming hot chocolate. As they kissed, with Y/n’s small groans and whines puncturing each break, Bucky’s hands felt up and down her sides making her skin tingle with need.

“Can I touch you?” He asked before gripping her hips harder and backing her toward the counter’s edge, “And please say I can taste you…”

“Yes, please Bucky, yes” 

He lifted her easily onto the flat surface, shoving boxes of cereal and bags of marshmallows out of the way, until her ass was fully seated on the counter. She pushed herself up slightly so that he could slip off her pants and her panties, moaning as his cold hands slid down her thighs. He sunk to his knees before her, gazing up at her like she was a golden star on top of the Christmas Tree. His beard tickled her legs as he worked his way up, kissing her calf, the inside of her knee, and her inner thighs.

“Be good and spread your legs for me, yeah, let me see that pretty pussy” he hummed at the sight of her as she obeyed. 

He came forward and kissed her clit gently before rubbing the sensitive area with a single finger. He paused, looking up at her from his spot between her thighs, admiring her flushed cheeks and wide eyes. She whined at the loss of contact. 

“You know what I want Y/n?” he cocked his head, pulling away and sitting back on his tucked legs below her before saying in an encouraging yet dark tone, “I want to see you rub yourself for me…Go on”

She spit onto her fingers and began to rub her clit, using them to please herself. Her eyes met his as she caressed around and around her sensitivity, a quiet whimper slipping out of her lips at the sight of his darkening gaze focused all on her. The building feeling made her sigh and throw her head back, a dull thud sounding as it hit the upper cabinet behind her. 

“What if I help you out a little bit huh?” Bucky groaned as if he couldn’t resist touching her. 

“Yes” she moaned, “Bucky pleas—“ 

Her words were cut off by the feeling of his two longest fingers pressing at her wet hole. Her pussy practically gushed around him as he entered her, only pushing halfway. His teasing fingers grazed her insides, curling up inside of her. 

“Keep rubbing your clit baby” he guided her hand back down. 

She obeyed, quickly becoming overwhelmed with the pleasure they were creating for her together. His curling fingers, her fierce rubbing at her clit…she was overcome with intense sensation. Using her other hand she trailed up her chest, acutely aware of Bucky’s eyes following her motion, pinching her nipples in turn until they hardened into two stiff peaks. 

“Good girl” he praised before asking, “You want my mouth?” 

Her small nod was all he needed to push her hand off of her clit and lap harshly at it, never once removing his fingers from her hole. His attack on her pussy was intense and erotic to watch, the sight of him eating her out turning her on almost as much as the actual feelings. Y/n’s thighs caged his head between her legs, her knees moving to sit behind his head, feet resting on his back as he pleased her with his rough, wet tongue.

“Oh fuck” she whispered, her hands gripping his curls tightly as he found the perfect spot. 

“There?” he questioned, his words muffled as he sucked her clit, lapping at it. 

“Yes, fucking yes” 

He chuckled, cool air making her shiver before continuing, licking at the same spot, not right on her clit but slightly to the side, a spot that was nearly as sensitive and pleasurable, until her body gave out and she burst all over his tongue. His large hands supported her thighs from below, hooking his arms over them, pulling her pussy to his mouth as she rode out the waves of her release. 

“Good girl, good fucking girl” he grumbled. 

Moving quicker than a flash, he lifted her up and took her out of the kitchen, leading them all the way to her bedroom. As they moved through the house, Y/n attacked his neck, wet sloppy kisses peppering his tanned skin. He pushed the door to her room open with his side, being careful not to hurt her, before throwing her down on the bed. He stood at the edge, towering over her. Bending over her, his beard tickled her cheek as he continued his trail of kisses on her neck. With gentle pecks he made his way to her jaw, down her to her chest, satisfying the need of her nipples. 

“Flip around for me doll” he commanded then, praising her when she complied, “Yeah that’s it, good girl” 

SMACK. A small spank on her ass cheek made her whimper, the feeling hurting slightly but in the best way. 

“You want it?” Bucky asked, confirming her consent as he pumped himself behind her. 

“Yes,” she whimpered, her voice breathy and full of need. 

“Yes, who?” His tone instantly darkened. 

“Yes Daddy” she whispered like a secret. 

SMACK. 

“Say it like you mean it Y/n” he chuckled roughly, “Like the good little slut I know you are” 

“Yes Dadd—“ 

Her words were cut off by the loud moan that escaped her lips as Bucky pushed into her, pressing the first few inches of him into her wet pussy. She gripped him tightly as her body adjusted to the sensation. He pressed and pressed and pressed until finally, he bottomed out within her. 

“Fuck you fit me so well” 

Bucky’s cock hit a spot deep within her that felt like nothing she’d ever felt before. Her back arched, shoving her ass back into him, making him hit even further inside. His grin was feral as she bounced onto him, her instant rocking movements pleasuring them both. 

“So good Y/n,” he praised, grunting, “Yeah, push back on me baby…Fuck this ass is perfect”

SMACK. 

The pain heated her skin as did the feeling of his eyes on her. She wasn’t even looking at him but she could physically feel the weight of his dark gaze. Grinding back onto him she whimpered and whined, her pussy tightening around him more and more by the second. 

Y/n yelped as she was flipped easily over onto her back. Before she could even get her bearings, Bucky’s thumb was instantly on her clit, rubbing that spot that made her see stars. If she thought she was clenching around him before she surely was now. Between Bucky thrusting in and out of her and his fingers on her sensitive clit, her senses were going into overdrive. 

“Fuck” she whined, overwhelmed by the feeling, “You’re fucking me so good”

Burying his head in the crook of her neck, Bucky moaned roughly, his gruff noises making her wetter and wetter. She writhed beneath him, her body responding to every way he was pleasing her. As she approached her orgasm though, he switched his pace, thrusting slowly, powerfully, and deeply, causing her to tense up around his hard cock. She gripped him so tightly she thought she might just push him out of her by accident. 

“So tight for me—yes, taking every fucking inch like a good little slut” 

“Yes, Daddy, yes” she moaned as he sucked at her skin. 

“You’ve been driving me crazy for so long” he confessed, whispering in her ear, “Ever since—fuck— that fucking Fourth of July party, I’ve wanted to feel you, to be in you just like this…” 

Her eyes widened at his reveal but she was so overwhelmed by the feeling that she could barely speak, she simply whined in response, meeting his assessing gaze as she arched beneath him. The feeling struck her body then, causing her to jerk forward. Bucky held her hips, continuing to thrust in and out of her with long strokes, fucking her completely through her orgasm.

“Yeah that’s it baby, cum for me” 

Y/n gripped his broad shoulders, holding him to her chest as he thrust through her orgasm, bringing on his own. He ground into her as he chased his own release, her hot pussy finally sending him over the edge.

“Fuck” she swore, catching her breath as Bucky rolled off of her. 

“Fuck is right” he chuckled. 

She could swear she saw a tint of red on his scruffy cheeks.

“You really liked me since then? Since the Fourth of July?” 

“Yes,” he admitted, bowing his head. 

She rolled back onto him, planting a sweet kiss on his jaw, then his cheek, then finally on his perfect pout. 

“Talk about fireworks huh?” She joked, making them both shake with laughter. 

[thesunloveschips]

Eye of the Storm - Chapter 12: Dinner

Summary: In the wake of Rhysand’s ascension as High Lord, the Bone Carver gifts a prophecy. More than five hundred years later, Azriel continues to wait for the one who is finally reborn as his High Lady’s sister. All it takes a dip in the Cauldron for things to start falling into place.

Chapter Summary: Dearest gentle reader, welcome to another chapter of Nyra exists and Azriel is obsessed because who wouldn't want a morally grey, shadow-wielding, winged male obsessing over them?

Warnings: Azriel's wrath. It's mad. He's the Spymaster for a reason. Hints of lust here and there because he's obsessed with his mate.

Click here to access the Masterlist of the Eye of the Storm

****

Azriel's POV

"You're a real piece of work." Amren said, examining Nesta like a cat with her silver eyes.

"Why do your eyes glow?" Nesta asked coolly. Nyra looked at Amren's eyes, noticing the glow for the first time. She tilted her head, an action that indicated her confusion. Azriel felt a semblance of peace at how adorable Nyra looked like that. Like a curious innocent female he wanted to corrupt so badly.

"Don't you already know why?" Amren looked at Nesta and then at Nyra.

"Decorative purposes?" Nyra asked, knowing completely well that was not the case. Azriel felt mischief rise within her. She was starting to forget all the guilt and grief in relation to Feyre. Amren shot her a glare and Nyra raised her eyebrows, her chin dipping just a bit, inviting challenge.

"We are the same." Amren announced. The twins blinked and sat straight. "Not in flesh, not in the thing that prowls beneath our skin and bones..." Her eyes narrowed. "But... I see the kernel. The two of you did not fit—the mold that they shoved you into. The path you were born upon and forced to walk. You tried, and yet you did not, could not fit. And then the path changed. I know what it is to be that way. I remember it, long ago as it was."

"You're that old?" Nyra asked. Azriel couldn’t help but be in awe at the way her moods changed. From a bloody fucking panic attack not an hour ago, she’d hopped on to confusion and then a whole load of guilt and in between all of it, she’d flirted with Mor, started a weird sort of banter with Amren and he could not even understand her enough to predict what she’d feel the next moment. 

And this was… refreshing. 

A storm of emotions and how she carried all of them so openly. 

Nyra’s concern for Feyre after they met after the latter was Made. Scolding her sisters for going for each other’s throats during dinner. Laughing at the entirely wrong time when Nesta ignored Cassian and trying to cover it up with a cough. Her knowledge of the political situation in her part of the world. And the humour—fucking brilliant sense of humour. Flirtatious on occasion. Serious too. And she owned every last one of her feelings with such grace. 

Those newborns… they were born because of her. Because of how fascinated he’d been by her as their first meeting progressed.  

He remembered what he told her back then before leaving after Rhys had caught the Attor. “If fate wills it, we shall meet again.” The memory of him kissing her hand had the shadows around him fluttering. 

"Speak carefully, girl." Azriel returned to the real world when Amren delivered a warning. She took a sip from her goblet filled with blood and licked her red lips, her eyes narrowing into glare as a warning for Nyra. 

"A manner of speech unlike anyone else here despite the age gap of five centuries between us and them. Are you perhaps older?" Clearly, Nyra Archeron found it far too amusing to notice or if she did, she did not heed it but Azriel could feel the power rising to the surface. That feeling charged him from within.

"I am ancient." Amren watched like a predator ready to pounce. Nyra simply hummed. The petite female frowned.

"Older than ancient ruins?" Nyra felt the power within her rising. Allowing her to see so much about this seemingly delicate female.

Amren's silver orbs remained on Nyra. And Azriel's hand was already ready to unsheath the Truth-Teller. 

The ancient one smirked and raised her glass towards Nyra. "When you strike, girl, cleave through providence." She turned to Nesta. "And when you erupt, make sure it's felt across worlds." And she emptied the goblet, the blood staining her lips as she continued to smirk. "And keep off your silly dagger, shadowsinger."

Azriel continued to remain wary even as all eyes turned to him. His shadows danced wildly around him. Watching. Waiting for anyone to breathe wrongly. Mistress went into the shadows. Azriel froze immediately. He commanded more information. She was upset earlier. We went to her and took her with us. Her twin found her. He looked at Nyra in shock and slight fear. The shadows had claimed her. They had already started claiming her, even when she was mortal and now, they'd cemented it. She was crying. They sounded upset. 

For now, there were a few mysteries.

The shadows had only ever used words and phrases with him but now, they were using proper sentences.

The shadows never did anything without his instructions. Until Nyra. The little shits were always touching her. And now, they had taken her to the realm of shadows on their own accord.

How did Nesta find Nyra when she was in the shadows? Did it have anything to do with them being twins?

As he contemplated these new developments, Azriel watched the twins. Nesta Archeron had piqued his interest. He knew from Nuala and Cerridwen that twins shared a certain bond that siblings with age gaps did not. It had something to do with an exclusive connection forming between them during their time in the womb. And it was another matter that the Archeron twins were thrown into the Cauldron at the same time. Was there something more because of that?

Azriel figured the best way to distract himself tonight would be with the varieties of delicacies served for dinner tonight. He looked around, trying to identify which ones he'd prefer. The shadows kept telling him about the twins and how Feyre served the first dish to Nyra and from then on, the twins served their own food and passed the dishes around. Lucien Vanserra is nervous. Azriel looked at him to see the male looking at his food and looking around. He had been unconsciously placed at the head of the table with Nesta and Amren by his side.

"You get used to it—the informality." Feyre addressed Lucien.

"You say that, Feyre darling, like it's a bad thing." Rhysand served himself some trout before passing it to Feyre. She served herself before looking at Nyra questioningly. Nyra shook her head, took the dish and passed it to Nesta. Azriel observed her hesitation. She does not like trout.

"It took me by surprise that first dinner we all had, just so you know." Feyre's comment had Cassian snickering.

"Oh, I know." Rhys grinned.

"Honestly, Azriel is the only polite one." Cassian and Mor cried in outrage as Feyre said that but Azriel smiled a little and took a dish from Mor. "Don't even try to pretend that it's not true." A small ball of delight hit the shadowsinger in the chest when he saw that Nyra had taken the delicacy he had just served himself. Chicken roast. She might like it. He certainly did and now he'd wait for her verdict.

"Of course, it's true." Mor sighed. "But you needn't make us sound like heathens."

Azriel watched Nyra pick up her fork and play with the food for a few seconds before she took a bite. Her eyes widened a little and she took her next bite, thoroughly pleased by the taste. Azriel made another mental note. She likes roast chicken.

And that was enough information for the shadows to have another celebratory dance. The older shadows around him loved her but they could control themselves. In a sense, they were mature. Clearly not mature enough to go through one dinner without complimenting her, but at least they weren't singing and dancing like the younger ones wrapped quite literally around her fingers. They were small, their touch featherlight and they had already ascended to her wrists and above to give her space to handle cutlery.

“Do you like chicken?” Mor asked, a smile on her face. Nyra slowly nodded. “Then you should try it with this.” She passed a bottle of sauce but Nyra simply stared at it and looked back at Mor. What if she turned her gaze and looked at him? After all, he was sitting right next to Mor. And he fought a smile. A very difficult battle but he won.

Just as Nyra extended her hand to take the bottle of sauce, the younger shadows around her wrist darted forward to take it from Mor’s hand, taking care not to make contact with the latter’s skin. They opened it and set the bottle near Nyra’s plate. She smiled gently and whispered. “Thank you.” 

“Try it. Mor likes it and I tolerate it. It’s chili sauce. Spicy as it is, it’s quite good once you get used to it.” Rhys spoke as he looked at her. Nyra nodded and took a tentative bite and her eyes snapped to Mor who waited for the verdict. Nyra nodded with soft enthusiasm and then hummed before looking at Rhys who grinned with the raise of his glass. Azriel was observing everything. She liked it with that sauce.

The shadows near Azriel's ears were dancing with joy and subsequently, tickling his ears and irritating him. He banished them away from his ears and focused. He was the Spymaster. Surely he could spy on one female sitting across from him during dinner without his shadows.

“Thank you.” She addressed Mor once she had chewed and swallowed the piece in her mouth and then turned to Rhys and nodded at him. The High Lord lifted his spoon in acknowledgement and ate his peas.  

“So, what are your favourite foods?” Mor eagerly began. 

Nyra was silent for a while before she replied. Chocolate, Azriel noted. "My diet was regulated owing to my illness."

"You have no illnesses now." Amren spoke up. "Take complete advantage of that." Azriel hoped Nyra would enjoy the world and all that it had to offer now that she was no longer ill and had a long, immortal life ahead of her. Explore places. Eat foods from all over the world. Meeting new people, not in a romantic capacity else he'd accidentally slice their necks. Enjoy the weather—the sun, the rain, the snow. Everything she wanted, he'd lay down at her feet.

Nyra hummed thoughtfully, cutting through a particularly large piece of broccoli and asked. “Do you eat flesh too?”

The ancient one smirked. “What makes you think that?” 

“Bloodthirsty people being flesh eaters does not sound too odd.” Rhys spat his wine. Mor and Cassian laughed and Azriel smirked, the back of his hand pressed to his mouth to restrain the laughter. Nyra and Nesta were the only ones who did not laugh—the former looking amused while the latter looked grumpy. Why was Nesta so grumpy?

“Troublesome female.” Amren spoke after the laughter had died down, a wicked smirk on her face as she imagined something that nobody was too eager to know. Nyra did not reply and resumed her meal. The chicken and potatoes and the broccoli, she decided, were too delicious to be ignored in favour of a bloodthirsty midget. "No, I don't." Amren's voice had Nyra looking at her again. "I don't eat flesh." 

Dinner progressed with Nesta telling Feyre about how she understood the difference between the food in Prythian and in the mortal lands. It was when Feyre brought up training with Cassian that Nyra paid attention. "What time are we back in the training ring tomorrow?"

"I'd say dawn but since I'm feeling rather grateful that you're back in one piece, I'll let you sleep in. Let's meet at seven."

"I'd hardly call that sleeping in." Feyre muttered.

"For an Illyrian, it is." Mor sighed again. Azriel was already starting to get irritated at the banter between Cassian and Mor and at his stupidity for situating himself between them. His peaceful observation was being interrupted by these loudmouths. His shadows were also joining that group anyway.

"Daylight is a precious resource." Cassian's wings rustled as he took mock offence.

"We live in the Night Court." Mor countered.

Cassian grimaced and turned to his brothers. "I told you that the moment we started letting females into our group, they'd be nothing but trouble." Azriel did not bother paying him any mind.

Rhys raised an eyebrow. "As far as I can recall, Cassian, you actually said you needed a reprieve from staring at our ugly faces, and that some ladies would add some much-needed prettiness for you to look at all day. And now, we have more pretty ladies with us." Rhysand threw a welcoming smile at the twins who were suddenly overwhelmed at the sudden ball of attention thrown towards them but they did acknowledge him with a nod of their heads.

"I was a young Illyrian and didn't know better." The movement of Azriel's shadows caught his attention and Cassian pointed a fork at his brother. "Don't try to blend into the shadows. You said the same thing." Azriel sighed, annoyed at Cassian for not shutting up and letting him watch Nyra in peace.

"He did not." Mor objected. "Azriel has never once said anything that awful. Only you, Cassian. Only you." Cassian stuck out his tongue. Mor mimicked his action. Azriel, who sat between them, now regretted his choice of seat. He should have chosen the seat on Mor's other side. He would have had an easier time observing Nyra without the two chatterboxes of the millennia breathing down his neck.

"You'd be wise to leave both of them at home for the meeting with the others, Rhysand. They'll cause nothing but trouble." Amren's words surprised Lucien. Nyra focused on her food while conversation progressed regarding the High Lords' Meet but then the mention of a Court of Nightmares seemed to have caught her attention.

"What is the Court of Nightmares?" Nyra asked Rhysand but it was Lucien who answered.

"The place where the rest of the world believes the majority of the Night Court to be. The seat of his power. Or it was." Nyra looked at the red-haired male.

Azriel was beginning to feel even more irritated. This Autumn-born was an unwelcome guest in their Court and he was already stealing her attention. Something within him stirred with rage. The thought of anyone other than him trying to do anything for her woke up all the wrath he had carefully concealed. And even when Cassian slung a seemingly friendly arm behind him, Azriel felt the strength in the warlord's grip.

Rhysand's presence waited for him outside his mind's realm. I urge you to calm down, Azriel. The Vanserra is here for his own mate, not her.

Then he should stay away from her. Azriel's response was cool but he knew that Rhysand understood his rage. He is responsible for their transformation. It was unbearably painful and traumatising for them.

Partially responsible, yes. Rhysand countered, trying to placate him but Azriel was having none of it.

The Cauldron did something to her. And her sisters. She died in there, Rhys. Very painfully. And he was complicit in how things turned out for all four of the Archeron sisters even if he has a mating bond leading to one of them. I don't understand why we are dining with him instead of taking him to the prisons. Azriel knew he had spoken more than he usually did. It was uncharacteristic of him but then again, he'd already lost his mate once and that made him immensely protective of Nyra. And the rage within him rose like the icy wind it was. Cold and unforgiving. 

Azriel knew his anger was something everyone feared, even Rhys. And this was the most powerful High Lord to ever exist. And that cold, cruel feeling continued to swirl within him like a blizzard. 

Azriel. Cassian's voice spoke. They're simply talking. 

He, who is responsible for the pain she endured, be it partially or wholly, is not worthy of her words or attention. Azriel declared his verdict. He could feel himself shaking.

His shadows were trying to calm him down by saying good things. Sweet memories of his mother. Her latest letter. How lovely his mate was. And how he had yet to tell his mother about his mate. The anticipation because his mother, the sweet female, had been waiting for him to bring home someone. Had prayed for him to meet someone who would love him. And here she was. The only female he was capable of loving. The shadows panicked and danced around him, ready to take him to the realm should he snap in front of Nyra. 

Oh, how he’d carve this Autumn-born. He’d start with that metal eye. Rip it out of him and crush it. He’d pour whiskey into the bleeding socket before pushing the crushed metal eye back into it. And Azriel would take his time. He’d cut and carve into his skin with the Truth Teller. 

Mistress is looking here. And at that, he froze. He finally noticed Nyra looking at him, doubt in her gaze. He noticed the ironclad grip on his shoulder by Cassian. Mor and Amren seemingly invested in the conversation but radiating their power subtly enough to put forward that they were ready to strike. By then, Rhys had taken over the conversation but the High Lord was ready with the night to restrain him. 

And then there was her. 

This beautiful, wonderful female. 

The way she was looking at him, ocean blue eyes wide and questioning. 

She’d guarded the heart of her youngest sister, the newest addition to his family, his sister. And now, he was ready to beg her to protect his own because he’d seen Feyre so happy whenever she talked about Nyra, was talking to Nyra, was even near her. The comfort Feyre had found in this female was something he’d started craving. He could see how Nyra sitting between her sisters was a good arrangement. Both Feyre and Nesta craved the comfort she’d offered. And in their own flawed way, they returned it. 

Was he capable of offering her comfort? Since it was for her, it could not be anything less than perfect and he was anything but. And that thought saddened him more than he expected. 

“Are you alright?” She mouthed the question, trying to ensure secrecy but everybody was focusing on their interaction except for Nesta and Feyre. Everybody pretended to be in a conversation to indulge the other Archerons at the table while she was asking him. How beautiful she’d be with his cock in that pretty mouth. Or maybe, he should make her beg. Or even scream. 

“Yes.” Azriel mouthed back. Erotic fantasies about Nyra were better than murderous fantasies about the Vanserra. Anger dissipated like the fog and she then smiled at the shadows which had tugged at her fingertips. She then looked at him with that smile and Azriel swore the moon rose in those blue eyes. 

Has she always been this impossibly enchanting? 

And what was that smile? 

Was she happy? 

If he kissed her right now, as her lips smiled at him, would he get a piece of that happiness for himself? 

Azriel stood up and nearly began leaning towards her before Cassian caught his arm and jerked it. He came to his senses and immediately knew everyone was looking at him. He spotted the first dish near her and took it, pretending that he’d needed to stand up for his hands to reach there. Just as he sat, Cassian coughed rather loudly. Of course, the bastards he had as brothers caught him. 

"It still is to everyone outside Velaris." Nyra turned to Rhys who had spoken. He nodded at her once before looking at Mor. "And yes, Keir's Darkbringer legion is considerable enough that a meeting is warranted."

"Why not just order them?" Nesta questioned, her brows narrowed. "Don't they answer to you?" At this point, the three Archerons turned their heads to Rhys simultaneously, waiting for him to answer.

Azriel watched them in surprise. The three Archeron sisters with startlingly similar features turning to look at Rhys was an incredible sight. Golden brown hair, blue eyes, fair skin glowing under the golden faelights. All of them were wearing something dark. When a lock of hair escaped their respective hairstyles and fell near their left ears as they immediately turned to face Rhys. When they placed their cutlery on their respective plates in unison. The way their hands rested on the table and they assumed the same posture as they waited for Rhysand to speak. It hit him too hard that these three were sisters, in blood and bond. No matter how fractured those bonds were.

"To think there's another one of them upstairs." Amren muttered, taking a heavy gulp of blood. It seemed the stark similarity in looks, postures and overall disposition as it seemed at the moment had caught everyone unawares.

"Unfortunately, there are protocols in place between our two sub-courts regarding this sort of thing." Cassian spoke, his back straightening when Nesta shifted her gaze from Rhys to him. "They mostly govern themselves with Mor's father—their steward." Nyra looked at the warlord sitting to Azriel's left. The shadowsinger noted how particularly different Cassian behaved around Nesta and how Nyra had noticed the same.

"The steward of Hewn City is legally entitled to refuse to aid my armies." Once again, the three sisters turned to Rhysand. "It was a part of the agreement my ancestor made with the Court of Nightmares all those thousands of years ago. They would remain within that mountain, would not challenge or disturb us beyond its borders... and would retain the right to decide not to assist in war."

"And there are no loopholes in this agreement?" Nyra asked. He could feel her thinking. He could not discern her exact thoughts but he was glad at the way her mind had been distracted from the grief and guilt she was consumed by earlier.

