#but on a walk or in the process of travel the expectations just drift away

[novelconcepts]

Yes the going!! You explained that feeling so beautifully and fully. This is why I love to ride the train and why I get bummed when the ETA gets down to its final minutes. The limbo between departure and arrival; that is bliss.

It is. There’s no expectation. You don’t have to be geared up to do anything or be anyone. You can just breathe and think and taste the air. In a world so bent on forward momentum, there isn’t enough space for just existing.

[ceilidho]

fear of god

prompt: There's someone outside the spacecraft. You don't remember them being part of the crew. Part 2 masterlist

-

How am I hearing you?

That should be the first question out of your mouth, but instead what comes out is a meek trembling of words. “E-excuse me?”

His smile doesn’t waver. “Asked if you could let me in, love. I’m a bit turned around.”

You pause for a moment to take stock of the situation. A programming that has served your species since the dawn of time quietly whispers something to you, its voice unintelligible but meaningful. The instinct to help kicks in with the man’s plea, but your own confusion stays its corresponding response. 

There’s a man outside the ship knocking on the window and you’ve never seen his face before. 

“Where did you—where did you even come from?” you ask. 

He waves a hand and it drifts slowly beside his helmet, encumbered by the lack of gravity. “Around. Lost contact with my crew and I’ve been trying to get some help ever since.”

His tone is too blasé for the situation. You’d expect fear or urgency, but he speaks as though reassuring you.

“Was there another ship nearby?” You don’t remember Graves mentioning any other ships in this sector of the solar system. With many funded by private corporations or individuals, the team might not be always privy to all ongoing missions, but the commander would have known if there was a ship within a lunar distance. 

“At some point,” he says, still smiling. Too friendly. 

It’s been months since you spoke to a man your age that you hadn’t seen drink their own piss via the ship’s recycled water filtration system. Not to shame anyone—you’re part of that statistic too—but you’ve realized in the past few weeks how far that knowledge has gone towards dampening any burgeoning attraction to anyone.  

But it occurs to you again—a thought burrowing into the recesses of your mind, like a phantom of itself, a loon call over a still lake—that you are hearing someone from outside the ship. Sound traveling through nothing; the very absence of sound. 

The thought is too big for your head, but it fits itself in anyway. It stretches uncomfortably because material reality usually wins in the end. What you can see and hear, you can trust. You know the world through what appears in front of you; that's always how it's been.

This time though, there's something you can't quite fit in your head.

“Wait, let me…let me get some help,” you tell him, taking a step away from the window. Your stomach clenches when he frowns, brows pulled together in concern.

“You sure, love? I can walk you through opening the doors if you need help. Same as my ship, I bet.” He chuckles nervously. “Been out here awhile now; not sure how much oxygen I’ve got left in the tank, if I’m honest.”

That almost gets you, but you remember protocol. For all your shortcomings, you’ve never not followed protocol. Opening the airlock and letting anyone in or out is a process strictly monitored by the commander, and you have no authority to grant anyone access without express permission. You know the access codes, of course, for security and safety reasons, but despite the sudden urgency in his voice, you haven’t been authorized to let him in. 

And then there’s the matter of—

Again, though his frame fills up most of the porthole, when you look out into the depths of space around him, you see nothing out there. You wonder if perhaps Graves purposefully omitted any mention of receiving a distress call from a ship with a lost crew member. 

It feels less than likely. 

“I’ll be back.” You take another step back, heart fluttering in your chest. “Just…wait. I’ll—”

The rest of your sentence never comes, tucked beneath your tongue. Your feet are already taking you away.

The metal floor clangs under your feet as you stumble away and down the hall towards the cargo hold. You can hear the man yell after you, his voice growing more and more distant the farther you run, until its echo lingers only in your head. 

Down the stairs and through the main corridor, you pass the medbay on your way to the cargo hold, the room at the far end of the spacecraft accessible only by descending below the orlop deck. You come galloping down the stairs so fast that you nearly trip over the last one. 

The doors to the hold slide open at your approach. Though the cargo hold on the ship isn’t as gargantuan as some you’ve seen before, it’s still big enough for your footsteps to echo across the room when you make your way inside. Crates holding the ship’s sampling gear and equipment are tied down to the floor by fiber-reinforced polymer straps and covered by heavy-duty nets. The smell of fuel and ozone is pungent, thick in the air. 

The temperature in the hold is a degree or two hotter than the rest of the ship, putting you instantly on edge. Irritable; uncomfortable. Heat clings to the grooves of your skin, sinking past the epidermis. You tug your collar out with a finger. 

“Hello?” you call out into the hold, voice reverberating off the walls.

No one responds. Perhaps Farah did come for her brother, as she mentioned earlier. It wouldn’t do for you to linger in the empty hold then, the man outside the ship still a pressing concern. 

The ceiling is banded by metal beams, ferrous pipes running up the walls to the rafters, gurgling and whistling as water passes through. You can see the shoddy workmanship in the exposed scaffolding, areas that should’ve long ago been covered up or hidden away behind walls. A pipe in a far corner overhead drips onto the concrete below. 

“Looking for someone?” a voice asks from directly behind you, and your heart jumps into your throat at the sudden sound. 

When you whirl around, Hadir stands in the middle of the cargo hold, shoulders slouched and hands stuffed in his pockets. He lifts an eyebrow at the look on your face. Though he shares some features in common with his sister, his build is entirely different; stockier, slightly softer. Round jaw to her sharp. The same widow’s peak though, and the same nose. 

“Yeah, hi—morning, by the way.” You gesture with your thumb towards the door. “I, just…this is going to sound wild, but I think I just…I think someone’s outside the ship.”

The easy look falls off his face in favor of a more serious expression. 

“Outside the ship?” he repeats in disbelief. 

“Yes, I know, but I swear. Can you just—” Frustration makes you curt. Partial embarrassment too because you know how it sounds. 

There shouldn’t be anyone outside the ship because you’re in the middle of nowhere with no other spaceships around for hundreds of thousands of miles. There shouldn’t be anything other than carbonaceous and silicate asteroids drifting outside the ship. Rubble as small as grains of sand.  

He frowns. “Did someone get locked out of the ship? Why didn’t you go get Graves?”

“It’s not—” Again, you can’t seem to find the words, the right one getting lost in translation. “It’s not someone from the crew.”

Something shifts across his face, a micro-expression that makes your throat tighten involuntarily, but he nods and follows you out of the hold. 

Nerves plague you on the walk back to the porthole. Since you lead the way, you can’t look back and gauge Hadir’s expression, but you can feel his eyes heavy on your back. Skepticism still thick in the air, so rich you can almost taste it. You can hardly blame him. Were it anyone else, you’d think them delusional too. 

The walk back feels twice as long somehow. At the top of the staircase, you breathe quietly out of your mouth in order to catch your breath without letting on how winded you are. Hadir’s footsteps echo yours, a beat off the entire walk back to the corridor you left just a few minutes ago. 

When the porthole finally comes into view, you freeze, causing him to nearly walk right into you. Any apology for the sudden halt doesn't get off the back of your tongue.

A dark, empty nothingness perforated by light in the far off reaches of space. Your throat goes dry at the sight. 

“There was someone outside,” you say. It comes out whispery thin. 

You almost don’t need him to walk up to the glass and look out, knowing already what he’ll see. It’s immediately evident, the porthole free of anyone or anything obscuring the hazy band of stars off in the distance.

There’s no way to see Hadir’s expression as anything other than concerned. He peers out of the porthole again, twisting his head to the right and left in order to see as far as the view extends. 

“I, uh…I don’t see anything out there,” he finally admits, a tad awkwardly. He has a hard time meeting your eyes. 

“Oh,” you reply, nonplussed.  

You step up to the window alongside him. Stars leak out of the blackness of space; eternal night. It’s a long way from anywhere out here. 

“He might’ve gone to another window.”

For a beat, Hadir doesn’t respond. You’re both thinking the same thing. It’s unlikely that if anyone were out stranded in the middle of space that they’d float aimlessly around their only means of salvation rather than just wait for help. 

“Maybe you just saw your own reflection,” Hadir suggests. "It happens. Freaks me out too sometimes."

The tone of voice he uses irks you; it’s vaguely placating, like he’s trying to reassure you as well as himself.

There’s nothing wrong with you though. You saw what you saw and heard what you heard. There was a man outside the porthole hovering in space and he spoke to you. 

“Yeah, maybe,” you say instead. 

You stare at the faint, runny outline of your own face in the window. No matter how hard you stare, you can’t imagine her suddenly opening her mouth and talking to you. 

When the two of you finally part ways, you head for the medbay on autopilot. The mug that was in your hand is long gone—probably accidentally put down when you went looking for Hadir in the cargo hold—and you regret not stopping by the galley for a refill. 

It bothers you that Hadir went the other way, towards the cockpit instead of back to the cargo hold. You wonder whether someone called him up before you found him. 

The medical unit on this ship is smaller than what you’re used to for interplanetary travel. They’ve supplied you with the equipment necessary for simple surgeries and nothing more; anything more complex is left to chance and divine intervention. The operating table in the center of the room comes equipped with a scanner capable of medical imaging and diagnosing. 

It’s an incredibly insular room on top of that, having been designed without windows. Not atypical for a medical bay. Though bigger than your personal quarters, you often find yourself on edge when spending any prolonged amount of time in your work station. 

For all of its flaws, the ship is equipped with a rudimentary form of artificial intelligence. It mainly assists with performing diagnostics, assisting with determining the best trajectory for the spacecraft, and enabling autonomous navigation, the latter function being temporarily suspended after the impact from the day before, but it has some use. You’re especially lucky that every computer on board gives you access to the AI, meaning that you can stay cooped up in the medical unit rather than venturing back to the cockpit where your inquiry might wind up drawing more attention to you than you’d like. 

You lean forward in your chair, a leg tucked into your chest as you flip a switch on the dashboard on the wall behind the computer and then a button on the keyword, the familiar blip letting you know to speak. 

“Ship, please scan the perimeter for any nearby foreign objects.”

Chewing your nails and staring at the computer, you watch it light up, words and symbols flashing across the screen, buttons flicking on and off on the dashboard behind it. The ship rumbles around you as it scans the surrounding vacuum of space for anything with mass. The foot still touching the ground taps, a restless twitch running through your leg. 

The blip of completion makes you jolt in your chair. 

No anomalous objects detected around ship's exterior

You press the button again. “That’s—that’s not possible, Ship. I saw someone out the window.”

When you let go of the button again, the computer goes quiet, running through another round of calculations, performing the same diagnostic again. Another distended moment of anticipation. You hold your breath until the computer beeps, the perimeter inspection complete. 

Scan complete

No anomalous objects detected around ship's exterior

The secondary confirmation makes your stomach sink. 

It’s difficult to articulate the feeling in your chest. Halfway between disbelief and unease. Perhaps a simple error in judgment, but you can’t simply look past the voice you heard from the astronaut outside the porthole. In your life, you’ve made plenty of mistakes and bad calls; you’ve run the gamut of mistakes, everything from going back to old flings to nearly misdiagnosing a patient. 

You have never seen things that weren’t there. 

Still, the reading on the screen doesn’t waver. You stare at it until your watering eyes force you to blink. 

You chew the nail of your middle finger until it tears. Sweat slicks the small of your back and the soft skin under your arms. 

“Okay,” you whisper to yourself. “Okay.”

[nanaminslutz]

Arranged Marriage - Part 1

[art credit: hkiddo]

Satoru Gojo x reader in an arranged marriage for the sake of their clans staying on good terms. He gets his way...but not always.

Warnings: slow burn, 18+, MDNI, Gojo x reader, sub/dom power struggle, oral, brat

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

Seated across from him in the home that you are damned to live in. Your eyes can't help, but roll as Satoru continues to ramble on about the strong bonds of the clan, it's your duty, blah blah blah. You're freshly married, though an arranged marriage, you had only met each other officially mere hours ago. Now you're shacking up in a luxurious mansion, courtesy of the Gojo clan.

As you continue to drift away in your own thoughts, you couldn't help but think that this is not what you wanted. The hell with the clan, you never envisioned yourself marrying for "power", but for love. You were snapped back into reality when Satoru spoke in a low tone, "Did you just roll your eyes?"

You look at him with a blank stare then proceed to roll your eyes again, just for good measure. You hear him gasp and grin, "Wow, look at that. I never took you for the feisty type." He leans closer. "You know... that's my favorite type." He smirks.

You let out an annoyed scoff. Wanting to remove yourself from his presence, you turn to walk away. Without hesitation, he grabs your wrist, you look down at the strong grip then back up to him. "I don't think you understand..." he pauses to let out a menacing chuckle. "Whether you like it or not, you are MINE. I will do anything I please with you." This took you back for a moment as you never expected him to follow up with that. Yet, you weren't the one to back down. The hell with this marriage.

You glare up at him. "No", you said flatly. His grip tightens and he leans in closer, enough to smell his cologne. "You don't have a choice, my darling." He's uncomfortably close to your face. You turn your head to the side, closing your eyes. His hand now travels up your chin, his long slender fingers placed around your jawline pulling you back to face him. "You know... you're very cute when you act tough, but we both know what's gonna happen." Unable to remove yourself from his grasp, you are frozen, processing your next move. You see a satisfied smile creep on his face. Teasingly he states "Did you give up, my sweet? No need to fight, just relax." In his last words, he leans closer, brushing your hair away from your face. You move away from his touch. He remarks "Oh, so you're going to put up a fight? Obedience is much more fun..." A chuckle escaped his lips. "Oh, my darling... I can't wait to break you" caressing your face, running his hand down and across your neck.

That's it, you thought to yourself, you needed to get out of here. But how? You couldn't possibly try now, you needed to think quickly. You decided to continue to play along then once the moment strikes, you run. "Well..." you hear him say, "what will it be?" Scoffing at his words, "I'm not like other women", you retort. "But that's where you're wrong, love. You may think you are strong minded now... After what I'm going to do with you, what I'm gonna make you endure, you'll be begging for me. Unable to resist me." You shudder momentarily at his words, raising your eyebrow. "And what is it that you think you are going to do to me?", you laugh coldly.

He chuckles as he moves in close and whispers in your ear, running his hand back through your hair, clutching the strands. "You'll see...Eventually. You may not want me now. I'll make you want me. I always get what I want." You can feel his arousal, he loves this "game" you're playing with him. As his face comes inches from yours, you lean closer into him, baiting him in as his clutches loosen. In a split second, you release yourself, making a run for it further into the house you shared. Looking for an exit, an escape. You hear him let out a maniacal laugh. Between his long strides following pursuit, "You can't get away that easily, my darling." In disgust by your pet name, your escape fails as he catches up to you, dragging you back to him. Through clenched teeth, he is clearly pissed, "You could be damned to a whore house! Forced to live a concubines life, have you brought to me whenever I'm feeling bored to have my way with you. Or... we can skip this nonsense and you can just do whatever I tell you to do. Because you will." You stand there in shock by his words, body unable to move. His arms now placed above your head as he backs you into the nearest wall. "So... what will it be?", he remarks in a sadistic tone.

You stare blankly for a moment, "Come closer and I'll tell you...", your tone a seductively whisper. His eyes are dark with a hint of confusion as to why you're now being obedient. Yet your words draw him in and he leans closer, "What is it, my pet?" Just inches away from his face, without a second thought you bite his neck and swiftly turn, running away from him. Sprinting, adrenaline coursing through your veins, hoping for the escape you desperately yearn for. Satoru hisses in pain from the bite you left on his neck. He wastes no time catching you, forcefully pinning you against the wall, again. "You're really not gonna like what happens next. That little stunt you just pulled made my decision very clear.", his lips curl into an angry scowl, visible red marks on his neck. You look up into his ocean blue eyes, enraged. "Go to hell", you spat. He grabs your arms tighter, squeezing as he holds you in place. His tone is dark and cold as he stares down at you, savoring your fear. "You're really not smart for that, you know? How do you think I'll punish you for this? Think it will be something sweet and nice?"

Without hesitation, he forcibly pulls you into the next room. It was his bedroom, your eyes widened with the realization of where you are. He throws you onto the bed, "You're going to listen to everything that I tell you. If you put up a fight, you will regret it. So be a good girl for me and do as I say." Closing the door behind him, he swiftly walks to you as you lay there trembling. How the hell are you going to get out of this one, you thought to yourself. Unsure of what he'll do next, you gulp as he now hovers above you. You notice that his shoes and jacket have already tossed messily on the floor. Through his white shirt, you see faint outlines of his sculpted muscles. A slight blush creeps on your cheeks, cursing yourself at your reaction. Caressing your cheeks he leans further down, his plush lips centimeters away from yours. You shut your eyes.

"You're so cute when you try to hide your feelings... When you try to put up that tough act of yours.", you feel his warm breath on your lips. Remaining still with your eyes shut, deciding to not move a muscle. Making a feverish attempt to keep some distance between you both. He chuckles at your attempt, his voice a seductive whisper, "Stop trying to keep a distance between us, my love. You might as well stop fighting. I always get my way." He places peppered kisses along your cheek and down to your neck. You shake your head in protest. He smiles, bringing his face back up to yours. "Just given in, sweetheart. We both know your can't stay strong." His hand trails up your thigh, sending jolts up your spine. "I'll break you easily.", he whispers in your ear, nibbling it gently. You shudder and unsuccessfully shove him away. His breath is hot and damp, without warning, he bites down on your neck, right where it meets your shoulder. "You're making this so much fun, my pet. I didn't think you'd put up this much of a fight." You wince in pain and attempt again to push him away. He's too strong. Chuckling at your feeble shove, he pulls you back in continuing to place kisses on your neck roughly. Wanting you to feel pain, "such a good girl. I'm enjoying this a little too much for what I have planned." Leaning in for another kiss on your neck, but this time, gripping your hips tightly. You hiss through closed teeth, desperate for this to end, but you know that is not going to happen.

His breath is heavy and his fingers knead into your skin as he bites harder. Clear impressions of his teeth leaving their mark. "How far can I go until you break, my darling?", he hums into your neck. Between breaths, "I'll... never..." He smiles. "We'll see about that. There's more than one way to break someone. I can break you mentally, leaving you a begging mess in no time." His breath is heavy as he smiles at you. "But first... we need to get you out of these clothes." Your eyes grow wide as your heart races, "no this can't happen", you thought to yourself as he started to pull at your shirt. He looks down at you, a smirk plastered on his face as his fingers trail up your body, tracing the outlines of your shirt. "Are you getting nervous? Don't worry, just let me do this. You'll find your treat just as sweet afterwards." You turn your head away, unsure of what to do or say. His grin slowly grows as he sees the uncertainty in your eyes. "Such a good girl...", he slips your shirt off and tosses it on the floor. He stares at you for a second, before darting his eyes to your chest. Quickly, you cover yourself with your arms, sealing your eyes shut as you turn your head. No one has seen you like this before.

"Tsk, tsk.", he grabs your arms and moves them away. His eyes trailing up and down your body in almost a predatory way. "Continuing to avoid me? No, no this won't do." His voice sinister as he raises his eyebrows in disbelief. "Do not look away from me." He snarls sternly. You continue to not budge. Pinning you down on the bed. "If you keep trying to close your eyes and hide from me. I'll take that as a sign that you're nervous. And I know how to deal with that sort of behavior..." His hands slide down your midriff and come to a stop at the waist of your pants. "Now, I was going to do this slowly, but I don't think you'll be able to keep your eyes open if I do this quicker." With that he grips the waistline of your pants and slides them off in one swift motion. His eyes never leave your face. You do not back down as you continue to lay there with your eyes shut tight.

