#compelled by the urge to draw them…!!!

[tw0ism]

as we would lay & learn what each others bodies were for

[averlym]

@remylong :

[esotericalchemist]

𝐒𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐩𝐢𝐨 + 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐬

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Scorpio energy is intense, transformative, and deeply introspective, driven by the powerful influences of Mars and Pluto. Unlike signs that prefer the surface, Scorpio in each House dives into the depths, urging us to confront hidden truths and embrace transformation. By exploring its journey through the Houses, we uncover how this potent energy pushes us to confront fears, seek empowerment, and engage in profound change across various life areas. This journey reveals the unique ways Scorpio inspires resilience, depth, and the courage to face life’s mysteries, guiding us toward a life of authenticity, emotional strength, and profound self-awareness.

𝐀𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠

For Aries rising, Scorpio governs the 8th house, the house of transformation, shared resources, intimacy, and emotional depth. With Scorpio ruling this house, Aries risings approach matters of intimacy, financial partnership, and emotional transformation with intensity and a desire for control. They may experience a profound need to explore life’s hidden aspects, often seeking relationships and experiences that offer deep emotional and psychological insights. Scorpio’s influence here suggests that Aries risings may encounter powerful transformative experiences in life, learning to balance their natural assertiveness with Scorpio’s demand for emotional depth and understanding. They may approach shared resources and intimate relationships with a cautious yet determined mindset, often seeking to understand and master the subtler forces that drive both themselves and others.

Mars through the Houses:

Mars in the 1st House: With Mars in the 1st house, the Scorpionic 8th-house energy of intensity and control flows directly into the self. The native has a strong, magnetic presence and projects a powerful, confident aura. They often confront life with courage and assertiveness, and they may exude an intensity that draws others to them. They are deeply driven to understand themselves and others on a fundamental level, and they approach life’s challenges head-on, unafraid of transformation.

Mars in the 2nd House: The Scorpionic 8th-house energy channels into finances and values. The native approaches money and resources with determination and control, often seeking financial independence and security. They are likely to have a passionate approach to material stability and may be drawn to financial endeavors that involve risk or deep analysis. They value resources that can contribute to their personal transformation and growth.

Mars in the 3rd House: With Mars in the 3rd house, the Scorpionic 8th-house energy is expressed through communication and close relationships. The native may have an intense, probing communication style, often seeking to understand others at a deep level. They may approach conversations with a directness that can be both compelling and challenging, and they are likely drawn to discussions that explore deeper, hidden aspects of life.

Mars in the 4th House: The Scorpionic 8th-house energy finds expression in the home and family environment. The native may have a powerful influence within their family or household, often bringing a strong sense of protection and intensity to family matters. They might experience transformative events in their family life, and they may seek emotional depth and security within their home.

Mars in the 5th House: The Scorpionic 8th-house energy channels into creativity, romance, and self-expression. The native approaches romance and creativity with intensity, often seeking relationships and creative outlets that allow for personal transformation. They may be drawn to passionate, even turbulent, romantic connections and are likely to be highly driven in expressing themselves creatively and authentically.

Mars in the 6th House: The Scorpionic 8th-house energy flows into daily routines, work, and health. The native approaches work with a powerful, determined attitude, often excelling in roles that require precision, focus, and resilience. They may be drawn to professions involving psychology, research, or healing, and they bring a transformational approach to everyday tasks, valuing routines that support both physical and emotional strength.

Mars in the 7th House: The Scorpionic 8th-house energy of intensity and control flows into partnerships. The native may seek partners who are passionate and emotionally committed, often looking for relationships that allow for deep transformation and growth. They value loyalty and depth in partnerships, and they approach close relationships with a strong, protective attitude, often seeking partners who are as dedicated and resilient as they are.

Mars in the 8th House: With Mars in its own 8th house, the Scorpionic energy of transformation, passion, and control is intensely expressed in matters of intimacy and shared resources. The native has a powerful drive to explore the mysteries of life and to experience personal transformation through deep emotional bonds. They may be naturally drawn to the occult, psychology, or healing work, and they are likely to confront life’s challenges with resilience and a fearless attitude toward change.

Mars in the 9th House: The Scorpionic 8th-house energy is expressed through philosophy, travel, and higher learning. The native may have an intense curiosity for subjects that involve life’s mysteries, philosophy, or metaphysics, often seeking knowledge that offers deep insight into human nature. They may approach learning and travel with passion and may seek transformative experiences through exploration and higher education.

Mars in the 10th House: The Scorpionic 8th-house energy flows into career and public life. The native is likely to have a powerful, determined approach to their career, often pursuing ambitious goals that allow for influence or transformation. They may be drawn to careers involving finance, psychology, law enforcement, or any field that allows them to explore depth and complexity, and they may be known for their resilience and strategic approach to achieving success.

Mars in the 11th House: The Scorpionic 8th-house energy channels into social networks and group involvement. The native may be drawn to friends or groups that share their interest in transformation, psychology, or social reform. They may bring intensity to group projects or social causes, often valuing friendships that allow for emotional honesty and shared purpose. They are likely to be influential within their social circles, bringing focus and determination to collective goals.

Mars in the 12th House: With Mars in the 12th house, the Scorpionic 8th-house energy of transformation and mystery takes on a more introspective, spiritual quality. The native may be drawn to solitary pursuits involving healing, meditation, or inner transformation. They may work behind the scenes or in spiritual settings, often seeking to understand and transform their inner world, and they may find strength and purpose through spiritual exploration.

𝐓𝐚𝐮𝐫𝐮𝐬 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠

For Taurus rising, Scorpio governs the 7th house, the house of close relationships, marriage, and partnerships. With Scorpio ruling this house, Taurus risings approach committed relationships with a deep need for intimacy, loyalty, and emotional connection. They may be drawn to partners who are passionate, intense, and transformative, often seeking relationships that allow for profound emotional growth and depth. Scorpio’s influence suggests that Taurus risings view relationships as transformative experiences, ones that push them to explore the depths of emotional intimacy, vulnerability, and trust. They may be both protective and private in relationships, expecting loyalty and honesty from their partners, and they may tend to attract intense, magnetic individuals who bring a sense of purpose or change into their lives.

Mars through the Houses:

Mars in the 1st House: With Mars in the 1st house, the Scorpionic 7th-house energy of intensity and power flows directly into the self. The native presents themselves with a strong, magnetic presence and projects a natural authority and determination. They may approach relationships with passion and may be seen as both protective and deeply committed to their partners, often confronting relationship challenges head-on with courage and resilience.

Mars in the 2nd House: The Scorpionic 7th-house energy channels into finances and values. The native may approach shared finances in relationships with determination, seeking stability and control over financial matters. They value loyalty and honesty in their partnerships and are likely to work hard to build secure financial foundations, especially in marriage or business relationships where shared resources are involved.

Mars in the 3rd House: With Mars in the 3rd house, the Scorpionic 7th-house energy is expressed through communication and close relationships. The native may have a powerful communication style, often approaching conversations with directness and intensity. They bring depth to their words and may seek intellectual intimacy in their relationships, often bonding deeply through meaningful discussions or shared intellectual pursuits.

Mars in the 4th House: The Scorpionic 7th-house energy finds expression in the home and family environment. The native may be protective of their family and home life, bringing a sense of passion and intensity to family relationships. They may seek a partner who values emotional depth in the home, often building a household that feels secure, private, and transformative, a place for healing and shared growth.

Mars in the 5th House: The Scorpionic 7th-house energy of intensity channels into creativity, romance, and self-expression. The native may have a passionate approach to romance and self-expression, often seeking partners who appreciate loyalty and depth in love. They approach romantic relationships with intensity and authenticity, often preferring relationships that feel transformative and meaningful rather than casual.

Mars in the 6th House: The Scorpionic 7th-house energy flows into daily routines, work, and health. The native may seek out partnerships in the workplace, often bringing passion and determination to work relationships. They approach collaboration with a focus on shared goals and mutual support, valuing loyalty and reliability in colleagues and partners. They may be drawn to work in healing, therapy, or research fields that involve close, transformative partnerships.

Mars in the 7th House: With Mars in its own 7th house, the Scorpionic energy of passion, loyalty, and intensity is deeply expressed in partnerships. The native may be highly protective and committed in relationships, valuing trust and deep emotional bonds. They often seek transformative partnerships that push them to grow, and they may attract intense, magnetic partners who bring out their own inner strength and resilience.

Mars in the 8th House: The Scorpionic 7th-house energy of depth and transformation channels into shared resources, intimacy, and personal growth. The native may be deeply invested in understanding the mysteries of life and may seek partnerships that allow for shared spiritual or psychological exploration. They may approach intimacy with a sense of emotional courage and depth, often drawn to partners who help them transform or heal.

Mars in the 9th House: The Scorpionic 7th-house energy is expressed through philosophy, travel, and higher learning. The native may be drawn to partners with whom they can explore philosophical or spiritual questions, often valuing deep, meaningful discussions and shared cultural or spiritual experiences. They approach relationships with an open mind, seeking transformation through shared exploration and intellectual discovery.

Mars in the 10th House: The Scorpionic 7th-house energy flows into career and public life. The native may be drawn to partnerships that support their ambitions and professional goals, often seeking business or life partners who help them achieve success. They may have a powerful presence in their career, bringing determination and strategic insight to their professional relationships.

Mars in the 11th House: The Scorpionic 7th-house energy channels into social networks and group involvement. The native may value friendships and social connections that are supportive and loyal, often seeking a sense of deep connection within their social circles. They approach friendships and group projects with a sense of purpose, drawn to causes that require courage and resilience and valuing allies who are as dedicated and passionate as they are.

Mars in the 12th House: With Mars in the 12th house, the Scorpionic 7th-house energy of depth and transformation takes on a more introspective, spiritual quality. The native may be drawn to relationships that allow for spiritual or emotional healing, often preferring partners who support their inner growth. They may value privacy in relationships, finding strength in quiet intimacy, and are likely to approach relationships with a depth that is both subtle and transformative.

𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠

For Gemini rising, Scorpio governs the 6th house, the house of daily routines, health, work environment, and service. With Scorpio ruling this house, Gemini risings approach their daily routines, work, and health with an intense, focused, and sometimes transformative energy. They tend to put deep focus and commitment into their tasks, valuing work that allows for investigation, strategy, or healing. Scorpio’s influence here suggests that Gemini risings may experience powerful personal transformations through their daily habits or work environments. They may be naturally drawn to uncovering hidden aspects of health and wellness, or they might excel in careers that require depth and focus, such as research, psychology, or crisis management. Scorpio ruling the 6th house encourages them to find purpose and resilience in their daily routines, often pushing them to tackle challenges with dedication and an investigative mindset.

Mars through the Houses:

Mars in the 1st House: With Mars in the 1st house, the Scorpionic 6th-house energy of intensity and control flows directly into the self. The native projects a strong, focused presence and approaches daily life with a purposeful drive. They may tackle daily challenges with courage and are likely to be highly independent, often pushing themselves to master their work and health with resilience and self-discipline.

Mars in the 2nd House: The Scorpionic 6th-house energy channels into finances and values. The native may approach financial matters with a strategic and focused mindset, often valuing stability and control in their resources. They bring intensity and determination to their work, often seeing income as a reflection of their hard work and dedication. They value security and may be highly resourceful in managing finances.

Mars in the 3rd House: With Mars in the 3rd house, the Scorpionic 6th-house energy is expressed through communication and close relationships. The native may communicate with a direct, penetrating style and could be drawn to work that involves research, investigation, or analytical thinking. They bring intensity to their conversations and may value intellectual connections with colleagues, often working well in roles that involve strategy and precision.

Mars in the 4th House: The Scorpionic 6th-house energy finds expression in the home and family environment. The native may approach domestic responsibilities with a strong sense of purpose and protection, often valuing stability and control within the household. They may be intensely committed to family matters and could find transformative experiences within their home life or health routines.

Mars in the 5th House: The Scorpionic 6th-house energy of focus and transformation channels into creativity, romance, and self-expression. The native may approach creative projects and hobbies with intensity and a desire for depth, often choosing activities that allow them to explore their inner world. They might also be drawn to romantic relationships that feel transformative, valuing partners who share their passion and resilience.

Mars in the 6th House: With Mars in its own 6th house, the Scorpionic energy of discipline, resilience, and control is strongly expressed in daily routines, work, and health. The native may be highly motivated in their work, often taking on challenging tasks with a determined approach. They value routine and may approach health with an investigative attitude, often exploring alternative or transformative wellness practices.

Mars in the 7th House: The Scorpionic 6th-house energy of dedication and focus flows into partnerships. The native may be drawn to partnerships that support their work or daily routines. They may approach close relationships with a strong sense of commitment and are likely to seek a partner who values loyalty and mutual support, especially in everyday matters or shared goals.

Mars in the 8th House: The Scorpionic 6th-house energy of intensity and transformation channels into shared resources, intimacy, and personal growth. The native may approach work or health matters with a focus on depth and transformation, often delving into subjects related to psychology, healing, or crisis management. They might be drawn to professions that allow them to work with others’ resources or support others through times of change.

Mars in the 9th House: The Scorpionic 6th-house energy is expressed through philosophy, travel, and higher learning. The native may find purpose in work that involves research, investigation, or the exploration of deep truths. They might be drawn to studying topics like psychology, spirituality, or transformative philosophies, often seeking ways to apply these insights to their work and daily life.

Mars in the 10th House: The Scorpionic 6th-house energy flows into career and public life. The native may be drawn to a profession that allows them to work with intensity and focus, often excelling in roles that require discipline and resilience. They may have a strong, determined approach to career advancement and may be known for their strategic thinking, particularly in fields that involve research, analysis, or managing crises.

Mars in the 11th House: The Scorpionic 6th-house energy channels into social networks and group involvement. The native may bring intensity and dedication to group work, often valuing friendships that support their professional and personal goals. They may be drawn to causes that promote transformation or social improvement and may value friends who share their depth and commitment to shared goals.

Mars in the 12th House: With Mars in the 12th house, the Scorpionic 6th-house energy of discipline and healing takes on a more introspective, spiritual quality. The native may be drawn to work that involves behind-the-scenes efforts or solitary practices, often valuing privacy in their routines. They may find fulfillment in exploring psychological or spiritual dimensions of health and may pursue transformative practices in solitude.

𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠

For Cancer rising, Scorpio governs the 5th house, the house of romance, creativity, self-expression, and joy. With Scorpio ruling this house, Cancer risings approach romance and creativity with a deep need for emotional intensity, authenticity, and passion. They often seek love relationships that are transformative, loyal, and profoundly impactful. Scorpio’s influence suggests that Cancer risings may pour great energy into their creative pursuits, often using art, hobbies, or other forms of self-expression as a way to explore and process deep emotions. They may find joy in experiences that allow them to explore life’s mysteries, and they’re often drawn to passionate, meaningful romances rather than casual flings. Scorpio ruling the 5th house encourages Cancer risings to seek experiences that bring personal transformation, whether in love, art, or the pursuit of pleasure.

Mars through the Houses:

Mars in the 1st House: With Mars in the 1st house, the Scorpionic 5th-house energy of intensity and passion flows directly into the self. The native projects a strong, magnetic presence and may have an intense, determined approach to life. They approach love and creativity with raw authenticity and courage, often wearing their emotions openly. Their passion and charisma attract others, and they may approach life’s challenges head-on, seeking meaningful connections and experiences.

Mars in the 2nd House: The Scorpionic 5th-house energy channels into finances and values. The native may approach financial matters with a strong focus on building stability to support their creative and romantic life. They are likely to value meaningful possessions and may invest in items or experiences that reflect their deep passions and artistic pursuits. Financial security may allow them to explore their love for art, romance, or other fulfilling activities.

Mars in the 3rd House: With Mars in the 3rd house, the Scorpionic 5th-house energy is expressed through communication and close relationships. The native has a persuasive, intense communication style, often using words as a way to express their passions. They may enjoy writing or speaking about meaningful subjects, especially those that allow them to explore emotional or psychological depths. Their communication in romantic and creative endeavors is likely direct and impactful.

Mars in the 4th House: The Scorpionic 5th-house energy finds expression in the home and family environment. The native may channel their creative energy into their home, making it a place of emotional intensity and depth. They may approach family life with passion and may create a home that reflects their values, perhaps incorporating art or objects that carry personal significance. They may also nurture creative talents in family members or children, fostering an environment that values emotional authenticity.

Mars in the 5th House: With Mars in its own 5th house, the Scorpionic energy of passion, creativity, and intensity is strongly expressed in romance, self-expression, and creative pursuits. The native has a magnetic presence in love and is likely to be drawn to intense, transformative romantic experiences. They may pour great energy into their art or hobbies, often approaching creative projects with fierce dedication and a desire for deep personal expression.

Mars in the 6th House: The Scorpionic 5th-house energy flows into daily routines, work, and health. The native may approach creative work with discipline and commitment, often finding joy in careers that allow them to express their passions. They could also be drawn to service roles that have a transformative effect on others, bringing intensity and purpose to their work life. Health routines may support their active, driven approach to self-expression and pleasure.

Mars in the 7th House: The Scorpionic 5th-house energy of passion and transformation flows into partnerships. The native may seek romantic relationships that allow for emotional depth and growth, often valuing partners who bring both loyalty and intensity to the connection. They are drawn to romantic partners who appreciate honesty and emotional authenticity, and they may approach committed relationships with dedication and purpose.

Mars in the 8th House: The Scorpionic 5th-house energy channels into shared resources, intimacy, and personal growth. The native may explore the depths of intimacy and transformation within romantic relationships, often valuing partners with whom they can share both physical and emotional connection. They approach love and pleasure with intensity, often using romance as a path to explore and understand their own psyche.

Mars in the 9th House: The Scorpionic 5th-house energy is expressed through philosophy, travel, and higher learning. The native may be drawn to creative or romantic pursuits that expand their understanding of the world, often seeking relationships or artistic experiences that provide personal growth. They may feel fulfilled by travel, philosophical study, or exploring cultures that allow them to express their passions in new and transformative ways.

Mars in the 10th House: The Scorpionic 5th-house energy flows into career and public life. The native may find a career in creative fields or in professions that involve intense passion, such as art, psychology, or performance. They may be known for their dedication to their creative or romantic pursuits, and their public image may reflect their commitment to meaningful, transformative work.

Mars in the 11th House: The Scorpionic 5th-house energy channels into social networks and group involvement. The native may bring creativity and passion into group settings, often seeking friends who share their intense interests or artistic pursuits. They are likely to feel fulfilled by group activities that involve creativity, and they may use their influence to inspire others within their social circles to explore deeper, transformative experiences.

Mars in the 12th House: With Mars in the 12th house, the Scorpionic 5th-house energy of creativity and romance takes on a more introspective, spiritual quality. The native may feel drawn to private creative pursuits, often finding solace in art or spirituality as a means of self-expression. They may experience quiet but powerful transformations through romance or art, often approaching these aspects of life with a sense of mystery and depth.

𝐋𝐞𝐨 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠

For Leo rising, Scorpio governs the 4th house, the house of home, family, emotional security, and personal foundations. With Scorpio ruling this house, Leo risings tend to experience family and home life with deep emotional intensity and a strong need for privacy. They may be drawn to creating a home environment that feels safe and transformative, often treating their home as a sanctuary where they can retreat from the world. Scorpio’s influence suggests that family matters, roots, and emotional life may involve transformative experiences, sometimes involving secrets or complex emotional dynamics. Leo risings often approach family relationships with loyalty and protectiveness, and they may bring their powerful will and determination to create a secure, resilient foundation for themselves and their loved ones. Scorpio ruling the 4th house encourages Leo risings to understand and process their emotional depths within the privacy of their home and to use their inner life as a source of strength and regeneration.

Mars through the Houses:

Mars in the 1st House: With Mars in the 1st house, the Scorpionic 4th-house energy of intensity and control flows directly into the self. The native presents themselves with a strong, powerful aura, often projecting confidence and resilience. They approach family matters with determination and may be deeply protective of their loved ones. Their strong presence influences their home life, and they may be seen as the pillar of strength in family dynamics.

Mars in the 2nd House: The Scorpionic 4th-house energy channels into finances and values. The native may place great importance on building financial stability to support their family and home. They approach material security with focus and commitment, often working hard to ensure that they can provide a solid, protected foundation for themselves and their loved ones. They may value investments that offer both financial security and emotional comfort.

Mars in the 3rd House: With Mars in the 3rd house, the Scorpionic 4th-house energy is expressed through communication and close relationships. The native may communicate with intensity and assertiveness, especially when it comes to family matters or personal beliefs. They may feel deeply about their family roots and heritage and may bond closely with siblings, often playing a protective role in their relationships.

Mars in the 4th House: With Mars in its own 4th house, the Scorpionic energy of transformation, protection, and intensity is strongly expressed in home and family life. The native is likely to be deeply protective of their home and family, often approaching domestic matters with determination and resilience. They may create a private, transformative space at home and can be seen as a powerful, grounding force within their family dynamics.

Mars in the 5th House: The Scorpionic 4th-house energy of intensity channels into creativity, romance, and self-expression. The native may pour their passion into creative pursuits or projects related to home or family. They are likely to be dedicated to their children, if they have them, and may approach romantic relationships with a desire for emotional depth and authenticity, often seeking partners who appreciate their private, introspective side.

Mars in the 6th House: The Scorpionic 4th-house energy flows into daily routines, work, and health. The native may feel motivated to create a secure and harmonious environment at work, often bringing dedication and resilience to their professional life. They may also channel their passion for stability and security into routines that support both their emotional and physical health, valuing wellness practices that nurture their inner foundation.

Mars in the 7th House: The Scorpionic 4th-house energy of loyalty and emotional depth flows into partnerships. The native may seek committed, loyal partners who value emotional intimacy. They approach relationships with dedication and may view marriage or partnership as a means of creating a stable, transformative foundation. They are likely to value honesty and resilience in partners, often forming relationships that contribute to their inner security.

Mars in the 8th House: The Scorpionic 4th-house energy channels into shared resources, intimacy, and personal growth. The native may experience transformation through family matters or shared resources, often seeking a deep emotional connection with close family members. They are drawn to the mysteries of life, finding strength in exploring their roots and heritage, and may undergo inner transformation through family or inheritance matters.

Mars in the 9th House: The Scorpionic 4th-house energy is expressed through philosophy, travel, and higher learning. The native may have a philosophical approach to family life, valuing deeper understanding and spiritual exploration. They may be drawn to studying topics related to family heritage, psychology, or even past-life beliefs, using knowledge as a foundation for emotional strength and growth.

Mars in the 10th House: The Scorpionic 4th-house energy flows into career and public life. The native may be drawn to careers that allow them to protect or transform others, and they may be known for their commitment and resilience. They bring a strong sense of purpose to their professional life, often striving to create a legacy that supports and benefits their family and community, and they may be seen as a leader in their field.

Mars in the 11th House: The Scorpionic 4th-house energy channels into social networks and group involvement. The native may feel a protective bond with friends or social causes that resonate with their values. They may be deeply involved in organizations that support family, emotional healing, or transformation, bringing their intensity and dedication to group projects and social causes that align with their desire for security and emotional growth.

Mars in the 12th House: With Mars in the 12th house, the Scorpionic 4th-house energy of protection and introspection takes on a more spiritual, private quality. The native may seek solitude or spiritual practices to strengthen their inner foundation, often using quiet time for reflection and emotional renewal. They may find comfort in spiritual exploration and may channel their desire for emotional security into helping others heal on a subtle, unseen level.

𝐕𝐢𝐫𝐠𝐨 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠

For Virgo rising, Scorpio governs the 3rd house, the house of communication, intellect, siblings, and local environment. With Scorpio ruling this house, Virgo risings approach communication and learning with depth, focus, and a desire to uncover hidden truths. They may be naturally drawn to investigating complex subjects or exploring psychological and occult topics. In relationships with siblings or close friends, they value loyalty and honesty and are often seen as deeply supportive yet private. Scorpio’s influence suggests that Virgo risings may feel an urge to penetrate beneath the surface of things, often seeking profound insights in their everyday interactions. They may approach their local environment with a sense of protectiveness, valuing emotional depth in close relationships. Scorpio ruling the 3rd house encourages Virgo risings to cultivate their investigative and perceptive qualities, using these to develop both intellectual strength and emotional understanding.

Mars through the Houses:

Mars in the 1st House: With Mars in the 1st house, the Scorpionic 3rd-house energy of intensity and perception flows directly into the self. The native has a powerful presence and often communicates with directness and authority. They approach life with a sense of purpose, and their interactions carry a certain depth. Their approach to conversation is assertive, often probing, and they tend to make an impactful impression on others.

Mars in the 2nd House: The Scorpionic 3rd-house energy channels into finances and values. The native may be strategic and careful with their resources, valuing financial security and self-sufficiency. They may bring a strong sense of purpose to earning and managing resources, often viewing money as a means to support their intellectual pursuits and close relationships.

Mars in the 3rd House: With Mars in its own 3rd house, the Scorpionic energy of intensity, investigation, and curiosity is strongly expressed in communication and learning. The native has a powerful, penetrating communication style, often speaking with precision and depth. They may have a talent for research, psychology, or any field requiring investigative skills, and their relationships with siblings or neighbors may be intense and marked by loyalty.

Mars in the 4th House: The Scorpionic 3rd-house energy finds expression in the home and family environment. The native may have a strong desire to protect their home and family, often communicating assertively within family dynamics. They may have deep conversations with family members and are likely to create a household where intense emotional discussions are welcome. Their private life may be marked by a need for loyalty and emotional security.