"None that we have identified so far." Rhys answered.

"And have they refused?" Feyre asked.

Morrigan's fumbled response brought Nyra to another realisation. And as dinner progressed, Azriel felt her as she let her grief be a forgotten thing. The conversation continued regarding the Court of Nightmares and Feyre's training with Cassian.

"Let's train at eight tomorrow. I'll meet you in the ring." Feyre spoke after the silence in the wake of their discussion on the Court of Nightmares.

"Seven thirty." Cassian countered with a grin.

"Eight." Feyre tried to. negotiate. "Care to join, you two?"

"No." Nesta's answer was final, not inviting any negotiations.

"Nyra?" Feyre tried. Nyra was in the middle of looking at the table for broccoli. She looked to her right to her youngest upon being called. 

"What exactly are you training for?" Nyra asked and then took a bite of the chicken, resuming her search.

"Combat." Cassian grinned at her. "What are you looking for?"

"Care to elaborate? I'm looking for broccoli." Cassian noted that the bowl of vegetables including the broccoli was next to Mor. He spoke to Nyra and tried to keep her attention as much as possible while Mor discreetly pushed the bowl as quietly as possible to Azriel's part of the table. The shadowsinger looked at her once and nodded.

"You'd learn to be a badass like me."

"I highly doubt anybody wants to be like you, Cassian." Mor interjected. Azriel quietly lifted the bowl and stretched his arm. Nyra extended her own arm to take the bowl from him.

Azriel always wore fingerless gloves and today was no exception. It concealed his scarred hands as much as possible but the fingers were bare in case he needed to write or handle small objects. And right now, he felt Nyra's fingers brush against his under the bowl as she took it from him. He froze and slowly withdrew his hands. Soft hands. He wanted to hold them. Feel her hands on his chest, his neck. Wanted them tugging on his hair. And he’d die if one of them ever descended and snuck inside his pants.

"Moving on from that unsolicited comment, you'd be learning to control your breathing, balance your body, work on your muscles, throw nasty punches, wield weapons. Basically, you'd be a badass at fighting like me." Cassian already sounded excited at the possibility of teaching another Archeron how to fight.

"I'm sorry, Cassian, but I cannot participate."

"Oh, come on. Don't tell me you want to stay grumpy and read all day like your twin." Cassian's gaze turned to Nesta who was doing her best at pretending that she was not the centre of his attention. Azriel did not know whether to envy his brother at being able to confidently look at Nesta even when the female seemed confused between killing him and fucking him.

"Reading is fun." Nyra frowned. "Being grumpy is not my preferred method of passing time. But I want to focus on training my magic. It is,” she lifted her left hand and looked at it. Lightning crackled between her fingertips. “Rather dangerous and I might end up hurting someone if I don’t learn how to control this.”

“I’ll help you with that.” Rhysand offered. 

“Nonsense. I’ll teach you. Both of you.” Amren declared and waited for anyone to challenge her decision. Nobody dared. Azriel wondered how this little demon would be while teaching the sisters. He’d have to monitor for the first few days at least. Cauldron knew whether the mouse-sized female would terrorise Nyra. And maybe not even the Cauldron would know how Nyra would react to that. As endearing as it was to him, Nyra’s moody self might not be appreciated everywhere. 

“Why the sudden interest, Amren?” Feyre asked teasingly.

“Your sisters, High Lady, possess powers like no other. They require training not only to wield it effectively and efficiently but also to keep themselves from harm.” Amren left it at that. 

****

"The King of Hybern." Feyre breathed deeply. And at the mention of the scum, everyone felt the power shift. The Archeron twins' eyes began glowing, albeit faintly. Nyra gripped the arms of her chair and Nesta clenched her fists. Azriel swallowed, trying to keep away the envy against the arms of the chair. To keep away the question as to why it was not his hands or arms that she was gripping so tightly. Those beautiful hands, as small as they were in comparison to his own, had quite the grip as observed by his shadows. Would she hold his arms or shoulders that tightly when he’d thrust into her? Would she scratch his back and mark him? 

"The king is trying to bring down the wall." Nyra began calming down, her curiosity taking over her rage slowly. She turned to Feyre, a silent command to continue speaking. "By using the Cauldron. There are already holes in it and he wants to expand them. I might be able to patch up these holes, but you... being made of the Cauldron itself... if the Cauldron can widen those holes, perhaps you can close them, too. With training in whatever time we have."

Nyra looked at Feyre, as if she were assessing something. "Fine. I'll do it." She turned to Amren. “Do you have anything introductory for me to read through the night or will your lessons be completely practical?” 

Amren brought her palm forward and a few books appeared. And then they vanished. “They’re in your room. Read as much as you can before tomorrow morning. We start at ten. And before you ask, it’s their responsibility to bring you lot to the city whenever you need.” 

“How do you expect her to read those overnight?” Cassian sounded outrageously shocked. 

“We will see that tomorrow.” Amren smirked at the spark in Nyra’s eyes. A challenge had been ignited. Azriel felt Nyra’s determination to win. What he did not realise was the quiet wave of encouragement he had sent across the bond. Nyra’s eyes widened at the warm feeling rising within her and before she could dwell on it any more, Feyre addressed Nesta.

"What about you?"

The sisters stared at each other impassively. "Fine." Nesta spoke in the same tone Nyra had—giving up the stubbornness.

"Good. We'll go to the Court of Nightmares with you and find objects for practice." Amren clapped her hands once.

"What?" Feyre immediately looked at the delicate female, the idea of her sisters going to the Court of Nightmares appalling to her. 

"Let the girls get a feel of something like the wall or like the Cauldron." Amren added when Azriel seemed poised to object. "Covertly."

“Is there something in the Court of Nightmares we should be worried about?” Nyra asked casually but the silence that followed was not so casual.

“The Night Court does not exactly have the best reputation.” Lucien spoke, breaking the silence. Cassian cursed and Azriel could feel his anger rise again and be a palpable thing that demanded he tear the red headed male to shreds. Nyra looked at Lucien and Azriel would have roared in anger if it weren’t for Rhysand’s presence right outside his mental shields, trying to subdue the beast that was him. 

Nevertheless, the Autumn-born continued oblivious to the bloodlust rolling off the shadowsinger. Bloodlust that was warded by Mor and Amren, Cassian physically restraining him and Rhys casting and maintaining a mental shield. 

Lucien continued. “To outsiders, this place is cold and cruel and Rhysand is a merciless High Lord. They believe it to be a structure of Hel in the land of the living and equally, if not more miserable.”

“You still haven’t answered my question.” Nyra spoke, her impatience rising. 

“This reputation stems from the way he holds court and from now on, how Rhysand and Feyre will hold court. He rules over them with an iron fist like some dark lord and it feels like a mausoleum in there. Blood and deceit coat those walls. People adorn masks to pretend like every gathering is a luxurious party when it’s just the inhabitants of Hewn City putting up a performance so that Rhys is not displeased.”

“And what happens when Rhysand is displeased?”

“The general executes. The spymaster tortures. Anything could happen.” 

And Azriel froze at what Lucien had revealed about him to Nyra. At the implications of it. How it could influence her opinion on him. On his family. He looked at Rhysand. Why did you not silence him?

She would have found out sooner or later. She will make her judgement after seeing us in the Court of Nightmares. Rhys sounded worried even after he said this. As if it was not only meant to convince Azriel but also himself. 

She deserves to be at peace. You of all people know how being strong can tire your spirits. She needs time to process this transition before she’s introduced to other horrors. Azriel all but yelled at his brother.

And I have no doubt you’d make it painful for anyone who dares to breathe wrong near her. Rhysand nodded once. We all will. The sisters won’t be harmed, not by any member of my Court or by any power in the Night Court territory so long as I’m alive. This is my promise. Azriel felt the tingling sensation of a bargain near his left waist. And even with a bargain, the shadowsinger was not in favour of this. 

Nyra could be taken to the Court of Nightmares after some time. After she had time to process all the trauma she had been recently subjected to. He seriously debated what was worse—facing horrors one after the other or facing them all at once. Nyra did note once that the former was what Nesta had gone through. He’d understood enough to know that Nesta’s mental health was in a very fragile condition.

Azriel only wanted Nyra to have enough time to process the transition before she learned about everything. He’d personally teach her as much as he could. He had no intentions of hiding or sugarcoating anything. He simply wanted her to have enough time to cope with the trauma and the stress it brought. 

Silence ensued. Feyre waited for Nesta to say something because this Archeron had been glaring at her plate for too long. To kill all hope. But she posed another question. "Why not just kill the King of Hybern before he can act?"

The shadow of death seemed to loom above them. Cassian, the Lord of Bloodshed, and Azriel, the shadowsinger, seemed to thrive off of it. Nyra and Nesta felt at ease, as though they were home. Death really seemed to be a comfort space for the four of them.

The room descended into the cold as Nesta’s eyes burned silver. The younger shadows around Nyra were trying to create a wall between the twins out of fear for their mistress’ safety. A few of his older shadows joined the endeavour. His hand went to the hilt of the Truth Teller. And with everyone on guard at how Nesta could release her mysterious power, Nyra’s hand broke through the shadowy barrier and grabbed her twin’s hand. Lightning crackled just a bit. Enough to jolt Nesta out of her trance. 

Silver bled into blue and Nyra released her hand. Nesta looked at her twin once and nodded. The twins resumed eating as though nothing had happened. As if Nesta’s presence had not suddenly made them feel like they were in a battlefield with their lives endangered. 

"If you want his killing blow, it's yours. Both of you." Amren said, her voice taking an understanding note. 

And as Nesta looked at Amren with the eyes of a predator, Nyra clenched her hands. She had already abandoned her cutlery but the way her power roared like a storm within her was becoming too much. She needed an outlet. The shadows around her wrists started tickling her hands and she was too scared of releasing her grip. Too scared of letting the power go away. And the storm was becoming uncontrollable. 

Azriel was beside her in an instant, his large hands covering her own. “Let it out.” That was all she heard. 

Thunder roared in the skies above Prythian. Lighting flashed a great many times. Nyra’s breathing became heavier. The shadows swarmed around her body and the darkness consumed them. She felt herself in an embrace, warm and strong. Nyra whimpered, her power starting to become painful. And through the bond, Azriel felt it all. And he held her through all of it. 

She released her power in that realm of shadows, enough to tire herself out. Azriel was surprised by how welcoming the shadows were. How the realm had welcomed the roar of her storms so easily. And he realised that this was not a change. It was a preexisting factor. And that the shadows were waiting for her just as much as him, if not more. The compatibility of his shadows with her lightning was showing itself. 

Her eyes glowed and her neck craned. She trembled under the weight of her own power, groaning and nearly screaming under the weight of her own power. Mistress. Lightning. Perfect. The shadows caressed her arms and hands. Azriel’s hands were on her waist and head, holding her close. 

“Nyra.” He called out when the lightning had stopped roaring. 

“Azriel?” Her voice was so small and confused, he was beginning to worry. “Where are we? Why is it so dark?”

“We are in the shadows.” He responded, worried about how she’d take that news but he couldn’t lie to her. She did not deserve to be lied to.

“I think I was here before.” Her voice was a clear indication of her tired state. She had released so much power that he clearly understood that she could take down all the High Lords and their armies easily. He could imagine the extent of her power if she were to be taught how to control it.

“Yes. The shadows told me that they brought you here earlier.”

Nyra did not say anything and he continued to hold her. 

“Are you embracing me?” Nyra asked. He could feel her hands trying to move around to analyse their surroundings only to fail because he was holding her close. 

“Yes.” His grip on her loosened and his soul faltered at the possibility of her not wanting his touch. After all, how could these desecrated hands touch her? However worthless he was, he did not want her to remain in the shadows if she was uncomfortable here. 

“Do you want me to release you? I must tell you that we do need to maintain contact to navigate back safely but we can simply hold hands.” And even when he’d used the word ‘simply’, there was nothing simple about holding her hand. How had he not already fainted? 

Nyra’s hands rose and her palms found his chest, fingers curling to grab the fabric. Azriel was suddenly afraid of breathing. Of making a single sound. He would have willed his heart to still if he could since it was beating so loud and fast. Her fingers were so gentle as they found his shirt to hold. 

“Did I hurt the shadows?” She asked softly. Azriel could hear the shadows whisper to him. How touched they were by her concern for them. “Did I hurt you?” It was a good time to fall into a ditch and stay there because Azriel severely doubted whether his knees had enough strength to stand and to not falter as he held her. 

“No, we’re fine.” He felt her shift, move just a bit to the back. If they could see each other, they would probably be looking at each other’s faces. 

“Are you sure?” She sounded determined to know if she’d hurt him or the shadows even in the slightest. And with that sweet voice of hers, she’d awakened something so wholly pure within him that he’d doubted whether that feeling would be corrupted by existing inside someone like him even if it was his own. 

Azriel had already believed that he was in heaven as he embraced her. Was it not the best thing to be able to touch her even though he was an undeserving bastard from the dirt? But he was a selfish bastard. And that selfishness demanded that he take every scrap she’d leave in her wake. Anything she’d throw at him. 

“Az?” That was the first time she’d called him by that nickname and his heart leaped to his throat at the realisation.

“Yes?” He held her because he was afraid to let go. And it felt good to take a page from her book and start acknowledging that. Not that he’d ever say it out loud but he was afraid. He’d lost his mate once and he certainly had no intentions of letting her go to some place he couldn’t follow. Or maybe, he could. He could follow her. The shadows let him travel anywhere and if she were to go to the afterlife like last time, he’d simply follow. The Truth Teller was always with him so he wouldn’t have much trouble arranging his own death. 

“I’m so tired.” She felt so much fear and pain and confusion and Azriel felt it all. He wondered whether being able to feel her through the bond helped her. If he could at least take a part of that pain for himself. 

“Go to sleep, Nyra. I’m right here.” The hand on her head began patting her. After a few moments, the hand stopped patting and began stroking her hair. Azriel pushed wave after wave of calm towards the bond and he felt her breathing slow down. And like a baby, she was asleep in his arms.

****

TAGLIST:

@waytoomanyteenagefeels @impossibelle @esposadomd @starswholistenanddreamsanswered @judig92 @bunnyredgirl @sh4nn @a-frog-with-a-laptop @kattzillaa @ronnieglennn @wallacewillow0773638 @forgiveliv @justdreamstars @donttellthecats @cat-or-kitten @jojodojo02 @wandas-dream @evylynny @weasleyreidstyles @stqrgirlies-blog @why4anne @acourtofdreamsandshadows @saltedcoffeescotch @mybestfriendmademe @macimads @footyandformula @noelli-smv @mqlfoyelf @thehighlordishere @slytherintaco @spideytingley @deeshag @footyandformula @nebarious @dream-alittlebiggerdarling @prettylittlewrites @lilah-asteria @5onedirection5 @hanitastic @sevikas-whore @krowiathemythologynerd

[fandomnerd9602]

Three's Perfect

WandaNat x Male Reader (Modern AU)

For @aloneodi

Rain hammered against the attic window, mirroring the storm brewing within Natasha. She sat bathed in the amber glow of a dusty photo album, her fingers tracing the faces that mocked her longing. Wanda and you, curled on the rug near the old rocking chair, watched her carefully, shadows clinging to your eyes.

Your polyamorous relationship, once a vibrant tapestry of whispered secrets and shared laughter, felt fragile now. Natasha, usually unflappable, was unraveling at the seams.

She choked back a sob, slamming the album shut. "Maybe it's just not in the cards for me," she rasped, her voice raw. Wanda reached out, but Natasha flinched away, a wounded animal seeking solitude.

Natasha had just gotten back from the doctors. They gave her some of the worst news she had received: there was only a slim chance that she could ever have children. The news had broken her heart into a million pieces. The three of you had dreamt of having kids for so long. Seeing Natasha's agony felt like being trapped behind a glass wall, you could see her pain and there was nothing you could do to soothe her.

Wanda, ever the empath, sensed her turmoil. She held your hand, the warmth of her touch grounding you. "I won't leave your side, Nat," she murmured, her voice a soothing balm. "Our love builds our family, remember?"

Natasha whispered, tears spilling down her cheeks. "But we talked about a whole nursery, tiny socks, bedtime stories..."

She trailed off, the image of an impossibly happy future shattering like a dropped glass. You swallowed the lump in your throat, reaching for Natasha. She leaned into your embrace, your own tears stinging your eyes. You held Natasha tight, not wanting to let this amazing woman out of your arms.

"This doesn't change how I or Wanda feel about you," you whispered, your voice laced with the ache of understanding. "Love doesn't change"

Wanda joined the huddle, a silent trinity full of grief and yet hope. The rain intensified, drumming a fierce rhythm against the attic roof.

Natasha, sensing the shift, pulled away, wiping her tears. "So, what now?" she asked, her voice a raw inquiry.

You met her gaze, Wanda's hand tightening in yours. "Now," you said, a hesitant smile gracing your lips, "we build that nursery. We can always adopt."

Wanda's eyes lit up, and Natasha, for the first time in hours, managed a shaky smile.

"Yeah" Wanda smiled, "I love it! I can see it now! You're gonna be such an amazing mother, Nattie!" Natasha actually began to giggle.

"Not as amazing as you, Wanda" the two gals hug each other and then you.

The storm outside hadn't relented, but within the attic, a new resolve bloomed. The love that they all shared would never changed. And the children that would run down the hallways of their home would feel that same amount of love.

You picked up Natasha and carried her down the stairs of the attic. Natasha giggled in your arms, just feeling all the love she needed.

Later, curled up in bed, the rain having mellowed into a soft patter, you held Natasha and Wanda close. The silence spoke volumes, a shared vow etched in the quiet. Their family was built on unwavering love that had weathered storms far worse than this. As they drifted off to sleep, nestled in the warmth of each other's arms.

Eventually the dream grew. The three of you adopted a little baby girl who Natasha named Maria. Wanda gave birth to twin boys who she named Billy and Tommy. And despite everything that she had been told, Natasha gave birth to a little boy who you named Alex. Your family of three grew to a family of seven and all of them knew only love.

[callsign-dexter]

From Fear to Forever

Request: Ok sweetheart 😘 what would you think of a Rooster imagine where you cover up to fly with Bob instead of Natasha that day the plane crashes and Rooster sits on the radio, being on the edge as he doesn't know if you're okay or not and he fears he'll lose you just like his dad. As soon as Mav tells him that you're mostly okay and staying at the hospital, he's crying with relief and hugs Mav and he forgives him as he realizes he doesn't want to lose more people. Then you both come to the hospital and Rooster is all spoiling you and making sure you're okay and as he thinks you're asleep, he tells how that he loves you, but you can hear him, so you both finally confess your feelings and the rest of the team watches as smiles from outside 🤭

Pairings: Bradley Bradshaw x Seresin!Twin Sister!Reader

Warnings: angst, fluff, cussing, inaccurate medical talk, inaccurate Navy talk

Masterlist

A/N: thank you @imagine-all-the-fandoms for requesting this and I'm so so sorry it took forever. I just needed a break to collect myself and convince myself that I shouldn't just give up and delete this account.

You, Y/N ‘Storm’ Seresin, never thought you would be back here. Where you may ask? Well, none other than Top Gun. Your home away from home. You first went through it with your twin brother Jake Seresin, yes that is your brother, and your backseater Mark ‘Shadow’ Newman. He was your best friend, literally you both went through the academy together and pilot school, where you met Bradley Bradshaw and fell in love but he would never love you or so you thought, then Top Gun. Mark was also married to a beautiful wife, who is your friend, and they have 2 adorable boys together that look just like their father. 

Currently the both of you were hanging out at The Hard Deck with your brother and Javy waiting for the others. “So, Storm, how is it to be siblings with Hangman?” Javy asked, sliding up to you. 

“Not as bad as you think. He has his moments but he can be a Golden Retriever.” You said smirking as Jake shot you a look.

“Hey don't be going around telling all my secrets. I have a reputation to uphold.” He said and laughed.

“You sure do ‘Mister I Have a Different Girl Every Night’.” You said and smirked but then eyes widening when you saw him coming over to you. You were quick to dive behind Mark.

“Oh, you're so getting it, Sis. Just you wait. You may be safe now but you better watch it.” He said and you knew it was a wholehearted threat and it made you burst out laughing which caused them to do so too. 

“And that there is sibling love.” Mark said, chuckling and taking a drink of his drink while you stepped out from behind him. Jake chuckled and brought you into his arms and hugged you and you hugged back. 

“Such a good little sister.” He said and you smacked him and pushed out of his arms.

“Hey we are twins, same age dumbass.” You pointed out he only did it because he knew it got on your nerves. The banter went on for another few minutes until Javy had pulled Jake over to play darts and you went with Mark to sit and watch. “When are the others getting here?” You asked.

“Should be any minute now.” Mark said “Why are you hoping to see Rooster?” He smirked and nudged you and you pushed him but it didn't budge him. 

“No…” You said and he looked at you and you rolled your eyes “Fine yes.” You said.

“I don't see why you don't just admit your feelings for him.” Mark said casually while taking a drink of his beer. 

“He doesn't see me like that.” You said trying not to sound heartbroken.

“How would you know if you don't tell?” He asked and you shook your head.

“I don't want to deal with the heartbreak.” You said and he nodded.

“I get it, I do.” He said and he truly did get it. It took him almost a year to ask Melissa, his now wife, to go on a date with him and then confess his feelings. Melissa had been your friend since high school and she just happened to be going to a college near the Naval Academy and the two of you reconnected. 

“Storm!” A familiar voice called out and you turned towards the direction and saw none other than Natasha 'Phoenix’ Trace. 

“Phoenix!” You shouted back and went to her and hugged her tightly and she did the same. 

“Finally, another female.” She said and you laughed as Callie ‘Halo’ Bassett came up as well. 

“We thought we would have to go through this with all of the testosterone alone.” Callie said 

“Even if I wasn't here, you two would have each other.” You said and they shook their heads.

“Wouldn't be the same.” Natasha said and you chuckled. 

“I’m going to the bathroom. I'll be right back.” You told her and she nodded and you disappeared into the bathroom missing the little back and forth between your brother and Natasha. You hadn't seen Bradley yet and that upset you slightly. After pilot school you both stayed in contact with one another. “Stop getting your hopes up. He may not be coming.” You said to yourself as you looked in the mirror washing your hands after using the bathroom. You sighed and walked towards the door and out of it and stopped in your tracks as you saw a Hawaiian shirt walk through the front door there, he was Bradley ‘Rooster’ Bradshaw. You hear Natasha call out to him and watch him walk over to the pool table and watch how she whacked him in the stomach. He grunted and patted her on the arm. You watched as he bickered with your brother. You watched the interaction they had with Bob Floyd, another friend of yours plus you and Mark were stationed with him. You don't know how long you were staring until Mark saw you and frowned and he walked over to you.

“You alright?” He asked and you quickly glanced at him and back to Bradley as he walked over to the jukebox.

“Yea I think so.” You said 

“Are you sure?” He asked and you nodded.

“Yea I'm good.” You said as the music stopped playing and he sat down on the piano.

“Go talk to him.” He said and you looked at him and he nodded his head. You sighed and started to walk over there just as the familiar tune started. Just as you reached him a tag chaser popped up beside him and started to be all lovey dovey to him and that made tears pop into your eyes and you didn't know why it wasn't like you were with him. What hurt the worst was he smiled up at her. You abandoned your mission and walked out. Jake was quick to notice and grabbed his beer and followed you out. You missed how Bradley looked at you longingly and with a twinge of sadness in his eye. You walked out and down the steps heading to your car, you couldn't be here. 

“Y/N.” Jake said your brother's voice rang out. You ignored him. “Lt. Y/N Seresin.” He said in a more authoritative tone using your rank because he knew you would stop and you did.

“Nice one.” You said as you turned to him “What do you want?” you asked voice laced with emotion.

“Are you ok?” He asked and you looked at him and shook your head. 

“No.” You said and he sighed and brought you into a brotherly hug and you let tears fall.

“He's an idiot, you know that.” He said and you knew who he was referring to.

“I'm stupid to ever let those feelings come up.” You whispered

“No, you're not, Sis. It's normal. Ok?” He asked and you nodded.

“Yea, ok. I think I'm just going to go home.” You said 

“Are you sure?” He asked and you nodded.

“I want to get a good night's sleep before tomorrow.” You said and the both of you knew that was a lie, you were going to go home shower and cry your eyes out. Jake has been there way too many times comforting you. 

“I'll check in on you later. Ok?” He asked and you nodded.

“Ok. I love you.” You said into his chest.

“I love you too, Sis. Text me when you're home. I'll take care of your tab.” He said 

“Thank you.” You said as you pulled away and tears ran down your face and he was quick to wipe them away with his thumbs as he held your head in his hands. Beer bottle sitting on what happened to be his truck's tailgate. 

“That's what brothers are for. Now no more crying.” He said and you cracked a smile and he kissed your forehead. “Get home safely.” He said as he pulled away and you nodded. You got into your Jeep right beside his truck and he watched you back up. You waved at him and he waved back. You pulled out and as you were out of sight, he went back inside just in time for him to help throw someone out, who just happened to be their instructor, and then Bradley started to sing and play. Jake sat back and watched while drinking his beer. After the song was over Bradley plugged the jukebox in. As the music began to play, he walked over to Jake.