"You're really not making this easy, you know?", he says as he slides off your undergarments too. Leaving you completely vulnerable. "So much more fun if you.. just open your eyes." He whispers, reaches his hands down as you involuntarily cover yourself. Grabbing your wrists and separates them both pressing them above your head. You can feel his breath on your skin as he stares at your body. "Are you really going to keep trying to cover yourself?" You scoff. He rolls your head around with his thumb and index finger, trying to find a way to force your eyes open. "Open your eyes, my dear. I want to see your pretty eyes while I'm breaking you." You shake your head, "Make. Me." you retaliate. His eyes widen as you continue to be stubborn. Whispering, his hot breath brushing your ear, "Are you trying to challenge me?" he pauses. "Because I will make you open your eyes one way or another."

Taking both of your wrists in one hand, he grabs your chin again, holding your head down while you lay on the bed. Voice low, "You are really good at resisting. I'm going to have lots of fun with you." As before, he starts his invasion on your neck, his grip tightening on your wrists the longer he kisses you. "I can tell these kisses are making you nervous, but you're going to hate what I have planned next... that is... unless you open your eyes and face me." He notices that you continue your valent attempt to not change course. In your mind, you have accepted defeat, he has got you cornered and there's no escape. Sneering as almost he has read your mind, he trails kisses down your neck, shoulders, and other parts of your body, like a carefully calculated route. Moving down lower and lower with each peck. "You know.. I bet I could use my tongue in a way that'll force one of your pretty eyes open. Would you like that?"

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

Arranged Marriage - Part 2

[05aaphrodite]

╭──────༺♡༻──────╮

ℙ𝕒𝕚𝕣𝕚𝕟𝕘𝕤: kazuha x yandere fatui harbinger! reader

𝕋𝕚𝕥𝕝𝕖: bust your kneecaps

𝕋𝕎𝕤: NSFW, manipulation,gaslightning,kidnapping,

unhealthy obsession,guilt tripping,drugging,noncon,blackmailing

𝘏𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘺, 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦 𝘮𝘦 𝘐'𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘯 𝘢 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳.

╰──────༺♡༻──────╯

Being one of the tsaritsa’s fatui harbingers sent you here, a barricaded nation under a vision hunt decree by her excellency, your goal is to capture the electro archon’s gnosis.

You couldn't care less about the disasters happening, you just wanted to get this mission over with before getting a nice cup of tea by the wintry weather in your local manor from Snezhnaya, basically being the cryo archon’s puppet has it's disadvantages (with the advantages of having a handful of mora.) The shenanigans Tsaritsa has gets you on the edge each time, just what is the cryo archon’s motive of collecting all the gnosis? We have yet to find out, this strange world is full of secrets yet to be told.

The atmosphere here was expected, gloomy and pathetic, the followers turning a blind eye as the others feared for their visions being taken by the almighty shogun, you lowered your face to allay suspicion from the shogunate, the tenebrous sky complimented your presence with children shooting you a puzzled look, you made your way towards the guards to hand your travel permit.

The guards eyed you as you walk pass them, you lift your guards up before asking the citizens about the electro archon’s whereabouts, a little frustrating they turned their heads away isn't it? Well can't blame them for their cowardliness.

As you continue walking down the streets, a strange gush of lightning striked down near tenshushaku, you began to ran towards it but stopped upon seeing the sight in front of you.

There lays an ending duel, with the final outcome as her excellency stepping forward while dragging her electro infused sword. Alas, you witnessed the famous sword art technique as the ‘Musuo no Hitotachi’ as the electro vision of the defeated drifted away from its owner, one particular bloke caught it in one hand then ran off somewhere, although you have seen the Raiden Shogun as the mission ordered, you can't help but run after the white haired man.

When you finally caught up to the man, he was somewhere in a secluded place panting for air, the dead vision resulting to his burnt hand. Taking pity on him, you went up to him then offered your help by bandaging up his affected palm, he winced during the process but eventually sent his gratitude to you.

“Are you hurt? Do you need help?”

The man let out a quiet sigh before leaning to a wall, he recalled the past events that unfolded in his sight, the samurai promptly regrets on not being there on time.

“My friend… he..”

You picked up his tone tout de suite, the vision wielder who died at the hands of the electro archon’s was the white haired man’s companion, suddenly your heart is filled with nothing but compassion for the man.

All of a sudden a bunch of people are walking over the streets while interrogating random people about some white haired samurai, he knew at the moment he's a wanted criminal and needed to escape inazuma for the time being. Though you almost forgot the whole purpose on why you came here, to steal the electro archon’s gnosis.

Just forget about the guy and give Tsaritsa the damn gnosis you thought, but your poor soul can't help but feel pity on him as whole.

“Fuck it.” You mumbled before turning to the white haired bloke again “Come with me, I'll help you escape.” You reach your hand out towards him, he accepts it without hesitation as you lead the way to your ship, giving him your cloak managed to turn people's heads away from the two of you as you continued to walk your way to ritou.

You two successfully boarded in the ship as you ordered your henchmen to sail the ship back to snezhnaya, they reluctantly followed as they questioned why you didn't go with the original plan after seeing you rescue a random person.

The wandering samurai thanked you again before lending you your cloak back, you ordered one of the maids to cook radish vegetable soup as you try to treat the man with hospitality.

“Thank you so much for helping me, words can't describe how grateful I am to be rescued by you.” He smiled warmly that sent tingles on your beating heart, you had no idea what to respond but just a smile in return “What's your name?”

“Kazuha… I'm from the Kaedahara clan.”

So this is what Scaramouche talked to you about back at the base, the clans in inazuma. The Kaedaharas are one of the most prominent clans in inazuma, they hold a great influence to isshin art.

“May I ask for yours too?”

“It's… Y/n.” of course, you won't tell him that you're the 12th fatui harbinger yet.

In the fullness of time you have reached the infamous icy-cold nature of the cryo nation, you gave Kazuha your cloak again in order to not arouse questions from folks around.

You held him close as the two of you got out of the ship, thankfully he doesn't mind the close proximity between the both of you considering the snowy breeze is on the way. While leading him to your manor, a fellow sky blue haired harbinger halted your steps, as expected she was eyeing the person beside you.

“So, instead of following the Tsaritsa’s orders like a puppet you are, you bring home a unusual looking man to manipulate on.”

You scoffed at the knave’s words as you protectively drag Kazuha behind your back, the air tensed up while you exchanged hefty glares with your fellow harbinger, you were mad at Arlecchino for seeing right through your plans albeit you did took pity on the samurai “At least I'm not a potential traitor like you.” you retorted with Kazuha casually clinging on your arm, with that you dragged the man along with you to the manor still sullen.

Once the two of you got in the manor, you sighly apologized to Kazuha about the incident with Arlecchino “It's alright, I know that you have no cruel intentions.”

You swallowed a gulp while chuckling wryly “Yeah you're right, plus there's no reason on why doing cruel deeds on you will benefit me.”

You lend him your spare clothes from the wardrobe as you ordered one of your maids to cook borscht for Kazuha, you took the med kit from your drawers to treat Kazuha’s burnt wound again, you apply a wet compress to the area before applying lotion “So Kazuha, if it's okay to inquire but what was your friend like?” you asked as you wrap his hand with bandage again, he took his time to narrate the adventures him and his friend had, your ears concentrated on his voice while you shot him a sympathetic smile everytime he gets emotional in the middle. You gave him your attention and care enough like you planned so you can take advantage of his trust and control him like any other puppets from the past.

After tending to his wounds, you led him to the dining area after your maids prepare borscht for him, he took a spoonful of the red beetroot soup as he swallowed the warm liquid on his throat, his tongue made sounds “It has a distinct unique taste, snezhnaya sure brings the epitome of comfort soups perfectly.” Kazuha smiled gently before taking another sip, a grin plastered on your face as you gaze at the samurai enjoy the pleasant taste of borscht staying in his tongue. As you also planned, he's wholly comfortable in your home that he didn't even question what was put in the soup...

You saunter to the lobby to ponder about making him fall in love with you, it's obvious you never developed feelings for him but you got attached, he seemed different than the other men you tortured that you gave him proper treatment the first time he arrived even surprising the maids as well.

A knock interrupted your moment of silence, sighing you opened the front door to let your subordinates in

“Miss Brighella, her majesty has requested your presence.” you saw it coming anyway, but who would blame you bringing home such an attractive samurai?

You nod your head “I'll be there right away.” they bowed their heads before leaving, you walk your way to the living room to grab your cloak up while catching Kazuha studying the souvenirs on your shelves, the drug would kick in later so you told your maids to keep an eye on him. He noticed your presence before shooting a smile again “Where are you going?”

You wore your cloak around with a reassuring smile “Important matters, make yourself at home.” You said before you head off to the palace.

*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ

The breeze touched your face as you leaned on the railings of the palace, you decided to take your mind somewhere after that scolding from the Tsaritsa, she demanded to send you back to inazuma for the gnosis but you convinced her that manipulating and controlling him under your will would benefit the fatui and gain more information about the Raiden Shogun, reluctantly she accepted it because who is she to doubt you? Your schemes with men before worked and Kazuha was an easy target.

Even if you planned to use and dispose him, something about him meets your standards that you can't bring yourself to be overly cruel towards him, somewhere in your heart felt bad about him, scared that he would eventually learn about your ill intentions, but you promise you'll be gentle right? Plus this is your first time being nice to your victim, as long he doesn't defy you everything’s good…

“Fancy to see you here, comrade.” A familiar voice struck up to your ear before looking back to see the 11th fatui harbinger, Tartaglia “Same goes to you, comrade.” You chuckled as he joins you on the scenery viewing, ever since being recruited to the fatui, he was the first person you looked up to hence being trained together and being sent on missions together, you had each other's backs no matter what to the point you openly express your dislike of the Tsaritsa in front of him.

“So I just heard from others that you were bringing home a man again, who is he?” He raise a brow while shooting you a look, a snicker escaped you “He's a wandering samurai from Inazuma, he looked injured so I went to his aid.”

“How's he holding up now?”

“He's doing just fine.”

“From your gaslightning?” You narrowed your eyes at the harbinger “No Childe, why would I be hard on him the second he gets home?..”

He seemed awestruck for a tiny bit before chuckling “I think I'm witnessing a new Brighella.” you raised your brow “Shush, that does not mean I have feelings for my victim, he's just…. more tolerable I guess…”

Tartaglia hummed sardonically, you lightly punch his sleeve “Hey, you should also lend me a hand with your henchmen guarding the manor, he better not escape under my grasp.”

“Say no more comrade.” the both of you grinned, you got everything you wanted and you couldn't ask for more.

By the time you got to your manor, he was already tied up in a secluded room just beside your bedroom, the room also known as the chamber where you keep your victims and manipulate them for information.

Wearily Kazuha mumbled meaningless phrases while chained to a bed headboard , the moment he questioned his lightheadness in the middle of strolling in the hallway, something definitely felt off with the soup but he decided to gave it the benefit of the doubt, guess he should have been more extra cautious next time.

You smiled when everything goes according to your plan, you successfully have the wanted criminal wrapped around your finger. His mumbling came to an end upon sensing your presence, poor boy felt betrayed when he finds himself chained in an unfamiliar room, and worse, overhearing the maids’ conversation about your plan, he never imagined someone like you who double crosses someone after doing a good deed, people can be deceiving nowadays they say.

“Y…you… what did you do…to me…” he struggled to keep his tone coherent, the corner of your lips turned downward after hearing his doleful tone, it's like he trusted you no matter what only for him to be a tool for you to use in the end, but rest assured you would treat him right than anyone!

“How’d you like the sheets I prepared for you? Are you fond of cotton sheets? I have loads of it.” You brushed a lock that blocked the view of his perfect shape, the eyes once full of reliance now just pure dread and vexation, your guilt feeling resided deep within but it doesn't stop you from having no sympathy and regard “Ex…plain all of….these…”

You took the gold insignia from your pocket then place it on his stomach “I'm no. 12th of the fatui harbingers, I'm Brighella, codename bugiarda.”

Fatui… he has heard of this heinous organization from folks before, they had always painted them in a bad light saying they were the focal point of the vision hunt decree to create a market for their delusions “Traitor…” you took the insignia then turned your back “I'm no traitor, I saved you.”

Being held captive for weeks, Kazuha eventually gave in to your manipulation and started doing your dirty works in a heartbeat, you saved him and how is he gonna defy against you? You did everything in your power to make him be unseen by Inazuma and the Tsaritsa, he felt in debt of you.

But gradually he's coming into his morals and finally puts an end to your ‘savior’ persona, he felt sympathy for those people you targeted as he do the work.

Although he wants to rebel against you, he doesn't deny that he fell in love with you the moment you came to his aid, he has never experienced this warm feeling when he's around everyone, when it came to you everything changed, he felt the need to depend on you everytime. So now he's stuck between wanting to stay or go, his friend often told him that prioritizing one's self isn't necessarily a bad thing, Kazuha made up his mind then starts thinking of a strategy to fool you

“If only you did something to save your friend, he would've been still here.”

The words struck with him to this day when anger got the best of you then lashed out at him for failing something, he slept with a heavy heart after that, he did everything he could to go to his friend that time, you knew he tried his best but you wanted to get him caught off guard by mentioning his dead friend, it's true that it's such a cruel one to do but you enjoyed making him sob and loathe himself. Kazuha finally had enough then remained firm on his decision, he drew a line on the wall as he leaned his head, the tally marks decorated the walls of him room ever since being trapped here like a prisoner, he never lost track on how many days it has been, has it been 38 days?

He asked permission from the maids to use the bathroom which led to them agreeing, your bathroom is like the size of a nursery room, you're filthy rich so you spent mora on building the fanciest bathroom in Snezhnaya. Kazuha took the window’s advantage by climbing through it, there's a small ledge outside as he closes the window without making a noise, he ends up in the snow kissed backyard with metal fences guarding, Kazuha can just use his anemo powers to float and that's it. When he believed it to be his escape of freedom, he was unaware that his vision was taken by your force while sleeping, and that's when everything's too late “Hey! Look who's over there!” a fatui agent pointed at Kazuha followed by the rest of his comrades raising their guard up, he only realized the drugs are starting to kick in as he feels hazy “There you are my love.”

You took him back to his room after getting informed by the maids that he was gone, putting the drug on his drink was perfect timing.

Johnny don't leave me, you said you'd love me forever

“Why'd you try to escape? You said you'll love me forever.” you chained him to the headboard as he groaned “Not only did you disobeyed me but you almost thwarted my plans to gain more information about her excellency!”

Honey believe me, I'll have your heart on a platter.

“If you think about escaping again, I'll send you to the Raiden Shogun herself.” You threatened, Kazuha immediately remained silent before nodding with a yes, if anything he's willing to go through anything to escape, just not the electro archon…

Might you recall, we’ve got a small family business and the family won't like this

Childe approached you the next day regarding the Raiden Shogun “Scaramouche is sent to inazuma for the gnosis, your knowledge helped us discerning the electro archon’ true plans.”

You grinned upon hearing the news, it's a relief that you were able to get through Kazuha’s fabrication of the vision hunt decree “So how's your captive holding up?” the harbinger inquired, you scoff with a chortle “That little shit tried to escape unbeknownst to me yesterday, thankfully one of your fatui agents managed to find him.” he replied with only a scornful grin, Childe is your true partner in crime after all.

They'll bust your knee caps

Sneakily you put a drop of aphrodisiac on his shchi, being sexually frustrated was right timing, you also figured getting him on his weak state would be easy to manipulate him on, Kazuha sipped a liquid from the shchi before releasing a refreshing sigh, you watched in a devilish intent as he finishes the contents of it.

They'll bust your knee caps, that's what they're going to do

“I want you inside me..” he groaned as he gripped the white sheets, desires becoming lusty each second, a smirk grew on you then lift his shirt up as you drag your nails along to his stomach “Needy for me already? Answer a few questions.” you got on top of him then grinded against his clothed erect cock, he let out a small whimper while gripping your hips “Now, I want you to stay obedient and tell the truth.” You began to slide his shirt off revealing his chest breathing up and down, he let out a harsh breath, slowly you rub his hard nipple then gradually caressing it which earned a moan from the samurai “What's the Raiden Shogun’s motive?” Kazuha kept moaning for more distracted by your pleasure, you liked teasing him for sure but it gets you a little frustrated “Sh-she wants… eternity- ngh!..” you made your way to his pants then slid it off with his undergarments revealing a erect thick dick “Hm? What else.” you have his tip a teasing lick earning a hard groan “P-please continue..” A soft chuckle escaped you before rubbing his veiny cock with your fingers “What's your friend’s name?” You sucked on the tip “Mmgh!” Kazuha arched his back with eyes sealed shut.

Your mouth travelled it's way down to his full cock as your tongue swirls around the area “Ahh…” he breathe in and out then gripped your hair, you kept going on his dick bopping your head, your question may have went over his head but you're too enamored with the flavor of his precum, you fasten your speed with the samurai continuously moaning, a tear of pleasure escaped his one eye “C-coming…” he hissed, at the moment he cummed on your mouth, swallowing his sweet white liquid whole down to your throat, you gaze at him with a sly smirk “Good boy.

Johnny, you told me, you were no fool, you were no chump

You drape a cape around his shoulder, you loved to hurt and take care of him at the same time, Kazuha is finally under your control again.

Then you got cold feet, now all you'll be is a speed bump

“I'll forever be your puppet…” he murmured, a smirk crept on you running your fingers through his hair, just how things should be.

Johnny there's still time together I know we’d go so far

And when you thought you still have him wrapped around your finger, while you fell asleep on his room because of exhaustion from orders, he slowly pull the anemo vision out of your pocket then ran free outside albeit the fatui and Childe managed to catch up with him in time.

I'll tell uncle Rocco to call off the guys with the crowbars

“Obey me this instant or I'll send you back to Inazuma!” he shuddered under your chilling tone, being a stubborn bloke he is Kazuha activated his vision wielding his katana. Your power wasn't to be underestimated that you easily took him down with your polearm, you were the 3rd strongest of the harbingers despite being younger than all of them, even Tartaglia the crazy battle maniac himself said he could never match to your strength.

“I gave you a second chance and now you've used them all, don't make me execute you like how the Raiden Shogun executed your friend.” you wrapped his torso with ropes again, he's remained tied up forever whether he likes it or not for trying to escape twice.

You call it crime, we call it smart family business

“You won't get away with this…” he struggled against the ropes, after getting captured you threw away his vision far enough that he couldn't retrieve it again, being proprietorial is in your trait after all “Is that so, wanted criminal?” a chuckle escaped you.

And the family is famous

After all the fatui is infamous for their iniquitous crimes, what did the samurai expect? throw you into jail right now? As if that'll happen, adding the fact other harbingers have done worse things than you.

It's such a shame that you became such an issue, oh dear Johnny I'll miss you

Paying back for his escape attempts, you busted his knee caps in return so that he won't be able to walk or run ever again, he had became frail and weak the past few days, Kazuha learned during these captive days that fighting back is useless and that you have more power over him, but after all being spoiled by you isn't so bad at all right?

Slowly he doesn't mind being under your control, in fact he loves it that out of all people you chose him! As promised you did treat him better than most people, he doesn't need to worry about his own freedom as he already has you, a loving harbinger.

[bonnieprincegnarly]

Everybody was talking about the quad thing in the last episode of Riverdale like that's the wildest thing about it.

Betty freaking time travels. Jughead is like an angel or something. Reggie dropped the Brando schtick and reverted to dumb dumb status again.

But that's not even the point. The finale is just heartbreaking. The finale is about real life finally catching up with The Archies. It's not about serial killers, or Gargoyle Kings, or Stephen King's The Stand Jr. And yeah there's the live action Gainax ending a la Lost, and Angel Jughead and Betty's Excellent Adventure, but mostly it's just a hit parade of emotional gut punches. It's just scene after scene of life absolutely bodying the expectations of America's favorite teenagers.

And I feel it. I'm there too. In my 20s I saw everyone drift away after high school. I've since seen the deaths of people I thought I'd know my entire life. And some people I talked to every day for years, stopped responding and never spoke to me again.