Mars in the 5th House: The Scorpionic 3rd-house energy of depth channels into creativity, romance, and self-expression. The native may approach creative projects and romantic relationships with intensity and purpose, often expressing their ideas with passion. They value romantic partners and creative pursuits that challenge them intellectually, and they may enjoy hobbies that involve strategy, like games or puzzles, where their investigative nature can thrive.

Mars in the 6th House: The Scorpionic 3rd-house energy flows into daily routines, work, and health. The native may be intensely focused on their work and health routines, often valuing a disciplined and methodical approach to daily tasks. They are likely drawn to roles that involve problem-solving, analysis, or research and may enjoy contributing to meaningful, transformative work environments.

Mars in the 7th House: The Scorpionic 3rd-house energy of loyalty and depth flows into partnerships. The native may seek partnerships with individuals who share their intellectual passions, and they may be drawn to deep conversations in relationships. They value loyalty and emotional honesty in close partnerships, and they bring a probing, direct approach to resolving issues with others.

Mars in the 8th House: The Scorpionic 3rd-house energy channels into shared resources, intimacy, and personal growth. The native may use their communication skills to explore psychological or spiritual depths, often seeking transformative conversations with close friends or family members. They approach shared resources and deep relationships with an intense desire for trust, honesty, and mutual respect.

Mars in the 9th House: The Scorpionic 3rd-house energy is expressed through philosophy, travel, and higher learning. The native may have a strong passion for learning about hidden truths, psychology, or metaphysics. They may seek out experiences that broaden their perspective and often enjoy exploring complex subjects with others. They approach learning with an intense curiosity and may use travel as a way to gain deeper insights.

Mars in the 10th House: The Scorpionic 3rd-house energy flows into career and public life. The native may pursue a career that allows them to communicate powerfully, such as law, psychology, or research. They bring a determined, strategic approach to their profession, often approaching their public image with depth and commitment. They are likely known for their dedication and focused work ethic.

Mars in the 11th House: The Scorpionic 3rd-house energy channels into social networks and group involvement. The native may bring intensity and depth to friendships and group activities, often valuing loyal, intellectually stimulating relationships. They may work well in groups focused on transformation, healing, or social change, and they often communicate with a sense of purpose, aiming to inspire or protect their community.

Mars in the 12th House: With Mars in the 12th house, the Scorpionic 3rd-house energy of intensity and insight takes on a more introspective, spiritual quality. The native may be drawn to exploring their subconscious through writing, meditation, or introspection. They may communicate in subtle, yet profound ways and may find comfort in private or solitary intellectual pursuits that allow them to process and transform their inner world.

𝐋𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠

For Libra rising, Scorpio governs the 2nd house, the house of personal resources, values, income, and self-worth. With Scorpio ruling this house, Libra risings approach finances and material stability with intensity, focus, and a deep desire for security. They may see money and resources as a form of empowerment, using financial control as a way to feel safe and self-sufficient. Scorpio’s influence suggests that Libra risings often have strong values regarding financial loyalty and integrity and may be willing to go to great lengths to protect what is valuable to them. They may also approach self-worth with depth, seeking transformation and empowerment in their sense of value and often discovering hidden strengths and resilience through their relationship with money and resources. Scorpio ruling the 2nd house encourages Libra risings to cultivate inner and outer security, transforming their relationship with resources into one of strength and purpose.

Mars through the Houses:

Mars in the 1st House: With Mars in the 1st house, the Scorpionic 2nd-house energy of resilience and strength flows directly into the self. The native projects confidence and determination, often approaching life with intensity and purpose. They are likely protective of their values and have a strong sense of self-worth, often driven to achieve financial independence and personal empowerment.

Mars in the 2nd House: With Mars in its own 2nd house, the Scorpionic energy of control, power, and determination is strongly expressed in finances and self-worth. The native is likely to approach money matters with strategy and intensity, often building financial security through careful planning and resilience. They value financial independence and are deeply invested in securing resources that bring them both material stability and personal empowerment.

Mars in the 3rd House: The Scorpionic 2nd-house energy channels into communication and close relationships. The native may be persuasive and intense in their communication, often speaking with conviction about their values. They may be drawn to learning and discussing topics around wealth-building or personal empowerment and may be protective of their ideas and close relationships.

Mars in the 4th House: The Scorpionic 2nd-house energy finds expression in the home and family environment. The native may be highly invested in building a secure, stable home, often viewing family resources as essential to their emotional security. They may approach family matters with a protective, determined attitude, and they often strive to create a home life that reflects their deepest values.

Mars in the 5th House: The Scorpionic 2nd-house energy of depth and intensity channels into creativity, romance, and self-expression. The native may invest financially in creative projects or romantic pursuits that resonate with their values. They may bring a passionate approach to self-expression, often driven to channel their values through art, romance, or creative endeavors that feel transformative and meaningful.

Mars in the 6th House: The Scorpionic 2nd-house energy flows into daily routines, work, and health. The native may be strategic and disciplined about their work habits and health routines, often valuing work that supports their financial stability. They may approach their job or health with a deep sense of purpose, often seeking roles that allow them to build security while being of service to others.

Mars in the 7th House: The Scorpionic 2nd-house energy of loyalty and value flows into partnerships. The native may seek committed partners who share similar values around money, loyalty, and security. They often approach relationships with a deep sense of purpose, valuing partners who support and respect their financial goals and self-worth.

Mars in the 8th House: The Scorpionic 2nd-house energy channels into shared resources, intimacy, and personal growth. The native may value shared financial resources in relationships and approach intimate bonds with intensity and commitment. They are likely drawn to exploring the psychological depths of self-worth, often undergoing transformation in their approach to money, values, and trust.

Mars in the 9th House: The Scorpionic 2nd-house energy is expressed through philosophy, travel, and higher learning. The native may approach their beliefs and philosophies with a strong, value-driven perspective, often valuing experiences that deepen their sense of self-worth and security. They might be drawn to studying subjects like psychology, finance, or philosophy, seeking to understand and transform their values on a deeper level.

Mars in the 10th House: The Scorpionic 2nd-house energy flows into career and public life. The native may be drawn to a career that involves finance, investigation, or roles where strategy and determination are essential. They may build a public reputation for being financially savvy or resilient and often work hard to ensure their career aligns with their values, seeking both public respect and material stability.

Mars in the 11th House: The Scorpionic 2nd-house energy channels into social networks and group involvement. The native may bring a strategic, purposeful approach to friendships and social causes, often valuing alliances that support their financial and personal growth. They may be involved in social projects related to wealth distribution, empowerment, or security, often working with others to achieve goals that benefit the group.

Mars in the 12th House: With Mars in the 12th house, the Scorpionic 2nd-house energy of strength and resourcefulness takes on a more introspective, spiritual quality. The native may explore self-worth and financial independence through quiet, private, or spiritual practices. They may value inner resilience and are likely drawn to developing a strong foundation of self-worth, often finding strength in solitude and contemplation.

𝐒𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐩𝐢𝐨 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠

For Scorpio rising, Scorpio itself governs the 1st house, the house of self, identity, appearance, and life approach. With Scorpio ruling this house, Scorpio risings are known for their powerful presence, natural charisma, and intense, mysterious aura. They often approach life with a desire for transformation, seeking depth in their experiences and interactions. Scorpio’s influence gives them a strong, magnetic personality, often marked by resilience, intensity, and a keen ability to sense underlying truths in any situation. Scorpio risings may have a penetrating gaze, a sharp mind, and an intuitive understanding of others’ motives. They tend to approach life and self-expression with secrecy, control, and self-awareness, often valuing privacy and guarding their true nature until they feel a deep sense of trust. Scorpio ruling the 1st house encourages Scorpio risings to embrace their unique intensity and transformative spirit, using it as a source of strength and authenticity.

Mars through the Houses:

Mars in the 1st House: With Mars in the 1st house, the Scorpionic energy of intensity, strength, and resilience is amplified in the self. The native has a strong, assertive presence, often approaching life head-on with courage and purpose. They exude magnetism and are deeply self-motivated, embodying the archetype of the warrior. Their directness and power can be both alluring and intimidating, and they often channel their energy toward self-improvement and personal transformation.

Mars in the 2nd House: The Scorpionic 1st-house energy channels into finances and values. The native approaches money and resources with determination and is likely to work hard to achieve financial independence. They value security and self-sufficiency and may view material resources as a source of empowerment. They are drawn to investments or resources that hold long-term value, often managing their finances strategically.

Mars in the 3rd House: With Mars in the 3rd house, the Scorpionic 1st-house energy is expressed through communication and close relationships. The native communicates with intensity and purpose, often expressing themselves in a direct and persuasive manner. They may have strong opinions and are skilled at getting to the heart of any matter. Close relationships with siblings or neighbors can be intense, and they may value intellectual connections that feel deep and meaningful.

Mars in the 4th House: The Scorpionic 1st-house energy finds expression in the home and family environment. The native may be deeply protective of their family and home, often valuing privacy and security within their domestic life. They may approach family matters with intensity and determination, creating a home environment that reflects their desire for emotional depth and stability. They may also experience transformative experiences within the family setting.

Mars in the 5th House: The Scorpionic 1st-house energy of passion and depth channels into creativity, romance, and self-expression. The native approaches love and creativity with intensity and authenticity, often seeking romantic relationships that feel transformative. They may invest great energy in creative projects, and their self-expression is often powerful and magnetic. They are drawn to romantic and artistic pursuits that offer emotional depth and connection.

Mars in the 6th House: The Scorpionic 1st-house energy flows into daily routines, work, and health. The native may approach work and health with focus and discipline, often valuing routines that support their physical and emotional resilience. They are likely drawn to professions that require dedication, such as research, healing, or service work, and they bring an unwavering commitment to both their health and work environments.

Mars in the 7th House: The Scorpionic 1st-house energy of loyalty and transformation flows into partnerships. The native may approach relationships with intensity and passion, valuing loyalty, honesty, and emotional depth in their connections. They are likely drawn to partners who can match their intensity and who value intimacy and growth. Their partnerships may be deeply transformative, often revealing hidden aspects of themselves and encouraging personal evolution.

Mars in the 8th House: With Mars in its own 8th house, the Scorpionic energy of transformation, power, and depth is intensely expressed in matters of intimacy, shared resources, and spiritual growth. The native has a natural affinity for exploring life’s mysteries and may be drawn to subjects like psychology, mysticism, or the occult. They approach intimacy with intensity, often seeking connections that offer both passion and personal transformation.

Mars in the 9th House: The Scorpionic 1st-house energy is expressed through philosophy, travel, and higher learning. The native may approach philosophical questions with intensity and is likely drawn to exploring spiritual or transformative subjects. They value experiences that broaden their perspective, often finding meaning in travel, study, or philosophical pursuits. They may also bring their intensity into intellectual discussions, seeking truth and deeper understanding.

Mars in the 10th House: The Scorpionic 1st-house energy flows into career and public life. The native may pursue a career that allows them to express their resilience and strategic thinking. They are known for their dedication to their profession and may build a reputation as someone who is intense, determined, and capable of overcoming obstacles. They are often drawn to roles involving leadership, investigation, or crisis management.

Mars in the 11th House: The Scorpionic 1st-house energy channels into social networks and group involvement. The native may bring intensity and dedication to friendships and group activities, often valuing loyalty and deep connections within social circles. They may feel strongly about social causes and may work to influence or transform their community. They approach group goals with a sense of purpose and commitment, often playing a leadership role in social causes.

Mars in the 12th House: With Mars in the 12th house, the Scorpionic 1st-house energy of transformation and introspection takes on a more spiritual, introspective quality. The native may seek solitude to explore their inner world, often using time alone to understand their deeper motivations. They may be drawn to spiritual or psychological healing practices and may find fulfillment in helping others in unseen or behind-the-scenes ways.

𝐒𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐬 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠

For Sagittarius rising, Scorpio governs the 12th house, the house of spirituality, solitude, dreams, subconscious fears, and transcendence. With Scorpio ruling this house, Sagittarius risings have a profound, sometimes hidden depth, often drawn to exploring the mysteries of the subconscious mind and spiritual transformation. They may be naturally introspective, with a need to understand life’s deeper, unseen layers, often seeking insight through spiritual practices or meditation. Scorpio’s influence suggests that Sagittarius risings may encounter inner transformation through solitude, deep self-exploration, and spiritual surrender, as Scorpio here calls for an acceptance of life’s mysteries and a willingness to face their own hidden emotions and fears. This placement can also signify powerful intuitive and healing abilities that come through embracing their inner world. Scorpio ruling the 12th house encourages Sagittarius risings to balance their outer expansiveness with a rich inner life, uncovering strength and healing through spiritual awareness and inner transformation.

Mars through the Houses:

Mars in the 1st House: With Mars in the 1st house, the Scorpionic 12th-house energy of mystery and depth flows directly into the self. The native has a magnetic, intense presence and often combines their adventurous Sagittarius spirit with Scorpio’s determination and resilience. They may have a deep well of inner strength and approach life with a boldness that’s supported by a quiet, spiritual confidence. Their personality can be both inspiring and enigmatic, reflecting a life path that encourages them to explore and understand their own inner world.

Mars in the 2nd House: The Scorpionic 12th-house energy channels into finances and values. The native may approach resources with a strategic, focused mindset, often valuing self-sufficiency. They may experience transformations in their financial life, possibly finding security through hidden resources, investments, or by using their intuition in financial matters. They might also value spiritual pursuits and view inner wealth as a source of power.

Mars in the 3rd House: With Mars in the 3rd house, the Scorpionic 12th-house energy is expressed through communication and close relationships. The native has a penetrating, insightful way of expressing themselves, often drawn to discussing deep or hidden subjects. They may be fascinated by psychology or mysticism and bring intensity to their interactions with siblings and close friends. They may also be protective and intuitive in their communication, often sensing what others are feeling before they speak.

Mars in the 4th House: The Scorpionic 12th-house energy finds expression in the home and family environment. The native may seek a private, emotionally intense home life, valuing family bonds that allow for depth and transformation. They may feel a profound connection to their roots or ancestry and may be deeply affected by their family environment, sometimes experiencing transformation through family dynamics.

Mars in the 5th House: The Scorpionic 12th-house energy channels into creativity, romance, and self-expression. The native approaches romance and creativity with passion and depth, often seeking meaningful connections that allow for emotional transformation. They may have a hidden, private creative side and may express themselves artistically through introspective or mystical themes, possibly using art as a form of healing or emotional release.

Mars in the 6th House: The Scorpionic 12th-house energy flows into daily routines, work, and health. The native may find purpose in work that involves helping others in transformative ways, such as healing, counseling, or spiritual practices. They might also have a disciplined approach to health, seeking inner balance through wellness practices that support their physical and spiritual needs, possibly through introspective activities like meditation or yoga.

Mars in the 7th House: The Scorpionic 12th-house energy of loyalty and emotional depth flows into partnerships. The native may seek partners who value emotional intensity and transformation. They may be drawn to relationships that offer both emotional depth and spiritual growth. Their partnerships may help them confront hidden fears or past issues, often leading to personal growth through love and commitment.

Mars in the 8th House: The Scorpionic 12th-house energy channels into shared resources, intimacy, and transformation. The native may be naturally drawn to exploring the mysteries of life, often finding meaning in the unseen, such as psychology, healing, or spiritual work. They approach intimacy and shared resources with caution and depth, valuing trust and honesty and often undergoing inner transformation through these connections.

Mars in the 9th House: The Scorpionic 12th-house energy is expressed through philosophy, travel, and higher learning. The native may find spiritual significance in travel or learning about foreign cultures. They approach philosophical questions with intensity and curiosity, often seeking truth in spiritual practices or studies that reveal life’s deeper mysteries. Their travel experiences or studies may offer profound insights and lead to transformative changes in their beliefs.

Mars in the 10th House: The Scorpionic 12th-house energy flows into career and public life. The native may be drawn to professions that allow them to work behind the scenes, possibly in healing, psychology, or spiritual practices. They bring depth and focus to their work, often taking on roles that require resilience and sensitivity. Their public image may reflect a quiet strength, and they may be known for their dedication and ability to support others in transformative ways.

Mars in the 11th House: The Scorpionic 12th-house energy channels into social networks and group involvement. The native may be drawn to friendships or social causes that are emotionally meaningful, often preferring friends who share their interests in spiritual growth or social transformation. They bring a depth of purpose to group activities and are likely to support causes that help others heal or overcome hidden struggles.

Mars in the 12th House: With Mars in the 12th house, the Scorpionic energy of spirituality, transformation, and healing is intensely expressed in the inner life. The native has a strong drive for spiritual exploration and may work on developing their intuitive abilities or exploring the subconscious. They may feel a calling to help others in quiet or hidden ways and may undergo significant personal transformations in solitude, often finding healing and strength in introspective practices like meditation, dreamwork, or healing arts.

𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐧 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠

For Capricorn rising, Scorpio governs the 11th house, the house of friendships, social networks, and long-term goals. With Scorpio ruling this house, Capricorn risings often approach friendships and group affiliations with loyalty, depth, and selectiveness. They value friendships that offer emotional substance and may have a small but close-knit circle of friends they trust deeply. In group dynamics, they often play a behind-the-scenes or strategic role, preferring to focus on meaningful contributions rather than surface-level socializing. Scorpio’s influence here suggests that Capricorn risings seek transformative, impactful connections in their social life, and they are often drawn to ambitious, long-term goals that allow for personal or collective growth. They may have a powerful drive to achieve goals that bring profound changes or that contribute to society in some lasting way. Scorpio ruling the 11th house encourages Capricorn risings to approach friendships and aspirations with depth, loyalty, and a vision for meaningful impact.

Mars through the Houses:

Mars in the 1st House: With Mars in the 1st house, the Scorpionic 11th-house energy of loyalty and intensity flows directly into the self. The native has a powerful, driven personality and often takes a proactive role in group settings. They approach friendships with confidence and bring a strong sense of purpose to their social interactions. Their personal charisma and assertiveness can make them a natural leader or influencer within their social circles.

Mars in the 2nd House: The Scorpionic 11th-house energy channels into finances and values. The native may approach long-term financial goals with a strategic, transformative mindset. They may be drawn to investments or savings plans that support their long-term aspirations. They value financial independence as a means of achieving their goals, often working hard to build resources that allow them to contribute meaningfully to group causes or personal aspirations.

Mars in the 3rd House: With Mars in the 3rd house, the Scorpionic 11th-house energy is expressed through communication and close relationships. The native communicates with intensity and purpose, often drawn to networking or group projects that involve deep, meaningful discussions. They may have a persuasive way of speaking and tend to seek intellectual connection within their social circle, valuing friends who challenge them mentally.

Mars in the 4th House: The Scorpionic 11th-house energy finds expression in the home and family environment. The native may work toward long-term goals that create security for their family and may even view their family as a support network for their ambitions. They approach family connections with loyalty and may prefer family members as close friends. They value a stable home life that allows them to pursue transformative goals outside the home.

Mars in the 5th House: The Scorpionic 11th-house energy of intensity and loyalty channels into creativity, romance, and self-expression. The native may take an intense approach to creative projects and might work well in creative groups, particularly those focused on transformation or deep themes. They value friendships that allow for creative expression and may pursue romantic relationships that align with their long-term aspirations and ideals.

Mars in the 6th House: The Scorpionic 11th-house energy flows into daily routines, work, and health. The native may work hard toward social or humanitarian causes in a professional capacity, often drawn to roles that require resilience and dedication. They approach work with a sense of purpose and may be motivated by goals that benefit their community or fulfill long-term visions of change or improvement.

Mars in the 7th House: The Scorpionic 11th-house energy of loyalty and connection flows into partnerships. The native may seek committed partners who share their social ideals and aspirations. They value partnerships that offer both emotional depth and mutual goals and may approach close relationships with intensity and purpose, often choosing partners who are supportive of their long-term vision.

Mars in the 8th House: The Scorpionic 11th-house energy channels into shared resources, intimacy, and personal transformation. The native may be drawn to social or group work that involves transformative themes, such as psychology, healing, or financial planning. They approach shared resources with caution and may value friendships or alliances that allow for mutual growth and depth, often seeking friends who are reliable and trustworthy in times of change.

Mars in the 9th House: The Scorpionic 11th-house energy is expressed through philosophy, travel, and higher learning. The native may work toward long-term educational or philosophical goals, often valuing friends and mentors who support their spiritual or intellectual growth. They are likely to bring intensity to their philosophical pursuits and may enjoy group travel or studies that involve transformative or cross-cultural experiences.

Mars in the 10th House: The Scorpionic 11th-house energy flows into career and public life. The native may pursue ambitious goals in their career, often working toward a professional role that allows them to influence or contribute to their community in a lasting way. They may be respected for their drive and resilience, and their public image may reflect their commitment to group causes or social progress.

Mars in the 11th House: With Mars in its own 11th house, the Scorpionic energy of loyalty, intensity, and transformation is strongly expressed in friendships, social networks, and long-term aspirations. The native may be a powerful influence within social circles and may pursue goals that allow them to make a meaningful impact. They are likely known for their commitment and loyalty within groups and are drawn to friends who share their deep sense of purpose.

Mars in the 12th House: The Scorpionic 11th-house energy of transformation and loyalty takes on a more introspective, spiritual quality. The native may pursue social or group causes quietly, often working behind the scenes to achieve long-term goals. They may be drawn to spiritual or healing practices that serve a collective purpose, and they might form friendships within spiritual or support communities. They are deeply motivated by a desire to contribute to society in unseen yet impactful ways.

𝐀𝐪𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐬 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠

For Aquarius rising, Scorpio governs the 10th house, the house of career, public standing, and life direction. With Scorpio ruling this house, Aquarius risings approach their career with intensity, ambition, and a focus on making a lasting impact. They may be drawn to professions that allow them to transform or influence society, often feeling a sense of purpose in their work that goes beyond personal ambition. Scorpio’s influence here suggests that Aquarius risings are strategic in their career choices and tend to be deeply dedicated to their professional goals, often pursuing roles that allow them to engage in meaningful, impactful work. They may be drawn to careers in psychology, research, law, finance, or fields where depth, insight, and resilience are valuable. Scorpio ruling the 10th house encourages Aquarius risings to approach their public life with purpose and a sense of mission, often using their career as a platform for profound social change.

Mars through the Houses:

Mars in the 1st House: With Mars in the 1st house, the Scorpionic 10th-house energy of intensity and ambition flows directly into the self. The native projects confidence and a powerful presence, often pursuing life with boldness and determination. They approach their career with an independent spirit, often bringing a magnetic energy that others find compelling. Their drive for public success is evident in their personality, and they are likely to be seen as assertive and purposeful in their professional life.

Mars in the 2nd House: The Scorpionic 10th-house energy channels into finances and values. The native may view financial security as a foundation for achieving their career goals and may work strategically to build wealth. They approach money matters with a disciplined, determined mindset, often valuing resources that support their ambitions. They may be drawn to careers that offer both financial reward and a sense of purpose.

Mars in the 3rd House: With Mars in the 3rd house, the Scorpionic 10th-house energy is expressed through communication and close relationships. The native communicates with intensity and focus, often bringing strategic thinking into their career. They may excel in roles that involve research, persuasion, or investigation, and they approach professional interactions with directness. Their ability to communicate complex ideas clearly can be a powerful asset in their career.

Mars in the 4th House: The Scorpionic 10th-house energy finds expression in the home and family environment. The native may balance career with a strong commitment to family, often seeking to create a stable, protected home life that supports their ambitions. They may approach their professional life with a desire to create security for their family and are likely to bring resilience and loyalty to both home and work life.

Mars in the 5th House: The Scorpionic 10th-house energy of passion and ambition channels into creativity, romance, and self-expression. The native may pursue a career that involves creativity, risk-taking, or expression of their unique talents. They are likely to approach self-expression with intensity and may enjoy professions that allow them to engage deeply with their interests. They may also pursue romantic connections that align with their life goals.

Mars in the 6th House: The Scorpionic 10th-house energy flows into daily routines, work, and health. The native approaches work with dedication and a sense of purpose, often driven to perform at their best in their professional life. They may work in fields involving transformation, healing, or research and bring a resilient, strategic approach to their everyday responsibilities. Health routines are often disciplined, supporting their focus on long-term goals.

Mars in the 7th House: The Scorpionic 10th-house energy of ambition and transformation flows into partnerships. The native may seek partners who share or support their career aspirations, often valuing loyalty and dedication in relationships. They may form professional alliances that help them achieve their goals, and they often value romantic or business partners who encourage them to pursue their public ambitions with resilience and passion.

Mars in the 8th House: The Scorpionic 10th-house energy channels into shared resources, intimacy, and transformation. The native may be drawn to careers that involve finance, psychology, or transformational work, often finding purpose in roles where they can work deeply with others’ resources or help people through intense situations. They approach shared resources with caution and purpose, often viewing their professional life as a vehicle for transformation, both for themselves and others.

Mars in the 9th House: The Scorpionic 10th-house energy is expressed through philosophy, travel, and higher learning. The native may approach their career with a desire to influence or educate, often seeking roles that allow them to explore philosophical or ethical issues. They may be drawn to work that allows them to expand their worldview, whether through travel, higher learning, or cultural involvement, and they often approach their career with a purpose rooted in higher ideals.

Mars in the 10th House: With Mars in its own 10th house, the Scorpionic energy of intensity, strategy, and transformation is strongly expressed in career and public life. The native is likely to be highly driven and ambitious, often pursuing professional success with resilience and focus. They may excel in roles that allow them to lead or transform, and they bring an intense commitment to their work. They are likely to be respected for their dedication and may be known for their powerful presence in their field.

