#he only truly hates Noxians

[witchcraftandburialdirt]

Tarhos barely looks up from his sleeping position, his beak buried in his arms as his eyes focused on the man asking his beloved for directions. Humans were always such pitiful creatures and yet still he waited for the man to leave before he'd stretch and curl himself up again, "I don't get the point in helping creatures whose lives mean nothing. It'll die before it reaches town anyway, wild animals will claim it's life and make it something useful perhaps." he yawns curling his tail around his body, "Don't tell me you actually feel sympathy for it's own foolishness."

It wasn't a secret the darkin didn't hold much value in the lives of mortals, he lived in the age where his kin ruled over them like a farmer his cattle picking and choosing which to slaughter. A desperate bid to try and forge themselves into what they once were.

Now... they were just as horrendous as the void they tried so desperately to claw from their minds and just as corrupted. He was fortunate enough to not hold the same madness, he embraced the few good qualities mortals had putting his trust in a being nearly and ancient and wild as he was. A being he shared his mind with so readily enough that he had nothing to hide. Even now as teasing as his words were, his mind bloomed with how pretty Haruko looked in the sun.

── 𝐔𝐍𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐌𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐈𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 ── LEAGUE VERSE

"You know, husband, the meaning of life isn't always death - I've lived with humans for centuries, and they worship us both, surely there's no issue with offering a bit of a push," The vastayan cooed in response as he watched the human disappear beyond the treeline towards the nearest village, "You ought to know by now that pure savagery is not the only answer when faced with mortals, everything has their place within nature's bosom. Them, us, even insects - to throw off that balance with hatred would be devastating - they are... dull creatures, but they are necessary."

The branches, now heavy with the last fruits of the season seemed to bow before Haruko's beauty as he passed by, eager fingers plucking a peach to bring it to his lips with a wet crunch. It's delicate, floral sweetness danced over his tongue in swirling crescendo only heightened by the blossoming pulses of affection shared between their minds. He climbed atop the boulder closest to his beloved to gaze upwards at the clouds threaded into the vast expanse of azure above him…and he shut his eyes to listen. The first thing was always their shared heartbeat, and beyond he could hear the forest's aubade to the rising sun who's brilliant rays peeked just above the horizon. Another day within this endless cycle, and another day with his Heartlight. After a moment he continued, sliding down from the rock to trot closer and allow his fingers to slither beneath a few of Tarhos' plates - the peach now fully eaten except the seed.

"You were human once, I think you forget that sometimes, Tarhos… If we have no mercy for others then perhaps we are already killing what could bring humans out of their violent rhythms, not only that but…." his hand brushed away dirt and pebble alike to reveal the damp soil below which eagerly accepted the seed dropped into it, "The humans of Ionia have never harmed me, or you - they recognize us both as protectors of our great mother… We've no reason to damn that vision, there's no need to be cruel to them.. They need guidance to become better, we can both offer that."

[moonstrider9904]

après la bataille

Steb x fem!Reader (Enforcer)

Summary: the battle for Piltover has past, and you help Steb find some much needed peace of mind.

Word count: 2.2k

Tags/warnings: Mature and SFW, (french) kissing and making out, brief implications of smut. Spoilers for the ending Arcane season 2. Enforcer!Reader, mentions of death and loss, hints of PTSD, processing difficult emotions, hurt/comfort, established relationship.

Prequel one-shot coming soon! | My Masterlist | Read on Ao3

Warm lights gleamed in the distance, and if one didn’t pay much attention, you would almost swear nothing had happened in Piltover for days. In the peaceful, quiet night, while the City of Progress’ lights twinkled and contrasted with the night sky, it was easy to forget the smoke and the unnatural violence, the blood that had been spilled, the war that, in what had felt like a blink of an eye, shook Piltover and Zaun only to leave things unnervingly quiet—those who had been in the head of it had a hard time believing, at times, that things were truly at peace now.

Steb watched the city with a heavy heart. Though victory had reigned, and Piltover and Zaun weren’t at odds with each other or the Noxian empire, it was inevitable to ponder on the cost. He had witnessed it first hand, from the moments he fought for his survival to having faced his own death in less time it would take him to exhale, mercifully saved by former councilor Medarda; he’d seen the price of the chain of events Hextech had brought forth in the form of light escaping the eyes of each of his fallen comrades.