And it's heartbreaking in Riverdale because these kids finally get everything sorted out and just drift away like you or I would. Archie starts to tell Betty what many of the viewers are probably thinking, that the whole story started with the two of them and will just as likely end with the two of them starting a family and living together for years. And then Betty explains that she already knows the future and they don't get together at all. Archie moves to California and marries someone else who we never learn the name of, has a family, dies, and gets buried in Riverdale next to his Dad. Archie doesn't become a rockstar or a famous writer. He becomes a construction worker who writes on the side for funzies. Archie and Betty and Veronica and Jughead live miles apart, they die years apart. They never really see each other all together ever again after high school. That's us. With a few exceptions that's you and me.

There's a part toward the end of the finale where Betty asks Angel Jughead what happens after we die. Jughead uses Pop as an example and says that he imagines Pop doing what he loved for the rest of eternity in The Sweet Hereafter. Betty tells Angel Jughead that she never wants to leave Riverdale then. She wants to stay forever young with all her friends and hope about a bright future. Angel Jughead looks serious and then contradicts his comment about Pop. Angel Jughead says what Betty wants is impossible. "You say hello. You walk beside someone for a little while... and then you say goodbye. That's life." That is life.

There's a big scene in Mike Flanagan's Netflix series Midnight Mass where Riley and Erin are talking about faith. Riley talks about his atheism and disbelief in an afterlife. He goes on to describe the process of brain death and how time seemingly expands forever onward in the perception of those whose brains are shutting down. One long dream before the beginning of an endless sleep. This is what The Archies too are left with; that diner that lives in their memories as a timeless rendezvous for the best version of everyone they ever loved; one long dream before the vast expanse of infinite sleep.

[donnetellotheturtle]

Chapter 2

The fire kingdom

Elio was about a weeks ride away on donkey. The one thing Varian hadn’t expected was that it was so lonely. There were travelers and merchants on the road sure but no conversation lasted more than a couple minutes and being from Corona, he was unused to not being able to speak to the nearest person for at least an hour or two. It made him feel more isolated than he expected.

On the evening before he made it to Elio, he sat by a small fire, eating. Ruddinger munched on a piece of bread besides him as he fingered through his moms journal. Her research was enticing and it felt as if he was getting to know her through it. She had a way of describing things that made it sound so exciting.

“so apparently the first totem is in a volcano! But Elio has a bunch of them….which one would it be...”

He pulled out his own journal, making his own notes and theories on the totems.

~

“Hes going to look for the library.” Hugo reported as soon as he got into the tent.

“Hm…that means he’ll be heading to Elio first. Follow him, and get the relic first.”

Hugo nodded. “Yes ma’am.”

~

Varian woke up early to get to the kingdoms gates as soon as possible. It was very hot here. He guessed that was because of the volcanoes decorating the mountain peaks.

The gates were lavish and gigantic, the middle decorated with the symbol of Elio. As he came upon it his eyes drifted to the blown glass and obvious blacksmithery in the gate and in the walls.

“woah…”

“State your business.” On of the guards said.

Varian smiled. “Just here to see the city!”

The guard looked at him, then nodded at the other guard. “You from Corona?”

“Yes sirs. How could you tell?”

“Your bag…can we take a look at your caravan? Have to make sure you’re not smuggling anything.”

Varian nodded, and the process ended fairly quickly. He was let into the city. It was beautiful. The ground was covered with red rocks, there were houses with sliding doors, most of them were open and he saw kids some running around with ribbons and playing with toys that looked like dragons, foxes, tigers, qs well as kites. He saw a person playing a Huluqin. He listened to the music and heard people yelling out from stalls about the fresh food that was there.

“First things first guys…find a place to stay…”

He hopped off Prometheus and led him to a stable, paying the keeper a few coins for the night. He grabbed his bag from the caravan and walked out into the street. He looked through his moms journal, trying to figure out where to start.

Then there was a yell, screaming, and something whizzed behind him. He yelled out in surprise, turning quickly to where he heard the crash.

Sitting in the wreckage of what used to be a cabbage stand, was a small boy, around the age of 14, with almond eyes, black hair, and he was a bit chubby. But the most important thing he noticed was the fact that part of the kids shirt was still on fire.

“Holy…” He ran and started patting out the fire. “kid, you okay?”

He gave a weak thumbs up, clearly dazed by the impact.

He looked to the side where he saw what looked like a dragon puppet. Only it had pyrotechnics and a seat inside.

“What were you doing?”

The kid shook his head and stood up. “I was trying to make a flying dragon!”

Varian blinked. “uh huh”

“But instead of blasting off, it just blasted me…off of it.”

Varian sighed softly, rubbing his forehead. “kid you could have killed yourself!”

“you sound like my mom!”

“Well maybe shes….right.” Varian was having serious Daja Vu from this. “Huh…”

The kid was already over the dragon again. “Hm what went wrong…”

Varian then saw that there was still a fire. And it was going to hit the kid straight in the face.

“Hey get away from there!” Varian opened a corked bottle from his belt and threw it just as the explosion was about to go off. He pulled the kid out of the way as a bubble quickly encased it. A small crowd gathered to see the commotion.

The kid looked at him with wonder. “Wow…that was cool.”

Varian chuckled.

“MY CABBAGES!”

The kid chuckled nervously.

After everything was sorted out, Varian and him walked along the street.

“So, that was Alchemy?” He asked.

“Uh yeah. Look kid-“

“that’s awesome. I can’t make stuff, I’m usually just the kid who blows everything up…litteraly.”

“I don’t-“

“where did you learn to do that?”

“I taught myself. Now ki-“

“Wow! You’re so good at it I also taught myself.”

Varian sighed, looking at him.

“I’m Yong.” He said cheerfully, holding out a hand.

“….Varian.” He shook the boys hand. “You can’t be so reckless. Somebody could get hurt.”

“But you were here!” Yong said. “So maybe you could teach me not to make things blow up?”

Varian looked at Yong, then sighed. “I don’t know how long I’ll be here. I just have to find what I’m looking for and get going.”

“Ooh! What are you looking for?”

“None of your business, kid.”

“But I can help! No one knows Elio better than me.”

Varian paused, then sighed. “Alright. On one condition.”

“anything.”

“No explosives.”

Yong looked at the pack of fireworks on his hip, and sighed sadly.

A couple minutes later, the two sat on Yongs porch. Explosives carefully put away under the boys bed. Varian opened his moms book.

“So the place I’m looking for is in a volcano…but there’s three around here. Where to start?”

Yong looked at the book. “that’s the northern one. Id recognize it anywhere…it’s been dormant for years though.”

“Dormant?”

“All the lava is so far below the surface that no one’s concerned that it’s going to erupt any time soon. We learn about them in school. We even take field trips up to the top sometimes.”

Varian thought to himself. “hm. Can you take me there?”

“Yeah! I’ll pack some lunch!”

Varian chuckled. As Yong ran off, he couldn’t help but think of how much the kid reminded him of himself. For better or worse. He followed Yong inside.

He stood in the kitchen as Yong packed some food for them both.

“Hey where’s your parents?”

“Oh they’re at work! They wont be home until waaay after we get back.”

Varian nodded. “Okay…would they be okay with you being gone?”

“they won’t even know!”

“that doesn’t feel great.”

Yong shrugged and wrapped up the food, putting them into bags and putting them in his backpack. “Come on let’s go!”

Varian sighed, hoping he wouldn’t regret bringing Yong along.

It was 3 when they finally reached the volcano. They were loosing daylight faster that Varian would have liked.

“So, how do we get in?”

“Oh that’s easy! There’s a man made entrance!”

He followed Yong to the entrance where there was a person at a stand, fast asleep on their hand. There was a gate that he could easily leap over, but he figured the easiest way was paying the way in. Even with his few coin.

“Uh…excuse me?”

The person snored awake, nearly falling over. Then they looked at Varian, and sighed. “What?”

“Um…me and my friend would like to enter?”

The person nodded, pulling out two rather large paper tickets. “Two silver.”

Varian fished it out of his pockets and handed them over. They gave the tickets to the both of them and settled back down, seemingly ready to get back to their nap.

The two of them went through the gate and looked around at the main volcano. There was no body here. Which meant, they had no one that would disturb them. Varian turned to the journal as they walked deeper.

“So, the trial is towards the bottom of the volcano, but I can’t read this…it’s not in coronan.”

Yong gently pulled down Varians arm to see, then cocked his head to the side. “Oh! Elian!” He grinned. “give it here?”

“wait you can speak this?”

“Duh. Its my first language.”

“But everyone uses Coronan here?”

“Better to talk to tourists but all of us know Elian. It would be stupid if we didn’t.” He grinned as if he didn’t just say the thing that made Varian reexamine his biases.

Yong took the book and started reading. “So it says to find the first piece of the puzzle.”

“First piece?”

Yong shrugged. “Then it says, Down the swirling embers and jagged rocks, you’ll find your prize just awaiting a spark.”

“That doesn’t even rhyme!” Varian pouted. He loved a good rhyme. Yong chuckled.

“I’m not sure where that is…we don’t go that deep during the field trips.”

“Well, we’ve got time, I guess.”

“And lunch!”

Varian chuckled, and followed Yong deeper into the cave systems.

~

It took hours.

And Varian was very sure they were very lost.

He wasn’t even sure this was a path that people were allowed to take.

“Wanna take a break?” Yong asked.

Varian stopped walking, and sighed, sitting down. “Yeah…yeah that lunch sounds good right about now.”

Yong sat and pulled off his bag, grabbing out the two lunches, giving one to Varian. “I hope you don’t mind. It’s some leftovers from a big party my family had the other night.”

Varian opened the small box that the food was contained in. It was still steaming. Inside he saw food unlike the kind in corona.

Dumplings, chicken drenched in orange sauce, and some lo mein. He had heard about them of course, read about this food even. But he has never actually tasted it. All the Elian food in Corona burned his nostrils so bad he never actually had the want to try.

This didn’t seem spicy though.

Varian took a careful bite. His mouth exploded with flavor. He couldn’t help the happy noises that came out of his mouth, despite Yong giggling.

“This is delicious.”

Yong grinned. “my moms specialty. Im glad you like it!”

Varian ate his food with that same happy grin. He swore he’d be a little bit happier for the rest of his life.

“So, ive been meaning to ask you…” Yong started. Varian gave him his attention through a mouthful of noodles.

“Whats with the teal streak?”

Varian swallowed his food. “oh that? I don’t know. Something I’ve had since I was born…Maybe it’s cause I was close to the moonstone when I was a baby? Before my dad brought me to Corona, I mean. It’s just a theory though…not that it really matters anymore.”

Yong shrugged. “It still looks cool.”

Varian smiled. No one had really mentioned his streak before, much less think it was cool.

The two finished their food and Yong packed it back up. The two got back on their feet.

“So swirling embers. What do you think it means?” Yong asked.

Varian thought for a second. “could be a tunnel of fire?”

“Howd we get through?”

Varian just shrugged.

They traveled for a bit before passing by a glowing tunnel. Bright with glowing jewels. Varian paused, then backtracked. That had to be what they were looking for.

Slowly the two went down the tunnel. It was getting hotter as they went, which was not the greatest sign.

“Yong you said this place was dormant right?”

“Yeah…”

Varian winced at the boys tone but they couldn’t stop now. They were so close. “…Stay close to me.”

Yong did as he was told and they made it to the bottom. It was sweltering. All around were veins. Looking to carry gold. Varian bent down to look at them. They seemed to be in a rod shape , though they varied in sizes.

“huh…Volcanoes don’t usually make this stuff…it’s almost like someone put them here…maybe this is the prize the book was talking about.”

“First piece of the puzzle…what does that mean? What’s with these symbols? Give me a hint mom…”

Varian started messing with the veins, and saw as the pages shifted, as if someone were turning it. The staff of clarity.

He sat and read, seeing that with the formulas his mom had written, the staff of clarity could be formed from the gold. He smiled and started working.

It took a couple minutes, but in the test tube Varian had brought along, he had created them very formula he needed. All that was left to do was put it on the vein.

He took a deep breath, hoped the calculations were right, and poured it on.

Part of the vein fell open, dropping pieces of a large staff. Varian started putting them together as Yong looked at Varian strangely.

“So we got a staff?”

“The staff of clarity. I think it’ll help us with finding the fire totem.”

He finished, grinning. “all…” He stood. No one was there. “Done? Yong?”

The world had suddenly turned red. It reminded him all too much of the red rocks. “Yong where-“

“Varian!” His dad’s voice was loud in his ears.

“Dad!?”

He turned and he saw his father, being in amber again, reaching for him. “Dad!” He didn’t think about how his father could be there, much less encased in amber. He ran and nearly got to him, only to be just too late. Quirin was once again encased in amber. “No…no not again! Not again no!” The tears in his eyes sprung and he felt like he was 14 again.

Then he turned around, and he saw something almost worse. All of his loved ones choked in amber. He stepped back. “no…no, no.”

“This Is all your fault.”

He turned, seeing no one but himself, hands behind his back, dressed like he was when he teamed up with the saporians. He had this red glint in his eye.

“I…how did…”

“If you had just been a little more careful.”

-

Yong was panicking. As soon as Varian put together that staff, he’d gone catatonic, staring at the wall with this scary red glow in his eyes, sobbing and mumbling incoherently. He’d tried everything. Shaking him, smacking him, even asking him nicely to come out of his trance. But Varian didn’t budge.

Then he saw the book. He picked it up and the wind whipped it to the next page. There was another piece. And then it said to review the fire trials.

Yong processed this information. “your prize just awaiting a spark…” He looked around and saw something glittering. Running over he saw it was the final piece. A golden orb encased in stone. Yong had an idea how to get it out. Varian would kill him if he knew he’d stowed away a stick of fireworks in his sock just in case of emergencies.

He pulled it out, then swiped it against the ground to create the spark. “Hope this works!”

He threw it at the orb.

-

“You were the one who joined up with dangerous criminals.”

“Stop it.” Varian was on his hands and knees now, begging for his red tinted self to stop talking.

“Oh and erased the royals memories. Who’s to say you’re not just as bad. As stupid. As dangerous as you were back then.”

“Shut up.” Varian looked up at himself. His head cleared a bit as he took a deep breath. The illusion wavered for just a moment, not that he really noticed.

“Don’t like hearing the truth?”

Varian looked to the side, squeezing his eyes shut for a moment. For once, the other him stopped talking.

“I was a grieving kid.” Varians voice shook as he spoke. “I was hurting. I’m still hurting. I didn’t make good choices.”

“understatement.”

“I’m not done.” Varian glared, slowly coming to his feet. “But I will never stop trying. So hit me with all you got. Nothings going to stop me from getting to that library.”

The other him looked to the side, seeing something Varian didn’t. Then, it turned blue and smiled. His genuine smile. “Good job kid.” The visage of himself disappeared.

Varian took a deep breath, blinking. He was back in reality, and Yong had just finished putting a piece of the staff in. He looked at Yong, taking a shaky breath.

“how did you…?”

“there was a final piece!” Yong said. “the clarity jade. It needed a spark to get out of the stone and lucky for us, I brought an extra firework.”

Varian paused, then grinned. “Yong you’re a genius!” he ruffled the kids hair. “Ill never tell you to leave your fireworks at home again!”

Yong laughed.

Varian looked down to the staff. “Was it…testing me?”

“Maybe that was the trial!” Yong said, then the two looked over at the sound of rocks moving, scratching against each other. The totem, the relic, was revealed. The two looked at each other.

Varian moved forward to grab it. He walked under the glowing stones and reached for it.

Another hand settled on his as he wrapped his hand around it.

In front of him was a boy with green eyes, an undercut and big round glasses. The two stared at each other.

“let go!” The boy started, tugging.

Varian didn’t, of course. “No you let go!”

The tug of war went back and forth and Yong watched confused.

“Finders keepers!” The blonde said sticking out his tongue before finally using his other hand to push Varian off. He moved quickly.

“Hey! We did the trial! Its ours!” Varian said as the boy was already making his exit up another tunnel.

He just laughed. “Thanks for doing the dirty work!”

He threw a smoke bomb, and both the boy and the relic were gone.

~

It must have been midnight when the two finally found their way out of the dormant volcano. Varian had thought about searching for the boy but Yong had a point about getting lost. They’d have to hunt that guy down for the relic after a good night’s rest.

“I’m sorry about the relic, Varian.” Yong said.

Varian sighed. “Its okay…we’ll find him again. I’m exhausted though, and I need to find a place to sleep tonight.”

“you can stay at my house!”

Varian raised an eyebrow. “wouldn’t your parents be concerned about a strange boy in your house?”

“Nah. I have a lot of siblings. They wouldn’t notice another kid!”

With boundless energy, Yong led Varian back to town.

~

Hugo grinned at his success as he walked back into camp. “Dooooonnnnnnniiieee!” he crowed.

Donella herself was sitting by a campfire next to her right hand Cyrus, eating dinner. She grinned. “You actually did it.”

Hugo thought about tossing it, but decided its a bad idea, moving and handing it off instead. “yeah. Thanks to that varian guy.”

“What?”

Hugo nodded. “Yeah, he was already there. But not quick enough to get the relic before me.”

Donella frowned, thinking. “so he is searching.”

A long pause and Donella had a plan cooked up. She handed the relic back to him. “Taje this back, join his party. Help him find the relics.”

“…okay? Why?”

She sighed, all but rolling her eyes. “Makes the work easier on us, plus, easier to keep track of what he does and doesn’t know. You’ll report to me anything you find out. Understood?”

Hugo paused, looking at the totem, then nodded. “Yeah. I won’t let you down.”

~

Yong wasn’t lying when he said his parents wouldn’t notice another kid. There were at least 7 younger kids running around Yongs small house when they got back, both the parents trying to put them to sleep.

“Who’s this?” his mother asked after she and his father fretted over him for being gone so long with no warning or anything. “he looks like a panda with those eye bags.”

“This is my new friend Varian! We went to the volcano together today!”

She looked Varian up and down, examining him. It made varian feel self conscious.

“You hungry?” she finally asked.

Varian nodded shyly. She smiled and pulled him into the kitchen as her husband finally succeeded on putting yongs younger siblings to sleep.

Yong himself, fell asleep at the table while his mother was cooking. Varian smiled as he took the small boy to bed, being reminded of his own dad carrying him when he was little.

“Now I want you to eat and go to bed young man. You look like you smudged your makeup.”

Varian chuckled. “yes ma’am.”

It wasn’t long until Varian had happy taste buds and a full stomach. He was led to the only available sleeping area which was a couch. It was better then a floor.

He was asleep within minutes.

<

Find this on A03!

[skvaderarts]

Petrichor Chapter 41: Tracing

Chapter 41: Tracing

Note: Hehe… I like this one. I like it a lot. Felt good to write it. I hope you enjoy it!

(-~-)

Amidst the pleasant warmth of multiple layers of warm blankets and the low rumble of the train around them as it traveled over the tracks, the young summoner suddenly found himself semi-awake, his senses dulled and the pull of the void still thoroughly tempting him back into the realm of sleep. He struggled to push away the desire to turn over and simply drift back to sleep, but something was coaxing him towards the waking world again, something that he had not pinpointed just yet, but couldn’t ignore, regardless.

He blinked ever so slowly, the dim lighting present in the car making his eyes adjust easier than he was expecting, but still slower than he was used to. He’d been deeply asleep, and a glance over at the clock betrayed that he’d been asleep just shy of seven hours. It was very early in the mourning and the light of morning was just below the horizon. The sky was starting to lighten, but there was no brightness just yet. Only the faint deep blue that always came before everything else.

And then he finally registered it: a hand upon his shoulder, gently shaking him just enough to wake him but hesitantly in a way that indicated that the person it belonged to didn’t wish to disturb them. Oh, that was right. He wasn’t alone in this train car.

