#grisha volkov

[furiarossa]

Muscle, glorious beard and hair, but wait, there's more!

Rise, become better, become stronger, become healthier! Triton grows, learns to be better, understands his daughter... whereas Gaston, Grisha Volkov and Frollo remain toxic. A metaphorical artwork about how real heroes can rise from darker place and become better, while real villains, well... not really.

Mixed 'n complex commission for HeJaWolf, drawn with black ballpoint pen and colored in digital.

The pose (requested specifically from the customer) is heavily inspired from a cool Aquaman cover.

+$2 patrons can download HERE the .zip pack with WIP steps and full resolution files.

★ FurAffinity|Deviantart|Commission prices|Tapas|Pillowfort★

[sydscripts]

TW Gargoyles comics SPOILERS:

Ugh. "My boy"... 😑

Not an ounce of blame to himself for his own son getting arrested and instead condemning the Gargoyles for stopping him from committing further felonies and damage to himself... Wolf's dad is an enabler, just like Hakon! Which makes so much sense why Wolf is the way he is, so self-hating, directionless and just overall mad at the world about it!

Congratulations Greg, you have created a character that I actually hate more than Maggie or Margot. 😹

But of course like Maggie and Margot, I love to hate him, because that just means there's so much more in terms of potential for Wolf and getting a taste of where he comes from is a much needed dosage of medicine for context to his character.

Absolutely love Gargoyles and these comics ❤️

[thewriterthatghostedyou]

Shadows and Scars

Chapter 26

Two chapters in two days?!?! I’m as surprised as you are. I forgot how fun it was to write this series, and hopefully I’ll get more time to write during break. I hope you enjoy this chapter! I know I’m enjoying where this story is going. 😉

Enjoy!

Trigger warnings: it’s an interrogation and death so there’s that, attempted kidnapping?/ non con? It’s a few men being grabby, and death and violence.

Never beta read so all mistakes are my own, and formatted on my phone so hopefully the formatting isn’t screwed up.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Aleksander’s POV

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Have they talked?” He asked, evenly, striding into the dungeons.

“A lot of lies. But Volkov hasn’t said a word. Ivan’s with them.” Zoya responded.

The two men were both chained to heavy wooden chairs in the middle of the large room. The shooter seems to look exhausted, sweat clinging to his whole body and head hunched over. Volkov, on the other hand, was just smiling maniacally.

“I’ve been swindled. Hoodwinked.” The shooter pleaded. Volkov snorted and shook his head at that.

“My guards told me that they caught you fleeing the scene of the crime.” He accused.

“Yes, I followed them.” He turned his head to look at the man next to him. “All of them, but-“

“Followed whom?” His voice dropped lower.

“Him, and these people. They come from the other side of the fold. From the start, they seemed, just a bit off to me, so when they left our stage at the fete, I followed them to see what they were up to.” He breathed heavily to catch his breath. “And at the time that I walked into that room, they were gone and…” He huffed a nervous laugh. “Saints, it was unspeakable. So- so I ran-“

“How much of that is true?” He demanded, making eye contact with Ivan.

“He did cross the fold with the others. The rest were lies.” Ivan said as he gave a menacing stare to the shooter.

“What?” The shooter squirmed in his seat nervously. “That’s- No-“

“Your heart gives you away.” Volkov said from next to him. Watching the entire scene with subdued interest.

Aleksander stiffened at the sound of his voice. This is the man you thought was so important? So admirable? He’d deal with him later.

“Do you know we keep records of everyone who crosses the fold?” He said evenly.

The man in the seat opened his mouth to talk, but Aleksander spoke over him. “For the winter fete, we had ambassadors from Kerch, Novyi Zem, the Wandering Isle, but you didn’t pass with them, did you? No. You and your crew, you have another way.” He spat the word crew out venomously.

“I don’t know what you mean. I-“ The man stuttered.

“He does.” Ivan said simply.

“I’m an entertainer!” The man shouted desperately. “Oskar. Oskar Krepkov.”

He didn’t even need to look at Ivan to know the man was lying. It was a trick he had plenty of time to master over the centuries.

With one smooth movement, he strode over and ripped up the sleeve of the man’s shirt. There on his shaking wrist were fifteen tally marks.

“Well.” He said slowly. “This is certainly entertaining. You are the conductor.” He moved his face closer to the conductor’s as he spoke. “Arken Visser, are you not?” His voice became dangerously low as gripped his wrist tighter before shoving himself off of him.

“You smuggle Grisha out of MY PALACE!” He whipped around and yelled at him. “You help them abandon the war effort.”

Arlen’s face grew serious as he dropped his act. “No. I deal in legal indentures, I don’t mess with Grisha.”

“Lie.” Ivan said lazily.

“I don’t need him to tell me.” He spoke mockingly. “I had a spy. Nina Zenik. Ring any bells?”

Arken’s face morphed into an angry scowl. “Nina?”

“Last report we had from her was that she’d be crossing the Fold with the conductor and three rogues from Ketterdam.”

Arken’s face fell as he knew there was no way to talk himself out of this.

“What their mission was, she didn’t know. She was waiting to meet you all. Now poor Nina.. has not been heard from since. Might that have something to do with you, Mr. Visser?”

“No.” He breathed out instantly. “I don’t!” He looked at Ivan to confirm what he had said, which he did with a small shrug.

“See? I don’t know what happened.”

“My guess,” Aleksander started. “You struck a deal with these three thieves to kidnap Alina Starkov. But..” he leaned towards him slowly. “You have a stronger relationship with a certain West Ravkan general who has notions of ruling his own country.” With a small tap on Ivan’s shoulder, the man walked away quickly and Zoya followed without hesitation.

“So long as the fold separates him from us. So you made another deal. You put on a disguise. And you played at being assassin.”

“That’s right.” Arken said lowly. “The prize to bring her back to Ketterdam was a million, split four ways. But Zlatan offered me the same number.. to kill her. So.. give me half that. I’ll get revenge for you, I can get close to Zlatan.”

“No.” Aleksander said quietly. “I think I’ll handle that myself.” And with one smooth flick of his hands, the shadows that inhabited the dank cellar began to move and slithered towards him. He begged for his life of course. They always did, but that never changed the outcome.

Aleksander watched with a sick satisfaction as they crawled onto the man like snakes and began to force their way in his mouth and ears.

“Now. Mr. Volkov.” He spoke loudly over the sound of Arken gagged and choking on the shadows that went deeper and deeper into his throat and head. “I believe we have much to talk about.”

—————

Y/n’s POV

—————

“So are we just going to ignore the light seeping out of the trunk or…” Jesper gave a weird face as the four of you watched light spill through the locked trunk.

Kaz just rolled his eyes at him as a slight click was heard.

You all held your breath as the trunk cover slowly lifted and Alina climbed out quickly.

Jesper reached for his gun, but Alina wasn’t paying attention to him. Her eyes seemed you out, worry etched on her face as she took you in.

“We don’t want any trouble.” Jesper placatingly held out his free hand.

“Neither do I, so we’ll just be on our way. Y/n get behind me.” She whispered seriously.

“Let’s just all calm down-“ You were interrupted by the sound of Kaz’s cane hitting the carriage to block her escape.

“Clearly you both want out of East Ravka.” Jesper and the two others stayed still as Alina slowly stepped in front of you. “But we can help you.”

Inej nodded enthusiastically as Hesper continued. “We have a secure route through the Fold.”

“We’re fine. We prefer to travel alone.” Alina gave you another worried look before turning back to face the crows.

“Y/n you know Ruslan trusted us, you can too.” Jesper pleaded, turning his attention to you.