Mars in the 11th House: The Scorpionic 10th-house energy channels into social networks and group involvement. The native may approach social connections strategically, often forming alliances that support their career aspirations. They may be drawn to social causes or group activities that align with their public goals and often use their influence within groups to work toward meaningful change. They value friendships that are loyal and supportive of their professional ambitions.

Mars in the 12th House: With Mars in the 12th house, the Scorpionic 10th-house energy of ambition and transformation takes on a more introspective, spiritual quality. The native may work in a field that involves helping others in unseen or behind-the-scenes ways, such as counseling, healing, or spiritual guidance. They may prefer to work privately or in a more secluded setting, finding fulfillment in careers that allow them to make a quiet yet powerful impact on others.

𝐏𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠

For Pisces rising, Scorpio governs the 9th house, the house of philosophy, spirituality, higher education, and long-distance travel. With Scorpio ruling this house, Pisces risings approach their search for truth with intensity, passion, and a profound need for transformation. They are drawn to exploring the mysteries of life and often seek spiritual or philosophical paths that offer depth and self-discovery. Scorpio’s influence here suggests that Pisces risings may be highly intuitive and may experience transformative insights while studying, traveling, or engaging with spiritual practices. They often prefer belief systems that encourage inner transformation and may gravitate toward teachings that explore life’s hidden or mystical aspects, such as psychology, metaphysics, or the occult. Scorpio ruling the 9th house encourages Pisces risings to seek experiences that deepen their understanding of the world, viewing life as a journey of inner growth and exploration.

Mars through the Houses:

Mars in the 1st House: With Mars in the 1st house, the Scorpionic 9th-house energy of depth and exploration flows directly into the self. The native presents themselves with a purposeful, magnetic presence and may be known for their spiritual curiosity and desire for personal growth. They approach life’s challenges with resilience and are likely to feel that their journey is both an inner and outer adventure, blending Pisces’ intuition with Scorpio’s focus and intensity.

Mars in the 2nd House: The Scorpionic 9th-house energy channels into finances and values. The native may view financial stability as essential to their ability to explore higher truths and experiences, and they approach money with a strategic mindset. They may invest in educational pursuits, travel, or spiritual growth, valuing experiences that enrich their understanding of life and contribute to personal transformation.

Mars in the 3rd House: With Mars in the 3rd house, the Scorpionic 9th-house energy is expressed through communication and close relationships. The native is likely to have an intense, persuasive communication style and may be drawn to discussing philosophical or spiritual topics with others. They seek intellectual depth in friendships and are likely to have meaningful conversations that inspire new perspectives or encourage self-reflection.

Mars in the 4th House: The Scorpionic 9th-house energy finds expression in the home and family environment. The native may create a home environment that is spiritually enriching or serves as a place of learning and exploration. They may seek to explore family heritage, perhaps drawn to ancestral wisdom or philosophies that deepen their sense of self. Home is both a retreat and a foundation for spiritual growth.

Mars in the 5th House: The Scorpionic 9th-house energy of passion and depth channels into creativity, romance, and self-expression. The native may approach creativity and love with intensity and may enjoy exploring philosophical or spiritual themes in art or relationships. They may be drawn to romantic partners who encourage their philosophical or spiritual growth, and they express themselves in ways that resonate with depth and meaning.

Mars in the 6th House: The Scorpionic 9th-house energy flows into daily routines, work, and health. The native may bring a purposeful, spiritual approach to their work, often valuing careers that allow for personal growth or transformation. They may approach daily life with a desire for meaningful contribution, often choosing health routines or work roles that align with their spiritual values or help others find healing.

Mars in the 7th House: The Scorpionic 9th-house energy of loyalty and depth flows into partnerships. The native may seek partners who support their quest for meaning and truth, often desiring a partner who shares or respects their spiritual or philosophical beliefs. They approach relationships with dedication and often value a partner who encourages them to explore life’s mysteries and grow through shared wisdom.

Mars in the 8th House: The Scorpionic 9th-house energy channels into shared resources, intimacy, and transformation. The native may be drawn to exploring deep spiritual or psychological truths, often seeking intimate relationships that encourage growth and self-discovery. They approach shared experiences and resources with caution and intensity, often finding themselves in transformative partnerships or bonds that change their worldview.

Mars in the 9th House: With Mars in its own 9th house, the Scorpionic energy of intensity, passion, and transformation is strongly expressed in philosophy, spirituality, and higher learning. The native is driven to explore life’s profound mysteries, often bringing an investigative approach to their studies. They may be passionate about philosophy, psychology, metaphysics, or travel and often feel compelled to share their knowledge and insights with others.

Mars in the 10th House: The Scorpionic 9th-house energy flows into career and public life. The native may be drawn to a career that allows them to influence others through teaching, counseling, or spiritual guidance. They approach their public life with purpose and intensity, often pursuing a career that aligns with their philosophical beliefs or allows them to bring transformation to society. They may be known for their dedication and commitment to their field.

Mars in the 11th House: The Scorpionic 9th-house energy channels into social networks and group involvement. The native may bring their philosophical or spiritual insights into group settings, often sharing knowledge or contributing to causes they believe in. They value friendships that inspire growth and change, often drawn to like-minded people who share their interest in transformation, spirituality, or deep intellectual pursuits.

Mars in the 12th House: With Mars in the 12th house, the Scorpionic 9th-house energy of spiritual growth and transformation takes on a more introspective, mystical quality. The native may pursue spiritual practices or studies in solitude, often finding wisdom through quiet reflection or meditation. They may feel drawn to the unseen dimensions of life, often exploring spiritual or mystical topics as a path to self-understanding and enlightenment.

[prideprejudce]

I think alot more people would enjoy the show if they learned to see Rhaenyra and Alicent as Unreliable Narrators, and characters who are supposed to have glaring flaws and weaknesses.

Mandatory preface- There are Issues™️ with season 2 that are its own other ask- but the complaints ive seen about character assassination on both women kind of tells me ppl just wanted to see the two just GirlBossing around, not being tragic characters trapped in their own circumstances.

For Alicent specifically- she just isn't written to be Cersei 2.0, and while it was really interesting to see motherhood from cersei's point of view, its already been done!! I actually prefer seeing Alicent's mercurial clinging to and abandoning motherhood- its interesting!! She was made a mother at what- 15? An age where you truly arent mentally developed enough to raise 3 kids, AND be a child bride, AND be a queen, (AND be a lesbian).

Alicent is interesting to me because she's stunted at 15 years old, she's an adult woman who talks to and sometimes bullies her kids as if they are her peers, and is obsessed with her childhood crush(es). She hasn't built any new relationships* past the ones she was entangled with as a teenager, she's obsessed with both acting out to make SOMEONE see that shes suffering, (she's honestly pretty blatant for someone who prides themselves on being the Temperate Voice of Reason) but also to erase herself and reset to before she had to marry the king, before aemma died.

I think most of her 'bad out of character' decisions are just these two impulses winning out, her trying to force a reset, go back to a time where none of this had happened yet, when things were simpler and she had love and every day wasn't the worst day of her life™️.

She sleeps with cole, the man she thought was pretty at 15 (her last uncomplicated attraction just before it all went wrong and aemma died) -she doesnt seem to like it that much, but she does seem compelled to seek him out, esp when upset- shes obsessed with, and desperate to reconnect with Rhaenyra, her childhood best friend (and first love) and get back to where they were as kids, AND she still treats and asks her father for absolution as if he's still the only authority that matters to her just like she did at 15. Alot of her 'victim complex/bewildered they took it so far' behaviour in the plotting of rhaenyra's usurption reads to me like a teenager in over her head, she talked big game and now its real and shes panicking!! She's tragic BECAUSE she's still a teenager- so stunted shes unable to meaningfully grow up and learn to make healthier choices for herself, or move on and stop trying to grasp at the 'if i could just go back' urge.

As a mother, I think this creates an interesting dynamic as well, and I do like that in the casting even, she seems closer in age to her kids than rhaenyra does to hers. I think the contrast ppl are drawing with Alicent Protecting Her Kids in season1 compared to her giving them up in season two isn't bad writing to me, just massive differences in context. Sure she protected Aemond in driftmark, but we cant ignore that she probably felt humiliated by her husband choosing rhaenyra's side over hers in front of everyone, did it seem like a grown woman fighting for her son?? or a teenager furious with her ex winning one over her again? or both!! both sides twisted together is still interesting! When she protected Aegon from Rhaenys, is stepping in front of her son the king to protect him from the enemies dragon fire not the most romantic daydream of a deserving death a child bride could come up with?? Was it the impulse to protect the son she couldnt decide if she loved or hated, or was it to have the most heroic death possible to escape the reality that she sees coming. And if Rhaenyra hears about how Brave she was in the face of a dragons maw, and cries about it forever and feels sooo bad and regrets it til the day she dies, thats an added bonus. I think Alicent loves her kids, but is teenager selfish about HOW she loves and protects her kids, and is unable to be a mature, consistant, protective mother to them when she also sees them as having ruined her life. I think in season 2 when she 'gives them up' shes relieved, and once again following the compulsion of 'if i reset to when Rhaenyra was heir, i had no sons, and i wasn't married or queen, everything will be better'. I think theres complexity to it, i think she does love her sons and feels insane about it, but I think Alicent has been trying to Go Back in more and more Intense ways ever since she got married, and we might be giving her sanity more credit than it deserves when it comes to the need to wipe the board clean and go back to being 15.

hey anon are you trying to get married to me or what

[wandaspup]

Sinners

Summary: In a small town, you try living up to your mother’s expectations while encountering Wanda Maximoff, a mysterious woman and a childhood friend of your mothers. It leaves you questioning her intentions and your beliefs. 

Parings: Wanda x Fem R

Warnings: Fictional mother is an asshole

Author notes: Things to consider before reading: You are 19 years old while Wanda is 36. I'm not familiar with the bible so please do not take this seriously. It's only fiction.

Warnings will be added as I update more chapters! ♥️ Happy reading

Part 2

The handles are warm as you push the double doors open of the church, their hinges creaking softly in response to the intrusion. As the door swung apart, it revealed the dimly lit interior bathed in sunlight whistling through the skylight. Thousands of dust particles scattered around the beams, casting a glow. On either side of the church, the stained-glass windows painted with vivid patterns, painted their shadows on the polished floor. 

As you lingered behind your parents, hands clasped together at your front. The four walls of the church momentarily silenced the bustling streets before more people entered, quiet murmurs spreading across the churchgoers. People passed by to take their seats, some offered greetings to your parents, while others remarked on how you have grown into a fine young lady. Your family was well known for the small church gatherings they hosted, always extending their hospitality to the community. However, you could not shake the feeling your parents’ ego was involved, driven by their desires to keep their status. Your mother seemed intent on being the best, regardless of the situation, while your father followed her lead. 

Lost in your head, you hadn’t noticed the priest approaching your parents until he stood before them, a gentle smile on his lips. “Good morning, everyone,” he greeted, his voice warm and inviting. “I trust you all found yourselves well?”

“Certainly, Father Steve. It’s always a pleasure,” your mother affirmed with a nod, her hand briefly resting on the priest’s arm. Beside her, your father offered a gentle squeeze of 

Father Steve’s hand.

His eyes landed on you, a wide grin reaching his face as he moved between your parents. Your feet shuffled beneath you, a slight bow to your head as he addressed you directly. 

“My child, you are growing quite fast,” he remarked warmly. “I’m sure your mother and father must be so proud of you.”

You nodded, a faint uncertainty lingering in your response. “I hope so,” you murmured softly. Your gaze flicked over to them, your mother’s stern facade causing a tightness in your stomach. Before the tension could linger further, the priest politely excused himself to begin the ceremony. You followed your parents towards the front row, Father Steve took his place at the altar.

Your mother, focused on the moment, spared no mind at you, her hushed reminder to keep your posture straight and your head forward as you took your seat beside her. 

The urge to roll your eyes was strong, but you fought against it, instead clenching your fists tightly against your thighs and felt your jaw tense and your teeth grind together in frustration. A flicker of movement draws your attention. A woman sitting on the right far end at the fourth row lingering on the edge of your sight, compelling you to get a glance.

Father Steve gently echoes through the church, drawing your focus back to the front with swift precision. “As we gather here today, let us remember the grace and mercy of our Lord, who is our eternal Savior. With his love God watches over us, guiding and protecting us. We strive to lead by good deeds by following his teachings and commandments, we can trust him for his protection.”

“But let’s not forget we are human, mistakes are bound to happen. God will not judge for our mistakes and in his eyes there is always the opportunity for redemption. Through prayers we can seek forgiveness for our sins."

The final sigh of amen hangs in the air, marking the end of the prayer. You can sense your mother stares before she gets up along with the rest from the row. Your thoughts briefly drift to the encounter with the mysterious woman before refocusing. You got up and followed behind your parents, still you couldn’t keep your eyes forward as you searched for the woman. 

Approaching the altar, the chalice tipped gently down as you savored the taste of bitterness on your tongue. You move for the next person, your head down fixed at the worn out tiles. 

A sudden collision made you come back to reality. “I am so sorry.”

“No harm done, honey,” she chuckled softly, so husky yet smooth. “I’m Wanda.” She happily says and extends her hands for a greeting. 

You gave your name and took her offer, your hands met in a firm grasp. Wanda was undeniable beauty, her cheekbones formed natural crowns on her face. The strange sensation from earlier startled within, however you pushed them aside and ignored it. 

“Well I should be getting back to my parents.”

“Of course don’t let me keep you.” 

Everything about her kept you wondering who she was. Her face was so recognizable, you pushed yourself to remember where you had last seen her. 

With everyone getting their share, you navigated past the rows where your parents were engrossed in conversation near the doors. Your mother’s words echoed at the tip of your ears, reminding you how impolite It is to interrupt. So you lingered on the side, fidgeting with your hands as your gaze remained fixed on Wanda. You didn’t know how long you stood there before your mother called out your name, finally getting your attention on the third call. 

“You’ve been out of it all day, pull yourself together now.” 

“Yes, mother, I’m sorry,” you gritted out, feeling anger settle in you. 

You squinted as you emerged out of the doors, stuffing your hands in your pockets as you jogged down the three steps. Families and friends crowded outside while you watched, your parents, well your mother couldn’t help but throw her sentimental joy at people's faces. With a sigh, you kicked a small pebble across the ground. 

Just then, they’ve come to join you where you stood, thankful to be leaving. But as you all started towards the car, the small shriek of your mother’s voice halted both you and your father. You looked up seeing Wanda heading towards you, her presence alone twisting your insides. 

Surprised, your mother’s eyes widened as fixed on the red head. “Wanda?" she exclaimed, her voice tinged with disbelief.

Shaking off the feeling, you reassured yourself that you were just being paranoid about Wanda. There’s no way you could forget a face like hers. It’d be ridiculous not to remember meeting a woman with such elegance. Wanda appeared as a flawless Barbie doll, ravishing with politeness and beauty. Her demeanor seemed almost too perfect to be real. 

Wanda chuckled, her arm draping over your mother’s shoulder with a sharp but soft expression. “Surprised to see me?” She teased.

“You never told me when you were coming.”

With a casual shrug, she stepped back, her gaze briefly landing on you and your father before focusing elsewhere. You tapped your feet, swaying one of them back and forth by your heels. Something about her still didn't settle right with you. It seemed she knew your mother well, what a consequence. You observed your father and can tell he knew her as well. 

“Well, you know me. I always enjoy making an entrance. Arrived yesterday morning and managed to snag a room at that quaint little motel. Your town is absolutely lovely.”

Your father greeted Wanda with a firm handshake before turning to you. "This is our daughter," he said, his hand gently patting your shoulder, urging you forward as though you were still a small child. 

Wanda waved her hand, dismissing the encounter. “Oh, we already met in the church.” She gave you a little pat on your arm, leaving her hand there for a little second longer.

She winked and you felt goosebumps scatter through your body as you stood confused why this woman who you never met before besides a brief encounter was making you feel this way. 

“How about you coming over for dinner tomorrow? We’d love to have you.” 

Wanda nodded and clasped her hands together, a smile broke out on her lips. “I’ll be there.”

[shanastoryteller]

Happy Christmas Shana! May I ask for some Merlin and Arthur? Maybe the time travel Ygraine one, or something else entirely 🎁🎄🎅🏻

Queen Ygraine is cursed to die during childbirth and the baby is stolen from his very crib that same night.

Uther rages. The grief and the fury of losing them both leave him a broken man and a broken king. The grounds of Camelot turn to mud with all the blood he's spilled and the air turns grey and harsh from the burnings. He sends knights to every corner of his kingdom, but his son remains missing, not even a body to be found.

Tristan and Agravaine de Bois send letters, blaming Uther for their sister and nephew's death and proclaiming they are subjects of Uther's no more. It's a blip in torrent of grief - Uther can't even pretend to mourn the loss of his brothers in law in the face of that of his wife and son.

"I still think we should have killed him," Tristan says, watching the servants pack up the contents of their manor with a scowl.

"He would have killed you and then I'd be stuck doing this alone," Agravaine replies, a blond, blue eyed infant in his arms. "So our revenge will have to wait."

"Alone?" Nimueh scoffs. "Thanks. Is this not revenge enough?"

Tristan softens, reaching out to brush the back of his index finger against Arthur's chubby cheek. "He's not revenge. He's our nephew."

Agravaine briefly tightens his hold on the babe before relaxing. "Where are we going? I suppose Mercia is the obvious choice."

"That old man won't be able to help gloating to Uther and we don't want him giving us a second glance," Tristan says. "Cendred's kingdom is a better choice, I think. That's our where our grandfather's castle is anyway."

The two of them plus a sorceress should be more than compelling enough additions to his court for Cendred to relinquish it back to them. Or at least turn a blind eye when they take it back themselves.

~

Merlin is fourteen and standing by his mother's side, keeping his head down and not moving or thinking or looking or anything as the lords come to collect taxes.

No matter what they say, no matter what they do, he's not to move.

There's cries of pain from the smith as one of the lords kicks him down, shouting at him for how little they have. He's the most educated man in the village, he's the one that keeps track. He's the one that warns them how short they are.

They are especially short this year.

There's the sound of sword being unsheathed and Merlin resists the urge to bury his head in his mother's shoulder. He's not suppsosed to move.

"Oh, for goddess's sake," a new, young voice says. He doesn't sound that much older than Merlin. "This is a waste of time. If you cut off his head, will gold coins fall out?"

"We're here to collect taxes!" he insists.

The young lord scoffs. "And if we were sent to squeeze blood from a stone, how long would you spend with your hands pressing into bedrock? Look at them!"

"We can't just let them get away with it," he argues. "If you're father hears about this-"

"He'll hear about it because I'll tell him myself," he says, annoyed. "We could take everything they have and we'll still lose money when they starve to death and we have to send people to bury the bodies or risk disease settling in. The wages for those soldiers will cost far more than everything this little village has to offer."

"They're on our land, they pay the tax!"

The young lord's voice goes hard. "I think you'll see that they're on my father's land and it's ultimately his responsibility to collect taxes for the king. Which means this is decision, not yours."

"Yes, and he decided that-"

"Well I'm deciding differently and he can yell at me about it then!" he snaps. "Put your sword away before I draw mine."

There's a tense, heavy silence. Then there's the sound of a sword going back in its sheathe and, "Yes, Lord de Bois."

Lord de Bois sighs and then raises his voice so his voice carries travels to everyone standing there, to the whole village standing there and waiting. "I'll return within the week. If there's any sort of bookkeeping you have, gather it for me."

"Y-yes, my lord," the blacksmith stutters.

There's the sound of footsteps then hooves.

He lifts his head and only sees the back of the young Lord de Bois's blond head.

Merlin wonders if when he returns, he'll be allowed to look.

[redstarwriting]

happy birthday

miles morales x reader

request?: yes

request: “I LOVEDDD THE HC’S OMG OMG WORK OF ART!!! i was wondering if you would write something expanding on getting miles’ doodles tatted as an adult!! i would love to read more abt it, it’s so cutee”

requested by: anon​

word count: 2.2k

genre: fluff

Warnings: language, tattoos, mentions of tattoos and needles, Miles is so sweet it's sick

A/N: GLADLY!! i've been itching to get a new tattoo since the minute i got my first like three years ago and writing this just made me want to get another one so bad LMAO. i hope you enjoy!

also in case you were wondering what hcs anon is talking about, it's my pda/general affection hcs i wrote for hobie and miles! you can check it out here if you haven't already and feel compelled to :)

───────────────────────────────────

“Miles! Baby, can you give me a tattoo?” you ask, and he smiles. This has become a common practice in your relationship. From the time y’all were kids in love to now, you would always ask him for a tattoo. Of course, he didn’t actually give you tattoos, he just drew on your arm. He’s mentioned you, and even urged you, to get a tattoo every now and again. Especially when he offered to design them, but you always say his temporary ones are more special than any other tattoo you could get. He isn’t upset about it. He genuinely loves drawing on you. “Of course, babe. Come here,” he says, motioning you over to him as he grabs his markers he has specifically for your “tattoos.” You go over to him, sitting between his legs and extending your arm. “Can you draw it right next to the uh… elbow pit?” you say, and he laughs. “Elbow pit?”

“Yeah, like the inside of my arm and not on the bicep part or the elbow pit part, but the forearm part by the elbow pit,” you explain, pointing to the area you’re talking about. He chuckles. “Elbow pit.”

“Well, what else would it be called?” you ask, smiling, and he grins, starting to doodle on your arm. “I’ll text and ask my mom what the scientific name for it is after I’m done here,” he says, and you lean your head back against his shoulder. “Oh, god, please don’t tell her I called it an elbow pit.”

“Oh, I’m totally telling her you called it that,” he teases, placing a quick peck on your lips before returning his attention to your arm. He draws a spiderweb, of course, but in the shape of a heart. He adds his Miles touch to it by making it look like the web was spraypainted, and having it pop with black and red. You don’t even look at the tattoo as he draws it, you just stare at his face. You love watching him when he does his art. You assume it’s similar to the way his face looks when he’s swinging around the city as Spider-Man. He’s in his element, laser-focused and yet has an ease about him that mesmerizes you. “Take a picture, it’ll last longer,” he says, smirking and turning his attention to you. You feel your face heat up but roll your eyes. “Can’t, arm’s a bit preoccupied.”

“You can get creative; I have an idea. Maybe use the one I’m not drawing on?”

“Don’t know what you’re talking about,” you say, and he shakes his head. “What do you think, amor?” he asks, and you look. You smile. “I love it, Miles. Thank you,” you say, kissing him on the cheek. He grins, wrapping his arms around your waist as you admire his art. “What time is it?” you ask, and he glances at his phone. “11:15. Why?” 

“Ganke and I are gonna go get some lunch today.”

“Should I be worried?” Miles jokes. “No, dummy. We’re just talking about… something happening soon,” you say, and a sly smile spreads across Miles’ face. “How soon?”

“I’ve said too much,” you say, trying to get up. Unfortunately for you, your boyfriend is Spider-Man and can easily hold you in place. “Nuh uh, how soon is this something happening?” he looks at you with a shit-eating grin, and you roll your eyes. “Wouldn’t you like to know, spider boy?”

“I would. Is it, and this is just a wild guess… something happening tomorrow? A special something happening on a very special day?” he guesses, and you sigh. “Don’t tell Ganke you found out…”

“I knew it!”

“We’re supposed to be planning your birthday party, yes. For tomorrow. On your birthday. Are you happy you spoiled it for yourself now?” you feign annoyance, and he laughs. “I am, actually. Now I know to look good for you tomorrow.” You roll your eyes. “You always look nice, Miles.”

“Only for you,” he grins at you, turning your face to look at him. The two of you share a kiss before it’s interrupted by his police scanner going off. He frowns slightly. “It’s okay, Miles. I gotta go soon anyways,” you give him a quick peck for squeezing out of his arms. He sighs. “Fine, fine. Guess I’ll go save the city. Be the best thing that ever happened to New York and all that.”

“My hero,” you joke, and he grins. “You know it,” he says, slipping his mask on and sliding his everyday clothes off. “I’ll see you later, Miles. Stay safe. Love you.”

“You stay safe, too. Love you more.” He leaps out of the window, and you make sure he’s gone before you call Ganke. “Yo, what’s up?”

“You gotta plan Miles’ birthday party tomorrow.”

“Woah, what?” You sigh. “I already have the roof of our building booked out for it, I ordered the cake already and will pick it up tomorrow and have all the decorations. You just need to invite everyone, okay?”

“You mean I have to reach out to people in different dimensions, tell them to clear their schedules for tomorrow, and hope for the best?” Ganke asks, and you hum into the phone. “Yep! Thanks, Ganke! Also, if Miles asks, we went and got lunch, okay?”

“And where are you really going?”

“I’m getting a tattoo to surprise him for his birthday tomorrow,” you say, grabbing your keys and putting some money in your pocket. You put Ganke on speaker, sending a quick text to Hobie. “You need to stop using me as a cover-up, (Y/n).”

“Who else am I supposed to use? Gwen?” you say, and Ganke sighs. “I mean, yeah, you know she would be down to help you with something like this.”

“Ganke she is so bad at keeping secrets like that, and you know it,” you say, admiring the art on your arm again. “Then use Hobie.”

“Wait that’s actually a good idea,” you say, “Especially since he’s the one giving me the tattoo.”

“AND YOU STILL USED ME?!”

