#and when the maid does fall for him rejoice!

[envy-of-the-apple]

what are your thoughts on gojo x maid of the gojo clan reader?

yes but also i wanna merge this with the targeryan au thing i was thinking about JUST HEA ME OUTPLSPLSPLS-

so Gojo Satoru is technically a Targaryen...but he's a bastard so he keeps his mother's last name. everyones mad that his father, the king, had the AUDACITY TO FUCK SOMEONE WHO WASN'T HIS SISTER, so he's pretty much an outcast. he's still of royal dragon blood so he is still catered to, but no one rlly respects him.

maybe you do, some lowborn maid with no house to call your own. you see him as just a kid, so you treat him kindly. Gojo latches onto this, he's half your age and it's not hard to see him as this lost little kid. you think nothing of it when he makes these large claims to marry you one day and you find it a little adorable like 'haha this kid'.

despite being a bastard, gojo does the impossible. he claims six dragons. that fortifies his claim to the thrown, no one dares to disrespect him so openly after that. the king even wants to legitmize him after his feat, but gojo refuses. he wants more than legitimization. he wants revenge from everyone who laughed at him.

with the help of warden of the north (Geto obvs) he usurps the thrown and quickly lies waste to the rest of the family. the executions take weeks to carry out. the king, the queen, his countless brothers and sisters are all mercilessly slaughtered. advisors, hands, any loyalists are killed as well. he cleans up everyone in the castle, honestly.

and then there's just you.

well, he is king now. every king needs a wife? looks like you're gonna get a promotion:)

[micky-writes]

Our Little Corner

Part 2

Part 2! Thank you for everyone who enjoyed the first part and sorry this took so long to get out. Hope you enjoy!

~~~~

In the following morning, the Bennets had breakfast together in the dining room, Lucy sitting in her usual spot next to Mr. bennet who had grown quite fond of her in her years in his home. He held more of a fatherly fondness than Mrs. Bennet who couldn’t bother herself with all of that motherly fondness. As she ate silently, Mrs. Bennet went on about the night before as if they all hadn’t been there to witness it. “Then he danced the fifth with Jane! And the he watched her the rest of the night! Oh hes half in love with her already!”

“We were all there dear.” Mr. bennet says as he reads his paper. Mrs. bennet scoffs. “Oh but it was wonderful. What I wont understand is why that Mr. darcy took any care in Lucy. He had no reason too.”

“Mama, its 10 in the morning.” Lizzy complains as her mother seems to not care for her words. Mr. bennet looks over to Lucy beside him, noticing she was most likely ignoring the conversation in whole. Lizzy takes it upon herself to change the subject. “Mr. darcy is a ghastly man. He danced with no one all night and took it upon himself to make sure he stood taller than everyone else in the room.” She says, rolling her eyes as she criticized

“…Hes not all that terrible Lizzy..”

Everyone looks to Lucy as she plays with her food with her fork, her words blank and void of much emotion. Lizzy raises her brow at her cousin as if to question her statement. “And why is your opinion shaped so profoundly?”

“I could ask such a thing of you.”

That shuts lizzy up as she turns back to her food. Lucys not all sure why she defended Mr. Darcys character like she had. Perhaps in someway she felt obligated after how he treated her the night of last, the rough drag of his voice that was oddly kind and awkward. The silence at the table is disrupted however by the hand maid making herself known.

“A letter for Miss Jane Bennet.” She says as she hands the young woman a letter, a fine handwriting decorating the front. Jane reads it before she gasps. “Its from Netherfield!”

            Mrs. bennet nearly falls over as she stands so suddenly from her seat, a harsh gasp falling from her lips as she Jane opens the letter. “Well? What does it say?!” she demands as Jane reads the letter, a smile crawling on her face.

            “Caroline Bingley has invited to dine with her.” She says as Mrs. bennet rejoices. “Oh! We’re saved.” She exclaims as Jane continues. “Her brother..will be dining out.”

            “Dining out?”

            “Mama, can I take the carriage?”  Jane asks as Lucy watches on with a small smile on her face. When Mrs. Bennet doesn’t answer, Lizzy urgently calls for her attention. “mama- the carriage for Jane!” She exclaims as Mrs. bennet seems to come back to her senses.

            “Absolutely not. You’ll go on horseback.”

            “Horse back?”

            Just then, thunder rumbles overhead, making the prospect of horse back even more depleting to the mind. All the girls look to each other, the same idea in mind.

._.

Lucy feels great despair for her cousin as Lizzy reads the letter from their ill sister. As she kneads the dough for that nights biiscuits, she cant help but shake her head. "And my kind friends will not hear of me returning home until I am better -- but do not be alarmed excepting a sore throat, a.fever, and a headache there is nothing wrong with me." Lizzy reads, letting her hand fall to her lap.

“This is ridiculous.” Lucy mumbles under her breath as she shakes her head. “Well, my dear, if your daughter does die it will be a comfort to know it was all in pursuit of Mr Bingley.” Mr. Bennet says, coming up behind Lucy, placing a hand on her shoulder as he passes. “People do not die of colds!” Mrs, Bennet exclaims in defense of herself. Though she might well perish with the shame of having such a mother.” Lizzy says, Mr. Bennet laughs at such a statement while Lizzie side eyes her mother before she looks back down at the letter. “I’m going tot nether field at once, whoever wants to come is more then welcome. Some company would be nice.” She says, grabbing her coat off of the rack.

Lucy looks up, "I'll go." she says as she puts the dough in a bowl, covering it with a towel before she cleans her hands on her apron, taking it off as she walks around the corner to follow after lizzy,  Mrs. Bennet calls after them for being too rash. The two girls walk the journey to Netherfield, not minding the dewy air nor the freshness around them. It was refreshing when compared to a house full of people. They walk in silence for what feels like too long, the day seeming to drag on as Lizzie hauls a basket of sweets and medicine for Jane. Lizzie squints in the sun, before turning her head slightly to look at the women beside her.

“I am glad I have such company in you cousin. I was hoping it would ether be you or Mary who volunteer to come. I’m glad you chimed in before Kitty or Lydia could. You know that would be a disaster for Jane..” She says in a airy sort of voice. “It couldn’t be that you find Mr. Bingly a nice man. Of course, not romantically, but I saw you two exchanges politeness.”

she looks over at her cousin. "Apparently Jane talked highly of me during the ball for whatever reason and he wanted to be aquantinced." she says as she holds the blankets lizzy thought Jane might enjoy simply cause they were from home. "He's a nice man, nervous but means well. Jane has caught herself a lovely one." she says in an approving manner which makes lizzy chuckle.

Lizzie smiles at her cousin for a moment, her brow raising slightly as she looks over at her, her lips parting slightly as her eyes hood.

“..Lucy, I do want you to know that you are nothing less of any of us. Lack of self confidence is the root of the worlds problems, you know. And hearing you speak of how lower your consider yourself won’t help such an issue.” She says, slowly looking back forward. “Doubt me all you want too, but you know I’m in right reasoning. It’s the reason you’re so unapproachable in a room.” She says the last part rather teasingly, a smile coming to her face.

"No, the reason I'm so unapproachable is because I intend it to be that way." she says, smirking only a bit as they continue to walk. She goes quiet for a moment.

"Its hard to not think a certain way lizzy when you've been hearing it for so long." she murmurs. She never even knew her mother had a sister in derbyshire till she arrived there at 7 years old, having no one else to care for her. Well, her aunt could only be so pleased. Well maybe pleased wasn't the right word.

“You also blame the fact that others don’t come up to you on the fact you don’t see your own self as worthy.” Lizzie quips, leaning forward slightly as she walks with a steady gait. She sighs a bit however, shaking her head. “Well, the way is see it, you should only particularly care for the advice and words of people who you see fit to have a good tone towards you, an unbiased one. My mother is not one of those people.” She says, holding the basket properly. Of course, that is such a Lizzie thing to say. Stubborn and opinionated, she often is.

she can't blame her cousin for thinking such things because it might seem so simple to her. Lucy only sighs to herself.

"Of course lizzy.." she says only to placate her as they get closer to netherfield.

Lucy can barely remember the time before she lived with the bennets. And she can't attribute everything about her personality to the way Mrs. Bennet or others treats her. She had always been..a detached little girl, up in her head. But her dower nature came after losing both her parents to disease and always feeling as if she didn't belong anywhere.

“I mean it. Do not complacent me, you know I’m not..well, complacentable.” she says with a chuckle, smiling at her cousin before she all but drops the subject, turning her head forward.

The estate they come across is large and foreboding, making Lucy almost want to shrink back, turn around and go. She always knew this man was of wealth, but she wasn’t aware it was this imposing. Lizzie looks over at Lucy as they walk up the marble stairs.

“Remember, we are doing this for Jane. I know it’s tempting to run for the hills, but we’ve got this.”

it was an imposing estate, no doubt that Mr. Bingly had such money to his name, that it could Rival that of even a king- figuratively of course. The door opens for them, a servant answering and bowing his head down for them.

“The masters are in the tea room, allow me to lead you.” He says, letting the two women through the door. Lucy Marvels at the interior. It looks like a palace. She can only wonder what it’s like living in a place like this. Lizzie looks over at her cousin, her hand slowly grabbing hers, squeezing it gently. she can always tell when her cousin detached from this world and to another only she knew. Lucy simply follows lizzy, her hand held in hers. The servant leads them to a door, asking them to wait till they are announced. The servant walks in, clearing his throat to the occupants of the room.

"Excuse me, you have a visitor. A Miss Jane Bennet and Lucy Evans." Lizzy leads as Lucy follows behind, walking into the elegant tea room, it being so elegant and eye pleasing.

his knee bumps the tea table, it rattling as he stands up all the way. The he in question is well..it’s that man she met at the ball. Mr. Darcy, his name not having escaped her mind after she met him, after she felt so at peace in his presence. The women beside him, Mr. Bingleys sister, she presumes, gives him a cold look at the corner of her eye. Mr. Darcy’s throat bobs slightly as his knees bend and his head goes a bit. The women purses her lips, looking down at the bottom hems of their dresses.

“Oh dear me, did you two walk all the way here in the mud?” she asks rather rudely. lizzy takes the liberty of answering such a question

"Yes, we have." she says, a bit of a half smile splaying on her expression as she looks to the two. To Lucy, there was a bit of an awkward atmosphere. She slowly looks up from behind lizzy, catching Mr. Darcys eye as if he had already been looking at her. She's quick to look away just as he is. Lizzy clears her throat

"Im so sorry, how is our sister." she asks after a beat of the silence that seemed to stretch on for Lucy. He clears his throat as well, looking down at the ground quickly before he swiftly sits himself back down in the seat, his finger tapping on the table. The women’s head turns a bit, her jaw showing in a rather unamused manner.

“She’s in the spare room. Charles is on hand and foot making sure she is well taken care of.” She says with a pointed eye roll, tilting the glass of wine into her lips, taking a sip of it as Mr. Darcy’s head turns towards the table, his fingers curling over his mouth in a, dare she say, flustered manner.

Lucy stares down at the immaculately cleaned floor, the shiny marble as lizzy nods her head to Caroline Bingley.

"Thank you.." she says as she gives a small curtsey, Lucy following. She can tell that the young Miss Bingley didn't like them very much. Whether it was their appearance or their lack of wealth or even their personalities she wasn't sure. The two girls turn to walk out, but Lucy felt a pair of eyes on her- subtle, but there none the less. She only side eyes behind her, catching only a glimpse of his eyes before he turns his gaze down almost immediately. She hesitantly follows Lizzie to Janes room.

And while Jane and Lizzie speak, all she could think of was that gentleman Darcy. His cool eyes and his ridged bone structure…and tall physique and the way that he really does get her, understand her. She knows that from only the couple of minutes she’s spent with him at the ball. She feels like she was almost whisked away by him then and there that night, but she doesn’t like thinking of it. no, the idea settles something uncomfortable in her chest, something she'd rather not have. He stirred something in her she'd never felt before and she finds it to be frustrating.

 From her laid out position, Jane looks at Lucy's blank look, speaking softly to lizzy. "Is she alright..? She's been rather quiet since she's arrived. Has something happened at home?" she asks. Lucy paid no mind to whatever conversation her cousins were having, her mind not seeming to fall from that Mr. Darcy who has seemingly enraptured her mind completely. She wonders if Mr. Darcy has that type of affect in more women he speaks too. She can’t imagine what it would be like to meet someone like him and not be completely enamored in their light and soul by that man. he was a handsome man, she's sure there have been women who have felt just as she had. And she's positive that there was nothing more to their acquaintance. They've only seen each other twice now, only spoken once. It's a dreadful feeling that she has, one that sat in anticipation. What exactly would become of their acquaintance?

[mygodyouredivine]

The Hell In Your Eyes - 3

Summary: Loki doesn't meet her until two weeks after his initial imprisonment, but he knows he hates her. He has to hate her. Because the way she talks to him and helps him and saves him meals can't mean anything. She is too soft to deal with Loki, who is hardened with pain, pain, and more pain. And Loki hates soft things.

Have you ever seen the hell in someone’s eyes and loved it anyway?

Characters: Loki Laufeyson/(f)Reader

Warnings: brief mentions of violence

Word Count: 4836

Previous Chapter

Loki is annoyed.  

Loki has sat through thousands of years of political dinners, exchanging thinly veiled insults under a layer of diplomacy, all while smiling through his teeth. Loki has spewed sensical nonsense, charming naive, innocent maids and sweeping young stable boys off their feet. Loki has endured Odin’s wrath — in all its horrible glory — countless times, and never once had he shed a tear, nor had a single cry escaped his lips.  

The whole of Asgard had coined him the Dark Prince — and who was Loki to disappoint? 

He had long since learned people saw what they expected to see. 

And so as the entire realm rejoiced in his demise, as Laufey left him to die, as Odin condemned him for eternity, as Thor abandoned him, as Frigga had sided with her husband again and again and again, Loki maintained his carefully constructed front.  

Yet one encounter with a mortal, and he had unraveled at her feet.  

If physically kneeling before the wretched creature wasn’t enough, he knew she had seen past his mask. By the time he had regained his composure, he was sure she had seen him.  

It won’t happen again.  

Loki is a god, and gods do not crack. Gods maintain their image, regardless of circumstance. Gods do not show weakness, do not show vulnerability.  

This is a lesson Loki knows well, a lesson etched into his skin countless times by Odin’s hand.  

And yet for each time Odin reinforced this lesson, the very same lesson was burned away by Thanos a thousand more. 

Loki tried, he truly did. Loki maintained his godly facade for an impressive amount of time, resisting as his body was taken apart over and over and over again. Perhaps it wasn’t as long as he thought. Loki feels as if his entire life was spent doused in agony, spent with his flesh melting off and his bones withering away. 

Ultimately, a god is no match for a Titan.  

But a mortal is no match for a god.  

And yet, Loki has found himself at her feet — at her mercy — twice. 

Even after, Loki couldn’t bring himself to summon his cruel exterior. Perhaps it had to do with the way she had waltzed into his space, all soft and defenseless, carrying that deplorable drink as if it was the elixir of eternal life (unfortunately, it tasted just as divine). Perhaps it was his body, still sated and full for the first time in months, reminding him of the food — the debt — he owes. Perhaps it was the way she held out her arm towards him, even though he could see it shaking.  

Whether it was any of these things or none at all, Loki’s cool mask of indifference was rendered utterly useless at her delicate, mortal hands.  

Loki hates her.  

His hatred fills every fiber of his being. It’s a scalding, fiery hatred, much unlike the frozen excuse of Loki’s heart. His frost giant heritage seems to reject her very being.  

Loki hates her voice, hates her hands, hates her. He hates how she makes him falter when there is no place for mistakes.  

Loki’s thoughts are interrupted by Thor, who enters Loki’s quarters without an ounce of hesitation — ever the righteous, confident, arrogant bastard. 

Ah, but Loki almost forgot. Thor is not the bastard — Loki is. How despicable; for really, Loki can not even call himself a bastard. Yet, ‘the Bastard Son of Odin’ has a certain charm to it. Perhaps another false title for his collection.  

“Loki!” Thor booms, “Here are your clothes that Lady Angel washed. You should be grateful brother, for she offered of her own volition — ” 

Is it so surprising someone would offer to help Loki without external influence?  

“ — to see and visit you! You are doing well. I am happy to see you are finally making an effort to get to know all of our friends — ” 

Thor is happy? For Loki, or for himself? Why must Loki, even now, strive to prove himself to Thor? Why is Loki’s worth solely dependent on Thor’s judgement?  

“ — and Lady Angel is absolutely wonderful. I am delighted to see you two getting along so well! I can’t believe you finally made a friend— ” 

At this, Loki’s composure cracks for the second time that day.  

“What am I? A pathetic child wandering aimlessly through a school corridor? A helpless hatchling at the mercy of others — groveling for the bare minimum? Who are you to congratulate me for ‘making a friend?’ She is not a friend ,” Loki spits out. He can feel his teeth grinding against each other, his fingernails once again digging into his palms. “She is nothing more than another worthless mortal, unworthy of even breathing the same air as I, and yet you suggest I be grateful?” 

Thor advances on Loki, his eyes hardening. The atmosphere is tense; unlike the typical bickering between the brothers, Loki identifies something distinctly different in the way the air vibrates. The space between the two gods crackles. “Watch yourself brother —” 

Brother. The word grates upon Loki’s nerves. How can Thor so carelessly throw the word around, even knowing of its false implications — implications and lies Loki foolishly believed.  

Sometimes Loki wonders if Thor does it on purpose.  

“Do you hear yourself Thor? Bending yourself over backwards to defend this wasted excuse of consciousness — you are the King of Asgard. What is she? She is nothing.” 

And now Loki is no longer staring at his brother, but the ceiling of his prison. His back is slammed against Stark’s hardwood floors and there is sharp ringing in his ears, likely the result of the crack in the floor right behind where his head is currently embedded.  

Loki almost laughs. 

Truly, it is comical — comical that even now, Thor’s first instinct is to physically threaten Loki. As if Loki doesn’t almost enjoy it. 

But Loki’s laugh catches in his throat, prevented from escaping by the large hand tightening around his airway.  

Thor’s hand is around Loki’s neck — a mirror of His. 

A thousand years Loki has known Thor. A thousand years of childish brawls, foolhardy battles, pointless arguments. How many times has Loki betrayed Thor? Thor betrayed Loki? And yet, Loki believed he knew his brother’s character.  

A thousand years Loki has known Thor, but never once has he thought Thor to be cruel.  

Oh how wrong he is.  

Thor’s hands are gripping Loki’s neck and for the life of him Loki can’t breathe. He tries to draw air into his lungs — lungs that are screaming with a familiar ache — and fails. Phantom pains flicker across his entire body and somehow, in the second before his vision goes black, Loki manages to croak out a strangled wheeze of a laugh.  

Loki is once again strapped upon a bed of coals, once again stabbed with blades of flame, once again torched with fire so hot he freezes. Loki remembers the only other time he begged — begged and pleaded for the sweet mercy of death, all while knowing death was a pleasure he was never to be granted.  

Loki is once again kneeling — boneless — at the feet of a Titan, looking up into a face promising endless pain, a face painted with the patience of a thousand moons and splattered with the ruined blood of a Frost Giant. 

Loki did not know that a Frost Giant’s blood could boil. 

Ah, but the Mad Titan knew, and he ensured Loki would never forget.  

Loki recalls the moment he let go — an eerie echo of his fall from grace, his fall from the Bifrost. And he remembers the horribly invasive power of the scepter, along with the blessed relief and utter disregard for self preservation that followed. 

And it is this — the relief — that plagues Loki. He does not fool himself; Loki may be the God of Lies, but he has no reason to lie to himself . It is not the destruction of New York nor the deaths at his hand that weigh upon his shattered mind. No, it is the fact that Loki found solace in his actions.  

Make no mistake — Loki does not rejoice in his crime, but nor could he say he regrets it. 

For if Loki were given the choice, he could not — would not — choose to spare Midgard at the cost of his own sanity. 

(But Loki was never given a choice.) 

Alas, Loki is already insane. 

The Mad Titan has taken so much from Loki.  

Physically, Loki has long since disregarded his own body. He remembers the beginning of his torture, when he still held the title of 'Prince of Asgard,' when he spoke with arrogance and oozed of indignantion. Oh how naive he had been. When the first whips had landed across his skin, Loki's thoughts could never have anticipated what the coming months would entail. Loki did not once stop to consider how he would escape the clutches of his captor — oh the confidence he held! — but instead lamented the scars he would surely have to bear. Dimly, Loki recalls worrying over his marred skin, irritated at the blemishes he would surely have to cover when taking future lovers.  

Loki scoffs.  

Loki does not recognize the man who spent time thinking of lovers. Or of his physical appearance. Or of his interests. Or of any other insignificant pleasure that ultimately contributes to the annihilation of a soul. 

(Even now, Loki carries with him an irrational fear of physical touch — a seed planted by the Mad Titan that Loki cannot gouge out, not even if he tore open his very being.) 

In fact, Loki wondered if his corporeal form had even existed anymore. But most of all, more than the ruination of his physical form, Loki mourns the damnation of his mind. 

Ultimately, the Mad Titan did triumph over Loki. For no matter how many times Loki escapes, fakes his death, runs away, he can never evade the visions that haunt his mind, the voices that infect his thoughts, the termites eating away at what remains of Loki’s sanity. 

(If Loki were given a choice, he would have chosen death again and again and again.) 

Alas, Loki was not — is not — given a choice, for suddenly he is not lying on a bed of coals, but on his apartment floor again. Thor has since removed his hand from Loki’s neck and Loki half wishes Thor just kept it there. Just kept on squeezing and squeezing and squeezing until Loki died on that bed of coals.  

Loki wonders, if he were to die at Thor’s hand, would his brother feel remorse? Or perhaps, more realistically, relief?  

Unfortunately, Loki is not dead, and Thor is gazing at him, concern evident in his gaze. As if Thor wasn’t the one who put Loki in this condition — wasn’t the one who greedily snatched all of Odin’s affection, wasn’t the one who pushed Loki out of favor, wasn’t the one who led his brainless minions in a brash suicide mission, as if Thor wasn’t the one who stared Loki in the eye as Loki let go into the abyss.  

As if Thor wasn’t the first domino in a long ripple effect that eventually drowned Loki in his sins.  

Thor was the smooth pebble that young children skipped over lakes, just barely skimming the surface of a tempting downfall — nevertheless gracefully leaping unscathed across the reflective waters. Yet Loki was the jagged, unskippable rock, destined to fall through the air and fall through the water with no hesitation. Loki has long since come to terms with this simple fact.  