Some of them had been his friends.

It had happened fast. The partner with whom Steb had gone from rescuing a stranded cat atop a tall tree to dismantling Shimmer, had died before his eyes at the hands of her own bullet—and the magic of the same mage who saved his life. He’d barely had time to process her betrayal and to question how the hell he hadn’t seen it coming before Maddie lay lifeless on the ground where she’d stood, about to take another life. If Steb mourned, he’d be mourning a traitor, but if he didn’t mourn, he wouldn’t be mourning his friend. A part deep within him hated such a dichotomy.

And then there was Loris. Not many words had been shared between the two—there was never any need for them. But Steb vividly remembered the attack on the memorial as the first real battle he’d been in, and Loris was the reason he’d come out of it alive. The vagabond he’d found lying hungover and nearly unconscious on the Piltovan sidewalk had mustered superhuman strength to shield him from a fatal blow, and now, Steb would never have a chance to return the favor. Just as he and the other survivors were emerging after the battle, it was the pianist turned soldier who went up to him and delivered Loris’ badge, and Steb knew it could only mean one thing. The feeling of his heart plummeting within him would be one he’d remember all his life. The loss of Loris, of Maddie, of the Zaunites he’d met at the bridge willing to take a stand.

The only thing that could console him after that was knowing you’d made it out alright. If he had another regret, it would be not being with you every second of it, but it would comfort him forever to know you were safe with him and you’d done your part in returning Piltover and Zaun to peace.

And as if his thoughts had invoked you, he soon heard your steps approaching. He remained facing the city as you entered the balcony, but his ears twitched in the direction of your footsteps, and a hint of a smile formed when he felt your arms wrap around him from behind, and your cheek resting up against the side of his arm.

“Penny for your thoughts?” Your sweet voice traveled to his ears and soothed every fiber within him. For once, Steb was able to relax, exhaling the tension from within his body, and his hand went to cover yours as it rested over his heart.

“They don’t matter,” he muttered.

You smiled softly, stifling a chuckle while you snuggled into his back before making your way towards his side, finally able to look up at him. “They do to me, love.”

Steb dismissed his laments and shifted to face you. He gazed down on you, thinking to himself how rare it had become to see you dressed in something other than your uniform, and for a moment he couldn’t fathom how beautiful you looked in your deep blue gown. It had discreet silver details and the right crop to compliment your silhouette in the best ways possible, and for a moment he was whole again, finding a brief respite from the memories that had tormented him those past few days.

“You look gorgeous,” Steb said softly with his deep, rich voice which you loved.

You smiled up at him, eyes sparkling, as you took his hands in yours. “You’re looking very handsome yourself.” Your eyes scanned the attire he was wearing—his suit resembled his uniform, but it was darker and far more elegant, and if you didn’t know better, you’d sooner mistake him for royalty than assume he was being promoted. You knew he was supposed to be wearing his black hat, but for the time being, he’d cast it aside, a fact you adored—you loved seeing as much of his features as you could, always finding it a whole new, beautiful experience to simply be able to look at Steb and gaze upon his every detail. You gave his hands a gentle squeeze and paced closer to him, taking one of your hands to rest on the crook of his neck and letting your thumb caress his skin gently.

“You’re going to make a fine commander,” you smiled gently at him.

Grateful as he was for your words, you noticed Steb carried the weight of the world in his eyes. He stifled a chuckle and, knowing he could be at ease with you, he briefly looked out at the peaceful Piltover, melancholy.

“Would it be too self-loathing to say I don’t think I deserve it?” He questioned.

“Yes,” you replied without a doubt. “It would also be a flat lie.”

Steb gave a quick exhale and some of the tension left his body, but the thoughts continued to weigh on him. “I could have done more.”

“You’ve done so much already,” you said gently, pausing as your gaze faltered before meeting his eyes again. “I know how you feel… I lost people too. And… not being with you during it was hell.”

“I know,” Steb said quietly.

You exhaled, and your voice fell to a whisper. “I really thought I was gonna lose you.”

He held the hand that rested on his neck and lifted it so that you could see him holding your hand from the corner of your eye.

“You couldn’t,” he said.