“I’m sorry,” you sighed sadly. “I can’t get caught again. I can’t go back there, neither of us can.” Your cane brushed against your leg as you gripped it tightly with both hands. “You need to let us go.”

“Don’t be rash, if you stick with us, everybody gets what they want.”

“We are not being anyone’s captive ever again.” Alina hissed out. “So step aside and let us pass.”

“I’m afraid we can’t let that happen.” Kaz finally spoke up, glaring at Alina in what seemed to be his usual fashion.

Before you could move, a burst of light flashed from Alina’s hands into Jesper, blinding him and Kaz. As the light disappeared, you noticed Inej covering her eyes before looking at Alina with reverence and holding her hands up in surrender.

“Let’s go.” Alina said, grabbing your arm and dragging you away from the carriage.

“Shit!” Your leg wobbled, unused to being without your brace as you hopped to catch up to her pace. “Alina I can’t run.” You heaved out, gritting your teeth in pain as the two of you ducked into an open alleyway.

“What do you mean? Where’s your brace?” She frantically whispered.

“It’s too noticeable.” You breathed heavily, as Alina stuck her head out of the alley and looked for the crows.

“We need to go. Now.” She whispered urgently. Taking you by the arms again, gentler than before. “Walk as fast as you can.” She led you out of the street and your eyes brightened as you noticed a stall selling cloaks.

“Wait.” Your coins dangled in your pocket as you hurriedly pulled them out and slammed them on the table. “We’ll take two of the black ones.” Alina gave you a small smile as she grabbed what you had paid for and wrapped one of the heavy cloaks around your shoulders.

“Good thinking.”

You discreetly pointed out Jesper ahead of the two of you, before taking her down another street corner. “This way.”

“Are you ok?” Alina blurted out.

You shrugged as the two of you continued slowly towards the outskirts of the town.

“I’ve been better. I’m not sure that treason is a good look on me.” You joked, huffing out a grunt of pain and trying to disguise it as a laugh.

“Why did you run?” Alina asked, securing her own cloak on and pulling up the hood.

“I haven’t been completely honest with you Alina.” You said softly. “I’m not just part of the General’s guard.” You paused as the two of you stopped when your breathing became too labored.

You squeezed your eyes shut before continuing. “I’m his whore.” You said sadly, trying to ignore Alina’s look of betrayal.

“I don’t know what he did to me, or why me, but somehow he can control my body and-“ You blinked away tears as you continued. “But that’s not the point. He has plans for you. And knowing him they can’t be good, I wanted to look for you, but I needed to get out. To be able to think clearly without him pulling the strings.”

“Is he?” Alina’s eyes widened as she backed away from you. “Is he still pulling the strings?”

You shook your head frantically as you noticed a small tear fall down her cheek. “No. I can’t feel him. Not anymore. Baghra said that the further I am from him the more control I have.”

“Please.” You begged, grabbing her hands tightly. “We need to go. If he finds us…” Your mind didn’t even want to finish the sentence as Alina nodded. Part of you knew he could have been good to you. But that part was the one that became complacent. That fell to his influence. That forgot what kind of a man he really was. What he had done to Anya. To Ruslan.

“Y/n.” Alina cupped your face with her hand and you blinked in surprise at the sudden warmth. “I won’t let him get us.” You briefly noted that her pupils dilated as she looked at you and you blushed at your close proximity. “I won’t let him hurt you.”

The two of you were shocked back into your surroundings as a man hobbled slowly towards your alcove and puked on the side of the street.

“Hey! Hey you!” He shouted, pointing to Alina. “So far from Shu Han, aren’t you?”

“We should go.” You said, forcing out a fake smile at the man before turning to head down the street.

You froze as the First army man grabbed Alina by the wrist and spun her back to face him. “Why don’t you come inside? You can bring your friend too.” He leered at her before dragging her towards the door.

Without thinking, you swung your wooden cane at his leg, as Alina punched him in the jaw.

“Hurry!” You caught yourself from saying her name as you gripped your cane like a bat as two more First army soldiers came to their friend’s defense.

Your eyes widened as one of them shoved Alina into the wall and tried to hit her head on the hard surface.

“She’s got some fight in her yeah?” The other man laughed at you as your heart beat rapidly in your chest. “We’ll at least you can’t run away.” He pulled up his trousers with a lazy smile before quickly lunging at you.

“Leave us alone!” You shouted, swinging at him with your cane, but missing as he jumped back to dodge it.

“I’m going to have fun watching you try to crawl away when I-“ You saw red as a bird launched itself at the man’s head, knocking him back with more force than you thought was possible for such a small thing.

He hit the ground with a dull thud as the man you attacked Alina screamed in agony as she shined her light into his eyes.

“Stop! After them!”

“Saints. We need to get out of this town now.” You said, grabbing Alina’s warm hands and letting her pull you away from the scene.

Perhaps if you had stopped to actually look at the bird that laid next to your attacker's head, you’d have noticed the sizable bullet hole through its eye.

[vicky82gargoylesfan]

My Thoughts on Gargoyles Issue 6: Underwater

Another great issue with a few jaw dropping, surprising moments.

spoilers

Brooklyn is Narrating, he seems to be struggling as leader, while Goliath is in Prison. He doesn’t think he’s doing anything right.

Goliath refuses to be rescued and thinks it’s best he stays because he thinks it will make things worse.

So Dino Dracon tries to blow up Grisha Volkov. I thought it was going to be a first character death for this comic but he survives, he is badly injured though. 

Volkov thinks Brod and Dane are behind the bombing and asks his son to get rid of Brod. We don’t see his son at first but it made me think that we already know this character and made me keep guessing throughout the comic.

So now Dino Dracon has got Sanchez vs Yingpei and Brod/Dane vs Volkov and is now going after Izaak Slaughter.

So It was Xanatos who hired Tobe Crest to be Goliath’s Lawyer, Hmm i’m starting to think it was Xanatos who donated the resources to the Gargoyles Task Force. He did have this plan during the SLG series and Phase 1 was the Halloween Party.

Brooklyn asks Coldstone and Coldfire to protect them during the day, as he still doesn’t trust Xanatos. I wonder he knows something about Xanatos during his Timedancing journey.

John Casterway is back, I wonder who he is standing next to him.

This took me by surprise, Antoinette visiting Broadway asking for help to stop her uncle. I know that Tony must have told his sister about the Gargoyles but how did she know where they lived? Did she just guess or has connections. The castle is under lockdown too, unless that was only for the day time. 

I’m not trusting her at the moment but also concerned about her at the same time because if Dino finds out that she’s been going behind his back and trying to stop him, she could be in big trouble. I do have a theory that she could end up in Sevarius hands, he does have a syringe with Angela’s DNA in it and he was going to use it on Robyn Canmore in the Bad Guys comic series.

I love the 2 page spread of Brooklyn Timedancing Journey:-

- 210 bce Brooklyn visits China and come across the Terra-Cotta Soldiers.

- 2198, Thought that his visit to 2198 happened before he met Katana but she’s with him, unless he visit’s it twice. I wonder if lost his eye during 2198.

- 1942, visit’s USS Nashville.

Broadway ignores Brooklyn’s orders about staying at the castle and goes to Izaak Slaughter film studios, assuming to warn him about Dino Dracon or help him.

Lex follows him. I just love their little chat. Broadway ask’s Lex if he wants to be his Second for his and Angela’s Mating Ceremony, Lex says yes. Also Broadway asking Lex about his long distance chat with Amp, Lex just smiles and quickly changes the subject.

So how did Dino Dracon get a hold of Cyberbiotics drone bots, did they buy them or steal them.