“I PANICKED! He was asking questions! Just, listen, invite as many people as you can think of, alright? Please, and thank you.”

“Fine. Go get inked or whatever they say,” Ganke says. The two of you give some quick goodbyes before hanging up. You receive a reply from Hobie, and a portal opens in Miles and your bedroom. You step through it and find yourself in Hobie’s flat. “Can I just say it’s about damn time you got one of ‘is works tattooed onto ya,” Hobie says, motioning to his couch. You sit and he gets his whole get-up ready, all the cleaning wipes and gloves and the tattoo gun all ready to go. “Yeah, yeah, whatever. I’m getting it now and that’s what matters,” you say, and he clicks his tongue. “I can guarantee ya this is just gonna be the beginning. Kinda becomes an addiction,” he says, sitting next to you, and fiddling with his gun. “Then I guess I’ll just need to have Miles draw on me even more.” He chuckles. “Lemme see it.”

You show him the drawing, and Hobie shakes his head. “Your man is corny,” he says, and you shrug. “I like it.”

“I know,” he dips his gun in ink, and looks at you, “Ya ready?” You nod, and he begins tattooing Miles’ art onto your skin. The two of you talk the whole time, really, and you let him know about the party tomorrow. He, of course, agrees to come, and can’t wait to see Miles’ reaction. It takes a few hours, but eventually he finishes up and it looks exactly like Miles just drew it on your skin. Hobie places fake skin over it and gives you the rundown of how to take care of it. He turns away from you to put something away, and you quickly slip $100 under a pillow on the couch. You know he won’t accept any money from you because he’s ‘not a capitalist pig,’ so you have to be sneaky with it. “Thank you so much, Hobie,” you say, and he winks at you. “Anythin’ for my mate’s better ‘alf.”

He opens the portal again, and you two say bye until tomorrow. You’re back home, literally, in no time, and you quickly throw one of the hoodies Miles left lying around on. This way he won’t see the tattoo, and you can play it off like you missed him. Especially since you did kind of miss him and it is sort of a staple in your relationship that you wear his clothes when you do. That’ll make him melt and he’ll forget all about the art on your arm. And you were absolutely right. 

It ended up being a late night for Spider-Man, and when he got home, he saw you curled up on the couch, sleeping with his hoodie on, and all he could think about was that you missed him. He carefully picked you up and carried you to your shared bed. You started to wake up as soon as he was getting in bed after taking a shower and cleaning up, and he began desperately trying to get you to go back to sleep. “What time is it?” you groggily ask. “It’s like 3am, (Y/n/n), I’m here now, we can go to sleep, okay?” he says, slipping into bed next to you and pulling you on top of his chest. “Happy birthday!” you sleepily say, burying your face into his chest. He smiles. “Thank you, amor. Let’s get back to sleep now, yeah?” You make a muffled mmhmm sound and are out like a light almost immediately. Miles smiles to himself, wondering how he got this lucky.

You can imagine his disappointment when he wakes up the next day and you’re not snug against his chest, but he feels better the minute he sees a little note on his chest that explains you’ll be home, you just had to go do something for him. He gets up and decided he can do his Spider-Man duties until you text him and let him know he needs to come home. It may be his birthday, but the city still needs it’s defender. So that’s exactly what he does. He cannot explain how grateful he is that none of the big bads were trying to start anything today, because if he didn’t get to see you and eat a slice of cake, he was going to scream. The day went slower than he wanted but also sped by when eventually he got a text from you saying to come home. He immediately obliges, swinging in through the window and putting on some of his nicest clothes. He walks out of your room and sees you chilling on the couch. “Miss me?” he asks, walking over and bending down to kiss your lips. You giggle. “Obviously. Hey, before we go up to the roof where there totally isn’t a party waiting for you, I wanna show you something, okay?”

“Okay,” he grins, and you grin back. “Cover your eyes.” He does as instructed, and hears you shift slightly. “Okay… open them.” He opens his eyes, and immediately sees his “tattoo” on your arm. Only it was covered in a clear wrap. And it’s real. His eyes get big, and he looks at your face. You give a small smile. “You always encouraged me to get a real tattoo, so… happy birthday.”

“Yo! It looks so good, hold up,” he gently grabs your arm and softly traces it through the saniderm. “When did you get this?”

“Yesterday.”

“You weren’t actually with Ganke, were you?”

“No, I was with Hobie,” you say, and he shakes his head. “I got a little liar on my hands, huh?”

“It wasn’t lying it was covering my ass because you ask too many damn questions,” you say, and he laughs. “I love it, (Y/n/n).” You smile and the two of you share a kiss. “We should probably get up there. Some people are waiting. Oh, and pretend like you haven’t seen it yet. Hobie wants to see your reaction.” Miles laughs. “Alright. Well, I hope he knows I’m not gonna stop drawing on you. And that he fully traced my art,” Miles says, and you shake your head. “I’m sure he knows, Miles. You really like it?”

“Like it? Baby, I told you I love it. I love you; I love this tattoo; I love that this is a birthday present from you… everything about this? I love it. I don’t even need to go up there to make the day better because all I need is you,” he says, and you smile. “Hobie was right. You’re so corny.”

“Nah, hold on, he said that? Forget everything I just said it’ll be a perfect day when I punch him.” You laugh as the two of you make your way up to the party. But the whole time, Miles keeps finding his eyes drifting to your tattoo. Something about having his art on you permanently makes his heart swell with pride and happiness. And he and Hobie were both right.

It’s not the only “tattoo” that will become real.

───────────────────────────────────

[minafeu]

I'm not the greatest at writing when tired and it's 11 pm before I got to school the next day but I thought I'd give a snippet of what I have so far. The chapter will be called "Girl, So Confusing" because the tension I've written is utterly divine and fits the title because the way Red be acting is so confusing to Chloe.( @uhhhh-em-draws-stuff this is for you pookie 😘)

Theatre class. A place where many don't have academic rivals but Chloe was unlucky enough to have her academic rival in her Theater class. Today they were doing line readings just to make sure the teacher picked the right people for the roles. Chloe reading for Juliet and Red reading for Romeo. An irony Chloe could care less for but still funny none the less. Red takes her hand as per the directions of staging "If I profane with my unworthiest hand. This holy shrine, the gentle sin is this: My lips two blushing pilgrims, ready stand to smooth that rough touch with a tender kiss." Red had an annoying sly smile on her face, knowing she was slightly getting under Chloe's skin.

She take a deep breath and begins her line. "Good Pilgrim, you do wrong your hands to much, which mannerly devotion shows this; for saints have hands that pilgrims' hands do touch. and palm to palm is holy palmers' kiss." They make eye contact whilst Chloe recites her lines lines. It's obvious to Red that Chloe has honed the craft of theatre for many years which is almost impressive if it weren't for the fact she acted slightly cocky about it. It elicits a small chuckle out of Red, it being humorous that Chloe thinks so highly of herself.

"Have not saints lips, and holy palmers' too?" Reds voice is soft but firm. Chloe laughs slightly and states "Ay, pilgrim, lips that they must use in prayer." She give an unserious smile, emulating the character of Juliet. It's almost impressive how well Red is doing as Chloe has never seen her so theatre. Red simply brushes off the slight look of disbelief on Chloe's face and responds. "O, then, dear saint, let lips do what hands do: They pray, grant thou, lest faith turn to despair." Her smile growing more cocky, her head tiltes slightly to the side as she watches to see how Chloe react. "Saints do not move, though grant for prayers' sake" Chloe speak softly, shaking her head lightly during my lines. She lightly looks Red up and down as she recites Red next lines.

Red steps a bit closer to Chloe. "Then move not while my prayer's effect I take." She takes Chloe's chin in her hand, just a few inches from her face. "Thus from my lips, by thine, my sin is purged." Chloe rolls her eyes lightly, breaking character for but a moment. She clears her throat, takes a step back from Red and delivers the line promptly. "Then have my lips the sin that they have took." Chloe's gaze is questioning with a hint of innocence, replicating how a child of Juliet's age would have said it. "Sin from my lips? O trespass sweetly urged! Give me my sin again." Red looks into Chloe's eyes, a mischievous smile on her lips. "And scene!" Their teacher calls out.

After a few moments, Chloe goes to her seat and grabs her things, intent on getting to her next class to have peace for just a few moments. The only bad thing about next hour being AP history was perhaps the fact that the seating chart just had to have Red sitting right next to her. It was the only class they sat next to each other and every moment felt like hell on earth. As the teacher begins to give Red compliments on her compelling acting Chloe checks her phone and texts back her mom. After about a minute, the teacher begins to compliment Chloe who dutifully takes them. Red simply rolls her eyes. Ah yes, little miss perfect taking compliments like it's nothing. It's almost as if she isn't Satan incarnate in academia clothing and a pretty smile.

(now published as a full chapter on ao3)

[runa-falls]

the love bite - steven

pairing: steven grant x reader (what's new)

warnings: biting (lol), physical hurt/comfort, FLUFF, unhinged!reader, sub-ish!steven [I CAN'T HELP IT OK], small reference to the boys' past/their job, a bit suggestive but not explicit!

a/n: blaming @whatthefishh for this thot after the comment on the flowers fic about wanting to bite him i had to write. and @leoluved for encouraging me to write this instead of my wips -- hehe :3

prompt (by me): i wonder how steven would react to the reader just biting him out of love...

w/c: ~800

masterlist

---

With Steven, the initial chomp would happen during a normal hangout with each other. 

Like you'd both just be chilling, sprawled out on the couch, with the tv droning in the background:

You love these moments with Steven. The unspoken acknowledgment that you are both pretending to watch what's on when really you're just sinking into each other's touch, enjoying each other's company.

Soft, lazy days like this have become increasingly rare as Konshu has Marc sent out on missions in the States every few weeks. You don't blame them. You could never blame them. You just miss them.

Steven is snuggled right behind you, a sweater-clad arm securely wrapped over your shoulder to keep you close to his body. He sighs softly into your hair, wishing to just lay here, legs tangled with yours forever.

He doesn't notice or care that his oversized sleeve bunches at his elbow as he repositions himself behind you, but your eyes instantly catch onto his revealed forearm, tan and strong, but relaxed, resting right above your chest.

Sometimes you forget how strong your boyfriends are, how they can handle you with such care, touches as light as a feather when all they've known in their life is pain.

Steven settles closer to you, face nuzzled against your shoulder, subtly breathing you in with a soft sigh. His warmth soaks into your back, surrounding you with undeniable comfort. You look down at his arm with interest in your eyes, teeth gnawing at your bottom lip.

Suddenly you have this urge, this impulsive thought to just --

Steven chokes out a high-pitched yelp.

"HEY!" He’s barely able to process what happened as he swipes his arm away from your mouth. "W-what was that for?" He stares at you with furrowed brows while his other arm slips out from under you to rub at the fresh bite mark on his arm.

You sit up a little, eyes trained on the indents as his fingers gently swipe over them. Pretty. You didn't bite hard so they're quite faint, but you can still make out your bite pattern. 

You bite the inside of your cheek, "I dunno." 

It sounded dumb coming out of your mouth, but you really can't explain why you did it. You just needed to. Something about his softness and the pure affection you hold for him compelled you to bite him…and you kind of want to do it again.

Your hand darts out and you try to tug his arm closer, but he struggles against you, no longer trusting his limbs anywhere close to your mouth. He whimpers softly when you tug harder, trying to resist your eager grip.

“What d’you mean ‘I don’t know’?!” His arm is immovable, but you keep pulling at him. “You bit me!” 

When he pulls away from your body, attempting to push himself up to a seated position, you huff in frustration and yank him back. He falls back with a squeak and you hold him close, leaning in instead of pulling him in this time.

You brush your lips against his warm skin, hovering right over the last bite and he relaxes a bit, believing you’d soothe the bite with a kiss as an apology. But you don’t. 

It’s less aggressive this time around. Less of a bite and more of a nibble. 

He tenses at first, instinctively wanting to draw away from you, but as you gently suckle and lick at him, he starts to settle against you, seeing as you mean him no harm. 

“I-I still don’t get it.” He peers down at you as you leave soft marks along his arm, “What – Why are you doing this?” 

You sigh, “Steven…just let it happen.” 

“Um, ok.” 

—

Since that initial bite, your lips have made their way around his body, taking time to show every inch of him some love and affection. He’s littered with love bites and phantom kisses, but he still yearns for more. 

He shudders as you drag the edge of your teeth against the crook of his neck and eagerly leans into your touch, hungry for physical contact.

No matter how much he mewls and begs for you, you’ve taken it slow, drinking in each bated breath and soft cry. 

You breathe a whisper against his skin, “You like this, Steven?”

He doesn’t answer your question.

You place a gentle kiss on his sweet spot, but pull away when he starts to whine for more. 

“Please, darling.” 

He wants you to bite, but you stay put and watch him writhe for your touch. 

Your thumb swipes over a blotch of purple on his shoulder and he shivers at the sensation of pleasurable pain, “Why do you like it so much, sweetheart, hm?”

“I dunno,” He’s delirious, only able to think about you and your touch, “I just – please.”

“Ok, baby…”

[lesbianrobin]

hang on. your tags on the lightning arc post......my eyes are so open. they should have had buck join a cult!!!!!!!!!! like. even pre-lightning he was already part of the way there with the Happiness Convention (self-help conventions are basically low-level cults right) HE SHOULD HAVE JOINED A CULT.

they could have kept Natalia and made her his gateway into the cult. like im so serious i would have eaten this storyline up and im sorry but it does actually makes perfectly sense for his character.

And then everyone is like Buck i think you're in a cult. and buck is like no these are just all my cool new friends! And then they could have had their requisite copaganda episode and had Athena bust the cult for money laundering to get him out.

LITERALLYYYYY like okay the academic in me feels compelled to say that anybody might be susceptible to joining a cult and cults are good at providing people with what they need to draw them in etc etc all of that said. buck is absolutely the type of person who would So easily join a cult. ESPECIALLY when he's just had an insane one-in-a-million near-death experience and he's searching for meaning in life!

and like no natalia slander she seemed fine but you're RIGHT she could have made for a perfect entry point for buck to join a cult... the way buck was like She Sees Me literally lowkey the way somebody halfway into joining a cult talks about the cult members. if i ever get through my insane backlog of 9-1-1 fic ideas and get the urge to write something long i may have to give this concept a shot because GOD it could have been so good

EDIT: this also could have worked So well with like bobby and/or eddie exploring their relationship with their faith and like they could have asked the question of like When faith crosses the line from comfort to delusion when it is helpful vs harmful... leading into eddie gay realization..... i'm ruminating

[gh0st-author]

mastermind.

Pairing: William James Moriarty x Reader

Summary: What you needed was a chance— an opening. A cause to draw him out, to approach him. But that would be easier said than achieved. Impossible even.

Tags: fluff, a little bit suggestive but nothing much, Liam is a softie

A/N: so i was listening to mastermind by taylor swift and i just realized how much it fits liam, so this brainrot you see here was born. also this is set in america somewhere in those 2.5 years after the billy incident but before they return to london. my thought process was that liam and sherlock were doing some undercover work at this ball. additionally i decided to have Liam keep his eye here man's been through enough...

The moment was like something straight out of a fairy tale. An instant that you can't quite place; a dream that would unravel and slip from your grasp and glide through your fingers if you only tried to look too close at it. Gentle candlelight tracing abstract patterns over the entire hall, making the entire scene seem magical. Delicate music from numerous hidden instruments filling the air with yearning, so beautiful it could make your heart ache. The muffled sounds of secret whispers and the rustling of numerous exotic fabrics joining the cacophony of sounds, not to overpower but to add to the overall mystique and intricacy of the night. And him. Him— this radiant and golden being, akin to an angel, luring you in, stealing your coherence.

Your eyes were on him as soon as he'd entered the room, followed by another dark-haired man who you couldn't make yourself glance at for the life of you. Because doing that would mean taking your eyes off him. Elegant frame gliding through the mass of people, pale golden strands swaying with the movement, awakening an urge in you to trace your hands through them, to find out if they were as soft as they looked.

This feeling washing over you, filling your every cell, clouding your mind more than the glass of expensive wine in your hand, was new. Completely and irrevocably unfamiliar. And that terrified you tremendously. How could one person have such an effect on you, before you'd even exchanged so much as courteous greeting?

He must've felt your attention on him— how could he not when you were burning holes in the back of his head— and his head turned towards your hiding place, the little nook you slotted yourself in as to avoid unnecessary prattle of the ladies around you.

Oh...

You felt as if all of the air had been leached out of the room in that one moment, then instantaneously rushed back in leaving you light-headed. Bewitching. That was the only word adequate enough to describe his face, his eyes. His features were timeless, elegant, touched by the innocence of youth but also impossibly wise at the same time. And when his sharp scarlet gaze connected with your own, what little thoughts you had— however trifle they might've been— evaporated into mist and smoke. Those were eyes that never missed anything, that appeared to gaze directly through your flesh and blood and straight into your soul, seeing every detail, every dirty little secret. Yes, this man was absolutely breathtaking; utterly captivating.

You averted your gaze, feeling exposed and not wanting to stare too hard. This night had just become infinitely more interesting to you. But, despite all of the stars aligning and conspiring to place you in the same room with such a magnetic and compelling presence, you had no conceivable way of conversing with him. In truth, you were only here in the first place because of your cousin, and this ball was nothing more than just a chore to you who was supposed to be her chaperone. You had no connections and no reason to seek him out, no matter how much your heart yearned for it. Even now, you could see his outline floating in the corner of your vision, surrounded by numerous important individuals.

You sighed, and deciding against hiding for now, you smoothed out your gown and abandoned your little nook. It was due time to try to mingle with the dense crowd.

Like his shadow, a phantom, you traced his steps around the room, trying to find an opportune moment to etch just a little bit closer. Wherever you went you glimpsed him from the corner of your eye, always near, but always just out of reach. As soon as one group had finished with him, he was already onto the next. He was everywhere—  anywhere you looked— making your desperation rise. It was a known fact that our psyche worked in contradictory ways; the more one tried not to gaze at something or think of something, the more the mind made them a prisoner of exactly those thoughts. The echo of his silhouette followed you around, always just a tad bit too far away.

Positively exhausted by the constant ongoing battle between your mind and your heart, you retracted back to the faraway corner of the room, choosing instead to behold the art and numerous artifacts nestled there. What you needed was a chance— an opening. A cause to draw him out, to approach him. But that would be easier said than achieved. Impossible even.

Deep in thought, one painting caught your attention. It was a magnificent piece, truly, but you were not able to decipher what exactly about it ensnared you so. It appeared no more extravagant than any other painting in the room, yet you couldn't look away from it. It felt as if it was pulling you in, calling to you.

"Captivating work, is it not?"

The sudden voice to your right made you startle, and you were forcefully ripped away from your mussings. You almost didn’t need to look to know who the person who'd just spoken was. After all, your body was tingling in his mere presence, every cell coming alive simultaneously, vibrating with hope now that he was the one who sought you out first. Unable to resist the magnetic pull, you pivoted to regard the stranger. "I'm sorry?"

"That painting." He flashed you a gentle smile, his unusual-colored eyes regarding you with interest as he approached to stand beside you. "It's a true masterpiece. The artist uses patterns and geometry to create a most aesthetically pleasing piece, painting illusions to trick the viewer into thinking they can actually step into a two-dimensional space. It's rather extraordinary."

His voice was soft and melodic, slightly amused. Your eyes caught at the slight upturning of the corners of his lips as he spoke, unable to look away. It was either that or get lost in his knowing gaze. "Are you an artist?"

"A mathematician, more accurately." You heard a wistful note in his voice. "I used to teach at a university in England, but sadly, I don't anymore." He gave you another smile, this one a little dimmer than his last one. "Some circumstances got in the way. But that is neither here nor there. I take it you are someone's chaperone tonight. If I had to guess, the young lady's over there."

You followed his gaze and saw your cousin a little further away, engaged in a conversation with some friends. How did he know that?  "I am. Thank you for your insightful deduction Mr.–"

"Liam. Call me Liam."

"Liam..." You whispered his name like a prayer on your lips, tasting how it felt on your tongue. "No title? Is it short for something?"

"No... just Liam. Classes and titles mean nothing to me." You couldn't quite read the emotion in his voice as he said that, layers of something more— perhaps dejection— intertwined beneath a calm reply. "And what shall I call you, Miss–"

"Y/N" You held out your hand to him, and Liam, never breaking his eye contact with you, raised it gently to his lips, leaving just a breath of a kiss there.

"Y/N..." He too sounded like he was sounding out your name, familiarising himself with it as if he planned to continue saying it many times more. "The pleasure is mine."

That one touch, that one kiss against your gloved hand, was enough to light a fuse within you. You felt flushed all over, both too hot and wrecked with chills at the same time. You needed to know more about this man. He was like a Venus fly trap, a mystery you wanted to solve, an equation you wanted to assess. "Did you come here alone tonight?"

"I am accompanying my good friend on some business tonight. He is the black-haired individual currently giving us the burning stare." And sure enough, when you followed his gaze, you spied the gentleman in question, the one who followed Liam when he first entered the room, giving you both suspicious glances. Looking at him now, no longer blinded by the brilliance of the mysterious mathematician, he was a handsome individual, tall and all angular features, but that was overshadowed by the arrogant eyebrow he raised at you as if contemplating to terminate your further involvement with his friend.

"Have I done something to upset him?" You haven't even met him, yet he seemed to not be pleased with you.

"No, he's just paranoid. Unnecessarily." Liam narrowed his gaze at him, and they appeared to be exchanging a wordless string of arguments between them, after which the man shrugged his shoulders and flashed you both a sheepish smile, putting his hands in his pockets and turning away to talk to some other nearby attendant. Liam's attention was back on you now. "Excuse his behaviour, he has a lot on his mind tonight."

You, too, had a lot on your mind tonight— mainly, how to slip away somewhere where you could be alone with him, away from the eyes of everyone so you could continue your conversation uninterrupted. Suddenly, a thought permeated the fog in your brain. It wiggled through and lodged itself right in the forefront. An opportunity to get him alone... This was it. If you could use this to your advantage, you could make an unfortunate situation into something worth remembering. "Don't worry. I don't mind—"

You cut your sentence off, bumping into him purposely. Your glass almost slid out of your hand, deep burgundy splashing over his coat. He caught you, a true gentleman, as you widened your eyes and flew into a flurry of apologies, as you quickly set down your— now empty— glass. "Oh my God, I am so sorry! I don't know what happened, I must've been more inebriated than I thought. I'm so sorry!"

Liam was a picture-perfect opposite to your hysteria of movement. He calmly grabbed his coat and slid it off. The dark burgundy stain had bleed through the outer layer onto his white shirt beneath, and he let out a chuckle as he inspected his coat and the stain on his chest for the damage. "Don't worry, it was an accident. Such things happen." He sighed at the coat. "Although, I suppose I can't show myself in front of our business partner tonight like this."

"Please let me do something!" You pleaded, doing your best to show him how remorseful you were. It wasn't all for show, you did feel kind of awful for staining his clothes. "I have a handkerchief, I can help you. Please, follow me." If you fail to plan, you plan to fail— or so they said. Life was about making the most out of unexpected situations, and you were not about to waste this opportunity that had been given to you. You grabbed his arm and tugged him along with you as you slinked by the walls and made your way out of the hall.

You entered the first room you saw— a study, it appeared— and pulled him with you to sit down on the couch. Quickly taking out the handkerchief, you grabbed the coat from his hand and started dabbing the stain. Luckily, his coat was dark, so it wouldn't be too noticeable in the candlelight. All the while, Liam said nothing and just observed you with an unreadable gaze.

"I expected you to be more cross with me," you said after some time, finally daring to glance in his direction. You hoped he wasn't, otherwise, this plan was all for nothing.

That gave him a pause, and he blinked at you, as if you said something unexpected. "I am afraid I don't understand. This was just an accident that could happen to anyone. There is no reason for me to be cross. Were you, perhaps, afraid I would be?" He smiled at your frown, and you averted your gaze back to the task at hand. A contradictory enigma. This coat was of very expensive material, yet he made no complaints. Chose kindness, instead of anger. You were definitely right to get this mysterious man alone, even now you felt the inescapable draw of his presence.

"It is better to be feared than loved, if you cannot be both," you murmured absentmindedly while still gently dabbing away on the stain, doing your utmost to try to get rid of it.

"Oh, you are familiar with Machiavelli's works?" He leaned back, placing his arm on the armrest of the couch and resting his jaw on the back of his hand.

"I've read some here and there. Why? Are you an enjoyer of his books?" You raised the coat up to the light and observed it. This had to do for now until he could get it cleaned.

"I too have read them here and there." His gaze was sharper now, both cunning and amused. It made you shiver— but not unpleasantly, you realized with a start. "I find his takes on the authority and aristocracy most fascinating."

Laying the coat aside, you scooted closer to him, the couch making you all the more aware of your proximity, the dim lights making it all seem more intimate. This close you could even smell a faint tinge of his cologne, mixed with the sharp tang of alcohol you spilled. This turned out to be a perfect excuse to touch him, to feel him. Everything went precisely by design.

Dizzy from the heat of his body, now so close to you, you slowly started to dab at the stain on his shirt. "You truly are an enigma, Mr. Liam, are you aware?" He only continued to observe you with his slight smile, the rising of his eyebrow the only indication that he was listening. Taking that as an invitation, you prattled on. "You seem like someone of noble birth, yet you appear to disprove of the class system and disregard any titles. You seem awfully intelligent, and yet I have not seen your name in any field of research, not even math." You took this opportunity to smooth out his collar, fingers gently grazing the skin of his collarbone. "And you approached me, and were able to accurately ascertain things about me I gave you no indication of." You looked up at him through your lashes, then quickly glanced down again, resuming your attempts at trying to clean up the wine.