The dread left you entirely, and you managed to smile brightly at Steb, finding once again the will to achieve your sole objective of lifting his mood.

“And once you’re commander,” you continued, “you are not getting rid of me.”

Steb laughed smoothly. “Is that a promise?”

You nodded with a cheeky glint in your eye. “Darling, you can consider that a threat.”

His laughter came again, and you wrapped your arms around his upper back while he wrapped his around your waist. You stepped even closer to him, sealing the space between your bodies, and you were well aware of the way your chest pressed itself to his torso. Your eyes adopted an enticing gleam, and your lips curved into the smile Steb was never able to resist, and your voice was smooth when you talked to him, inviting him deeper into finding bliss with you.

“Is there anything I could do to make you feel better?” You asked him with a smirk.

You didn’t have to do more for Steb to understand, and he decided to play a little further with you.

“Hm,” he hummed. “I’m not sure.”

“Really?” You pressed yourself even more to him and perked up on your toes, letting your lips draw close up to his. “Nothing comes to mind? Not even, perhaps, something we could very easily do in the less than an hour we have before the ceremony? Gee, what ever could we do in that amount of time?”

Steb laughed fully and, with a firm grip, he picked you up and spun you around, now holding you as though he were to dance with you.

“You make it tempting,” Steb purred. “But I’d never dream of rushing things with you. Besides, I’m not going to risk ruining that pretty dress before the ceremony.”

“That,” you replied with a giggle, “was actually the correct answer.”

You both fell in silence, and you didn’t make an effort to fight the urge to brush your hand up to his cheek and let your thumb trace over the delicate frills around his eye. Steb leaned into the warmth of your palm—you knew he loved the tender contact of your skin on his frills—and without another moment’s hesitation, you took his lips in yours.

You could feel his body relax as his arms wrapped deeper around the curve of your back, as if he could pull you any closer, and though your eyes were closed as you kissed him, you knew by now his ears had slowly tilted downward and the frills around his eyes moved in slow, uniform waves, a testament to the peace and the joy brought upon him by your lips. The tenderness of the kiss gradually morphed into desire as you felt Steb pushing himself forward to you, adding strength to the movement of his lips and slowly slipping his tongue inside of you; the delicate friction of his tongue on yours filled your body with the sweetest sparks you’d ever be exposed you, and it prompted you to cling around his shoulders standing on your toes—a little more, and your feet would be off the ground.

You didn’t resist the urge to moan into his lips, and the airy quality of your voice made Steb smirk into the kiss. You wanted more of him, and just as you were cursing the fact that you both had to be at a ceremony in less than an hour, and that it would keep you from being entwined in bedsheets with him instead, you let your desires take over and you made your way kissing down Steb’s neck. You delighted in the moan that escaped him, delicious in his rich and deep voice, and as you kissed his neck, you let your lips linger in the same spot for just enough before moving to the next, crawling dangerously close to the collar of his shirt. You decided no harm would come in humoring your fantasies just one step further, and your fingers delicately undid that first button pushing the fabric to the sides, exposing but a fraction of his chest where your fingertips danced and caressed, hinting at the mischief and delicacy that could have been were it not for the honors he was about to receive.

“Darling…” Steb’s breath hitched and a smirk formed on his lips.

For a moment, he too wished you didn’t have other places to be, but if he had to settle for the moment, he’d make it worth it by grasping firmly at the backs of your thighs and lifting you up for you to wrap your legs around his waist as much as the skirt of your gown would allow. You gave a pleased giggle in response, now able to wrap your arms around him further, and you kissed his lips once more, brushing your tongue against his freely and with glee. One of your hands tugged softly at his hair, trying your best not to mess it up for him, and the other went to the back of his neck where your fingers rested on the crooks of the fins that went down his spine. You lost yourself in that kiss, hoping it would last forever, enjoying every second until Steb set you down on the ground again and sealed the moment with one last, tender kiss on your lips before rising up again.

You were dazed after such a session, and you were pleased to see that so was he. Steb grounded himself with a deep exhale, redoing the button of his shirt almost reluctantly, but you also noticed he had a little smile on his lips that hinted at satisfaction and even pride. You chuckled, glad that you could bring such emotions upon him. He then gazed at you, still smiling, and you grinned in anticipation of what the look on his face meant—he’d have his way with you after the ceremony.