The ending was a surprise, turns out Volkov son is Wolf, he wants to get rid of Brod but with Tony in the same Prison cell as him, Wolf ask’s Dino is it ok if Tony get’s caught up in the crossfire too, which he’s fine with. Wolf will also try to get rid of Goliath too. So is he going alone or is Jackal and Hyena going with him too.

Demona returns in issue 7, I can’t wait but I wonder how she fits into all this, i’m excited.

[little-cereal-draws]

Ivan Volkov was a very lucky boy.

He had proven himself and at only seventeen years old the General had chosen him to help lead their fight for freedom as his right hand man; the highest honor a grisha could receive.

But now he keeps running into Fedyor Kaminsky and his delinquent friends around every corner and it's driving him insane. It must be because Fedyor's after his coveted position with the General, right? Surely, there's no... other reason.

[42wallaby-way-sydney]

the OCs + name meanings [3/4]

[marvelmusing]

A Dance

Pairing: Aleksander Morozov x Fem!Reader

Summary: Despite your position in the First Army, your mother is eager to see you married. As a result, you’re persuaded to attend the first ball of the season. Luckily your brother Ivan is there, along with husband, Fedoyr, and the charming General Kirigan.

A/N: Ivan and the reader are portrayed as brother and sister, but there’s no physical description of the reader or mentions of a biological relationship between them so it’s as inclusive as possible

My Masterlist

“Vanya, please.” You beg desperately.

Ivan takes in your wide eyes and panicked breathing. He doesn’t hesitate, responding immediately. His arm loops around yours, guiding the two of you through the crowd of nobles gathered in the main hall of the Grand Palace.

Your fingers curl into the thick fabric of his kefta, and your vision swims as you attempt to figure out where he’s leading you.

As your older brother, Ivan has always sought to protect you, and vice versa. You were the first person he told when he wanted to propose to Fedoyr, and you’ve supported his every decision with unwavering loyalty.

The same can’t be said for your mother. She has always harboured a thinly veiled disdain for Grisha, particularly their General - the Darkling.

As Ravka’s lead cartographer and strategist, you have worked hard to secure your position as a Lieutenant of the First Army. Unfortunately, that does not provide you with an excuse to avoid this year’s courting season.

Ivan steers you both to the other side of the room, and you soon notice the two figures he is approaching.

You manage to smile briefly at Fedoyr, and his expression warms at the sight of you on Ivan’s arm. The two of you have always gotten along, much to Ivan’s faux exasperation.

“General,” Ivan greets the Darkling with a respectful nod. “May I present my sister.” He introduces you, and the General takes your hand carefully within his own. You drop into a short curtsy as he brings your hand to his lips, pressing a delicate kiss that you can feel warming it’s way through the fabric of your glove.

“Lieutenant Volkova, isn’t it?” The sound of your title, the one you earned not the one you were born with, brings a smile to your face. You’re surprised the General remembers your name, Ivan had taken Fedoyr’s last name. He was more a Kaminsky than he was ever a Volkov.

“Yes sir. It’s a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance.”

“I believe you are to meet with me at the Little Palace in a few days time, Lieutenant.” Some of the tension leaves your shoulders, reassured by the reminder that you’re more than the pampered and prettied version of you thrust under the eyes of the court.

“That is correct sir.”

Ivan is in the middle of explaining that your mother had coerced you into partaking in this year’s season, when Fedoyr interrupts with a warning of,

“Incoming.” You turn your head in the direction of his gaze. Your mother is making her way towards your small group, and your heart rate picks up. She doesn’t waste time with a polite greeting.

“The Duke of Halmhend has requested your hand for the evening.”

Your stomach turns as you spot the man your mother is referring to. The Duke of Halmhend is a reasonably attractive man, and can often be somewhat charming.

It wasn’t often that you visited your family home, but during your last few visits the Duke had also miraculously dropped by for a visit. You don’t appreciate your mother’s attempts at matchmaking. Especially when the man is a Fjerdan Duke, who is also notoriously anti-Grisha and not particularly fond of Ravka - the country that you love and serve.

You find yourself lying on instinct.

“Please express my apologies to the Duke, but General Kirigan has already offered himself as my consort for the evening.” She doesn’t try to hide her displeasure.

“General Kirigan?” You smile and nod, hoping to every Saint above that she doesn’t cause any sort of scene.

“Isn’t that kind of him, madraya?”

She barely looks at the General, instead deciding to gift you with a rather frosty look before saying,

“I suppose I will be informing the Duke.” She spares Ivan a brief glance, before adding a sharp, “Good evening.”

The two of you breathe a sigh of relief, both of your shoulders slumping slightly as she disappears into the crowd.

“Saints, I can’t breathe.” You remark, fluttering your fan in attempt to cool the panicked flush from your skin. Your heart slows slightly, and your lungs feel less heavy. A small smile quirks at your lips as you spot a familiar hand movement from Ivan. “Don’t let mother catch you doing that.”

There’s a touch of sadness in your shared expression, and he squeezes your elbow between his fingers. You swallow hard, looking down at the skirt of your dress.

“I can’t marry him Vanya.” You admit, struggling through the emotion gathered in your throat. “He wants heirs. I refuse to bring children into a war torn world, and if they’re born Grisha… you know what he’ll do.”

He regards you solemnly. He knows what you mean. The unfortunate accidents that befall Grisha children from noble families who showcase their abilities too soon. Luckily Ivan’s power revealed itself when he was old enough to know he needed to hide it, until the Grisha testers arrived.

You had begged them to test you too, but you were otkazat’sya through and through. Despite the differences between you both, you would always have each other’s backs. You had lost your brother’s and your father to the war. Ivan was all you had left.

His arm curls around your waist, keeping you close, and staring down any man who considers approaching your group. Not that anyone would dare to with the Black General standing in front of you.

You had never met the General before, but Ivan had always spoke highly of him. You admired the man, who had provided your brother with a safe place to live and to achieve all he had done. The General was well known as the leader of the Second Army, and as a shadow summoner, the descendant of the Black Heretic.

Now that the man was standing in front of you, you couldn’t help but admire him for another reason. His black kefta fits his form perfectly, and the colour ensures that he stands out amongst the other keftas and bright colours worn by members of the court. His dark hair is thick, with not a strand out of place. You can’t deny the warmth that bloomed under your skin when his deep, dark eyes had met your own.

“You won’t marry him.” Ivan insists. Your brother has always been determined, a trait inherited from your father. A small, bitter smile tugs at your lips.

“There’s not much you can do Ivan. You’re practically estranged.”

“I don’t care. You’re not marrying him.” You nod in agreement.

“I’m not.”

The General steps away slightly, before turning to directly face you. The three of you all look at him curiously.

“I believe the waltz will be starting soon.” He informs you, holding his hand out towards you. Your cheeks warm, and you hurry to assure him.

“Thank you sir, but you don’t need to. I only sought to escape from the Duke.”

“And when the dancing begins and you appear to be unattended? Do you believe he will leave you in peace for the evening?” Your lips part as you attempt to refuse his offer. But he’s right. Not only that, but the thought of dancing with the General has butterflies fluttering in your stomach.

The General’s hand doesn’t drop, as he glances between your eyes and Ivan’s face.

“May I?” His voice is soft, asking for your consent as well as Ivan’s permission. Your eyes flicker to your brother, who nods.

“If it’s what you want.” He tells you quietly. You nod with a smile, before taking the General’s outstretched hand. Even through your gloves, you can feel the firm warmth of his fingers as they curl around your own. He smiles widely at you, and your heart skips for a moment. Your cheeks warm, knowing that Ivan and Fedoyr can both sense your reaction.

The crowd parts as he leads you towards the dance floor of the hall, giving you enough room to walk beside him and you can’t help but lean a little closer as you make your way through the people surrounding you.