“V. Wake up, please.” A familiar voice said with the utmost gentleness as he turned to look at his friend. His hair was slightly messy, indicating that he’d probably taken the opportunity to rest at some point in the last few hours. He had the unmistakable look of a man who had just woken up a short while ago, a look that he himself was sure was probably present on his face. What were they both doing up?

“Is… something wrong?” V said almost horsely, stopping to clear his voice slightly. Sirrus stood up somewhat sluggish and walked across the small space to the mini fridge in their room, taking a moment to pour something into a glass before heading back over to his friend and handing it to him. V received it with a thankful nod before taking a parched sip and discovering that it was barely flavored sparkling water. Raspberry and citrus. It had a wonderful smell. He subconsciously wondered how long that had been in there. He would’ve happily downed the whole bottle by now without a second thought should he have known that it was available as an option sooner. It wasn’t a combination of flavors that he encountered very often, and it was lovely.

“No, nothing is the matter. My sincerest apologies if I’ve startled you.” Sirrus said with a somewhat tired yawn. He was clearly a bit drowsy, but otherwise functional. And although the young summoner was slightly sure that his observation was due primarily to his current state of awakeness, the man with the mostly red hair seemed almost excited about something to him. Interesting. “I recognize the time is inappropriate at best, but I need to borrow you for a moment, if you’ll humor me. Not a moment longer.”

V simply stared at him absentmindedly, his brain still processing the request as he downed the last of his cold drink and sat the glass down on the small bedside table. He could not think of a compelling reason to say no to his request. He’d gotten plenty of sleep, and it wasn’t as though he was asking him to do something unreasonable. “Sure. I think I can manage that. Where are we going, exactly?”

Sirrus smirked mischievously, looking up at the ceiling a moment later. There was a look of what he could only describe as wicked amusement on his face. Clearly, he was looking forward to whatever it was that he was about to say, and the young summoner could only guess as to what the reasons might be. “Oh, nowhere special. Just the roof.”

Certain that he’d heard that statement incorrectly, V paused in his tracks, one foot on the floor as he’d been standing up to actually put some clothes on. He knew that it was quite early and that he’d more than likely hallucinated that response, but surely Sirrus had not just said-

“Yes, I said the roof. You are not mistaken.” Sirrus chuckled under his breath, genuinely amused by the look of horrified disbelief on his friend’s face. He was looking at the adjudicator as though he’d just received severe head trauma and needed medical assistance. Little did he know that very thing had already happened recently, so he was a little late to the punch. “Trust me, it will be worth your while.”

V continued to stare at him for a long while, still not moving. He seemed to be weighing the pros and cons of going outside on a moving train and doing literally anything, the merits of what could possibly drive them to go somewhere like that in the first place were dubious to him at best. But after a prolonged period of consideration, V let out a soft sigh and stretched out his back, the tattoos that covered his body rippling as he shifted his stature and flexed the muscles in his upper body. This was a horrible idea. He was clearly out of his mind for asking, and V was as well for even considering it. It was fortunate indeed that he’d been asked while he was awake enough to answer but not quite cognisant enough to come to a logical answer.

“Let me put a shirt on, then.”

There was a small change in the energy in the atmosphere around them as V’s tattoos shifted again, this time through no volition of his own. Didn’t bother looking down to assess the reason why. He already knew what the cause was. But Sirrus could only stare as a portion of the markings on his companion’s body disappeared and became dust in the air, a voice filling the air around them. And it was one that they both recognized.

“Oh, okay. Wow, you're serious. Alright then. Let me just interrupt you for a second here. Squeeze in over here… ” Griffon materialized just next to V, plopping himself on top of the bedside table where he nearly hit his head on the light next to the bed as he attempted to stretch out a little. He gave up on that endeavor quickly, wiggling to straighten himself as he looked at V with a sideways stare of disbelief. “You know I can’t save you if you -sorry, I think I said that wrong- when you fall off of the roof of this train and get turned into paste under the tracks or bash your pretty little smooth brains out on the side of a mountain, right?”

V couldn’t help but be both amused and concerned by that statement. Yes, he knew that, but he also hadn’t really thought about it until now. It didn’t come as a surprise to him that his familiar was listening in to the conversation. He could already sense that much, and it didn’t bother him. And if it did, he could always just shut him out, but he couldn’t see himself ever having a reason to do something like that. He rarely needed that degree of privacy, and he had the utmost trust in the fluffy little lightning chicken. It… was a nice feeling. “It’s good to see you, Griffon. Yes, I am aware that you are not a miracle worker.”

Shadow made herself known, stalking around her master as she came to a stop in front of him, using one of her large paws to push him onto his back on the bed where he now sat -attempting to, and at the moment, failing- putting on a shirt. It seemed that she was trying to keep him where he was, but the summoner could only chuckle and reach his hand out to pat her on her large, smooth head. It seemed that she and Griffon were on the same page. They both thought he might have a death wish. Understandable enough.

“Fret not, my friends. I can take care of myself. I will be just fine.” V said as he patted the large demonic feline on the top of her head, smoothing her fur back between her ears. She made a sound somewhere between a deep, rumbling purr and a growl, but it wasn’t a threat in any, shape, or form. It was almost as though she were telling him to be careful. She trusted him just as he trusted her, but that didn’t mean that they both didn’t make bad calls or mistakes from time to time just like everyone else.

“Okay, we both know that’s a damn lie. You’re the clumsiest person I’ve ever met! But at least this one might be able to catch you when you inevitably trip and fall off of the roof.” Griffon said with a hearty chuckle as he tilted his head towards Sirrus fluffing himself up in an attempt to make himself bigger and more imposing. It didn’t work, but the attempt was funny and rather endearing to the man with the mostly red hair. He found Griffon charming, whether he’d ever said as much or not. “Bring him back the way you found him, eh? Or at least with all of his limbs still attached and all that? He kinda needs 'em’.”

Sirrus chuckled and nodded in agreement. How very precious that V’s familiars worried about him like this. It was good that he had someone to look after him. Knowing that someone was with him at all times that was so very concerned with his safety was something of a relief. V could take care of himself, that much he didn’t doubt, but it was still nice to know that someone had his back at all times. 

“But of course, my feathered friend. Think nothing of it. I shall return him to you with all of his appendages still attached and fully intact to boot. That should be a given during any social outing, I should think.” Sirrus said with a respectful bow, making an effort to acknowledge him. Griffon seemed positively flattered, and as Sirrus gave Shadow a thorough neck rubbing, the demonic bird seemed to be pleased with the results of their conversation. It was about damn time someone around here took him seriously!

“You would think that, but I’ve met his, um… family,” Griffon said with a nervous little chuckle as though he were saying so through gritted teeth. He didn’t actually have any, but still. The sentiment was still the same regardless. And he did have little sharp spines on the inside of his beak so… “Keep this one around, V. He doesn’t call me a chicken.”

With that, the bird who was not in fact a chicken dematerialized along with Shadow, and the two of them returned to their place upon his body, the markings that covered his skin filling back in as they settled back in. Sirrus gave V a fascinated look, his eyes lingering on the markings as though they were an object of immense fascination. V noticed this and gave him a peculiar look, not bothered in the slightest, but curious as to what about his tattoos had caught his eye.

“I… didn’t realize they did that,” Sirrus said quietly, a pale tint of red flushing his cheeks. He realized almost instantly upon speaking that he’d probably just been staring at him in silence, and he clearly hoped that he hadn’t made V uncomfortable by doing so. “The markings… or are they actually tattoos? Did they hurt? I didn’t notice that they reappeared and disappeared like that when your familiars were summoned. That’s fascinating. Can you feel that?”

V blinked slowly before chucking deep in his chest. That was right, he was normally wearing a shirt when he was around Sirrus. And a long sleeve at that. This was the first time that he’d allowed his summons to be present in front of his friend while his entire upper body was exposed. The rest of his family, and most of the people he would consider his friends had probably already seen him do that before. He’d never really thought about it.

“I can feel it, but it doesn’t hurt, no. Thankfully. And as for your initial question,” V said as he continued to chuckle to himself. He didn’t mind this turn in the topic of conversation in the slightest. “No, they are not actually tattoos. The markings appeared once I established each contract with my familiars. I used to have a third, and it demand something of a high cost upon our first meeting. I’ve been unable to relocate it thus far.”

Sirrus nodded in confirmation. If the look on his face was anything to go by then he had further questions, but he wasn’t going to ask them right now. It simply wasn’t the time. But a look of hesitancy overtook his face as he seemed to ponder whether or not he should ask the question he had in mind. V seemed to notice this and tilted his head ever so slightly sideways nodding a single time and blinking slowly in unison to insinuate that he had his permission to ask whatever question he had in mind.

“Please forgive me for drastically overreaching if that’s what I’m about to do but… “ He exhaled sharply as though he’d just been punched, more than likely sure that he was about to say something stupid. But the calm demeanor that V exuded did something to put him ever so slightly back at ease. Both of them knew that the other only had the very best of intentions at heart. Perhaps it was best for him to just speak freely on this occasion, regardless of his fear. “May I… touch them?”

V just stared at his friend, his brain halting like a faulty clock gear that had just jammed suddenly and held up the entire mechanism. His brow furrowed, but not in distaste or annoyance. There was just simply something about the idea of someone touching his bare skin that gave him pause, if not hives at the very thought. He knew that Sirrus wasn’t going to harm him or anything like that, but being touched by other people was still something that he wasn’t accustomed to. He was working on showing more physical affection to those he cared about, but it wasn’t something he felt comfortable just jumping into. He wished it could be, but it simply wasn’t.

Extending his left arm outward, V nodded faintly, indicating that Sirrus could do as he had requested. The adjudicator paused and gave him a look of assurance, seemingly asking if he was sure out of a desire to not overstep. V simply nodded again. After all, he could always renege if he simply couldn’t stand it.

Sirrus lightly gripped V’s writs and took the opportunity to trace a finger up his arm slowly, following the flowing lines up to his shoulder as he nodded to himself in silence. V couldn’t place any particular reason that Sirrus had decided to do this at such a slow speed and in such a delicate manner, but despite a shiver that crawled its way up his back that caused him to shift slightly as the man with the red hair reached his shoulder, he couldn’t say that anything he’d done thus far had really bothered him just yet. It was simply a surreal experience, to say the least, almost as though they were exchanging energy or something of the like. He couldn’t think of anything appropriate to compare it to.

After a short while, Sirrus slid to this side of his companion and traced the line he’d been following up and over the front of his shoulder blade, near his neck, and down the side of his back until he stopped at his waistline, seemingly aware of the fact that it would more than likely be perceived to be very inappropriate to go any further. He closed his eyes for a moment, deep in thought as though he were considering something. And then he then leaned back and looked at V, a quiet look of appreciation mixed with something else he couldn’t quite place present on his face. That hadn’t been as bad as either of them had initially thought it would be, though it was a strange if not amusing experience either way.

“In truth, I was curious to see if any kind of detectable energy was emitted from the markings. It seems I was correct, although I am unsure as to what I will even do with that information other than be utterly fascinated by it.” Sirrus said with an awkward chuckle. V could tell that he was still unsure as to whether or not he’d overstepped. But that was actually an interesting observation. The young summoner didn’t really get that same feeling when he touched the markings on his own body. Perhaps he was too used to it and couldn’t discern it from anything else. It was interesting to him that Sirrus could distinguish between his energy and that of his familiars. But it was what his friend said next that took him more off guard than anything else had that day.

“In truth… I sense something more than just the two of them. Perhaps traces of something else? Residual energy from your battle against Belial? I do feel some aspect of his power…. But I am not familiar enough with him in person to make any astute observations besides that. Thankfully we are going to see someone more knowledgeable than myself.“ Sirrus seemed almost concerned, but all he could do was shrug. He knew next to nothing of the nature of his friend’s familiars, and if the look on V’s face was anything to go by, then he’d just deeply unnerved him, and that was the last thing that he’d wanted to do. They both had enough on their minds. 

V had taken in some aspect of his opponent upon defeating him, that much was true. Be he hadn’t the slightest idea what that might have to do with his familiars. And this was a fascinating, if not deeply concerning, revelation. Had he brought back something more with him from the underworld than he’d initially noticed? Was that why he’d felt so… off lately? “That is… good to know. Thank you for telling me.”

Sirrus nodded politely as he stood up, something close to worry in his eyes that he tried to hide but wasn’t succeeding at. “And thank you for humoring me. Take a moment to get dressed. Come and meet me when you’re ready. I think we could both use some fresh air. Don’t rush.”

With that, Sirrus excited the room, perhaps to give him a bit of privacy and a moment alone with his thoughts. V closed his eyes for a moment and allowed silence to seep into him. His familiars clearly hadn’t known about this, and neither had he, but they did now. And some aspects of that made sense. He did not yet know the limitations of his own powers. Who was to say what was hiding away within the very depths of his being that he had no knowledge of? He’d opened the floodgates, and now he was standing in rising water. There was nothing for it but to swim. He refused to stand idly by and drown.

V reached over and picked up the shirt he’d had before, making a mental note to grab his coat from the hook by the door to the room. He had somewhere to be. This could wait for now. He was determined to take this one step at a time. That was the best approach.

“Breath… This is something that you can deal with. You need only know more about it first.” He thought to himself as he shrugged into the garment and stood up, heading to the door to grab his coat. Once he had it on, he took a deep breath and exhaled slowly to settle himself before grabbing his cane and opening the door, stepping out to meet Sirrus. The tall man with the mostly red hair almost seemed shocked to see him so soon. Sometimes he was taken off guard by his speed.

“I’m ready when you are, Sirrus. Please, lead the way.”

(-~-)

Hehe! It’s always a fun chapter when I get to write Griffon. He’s a good birb, and Shadow is a good little kitty. I’m trying to get ahead on my writing and figure out what I’m doing with the schedule going forward, so I have one chapter again next Friday, but I’m working on it. I’m hoping to get back to two chapters a week, one way or another since I’m sure that you all prefer that lineup. But anyway, I hope that you enjoyed the chapter and have a wonderful weekend! I’ll see you in the comments if you’d like to chat, and I just wanted to let anyone who was wondering that I did upload another chapter to Elden V about 2 weeks ago. I don’t know if I mentioned it. Thanks again for all of your support! You are awesome :D take care and I will see you next Friday! Bye-bye for now!

[danceswithdarkspawn]

Find the Word

I was tagged as per this post in @mikaharuka's bid for word domination going broke.

I was given these words: bloom, current, energy, focus, heat, press, spicy

Surprisingly did not find current (except once, and it was not the context I was hoping).

I'm extending an open invitation to anyone who would like to participate. To play, look through your works for the words given and post excerpts containing that word. The word can be adjacent.

Words for others: brilliant, shade, skin, heavy, stuck

From Broken Bird: bloom, energy, focus, heat and spicy

(posting in the order in which they occur in the fic)

My breath is quick when I bring my swords to bear, soft puffs visible in the early morning light. I had probably overdone it; I feel the shake in my limbs already. I could already hear Eran poking fun at me, always on about that ‘nervous energy.’ When I sheath my swords and start back toward the fire, I half expect to see Eran, arms crossed with a smug look on his face and chastisements on his tongue.

Instead, Leliana sits there, poised to watch me with rapt attention.

[...]

“Did I startle you?”

“No,” I mutter, slipping the journal beneath my leg. Leliana lets out a breath and turns her head back. She holds out a linen shirt and shakes it, then folds it before stowing it in her pack. She repeats the process with other articles. I can smell them from across the room as she shakes them out; something warm, akin to citrus or a heady spice. And…maybe something earthy? The clay, or—

“Did you sleep well?”

I blink, shaking my head lightly. My eyes travel up, having settled on the space between my feet. “Did you?”

She lingers on the shirt she’s folding, pressing her hands over it. “Not really.”

[...]

He laughs, and I see him pointing toward me. “A-ha! I knew you were watching her!”

I feel a growl bubbling at the back of my throat. “I don’t ever recall denying that I look at her.”

“You sound a little defensive. You like her, don’t you?”

The growl releases. “Don’t be ridiculous.” The flush creeps up my ears, burning against the heat of the fire, and I’m glad for the dark because Maker. “She’s attractive, I’ll give her that. But she is a friend.”

“Uh-huh.”

My brow twitches. “I think she’s pretty in the same way one might think a flower is pretty. Pretty, and just that. Nothing more.”

He lets out an impish chortle, and I look at him again, glaring. “You said ‘pretty’ three times.”

[...]

All the ugly emotion I feel—all the doubt, fear, anxiety; all of it flows away like water. Bewilderment blooms in its place instead. My lips part with a soft exhalation as I step closer to the bush. “Oh, wow.” The words tumble out and drift away on the morning air.

A glove twists off. I thread my fingers beneath the sepals of one flower and tilt it lightly for further examination. Frigid dew collected amongst its labyrinth of petals trickles into my palm and down my wrist. I let my thumb swipe against its face, reveling in a texture akin to rich fabric.

[...]

One stroke of the blade, and then another, the scrape of metal cathartic in its rhythm. “So what was someone like you doing in the Chantry?”

She lets out an airy laugh; my eyes flick up to her. “What is meant by ‘someone like me?’”

My heart stutters, focus fractures, and the sword threatens to slip against the whetstone. I lower my eyes. “You know, someone…”

Beautiful. Charming; disarming.

“Worldly,” I finally settle. I steal a glance to where she watches me curiously. “Most of the Chantry folk I’ve run across seem quieter than you.”

From Remove the Mask: Press

Leliana watched the people watching the Inquisitor as she made her way down the floor. Various marquis and lords, dithering ladies cooling themselves with dove feather fans. A sea of false frozen faces, pressed vests, and revealing necklines watching the oddity that walked with rehearsed steps towards their doomed-to-die Empress.

[cornershopcowboy]

Icemav - Flying Solo

Hurt/Comf Words: 820

Maverick didn’t like to fly alone. Not many people knew. Goose had known, but now Goose was gone. Ice knew too, but only because he’d walked in on a Maverick Panic Attack, and hadn’t left until he knew the root cause of it.

He’d rubbed his back as Maverick ugly-cried into his chest, heaving sobs racking his frame. “I don’t want to fly,” he’d said, “I can’t fly on my own.”  Then and there, Ice had taken it upon himself to make sure Maverick never flew alone if he didn’t have to. He’d hold his hand on the way up and on the way down, easing them into the air. Wingman, I won’t ever leave you. 

He’d tried to say it before, but the words got stuck in his throat every time, so he resorted himself to squeezing Maverick’s hand and hoping he knew what that meant. 

The first time Maverick went up alone in a matter of months, he came down pale and shaking, collapsing into Ice’s arms as he held him, stroking at his hair. The held hand before had done nothing to dull his nerves, the unreasonable fear of falling that no pilot should have. Maybe not unreasonable.

He’d seen it happen.

He was shushed and cradled until the burning question started pricking holes in his tongue, jumping up and out his throat: “What if you’re not there before anymore” His voice was weak, trembling as he tried to stay upright, looking up through long eyelashes and knitted brows.

Iceman’s heart melted, aching in his chest. And to think he was ice cold, no mistakes. Well whoever said that hadn’t seen what Maverick did to him, especially when he was like this; so small and vulnerable. Ice hadn’t known Mav was capable of such displays, but here they were, the smaller man cradled to his chest as if the world was out to get him.

As if Ice could protect him from it. A lovely fantasy, surely. “Mav.. Maverick-” He began, biting his lower lip. The aforementioned pilot looked up, expectant, hanging onto his words, which only piled on the pressure of what Ice was expected to deliver. “Maverick, I care about you. I didn’t- I didn’t realise how anxious flying solo made you.  I’m sorry I didn’t see it sooner. Christ, Mav, I promise you won’t fly alone again, not if I can help it. I’ll talk to the Admirals, hell I’ll talk to anyone who’ll listen, I swear-” Ice’s hands travelled to grip Mavericks shoulders, holding him firmly as if he’d melt into the floor at any given moment, swept away by the tide. Ice blinked the unshed tears from his eyes. He looked so.. unsure, scared, even. It broke Ice’s already melting heart. A hand drifted up to cup Mavericks face, watching as he leant into the small touches, the thumb Ice ran across Mavericks cheek as the tears started rolling. Say something. Say something goddamnit. Ice kissed Mavericks forehead softly, closing his eyes. Say something.