You felt him let out a little contemplative hum, as he leaned closer to you. "You are an enigma as well, Miss Y/N. You have followed my every move since I appeared here, yet refused to approach me the entire night. You still don't seem to trust my words, but you have not yet inquired into anything I've said. It is almost as if you enjoy this little game." He raised his hand, and you watched with bated breath as he caught a strand of your hair and twirled it around his finger. "Tell me, is it fun trying to uncover my secrets?"

Hands falling into your lap, the stain and handkerchief long forgotten, you felt light‐headed again. Like a snake dancing to the magic flute, both your body and your mind were charmed, following his every move. This little plan of yours might be working better than you anticipated. If you actually survived until the end of this game, of course, because if he kept looking at you like that, giving you his undivided scrutiny, you doubt you could last. "You followed me here without question as well." You managed to whisper out. "Did you perhaps have some ulterior motives with me too, Mr. Liam?"

He gave a little tug at the lock of hair wrapped around his digit. "I wonder..." His sharp eyes were now unfocused and thoughtful as if he himself couldn't really understand his actions. "Whatever compelled me to do that?"

You glanced at his eyes, then his lips, wondering if this was such a smart idea now. Maybe you shouldn't even be here, shouldn't entertain your wicked thoughts. Your draw to him was too powerful, dangerous even. It felt like too much and too little at the same time as if you could ignite and burn and blaze down to smithereens with a single word from him, drown with a single touch.

At that moment, the door slammed open with a loud creak, cutting off your train of thought. Both of you reflexively jerked back from your compromising position, the moment gone and magic ruined. The room now felt infinitely colder without his proximity, the couch impossibly wide. Your startled gaze fell on the culprit who had barged in so suddenly, finally able to breathe without Liam's cologne tampering with your thoughts. It was him, the man Liam introduced as his friend earlier. He glanced sharply at you both, eyes staying on you for a heartbeat longer than necessary, studying you. Contemplating. You could see the same mysterious intellect you saw in Liam in him, the same razor-sharp mind, the same murky and vague past. His eyes widened imperceptibly as if taken aback by your inspection, then filled with something akin to grudging understanding. Then he swiveled towards Liam and pointed behind him. "Liam we have to go. Work's calling."

A sigh, no louder than a disturbance of air left him, and he rose, giving you a remorseful look. "Sorry, dear. Seems like our time is up. Hopefully, I will see you again one day, under more fortunate circumstances." He quickly donned his coat, adjusting it to best cover up the stain, then with a hurried gait followed his friend out the door.

"I am sure you will." You whispered, as you watched him leave, him only turning back once to shoot you a conspiratorial grin. As if saying to keep what happened here a secret.

Checkmate, you thought. You will be seeing him again, you were sure of that. There was just something about him that sang to you, some kind of kindred warm flame, like fire burning in a hearth. But in his calm gaze, you also caught a glimpse of something else beneath, another fire, blazing hot, ardent, and dangerous. All of it made you even more curious, made you crave him more. You had to arrange a meeting with him again.

You couldn't lose.

Truly, nothing moved faster than time. It was outstanding, mind-boggling, how it seemed to pass in the blink of an eye. And now, two years later, you found yourself with the hard wood of the door of digging harshly into your back as you leaned back to let Liam deepen the kiss. The soft rustling of clothes and your quick breathing were the only sounds permeating the room of Liam's and Sherlock's shared apartment in Brooklyn. Barely any light illuminated your two silhouettes, only the moonlight and a rare street light outside of the window providing any illumination.

Gasping for breath, his lips still chasing yours, you attempted to put some distance between you. "Wait, what about  Sh—"

"Do not worry." He whispered, still eager to continue. "Sherlock is already on his way to London as we speak. So is Billy. No one will bother us."

"That means we have to leave for London soon, too." You gripped his shirt in your hand, raising on the tips of your toes to whisper in his ear. "How convenient that we are free to spend our last night here as we wish." Pulling back, you looked back at him, face full of mirth, lips splitting into a cheeky grin.

Cupping the back of your neck, he gave you one last kiss before leaning away. "Call me an opportunist."

Gently, his hand slid down to your waist as he moved you from the door and laid you achingly slowly on the bed. Your own hands moved from their position on his chest to intertwine in his hair. Soft and exactly as silky as you thought it would be two years ago. On that magical night. A night so much like this. His gaze was soft, and melancholy, as if he too was remembering that time. Most days, you were scarcely able to wrap your head around the fact that so much time has passed and that you've won the affections of such an ethereal being. That you yourself were able to set the wind to your sails that first night, to not just play the role of a pawn, but to be the king instead.

He regarded you in silence for quite some time, fingers absentmindedly tracing patterns on your waist, your hips. His face was unreadable, haunted. "I would ask what you're thinking about, but I'm terrified to know."

He let out a quiet chuckle and rested his forehead against yours. "Oftentimes, I think night is purer than day; it is better for thinking, loving, and dreaming. Maybe I was always meant to dwell in the night, to plot. At night everything is more intense, more true."

"Enough of your philosophy." You grumbled. "If you wish to scheme and think you can do that with Sherlock." Using your hands in his hair, pulled his face closer to yours, your lips barely brushing. "I think, currently, your mouth could be much better occupied."

He gave you a deep kiss, making you forget how to breathe, then bit your lower lip teasingly. "I never scheme. You must be confusing me for someone else" So saying, he chuckled. "But I must admit, I enjoy seeing you so flustered for me."

Well, two could play that game. When his lips traced a path from your kiss-swollen ones downwards to your neck to shower it with countless marks you'll surely have to cover up tomorrow, you decided to entertain yourself as well. "What if I told you that none of this was accidental?" It was nothing more but a breathless whisper, a silky melody in the darkness of the room. His ministrations didn't stop, but you continued, eager to fluster him at least once, even if it meant sharing your biggest secret— a secret that you had sworn you would take to your grave. "Were you aware that the first night I saw you I decided that nothing was going to prevent me from getting closer to you? You were like a blazing flame and me but a simple moth drawn to your brilliance. So I conspired to get you alone." It was getting harder and harder to form coherent thoughts when his kisses felt so hot, almost burning and branding your skin wherever they landed, but you persevered, tightening your hold on his hair and enjoying his slight shudder. "I... purposely spilled wine on you that night." You swallowed against a sudden lump in your throat. "I knew I had to lay down the groundwork if I wanted to catch your attention, knew I had to set it all up like dominoes." A sudden nibble on the junction of your neck and shoulder made you gasp.

"I was aware."

You were so thoroughly distracted by the feeling of his lips on the skin of your neck that it took a few seconds for his words to register, and when they did your whole body froze. "Wait... You knew?!"

You felt his lips pull into a smirk against your skin and he slowly pulled away, his eyes dancing with barely concealed mirth. "Darling, I knew the entire time."

You were rendered speechless. Shock. Disbelief. The feeling of the world freezing in its tracks. That's all you felt as you stared wide-eyed at the man above you. Your body felt weightless and stone-heavy at the same time. What does he mean: "He knew the entire time?"  Every encounter that you two had raced through your mind as you tried to remember if he ever showed any indication of being aware of your little game. There were none. "You're lying," you stuttered out through your suddenly dry throat.

His smirk was downright devious now. "On the contrary, dear. Not only was I aware of your schemes— I was the one who orchestrated them. From the very start, this has been a chain reaction of countermoves on both sides."

"But then-" Every world felt like sandpaper as you tried to make sense of the situation.

"Steering Sherly in your direction under the guise of talking to some aristocrats the first time I saw you, just so I could be in your field of vision the entire night. Purposely asking around about that painting I knew nothing about to start a conversation with you, then letting you bump into me so you could have an excuse to talk with me in private. Accidental meetings. All actions of a desperate man, who had been completely and utterly enamored ever since he first laid eyes on you." Each sentence was followed up with a kiss— to your neck, to your cheek, to the corner of your lips. One of his hands slowly made its way upwards towards your face from its place around your waist. Still in shock, all you could do was lean into his hand when he gently cupped your jaw. "But it was incredibly enjoyable, this little game of ours. I never believed that there would be someone who would go to such lengths for my affections." His gaze softened and he traced your cheek with his thumb. "My sweet, vicious mastermind."

You felt your chest squeeze under the crushing wave of pure love that washed over you. This man— this brilliant, extraordinary, incredible, magnificent, breathtaking man— he was yours. And he had been from the beginning. Or, more accurately, you'd been his. For you weren't the one who had been setting everything up since your first encounter– you were the one being strung all along. Happy tears prickled at the corners of your vision and you couldn't help but beam up at him. "I guess this is checkmate. It's my loss."

With a matching smile of his own, the hand on your cheek then slowly moved down to your chin, and he pulled you into another kiss. You closed your eyes and melted into it. It was painfully sweet— maybe the sweetest kiss you two have ever shared.

Looks like you were no match for the former Lord of  Crime after all.

[crimsoncold]

AEMONDSA: A crack ship with unexpected depth and appeal

A treatise (in four parts) on the intriguing parallels and complementary contrasting of Aemond and Sansa and the subsequent allure of them as a romantic pairing in Fanfic

- from the perspective of a sansa-stan, jonsa + sansa-centric multishipper, and someone who is generally Targ critical

Now while my general stance of "ship and let ship/don't worry so much about what other people in fandom focus on or ship/etc" still stands i wanted to do a little write up on what I've found so appealing about this particular crack ship.

Not to justify it (again fandom and shipping in general is just about enjoying/thinking about fictional characters and scenarios... no one needs to justify why their imagination likes to think about two characters interacting romantically) but because there isn't a ton of metas addressing the interesting parallels between these characters and the appeal of them as a ship so I wanted to make one so the handful of people who do ship it get to see some more positive engagement/responses to this pairing.

I just unexpectedly ended up loving this pairing so much and I always have a particularly strong urge to contribute to fandom content on the rare pairs/crack ships that I like....So here have a deep dive into the parallels, and contrasting but complimentary aspects of Aemond and Sansa, and the unexpected appeal of Aemond x Sansa as a pairing in fanfiction...

PART 1: MY EXPERIENCE WITH ASOIAF/GOT & HOTD FANDOM AND WHY AEMONDSA IS A PLEASANT SURPRISE

So I'm going to be drawing from both book and show elements when I consider and compare Sansa and Aemond's characterization and plot arcs (particularly since this tends to be how they are handled in fanfic- which all have differing combinations of book or show canon for both characters)

(this is a HOTD S2-free zone though... HOTD's writing has certainly not improved and it's inconsistencies even compared to their past writing and characterization of many characters including Aemond has made such an absolute mess so for this post I'm ignoring the worst part of HBO's attempt at making hotd fanfiction i.e. S2- and I am basing my understanding of Aemond on a combination of what can be gleaned from book canon and s1 because that was what initially interested me AND because that is what the aemondsa fanfic I've read has also been based on)

Now Just to set the scene for my journey as a stark fan, jonsa shipper, and generally targ critical person to become an appreciator of aemondsa...

GOT had a steep decline in quality in the later seasons and HOTD despite the incredible effort of the actors/sfx people was not particularly good to start with in terms of writing/storytelling...yet disappointing or poorly written shows are not without their appeal for participating in fandom and reading/writing related fanfiction, particularly when there is a handful of interesting characters-looking at you stark kids who suffered through the writing of GOT's later seasons and HOTD's team green-that fans want to rescue from the terrible writing/butchering by the showrunners and to explore alternative stories/endings for them... sometimes it is even one of the most appealing sort of set up for fandom/fanfiction to take over and fix things.

I was already a huge Sansa fan, and she was the original draw for me towards asoiaf/got fandom and fanfiction, and while jonsa has been and remains my favorite pairing for her I've always been open to dabbling in various other sansa pairings/crack ships.

(While the parallels don't take the exact form as the ones between Sansa and Jon- and obviously aemondsa isn't accompanied with the incredible foreshadowing and potential that jonsa is- this pairing still feels similarly compelling due to the sheer amount of parallels between the two characters and for the fact that its a ship that is appealing and seems quite fitting without fanfic writers having to stray too far from canon personalities/back stories to make them work as a romantic pairing- beyond you know the obvious aspect of them being alive at the same time)

When HOTD first came out and before i discovered Ameondsa was a thing I was staying away from HOTD fanfic for the most part despite my interest in a few of the characters

HOTD's most predominant focus in both it's fandom and fanfiction seemed to be Rhaenyra/Team black/ Daemyra centric- all of which I was at just personally not drawn. Aemond (hot dramatic anime antagonist transported into hbo's HOTD and personal favorite of mine) centric fics unfortunately tended towards shipping him with various TB characters or TB OCs but both as a concept and due to the handling/set up these fics were generally not appealing to me (more on this later).

Furthermore hotd fandom itself seemed to be shaping up into a new edition of targ stan centric fandom- specifically a new "team black only" brand of stanning... which is definitely not something I am interested in.

Being someone admittedly anti targ/targ critical in general who just happened to be more intrigued (and sympathetic) to the greens in HOTD it did seem that the bulk of hotd fandom was probably going to a similar if even more extreme form of what I encountered with targ-stan segments of the GOT fandom as a sansa-stan/jonsa shipper (ie. Less posts/fanfic that i would personally agree with or be interested in from these fans and potentially hostile and unpleasant responses or takes from the majority of these fans)

As a result of my general avoidance of hotd (i.e. the very pro targ/pro TB fanfiction that hotd fandom offered) Aemondsa, already an extremely rare pair and crack ship, wasn't even a pairing on my radar until one of the authors i was subscribed to started a hotd time travel fix it aemondsa fic...I have an appreciation for well written crack ships, and I am willing to give most pairings or fandoms a chance when I'm already a fan of either the story's main characters or of the author specifically ...but I was actually incredibly suprised how compeling Aemondsa was as a pairing in this story..as well as how much I enjoyed the other Aemondsa fics that I checked out afterwards..it seemed this was a niche segment of hotd fandom that i was going to absolutely obsessing over.

There was a lot of depth to them for a crack ship, which was achievable without altering their personalities and backstories very much from canon (dont get me wrong I love crack ships even ones where people and the plot are altered significantly to make a ship feel possible but there is something uniquely compelling when characters fit together without having to be too ooc) so I just wanted to write a bit about what is so fascinating about this ship since it's such a new rare pair that hasn't accumulated a massive audience or a ton of discussions or write ups yet.

PART 2/4. THE SURPRISING AMOUNT OF PARALLELS BETWEEN SANSA AND AEMOND (FANDOM, PLOT-WISE, but most of all regarding FAMILY)

(Uh ....Brace yourself? this section ended up way longer than expected)

For me the initial appeal comes down to intriguing Character parallels between Sansa and Aemond which fanfic at least offers the opportunity to explore in a story format ....

On a surface level they are (in the shows particularly) both intelligent and underdog figures with fantastic little sassy moments - true queens of dealing out backhanded and cutting compliments, or being unapolegetic critical towards some of the flawed and extremely privileged individual's they encounter who are used to receiving only coddling and fawning worship.

Both characters seem to get shit treatment, sometimes from the fandom other times due to the terrible choices/handling by the writers/showrunners.

Both were characters I personally found interesting and sympathetic despite how fandom- some of it for aemond and a significant amount of it for sansa- had deemed these essentially young and still innocent characters worthy of being reviled and harmed for the ways the adults in their lives had set them up for failure or abuse. Forever dismayed by the way they (unlike certain fan favorites) were somehow never deemed by fandom as deserving of sympathy for the horrible things that happened to them, and how notably they never recieve the same feverent forgiveness/understanding/support for their more dangerous or dark actions the way other characters did

Looking at the difference in fan responses to show!Arya or Dany compared to Sansa- though when it comes to the sheer amount of violence, destruction, and murder or the act of threatening their kin obviously despite what Sansa-antis say Sansa is the only one who should not even be part of the discussion, and how Dany or Arya always recieves excuses, sympathy, forgiveness, or outright praise from the core audience for their more questionable actions while somehow Sansa is deemed as the unforgivable, dangerous, evil, traitorous, and foolishly reckless character

How Aemond (and all of TG really) are set up and considered by TB stans to be unworthy of their house/rightful inheritance and the ones most at fault for the onset and destruction caused by a civil war... never victims mistreated or endangered by the more privileged and powerful members of their family... just the people who only ever deserved what was inflicted on them by TB for the crime of being forced to wed a disgusting and neglectful King or for being threats to Rhaenyra's family or throne simply by existing? How the morally questionable or violent actions of Rhaenyra, her sons, or more particularly her uncle-husband will always be seen as either justifiable, in the right, excusable, or literally worthy of praise the way Aemond's and his family's actions will never be viewed by this core audience

I think about how much like segments of asoiaf fandom bash Sansa by deeming her too southern/too Tully/Too Catelyn-like to be a real Stark (unlike her "truly northern" siblings) their are also segments of hotd fandom that have chosen to see Aemond and his full siblings as only Hightowers who are wrongfully stealing from TB/the "true Targaryens"

But there were even more striking parallels when it came to their characterization and plot.

Both younger (non heir) children, presented as being intelligent, incredibley dutiful and studious, with a very close relationship to their mother, in a sort of intense people pleaser manner - trying their best to excel at all the skills/duties that their parents/society deems necessary for their position and sex because that is the way they receive acceptance, attention, or praise from their family/the adults in their life

Aemond and his studies, his apparently dedication and success in training with the sword despite his own disability, his determination and recklessness to finally become a dragon rider like the rest of his Targaryen family- as it is what is expected and what he has long been mocked over by some of his targ kin, how despite his own ambitions and the way he thought himself particularly suitable for rulership he remained the dutiful and loyal younger brother who served as regent for his gravely injured older brother but did not attempt to stylize himself as King and steal Aegon's throne.

the way that Alicent seems to be the only family member he allows himself to be vulnerable with, the one with whom he turns to for consolation and comfort, Alicent being absolutely devastated and incensed over the loss of Aemond's eye and the lack of punishment for the assault on his person, the only one to demand recompense, the only one to raise a knife to the blacks when she is denied, how Aemond is the one person who tries to console his mother in the aftermath, how despite having just lost an eye he is the one who actually tries to sooth his mother to bring a stop to the increasing and dangerous level of tension and conflict that had erupted between the blacks and greens at driftmark, Aemond's own longstanding protectiveness of and devotion to his family- most especially his mother- that lasts until his own demise.

Sansa and the way she thrives and enjoys the type of world and training that is more of a noble woman's or specifically her mother Catelyn's domain- unlike her wilder other siblings she is generally a steadfastly proper and gentle girl- no doubt a comfort to her mother not just because she is generally so well behaved but in the fact that unlike her siblings she is not shown to be obviously or very publically close with Ned's illegitimate child- who for Catelyn would be the literal personification of Ned's infidelity, the disrespect and humiliation he puts her through by raising him in their house along side their children, and her deep seated fear that he loved and will prioritize another woman and her child more than his own wife and family.

Sansa is the child who seemed to love all things "southern" the most (though undeniably despite how Sansa is looked down upon for her love of romantic stories and song her other siblings also certainly enjoy legends and tales of Knighthood or Southern Princes and warrior Princesses) and to be fascinated by the environment her mother is from, the one who is drawn to and practice her mother's faith in addition to keeping to the old gods,

How Catelyn though she truly grieves letting her daughter go seems to accept it not just because her belief that Sansa would excel as a princess and future queen but because she thinks Sansa would thrive simply through getting to experience the south...Catelyn seems to grasp the things Sansa dreams about and unlike many other family members she does not view Sansa and her interests with the same condescension, dismissal, or disdain.

Catelyn loves all her children immensely but there is something so tragic and beautiful in her love for her daughters, the desperate lengths she is willing to go to to ensure the saftey of both of them while the lords/males in her family have already given them up as a lost cause and inevitable and necessary casualties in their war for vengeance and northern independence

Despite this affection though there is a lot of pressure on both of them... almost to the point that their treatment by the adults in their lives has a bit of a "parentification" dynamic- a manner that sometimes puts the onus on them to be a support and a comfort to their mother amid any tension in the family/marriage (Aemond) or to be the perfectly behaved role model or minder for their less dutiful siblings (Sansa)

Sansa, in everyone's eyes a lady at three and a queen destined to be, the determined effort she puts into excelling at being studious, accomplished, proper, and ladylike, how much she tries to exemplify the behavior praised and exemplified by her mother and her septa

set up by the adults in her life as a go between for the stark sisters...used as the benchmark for their demands and expectations of Arya, being held up as the bar for perfect, proper, and praise worthy behaviour that Arya is presssured to also attain, the daughter who gets censured on the few occasions she acts out while her younger sister typically gets away with her poor behaviour (at least when it comes to their parents)... Sansa isn't just under the pressure of the exacting expectations for a lord's daughter she also experiences the stress of being put in the position of exemplar for her wild untractable younger sister.

Aemond, apparent dutiful student in many areas expected as a child of nobility, who is expected to support Aegon in his rulership and war and (in the show) even takes responsibility for trying to keep his older brother in line, the one who after losing an eye takes the effort to comfort and console his mother's grief and rage when their father does nothing in response to an attack on Aemond other than threaten and intimate his wife and his children with Alicent in order to support his firstborn daughter, who becomes the human equivalent of not just a wrecking ball but a literal weapon of mass destruction sent out on behalf of the advancement of his family or later to enact terrible bloody vengeance on his family's behalf, his life his purpose and his death is all for his family's sake more than his own.

They put so much effort into being well behaved, to reach the exacting standards for a child in their position, setting an example for the less obedient/well behaved sibling(s) all of which in turn adds to significant strain or conflict between said sibling.

Sansa and Aemond are the sibling expected to and determidly striving to live up to the high expectations that the adults in their life put on them and to survive the extremely dangerous and high stakes scenarios they are put in (as a lord's daughter, prince's betrothed and future queen, a hostage and target for the machinations and ambitions of others, the older sibling, a ruling lady, and elected queen; a prince, dutiful son and brother, ruthless and dutiful defender of his family, and regent)

Meanwhile they have other siblings who struggled to meet said expectations or have given up attempting to all together (Arya, Rhaenyra, or to some degree Aegon)

Siblings who must from the perspective of Sansa and Aemond (who are still young, inexperienced, and have had a great deal of conflict with said siblings) seem to flaunt all expectations free to rebell, flaunt the rules, and generally ignore the high pressure expectations that children from their class face.

Undoubtedly frustrating since, much like their more rebellious siblings have failed to sympathize with the more responsible ones, Ameond and Sansa too have not (yet) been able to recognize the ways their less successful/dutiful siblings also suffer under the highly restrictive expectations of their class and position even if they do not choose or succeed in conforming to them.

They see that despite how they may excel in studying, striving and succeeding in their roles, and ultimatley exemplifying the high standards they were raised to it is these other siblings who seem to get rewarded (experiencing in their eyes at least what appears to be more freedom, less pressure, minimal censure or punishment for their misbehavior... while simultaneously receiving the bulk of the reward in terms of their inheritance, the attention they recieve, or even with regards to the amount of affection given by some of the authority figures in their lives, i.e. their fathers)...

To them it must seem that these siblings get to be not just easily forgiven for their mistakes and misbehaviour, but accepted as or outright adored simply the way they naturally are, whereas dutiful and non problematic children like themselves tend to be overlooked or underappreciated, and quickly criticized on the rare cases they misbehave... the acceptance and affection they recieve appears far more conditional on them behaving well according to the expectations of their family or various instructors/minders... whereas the affection their siblings receive, from say a certain parent, is show to be rather unconditional

Seriously they both give me such severe "easy" (i.e. overlooked) and "gifted" child trauma vibes... how much of their behavior is simply in their nature and how much is what they conform themselves to to make the adults around them proud... because as the quieter child or apparent outsider amindst their family/siblings this is the only action that comes natural to them and gets them some (hard earned) attention/praise in a rather large and loud family they otherwise seem a bit lost in... how much of their striving to succeed is dependent on the sincere belief/understanding that their saftey and potentially the future, saftey, and wellbeing of their family depends on it.

They both have a far more distant relationship with their fathers who favoured another sibling- a sister over them... father's who either didn't seem to know how to connect with them - Ned- or never really bothered to try- Viserys...

while i do believe Ned loves his children and they adored him in return i feel its obvious that he neglected in preparing any of them for the true dangers and realities of the world away from the satey and protection of winterfell and their Stark family, and he absolutely dropped the ball on keeping either of his daughters safe and supervised when he took them along into a very dangerous situation in kingslanding

Furthermore Ned never quite seemed to connected with or pay attention to Sansa they way he did with Arya... just something about the fact that when he follows the orders of his king/supposed best friend to kill Sansa's direwolf (the very symbol of their house) it is in replacement for Arya's Direwolf who was allowed to escape the cruel wrath of the Queen and Prince...and how he continues to fail Sansa in the aftermath

It's something about the gifts he gives his very angry and traumatized daughters to comfort them after- in lieu of truly trying to actually connect with and console both of them or to even properly mediate their increased fighting.