“I’m not much of a dancer.” You warn him quietly, and the corner of his mouth quirks.

“I’m more than willing to offer instruction, Lieutenant.” His attention makes you giddy, and you can hardly stop the smile that spreads over your face.

When you reach the near centre of the dance floor, the General stops. Several couples have also gathered for the first dance of the season, an event that will either make or break a budding courtship.

You look down at your feet, ensuring that you’re in the correct position. The corner of his mouth quirks again, and the General’s arm slides perfectly around your waist. He nudges his palm against your lower back, encouraging you to take a step towards him.

“A little closer, don’t you think?” His eyes flicker down to your lips, and your own eyes are fixed on his. You can only nod, a little star stuck, as you step closer, your chest against his. His hand is warm and secure on your waist, and you have no fear of falling or making a fool of yourself.

Devoting all your time and energy into the war effort has given you scarce opportunities to dance, and never with such an alluring partner. Nerves take hold of you briefly, and you look down to ensure that you’re not about to trip over your feet.

The General’s finger hooks under your chin, guiding your eyes back up to meet his. There’s a reassuring warmth in his dark eyes.

“Just keep your eyes on me, and you’ll be fine.”

For the first time this evening, you finally feel like you can breathe.

[cheekygreenty]

Little Witch - Part 18

The Darkling x Reader

The Winter Fete was fast approaching. The Little Palace was being cleaned up and stitched up in preparation and the seamstress unit was overwhelmed with orders of silk keftas and lavish gowns.

Aleksander was away at front lines on behalf of the Lantosv King again and you were buried up to your neck in work that would otherwise go to him. You pondered for much too long why he always left and you stayed. He constantly left for the camps and front-lines, tending to Grisha in the outposts and dealing with war duties while you were stuck in the confines of this very Palace, signing your name away and reading boring documents. From what you gathered though it had been the same before you arrived, your intelligence prevailing even now.

'You called for me Deputy?' An older Squaller loomed at your door, her greying hairs curling at the sides of her face.

'I did indeed, please sit.' You pointed towards the small sofa in the corner of your room and got up from your desk, heading for it too.

'I think it's about time I thanked you in person for everything you've done for me, Irina.' You picked up the sealed envelope sitting on the table and held it out to her.

'Is that what I think it is?' The older woman visibly teared up, a feathering touch on the envelope.

'I owe it to you and your mother, Irina. Take it.'

'This is so much more than we have given you.'

'Don't be fooled. , I wouldn't be here if it weren't for you.'

'Does he know?'

'Of course he doesn't. I keep my own affairs in order without him prying in.'

'Are you sure?' It struck you with a strangeness that you were much older than the Grisha in front of you and had nothing to show for it. You had seen her as a newborn baby cradled in her mother's arms all those years ago and yet you stood before her, the epitome of youth.

'Go. Live your life. It's all in there.' You gestured to the envelope. Irina looked at you just as her mother once did, a look of gratitude and hope. 'He may not be alive anymore but your girl is. So go, I beg of you.'

She stood up and hugged you tightly, quietly crying out of pure joy. You sushed her like you did when she was just a child.

'Go before I decide to keep you around.' You tried to lighten the mood, to say goodbye without having to actually say it. You knew deep down you would never see her again, and given the fact that her daughter was an otkazat'sya, you had no use for her either. Her life was far away from the Os Alta, you made sure of it and now her mother would get to join her and they could live out the rest of their days as a family.

'Y/N you will always be family. My mother made sure of it. I will always be here to serve you.'

'Go'

And she did, with the envelope clutched tightly in her hand, the daughter of your long-passed best friend walked out the door, ending your relationship with the Volkov Grisha.

You met Inessa Volkov during your very first year in the First-Army. She was a Squaller too, stationed at Kribirsk to aid skiff journeys. She was a firecracker, a feisty Zemeni woman who could both bark and bite and never relied solely on her small science.

It was most strange to see soldiers from opposite armies be friends, but Inessa would always swear she knew you were special. She followed you to the Little Palace, helped you evolve into the infamous witch the Fjerdan's began to fear, but her life hit a standstill when she got pregnant. Twins, the girl a Grisha, the boy an otkazat'sya.

Your position allowed for you to help the boy along in life, to prevent him from being dumped in an orphanage by the other Grisha. You gave him a life of happiness and content away from the buzz of capital and for that Inessa was indebted to you, even after your supposed death.

Irina only knew you as a character in her mother's bedtimes stories until you reached out. From then on, Irina served as one of your spies in the Palace while you stayed in the shadows watching Aleksander's moves from a long distance.

Irina was the last link you had to your old life apart from Aleksander and Baghra, of course. You were lucky she was powerful and could live a long life like her mother, but it still hurt to know she would die eventually and you would still be you. You were used to watching those around you die, Aleksander had prepared you for it unintentionally through his various stories and explained life adventures but the sting was still there.

You and Aleksander were on the same page when it came to Grisha abandoning the war effort, but you couldn't help yourself to not let Irina go. She had a daughter and grandkids that she deserved to spend time with in her old age.

No doubt Aleksander would throw up a fuss about a missing Grisha, but you had planned for it already. In the envelope was Irina's death certificate, the address of her daughter's abode, and all the information on her twin brother's family. You wouldn't tell him the truth ever, you would take it to the grave, if you even have to pleasantry to meet.

If he were to find out, with it would come the bubbling question of 'How many spies were there?' and there were too many to count. You had a looming presence and influence in the Palace long before you physically came back and no doubt he would be pissed that you got away with it.

'Deputy, are you to dine in the hall today or in your chambers?' The maid was looking at you and asking the same question she asked every night.

'I think I'll dine with the Grisha, thank you.'

Lately, you ate your dinners cold and in your office, eating only when you remembered the silver tray sitting idly on the table. When Aleksander comes back he's getting an earful and a stack of papers to read. That'll show him.

The hall was filled with pleasant chatter as you approached your seat. It no longer went quiet as you entered, instead a smile or two were sent your way when you noticed. Alina was sitting at her chair sulking over her plate as she usually did and Zoya was too busy eating to notice anything going on around her.

Your food was warm this time as you dug in, drinking the hefty meal down with kvas. You weren't privy to the conversation taking place around you as your thoughts were suddenly overtaken by him. You were never needy, but as of late you wanted to be near Aleksander at all times which was difficult since he wasn't here. The quick kiss he bestowed upon you before he entered his carriage did little to appease you. He never told you when he would be back, but you hoped he wouldn't miss the fete.

Alina was getting stronger, a messy report said that apparently something snapped in her and she grew in power almost overnight. Sometimes when you walked the Palace halls at night, you would catch glimpse of light coming out from under her door. She was growing confident and it suited her. You knew it wasn't any thanks to Baghra.

'Y/N'

'Hmm?' You looked up from your food to see who called you by your name and not your title and relaxed when your eyes caught Zoya's bored ones.

'Botkin asked me to ask you why you've been skipping your combat?' She looked around impassively as if this was the least of her problems but you knew she had nothing better to do given Aleksander's warning to her.

'Oh ummm, I've been busy.' You set your cutlery down and downed the rest of the kvas.

'A Grisha is never too busy to train, lazy perhaps.' You squinted up at the brunette with a false offense.

'Do you have something else to say to me Zoya?'

'I don't know what you mean.'

'Alright then if you say so.' You got up from your chair, coaxing her up from her own. 'Perhaps, your Deputy wants to train now. Should you care to join her?' You knew Zoya was an excellent Squaller, and an even better fighter but was she better than you?

You didn't miss the look of surprise on her face or the silent acceptance of the challenge as you both walked out of the hall, aiming for the training grounds.