“Where's Y/N? I saw her walk out. She seemed upset.” Bradley asked and frowned.

“She has gone home. She was upset.” Jake said and Bradley frowned.

“Why? Everything ok?” He asked

“Maybe you should ask her tomorrow.” Jake said “A little advice. Nobody messes with my sister and gets away with it.” He added and walked off leaving Bradley confused.

“Bradley, where did you run off to?” A young blonde headed girl that was all over him. The one he tried to let down easily. 

“That's none of your business.” He said “It would be best if you left.” He added and she made a face.

“Fine.” She said and turned around and stomped off. Bradley sighed he really wished you were here but it looked like he fucked it up once again. He couldn't wait for this night to end.

When you finally made home and parked and let the tears fall. Why were you like this? It's not like the two of you were dating. You sighed and got out making sure you locked the door after you shut it. You walked into your rented house and unlocked the door and walked in while turning on the lights and making sure to lock the door. You got your phone out and pulled up Jake's number.

I'm home. 

Jakester- Good. Glad you're safe. Want me to come over later?

No, I'm good thanks though. 

Jakester- Rooster asked about you.

He did?

Jakester- Yup I told him to fuck off.

Jake.

Jakester- Just kidding, told him you went home. I wanted to tell him to fuck off though.

Love you. Thanks for looking out for me.

Jakester- Anytime. Love you too. 

You didn't text him back after that because you didn't want to clog up the night, not that he would've minded. He would do anything for you with just one phone call or text. The rest of the night was spent pitying yourself and getting ready for tomorrow. Your roommate, who just happened to be Bob, walked in maybe an hour after you. You turned to look at him. “Are you ok?” He asked and you shrugged.

“Is it stupid of me to get caught up on someone that probably doesn't even like me back?” You asked as he moved to sit down on the couch and you cuddled into him. 

“No.” He shook his head “It's not. Maybe he does like you back. Ever think of that?” He asked.

“Yea right. He just sees me like one of the guys.” You said 

“Oh, Stormy. If you only saw the way he looked when you took off and when Jake talked to him about you.” He said using a nickname only certain people were allowed to use.

“I just want to get to sleep and get tonight behind me.” You said and he nodded as you got up and he helped you some.

“Get some sleep. Tomorrow is going to be tough.” He said and you nodded.

“Goodnight Bob.” You said and he smiled.

“Goodnight, Y/N.” He said and then you disappeared and got ready for bed. Once ready you slipped under the covers and fell right to sleep. 

The next morning you were up bright and early ready for the day and ready to face Bradley. You were just getting your coffee when Bob walked in. “Hey I'm gonna head in early.” You said and he smiled and nodded.

“I won't be too far behind you.” He said and you nodded and then you were grabbing your keys and heading out the door. When you got to your Jeep you sighed as you got in and sat there for a second.

“Let's get this over with.” You said as you turned the ignition and headed towards base. Once you got to base you parked beside your brother's truck and turned the Jeep off and got out. As you were getting out a familiar blue Bronco was pulling up and parking beside you. It parked and the owner got out. “Bradley.” You said and he smiled and turned towards you.

“Y/N.” He said “I missed seeing you at The Hard Deck. I was hoping I would.” He said and you hummed.

“I'm sure you missed me. It looked like you had nice company.” You said as the two of you began walking. 

“I didn’t go home with her.” He said

“I find that hard to believe.” You said as you walked towards where the class would be held. 

“Why don’t you believe me?” He asked

“Maybe because I find it hard to trust you after you ghosted me.” You said finally stopping and looking at him and his face was unreadable and you scuffed and walked to the front where your brother sat.

“Everything ok?” He asked

“Perfect.” You said and sat down and waited for class to start. When your instructor, Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell, was introduced and you looked back and saw your brother’s face you knew something happened. “What did you do?” You whispered angrily.

“I’ll tell you later.” He whispered and you glared at him but turned around and class began. Each pilot went up and showed what they got. It was time for your and Mark’s turn going up with Jake. 

“Everything is looking good.” Mark said without you even asking him as you flew next to Jake.

“So, Jakester,” You began and he rolled his eyes annoyed at the nickname but he only let you use it. “What the hell did you do?” You asked.

“I threw him out of The Hard Deck.” He said

“Are you fucking kidding me? You’re an idiot.” You said

“I didn’t know he would be our instructor.” He defended

“Shadow, did you know about this?” You asked

“No, I left before anything drastic took place.” He said 

“Enough chit chat guys, fight is on.” Maverick said out of nowhere.

“Here we go.” You said

“We got this.” Mark said

“Do you see him anywhere?” Jake asked 

“Negative.” You said

“I got him on the radar.” Mark said and then he was zooming past you guys “And there he goes.” He added. 

“Alright let's go.” You said “Hangman, break right. I'll break left.” You said

“You got it, Storm.” Jake said and you both did as you said and that got a reaction out of Maverick.

“Interesting tactic. How are you going to cover each other?” He asked as he was getting tone behind Jake and he was doing well shaking him off.

“You know what brothers and sisters do for each other?” You asked Maverick.

“What would that be, Storm?” He asked and Mark smirked. 

“Look after each other.” You said and suddenly you were behind him getting tone.

“Gottcha ya.” Jake and you said at the same time.

“Damn that was a good one. You two work well together.” He said and you smirked “Head back to ground.” He said and you both did and when you landed Jake was already there waiting for you. 

“Good job, Sis. That move never fails.” Jake said as your canopy opened.

“You got that right. Nobody can beat the power of siblings.” Mark said and you smirked.

“Damn right.” You said and the three of you did post-checks and headed inside of the building. Everyone was excited that you actually took Maverick out and you smiled and chuckled. Your eyes looked around the room and found Bradley’s. He was staring at you and you decided that you needed to talk to him. You looked at Mark and he nodded and you went.

“Good job.” He said 

“Thank you.” You said

“I’ve never seen Hangman actually not leave someone.” He said

“Well, siblings have to stick together.” You said 

“Hey, look I’m sorry for ghosting you. I truly didn’t take that girl home, I sent her away after talking to your brother. I-” He started but you cut him off before he could say anything else.

“I believe you.” You said 

“You do?” He asked and you nodded.

“I do.” You said and then his name was being called along with someone else’s and he hurried off not wanting to get into trouble and you understood. You were left standing there until Bob came over.

“Everything ok?” He asked and you looked up at him.

“Yeah, I think so.” You said and he smiled.

“Good job by the way.” He said

“Thank you.” You replied 

“I’m gonna go and listen, you coming?” He asked and you shook your head.

“No, I need a minute alone.” You said and he nodded and left with a pat on your shoulder. Bradley apologized for ghosting you but it wasn’t enough you needed an explanation. You hoped you got one but for now you needed to focus on this mission.

You had been so focused on the mission that you didn't really speak to Bradley and each time you tried or he tried you or he were being called away. It seemed like you never were going to get a chance until one morning you got to base extra early and decided to hang around and go over some maneuvers. You were so into thought you didn't hear another person come in. “Think too hard and your head might explode.” The voice said and it made you jump. You turned to see who it was and it was Bradley.

“Shit, you fucking scared me.” You said putting a hand over your heart to try and settle it.

“Sorry.” He said and you waved him off. 

“What are you doing here so early?” You asked 

“Well, I know you like to get up early and go over everything you learned. So, I took a chance to come here to find you.” He said and you nodded. “I also couldn't sleep.” He said.

“There is the real reason.” You said and he shook his head.

“No, they're both the reason.” He said and then it went into silence. 

“I'm sorry.” You both started.

“You go first.” You said 

“I'm sorry for everything I put you through. All the stress, the ghosting, the making you think that I was with someone else, and everything in general. It was not my intent to do that to you and my dad and mom would kill me if they knew I hurt such a beautiful girl.” He said and you blushed and looked down. 

“You think I'm beautiful? I wear what everyone else wears and my hair is always up.” You said 

“Yea you're beautiful I would even say gorgeous. Yes, you wear what everyone else does and have your hair up but I've also seen you out of uniform and hair down. Remember?” He asked and you nodded.

“I do.” You said recalling the many nights that you and he had late night study sessions for pilot school. “My turn if you're done.” You said and he nodded as he sat down beside you and you turned to him. “I'm sorry for being so short and mad at you earlier. I just got jealous seeing you with someone and I know I shouldn't we're not together and will probably never be together, you'll only see me as a sister. I'm rambling. Anyways I'm sorry for everything too.” You said.

“It's-” He started but got cut off by people walking in and the both of you stood up. Bob came over with Maverick.

“Good you're here.” Maverick began “Phoenix is out sick and Shadow had a family emergency.” He said and your eyes widened “So I'm pairing you and Bob up for this run through.” He said “I hope that is ok.” He added and you both nodded.

“That's absolutely fine, Sir.” You and Bob said at the same time. 

“Good. We'll start here in a few minutes.” He said and then walked off and you immediately pulled out your phone.

Mav told me you had a family emergency. Everyone ok?

Mark: Grayson got really sick with throwing up and a really high fever in the middle of the night and we had to bring him to the hospital. They have him on fluids and some Tylenol IV. He's sleeping right now.

Poor guy. Let me know if you all need anything, please. I hate that he's not feeling good. How's Max taking it?

Mark: I promise I will but you need to focus on the mission. Max is not well. He hates that his brother is sick. 

I hate that. Tell them I love them and will be thinking about them.

Mark: I will now go and kick some ass.

You got it!

You chuckled and put your phone away. “Everything ok?” Bob asked and you nodded.

“Grayson is sick like in the hospital.” You said

“Damn. I hate that for them.” Bradley said and then the others started to file in. You quickly took your place next to your brother as Maverick began talking and telling them what was going on. Soon after everyone was crowding in the rec room to wait. Several groups went up before it was yours, Bob's, Javy's turn. As you were walking out the door Bradley stopped you “Hey good look out there.” He said and you nodded and smiled.

“Thank you. I'll see you on the ground.” You said and then you were heading off with Bob to your jet. If only you knew what this practice run would bring.

“Just like old times?” Bob asked as you both arrived at the jet.

“Just like old times.” You said back at your base you flew with Bob while Mark was out and you were the one that did the flying while he was training. You both got in the jet and began to head towards the runway. When you got there you stopped and watched as Javy took off and once, he was far enough away you spoke to the air traffic control tower. “Air Traffic Control, this is Storm ready to take off.” You said. 

“Copy that Storm, the air is clear and the sky is yours. You can take off.” They said 

“Thank you, Air Traffic Control.” You said and then started speeding down the runway. You finally were up in the air and caught up with Javy.

“Alright let's do this.” Javy said and so began the practice run.

“Talk to me, Bob.” You said 

“We’re twelve seconds late on target. We gotta move, we gotta move.” Bob says 

“Copy try to stay with me.” Javy says agitated radar beeps. 

“Huh? Wait, who’s that?” Bob asks

“Blue team, you are spotted.” Maverick said 

“Shit, it’s Maverick. What the hell is he doing here?” Javy said

“What the hell is he doing here?” You ask 

“I’m a bandit on course to intercept. Blue team, what are you gonna do?” Maverick said 

“20 miles left, ten o’clock. He’s coming fast. 700 knots closure.” Bob confirmed

“Your call what do you want to do?” Javy asks the pair of you.

“Continue. We’re close. Stay on target.” You said

“He’s swinging around to the north.  Bob said 

“Stand by for pop-up.” Javy said 

“Be ready with that laser, Bob.” You said

“Copy, I’m on it.” He says as reaches for a button/knob, constantly working. 

Meanwhile back in the rec room everyone listens on the edge of their seats. “Come on Storm. You got this.” Bradley says to mostly himself.

“She’s a hell of a pilot. She has this in the bag.” Jake said “You know she loves you right?” Jake asks and Bradley nodded.

“I love her too.” He said

“Don’t hurt her or I will shoot you down.” Jake warned

“I won’t. I promise.” He said and Jake nodded and then they heard Maverick’s voice on the radio.

“Blue team, bandit is still closing.” Maverick said 

“Popping now.” Javy said as he does so and you follow. All three of you grunting trying to catch your breath.  

“Talk to me, Bob. Where’s Maverick?” Javy asks 

“He’s five miles out. He’s coming fast.” Bob replies

“Target in sight.” You said 

 “Where’s my laser, Bob?” Javy asks

“Dead eye! Dead eye! It’s no good. Sorry, I can’t get a lock.” Bob said 

“We’re out of time. I’m dropping blind.” Javy said and dropped the bomb. “Damn it, missed!” He added as the both of you pulled up. 

“That’s tone.” Maverick said as he toned you and Bob.

“Maverick has got a missile lock on us.” Bob said 

 “Shit! We’re dead.” You said 

“Blue team. That is a fail.” Maverick said and you pull away. “Level out Coyote.” He said as you watched in horror as he didn't do so and that scared you, you knew anything could happen but you never thought it would. “Coyote, copy.” You heard Maverick say. “Coyote, come in. Coyote, level wings.” You hear Maverick shout frantically “Oh my gosh he is in g-loc.” He said and he kept saying his name but his jet kept falling.

“He’s going to burn in.” You say worriedly. 

“I’m going after him.” Maverick said as you watched his jet jerk away and towards your friend. “Come on. Give me tone, give me tone, give me tone.” He said as he got a target lock on him “Snap out of it, coyote. Come on! Come on! Come on, Coyote, come on. Come on! Damn it! Coyote! Coyote!” Maverick shouts frantically. Finally, he seemed to snap out of it and popped up at the last second and you let out a breath you didn’t know you were holding. “Coyote, you, okay? You, okay?” He asks

“I’m okay. I’m good.” He says breath heavy.

“Good. Good. That’s enough for today.” Maverick said as you pulled up next to him.

“That was close.” You say with a shake of your head.

“Too close.” Maverick said “Bird strike.” He said suddenly “Bird strike!” He exclaimed as the birds hit your jet and through your engine. Now you are terrified. 

Those two words are what brings Bradley and Jake’s world to a stop. “No no no no.” Bradley said to himself. Tears burning behind his eyes he needed you to pull through this and be ok. 

“Come on, Sis you got this.” Jake said and then your voice came through the radio and Jake being your twin brother knew the different tone in your voice that nobody else knew. He knew you were absolutely terrified. “Don’t panic.” He said.

Bradley was terrified. He couldn’t lose you. He’s lost his dad; he cannot lose you. He lost Maverick due to something so petty. “Come on, Y/N/N. You have to pull through this.” He said.

“Don’t panic. Don’t panic.” Jake repeated to himself hoping to send vibes to you. Bradley and Jake were the closest to the radio. 

“Bird strike.” You said as lights and warnings go off a fire warning goes off signaling a fire in one of your engines.  

“Storm, left engines on fire!” Bob said looking back and so do you.

“Climbing.” You said as you turn back and you pull the throttle up. “Throttling back. Shutting off fuel to the left engine. Extinguishing fire.” You say as you do so but alarms continue.

“Right engine is out!” Bob exclaims looking at the warnings.

“It’s still spinning. Trying to restart it.” You say as you power the engine on.

“Storm it is on fire, don’t start-” Maverick begin but you cut him off. You were so scared shitless but you couldn’t let it show.

“Throttling up.” You say as you pull the throttle up.

“Oh my god.” You hear Maverick say as you start to nose dive. 

“We’re on fire! We’re on fire!” Bob exclaims 

“Damn it!” You exclaim

“Engine fire. Right.” The automated voice

“Extinguishing the right engine.” You said and do so as you spin out of control.

“Storm, Bob punch out! Punch out!” Maverick exclaims 

“Warning lights everywhere! Hydraulic failure!” Bob says letting you know everything. 

“I can’t control it!” You said 

“She’s panicking.” Jake said 

“How do you know?” Bradley asked 

“I just know. Her voice does a certain thing. I was the only one to pick it up as a kid. It is how I knew she needed help and she would call me with that same tone when she was in trouble.” Jake explained

“She has this handled. She's Storm. Nothing can bring her down.” Mickey said and everyone nodded in agreement.

“She’s strong for sure. As kids we were playing on the ranch and riding horses and her horse threw her off and instead of giving up, she got back on. She showed the horse who was the boss. Another time we were running around barefoot and she cut her foot open on barbed wire and she acted like it was nothing. She sat through the stitches. She’s a storm to be reckoned with. It is how she got her callsign.” Jake explained trying to take his mind off what was happening up in the sky.

“She’s going to be ok.” Ruben said and they nodded.

“I know she will be.” Jake said 

“We’re going down, Storm! We’re going in! We’re going in!” Bob yells 

“You can’t save it. Eject, eject!” Maverick said and repeated over and over again. 

“Eject, eject, eject!” You yell out finally.

 “Altitude. Altitude.” The automated voice said as Bob ejects and then you follow him. Both parachutes open as the jet crashes into the earth. You somehow ended up being closest to the blast and it pushed you away and you landed it hard onto the ground right on your ankle and you gave a cry out. Bob landed and was quick to get over to you. 

“Are you ok?” He asks

“No, my ankle.” You say as you go to sit up but you give another cry. You then look down and see blood starting to soak through your flight suit. “Shit.” You say as you begin to get light headed.

“Hey no you stay awake.” He said

“I’m sorry.” You say and then you black out.

As Maverick walks into the rec room Jake comes running up to him. “Where is she?” He asks frantically.

“She’s in the hospital. Some debris from the jet crashing impaled her. Her ankle also took a hit. They took her into surgery but I don’t know anything else. They’re keeping her and Bob overnight and maybe her even longer. Go.” He said and Jake nodded and took off as most people do now it was just Bradley and him. 

“How is she?” Bradley asks 

“She is mostly ok.” He said 

“What does that mean?” He asks

“Some debris from the jet crashing impaled her. Her ankle also took a hit. They took her into surgery but I don’t know anything else. They’re keeping her and Bob overnight and maybe her even longer.” He said and Bradley nodded tears and they steadily fell down his face.

“I’m sorry for everything. I’m sorry I cut you off. I was just so pissed that you pulled my papers. It wasn’t fair. I can’t lose her. I love her.” Bradley said and Maverick smiled.

“I forgive you. Go and tell her.” Maverick said and he nodded and took off. When he reached the hospital, everyone was in the waiting room waiting.

“Jake is with Y/N. He’s family so he was the only one allowed to go back there.” Ruben said 

“Bradley?” A familiar voice asked and he turned around and saw Mark.

“Mark, have you heard?” He asked and Mark shook his head.

“No, what is going on? Why is everyone here?” He asked

“There was an incident with Javy and Bob and Y/N had a bird strike and had to eject. Some debris hit her and her ankle took a hit.” Bradley explained.

“Oh my gosh. Any updates?” He asked 

“They took her into surgery and repaired what they needed. Jake is with her now since he is family. They’re keeping them both overnight and her maybe longer.”  Bradley said and he nodded. 

“I need to get back to Grayson. Please keep me updated.” He asked and Bradley nodded.

“I will.” He said as Jake came out and everyone looked at him.

“She’s awake but is asking for you Bradley.” He said turning to him and he nodded and followed Jake to your room and about that time everyone was allowed to see Bob too. Bradley walked in without Jake. 

“Y/N/N.” He said and you looked up at him.

“Hi.” You said 

“You scared me, you know.” He said 

“I’m sorry. I scared myself too.” You said trying to move but winced.

“Don’t move.” He said moving closer and holding you down.

“I know but it’s so uncomfortable.” You said and he nodded.

“I know. I need to tell you something.” He said and you nodded at him to continue “I love you. I have loved you since pilot school. I’m sorry I ghosted you and I know I already said it but I’m saying it again. I was trying to figure out my feelings for you and in the end, it hurt you and I’m deeply sorry for that.” He said and you smiled.

“I love you too, Bradley. Ever since pilot school. Yes, I was hurt when you ghosted me but I get it. I love you with all my heart.” You said as the pain meds started to kick in and he saw this.

“Can I kiss you?” He asked and you nodded.

“I would love nothing more.” You said and he smiled and he pressed his lips to yours. Sparks flew. You would’ve stayed like that forever but Mickey’s voice sounded.

“About damn time! Look how cute the two of them are!” He exclaimed and you two pulled apart and looked at them.

“Oh, would you shut up and leave the love birds alone?” Javy said smiling

“But they are so cute!” Ruben said gushing.

“Remember, you hurt her and I’m shooting you down.” Jake said 

“Jakester, stop it. I can take care of myself.” You said smiling and he walked over.

“I know but I’m just doing my brotherly duties.” He said and you smiled.

“I appreciate that.” You said “Get them out of here for me. I want some time alone with him.” You said and he nodded “Can you let Mark know I’m, ok?” You asked.

“You got it, Sis.” He said and started to push people out and when they were out and gone, he went to let Mark know and you turned to Bradley.

“Let me take you to dinner when all of this is over.” He said and you smiled and nodded.

“Sounds perfect.” You said and yawned and he smiled.

“Get some sleep. I’ll be here when you wake up.” He said and kissed your head as you closed your eyes and drifted off to sleep. Sure, your day might not have ended up like you planned but that what comes with being a Naval Aviator but in the end, you got the man you loved. Everything for the moment was perfect.

Tag list:

@kmc1989

@els-marvelvsp

@atarmychick007

@nyx2021

@grandstrangerphantom

@angenu01-blog

@talesofreading

@callsign-revenge

[rithalie-sideblog]

Okay so

SPOILERS for INSIDE JOB and one more Disney show but I hope I am safe since it’s not exactly new.

The ending to Inside job CRUSHED ME.

You know, Reagan and Ron? The least likely couple to be created? That turned out to be the absolute best pairing I could have ever hoped for? THEM.

I SO wanted them to end up happily, even in Appleton. Hell, they deserve it. So I had a stupid idea.

Maybe there’s a timeline where they did end up together?

The one where they stayed in Appleton.

Because you know what I thought of when I looked at Appleton logo?

SPOILERS!

Yeah it’s very very far-fetched. But just IMAGINE.

Ron and Reagan end up together.

They move in. They argue. They make up. They live somehow happily. They have KIDS.

A boy, who just knows there’s something out there - something he just needs to prove or discover. That’s just out of his reach.

And a girl, whose only idea for life is to be happy - truly, remarkably happy. Against all odds, against the very universe scheming to make her and her family unhappy.

Maybe them?

Like I said, it’s far-fetched but I love the idea for Ron and Reagan escaping the shadow world, only for their kids to almost unleash eldritch horrors upon the earth.

Because if there’s something Reagan’s kids and Randall’s grandchildren would do is make a deal with cosmic horror spirit and turn on strange machines in the basement.

(yes I’m looking at you Mabel)

We know twins are not related to uncle Stan (Hell, he may as well be Owl Lady’s ex from the Owl house - guy has his own set of relationship problems)

And we never saw their parents!

So what if Dipper and Mabel’s parents are Ron and Reagan? Maybe they did wipe their minds and raised the kids without a care about the shadow government?

You can’t tell me that Ron would be a bad father - guy has the father streak a mile long! He is patient with Reagan, he is reasonable, absolutely scared shitless about people he cares about and just wants them all safe! He would instal that hopeful streak in Mabel and keep feeding it because she is just what they need to keep color in their life. He is also snarky and Dipper definitely learned that from someone.

And Reagan? Socially unsure Reagan who has the habit of hyper fixating and losing touch with reality and would definitely pass that on to her son? She would try to be so gentle with Dipper and not crush his hopes and ideas because she would feel bad if she even tried. She could remember her dad as a mad scientist and most of all absent father but he also always nurtured her scientific growth. So let her nurture that in her own kids - most notably her son. And let her daughter make all the friends she could have. Just keep praising her - gOoOood work honey…? (Confused glance at Ron, as their daughter runs around with handmade embellishment gun for her sweaters. Ron just gives Reagan a thumbs up)

Let them just be good parents.

Or even not-so-good-ones. After all, who sends their kids off to a relative on the other side of America for the whole summer without even background checking the guy?

Mayyyyybe parents who were just given their memories back and called to help in saving the world from another crisis?!

Or just terrible parents. Just because Ron and Reagan are great with one another, they still argue and they make mistakes. And they may try to do their best by their kids but also fuck up. They could and they probably would because which parent doesn’t fuck up sometimes?

Maybe they never got wiped and they tried to make their relationship work despite their jobs? And then BAM kids?

Or maybe Ron got wiped, and Reagan was pregnant already and her and Brett raised the kids until Ron came storming back into their lives (because I want them to be happy together - and he could beat the brainwash since he surely build some immunity by exposure over the years)

Man I just love the idea of Mabel and Dipper being Reagan’s kids. And just - living their best summer adventure life while their parents have to deal with one cosmic crisis after the other. And then Ron and Reagan realizing it’s their kids whom unleashed the cosmic horror upon the earth the moment they got some time for themselves!

Yeah, grandpa Rand would be proud.

And for anyone who says that Mabel and Dipper don’t look like Ron or Reagan - there are some possible options that explain the difference in noses (since it’s one of the things that set the kids apart from R&Rs).

Option 1: genetics - Mainly Ron’s parents having round noses.

Option 2: Ron and Reagan unable to have kids and using the donor or adopting (maybe a certain red-head with golden heart is the donor?)