Arya (in the show and book) is given lessons with a "dancing" master who teaches her swordplay/water dancing, she was so excited and she always wanted to be outside learning to fight like her brothers got to, in this moment to her understanding she is not just seen by her father she is accepted and supported (a careful reader may see that Ned's attitude appears to be slightly condescendingly indulgent on the matter of her learning swordplay... but Arya gets the chance to do something she loves all the same)

Meanwhile (in the show) to try to console Sansa Ned gives her... a doll? (Honestly I can't recall any equivalent gift from Ned to Sansa in the books? the mention of her possibly getting harp lessons in Kingslanding was actually a promise Catelyn made to her on Ned's behalf rather than his own effort... and was something that Ned didn't actually ever arrange in the books)

But is this doll meant to be an appropriate gift to make up for the death of her direwolf? Is this gesture enough to comfort her and make amends after Ned killed her direwolf (notice its not exactly as spectacular, meaningful, or comforting a gift as arya's "dancing lessons"... certainly there is no indication that he has any particular understanding of Sansa or has given much thought into her talents, interests, or personality beyond the most shallow perusal)

In the aftermath of Lady's death Ned does nothing to truly protect Sansa or keep her away from the obviously dysfunctional and dangerous family he has promised her away to.

Yet he can take the time to comfort and have a frank conversation with Arya about how important staying together and supporting eachother as family is- especially when they are amongst dangerous people who mean to harm or separate them- and the specific importance her and Sansa will have to one another as sisters who share the same blood... further explaining how just as they will need eachother Ned needs them as well

Ned has no such comforting or distinctly meaningful exchange with Sansa... he doesn't explain the reality of the Lannisters/Joffrey/Robert (i.e. the truth of the people he has agreed to give his young daughter away to despite the fact that he either personally has no respect for most of them or has not been around them long enough to know anything about their true nature)

Yes it is the risk to his daughter that makes him willing to falsely confess to treason, yes eventually he decides its best to send his daughters back to winterfell, yes he finally wants to break the betrothal and he makes a beautiful promises to make her a match with "a high lord who's worthy of [her], someone brave and gentle and strong" ... but he is much too late to get both of his daughters away from the lannisters/kingslanding, way too late in his attempt to keep them safe, and he fails to handle Sansa with age appropriate respect and frankness and to actually tell her how dangerous things are in kingslanding and why joffrey (false prince -bastard born of incest) is such an ill suited match.

Maybe if he had put any effort into explaining things to her...or simply spending time with her, speaking to her, trying to understand her, comforting her amidst the loss of lady and the increased fighting with Arya, or doing literally anything other than just neglecting her and her saftey Sansa would have actually trusted his decision and seen it as him wanting what was best for her.

Maybe if he had been more proactive and focused on his daughters well being he wouldn't have brought both of them south after the altercation over their direwolves... or maybe he could have been successful at getting both his daughters out of kingslanding before everything went to hell.

Its almost like the whole point of the Ned/Arya/Sansa and the Ned/Cersei/Sansa dynamic isn't to show that Sansa is a naive girl who betrays her family for the lannisters but is instead to show that when you neglect your child emotionally they will turn elsewhere for comfort and will be particularly vulnerable to being manipulated or abused by other adults... its almost like this part of A Game of Thrones is more about the way even someone like Ned- a man who does strives to do what he thinks is right and a parent who does loves his children- can still fail.

Ned's treatment of Sansa is specifically intriguing, though i don't know if it will be addressed specifically since her relationship and dynamic with Ned is one that much like Robb ended with his tragic and unjust murder (leaving behind a grief stricken Sansa helplessly longing for the return of her family and home, grieving with a near devotional regard for her lost father and brother)... Sansa will never get to confront or reconcile with them over the many ways she was let down and left unprotected by her male relatives- and who knows if a traumatized and grieving Sansa will ever even recognize and admitt to herself the ways the people who she loved the most failed to live up to her expectations of them... how clearly that despite their love for her she was rarely their first priority ... how they both seemed to fail to follow their family mottos ... the lone wolf dies but the pack survives.... family before duty or honor... she was family yet duty and honor came before her in Robb's eyes... she was part of a pack but through Ned promising her to a marriage in the south, in him taking her and Arya away to kingslanding, in him failing to prioritize her saftey until they all were practically already on the chopping block, and in Robb abandoning any hope or plan of rescuing her she truly was abandoned by them ...to be a lone wolf without a pack to help her survive

Then there is Viserys who at the very least had a much stronger regard for Rhaenyra than all the kids by his second wife ...but can also quiet easily be accused of outright neglecting and mistreating them

The lack of guidance holds true for all his children really but with Rheanyra at least it is accompanied by an (ultimatley harmful) spoiled indulgence that he offers only to his eldest daughter- covering up her obvious blunders and threatening anyone who would speak the truth of her questionable actions and her children's legitimacy including his own wife and sons ... going against traditional succession not because he wants to promote first born succession/succession by "merit"/or treating daughter equal to sons in terms of inheritance or anything like that but because of guilt and unashamed favoritism.

Viserys refuses to give to his son what westeros society at least would deem as Aegon's birthright, while also failing to make arrangements for any his non-Rhaenyra children to have a future and saftey separate from the throne.

He doesn't arrange matches with other kingdoms and give them allies, protection, family, independence, or a power base independent of the crown/hightowers instead leaving them dependent only on the crown, vulnerable targets to be handled (i.e. no doubt killed on the orders of Rhaenyra and/or her uncle husband Daemon) as living they would remain the most significant threat to the legitimacy of their rulership.

Viserys looks the other way when Aemond specifically is permanently maimed by Rhaenyra's son...his only action after his son loses his eye is to threaten his second family, to intimidate them into staying quite on the topic of the legitimacy of Rhaenyra's children before he deems the matter concluded... as if the worst part of that altercation was Aemond calling them bastards rather than say four children ganging up against one and how one of these children attacked using a knife and cost the other their fucking eye?

That for Aemond more than anything must cement his understanding of his father's feelings about Aemond and his full siblings and mother. To Viserys they simply matter less than Rhaenyra and her children.

In fact their well being or saftey matters less than even an offense made to Rhaenyra's reputation... which shows Alicent and her children without question that they are in danger from the blacks and the King will do nothing to prevent the blacks from trying to severely physically harm Aemond or his siblings, and in fact that there will be no punishment for the blacks when they succeed in doing so.

A civil war between the blacks and the greens was inevitable... Viserys actions of protecting and favoring Rhaenyra while also not ensuring she is instructed on and practices/proves her ability to rule, willfully ignoring that she violates her own vows and that she passes off her obviously illegitimate children as trueborn heirs, of permitting her not just to inherit (and position her illegitimate son as the next heir to) what most considered the birthright of her brother but also for her to steal the birthright of her own cousins by supplanting them with her other bastard and demoting them to being simply their brides/consorts, him keeping her as heir not just after he has multiple trueborn sons but also after Rhaenyra gets remarried to the exact violent bloodthirsty man that so many feared and Viserys himself had previously removed as his own heir in favour for Rhaenyra.

Viserys doing all of this while still choosing to remarry and have MULTIPLE children with his new wife... the neglectful and disrespectful way he treats his second family... all of this ensured that the death of some (if not all) of his children, via either assassination or in outright civil war, would always have been inevitable.

There is so much hatred, fear, distrust, and tension between Viserys' family members... and not only did he fail to intervene or improve things he was the one most responsible for it ....so much of the environment Alicent lived in and Aemond and his full siblings were raised was permeated by not just a sense of deep injustice (particularly in Aemond's case with his treatment by not just the blacks but his own father) but also an undercurrent of desperate fear over what will happen to them and their family in the wake of a brewing succession crisis

The mommy, daddy, and sibling issues are so strong with these two and I'm so obsessed with how the complicated family dynamics and tragic family losses that Ameond and Sansa experience echoe one another in so many ways...there is just so much love, grief, rage, unpacked trauma, and hurt in them and I am always obsessed with stories that allow the narrative or characters to address such trauma.

PART 3/4. THE CONTRASTING AND COMPLIMEMTARY ASPECTS OF THEIR STORIES (SUFFERING AND GRIEF)

They were both were so young when they became targets of the wrath and dislike of powerful and corrupt "Queens"

Sansa who loses her direwolf at the demand of Queen Cersei, a queen who after long being abused by her own husband sees a perhaps more extreme form of that sort of violence in her own mad son being directed at Sansa, who rather than expressing or experiencing compassion or sympathy instead takes the chance to revel in the destruction of Sansa's innocence, to mock and emotionally abuse Sansa when she has lost her father and her only protection in Kingslanding, leaving her a hostage of war at the mercy of a violent and corrupt royal family

Aemond who after losing his eye to an attack instigated by Rhaenyra's children receives no apology or recompense...instead his own sister asks for her mutilated little brother to be tortured sharply questioned due to the offense he caused by accusing her sons -accurately mind you- of being bastards... Aemond and his siblings who were never truly ever treated by Rhaenyra as her siblings only ever the offspring of Alicent and thus obstacles and threats for her (and her uncle's) right to the throne.

Both were physically harmed or tormented by (or with the approval of) young members of royalty, with very little being done to intervene, stop, or punish those involved despite their own highborn status- which would generally deem them unacceptable targets for such abuse.

Young Sansa a hostage but still a high born daughter descended from two of the seven ruling houses in westeros, The Warden of the North and the Lord Paramount of the Trident, and niece/cousin to the rulers of a third kingdom, the Lord Paramount of the Vale. Who while under the "care" of the crown is tormented, stripped, and beaten in open court at the behest of a mad boy king... forced to look upon the severed heads of her father and household, forced into being an unwilling child bride to the house of her family's enemies, who is molested and threatened with sexual assault on multiple occasions

Prince Aemond son of the King who is mocked by his brother and nephews (or his king and father in the books) over the fact that he hasnt yet claimed a dragon, and when this makes him reckless enough to approach and claim the largest dragon in existence the torment doesn't stop it gets dangerously worse as the tension between the children of the blacks and greens escalate to the point of a violent confrontation between Aemond and his nephews and cousins... and the resulting loss of of his eye when one of his attackers brings out a knife. None of the children who banded together to attack Aemond would face any consequences, only Aemond himself and his mother and older brother would censure and outright threats from their King Father and Older sister. Whose earliest sexual experience- done at the behest of his older brother- was implied to be at the very least coerced, traumatizing, and humiliating- if not outright non consensual on his part.

Both Sansa and Aemond face a terrible sort of loss when they begin losing their family members to mass civil war ...often in a manner that is distinctly horrific or against all laws of decency in the 7 kingdoms

her father Ned unjustly executed for treason and whose decapitated head is displayed and used to torment her, her younger sister Arya gone missing for years and long thought dead, her home sacked and younger brothers Bran and Rickon supposedly murdered by her family's ward- a boy who grew up alongside the stark children- the burned/mutilated heads and bodies of two young boys being being put on display at winterfell, her older Brother and Mother slaughtered when their traitorous allies and bannermen men break sacred guest rights at a wedding, both their bodies desecrated in a mockery of their houses... Robb decapitated his direwolves own head placed ontop of his body while his enemies parade his remains around, her mother Catelyn's throat slit and her body dumped naked in a river and left to rot.

(In the show) Rickon being cut down before his siblings eyes by a madman who betrayed their house and had tortured Sansa herself, her "half brother" Jon betrayed and murdered by his men and later sent off into a lonley exile away from his family and home for the "crime" of taking out an invader who had just committed mass murder... Sansa being left to rule the north all alone with many of her family members long dead and the surviving ones being set on a path away from the north/winterfell while she is left to handle rulership in isolation

Aemond who after commiting the first Kinslaying of the "war of dragons" by attacking his own assailant and nephew Lucerys proceeds to lose all of the family that he loved.

Starting with the tragic murder of his innocent young nephew at the behest of his elder sister/uncle- who arranged for his mother Alicent to be attacked tied up and forced to bear witness to the gruesome murder of her grandchild,

His sister Helaena -who plead for her life to be taken to spare her son- forced under the threat of the rape of her young daughter to choose which of her young sons will be murdered. Only for all of them to be traumatize further when they kill Jaehaerys and leaving Maelor the son she "chose" to die to survive with the message that his own mother wanted him dead... the emotional torment this caused the whole family but most of all his sister who refused to eat, bathe, or look upon her remaining son due to her immense feelings of guilt

his older brother Aegon who has lost his son and heir, and whose sister/wife is in a grief so deep she cannot care for their remaining children, who is attacked and maimed but survives to live on in total agony,

the murder of Maelor, Aemond's remaining nephew at the hands of a mob

Aemond's last stand, sacrificing his dragon and his own life to take out his Uncle (the biggest threat to his family and the orchestrator of Jaehaerys' brutal murder)

The many tragedies that continued after Aemond's own death- his sister's eventual suicide, the death of his younger brother Daeron, his oldest brother outlasting all of his siblings and his own two sons only to be taken out by poison once the war is over, his mother spending the last of her years in confinement until she passes from sickness,

His niece Jaehaera, after the loss of her entire family, married off as a child in the name of "peace" and dying young and alone- of suicide or murder

There is just such fascinating potential when two characters would have so much mirroring grief and trauma ...there is such an undercurrent of helpess rage, guilt, and grief to them in their youth and a undoubtedly a feverent desire for either vengeance or justice against the many people who harmed them or slaughtered their family...

And here is where things begin to differ between the two in interesting ways

with Sansa who has these violent wishes/impulses but is not in a position to see them fulfilled herself- her desire to push Joffrey to his death even at the cost of her own life, her wish that someone will throw Ser Meryn Trant down and cut off his head, her hope that various people will fall/be unhorsed...

Sansa who recieves a direwolf, Lady, the very symbol of her house and potentially a companion that would have offered a connection that was an extension of her own soul only for Lady to be cut down so quickly and unjustly... Sansa who loses not just the connection/companionship she recieved from Lady but also the protection such a bond would offer her ... she is left vulnerable in so many ways and has no promise of reuniting with her own direwolf later on... that will never be a comfort or form of security offered to her after all the danger and trauma she experiences

While Aemond, who spent much of his young life similarly helpless to act or respond to insults and assaults on his own person or immediate family, (that his father/king either never deemed worthy of interference or punishment... that is when it wasn't the King himself who was the perpetrator of such offenses) unlike Sansa experiences a change of fortune in the form getting to bond with the symbol of his house

He gains (and gets to keep until his own death) a bond with a different sort of mythical beast companion... a dragon and as a result recieves all the potential for power and destruction that comes with being a dragon rider

By claiming Vhagar Ameond is the closest he will ever be to untouchable, not just from the harassment he personally experienced from his family but with regards to how grave and dangerous a threat/target he had now become for the blacks during the dance of dragons

Aemond now a dragonrider of the largest living dragon, a child and later teenager who is in control of the narrative equivalent of a weapon of mass destruction, and he is no longer held back from acting on his anger once the rule and interference of his neglectful father king is over,

he is in control of the most massive beast of pure destruction and unlike Sansa, who for now in the books- or for much of her story in the show- remained an unprotected hostage or pawn in the hands of those who mean to harm or use her... who handles her trauma very internally as she is not in a position to fight back, and must rely on her words, intelligence, and ability to read and strategically interact with people as a way of defending and keeping herself safe, Aemond is now in the position to enact every bloodthirsty impulse of revenge he ever experienced

He was held back from enacting vengeance only through his own will, which ultimately proves not enough- he commits the first kin slaying and soon the actions of each side escalated into a horrific bloodbath where nobility and small folk alike suffered or die en masse

While Aemond's story may be one of family devotion and loyalty, mistreatment, injustice, and suffering that ends by showing the terrible outcomes of revenge and uncontrolled cruel brutality Sansa's story feels like one where grief, rage, and mistreatment exist but where family, love, compassion, kindness, justice, and integrity will win out in the end.

Sansa was certainly developed into a more discerning strategic and ruthless figure in the show but justice, duty, and forgiveness were still very prevalent in her storyline

she does have ramsay killed in a fittingly horrific manner, but she later holds a public trial for littlefinger- who was responsible for much of her familys suffering, the death of her father, and her own torment and rape- before she has him executed,

She feels compassion and forgiveness for theon the man who had betrayed her family and drove her young brothers out of their home, who only after experiencing significant torture himself became devoted to protecting the remaining starks and was able to find the courage to disobey his own torturers in order to help Sansa escape,

She possessed a concern for other people that few ruler do in asoiaf/got... speaking up against Joffrey's cruelty even as a powerless hostage, being the person concerned with the more practical matters of caring for and feeding their people during a harsh winter- a notable development in comparison to say everyone else just focusing on battle tactics and the upcoming battles (as though feeding an army is not an essential part of warfare), and the invader who just burned westeros' food stores en masse and now expects others to feed not just her armies but also demands that her dragons be fed "whatever they want"

I think in the books however that despite Sansa's internal grief and rage and her burgeoning political acuity there will be a gentler end to her arc where her own innate sense of duty and her (now more discerning) sense of compassion will win out in the end when she takes back her name, identity, and birthright ... that she along with her surviving family will have justice administered in the name of their lost family and people... efficiently bringing down righteous and necessary judgement on those that harmed and betrayed them rather than simply dealing out some form of mass, bloody, cruel revenge on her enemies (I'll leave that for lady stoneheart) ... and that a satisfying ending for her and the other starks will balance them realistically addressing the dangers and betrayal they faced with their own personal resolve to hold true to the values imparted to them by their parents.

... yet after all her suffering (and the frustrating lack of trust, consideration, or support she was given by her own family in the later GOT seasons) there is something darkly appealing to the idea of her getting (not a hero precisely) but a ruthless and devoted sort of monster to support her and bring down unholy vengeance on her various tormentors

PART 4/4: THE RESULTING DRAMATIC AND EMOTIONAL APPEAL OF AEMONDSA FICS

This after their many parallels and complementary contrasts is what intrigues me the most...the interplay of a potentially wary, cautious, traumatized but still duty and justice oriented person and a companion or lover who is comparatively more ruthless, unhinged, capable of atrocities, and who is more equipped to dole out violence en masse... (guys the pipeline from dark jon/dark jonsa to aemondsa just makes so much sense)

the question in Aemondsa fics of what will win out in the end- the shared grief and rage or them both controlling/channeling such impulses into strategic righteous fury and justice is always fascinating... and most of all the idea of Sansa (after all the trauma mistreatment and grief she has experienced) attaining the interest and eventual devotion of someone who despite being capable of monstrous actions is also incredibly loyal, devoted, and ruthless in the pursuit of their loved ones interests ("I want you to put out your eye ... plan to make it a gift if it to my mother" indeed) is just as appealing as the idea where an isolated, lonely, traumatized, grieving, and dangerously angry young man like Aemond gets to find acceptance, affection, companionship, and belonging with an intelligent strategic but more importantly an exceptionally compassionate person like Sansa.

Its just a dynamic far too intriguing to ignore especially for someome who already loved Time Travel/Reincarnation Fix IT AUs in fanfiction

While emotional catharsis and Sansa returning home and having the dreams she had wrote off as impossible be fulfilled (i.e. building a loving partnership and marriage, having children with someone who loves and wants her more than her claim itself, reuniting with her family) is something I love- and what I want to happen in canon (hence my otp being Jonsa)- there is always an interesting/guilty pleasure aspect of fanfic where Sansa (or the Starks in general) get to wreck terrible bloody victory and vengeance on those who betrayed and butchered their family and people (not really the ultimate message or point of the book but definitely emotionally satisfying in fanfic)

Just like there is a sort of appeal that exists in hotd fanfic that is sort of the opposite ...ones that alter the violent senseless and tragic trajectory of the dance of dragons... to either change the course of a brutal civil war or prevent it all together

and the Aemondsa pairing's time travel or reincarnation fics provide an opportunity to explore both of these diverse dynamics.

Sansa will always deserve the world... in canon and in fanfic i want to see all her dream and hopes come true whether it is with a truly good and just partner with whom she gets to build the life and home she always dreamed of or through her getting her very own devoted monster who would do anything to keep her safe from the scores of people who wish to misuse or harm her

and I always wish that hotd fanfiction offered more Aemond centric fics with a love interest that you know actually likes, sympathizes with, or understand him? He feels too tragic a character for me to want him to experience the typical hate and love (enemies AND lovers) treatment he tends to get in fanfic... its not really satisfying for me seeing his typical pairing up with whatever team black character (or really TB character rewrite) or some Daemon's or Rhaenyra's daughter OC that is the frequent choice for aemond centric fics...him being portrayed as some impusive awful and villainous love interest who changes sides and abandons his family just to be with his lover/obsession feels so out of character in a way that erases the best, most compelling, and sympathetic parts of his canon personality, motives, and actions.

Luckily Aemondsa fics seems to be a pairing that offers everything I like in Ameond or Sansa centric fics....

In conclusion Aemondsa is surprisingly compelling and versatile dynamic in fanfic and I think that is why I've become such a fan of Firesteel/Aemondsa fanfiction (in a way I'm NOT at all a fan of the actual HOTD show writing lol)

I'm a proud support of crack ships/rarepairs and I'm always willing to add to the fandom appreciation of pairings that gets less attention or fandom related works... so expect to see the occasional Aemondsa fanart/fic recommendation post from me amongst my typical jonsa content (in fact expect one in the next in a day or so)

Otherwise I just hope established Ameondsa fans (or people who haven't ready any aemondsa fics but are fans of either character/curious about this pairing in general) have enjoyed seeing me fangirl about these two characters/this crack ship and feel inspired to check out or even make their own Aemondsa content!

-Crimsom Cold

[imogenkol]

— SHE’D DO ANYTHING FOR ME

pairing: Imogen Kol (oc) x Bix Caleen rating: Mature words: 3.3k warnings: possessive behavior, codependency, fight and make up summary: tfw when your ex finds your taste in women extremely questionable

notes: this is another older-ish one that I feel compelled to post on its own.

Everything felt so... calm and peaceful. In the same way the sky looks before a storm. Imogen should be fleeing for her life or at the very least preparing herself for the inevitable destruction. But she didn't — she couldn't. 

All she managed was to lie in bed beside the woman she fought so hard not to love. The warmth of her body half draped over Imogen's after a night of passion. It was such a simple thing, to have her beloved's head rest against her chest and feel their breaths as one, yet she could not recall ever feeling so content.

Destruction might just be worth it.

Bix trailed her fingertips along her bare collarbone which caused Imogen to smile. Her own caress lightly traveled up and down the mechanic's spine in aimless patterns. It even felt extraordinary to touch her just for the sake of it.

"I'm starting to believe you actually like waking up next to me," Bix said in a lighthearted tone.

"I have always desired this," Imogen admitted softly, tilting her head enough to nuzzle against hers.

"Meaning you've always been afraid of this."

Imogen tensed. The hard-wired urge to pull away and fiercely deny such an accusation threatened to overcome her, but there was no sense in refuting the truth any longer. Not from Bix. Gradually, the bounty hunter willed her muscles to ease. She wondered how long it would take to train these instincts out of her. "If we... truly commit to one another –"

Bix's fingers suddenly twitched into a fist against Imogen's skin. "If?"

"No," Imogen quickly corrected herself. "No more ifs. What I mean to say is... Well, I have a lot to learn."

"So do I. So does everyone," Bix stated matter-of-factly. She leaned up on her elbow and met the other woman's apprehensive expression. "You're here. You're trying. That's all that really matters to me."

A strand of dark hair dangled over the mechanic's cheek. Imogen reached out and delicately tucked it behind her ear. She took in the unobscured beauty of her beloved for a few prolonged beats, her thumb tracing some of those features that left her in awe.

"I am quite certain there is one thing in this galaxy that I would not be able to bear," Imogen muttered under her breath – almost to herself.

Bix moistened her lips as she inched closer. "And what's that?"

A rhythmic knock on the door interrupted their conversation. Along with a gruff voice that called out "Bix? It's me."

Imogen hoped her glare would burn right through the durasteel to strike Cassian down.

"Hang on!" Bix called back. With an exasperated sigh, she slumped down and hid her face in the crook of Imogen's neck for a beat before she forced herself up. At the sight of the bounty hunter's less than pleased expression, Bix said "Don't start anything. I’m not in the mood to deal with either of your shit today."

"He still draws breath, does he not? That is the extent of my manners," Imogen replied curtly as Bix hastily dressed herself. She, too, summoned a great effort to follow her out of bed and do the same. "Unless he wishes to apologize for aiming a blaster at my heart."

"You held your lightsaber at his throat."

"He drew on me first."

Bix rolled her eyes, though Imogen caught the upturn at the corner of her mouth before she turned towards the door. "Come in."

The both of them hadn't quite finished dressing. Cassian entered as Bix fastened the waistband of her pants at the same moment Imogen pulled a shirt over her head. He halted mid-step, his gaze shifting between the two women as if a complicated equation did not add up. Though, the scene before him must have been fairly obvious.

"What is it, Cass?" Bix impatiently urged.

"I just... wanted to talk to you." Cassian's answer came out distracted. His eyes lingered on the bounty hunter.

Imogen looked to Bix expectantly and received a nod. A part of her had hoped that she would have been allowed to remain in the room, but she understood why Bix dismissed her. Without another word, Imogen collected her coat in one hand and intended to make her exit when an impulse emerged. She would not have Cassian misinterpret anything here, not if she had any say in it.

In a few strides, Imogen went to Bix and pulled her in by the back of her neck. While their lips met with intention, it was no less soft or passionate than the kisses they shared in private. Imogen indulged in a few strokes and had to fight not to get lost in the sensations, nearly forgetting the witness she intended to show for.

Once Imogen pulled away, she gave Bix a parting caress and said "I will come find you later."

The mechanic had a knowing glint in her eye, but she nodded again. "Alright."

Cassian had not moved and the nature of his continued gaze turned from dumbfounded to outright suspicion. Imogen glared right back at him as she made her way towards the door. He stood far enough into the room that she could have easily maneuvered around him, but she instead shoved her shoulder into his as she walked past. Just to make sure her point came across clearly.