'Don't worry about knocking me cold, the General doesn't speak for me.'

The spaces were empty, all Grisha being at dinner and Botkin seemingly busy too.

'I should hope so.'

If you looked at it from a subjective perspective, Inessa and Zoya were very alike. They both had that ruthless and vindictive aspect to their behavior paired with that sharp tongue and intelligent nature. They would've hated each other.

'Come on Nazyalensky, let's see what your made of.' You got into position, holding up your fists in front of you, ready to strike a blow if need be. You let her hit first, effortlessly dodging and ducking her punches and hooks. She was as fast as a bird in flight, swift and elegant. It impressed you, but unfortunately for her, it wasn't enough. You had her restrained in a matter of seconds, her arms behind her back and chest heaving against the wet ground.

'A worthy opponent. You're pretty good I must confess.' You let her go and stood up, adjusting your kefta around your waist.

'Again' You rolled your eyes at her inability to lose. Just like Inessa.

'Zoya, quit while your ahead. Besides I'm tired.'

'You do nothing all day, how can you be tired'

'Do you speak to the General the same way?'

'Only when he's not listening.' she joked and you actually laughed. It was refreshing to hear someone speak of him without that devout loyalty.

You walked back to the Palace, laughing and joking with the Squaller until you went your separate ways.

You didn't know what happened, but from that day onwards the rude Zoya Nazyalensky became a friend.

---------

Part 19

Contrary to popular belief, I would die for Zoya 😍🥰🥰

Taglist (tell me if you want to be added to the Little Witch taglist!!)

@theonelittleone @searching-for-gallifrey @0-artemis @lostysworld @xceafh @fire-in-her-veinz @patdsinner33 @cleverzonkwombatsludge @wizardwheezes @aleksanderwh0r3 @tomhollandisabae @hotleaf-juice @justmesadgirl @exo-1204 @houseofdupree @oberonpascal @eireduchess @lunas1x1 @adoringb

[tessasocs]

May I have a complete itemized list of all your Grishaverse OCs and their FCs it's a matter of life & death pls and thank you also I hope you're keeping hydrated and know that I love you and think you're wonderful ✨

Awwww thank you Dina! Uno reverse!

also hold up, let me find my list of SaB ocs cause there are a lot

THROUGH HEAVEN'S EYES SERIES: These all take place in the same universe and I adore them so much.

Reyka Kovacs in Kings&Queens&Vagabonds (FC: Summer Bishil). A Suli Tidemaker with a secret. She was taken from her family forcibly after Anya Mayakovsky discovered she was Grisha and has been living in the Little Palace for the past fifteen-ish years. She hates Ravka, especially the royalty, and thinks that there needs to be necessary change. Her speciality is Ice, and she fascinates a certain Shadow Summoner. The Darkling requests her at first because she's powerful but eventually is drawn to her because of how much they have in common. Reyka's ultimate goal is to free the Suli people from Ravka and help them escape assimilation. Eventually, this changes. Her best friends are Zoya and Vadoma, another OC of mine. DarklingxOC

Perse Fahey in TBD (FC: Vanessa Morgan). Jesper's twin sister who was interestingly not born with any Grisha power, this comes into play later. When she and Jesper left Novyi Zem, she found herself in trouble and was bailed out by a crew of pirates led by a man named Sturmhond. She became indebted to them and joined their crew, eventually working her way up to being the First Mate and Right Hand Woman. She's excellent with a sword and can hold her own against Grisha as well. When we first meet her, she's helping Jesper and Kaz by offering up a Heartrender to help Alexei reveal who the Sun Summoner is. Her story eventually comes to a head when Sturmhond asks her to betray Jesper and the Crows and bring Alina to him instead. We don't get much of her journey in the first season, but she plays a very important role in the upcoming books, especially Nikolai's duology. She eventually becomes besties with Genya in addition to Tamar and Tolya. Nikolai x OC.

Elena Volkov in Glory&Gore (FC: none yet). A Grisha who has no idea who or where she is, Elena wakes up in Ketterdam after being saved by Sankta Ulla of the Waves from a shipwreck that was carrying her to be sold as an indenture. Of course, when she wakes in Ketterdam, she's found by the person who wanted her as an indenture in the first place (Dreesen) and is made to work for him. She's a Squaller who studied at the Little Palace under Zoya and Reyka. She's very talented and can create storms almost unconsciously. I'm still unsure where I want her story to begin just because I'm waiting until season 2 comes out, but as of right now, she's the seventh addition to the Crows when it comes to the Ice Court heist. Kaz is intrigued by her and sees her powers as useful, although Elena has no idea why. She becomes besties with Nina and Zoya eventually, and maybe Alina?? Idk yet. Kaz Brekker x OC.

Side OCs include:

Vadoma: an Inferni who was also stolen from her home and eventually becomes Mal's best Grisha friend.

Anya Mayakovsky: A Corporalki who is older than Baghra herself, supposedly alive during the time of Ilya Morozova. Reyka and Elena's teacher.

OKAY NOW ONTO THE REST OF THEM

Laila Bakshi in Salvation (FC: Banita Sandhu). A Grisha who managed to escape indenture all by herself and turn the House of the Blue Iris into a safe haven for Grisha escaping the war. She's known as the Lady of the Night/Lady of the Underground and can entrance anyone she meets, particularly men. She's a very talented Grifter and can adopt any personality or ethnicity to match her needs. She and Kaz used to know each other before they ended up on bad terms until they're forced to work with one another to kidnap Alina Starkov. Laila, however, has ulterior motives for going across the fold and one of those is revenge. Kaz x OC

Jonah Visser in Salvation (FC: Jarod Joseph). Laila's oldest friend and the son of Arken, after the death of his father, Jonah vows revenge on the Darkling and helps Inej on the final scene in the skiff. He's Arken's messenger on the other side, posing as a Raven soldier in order to scope out Grisha who want to leave. He's a minor OC but becomes important later on. Inej x OC.

Tasya Satvik in Outlaws (FC: Lindsey Morgan). Jesper's childhood best friend who was forced out of Novyi Zem when her father was hunted down by Ravkans for being a Grisha and escaping the war effort. They fled to Ketterdam where her father and mother died to the plague that infested the city and Tasya was eventually found by Pekka Rollins, who employed her as his spy. She gets exposed to Jurda Parem a couple weeks before the Sun Summoner heist and Pekka forces her to go on the job and bring the Sun Summoner back to him or he'll take away her fix. She has plans to escape Pekka once she's across the fold, but oh no she and Jesper have feelings for one another so he gets her to stay. Jesper x OC

Alya Sokolov in House of Memories (FC: Danielle Rose Russell). I haven't really focused much on her in a long time, but basically she's Kaz Brekker's younger sister who happens to be a very specific kind of Grisha that's never been found before. She's like Rogue from X-Men and can copy any Grisha's powers. She becomes disillusioned with Ravka and joins the Crows when she sees her brother among them at the Winter Fete.

Nikita Dulik in Made of Stone (FC: Devery Jacobs) Another Kaz OC what a surprise haha. Her story is actually pretty interesting in the fact that she's sort of like a Ghost. She's officially dead according the wall in West Ravka, having been killed going through the Fold. Since then she's been known as an incredible Escape Artist, able to sneak into anywhere and get out without so much as a whisper. She also has a skin condition that makes it impossible to touch anyone, so perfect for our touch averse boy.

Please feel free to crossover with any of them!

[siderealxmelody]

The Curse of The Tel-Assari

Or the reason there are no more (or very few) pure-blooded Tel-Assar families. Tel-Assar - ancient ancestors to Grisha/modern mages. Cubi - pseudo demonic race. Harbingers - a hive race that was corrupted and experimented on by Tel-Assar Scholars.