No longer does Loki resent his brother, for he understands: light can only shine in the presence of darkness. And if Loki is condemned to darkness — so be it.  

Loki does not resent his brother, but oftentimes Loki despises his lightness . What some might say is endearing — the inability for Thor to give up — is just a burden. Even now, Thor still thinks he can change Loki, can fix him. Thor still thinks that by vouching for Loki and providing Loki a place to live and surrounding Loki with Thor’s friends that he can mend Loki’s broken soul and bring back the brother he once had. Thor is still in denial — he refuses to grasp the very simple concept that Thor’s brother — the Second Prince of Asgard, God of Lighthearted Mischief — is long dead. And so Thor continues to try. But light yelling into the darkness does not change it.  

And even now, with Thor looming above Loki, Loki does not resent his brother.  

But Loki resents Thor’s very being — the core of who Thor is. Thor is a duality; one of naivety and compassion, yet tainted — or perhaps embellished — with a smidge of cruelty and arrogance.  

And as Thor is speaking to Loki, mouth forming words Loki is too tired to hear, Loki simply lies on the floor, limbs relaxed around him, throat sore, and does the only thing he can do when feeling so utterly empty.  

Loki laughs.  

______________________________

Midgard is rather charming in some regards.  

Loki will eventually have to investigate the laundry process, for he has just now made the curious discovery that freshly dried clothes are warm . He suspects they were warmer right after they were dried, but he can still feel the presence of the heat, lingering within the very fabric of his garments. He wonders just how much they were heated up to — would it have burnt his frozen hands at the peak of its fiery glory? 

No, Loki’s hands are too well accustomed to fire now. 

But he doubts that her hands are. He envisions Angel pulling his clothes out of the dryer, her hands touching the same clothes that he has worn, that he will wear, that he is currently touching.  

Yet is it entirely possible Loki is standing around, imagining a scene that never played out, for it was not Angel who brought Loki’s laundry back to him, but his dearest brother. Looking at his pile of clothes again, Loki takes in the telltale signs of Thor. The messily folded shirts stare back at Loki, mocking him.  

He wonders if she ever even did any part of his laundry. Perhaps she only offered it as a way to ease the uncomfortable tension that had arisen earlier. Or rather, (and his stomach twists uncomfortably at the thought) she lugged his laundry basket downstairs and dumped it straight into Thor’s arms. 

Why else would she refuse his help to accompany her?  

A twinge of something rises up within Loki as he realizes she accepted Thor’s offer to bring his clothes back. Or, much more likely, she had pushed the task onto Thor in a desperate attempt to avoid encountering him again.  

Not that Loki could blame her. 

And yet the uncomfortable sensation within Loki only grows, and he realizes that he feels something akin to disappointment. Loki cannot allow himself to feel disappointment. He had long since learned not to expect anything from anyone — or perhaps, much more cynically, to only depend on — to trust — himself.  

Trust, Loki knows, is a fickle concept the naive embrace. Trust itself is ill fated, the certainty of an inevitable betrayal the same as the certainty that one day everyone living on this cursed realm will perish.  

Loki hates Angel. He hates how she pretends to care for him, hates how she imitates Thor, hates how she always finds a way to break him, and Loki hates how Angel makes him feel.  

Loki's silent anger boils inside of him — like the steady countdown of a ticking bomb — manifesting itself out of him as the laundry basket is violently launched across the room. 

He hates how he feels absolutely no satisfaction at the way the freshly clean clothes scatter across the floor, hates how he lost control, and hates how the damned mortal forces him to feel emotions he does not want to feel . 

Sometimes all Loki can do is hate. 

______________________________

The heat from the clothes have long since seeped into the floor. 

The sun is just now setting, dousing Loki’s room in a fiery glow. Warm light spills across Loki’s bookshelves, his impeccably made bed, the clothes strewn around his floor. Loki sits on the ground, bare of his illusions, allowing himself to just be .  

Staring across the room, he notices tendrils of light carefully curling around the air, miniscule particles of dust dancing in the golden glow. This is a gold Loki enjoys. Unlike the brash, loud character of Thor’s gold — of Asgard’s gold, this is a much softer, gentle color. The comforting hue reminds Loki of his mother, and against his will, he feels a wall of despair beginning to build within his chest.  

For a second, Loki loses himself as the wall crashes over him. He drops his head, allowing his hair to dangle in front of his face, obscuring his view of the floating particles. He feels like a child — wants nothing more in this moment than to run to Frigga, for her floral scent to fill his senses as she envelopes him in her arms. What Loki wouldn’t give to have Frigga’s delicate fingers comb through his hair just once more, for her soft lips against his forehead, murmuring words of comfort.  

But he can’t have that. Instead, here he is, sitting on the floor of a glorified prison in the midst of a community of people who hate him, with nothing but Thor to act as his buffer. 

Looking up, Loki gazes at the honeyed light as it glides over a particular heap of clothing. He watches, mesmerized, as the light gently moves, unhurriedly bathing each corner of the fabric in its rich glow.  

If he were still on Asgard, Loki would most likely have been reading, thoroughly immersed in some story or another. The sun would have showered his pages in its quiet glow, lighting the words aflame. He would have taken a stroll in his mother’s gardens, breathing in the sweet scent of her flowers as he sat in his favorite hidden alcove. He would have taken out his book and continued to read, read until the golden hue of the sun was replaced by the tender shine of the moon. Only then would Loki return, serenely walking back to his chambers, stopping only to retrieve a cup of tea, and resume his reading on his balcony.  

Loki wants that. 

Loki wants an afternoon to himself, with no worries plaguing his mind. 

Loki wants to be able to read, and to do so in an environment which permits him to let his guard down. 

Loki wants to sit outside, surrounded by flowers, and watch as the sun transitions into the moon. 

Loki wants to indulge in a hot cup of tea as he watches the moonlight spills across the pages of his book. 

Loki wants so many things — and he can’t have any of them. 

Standing up, Loki decides he has spent enough time reminiscing over what he cannot have today. He feels sticky and hot and cold and hungry and all he wants right now , is a long shower.  

And so Loki walks over to the same pile of clothes, now dull and abandoned by the sun, gazing disapprovingly downwards. Thor is truly an imbecile, for he has not even managed to separate their clothes correctly. Loki is currently staring at a dark green sweatshirt, one he knows for a fact he has never seen before. Tiredly, he tosses it upon his bed and scoops up a clean change of clothes, then turns around and trodds slowly into the bathroom.  

______________________________

Water droplets rain all around Loki, swiftly sliding down his body. 

He doesn’t particularly enjoy showering — it reminds him too much of another substance: denser, stickier, and much more red, trickling down his skin. Loki much prefers baths. Baths, however, render their subject very much vulnerable, and Loki does not fancy risking any more vulnerability than strictly necessary.  

So Loki is standing in the shower, unabashedly soaking up the shallow warmth the water provides. Surely if Thor could see him, his brother would lecture Loki on wasting Midgard’s precious resources. But, Loki reasons, if Stark truly possesses the excess of wealth he boasts of, Loki’s water usage will not be of much concern to the man. And so this is a luxury Loki will grant himself.  

The shower is one place where Loki feels the safest, where he allows his thoughts to wander and drift into otherwise forbidden territories. Today especially has been challenging, and even his muscles seem to ache, the fibers pulling away from each other, trying to rip Loki apart from the inside out. His mind is exhausted, filled with swirling thoughts of Frigga and Angel and Thor, with the occasional Odin and Titan intruding whenever a particular body part cries out.  

And as Loki gazes down at his body, the disfigured canvas of scars stare back at him and he attempts to soothe away the countless aches. No matter how much time has passed and how much magic Loki pours into himself, the pains never seem to retreat. Rationally, Loki knows it doesn’t make sense. He knows his magic is fully capable of healing himself, knows that by all accounts he is healed.  

But Loki also knows he does not imagine the sharp pains coursing through his veins.  

He is fighting himself — the part of himself that does not want the pain to stop. Because all Loki knows is pain, and he fears the absence of pain almost as much as he dreads its glorious presence.  

Loki raises his head, allowing for the stream of water to bruise his face. And if Loki’s closed eyes leak the occasional tear, no one would know.  

______________________________

Loki’s self destructive spiraling is abruptly cut short by three succinct knocks from his bedroom door. Still soaking in the shower, Loki debates whether or not to answer; after all, he truly has no desire to see his brother again today. Or preferably, ever again. Unfortunately, Loki is all too aware that if he does not answer the door to let Thor in, Thor will simply let himself in. And if there’s anything worse than seeing Thor, it will be seeing a displeased Thor while Loki stands nude and wet.  

Reluctantly, Loki turns off his shower, changes into his freshly washed ‘sweatpants’, and leisurely walks towards the door. He is honestly surprised Thor hasn’t invited himself in yet. He is more surprised when he finally opens the door and is promptly met with — not Thor’s brutish face, but the goddamned mortal.  

She stands there, in front of his door, barely out of arm's reach. Loki can’t help but drink her in. He notices her hair, laying loosely around her face, framing her profile. She’s sporting a sweater, much too warm for the present weather. Its collar is stretched out over years of use, teasing his eyes with a fraction of her collarbones peaking through. Her legs are barely covered by absurdly short shorts, and Loki feels the back of his ears heating up. Hurriedly, he averts his eyes, falling down to her feet, once again hugged by soft looking socks — mismatched.  

His scrutinization is interrupted by her voice; so soft.  

“Hey! Sorry if I interrupted you. I heard you were in the shower but I was going around taking everyone’s dinner orders. We’re getting Chinese.” She tilts her head to the side, lifting her chin ever-so-slightly, distractedly exposing the tantalizing skin of her neck. She swallows, and Loki’s eyes discreetly follow the bob of her throat. “I was just wondering if you wanted anything?” 

It takes a moment for Loki to register her question and another for him to process it. She is going to order dinner? For him? And she is asking him for his preference? Loki has not had the privilege of preferring anything in a long, long time. Damn this mortal. 

“I am not familiar with this particular cuisine, nor Midgard’s in particular.” 

She meets his eyes then, and only after does it occur to him that her eyes had been previously glued to his abdomen. His abdomen, he realizes which has been bare this entire interaction. “That doesn’t answer my question.” 

He forces himself to roll his eyes, running a hand through his still dripping hair to hide the scarlet his ears have surely become. “I am saying that I do not have a preference, woman.” 

She lifts her shoulders briefly in a gesture Loki has come to associate with Midgard’s daftness and promptly moves closer to him. Instinctively, Loki takes a step back, then curses himself for doing so. He truly must be losing it, backing away from a defenseless mortal. But she doesn’t push further, instead tilting her head at that angle again, asking him another question.  

“Can I come in?” 

Loki hesitates. He doesn’t understand her motives, doesn’t know if this is a trick the Avengers have set up or perhaps a test designed by his brother. All he knows is that Angel is staring at him with her eyes wide and innocent and completely devoid of deceit.  

Angel must carry magic or Loki must be possessed by the Mind Stone again, for against his will, Loki steps to the side, allowing her to brush past him. The sleeve of her sweater comes into contact with Loki’s stomach, and he jerks away.  

Awkwardly, Loki closes his door and turns to face the mortal, noting how hilariously out of place she looks, standing in the midst of Loki’s domain. With a wave of his hand, the previously scattered articles of clothing fly onto his bed, meticulously folding themselves. Angel’s surprised, quiet gasp does not escape his notice. She walks towards his bed, small hand landing on Thor’s sweatshirt.  

“Take that when you leave.” Loki internally bristles at his own tone, noticing how Angel’s shoulders locked up when he spoke and did not relax when he stopped. “Please,” he adds. 

To his surprise (again), Angel approaches him, sweater in hand. “Why?” 

At this, Loki is caught off guard. Without warning, he is overwhelmed by distaste. His patience has been tested over and over again, and he does not have even a drop more to deal with this mortal’s incompetence. His hatred for her rushes back, multiplied a thousandfold. Who does she think she is and why will she not leave Loki alone? Why must she cut short his relaxation, intrude upon his personal space, inquire after him when he knows — he knows — she does so unwillingly? Why is she holding up Thor’s goddamned sweater, pretending not to know why Loki hates it so? As if she doesn’t know it belongs to Thor. 

In fact, Loki is positive she is intimately aware of whom it belongs to, undoubtedly so. He hates Angel, hates her for reluctantly offering her help, hates her for her smoothies, hates her for asking him about his preferences. Briefly, he envisions snapping her neck. Effortlessly. But the image makes him recoil, bringing about not satisfaction, but horror.  

His fists clench, his broken fingernails once again digging into bruised skin. It costs Loki an immeasurable amount of self control not to simply throw her out, hurl her from his quarters. Instead, he snaps at her. 

“Girl, do not test my patience. I am warning you, it has been a very long day and if you do not exit extremely promptly, it will not end well for one of us.” 

Loki hates the way her shoulders tense up again, hates the way she physically flinches away at his dismissal.  

Loki hates how though he can sense her increasing heartbeat, her nervousness, Angel still looks him in the eye and informs him, in a terrified voice coated with forced calm, “I’m sorry to hear that Loki. I added this sweater into your laundry after it was done, but I should have known it would not have been welcome.” 

Loki hates how she then drops her eyes, staring intently at her mismatched socks.  

“I’ll just leave your dinner outside.” 

Loki hates how she leaves, her hands gripping Thor’s — his — sweatshirt tightly, footsteps moving at a much brisker pace.  

Loki hates how Angel closed off, how he closed her off.  

Loki hates how Angel clearly did do his laundry. 

Loki hates how Angel thought of him, giving him an extra sweatshirt, offering him a choice for dinner. 

Loki hates Angel more than he hates Thor, more than he hates Odin. 

Loki hates Angel more than he hates the Mad Titan.  

The only person Loki hates more than Angel is himself. 

Fuck. 

______________________________ 

We don't even ask for happiness, just a little less pain.  

- Charles Bukowski 

______________________________

Previous Chapter

~

~

Taglist: @spacedaddydinn @doct0rstrange

[pedrosbish]

the king

summary: the new ruler of Mand’alor, Din Djarin, needs to marry in order to be fully accepted as the ruler and you happen to catch his eye (*fem!reader)

warnings: SMUT 18+ (soft, unprotected pinv, creampie, oral (m and f), cockwarming, dirty talk)

word count: 3.2k

taglist: @over300books​​ @mouthymandalorian​​ @ordinarymom1​​ @zapsalis-d​ @goldielocks2004​ @whore-for-anime​ @ilikethoseodds​​ @withasideofmeg​​ @theamuz​, @obsessivelysearching​ @bellreads03​ @parkjammys​ @ajeff855​ @persie33​  @thatonedindjarinfan​  @jedi-jesi​  @pinkninja200​  @boomtownboy​  @chaemaire​  @softly-sad​ @liltangerineart​ @grogusmum​ @em-thechaoticplant

CHAPTER NINE

The palace hallways bustle with enthusiasm, some maids carrying baskets filled to the brim with various traditional foods from Mandalore and your home as well, while other maids decorate the rooms with bright flowers, the sweet smell filling the air. It looked so different to when he had first arrived on the planet and claimed the throne, the light seeping in through the windows making it brighter and filling everyone with hope. 

Din wishes you were here to see the preparation for the ceremony but it wasn't allowed, tradition mandating that neither of you see each other before the vows are said. He wonders if you are nervous, wonders if you had changed your mind in the following days since he had last seen you and you didn't want to marry him anymore. He wonders if you are as excited as him, his love for you consuming his whole being that he knows will only grow when you marry. 

The furs draped around his neck scratch at his skin and he desperately pulls at them, sighing in relief at the brief moment of peace, the sound of his people filing into the throne room travelling through the hallways. A knock sounds at the door and he grants them access, his voice scratchy with nerves and he clears his throat as Paz enters, bowing his head. 

“I have an update on the Bo-Katan situation, my king.” Paz starts and Din feels the nerves, first starting at his toes and moving up through his body. “My contact on Werda says she is there, restocking, and her plan is to come here. She also has a message for you.” 

He watches silently as Paz reveals a small holoprojector from behind his back and when he clicks a button, the holographic image of Bo-Katan Kryze appears, holding her helmet by her side and her lips set in a thin line. Din’s ears ring, a sharp noise that covers most of what she says but he manages to catch the few odd words of how she plans to come to Mandalore to take the throne back, her lip flitting upwards slightly when she tells of how the right ruler to the throne is coming. 

He doesn't say anything as the image fades and Paz places the holoprojector back in his pocket, his visor directly aimed at him, and he feels like he can't breathe, his lungs failing him as he tries and tries to breathe in. Turning his back, his gloved fingers rub against each other, the leather material creaking softly and the sound grounds him, his eyes closing as he tries to focus on trying to breathing again. In. Out. In. Out. 

“The ceremony is ready to commence, my king.” 

A maid slowly peeks her head through the door and instantly shrinks in on herself as Paz makes a sound deep in his chest, almost a growl, before grabbing her by the elbow and leading her out into the hallway. Din barely hears his warning, the ringing sound in his ears slowly but surely fading until the bustle of the people becomes clearer. 

Paz comes back into the room, a sigh escaping him as he bows his head at Din. “I apologise for her, my king. I told them to not disturb us.” His visor studies him silently, scanning him and Din wonders if he could see how worried he is about Bo-Katan but he doesn't say anything if he does. “Everyone is ready for the ceremony to begin if you are.”

The walk to the throne room is silent, Paz following behind Din as he steps in and surveys the throne room. Mandalorians are cramped in tightly together, and he feels a swell of brief pride at the sight of so many of his people present at his wedding, their helmets glinting as the sunlight filters in through the open windows. Flowers line the floor, their petals swaying with the warm wind, leading up to the thrones and he slowly walks, tilting his head at his people as they bow theirs. 

As soon as he stands on the steps, they all turn their heads to watch as the doors open, revealing you standing there with a wide smile directed at him. He feels the air escape his lungs, this time good, at the sight of you and he watches with bated breath as you walk past the Mandalorians, each bowing their heads as you smile at them. 

You take his hands as you stand before him, a shy but bright smile on your face as you look into his visor. The vow falls easily out of his lips, slow to make sure you hear the proper pronunciation before you repeat them with such conviction that his eyes tear up. When finished, he gently places his helmet to your forehead and when you smile at him, he can't help but smile back at you underneath the helmet. He gives a gentle squeeze to your hands, his head tilting to glance at his people out of the corner of his eyes, and you follow, cheeks heating as they cheer loudly. 

He wishes that he could have kissed you in that moment. But for now, he clasps a Mythosaur necklace around your neck, this one similar to the one he gave Grogu.  

A lot of them congratulate you as the two of you pass, Din’s hand squeezing yours occasionally when he sees the nerves playing out across your face at the attention and the need to fit into the role of queen. 

It’s late when the two of you finally have a moment of peace to yourself in the comfort of your own home, Din insisting that you both have a bit of privacy for a while. The area is quiet apart from the occasional murmur of insects from the outside or the faint buzzing coming from the lights on the wall and he knows it should make him feel relieved to be alone with you but he can't help but feel tense. 

You notice of course. Studying him was the only way of seeing how he was truly feeling and having spent so many moments alone with him, you know that he's tense, can see it in the way his visor is tilted away from your direction, the way his shoulders tense whenever you make a noise while moving around the small kitchen as you prepare a meal. The smell wafting from it makes your stomach growl as you set a plate of it in front of him, offering a gentle smile before picking up your own. 

“Just let me know when you're finished.” He glances up at you, the first time he's looked at you since you had gotten back from the ceremony. “Enjoy your meal.”

“Cyar’ika,” he says and you stop, turning around to look at him as he lets out a small sigh. “Please sit with me.”

“But,” you start and at a loss of words, you sit down in front of him. You notice the way he fiddles with his gloves under the table, before slipping them off and placing them on the table. “What about your Creed?” 

“Riduurs are allowed to show their faces to each other.” He points to the necklace settled on your chest and watches as you delicately lift it to look at it. “You are now a part of my clan.”

Nodding your head slowly, you watch as his shoulders tense tighter than before as his shaking hands reach up to his helmet, the small hiss it gives seems to emanate around the room. 

You smile, encouraging him when he hesitates and with a shaky breath, he steadily lifts it up, revealing a chin covered in stubble then the lips that you had kissed multiple times, then a crooked nose that made you want to trace it with your finger, then a pair of deep brown eyes, ones that you had always imagined looking at you without the helmet until his hair, something that you had accidentally saw once and had instantly wanted to card your fingers through, is the last thing to be revealed. 

He places it down on the table beside him, his eyes averted from your gaze until you reach across the table to put your hand on his own, the curled fist instantly relaxing at your touch and you smile at that. His eyes finally lift up to meet yours, his lips curling into an awkward smile when he sees the glazed over look in your eyes as you stare at him. 

Clearing your throat, you let go of his hand and turn to your meal, not missing the way his fingers lay flat on the table as if trying to chase the feeling of the warmth of your hand. He pauses before picking up the spoon and digging into the food, occasionally looking at you. You know that it must be strange eating in front of someone, can see it in the way he second guesses how to hold the spoon, how he looks at you before putting the food in his mouth and chewing, so you try not to look at him too much, just the occasional glance to satisfy your own curiosity. 

It isn't until the two of you are finished, Din quietly thanking you for the meal before you decide to speak up. “What did our vows mean?”

“Mhi solus tome, mhi solus dar'tome, mhi me'dinui an, mhi ba'juri verde.” He says it so softly to you that you can't stop the smile that spreads across your face. Pausing, he leans forward and rubs his hands down his thighs, licking his lips and avoiding your gaze. “We are one when together, we are one when parted, we will share all, we will raise warriors."

“That’s beautiful.” 

He smiles at that, looking up at you and nodding his head. His eyes widen when you get up, coming around the table to stand next to him and when he tilts his face to look up at you, your hand is placed on his cheek. Lips parted, his eyes flutter shut at the warmth of it on his face, a part of his deep inside rejoicing at the comfort that floods through him.

When you bend your head down to place a gentle kiss to his lips, his hands fall to your hips, fingers digging into the skin through your trousers and pulling you closer until in-between his open legs. Your free hand comes up to card through his hair, tugging gently, and forcing a deep groan to reverberate through his chest. A surprised gasp escapes you when he suddenly stands, pulling you into his chest and he takes the opportunity to kiss you more deeply. 

He slowly backs you up until the two of you stand just before your bed tucked into the corner, hands trailing beyond your hips and reaching your tunic, slowly lifting it up. You help by lifting your arms, the top falling to the ground beside your feet and you copy him, hands reaching out to him to take off the furs that sit around his neck. 