Option 3: Brett being in the relationship with them both (my favorite)

Because look at them:

I run out of space for pictures but puppet master Brett and puppet maker Mabel? They would be besties, if not family.

And the idea of Ron cultivating the optimism in Mabel still stands - he may not be the one who she gets it from but he will surely do his best to make his little girl happy and to keep her happy (her and his son and his wife - he is such a family man)

So…

TL;DR: What if, in one of the timelines, Mabel and Dipper Pines turned out to be Reagan and Ron’s children? :D

[the-au-collector]

Linked Universe College Radio AU

Since I recently got some motivation to work on this one, I figured I would brain dump a little about my LU College Radio AU. It's basically a college/university AU but each of the main LU Links are somehow associated with their college radio station at Kakariko University.

Why radio? I was listening to The Oh Hellos when the idea struck me so each of the works are hopefully going to have titles taken from Oh Hellos songs. This will, hopefully, just mostly focus on the Links + the radio station but who knows? I added way too many characters to this braindump but oh well

The Links

Time

Staff coordinator for the radio station

Broadcasting professor

Usually gets stuck teaching the freshman and sophomores

Married to the zoology professor, Malon

Taking care of Twilight's dog, Wolfie, until Twilight finds a dog-friendly place. Acts like he hates it, but he actually loves it

Infamous for being a hardass

"Call me Time. Don't call me Link, that's my nephew. Don't call me Professor Lon, that's my wife"

Legend

Has done just about anything and everything

Knows everyone, but just because he's been here so long and has done so much

Has officialy been an agriculture major, a meteorology major, a humanities major, a fine art major, a fashion design major, and an engineering major in the past

Has finally settled with being a broadcasting major after doing the Jaded Boys radio show with Wild

Part of the Jaded Boys with Wild, then is part of Triple Threat with Wild and Hyrule

Lives off-campus with his current partner, Ravio

Also lives with Warriors

Used to date a girl named Marin from Mabe City. No he doesn't talk about it

Does not like driving. Or storms.

Has a cane

Even in an AU he can't escape the Koholint Trauma

Wild

Campus cryptid

Everyone knows him. No one knows what he's studying

(It's engineering. He, Purah, and Fauna are a terror to the school together)

Addicted to energy drinks

Never studies, always passes exams

Always socially overbooked

Has amnesia and bad scarring from a house fire

Was adopted by Teba and Saki after said house fire

Has a twin brother named Age. Most people think Age is older but Wild's actually older

Was the one who coerced Legend and Hyrule into radio

Lives in a house off-campus with Twilight, Age, Sidon, Yunobo, Mipha, and Revali.

Has committed arson before

Has gotten arrested for committing arson before

Twilight

Zoology major

Is the reason Wild's still alive

Used to be roommates with Wild in the dorms when they were freshmen

Took a gap year between high school and college

Has a dog named Wolfie

Regular guest on Triple Threat

Runs the Helpful Paws club, which is a club all about service dogs. Ilia helps run said club

Works on Legend's uncle's orchard during the weekends

Four

Computer science major

Technology director at the radio station (yes this position only exists because of Wild)

Friendly rivalry with Wild because Wild breaks everything

Shadow is his step-brother

Warriors

Fashion design major

Joined Legend and Ravio's lease at the last minute because of stuff that happened between him and his other roommates

Has a restraining order against Cia and doesn't talk to Lana

Is currently dating Artemis, a fashion merchandising major

Met Legend when Legend was doing fashion design. No one knows how they're friends. They fight all the time.

Legend forced him to make his own radio show when Wild roped Legend into doing the Jaded Boys. So now Warriors has a show called Wednesday With Warriors

Sky

Senior aviation major

Runs The Loftwings with his fiancé, Sun, and his best friend, Groose.

Has a bad habit of sleeping through his alarm

Currently taking care of his older brother's mouthy parrot, Crimson.

Also lives with Groose and Sun

Wind

Freshman metrology major

Super friendly

Cares more about the college experience than learning

Hyrule's roommate

After Hyrule starts doing Triple Threat, Wind gets the idea to do the Wind Waker podcast with Tetra where they sing sea shanties and tell pirate stories

Spirit is his introverted cousin and he's made it his goal to get Spirit to get out more

He also does the same with Hyrule

Hyrule

Freshman undecided major

Joins Triple Threat under Wild's insistence

Very shy

Grew up in a really small town

Wind's roommate

Is regularly forced out of the dorm by Wind but prefers to just wander around town and campus

Childhood friends with Dawn

Age

Wid's twin brother who is very different from Wild

Business major, accounting minor

Dating Mipha, a senior nursing student

Rarely goes to parties, but plays damage control when Wild hosts them at their house

Does remember his and Wild's past. Wild's amnesia caused a rift to form between them for a while, but they're working on getting past that now

Was also adopted by Teba and Saki

Shadow

Four's step-brother

Vaati's his dad, but he's cut Vaati out of his life now

Theater major with a minor in set design

Got his nickname from no one being able to see him onstage when moving props around

Everyone is convinced he has some sort of magical powers

A bit shy, and a bad boy

Dating Dot

Spirit

Freshman engineering major

His roommate is Niko

Wind's introverted cousin who's often dragged out of his dorm by Wind

Would much rather spend time with construction documents than people

First

Sky's older brother who's not around a lot since he's in the military (he's a doctor)

Married to a woman named Hylia

Has a parrot named Crimson that he's trusting Sky to take care of

The Zeldas

Lullaby

Works at Kakriko Univeristy as a broadcasting professor

An old flame of Time's, but they've both moved on by now

Usually teaches upper division classes

Fable

Legend's older sister who lives in Castle City

Already graduated with a business degree

Comes around for the holidays and drops in occasionally to see how Legend's doing

Flora

Constantly overbooked with school

Double-majoring in anthropology and history

Part of hundreds of different clubs and student organizations

Hard to get a moment alone with her at all

Has recently gotten close to Rauru and Sonia, who are both anthropology students

Fauna's twin sister. Flora's younger, though

Dusk

Political science major

Knows Twilight through Midna but since Twi and Midna broke up, Dusk doesn't really talk to Twilight anymore

Roommates with Midna and Artemis

Dot

Political science major and Four's childhood friend

Hopes to get into law school one day

Dating Shadow (her dad isn't too happy about this)

Lives with Aurora and Dawn and used to be roommates with Aurora when they were in the dorms

Artemis

Fashion merchandising major

Warriors' girlfriend

Used to also be his housemate, but after things happened with Cia and Lana she moved in with Midna and Dusk

Still occasionally talks to Lana

Sun

Senior aviation major and Sky's fiancé

Runs The Loftwings with Sky and Groose

Also lives with Sky and Groose

Appears to be very level-headed on the outside, but is secretly kind of crazy

Tetra

Ecology major with a minor in biology

Eventually becomes close friends with Wind

Roommates with Phantom and they get along like fire and gasoline

(seriously do not let either of those girls near a lighter... or boxing gloves)

Part of the Wind Waker podcast with Wind

Aurora

Senior political science major

She, Dot, and Dawn live together

Dawn is her younger sister

Is going to move to Castle City after graduation

Refuses to go home after having a horrible falling out with her brother

Dawn

Freshman early childhood education major

Wants to teach kindergarten and preeschool one day

Lives with her older sister, Aurora, and Aurora's roommate, Dot

Doesn't plan on returning to her hometown either

Childhood friends with Hyrule

Fauna

Flora's twin sister who's majoring in engineering and minoring in biology

Best friends with Purah and Impa

Closer to Age than Wild, but she's in a lot of classes with Wild

It is a horrible idea to leave her, Purah, and Wild alone in a room together

Has a cat named Terrako, who hates everyone except for her

Her father puts a lot of pressure on both her and Flora, but Fauna feels it the most since she's the oldest

Phantom

Freshman communications major

Tetra's roommate

She looks like any old upperclass girl but she is always ready to throw hands

Somehow becomes friends with Spirit

Hylia

First's wife who's a doctor at a local hospital

Keeps an eye out for Sky even though she knows he doesn't really need it

Will bring Sky and his friends food and snacks

Absolutely willing to drive Sky and his friends home when none of them can drive

Very motherly and open

Some Others:

Malon

Time's wife who's a zoology professor

Twilight has started a protection squad for her (all the Links are part of it. Even Time)

Everyone loves her

Ravio:

Legend's partner

Business major

Has a bird named Sheerow who poops everywhere

Despite this he is the cleanest one in the apartment

Constantly roping Legend into new business ideas

Used to run a shop out of his and Legend's dorm room when they lived in the dorms together. Legend's pretty sure it was against the rules. Ravio doesn't care

Acts greedy, but is actually living off his loans

Never goes home. He goes over Legend's Uncle's house for holidays now.

His younger sister, Hilda, often sleeps over and Legend and Ravio's

Has a horrible relationship with his father, Yuga

Sidon, Mipha, Revali, Yunobo:

Wild's housemates alongside Twilight and Age

Revali claims he's the only reason the house hasn't burned down

Revali is also one of Teba and Saki's adopted children, and had a bit of a superiority complex over being adopted first (he was there first) when they were kids. He's gotten better, but he's still a bit of a jerk to Wild. He and Age have bonded over Wild constantly giving them heart attacks

Sidon is a sophomore political science major who is super friendly, but has a hard time stopping conversations. Head over heels for his girlfriend, Yona. Is also super tall and often mistaken for being the older sibling

Mipha is a senior nursing student. Sidon's older sister, Age's girlfriend. If there's a medical emergency, chances are the Links are calling Mipha first even though they really should go to the hospital instead

Revali is a senior aviation major and hopes to join the air force after college to "get away from the filth" (meaning Age and Wild. He would never call Tulin filth)

Yunobo is a sophomore geoscience major. Works at his grandpa's coffee shop, Goron City Coffee

Urbosa, Daruk, Riju:

Urbosa is Riju's aunt and and mother figure to Flora and Fauna. She lives in Castle City, but often comes to Kakariko to give guest lectures. She's a businesswoman

Daruk is Yunobo's grandpa who owns Goron City Coffee. He often lets the radio host events at his coffee shop, and acts like a father figure for Wild's friend group

Riju is a freshman business major who wants to be like her aunt, Urbosa. Flora and Fauna see her as their younger sister.

Teba, Saki, Tulin:

Revali was adopted first, then Age and Wild

Teba is retired from being in the military

Saki teaches private singing lessons

Tulin is the Baby of the family and is in middle school. He is an absolute terror. Never let Wild babysit him, they will both get into trouble. Tulin is everyone's favorite and Tulin will use that to his advantage

Ilia:

Twilight's friend who helps run the Helpful Paws club

She has a huge crush on Twilight but doesn't want to overstep, especially after the bad break up with Midna

Rusl, Uli, Colin:

Twilight's family in Ordon who adopted him when he was about 8

Colin's just starting high school and is dealing with a lot of bullying, so he calls Twilight often for help

Rusl is a detective, but he's on paternity leave right now since Uli just had their daughter

Grandpa Smith:

Four and Shadow's grandpa

Took them both in after their mother died and Vaati went to prison

Four was usually a good kid, but Shadow was a little terror

Lives in Kakariko City so he gets to see his boys often

Cia and Lana:

Twins who both had huge crushes on Warriors

Cia got jealous when Wars started dating Lana

Cia is a psychology major, but now is largely known as the campus creep

Lana was a fashion design major, but changed schools after the drama with Warriors happened

Groose:

Sky and Sun's roommate and fellow host of The Loftwings

Proudly boasts that he's their best man

Also a senior aviation major

[novaursa]

Part 7

- Title: zōbrie ānogar

- Rating: Explicit (18+)

- Romance: (Aegon II/OFC)

- Warning: All flags are up for this work. Aegon is also a warning on his own.

- Summary: It was written by Archmaester Gyldayn that on the day Princess Vaella Targaryen was born she was supposed to die. Until she fed upon her twin, Baelon. And when she turned one and five, she sought her end in the lair of Cannibal, in Dragonmont. But instead of feasting upon her, the dragon wept with her. And Archmaester had written a lengthy thesis on how wild dragon recognized a kindred soul in the Princess, as they both dined on their kin.

- Word count: 9 000+

- Parts: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, Final

Later that day, Aegon found Vaella in the garden with their children. The sight always brought a smile to his face, but now the shadow of recent events loomed heavily over her. Vaella was playing with Baelor, Daena, and little Aeron, her face lighting up with genuine joy despite the turmoil around them.

As Aegon approached, Vaella looked up and managed to smile at him. Her love for him never wavered, and Aegon's heart fluttered with the reassurance that she loved him like nobody else ever could. He joined them, scooping up Daena and twirling her around, eliciting giggles from the little girl.

“Look, Daddy’s here!” Vaella said, her voice filled with warmth.

Baelor ran up to Aegon, holding a small wooden sword. “Can we play, Father?”

Aegon chuckled, ruffling Baelor’s hair. “Of course, my little warrior.”

For a while, they played and bonded with their children, the weight of the outside world momentarily forgotten. They laughed and talked, Aegon reveling in the simple joy of being with his family.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the garden, Aegon’s expression turned serious. He took Vaella’s hand, his eyes searching hers. “Vaella, I need you to stand beside me. In my rule, as you have stood by me in life since we were born.”

Vaella’s face twisted in pain. “Aegon, I can’t go against my sister. She’s family too.”

Frustration and jealousy flared within Aegon, emotions he had always harbored toward Rhaenyra, who seemed to hold so much of Vaella’s love. “I’m tired of Rhaenyra always coming between us!” he exclaimed, his voice rising.

Vaella looked at him, her eyes filled with a mix of hurt and determination. “You’re acting childish, Aegon. This isn’t about us. It’s about the realm, about doing what’s right.”

Aegon’s frustration boiled over. “Childish? You think I’m being childish because I want you to support me? I’m your husband, Vaella!”

Vaella stood her ground, her voice steady but filled with emotion. “And she is my sister! How can you expect me to betray her?”

They bickered, their voices rising and falling with the intensity of their emotions. The children, sensing the tension, huddled together, their innocent eyes wide with confusion and fear.

Finally, Aegon threw up his hands in exasperation. “Fine! If you can’t support me, then I’ll find someone who can!”

He stormed off, leaving Vaella standing there, her heart heavy with the weight of their argument. Aegon’s mind was clouded with anger and frustration as he made his way to the nearest chamber where he knew he could find something to drink.

As he poured himself a goblet of wine, Aegon’s thoughts churned. He loved Vaella deeply, but the constant conflict with Rhaenyra was tearing at him. The burden of his new role and the fear for his family’s safety gnawed at his resolve.

Back in the garden, Vaella gathered their children close, trying to soothe their fears. Her heart ached with the weight of her divided loyalties, torn between the love for her sister and her duty to her husband.

…

Alicent stormed through the halls of the Red Keep, her face set in a mask of frustration and anger. She had been informed by a servant that King Aegon was making a scene in one of the chambers. When she arrived, she found Aegon standing on a table, sloshing wine from a goblet and shouting incoherently. The room was a mess, with overturned chairs and spilled wine staining the floor. Nobles and servants alike looked on with a mixture of shock and disapproval.

“Aegon, get down from there this instant!” Alicent demanded, her voice sharp and commanding.

Aegon turned to her, his eyes glazed with drunkenness. “Mother! You can’t tell me what to do. I’m the king!”

Ignoring his protests, Alicent grabbed his arm and pulled him down from the table. “You are humiliating yourself and the crown,” she hissed, dragging him out of the room.

Aegon tried to escape her grasp, stumbling as he did. “You can’t do this! I’m the king! You can’t humiliate me like this!”

Alicent’s grip tightened, her patience wearing thin. “You are acting like a child, Aegon. Now, pull yourself together.”

She marched him through the corridors, ignoring his drunken attempts to wriggle free. Finally, they reached Aegon and Vaella’s shared chambers. Alicent pushed the door open and found Vaella inside, her face filled with worry and sadness.

“Vaella,” Alicent said, her voice stern but controlled. “You need to deal with the marital issues you and Aegon are having. This cannot bleed into the court.”

Alicent left Aegon with Vaella, who sighed deeply as she watched her drunken husband stumble towards a chair, missing it entirely and falling to the floor. She hurried to his side, pulling him up and leading him to their bed.

“Aegon, you’ve had too much of that low-quality wine again,” Vaella said gently, her voice tinged with frustration.

Aegon whined, clinging to her. “You always run away to Rhaenyra when she calls you. Don’t leave me for her.”

Vaella’s heart softened at his words, despite her frustration. She helped him lie down on the bed, her touch tender. “Aegon, I’m not going anywhere. I love you, but you need to stop drinking that. It affects you horribly.”

Aegon ignored her plea, pulling her closer. “Promise me you won’t leave.”

Vaella kissed his forehead, her voice soothing. “I promise, Aegon. I’m here. I’m not going anywhere.”

Aegon’s grip on her tightened, his fear and insecurity evident in his eyes. Vaella held him close, her own heart heavy with the burden of their situation. The love she had for him was genuine, but the conflict between her loyalty to her sister and her duty to her husband tore at her.

As Aegon’s breathing began to steady and he drifted off to sleep, Vaella continued to hold him, her thoughts racing. The path ahead was uncertain, filled with peril and difficult choices. She knew she had to find a way to balance her love for her family and her sense of duty, but the weight of that responsibility felt almost unbearable.

As Aegon fell into a deep, drunken sleep, Vaella gently let him go and stood up from the bed. She moved quietly through their chambers, her heart heavy with the weight of their situation. The flickering candlelight cast long shadows on the walls, adding to the somber atmosphere.

Vaella gazed back at Aegon as she undressed, her emotions a tangled web of love, frustration, and sorrow. She knew Aegon never wanted to be king, just as she knew their late father had never intended for him to take the throne, despite Alicent's claims. She slowly removed her gown and dressed in her nightclothes, each movement feeling like an eternity.

Climbing back into bed, she gently rested her head on Aegon's chest. His breathing was deep and steady, a contrast to the turmoil within her. As she settled beside him, Aegon stirred in his sleep and murmured her name. Instinctively, he reached out and pulled her into his embrace, holding onto her as if she were his lifeline.

Vaella felt a pang of sadness as she lay there, wrapped in his arms. She knew the choices she was being forced to make would ultimately break her. The conflict between her loyalty to Rhaenyra and her duty to Aegon was tearing her apart, and she didn't know how to reconcile the two.

As Aegon's arms tightened around her, Vaella closed her eyes, trying to find solace in his warmth. She loved him deeply, but the shadow of the throne and the impending conflict cast a dark pall over their love. She felt trapped between her devotion to her sister and her commitment to her husband, each choice fraught with consequences.

Tears welled in her eyes as she whispered softly, "Aegon, I wish things were different."

He didn't respond, lost in the depths of his slumber, but his grip on her remained firm. Vaella knew that no matter what happened, she had to protect her family. But the road ahead seemed impossibly difficult, and she feared the cost of the decisions she would have to make.

As the night wore on, Vaella lay awake, her mind racing with thoughts of the future. The burden of her divided loyalties felt almost unbearable, and the weight of the realm's expectations pressed down on her. She knew she had to find a way to navigate the treacherous waters ahead, but the prospect filled her with dread.

Vaella lay in the darkness, Aegon's arms around her, the echoes of their argument and the looming conflict filling her mind. The choices she would have to make in the coming days would shape the fate of the realm and her own heart, and she knew that whatever path she chose, there would be no turning back.

…

In the morning, Vaella was woken by the familiar sensation of Aegon's kisses trailing down her neck. She stirred slightly, a soft smile forming on her lips as she felt his warm breath against her skin. Aegon's hands explored her body with a tenderness and familiarity that brought comfort and a sense of normalcy, a brief respite from the chaos of their world.

"Good morning, my love," Aegon whispered, his lips brushing against her ear.

"Good morning," Vaella replied, her voice soft and filled with affection. She turned to face him, their eyes locking, the connection between them palpable.

They continued with their usual morning routine, a dance of kisses and touches, exploring each other's bodies as if nothing else existed. In these moments, the weight of their situation, the throne, and the argument from the day before seemed to melt away. It was just them, lost in the intimacy and closeness they shared.

Aegon's hands moved gently along Vaella's curves, eliciting a soft sigh from her lips. "You are my everything," he murmured, his eyes filled with adoration.

"And you are mine," Vaella replied, her fingers tracing the lines of his face. She kissed him deeply, pouring all her love and longing into the embrace.

Their passion built, the world outside forgotten as they reveled in each other. The knock on the door went unnoticed at first, an intrusion into their private world that they chose to ignore. It came again, more insistent, but still, they remained wrapped in their bubble of love and desire.

On the fifth knock, the voice of Ser Criston Cole broke through their reverie. "Your Grace, the small council has gathered and awaits your presence."

Aegon groaned into their kiss, annoyance evident in the sound. "Damn them," he muttered, his frustration clear. "Can't they leave us in peace for once?"

Vaella laughed softly, her forehead resting against his. "Duty calls, my love."

"I don't want to go," Aegon whispered, his fingers caressing her cheek. "I just want to stay here with you."

"I know," Vaella said, her heart aching with the knowledge of the responsibilities that awaited them. "But we must face the world outside, no matter how much we wish to stay hidden."

Aegon sighed heavily, pulling her into a final, lingering kiss before reluctantly pulling away. "You're right, as always."

They dressed quickly, the lingering warmth of their morning intimacy still surrounding them. Aegon adjusted his tunic, casting a final glance at Vaella, his eyes filled with love and determination. "Let's get this over with."

Vaella nodded, her own resolve strengthening.

Vaella escorted Aegon through the corridors of the Red Keep, Ser Criston Cole accompanying them. The newly appointed Commander of the King’s Guard walked with a determined stride, his presence commanding respect. Vaella and Aegon shared an affectionate goodbye as they reached the small council chambers.

“Be strong, my love,” Vaella whispered, her hand lingering on his cheek.

Aegon smiled, leaning into her touch. “I will. And I’ll see you tonight.”

With a final kiss, they parted ways. Aegon entered the small council chambers while Vaella made her way to meet with Helaena, as she had promised.

Inside the council chamber, the atmosphere was tense. Otto Hightower, Tyland Lannister, Larys Strong, and several other advisors were already seated. Aegon took his place at the head of the table, trying to shake off the unease that had settled over him.

“We have much to discuss,” Otto began, his tone serious. “Aemond has left for Storm’s End on Vhagar. His mission is to secure the loyalty of House Baratheon.”

Tyland Lannister nodded in agreement. “The support of the Stormlands will be crucial. We must also ensure our position in the Reach and the Riverlands.”

Aegon listened, his mind struggling to stay focused. Thoughts of Vaella kept drifting back, the memory of their intimate moments this morning and the promise of the evening they planned to share. He glanced at Otto, who was watching him closely.

“Aegon, we need your full attention,” Otto said, his voice sharp. “The realm is on the brink of war, and every decision we make now will determine our fate.”

Aegon sighed, forcing himself to concentrate. “I understand. What’s the status of our alliances?”

Larys Strong leaned forward, his fingers steepled. “House Hightower is firmly with us, of course. The Lannisters are on our side as well. We need to ensure that the Tyrells remain loyal, and that the Riverlands do not swing in favor of Rhaenyra.”

Tyland added, “We’ve also received word that the Vale remains neutral for now, but their support could be swayed if we present the right incentives.”

Aegon nodded, trying to absorb the information. “And what of the North?”

Otto’s expression darkened. “The Starks have always been staunch supporters of Rhaenyra. It will be difficult to bring them to our side, but we must try.”

As the discussions continued, Aegon found it increasingly hard to keep his thoughts from drifting. The weight of his new role was pressing down on him, and the responsibility felt overwhelming. He was king, but the crown felt heavy and foreign on his head.

Otto noticed Aegon’s absentmindedness and leaned forward. “Aegon, you must focus. This war will determine the future of the realm. We cannot afford to be distracted.”

Aegon met his grandfather’s gaze, a mixture of frustration and determination in his eyes. “I know, Otto. I’m just… it’s a lot to take in.”

“We all have our burdens,” Otto replied, his tone softening slightly. “But you must rise to the occasion. The realm needs a strong leader, now more than ever.”

Aegon nodded, steeling himself. “You’re right. We need to ensure our alliances are strong and prepare for the inevitable conflict.”

As the council continued to strategize, Aegon’s thoughts occasionally wandered back to Vaella. He longed for the comfort of her presence, the solace she provided in the midst of the chaos. But he knew that for now, he had to focus on the task at hand.

The discussions turned to logistics, troop movements, and potential battle plans. Aegon listened intently, contributing where he could, but always with the weight of his responsibilities pressing down on him. The fate of the realm rested on his shoulders, and he couldn’t afford to falter.

Hours passed, and the council meeting finally drew to a close. Otto looked at Aegon, a mixture of pride and expectation in his eyes. “You did well today. Remember, we are here to support you. Together, we will secure the throne.”

Aegon nodded, exhaustion evident in his posture. “Thank you, Otto. I will do my best.”

Meanwhile, Vaella made her way to the gardens where she and Helaena often met for morning tea and breakfast. The sun was just beginning to rise, casting a warm glow over the lush greenery. The servants had already set up a table with delicate porcelain tea sets and an array of pastries and fruits.