The Cubi were a mighty species, they had monasteries, an empire and a rich culture. Yes they were expansionistic and chose violence over diplomacy. But they were not an evil or vengeful race, it wasn't what their God or teachers preached.

They forgave The Tel-Assar when they began to hunt them to use their skin to make parchment. Some random Tel-Assar had found that writing spells on Cubi skin imbued the spells with an extra jolt of power.

Still they helped their people but did nothing else. There was an eb and flow to life. What good would vengeance do? They'd only loose more of their people.

They forgave The Tel-Assar when their idiotic Civil War resulted in the Fimbulwinter. A winter that lasted ten years, a winter that caused wide spread widespread crop failure and famine. A winter that lasted 5 years and bled into a Fimbulsummer. A summer that was characterized by widespread drought and large scale firestorms. A summer that lasted 5 years.

They clung to their traditions for those ten years. They huddled over their teachings and prayed to their God. They hunted the humans and what little animals survived the fallout.

They hid from the Harbingers and their rampages. But slowly the land came back and balance righted itself. For 500 years they survived on the land and the animals around them.

Many flew home, far in the east where their islands and caves resided. The Harbingers couldn't travel by water - everyone knew that.

Then the Tel-Assar did the unforgivable. Eostre Volkov, Ilya Morozov along with a handful of Tel-Assari descendants locked the Harbingers away. The needed a land to keep them in - one that was connected to nothing else - and they chose the Cubi homeland.

That was the last straw for Cubi. Their Cenn (Cubi religious leaders/teachers) all at once cursed the Tel-Assari blood.

The effect was immediate. Children went mad and slaughtered their families and themselves. 1,000 years later the curse still stands.

The Curse is very specific as Tel-Assar not only have more power than an average Grisha/Mage. They have a unique gene that no other mage possesses denoting their status.

Despite the knowledge, two families flaunted the rules.

----------

The Sinclairs

Deep in the Great Empires Kendra Morozova fell in love with and married a fellow Tel-Assari. Their union and mental instability showed in their children early on. Their daughter Alisa were attacked by human children at 6 and her power turned inward slowly making her mind and body waste away. Her twin brother watched as his father went after the human families - slaughtering them. He was tried and hanged by the Great Empires. Albus went through the schooling and tested into the Domdaniel. There he rose through the ranks and was able to teach the next generation.

He wasn't collared as he hid the majority of his power from examiners after what happened to his sister. He wanted to get away from the Great Empires but he had a debt to pay for what his father had done. If he left he'd be hunted and hanged just like him.

He found soon after he got his teaching position that his mother had had twins. He was terrified of what fresh horrors that would bring for their family. Especially when she was pressed she admitted to finding his father in the Astral Plane to have more children. Albus was disgusted - Especially knowing that the only way she managed to find his father was using Alisa and killing more humans.

In the ensuing argument Alisa lost control and killed their mother. Albus took the twins and put them in an orphanage. He contemplated killing them but couldn't bring himself to do so. He created a small cottage and land for Alisa to stay in while he worked.

It was through his work teaching that he first met Gellert Castilian. A meeting that would lead to the near fall of the Great Empires.

----------

The Castilians

Gellert's parents were seers and augers. They more than anyone knew exactly the risks they were taking when they decided to have a family. But they ignored the risks and warnings of their visions.

At first Gellert remembers a happy and idyllic childhood. Then their visions began to get more and more frequent, their realities began to blur and bleed. Gellert remembers the first time he was hit with a bottle. He remembers the first time watching his sister shield them from their father's whip.

Gellert was the baby, he tried to do something, to tell someone - anyone. But no one wanted to hear it, none of their family friends cared. They only scoffed and said some variation of they should have seen it coming. Did they think they were immune from the sins of their ancestors?

Gellert stopped caring when Janka and Levi were taken to be mages. He spent hours away from home - hoping to come to a quiet home (or an empty one).

All three of the Castilian siblings tested into Schlomance. Janka excelled the most and graduated with honors. She slipped away the night of her collaring and murdered their parents. She struck out on her own after that, and dropped contact with her brothers. She had been the middle child but she had protected them both. Wanting some time and space to figure out who she was the least they could do.

Levi tried to run from his collaring but was collared a way. Gellert watched as the visions and dreams he had successfully kept away slowly consumed him.

He tried to help him, to plead for leniency but again no one listened. He wrote to Janka and begged for her aid. He remembered when she came, Levi had him pinned against a wall and was babbling about how dark his soul was.

Gellert finally managed to get through to him and Levi had looked horrified and apologized. Gellert had escaped and purposefully flunked out the next year. He cut contact with both of his siblings. He watched distantly as years later Janka finally came and freed Levi. She never came to him, she never stopped the schools or challenged the policies.

Gellert would have to be the one to do that then. He'd change the Great Empires, he'd bring them their knees. He'd force them to remember just who and what they were dealing with. He'd make them worship him as they should.

He would finally be listened to.

@siiinfully - reason number #3500 haha. This time with some Harry Potter flavoring. Lol Eostre and Ahriman would have had an awkward few dinners with Onyx's mom I bet 😅

@xdarklingx & @sankta-alina-s - Kendra is Baghra's sister. Her Tel-Assar genes were activated as she was brought back to life. It's why Ilya actually left with her - he needed to get her far away from humans. Idk what Gellert and Co's legacy is but whatever it was it all happened 400 years ago around the same time as Alek and co were alive. Lol Alina 1.0 would have met Levi I think, since they were collared around the same time...

@rebelliousfamily - Janka = Yennefer! Ay!! I have Yen now! Levi = Abel

[furiarossa]

Rise, become better, become stronger, become healthier! Triton grows, learns to be better, understands his daughter... whereas Gaston, Grisha Volkov and Frollo remain toxic. A metaphorical artwork about how real heroes can rise from darker place and become better, while real villains, well... not really.

First part of a mixed 'n complex commission for HeJaWol0602, done with black ballpoint pen. Stay tuned for the colored version!

★ FurAffinity|Deviantart|Commission prices|Tapas|Pillowfort★

[sydscripts]

Whodve thought Mary Worth was such a Gargoyles stan

This new information on Wolf is so important to me y'all have no idea 😭

[thewriterthatghostedyou]

Shadows and Scars

Chapter 25

This one is a bit long, but I don’t think there are any chapter warnings besides mention of past non con and angst.

And the interrogation scene is next. I’m very excited for that one

You had nearly made it to the stables, when you heard a gunshot echo in the far corridors of the Little Palace. ‘Please tell me that was part of your plan Kaz.’ You thought desperately to yourself as you shoved your few belongings you had stashed in your old room into a weathered pack.

As much as you had loved your fete dress, it was left behind with all of your other uniforms. You finished hastily buttoning your shirt before grabbing your old shoes from the front. As you looked at yourself in the mirror, you didn’t see a grisha, just another commoner and that’s what you wanted.

You swallowed slightly as you carefully began to undo your leg brace. It had now become as much of a part of you as your injury had, but David himself had said that the metal he had used was rare. And that meant easily tracked.

As you slid the metal off of you, you cradled it in your arms and smiled at it. Perhaps it was stupid to feel so attached to something material, but this thing had given you a bit of your past back. It had stopped the pain from spreading up your thigh and had allowed you to be more mobile.

But you couldn’t dwell on that now, so you shoved the brace away and grabbed a nearby roll of bandages to keep yourself more sturdy.

After skillfully completing your wrap, you pulled up a pair of brown trousers and grabbed an old ratted coat that Ruslan had lent you before you left. It was time.