“Wingman..” He forced out, letting his eyes wander over Mav’s face, those big green eyes, those worried creases, the slight pout of his lips. “Wingman I won’t ever leave you” He managed, trying to keep his voice from wavering. He had to be strong. For Maverick. For his wingman. His wingman who was trying to stop his sniffling, trying to be quiet as Ice continued, trying to pull words from thin air. “When you said I could be your wingman, I was ready. I’d never been more ready for anything in my entire life. You mean so so much to me. I will happily be your wingman. For however long you’ll have me” Despite all his blinking and desperate hoping, a tear tracked its way down Ice’s cheek as he looked down at Maverick. His whole body ached, as if it wanted to wrap around the smaller pilot, shield him and hold him close, all at once.

“I love you Maverick.” The words were out before he could process them, Ice’s eyes widening along with Mavericks. “Shit no- Maverick I’m sorry- I didn’t-” Ice hastily backtracked. Surely it was just the emotion, the effect of the shell-shocked man in his arms. “I love you too, Ice” Came the small reply from the even smaller pilot.

And just like that, the solid ice cube of Tom Kazansky’s heart melted. I love you too, I love you too Ice.

A grin split his face, both hands holding Mavericks' lovely, pretty face. It was the kind of face Ice would never get bored of looking at. His twinkling green eyes, his soft lips, the squint lines forming in the corners of his eyes.

Maverick pushed himself up onto his tiptoes, kissing Ice quickly yet sweetly. “You massive sap” he chuckled, shoving the taller man gently in the chest, causing his chest to ache further. “I won’t leave you either, wingman.” 

[marlena-immortale]

New Experiences: Part 1

Summary: Damiano wants to explore a new kink and is nervous to bring it up with you, but you ease his nerves. 

CW: SMUT, masturbation, anal play, choking, d/s dynamic (dom reader), dirty talk, discussion of pegging 

Word Count: 2.3k

Damiano David is a confident man. Anyone that’s met him can see it. He knows he’s hot and he doesn’t care what other people think of him, except for you. He holds your opinion very highly and definitely cares what you think about him. So when he discovers something new about himself that he wants to try out, he is very hesitant to bring it up to you. He knows that you’d never judge him and you’d probably even be into it, but his nervousness seems to still be weighing on him. 

A few weeks ago, Damiano was scrolling through Instagram when he found a post of a man dressed in panties, arching his back and bent over, with a woman’s hand on his back pushing him down. He could feel his cheeks heat up and couldn’t help but screenshot the picture (for research purposes only of course). He didn’t know why it had such an effect on him but he decided to file that away to deal with at another time. 

-------

Days later, you were out with your friends and Damiano had the whole house to himself. He lays down on your shared bed, cuddled up in the freshly-washed sheets. He opens his phone and finds the picture his mind just won’t let go of. Without realizing it, his other hand drifts down his own body, pretending it’s the girl’s in the picture, or better yet, your hand. He imagines your breath in his ear as you push him down into the mattress. His hand tucks inside his underwear and starts playing with his half-hard dick. 

He lets out a frustrated moan as he imagines your hips pressing into his ass. He puts his phone down, his imagination more than enough now, and brings his other hand down the back of his underwear, reaching in as he shifts to lean more on his side. His finger makes its way down further and he presses it lightly to his hole. He gasps at the new sensation but it turns into a moan once he decides that he really likes the feeling. He lets himself experiment a bit and starts rubbing little circles against his rim. His mind clouds with thoughts of you telling him what a good boy he’s being, moaning so loud and making such pretty noises while he explores himself. He can feel this new sensation all over his body and instantly knows that this will be a staple in his self-pleasure routine from now on. 

His other hand quickens its pace on his cock as he reaches his climax much quicker than expected. He can feel his hole contract on the very tip of his finger as he cums all over himself, his body shaking with pleasure. He sits there for a moment, processing what he just did and how good it felt, realizing that he definitely has to work up the courage to bring it up with you now. 

-------

The next day, he wakes up to an empty bed and the smell of coffee and carries himself to the kitchen to find you making espresso. You turn around to see your lovely boyfriend clad only in his snug underwear and open oversized flannel falling off his toned shoulders. A smile spreads across your face at the sight, pouring two cups of coffee. You can tell that he seems a little nervous for some reason by his hesitancy to walk closer to you like he normally would. He stays rooted by the doorway, shifting his weight from one foot, to the other, to the doorframe, and back. 

“Everything ok baby?” you ask while setting cups down on the table in front of him and pulling out the two chairs and sitting down. Damiano follows your lead and sits across from you, taking a sip from his coffee. 

“Yeah, everything’s fine…. I just have something I wanna talk to you about,” he confesses, his eyes casting down at his cup held tightly in his hands. 

You try not to get nervous yourself at his hesitancy to tell you. “Okay, what is it? You can tell me anything,” you respond, reaching to take one of his hands in your own, stroking his thumb. The gesture calms him down a bit and he takes a deep breath before replying.

“There’s something new I want to try…. like, in the bedroom,” he says, attempting to maintain eye contact the whole time. You instantly relax, a small smile now on your face, knowing it’s not anything serious and that you’d be happy to try anything he’s interested in.

“I’ve been thinking that maybe we could try…. pegging?” he says, surprised at his own hesitancy to admit his secret to you. You’re not sure why he was so nervous, it’s not like you haven’t casually brought it up before or joked around about it. In fact, you’re more than willing to try it out with him and already have some fun ideas swirling around in your head about how this could go. 

“Is that all? I’d love to fuck you darling,” you offer with a smile, threading your fingers through his own now sweaty ones. His face fills with relief and he lets go of some of the tension in his shoulders. “How about we go to my favorite sex shop and pick something out together?” you offer. 

“That sounds good. You’re really into this right? You’re not just doing this for me?” 

“Oh trust me, I am most definitely into this,” you say as you stand up and stalk over to his side of the table, climbing onto his lap, running your hands over his chest. “I can’t wait to have you trembling beneath me, my cock deep inside of you,” you whisper into his ear. You hear a soft whimper come from his mouth.  

Your words ease his worries, and also makes his heart beat a little faster and breath get a little heavier. You take his jaw into your hand and guide him to look up at you as you continue, “I’ll take it slow though baby, don’t worry. I’ll have you all stretched out and ready for me. You’ll be making such pretty noises for me, I promise it’ll feel so good”. You can see his eyes dilate and feel him getting a little excited when you shift your hips in his lap. Your hand travels lower to wrap lightly around his neck and his head tilts up, allowing you more access to feel his blood pumping under his skin. “How’s that sound baby boy? Do you like the sound of that?” 

He nods dumbly and you let him try again. “Words sweetheart,” you urge. 

“Yes, yes that sounds… really nice”.

“Yeah? Good. Why don’t you use that pretty voice to tell me exactly what you want” you whisper. It’s so easy for you to have him blushing and whimpering like putty in your hands. You just barely tighten your fingers around his throat and listen to his breath hitch and a pathetic noise leave his mouth, surprising even him. 

“I want you…” he trails off. 

“Aww, did my baby get all shy?” you coo at him. 

“I um, I want you to… I want you to shove your fingers inside me and thrust so deep I can feel you everywhere. I bet you’d just love to see me all helpless and fucked out,” he says, his bratty energy coming out in full force. His eyes are dark and lidded as he looks at you with a smirk. You raise an eyebrow, a smirk appears on your own face, seeing how he wants to play this game now. 

“You’re right baby, I would love that, to have you writhing and desperate, grinding your hips down onto me,” you say with a tight grip on his throat and the other hand slipping down to his inner thigh for emphasis. A broken whine escapes his pretty lips and you feel his erection growing against your ass. 

“But I guess you’ll just have to wait for now,” you say with a cocky smile, and swiftly lift yourself off of him with a quick kiss to his cheek, leaving him turned on and missing the feeling of you on his lap. 

-------

   The next day, you’re on your way to the sex shop, Damiano practically hanging off of you as you walk to the entrance, a lazy smile plastered across both of your faces. When you get to the shop, you immediately guide him to the section in the front where you know the strap-on harnesses are. His cheeks heat up, imagining you wearing it, and his head instantly goes to burrow into the space between your neck and shoulder. You run your fingers through his hair, stroking his scalp soothingly and when you see that it’s just an embarrassed smile on his face and not anything bad, you pick out a nice leather harness and lead him to the dildo section. 

You can tell that he’s getting all shy and a little subby so you decide to play with him a bit. “Why don’t you pick out one you like, sweetheart?” you ask him, your fingers tilting his chin up and to the wall of dildos in front of you. He looks around, flustered and slightly overwhelmed by all the decisions. He’s still attached to your side, acting less bratty than usual, being too out of his element to attempt to annoy you. This sweeter side of him is just about the cutest thing you’ve ever seen and you plan to see just how sweet you can make him. 

“I want you to pick it out for me,” he whispers, still a little ashamed even though there’s no one nearby. 

“Are you sure baby?” you ask, honored that he trusts you to make the best decision for him. 

“Yes,” he says, nodding while pawing at your waist like a little puppy wanting all of your attention. You melt seeing him be so cute and submissive for you. 

You look to the wall of dildos and find the perfect one; a pretty pastel pink one that’s as close as you can find to Damiano’s actual size, “so you can get a taste of your own medicine,” you say with a wink, placing it in your basket. 

His blush deepens pinker than the dildo realizing that he’s intimidated by his own length. You guide him further into the store, the both of you still with stupid smiles across your face, so enamored and in love with each other. You find the lingerie section and pick out a pretty white lacy set for him, knowing he loves the feeling of lace against his skin and knowing just how sexy  he’ll look in it.

You pick up a few more supplies you’ll need for the big night and check out at the counter before walking back to the car. As soon as you put the bag in the backseat and get situated in your seat, you look over at your beautiful boyfriend and sub to find him looking more embarrassed than he has been all day which was strange considering you’re alone now and not staring at a wall of dildos. 

You look down to see the cause of Damiano’s embarrassment; the growing bulge in his pants. You smile, knowing how shy he gets about getting hard so easily. 

“Aw, my poor sensitive puppy, always so easily turned on,” you say, leaning in close, your breath on his neck and your fingers brushing gently across his clothed erection, teasing him. As soon as he whimpers and starts to buck up into your hand, you sit back up and start the car. 

“Nooo, please touch me,” he whines when you start pulling out of the parking lot. 

You laugh and respond, “Well if you behave like a good boy, I’ll give you a nice reward when we get home”. He pouts but doesn’t say anything else. “Are you gonna be a good boy for me?”

“Yes, I promise,” Damiano desperately responds, needing some sort of release. 

“Okay then, I want you to unzip your pants, pull your cock out, and make yourself cum,” you instruct him, keeping your eyes on the road ahead of you. His hands immediately fumble at his zipper, trying to get it down as quickly as possible. He pulls his pants and underwear down just far enough to pull himself out of them and immediately begins softly stroking. You can feel yourself getting turned on hearing his noises beside you as you navigate your car along the highway. He gasps as his thumb rubs across his tip, his head thrown back and hips moving of their own accord.    

“C’mon baby, I know you can do better than that,” you encourage him condescendingly. 

“Please, I need your hand,” Damiano begs you as he desperately strokes himself, staring at your hands clutching the steering wheel. 

“Aw honey, I know you can do it yourself. You’re being such a good boy for me,” you say. Your words bring him closer to his climax as his hand speeds up on his cock. The car fills with the beautiful sounds of Damiano’s moans and gasps and quiet whimpers of your name that barely are able to make it past his lips. He only needs a few more strokes until he’s loudly moaning and spilling all over his own hand and shirt. 

“This is gonna be fun,” you say, a big smile on your face as Damiano catches his breath, recovering from his orgasm.

[tartagilicious]

what they would do if they caught you crying ❄️ // xiao, kazuha, + diluc (established relationships version <3) cw: injuries

XIAO:

- all of the time, i see people frame xiao as this emotionally clueless person, but personally, i just don’t think that stereotype is true — even with his habit of being alone, he reads people. he has life experience. you might be a little more in trouble if you ask him for something like comfort, but, not understanding.

- of course, his brooding appearance doesn’t really elude to this at all. so, it’s understandable as to why you avoid him when you come back to wangshu inn one day, beaten and bruised beyond even your normal level

- you think it’ll only lead to an awkward conversation, when in reality, xiao can actually be quite helpful! i can see him being a ‘listen and help’ now and ‘ask questions’ later kind of person. it tends to be adorable to see how concerned he can actually get over you.

- tears are another question altogether, too. definitely something that deserves his attention, even if you try convincing him you’re alright.

-----

you let out a resigned pant as you shut the door behind you, at last back in your room at wangshu inn once again. or, at the very least, you hope it’s your room — your vision had gone blurry around halfway your trek up the stairs.

unsteady legs take you to the bathroom. you’re relieved to recognise the throwaway products you bring with you on your travels sitting on the sink. in your haze, you knock the foremost bottles to the floor as you stagger to open the cabinet below it, yet when you reach down for the first aid kid, you find yourself stuck.

something inside you breaks at that moment — whether exhaustion or pain had pushed you, there is a single moment wherein you feel nothing but every imperfection on your body. every cut stings, ever bruise tingles, each scrape and sore bone screams to you at once, calling tears to your eyes.

in the back corner of your mind, you think to imagine yourself: half bent in front of the counter, the arm that isn’t supporting you weak at your side. and, of course, the fat tears that run from your red-rimmed eyes, landing amongst the threads of the mat beneath your feet.

somewhere nearby, you hear hinges creak open. an alarmed whisper reaches you ear as someone helps you to the ground, moving your hair from your eyes. there’s a moment of tangible silence that passes between you as your gazes lock. his expression is unreadable as gentle fingers ghost over the bruise on your temple, each bloody imperfection blanketed under his concerned golden eyes.

the world swims around you, extremely unwelcoming in the way it envelops your body in sludge. regardless, you find yourself saying his name. mumbling it, you grasp his arm.

“xiao.” a pained breath leaves your lips as you shut your eyes. “it hurts."

your lips twist as another sob is torn from your throat.

he shushes you gently, a gloved finger coming up to catch the tears that fall over your cheeks. the words that leave his mouth are slightly stiff, as if being read from a script, but the worry in his voice is incessant. it drips into you from every word he speaks, in each kiss that is placed wantonly on your skin.

in every tear he wipes away, there is a silent promise to catch the next one, and the one after that, until he can finally help your pain to subside. he wants nothing more than to see you drifting off to sleep, each wound covered and treated. and no matter how long that takes, he will always be there to wipe your tears.

-----

KAZUHA:

- he himself is vulnerable to his own emotions, what with being subjected to nature, but also the contents of his past. he’s average in that regard — but, i imagine kazuha as being pretty empathetic.

- he knows how to comfort you and does so effortlessly, even if he may be panicking inside. of course, he hates seeing you cry, it’s only expectable for him to know how to comfort you, even if he may not know exactly what’s wrong

- we all have those days. he understands that. so, when you try to hide your sadness from him he will not ever berate you for it, nor will he take it personally. he will only make sure he’s there to help you through it.

-----

you know you’ve spent too much time away when you hear a knock on the bathroom door — three lone taps at the wood, kazuha’s silent and heartfelt signal to you. for a moment, you think to pretend you aren’t there, but he’d seen you enter. there’s no escaping it.

it may be a futile action, but you stand to see your reflection in the mirror anyway. with your eyes slightly swollen and cheeks still damp, all you can do is wipe any tears away and pray that kazuha chooses not to say anything.

slowly, you creak the door open, popping your head out from the crack.

“are you alright in th—“ he pauses. kazuha’s eyes take in your face with more ardor than usual, laced with a familiar unease that sinks to the pit of your stomach. of course, there’s no fooling him.

he puts a hand on the door, as if to gently manoeuvre his way into the bathroom with you — but instead, it rests next to yours, patient as he asks,

“did something happen?"

kazuha’s voice is a perfect melody, composed of the softest winds and crafted from the anemo archon's most beloved songs. it’s that same voice that reaches out to you in this moment, patiently beckoning for something greater than pain, something more atuned to the romantics he pursues. simply, he seeks to be the reason your sadness ceases.

“no, no—“ you try assuring him, a quick laugh leaving your mouth. but, even you are aware of the way you avoid his eyes. “nothing’s happening, it’s alright."

his gaze narrow slightly.

“come on.” kazuha’s hand slides down to take yours, and together, you back into the bathroom. the weight of his hand in yours is far from unfamiliar, but as he shuts the door once again, you have the sudden urge to pull away.

kazuha is not someone you are uncomfortable with, but the level of intimacy between the two of you has nothing to do with wanting to hide your weakest moments. for the first few minutes, you perceive the situation awkwardly. you don’t know quite where to look or what to say, even as tears begin to fill your eyes again.

“please,” he at last whispers to you, head bent down slightly to reach you at eye level. “tell me the reason for your tears."

your lips morph into a gradual frown before you meet his gaze.

damn him. i couldn't refuse.

you throw your arms around his neck, a quiet whine escaping your mouth as he catches you dutifully. kazuha’s hands are warm on your back as he holds you with care, handling you not as something that is broken, but something he’d do anything to keep together.

-----

DILUC:

- sputtering, awkward, foolish — these words can all be used to describe diluc when he’s crushing on someone. you’re definitely not exempted from that either lolol

- his care for you is obvious in the way his cheeks flush when kaeya teases him about you, or the look he gets in his eye when you’re talking to him about something you love. the ways he loves are also ever-present in the way he comforts you.

- he may not look it, but he treats emotions well. in even your most extreme cases, your sadness is his own

-----

he is the first to notice when you dip into the back of angel’s share, giving your blessings to one of your regular patrons with more speed than usual. while the hour does chime high, you normally work alongside him until the last customer leaves the building. your unfaltering persona can be excused with a bad day. but, to just take off so suddenly, it strikes him in the wrong way.

diluc's distress may very well be visible in the way customers began to limit their interactions with him, but he doesn’t mind. if anything, it gives his mind time to wander to you. at first, he resolves to wait for your return, but that hopeful process is crushed when ten minutes pass and you remain missing.

his eyes wander down the bar, briefly going over each of the faces seated. either tipsy or engrossed in conversation, diluc takes the opportunity to nudge charles — a silent warning as he goes off after you.

for a moment as he walks, he thinks of the concern that weighs heavy in his chest. the same concern had always previously been reserved for things such as his business, or the safety of mondstadt. but to feel the same emotion because of another is a completely different sensation. it’s in his nose, in the way he can’t quite figure out where to place his arms as he moves. it’s stifling in the way that nothing else can be, like breathing in hot air on a summer day.

when he reaches you, he opens the door carefully as not to disturb you. a distinct shyness bubbles in his chest at the thought of catching you doing something you shouldn’t be, but when he opens the door, all he sees is you standing there.

your back is to him, body completely still all for the slight way your shoulders shake.

he calls out your name.

you startle easily, arms suddenly moving up to cover your face. diluc’s stomach drops as he approaches you, stopping next to you in front of the counter you lean into. no words are exchanged for a few moments as you continue to cry despite your hands, tears slipping out from beneath your gentle touch and onto the wood below.

diluc places a heavy hand atop your head.

in reality, there’s just not that much more he will allow himself to do — he doesn’t trust himself to say the right thing, or to be the person you need to pull you back from the darkness. there are too many things hat must be plaguing you in this moment for such a thing to happen, and his chest constricts at the thought. in some way, you must be stumbling on your last legs, painfully aware of every nerve and tiny cut on your body; that much is evident in even just the slight shake of your shoulders.

but unbeknownst to him, every instant he stands by you is time you have to heal. over time, you begin to recognise the feel of the cold air biting at your skin, and the contrast of his warm hand over your head. there is nothing you need him to say, nothing you need him to do, he himself is all you will ever need.