Cassian let it happen and she exited the room with an air of confidence. 

Despite having been dismissed, Imogen’s curiosity compelled her to linger just outside the door. Cassian could be there to simply check up on his friend, or he could be there to stir up tension. Either way, Imogen didn’t trust his judgment or his motives and prepared to intervene if she must. 

She leaned against the wall next to the door and shut her eyes to focus her hearing as best as she could past the thick durasteel wall. Through the Force, she could pinpoint each of their positions and the vibration of their voices became clear in her ears. 

“I didn’t realize you two were back to your original arrangement,” Cassian said. 

“We’re not,” Bix replied curtly. 

“No? Then what was all that about?”

“We’re trying something different.” 

Cassian scoffed. “Different. With her?” 

“Yeah. With her,” Bix asserted and Imogen sensed that she placed her hands on her hips as irritation began to swell in the mechanic’s chest. 

“Alright then.” 

“Look, did you just come in here to rag on my personal life choices or was there actually a point to this conversation?” 

“I’m not ragging,” he insisted, shrugging his shoulders defensively. “I just – I don’t get it.” 

“Well, you sound pretty judgmental. Which is rich coming from you, Cass.” 

“At least I haven’t slept with an Imperial Inquisitor.” 

“She’d do anything for me.”

Cassian did not try to hide his disdain. “Where have I heard that before?”

“Imogen is not Timm,” Bix snapped.

Under normal circumstances, Imogen would never allow anyone to come to her defense. All that mattered was that she had enough power to stand up for herself. And yet… she realized that no one ever has spoken up for her in any capacity. The utter conviction in Bix’s statement filled her with an unexpected swell of pride. 

“No,” Cassian agreed patronizingly. “Timm never waved a red laser sword in anyone’s face.”

The jab only seemed to antagonize the mechanic more. “What is your problem?”

The two of them struggled to keep their tones leveled, but as tensions grew, so did their volume. Even in an enclosed space, their disagreement would certainly be heard by anyone that walked by. Imogen didn’t even have to hold her focus through the Force to hear them clearly any longer. Cassian must not have cared because he knew many others held the same prejudices against Imogen that he did. Bix clearly had no issue voicing her opposite opinion. 

Imogen loved her for it. 

“I don’t know, I just,” he stammered over his argument once again and sighed. “I think there are better options out there –”

“What, like you?”

“Come on, you know that isn’t what I’m trying to say.”

“Then what are you trying to say? Explain it to me.”

Imogen’s patience for eavesdropping wore thin and the discomfort she sensed in Bix only made her own anger rise. The bounty hunter pushed away from the wall and took an assertive step towards the room, fully intending to assure Cassian of her permanence at Bix’s side, but his next words made her hesitate. 

“I’m worried for you, being with someone like that,” he said earnestly

There was a pause. Bix did not abandon her stern tone, but Imogen heard it soften ever so slightly as she responded. “She won’t do anything that I don’t ask her to do.”

“Maybe that’s what I’m worried about.”

“Oh, so you’re afraid of me now, too?”

“I’m afraid of how she’ll change you.”

Another tense beat of silence passed between the two of them. Imogen absorbed Cassian’s words and they left a bitter taste on her mouth. He sounded like Cal, making it seem as if darkness only corrupted. Darkness could bring strength. Darkness could bring power. Imogen would not change Bix, Bix would change herself into whatever she needed to be. That is what Cassian truly feared, whether he realized it or not.

“I’ve already changed. And Imogen had nothing to do with it. So do us both a favor and mind your fucking business from now on,” Bix said firmly.

The mechanical door suddenly slid open and Bix came into view as she stormed away from the conversation, coming up short once she spotted Imogen. Her eyes widened slightly and she quickly glanced behind her, but Cassian hadn’t made his retreat from the room yet. 

“Are you alright?” Imogen asked. The urge to confront Cassian herself remained, though she doubted any of her intentions towards him would improve his reservations about her.

Bix continued to briskly walk away, reaching out for Imogen’s waist to usher them along — or more likely move her as far away from Cassian as they could get in order to avoid a possible blood feud. “How much of that did you hear?”

“All of it,” Imogen casually admitted. 

“Don’t let it get to you, alright?” Bix rubbed her hand up and down Imogen’s back. Whether her intentions were to pacify herself or the dangerous woman next to her, it was difficult to say. Imogen still accepted her touch. 

“While he made a fool of himself… some of his concerns are not entirely unfounded,” she said slowly.  

Bix shot her a deeply confused look. “Are you saying you care what Cassian thinks?”

“No,” Imogen replied with a scoff. “I simply mean that he harbors the same judgments everyone else holds against me. I have accepted them long ago and so should you, lest that scowl overstays its welcome.” 

The mechanic shook her head bitterly, ignoring Imogen’s attempt to lighten her mood. “They just don’t know you.”

“And they never will. Not like you do.” 

“Maybe that’s the problem,” Bix pointed out as she came to a stop in a secluded corner of the hallway. “All he sees is the Inquisitor.”

Imogen tried not to roll her eyes. “I have nothing to prove to him or anyone else. Why should I waste my time with such an endeavor? Especially when they are not wrong.”

“They are wrong.”

“No, they aren’t. Not about me. Not about us.” Imogen placed her hands on Bix’s arms. Her caress had a sort of melancholy that lingered in the small smile across her lips. “I do not believe I am the best option for you, but I will be yours for as long as you’ll have me.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Bix asked incredulously and shook off her touch. 

Imogen felt a tightness at the back of her throat. She moistened her lips and swallowed with difficulty, her voice hollow. “Have you considered that your feelings for me might be influenced by gratitude? By the simple fact that I got to you first on Ferrix? Would it not be Cassian’s embrace you’d wish to fall into every night had it been him?” 

It deeply pained Imogen to voice an insecurity that she had failed to bury. The way Bix had looked at her differently since Ferrix filled Imogen with a warmth that she had never experienced before, but she could not shake the whisper at the back of her mind that gradually became another scream in the cacophony. A part of her did not care if it was true, she would be grateful to have Bix in any capacity. But the much larger part that truly loved her felt she needed to hear those words.

An intense and furious expression twisted Bix’s features as her body stiffened. She fixed Imogen with such a hard look that the bounty hunter nearly took a step back. 

“Fuck you,” Bix said with a shocking amount of venom. Imogen realized her grave mistake, then, and it felt like a harsh slap to the face. “And fuck what you’re insinuating.” 

“Bix–”

“And I’ll tell you why you’re wrong,” she continued fiercely and took an assertive step towards Imogen, entering her space. It wasn’t until that moment that Imogen noticed she had, in fact, backed away. “What I feel for you was there before all of this. So, despite what you might think of me, I won’t just fall for the first fucking person who comes to my rescue!”

Imogen’s gaze became downcast in shame before she responded softly “Forgive me. I misspoke.”

“You sure did,” Bix snarled bitterly. She turned to walk away and Imogen felt conflicted on whether or not she should follow. 

She refrained from pursuit, but she couldn’t help calling out after her. “You know I don’t truly think that.” 

Bix hesitated. Some of the tension dispersed from her shoulders as she released a weary sigh and glanced back. “You still don’t believe that I can love you for you. I thought we were past this, Imogen.” 

“I do not doubt you.”

“Some part of you does.”

“Maybe… But I swear not to give voice to those thoughts ever again.” She dared a step towards the mechanic.

Bix held up a hand to stop her. “Look, first it was Cassian and now it’s you, just… give me some time, okay?”

Imogen hated Cassian. And she wasn’t particularly fond of herself at the moment, either. She conceded. “Of course.”

As she watched Bix walk away, Imogen felt the invisible tether between them tighten. Disbelief filled the pit of embarrassment in her gut as she tried to make sense of what just happened. She knew better. Imogen knew better and still she plucked out the most absurd thought from the back of her mind and spoke it out loud like a witless scoundrel. If her utter foolishness is what finally made the tether snap, she would never forgive herself.

Hours passed and Imogen kept herself scarce until evening approached and she could sequester herself to the comfort of her own ship. Though, The Huntress felt far colder and emptier than it ever has before.

Imogen ate a quick supper and prepared for bed early. As she settled into the cot, silence sounded more unbearable than a cacophony of tangled voices. The longer she stewed in the memory of her own foolish words, the more Imogen felt like she could hear the shouting of those imaginary voices at the back of her mind. Some sounded like her own voice. Others sounded like her Master. They sounded like Vader. They sounded like Cal. 

They sounded like Bix. 

After a while — or an eternity — Imogen groaned and sat up in the cot, swinging her legs over the side and contemplating numerous methods to get her brain to shut off. All felt fruitless. 

Then she sensed a familiar presence approach, making her spine perk up like an alert animal. 

The entrance to The Huntress whooshed open and Bix trudged in, looking as exhausted and dejected as Imogen felt. The bounty hunter couldn’t deny the immediate feeling of serenity at the sight of her lover, but she still gripped the edge of the cot and half expected another round of disciplining. 

The mechanic came to a stop before her and crossed her arms, appearing less stern than earlier, but Imogen still noted the twitch of her jaw. They simply breathed in the tense air for a few long beats until she finally spoke. 

“You didn’t come to bed.” Bix tried to hide it, but she sounded hurt.

“You asked for time,” Imogen replied pointedly. 

The mechanic sighed as she stared down at the floor and shook her head. “I didn’t mean the whole night, I’m sorry.”

“You should not apologize.” 

“I want to,” Bix insisted as she stepped closer to the cot. Her fingers twitched in a subtle fidget at her sides. “What you said earlier –” 

“Was careless.” 

“Yeah,” she said with a nod. “Yeah, it was. But I know you didn’t mean it that way. I’ve been thinking about it and you’re not entirely wrong. Well, you are when it comes to Cassian, but about gratitude...” Bix’s shoulders lifted as she took in a deep breath, her gaze shifting over the interior of the ship that she knew as well as her own home back on Ferrix. “I’ve always wanted to be near you, but after everything you’ve done for me, it feels less like a want and more like a need. I don’t know, but I start to lose my mind a little bit when you’re gone. Even with how upset I was earlier, a part of me still hoped you’d come after me.”

Imogen took a quiet moment to contemplate the confession. She understood Bix’s words because she had seen the evidence. All that she missed was the true extent of her suspicion. But before Imogen allowed her emotions to settle, she offered one single question. 

“Does that bother you?”

“No,” Bix answered confidently and closed the distance between them. She reached out and took a strand of Imogen’s hair between her fingers. “Does it bother you?”

It should, her thoughts responded immediately without voicing it. Imogen recognized this attachment had grown to an intensity Bix did not have full control over. She recognized it because it was the same attachment she had within herself. As if Bix were a vital organ her body would not survive without.

Could Imogen’s devotion still be pure in that case? Did it matter? It certainly did not feel like it did when her beloved gazed down at her with a mixture of adoration and concern. 

“No,” Imogen said and accepted that for all it could possibly mean.

A small smile of relief brightened the mechanic’s features. “Good,” she said. Bix placed her hands on Imogen’s shoulders and pulled herself down onto the bounty hunter’s lap. “Because I’m done arguing with people about loving you.”

Imogen’s arms automatically wrapped around Bix’s waist to keep her close. She grew weary of the discourse as well, but she did not wish to see Bix angry with those she held dear – no matter how much Imogen detested them. “They argue because they care.”

“I know.” Bix leaned in until their foreheads touched, her hands coming up to rest against Imogen’s cheeks. “But they should see how you make me feel.”

Imogen felt her face flush with a warm grin at that. “You were right earlier.” 

“About what?”

Their lips brushed together. Chaste at first. More of an innocent expression of her fondness. Then Imogen tightened her grip around the woman in her embrace as she deepened the kiss. Many emotions were conveyed in the cadence she led. Her kiss was possessive as she lightly nipped at Bix’s lower lip. It was passionate as the tip of her tongue greeted hers. It was desperate as short breaths escaped their lungs and tickled their skin. It was everything. 

Imogen finally pulled back, but only the smallest amount to utter her answer. “I would do anything for you.”

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[simkaswriting]

What if…Eris had danced with y/n instead?

A/N- Hi hi! This is a one shot from a series I'm currently writing for acotar, if you're interested in reading about other beloved characters like Cas, Az, Mor, Rhys and Lucien and their own 'what if' moments, make sure to check back❤️

Dull. That was the only word coming to mind when Y/N surveyed the large, cavernous room. The inner circle was paying their supposed yearly visit to the Court of Nightmares, according to the little information Mor let slip at the dinner table last night. It was not the lack of decorations, or even the monotonous colours throughout the room, but rather it was the fae that were dull. Music echoed around them all, hundreds of males and females clad in varying shades of grey and black talking quietly amongst themselves as if unaware of the festive holiday they were gathered to celebrate, yet only a handful indulged in the compelling music. Y/N stood quietly on the far end of the unintentional line the inner circle formed around the two thrones, right next to quiet Elain, who in turn was leaning lightly against Feyre’s throne. It wasn’t like she tried to blend into the background the way the Azriel’s shadows allowed him to, or that she stood out like a sore thumb the way Elain did with her exuberant energy and bright eyes. Nor did she entice every male the way her eldest sister did with her fierce glare and head held high. No, Y/N was simply just there. Startling in beauty, ferocious in demeanour, and quite frankly a little disappointed at what the Court of Nightmares regarded as a party. Which is perhaps what piqued the red headed Autumn Court male’s attention. Y/N, just standing off to the side yet not seeming lonely, almost as if placing an invisible barrier between herself and the rest of her new family. He wondered why she stood there instead of dancing with some lowly scum like the eldest sister did, hanging off the brute’s arm, though he was almost certain nobody in this room would dare ask her for a dance. If only out of fear of aggravating the High Lord sitting a few feet away.

An hour goes by with minimal conversation between Y/N and Elain, and even then, the words dry out due to her sisters’ fear of drawing attention to themselves. Mouth dry and legs slightly stiff from her unmoving position next to her sisters, Y/N quietly walks over to the large table coated with an array of refreshments, in search of something stronger than water to help the time flow a little faster. Her eyes narrow in on a bottle of red wine, from the Summer Court if the writing is anything to go by. She reaches for the bottle, fully intending to keep it all to herself, when a cedar and cinnamon smell fills her nostrils.

“If I may, I’d suggest this wine, call it a personal favourite and a matter of good taste.” The voice is deep yet oddly soft, so very out of place in this pit of despair surrounding her. It’s as if the tone caresses her.

Stomach in knots, Y/N looks up at the male next to her, and fights back the gasp that surely would have escaped her if she didn’t know better. A tall male clad in hues of green and brown stands next to her, holding a bottle of white wine which looks comically small in his large hand. His height has her almost subconsciously take a step back, looming over her like a bad omen she’s sure he is. His face is sculpted as if by the Mother herself, though she can tell he isn’t just a pretty face to look at by the red scar barely visible under the collar of his shirt. No fae male in the Court of Nightmares on this festive day is just a pretty face. Yet it’s the male’s fiery red hair, bright as if fire itself courses through it, that has Y/N repressing the urge to marvel at it and reach out to run her hand through the fiery locks.

She schools her expression into one of calm indifference instead, perhaps a second too late, and glances at the bottle in the stranger’s hand. Autumn court wine. Her arm falls back to rest at her side, now fully facing the mysterious male, even if it drives her heartbeat crazy and floods her mind with static.

“Good taste would be finding yourself in better company on this joyous night.” She draws out the latter half of her sentence in mockery. Yes, the winter solstice is a time of mirth and expressing appreciation for your loved ones in Velaris, at least from the rare glimpses she’s managed to steal. However, the holiday loses its meaning in the Court of Nightmares. Surely the red head has better options than spending his time in this joyless pit of despondency, attempting to strike up a conversation with the forgotten Archeron sister?

A haughty chuckle comes from him as he sets the wine down on the banquet table and extends his hand, an inkling of a bow following.

“I was hoping you could be that company. May I have this dance?”

She studies his hand, eyes raking over the large surface of his palm and following the veins as they disappear below his tunic, throat growing a little dry. Unsure of why she should say no, especially since she can already feel the tediousness of the next few hours seeping in, Y/N accepts the strangers offer.

Y/N feels eyes burning holes in her, through her, a sour pit churning in her stomach. With a surprisingly gentle touch, the red head draws their bodies together, chest to chest, his hand coming to rest on her lower back, placing himself between her and the inquiring eyes of the inner circle, much to her relief.

Is it such an issue for Y/N to dance with another male? Was she expected to stand by her sisters and the Illyrian males doubling as bodyguards all night, bored to the stars, and counting down the minutes until they could winnow her back to the House of Wind? Nesta and Cassian were enjoying themselves, Feyre and Rhysand were enamoured with each other, and Azriel and Elain were engaged in quiet conversation. So, what is the problem with Y/N enjoying the harmless company of this mysterious, and not to mention breathtakingly beautiful, fae male?

Placing her hand on his shoulder and the other in his hand, large and calloused from centuries of experience she could probably never even begin to comprehend, Y/N looks up at the male.

“How do you find yourself in this cesspool of ingrates on such a beautiful holiday? Surely the Autumn Court would be more…” She pauses, weighing the words on her tongue before letting them slip on a cloud of playfulness to her surprise.

“…favourable.”

Eris guides the two of them in wide circles, knowing he needs not pay attention to the other fae around. Only fools with a death wish would so much as approach the red head and Archeron sister. As his fingers brush across the exposed skin of lower back, the low-cut fabric of her dress revealing enough to please his eyes and send sparks up his fingers at each contact with her, he wonders if her skin is flush to the touch from this nausea-inducing pit or perhaps his proximity.

He hums in approval. Of what exactly, he isn’t sure, coherent thoughts slowly slipping out of his reach.

“You are correct. Though it seems fate would have it that I come here tonight. And what a lovely stroke of luck that I find myself in your company.” He purrs, voice low enough just for her and only her to hear.

He watches heat creep up her exposed neck and settle on the tips of her newly pointed ears with the hint of a smile playing on his lips. And he can’t help but wonder if that truly is the case. If the reason he turned down the invitation to his families own festive ball had something to do with fate, destiny, perhaps the Mother. If the stars intended for the two of them to end up in each other’s paths, each other’s arms.

Voice soft, fighting to keep her eyes on the male’s face despite feeling like the floor may open up and swallow her whole, she asks “May I at least know the name of my dance partner?”

A mischievous, silently knowing smile tugs at the males’ lips as he glances over his dance partners head with ease. Y/N knows who the teasing look was meant for, her High Lord, Feyre’s mate. But as fleeting as the moment is, his bright eyes find themselves looking into hers again.

“Eris. Eris Vanserra, General of the Autumn Court forces. Future High Lord of the Autumn Court. If you’d like the specifics.” His voice flows over her, teasing tone setting in as he finishes his sentence. His eyes are playful, low, and amused, as if he was in on a joke she wasn’t, as if she was some innocent pawn in a game the male who just declared himself the future High Lord of the Autumn Court was engaged in with Rhysand.

She rakes her brain for that missing piece of information, that last piece of the puzzle to really place this male. But instead of finding it within herself, she follows his gaze, fleeting as it was, only to find a tight-lipped Morrigan with eyes set on Y/N, icy and reticent, Azriel’s hand discreetly hovering behind her. To protect or hold her back, she isn’t sure. The cloudy aura around the blonde, usually strikingly orange in its hue, borders on coal as the two of them exchange a knowing look.

And that last puzzle piece clicks. The male whose hands are sending shivers up her spine at their contact with the exposed skin of her back is the same male Morrigan was betrothed to, if Y/N can trust the little information Nesta let slip during one of her drunken tirades, shut down mercilessly by Cassian before she could reveal more. An easy feeling creeps up to (Y/N)’s chest. She didn’t need to know the full story of what occurred between the two fae to arrive at the conclusion that it wasn’t pleasant. And that accepting his invitation to dance with him, with Eris Vanserra, despite initially not being aware of who this male was, may cost her upon the inner circles return to Velaris.

But his gentle hold on her as he leads them around the room with feet skilled beyond her expectations makes her wonder if there was more to him, more to this interaction, than some ulterior motive. More than thrusting a red-hot iron poker at Morrigan’s trauma and showing Rhys and Feyre that their inner circle was not untouchable, unreachable, unbreachable.

As if sensing her growing discomfort, Eris manoeuvres the two of them across the large, cavernous room, past the dancing fae, away from the prying eyes of the inner circle and towards the music. A risky move, they both know, but despite her newfound hesitation, she can’t help but feel thankful. And not just for removing her from yet another unsettling situation she always seems to find herself in with her sisters’ new family. But for reaching out his hand, for grasping her attention, for making her feel seen and alive for the first time since she emerged from the Cauldron desperate for more.

“I don’t know if you’re brave or just plain foolish, Eris Vanserra.” Y/N quips, eyes set on the liquid-like amber ones looking down at her, unmoving, almost challenging.

He wouldn’t be the first or last to try lay claim on the fourth Archeron sister. To try find footing, a doorway into the inner circle. The elusive Night Court. Sometimes Y/N thinks her sisters got it easy. Mated practically right out of the Cauldron, to three brothers no less. They wouldn’t understand the pressure pulling her down each day, the feeling of being a bargaining chip in Rhysand’s pocket, a way to establish or strengthen alliances in the centuries to come. A precious and valued position to fill in all the High Lord’s eyes.

His eyes remain on hers, unflinching, lips slightly curving at the corner at her tone. Eris had heard the rumours. The three sisters of the High Lady of the Night Court, submerged in the elusive depths of the Cauldron, each gifted, each more beautiful than the other. Three sisters on lockdown in the Night Court, two mated. And he would be lying if he denied any ulterior motives, however his existing alliance with Rhysand was questionable but firm, his eventual succession as High Lord all but guaranteed. He had no real need to court the female in his arms. Though, being betrothed to any member of the High Lord and Lady’s family would be a good union for any male, however, betrothal to a mysteriously gifted sister of the first High Lady of Prythian would result in a more powerful union than any other in history. And despite this thought percolating every other thought in his mind, he can’t help but feel like the Mother was trying to play some cruel joke on him. Like she created this woman turned fae just for him, with the way her body feels pressed against his, each movement of her hair sending her scent directly to his nose and nearly buckling his knees. Her smaller hand in his, fingers intertwined with his like their grooves were made just for him. Her bright eyes on his, and he thinks, for the first time in his life, he wouldn’t mind looking into them until time ceased to matter.

“Why not both, dear?” His question is rhetorical in nature, and with heat creeping up her neck she wonders. Could this male truly be evil incarnate if he looked at her like he was ready to worship the ground she walked on?

Hand in his, she blindly follows his lead, never having favoured ballroom dancing the way her eldest sister did. However, she can’t help but find herself drawn to the stranger who has her on her toes. The music carries the two around the room, spinning, floating across the cold emanating from the chiselled stone of the behemoth mountain, eyes never leaving each other. His grip on her body is firm yet gentle, the fire in her very core growing, and she wonders if it has something to do with the male’s heritage or her own gift. The two glide around the large poor excuse for a ballroom with carelessness, lost in a trance, ending up near Rhysand’s and Feyre’s thrones. They can feel eyes on them, burning with questions, accusations, the latter originating from the Truth Speaker herself. But to them, time seems to be still rather than flowing. Their own little undisturbed bubble.

“I can sense it, smell it.” Rhysand whispers into the crook of Feyre’s neck, just below her ear, eyes on his mate’s sister and the heir to the Autumn Court. It was obvious to him, to his brothers and Mor, a sickening sight, one that only seemed to make sense to the High Lord and Lady of the Night Court. Yet he wondered, with the cavern full of monstrous fae, how was the scent so permeating?

Feyre, chest heavy with disappointment but acceptance, nods. She can too. The tether between the two, the bond making itself known. And all she can do is watch as Eris dips her sister low, her hair grazing the ground, and places the ghost of a kiss to her throat.

A shockwave of pleasure washes over Y/N at the gentle pressure of his lips on her neck, the embers in her chest igniting and rising to a flame threatening to consume her whole. A tug in her chest, the fire she thinks, begs her to stay close, pull him back into her embrace and not let go. So, she follows her instinct and draws their bodies back together, closer this time, chests heaving against each other, her lips parted, and his eyes so focused on her he almost misses his own name spoken by Rhysand.

“Composure, Eris, please.” Rhysand purrs, examining his nails as if he hasn’t just witnessed the pairing in front of him all but seal their fate.

(Y/N)’s eyes widen. Not from fear or apprehension at the words of her sister’s mate. But rather from the crushing feeling of need weighing on her chest, need to be closer to this man she didn’t know existed before tonight, need to claw out Azriel’s eyes from the glare he’s throwing Eris, need to shield him with her own body from the threat she knows the inner circle poses.

Feeling the ripple in the air, the unmistakeable tug in his chest despite his unwavering fear of what it spells out for him, Eris gently lets go of her body, instead opting for placing a hand on her lower back, long fingers brushing out soft circles over the fabric of her black backless dress as he walks them the few steps it takes to stop at what he deems is an acceptable, safe, distance from Rhysand.

And before he can consider his words, really take in their weight and implications, they slip past his lips. “What do I need to do for her hand in marriage?”

Of course, Eris suspects the hold Rhysand possesses on all his inner circle members. But judging by the disdain in Y/N’s eyes he observed from the moment they arrived to the moment he approached her, Rhysand wasn’t too interested in this particular Archeron sister. Eris was intelligent, well versed in courtly socialite behaviours. He knew of the hoops he needed to jump through, pleasantries to exchange, even if they did not matter. He only really needed the confirmation from one fae, and it was the one his blood raced for, the fire within him craved.