Slowly opening the door, you poked your head out and made your way to the place Kaz had shown you where the Zemini would be.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Aleksander’s POV

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“What is it?” Aleks asked breathlessly as he opened his chamber doors. The last kiss he had shared with Alina still on his mind.

“Marie and Genya were attacked in the fitting room.” Ivan said seriously. “Alina was the target.”

Aleksander stiffened at that. He had known that people were after his sun summoner, but the thought that they were able to get into the Little palace left him uneasy.

“We have a suspect in custody.”

“Wait here.” Any annoyance at the interruption was gone. He had to make sure that there was no longer any threat. He finally had the stag within his grasp, and would be damned if Alina was killed before he could complete his plan.

Quickly shutting the door he walked to Alina and gave her his best smile.

“Is something wrong?” Her eyes were wide as she looked at him with concern.

“It’s nothing.” He brushed off easily. “I’ll leave my guards outside until I return.” He ran his hands down her small shoulders and looked deep into her eyes. He was so close. Too close for anyone to mess up what he had planned for Y/n and Alina.

“I’ll be waiting.” She said breathlessly as he caressed her cheek.

With a small nod he walked away but froze Galway to the door in favor of turning back to sneak one last kiss. She tasted like strawberries, and he couldn’t help but think of how you tasted like mint when he kissed you. As his lips pressed against Alina's again, he forced himself to pull away. He could kiss her later, when the threat was dealt with and Ravka was theirs to rule, but he couldn’t help but feel the same pull of attraction he had felt towards Y/n. The one that made him want to stay in bed with her all day and never stop kissing her.

As he walked out of the room, he nodded to Ivan. “Take me to him.” He said sternly. “Any clue how he got in?”

“He hasn’t talked yet.” Ivan said as the two quickly made their way through the maze of halls.

“He will.” Aleksander said nonchalantly. “Bring Volkov as well. Two people sneaking into the Little Palace tonight is not a coincidence we can afford.”

~~~~~~~~

Y/n’s POV

~~~~~~~~

You shivered as you walked through the stables and leaned heavily on your cane. Your leg was much weaker now without your brace, and with each step you felt a familiar pain shoot up your thigh.

Leaving the musty rooms, you hobbled slowly towards the only carriage set up to leave.

“Can I help you, miss?” A deep voice asked from behind you. The Zemini was there when you turned around just as Kaz said he would be.

“Looks like you're my ride, Kaz sent me.” You whispered softly.

The man’s eyes widened at the name and he whipped his head around to see if anyone had heard. “You’re y/l/n aren’t you?” He asked, putting his hands on his hips. “Saints Kaz found you fast.”

“More like I found him.” You responded with a shrug. “He had briefly mentioned that my passage out of here was bought. What does that mean?”

The man gave an exaggerated shrug. “Dunno. Kaz never tells me anything. Be glad he told me to expect you otherwise you’d have a bullet in your brain.”

“I appreciate not getting shot.” You said with an easy smile. “I’m Y/n.” You held out your hand.

“Jesper Fahey.” He shook your hand excitedly with a large grin. “What order are you?”

“Both a healer and heartrender.” You replied with a smile. “I’m a bit of a… special case.”

“Interesting.” He said thoughtfully. “Do you like it? Being grisha?”

You sighed and braced yourself against a large tree. “I love it. Healing others and doing something bigger than myself? I may not have had a choice, but it was perfect. Even after my accident.” You gestured to your knee. “I got it in the fold.” You explained before he could ask. “No one was able to fix it, but I still did my job, and did it well too.”

“So, what happened?” He asked seriously. “Why leave if it was so great?”

“Men are the same everywhere. Grisha or non grisha alike.” You thought back to the king and Aleksander. “Well men in power at least. You seem nice.”

He laughed at that. “Tell me about it. In Ketterdam we have entire houses that take advantage of young women. Have to stop myself everyday from going in there and shooting the bastards responsible for it.”

You nodded as you took in his tense expression. “I don’t think I’d have that much control.” You said honestly. “But it would be a bit obvious if a bunch of mobsters all fell down dead at the same time.”

He laughed again at that. “If you have any ideas on how to get away with it let me-“ Jesper froze and flattened the two of you against the tree. “You can’t be serious.” He whispered.

“What?” You hissed trying to look.

He released you and motioned for you to keep quiet.

Your eyes widened as you spotted Alina in plain brown clothes creeping towards your carriage.

The two of you stayed frozen as she pushed herself into the chest in the back.

Jesper let out a breathless laugh and you blinked at the scene. “Do- do all your heists go off like that?”

“Saints no. Usually there’s a part where we all face certain doom and have to cut our losses before coming out on top.” He started to laugh hysterically as he held out his hand for you.

You took it as you shook your head and he helped lead you towards the carriage. You’d be fine once you got used to not having your brace, but for now you weren’t used to being without it.

“What happened? You okay?” He asked, as Kaz and the Suli girl walked over.

The two looked disheveled and you swore you could smell the faint scent of smoke on their clothes.

“She’s real, Jesper. She made the light sing.” The girl whispered reverently.

“We lost her.” Kaz said gruffly, causing you and Jesper to look at each other with a smile.

“Did we?” He asked as you climbed into the carriage and winced at another sharp pain.

“We don’t know where she is.” The girl gave you a curt nod before climbing next to you.

“Don’t we?” You and Jesper laughed as the two men sat themselves on the seat. “Just ask.”

“Jesper-“

“Just ask.”

He gripped the reins tightly as Kaz glared at him.

“Fine. Do we have a fix on where the target is?”

With a small snort, Jesper flicked the reins and you were off.

[vicky82gargoylesfan]

My Thoughts on Issue 4: Tale Old as Time

I admit, I didn’t do issue 3 as I was busy and the problems with digital copy on Amazon made me look at spoilers before I got my physical copies and they came quite late too. 

I got issue 4 a lot quicker, it was actually dispatched on Tuesday, so they arrived on Friday. The Amazon digital copy issue seems to be sorted out as well (but it was still late). So hopefully I will get Issue 5 with no problems, cross fingers

Spoilers

Here some small thoughts on Issue 3. It was still a good story, liked that Broadway was narrating and quickly figured Thailog kidnapped Maggie and Mary. Great to see Xanatos again along with Alex (who’d gotten big) and Fox (her powers are evolving more). Talon and Maggie’s baby is cute, love that he’s named after both of their Fathers. I always figured he would be human and would have lightning powers.

My favourite cover for issue 3 is, Cover D Variant Lesley Leirix Li. I just love this one.

On to Issue 4

The Art/Colouring is amazing, I love it.

.Goliath narrating, which fits perfectly for this issue, due to the ending

We meet Dino Dracon and he’s brutal. He just slammed Pal Joey’s head on the dashboard and kicked him out of the car, due to Pal Joey splashing water on his shoes. Antoinette didn’t even correct Dino when he called her Toni, so she’s definitely scared of him. 

I wonder who’s watching TV, Renard perhaps.

In issue 3 we were introduced to some new characters of the other crime families and got there last names in this issue and 2 of those last names were familiar (more on that later) So, Huracan Sanchez, YingPei Choi, Grisha Volkov and Izakk Slaughter.

The Police station has been rebuilt and re opened, so I guess could be 7 or 8  months after it was destroyed. So it could be June/July. 

I wonder what Margot Yale showed Matt on the clipboard, he certainly didn’t look happy about it. 

The Gargoyles wake up and Goliath was about to talk to the others but they went did there own things. Brooklyn and Katana giving Gnash a history lesson, but he thinks he doesn’t need it.

I wonder what Angela and Broadway wants to talk to Coldfire about and why it’s so exciting, Mating ceremony perhaps, I’m excited now.