It feels more intense, being able to see him watching you and you blush under his strong gaze. He can tell you're nervous so he gently takes ahold of your hand and brings it up to his lips, placing a comforting kiss to your knuckles and thumb softly stroking the skin, taking the opportunity to pull you closer into him. You smile at him, a silent thank you, and he lets go of your hand, bending his head down to take a nipple into his mouth. 

He smiles around the bud at the gasp that leaves you, mouth sucking it further into his mouth as his eyes moving up to your face. Gently letting go it go with a pop, he stands to his full height and as he takes a step towards you, you take one back. 

“Lie down, riduur.” His voice is gruff and you swallow thickly at the way it sends a shiver down your neck. You lie down, body heating up as he watches you. “Want to taste you again. Will you let me?”

He doesn't need to convince you. As soon as you nod your head, he quickly takes his trousers and underwear off, chucking them to the side and your mouth parts when you see the glistening tip of his cock. He lies down between your legs, forcing them apart with his shoulders, and bends his head down, fingers coming up to press your clit through your trousers. 

“Can feel you.” You watch as he presses a light kiss to your mound and you jolt your hips upwards making him chuckle. “Eager, aren't you my riduur?”

“Yes, Din.” You sigh out in relief as his fingers move to tug down your trousers. “Want your tongue.”

He makes a sound at the eagerness in your tone, tugging your trousers and underwear off until you're fully exposed to his intense gaze. You watch with bated breath as he lays down on his stomach, tongue coming out to flatten against your folds, hips pressing down into the mattress at the taste. Your hips jolt when his lips encase around your clit, teeth nipping softly and his arm comes down around your hips to hold you down. 

Head falling back against the pillows, a whine leaves your lips when he lifts his head away, his hand grabbing yours. “I want you to look at me, cyar’ika. Can you do that for me?”

When you nod, he immediately returns to sucking your clit into his mouth before flattening his tongue. You open your eyes and lift your head to stare down at him, only to find his eyes already on you. You can't stop the lewd sounds that escape you, hand squeezing his when he flicks his tongue up to meet your clit. The feeling of him and the way he stares up at you, brown eyes boring into your own, is all too much and you come apart, a deep groan leaving him as the taste of you floods his mouth. He reluctantly stops when you whine, moving up your body to kiss you softly. 

“My turn.” 

The smile on your face is wicked at the look on his face, mouth parted and eyes wide when you flip him over and slowly move down him. You stop at his chest, fingers trailing over the many tattoos so delicately that he smiles in that moment, widening when you lean down to press a kiss to the one of the Mythosaur before continuing your path. His cock twitches at the feeling of your hot breath on it and when you look up at him, he swears lowly under his breath. 

Your smile turns sweet at the way his breath hitches when you hold him in your hand, the heat pooling in his stomach molten as you bend your head down to take the tip of his cock into your mouth. Tongue swirling around it, he gasps, and his hand reaches down to tug at your hair when you bob your head up and down, your hand doing the same for what you can't fit into your mouth. 

He doesn't mean for his hips to thrust upwards into your mouth, the warmth of it making his brain fuzzy, but when you make a choking sound as his cock hits the back of your throat, a part of him lights up. 

“Is-is my cock too big for you to take, riduur?” He doesn't expect an answer but is pleasantly surprised when you hum around him, the vibration making his hips jolt further into your mouth. 

He feels the tightening of his balls as your hand and mouth continue to work him, your eyes coming up to meet his and he has to place a hand on your head to push you away before he comes. He wants to but as you sit up and smile at him, his eyes travel down to your pussy, the need to come in you overpowering. He sits up and reaches his hands out to you, lifting you slightly and you sit on his lap, squirming at the feeling of his cock pressing into your lower stomach.  

Sitting up a bit farther, you reach down and take your cock in his hand, squeezing lightly before slowly lowering yourself down onto him. The two of you gasp in unison as you fully sit down and Din glances down to where you're connected, a part of him lighting aflame at the sight of your pussy fit snug around his cock. He shallowly thrusts up into you, a gasp leaving your lips at the movement and the way you jar upwards. 

“I love you,” he whispers against your skin, his eyes closing when you lift your hand to his cheek. 

“I love you too.”

Wrapping an arm around you, he gently lifts his hand to tuck your hair behind your ear before thrusting deep into you again, making sure to hit the spongy part inside of you that has your eyes rolling into the back of your head. His pace is slow, driving his hips into yours after a beat but it’s still oh so brutal, slowly making you fall apart in the most delicious way possible. 

The way your pussy clenches around his cock has his breath hitching and he rests his head on your chest, warm breath brushing against your stomach. He whispers words of praise, often switching between Basic and Mando’a but the message is still the same and you shiver in delight, carding your fingers through his hair. 

“Please, Din.”

You don't really know what you're asking for, the room feels too hot, the feeling too much and when he looks up at you, deep brown eyes staring into your own, you fall apart. He groans at the way your walls hug him, at the way you go slack in his arms, eyebrows scrunched together, eyes shut tightly and mouth parted. He thrusts once, twice, thrice before coming inside of you, seed spurting deep into your walls. 

He can't help but glance down at where your pussy hugs his cock, a primal side of him pleased at the way his some of his cum escapes and trickles down your legs. As soon as you catch your breath, you bend your head to place a kiss to his lips, smiling softly at him. You squeal in surprise when he lays the two of you down, cock still inside of you.  

“Din,” you begin and pause as he looks down at you, your head tucked in the crook of his arm. “I need to clean up.”

“Just a little longer, riduur.” 

You nod your head, the nurse’s words still ringing in your ears and you smile, laying your head back down while your fingers traces over the tattoos on his chest and arm. He quietly watches you, fingers softly combing through your hair and as your eyes start to flutter shut, he lets his own do the same, allowing sleep to wash over him.

[kirwond]

To Catch The Wind - A Genshin Impact Playlist

A playlist for Genshin Impact, following characters and events for Prologue: The Outlander Who Caught The Wind.

Notes from the game. Cover art by zi13591@pixiv.

Listen at Spotify.

Even more playlists here.

Tracklist and notes below the cut.

Dream Aria (Genshin Impact main theme) - Yu-Peng Chen/HOYO-MIX

Dark Doo Wop - MS MR

Unknown God: Outlanders, your journey ends here!

7 - Prince

Lumine: And just like that, the god took my brother away. Some kind of seal was cast upon me, and I lost my power. How many years ago was it? I don't know... but I intend to find out.

Learning To Fly - Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

Amber: Let me officially introduce the city of wind, dandelions, and freedom. Travelers under the protection of the Knights of Favonius! Welcome to Mondstadt!

Riders on the Storm - Simple Minds

Mysterious Voice: I'm preventing your fall with the power of a thousand winds. Now, concentrate. See yourself grasping the wind. Harness its energy.

Who Are You, Really? - Mikky Ekko

Kaeya: You've actually got the power to go up against the dragon. Are you a new ally... or a new storm?

Surface Pressure (Encanto soundtrack) - Jessica Darrow

Jean: The Grand Master entrusted the Knights of Favonius to me. I cannot let him or the people of Mondstadt down. I must get to the bottom of this.

Something In The Water - Brooke Fraser

Barbara: My dream is to bring a smile to the faces of all the people in my life! As long as I can help you on your journey, I'm happy.

Soldier, Poet, King (Venti Version) - Erika Harlacher + Joe Zieja

Venti: I cannot hide anymore! My disciples, rejoice! Behold, the God of Anemo, Barbatos, has descended! Shocked, aren't you? How does it feel to finally meet the god you've been serving?

Partners In Crime - Set If Off feat. Ash Costello

Venti: Looks like borrowing it is not going to be possible. We're simply going to have to steal it.

Burn Out - Imagine Dragons

Diluc: Listen, as long as you stick to your own path, it doesn't matter what Mother Nature throws at you.

Stronger - Sam Feldt feat. Kesha

Noelle: All in a day's work for a maid of Favonius! If I want to become a knight, I need to take all aspects of training seriously.

Ninja Re Bang Bang (Steve Aoki remix) - Kyary Pamyu Pamyu

Klee: Dear Anemo God, please make Klee's bombs blow in the right direction and only blow up bad guys. The end.

People I Don't Like - UPSAHL

Diona: Dawn Winery is the heart of it all. They have no boundaries when it comes to selling alcohol. Their one and only goal is to make sure that people keep drinking, and that their own pockets get filled with Mora. Not only is it a crime, but it's also a scam! No good can come from alcohol!

Everybody Wants To Rule The World - Lorde

Cryo Abyss Mage: The time has come for the dragon to serve its true master... while you bewail your pathetic selves and watch the world tremble with fear!

Let It Go (Frozen soundtrack) - Idina Menzel

Eula: We're not so different, you and I. We're both outsiders in Mondstadt. Difference is, Mondstadt welcomes you with open arms, but they treat me with hostility and suspicion.

Clocks - Coldplay

Albedo: Those born of earth are bound by its imperfections, but those born of chalk are free of impurities. You and I are alike, both composed of a substance that has yet to be fully defined. If one day, I lose control... destroy Mondstadt... destroy everything... can I rely on you to stop me?

The Lazy Song - Bruno Mars

Lisa: Today's no good for going out... hmmm... Did I say that yesterday as well?

Oh What A World - Kacey Musgraves

Sucrose: The essence of research is the process of finding the answer. Sometimes, working through that process can be tedious, but every time I see the cumulative result of my efforts... I know that I'm doing what I love.

Storm Song - Phildel

Dvalin: Just now... Why... Why did you not ask me to protect you like the last time?

Venti: Me not wanting you to listen to the Abyss Order doesn't mean that you have to listen to me. Freedom, if demanded of you by an archon, is really no freedom at all.

Howl - Jake Houlsby

Razor: When I run with you, when I hunt with you, I am happy. With you, I am not a wolf, I am not a boy, I am just me. I am Razor. Because you are my friend. You are my Lupical.

Goodnight Moon - Shivaree

Rosaria: Pray. Not for the gods, nor the betterment of others... but for yourself.

My Strange Addiction - Billie Eilish

Signora: So. This is a Gnosis? Wouldn't be caught dead wearing this ugly thing in public.

How To Disappear Completely - Ane Brun

Fischl has but one identity: she's the Prinzessin. As long as she remembers this simple and perfect logic, with a little bit of nobility and a touch of kindness from others, nothing can ever hurt her.

Astronomy - Conan Gray

Mona: The golden rule all fortune tellers abide by is: never offer advice. Only state the results of the divination. Otherwise, you risk your fate becoming tangled up with that of your subject. But for you, I will make an exception, because our fates have been intertwined from the beginning.

Safe and Sound - Capital Cities

Bennett: Getting recognized by the gods was the last thing I expected, seeing as how I'm so unlucky all the time. But if the gods haven't given up on me, I guess that means I shouldn't give up on me either.

Invasion - Eisley

Kaeya: The situation is this: The Abyss Order... they are united under a single leader... They call him "The Prince."

Hey Brother - Olivia Penalva

Venti: Traveler, if you seek the rest of The Seven, many difficulties lie ahead of you still. The destination is not everything. So before you reach the end, keep your eyes open.

[leamy-world]

Reaction to The Devil Judge (spoilers for ep. 11-12)

Hello everyone! I hope you’re doing well this week!

Here we go! Again i’m really sorry for the english & my personal interpretations which might go a little bit overboard (❁´ω`❁)

THIS GOT VERYYYYYYYYYY LONG PLEASE BEAR WITH ME!!!!

tldr: i am in shambles haha

Have a nice week and take care! ♥

- Huckleberryfinn’s new OST, The Nights, was released this saturday and it’s truly a gem! The guitar/bass’s place in BOTH OSTs they composed is awesome. The lyrics destroyed me haha (i’ll shortly talk about it below!). The soundtrack during these two episodes was awesome btw ;;

- Sun-Ah’s visit to the mansion felt nostalgic and shattering at the same time, she sees she doesn’t belong in this house but still indulges a little in this illusion, « wanting to fall for his trick even just for a little while ». Her expression made me feel for her for a little while too ;; 

This shot above is funny because the bokeh effect (✨ the little sparkles ✨) is used in the background every time but this time it plays in front of Sun-Ah’s view: she sees in Yohan and his mansion a « shining » thing she desired for a long time. The bokeh here served also as a transition to the flashback right after.

Well, it could just be the streetlights’ reflections on the car and me reaching but there are so many symbolic visual shots in this show already i just couldn’t dismiss it in my brain haha

I liked Sun-Ah’s depiction of her choice to go against Yohan: she drops the necklace (symbolizing Yohan, this scene followed by Yohan’s cross-like scar) and not herself, like she did in the past for/because of Yohan when she was a maid + Yohan’s reflection disappears, Sun-Ah only focusing on herself: the ‘us’ she wanted for some time disappeared. And this event makes Sun-Ah’s rage on K more upsetting than it already is, but maybe i’m reaching haha

This scene also shows Yohan and Sun-Ah want two different directions to their relationship: to use her and to have him reach the top by her side respectively. They both look at the mirror, but their focus is different and they’re set in different plans on the shots.

In My Mister, (SPOILERS) the wife has a serious affair with her husband’s superior, but throughout the drama, they have divergent opinions on their affair’s developments: the wife wanted to leave her husband and settle with her lover, while the latter didn’t think any of it and, among other plot reasons, only wanted her because married women are the ‘safest choice (ending the relationship while she still loves him would be more troublesome) and always kept the affair secret’. 

This was particularly symbolized by their song preferences, but also by this shot in the beginning of the series: after the wife shared her hopes about their relationship (and her lover staying most of the time silent), they both look to the distance (their affair’s metaphorical future) but their eyes almost never look in the same direction.

- « I did it because i need you (by my side?) », Sun-Ah and Gaon’s parallels:

"[To Gaon on ep. 8] I wanted you to be by my side.”

“[To Gaon on ep. 5] I don’t need you to understand, but you need to make a decision. Will you stand in my way … or stand on my side?”

"[To Gaon] If i needed to, i would’ve done something even worse. Whether it was switching him or something else.”

- When Elijah and Gaon play jenga, Yohan might have let the door to his bedroom open (even after leaving them the first time) to continue hearing them have fun in the living room. It parallels to the scene in ep. 5 where he watches them play in the garden with Kkomi through the little gap of his curtains: what piques his curiosity first is the playful conversation he hears from his bed even from the closed windows. The flashback explains it all and i’m glad Gaon insisted to have him play with them despite the front he tried to put on, Elijah’s and Yohan’s expressions in this scene ended me ;;

Look how quick he turned his attention to Gaon, as if he waited for something to happen, to get to play with them!! His eyes lit up in an instant i can’t with this —

I loved how Yohan delayed his defeat to Elijah by asking Gaon questions about the game hahah

Elijah and Yohan’s relationship growth here reminds me of 2 parallels i didn’t catch the first time (but the desperation i felt when Gaon left because everything could grow cold again between Elijah and Yohan):

“That’s everything i think about”:

Elijah getting in & out of the car (ep. 6-9):

- And Gaon’s « Once everything is over, i’ll definitely … » — you’ll definitely what, please tell the audienceeeeeeee ;;;; this screams a death flag for Soohyun (or was it just foreshadowing their confrontation in ep. 12? idek anymore haha), but let’s hope it’s not!!

- After CKH’s suicide: we can’t expect people to make perfect choices every time they are challenged, and i think this story shows it well: Soohyun when she was with Elijah, and now Gaon carelessly touching the minister’s body for the files. As judges, they could have searched the body and the room using a fabric to hide their presence. But they’re both shocked: Yohan looks dumbfounded, standing and watching (even though he’s quicker to react when he sees Soohyun and he puts on a composure at the house saying it was ‘nothing’, he looked very sour when Sun-Ah called him to rejoice in her death) and Gaon panic-stricken. The fact he might have relived his parents’ suicide when he discovered the Minister’s body … And in the worst way possible (in a daze, searching her dead body for her files and realizing he didn’t give the body minimum respect) … oof

At least Yohan could have thought about it since the story shows how prepared he is in his plans, but this scene shows even him is at a loss at what to do. After all, the minister was the way he targeted to bring everyone linked to the foundation down. They were so close, i think he was too convinced her « self-pity » would mean her survival despite everything (« Do you have any other options? ») to see what was coming. After all, when they last met, he saw she was about to shoot him. 

Sun-Ah was the only one he thought was ‘unpredictable’. When Gaon talked to CKH, he let him speak and approved his speech, surely thinking everything went along his plans and the minister would surrender. And i think that’s also why he gives Gaon all this speech, to reassure himself and them, since they work now as a team. 

- Ep. 9 foreshadowing ep. 11 and 12 (Soohyun facing Yohan and Gaon). It’s interesting how the two shots from ep. 9 seem to put on the same plan the three characters, as if Yohan is literally standing between Soohyun and Gaon, as if he was the one protecting/separating him from Soohyun. This is very telling of the whole dynamic between those three.

- When the minister said she didn’t want to clear her name regarding her son in the live but still does so anyway, this is pure preterition haha! It’s also why she reminds the public opinion the first case Yohan handled!

- Cha Kyung Hee’s demise (ep. 11-4 parallels):

(+ a cinematographic reference to the 2000 movie Malèna, which was recently used in Hwasa’s MV for the song Maria)

- The scene right after where Soohyun wipes Gaon’s involvement to the suicide was moving in regards to her character, we get to see how torn she is by this situation + when she faces off Yohan in the parking (and the ‘let go’ could also have referred to Gaon) … i felt bad for her!

- About Soohyun & the professor: I find interesting the way the professor and Soohyun shelter Gaon’s existence was clearly shown with these two episodes and through their rage. At the beginning of the drama, their hold on his life’s values and choices was almost impalpable but not anymore, now that they’re facing Yohan’s threat.

In these shots, Soohyun looks like she is covering Gaon’s ear, turning him away and protecting him from outside (from the pain, Yohan, the rest of the world).

And on professor Min’s part, it’s almost infantilizing, de-responsibilizing Gaon to say the least (« What are you making Gaon do? That child has been through so much. He suffered and struggled through the worst to get there. »), given he’s the one who planted him on the court’s bench to find what’s happening behind the scene: he could have asked Gaon for explanations (as Yohan underlined, « Did you hear it from Gaon himself? ») but he just snaps at him. He should have foreseen that he could’ve taken Yohan’s side. 

For his defense, his family just got targeted but still, it’s the first time Gaon came back since then!

(By the way, that whole conversation with professor Min confirmed to Yohan Gaon didn’t admit to their plan to Soohyun nor the professor)

As for Soohyun, her deep concern for Gaon makes her antagonize Yohan and, in her POV, it’s pretty understandable: her friend got locked up in this judge’s house for days with no phone or permission to go out + said judge seems to not let her niece go out with her new friends, got violent against Gaon + he seems to be plotting something behind the trials he biased + Gaon’s description of the man in the first episodes wasn’t that nice but DESPITE IT ALL her friend still seems to be empathizing with him? 

She’s maybe thinking he got manipulated by Yohan given the evil picture he depicted her & must feel helpless in front of Gaon’s sudden change of heart. I think that’s what she wanted to ask him when she got cut by the professor’s arrival. The lack of honest conversation between them is what’s making it worse: on one hand, Gaon goes to her every time he feels sad or confused to get comfort & advice without telling what truly is going on (or eventually telling her when she insists), on the other hand, Soohyun always tells him to give up his investigation on Yohan and never asks him his point of view to understand the situation. 

And she discovered he lied about him not being involved with this man in the worst way possible, finding him by CKH’s body with Yohan. He was her reason to dedicate her life to protect people under the law (he does not owe her anything in no way, but it was her wish), and she ended up dirtying her hands for him. Her gut reaction to her moral principles being violated by both Gaon and her right now is stronger than wanting to hear the truth from Gaon. She continues to investigate Yohan on her own, to protect him. It was interesting to see this sententious side when she confronted Gaon after all this! The only time Soohyun saw him cry and didn’t support him, it hits hard ;;

But i believe the whole crisis that’s happening by the end of ep. 12 will make them team up again at least for a while. And on that note, will she meet Sun-Ah? It would be interesting!

I’m glad the professor raised as a concern on the live trials the due process & fair trial, which are essential for the rule of law to prosper.   

In fact, the live trials slowly become a place of majoritarianism/ochlocracy/mob rule as the cases progress (the two best examples being the actor and Juk Chang cases), the protests against professor Min are another example. Even if Yohan has the last word on the defendant’s sentence, this issue is still there. 

Maybe the viewers’ voice will turn against Yohan one day?

- The minister … Even though the story showed us how cruel her family could be, i can’t help but feel sympathy for her son with her suicide. And that is accentuated by the fact her family’s grief is not even showed, covered by the mediatic chaos. She could have fled the country as her son suggested, but she thought she was « nothing » without her accomplishments and her path to glory. As the former president of the foundation killed by Sun-Ah’s hands, she died in her office as the Minister of Justice, while her image wasn’t torn to shreds yet. The photograph she held showed her at the center and, ironically, it’s the only figure from the photo who is clear-cut, her husband and her son are out of focus (or it could just be the episode’s image quality misleading me haha). Even though she loved them (well, at least in her manner, which was kind of narcissistic tbh), she cared too much for her success and her death was her act of self-pity.   

- This isn’t the first time Gaon was warned about Yohan and i find it interesting it’s the people closest to him that say that, especially K despite (or precisely because?) his loyalty to him. Elijah also warned him before.

- The whole argument … It’s a progression of ep. 5 & 8 scenes (’will you stand in my way or stand on my side?’ & ‘i wanted you by my side and if i needed to, i would’ve done something worse’). You can tell how desperate Yohan was when he reached out to Gaon. His gaze faltered, showing his hesitation to do it, but as the realization he was going to lose him dawned on him, this touch became a necessity in front of the exigency, making up for everything he couldn’t say out loud. It was a sad & hurtful mess. Yohan truly looked short on ‘arguments’ after Gaon’s question (‘what kind of monster am i turning into?’), he seemed to not even know what to say to make him stay, making him pause before talking about Soohyun. 

The way his eyes lit up, almost smiling, full of hope, when he finished laying his ultimatum and how he regained a composed expression, thinking Gaon would take his side maybe?

I didn’t catch it on the first time, but Gaon’s sadness to end/put a hold on their collaboration (thus their whole relationship, stepping out of his life) transpired through him weakly rejecting Yohan’s hand with his own hand sliding down the latter's arm, as if he was unwilling to let this life with the Kangs go. You can see it’s hard on him to leave with the tears in his eyes. 