Vaella approached Helaena, who was already seated and gently cradling a cup of tea. Her serene expression brought a sense of calm to the morning. Vaella's youngest, Aeron, rested peacefully in a transportable cradle that the servants had brought along, while Baelor and Daena played nearby with Helaena's twins, Jaehaerys and Jaehaera.

"Good morning, Helaena," Vaella greeted, taking a seat and pouring herself a cup of tea.

"Good morning, Vaella," Helaena replied with a gentle smile. "How are you today?"

Vaella sighed, the weight of recent events pressing down on her. "As well as can be expected, given everything."

The two sisters-in-law enjoyed their tea and breakfast, the peaceful garden providing a brief respite from the turmoil inside the Red Keep. They watched their children play together, their laughter a soothing balm to Vaella's troubled heart.

After a while, Helaena turned to Vaella, her expression thoughtful. "How are you feeling about Rhaenyra?"

Vaella's face fell, the question cutting through her like a knife. "I feel... conflicted. I love Aegon, but Rhaenyra is my sister. I feel like I've betrayed her."

Helaena reached out, placing a comforting hand on Vaella's. "It's a difficult situation. But you must follow your heart. Sometimes, we have to make choices that hurt us deeply."

Vaella nodded, her eyes misting with unshed tears. "I just wish things were different."

Helaena's gaze grew distant, her tone cryptic. "You should fear more of being eaten than being a traitor."

Vaella frowned, puzzled by her half-sister's words. "What do you mean, Helaena?"

Helaena's expression shifted, a mysterious smile playing on her lips. "Oh, look at how Jaehaerys and Baelor play together. They seem to get along so well."

Vaella blinked, the sudden change in topic leaving her confused. "Yes, they do."

Helaena continued to talk about the children, her demeanor light and cheerful as if she hadn't just delivered a cryptic warning. Vaella couldn't shake the feeling that there was a deeper meaning to Helaena's words, but her half-sister seemed determined to move on from the subject.

They spent the rest of the morning watching their children play, sharing stories and enjoying each other's company. Vaella appreciated Helaena's presence and the comfort she provided, even if her cryptic words lingered in Vaella's mind like a dark cloud.

As the sun climbed higher in the sky, the servants began to clear the table. Vaella stood and gently rocked Aeron's cradle, her thoughts returning to the challenges that lay ahead.

"Thank you for this morning, Helaena," Vaella said softly. "It was good to have some peace, even if only for a little while."

Helaena smiled warmly. "Anytime, Vaella. We must find moments of tranquility where we can."

Vaella nodded, her heart heavy but bolstered by the support of her family.  The cryptic warning from Helaena lingered in her mind, a reminder that even within the safety of the Red Keep, danger was never far away.

…

The next day, Vaella adorned herself in her dragon riding attire, a set of finely crafted leather armor in shades of coal black and silver, designed for both protection and ease of movement. The intricate designs etched into the leather resembled dragon scales, a subtle nod to her heritage. She finished securing the straps and adjusted her gloves, feeling the familiar thrill of anticipation that always accompanied her flights with Cannibal.

As she made her way through the halls of the Red Keep, intent on reaching the dragon pit, she was abruptly stopped by a knight of the Kingsguard, Ser Arryk Cargyll.

"Ser Arryk," Vaella greeted, a note of impatience in her voice. "What is the meaning of this?"

Ser Arryk bowed slightly, his expression apologetic but firm. "Princess, the Dowager Queen has forbidden you from leaving the Keep due to concerns for your safety."

Vaella's eyes narrowed, a mixture of frustration and realization washing over her. "I see. And am I to remain a prisoner here, under the guise of protection?"

"The Dowager Queen's orders are for your safety, Your Grace," Ser Arryk replied carefully. "I am to escort you back to the royal quarters."

Vaella felt a surge of anger and helplessness. The realization that Alicent, or rather Otto, was using the pretext of safety to keep her confined struck her deeply. She understood now just how much power her stepmother and grandfather had accumulated over the years.

"Very well, Ser Arryk," she said, her voice controlled but simmering with underlying defiance. "Lead the way."

As they walked back through the corridors, Vaella's mind churned with thoughts of the growing power struggle within the Red Keep. She could feel the weight of the invisible chains that held her, each link forged by years of careful manipulation and control by Otto and Alicent.

They reached the royal quarters, and Vaella paused outside the door to her chambers. "Thank you, Ser Arryk. You may leave me now."

The knight bowed again and took his leave. Vaella stood there for a moment, her thoughts racing. She knew she couldn't remain passive in the face of such manipulation. She had to confront Alicent, to understand the true extent of her stepmother's plans and find a way to reclaim her agency.

With renewed determination, Vaella turned and made her way to Alicent's chambers. The journey through the familiar corridors felt longer than usual, each step heavy with the weight of the confrontation to come. As she reached Alicent's chambers, she paused outside the door, gathering her thoughts and steeling herself for the encounter.

Vaella stood for a while before Alicent's chambers, the realization of her captivity and the need to assert her own power fueling her resolve.

…

Alicent opened the door to her chambers, looking disheveled and distressed, but she quickly masked it with her usual grimace. "Vaella, is something wrong?" she asked, her voice attempting to sound concerned.

Vaella pushed past her stepmother, her eyes blazing with determination. "We need to talk," she declared, closing the door behind them with a firm click.

Alicent turned to face her, her expression guarded. "What is this about, Vaella?"

"Why am I a prisoner in my own home?" Vaella asked bluntly, her voice edged with frustration and hurt.

"You are the Queen," Alicent replied calmly. "You walk freely within this castle."

"Drop it, Alicent," Vaella snapped. "I know your games all too well. I have a lot of respect for you for raising me, for taking me as one of your own, and for standing by my father through all those tormenting years. But this? This is shrewd even for you."

Alicent's expression hardened. "Until you accept your new responsibilities, you are not permitted to leave. Both you and Aegon need to grasp the reality of what is happening."

"What's happening is madness," Vaella retorted, her voice rising. "Just because of something you claim to have heard my father say on his deathbed."

Alicent walked around the table, pouring herself a goblet of wine. She took a sip, her eyes never leaving Vaella. "Do you really think the realm would adhere to Viserys' foolish notion for Rhaenyra to succeed him?"

Vaella stared at her, incredulous. "Many Houses bent the knee and swore their loyalty to Rhaenyra."

Alicent waved a dismissive hand. "A necessary gesture at the time, but the world won't change overnight just for an old oath sworn under a dead king's decree. The Lords will never accept a woman on the Iron Throne."

Vaella's gaze hardened. "Viserys was our king, and his decree was law."

Alicent took another sip of her wine, her eyes cold. "Viserys was weak, and you know that better than anyone. The realm needs a strong ruler, someone who can command respect and loyalty. Not a woman whose claim is already in question."

Vaella felt a surge of anger and betrayal. "You speak of respect and loyalty, yet you undermine everything my father stood for. You speak of strength, but all I see is manipulation and deceit."

Alicent's expression softened slightly, a hint of sadness in her eyes. "Vaella, I do what I must to protect this family, to secure our future. You may not understand now, but one day you will see the necessity of these actions."

Vaella's resolve only strengthened. "I see clearly now, Alicent. I see the lengths you and Otto are willing to go to for power. But I will not be a pawn in your game."

Alicent set down her goblet, her demeanor shifting to one of firm resolve. "Then you leave me no choice. You will remain here until you accept your role as Queen and stand by Aegon's side. This is not just about you or me; it is about the future of the realm."

Vaella turned to leave, her heart heavy with the weight of their confrontation. As she reached the door, she paused, her voice steady and filled with determination. "I will find a way to make you see reason, Alicent. And I will not betray my sister."

…

When Aemond arrived back with Vhagar to King's Landing, the entire city seemed to tremble. Vaella could hear Cannibal's roars shaking the battlements outside even before the news reached her: Lucerys Velaryon was dead. She was with her children when it happened, their innocent laughter piercing her heart as the crushing weight of her nephew's death settled over her like a storm.

The memory of Lucerys, the boy she had spent most of her childhood years with, flashed before her eyes. The playful moments, the shared secrets, the bond they had formed. Her heart ached with a grief that felt almost unbearable.

Without a second thought, she hurried through the Red Keep to find Aemond. As she arrived before the small council chambers, she saw the members beginning to exit. Aegon was the first to emerge, flanked by his Kingsguard. He gave her a meaningful gaze and touched her arm gently as he passed.

"We'll talk later," he said softly, his voice tinged with urgency. "Otto wants me to deal with some matters at court."

On cue, Otto appeared behind him, ushering Aegon to move. Otto gave Vaella an unreadable look before following Aegon, leaving the chamber empty except for Aemond, who stood slouched over a table, his back to her.

Vaella entered the room cautiously, her heart pounding. Aemond looked up at her, his one eye narrowing slightly as he anticipated the question she would ask.

Before she could speak, he said in a cold, flat tone, "I killed Prince Lucerys."

Vaella froze, her feet glued to the spot. Her voice was barely a whisper as she managed to ask, "Why?"

Aemond suddenly pushed himself off the table, his movements sharp and filled with pent-up emotion. He approached her, his presence looming. "You know why," he said, his voice carrying a dangerous edge.

Vaella closed her eyes, the memories of the teasing and torment Aemond had endured flooding her mind. She had been there, a silent witness to his suffering.

"He needed to pay," Aemond continued, his voice growing louder. "I wanted him to take his eye out in exchange for taking mine."

Vaella opened her eyes, meeting his gaze with a mixture of sorrow and disbelief. "I thought you had put it behind you," she whispered. "You got Vhagar, Aemond. You won."

Aemond's eye flashed with anger and pain. "Winning Vhagar doesn't erase the humiliation. The pain. Every time I looked in the mirror, I saw the price I paid. He needed to understand that."

Vaella shook her head, tears welling up in her eyes. "Aemond, this will only lead to more bloodshed. More suffering. What have you done?"

Aemond's expression softened for a moment, a flicker of regret crossing his features. But it was quickly replaced by a steely resolve. "I've done what needed to be done. The Velaryons, the Greens, the Blacks... this war is inevitable. We have to be ready."

Vaella's heart ached for the boy she had once known, now hardened into a man driven by vengeance. She took a step closer, her voice trembling. "Aemond, please. Don't let this consume you."

Aemond looked at her, his gaze intense. "It's already done, Vaella. There's no turning back now."

He left Vaella standing in the chamber alone, her heart heavy with grief and fear for what the future held.

Vaella turned, leaving the council chambers of the Green council behind. Her hands clenched the hems of her dress tightly, her knuckles white from the force. The clinking of armor behind her indicated the presence of a knight of the Kingsguard, following her steps as a constant reminder of the protection—and the control—imposed upon her by Alicent and Otto.

The echoes of her conversation with Alicent played over and over in her mind. The manipulation, the cunning, the insistence on securing power at any cost. It was all too much, but she had to stay strong. For her children. For her family.

She walked briskly through the halls, her heart heavy with the weight of Aemond’s actions and the grief for her nephew, Lucerys. The pain of his loss was almost unbearable, but she had to keep moving.

As she entered the nursery, the sight of her children playing momentarily softened the hard edges of her sorrow. The servants bowed slightly, acknowledging her presence, and then returned to their duties. Vaella took a seat in the corner, her eyes fixed on her children as they laughed and played, oblivious to the turmoil engulfing their world.

Baelor was engaged in a mock sword fight with a wooden sword, his movements full of youthful energy. Daena was playing with her dolls, arranging them in a little circle, her face serene and content. Baby Aeron slept peacefully in his cradle, his tiny chest rising and falling with each breath.

Despite the innocent joy of her children, Vaella’s mind kept drifting back to Lucerys. The memory of his smile, his laughter, and the bond they had shared. And then, inevitably, her thoughts turned to Rhaenyra. How would her sister react to the news? The pain, the anger—it would be unbearable.

One of the servants approached cautiously. “Your Grace, is everything alright?”

Vaella forced a smile, though it didn’t reach her eyes. “Yes, thank you. I just needed a moment.”

The servant nodded and returned to her tasks. Vaella’s gaze returned to her children, her heart aching with the knowledge that their world was about to change irrevocably.

Baelor, noticing his mother’s somber expression, ran over to her, his wooden sword clutched in his small hand. “Mother, are you sad?”

Vaella’s heart twisted at his innocent question. She pulled him into a hug, kissing the top of his head. “No, my dear. Just thinking.”

Daena looked up from her dolls, her bright eyes filled with concern. “Mother, will we see Aunt Rhaenyra and our cousins again soon?”

Vaella’s throat tightened, and she struggled to keep her voice steady. “I hope so, Daena. I hope so.”

She sat there, holding Baelor close, watching Daena play and listening to the soft breaths of Aeron. But the laughter of her children couldn’t drown out the storm of emotions inside her. The image of Lucerys, lifeless, and the inevitable wrath of Rhaenyra haunted her thoughts.

…

Later that night, as the day drew to a close, Aegon finally made his way to their chambers. He looked tired, the weight of the crown and his new duties clearly overwhelming him. Vaella watched him with a mixture of empathy and concern. She understood his plight all too well. Neither Aegon nor she had been groomed for the crown. Alicent and Otto had focused on manipulating circumstances to their favor, but neither had truly prepared Aegon for the burdens of rule. Viserys had poured all his efforts into Rhaenyra, leaving Aegon and Vaella mostly to their own devices unless their behavior directly affected their house.

Unlike Aemond, who had dedicated himself to rigorous studies and combat training, Aegon had enjoyed the freedom of not being the one to inherit the burdens of the realm. Vaella feared that crowning Aegon was merely a move by the Hightowers to use him as a puppet, maintaining their monopoly over the realm while keeping the Targaryen name in place.

Aegon sat next to Vaella and took her hand, his touch gentle but weary. "It's been a long day," he said, his voice tinged with exhaustion.

Vaella looked into his eyes, searching for the right moment to bring up the heavy news. "Aemond killed Luke," she said quietly, her voice filled with sorrow and disbelief.

Aegon responded flatly, his distaste for his nephews evident. "Luke was always a troublemaker," he said, his tone laced with years of Alicent's drilling about Rhaenyra and her children.

Vaella pulled her hand away from his grasp, her heart aching. "He was just a boy, Aegon. An envoy Rhaenyra sent."

Aegon sighed, his annoyance growing. "I don't want to talk about Luke and sour our relationship because of it."

Vaella put her head in her hands, feeling the weight of their situation pressing down on her. Aegon stood up and walked over to her, trying to lighten the mood. "Hey," he said, his tone suddenly enthusiastic. "We could go into the city again, escape for a while. And now, we don't have to sneak away anymore since I'm king."

Vaella lifted her head, her eyes filled with sadness. "Your mother gave strict orders for me to be confined in the Red Keep."

Aegon's smile faltered, his enthusiasm replaced by a look of concern and confusion. "I did not know of this," he said quietly, sitting back down beside her.

As they sat together, the weight of their situation pressing down on them, Aegon took Vaella's hand and squeezed it gently. "I promise, I'll confront my mother about this," he said, his voice filled with determination.

Vaella shook her head slowly, her eyes filled with concern. "Aegon, you won't achieve anything. I'm viewed as a threat, especially now that Luke is dead."

Aegon frowned, his expression innocent and bewildered. "That's absurd. Why would they see you as a threat?"

Vaella sighed, her heart heavy with the burden of the truth. "It's not absurd. There will be war, and I have a large dragon. They fear the scale will bend in favor of Rhaenyra."

Aegon looked at her with a mix of confusion and defiance. "But it won't. You love me, and we have our children. That's what matters."

Vaella stood up and walked over to the window, staring out into the night. The flickering lights of the city below seemed to mock the turmoil within her. "Do you understand the position I'm in, Aegon? The choice I have to make is impossible."

Aegon sighed and joined her at the window, his presence a comforting warmth beside her. "I never wanted any of this either," he admitted quietly. "But I must admit, it feels liberating to have power, to have my words heard and not always discarded."

Vaella's gaze softened as she looked at him, but internally she wondered to what extent he was truly heard and taken seriously. She placed a hand on his cheek, and he leaned into her touch affectionately. She kissed his forehead, her heart aching with the weight of their circumstances.

"The hour is late," she said softly. "We should go to bed."

Aegon nodded, his eyes filled with a mixture of love and determination. "I'll talk to my mother tomorrow about how you're being treated. I promise."

Vaella gave him a small, sad smile. "Thank you, Aegon."

They made their way to the bed, the silence between them heavy with unspoken fears and hopes. As they lay down together, Aegon wrapped his arms around Vaella, holding her close.

"I love you," he whispered, his voice barely audible in the darkness.

"I love you too," Vaella replied, her voice trembling with emotion.

…

Aegon tapped his fingers on the small council chamber table, the rhythmic sound a stark contrast to the tense silence that hung in the room. He watched as his advisors began to rise from their seats, preparing to leave. The effects of his crowning and the recent death of his nephew, Lucerys, were beginning to ripple through the realm, affecting his rule in ways he hadn't fully anticipated. The blockade of the Gullet had severely hindered their economy, and the defection of some Houses, coupled with the indecisiveness of others, weighed heavily on his mind.

His gaze fell on his mother, Alicent, who had attended the council meeting. As she stood to leave, Aegon's stern voice cut through the room. "Everyone, stay and sit back down."

Ser Criston, who was poised to escort the Queen, stopped in his tracks, his gaze sharpening at the king's tone. The room's atmosphere grew taut as Aegon repeated his command, "I said, sit."

Otto Hightower, Aegon's grandfather and Hand of the King, complied but remained standing. "Is there anything else you wish to discuss, Your Grace?"

Aegon turned his piercing gaze to Alicent. "Why is my wife confined like a criminal?"

Before Alicent could respond, several members of the small council spoke up. Lord Tyland Lannister was the first. "Your Grace, the Queen's alliance is still unclear. Her safety is of utmost priority in these uncertain times."

Another member, Jasper Wylde, added, "We cannot afford any missteps. Ensuring her security is paramount."

Aegon shook his head, his frustration mounting. "I don't want to hear it. You were all in on it. You keep my wife confined, and none of you had the audacity to speak to me directly about it."

Alicent tried to reason with her son, her voice calm but firm. "Aegon, please understand, it's for her protection."

Aegon stood abruptly, his chair scraping loudly against the stone floor. "I don't want to hear any more of this."

Otto interjected, his voice steady but insistent. "Your Grace, the matter of the Queen's treatment is closed until more urgent issues are resolved."

Aegon's fists clenched at his sides as he stormed out of the chamber, the door slamming shut behind him. His mind raced, filled with the realization that Vaella had been right. This confrontation had achieved nothing.

As he walked through the corridors of the Red Keep, Aegon's thoughts were a whirlwind of anger and frustration. He had hoped to assert his authority, to make it clear that Vaella's confinement was unacceptable. Instead, he had been met with resistance and rationalizations, his power undermined by those who were supposed to support him.

…

As the lords filed out of the small council chamber—Larys Strong, Tyland Lannister, Jasper Wylde, and Grand Maester Orwyle—the atmosphere in the room remained tense. Otto Hightower, Alicent, and Ser Criston Cole stayed behind, the echoes of Aegon's frustrated departure still lingering.

Alicent sighed, her face drawn with concern. "Aegon's attachment to Vaella is going to be a problem," she said, her voice low. "The same obsession that we thought would help us control both of them is now working against us."

Otto stroked his beard thoughtfully, his eyes narrowing as he considered the situation. "Not necessarily," he replied. "We can still turn this to our advantage."

Alicent looked at him skeptically. "And how do you propose we do that, Father?"

Otto met her gaze steadily. "If we can gain Vaella's favor, it will send a strong message to the realm and the other Houses. It would show that even Rhaenyra's trueborn sister stands against her. That could sway many who are currently undecided."

Alicent shook her head, her expression resolute. "That will never happen. Vaella's loyalty to Rhaenyra is too strong. She would never betray her sister."

Otto's eyes gleamed with a calculating light. "People can be persuaded, Alicent. Vaella's situation is precarious. If we can find the right leverage, the right incentive, we might turn her to our side."

Ser Criston Cole, who had been standing quietly by, finally spoke up. "What leverage do you have in mind, my lord? Vaella is fiercely loyal, not just to Rhaenyra, but to Aegon as well. Any misstep could push her further away."

Otto nodded, acknowledging the difficulty. "It's true. But we must be strategic. We need to make Vaella see that aligning with us is not just beneficial, but necessary for her and her children's safety."

Alicent frowned, her worry evident. "Vaella is smart, Father. She will see through any manipulation. And if Aegon finds out we're trying to use her in this way..."

Otto's expression turned steely. "Aegon is still new to power. His emotions are raw, but he can be guided. We need to be careful, yes, but we also need to be decisive. Vaella must be made to understand that her loyalty to Rhaenyra is a liability, not an asset."

Alicent sighed again, her shoulders slumping slightly. "I fear this will not end well. We are playing a dangerous game, and the stakes are higher than ever."

Otto placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "We've always played a dangerous game, Alicent. This is no different. We must stay vigilant and adaptable. The realm's future depends on it."

…

Aegon walked the hallways of the Keep, his frustration and annoyance evident to everyone who passed by him. His brows were furrowed, and his fists clenched at his sides as he tried to process the events of the small council meeting. His guards trailed behind him, their presence a constant reminder of his newfound responsibilities and the weight of the crown on his head.

As he turned a corner, Aegon’s eyes fell upon a small figure playing in the corridor. It was his eldest son, Baelor. The sight of the little boy brought a genuine smile to Aegon’s face, momentarily easing the burden on his heart.

“Baelor!” Aegon called, his voice filled with affection.

Baelor looked up, his face lighting up as he saw his father. “Father!” he exclaimed, running towards Aegon with open arms.

Aegon scooped him up, lifting him into the air before bringing him into a tight embrace. “How is my brave little dragon today?” he asked, his tone playful.

Baelor giggled, his small hands gripping Aegon’s tunic. “I’m good, Father! I was just playing with my soldiers.”

Aegon chuckled, ruffling his son’s hair. “Well, how about we do something even more exciting?”

Baelor’s eyes widened with curiosity. “What is it?”

Aegon set him down and crouched to his level. “How would you like to go flying with me on Sunfyre?”

Baelor’s face broke into a wide grin, his excitement palpable. “Really? Can we, Father?”

Aegon nodded, his heart swelling with pride and love for his son. “Yes, we can. Come on, let’s get you ready.”

Aegon took Baelor’s hand and began walking towards the royal chambers. His guards followed closely, though Aegon’s focus was entirely on his son. They soon arrived, and Aegon called for the servants to prepare Baelor for the flight.

Once Baelor was dressed in suitable attire for dragon riding, Aegon turned to his guards. “Prepare transportation and an escort to the Dragonpit,” he ordered, his voice firm and authoritative.

The guards nodded and hurried off to fulfill his command. Aegon looked down at Baelor, who was practically bouncing with excitement. He couldn’t help but feel a sense of relief. Spending time with his son was exactly what he needed to escape the pressures and frustrations of his new role, even if only for a short while.

As they waited for the transportation to be prepared, Aegon sat with Baelor, sharing stories of his own adventures and the joy of flying on Sunfyre. The bond between father and son grew stronger with each passing moment, a reminder that even amidst the chaos and political intrigue, there were simple joys to be found.

Once they were in the carriage on their way to the Dragonpit, Aegon leaned back, feeling a rare sense of peace as he looked at his son, Baelor. The boy was a living proof of his and Vaella's bond, a symbol of the love that anchored him amidst the storm of politics and power struggles.

"Are you excited, Baelor?" Aegon asked, his smile wide and genuine.

Baelor nodded enthusiastically, his eyes shining with anticipation. "Yes, Father! I’ve always wanted to fly with you and Sunfyre!"

Aegon chuckled, ruffling Baelor’s hair. "Sunfyre is a magnificent dragon. You’re going to love it. Flying feels like you’re touching the sky."

Baelor’s face lit up with wonder. "Do you think I’ll have my own dragon someday, Father?"

Aegon nodded. "Of course, you will. Every Targaryen should have a dragon. It’s in our blood."

They continued to talk, Aegon sharing stories of his own first flights and the adventures he had with Sunfyre. The boy listened intently, his eyes wide with fascination.

After a moment, Baelor fell silent, his expression turning thoughtful. "Father," he said quietly, "why is Mother sad ever since Grandsire Viserys is gone?"

Aegon’s smile faltered for a moment. The innocence of his son’s question struck him deeply, reminding him of how hard these times were on his small children, who were blissfully unaware of the complexities and dangers surrounding them.

Aegon took a deep breath and chose his words carefully. "Your mother has a lot on her shoulders, Baelor. She’s just tired. Losing Grandsire Viserys was very hard for her, but she’s strong. She’ll be happy again soon, I promise."

Baelor looked up at him, his eyes wide with concern. "Really? You promise, Father?"

Aegon smiled softly, ruffling his son’s hair once more. "I promise. We’ll all be happy again soon."

The carriage continued its journey, the rhythmic clatter of hooves on the cobblestone streets filling the silence. Aegon looked out the window, his mind a whirlwind of thoughts. He knew the promise he made to his son was one he would fight to keep, despite the challenges that lay ahead.

As they neared the Dragonpit, the massive structure loomed into view. Its imposing silhouette was a testament to the might and majesty of House Targaryen. Aegon felt a surge of pride and determination. He was king now, and he would do everything in his power to protect his family and ensure their happiness.