[wandawxdow]

A Kidnapped Soulmate Part 6

The snow crunched under your boots as Tomas, the camp leader, led both you and Aleksander to your quarters. The men conversed during the walk, but you were too distracted by your surroundings.

The camp was truly a sight to behold. After nine days spent travelling with a set amount of people, the busyness of the camp was refreshing. People talked loudly, unrestrained and casual despite camping so close to the Fjerdan border. It reminded you of your hometown, with people happy despite their circumstances, and despite your homesickness, you found yourself cheerful. You didn't process that the man, Tomas, had left until Aleksander’s study hand on your back nudged you into your shared space.

For being a temporary room, it sure was extravagant. The bed immediately drew your eyes and you could almost feel your mouth gape open. It was mid-afternoon by the time your group arrived, and the full day of non-stop travelling had left you weary. You could feel your soulmate’s eyes on you as you wandered around the room in awe.

“Do you like it?” he questioned once you finished your inspection. You tilted your head and raised your brows; what did he think?

He put on a gentle smile before explaining, “I have some things to do, but I'll be back soon.”

“Sure, ” you muttered, still entranced by the large space. Kirigan let himself out, and you sat yourself down on the foot of the bed.

Only a an hour later, you found yourself bored; Which for you isn't surprising at all.

You'd tried to read some old book you found for entertainment, but it didn't worked. So, you found your eyes drifting over to the plush bedding. Just a short nap, you reasoned with yourself as you peeled back the thick covers.

As you suspected, within moments the softness of the bed lulled you into a deep sleep.

A bang woke you later. Lazily, your eyes peeled open, expecting to see Aleksander. He had told you that he would return soon. The room was, disappointingly, empty.

Another bang reached your ears alongside a collective cheer. Sitting up in the bed, you looked over at the closed curtains serving as a door; Nothing out of the ordinary. Slipping your shoes back onto your feet, you stood approached the exit.

The curtain pulled away to reveal the outside world. With your head peeking out, you looked around. Two guards were stationed at the door and staring ahead. Beyond them, a flurry was activity was transpiring.

A trio of colours swirled together as Grisha seemed to dance together in a symphony unheard of by you. They were sparring as the sun set - dodging and attacking with a grace practised for years. While small groups fought, others stood around in a perimeter and cheered on. Truly, a sight to see.

You took a few tentative steps out of the tent, and without a reaction from the guards, you directed yourself over to the group. Despite your excitement, you recognised the two Heartrenders following behind you, likely as instructed by Aleksander.

You stood with the mob, gazing at the lighthearted sparring. A Tidemaker and Squaller were throwing punches in front of you with two Heartrenders battling it out beside them. In awe, your eyes couldn't leave the sight. Sure, you've seen people fight before. But no one so trained, so graceful, and so talented. No one who incorporated Grisha powers effortlessly with combat.

Little did you know that your own Grisha had returned and was staring at you in awe. Aleksander Morozova was used to being shamed for his powers, was used to Grisha being shamed by those who feared them. The look on your face though wasn't fear but amazement. You didn't fear their power, and neither did you fear him.

Men and women parted for him as he walked through the crowd to you. “Enjoying the show, ” he teased, alerting you to his presence. Spinning around, you smiled up at him. “Of course.”

Noticing some badly hidden looks, Aleksander offered his arm to you while looking clearly at the crowd. They'll all know you're his. It’ll be their only warning.

Oblivious to the possessive gesture, you happily looped your arm with his and followed as he led you away. Though you enjoyed the display, it paled in comparison to Aleksander, your very own Grisha.

Wordlessly, he walked you both back to the large dwelling, opening the curtain door for you to enter first. You do, noticing Aleksander freezing at the doorway. “What’s wrong, ” you inquired worriedly, tracking his eyes to the bed you’d woken from.

As your mind spun, as did his with thoughts of you and him and the future. The simple unmade bed brought him a flash of images of the life the two of you could have together; getting to wake by your side each day, and protect you at night. He wanted it.

Your wavering voice broke him from his fantasy, “We don't have to - I mean - I can sleep” Your foot tapped against the group nervously as you tilted your head to the bed, hoping Aleksander would get your meaning.

Was it too much, too fast? Maybe the other night was a fluke and he doesn't want you.

“No.”

You let out a breath at his short grumble, watching as he walks even closer to you.

“I want you to sleep wit- by my side.”

His eyes locked onto yours, waiting for a reaction. He posed a silent question, telling you that he's ready if you are and if not, he’ll back off. He’ll wait.

You felt your cheeks flush at his wording. You gave him a short nod, noting his expression change to one of relief. Not-so-subtly your eyes trail down his face to his lips. A smirk graced Aleksander’s face, and you barely got to look him in the eye before he leant even closer.

His eyes searched yours at that moment and once again, you slightly nod as encouragement. You’ve been ready for your soulmate for your entire life, and now he’s here in front of you. You’re ready.

His hands of your cheeks sent a buzz through your body, as though it's finally awakened after a lifetime of slumber. Their warmth sunk into your skin with the cold contrast from his silver ring. Most spectacularly, his lips pressed against your own filled every dream you’ve had since childhood. Your soulmate was there with you, and he wasn't letting go. So, neither would you.

Kinda thinking I should leave the story here...Thoughts.

For those of you who read my last part, I think I’ve worked out why I can’t tag some people. These specific accounts are the only ones who have never posted or reblogged anything. I'm thinking I can't mention them because tumblr thinks the account is fake/inactive.

Tag List - @savannah-elliott @sonnensplitter @coldlilheart @louweasleymalfoy @tranquilitymoon @daybleedsintonightfa11 @auggie2000 @thenightfallingstar @evyiione @mylittlecrazyworldofinterest @navs-bhat @kaqua @kykymyeon @cap-just-said-language @spideylovin @maliasblue @ladyblablabla @fandomstuffff @kaitlyn2907 @cityofstaars @honeyofthegods @coolninjavoid @remugoodgirl @sorrowfulfragmentation @degeathesaviour @bloodyprincess22 @rvgrsbrns @mandos-crest @sophistjo @poulterfilms @the-real-comically-insane

[somewhatgreatexpectations]

Walk Away (Wanda Maximoff/ Reader)

Hello!

Double Lizzie! All I will say is be prepared for chaos. Enjoy! :)

Summary: How will Y/n handle developing feelings for Wanda and an intricate history with Leigh? Will it all boil over on their birthday?

It was a mistake. It had to be. That’s the only way you could rationalize the invitation glaring obnoxiously back at you from the screen of your laptop. You pinched the bridge of your nose to ease the tension that had built from being in the situation.

As much as you wished you didn’t, you couldn’t help but feel the familiar sensation of irritation that began to crawl under your skin. It seemed that no matter how many times you played this game, you were always the one at the disadvantage.

Again, and again, and again.

The routine of her pushing you away and pulling you close was familiar, but you expected things to be different this time around. That was your own fault. You were foolish to think that anything would change.

The cycle would never end because you would never have the strength to break it.

Figuring there was nothing to lose, you pulled out your phone and dialed the number you had memorized years ago. It wasn’t like you expect her to answer anyway. She hadn’t since your night together and you were quite comfortable with her voicemail at this point.

“Hello?” The surprise of Leigh actually answering caused you to choke slightly. In an attempt to breathe through the fit, you began coughing. “If you’re choking you should’ve called 911, not me.” Her voice dripped with sarcasm.

You adored the woman, but nothing would’ve given you more satisfaction than to be able to flip her off in that moment.

With a final cough you rushed out a reply. There was no point in beating around the bush with formalities. She might hang up before you got to the point. “Was it a mistake?” The words clumsily tumbled from your lips without allowing your mind time to process how they may sound.

“Are you seriously-”

“The invitation to your party.” You clarified over the sound of Leigh’s response.

There was a brief pause. “Oh. That.” You furrowed your brows. “No, it wasn’t. You should come. I mean, if you want to come. I know it’s last minute.”

If Leigh wasn’t infamous for her brutal honesty you would have thought that was the opposite of what she wanted. “I’ll be there. I think it’s only fair since I missed your last one.”

Her last birthday must have been much harder than this one and the guilt that you left her alone for it still weighed heavily on your conscious.

An awkward silence hung tensely in the air. “Right. Well... See you then. Bye.”

“By-” A small frown tugged at the corners of your lips when the dial tone interrupted your parting. “Of course.” Leigh was always an enigma but lately you had been getting whiplash from the uncertainty of it all.

You couldn’t help but feel like you always seemed to lose a piece of yourself to her whenever you spoke.

There was one person who's conversations didn't come wrapped in barbed wire. One person who stole all your words away in the best way possible. Just the thought of her eased the tension that pressed heavily against your chest.

It was as if she knew you were thinking of her because your phone began ringing almost immediately after thoughts of her began to float through your mind. You couldn’t help but smile that appeared when you saw her name flash across your screen.

Your spirits had been lifted before you even heard her voice. “Hey, I was just thinking about you.”

A quiet hum drifted over the line and you could see her soft smile so vividly in your mind that it was almost as if she was there with you. “Is that so?” You hummed in response. “And what exactly was it that you were thinking about?”

Absentmindedly you began fiddling with a pen that was on your desk. “Oh, just that I kind of miss you, Maximoff.”

The sound of her laughter made butterflies erupt in your stomach. “Only kind of? Guess I should ask them to extend my time over here until you fully miss me.”

You gasped in mock indignation. “Don’t you dare.”

“I kind of miss you too, Y/n.” She said softly, and the butterflies multiplied. “I was actually calling for a different reason though.”

Again, you gasped in mock indignation. “So, you mean to tell me you didn’t call just because you couldn’t bear to go another minute without hearing my voice?”

The laughter that floated down the line was even more boisterous than before which caused your own smile to grow. “That and I have a question.”

“I might have an answer.” You replied easily.

You could hear the sounds from where she was become louder, but she didn’t seem fazed by it. “Are you going to Leigh’s party tomorrow?”

The pen slipped from your grip. “Technically your party as well. Tomorrow is your birthday too.”

“Parties aren’t really my thing. It’s Leigh’s party.” There was a shyness to her words that you found so endearing. “You didn’t answer my question.”

You picked the pen up again. “I’ll be there. I wouldn't miss it. I wasn't around for her birthday last year and it was after she lost-” you stopped yourself, not sure of how much Wanda knew about Leigh’s life yet.

“Her husband.” Wanda finished quietly. You nodded even though you knew she couldn’t see it. “Why weren't you there last year?”

On reflex your fingers formed a fist around the pen. “It’s a long story. A story for when you’re not who knows where.”

You dreaded the day you’d have to explain the complicated web of history that you shared with Leigh. The thought alone filled your body with anxiety.

It was as though Wanda could sense your discomfort, as she changed the subject. “I’m pretty sure I told you where I was.”

“I’m positive you didn’t. Keeping up the mystery.” You teased lightly. “Will you be back in town in time for the party?” The obvious hope that slipped into your words made you bite back a groan. You hoped she didn’t think you were desperate as you sounded.

There was a bit more commotion coming from Wanda’s end. “I actually should be touching down right before Leigh’s party begins. I wasn’t sure if I should go or not.”

“You have to go. Please. Then I can give you your present on your actual birthday.”

For a moment there was silence. “You got me a present?” She asked quietly.

Again, you nodded even though she couldn’t see. “Of course I did. You’re- I- We’re friends.” You stuttered out nervously even though friends was the last thing you wanted to be with Wanda.

“Oh.” She mumbled and suddenly the commotion became even louder. “Hey, Y/n, I have to go, but I’ll be there. I can’t wait to see you.”

A small blush spread across your cheeks. “I can’t wait to see you either, Wanda. Safe travels.”

Maybe tomorrow wouldn’t be as bad as you thought it was going to be.

_______________

From the sound of it, the party was in full swing and you couldn’t help but feel nerves build in your chest as you knocked hesitantly on the door. “Y/n!” Jules greeted happily as she ushered you into the home.

“Hi, Jules.” You mumbled, still feeling the residual embarrassment from the last time you saw her.

She nudged you playfully. “If you plan on sneaking out tonight after your extracurriculars with my sister, just make sure you plan ahead.”

You shifted uncomfortably. “That’s no-” But she had walked away before you could finish your sentence. Looks like that ran in the Shaw family.

With a sigh, you ambled out into the backyard where it seemed everyone was gathered. You didn’t see a point in lingering inside when the memory of the last time you’d been there was still so fresh in your mind.

It only took a moment, but you finally found Leigh by one of the tables speaking animatedly to one of her friends. Your heart dropped at the sight of her in that black dress. You almost wanted to turn around and leave rather than run the risk of saying something you know you shouldn’t.

When she looked like that you knew you probably would.

The opportunity disappeared when she looked up and met your eyes across the yard. You took a steadying breath and made your way over to her, listening to her excuse herself from the other person. “Hey. You look lovely.” You said with a small smile, hoping that even if it was just for a night, everything would be okay.

The storm in her eyes seemed more subdued. Maybe you’d be able to stay afloat. “Thank you, Y/n. You look… nice as well.” The small smile and compliment she returned nearly sent you into shock.

“Happy birthday.” You offered her the wrapped package timidly. You ignored the small tingles that arose on your skin from where her fingers brushed.

The intricate design on the front of the gift appeared as Leigh slowly tore away the wrapping paper. “Is this what I think it is?” She asked quietly as she turned the book over in her hands.

You nervously rubbed your forehead. “It’s okay if you don’t like it. I just figured since In Time of Daffodils is your favorite poem, it’d be nice to have a first edition. Which, thinking back now, was kind of ridiculous since I’m sure you have a copy already and-”

Your rambling was brought to an abrupt halt when you felt Leigh’s arms wrap around your waist as she pulled you into a gentle embrace.

Despite everything in your mind telling you to leave, you couldn’t help but melt into her as your hands hovered tentatively over her waist. “Y/n. I love it. This might be one of the most thoughtful gifts anyone’s ever given me. I can't believe you remembered my favorite poem.”

The smile on your face was inevitable when she spoke to you like that. "Of course I remember." You mumbled softly. When she stayed in your arms, you allowed your hands rested lightly over the middle of her back.

You could feel your heartbeat racing in your chest when you felt her arms tighten around you.

“Hey, lovebirds. Break it up. You’re not in Leigh’s room yet.” Jules joked in passing as she made her way over to the snack table.

As if coming to her senses, Leigh abruptly stepped back and tossed the book on the table like it had burned her. The storm in her eyes was back in full force. You mentally cursed Jules. “I’m going to go mingle. Enjoy the party, Y/n.” Before you could say anything, she had rushed off.

All you could do was breathe out a heavy sigh as you rubbed a hand down your face. You looked around the party and recognized a few acquaintances, but no one you could actually talk to. They were all Leigh’s friends. Jules was your only other friend there, but you didn’t think you could handle the teasing.

With nothing else to do, you picked up the book Leigh had carelessly thrown aside and began reading. You just needed to pass the time until Wanda arrived.

You were lost in one of the poems in the book when you heard the volume of the white noise around you shift, almost like everyone began talking all at once. You decided to ignore it.

“Hi.” You heard a quiet voice say by your side.

That voice. The one that had begun to infiltrate your dreams. Your head shot up as your eyes met the sparkling emeralds before you. “Wanda.” You breathed out happily as you gently placed the book to the side.

She’s a dream that keeps coming back and I don’t think I ever want to wake up. You thought to yourself dazedly.

The corners of Wanda’s lips turned up in a genuine smile. A subtle hitch of her breath caught your attention. “Y/n.” Before you could even process what you were doing, you leaped in her arms. The sound of her surprised laughter filled the air around you as her arms pulled you closer.

“Happy birthday. I missed you.” You said into her shoulder, allowing yourself to relish in her touch.

In response Wanda buried her face in the crook of your neck, her lips lightly brushing your skin as she spoke. “I missed you too.” The warmth of her breath fanning across your skin sent a shiver down your spine.

I think this is happiness. Was the only thought in your mind as you remained wrapped in her embrace. You could feel Wanda shiver as her arms tightened around you.

Eventually Wanda pulled away and you couldn’t help but feel a sense of emptiness. “You look beautiful.” You said sincerely, allowing your thoughts to escape the confines of your mind for once.

Wanda ducked her head bashfully. “Thank you. You look quite beautiful yourself.” Your cheeks burned with her words.

Reaching into your jacket pocket you pulled out a small, neatly wrapped box. “When I saw this, I couldn’t help but think of you.” You explained as you bashfully offered her the box which she shyly accepted.

You watched with bated breath as she opened the box and pulled out the dainty necklace with a small crescent moon attached to the chain. “It reminded me of the night we spent at your spot. When we looked at the stars.” You added after a moment of silence, feeling your nerves build the longer she went without saying a word.

“Y/n. It’s beautiful. I love it.” Wanda finally said as gaze shifted to meet yours. There were constellations in her eyes. Your heart thudded heavily against your chest at the sight. “Can you help me put it on?”

Wordlessly you took the necklace from her hand and moved to stand behind her. Your breath became heavy when she pushed her hair to the side. You clasped the necklace and quickly moved to stand in front of her again. “Beautiful.” She blushed.

The rest of the night was much easier to get through with Wanda by your side and the hours passed by in a blur. “So, what exactly is it you do?” You asked with a quirked brow. “I mean, I know you get sent crazy places, but you always avoid saying what you do exactly.”

Wanda shifted uncomfortably at the question which you didn’t understand. “Oh. I do humanitarian work.” She began to play with her fingers which you now knew was a nervous habit. “With a really obscure company.”

You could sense that she was desperate for you to drop the subject, you just didn’t understand why. “Okay, Wanda.” You couldn’t help but feel a bit disappointed that she didn’t want to tell you whatever it was she was hiding.

There was a brief moment of silence. “You know, I hadn’t acknowledged my birthday since I lost Pietro. I expected this night to be so hard.” Wanda admitted suddenly, her eyes clouding over.

You took her hand in yours. “We celebrate him today too, Wanda. Even if he’s not here with you now. He’s here.” You pointed to the center of her chest with your free hand, “And here.” Your pointer finger lightly tapped her temple. “And he always will be.”

A shaky breath escaped her lips and your heart hurt for the woman before you. “I know. I miss him. Everyday. Especially on days like today.” You squeezed her hand lightly in comfort. “But being here with you made today a little easier.”

“I know there’s nothing I could say that could ever fix the hurt, but I’m here for you.” You told her quietly. “You deserve the world, Wanda.”

A small smile formed on her lips, “Thank you. Hopefully we’ll see it together.” Wanda’s eyes widened slightly as if she wasn’t meant to say that out loud. You heart fluttered.

Almost immediately she ducked her head, her hair falling gracefully in her face. You reached a hand out to gently brush away a piece of hair that had fallen in front of her eyes.

Your hand lingered as your thumb lightly caressed her jaw. Wanda leaned into the touch, her eyes fluttering.

What I wouldn’t give to be able to kiss her. How can I be just friends with someone who I want to kiss? You thought to yourself as you became lost in her eyes. Wanda’s cheeks flushed as she raised her hand to rest over yours.

Her lips parted slightly, and your eyes were almost immediately drawn to the action. Your breathing became more ragged as you fought against every instinct to stop yourself from leaning in and feeling her soft lips against your own.

Am I dreaming or is she leaning in? You wondered in disbelief.

“Alright, sis! Time to sing happy birthday!” Leigh interrupted with a clap of her hands. Both you and Wanda sprung apart, matching blushes on each of your cheeks.

Your brow furrowed at the overdramatic smile on Leigh’s face. It was obviously fake and being fake was so out of character for her. “Looks like the spotlight is calling, birthday girl.” You whispered in Wanda’s ear with a playful smile.

A quiet laugh fell from her lips as she met your eyes. “Looks like it.” She bit her lip shyly. “To be continued?”