I think Gaon’s response outran his thoughts, as a quick riposte, it was to make Yohan stop this. The way things went (well, it escalated QUICKLY), hurting him like that was the only effective way, and he knows it will hurt him: before saying Soohyun is his world, he tears up because of that (in addition to everything Yohan said and it was A LOT), and didn’t even have the strength/will to get angry like all the previous times: 

the fact Yohan laid this very ultimatum and wanted to persuade/manipulate him into thinking this was the only choice. Even if he knew Yohan would be capable of doing this since ep. 7-8 (”To achieve his goal, would he not use another man’s pain? If the devil really did exist among us.”), he got a confirmation and it still hurts.

+ the fact he knows he has to hurt him with something as much as hurtful before he takes it too far.

+ the fact he knows he can’t live in this house any longer because of this argument when he made all these memories with them.

And (let’s hope for it) if Gaon wants to show Yohan there’s another way out of this ultimatum, Gaon’s « Soohyun is my world » might be a counter ultimatum (‘to stay by your side, you’ll have to deal with my world because there must be another way, there is no question, or else you’ll have to deal on your own’). He’s still not said anything to Soohyun (well, he didn’t have the opportunity to anyway but even during their confrontation, when she asked for details, he said nothing) nor the professor, so maybe that’s it?

- « Of course it doesn’t matter to me, but … » ELIJAH NOOOOOOOO ;;;;;;;;; After Yohan, Elijah tries in her way to hold Gaon back — and she makes a valid point tbh (look at what happened by the end of the episode!), but seeing her putting all her efforts and realizing it’s failing is heartbreaking … Given the preview for ep. 13, please let me hope this conversation won’t be their last one!! 

- Utter devastation when the next scenes show how Gaon still shines even in his absence: the « You never apologize » + the scene with the nanny & Gaon’s last prepared meal + Gaon’s portrait by Elijah … ugh 

- Elijah’s painting game is too strong, can’t relate haha! I wish they could show the BTS for this painting, respect for the artist behind!!

- On metaphorical images, Gaon took care of the Kangs like he tended to his plants at home. On a regular basis, he provided them attention and care, making them lively as his plants got lush. On ep. 8, we got a shot of Elijah smiling at Gaon’s plants, sort of a confirmation she loved how their house became warmer since Gaon’s stay, which led her to open up to his uncle.

- Now they’re only four! It looks like the mafia game haha, i look forward (am i though?) to the day Sun-Ah sits by herself haha 

AND THIS MAN

This is true pig behavior, especially considering Sun-Ah’s past … I felt her reaction when he said all this bs to demean her, she had all her struggles with men thrown back to her face, soiled by these « jokes ». 

- The monsters, the abyss and Nietzsche:

« He who fights with monsters should be careful lest he thereby become a monster. And if thou gaze long into an abyss, the abyss will also gaze into thee. », Nietzsche

- « I don’t care if humanity falls, as long as i have you two ». It was what he wouldn’t say to Gaon nor Elijah, and yet they’re his world! This sequence parallels Gaon’s inner wish when he leaves the Kang’s house + the flashbacks of his fond memories with the Kangs. Will Yohan give his vigilante ideals up for them? Will Gaon pursue this dream but in his own way that won’t threaten their « worlds »?

(Now we know what his whole world meant)

- The light from the chandelier (ie. their newfound family) is out of Yohan’s (metaphorical) reach, shown by its blurred silhouette, as if it’s gone from the room which regained its initial colder tones. But it’s not: once it’s made its way in the room, it remains and lingers, as a keepsake of the lost warmth. His fond memories with Gaon and Elijah flashed back through the window’s light.

On a similar note, Gaon’s room, albeit having warmer tones than the Kang’s ones since the beginning, looks dark too. The contrast with earlier episodes is clear. This reminds me of My Mister’s (SPOILERS) full shots of Lee Ji An’s room, getting warmer as she gets to know Park Dong Hoon, and losing all its fond colors when she has to leave for his sake. As if the room and inanimate objects were given life by their owner, imbuing them with their feelings. It becomes an outer expression of their feelings. Sorry for the rambling but i just love when they do that in fiction, and i think it sometimes leaves more impact to the viewers if emotions are conveyed through various angles (eg. through another character’s point of view, sounds, looks, the use of light i mentioned below, etc) ! 

- I wonder … since the flashbacks are giving us Gaon’s conscious point of view on this separation, was he awake when Yohan came back from his (forced) encounter with Sun-Ah? It’s a really minor point but it could be an interesting detail since this show always shows us there are some sides or spots to the stories we didn’t have yet! 

The jenga scene also flashed back but this time we see Gaon’s POV seeing Yohan’s smile & we got Gaon’s angle when Yohan had a nightmare in ep. 5: while from Yohan’s POV, Gaon’s irruption truly felt like an invasion of his intimacy (the quick succession of shots expressing his panic and defensive reaction), from Gaon’s POV only one angle showed the scene, the tension was conveyed only when Yohan slapped his hand away. 

We also got Yohan’s POV when he admitted to Gaon he needed him by his side (and a closer look at Gaon’s troubled expression)!  

- Ep. 5 and 11-12 parallels: 

Yohan’s tentative look at Gaon and Elijah playing outside, as if he wanted to join them like in ep. 11, the curtains mainly closed and only pushed by one of his hands. It let the daylight in his dark room through this sneak peek. 

But in ep. 12, the curtains are drawn, Yohan taking the (moon)light fully in. And this time, he doesn’t reach out to his late brother in the flames, but to the moonlight. He gets up, as in a trance, from his nightmare like the last time, but he goes to his window instead. And it reminds me of both Huckleberry Finn’s OST’s (in Tempest, « you said i’ll live in the sun / moonlight » and in The Nights, « my / your night shines on you / me »), the suffer is here. And see how the light reveals his tear? I nearly missed it!

The fact he could not find sleep anymore after this night + he slept on his sofa where the moonlight could be seen + has kept his phone right next to him (in case Gaon called him or to know if something happened to him) ➾ 🌝 pure devastation 🌝

- I really love the show’s use of light/dark tones to reveal and contrast its characters’ emotions! What you can’t see in the light gets revealed in the dark, and vice-versa. The OST The Nights touches on this subject as well. 

And it ties up very well to the plot so far: everyone has his or her own motivations and intentions, background, and makes choices, but depending on the perspective, their story changes and sparks off different reactions. Everybody’s story is interconnected. 

As @skylessnights pointed out, one of the books found during the series (when Yohan revealed his past to Gaon if i’m correct), The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy, depicts this angle well in its plot and epigraph: « Never again shall a single story be told as though it were the only one. » - John Berger. 

When Gaon and Yohan go back to the mansion after CKH’s death, the route lights flash Gaon’s hands red, caught (literally) red-handed by Soohyun. He begins to recollect his recent memories of what just happened, and panics, short-winded, until Yohan touched his arm. He’s startled but calmed himself down, and we don’t hear him out of breath anymore. It’s interesting how the light’s focus was on Gaon’s hands, the core of his panic, until Yohan’s arm came into the light, as if our and Gaon’s attention went back to Yohan’s touch, his anchor in his panic, and begins to think clear-headed of what they had done. (btw, getting Phoenix Wright desperate vibes from Gaon’s pose haha)

Gaon’s emotions show when his phone lights up, trying to reach Soohyun again. 

When Yohan’s inner wish brings him back to their happy times, the end of the flashback shows a shot of his eyes dazzled by the light of these memories and back to the present, the light now gone out from his eyes.

Yohan’s reaction to Gaon’s cry in the prison yard in ep. 7: what i loved to see was how his restraint told more about the emotions he held back. The light shifting on his face revealed his jaw clenching & frowned brows, his glassy eyes and him averting his gaze, which he often does when he’s in front of sensitive topics and it’s too much.

+ other instances he looked away:

When Jinjoo decides to accept the foundation’s offer, she steps into the dark side of the room where the two chairmen are. Up till now, she stood where the light could reach her, away from them. It symbolically seals her involvement with the foundation, and by the end of ep. 12, it is confirmed by her message on behalf of the foundation (about the plague) displayed on the screens. By the way, i love the fact so much things unfold while we focus on Yohan and Gaon’s story!

On the subject of ‘subjective’ truths, examples, besides the flashback with the priest about Yohan in ep. 11, could be the truth behind the cancellation of the donation by Yohan or Sun-Ah’s fall from the window when she was a maid. We got Sun-Ah, Elijah, and then later Yohan’s point of view.

- I think Gaon tried to call Soohyun and not Yohan (though the subs say otherwise) because the contact above has the ‘thug’ nickname with the fist emoji! It made more sense, Yohan would’ve answered right away! But i believe he will have regrets/worries in the next episodes (Yohan and Elijah seem to be getting in real danger so maybe he’ll come back to save them).

- Metatextuality in The Devil Judge — Beauty and the Beast (written by Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont & Disney’s 1991 animation movie)

I’ve always loved transtextual relationships between fictions, my french teacher in middle school gave us this passion haha! Ever since i read this interview translated by @deviljudge​, it’s true i’m getting more and more Beauty and the Beast vibes, especially from ep. 12’s argument (and the whole premise Belle got locked up in the mansion in the beginning)! The original fairy tale and Disney’s adaptation are both relevant, some plot points differ from one another (Belle’s sisters vs Gaston, the mansion personnel turned into living paraphernalia) even though the core of the fairy tale is left untouched but for the sake of this bit, i’ll use the 1991 movie because its inevitably longer format delves more into the fairy tale moral lesson.

(Cheesy time incoming haha) The beast lets Belle go see her father he knew she deeply cared about, and let her go because he realized he loved her. He thought she would never come back, but despite it all, she came back and saved him from Gaston. Belle (Gaon) broke the spell that was casted on the mansion (the Kangs and their loneliness, especially when Yohan said he’s tired of this house). Yohan fails at not hurting the people he cares about but learns step by step, by Gaon and Elijah's side, how to live again and reconnect with his ‘human’ side.

Even the secretary looks like the modern version of the whole cast in the Beast’s mansion (Cogsworth, Lumière, …) haha

The movie intro is self-explanatory: 

« Although he had everything his heart desired, the prince was spoiled, selfish and unkind. But then, one winter’s night, an old beggar woman came to the castle and offered him a single rose in return for shelter from the bitter cold. Repulsed by her haggard appearance, the prince sneered at the gift and turned the old woman away. But she warned him not to be deceived by appearances, for beauty is found within. And when he dismissed her again, the old woman’s ugliness melted away to reveal a beautiful enchantress. The prince tried to apologize, but it was too late, for she had seen that there was no love in his heart. And as punishment, she transformed him into a hideous beast and placed a powerful spell on the castle and all who lived there. Ashamed of his monstrous form, the Beast concealed himself inside his castle with a magic mirror as his only window to the outside world. The rose she had offered was truly an enchanted rose, which would bloom until his 21st year. If he could learn to love another, and earn her love in return by the time the last petal fell, then the spell would be broken. If not, he would be doomed to remain a beast for all time. As the years passed, he fell into despair and lost all hope, for who could ever learn to love a beast? »

Belle’s characterization in the movie is also interesting:

« With a dreamy, far-off look and her nose stuck in her book what a puzzle to the rest of us is Belle ». 

« There must be more than this provincial life (…) I want adventure in the great wide somewhere — I want it more than i can tell — And for once it might be grand to have someone understand — I want so much more than they’ve got planned » 

& when Belle got locked up in the mansion: « I’ve lost my father, my dreams, everything. » (similar to “Soohyun is my world”).

Gaon, since his parents’ death, lived his life believing in the illusion of justice the system gave him, along with Soohyun and professor Min, his two pillars who kept him steady this whole time. Once he was showed it was an illusion, he wanted to fight this world.

Before the movie’s climax, this conversation reminded me of ep. 12’s argument:

« - Belle? Are you happy here with me?

- Yes. [looks to the distance]

- What is it?

- If only i could see my father again just for a moment. I miss him so much.

- There is a way. This mirror will show you anything. Anything you wish to see.

- I’d like to see my father, please. [The mirror projects the image of his father in danger and sick] Papa. Oh no. He’s sick. He may be dying and he’s all alone.

- [Glances at the wilting rose] Then you must go to him. 

- What did you say?

- I release you. You’re no longer my prisoner.

- You mean i’m free?

- Yes.

- Oh, thank you. Hold on Papa, i’m on my way.

- Take [the mirror] with you, so you’ll always have a way to look back and remember me.

- Thank you for understanding how much he needs me.

(…)

- I let her go. 

- [Cogsworth] Yes, splen … You what? How could you do that?

- I had to.

- Yes but … Why?

- Because i love her. »

Yohan did nothing to hold Gaon back even if he needs him (as shown when he clutches his hands together after he left) because he was forced by Gaon to understand how precious Soohyun is to him, this point was already made multiple times in the series (when Gaon thought he was the one who pushed Soohyun in the stairs and already threatened him about it, when Gaon told him he couldn’t live as a conman in front of Soohyun and his parents). Since his ‘to have you by my side, i would have done worse if it was necessary’ + ‘this is a life or death situation, sacrifices are also necessary’, he seemed to think Soohyun was expendable in his own world, which he shared with Gaon. With this argument, his world looks definitely incompatible with the one Gaon described (« Soohyun is my world »), and even though they already went this far in their plan, he lets him go and respects his choice. Will it make him change for the better or for the worse? Will the whole ‘absence makes the heart grow fonder’ apply to him?

Other moments i found interesting to note:

« Come into the light »:

When Belle goes to save the Beast from the village:

« - Please, i know he looks vicious, but he’s really kind and gentle. He’s my friend. - - [Gaston] If i didn’t know better, I’d think you had feelings for this monster. - - He’s no monster, Gaston. You are! - - If you’re not with us, you’re against us. » (pretty similar to the professor’s rage in the hospital)

When Belle’s father goes to save her: « I don’t care what it takes. I’ll find that castle and somehow, i … I’ll get her out of there. » (when Soohyun talks about and to Yohan)

The Beast possessive behavior in the beginning of the story: « [To her father] She’s no longer your concern, take him to the village. » (similar to Yohan’s behavior towards Soohyun) & « [To Belle] The castle is your home now » (and towards Gaon)

A monster:

When the Beast observes Belle playing from afar:

- And i saw some Jane Eyre vibes (SPOILERS) from the whole fire haha + Wuthering Heights on Sun-Ah’s & Yohan’s mixed parts!

- And well … Sun-Ah’s character loosely reminds me of Simone in Nier Automata (which in itself is a reference to Simone de Beauvoir’s life and works), with the whole « I must become more beautiful / But he still won’t look my way », to whoever knows this game! 

- These thigh boots holy hell Sun-Ah!!!! i loved this outfit!

- As soon as he said he didn’t feel anything from his revenge, K got the biggest death flag in this episode, i can’t believe they did this to the poor boy … When i asked for more scenes THIS isn’t what i meant aaaaaaaaaa

- A very random and weird note: Yohan’s almost silent and held back pain by the end of the ep. 12 fits his character so far, as well as his ‘calm’ tears. Given his past, it’s as if he’s always kept his pain bottled up and quietly bears it all and almost never got the space to properly let it all out (he had his brother, but with their father, i think they didn’t have this ‘chance’).

- My sick mind thought Sun-Ah was going to bring Gaon to the scene just in time for him to witness Yohan getting shot, but i guess it will be when she will get in the Kang’s mansion again according to the preview (since she asked Juk Chang for a « favor », i think they’ll knock Gaon out  after beating him up for his own fun to leave him to Sun-Ah). Sun-Ah looked surprised when Jae-Hee shot him, so i guess only hurting K was part of the plan.

- The ‘I know i’m fucked’ look hahaha

+ the softer version:

- I now have BIG trust issues since these last episodes’ previews, and the cliffhangers kill me haha 

- On another note, i find it amazing how Ji Sung and Kim Min Jung keep that upsetting atmosphere whenever there’s a scene between them that involves them and skinship, but it still conveys Sun-Ah’s complex feelings for Yohan and Yohan’s interest in her! The soundtrack really does a good job to convey that mood as well!

- In conclusion: How Dramatic do you want these two episodes to be? The devil judge: Yes

[recentanimenews]

Yen Press Announces New Manga and Light Novels for November 2021

North American publisher Yen Press has big plans for later this year, with nine new releases revealed for November (and one for October). Among the latest licenses are six manga—including Puella Magi Madoka Magica: Wraith Arc—and four light novels, so dig into the details below.

  MANGA

  The Hero Laughs While Walking the Path of Vengeance a Second Time Story by Kizuka Nero Art by Yamo Yomoya (This one is listed for October)

    Kaito has been summoned into another world as a hero, and though all goes well for a time, one day, his entire party betrays and mercilessly kills him. So when he suddenly gets a chance to redo his life, starting from the point he was first summoned to this world, he swears to exact vengeance on everyone who stabbed him in the back...

  The Hero Laughs While Walking the Path of Vengeance a Second Time is a dark isekai tale based on a Yen On light novel scheduled for an October 2021 release. Fans of dark fantasy manga are sure to enjoy this upcoming release that does an amazing job adapting the highly-anticipated light novel.

  Let This Grieving Soul Retire  Story by Tsukikage Art by Rai Hebino Character Designs by Chiko  

  This man—is he an extraordinary hero or an ordinary person?

  "What I'm seeking is to be the world's one and only strongest hero."

  Cry had made an oath together with his childhood friends to become the strongest hero, but he realized right after that he has no talent.

  Nevertheless, for some reason, the expectations of those around him keep rising rapidly every day. And (at least according to Cry), things will always head in an outrageous direction!?

  Let This Grieving Soul Retire is a manga adaptation of the fantasy light novel series by Tsukikage, the creator of Defeating the Demon Lord’s a Cinch (If You’ve Got a Ringer) and The King of the Dead at the Dark Palace by Yen On. This comedic adventure about a reluctant hero appeals to fans of the recently released Hazure Skill: The Guild Member with a Worthless Skill Is Actually a Legendary Assassin.

  Namaiki Zakari

Story and art by Miyuki Mitsubachi

    Basketball club manager Yuki has a secret—she’s in love with the team captain! But when Naruse, her cheeky kouhai, discovers her big secret, she’s in a tight spot! Just how long is he going to keep teasing her about it!? Stupid pretty playboy…

  Namaiki Zakari is a gorgeous romantic comedy shojo filled with charming boys and love triangles. With a story filled with adorable romance and school-life elements, much of which revolves around the events of the characters’ basketball team, Namaiki Zakari will surely be shojo fans’ next favorite series!

  I’ve Been an Omega Since Today

Story & Art by Maiki Sachi

    It all starts with your typical childhood friend love story—average Kanade pining after his dandy best friend, Munechika. There’s just one big problem with their high school romance—Kanade’s a Beta and Munechika’s an Alpha! And everyone knows that Alpha/Beta pairing just aren’t compatible…on a physical level. But when Kanade goes into heat as an Omega for the first time, will Munechika be there to give him a helping hand?

  Fans of boys love rejoice! Following hot new releases, such as Sasaki and Miyano and I Cannot Reach You, Yen Press is releasing I’ve Been an Omega Since Today. This standalone title is filled with beautiful artwork and omegaverse elements—truly irresistible to the growing boys love fanbase!

  The Splendid Work of a Monster Maid

Story and Art by Yugata Tanabe

    Sumire, a “nekomata” phantom, has lost her beloved master. After wandering alone, she stumbles into…a foreign demon world!? Now Sumire serves under the president of a company, alongside an undead named Rose and an android named Ivy. In order to get back that “certain someone,” Sumire’s splendid work begins!

  The Splendid Work of a Monster Maid is a fantasy slice-of-life manga surrounding the events of maids in the demon world. With art and story that are both beautiful and very unique, this series is reminiscent of the likes of Black Butler and Kaori Mori’s Emma.

  Puella Magi Madoka Magica: Wraith Arc

Story by Magica Quartet

Art by Hanokage

    All the witches in the universe, past and future, may have disappeared, but in their place, emotion-eating “wraiths” prey on humanity. The magical girls fight to protect Mitakihara City once more…

  Puella Magi Madoka Magica: Wraith Arc is a spin-off of the iconic manga and anime property, one which takes place between the events of Puella Magi Madoka Magica and Puella Magi Madoka Magica the Movie: Rebellion, with much of the story told through the perspective of fan-favorite Homura Akemi. This series debut follows the recent omnibus release of Puella Magi Madoka Magica and Puella Magi Madoka Magica: The Different Story.

  LIGHT NOVELS

  Magical☆Explorer

Story by Iris

Illustrations by Noboru Kannataki

    Reincarnated as a character in the legendary eroge title “Magical☆Explorer,” our hero ends up as an unlucky side-character instead of the game’s lady-killer protagonist. Not to worry, though! Armed with his deep knowledge of the game (not to mention a few cheat codes), he’ll do whatever it takes to win the hearts of the game’s heroines and emerge as the most accomplished student at the Sorcerer's Academy. 

  Magical☆Explorer is an isekai light novel series that involves a protagonist using his expertise of visual novels to dominate the world when reincarnated within the game. Fantasy isekai and romantic comedies are among the most popular genres in the world of light novels, making Magical☆Explorer a series that will appeal to a wide range of readers.

  Cross-Dressing Villainess Cecilia Sylvie

Story by Hiroro Akizakura

Illustrations by Dangmill

    Reincarnated as a villainess in an Otome game, Cecilia realizes that as the heroine’s rival, she’ll die no matter what route she takes. Convinced that she can avoid her death flag by becoming a man, she crossdresses and takes on a new identity. In the process, however, she ends up replacing her brother-in-law as the knight charged with protecting the heroine! Now the prince who should be condemning her to death wants to hang around her all the time...?! Cecilia will do whatever it takes to achieve a peaceful and carefree life, but if her guise ever slips, it’s Game Over! 

  Cross-Dressing Villainess Cecilia Sylvie takes the isekai concept of being reincarnated in the world of an otome game and turns it on its head! In order to save her life, our protagonist masquerades as a man—a choice which leads to a whole lot of chaos in this fun-filled light novel series!

  The Girl I Saved on the Train Turned Out to Be My Childhood Friend

Story by Kennoji

Illustration by Fly

    While on his way to school one morning, high school second-year Takamori Ryo saves his childhood friend Fushimi Hina from a sexual harasser on a crowded train. Although the two are practically opposites in appearance and popularity, not to mention the fact they haven't spoken since middle school, Hina finds herself smitten with the oblivious Ryo. A frustratingly sweet, zero-stress romantic comedy!

  The Girl I Saved on the Train Turned Out to Be My Childhood Friend is a sweet slice-of-life light novel that tells the story of love interests who reconnect in high school after years of separation from their middle school days. This rising star in the light novel world is written by Kennoji, the author of Hazure Skill: The Guild Member with a Worthless Skill Is Actually a Legendary Assassin, and illustrated by Fly, the artist of Bottom-tier Character Tomozaki.