The carriage came to a halt, and the guards moved to open the doors. Aegon and Baelor stepped out, the cool breeze carrying the faint, familiar scent of dragonfire. The Dragonpit was alive with activity, dragonkeepers and handlers preparing for their arrival.

"Are you ready, Baelor?" Aegon asked, taking his son’s hand.

Baelor nodded, his excitement returning. "Yes, Father!"

Aegon and Baelor entered the Dragonpit, the vast, echoing chamber alive with the sounds and smells of dragons. The air was thick with the scent of dragonfire and the heavy, almost electric feeling that always accompanied these mighty beasts. The Dragonkeepers moved with practiced efficiency, their eyes watchful as they brought forth Sunfyre.

The magnificent dragon emerged from the shadows, his golden scales shimmering in the light. Sunfyre's eyes gleamed with recognition as he saw Aegon, and his massive head lowered gracefully to greet his rider.

"Baelor, this is Sunfyre," Aegon said, his voice filled with pride. "Sunfyre, meet my son, Baelor."

Sunfyre’s snout came down to Baelor, who stood in awe of the giant creature before him. With a mixture of bravery and excitement, Baelor reached out and hugged Sunfyre's snout. The dragon rumbled softly, allowing the boy's touch and even nudging him playfully. Baelor laughed, the sound pure and joyous, echoing through the Dragonpit.

"Good boy, Sunfyre," Aegon said, patting the dragon's neck. "He likes you, Baelor."

The Dragonkeepers assisted Aegon in securing Baelor and himself atop Sunfyre's saddle. Aegon ensured that his son was safely strapped in before taking the reins. "Hold on tight," Aegon instructed, his voice steady.

As Sunfyre spread his massive wings and took to the sky, Baelor's eyes widened with wonder. The ground fell away beneath them, and the wind rushed past, carrying them higher and higher. The world below seemed to shrink as they soared above King's Landing.

"This is amazing, Father!" Baelor shouted over the wind, his face alight with pure joy.

Aegon laughed, feeling a sense of freedom and exhilaration that he hadn't felt in a long time. "I told you it would be! There's nothing like flying, Baelor."

They flew over the city, the streets and buildings appearing as mere dots below them. Sunfyre’s powerful wings carried them effortlessly through the air, his golden scales reflecting the sunlight like a living beacon.

As they flew, Aegon spotted a dark shape in the distance. It was Cannibal, Vaella’s dragon, flying alone. Cannibal’s calls were loud and haunting, echoing through the skies. The sight and sound of the dragon's lonely flight tugged at Aegon's heart, a stark reminder of Vaella’s confinement in the Red Keep.

Baelor noticed too, his young eyes wide. "Is that Cannibal, Father?"

"Yes, it is," Aegon replied, his voice tinged with sadness. "He's calling for your mother."

"Why can't Mother come flying with us?" Baelor asked innocently.

Aegon sighed, his heart heavy. "It's complicated, Baelor. But soon, I hope."

They continued to fly, the joy of the experience mingling with the bittersweet reality of their situation. Sunfyre soared higher, and Aegon pointed out landmarks and places of interest to Baelor, who listened with rapt attention.

They flew over the Red Keep, and Aegon couldn't help but look down at the vast castle below, knowing Vaella was somewhere inside, unable to join them. The sight of Cannibal circling above the city, his lonely calls continuing, was a poignant reminder of the challenges they faced.

Eventually, they began their descent, Sunfyre's wings beating steadily as they made their way back to the Dragonpit. The landing was smooth, and Aegon helped Baelor dismount, the boy's face still glowing with excitement.

"Thank you, Father! That was the best thing ever!" Baelor exclaimed, hugging Aegon tightly.

Aegon smiled, his heart swelling with love and pride. "I'm glad you enjoyed it, Baelor. We'll do this again soon, I promise."

As they walked back towards the carriage, Aegon glanced up at the sky one last time, watching Cannibal's distant form.

…

Dowager Queen Alicent paced the corridors of the Red Keep, her mind a whirlwind of worry and frustration. Ser Criston Cole, her ever-loyal protector and confidant, walked beside her, his demeanor calm and composed. She turned to him, her face a mask of concern.

"Criston, it was reckless to allow Aegon to take Baelor on dragonback," she complained, her voice tight with anxiety. "Anything could have happened. What if he had fallen from the saddle?"

Cole inclined his head slightly, acknowledging her concerns. "Your Grace, it was the king's order. Little Prince Baelor was excited to spend time with his father. And it is good for the crown to be seen, a father and son flying over the city. It strengthens the people’s loyalty."

Alicent’s eyes flashed with irritation. "It won't strengthen anything if the boy falls to his death. Aegon has done some irresponsible things in the past, but now he's dragging his children into his recklessness."

Her voice wavered, and she stopped walking, her hand clutching the pendant around her neck. Her thoughts churned with worry for her grandson. Despite her strained relationship with Vaella and the current political situation, Alicent loved all her grandchildren deeply. The thought of losing one of them was unbearable, especially now, when the threat of Rhaenyra’s vengeance loomed over them.

Criston placed a reassuring hand on Alicent’s shoulder, his voice calm and steady. "Your Grace, I understand your fears. But the King is trying to bond with his son, and perhaps show the realm a united front. It is not without risk, but it is necessary."

Alicent’s expression softened slightly, but her eyes remained filled with concern. "I fear for them, Criston. Especially now, with Rhaenyra seeking vengeance for her son. She will not stop until she has her retribution."

Criston nodded, his grip on her shoulder firm but comforting. "We will do everything in our power to protect them, Your Grace. The realm is in turmoil, but we must remain vigilant. Aegon and Vaella’s children are the future of House Targaryen."

Alicent sighed, her shoulders slumping as she allowed herself to lean into Criston’s reassuring presence. "I know. But the danger is so great. Every time they leave the safety of the Red Keep, I fear for their lives."

Criston’s eyes were resolute. "We will protect them. I will protect them. Trust in that, Your Grace."

Alicent took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. "Thank you, Criston. Your loyalty is a comfort in these dark times."

Criston bowed his head slightly. "Always, Your Grace."

As they continued walking, Alicent’s mind remained troubled, but Criston’s words provided a small measure of solace. 

…

Aegon returned to the Red Keep with Baelor, his son’s excitement palpable as they walked through the corridors. The Kingsguard flanked them, their silent presence a reminder of the pressing expectations and responsibilities weighing down on Aegon. Despite the exhilaration of the flight, the demands of his duty loomed ever larger.

"Father, can we find Mother and tell her about our flight?" Baelor asked, his eyes wide with excitement.

Aegon smiled, ruffling his son’s hair. "Of course, Baelor. I’m sure your mother and siblings will be thrilled to hear about it."

As they made their way through the keep, they encountered Larys Strong. The Master of Whisperers greeted them with a slight bow, his eyes keen and calculating. "Your Grace, Prince Baelor," Larys said smoothly. "I hope your flight was enjoyable."

"It was amazing!" Baelor exclaimed before Aegon could respond. "Sunfyre is the best dragon ever!"

Aegon chuckled at his son's enthusiasm. "Indeed, it was a fine flight."

Larys nodded, his smile thin and enigmatic. "Your Grace, when you have a moment, I would like to speak with you privately. There are matters that require your attention."

Aegon’s smile faded slightly, but he nodded in acknowledgment. "I will see you later, Larys."

Larys bowed again and stepped aside, allowing them to continue on their way. They soon reached the nursery, where Vaella was playing with Daena and baby Aeron. The sight of his family brought a genuine smile to Aegon’s face, easing the burdens on his shoulders, if only for a moment.

"Mother! Mother!" Baelor called out, running ahead to Vaella. "We went flying on Sunfyre! It was incredible!"

Vaella looked up, her face lighting up at the sight of her son’s excitement. She scooped up Baelor in a warm embrace. "Did you have fun, my brave little dragon?" she asked, her voice filled with affection.

"Yes! Sunfyre is so big and strong, and we flew so high!" Baelor babbled, his words tumbling over each other in his eagerness to share.

Aegon walked over, his smile softening as he watched the interaction. "He was a natural," he said, pride evident in his voice.

Vaella looked at Aegon, her eyes reflecting a mixture of love and worry. "I’m glad you both enjoyed it," she said softly. "But please be careful. The world is dangerous now."

Aegon nodded, understanding her concern. "I know, Vaella. But I wanted to give Baelor something to be happy about."

Daena, noticing her father's arrival, ran over and hugged his leg. "Father! Did you bring us anything?"

Aegon laughed, scooping her up into his arms. "Just stories of our adventure," he said, planting a kiss on her forehead.

Vaella smiled at the sight of her husband and children, but the worry never fully left her eyes. "Baelor, why don’t you tell your sister all about your flight while I speak with your father?"

Baelor nodded eagerly, taking Daena’s hand and leading her to the side to share his tales.

Aegon handed baby Aeron, who was in Vaella’s arms, to a nearby servant and took Vaella’s hand. "Let’s talk," he said quietly.

They stepped a little away, the sounds of their children’s laughter in the background. Vaella looked up at Aegon, her face a mix of love and concern. "Aegon, we need to be careful. Every move we make is being watched."

Aegon sighed, taking Vaella’s hand and further leading her to a quieter corner of the nursery. He looked into her eyes, a hint of concern clouding his expression. "Larys asked to speak with me," he said, his voice low.

Vaella frowned, her brow furrowing in thought. "Larys Strong? What does he want?"

Aegon shrugged, though his unease was evident. "I'm not sure. He usually stays in the shadows, never really bothering us. But now, it seems he wants more direct contact with the new King."

Vaella's gaze hardened slightly. "Be careful with him, Aegon. He's a dangerous man, one who knows too much and says too little. His motives are never clear."

Aegon nodded, pulling her closer. "I will be careful. I promise."

They shared a tender kiss, the tension between them momentarily melting away. Aegon’s hands moved to cradle Vaella’s face, his touch gentle and reassuring. The warmth of their embrace provided a fleeting sanctuary from the world outside.

As the kiss deepened, Vaella’s worries seemed to fade, replaced by the comforting familiarity of Aegon’s presence. But reality intruded, and Aegon reluctantly broke the kiss, resting his forehead against hers.

"I promise, we’ll continue this later," he whispered, his voice filled with longing. "In our bedchamber."

Vaella smiled softly, her eyes reflecting the love she felt for him. "I'll hold you to that, Aegon."

He chuckled, pressing a final kiss to her lips before stepping back. "I’ll see you soon, my love."

Vaella watched him leave, her heart heavy with both love and concern.

[blueberrypancakesworld]

My side was always by yours

warning : hurt/comfort, fluff, kiss, dysfunctional family, use of weapons, angst

info : Oh another one-shot for a picture that inspired me very much THIS. Be sure to check out the blog @prideprejudce very good stuff and thanks for letting me write something about your work have fun reading and I hope you like it too :)