Poor Lex, he needs a hug, glad Goliath and Hudson noticed that the Trio are drifting apart and Lex being left out. He’s now spending time in the computer lab, I wonder if he’s online chatting to Amp.

Rosario Sanchez and Peter Choi finally appear, I recognised those last names from the episode High Noon, they saved a child from drowning. So they are secret lovers (referencing Romeo and Juliet) and there families are part of the 5 crime families, Yingpei Choi and Huracan Sanchez. 

I assume the masked men in Gargoyle masks are Dino Dracon, Glasses and Pal Joey who are kidnapping Rose and Peter.

I wonder this is what Margot was showing Matt on the clipboard, that they got new choppers. I wonder what the budget was in the end because in Invitation Only, Matt said in his meeting that the Chief and the Mayor were still duking it out over their budget for the Taskforce. So it must be a very good budget to get those choppers. But maybe they could be a donation from someone.

So Goliath has been captured and he’s going to be in prison for longer than 3 issues, due to the description for issue 7.

Can’t wait for issue 5. I wonder Hudson or Brooklyn will be narrating.

[ravkahq]

[ breatrix volkov ], a [ twenty nine ] year old grisha in the little palace. she is a [ squaller ] and are known in the little palace as the [ wildcard ]. they are known to be [ feisty ] and [ cynical ] and vaguely resemble [ charlotte hope ]. ( era ).

congrats picky

[trassellynn]

Hi! Could you please write about the birth of Nina and Matthias' baby?

Hi Anom, here I am! Thank you for the prompt, hope you’ll like it! 💕  In the story, there are two OCs: Helèna “Lena” Parr is my OC, while Julian Volkov belongs to mandrake-arya. They’re both doctors and they saved Matthias’ life at the end of Crooked Kingdom.  BLESSED  Nina barely noticed the path to Parr & Volkov's medical lab. She had probably fainted several times, in Matthias' arms,  flashes of consciousness and moments of darkness constantly interacted with each other. She never felt such a breathtaking pain and couldn't help but think that if only... if only she still had her Heartrender powers... "Hold on, love..." Matthias's voice was low, broken. He was probably dying inside thousands times, but he wouldn't have stopped until she was safe. She had no idea how he was able to run, holding her with the extra amount of pounds she gained during her pregnancy. They quickly entered the lab, their friends all around them. Nina tried to look for Inej, but a pang of pain, fiercer than the previous ones, made her scream and faint for a few moments. When she awoke, Matthias was laying her on a bed, his large hands trembling. Helèna and Julian immediately approached her, helping her to take the right position. They both wore their lab coats, gloves and surgical masks. "It's okay, Nina, we're here for you" the young doctor said. "We won't leave you alone, you'll have all the help you need." The Grisha opened her mouth to reply something, when she saw Matthias falling backwards, burying Wylan under his giant body. "Saints!" she yelled, while another pang made her body shiver. "Help..." Wylan pleaded, in a whisper. "I am stuck..." Jesper, Kaz and Doctor Volkov lifted Matthias' body up, allowing Kuwei to help Wylan slide away. Then, they put him down and the older man asked Kaz to keep the Fjerdan's legs raised, while he gently stanched his face with a wet handkerchief. "Saints..." Nina repeated, hissing. "I can't do it..." “You can” Lena reassured her. “Me and Julian are here for this.” Once he awoke, Matthias was escorted out of the room by their friends, giving Nina a guilty glace. She wanted to tell him he had no reasons to feel guilty, but the excruciating pain made her difficult to articulate such a long phrase. “Inej...” she finally pleaded. “Inej...” “I'm here!” The tiny girl sat next to her, caressing her hair. Nina took her hand, her eyes wet. “I'm here, Nina, I'm here.” Julian and Lena said something Nina didn't hear. All she was able to do was concentrating on Inej's dark, deep eyes. “Please... please stay...” she cried, almost voiceless. The captain of The Wraith kissed her knuckles: “I'll stay. I'll be with you all the time. Hold on, Nina. You can do it!” “I should have stayed with her...” Matthias was burying his face in his hands, blaming himself, hating himself, feeling an idiot and a coward. His little red bird was suffering into that room since hours and all he was able to do was sitting on a chair in the hall, complaining and trembling every once he tried to stand up. “How could I leave her?” Jesper patted his large shoulder: “Hey, man, don't blame yourself like this. You took her here, in your arms, with no help. You're going to be a father, it's normal to be overwhelmed by emotions. You're not weak or... anything you're thinking of yourself in this moment.” “Jes is right” Wylan echoed, smiling. “Yes, I mean, I would have preferred you not to be overwhelmed by your emotions on me but... Matt, I'm kidding.” “Do you think it will last longer?” Kaz asked. He pretended to be unimpressed and almost annoyed, but he was nervously ticking the tip of his cane on the floor. Kuwei took a look at the wall clock: “A woman's first childbirth usually lasts more. Tissues are more rigid, she is not fully aware of what she should expect...  hope our Nina will make it as soon as possible.” Finally after an hour, Lena came out of the room, removing her mask and giving Matthias a bright smile. She was no more ashamed of the scars that covered the left side of her face, in front of them. “We did it,” she said. “It's a girl. You can come in.” Matthias immediately stood up, almost jumping. He felt like his legs were made of butter and he had no idea how he could manage to enter the room without fainting again. On the bed... oh, Djel... he had never, ever seen such a beautiful vision, nor a sweeter scene... Next to a cheerful Inej, Nina rested against a huge pillow and she never looked more stunning, with her forehead and face wet with sweat, her messy hair, her tired but happy expression and... and the marvelous, little creature in her arms. She looked at him, saying no words. And yet, he could read everything in her glance. He realized he was standing frozen in the middle of the room when Lena gently touched his arm. “Hey, love...” he whispered, approaching the bed and slowly sitting next to Nina. The girl giggled, showing him the baby, their baby, their Aenya, their lovely, plump daughter who was wrapped in a white blanket. “Hey,” she whispered back. “Come, love... take her...” Matthias swallowed hard and carefully took the little girl in his arms, almost holding his breath. The last baby he held was his little sister, several years ago, and, for a while, he feared he had forgotten how to do it. But he soon got lost in those big, blue eyes, and all his fears vanished. She weighted like... a feather. She was so small, and delicate... she could easily be held in his large hands. Time seemed to stop, while he looked at her, adoring, enchanted. He gently caressed her full cheeks with a finger, then, he made their noses touch. Aenya blinked, probably trying to focus him. The young man kissed her forehead and, when her tiny hands touched his bearded cheeks, he felt blessed. “Hi, Aenya...” he whispered. “Hi, love... you're marvelous... we... we’ve waited for you so long and... and you're beautiful, you're the most beautiful creature on earth...” His voice broke and his eyes went wet. Nina smiled, caressing his cheek: “Hey... hey, love... it's okay...” “I'm sorry” he murmured, crying and laughing at the same. “I... she is...” The young woman approached her face to his. They shared a sweet kiss, then, she rested her head against his shoulder and he sank his mouth into her hair. “I love you... I love you both, so much... I love you all...” “We love you too!” Jesper giggled. Matthias sat closer to Nina, so they could hold Aenya together, then, he blinked to dry his eyes. “I am serious, I love you all. Thank you for everything you did today... Lena, Julian... you guys, who helped me to keep control outside... an you, Inej... thank you for staying with Nina...” “I did it happily” the girl said, smiling. Nina shared an extremely affectionate glance with her, then, she kissed the little girl's forehead: “So, Aenya... are you ready to meet the rest of our family?” As an answer, Aenya moved her little hands and let a happy, shrill cry out.