  Rust-Eater Bisco

Story by Shinji Cobkubo

Illustrations by K Akagashi and mocha

    In the far future, a disaster known as the “Rusty Wind” has transformed the majority of Japan into a barren desert and left civilization in tatters. After his teacher falls prey to the rust, the roguish Bisco Akahoshi embarks on journey through the sandy wastes to obtain a mushroom known only as the Rust Eater, rumored to cure the ailment. Together with the dashing young doctor Milo, the pair will have to contend with the unforgiving environment and their fellow wanderers in order to make it back alive.

  Rust-Eater Bisco is a compelling, post-apocalyptic light novel series with excellent world building complemented by amazing illustrations. An anime adaptation of this award-winning series was recently announced for future release.

  Source: Press release

    -------

Joseph Luster is the Games and Web editor at Otaku USA Magazine. You can read his comics at subhumanzoids. Follow him on Twitter @Moldilox.

By: Joseph Luster

[morganas-destiny]

(This turned out longer than intended lmao, I was just gonna write a little and then it turned into this long ass rant but anyway)

I had this idea,,, what if the balance of the world had taken a different life in exchange for Arthur's birth? Someone who was also of great importance to Uther so he still develops his intense hatred of magic but,,, Ygraine survives. And she can't understand him because magic gave them a son, their beautiful little son and she tries to make him see sense but Uther doesn't want to hear any of it. The Great Purge still happens and she hates every moment of it. But she can't move against Uther so all she can do is teach Arthur better values, to help him see the goodness in it. Arthur grows up, still rather arrogant because he's Arthur, but he's more in touch with his emotions and a lot more gentle since he actually had a loving parental figure growing up. As for Morgana, Ygraine knows. She knows she's Uther's illegitimate daughter. Her husband never told her but she knows. She sees the longing in Uther's eyes when he gazes at her while she's sitting in Gorlois' lap. She sees the affection he shows her and the way his eyes light up when Morgana smiles at him, a look he usually only spares his son in rare moments. She can't help but resent the girl for it. For hogging his attention and affection when Uther already has a child, a legitimate child who wishes for his father's love. But when Gorlois dies and Morgana is brought to the castlegrounds as Uther's ward, Ygraine feels empathy for the little girl, who looks so broken and lost. She accepts that she is part of their life now. A few years pass. Ygraine watches Arthur and Morgana grow up. She appreciates their bond. Enjoys seeing them play together, dance together at feasts, seeing Arthur (if reluctantly) train sword fighting with Morgana (against Uther's explicit wishes) and actually losing against her a few times. She swiftly averts drama when both nervously ask her on seperate occasions if they would be forced to marry in the future. They seem relieved upon hearing that no, you two are going to be more like siblings. Because she definitely doesn't intend for them to try and fall in love, only to discover their blood relation later. She never really got too close to Morgana, because although she accepts her as part of the family, she's still reminded of the betrayal whenever she looks at her. But then one day, she notices the dark circles under the girl's eyes and her sickenly pale face and starts to worry. She questions Morgana's maid Gwen about her state - hearing about the increasingly worse nightmares and the sleeping draughts from Gaius which don't have much effect. She's concerned but doesn't understand the full severity until one night, she takes a stroll through the castle and hears Morgana's screams and finds her crying terribly, alone because Gwen's out of duty. Ygraine's motherly instincts kick in and she just sits down next to her, to hold her. Their relationship gets a lot better and closer after that. More than once, Ygraine would get woken up in the middle of the night by a sobbing Morgana and without hesitation, she'd jump out of bed. She'd take her hand and guide her wherever - sometimes back to her chambers, to stay with her until she calmed down and sometimes out into the castle gardens, enjoying the cool night air. Sometimes she'd hold her because of a particularly bad nightmare and sometimes she'd hold her because Morgana was terrified about the strange feelings she had for her maid and friend Gwen - Ygraine would then explain to her that it was okay, that it wasn't unnatural or wrong to like another girl that way. They'd also bond over other things - they'd giggle about Arthur, roll their eyes at Uther, walk around the market with Gwen. Slowly becoming more and more like mother and daughter.

Of course, Arthur wouldn't be forgotten though. She's still incredibly close to him, he's still her beautiful, golden boy and she never fails to make him feel loved or spare time for him. She never fails to notice when something's wrong. So she knows there's more to it when he bursts into the room one day, complaining about a commoner who had insulted him, even had the nerve to try and fight him. She's barely ever seen him this agitated and she can't help but smile because somehow she just knows her son actually likes this commoner wherever he wants to admit or not (wherever he himself even knows it yet or not). She meets said boy some time later at the feast. Merlin seems like a kind and good young man - and he saved her son, which is reason enough to like him already.

That same evening she has to listen to Arthur's enraged rant because how dare his father make this stupid fool his manservant? However already in the next days she's able to get him to say the words maybe he's not so bad after all. And latest after the events of the Poisoned Chalice, it's obvious that these two would go through hell and back for each other. And she's incredibly happy to see Arthur have that kind of bond to someone. That's why she doesn't say anything to Uther when she sees Merlin use magic. (Because let's be honest, that boy is terrible at hiding his magic, it's a surprise that not half of Camelot knows already). She feels obligated to let Merlin know she knows but also ensures him, she would keep it a secret for him. The good mood doesn't last all too long. Shortly after, Morgana admits fearfully that her nightmares have been coming true and Ygraine suspects the worst. She asks Gaius for help, and, both knowing each other's standpoint, gets the confirmation that they are caused by magic. She's hellbent on making sure Morgana doesn't feel alone, and has someone to talk to. Despite Gaius' protests, Ygraine tells Morgana about her gifts and reassures her that it doesn't have to be a bad thing. Morgana, while relieved about the support, isn't convinced - she doesn't feel safe, knowing Uther's view of magic. What follows are many, many fights between Uther and Ygraine. Whenever he as much as squints his eyes at the word magic, she explodes. She attempts to change his mind but really all it does is raise suspicion. Uther voices this suspicion, asking why she's suddenly so passionate about the topic. He knows she never agreed with the elimination of all magical beings but she's never been this vocal about it. He suspects that she's covering for someone and she'd like nothing more than to scream at him that yes, yes she is but it's not her place to say anything. What's sure is there are two people close to her family have magic and are in constant danger. And she decides she's finally putting an end to it. She changes her tactics. And after many discussions and countless attempts and most importantly, the admittance that she knew about his affair, she convinces Uther to tell Morgana the truth about her heritage and then to pubicly declare her as his own. To give Morgana a sense of security. Ygraine knows, no matter how many fights and arguments they've had in the past, Uther loves Morgana and if anyone could change his heart, it's her. So after some more comforting and encouraging, Morgana comes clean about her magic to Uther. He's obviously shocked and his first instinct is to push her away but Ygraine, at last, after over 20 years of persecution of magic, makes him see that it's about the person, not the power. That sorcery doesn't equal evil. And so, after more than 20 years, magic is legalised again. Arthur and Morgana are able to rejoice in being blood related and neither of them are infested with their father's hate. Merlin is able to come out about his magic and get accepted without being manipulated into making dumb choices by that giant lizard. Morgause wouldn't have a reason to act against the Pendragons anymore so she might just come to Camelot, simply to meet her half sister. All of them would lead happy lives. There'd still be obstacles because Uther is Uther and that won't change so aspects like the Round Table and "anyone can become a knight" would still have to wait until Arthur's king. But the time until that happens would be so much more peaceful. All because of a mother's love.

[haelieana]

TL : Leah

PR : Xeven_

Chapter 2

"Oh my, Luen, this is......"

"You have nice skin, so I enjoyed doing your makeup and the dress looks good on you. The Duke will surely fall in love again."

"The rumor has spread to the lady's on society that the Duke adores you. I envy you."

I don't know if I'm in a good mood, or if you want to make me feel good. Whoosh, I smiled. On the other hand, I was in tears because I couldn't control my facial expression.

As they were in a fuss, I couldn't understand how the Duke treated me like gold or jade, or like I was going to fly when the wind blew.

Pr: She means that the Duke saw her to be a person that should be treated delicately since weak things (like paper) get caught easily on the wind.

"God blessed us, the weather is wonderful today."

"God blessed us, the weather is wonderful today."

The scent of flowers was applied to my body. Thanks to the maid's deft make-up and my figure in a smooth silk dress wrapped around my body were distinctly different from usual. One maid turned her head up for the last time.

"Luen, we're going to leave now."

"You're going to be busy all day today, so take a break."

"If you need anything, feel free to call us."

When the girls, who chatted and filled the empty air, went out, the room became quieter. Like my complicated inner self.

I could have made a fuss looking at myself in the mirror, but I got depressed thinking about the future.

Sfx : *knock 2×*

-I know it's an excuse, but I haven't been able to hold back my curiosity.

He came in like he was waiting for me to be left alone. When I said ‘come’ in a weak voice, the door opened. I wasn't willing to get close to a man I wish I had just watched from afar.

"I’m blessed by the most beautiful bride in the world."

Yes, today was my wedding day. I want to flee to save my life, and I'm also about to be dragged to the wedding hall by the Duke of Piar.

'Oh my life, what can I do?'

In addition, I am now in a situation where I can live for a few years. Just in case he leads a rebellion.

Flop

Something fell off with a small noise. When I turned my head looking out of the window, there was a bouquet of flowers that were white at his feet. I rolled my eyes and walked to the Duke. It was a hideous white color.

"It's the same as usual, but you're even more beautiful today. It was because of you that the daffodils in the garden bowed their heads."

It was dazzling to wear a tailcoat with dizzyingly long, well-drawn legs. As the smile fell on his normally blunt impression, it became as soft as cotton candy that would melt when touched. Looking at the groom who is more handsome than anyone else in the world, I recalled the moment when he asked to marry me.

What the hell happened then.

**********

"You don't have to call the doctors to check....."

I trembled and managed to bring it up. There might still be a chance to escape. Even if it was not a hundred percent, I wanted to see if there was a little possibility.

Even now, I tried to call a doctor to prove that I was a false pregnancy. His attitude was unusual, I need to be kicked out of the dukes faster.

"Hmm? What are you talking about?"

Just as I was out of the Duke's arms, his sweet voice came as if honey were dripping.

"Confirmation. I don't give you that much faith."

"No, I didn't mean it"

"I can't doubt the fruits of our love, my Luen."

It was frustrating for me to see such a cold-headed, calculating man who made a name for himself like a clumsy insipid.

"There's no way you're lying to me."

Seeing him smiling with a harmless face with the theme of the dark duke made my stomach ache. Why would the bad guy feel guilty about me?

He leads the soldiers to the palace without hesitation and faces Yeoju.

-Don't do this. What's wrong with you all of a sudden?

-I'll take you.....

In the end, he wishes for the queen's happiness and chooses to give up on herself. She can't even tell him how she felt. The Duke was captured alive as it was.

'I'm sorry but I want to live.'

I had to stay away from the duke to do that. If I'll Stay with the duke, I'll die with him.

While I was mesmerized for a moment and got my act together, he began to make a formidable statement.

"I'm sorry about what happened. I was going to tell you after a little more preparation."

After letting me go, the Duke stepped back a few steps and seriously looked up at one knee.

Don't tell me.....?

"Luen."

His eyes were somehow moist. It was somehow strange to see water added to the face that exuded sexiness.

But I can't. No! No matter how handsome you are, this isn't right.

"I've been dreaming of this moment since the day I first saw you."

The Duke took a small box out of his arms, perhaps carrying it all the time to carry it. Inside the softly opened box, was a brilliant shining ring.

My heart sank. That sparkle is never for me.

Why are you here if it's me? What are they thinking about doing this to me, not the original Yeoju?

I wondered if the ridiculous situation would continue.

"Luen."

As close as I stepped back, the Duke came. And as soon as my name came out between his lips, all thoughts disappeared. I couldn't even wriggle as if my limbs were tied to what I couldn't see.

I felt strange for some reason. His eyes were so sweet that I felt possessed. I had to get my act together, but I was constantly persuaded by what he said.

"I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Would you please accept my proposal?"

He held out the ring to me. I saw it closely and it was a ring that I knew. A large diamond shone even more through delicate work. In the original novel, the ring was prepared by the Duke of Piar to present with a desperate confession to Yeoju.

"Ha, haha"

I mean, smiling with a weird face.

There was nothing I could do. Every minute and second went too slowly and the confrontation continued.

'Shall I die now, or live a little longer?'

That is the problem.

I tried my best, but there was no answer. I was brought to this world without knowing the subject, so I thought I would adjust to it, but I can't walk on the flowery path, but I can't believe it's a Death Flag. I felt sorry for my situation, so I shed tears without realizing it.

"Luen."

The Duke came darting up and watched me. The maids say it's necrophilia.

I don't know why you keep hugging me when you give me away.

"Are you that thrilled? Don't shed tears."

"........."

"When you cry, I want to cry even more. So smile."

Soon, an eerie word and a ring were pushed in front of me at the same time. I tried to ignore it, but the pressure was getting stronger little by little. Somehow, it felt like a prey standing in front of a snake flicking its tongue just before it hit its prey.

'Let's move on from this moment on.'

Reluctantly, I reached out slowly and accepted the ring. The Duke quickly faced me in a gentle manner. He grinned as hard as he could, saying I was more beautiful than flowers.

'Things finer than flowers are peacocks.'

The game was over because he was caught up in it.

********

"Father, Shall we start?"

I didn't expect the Duke of Piar to make a sick face. He blinked slowly, perhaps because he felt my stare.

"It's something I've been dreaming about. Please excuse me."

Now there was no energy to refute or think what the hell was wrong with him. I gently placed my hand on the Duke's arm. We'll head to the ceremony. If you hold a ceremony in front of many people, you won't be able to skip it. But it wasn't without a way.

I tried to sigh, but suddenly I felt so quiet that I couldn't even hear the sound of breathing. As I looked up, the Duke of Piar's expression was unusual.

'Did you notice the idea of getting divorced and running away?'

I read other people's thoughts so well that I thought I might be a mind reader, I quickly noticed. His hands flinched to come up suddenly and closed his eyes.

".... My bride"

There was a strangely hot heat in his voice. Likewise, the heat from his hand to me. I was standing breathless because of the sudden act of sweeping my hair behind my ears.

"Wha, what."

A long, straight finger touched my ear. His fingertips kept hovering around my ears and it tickled. I couldn't help but open my body slightly and heard a small laugh above my head. It was clearly a different breath from a while ago.

My heart went up and thumped. What if this tension reaches him? I almost drooled and fell over.

"Are you nervous?"

Without hesitation, he came in nodding his head again. My nose was on his chest, which filled my vision. I also wanted to feel his trembling. He took a breath as I clung to him.

Having been holding me for a long time, he kissed me on the top of the head and said.

"Thank you so much for coming to me. I want to raise our children better than anyone else."

Oh, that's not it! But the protest only lingered in me.

Compelled again to look at my stomach, I picked up a word and spat it out.

"It's a lovely day, isn't it?"

"Even heaven rejoices in our union. Shall we go now?"

I was relieved by the duke who accepted my words without much doubt. I put my hand on his arm again.

"Ah!"

He grabbed my careless hand.

"It's against etiquette, but I want to go hand in hand. Will you allow me?"

His hand, one bigger than mine, wraps around mine. The end of my glove didn't come out in the air as if it wasn't to be seen in the world. My heart trembled strangely.

"Yes, it's okay."

I followed him with heavy steps to keep pace. It was also a sign that my relationship with him began in earnest.

*********

"The virtues of the couple cannot be overemphasized......"

Does everyone talk longer when they stand there? A yawn threatened to come out during the sagging officiant's speech, but I held it in. The high heels made my ankle sore and my head felt heavy because of the jeweled veil, but I couldn't show.

"I, Christian Noah, have a good day ahead of me. Lu........"

The person who keeps saying the same thing in front of me is the emperor, the lord of the original work and the ruler of the empire. The position is the end goal of the duke’s rebellion.

'That's the way it works!'

Suddenly, I rolled my eyes hard at the brilliant idea. It was a novel and ingenious idea, I think, as if lightning had flared up.

In the original book, Yeoju was a maid of the Imperial Palace. A princess of the fallen Kingdom of Lauren, she sneaked into the palace for revenge. And soon she got acquainted with the Duke of Piar.

Watching her but also wanting to protect her, somehow, the Duke fell in love with her. Eventually, Yeoju falls in love with the emperor.

'Yeoju must be somewhere.'

At this point, Yeoju would be trying to approach the emperor with a sword for revenge. Of course, he would have come here to officiate with Emperor Napsin.

A little earlier than the original, Yeoju. I had to let her meet the Duke of Piar.

'Then he'll fall in love on his own. That's the flow of the original.'

I was planning to live as a duchess and cheer for the love of the duke and the female lead. After that, it was pleasant to think of the day when I left after finishing my false marriage. It became more refreshing as the emperor's officiant seemed to be coming to an end.

"Lastly, let me ask you if there is anyone who opposes the marriage of these two people God has allowed."

Even I, the person involved, don't approve of marriage, but who allowed it?

'I'm against this marriage.'

I was sarcastic inside.

"I'm against this marriage!"

A roaring voice rang out.

[oddaodd]

Hello I’m the person who requested “I Don't Go In For Sweets” and...just let me begin by saying thank you from the bottom of my heart, thank you for dedicating your time and your energy to write it, it was absolutely perfect and everything I wanted! I sent you this request the day before a huge exam (yes, instead of studying but that’s another story lol) and surprisingly, you posted the fic a day after I got my results and saw that I passed so it felt a bit like some reward and yeah I know you didn’t do it on purpose but still, it was amazing! Now let’s dive into a deeper analysis (I like to do this but it’s quite long, don’t feel forced to read it, no pressure!)

First, the very beginning: Polly and Tommy’s talk and how can I say this? It was so good, so well written I was actually seeing the scene as clearly as if I was watching the last episode of s3, I could actually hear them talk and see them move and it was too good to even feel like reading! I’m also so grateful you had the idea to bring the impact of Tommy’s mother’s death on him because...it’s not something we see a lot in the show but I’ve always been convinced that he had always been very affected by it and he would never want the same for his son.

Now, the wedding day: “The fact that everything about this wedding was so obscenely different from his first did soothe his guilt a bit” this kind of sums up a lot: Tommy compares all of this situation to what he had and rejoices over the fact it’s not as perfect, as beautiful, as great as what he had with Grace because it makes him feel slightly better, he isn’t betraying her as much as if he was enjoying marrying a new woman but then...she arrives and he can’t help it but find her pretty.

You perfectly showed this inner conflict of always having Grace in mind, always reminding himself of her and how better she was, this is not something he’s doing because he enjoys it but because it’s the best solution.

And of course he makes sure his opinion is known, he doesn’t smile back at the the altar, the big wedding kiss he gave to Grace is here, a simple, almost nonexistent brush on the lips, he doesn’t try to get to know his wife, on their way home, he has this revelatory lapsus “I've already asked the maids to take them up to your-our room” because deep down, it’s not his room or their room, it will only be hers because he won’t sleep in it much and he shows it a moment later when he doesn’t even sleep in the same room as her on their wedding night! I mean the scene where she’s waiting for him all nervous and giggly because she knows what happens...or at least she thinks she knows but then she wakes up alone in the morning, no “husband” in sight. Then comes breakfast, Tommy introduces her to Charlie (who wasn’t even at the wedding!!!) like he would present his new nanny because in a way...that’s what she is. He didn’t marry that girl because he wanted it but because it was something he knew his son needed. I really loved the fact you didn’t make Charlie love reader instantly because as kind hearted as he may be, he’s still a child who suddenly lives with an unknown woman his dad doesn’t even seem to like but one little discussion is enough to make him warm up to her and yeah I liked seeing this, it was very well done!

Then we get to see Tommy couldn’t care less about his wife and a thing kind of stroke me: reader has insomnia sometimes and Tommy doesn’t seem to worry or even think about it, he just sees it as more occasion for her to talk to him and ugh please no! And it shows how detached he can be which is so so in character! Afterwards you wrote about how he didn’t invite her to family meetings and stuff which I think was important to mention and maybe you didn’t think it this way but he keeps her away of very important part of his life: the business and the local bar he spends time with his family which is quite a...special place because that’s where he met Grace, that’s where their story began and family meetings? Inviting her would mean she’s part of their family, they trust her enough to welcome her but 1) he doesn’t really care about her enough to trust her and 2) would grace really have been invited to these meetings? Considering what she did? Definitely not so in not inviting his new wife, he doesn’t give her an advantage of being more welcomed in the family than grace was because, again, she’ll never be enough, she’ll never be grace. And it was so important to show this and you did it so beautifully, so subtly, wow!

The birthday party is also a great way to show that reader has a great relationship with everyone except her own husband and their convo in the office afterwards bluntly stated that. Tommy is so heartless, so cold, so...awful towards the woman he married! I really hated him in this moment because clearly she’s trying, she wants to make things alright but he will not let it, he will push her away no matter how harsh he has to be. And there is no apology, no compassion, nothing, he doesn’t care. He knows how bad his words hurt but he owes nothing to her.

And even when he’s awful to her, she still offer her time and her attention. He comes home completely drunk and considering the way he treated her, she could let him deal with his terrible state alone but she won’t, he’s her husband after all...I really loved how you turned that scene, we can see some of reader’s... I don’t know what to call it but so far, she let him have his space and now, when he rejects her help, she still gives him a hand. And then he compliments her, out of the blue and yeah he’s completely drunk but it feels true. And even better, he apologizes and explains his awful behavior and it was essential to have this! It was essential for reader to hear it from him that she didn’t do anything bad, it wasn’t her fault or anything, he just struggled with understanding what her place was. Even better, she reminds him she doesn’t want to take Grace’s place.