But for the time being, you walked up to him one more time and hugged him gently, resting your head against his chest, able to hear the beating of his heart. You settled into the peace that came with the embrace, hoping dearly he felt better than before you’d arrived onto that balcony. You listened for any other sounds, but there was quiet all around you.

Yes, Piltover was at peace now, and when you felt Steb wrapping his arms around you once more, you knew things would be alright. Still in the embrace, you shifted to look up at him, your chin resting on his chest, able to gaze into his ocean eyes as he looked down at you. Tenderly, you smiled, and Steb smiled back as if he could read your thoughts, but he didn’t need to. The gleam in your eyes and softness of your smile told him everything, that you would stand with him through the honors he’d receive, and through everything else that followed.

Silently, you made that promise to him.

If you like this, please reblog too! Thanks for reading!

Tagging: @thegreatandlvable let me know if you want to be tagged in future Steb fics!

[unboundndd]

Omg finally someone who is willing to write for kayn 😭😭😭 I have been starved FOR AGES i'm telling you. For the past months or so all I've been thinking abt is how Kayn would develop a relationship with a reader who's from the kinkou (a whole enemies to lovers if you will). Just some general headcanons about the relationship tysm ❤️😭😭 can't wait to see more of your writing!

hELLO hello!! I swear uni has been keeping me from writing, i had no energy but i am a bit more free for now~ i’ve been starving for Kayn content too so let’s get started!!!

//tag: enemies to lovers, kayn has no idea what emotions are

·:¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨:· If anybody were to ask Kayn what he thinks about you they would be met with silence. It’s normal for him as he isn’t too keen on talking about topics like this and he finds the question a bit obvious: you’re Kinkou, he’s not. You’re trying to bring back the balance that Ionia has lost back alongside Shen, which means you’re actively trying to stop him from reaching his goals and true potential.

·:¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨:· If only this was what he truly thought, in fact his feelings towards you are much more complex. It’s not a mere matter of blindly hating you because of the group you’re affiliated with, it has to do with the fact that you seem to periodically appear where he is and always try to obstacle him. Despite that he has never felt the instinct to kill you, as if his brain doesn’t completely think of you as an useless nuisance.

·:¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨:· The fact is that you challenge him and motivate him to get better, fighting against you doesn't trigger the same deeply engrained reflexes he'd have when killing any other Kinkou alcyote or Noxian soldier. Every encounter with you keeps him alert, reminds him of the high he gets when conquering something that isn't handed to him that easily and despite the two of you being on the opposing sides of such a difficult conflict you can't help but look for one another.

·:¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨:· Accepting that you might have a crush on the man you're supposed to hate is hard, more than any normal crush. Apart from wondering if you're misinterpreting his actions like when he spared you after one of your missions went wrong or the time he patched you up as you hid from Noxian soldiers who were passing by, you also needed to conceal your feelings. If Kayn was simply toying with you he could use the feelings you grew against you, maybe this was just a cold manipulation technique to encourage you to lower your guard or maybe he couldn't feel any love at all.

·:¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨:· That said you still were unable to stop staring at him during another one of your run-ins, you were both alone and your eyes would keep wandering to his lips that were perpetually graced by a confident smirk. You wanted to slap him, kiss him, anything to make him shut up and stop taunting you. It was getting to your head and soon enough you found yourself on the floor, pinned against him and with Rhaast's blade dangerously close to your neck.

·:¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨:· If Rhaast's eye wasn't creepily staring at you, then at kayn and then back to you it would have been better. Maybe even enjoyable as the weight of his entire body was crushing your hips and legs, his expression wasn't revealing anything of his intentions so you had no idea if he was going to let you go or if he was done with playing with you.

·:¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨:· The fact that Kayn suddenly kissed you was so far away from your possible predictions that you thought you were already dead and this was just your brain conjuring up a happy scenario to aid you in passing into the spirit realm. He wasn't exactly doing a great job, teeth clanking against yours and clumsily trying to understand what exactly he needed to do, only when you kissed him back with the same fervor did he start to finally understand what he needed to do.

·:¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨:· "This is what you wanted, didn't you? Get. Out! Out of my head. It's- You're the one who's been distracting me!"

·:¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨:· You were starting to feel like maybe there was a chance your feelings were reciprocated, Kayn wasn't looking like his usual confident self once he finally had to part from your lips. He was confused and angry at the fact that in the end you managed to beat him by thanks to your wit and your personality.

·:¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨:· Ever since that day you and Kayn have been meeting in secret, ignoring the loyality you were both supposed to have for your respective factions. You never have as much time together as you wish and you spend your days either sparring or lazily laying in each other's arms, it mostly depends on how Kayn is feeling.

·:¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨:· You're quite amused when Kayn admits to you that he's never had any kind of relationship, don't tease him for it though, not if you want him to deprive you of all of the affection you crave for the sake of sweet revenge. He loves to hear you beg for him to just kiss you or when you ask for a hug, the fact that he's the only one who will ever see you like this makes him feel very proud of himself.

·:¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨:· You also find out that Rhaast has been the one guiding Kayn and telling him what people in a relationship do, he basically has a corrupted, cruel but extremely experienced wingman by his side.

·:¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨:· Sometimes you have to sneak in/out from each other's rooms when it's late at night and even though you've both been training hard to be stealthy it's still not perfect. Shen knows, and Zed does too and both have decided not to interfere for the time being. Who knows, perhaps something interesting will come out of your new relationship.

[rxally-borxng]

Well, Arcane Season 2 Act 2 was something...

And sorry for this, but I think I need to vent about it, and not in a good way. This is just my opinion, just my opinion.

Spoilers from episodes 4, 5 and 6

I need to know, is anybody else a little bit dissapointed in how rushed Act 2 feels?

Don't get me wrong: I enjoyed it Act 2, so much that I'm going to suffer brainrot during next week. But, at the same time...

Caitlyn:

I was waiting to see Commander Caitlyn questioning herself about her moral compass, reflecting on how much she was willing to sacrifice to achieve her goals of revenge. Heck, I would have loved to see Caitlyn reflects who is changing into: one of the Enforcers that Vi hates? The Noxian soldier that Ambessa is looking for? The leader of House Kiramman that her mother wanted?

But at the end, Caitlyn only saw what happened in Stillwater. And then, she found out that Singed was behind Shimmer and... Let him work for Ambessa? When she was sure about Ambessa's loyalty? And after that, she changed sides when she found Vi? Like, that easy?

Jinx:

First of all: Jinx's bond with Isha is one of the best highlights of this act and its ending was truly heartbreaking. It suceed my expectations, but... I'm also dissapointed that Jinx's revolutionary arc has just... Dissapeared.

Episode 4 was good setting this up, with Jinx becoming a symbol for Zaun, only for her to reject it until Isha gets in trouble, moment where she chose to risk everything and finds out she could be a hero, instead of being the villain in everybody stories. BUT THEN, she forgets about all of this and goes with Vi to chase down Vander and, I get it, Vander was more important, but I truly hope that Jinx as a revolutionary will come back in Act 3, especially after Isha's death.

Vi:

Is it bad to have been waiting for Vi's self reflection arc? Because, after Act 1, I wanted to see Vi dealing with the aftermath of Jinx's suicide plea, Caitlyn leaving her behind, her wearing an Enforcer's badge... And fighting for herself for once, not to protect anybody else or correct a past mistake.

But Jinx's asks for her help with Vander and, after a few tense moments with her sister, they find Vander and- everything is fine between them? Vander is back, yes, but that shouldn't fix everything wrong. They tried to kill each other in Episode 3, Jinx kidnapped Vi in Season 1, Vi left Jinx behind and became one of her sources of trauma... I know they're complex characters, but I can't stop thinking about how the writers decided to ignore all of this because they need her to team up again.

Mel:

I'm gonna be honest: while I love her scenes, Mel's subplot feels disconnected from everything else. I understand that her dissapearance is important for Ambessa and her situation is... Freaky, but- do we really need to know what's going on there? It has nothing to do right now with the conflict between Zaun and Piltover, but perhaps Act 3 will make me eat my words.

Well, I think that's all...

At least, the most important. I don't really want to talk about how I think Maddie or Lorris are just... There, for the sake of being there; about what the heck was Singed plan with Warwick in Stillwater; why Silco knew Vi and Powder's mother but he was never around when Vander was (I'm talking about before the bridge events)...