“The choice is Y/N’s, of course.” Feyre chimes in, sharp eyes focused on her sister as she takes in the scene before her. Y/N’s look bordering on feral, fists clenched at her side, jaw rigid. And in her mind, Rhysand’s chuckle echoes, because she may not yet realise the obvious spark in the air.

The illusion of freedom Rhysand and Feyre paint is laughable, Y/N thinks. She always knew her sister to be cunning, and her mate turning out to be Rhysand was something nobody ever questioned, for all the right reasons. Two peas in a metaphorically corrupt pod. She swallows the hate threatening to spew through her clenched jaw, her heart threatening to break her ribcage if it beat any faster at the words of the male next to her. She knew of the courtly games, had been living their nightmare from the moment the cauldron let her take and take and still gifted her with more, knew his words were really just a necessity. And, with bone chilling horror, realized that the entirety of the Court of Nightmares was gawking at them. But the steady and reassuring hand on her back brings her to reality.

Head held high, knowing if she is to accept Eris’s proposal she will become a significant pawn in Rhysand’s game, she thinks that it would all be worth it if she gets to fall asleep in the arms of the stranger who somehow found the sliver of life left in her and pulled it to the surface. She feels, deep down, that marriage will be just a formality for whatever connection she’s feeling between the two of them. His question isn’t something she has to ponder over.

“Yes.” Her voice echoes around the cavern, loud and clear and heard by all.

She doesn’t miss the slight smirk on Rhysand’s lips, the kind look in Feyre’s eyes, the betrayal laced with defeated understanding on Mor’s face. Y/N knows the fiery haired male is on shaky terms with the inner circle at best, for reasons she hopes to understand, but some innate part of her feels whatever grievances will be aired, she will not be moved from his side.

“Congratulations, lovely Y/N. May this union be blessed by the Mother.” Rhysand hums, voice low, double-edged sword that is his tongue savouring the moment. As his eyes meet the amber of the eldest Vanserra brother, he can’t help but grin, because he knows. Eris knows that that hum in the air is, that fire in his chest. Reigning in his smirk, Rhysand sends a quick prayer to the Mother, thinking that Eris may need it if he is to survive by Y/N’s side.

Y/N lightly bows her head, an inch, just enough to show her gratitude for the sake of the onlookers. And before any other fae has the opportunity to pluck up the courage and approach the newly engaged pair, Eris is already gently leading her to the edge of the grand hall, hand still on her back.

“How would you like to sample some of that Autumn Court wine in your new home, my dear (Y/N)?” Eris purrs, lips brushing against the shell of her ear. And the scent that permeates his nose, one of want and need and anticipation, is the only answer he needs as the shadows grow around the two. As the pair winnows, she thinks that perhaps the festivities will be more joyful next year with Eris by her side.  

[blue-sadie]

Intriguing

Tsutey x Human Reader

Summary: tsutey always hated humans but there was only one that intrigued him

Warning: none

3rd person pov

Yn the dedicated scientist, briskly walked through the bustling Pandoran laboratory accompanied by her colleague, norman their mission was to explore new planets and discover potential resources that could benefit both humans and the Na'vi.

Yn had always been intrigued by the wonders of the universe, and this mission was her opportunity to delve into the unknown.

As the twin suns of Pandora began to set, yn found herself engrossed in her work, peering through the binoculars to focus on a distant star cluster.

Unbeknownst to her, Tsu'tey, the fierce Na'vi warrior, watched her from afar. He had secretly admired yn's intelligence, dedication, and her kind heart that radiated through her every action.

Tsu'tey had long been intrigued by the humans and their mysterious ways. Though he often kept his distance from them, something about yn's presence tugged at his heartstrings, evoking a feeling he couldn't quite comprehend.

With each passing day, his curiosity grew, compelling him to study her from a distance, hidden among the lush green foliage of the Pandoran forest.

On this fateful day, yn felt an inexplicable urge to venture further into the dense woods, driven by an almost ethereal calling to discover a specific planet that held potential promise for their mission.

Unbeknownst to her, Tsu'tey, his curiosity piqued, cautiously trailed behind her, silently observing her every step.

Feeling a set of eyes on her, yn didn't allow fear to envelop her. Instead, she embraced the possibility that her enigmatic companion meant no harm.

After a while, she neared the edge of a small cliff, overlooking a breathtaking vista of vibrant flora and cascading waterfalls.

Seizing the opportunity, she called out with a voice filled with compassion, "Tsu'tey, I know you're there. Please, I need your help to find these planets."

Startled by yn's perceptive words, Tsu'tey hesitated for a moment. The connection they shared, though unspoken, grew stronger by the day.

Moved by her trust and willingness to seek his alliance, he slowly emerged from his hidden vantage point.

His piercing golden eyes met her gaze, reflecting a mixture of curiosity, caution, and a strange newfound hope.

Wordlessly, Tsu'tey signaled his willingness to assist, stepping forward as if guided by an invisible bond.

Together, they embarked on a mission that would intertwine their destinies, Na'vi and human united as one.

Guided by yn's extensive knowledge and Tsu'tey's connection to Pandora, they set out on a journey through distant star systems, traversing the cosmos.

Their bond grew with each planet they discovered, sharing scientific expertise and Na'vi customs along the way.

As their quest continued, yn discovered that Tsu'tey's strength and affinity for nature complemented her unwavering determination and analytical mind.

Underneath his imposing exterior, she saw a profound sense of compassion and loyalty, drawing her closer to him with each passing moment.

And Tsu'tey, in turn, admired yn for her unwavering commitment to scientific progress and her willingness to embrace the unknown alongside the Na'vi.

Together, their shared journey through the stars could not only reshape their understandings of science and culture but also intertwine their hearts in a cosmic love story that bridged worlds.

In their unity, they found strength, purpose, and a love that defied the boundaries of time and space.

Tag.List

@greekgods15

@sweetirilly

[bromfieldhall]

A Family of Their Own

Set a few weeks after the Butterfly Ball, Penelope and Colin discover they are going to be parents.

Rating: Teens and over - a little bit smutty but no overly so.

Part 1 of Love and Life Collection - little oneshots that I'll post as and when

A FAMILY OF THEIR OWN

“It is quite warm, is it not?”

Colin glanced over at his wife then did a double take, a concerned frown creasing his brow. Her cheeks were very flushed and her light blue eyes had a decided glazed appearance. A slight tremor run through her petite frame and his arm tightened around her waist.

“Are you well, Pen?” he asked in a low voice, not wanting to draw attention to her.

Penelope stared up at him blankly, almost as if she hadn’t understood a word he’d said.

Becoming even more worried, Colin smoothly manoeuvred her unresisting body towards a chair at the edge of the room.

It had been almost five weeks since the Butterfly Ball and the Cowper’s had put on a lavish event in order to try and win back some favour from the Ton after Cressida had all but ruined their name.

Penelope had been reluctant to attend but Colin had persuaded her otherwise. Whilst there was certainly no love lost between their families, society dictated that they should make an appearance and he hadn’t had the inclination to fuel the dislike he knew Lady Cowper already held for his new bride. Maybe he should have listened to his wife, however, he decided as she stumbled slightly.

His grip tightened on her waist even more but, instinctively, he knew that they wouldn’t make it to the seat in time.

As if on cue, Penelope suddenly gasped out his name just before her eyes closed and her legs buckled.

Deftly, Colin swept her up into his arms before she hit the ground. Ignoring the startled looks and murmurings of several couples nearby, he strode straight past the intended chair and out of the ballroom.

“Quickly! Have you a quiet room?” he asked a nearby footman urgently.

The young man’s eyes widened momentarily then he nodded abruptly.

“Just down here, Sir,” he replied, leading him to a door on the left.

He opened it up and stepped aside to allow them to enter.

The room was large and looked to be some kind of study. There were only two candles burning so the footman hurriedly grabbed one and lit a few more as Colin spied a settee and hastened over. He gently laid his wife down on it then dropped to one knee and took hold of her hand.

“Pen?” he urged worriedly, tenderly brushing some of her auburn curls back from her slightly damp brow.

Her face now seemed to have lost all colour and he felt a rising panic start in the pit of his stomach and make its way up to settle uncomfortably in his chest like a heavy weight.

“What has happened, Colin? Is Penelope ill?” came Violet’s concerned voice suddenly from behind him.

He glanced up at his mother and saw her walking swiftly towards them with Lord Anderson in tow. They had been in the middle of a dance when she’d seen her son carry his wife out of the ball and had hurried to find them.

“I do not know,” he replied with a shake of his head, unease lending his tone a slight edge, “it was all rather sudden.”

Violet nodded and rested a comforting hand on his shoulder. Feeling the tension there, she looked back at the footman who was still hovering at the door and asked that he fetch some water and a shot of brandy.

The young man gave a nod and left, narrowly avoiding Lady Cowper who unexpectedly swept into the room and cast a disapproving eye over the scene before her.

“Is all well here?” she enquired. Her role of hostess had compelled her to do her duty once she’d been made aware of the new Mrs Bridgerton’s collapse. That did not stop her, however, from adding a touch disdainfully, “Not had too much wine, I hope?”

Colin bristled at her tone and dragged his gaze away from his wife long enough to shoot the woman an angry glare.

“Penelope has not touched a drop all evening,” he bit out icily.

“But thank you for your concern,” Violet interjected smoothly. Pasting a polite smile on her face, she continued, “We shall look after her and although I am certain it is nothing serious, perhaps you could arrange for their carriage to be brought around?”

Lady Cowper smiled thinly back then closed her fan with a snap and gave a nod of her head before sauntering out of the room.

“Beastly woman,” Colin muttered harshly as he watched her leave.

His mother gave him a mildly reproachful look but said nothing. How could she when she felt the same?

A faint groan had them all turn to stare at Penelope and Colin was relieved to see that she was starting to stir. He immediately clutched her hand a little tighter and leaned nearer as her eyes fluttered open.

“How are you feeling, my love?” he asked tenderly.

She took a few seconds to become fully awake and a few more to process her husband’s softly spoken words. She had no time to reply, however, as the footman returned with the water and brandy that Lady Bridgerton had requested. Colin took the former with a nod of gratitude and refused the latter.

“That will be all, thank you,” he said, dismissing the footman before turning back to his wife and asking warmly, “Here, do you think you are able to sit up and drink this?”

Penelope glanced at the drink, then at the three people staring expectantly at her and nodded. Pushing herself up, she took the proffered glass and sipped on the water.

“Better?” he queried after a moment.

“Yes. Thank you,” she answered with a quick, but slightly self-conscious smile. “Much better. My apologies, I do not know what came over me.”

“As long as you are well now, that is all that matters,” Colin assured her as he ran his still worried gaze over her features. “Although, you do look a little pale.”

He placed the back of his hand gently against her forehead and frowned.

“I promise you I am fine, Colin,” Penelope insisted not quite able to look him in the eyes, “though I do think I should like to go home now please.”

“Of course,” he instantly agreed, then glanced towards the door and added sardonically, “Lady Cowper is supposed to be seeing to it, but I do not hold out much hope.”

“Perhaps it would be a good idea if you go and see about the carriage, Colin, while I sit with Penelope,” Violet decided, taking a seat next to her daughter-in-law. He looked about to refuse but his mother continued firmly, “Do not worry, I will take care of her.”

She gave him a reassuring smile and Colin knew well enough that she was going to brook no argument. Giving Penelope’s hand a quick squeeze he stood up to leave.

“I shall go with you and call for our carriage too,” Lord Anderson offered, earning a grateful smile from Violet.

The men gave the women a small bow before taking their leave and once they’d gone Violet immediately turned to Penelope.

“Now my dear, how long have you been feeling out of sorts?”

Penelope stared at her mother-in-law’s kindly face and sighed.

“A few days now,” she admitted quietly, taking another sip of water.

“And are you fatigued? Nauseous?”

Penelope nodded, feeling heat start to warm her cheeks.

Violet nodded and smiled.

“When I was first expecting with Anthony, I swooned too,” she began happily, then frowned slightly before musing aloud, “Although I do not remember it being quite so early on. It is, after all, barely six weeks since…” she trailed off and her eyes widened as she stared at Penelope’s horrified, ever reddening face. “Oh!”

Now it was Violet’s turn to turn a shade of colour that matched her daughter-in-law’s.

Penelope looked away in mortification and gulped down the rest of the water. Surely there must be a large hole somewhere that she could crawl into? It was bad enough that Violet was confirming her own suspicions, let alone her working out when said ‘suspicions’ had been created. She put her glass down on a nearby table with a thud and felt Violet grasp her hand. Steeling herself for a disapproving look, she turned her head and was surprised to see the older woman gazing at her with an understanding smile.

“I am so pleased for you both and I look forward to hearing your announcement,” Violet told her warmly, then leaned forward to add conspiratorially, “when you are ready, of course.”

Penelope had to smile at that and felt relief wash through her. She really didn’t want to be the source of any more gossip surrounding their family. She’d contributed plenty as it was being Lady Whistledown and she couldn’t bear the thought that some might believe that Colin had been forced to marry out of duty rather than the love match that they were.

“Thank you, Lady Bridgerton, although I fear that once I tell Colin, he will want to share the news with the rest of the family as soon as possible, no matter what time of day it is.”

“Then perhaps tell him after breakfast so we may all get some sleep first,” her mother-in-law suggested causing both ladies to laugh. “And please, how many times must I say, Penelope? Call me Violet.”

The redhead nodded. She still found it hard to use her mother-in-law’s first name after all the years of calling her Lady Bridgerton.

“Now,” she continued briskly, “some words of advice if I may? Dry crackers and plain biscuits will be your friends in the coming weeks. Make sure that cook has plenty in.”

“I will…Violet,” Penelope replied dutifully.

Her mother-in-law beamed in delight and patted her hand.

“That’s better.”

Penelope smiled back and the two women fell into an easy conversation about other pregnancy symptoms and a funny story or two of the Bridgerton children when they were babies.

It was after one of those stories that Colin returned to find his two favourite women laughing at something and felt the pressure suddenly dissipate from his chest. He shared a relieved smile with Marcus, who stood beside him, then let out a sigh. It had frightened him to see her faint again. He knew it was the fear of discovery that had led to her first swoon.

This evening, however…was she ill and not telling him?

He’d noticed that she had looked pale at times the last few days but now, at least, she appeared well…glowing even.

Penelope turned her gaze to him and smiled. His breath caught. Lord, he would never tire of her eyes, of her…everything, of that he was certain.

“Our carriage is waiting,” he announced and held out his hand.

“We should take our leave of Lord and Lady Cowper,” Penelope reminded him as she lightly grasped his proffered hand and stood up.

Colin grimaced slightly at the thought of speaking to Lady Cowper again. Sometimes he hated the societal rules that meant he had to be good mannered when he sorely did not want to be. The woman irked him; even more so since her daughter had tried to claim Whistledown for herself. He also strongly suspected that it had been her rather than Cressida who had written that despicable sheet about their family before Penelope’s had usurped it.

“Do not worry, we shall offer regards on your behalf,” Violet assured them. “Take Penelope home and let her rest.”

Colin gave his mother a grateful smile and, with a quick nod of acknowledgement in Marcus’ direction, led his wife away. He did not need telling twice.

Holding hands, they headed out of the building and into the cool evening air. Once ensconced in their carriage, he put his arm around Penelope and allowed himself to relax. Having her near always seemed to have that effect.

“How are you feeling now?” he enquired, gazing intently at the face.

“Tired,” she responded and leaned her head upon his shoulder with a contented sigh.

He pulled her a little closer and absently stroked her waist as they took the relatively short journey home in easy silence. When they arrived, Penelope headed up to their rooms to get ready for bed while Colin went to the kitchen to prepare some warm drinks. It was something that their staff had quickly learned that he liked to do himself and readily left him to it. They thought it sweet that he looked after her so. He added a plate of biscuits to the tray and went upstairs to join his wife.

Penelope had just slipped on her mint green, silken robe when Colin entered their bedchamber carrying the treats. Placing the tray down, he handed her one of the steaming cups and took the other for himself.

“Hot cocoa to help you sleep.”

He smiled at her and took a sip of his own drink, his gaze admiring as he slowly took in the exquisite picture she made standing in front of him. With her curly hair loose about her shoulders, stunning face and delectable figure, he knew he was the luckiest man on earth.

Penelope stared back at him and was suddenly overcome by an unexpected wave of emotion.

There was a point only a few weeks ago that she had firmly believed they would be at odds forever. Thankfully, she had married a truly special man who had more forgiveness and goodness in his little finger than someone like Lady Cowper had in her entire being. She had been in love with him for so long that she hardly remembered a time when she wasn’t…and now she was expecting his child.

Did life really get any better than this?

She was so caught up in her own musings that she failed to notice that Colin was staring at her in concern until he put his drink down with a startlingly loud thump. Cocoa splashed over the sides of the cup and dripped onto the table but he paid it no mind. His sole focus was on his wife.

“Pen, what’s wrong? Why are you crying?”

“Am I?” she asked, quickly using her fingers to dash away the tears she hadn’t realised were falling.

He nodded abruptly then took her drink from her and placed it next to his before reaching up to gently cup her cheek. Leaning down a little, he looked into her eyes. “Did Lady Cowper say something to you while I went for the carriage?” he asked his low voice carrying a hint of anger.

“No!” Penelope denied quickly, “No, these are happy tears, I assure you.”

He looked confused, but then his expression turned to one of wonder as she took his hand from her cheek and drew it down until it rested lightly against her stomach.

“We are going to have a baby, Colin.”

“A baby?” he echoed faintly and then, without warning, he let out a joyous shout of laughter, grabbed her about the waist and lifted her off her feet. He whirled her around. Twice. Then he placed her back on the ground and kissed her soundly on the lips.

Penelope laughed as she caught her breath and put a hand to her head which was spinning a little.

Immediately Colin grew concerned and guided her over to the bed where he promptly picked her up, for the second time that evening, and laid her down upon it.

“Forgive me, I don’t want you swooning again,” he told her apologetically.

“I am fine, it was just a little giddiness,” she told him dismissively.

“What can I get you? What do you need?” he queried, still clearly troubled.

She grabbed his hand and gave it a firm tug.

“Just you, in bed, with me,” she answered with saucy grin.

“Is that wise?” he began dubiously with a slight frown.

Penelope stared at him in mild exasperation and had a sudden realisation of what the next few months were going to be like now that she was pregnant. He was going to be insufferable if she allowed it. She should’ve known. His kindness and thoughtfulness were two of the things that she loved most about him…but not if it meant she would be sleeping alone!

“Yes, very wise,” she retorted.

Edging over to make room for him to lay beside her, she patted the bed and smiled invitingly at him.

“But…” He paused and swallowed hard as Penelope sat up then shrugged the robe from her shoulders and off, exposing a decent amount of her creamy skin to his avid gaze. Her matching chemise left little to the imagination, his imagination anyway. After only being together a matter of weeks, he already knew his wife’s body better than his own. “Um...” For the life of him he couldn’t remember any of the objections he’d been about to make nor, indeed, why he would even want to. “Perhaps you are right,” he finally acquiesced and joined her quickly on the bed.

“I am,” she stated agreeably and started unbuttoning his waistcoat before he even had a chance to lie down.

“And, of course, it is best that I am close in case you need me,” he pointed out reasonably as he propped himself up on his side and watched her deft fingers move onto his shirt.

“It is,” she concurred brightly, unfastening the last button and pushing the fine fabric apart with a happy sigh. She ran her hand over his hair roughened chest and raked her nails lightly down, drawing a soft gasp from her husband as she grazed over one of his nipples.

Colin felt his body harden in response and when she leaned in for a kiss, he met her halfway. It was brief and Penelope moaned in protest when he broke away, but he had decided that he was going to take his wife slow.

Rolling her onto her back, he placed another chaste kiss on her lips then pulled slightly away and stared adoringly into her eyes. Reaching up, he skimmed his fingertips lightly down her cheek. Her eyes closed at his touch and his gaze followed his hand as it continued downwards along her neck then further still over the soft mounds of her perfect bosom. Her breath hitched at the contact, back arching slightly to force a firmer touch, but he didn’t stop until his hand came to a rest and flatten down on her stomach. He glanced back at her face and saw that she was now watching him. They shared a smile, then she covered his hand with hers and Colin moved so that their fingers intertwined over their growing child.

They were going to have a baby.

Their own family.

“I love you,” he told her, emotion making his voice husky.

“I love you,” Penelope whispered back.

And then he kissed her. Slowly. Deeply. Putting every ounce of feeling he could into it until the need to breathe forced them apart. Penelope let out a small whimper, but he was already peppering kisses along her neck and across her chest before capturing her lips once more in another drugging kiss.     

Again, he broke away only when they had to, then, with a soft smile, he got off the bed and quickly removed his clothing.  Penelope went to sit up as he returned to her, but he gently laid a hand on her shoulder and shook his head.

Tonight, it was all about her.

Penelope lay back down and gave herself over to a world of sensation. She felt as though she was being worshipped as Colin took his time savouring every single inch of her body. He had always been an attentive lover, but this was something else as he bought her to the edge again and again with hand and mouth until she thought she might actually go up in flames if she didn’t find her release soon.

Sensing her need, he finally moved up her body and gave her lingering kiss. Tasting herself on his lips only seemed to heighten her desire to the point where she was almost squirming by the time he settled between her legs with a satisfied sigh.

When had he taken off her chemise, she wondered briefly, before he entered her in one quick, smooth movement. Penelope drew in a sharp breath as her body started to orgasm almost immediately.

Colin gritted his teeth and held still, watching her release play out on her beautiful face as her body clenched tightly around him. He allowed the waves of her pleasure to ebb a little until he couldn’t hold himself back any longer and started to move, stoking the flames once more.

Penelope’s eyes widened as she stared at him in disbelief that her body could respond again so quickly. It was almost too much.

“Colin,” she gasped as he moved with increasing urgency, hitting just the right spot before she fell for a second time, her back arching off the bed with the force of her completion.

Penelope’s release triggered his and Colin groaned out her name as he climaxed hard.  Breathing heavily, he desperately tried to stop himself from collapsing on top of her, but his arms couldn’t hold out. He was utterly spent.

“Forgive me,” he muttered into her neck as he attempted to catch his breath.

“For what?” Penelope wondered in confusion, her voice sounding just as breathy as his did. “That was wonderful.”

“I crushed you,” he explained, trying to find the energy to move even though laying in his wife’s arms was exactly where he wanted to stay.

But…the baby…

That thought roused him just enough to ease himself off of her, despite her protestations, and roll onto his back, pulling her with him.

Cradled against his side, Penelope laid her arm on his chest and rested her chin on her hand so that she could look at him.

Bodies now pleasantly lethargic, they shared a smile and Colin absently started playing with her hair, letting the soft curls run through his fingers.

“We shall have to tell the rest of the family our good news in the morning,” he commented quietly.

“Your mama has already guessed,” Penelope admitted a little guiltily.

Colin merely chuckled and placed a kiss on the tip of her nose.

“I am not surprised. She seems to know everything,” he replied with affection.

“She also said that we could…,” she hesitated a moment, then continued, “we could make the announcement when we are ready.”

“Ready?” He stared at her quizzically. “Well, why would we want to wait?” The sudden reddening of Penelope’s cheeks was all the answer he needed as it suddenly dawned on him exactly why. “Oh!…So…”

Penelope nodded.

“The afternoon you showed me this house.”

He smiled at the memory.

“Our first time,” he murmured with a hint of pride.

“Or our second,” she contradicted ruefully.

There was a little pause as they stared at one another before adding in unison, “Or our third.”

They both started laughing and seeing him look so happy, Penelope found herself blinking back sudden tears. This was something she knew she was going to have to get used to in her condition as one tear escaped and rolled down her cheek.

“Sorry,” she muttered self-consciously. “I’m only a few weeks along and already my emotions seem to be getting the better of me.”

“Do not apologise,” he said with an understanding smile and gently brushed the drop away with his thumb. “Come, let us get some sleep, it has been a long evening and you must exhausted.”

Penelope nodded and he gathered her into his warm embrace, her arm naturally sliding across his waist as she settled her head down on his chest.

“And, just so we are clear, Mrs Bridgerton, I shall be here for every single one of your emotions no matter what they are,” Colin declared emphatically, hugging her a little closer to him.

She lifted her head and looked up at him with narrowed gaze.

“That maybe so, but what if I am sick at all times of day like my sisters?” she challenged.

“Then I shall hold your hair back from your beautiful face and ensure that you have a cool towel for when you are finished,” he vowed, smiling slightly as he gave one of her curls a gentle tug.

Her mouth quirked upwards at his words before she ventured mischievously, “And what if I should have a craving for, say…biscuits?”

Colin’s eyes widened in mock horror.

“Ah, well then, my dear, I fear it’s every Bridgerton for themself,” he teased with a chuckle.

His reward was a delighted laugh and a quick kiss on the lips before Penelope and snuggled into him again. He went back to stroking her hair and was pleased when her breathing soon evened out. Moments later, she was asleep.

Moving carefully so as not to wake her, he deftly arranged the quilt more snugly around them then settled back and closed his eyes.

And as he drifted off to join his wife in slumber, his last jumbled thoughts were of a bonny baby with the bluest eyes and reddest hair, of wondering which room would best suit a nursery and, rather oddly, that when Anthony finally found out about the babe, he really hoped that he wouldn’t challenge him to a duel after all!

THE END