It was everything he needed to understand because right after this, he allows himself to let go a bit and then...a little bit more and again...some more until finally the stables scenes arrives! And my oh my! How much more beautiful could this story get? The fact they bond over something Tommy loves is just...amazing! It allows reader to see a gentle side of him because we all know how Tommy gets whenever he sees a horse, it could and will make any woman fall in love with him. And this scene holds so much...power and emotion, she trusts him enough to let him guide the horse even though she doesn’t know how to ride it and he assures her he won’t let her fall which is so important because he accepts the fact that she trusts him and he want to be worthy of that trust which is a big step because it means he cares. And they have the loveliest moment, just the two of them, no grace clouding his mind, no hatred, no unnecessary talk, just a husband and a wife enjoying the nice weather. He helps her off of the horse and he grabs her waist but he doesn’t feel the need to take off his hand and it shows progress, it shows he enjoys having her close and he looks at her, it’s the first thing that came to his mind, her beauty and now he doesn’t feel guilty about it. He stares at her, he enjoys it and he doesn’t want to stop. And finally because well, this story couldn’t just stop there, it reached a whole new peak in beauty: their real, true first kiss. It doesn’t mean we have a fairytale and happily ever after but it feels like a true promise of better things coming up, the kiss he gave her on their wedding day (as a way to seal their wedding vows) was given...reluctantly to say the least but now, he was promising her to be better in the future and truly respect those vows and it’s just the most perfect ending this story could have! It was just a magnificent, so beautifully well written story I don’t even know what to say anymore (and I think I’ve already said way more than I should be allowed to!) than it was perfect, you’re so talented and I’m so thankful you agreed to write this! I hope I haven’t killed you with my pages of review lol! Have a wonderful day <3

Ps. I didn’t proof read this so sorry for mistakes and nonsensical sentences :)

Hello!

First of all, thank you so much for writing me to tell me how much you appreciated your fic. I really like knowing that the person who requested a specific fic enjoyed it so, It means the world!

And just look at that! I certainly didn’t know anything about your exam, but what a marvelous most serendipitious coincidence! It makes everything seem much more magical, don’t you think? The universe never ceases to amaze me! 🥰

Also, thank you for the analysis. I always like to write things so that they go beyond words in order to convey feelings and stir deeper emotions and I’m so glad you not only perceived them but also liked what I was trying to project!

I too, feel in my bones that Tommy’s mother’s death affected him a lot. Maybe it’s not something that keeps him awake at night (or all nights) but I definitely feel like it is one of the thoughts he keeps on the back of his mind and is constantly nagging him. And polly of course is one of if not the only one who can see it.

As for the wedding and their marriage in general, I did want to show Tommy having this conflict because as we know, our man doesn’t let go of things easily. And like Tatiana Petrovna once said, his fear is freedom. Im not saying that Grace stopped him from being free, but he insisted on staying in the past, and when the reader comes up she’s basically carrying with her this humongous banner that reads FUTURE.

He does think the reader is pretty and he knows that his family accepts her and his son loves her but he doesn’t want to give in, he’s almost afraid of doing it, so what is the easiest thing to do? Push her away. And still when he’s awful to her she helps him because I want to believe she can also look behind the walls he so desperately put up around him. In the end I didn’t want to make it like *poof! They magically fell in love! * but like you said, I wanted it to end with a promise of better things to come.

Again, thank you so much for taking the time to write. I enjoyed analyzing Tommy’s mind with you and I hope you have a lovely day as well!

P.S: Congratulations on your exam results! 🤍💐

[teamhook]

A Chapter a Day... Savage Heart CS AU

A love story between a pirate and his savior. An innocent, beautiful, selfless woman meets a man with no manners, no formal education and not even a last name. Will Emma fall in love with Killian once she discovers that beneath his tough exterior lies a heart-wild, but a heart of gold? This is a Captain Swan AU

Beta-ed by the awesome @ilovemesomekillianjones​​​​​

Cover by the lovely @xhookswenchx​

|AO3| |FFN| previous chapter

|AO3| |FFN| current chapter

Chapter 22: Capturing Emma Jones

After leaving the Jones' residence Milah had made her way back to the Booth Estate, her home. At least she hoped it was only for the time being. Her idea to separate Emma and Killian had to work, she wanted the original plan she and Killian had orchestrated to come back to life but in order for that to happen, Emma, had to be out of the way.

Milah was extremely pleased with her completed task. She knew she had caused discord in her cousin's marriage and that thought alone made her so happy and satisfied with her exploits for the day.

The moment Malcolm informed her he was leaving made her heart flutter. She couldn't help but rejoice as she saw Malcolm fade away from sight which meant he was that much closer to his destination and where she needed him to be. She hoped he would keep his word and return quickly to finally take Emma.

Milah's thoughts drift back to her actions and she can't help but to wish she could have seen Emma's face when Killian confronted her. She knows beyond a shadow of a doubt that he will confront her as soon as she crosses the front door. For a brief second, she feels a little remorse but it quickly fades as it always does. The moment her cousin arrives home she will not be getting a warm welcome.

She knows Killian won't go easy on her. She had experienced Killian's rage once. If things worked out in her favor maybe he would kick her out. She can only hope.

"Don't you look happy?" her husband remarks as he gazes upon his smiling wife.

"I have to admit it was a nice visit. It went a lot better than I expected."

"That sounds great, my love. How is your cousin?"

She doesn't miss the fact that he only acknowledges Emma and not Killian.

"Sadly, I missed her but left a message with Kil-uh Jones, along with the things Aunt Snow sent her."

"Oh, I don't understand how the visit went so well then?"

"I meant it was successful in the sense that the door wasn't slammed in my face because of your ungentlemanly comments regarding my cousin. I hope you still remember your conversation with your friend from the other day?"

"Yes, I still remember Milah. I will need to apologize to him for my remarks. I hope he didn't mention them to Emma. I will not be able to look at her if he did."

"I agree your behavior wasn't ideal but if he told her, I'm sure she will forgive you. I have been thinking maybe you are right; their relationship moved too fast. What if he used some sort of information to convince her to marry him? After all, my family is still considered prestigious and along with our own union, this could be good for someone like him. He is only a nefarious scoundrel that took advantage of my cousin's good heart and her unrequited love for you."

"Milah, I don't think she feels that way about me anymore. She may have felt affection for me in the past but I doubt she still does."

"Perhaps you are right but she cares for you and all of us. I wouldn't put it past her to marry Jones to sacrifice herself for the family." She can practically see the wheels turning in his head. "August, how exactly do you know Jones? I know you mentioned being childhood friends but how did you two meet?"

"My father brought him to the estate one day and after he died my mother just sent him away. I don't remember all the details but he cared for Killian a lot. He wanted me to look out for him."

"Did you ever wonder why?"

"I never really gave it much thought. What are you getting at?"

"I have been thinking that the interest your father showed in Killian was rare. Perhaps your old friend has wondered himself. He must know the extent of the Booth wealth. Perhaps he thought this could be an easy score and he could use your friendship to his advantage."

"Milah, what are you trying to insinuate about my father? My father had an impeccable reputation."

"August, all I'm saying is that maybe your old friend wanted to gain access to the house and to you. You do realize that provides some benefits. Are you telling me it doesn't strike you as odd that a pirate decided all of the sudden to become a legitimate businessman and accept a steward position in the same house he stepped into in his youth?"

"Do you think Emma accidentally uncovered his nefarious intentions and to protect the family, married him?"

Milah would roll her eyes if she could; always Saint Emma, the savior of the land.

"I have to find a way to get her out of this. I can't let her sacrifice her happiness. She deserves so much better."

Milah bites her tongue, she wants to ask him if he means himself.

The day continues as any other. Enith complaining about all the work she had to do by herself because Lucy her maid is too lazy. Cora giving her disapproving looks. August distancing himself from her.

The Booth Estate is filled with plots and ploys to obtain their deepest desires. And both Cora and Milah wait impatiently for their ally to return, while August contemplates rescuing a phantom damsel with the hopes to be her hero.

They all go on with their menial tasks to pass the time as the hours pass by. Hours that soon became days.

The Nolan residence is the complete opposite. Snow and David plan and prepare for the upcoming meal to be enjoyed with their daughter and her husband. Killian and Emma had happily accepted the invitation relayed to them. Killian is so eager to put his best foot forward. He desperately wants Emma's parent's approval.

The happy parents have truly decided to embrace the new addition to the family, putting their doubts away at the sight of their daughter's happy face. They welcome the newlyweds as planned the next day and enjoy their meal.

Days have passed since David's return home. His daughter and wife have welcomed him happily back. It has become a routine for them to spend time together to make up for lost time.

Later that week, Milah sees Malcolm has finally returned. She has to wait to approach him to inquire about the outcome of his trip.

She decides to take a walk around the estate hoping to bump into him without rousing suspicion and get some time alone with her ally. She stumbles upon him and finally has her chance.

"Malcolm, may I have a word?"

"Yes, of course, Mrs. Booth."

"Please don't call me Mrs. Booth, it makes me feel old. As you can see I'm not. You can call my mother-in-law that, it fits her much better. Call me Milah."

Malcolm smiles at her. He is escorting her back to the house.

"I know why you are seeking an audience. I have what we need. I will be able to grab her in the following days."

"Days? I thought you would nab her upon your return. This was not what we agreed."

"Milah, I need to figure the best time to grab her. Obviously, she has to be alone. We cannot be sloppy. Unless you want your family to know you had a hand in the kidnapping of your cousin."

Milah isn't too happy with the response, but it makes sense. To add to her discord, it becomes obvious that her little visit to the Jones' home was fruitless. Emma and Killian are still together.

Since August's return, Cora has been more active. She takes walks in the garden and asks for the breakfast to be served on the patio. On her walk back from the garden she notices Milah and Malcolm talking. She approaches them slowly trying not to spook them.

"Malcolm, I hope your trip went well. I see my lovely daughter-in-law decided to welcome you back."

"My dear Cora, the lovely young Mrs. Booth was just being friendly."

Milah smiles mockingly at her mother-in-law. "I guess I better go find August. I will leave you two alone. Good day to you both." She walks away with a sway of her hips to irritate Cora.

Malcolm turns his complete attention to Cora. "Have there been any new developments?"

"The letter is still missing but I worry my biggest concern is Snow. I know it's a matter of time before she tells someone. That is assuming she hasn't mentioned it to someone by now."

"How will you know for sure?"

"Well, during Emma's loss, I will offer my assistance in retrieving her. Of course, I will hint for her to keep the secret in exchange."

"All right, I will need to spy on her comings and goings. I understand you cannot cover for me anymore. My absence would be too noticeable. I met two young boys I can give the task. I also brought the friend with me and lodged him in one of the empty worker's huts if that is acceptable?"

"That is fine and no harm will come to her correct?"

"Nothing permanent, she will be afraid of the unknown but no physical damage."

"I hate doing this to her but I need a guarantee that my secret stays secret."

"I understand and I should be able to proceed within a few days. I do need to go and provide instructions to the boys."

"Go on, I don't know how long I can keep August at bay and out of the Estate matters before he decides to get involved."

"I will be quick." Malcolm walks away and heads for the docks where he he quickly spots the two boys. "Hello, boys, I'm glad I found you both."

They turn at the same time and answer. "Hello, sir."

"Have you considered my offer?"

"We have and our answer is no."

"Oh, I see you two still have faith that the good Captain will take you under his command. How about you two help me ensure that outcome."

Felix answers for the two. "How can we help?"

"We have established that the issue is his new bride. I know of someone that wants her out of the way. How about you two help me with that task? Before you ask, no one is getting hurt. She will be temporarily removed."

"How will that help us?"

"He will return to his old ways. He will not try to be something he is not. We will simply give him permission, permission to be the man he really is. Not some puppy dog chasing after the object of his affection, but a ruthless pirate who will stop at nothing to get what he wants. He will realize that she is not the life he craves."

Finally, Malcolm returns from his trip to Golden Cove, but he isn't alone.

His trip had been quite successful. His old friend had not let him down. The deal had been completed successfully. They had quickly exchanged the jewels for the chloroform and that had ended their exchange. Until Dr. Hyde had a change of heart.

Malcolm's biggest surprise came when the good Doctor surprisingly made an unexpected decision to help him in the acquisition of the girl. He had only given him the most basic information about the job. Hyde had insisted that he didn't want any more involvement but he would accompany him and help secure the young woman to ensure he wouldn't overuse the chloroform.

Hyde knew what he was doing was wrong but he had no choice. His practice was destroyed and he was barely making enough for scraps as opposed to the luxurious meals he once enjoyed. He didn't want to be responsible if Malcolm did something wrong and something happened to the girl.

He should have just grabbed his new found wealth and left but what of his doctor vows? The Hippocratic Oath he took so long ago. The thought of betraying it and that guilt alone wouldn't allow him to leave. He knew that his actions were criminal but he wasn't a complete monster.

After the exchange, Malcolm went to his old home and prepared one of the little rooms for the special occupant. It wasn't much, just a little cot, nothing luxurious.

The house is not in the best condition but it is his and no one knows it better or its location. It is the best place to hide her until the exchange.

He tells Hyde they will be leaving the next day. They don't have time to lose.

"Remember Malcolm, I will only be joining you to ensure the girl is fine. I will not be part of the rest."

"I know you have made your position clear."

"Malcolm I still cannot understand the reason you have accepted this job."

"You are not the only one that has had financial troubles. Look at my home! It was once beautiful, now it is falling apart."

"I'm just surprised, I never thought you had it in you to be a scoundrel."

"Neither did I but sometimes want outweighs one's conscience. You know that better than anyone."

It has been a few days since Milah's visit. Emma knows her cousin won't stop once she realizes that her plan failed. Killian had attempted to calm her and for the most part, he had succeeded but she knows it is not over.

Killian hasn't mentioned the photo or the conversation he had with Milah again, only that she should visit with her parents and that is what she has been doing since.

The only positive thing that had emerged from Milah's earlier visit was the invitation offered by her parents. She knows it is meant as an olive branch.

The next day she convinces Killian to go with her. He had been hesitant at first but as time passed by, his insecurities seemed to dull with her encouragements.

She quickly falls into a routine. She goes to visit her parents while Killian is working. She executes her chores at home in a timely manner getting the guest room ready for the day that they will go get Tink.

Emma kisses her husband goodbye as she makes her way to the front door. She knows he would prefer to escort her to her parent's house for her visit as he has insistently mentioned but she insists on not being some sort of a damsel in distress. She loves him dearly but sometimes he is so overprotective.

To her husband's dismay, she has opted to walk today and not to take the carriage. She insists it is a beautiful day and that the trek will be nice. She loves the path in Sherwood Forrest Lane that she will inevitably take. It is filled with lovely flowers. The walk is not a long one she will be with her parents soon.

Two young boys approach her on the route to her childhood home and catch her unprepared.

"Hello, Mrs. Jones," one of the boys greets her.

"Hello and good morning to you both." She will never tire of hearing her new last name. "It is a beautiful day isn't it?"

Rufio looks at his friend with doubt in his eyes.

"It is a very lovely day ma'am," Felix answers.

"Do you two know Killian?" she asks because of their way of greeting her.

"Yes, we do, he lets us help on the Jolly," one of the two boys answers.

Emma adds that tidbit to everything she learns daily of her husband. "Oh, so you must love the sea like him."

"Yes we do, but he hasn't taken us out yet."

"Well, I will need to speak to him about that. I will let you in on a little secret; he hasn't taken me out either. I will ask him to bring you two along the day he does."

"That would be very nice." Rufio seems to be the only one opening up to her.

The other one, Felix seems cold to her. "We had hoped the captain would let us join his crew but now that he married you, he will surely forget about us."

"Maybe he cares so much for you two he is afraid you would get hurt on his watch. Just wait a few more years and I'm sure he will allow you both to join."

"I doubt that will be a possibility now."

Emma shakes her head and is about to continue with her response but is cut off. There is a sweet smell invading her senses and for a few minutes, she struggles with her captor and then everything goes dark. The last thing she thinks of is her husband's ocean blue eyes. She should have listened to him.

Emma wakes disoriented and cold; she reaches for her husband to share his warmth. Killian's spot on the bed is empty. She tries to sit up but the room spins and she closes her eyes to get her bearings but falls asleep instead.

Killian goes about his day as best as he can. He gets side glances from Smee and Thomas. They can tell he is upset so they work in silence, trying not to irritate him. As the day goes on he becomes more antsy and irritable. He is always thinking of his tough lass. He misses her so much. He really wishes she would have let him escort her at the very least.

Killian has finally moved his office from Tiny's Tavern to share Archie's office. They had decided to share the office for the time being. He wants to show his father-in-law that he is serious in his reformed ways.

Somehow his thoughts always lead back to Emma. Bloody hell that woman will be the death of him. She is too stubborn for her own good. He feels something is not right. He has to go to her. So he decides to go to her parent's home to escort her home. He knows she will not be happy and most likely scold him once they are in the comfort of their home.

Killian knocks when he arrives at the Nolan's. He still feels uncertain.

The door flies open to her father.

"Hello, Jones, is Emma with you?" He looks around to see if he catches a glimpse of his daughter.

Still standing at the doorstep, Killian is staring at his father-in-law with a clenched jaw and his fists turning white. "No, because she is supposed to be here, I'm only here to escort my wife home."

"I don't understand, she is not here and if she is not with you-" They turn white as they stare and realize Emma is missing.

For a second, Killian thinks David is hiding Emma to keep her away from him, his insecurities resurfacing briefly. "She left the house in the morning; she left to come here!"

"She never arrived; we thought that perhaps she decided to stay home."

"Emma left to come here," Killian says the words so soft the older man almost misses them.

David pushes him gently out of the entrance and closes the door behind him so they are outside. "Jones, calm down, I'm sure she is okay. Perhaps she is at home."

"No! I will not calm down, my wife is missing. I know something is wrong. I can feel something is wrong. Since we parted I have felt dread. Something is wrong."

"Jones, look at me, we cannot tell Snow of your concerns, yet. Let's take the carriage and go to your house. We cannot jump to conclusions yet."

"She is not home."

"All right, but we need to confirm first."

"Well, what are you waiting for?"

"Let me inform my wife I will be right back."

Killian nods his agreement. David swiftly turns and goes inside the house. Meanwhile, Killian paces in front of the house like a mad man. Soon David emerges from the house and is walking towards him.

"I told Snow we needed to discuss business. She wanted to come to visit with Emma while we talked. I told her it was late. I know she wanted to argue with me but relented."

"What are we waiting for?" Killian fumes as he walks towards the carriage.

David hurries to catch up with the pirate. They ride in silence as Killian looks out the window. Once they arrive, the carriage hasn't made a complete stop as Killian opens the door and jumps out. He walks quickly towards the door and opens it, leaving it wide open for David to enter.

"Emma! Sweetheart, are you here? Emma, where are you?" He keeps screaming her name trying to make her answer his call but is met with silence. The last of the hope he had in his heart fades. He knows that it was a long shot, but he had still hoped.

David enters and finds himself looking around the house his daughter has made into her new home. He remembers for a brief moment how it was for him and Snow when they first married. His daughter truly is in love with the man that is tearing the house apart in his desperation to find her. He would do the same if it was Snow.

David heads towards the sobs. He slowly peers into a bedroom. He finds Killian kneeling in front of the canopy bed holding onto Emma's discarded clothes. Killian meets his gaze and the devastation is evident. His eyes are red and his hair is sticking all over.

"Killian, we will find her."

"How can you be so sure? We have no idea why she was taken or by whom? We know nothing! She could be gone already."

"My daughter, your wife is not dead. No, this has to be about money. We have to be patient and smart. They will contact us soon."

Killian gets up and walks past David. "I will find my wife and when I do, the bastards that took her will pay."

"Killian, we can go to the authorities and report her taken. I don't think my daughter would want you to head into the darkness. Remember you are a better man for her."

"Do you honestly think they would offer to help me? I'm not exactly considered a respectable member of society, mate."

"You may not be but I am and we can also ask the Booth's for help."

"I don't need anyone's help. I will find my wife on my own. I have my own contacts. I will take your words into consideration but should there be one hair damaged on her head, I will gladly lose myself in darkness if it means that the culprits are punished accordingly for their actions."

"Killian, listen to me. I know you are worried and so am I, but jumping to the worst possible scenario is not going to help. I still have to tell Snow that Emma is missing. She is going to be heartbroken and scared."

"Let's get you home." Killian gestured to the door. Killian Jones is not a man to wait around. He knows something is wrong.

"Wait, what are you going to do?"

"I will go to the office and maybe confer with Archie."

"Let me come with you."

"I assumed you would want to go home and inform your wife of your daughter's disappearance."

"First we need to put a plan into motion then I will let her know."

Killian and David leave the Jones' Residence.

@hookedonapirate @kmomof4 @searchingwardrobes @seriouslyhooked@profdanglaisstuff @let-it-raines @revanmeetra87@snowbellewells@hollyethecurious@kymbersmith-90@branlovestowrite@thejollyroger-writer@shireness-says​@ilovemesomekillianjones@thisonesatellite@thesschesthair@winterbythesea@stahlop@resident-of-storybrooke@superchocovian@lfh1226-linda@artistic-writer@thislassishooked@shardminds@winterbaby89@xhookswenchx@ultraluckycatnd@gingerchangeling@laschatzi@wellhellotragic@xemmaloveskillianx@courtorderedcake@pirateherokillian@optomisticgirl@darkcolinodonorgasm@sherlockianwhovian @andiirivera @djlbg @nikkiemms @jennjenn615​ @scientificapricot @officerrogers @imlaxdris71 @therealstartraveller776

[loki-godofmischief-myking]

Love Is For The Foolish (7)

Loki x Asgardian!Reader

Warning: This part sort of relies on you having seen Thor (2011) to know what is happening between/during the events I have written out. Also it does change some stuff around because I am basically writing you into the movie so to say.

<== Previous | Next ==>

Chapter 7: Frostbite

The day of Thor’s coronation had come. While everyone was rejoicing you were trying your best not to allow your true emotions to surface. It was difficult when the source of all your emotional turmoil was standing right beside you.

“What have you done this time?” Lady Sif asked as she watched you quickly let go of Loki’s arm as soon as you stood in your rightful place.

Loki gave her a pointed look but did not dignify her with an answer.

Queen Frigga closed her eyes and inwardly sighed at the sight of your distant look. You were far from the loving couple you once were. As of late, you two seemed to fight more often than not and it worried her. Whatever transgressions kept you from even glancing at her son she knew it had to be of his own fault.

Your eyes shifted over to Odin who surprisingly gave you a nod. This was about the best interaction you could ever get out of him so you returned the gesture and went back to fixating on a distant wall until Thor entered.

Thor’s entrance had heads turning, cheering for their soon to be King.

His blue eyes landed on yours momentarily. Their brightness coaxed a slight smile from you that did not go unnoticed by Loki.

“If you are trying to anger me-”

“Do not flatter yourself. My life does not revolve around you Loki.” You maintained a smile to hide your argument from wandering eyes.

Ever since he took your necklace you had reverted back to your old ways of opposing and refusing the dark prince. Only now he was your husband, making it much more difficult.