masterlist

~~~~~~~~~~

The torches didn't seem to twitch or dance for a moment. They cast no shadow for the highborn on the side of the royal family. The green ones.

The widow queen's heart hammered in her chest, her fingers clutching the chair at the head of the table, ,,We can't just do the demise of Rhaenyra…we'd be kingslayer" her words of resistance from her true inner Alicent who wanted nothing more than to turn back time before Viserys with her, but it was the words that filled her with fear, fear of her own family.

Her father's dark eyes, his look that always said more than his actions towards her, full of hatred, no disappointment, no his daughter could not disappoint him any more. She had disappointed him the moment she loved Rhaenyras herself, her heart and her whole being.

,,How did you think you could get blood on the throne, daughter?" Otto asked, sitting down and gripping the edge of the table a little tighter, letting her know that his patience was wearing thin with her preferences, her nature, her appearance. She had disappointed him enough.

,,Certainly not me," she heard the murmur of her first son's storm gray blue eyes, the mocking smile on his face, his family and yet the hint of pain. The pain that he had to fight, not for himself, no, Alicent Aegon had given up long after she and her father had ruined him.

No, Aegon was fighting for his own family…his children. She opened her dry lips as if the wine hadn't lit them but her real light Aemond gave her a look that almost made her flinch. It was the same reluctance as with Viserys, with Otto, with Aegon, with Criston, they all rejected the resistance of their queen.

She had power, she should be able to end everything and yet she was powerless in the face of her family who now sat before her. His sapphire flashed and the smirk made him give in to Lary's fearlessness and cruelty for a moment. ,,Mother, it is Aegon's and my birthright since time immemorial through the male bloodline," her own son told her and tradition and laws as if she were a stupid girl reading books she didn't understand.

Apathetically she nodded apathetically she smiled weakly and seemed only to perceive the fire of the torches. Dragons…her dragon…her Rhaenyra. ,,Rhaenyra…I will take care of the Widow Queen…it is my duty to bring the right blood to the throne," she said the words looking around with a confident look Aegon didn't care, Aemond seemed relieved and her father was relieved. But all just for a while.

Her shoes stopped in the corridors again as she hurried to her daughter in the light of the moon after a few hours of discussion. She felt strange, the dagger in her hand familiar and yet strange at the same time.

Hidden in the sleeve of her dress along with the small coin pouch, enough for a ship without questions. But the former queen felt strange. She was no longer a young girl running through the corridors with Rhaenyra and lcte, the steel on her back was not the admiration of Syrax's bridle that her beloved Rhaenyra had shown her.

Her own body no longer the same older with healed wounds and stretch marks from her own children. Only her heart was the same heart that still beat for Rhaenyra. But now this played a role in her heart beating with fear as she opened the door to her daughter.

Scurrying in, she held a hand over her mouth to stifle a startled gasp. Helaeana stood in front of her mother, already dressed, with her two twins Jaehaerys and Jaehaera sleeping on the bed.

,,We're going to see my half-sister Rhaenyra, aren't we mother?" the queen asked her lovely daughter, the dreamer of the family and the female image of Viserys, the man Alicent had never forgiven for not helping his daughter in this gift.

The mother touched her Helaena's hand, which she held out just for a moment to know she was there, ,,I am proud of you, my daughter," she murmured, and though there was no smile on the Targayren's lips, the look of approval was all Alicent needed to know.

She had always been on her mother's side, as much as she loved her own children, Aegon would never have been more than likely just a sibling.

Aegon too overwhelmed and Helaena too uninterested in a man who was shaming her, there were a thousand reasons why it wouldn't have worked out and yet here they were. Helaena had always been on the receiving end of the woman, her mother, the person who had touched her first. But the queen, like her mother, wasted no time in letting her tie Jaehaera on her back with cloths and Jaehaerys in front of her chest.

The third child to be born in a few moons was visible through the slightly bulging belly and would be born in the halls of his ancestors if all went well, she hoped. Shifting the small bag of clothes, insects and toys, the two women exchanged a final glance before Alicent clasped her daughter's hand and took her with her through the corridors.

,,We just have to make it through the gates to the castle," the brown-haired woman whispered, wanting to take the stairs to the entrance where there were fewer guards but Helaena paused, she knew how to get out and here it had been months and a few years since their marriage…Aegon had always snuck out through the corridor.

,,I know where to go mother and not to the harbor" the queen replied seeing the fear in her mother's eyes of not coming out and not coming to the seventh she had stood for all those years.

Nodding it was now the queen who led her mother past the guards making noises for distraction and waiting in the shadows all this while her children slept quietly but just like their mother they had become a quiet barely noticeable child.

Sneaking into the room of the first princess of the realm, Helaena went in search of the shadows while the older one swallowed. She hadn't been here for a long time, not with her. Everything looked as it had after her departure, yet empty and soulless.

It must still be here, it flashed through her mind and she began to search while Helaena had found the entrance and was already waiting there. She hugged her mother but hadn't seen similar images in her dreams of decisions of fire and hope it was the right thing to do.

Alicent had a brief look of victory when she found the old page from the historical book in the closet, hidden but easily visible. ,,We can," she said, hurrying to her daughter and following her down the dark stairs through the corridors into pitch darkness that made it easier for them.

,,You know these corridors?" she ventured after a few minutes of darkness and she herself had little idea, only suspicions, but not only the thought that Rhaenyra had passed through here more than ten years ago, but also Ageon, who had sneaked out and was carrying his own wife, made her walk on with disappointment.

,,A little I've always heard Aegon grandfather and others," the queen replied and even though Alicent couldn't see anything she believed her daughter was looking at her trying to encourage her until they stepped out a few minutes later.

The moon shone in the sky and stars lit up the city where the royal family women were. ,,Where to go?" Alicent asked, still confused, not knowing where else to go besides the harbor or a few rivers that crossed the water. ,,The dragon pit, Mother Dreamfyre, is already waiting," Helaena replied with such ease that one might think she had planned the escape, but it made sense, they would be allowed in and there are no guards there, dragons don't need protection, they had themselves.

Alicent hadn't realized that she had smiled at her daughter, that she had almost called her Rhaenyra, that she felt like she had on the nightly flights over the city they had taken together.

Hurrying to the dragon pit it was easy to get in the few guards were hardly active and the guards for the creatures only sounded the alarm when the animals started to roar but they didn't do that.

They smelled the familiarity of the dreamer with her strong connection to Dreamfyre and the familiar former queen. ,,Are you sure child?" she asked anyway as she placed her hand on the warm neck of the dragoness looking at her with the help of her daughter.

She hadn't been this close to a dragon in years, no months, but there was still a slight fear inside her and yet she had to swallow it. ,,Climb up behind me and hold this bag tightly, the egg for Maelor," she only said and she felt the warmth of the bag for the first time but it was clear that the rune-born prince also had a right, ,,What about Morghul and Shrykos?" the widow queen asked and looked into the hollow of the smaller dragon of her grandchildren.

But Helaena just nodded and seemed to get Dreamfyre to move without words and the two younger dragons followed their mother, ,,They will cling to her when they are exhausted," the queen said before Dreamfyre ran faster and spread her wings, Alicent clung to her daughter and clutched the bag before she felt the cool air around her a few moments later and Dreamfyre carried her out into the air towards Dragonstone.

Quietly and quickly they flew over King's Landing towards the sea knowing that they would probably be missed at dawn if they weren't seen now. Please, gods, don't let my sons, soaked by my father's hatred, hunt for us, the queen prayed, clutching the bag tightly and letting her daughter know that they could fly even faster and understand the smaller, younger dragons.

It took a few hours to get to King's Landing, the night would soon be over and they could guess that as soon as the sun rose, King's Landing would wake up and they would be gone. ,,They didn't follow us, thank the gods," she murmured and saw her granddaughter's little wide eyes looking at her and her grandmother stroking her bright hair.

Helaena, who hadn't said a word, stroked her son's and daughter's hair before glancing behind her at her mother, ,,Dreamfyre protects us mother no matter what awaits us… my dreams never came," she confessed and seemed unsure of her intentions.

That her dreams didn't protect her, her dragoness had to do it. But Alicent again suppressed her exclamations of fear and gave her a nod, a sign that it would be all right. It had to be all right, but when the sky darkened and the other two dragons appeared, when their children appeared, Alicent didn't know if they would make it to the ground alive.

But it didn't matter anymore when they saw the big old castle with the dragon decorations a fortress like Dragonstone only existed once and none of them had been here…but no Dreamfyre had been here half a century ago the dragoness knew what to, at least they hoped so. But it was enough to have hope because when Dreamfyre landed on the stone small docking area of the ship the stone became the bridge that led to the castle.

When the dragoness had landed and everyone had dismounted, Helaena also lowered her children and took their small hands in one of hers, ,,The castle of our ancestors," she said, looking with fascination at the old building while her dragoness almost let out a cheerful noise.

But Alicent felt nervous they were here, but just because they were here didn't mean they would be protected, that they would get out alive at all.

Moving first, Helaena beside her and the children behind them, the three dragons either flew slowly above them or made slight dents in the stone with their claws as the lizard-like creatures followed them.

The closer they got the faster her heart beat but even if it was nervousness it was also the feeling of freedom…freedom to make her own decision to do the right thing and follow her love.

But it wasn't another minute before they were halfway across the bridge when a screech rang out, ,,Daemon," she spoke his name with fear as she saw the red dragon coming over the hill and Daemon blocking the bridge with the gold guard, ,,Whore queen and leech dreamer with her deformed children I didn't expect you to die so quickly". Amused at his own words, she saw the smile on his lips and his men behind him seemed to follow his every command.

He was dangerous, dangerous like her Aemond his counterpart and yet she would not underestimate him he had never liked her not since she had the heart of his only love…something only they both seemed to know.

Dreamfyre let out her own scream that was echoed by her child dragons. A warning Caraxes observed he didn't like that there were now three dragons even if the little ones weren't a problem for him…but this bond between Heleana and Dreamfyre seemed to worry him. ,,We didn't come here to fight Daemon, I want to talk to Rhaenyra…I want to talk to the true queen," she countered and stood protectively in front of her family while Dreamfyre spread her wings as Daemon gave the command to draw the swords.

A feeble lie even for you green leeches" he hissed in disgust and she feared that even Dreamfyre could not fend them all off ,,We would have come differently if we wanted war" she tried again but her own hand was up her sleeve clutching the dagger advising her to protect the last thing she still wanted to love.

She could see in the violet eyes of the Prince Consort that he was thinking, but he seemed to suspect a trap, ,,Cunt King, come out with your cripple brother! Show yourselves and I won't have to feed your mother to my dragon!" he shouted, looking around in the sky to the sides, waiting for the cry of a dragon, the horn calling for battle but nothing came. ,,My mother the Dowager Queen speaks the truth, Uncle Daemon," Helaena tried this time, holding her children with her and seeming to defend everything this cruel world had given her.

He laughed, the prince laughed in amusement that his niece spoke, ,,Well said dreamer but you expect me to believe that then your death will be swift after all" he replied pointing his own sword at the small group and Caraxes cried out seeming to rise with a flap of his wings and Dreamfyre shot into the sky to defend her rider.

,,No! Gods darn it I beg you trust me for once!" screamed Alicent pulling the dagger out of her sleeve and pushing Helaena behind her pushing Jaehaery and Jahaera towards her the two young dragons stood in front of Helaena to protect their own riders.

Screams and roars could be heard as the two dragons circled each other in the sky, just waiting for the first strike. It was in vain she has forgotten me she will not come to save me her thoughts whirled around the dagger in her hand cold and ready to serve Dreamfyre ready to fight and Daemon with sword raised ready to kill.

Had she misjudged her love? Had she misjudged everything? Was she perhaps really only to be used as her father's stupid chess piece? Was she ever good enough to be a queen or a mother?

Gold. Gold had become her color. Gold like her dragon, gold like the crown of Jahaery on her silvery head, gold that was reflected in her violet eyes. Gold like the color she used to be before she put on the black and red. It was gold that shot out of the sun with her own dragon and landed between the two people with a scream that brought Dreamyfre and Caraxes to land.

,,What's going on here without my command!" the queen exclaimed, dismounting from Syrax and landing on Daemon's side, who immediately put his sword down and tucked it away with another warning look. ,,We have a visit from your old friend with her leech children and dragons," the prince consort said and ordered his men to retreat a little while Caraxes made his way back up the hill and Dreamfyre came to her at Helaena's command.

,,Queen Helaena, what are you doing here with the Dowager Queen?" Rhaenyra asked and approached the small group, her violet eyes showing caution, knowing that if it was a trap more would have happened long ago.

Alicent sensed the disappointment and sadness that Rhaenyra hadn't spurred her on but she lowered her dagger knowing the hurt she had caused her…a mistake she would never want to make again.

But Helaena shook her head slightly and reached into her pocket to retrieve the item, ,,My mother's and your mother's crown sister Rhaenyra I don't want such a thing…I have my own treasure here" one sister said to another with a gentle smile and looked to her children, her mother and her dragoness before handing the crown to Alicent. Once again, it seemed to be just the two of them.

Alicent with Rhaenyra, Rhaenyra with Alicent. The crown felt wrong in her hands and even though she was actually queen, she wanted to be, maybe once when the hand of Rhaenyra was her queen consort, but now she could only beg for forgiveness, couldn't she?

,,And what are you thinking of doing, showing up here with your daughter and grandchildren's dragons to make an offer?" Rhaenyra asked, but not with judgment like her husband, no, she slowly approached her former lover and placed her hand on the crown, both of them touching the same steel that had and still did distinguish her.

Alicent felt the burning in her chest in her heart as she was so close to her again. It felt good. It was right. It was like she was making a right decision for the first time as she curtseyed and handed over the crown to the true queen, placing her hands on the queen's and holding them.

,,It is forgiveness that I ask for, forgiveness for my use by my father that has contributed to this grievance. I ask for forgiveness that my heart only now truly realizes that I have listened to one side all these years," she began and her dark eyes finally looked back into those violet fleshly eyes of her dragoness once more with a hopeful expectation that she would say the right thing.

,,Which side would that be Alicent?" Rhaenyra asked now, looking at her sister and niece and nephew for a moment before looking at the crown, the discarded dagger and into the dark beauty of her Alicent. ,,My side has always been with you...my beloved Queen Rhaenyra" she finally spoke the words and the clink of metal could be heard as the crown fell to the dagger and the Targayren after decades of emptiness in her heart could finally embrace the woman the former girl she loved knowing that something had been reawakened in both their hearts.

That they finally had each other again, that they had not lost everything, that despite the blood, deaths and tears they had someone who had been with them from the beginning. That they had love.

It was on that day that the Widow Queen Alicent Hightower and her daughter and grandchildren stayed on Dragonstone by the side of the person they had always stood for. As Helaena and her children surrounded themselves with the princes and princesses of the realm, the smiles on their lips were visible and the relief of the young people was noticeable.

It was on that night that Alicent went to Rhaenyra she was called that night when the blood touched her skin as the ceremony was performed just the two of them under the moonlight of the gods and dragons performed the rite of marriage. ,,You are forever bound to the blood in my heart as my wife and my queen consort," Rhaenyra murmured, her fingers gently brushing the blood on the older woman's face as she smiled and yet looked slightly expectantly into the violet eyes.

Before they put their foreheads together they looked at each other smiles of joy reflected as Alicent returned the words, ,,You are forever bound to the blood in my heart as my wife and my queen" when their lips finally met and they finally kissed.

It was a night not only of physical desires, full of emotions, full of tears, full of fear, full of joy, full of anger at the past, it was a night that felt like they were young women again just for a beautiful moment.

It was a night in which Alicent vowed to give herself up with everything she could and help her beloved to end what she was partly to blame for, for which they all had a debt. She had put the red dress on her body barely a day after their union and it was a color she loved, a color she was familiar with, a color that heralded the beginning of the crusade when a black raven came.

A blood red drenched the sky her own tears came and she held Rhaenyra at night when they knew war was coming.

With the death of Lucerys, an innocent boy who, even though he had scarred her Aemond, should not have died, no one should have died. ,,I will stay with you I will not leave you Rhaenyra no matter what happens" she reassured her queen over and over as she held her and helped her as best she could with the birth of Visenya.

She struggled to hold back her own tears as her arms held her wife, leaving kisses on her and praising her. ,,I'll take care of your father, Jace," Alicent sniffled, pressing one last kiss to Rhaenyra's head before walking with Jace to the prince.

The rouge prince was as charged with emotion as she was, as Rhaenyra was, as everyone here on Dragonstone was. But she didn't back away, she had kept her oath to Rhaenyra for the first time. The voices of the two rose through the rooms and hallways as they argued about the queen, the children and the war plan.

She stood behind Rhaenyra's plans, while at the same time she betrayed her own children. His hand became more and more visible on his sword and in the worst case she feared being killed by him here and now over emotions.

Yet Daemon actually withdrew when Jace, Helaena, Joffrey and his own daughters stood by Alicent. A devotion she had never experienced, not from her own children, and never thought she deserved. ,,He's blind with rage, we know you mean well for Mother, Alicent, thank you," the young prince thanked her, and even though she could see how upset he was, not only his cousins helped him, but Heleana and the two little ones did their best as well.

When the dowager queen went back to Rhaenyra the blood on her red dress was not noticeable it didn't matter that red was now her new color and she knew how dejected her beloved seemed to be she would do anything to protect her, herself, the children and everyone.

,,Alicent…I need you I can't take any more," the queen murmured, still holding her dead daughter in her arms as the brown-haired girl sat down with a blanket, ,,I won't leave you it's all right rest I'll stay with you Rhaenyra," she told her, letting Rhaenyra snuggle up to her, stroking her hand gently and singing a lullaby in a slightly broken voice until the queen had fallen asleep in her arms.

No matter what, she knew she had chosen her place, they had all chosen their sides and finally she was in the place she always wanted to be. With Rhaenyra in her heart side by side even through the flames of the cruel war she would not give way. She would stand up for her love until the end of the Dance of the Dragons.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[jaeedraszaerysz]

LOVE YOU UNTIL THE END OF TIME ☆ TATE LANGDON

Masterlist

Warnings: fluff, angst, swearing, death, Canon typical violence, murder, smoking.

Summary: when you're dead and stuck in the infamous murder House I guess there's no choice but to love you boyfriend till the end of time

Notes: gender and appearance not specified

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☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

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The quiet hum of nirvana wandered about the first floor of the murder House, tate, your boyfriend, was sat with his legs hanging from one of the large windows, with a cigarette in hand, silent and calm.

The weather was dim, the california skies were, for once in your dreary existence in the house, grey, not with rain or clouds or snow, not because of a storm or anything of the sort, they were just fucking grey.

It was neither hot not cold, it was a comfortable temperature for a pair of trousers and a shirt, nothing more but nothing less, an equilibrium, your mother would have said.

Running away had never been your best choice, especially not when you ended up living in the murder House illegally and completely unaware of its dark and troublesome history.

It was only after the first month that you noticed strange things. Stuff moving on its own, shadows, giggling, voices. But then it happened.

Hayden McClaine happened.

She appeared, randomly, and stood infront of you. She had a rather large kitchen knife in hand and you had stumbled back immediately, falling onto the dusty sofa when the back of your knees came into contact with it.

She held it up threateningly, brandishing it infront of your face, its shiny surface flashing light into your eyes.

"You can leave." She said, the anger in her eyes prominent. "You can travel the world, go where you wanna go. See what you wanna see. Yet you sit, day after fucking day in this hell hole. WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?"

You had been too confused to say anything and had just stared at her blankly.

"I'm sorry what the fuck do you mean?"

And then she had her first hit, she slashed the blade across your face. A burning rush of blood falling into your left eye and down your face, all the way down to your jaw.

"You're fucking alive, or atleast you are. You won't be soon. And you'll fucking regret ever coming near this place."

You had began to feel rather dizzy and she blurred as another figure appeared next to her. A boy in a striped sweater.

"Hayden, no." He said.

"She needs to understand. They all do." She spat. He held her wrist gently.

"She didn't do anything wrong. She's a good person clearly. You can't just kill people cause you feel like it!"

The girl, hayden, groaned and the boy moved slowly towards you.

"Hey, are you o-" hayden shoved him to the floor, his head hitting the wood harshly. And then came the pain. The sharp, excruciating flash in your stomach, and then your chest.

The last thing you heard was the boys screaming as the room faded to black.

You never imagined to wake up two minutes later and stand, turning around to see your lifeless, grey, body, still bleeding out on the rotting sofa. And you didn't expect the boy from earlier to be holding both of your shoulders as you grapsed the situation before you.

The boy as it turned out, was tate, your future boyfriend. He had don't his best to help you adjust, to explain the house and its occupants you, how the twins were the cause of the giggles. And moira couldn't restrain herself from cleaning which caused things to move around.

You became adjusted, and, a year or so later, your relationship with tate upgraded to only friend in the whole world to boyfriend aswell.

Upon hearing the soothing melody of Kurt cobains voice, you walked towards the room, opening the door gently and spotting the blone boy leaned against the window frame.

You approached him and swung your legs over to dangle next to his. You leaned into his shoulder and his soare hand moved to hold your waist.

"Afternoon." You whispered, taking the cigarette gently from him and inhaling, blowing the smoke up into the matching grey sky.

"Hi." He said. He sounded miserable. You furrowed your brows and turned to face him fully.

"What's up?" You asked. He opened his mouth to answer but you interrupted quickly. "Tate fucking langdon if you say the sky I will literally implode" He laughed and smiled slightly.

You sat in silence for a while, enjoying each others company until tate spoke up quietly.

"Are you gonna leave me?" He asked, staring into his lap.

"What? Tate, no, never. Why on earth would you think that?"

"Well, my mom left me, violet did, I have no friends, I've got basically no one except you and I'm bound to upset you at one point. Just like I do to everyone else." A lone tear slipped from his beautiful eyes and you felt your heart ache.

"Oh love, I'm never gonna leave you, ever. I'm gonna love you till the end of time, my beautiful boy."

"Guess you dont have a choice since we are both stuck here till the end of time."

"But that's not so bad."

You gazed into his eyes and he blinked his remaining tears away. You placed your palm against his damp cheek and slowly leant in, his cold lips meeting yours gently but passionately. They moved in sync and you stayed like that for a few moments before pulling away.

"Definitely not so bad."

[somethingclevermahogony]

Hello! Could I please ask for an excerpt of Ninma telling Narul a story?

Love your characters so much <3

I'm sorry that this is so so late but I finally got to it!

Ramu, Shanur, and Kotia spoke and sang songs of far-off cities with strange names, grand banquets of kings and demons, forestfolk with the legs of hounds, men with tails like scorpions, lightning-belching dragons, and birds big enough to carry off a horse and its rider. And when these stories of oddities and horrors had been exhausted, they turned instead to the classic holdovers of banquets and festivals, tales of the ancient heroes, mighty warriors, and peerless demigods. Ninma listened in awe, though she interrupted the flow of the stories every other word to ask a clarifying question, or to correct where her tutor's teachings differed from those of the poets.

Narul was silent, only speaking on the rare occasions in which he was addressed. He was far too distracted by his own thoughts to concern himself with monsters or Mikrab the Mad or whatever his name was. He ran his fingers over the marks on his arm. The fact that he had experienced no symptoms from his missing bloodletting simultaneously relieved him, while also conjuring up a strange knot in his stomach. Darks thoughts whirled in his head. Had Hutbari been wrong all those years? Perhaps he had just miscalculated, perhaps the effects were just around the corner, by the next morn when he awoke, he would be little better than a slavering beast. Or maybe...

His thoughts were interrupted by Ninma's shrill voice. She had stood up on her log, hands on her hips, her shadow cast far behind her by the flickering campfire.

"It’s my turn to tell a story!" she declared.

Ramu chuckled and brushed a stray ember from his fur, "And what story would that be?"

"Huma and the Storm of Kotsa!"

Suddenly all thoughts of dead kings and bloodletting fled from Narul's head. The character Huma was a semi-mythic figure in Kishite culture and though he may not have held the same popularity as kings and warriors like Tamel or Ahahru, he had featured prominently in the stories that Bira had told Suru and Narul as children. Huma was said to have been a giant, some said with the face of a boar, ugly and squashed, his body broad and covered in bristles. He was not like other heroes, beautiful and awe-inspiring, he was almost monstrous. His mother was a queen, of which city changed from teller to teller, his father was a great spirit in the form of a massive, winged boar. He was born a twin, his brother, Urildi, beautiful and tall, became a pirate and one day married the daughter of an Ikopeshi sealord. Urildi had his own stories, but they had never particularly interested Narul, not like Huma had. As a fellow giant with a less than typical appearance, Narul had clung to stories of Huma with an almost fanatical devotion.

Of course, he had heard the story of the Storm of Kotsa many times, and yet as Ninma prepared to tell her story, he leaned forward, his fingers interlocked.

Ninma took a deep breath and closed her eyes. There was silence, as the little girl did her best to drum up some sort of dramatic tension. If she had been properly performing there would have been music, a harpist and a drummer. The poets shared knowing glances, and stifled chuckles. Finally, Ninma slowly opened her eyes and spread her arms wide.

"Long, long, long ago, there was a merchant named Nitul who lived in the village Lewul."

Narul could not help but chuckle, he wondered if she had made up those names herself, or if the version of the story she had been told included a merchant named Shorty who hailed from the village of Stinky. In the stories he had been told, the merchant was named Midihi, and the village was Bila.

Ninma now leapt from the log, her tiny feet landing dangerously close to the coals of the fire, though she took no notice.

"Nitul sailed and sailed, but no matter how many places he travelled to, he could never make more than just enough money for he and his crew to sail home, and so he was poor. Because, you see, he was cursed! Cursed by his own brother-" She paused, evidently thinking of a name to give this vengeful sibling. "Ak...arb....Akarb!"

The poets chuckled softly but made no comment.

"And why did he curse him?" Narul asked, though he already knew the answer.

Ninma puffed out her chest, "Patience patience! I’m getting there!"

She paused for a moment, gathering her thoughts. Ninma’s brow furrowed as she did her best to recall or else invent—the next part of an old tale. She paced around the fire, dirtied robes swishing theatrically, her tiny feet careful to avoid the glowing coals. Finally, with a dramatic flair, she rounded Narul.

"Well now I gotta tell you that story! You see, Akarb cursed Nitul out of jealousy! Akarb was the oldest, but Nitul was the favorite, and their father…Hudari… always praised him for all his cleverness and goodness. But Akarb…Akarb was a bad son, lazy and stupid…and tricky and mean...”

She practically spat Akarb’s name each time that she spoke it.

“One day when the two brothers were all grown up, and Hudari’s beard was so so long, that it got all dirty on the ground, he took them to the beach and showed them a great big ship, with red sails! And Hudari said, ‘This was my paba’s ship, he sailed all over the seas! He was a great merchant, and he wanted me to be one too but…’” She paused again, “‘I was scared of the water…so I stayed here and got married instead!’”

Narul barely contained a laugh, in the version that he had been told, the old farmer was bound to the land, a servant to the local king, unable to leave. It made sense why that version of the story may not have resonated with the young princess. He snorted.

Ninma shot him a quick glare, but quickly continued, “‘Now that you boys are all grown up! It is time for someone to use my paba’s ship again!’” She crouched and her eyes narrowed, “‘But!’ he said, ‘A ship only needs one captain! And so…only one of you will get my paba’s ship! The other one, will get my farm and will grow cabbages, just like me!’”

“And how did Hudari choose?” Ramu asked, genuinely curious, as Huma and these stories were not part of hillfolk legend.

“‘A captain alone cannot sail this ship! He needs a crew! Whichever of you two can find ten men to be your crew first, will be the winner!’ And Akarb said ‘ But we don’t have anything to pay them with, how will we hire them?’ and so Hudari pulled two great big smelly cabbages from his cloak and he gave one to each of them, ‘This is all I will give you, turn your cabbage into ten men, and I will give you this ship!’”

She theatrically pretended to pull a cabbage from her clothing, holding it high above her head.

“Were they magical cabbages?” Ramu asked, one brow raised.

“No! Only normal cabbages! And that’s why Akarb was so mad. He stomped his feet and yelled ‘What man would ever agree to sail for just one cabbage?’ but Nitul, he already had a plan, he ran as fast he could to the village and to the docks were the fishermen were. He walked to each one of them and handed them a cabbage leaf, until he was only holding three more leaves.” The little girl screwed up her face and made her best attempt at a gruff sailor’s voice, “‘What are we supposed to do with this?’ And so Nitul said, ‘These smelly cabbage leaves, are a promise! First, I promise you all a great big ship with big beautiful red sails! Come with me on my ship and there I promise to split anything we earn, no matter what, just like this cabbage. One part for each of you, one part for me, and two parts for the ship. All fair, all equal! If you agree with these terms, and will take me as your captain, follow me and I will show you our new ship!’ Nitul was so charming and clever that when he got back to his father, he had fourteen men at his side, while Akarb had only managed to find one, a slave he had bought with a stolen sheep and the cabbage he had used to catch it. And so Nitul got his ship, and he sailed with his crew, west to Korithia and to great riches. And Hudari left his farm and his cabbages to Akarb, while he went to live in a hut close the sea, where he could watch Nitul come and go.” She turned in the direction which she assumed to be the west and spread her arms in an exaggerated arc, before turning back to the adults.

“But how did he get cursed? And what does this have to do with Huma?” Ramu asked as he leaned forward, his chin resting on his fingers.

“I’m getting there!” Ninma snapped, though the smirk which played across her lips showed that she was quite happy with her role as a storyteller. Narul chuckled, despite himself, he was quite enjoying this.

“Akarb was furious!” She ran in circles around the fire, stomping her feet and pulling at her hair as if in anguish, “He was even more furious when Nitul returned from Korithia, the ship loaded with silver and wine! And so, while Nitul was with Hudari, Akarb snuck into the forest and found an old blind sage woman living in a cave. He gave her the slave, and the old sage agreed to write a curse! She took a bottle, filled it up with seawater, and then told Akarb to spit into it. Then she said to the spirits of the sea and the wind.” Ninma began to hobble, her voice cracked and high, she pointed one crooked finger at Narul. “‘As the west wind howls and the north wind whispers! Hear me! He Who Lifts the Waves, She Who Calls the Gull, and He Who Rides the Unseen Wind! No matter how far he may sail or how grand his trade, let the wealth of Nitul never be greater than that of his brother! When the soil is not giving or the blight biting, let the sailor’s riches dwindle and his cargo spoil! Let his sails tear and his crew suffer! Let the sea swallow his silver and waste his wine!’”

She cackled wickedly, so loudly that is almost made Narul jump.