I don't know... I really enjoyed the episodes, but the more I think of them, the more dissappointed I get.

[cupcait]

❛  did it mean anything to you?  ❜

How her chest aches to hear the doubt in his voice , the anger that he cannot entirely bite back . Ekko needn't say what moment he refers to — she has carried this guilt since grief's grip released her heart .

She had hoped to break the cycle , end the injustices , the fear tormenting the Undercity ... and yet , she had only enabled it . Allowed it to fester , metastasize under Noxian influence .

Her eyes , failing to meet his , sting with rage towards her own ignorance . A nail digs into the palm of her hand , a breath to collect herself before she manages to face him .

' Of course it did ! I've hated myself every day for the choices I've made through this . I never hated Jinx . Not really . I hated what she did , but ... '

Another breath . She's straying from her point .

' I know you've no reason to forgive me . I truly only want to mend the damage I've caused . I won't make the same mistake . '

[noxianwill]

❝ you know, i never pictured myself as a hero. never thought i'd be the one they toast for saving so many lives. and now that i'm here…i hate it. ❞ ( garen stop opening up to the assassin maybe )

» — ⌜ IC ASKS & PROMPTS.⌟  , always accepting.

 — @mettlemight

These may be the words that truly make her look at him differently.

They are not bound to each other — not physically — though a shared goal had kept the fragile truce between demacian soldier and noxian assassin. The Black Rose is an issue to be routed everywhere it seeks to bloom; if to do so she ought to work with a Crownguard, so be it.

Katarina had never been above getting her hands dirty, whatever form that might take.

Getting close to him is explicitly not what the mission is about, however. And she does a good job of keeping at most to a grudging respect, critical as she still is of his country and its rulers. But that admission — an answer so earnest to a provocation about his status — changes something. Something fundamental, it feels like, though she couldn't put a name to it; connection. The assassin doesn't feel as he does, but either the words or how he says them, or perhaps the look on his face; something makes her sympathetic.

Katarina isn't known to be a bleeding heart; not by anyone who's not her family, at least. Tal would always criticize her need to honor the last wishes of the victims she deemed worthy of it. And maybe it wasn't her place to judge, but judge she did, and her blades were often not as merciless as her reputation would suggest. It's that same sort of sympathy, the kind to drives her to be reckless and take risks for someone she has no real bond to. There's nothing to do for him, however; for a second, she wishes there was.

❝ Greatness is overrated, I hear, ❞ A light reply, but all teasing is gone from her tone. It's perhaps the softest she's spoken to him so far. ❝ I thought differently once, ❞ And that earned her a lesson and a scar, though that story he has not earned to listen. ❝ But things are only worth doing because they're worth doing. Not for the reward — if recognition and big banquets with nobility can be called that. ❞

❝ I would not have expected Demacia's greatest hero to feel like that, ❞ Emerald eyes study him as if only seeing him for the first time, a veil lifted. Katarina hates that he is not just some arrogant fool, too full of himself and too hypocritical to be even amusing. That would have been easy to dislike, if not to bear his company for long. This... she hates it. She hates the knowledge there is more to him than that.

Bitterness makes her sharp again as she turns away from him, but there's not enough bite to her words. ❝ Prince Jarvan would be so disappointed to hear it, I'm certain. ❞

[defyances]

𝐀𝐍 𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐋𝐘𝐒𝐈𝐒 𝐎𝐍 𝐋𝐎𝐑 𝐈𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐀

( where yugen is so incredibly obsessed with this woman that she decides to rant about her )

on: her followers

to start us off, we’ll discuss the main event of irelia’s performance: her relationship with blossoming blade. they are very close with each other, and it can be interpreted as platonic or romantic. i only say this because they establish their relationship as teacher/student, a platonic/familial bond that can be as powerful as a romantic one. but i also digress, given the affectionate remarks they give each other such as:

irelia: i wish i could give you silks, but i must give you steel. blossoming blade: stay by my side. i cannot ask for more.

irelia: ionians into formation! blossoming blade: i’d follow you to the black heart of noxus itself.