Your body vibrated with excitement. “To be continued.” You promised.

Leigh took Wanda by the hand and dragged her away just as she opened her mouth to respond. You could see Leigh’s jaw was clenched from where you stood.

A moment later everyone in the yard was singing to the two women and you couldn’t, for the life of you, tear your eyes away from Wanda and the way she shifted uncomfortably under the all attention she was receiving.

When her eyes met yours, her shoulders visibly relaxed and you played up the way you were singing in hopes of easing her discomfort. The smile that overcame her features made making a fool of yourself in front of all of Leigh’s snobby friends more than worth it.

As you were making your way over to Wanda after the cake had been distributed, you saw Leigh storms off out of the corner of your eye. You worriedly watched her disappear into the house.

“Hey, do you mind if I go check on Leigh? She looked upset.” You asked Wanda when you were finally stood in front of her.

Wanda shook her head with a small smile. “Not at all. I’ll go talk to Jules while I wait.”

You easily returned her smile. “I’ll be back.” You assured her as you turned to head inside, following the path you had seen just seen Leigh take.

When you walked into the kitchen you saw Leigh slam a bowl into the sink, the glass shattering on impact. Your eyes widened in concern. “Leigh!” Instead of answering, she took a plate and threw it into the sink as well, the shattered pieces mingling with the fragments of the bowl. You rushed over to her as she picked up another plate. “Leigh, stop.” You took her hands and gently pulled her away from the sink.

Her breathing was shallow, and her jaw remained clenched angrily, but no words left her lips. “Look, I know today is hard for you.” You began cautiously.

Leigh ripped her hands away from yours. “You don’t know anything.”

“Let me help.” The words bordered on pleading as you could see that all her defenses were up.

“I don’t need your help. You can’t do anything for me.”

Going against your better judgement, you continued. “I know you’re suffering, Leigh, and I know that you feel suffering is all you are but you’re more than that-”

Her words were so faint you could barely hear them. “Stop.”

“It can be a part of who you are, but don’t let the pain push away the people who care about you.”

“STOP!”

You recoiled in surprise, taking an involuntary step back. “I’m sorry. I’m just trying to help.”

Leigh pushed a frustrated hand through her hair. “Well you’re not helping! Stop trying to fix me!”

“I’m not trying to fix you, Leigh.” You insisted as you took a cautious step forward.

“You are though!” Her eyes were wide with fury.

The last thing you wanted was to make her feel like she needed to be fixed. You just wanted to help ease her pain. “I really wasn’t, Leigh. I was worried, and I wanted to see if there was something I could do to-”

“You’re pathetic! I just use you and you keep coming back.” A dark chuckle fell from her lips. You flinched. “I’m not yours! I was never yours and I will never be yours! I’m never going to want you back so just stop!”

There was a heavy silence in the air as Leigh’s chest heaved from the force of her words. It was a low blow and she knew it. You’ve had plenty of experience being burned by Leigh’s words, but this time felt different though. It was final. She finally said how she truly felt. You were done avoiding that.

You schooled your features and nodded slightly. “Okay. I’m sorry. Have a good rest of your night, Leigh. Happy birthday.”

Leigh was a hurricane, what more did you expect than to be caught in the downpour?

“Y/n-” You left before she could say another word, so you didn’t see the way her face dropped as tears welled in her eyes.

If Wanda wasn’t still there you would have left and never looked back, but you knew you couldn’t leave her without an explanation. In a useless attempt to gather your emotions, you paused before entering the backyard and took a deep breath, clearing your mind.

The sight of Wanda’s smile brought you a small sense of peace, but it couldn’t take away from the fact that your precariously healed wounds had been ripped open. Ashes within yourself had been set ablaze in anguish once again. You needed to tend to the flames on your own.

“Hey.” You softly called, your hand on her elbow. She turned from Jules who quietly excused herself. “I'm sorry, but I have to go. I’m not feeling well.”

Wanda’s brows furrowed, and her eyes filled with worry. You mentally cursed yourself because you knew she didn’t buy it. “Are you okay?”

You nodded in hopes of reassuring her, your lips quirking up halfheartedly. “I really am not feeling well.” Which wasn’t entirely a lie. “Do you maybe want to do something this week though?”

The worry never faded from her eyes as she nodded faintly. “That sounds great, Y/n.”

“Perfect. I’ll call you. Happy birthday, Wanda. I hope it was a good one.” You leaned forward and placed a soft kiss on her cheek, smiling slightly at the blush that was left in your wake.

Wanda began fidgeting with her fingers. “It was. Bye, Y/n.” She said shyly as you walked away. When you had disappeared out of view, Wanda turned to face the house. If something had happened with you, she figured she should check on Leigh. She was her sister after all.

When Wanda entered the kitchen, she found Leigh leaning against the counter, her face buried in her hands. Wanda knocked lightly on the wall to get her attention. “Hey, Leigh. Are you okay?’

Leigh’s head shot up, her posture relaxing slightly when she saw it was Wanda. “Why? What did Y/n say?”

Wanda blinked in surprise. “Nothing. I just wanted to check on you.”

A smile that didn’t reach her eyes formed on Leigh’s face. “Right. Well, I’m fine.”

“Okay, I just wanted to check.” Wanda eyed Leigh skeptically but didn’t push. “I think I’m going to head home, it’s been a long day. Thank you for inviting me. I had fun.” Leigh just nodded as Wanda began to exit the kitchen.

“Hey, Wanda?” Leigh called. Wanda stopped and turned to face Leigh, her eyebrows raised in question. “Look, we’re sisters now, right?”

Hesitantly Wanda nodded, unsure of where Leigh was going with her words. “Yes…”

Leigh shifted slightly. “I need you to do something for me.”

“Of course. What is it?” Wanda worriedly walked over to the other side of the counter, so she was face to face with Leigh.

There was a brief moment of silence before Leigh met Wanda’s eyes again. “I need you to stay away from Y/n.”

The surprise of the statement made Wanda laugh. Her laughter quickly faded away when she realized Leigh wasn’t joking. “You can’t be serious.”

Leigh rubbed at her temple, avoiding her twin's gaze. “I am. I need you to stay away from Y/n.”

“I’m sorry, I can’t do that.” Wanda eventually replied, her head tilted slightly. Leigh’s eyes hardened when she met Wanda's determined stare.

And we have concluded part 3! Chaos has ensued. Thank you all so much for all the positive feedback this story has been getting! I hope you all enjoy this part just as much. Are we team Leigh or team Wanda? I would love to read your thoughts!

As always thoughts and comments always welcome. :)

Tag list: @khiaraaa-in-spacee // @causeitswhatjesuswouldfreakingdo // @halobaby //@madamevirgo

// @aimezvousbrahms //@trikruismybitch // @marvels-writings

// @izalesbean // @imdreamingblo // @i-choose-you-cyndaquil

// @helloalycia // @scarlets-maximoff //@cantcontroltheirfear // @women-am-i-right //@funnysoldier //@myfavoriteficss //@imapotatao

[queenshelby]

The Policeman’s Daughter – Part Two

Pairing: Thomas Shelby x Reader

Warning: Mention of Assault, Murder, Fluff, Mild Smut

Words: 2,345

Birmingham, 12 September 1924

It was Saturday night and seven days have passed since your encounter with Thomas Shelby and you have not heard from him. Perhaps he had changed his mind, you thought. You could understand if he did. He was probably still grieving the death of his wife or perhaps you simply weren’t a match for him.

Over the past seven days, you had learned that Thomas Shelby and his family owned most of the factories and industrial buildings in Small Heath as well as several streets of back-to-back housing.

He must have been a wealthy man with no interest in a common woman like you.

That same night, your father was away for work, investigating two recent murders in Small Heath in a pub called the Garrison and he had left you with two men who were employed by the Crown as security guards.

You felt safe with the men around the house and certainly didn’t expect an intrusion to occur on that night. But you were wrong. You weren’t safe at all. At least so it seemed as, at around 8 o’clock, you heard a knock on one of the windows behind where you were sitting, inside the reading room which was facing the forest.

Your heart began to pound as you turned around and peeked through the curtain only to find that it was Thomas.

Surprised and shocked all at the same time, you quickly opened the window while covering up your skin with a large satin robe.

‘What are you doing here?’ you asked with slight anger.

‘I said I would find you’ Tommy smirked, whispering as he did. ‘Get your coat’ he then instructed, not really giving you a choice to say no.

‘I am not leaving the house with an armed man who I barely know’ you said reluctantly and Tommy raised his eyebrows for a short moment before giving you a smile.

‘Fair enough’ Tommy said, reaching beneath his coat, taking the gun out of his holster and handing it to you.

‘Now you are an armed woman leaving with an unarmed man’ he then smirked and you couldn’t help but chuckle.

You quickly got your coat and boots from the next room, not bothered by the fact that, beneath all this, you would be wearing only a thin nightgown.

Tommy then held the window open and helped you to climb outside while ensuring that you wouldn’t slip on the wet grass.

‘So where are we going?’ you asked quietly, knowing very well that you shouldn’t be going anywhere with this stranger. You didn’t know why, but for some reason, you trusted him. His deep blue eyes appeared honest and comforting in a way and your attraction towards him clearly had gotten the better of you.

‘Just follow me, eh’ Tommy said somewhat reassuringly before taking your hand.

‘My father is a policeman and will get very angry if something was to happen to me’ you said nervously, wanting to ensure your own safety.

‘A copper, eh?’ Tommy said somewhat unbothered, thinking that your father is probably one of Moss’s men and therefore on his payroll.

You simply nodded and then followed Tommy into the woods, nervously and excited all at the same time.

After about fifteen minutes, you reached a small camp near the river and Tommy was quick to introduce you to some of the men, women and children who were there.

‘I thought you might like to be with kin for a change’ Tommy said after he introduced to the Lee family.

‘Your mother used to travel with us when she was young’ a woman named Esmeralda said to you and it was obvious to you that Tommy had told her your name. It was also clear that Tommy had done his research on you before visiting you that night.

You immediately felt comfortable around the Lee Family and spent several hours at the camp, talking, drinking and eating.

Whilst you appreciated Tommy’s gesture, introducing you to the Lees after what you had told him about your life when you met at the orphanage, you also desperately wanted to be alone with him and get to know him better. He seemed to know so much about you while you knew so little about him.

Eventually, Tommy noticed that you were cold, clearly not dressed for the occasion and he finally suggested that you sit down by the fire with him.

‘Go on Tommy Boy’ Johnny Dogs shouted after you as followed Tommy to the fireplace near the river bank.

In response, Tommy swore using gypsy tongue, before telling you to ignore Johnny Dogs. According to Tommy, he hadn’t been accompanied by a woman since his wife Grace had passed away and, therefore, your presence took Johnny Dogs by surprise.

As you finally reached the fireplace and you sat down on of the blankets scattered around it, Tommy took off his coat and placed it over you in order to keep you warm.

‘Thank you’ you said shyly as his blue eyes locked with yours. ‘Now tell me Tommy, how did you know where I live?’ you asked curiously, knowing that you had never told him your address.

‘I simply asked your employer’ Tommy winked and it was when you realised that you just asked him a completely silly question. Of course, he knew your address. The charitable organisation of which he was the founder and chairman had signed your employment contract.

‘You never told me what brought you to Birmingham’ Tommy then went on to say before asking you to hand him the cigarettes from the pocket of his coat.

But, as you reached into the pocket on the right to retrieve his cigarettes, smokes weren’t all you found. In fact, the first thing you inadvertently took out was a small case containing a blue bottle of cocaine and a brown bottle of opium which, without questions, you quickly put back into their place.

‘My father’s work is what brought us here’ you eventually said as you handed Tommy his cigarettes.

‘You said he is a copper, right?’ Tommy observed before lighting himself a cigarette and you nodded before Tommy continued on.

‘What is a copper from London doing in Birmingham? It doesn’t seem like a good career move to me’ Tommy chuckled and you simply told him that he wanted a change of scenery for the both of you and an easier life.

‘Well, I am not sure if he came to the right place then, eh’ Tommy laughed.

‘Why, is there a lot of crime here?’ you then went on to ask and Tommy shook his head.

‘Just the usual brawls you can expect in a town full of working men’ Tommy chuckled before quickly changing the topic.

You then talked for at least an hour about your respective upbringings and gypsy roots and Tommy appeared genuine and kind. It was obvious to you that he felt attracted towards you and, over the hour, you moved closer and closer towards each other, sharing one cigarette after another as you talked for what felt like an eternity.

You sat so close to him that you could smell the scent of his aftershave, a hint of musk and sweetness and it was at this point that Tommy made an admission to you.

‘I have to be honest Y/N. I didn’t just bring you out here to introduce you to the Lee Family’ Tommy said, just as the moment was right.

‘So, what are your alternate motives then Mr Shelby?’ you asked shyly but with a smile.

‘This’ Tommy responded quietly while caressing your face with one of his hands before drawing your face towards his with ease and pressing his lips onto yours.

You gave into the kiss, parting your lips slightly as you did and allowing his tongue to explore your mouth.

His lips were soft and warm and you ran your hands through his hair gently as you deepened the kiss.

Tommy’s hands then moved from your face over your chest and beneath his warm coat, brushing your breasts in the process.

It was at this point you abruptly pulled away and began to breathe heavily. His hands were too close to the scar which carried all your bad memories.

‘Don’t. I am sorry’ you said, your hands shaking as you broke out in tears.

‘Hey, look at me Y/N’ Tommy said calmly, unsure why you reacted the way you did but wanting to calm you down and comfort you.

‘Whatever it is, its alight, eh’ Tommy said, his both cupping your face, making you look at him and nod.

‘I am so sorry. I just…’ you said, looking down at the fire, unable to finish your sentence as tears built up in the corners of your eyes again.

Tommy sat there patiently, telling you to breathe before wiping your tears away with his thumbs.

‘I am ashamed of my body Tommy. I just am not ready for this’ you went on to say and Tommy looked at you, his eyes full of questions.

‘Then we won’t’ Tommy said calmly, his thumb running over your cheek as he smiled at you. ‘Although, you really have no reason to be ashamed. You are beautiful’ Tommy then whispered reassuringly before giving you another quick kiss, intending to leave at this for the night.

‘Yeah, well, you say this now but that might change when you see the hideous scar covering my stomach’ you said rather upset and it was at this point that Tommy stood up, took off his suit jacket and began to unbutton his shirt.

You weren’t quite sure what he was doing and you were slightly concerned about his actions when he suddenly pulled you up and reached for your hand.

‘Count them’ Tommy said as he guided your hand over his bare chest before telling you to reach behind him and run your hand over his back.

‘Six’ you said, swallowing harshly, realising that he had just a few more scars than you which evidentially all came from bullets and stabbings.

‘Seven actually’ Tommy chuckled as your hand left his chest and you took Tommy’s hand and guided it beneath your nightgown and right over your scar.

Your scar was large, covering the right side of your abdomen. But Tommy didn’t seem bothered and simply kissed you again, as passionately as he could and you would allow him.  

‘Who did this to you?’ Tommy then asked as your lips drifted apart and it was at this point that you broke down, confiding him about what had happened to you.

You never confided in anyone before and the truth was, you didn’t know why you told Tommy that night. But you felt that it was the right thing to do.

Shortly thereafter, Tommy walked you back home and, just as you reached the house and sneaked past the security guards which, quite evidentially didn’t do their job, Tommy kissed you again, gently but yet passionately.

‘Can I see you again?’ he then asked and you nodded shyly.

‘I didn’t think you would want to after tonight’ you said somewhat embarrassed about how things had ended.

‘You have no idea, do you?’ Tommy chuckled just as one of the security guards came walking around the house.

Without his coat and gun, Tommy kissed you goodbye in a rush before disappearing into the night, ensuring that he wouldn’t get caught.

‘Everything alright Miss?’ one of the guards asked, curious as to what the noises were which he had heard.

‘Yes, just two rabbits out and about. So cute’ you said as you stuffed Tommy’s coat and gun beneath the blanket on the sofa while looking out of the window.

‘Rabbits?’ the guard asked.

‘Yes, the small animals with the big ears and the fluffy tail’ you said.

Birmingham, 17 September 1924

Following your evening at the river with Tommy, you hadn’t heard from him for days and thought again that, perhaps, he had changed his mind.

But he didn’t and, on the morning of the 17th of September, you received a telegram, delivered to your house along with the daily newspaper your father had ordered.

With a cup of coffee, you sat down in the reading room, opening the telegram.

****

‘Y/N,

I ensured that this telegram would only reach you in your father’s absence.

Meet me tonight, at 8 o’clock. Your father will be busy and security will be taken care of. I will be waiting for you outside the gate of your property’

Tommy’

****

After you read the telegram, you couldn’t help but smile while a feeling of warmth and butterflies rushed through your body.

Nonetheless, you were surprised by his influence. How did he know that your father would be busy and how would he take care of security, you wondered?

But those thoughts soon left your mind when you opened the newspaper and read the headlines.

****

Judge dead in house explosion

Judge Kent has died along with his 24-year-old son in what appeared to have been a house explosion caused by two hand grenades.

Mysteriously, their death occurred just an hour before two killings in a London Nightclub in which another two men had been shot. This also appeared to be a targeted attack.

The two men identified as Jonathan Cohen and Lucas Cohen, friends and acquaintances of the Judge’s Kent’s son who, several years ago, escaped charges for assault.

Whether the murders are linked is yet to be determined and no arrests were made.

 Tag List:

@lilymurphy03 @deefigs @theflamecrystal @desperate-and-broken @weepingstudentfishhorse @livinginfantaxy @rosey1981 @atomicsoulcollecto @peakyboyslover @nerdy4itall @elenavampire21 @hanster1998 @mariapaiva13 @fairypitou @harry-is-my-sunflower @zozeebo @lauren-raines-x @kasaikawa @littlewierdalien @sad-huffle-nerd @theflamecrystal @peakymalfoyscullymulder @themissthang @0ghostwriter0 @stylescanbeatmyback @1-800-peakyblinders @datewithgianni @momoneymolife @ntmynouis @lilymurphy03 @mcntsee@cloudofdisney @missymurphy1985 @peakymalfoyscullymulder @otterly-fey @janelongxox @uchihacumdump @basiclassy @being-worthy @chaotic-bean-of-smolness @margoo0 @chocolatehalo @vhscillian @ysmmsy @littlewierdalien @crazymar15  @stickyknightflowerbailiff​ @im-constantly-fangirling​

Cannot Tag (please check your settings):

@l0tsofpennies @trolleydolly @avonlady1985 @chrisevanshoeee @daydreamingnymph @fookingshelby

[delimeful]

down that desolate road (3)

warnings: PTSD, unreality, unhealthy coping mechanisms, panic, arguing, remus saying remus things

Chapter 1:  Set Right What Once Went Wrong

-

Virgil fought his first Shade only two days after their jump to the past.

It had been a surprise, but not one that he was unprepared for.

After all, Anxiety was always thinking of the worst case scenarios, and so the moment he emerged from the Subconscious and stepped back into the Dragonwitch’s caves, his mind was flooded with ways it all could go wrong.

He needed to know anything and everything about the Shades; what they wanted, where they frequented, and most importantly, how to destroy them. Liv had been bemused but obliging of his sudden interrogation, mentioning dryly that she’d planned to tell him all this before their jump, had he not been so single-mindedly fixated on undoing that future.

Virgil had rolled his eyes, carefully not bringing up the way that his very being had fragmented more and more with every minute that he’d spent knowing that the others were gone and he hadn’t done a damned thing about it. He didn’t need to dwell on that. They’d fixed the future— were in the process of fixing it for good— and surely, once it set in that this was real, that little problem would fix itself too.

And if he occasionally lost himself in memories, forgot that the others were still warm and alive and unharmed, well. That unbearable, agonizing pressure always let up when he drifted the halls at night, walking a path from door to door until he was satisfied once again that they lived and breathed.