She continued, “And she gave Akarb the bottle and told him to pour the cursed water onto the ship. And so, the next day when Nitul was getting ready to go, Akarb hugged him and said ‘Here brother! For good luck!’ And he poured the water over the boards of the ship, but Nitul didn’t know…he had just been cursed!” Her tone was grave, “And when Nitul got to the first market, disaster! Right there at the dock, the people saw a great wave wash away his cargo and one of his sailors, never to be seen again! What was left, well it was only worth as much as a few smelly cabbages. So, they fished with nets to sell their catch, but as soon as they took their fish to sell, a great flock of seabirds stole all but the smallest fishes! When they tried to sell their own clothes, the wind ripped them from their hands! ‘Oh, the gods! Oh, the Wind and Sea! They have forsaken us!’ The sailors cried.”

Ninma leaned so far forward, that one of her brown curls came dangerously close to catching in the fire.

 “With his last jug of wine as pay, he spoke to an old priest, and the priest said that it was not the gods, but a wicked curse! That they were being followed by three spirits, and that the only way to be rid of those spirits was to capture them and to make them swear off their evil ways! And so, he gave Nitul a jar with a lid made of Arkodian metal, and a single thread made of the same stuff, no thicker than-” She winced as she pulled a long curly hair from her head, “a single strand of hair!”

“A jar?” Narul asked, “I always heard it was a wineskin made from a dragon’s stomach.”

“Well, you heard wrong.” The princess retorted haughtily, “Now stop interrupting! Nitul went to his crew and told them what the old priest had said, but there was only one problem, none of them could see the spirits! And even if they could, who was strong enough to pull three spirits from the sky to put them in the jar?”

Ninma paused, letting the question hang in the air, all the while the fire crackled softly “That’s when Nitul remembered a story he heard as a little boy, about a giant—Huma! He was huge! So big that the ground would shake when he walked, and fruit fell from the trees! He had a head like a boar with big sharp tusks and giant hands!”

Ramu raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “So, a forestfolk then, huh? I have not heard of any true giant having tusks…”

Narul was tempted to ask the old poet what he had heard about the true giants, as that race was so elusive that they might as well have been legends, but Ninma continued before he could speak.

“No!” Ninma grinned, her eyes wide with excitement. “Huma wasn’t just a giant or a forestfolk! He was a spiritblood, the child of a great boar spirit and a lost queen! So, he was super strong but could also see spirits! He wasn’t handsome like Tamel or Lat, or a great warrior like Mikrab, but he was kind and loved to help people. But…he was too big and ugly to live in cities like normal people.”

Narul winced and shifted uncomfortably, though if Ninma noticed she did not let it slow or dampen her story.

“Huma lived in the wild with the animals, he slept in caves and on the dirt, he ate mushrooms and raw fish from the rivers! He would always help those that came to him, but only if they could find him. But…it just so happened that an old Pyrian, had heard them talking. ‘You’re looking for Huma, eh?’ ‘Yes, friend! Do you know where we can find him?’ ‘No, but I know someone that might, sail to the island of Utri, in the islands of Baalki, where pirates and monsters roam, find the tower of the Ancient Men, and look for the Forestfolk with wings like rainbows, and maybe he can tell you.’” She stopped to catch her breath, if only for a moment, “So, Nitul and his crew sailed for Baalkes. The sea was wild! They faced all sorts of danger!” She leaned closer, her voice dropping to a whisper. “Sea serpents, pirates, whirlpools, and birds as big as horses, who swallow up sailors whole!”

She squawked and ran in circles, flapping her arms. The poets chuckled and clapped. Narul smiled, for such a young child, Ninma was a surprisingly engaging storyteller, certainly better than he would have been. It was good to see her happy, if only for the moment.

Ninma continued, “Finally, after days and days, they found the island, no one lived there, and the only thing there was one great big tower, so tall it almost touched the clouds! The sailors were scared of the tower, there were no stairs or ladders, ‘We’re sailors, not birds!’ but Nitul wasn’t scared, he climbed the tower all the way to the top. Up and up and up!” She mimicked climbing, stopping on occasion to theatrically wipe her brow, “When he reached the top, he found Guhari, his wings warming in the sun. ‘Why have you climbed my tower? If you have a question, ask it, or your trip down will be far faster than your trip up.”

“So, what did he ask?” Kotia asked, her finger lazily drawing images of winged men in the dust.

 “‘Guhari, do you know where Huma is?’” Ninma paused again, “And Guhari said, ‘I saw Huma while I was flying high high over the Green Sea. He lives on a tiny island south of Korithia, where no man has stepped foot since the days of Arkodai. He lives with gazelles and blue monkeys, and his cave is guarded by the dragon with seven horns and eight legs!’”

“Eight legs? That’s a new one.” Narul teased.

“You just…” Despite her enthusiasm, Ninma stopped, unsuccessfully stifling a yawn. She rubbed at her eyes with balled fists. “…you just haven’t heard the story right.”

 “You know, Ninma, it’s getting late. I think its best that you get some sleep.” Narul said softly. He was surprised that it had taken the girl so long to show such fatigue, it felt as if she had hardly slept since her escape from the slavers days before.

Ninma pouted, shaking her head defiantly, her curls bobbing and waving. “But I want to finish! There’s so much more to tell, and I’m not even tired! I didn’t even get to Huma or the storm!”

“Ninma, I think Narul is right. Besides, your story deserves you well rested, we wouldn’t want you to forget any important details, would we? A good story deserves a good storyteller.” Kotia said.

“But… but!” Ninma protested, her hands flailing in the air as if to conjure the words.

Ramu stood and took a blanket from his tent and offered it to the princess. “There’s no rush, little one. We look forward to hearing the rest tomorrow.”

She blinked slowly, her eyelids feeling heavier with each passing moment. She turned her attention to Narul, gazing up at the giant with pleading eyes “But… I want to keep telling it now! I don’t want to sleep.”

Narul did his best to soften his tone “Then let’s do this: why don’t you rest your head for a while? We’ll still be here, waiting for you. Just for a little bit, alright?”

Ninma glanced at the flickering fire, its warmth only feeding her drowsiness. She glanced at the poets and then beckoned for Narul to lean closer. Even as he did so, she still was forced to stand on her toes to whisper into his ear.

“Okay but…can I rest next to you? I’m scared…”

“Of what?”

The girl hesitated and begun to sniffle, “I don’t know…”

Narul was taken aback, but he remembered Bira and tried to think what she would do.

“Of course you can, and I’ll stay right here until you’re ready, I promise.” He gave her head a hesitant pat; his hand could have easily wrapped around the entirety of her head with room to spare.

With a final nod of agreement, Ninma laid her blanket on the grass next to Narul, and lay on it, her back to the forest, her eyes on the fire. Gradually her eyelids slid down, “I’m not going to sleep, I’m just resting my eyes for a couple min…”

Before she could even finish her sentence, she was fast asleep.

[naushtheaspiringauthor]

~Child Of The Storm~

Nikolai Lantsov x OC

Image by - @brokendreamtale2

Warnings- none

A/N- lemme know if you'd like to be added or removed from the taglist!

Taglist- @pansexualwitchwhoneedstherapy @sirisuorionblack @nadeleine123n @marauders-wife

Ch-45 ~The tomb~

Tolya and Tamar had catched up with the rest of them after a long moment. After being taken away by Tolya, Mal had pleaded with him to go back to Alina and he’d let him. So he’d come back, with an unconscious Alina in tow. She appeared frail and wouldn’t have lived had it not been for the twins but the most notable change in her was her hair. What had been a dull brown, had now turned a dampened white.

They were being taken to someplace called the White Cathedral by the twins and a group of pilgrims. They travelled through tight passages and small tunnels, making them unable to recognize whether it’d been day or night. It was even worse in Anaya’s case, as she’d been immensely claustrophobic. 

The situation only worsened when they reached the destination. The White Cathedral was a cavern of alabaster quartz, so vast it might have held a city in its glowing ivory depths. Its walls were damp and bloomed with mushrooms, salt lilies, toadstools shaped like stars. However, the entire place was underground.

 It was buried deep beneath Ravka, somewhere north of the capital. 

Alina held tight to Mal’s arm as they went to meet the Apparat. 

 “Sankta Alina, you are come to us at last.” he spoke Then he fell to his knees in his tattered brown robes. He kissed her hand and hem. 

He called out to the faithful, thousands of them gathered in the belly of the cavern. When he spoke, the very air seemed to tremble. 

“We will rise to make a new Ravka,” he roared. “A country free from tyrants and kings! We will spill from the earth and drive the shadows back in a tide of righteousness!” Below them, the pilgrims chanted. Sankta Alina. 

There were rooms carved into the rock, chambers that glowed ivory and glittered with thin veins of silver. But the place was so far beneath the ground that it felt like a tomb to Anaya. Only worse, as she’d been alive.

The church was brimming with all kinds of people, pilgrims, First Army deserters, even those who were too old and frail came to have a sight of the Sun Saint.

It was only a while when she and the others had found out that Alina was unable to summon after the incident. So David had formed a mirror dish out of salvaged glass to reflect inferni fire. It’d been a believable illusion the people.

There was no indication of day and night there. The crammed place with no source of sights to the outer world was enough to make Anaya feel as if she’d been going mad.

However, Zoya did her best to distract her from her daunting emotions by talking with her about the memories from their childhood.

After a long while of being not too politely pleaded by Zoya, Anaya had finally decided to accompany her to the training area. A group had gathered to watch Mal spar with a humourless Fjerdan inferni, Stigg. He was the only surviving inferni along with Harshaw, who was nowhere to be seen after summoning the flames for Alina’s demonstration.

Mal dodged an arc of fire, but the second spurt of flame caught on his shirt. The onlookers gasped.Instead of drawing back, he dove into a roll, dousing the flames on the ground and knocking Stigg’s feet from beneath him. 

In a flash, he had the Inferni pinned facedown. He secured Stigg’s wrists, preventing another attack. The watching sun soldiers broke into appreciative applause and whistles.

Zoya tossed her glossy black hair over one shoulder. “Well done, Stigg. You’re trussed and ready for basting.” 

Mal silenced her with a look. “Distract, disarm, disable,” he said. “The trick is not to panic.” He rose and helped Stigg to his feet. “You all right?” 

Stigg scowled, annoyed, but nodded and moved to spar with a pretty young soldier. “Come on, Stigg,” the girl said with a wide grin. “I won’t go too rough on you.” She had a black sun tattoed on her cheek, the mark of a Sun Soldier.

Anaya had been sparring with another young soldier when she noticed Alina standing in the company of the Apparat. She looked much healthier than she’d been when they’d came but she was still far from her old self.

She’d been noticing how the priest never seemed to allow her to spend any of her time with potential allies.

                                          …………………………………………………..................................

For several days, they’d been discreetly plotting to get out of the church which seemed more like a tomb as the days went by. They needed to go back to the surface, and the Apparat seemed to be making great efforts to prevent them from doing so. He barely ever let them all be in the same room together, so they’d devised a rather erratic plot to make their move.

The only place that had a connection with above ground was the Kettle, the kitchen where Alina was allowed to see Genya. The place had something of utter use to them, the hearths. Each of those ancient hearths led to the master flue. And that flue was the only place in the White Cathedral with direct access to the surface. Direct access to the sun. 

David, Mal, Zoya, Anaya and Nadia were taken in as “prisoners” by Tolya and Tamar, on the account of devising plots to bring down the White Cathedral.

As suspected, they were taken to the Kettle, where Alina and Genya had been. Zoya, Nadia and Anaya had their wrists bound, to prevent them from summoning. They were flanked by Tolya and Tamar.

“Lock the doors,” the Apparat commanded his guards “We will have this sad business done in private.”

[marypsue]

fic writer self-recs

I was tagged by the lovely and talented @titleleaf!

Fic authors self rec! When you get this, reply with your favourite five fics that you've written, then pass on to at least five other writers.

I'm gonna try not to just reproduce the same list from the last time I did this (although I can't fucking find it, so who knows), and also shine the spotlight on some that I think don't get as much attention but that I'm still very proud of anyway!

(But also, the road goes ever on. It's always gonna be the road goes ever on.)

1. house rule #3 (MCU Thor, Avengers [2012])

“Darcy,” Jane says, firmly. “Breathe.” “I am totally breathing,” Darcy protests. “Look, after you offered me the job, she bought us a bottle of sparkling wine and thanked me really cryptically and I basically haven’t seen her since. And in that time, Selvig’s dropped off the map, and a supervillain calling himself Loki who could be her fraternal twin pops up and starts chewing German scenery in a helmet that looks exactly like the one in this book.” Darcy sits back in her chair, bouncing off the back. “Also, I told her about this professor who was a total pain in my ass, and like two weeks later he was on leave for ‘undisclosed reasons’ and he still hasn’t come back.” “This…could all be a coincidence,” Jane says, lamely. “Oh yeah. Same way that weird homeless guy you kept hitting with your car showing up inside that storm was all a coincidence,” Darcy says. “Oh, my god. I’ve been watching ANTM highlights with a supervillain.”

I love Darcy Lewis, I think the narrative voice in this one hits her sense of humour just right, and it makes me astoundingly nostalgic for the early 2010s.

2. definitely not bfu rpf (definitely not Buzzfeed Unsolved/Watcher Unsolved?)

“Even Scully took it seriously when the shadow government gave her cancer, man,” Bryan says, when he sees the glitchy footage. “There – okay, there are two issues with that line of logic,” Zane says. “First, cancer. That’s detectable by current medical science. It’s not exactly a matter of belief. Second, Dana Scully is a fictional character.” “So you won’t get an exorcism?” Bryan says, sounding defeated. “Bryan, my dear, I think you already know the answer to that one.”

Back when the Watcher guys were still attached to Buzzfeed, there was a really popular fandom trope that went around that Shane was secretly a demon. However, nobody seemed to have taken the next logical step - that if Shane was a demon, he wouldn't believe it.

(I don't write RPF, because I tried it and felt weird about it, but I just had to get this written, so I changed everybody's names to something that rhymed with the real-life people's names. Legally Distinct Buzzfeed Unresolved.)

3. Girls In White Dresses (Supernatural)

Mary’s the first to appear in the kitchen doorway, pistol raised, eyes flinty. But she pauses, just for a moment, when she sees Dean, and Jess’ stomach drops. Whoever - whatever - Dean really is, he at least hadn’t lied when he’d said he was Sam’s brother. He’s Mary’s son. And Mary’d just had to watch, helpless, while one of her sons died. Mary’s going to hesitate. But Jess can already tell that Dean won’t. By the way Dean's grinning, she can tell he knows it too.

I had to unfridge some of SPN's many, many freezer-burned women. Also it was so much fun to try to think up ways to hurt all of them emotionally as badly as the show likes to hurt its big strong men emotionally. (Lady Gaga voice) It's equality.

4. i hold with those who favour fire (Crimson Peak)

Perhaps she looks too long. Perhaps her eyes are playing tricks on her, perhaps it is only the lingering warmth of the body melting away the fallen snow, but it seems there are more autumn leaves gathered under Edith’s frozen form, more reds and golds spilling from beneath her nightdress and her hands and her golden head. The leaves flicker and dance, as though caught in a high October wind, though any such wind would be stymied by Allerdale’s protective walls. It isn’t until the hem of Edith’s gown begins to blacken that Lucille sees that what she had taken for autumn leaves are flames.

This one was written for a prompt meme where I asked for a character and a monster/mythical being, and wrote something short connecting the two. I should do that again, that was fun.

5. Boiling a Frog (Rick and Morty)

“It’s strange,” she says, tipping the contents of her cup carefully into the drain under the vending machine’s dispenser and crumpling the cardboard cup in one hand. “None of this feels really...real. Like, Grandpa Rick should be here complaining about how hospitals are breeding grounds for superbugs and how sitting in waiting rooms is pointless because unless you’re a doctor, there’s fuckall you can do to help anyway.” Morty suddenly looks uneasy, but Summer’s not sure if that’s because of what she said or because of the coffee. “I’m glad he’s not,” he says, and then looks horrified.

I broke up with this show when it became clear it was going to wallow and spin its own wheels and suck Rick's dick forever and that at least one of its creative minds genuinely seemed to think that was great and smart and good storytelling and if you didn't love it then you were just too stupid to appreciate his brilliance. But every once in a while the show managed to do something really interesting by approaching something heavy and awful sidelong with absurdist sci-fi and gross-out humour in a way that just worked for me.

I tried to do that here and found out just how hard it is to get a handle on that tone of almost manic energy with total black despair oozing out around all the edges. I think it really turned out, here, and despite no longer having any interest in anything to do with the show, I'm proud of it.

Also, I still love Summer.

I'm going to tag @daddygrandpaandthebeaver, @bixxelated, @marzipanandminutiae, @definitely-not-a-bug, @aquitainequeen, and, as usual, anybody who'd like to do it!

[midnight-arandombanana]

A story that I’ve. Just. Thought of it relation to genshin

Nothing specific I’m not that smart but the vibes the vibes are strong here

Once upon a time, there was a girl, this was before storms, before memories, and before legends—but there was still a girl. She wore a long scarf, a vibrant red scarf twin tails extending far behind her blowing in the wind. The girl in the scarf played and danced, as girls do today. In fact, most things were the same then as they are today. Except for one big difference. The wall.

A high, terrible wall stretching toward the moons. Blocking the sky, throwing everything around the girl into shadow. The girl stepped toward it, looking up, straining to see the top.

You see, in those days, a wall kept out the storms and the light. Of course, even without light, people still had to live, didn’t they? That’s what people do. I hasten to guess it’s the first thing they learn how to do. So they lived in the darkness, farmed in the darkness, ate in the darkness. The wall had existed for so long, nobody knew how it had been built. That did not bother them. Why wonder when the mountains began or why the sky was high? As these things were, so the wall was.

So the girl danced in its shadow, and other people, they worked as farmers or washwomen, doing their duties with heads bowed. ONLY the girl looked up at that wall, her twin scarf tails streaming behind her.

She approached a man standing behind a small cart. of fruit, “Why is there a wall?” she asked the man selling fruit. “To keep the bad things out,” he replied. “What bad things?” “Very bad things. There is a wall. Do not go beyond it, or you shall die.” The fruit seller picked up his cart and moved away. And still, the girl looked up at the wall. “Why is there a wall?” she asked the woman suckling her child. “To protect us,” the woman said. “To protect us from what?” “Very bad things. There is a wall. Do not go beyond it, or you shall die.” The woman took her child and left. The girl climbed a tree, peeking out the top, her scarf streaming behind her. “Why is there a wall?” she called to the boy sleeping lazily in the nook of a branch. “What wall?” the boy asked. The girl thrust her finger pointedly toward the wall. “That’s not a wall,” the boy said, drowsy. “That’s just the way the sky is over there.” No he’s wrong the girl thought, “It’s a wall,” the girl said. “A giant wall.” He considered, “It must be there for a purpose,” the boy said. “Yes, it is a wall. Don’t go beyond it, or you’ll probably die.”

“Well, these answers did not satisfy the girl who looked up. She reasoned to herself, if the wall kept evil things out, then the space on this side of it should be safe. So, one night while the others of the village slept, she sneaked from her home with a bundle of supplies. She walked toward the wall, and indeed the land was safe. But it was also dark. Always in the shadow of that wall. No sunlight, ever, directly reached the people.

The girl traveled far, no predators hunted her, and no storms assaulted her. The only wind was a pleasant one that played with her scarf, and the only creatures she saw were the crickets that creaked at her as she walked.

Then at long last, the girl in the scarves stood before the wall. It was truly expansive, running as far as she could see in either direction. And its height! It reached almost to the heavens! She climbed and climbed. There were outcroppings in the wall, things like spikes or hunched, ugly statues. She had climbed the highest trees all through her youth. She could do this. The girl kept climbing. The climb took days. At night, the girl who looked up would tie herself a hammock out of her scarf and sleep there. She picked out her village at one point, remarking on how small it seemed, now that she was so high. As she neared the top, she finally began to fear what she would find on the other side. Unfortunately, this fear did not stop her. She was young, and questions bothered her more than fear.

So it was that she finally struggled to the very top and stood to see the other side. The world burst alight in a sudden explosion: a brilliant and powerful brightness that lit the landscape beyond the wall. The girl in the scarf gasped and saw the world in all its colors for the first time. Green trees, blue sky, red rocks, fields of golden grain all on the hidden side, and on that side of the wall, the girl saw steps. The back side of the wall was crisscrossed with enormous sets of steps leading down to the ground, so distant. The girl stared at those steps, and suddenly the gruesome statues on her side of the wall made sense. The spears. The way it cast everything into shadow. The wall did indeed hide something evil, something frightening. It was the people, like the girl and her village.

She climbed down the steps, scarves streaming and hid among the creatures who lived on this side. She sneaked up to the Light and she brought it back with her. She was chased by the people from the land of light the whole way to the other side. To to the land of shadows. And then … light, for the first time in the village, followed by the coming of the storms—boiling over the wall.

The people suffered from the storms and their destruction, but each storm brought light renewed, for it could never be put back, now that it had been taken. And people, for all their hardship, would never choose to go back. Not now that they could see.

[ma-lark-ey]

So I did this with Harry Potter, I’m working on doing it with Mortal Instruments. Only fair I do it with Grishaverse trilogy as well.

Will I read the novellas? Lol no probably not. Am I having a bopping time with the main series? Yeah. It’s good distraction of being a trans high schooler in America right now.

Here’s what I knew going in:

Nothing! I knew it was connected to Six of Crows and set up the fantasy better so I was recommended to read it first so I DID. i had no idea about ANY of this plot.

Spoilers for all of Shadow & Bone trilogy. I have thoughts <<3

1.) Shadow & Bone ( 24/3/23-27/3/23 )

(8/10)

I really liked this first book !! I wasn’t particularly. Attached to any one character but I will say that I fell for the Darkling hook line and sinker.

Alina is. Alina? I don’t hate her. I don’t love her. I think she’s a pretty basic main character, she’s definitely not my favourite mc ever. I think she’s certainly the right fit here, I know some books I read and go “this main character is NOT for this” but Alina !! She works.

I think this book could’ve been more interesting if Alina, rather than being like “the chosen one” was the kind of person who decided to make themself the chosen one. Does that make sense?

All this critique makes it sound like I hated this book, I think it’s genuinely really wonderful and totally worth it’s hype. I made playlists for this book. Like not just my standard “title - author” playlist. I’ve got playlists for Alina and the Darkling and Nikolai (WE’LL GET TO HIM.)

2.) Siege & Storm (27/3/23-30/3/23)

(7/10)

This book IS GOOD. im going to say that because I did enjoy. Almost all of this.

I think Mal and Nikolai’s little. Whatever that was. Was so funny and I think that so many problems could be avoided if they just had a little kiss. Throuple it up baby. Alina has two hands. Also Mal you’re DOWN BAD for the prince and we can ALL tell.

I LOOOOVED the pirate arc. Obsessed with it. Gobbled it down. It was SOO good. Love pirates. Love Sturmhond not taking the Darklings shit. Love the fact that none of these people take any of the grishas shit.

LOVED ALINA PUNCHING HIM.

i think Alina and Nikolai and Alina and Mal are both equally good endgames honestly. I wouldnt be mad with either. But IDEALLY they’re all holding hands and making out. I am PUSHING the Nikolai/Mal agenda. I am FIGHTING FOR MY LIFE.

The ending was mid. I didnt like it very much. I think the Darkling STILL SURVIVING was BULL.

And if NIKOLAI IS DEAD I WILL NOT FINISH RUINS AND RISING. I WONT

especially if we get a Darkling redemption arc like I think we might be.

I literally. Nikolai and the twins? I’d die for them. Alina and Mal can die and I wouldn’t mourn but if ANYTHING HAPPENS TO MY PIRATES I’M RUINED.

Be back when I finish R&R.

3.) Ruins & Rising (30/3/23–5/4/23)

8/10

My vow going into this book was that I’d be happy is Nikolai lived. I had so much faith. SO MUCH FAITH!! For 240 pages!! I was a FOOL!!! I was a stupid optimist who thought my lovely little princeling would get to live a happy life!! I was rooting for them !!

I WAS WRONG !!! Death is too good for our Nikolai even though he’s literally never done anything wromg EVER !!

Hi guys. This man ^^ up there?? In those paragraphs ^^ he was in the agonies.

Me? ME NOW? Me who just finished Ruins & Rising and is living my best life holding my babygirl? I’m thriving.

I. Literally. Texted my mate who had read this series and said “Does Nikolai get a happy ending yes or mo I’m dnfing if he doesnt. I cant do this.” And GUYS!!

He’s KING!!! KOROL REZNI!!!! My BOY!!

He is baby girl.

You know I COULD talk about how Alina’s relationship with the Darkling is very good portrayal of grooming victims/codependent relationships and I could go into how Mal’s whole deal was batshit in the best way or how Tamar is the love of my life. But this isn’t a book review.

This is Lark. Being gay. For the bastard pirate harpy prince boy. On main. I will NEVER be normal about him. I’m holding him like a soaked cat after a bath. Dont you love him.

Anyways yeah not doing a post mortum on every book like I did with HP bc I have no further tjoughts on any of the other books.

Stan Nikolai Lantsov, haters be SILENCED. I’ve heard that he has his own book and I??? Society isnt ready for me when I read that.

I would’ve liked to know what Alina and Mal changed their names to. Thats all I can think of in my hazy mess of Nikolai thoughts.

Also in my perfect world they’re in a throuple. Maybe Tolya is in there and its a polycule but its MUCH funnier if he’s acearo and covers for their stupid asses all the time and is SO annoyed by his king and his kings girlfriend and his kings boyfriend.

Thank you. That is all.

Time to go start Six of Crows so my little sister can get off my back about Kaz <<3

[starlitfunkster]

Updates!:

~Names and Bios have been updated accordingly. You can see them under this one's Read More!

~I'll separate Talia from the other girls in this set.

~Sol Knights -> Astral Knights

~Here's one of the new designs! Cobalt's was the only one I was happy with imo... She's more Regulus themed than Astral Knight themed.

Ember

"Ember is the fiery and passionate member of the Astral Knights. She entered the tournament to compete with stronger and stronger opponents. Either it's a test of strength, or just pure boredom on her end."

Hobby : "I love battles, and training!"

Likes : "I.. guess I like to wind down with some barbecue foods with Snow."

Dislikes : "I hate losing, and Platinum!"

Birthday : October 9th

Brand : Astral Knights

Snow

"Snow is an Astral Knight in training, and the youngest of the three siblings. She keeps Ember from getting too out of line, and Gale from wandering off. Supposedly, she lost her right arm in a freak accident during the last war."

Hobby : "Training, I suppose…"

Likes : "…Don't tell her I said this, but I like Grey…Like-like her…"

Dislikes : "If I told you, you would use this to your advantage… I don't want that…"

Birthday : January 2nd

Brand : Astral Knights

Gale

"Gale is the playful and air-headed member of the Astral Knights, and another member in training. This is not because she is young, far from it in fact! It's because she's such an air-head that she keeps on wandering off instead of staying put in one place. All because that's where the wind told her to go…"

Hobby : "Practicing with my fan!"

Likes : "I love seeing where the wind takes me! Skies the limit after all!!"

Dislikes : "My friends and sisters keep getting upset that I wander off… but they needn't worry about me! I'll be fine!!"

Birthday : June 15th

Brand : Astral Knights

Storm

"Storm is the hyper-active and energetic member of the Astral Knights. She's from a different family branch, this time being her and her twin sister Gleam! Wielding her trusty thunder-drum paddle and the Lightning Stone on her belt, she takes great pride in turning her enemies into smoldering ash-piles!"

Hobby : "Practicing my swings! Bah-dum!"

Likes : "Making my enemies turn to dust!! Hahaha!!! Bah-bah-dan!"

Dislikes : "Stupid men who reject me!! Bah-dam!!"

Birthday : October 14th

Brand : Astral Knights

Gaia

"Gaia is the strongest in terms of strength and wisdom. Despite looking young, she's actually much older than she let's on! Must be her toned-body hiding how old she is.. She can easily crush boulders with her fists, and even lift up the heaviest of bombs. It's people like her that make the competition rough!"

Hobby : "Training! And also hanging out with my friend Gale."

Likes : "I love finding worthy foes that can handle my strength! It's getting harder to find people like that nowadays.."

Dislikes : "While I like Gale as a friend, she needs to stop getting everyone lost all the time!!"

Birthday : April 22nd

Brand : Astral Knights

Gleam

"Gleam is the wise and sexy member of the Astral Knights. Yes, really. She has charmed a ton of men to her side, whether to be servants or suitors. However, she still has a job to uphold. And that's watching over her sister Storm, and the Light Stone."

Hobby : "Keeping track of everything. (What do you mean that isn't a hobby?)"

Likes : "Kuro! I- Uh!! I mean, my sister. I like being around my sister."

Dislikes : "People just liking me for my looks, instead of who I am on the inside."

Birthday : October 14th

Brand : Astral Knights

Cobalt / Eclipse

"Cobalt is an ex-member of the Astral Knights. She left due to heavy injuries during the war, and from over-using her Shadow Stone due to her inexperience at the time. Now on the planet Earth studying, she's trying to make friends despite her icy and cold exterior. She wants to forget her past as Eclipse, and start life anew as Cobalt."

Hobby : "Trying to test the limits of gravity… wait that isn't a hobby-"

Likes : "My bird, Horror. That and my rival Shiro."

Dislikes : "Everyone needs to stop saying that mine and Shiro's rivalry is unfriendly! That's not true! It's friendly through and through, because we are friends behind the scenes!"

Birthday : September 26th

Brand : Akademia / Astral Knights

Skills:

(Default) - Gravity Bomb - Creates a gravity bomb that draws anyone that's close-by towards it.

Horror Call - Summons Cobalt's pet bird Horror to fly in front of her, dealing damage and leaving behind small shadowy holes.

Illusion Warp - Spawns a bomb, and then warps the bomb nearby another player. If used on an area where there already is a bomb, the bomb will warp as normal… with the counter reset as a drawback.

I'm probably going to sketch out rough poses for my Bomber-Girls OCs. Yes, you heard me right, OCs.

All of them are expy's of the Elemental Knights, and the final one is the daughter of Lilith and Rukifelth (probably mis-typed that).

Just know that while yes, I don't like the blatant fan-service (the Break images), I do love the references to past Bomberman games. Like, they seriously made a Bomber-Girl based on Sirius!

I'm still open for requests, but I am also mostly focusing on pose practice.

Also I uh.. got finished with them all before posting this post. Gosh dang. They are all sketches, but their bios are also under 'Keep Reading'.

They all have the branding of Sol-Knights. Anyone under this branding has a shorter tail than other Bomber-Girls. The longer the tail, the younger they are. They are also what's called 'Knight-type', being able to place more bombs, but move slower than others. They also have projectiles depending on who you ask!

Blaze is much more fiery than your average Bombergirl! She entered the tournament to compete with even stronger opponents than her sisters Frost and Gale.

Hobby : "Training!! ..I guess I like to do barbecues too."

Likes : "Barbecues , for sure! Maybe also competitions! Yeah, for sure competitions!!"

Dislikes : "I hate weaklings!! ..And super burnt food."

Birthday : July 4

Brand : Sol-Knights

Frost was born to train with her arm-cannon at a young age. She was also born to keep Blaze in-check, and to make sure Gale doesn't get lost following the wind.

Hobby : "I guess training the younger ones.."

Likes : "My sisters... and that mysterious Grey person.."

Dislikes : "Why should I tell you..?"

Birthday : December 4

Brand : Sol-Knights

Gale is a very playful Bombergirl who likes to go wherever the wind blows.. which usually gets her very lost! It's a good thing she has a sister like Frost to keep her from getting hopelessly lost!

Hobby : "Practicing using my wind-fan!"

Likes : "Wherever the wind blows..!"

Dislikes : "Shiron needs to stop getting upset when we wander off together! It's not like the wind makes me suddenly good at directions!!"

Birthday : April 4

Brand : Sol-Knights

Sparx is a hyper-active Bombergirl who plays with a thunder-drum themed paddle-ball! This just causes everyone around her to feel the glorious taste of lightening!

Hobby : "Playing with my drum! Bah-bump!"

Likes : "Creating lightening with my drum!! Bah-dah-dum-tssh!"

Dislikes : "I hate when people try to stop me from playing my drum!! Bum-bum!!"

Birthday : April 20

Brand : Sol-Knights

Sol is the eldest of all the Sol-Knights, and as a result, has the most responsibilities out of all of them! She creates light with that bulb on her head, and makes sure her enemies see stars!

Hobby : "Polishing my bulb."

Likes : "Making my enemies see stars!"

Dislikes : "Bluh.. I have to many to even list."

Birthday : June 21

Brand : Sol-Knights

Grusha is the strongest, and seemingly most attractive member of the Sol-Knights. Never under-estimate her strength, because that's how you get a stone fist to the face!

Hobby : "Definitely training! You could never get enough training if 'yer like me!"

Likes : "Platinum seems tough! Don't know if she likes me back, what with her lying all the time."

Dislikes : "If 'yer weak, stay out of my way!!"

Birthday : November 19

Brand : Sol-Knights

A long time ago, Darkly lost her left hand in combat. She then replaced it with a blade, and also learnt how to use the Shadow Stone. Since then she has become cold and preserved.. but that somehow hasn't stopped Shiro from getting to know her!

Hobby : "Sharpening my skills.. and my blade.."

Likes : "I guess Shiro is an okay rival.."

Dislikes : "Kuro, she gets in my way.."

Birthday : December 31

Brand : Sol-Knights

Talia is (supposedly) the daughter of the great thieves of space Lilith and Rukifellth. She often steals stuff just to satisfy her corvid tendencies. As a result, one night, she got hold of the Chaos Stone. But uh.. it didn't corrupt her? At least.. not yet.

Hobby : "Collecting shining objects from around the universe. Chaos!!"

Likes : "My parents. Chaos, duh!"

Dislikes : "Ugh, I really hate this stone. It takes control over me at the worst possible times. I hate heroes!!"

Birthday : December 3

Brand : Sol-Knights