The room fell silent as Odin began to make his proclamation. 

“On this day I Odin, Allfather, proclaim you...”

Thor’s smile fell as Odin stopped, sensing an interruption.

Forgetting your own woes you turned to Loki with worry. He did not seem at all changed until you held onto him when Odin slammed Gungnir down. 

Loki put his hand atop yours assuring you everything was alright before going off to the vault with Thor and his father. 

Now that you were alone Frigga came to you. “Come, my dear, we shall keep the peace here.”

\\\

When Loki told you of what happened you were shocked. The very mention of Jotun’s made your skin crawl. They had been responsible for your father’s death. Had he made it back from the war in Jotunheim perhaps you would have had a chance at a much more normal upbringing. At least one with a lot less resentment.

“What is going to happen?”

“Nothing,” Loki sighed. “Unless my brother has his way.”

“Why?” you asked increasingly worried.

“He wants to teach them a lesson for having broken the truce.”

“Loki you can not go to Jotunheim.” You held onto him refusing to let go. If you could prevent him from going you would. There was no way you would lose someone else to the realm.

Loki was pleased with the way the event had absolved your anger towards him. Now you were clinging to him, begging him not to go. He “Do not worry,” he wrapped his arms around you and kissed the top of your head. “I will come back as soon as I can convince my brother that he is making a mistake. But perhaps you should warn my father.”

You looked up at him full of worry. “Please don’t...” the word would not leave your lips for fear it might become reality.

He held your face in his hands taking in the beauty of all your features. “I would never leave you.” His lips met yours in a chaste kiss before leaving to find his brother.

Like he asked, you went to Odin when he did not return swiftly. Figuring he had been unsuccessful in keeping Thor from endangering their lives you went to Odin.

You swore you never saw more emotion on his face than now. He was furious and concerned for his children. “Why did you not stop them!”

“I-”

Queen Frigga stepped in to protect you from Odin’s wrath. She reminded him you had done no wrong. “She has come to you, as far as I am concerned Y/N has done the right thing.”

Odin did not apologize but acted on your word and went to the Bifrost.

“I know this is not easy for you,” Frigga placed a comforting hand on your shoulder. “Loki will not suffer your father’s fate.”

You nodded, “I want to believe that as well but I can not help being uneasy. Something fills me with guilt and regret.”

“Guilt?”

You nodded, “May I enter the vault?”

With Frigga’s approval, you went down to the dark abyss of the vault. It was quite dark and vast, your every footstep echoed off the walls. Your eyes did not deviate from the casket’s blue glow. Then they went to the ground where you could see the remains of a Jotun hand reaching out of the now frozen waters.

There was no way to describe the urge you had to touch the limb. But, you were a knowledgable person, you had read about these frost giants. Had you laid a finger on it you would succumb your own appendage to frostbite. That did not stop you from touching the icy waters.

A familiar feeling overcame you, it literally pulled you into the icy dark waters.

The loud splash caught the guard’s attention as you plunged less than gracefully. They quickly came to your aide, a couple jumping in to pull you out as more waited to receive you.

“Your Highness are you alright?” Alert was high as they feared another Jotun attack.

You were left shaking by the icy dip. “I-am f-fi-” you settled for a nod when your teeth shattering barely allowed a coherent word. 

Everyone fussed over you as you made way to your room. Maids ambushed you with warm linens while others ran ahead to get a bath started for you. They urged you out of the soaking gown to keep you from falling ill.

“Shall I bring a healer, your Highness?”

"Truly, I am fine. Just a bit lightheaded if I’m being honest but nothing a healer is needed for.”

The maid nodded in understanding before letting herself out.

Once you were truly alone your mind began to replay what you had felt, what you had seen in the depths of the water. That was not your first time there. It seemed you could sense a part of you in the distance.

You unconsciously began to toy with the chain of your crystal when you realized you had felt that particular sensation before- around your neck. It was the suffocating feeling of your own seidr in all its raw emotion. You felt it when you had felt its wrath, the guilt of having killed as a newborn, and now as you felt somehow you had been responsible for the Jotuns coming in.

“Loki...” you muttered before seizing all movement. Even your breathing had stopped at the possibility.

\\\

As Odin was carried away by the guards a single one stayed behind with Loki informing him of another person they had carried out earlier. “Your Highness, the princess was down here earlier. She fell into the waters-”

“What!” Loki pushed his own emotional turmoil aside at the mention of his wife. The guard assured him you had been escorted to your room with no visible injuries but Loki had to see for himself. He was cautious of what you might have been doing down there but his worry was greater.

He rushed into the bedroom in search of you only to be ambushed himself. 

Your arms immediately wrapped around Loki thankful that he had come back unharmed. The crippling fear of losing him to Jotunheim outweighing the conclusion you had yet to confirm. “Thank Odin, you have returned.”

Loki tensed at your remark. Silently, he began stroking your freshly washed hair in a soothing manner catching the fragrant scent of the lavender oil you frequented. Now he understood the allure of it as it became synonymous with you. He was much calmer now that he was in your presence.

“Are you well?” You worried as he felt much cooler to the touch than usual. A warm bath had helped you recover from the icy dip you imagined it would do him some good too. You thought of suggesting it but he would not seize his hold on you. 

It was all too offputting.

“Loki-”

“I’ve been lied to all my life,” he interjected. “I am no son of Odin or prince of Asgard.”

“What?”

Loki finally let go of you to put some distance between you two so he may show you what he really was. “I now understand why Odin favored Thor so much, why he insisted on making him King when he was not fit. I never had a chance.” Loki’s skin turned blue, his eyes red, and markings littered his face. “I am Loki Laufeyson, prince of Jotunheim.”

Your hands covered your mouth in shock by what you were witnessing. A part of you felt it was one of Loki’s tricks again but the sadness in his eyes was genuine. “Loki-” you tried getting close but stopped remembering you could not touch a Jotun. Then your mind began racing with the fact that you had touched him many times before and he, you. Was he truly a frost giant?

“I am of the same lineage as the monsters who killed your father.”

Your heart sank hearing him refer to himself as a monster. “Loki you are not one of them.”

“But I am!” He walked closer making you retreat until your back was to the bedroom door. “I have been lied to all my life. This is my true form. Had I known- you would never, could never love me this way.” 

The look of resent and defeat hardened your resolve. You closed your eyes as your hand made contact with his cheek immediately burning you. “Ah! You are not,” you forced the words through gritted teeth.

Loki immediately let his alabaster skin return. “Fool,” he reprimanded as he held your hand in his examining the extent of your injury. 

“You are the fool!” You pulled your hand away from him refusing his help to cure it despite the gut-wrenching pain you felt. The entirety of your arm was going numb as your nerves burned. You were beginning to perspire from the pain as your own healing kicked in. You wanted to yell at him for being a hypocrite but you could not handle it much longer. “If I ever stop loving you it will be because you used me for your own personal gain.”

“Let me see your hand-”

“No!” you staggered away.

“Y/N give me your hand!”

“What did you do that night Loki? When you took the hematite?” Tears rolled down your cheeks unbeknownst to you or him if they were from the physical or emotional pain. “Did you only marry me to use my dark s-” You did not finish as you finally fainted from the overwhelming ordeal. Exhausted in mind and body.

Loki caught you bringing you to lay on the bed. “Stubborn woman,” he cursed as he hurried to heal you, he himself being emotionally drained. 

You weakly attempted to move your hand, “Don’t touch me...”

“Only if you listen.” HIs hands held yours tenderly before kissing the palm in retaliation to your rebellion against him. “Yes, I used your dark seidr to create a portal which the Jotuns could use to access the vault without Heimdall’s notice.” He looked away hesitating to continue. 

You sighed feeling relieved in some odd way. Now you knew why you harbored a guilty conscience. This day could not have been anymore taxing on you than it already was. 

“But you should never doubt my feelings for you,” Loki sincerely confessed. As soon as your hand was back to normal he knelt down on the floor at your bedside thinking how you were the only one who could ever put him in such a position. He had lost so much already, he couldn’t lose you too. “I have lost so much already...”

Incredibly angry and incredibly foolishly you still felt for this man. Love kept you anchored to him despite his ways. Even if he did not voice his concerns you heard them in your heart. Loki was concerned you would leave him in his time of need.

“There is something I told Sigyn before I was won over by your charms that references this exact moment.” You advised Sigyn to marry a man who would seek more than just sexual satisfaction. “Spouses are always bound to fight, although none as much as we do.” The two of you shared a knowing nod and chuckle at the accurate sentiment. “But I also feel no one understands and loves as much as we do.”

You held his hands helping him up to stand with you. 

Loki smiled as relief washed over him as your words got to him. You were truly his greatest accomplishment. There was no one he would ever desire in his lifetime. 

“I assure, you will never lose me.” You inched forward as he did the same. Slowly but surely your lips were reacquainted with one another. The slow passionate kiss did not resolve everything but it was a good place to start.

Loki did not take the moment for granted. He knew what awaited him the moment he stepped back out there. WIth Thor banished to Midgard and Asgard’s king in Odinsleep, Loki would have to face Queen Frigga- another person who lied to him. 

Everything seemed so uncertain out there.

But for now, he would enjoy the one part of his life he was certain about.

You.

-end-

A/N: From here on out it will get angsty and some people might get hurt. After this is the whole scene in Thor where Frigga makes Loki King and he starts losing it so prepare yourselves.

Tag List: @drakesfiance​ @sweetacp

[likeshipsonthesea]

fitting

possible? warning for internalized/externalized homophobia. i’m not really sure what this is. dex has a conversation (sort of) with his mother. that’s about it

“I’ll get the dishes, Ma.”

Dex pushes up from the dinner table, carrying as many dishes as he can into the kitchen. He turns to make another trip, but Ma is there with the remaining plates. He takes them and starts running the faucet.

The TV goes on, muffled, and Dex can’t tell if it’s the news or sports or some rerun Dad always falls asleep to. Ma doesn’t leave the kitchen to join Dad in the living room, instead taking a seat at the small odds-and-ends table in here. Dex shakes his shoulders and pretends like it doesn’t bother him.

In Maine, he gets so little time to himself. Work means his uncle and cousins, their obtrusive glances, loaded questions. Home is the silence, weighty, a constant reminder of how different things are now. The few things Dex has-- morning runs, lone swims, washing dishes-- are well-needed reprieves from the rest of it. But Ma doesn’t seem to realize that.

“I miss having you around,” Ma says, unexpected. Dex just barely keeps himself from looking back to gauge her expression. He wants to take it in that wistful way she used to say things like it, like she was proud he was growing up even though she missed her son. He doesn’t want to look at her eyes and see the disappointment at the stranger in front of her. “Your father and Jay were never ones for housework.”

“No patience,” Dex says and Ma’s soft laugh is a gift.

“They don’t find the calm in it that we do,” she says, and Dex wants to turn and see her smile but he can’t stop worrying that it won’t be there.

He wants to tell her about the Haus, about laundry and chore wheels and how Bitty leaves the dishes to him around midterms and no one says anything about his vacuuming during playoffs and-- he wants to tell her how he fits, there, but isn’t that part of the problem?

Ma stands-- Dex can hear it-- and approaches him, picking up the dish towel. She starts drying quietly, which used to be Dex’s job, when he was young. He trailed behind his mother as she did chores. Folding laundry, he balled socks. Cleaning the living room, Dex would dust. Making beds, he tucked corners. He was always right behind her, helping out. Jay made fun of him for liking women’s work and Ma would chide him.

“Your brother’s a good boy,” she’d say. “He’s gonna make a good man, a good husband.”

Jay would sneer as soon as Ma turned away, say something about how girls ain’t looking for a maid in a man, and Dex’s chest would clench for several kinds of reasons, and he’d stumble turning to keep up with Ma.

“You--” Ma says, breaking the silence. 

Dex blinks and looks at her without thinking. Her frown is tight, pulled down, her eyebrows furrowed over her intent brown eyes. Dex has her eyes, he knows, but hers are so dark right now. He can’t imagine his own like that. 

“You-- you... like it?” she asks, finally, and Dex blinks again.

Does she mean--? He swallows. What does she mean?

Ma looks at him, sees him staring, and looks away. “College,” she says, short. “You-- like it?”

Dex feels his heart beat hammering before he realizes what she means. He can taste the blood pumping on his tongue, or maybe he just bit into his cheek without noticing. He wonders if his mouth is filling with blood or if that’s just what fear tastes like when the source of it is the woman who raised him.

“Yes,” he says, honest, too honest, and the desperation tinges the blood taste bitter. He can hear the faucet running, knows he’s wasting good water, but he can’t stop staring at the side of Ma’s face. She frowns more at his answer but then releases the tension of it.

“Oh,” she says, possibly surprised, possibly just faking. Dex doesn’t know what his mother lying would look like and then wonders if she knows what his lying looks like. Has she always known it was going to come to this? When she squeezed him tight to her chest before sending him to college, was it with the knowledge that he wouldn’t come back so easily contained?

He looks back to the dishes, renewing his efforts, trying to focus on that instead of the possibility of a ticking clock Ma’s been watching for years. How long has she known, if she’s known? High school, when late nights with the team really only meant late nights with the captain? Middle school, when he came home bloody and quiet and skin full with the names that wouldn’t wash off? Before that, as a kid, when the rumors started, or when he was even younger, when he was too comfortable trailing her chores around the house, or was he an infant when she looked down at him and thought he will be different, he will be wrong?

Worse, Dex thinks, had she tried to fix him? Or had she accepted the broken son God gave her as the divine plan and watched him break himself apart to fit in Maine? Had she rejoiced in him piecing himself back together in college or had this been the deterioration she’d been waiting for all his life?

Her voice breaks the wondering. “Is it...” 

Ma stares at the dish in her hand. There’s a chip in on edge from when Dex dropped it, once, back in middle school after Jay had jumped from a corner to scream in Dex’s face, scaring him into dropping the plate of pancakes stacked onto the dish. Ma had smiled when Dex, sniffling, gave her the broken chip, asking if they could fix it up, and she shook her head. “Some things you can’t fix,” she’d said, taking the dish and adding it to the stack of others. “You learn to love the chips instead.”

“Is it worth it?” Ma finally asks and her voice is firm, unwavering.

Dex stares at the running water. “Yes,” he says, quieter but just as honest.

He sees Ma nod out of the corner of his eye. She doesn’t say anything else. They finish the dishes in silence and join Dad in the living room, where he’s asleep in front of a rerun of Last Man Standing. Dex helps Ma rouse Dad and send him in to their bedroom.

“Thank you, honey,” Ma says, her hand squeezing his arm briefly, before she follows Dad into their bedroom.

Dex stares at their closed door for a few long moments before he nods, once, to himself, and starts up the stairs to his own childhood bedroom. It isn’t quite fitting, but he can breathe okay enough. Maybe that’s all he can ask for, now. Maybe it can be enough.

[catfishandthebottlefan]

#5 - When We Were Young

A/N - So this is a super-cute, fluffy story, kinda told as a flashback. Basically, you and Van are getting married, and the Catfish boys decide it’d be hilarious to play an interview Van gave when he was dating you as part of their speech, and some other funny memories. Plus a twist at the end. Enjoy the read! :) ~ A x

The ceremony had been amazing, to say the least. You knew you wanted to walk down the aisle to She Moves In Her Own Way, but who knew that Van would get The Kooks (yes, the real band) to play it for you? And, God, did he look sexy in a suit. Now, you sit at the main table, next to your husband, listening to the wedding speeches. You had heard your mum, Van’s mum, and your maid of honour make their speeches, and now was time for the most important - the best man’s speech. Well, the best mens’ speech, as Van had decided to make Larry, Bondy, Benji and Bob best men. He said it was cruel to choose one of them.

“Aight lids, gee’s a cheer for the happy couple then!” Larry calls, standing up.

Van looks at you, and whispers in your ear.

“He does know it’s not a concert, right?”

Surprisingly, the guests all cheer, rejoicing in yours and Van’s happy day.

“Okay, so as we’re all so important to Van the man here,” Larry continues, “This speech is from all of us.”

Bondy stands up.

“We’re not gonna say anything too sappy or tear-jerking. Well, we’ll try not to. But we know that these pair of lids have known each other since they were fourteen, and been together since they were nineteen, so thats...”

“Twelve years.” Bob takes over, then blushes, “Sorry, we’d be all day if we let him do the maths.”

Everyone chuckles. They seem to be listening intently to the ‘speech’.

“Thank you, Bob,” Bondy rolls his eyes, “Anyway, before I was so rudely interrupted, I was just saying how these two clearly love each other. How someone can put up with Van for longer than twelve minutes impresses me, so twelve years is quite spectacular, in my opinion.”

Benji now continues the speech.

“Y/N is one of the most cheerful people I’ve ever met. She always puts a smile on my face and knows exactly what to say when someone’s feeling down. I know she’s been our mate Van’s rock, and she shares all of our passion for the band and the music.”

“But we all know how truly besotted Van is by Y/N,” Bondy continues, a twinkle in his eye, “And I think this video here shows us the true extent of his love for her-”

Van stands up hastily.

“Johnny Bond, if that is a sex tape, I will-” he interjects, loudly, before you grab his arm and pull him ferociously back into his seat.

Once again, the whole reception erupts into laughter.

You didn’t know there was a projector in here. A young Van appears on screen - he perhaps looks about 20, judging by the long hair. He sits in front of a Radio 1 backdrop, holding a microphone. You don’t remember ever seeing this interview, but you’ve seen so many it perhaps faded into the background. 

You turn to Van to see his face turning bright red.

“What is this?” you ask, curiously.

“Fuck’s sake, man.” he mutters, his nose wrinkling with a hint of laughter.

The video begins to play.

Interviewer: So, you’ve recently been signed to Communion Records, how do you feel about that?

Van: Man, it’s fucking amazing. To see all our graft finally paying off, it’s well worth it- Ah! Oh my God!

The whole room explodes into laughter as the young Van falls backwards off the stool, it landing on top of him.

Van (laughing): Oh, shit, that’s embarrassing. My girlfriend’s gonna think I’m a right tool. 

He pulls the stool back up and repositions himself, laughing.

“Don’t worry, Van, she already does.” You intend to whisper but most of the room hears.

Interviewer: Ah, your girlfriend! Tell us about the women in your life, then.

Van: Well, she’s the only one apart from me mum!

The interviewer laughs.

Van (continuing): Y/N. She’s so fucking amazing. Honestly, you’ll never meet a girl like her. She’s so beautiful, the way her eyes sparkle, it’s amazing man. And her nose always wrinkles when she laughs, oh, and she hates the way she blushes when she has to speak to strangers, or when I hug her, but I love it so much. She’s so smart as well. You know what she’s studying? Microbiology. I don’t even know what that is! But she’s so clever, she’s always studying, so focused. Like, when I got the cold a few weeks ago, she knew the name of the virus and where it was from and I was just like, babe, how do you even know that? And-

Interviewer (chuckles): So, you clearly love her a lot then. So, your new album, The Balcony-

Van: Love her? There’s this line from this Oasis song, Lyla, probably my favourite song to be honest. It says ‘she’s the queen of everything I’ve seen' and, like, that sums it all up to be honest. It’s like, she’s the one, like I’ve never seem someone so beautiful. She’s the best, like the best thing on the planet. That’s how I feel about Y/N.

Interviewer: So did you take much inspiration from Oasis when writing the album, then?

Van: No, they’re all my own words, well I’ve nicked a few lyrics and guitar riffs here and there, but it’s pretty much mine. I dedicated the whole album to Y/N, because most of the songs are about her, like Business is about that one time I went to her flat and her mates were there, and-

Interviewer: Let’s talk about the tour, then - when are you and the band leaving? 

Van: Well it starts in-

Van’s phone rings loudly.

Van: Oh, shit, am I allowed to get this? It’s me girlfriend, she’s doing her second year uni exams, she’s calling to tell me how she got on--

Interviewer (clearly exasperated by Van’s constant chat about his girlfriend): Yes. Get it.

Van (smiling): Y/N, how are you, sweetheart?

The screen fades to black. The whole reception claps and laughter is heard, mainly from Van’s family.

Bob stands up.

“And that is the story of how Van’s obsession with Y/N managed to piss BBC Radio 1 off.”

Everyone claps again.

“We’re not finished yet, lads!” Larry announces, “This is a video Bondy took of that time Van and Y/N thought they could sneak us into Leeds Festival when we were fifteen!”

A new video appears on screen. You notice the grainy quality, remembering that it was probably recorded on a Blackberry. 

Y/N (looking straight at the camera): Okay, so this is how you sneak into a festival. So we’re at the back of the site, and there���s nobody really around, so all you’ve got to do is get the attention of some festival-goers.

Van (at a random couple walking past): Oy, mate! You couldn’t help us out could you?

The group of you are ignored by the couple. Bondy pans the camera to show Benji and Bob in peals of laughter.

Y/N (undeterred): So if that doesn’t work, you just get another passerby. Mate! Come over here!

You are, once again, ignored. 

Bondy (from behind the camera): You’re a pair of wankers. I told you it wouldn’t work.

Van: Fuck this. I’m jumping the fence.

The shaky video shows Van take a long run up, and attempt to leap over the 6 foot wire fence. He doesn’t quite make the jump, and in comical fashion, he rebounds from the fence, clutching his groin. 

Van (in pain): Me crown jewels! Piss off with that camera, Bondy!

Bondy is losing his shit from behind the camera, and the video shakes again - the only sound being heard is the whole group’s laughter at Van rolling around on the ground.

Benji: Guys, quick! Oh shit, run!

The camera turns swiftly to behind you all. The first couple are back, but this time, with a security guard. The last clip on the video is your face looking slightly worried, as you sprint away, and the footage bluntly turns off.

“Ladies and gentlemen, this is why you do not listen to Van and Y/N if they tell you they can sneak you into a festival!” Bob announces.

The whole reception, including you and Van, are in hysterics.

“Okay, quieten down, everyone, there’s just one thing left to say.” Bondy shouts over everyone.

The laughter turns to murmurs, and, after a few seconds, the hall is pretty much silent.

“You guys really are a great couple,” Larry says, “Y/N, you’ve been as good a mate to me as Van, and you’re great company at rehearsals. It gets lonely, it really does!”

You chuckle.

“There’s one last surprise for you guys, and hopefully you’ll appreciate it more than the last one.” Larry announces, sincerely.

He swiftly turns on his heel, and points at a black curtain which nobody had noticed before now. On cue, the curtain falls, and the opening guitar riff of When You Were Young by The Killers fills the whole room.