Liv wasn’t happy about it, a nervous furrow in her brow whenever he abruptly stood and left to check, but she hadn’t asked him to stop.

(He wasn’t sure what would happen to those stress fractures inside him if he did stop. He didn’t want to find out.)

She had become quite the ruthless tutor, though, even bedridden. Every fact, every trait or pattern these creatures had displayed, she recounted it all to him and expected him to memorize it accordingly.

He wasn’t great at it the way Logan would’ve been, but it kept his mind off things, particularly when he spotted flashes of familiar limp forms out of the corner of his eye while traveling through tunnels that seemed a little too familiar.

He’d created a weapon, too, a scythe half-summoned from essence and half-constructed from the shattered remains of that obsidian glass that the pendant was made of. Even if the Shades developed an immunity to him or his abilities, they’d always been vulnerable to the Barrier, as Liv called it. It was their Kryptonite.

Virgil had always been more of a Batman fan, honestly.

“It’s almost lucky,” Liv had said, propped upright in bed and watching him get used to the weight of his new weapon. “Fight or flight. You’re the perfect choice for this.”

He’d snorted, swinging the blade sharply. “Yeah, right. If it wasn’t for me, we wouldn’t be in this mess in the first place.”

Liv had gone quiet, apparently unable to come up with a retort or reassurance, and Virgil had shoved away his disappointment and hurt, because she was right. He hadn’t done the one thing that everyone needed him to do, and everything he had to deal with now was fair punishment. He deserved it.

Hours later, the first Shade made its presence known by lunging for his throat.

All their preparations, and he still hadn’t understood the reality of facing one.

Physically, he’d done fine. A scrape here, a bruise there, but just as Liv had said, they weren’t nearly as fast or clever or numerous as the mob from the future.

Mentally, he’d stepped back— forwards?— in time the moment its non-euclidean form appeared before him. He was then, his back to his fallen friends, fighting alone for a purpose that was already defunct. It’s body dissolved into nothing and he whirled around, prepared for the next, and the next, and the next--

But there was no swarm awaiting him, no blood drying on his arms. There was only Liv, who had been talking this entire time, voice dulled by the blood rushing in his ears. Liv, because he wasn’t then, he was doing everything in his power to stop it from ever happening.

Virgil waited for his body to relax, for some sort of relief, but instead, doubt flooded him.

He didn’t have eyes on any of the others, didn’t know if there were more, if they were being attacked just out of his sight—

It was daylight. He couldn’t appear in front of the others, couldn’t check on them. He would feel it if they were afraid, if they were being hurt, wouldn’t he? He’d felt it before— then— now?

He dropped into the subconscious, and it was hours before it managed to dampen the fullness of his panic.

Liv had been waiting for him when he returned, and she gestured at the pendant around his neck immediately. Virgil pulled it free, holding it between them with a hand that shook until Liv carefully grasped his wrist to steady it.

A fluttering black pulse was visible past the glass, amorphous in shape, and Liv sighed in relief. “You did it.”

“One down,” Virgil agreed. The subconscious’s effect was wearing off, and his body was shifting towards the direction of the Commons as though he was the needle of a compass. “I need to go check.”

Liv’s grip on his wrist tightened, and then relaxed.

“Don’t spend too long there,” she warned. “Now that you’ve defeated one, the rest are sure to take note. Don’t lead them right to what we’re trying to protect.”

His function thrummed in agreement, and he nodded sharply. “Right.”

Two more days passed, and another Shade attacked him, this one quicker, keener, and most importantly, outside the tunnels. His heart raced for ages after it was defeated, but it was still a triumph: he hadn’t lost track of when he was again.

Unfortunately, less time spent checking in on the others meant more time aimlessly pacing, struggling not to get caught up in a panicked spiral. It was a lot harder to soothe them on his own.

Liv eventually grew tired of his ‘moping’ and encouraged him to go run patrols through her third of the Imagination if he needed something to do.

He’d been leery of wandering around in the daylight after all the warnings Liv had impressed upon him about remaining discreet, but the patrols worked. He won against his third and fourth Shade while wandering, and the unfamiliar setting kept him grounded against all but the briefest of flashbacks.

Sure, the fights were hard, but he was built to fight, and with so much on the line, he’d sooner die than lose. So he won. And with each new addition to the pendant, he felt a little more reassured that they could actually fix things.

Unfortunately, he could only spend so much time wandering the varied landscapes of the Imagination before the realm itself betrayed his presence to the Sides that actually belonged there.

“Halt, you mysterious malfeasant!”

The voice pulled at him like a magnet, and he made the mistake of turning around to face it instead of bolting away.

Roman stood there under the shadow of the canopy, hands on his hips and hair perfectly coiffed, and Virgil’s heart seemed to stutter as he took in the slash of red across him.

Sash, he told himself firmly, not blood.

It was true: the other Side was hale and hearty, and he was also giving Virgil a speculative and somewhat suspicious look. He resisted the urge to reach up and tug at the edges of his cloak, thankful that Liv had gotten him in the habit of wearing the hood up.

“Well? Have you anything to say for yourself?” Roman asked with all the impetuousness of scorned royalty.

It should have been irritating, but it was so Roman that he felt a swell of fondness instead.

“You’re the one who stopped me,” he pointed out, working hard to keep his words dry and monotone.

“Your voice!” Roman jolted as though he’d been shocked, and for a moment Virgil’s heart seemed to rise in his throat, hope and terror tangling in his lungs. “You’re not the Dragonwitch at all!”

Oh. Virgil swallowed down his disappointment at the utter lack of recognition in Roman’s eyes. Of course, he’d been wandering Liv’s territory wearing Liv’s cloak, it only made sense that Ro had assumed.

“No shit,” he replied anyway, casting his gaze up to try and recall what backstory they’d planned for this exact scenario. Liv’s absence had been what had prompted the beginning of that awful future, after all; they didn’t need any more Sides tromping into her caverns for a repeat. “Not very astute of you, your highness.”

Roman huffed, a classic Princey noise of offense. “Well, with an attitude like that, you’re certainly not one of my constructs.”

“Two for two,” Virgil raised his eyebrows, mock-impressed. “Any other obvious facts you’d like to share with the class?”

Rather than snipe back, Roman’s face dropped into a sharp frown, his hand falling to the hilt of his sword. Virgil hid a grimace, struck by the painful reminder that this wasn’t his Roman, the one he could aggressively banter with for hours on end with neither of them worse for wear.

The leaves above rustled slightly, the noise different from the rest of the orchard.

His senses prickled, already on high alert, and he skipped back a few paces, just in time for Remus to come crashing down from the trees above.

There was a nauseating splat as he hit the ground, but the sound effect was clearly overdone compared to the relatively minor fall. Virgil forced himself not to come forward and check him over anyhow, reminding himself that this was Remus, who bounced back from every self-inflicted injury with glee.

(Except for-- That didn’t count.)

Still, his heart only eased up once Remus was back on his feet, dusting himself off and dislodging errant clumps of mud with the motion.

“What, you don’t wanna catch me? I’m hurt,” Remus lamented, as though he hadn’t absolutely been trying to land feet first on Virgil’s spine. “I made extra sure I didn’t have cooties or dysentery before coming to meet you, you know!”

“Luckily for everyone, being insanely annoying isn’t catching,” Roman added, rolling his eyes theatrically.

“Nope, that’s all me,” Remus announced proudly. “I came into the world as a blood-covered, screaming nuisance, and that’s exactly how I’ll go out.”

Virgil felt a surge of dizzying affection, entirely overwhelmed. It was as though he’d been exposed to the sun after weeks underground.

He wasn’t ready to face them both. He probably wasn’t even ready to face one of them, going by the way his mind was spinning and his body was flashing hot and cold, like he was watching them die in those caverns all over again.

There was a pause, and he realized that he’d missed his cue to speak, both twins staring at him expectantly.

His throat closed up, and he knew that if he spoke now, it would come out much more emotional than he wanted. He crossed his arms instead, cocking his head slightly.

“Can’t be one of yours, either,” Roman picked up the dialogue, elbowing Remus. “I don’t think you’ve ever created anything this quiet.”

“You clearly haven’t found what I left in your closet!” Remus retorted, casting a manic grin Virgil’s way.

“I haven’t been in the closet in years,” Roman shot back on automatic, and then paled. “That was a joke, right, Remus? Right?”

Remhs leaned forwards, ignoring Roman’s increasingly panicked queries. “So, Tall, Dark, and Hopefully-A-Rotting-Skeleton, if you didn't crawl out of my neck of the woods, and you didn’t flounce out of Ro-Bro’s, you’ve gotta be a gift from the Witch!”

Virgil snorted, the lump in his throat softening as he watched their ridiculous banter. He’d make a pretty shitty gift. Congrats, you got Anxiety!

“I’m—,” he coughed, clearing his throat. They may have come up with a plausible backstory, but he wasn’t exactly an actor. “I’m not from the Witch. I usurped her.”

Both halves of Creativity stared at him, stumped. His heart rate ticked up.

“Huh,” Roman finally said, drawing closer. “I suppose it was about time Thomas’s mind let go of the monster under the bed. What are you supposed to represent, the fear of becoming a social recluse? Is that going to be a theme now?”

“Oh, maybe they’re the omnipresent figure of Death that looms over Thomas each and every moment, the knowledge that death will strike randomly and without regard haunting his waking hours?” Remus asked excitedly, as though he’d just been offered a trip to Disneyland.

“Neither of those. I’m— uh, I’m still figuring it out,” Virgil offered weakly. Liv had said the twins would do most of the ‘worldbuilding work’ for him, but letting them dub him the Grim Reaper was a little much.

They could never be allowed to see his super cool scythe.

“The enemy of my enemy is my friend, generally, but narratively you’ve been set up differently,” Roman mused, chin in hand. “Perhaps you’re the greater antagonist behind it all, crushing the previous villain as a sign to the audience of the difference in power between the two of you?”

He began to circle Virgil inquisitively, looking him up and down as though assessing him.

“Uh… yeah,” Virgil agreed, voice bland. “Exactly.”

“Ooh, how’d you get rid of her?” Remus chimed in brightly, moving counterclockwise so that he couldn’t watch both of them at once. “Is she in a horrible dungeon somewhere, facing torment like no other?” He paused. “Or a fun dungeon somewh—!”

Roman cut off his brother’s eyebrow waggling pointedly, shooting him an irritated look. “I assume this means you’ve inherited her power over this third of the realm?”

Virgil kept his shoulders slouched as the two of them circled him like sharks. It was a maneuver designed to keep an opponent on their toes, but also to see which one he turned to face, which one registered as more of a threat to him.

It was a trick question, an ineffective one for someone who knew them as well as he did. A moot point, because how could he ever see them as threats when they were exactly what he was striving to protect?

Virgil shook himself, digging his nails into his arms hard enough to bruise. Focus. He intentionally didn’t shift towards either twin, only flicking his eyes in the direction of whoever was currently speaking.

“You could say that,” he answered evasively. He had been helping Liv with maintaining her portion of the realm while she was bedridden, so he certainly held some power. Probably more than a non-Creativity Side should, honestly.

“Anyways, my plots are on hold until I’ve consolidated more power over the Dragonwitch’s former subjects,” he continued, trying not to sound as though he was reciting from memory. “I figure the ceasefire still holds even without her in command, so don’t mind me. When I make my move, you’ll know.”

He was no actor, but when it came to ominous vague threats, he had plenty of experience.

It was a little bit hilarious, watching the two of them perk up simultaneously at the promise of future battles like a pair of puppies. Roman was scowling theatrically at him without any real anger behind it, but Remus looked flat-out delighted.

“She was always the one breaking the ceasefires without warning, not us,” Roman grumbled, but his hand had strayed from where it had previously rested on the handle of his sword. “I suppose introductions are in order, then. I am the fabulous Prince Roman, it’s an honor, I know. The miscreant next to me with the not-as-handsome face is Duke Remus.”

“My hobbies include long walks on shattered glass and showing R-rated films to the elderly!” Remus batted his eyelashes at Virgil exaggeratedly. “Be less boring with your backstabbing than DW, won’t you?”

These idiots. Virgil was overcome with a surge of exasperated fondness so strong that for a moment he couldn’t quite manage words. They might not remember him, but they were still the Sides he knew. He swallowed the lump in his throat and said, “Call me Vendetta.”

He knew that this was a different situation with a different meaning behind it, and he knew that he wasn’t actually sharing his name with them the way he had before. It was only a placeholder, the first thing Liv had come up with after his lackluster suggestion of just going with ‘V’, he knew that, but...

Giving the others his name had been a big deal for him before, and even now, this was close enough to that same nerve-wracking vulnerability that he didn’t want to wait around for their reactions.

Moving quickly, he threw up a smokescreen of shadows that would cloud their senses and keep them occupied for at least a few moments, and hurried back to the security of Liv’s home, feeling the loss of their presence with each step away until he was shaking with it.

… Shit.

This was going to be more difficult than anticipated.

[trashcanfanfics]

Hmm, Angel Dust with an S/o noble overlord who managed to break Angel's contract with Val and take him away from him. fluff mixed with a little nsfw :)

I'm gonna be honest, whenever I think about Angel, all I wanna do is get him tf out of Val's reach

Also, only slight nsfw because I'm not confident in my abilities to write a full on scene for that, I'm sorry :(

Angel had come home, covered in bite marks and his own blood again. You watched from the couch with your book in hand as he walked in through the front door. It worried you, that he would come home like this, broken and defeated.

"Welcome home, my love," you spoke softly as you rose up to go greet him, setting the book aside. He mumbled out a half assed greeting in response. As soon as you were close enough, you hugged him tightly. Angel wrapped both sets of arms around you and let out a shaky sigh. It sounded like he was ready to cry.

"Would you like a bath? I'll draw you one." You gently let go before you grabbed his lower left hand to lead him to the huge bathroom centered around a giant clawfooted tub. Refusing to let go of his hand, you turned the knob to start the water and waited for the right temperature before plugging the drain.

Once the tub was full, you stood, facing him and gently helped him take off his clothes. You barely grazed your hand across one of the marks, making him hiss in pain. This made your blood boil. You were sick of this. Angel coming home beaten, marked, and in despair. You won't stand for this anymore. He had begged you not to get involved, said that it'd be worse if you intervened. You helped him into the tub once he was fully undressed.

"Ya not gonna join me?" He asked in a small voice, he was tryng to sound playful but it came out sad, defeated. You smiled weakly and shook your head.

"No, I thought I'd just wash you tonight, if that's alright with you." You liked doing this after he came home like this, offering him a choice. Giving him the freedom to ask for what he wanted. There was a sneaking suspicion you had that said he just wanted to wash off and sleep. The bags under his eyes helped this theory.

"That sounds nice." He sank deeper into the tub as you turned the knob off and helped him clean the blood out of his fur. The gentle motions of running your hands in his soft hair was enough to let his shoulders droop in relaxation. Your mind drifted off while you cleaned him. You kissed his head, healing his wounds, a habit now.

Valentino will no longer hurt your beloved. You would not allow him to do this anymore. These past few weeks you've been researching and studying dealmaking. The processes, terms, and ways to look into loopholes. All you have to do is get your hands on the physical contract to see what you can find. If you couldn't find anything, you'd just set the contract on fire and hit Valentino before running away.

After Angel was fully clean, you grabbed his favorite embroidered towel and helped him out of the bath. Once again grabbing his hand, you lead him to your shared bedroom and helped him into the softest pajamas he owns. He laid down under the silky sheets on the plush mattress and snuggled into it. You changed into your own pajamas before snuggling in with him. Your fingers gently brushed through his hair as softly sang him to sleep. You ran your thumb across the slight purple under his eye, noting how exhausted he looked even in sleep.

~*~

You woke up to the early birdsong of the morning glory in your garden and gently disentangled yourself from Angel's many armsnd made your way over to the edge. There, you stood straight and rounded the bed quietly to place a soft kiss to his forehead. With one last glance, and a whispered "I love you", you turned off the light and left the room, down the hall, out the front door. You're going to pay that bastard a visit.

~*~

Angel woke up feeling better and less sore than he expected. He sat up and looked over to his loving partner's side of the bed only to frown. They weren't there. Getting up, he stretched and decided to look in the kitchen. Maybe they had gotten up already and were making breakfast, though they usually would have the staff take care of it. He didn't know why, they were an amazing cook and it was always a treat when you did make meals.

"S/o? Ya in here, babes?" He opened the door to see the cooks already making breakfast, one handed him a coffee when they passed by to get to some more ingredients, but you weren't there. They looked pretty busy, so he decided to take his cup and search elsewhere.

He checked the dining room, library, living room, their study, parlor, hell, even the garden (saying hi to Nuggets in his own little mansion on the way), but they weren't in any of those places! Where are they? He was getting worried now.

"Uh, excuse me, sire?" Angel looked to the speaker of the voice to see a small demon that reminded him slightly of Niffty. "My liege has left a note for you, sire." The demon handed him a small piece of paper, bowed, and then skittered off. Angel will never get used to the treatment here. He shook his head and focused on the paper.

"My dearest love, I will be out for a short while, but don't fret, I'll be home soon with a surprise and a gift. I love you very much, S/o." He read aloud. "Aren't gifts and surprises the same thing?" He decided to not worry about that and smiled as he imagined when you'd be back.

~*~

You entered your home tired and frazzled, but with a smile beaming with happiness. You had successfully gotten rid of the contract between Valentino and Angel. Now it was time to tell your lover and give him the gifts you bought him.

"My heart? I'm home!" You called into the foyer as you went deeper into the house. You checked the living room and parlor before you were wrapped up in an embrace of four arms.

"Babes! Where were ya? I woke up an' you were gone," he mumbled in your ear. You smiled and pat one of his arms to release you. He let go and you turned to face him, holding out all the gift bags you were carrying.

"S/o, what the fuck happened to you? You're bleeding!" At his exclaimation you look down to actually take yourself in and realize he's right. You were so caught up in finally setting him free and getting him gifts that you didn't notice the small cuts. Laughing, you wave your hand and fix yourself up with your abilities.

"So I was, thank you, lovely. Now, here!" You, once again, offer him the gift bags. He takes them in his lower set of hands and uses the upper set to hold your shoulders.

"We ain't gonna roll past that you were hurt, even if ya can heal them. Who did it?" There was murder in his eyes. Your gaze softened and you laughed softly.

"I was going to wait until you opened the gifts and ask 'what's the occasion?' But you seem so eager," you paused to reach up and hold his face in your hands, "Anthony Messina, you are no longer under contract with the overlord Valentino. You are a free man, my love." The expression on his face was nothing short of shock.

"What? Are you serious?" His eyes fill with tears as he breathes and realizes you're right. Angel wouldn't be able to feel Valentino's chains anymore. He was free. "I can't believe it." He lets out a laugh and the tears fall, ruining his make up. Angel lifts you up and kisses you hard.

"My star," you whispered when you parted. He kissed you again with more passion. Your hands travelled through his soft locks, relishing in the feeling.

"Caro mia." He kissed you again, longer this time. The bags fell from his lower arms which then made their way to your thighs, wrapping them around his waist.

"Shall we take this to the room, sweetling?" You asked when you separated again. Angel nodded vigorously and carried you, all the while kissing you.

In the room, you hear him kick the door closed and then lock the door with one of his arms. You continue to kiss and run your tongue along his bottom lip, asking for entrance, which he happily gives. Hands found their way to the other's clothes, ripping them off in urgency to feel each the naked bodies beneath.

You wiggled your half naked form from his arms and separated the kiss. Before he could complain, you grabbed his lower left hand and yanked him over to the bed, effortlessly throwing him onto it. You crawled on top of him and kissed him lovingly, caressing his face and then down his chest and finally resting on his hips, giving a small squeeze. Parting from his lips, you said a sentence that set his body on fire.

"I'm going to show you what a true claiming feels like."