You stand up, gobsmacked.

“Larry, you didn’t!” 

Van looks equally as surprised as you do.

“Ladies and gentlemen, Mr Brandon Flowers and The Killers!” Larry announces.

“You sit there in your heartache, waiting on some beautiful boy to save your from your old ways” Brandon belts into the mic.

You clutch Van’s hand and look into his eyes excitedly. Like a young child, Van pulls you up from your seat and whisks you onto the dance floor. 

“Larry, how did you even manage to do this?” he says, ecstatically.

“Don’t thank only me, thank the boys,” he replies, “All our paychecks funded this!”

You grin in sheer glee as everyone cheers and starts dancing. Not only were you marrying Van McCann, but the real Kooks and The Killers were at your wedding!

It was all your wildest dreams come true.

[littlebitoffanfic]

An Embarrassing Services

Fandom: Breath of the Wild Character: Sidon Relationship: Sidon/reader Request: Your first sidon fanfiction was so beautiful, may I request another? A reader who is engaged to him and is skinny dipping but sidon comes across her. I love embarrassing him Slipping gracefully into the water, you felt yourself suddenly become relaxed. Your body sung as the cool water countered the hot day it had been today. You had managed to find a secluded part of the river which had trees growing close to the riverbed, meaning you had some protection from the setting sun. You also knew Zora didn’t often come to this part of their domain because the water was rather shallow and secluded. In this area, the river filled a dip in the side of the land, about the size of a small pool and it reminded you of the personal pools the Zora had in their homes. This and knowing most had probably retreated to their homes, made you take off all your clothes to bathe. Normally, you would never do this. You would keep on something in case you were attacked or caught off guard, but here you were safe. Ducking under the water, you ran your fingers through your hair before returning to the surface for air and smoothing down your wet hair. You were sure the water in the domain had something in it. It was always fresh and cool, making you feel like you could just float forever in the pools of blue heaven. Due to the shallow on the trees and the dimming of the light, it the water was rather dark here and you couldn’t see below the surface more than 2 or 3 inches. Again, this would normally frighten you and you wouldn’t dare bathe, but you knew nothing would hurt you. So you swam out into the water till your feet barely touched the ground. Deciding you might as well have some relaxing exercise, you swam to the opening of the area and back a few times. “Hello!” A voice called from the river, making you jump and twist around in the water. You knew exactly who that voice belonged to. “Sidon!” You exclaimed as you saw the royal Zora swim into the area before standing. He was a lot taller than you, so even when you were treading water from not being able to reach the bottom, he could stand with the water raising to his waist. “Apologies for startling you. But I was strolling along the river when I saw you swimming. I was wondering if I might join you?” He smiled, his sharp teeth dancing in the fading light. Any other time and you would have rejoiced at the chance for some quality time with the prince, but you weren’t wearing any clothes. Your cheeks dusted pink as you ducked deep in the water. However, you knew you had nothing to worry about. Not from your husband to be. It was an arranged marriage as you were the daughter of a duke that ruled lands close by. It was agreed that you would marry the prince of the Zora in exchange for an alliance, which many needed right now. At first, you had been scared. You had never seen many Zora before and the idea of marrying someone you didn’t know terrified you. But then you met him. ------------------ past ---------- You were meant to stay in your room until your father called for you, but after a maid had said the Zora were there, you couldn’t help but sneak out. you just didn’t want to be caught off guard. Peaking around the top pillar of the grand entrance room, you saw a single Zora, his skin a deep red and his back to you. Immediately, you saw he was at least double your height. This made you shrink away a little. Then you noticed he was fiddling with the sword on his belt, his hands shaking slightly. Could he be just as nervous as you? Apparently so, because his sword suddenly fell to the ground with a loud clatter. His jumped and scrambled to pick it up, his poor shaking hands doing very little to silence the noise. A giggle escaped your lips, giving away your hiding place. he spun around and his eyes found yours. Both of you froze. You had never seen eyes so kind in your life. It was from that moment on, you couldn’t help but fall in love with him, and he with you. It was this immediate love that made it easy to transition into the Zora domain. ------------------ back to present time-------------- “I hope my request does not cause you agitation, my love?” Sidons voice pulled you back from your memories. He had ducked in the water, perhaps kneeling, so he could look you in the eyes. “no, of course not. I would love for you to join me. Its just-“ You were interrupted by Sidon, who was so excited by your ‘invitation’ that he didn’t even hear you try to say you weren’t wearing anything. “Perhaps I could take you to deeper waters. We could watch the sun set together and if you grow tired, I should be more than happy to-“ Sidon rambled until he saw you eyes widen and your head shake slightly, a smile being held back on your lips. “What is wrong?” “Sidon, i... its just that…” you struggled to find the words, unsure how to phrase yourself. Sidon came closer, his hands resting on the sides of your arms. “my love, you know you can trust me with anything. I wish only to please you.” He ducked down, so he was eye level with you, his soft words made you smile. “Sidon.” You breath, moving forward to press a kiss to his lips. This would normally have been frowned upon, but since you lived with him and the wedding was only 2 months away, you were able to get away with the kissing. The more… intimate… acts were different, but kissing was allowed. “your lips are heaven, my love.” He breathed, his eyes having fluttered shut as if in worship. “As are yours.” You giggled, forgetting about your current predicament until you tried to move to wrap his arms around your body. You pushed yourself back and away from him, suddenly remembering why you had kept your distance. “My dear?” he breathes, his eyes showing heartbreak that you had moved away from him. He looked like a kicked puppy. “I don’t have any clothes on.” You finally say, your eyes ducking to the water then back to Sidon. Part of you was giggling at how he would react, the other part of you was red with embarrassment. “you are…” Sidon trails off, his eyes darting to the water where your hands covered your breasts just under the surface. He suddenly jumps and straightens up, twisting in the water so fast, the caused a small wave. “I-I-I am t-t-terribly sorry.” He stuttered, his hands visibly shaking. “Sidon, its fine, I know you didn’t know. Im not angry, just embarrassed.” You decided that, despite your embarrassment, you wanted to comfort him. So you swam up behind him and placed a hand on his arm, pulling him to turn towards you. You ducked under the water so it was up to your collarbone. “Besides, we are to be married. You’ll have to see me naked at one time or another.” “on our wedding night yes, but we are already pushing our boundaries with kissing. You had no idea the effect you have had on me since we met. I love you deeply.” He turns to you, his eyes unable to meet yours. “And I you.” You smile, your cheek a brilliant red as even the cool water struggled to take the embarrassment away. “Our wedding can not come soon enough.” “do you… need any aid?” Sidon asked, his eyes darting to your clothes on the shore and back to you. “What? On being naked? No, I think I have managed to perfect the art.” You giggle, earning a chuckle from your prince that soothed the situation. “But if you could grab my dress and undergarment, we could always go for that swim you were speaking about.” Sidon nodded, happy you had accepted his offer and went to retrieve the items. You worried that having to pick up such intimate items might embarrass him, but he returned and gave them to you without issue. He then turned and it allowed you put on your clothes with a little privacy. You noticed he had sunk beneath the water so it was up to his shoulders, probably because there was a little big of a cold breeze, so when you were finished, you swam up behind him and wrapped your arms around his neck, pressing a kiss to his cheek. He twisted so you could straddle his torso and lie across his chest while he did lazy back strokes. You dipped your fingers in the water as he swam, the soothing nature of the intimate moment making you relaxed and a little sleepy. “Do you often swim naked, my dear?” he asks, making you look up at him. “No, I only did it today because id never been bothered while in that area. Of course on the day I try, someone finds me.” You giggle a little. “well, if you should ever wish for someone to guard you, I would like to offer my services to you.” Sidon smiles and you could feel the small chuckle that left his lips coming from his chest. “I shall keep that in mind, love.” You lean up and press a soft kiss to his lips as the sun begins to set, causing the beautiful water to almost glow with blues, pinks, purples, reds and oranges. You couldn’t help but smile as you put your head back on his chest. Perhaps you would take up his services after all. No matter how embaressing.

[fairywithajetblackheart]

Secret Valentine Gift

[In which Virgo tries to write]

This is for the amazing Karioo @lucielhyung I hope you’ll enjoy my first ever attempt to complete and post a nalu fanfiction. 

[personally I think it’s trash sorry T-T]

Title: Bonded

Somewhere over an uncharted land on Mount Olympus, heavily guarded by a myriad of thunderstorms and a blanket of mist lies the home of the three white robed incarnations of destiny.

The Moirai or more commonly known among men as the Fates sat in the middle of their loom and gazed with wonder at the carefully interwoven threads of life.

These colorful threads represent the lives of mortals and immortals alike. There are long and short, dull and brightly colored strands which depend on how a being lives his/her life; whether it be healthy or toxic; in happiness or melancholy – it is depicted by the appearance of the thread. The living are those threads that are still connected to a spool. Their lives ascertained by the Alloter, Lachesis until such time that the shears of Atropos, the inexorable, cuts the thread meaning death.

Clotho, the Spinner, holds a new spool of red black thread on her palm and prepares to spin it. “The Dragon and the Princess”, she remarked.

“Dragons have mates, what makes this exceptional my dear sister?” Lachesis asked. Atropos hums in agreement.

Clotho runs her fingers delicately on the spun red black thread and hands it over to Lachesis. “Let us bond the demon dragon’s thread to the angel princess of the stars,” Clotho answers while beginning to spin the white gold thread.

Both Lachesis and Atropos gasped in excitement. Truly this is an astonishing event. Lachesis hangs the bright red black thread in the corner after measuring the allotted length while waiting for Clotho to finish spinning.

The three sisters then began to do what they do best; creating a magnificent pattern that to this day, they deemed to be their best masterpiece yet. The room was filled with energies of exhilaration, hope and completeness.

After they were finished, Clotho took the pattern and placed it on their viewing table for them to scrutinize. Destiny has now been set and they all look forward to how the two beings will pan out. Will they submit to whatever lies before them or will they try to fight it? Will they be stubborn to stay away from each other or will they come together as one? Will they be a blessing or a curse?

The Fates sat in wonder and varying degrees of trepidation. Yes, they may be the ones who prepared the groundwork of life but on how beings live their own lives, the choices they make on the long run and how they grow and nurture their spirits are all up to them. The Moirai will not interfere on those matters once the destiny has been fixed.

“May the light that tomorrow brings not only casts the darkness that looms over the present away but will also let light and dark to coexist side by side,” the Fates chanted. ‘The Beginning of the End’.

Year x704, in the Kingdom of Φωτιά (Fotiά), land of the Dragon Protectors of Fire

It was a quiet and sunny morning in the palace of the King of the Fire Dragons. Igneel Dragneel, the Valiant who was deep in his thoughts stared into the vast pastures from atop his perch on the railing of his balcony, his bright red hair blown by the wind until he was brought out of his musings by a shout.

“O vasiliάs mou! My King! Lady Grandeeney implores your presence in the infirmary immediately,” the maid announced upon bowing before the Fire Dragon King.

“Has the Queen given birth already? How is the baby? How are they both?” Igneel asked as he stood to acknowledge the girl.

“I’m afraid I bear no news about them, my Lord. I went in haste to search for you after Lady Grandeeney stressed the urgency at hand.”

Igneel scratches his chin in thought. What could possibly be the matter? Until he decided that nothing can be gained by just standing there and speculating so after giving his thanks to the maid, he went on his way.

His heavy footsteps echoed across the grand hallway, disturbing the stillness in the air. Portraits of generations of his ancestors on the walls all of which seem to stare at him creepily. Most of the servants are either on the west wing, where the infirmary was located or busy tending to the plants in the royal garden and the stables. He was feeling a mixture of emotions at that time; anticipation and anxiety both trying to win over the other right until he arrived at the corner going to the infirmary where he found his sister, Grandeeney shakingly wringing her hands in front of her while staring at nothing in particular. His anxiety spiked at the sight.

“Deeney, what seems to be the matter? Why do you look so pale as if you saw a ghost? How is the Queen and the newborn prince?” Igneel asked after taking her hands and grips them gently.

“My Lord, I do not know where to begin –“

“Deeney, how many times must I tell you to call me by my name instead of that title? Better yet, to just call me onii-chan?”

At his remark, Grandeeney smiled even though it didn’t reach her eyes and eased up her tense shoulders.

“Iggy, you know I can’t call you onii-chan anymore. We are way past that age,” she began. “But that’s not important right now. The Demon Dragon Prince is born healthy but I’m distressed to say that the Queen died after giving birth to him.” Her tears falling once more after she broke the news to her brother.

Igneel was dumbfounded. The Demon Queen has passed on to the afterlife right after bringing her second son to this world. Two traitorous tears fell from his eyes as he felt grief for the children left behind. And yet with the overbearing sorrow, wisps of a feeling of contentment tries to settle within him. He knows that now his good friend and brother Etherious was not alone anymore.

Etherious, the Demon King and Igneel go way back. They grow up together, trained to become warriors and kings and won all their battles together. They both fell inlove with the same woman. Even when she chose Etherious over him, he can never feel anger or envy because he loved them both.

Etherious fell sick to a mysterious illness months past, leaving his pregnant wife and his first born who at that time was away for scholastics. Igneel took them in and cared for them. Zeref came back for his father’s funeral but not once did he saw him cry. He was worried so he went to visit his chambers after the funeral pyre and was relieved to hear the anguish sobs coming from the ever stoic child. Oh no, how will he break this news to him? There is no question on adopting the brothers and making them his heirs. They are his family and he will never abandon –

“-gy. Iggy!”

He was brought back to the present by his sister’s strong hold on him. He didn’t realize he was shaking already. “You’re already a great father to them. There’s nothing to worry.” Grandeeney affirms.

He can only manage a nod and slowly breaks free from her to enter the room. He saw Porlyusica about to cover her body but one look from him and she nodded and left. He approached the bed and took the Demon Queen’s hand in his own and vowed to look after the children. He won’t disappoint Etherious and her. He kissed her forehead and left the room.

Grandeeney was still waiting for him outside and he had the impression that she still has something left to say. He doesn’t know what to feel so he went to her side and waited for her to open up.

“About the second prince, he has a strange mark on the back of his right hand. It is a mark of a star and this kind of mark has never been seen in our kind before,” she announces.

Igneel raised an eyebrow at that. The Moirai must have something planned but trying to figure it out would be a conundrum.

“Where is he by the way? I want to meet him,” he inquired.

“The baby is resting in the next room,” Porlyusica responded right next to him. Igneel tried to not let it show how startled he was at the sudden appearance of the witch but apparently he failed ‘coz he can see his sister trying to hide her snickering.

The three of them went to the adjacent room and he opened the door as quietly as he could. The room was painted white just as how infirmary rooms are painted and in the middle of the room, there was a large crib where the babe is resting.

Igneel studied the baby and his mark. He had this gut feeling that this boy would play an important role in the future together with his fated one. He then decided on a new name for his son.

“His name will be Etherious Natsu Dragneel. The demon dragon prince and heir to my throne. I will train him in the arts of the Fire Dragon Magic and Dragon Slayer magic. He may have two dragon magic within him but I trust that he can wield both. He will surpass me and his father when the time comes,” Igneel Dragneel declared.

*******

Same day in the year x704, in the far away Kingdom of αστέρι (Astéri), land blessed by the Stars

“Her name will be Lucy Heartfilia. The angel princess of the stars and the celestial mage of the Twelve Zodiac Keys,” Queen Layla Heartfilia stated to those surrounding her in the room, eager to catch a glimpse of the newborn princess. All those present clapped for joy and congratulated the royal parents.

King Jude Heartfilia, who stayed by his wife’s side all throughout her labor stared with wonder at his daughter’s face and traced the peculiar mark of a black dragon on the back of her right hand. Both he and Layla wondered what could be in store for their little angel’s future while the stars above rejoiced with the birth of the new angel.

 *******

Year x709, in μυστήριο (mystírio) garden, midday

Natsu Dragneel escaped the watchful eyes of his guardian and went off in an adventure into the wild. He doesn’t know what this forest is called nor what secrets does it keep but that’s what excites him the most – to see and discover new things.

All around him are tall trees with branches that seem too close to the next that provide a great shade from the sun. The air around him is fresh with the occasional noises from the small animals running here and there.

He can hear the burble of the flowing stream ahead, and smell the fragrance of the flowers not far from him. He was on his way to the river to catch fish when his ears catch the sound of someone sniffling by the flower field. He was about to just ignore the sound when something in his gut told him that he shouldn’t turn his back from the one who was crying.

Mind made up, he went to the flower field and spotted a blonde girl, who was the same age as he is, trying to wipe her tears.

He approached her slowly, afraid to make her more scared than she already is. He plucked a sunflower on his way and offered it to the girl. “Heya, don’t be scared. You’re not alone anymore,” Natsu whispered.

The girl, looked up and saw the sunflower from the strange dragon boy with pink hair. She accepted the flower and smiled. “Thank you. My name is Lucy and I am lost. What is your name, Mister Dragon?”

Natsu fully grinned, showing his pearly sharp fangs but strangely, Lucy is not afraid of him. She feels safer with him compared to before when she was all alone in the field.

“My name is Natsu. Nice to meet you Lucy”

He offers her his hand to shake and when she took it, there was a weird electricity like zap that suddenly went off the moment their hands touched and they can feel their marks start to tingle. At that time, they didn’t think much about it. Lucy went with Natsu to help him catch fishes and played around in the water.

They had so much fun playing together that they almost forgot about going home. When they sky started to glow an orange hue, Natsu decided to ask Lucy where she lives so he can accompany her home. Lucy hugged him in joy after he asked that, earning her a “weirdo” comment from Natsu – which started their bickering and tickle fight.

When they calmed down, Lucy told him where her kingdom was and so knowing where it was (Igneel made it sure that he was educated regarding places) Natsu unfurled his wings and hugged Lucy to his chest. They flew into the night until they arrived at the castle gates where hundreds of guards are about to be deployed and the Twelve Zodiacs conversing with the Queen before them.

“Mama, I’m home!” Lucy shouted from Natsu’s arms. “Meet Natsu, he’s my friend!”

That night there was a feast in the palace for the safe return of the princess by the courageous dragon friend. Layla Heartfilia sent a message to King Igneel via the stars regarding the bravery of his son and a promise to visit his kingdom. Natsu stayed with the Heartifilias because it was very late to go back home (and not because he wanted to play more with Lucy, Pops!)

Over the years, Natsu and Lucy grew closer together as they grow older. They take turns in having sleepovers until such time that Natsu realized his dragon instincts are telling him to protect Lucy at all costs, not only because he loves her but also because she is his mate and bonded.

Natsu admitted his feelings for Lucy under the rainbow sakura tree that he uprooted one time for Lucy when she was sick and cannot see the flowers in bloom while they were both sitting under it, with his head on Lucy’s lap talking about nothing and everything.

“I love you too, Natsu. More than you’ll ever know.” Lucy replied while running her fingers through his pink hair.

Natsu rose up in a sitting position and moved his head closer to Lucy’s. He stared into her chocolate orbs and he can see the same feelings – maybe even more reflected in them.

And when kissed her, it was like never they had experienced before and at the same time everything.

It was more than sparks, like a crackling fire that just started to blaze up. Their marks tingled.

And when they moved their faces away for a breath’s space, they were both blushing and smiling.

Their magics sang together in their presence. Light and dark coexisting side by side.

 From afar, Acnologia the Chaos Dragon watched the two lovers. He wanted their combined magic for himself and so he devised a plan.

*****

That same day, Cana Alberona, Lucy’s confidant and Reader of cards, noticed a change in the cards and went straight away to Mavis Vermillion, the Strategist to tell her of Acnologia’s greedy plans and what they must do to protect the Bonded. Together, they informed Queen Layla and King Igneel. Although it greatly saddens the parents to separate the Bonded just after they both admitted their feelings, their lives are more important and their combined magic must never be placed on the wrong hands.

With a heavy heart, they told the couple of what must happen – that they should stay apart for a while and to live in a parallel world where magic does not exist. In that world, Acnologia cannot fulfill his dark plans plus they can still find each other there just don’t stop believing in the bond that they have.

As Queen Lucy and King Igneel leave the room for the two to talk, Lucy sank to the floor and cried.

“I don’t want to part from you Natsu, even just for a little while. What if we won’t meet again there? Is there really a guarantee that this Acnologia can’t take our combined magic there? What if you’ll find someone else the—“

Natsu kissed Lucy at that point. He figured this is the most effective way to stop her ramblings and damn he was right.

“Lucy, I love you. We can go through this together. We are strong individually but together? Our enemies doesn’t stand a chance. Have faith in us.” Natsu said as he placed his forehead to Lucy’s.

Lucy laughed. Of course. Natsu is right. She hugged him and said, “I love you too”

 *******

When the time for them to separate and go to the other world, they hugged and cried for the last time. The two portals are opened and as they step into the dark abyss, they turned back around and reached their right arms out, hoping that one might pull the other into the same door. As their fingers were about to touch, they were suddenly whisked away and the portals closed.

Queen Lucy cried into her husband’s shoulder, already missing her daughter. That night the stars did not shine.

King Igneel and Zeref spent that time reminiscing their times with Natsu. They were looking forward to the duo to defeat Acnologia in the other world so that they can finally go back to the happy times.

 “We will meet again. I’ll make sure of it, my love”

“Juvia! I told you it’s your turn to clean the windows yesterday right? Why is it still dirty?” Lucy turned to her blue-haired roommate as she gripped the wash cloth on her right hand.

“I’m so sorry Lu. I got afraid seeing how high we are from the ground.” Juvia replied in a quiet voice.

Lucy sighed. She can’t find it in her to be angry at her best friend because it’s not even her fault.

“It’s alright. I’ll clean it now,” Lucy stated as she turned around and started to wipe with her right hand, the black dragon mark on her hand shining vibrantly under the light. Seeing the mark, she was transported back to her dreams before of being an angel princess and a celestial mage of the stars, having a Queen for a Mother and meeting her bonded. She was so lost in her thoughts that she didn’t notice her upper body has already strayed off to the far parts of the window until she slipped and the next thing she knows is falling and screaming into the ground below.

Is this the end?

She expected to meet hard ground but warm arms caught her and enveloped her in a hug as they both fell, gasps falling out of her and her savior’s mouths.

I got you. We finally meet again.

She opened her eyes and saw the unusual pink hair of her catcher. Strange but he can definitely pull it off. She noticed he has a star mark on the back of his right hand as he combed his fingers thru his hair.

And when their eyes meet, they were both stricken by a sense of de ja vu and completeness.

They both smiled because finally everything feels right once more. 

...........................................

“It’s always more fun when we’re together”

“We’ll be together forever, right?”