&& there is so much more. blossoming blade is not confident in her ability to fight, much like irelia && her lack of confidence in her ability to lead, which might explain why irelia has some sort of connection to her. she sees her as a mirror of herself, and much like she needed at one point, blossoming blade needs someone to support her. so, she will give that plus much more. lastly, irelia’s reaction upon blossoming blade’s death; it is simply undeniable that they love each other.

i am a bit bothered by the lack of interactions between irelia && zinneia since it is implied that zinneia is her former mentor:

irelia: zinneia, you are a master at your craft. zinneia: and fate has sent you to give my craft purpose.

irelia: as a child, i watched you dance at the placidium every spring. zinneia: it was your bravery that brought me to the fight.

i was hoping to have more information on their relationship && the sort of impact zinneia had on irelia, but at the same time, it gives me the opportunity to fill in the gaps! given zinneia’s interactions with the rest of irelia’s followers, she is an elder ( we will not talk about how that isn’t reflected in her card art ) who leads the dance program at the placidium. while irelia’s o’ma taught her how to dance, zinneia perfected it with her lessons, and she became the mother/grandmother figure in her life once all her family members passed away. it assures me that irelia did have a support system ( even if a part of her might disagree. ) i will do a more thorough ( * headcanon based ) look at their relationship in another post.

when irelia said she is a warm && caring person, she really meant it. she cares a great deal for her followers as shown:

coastal defender: generations tended this land. i cannot leave. irelia: we must retreat for now, but i promise we’ll return.

ribbon dancer: stand behind me! they won’t hurt you. irelia: if they hurt you, i’d never forgive myself.

fighting for your freedom is important, yes but not so recklessly. if a battle isn’t turning out in their favor, irelia would rather retreat and keep her followers safe rather than dying in vain. her tone is mother-like, always worrying for them even though they are confident and determined to protect their home, and at their deaths, she is torn apart. she is both grateful ( ‘ your sacrifice mattered ’ ) && heartbroken ( ‘ so young . . . ’ ), which is why i emphasize her hesitance to believe in herself as a leader. she is responsible for their lives and for each that falls, she fails. she cannot fail them ( something she says herself upon the death of her card ); her people deserve to live to see the day of bittersweet victory.

on: noxus

as expected, irelia harbors a lot of hate towards them, and rightfully so. however, what i want to talk about is riot confirming my assumption on how deep this hate runs.

imperial demolitionist: for the empire. irelia: so young, already so wicked.

imperial demolitionist: remember the objectives. irelia: ‘murder the innocent’ and ‘destroy their homes’?

for those who don’t know, imperial demolitionist is a child. irelia is speaking to a child and not in a tone you would expect an adult would talk to a child ( especially one who was brainwashed to commit awful atrocities. ) this confirmed my headcanon of irelia’s white && black mentality: no matter who you are or how you came to be, if you are noxian, she will kill you. she will refuse to see you as anything but a tyrant, and she will continue to allow this hate to fester and dehumanize noxus as a whole. she won’t even refer to them by name! she has her reasons, given how much they have taken away from her, but it doesn’t make it right. as we all know, noxus has slaves, ranging from adult to children, and will send them to war whether they volunteered or not. they have to act in order to survive, but irelia can’t see that they’re trying to live; she sees them trying to kill her home, so in turn, she’ll kill them. && that is a flaw i will cover more on in another post.

even though the faith in herself wavers, the passion to protect ionia doesn’t with how confident she talks back to the noxians. she threatens them, promises to kill them, even when faced with their technology and their machinery. she has that much faith in her people and the land, and it’s admirable. no wonder why people follow her.

on: shurima

i never expected interactions between irelia and the shurimans ( especially with azir and nasus ), but it was a pleasant surprise nonetheless! azir && irelia are two fierce leaders, fighting tooth and nail to secure the safety of their homes; however, the difference between their idea of leading is evident within their interactions.

azir: a leader must see victory beyond each loss. irelia: my heart weeps for every fallen ally.

azir: war is an instrument that can make or destroy its leaders. irelia: instruments create beauty; war ends it.

from my perspective, azir isn’t so affected by the loss of lives in the war like irelia is ( it could be because he’s become desensitized after leading for so long or he truly doesn’t care ), and i could be wrong as i am not so familiar with azir. but with irelia, it is obvious that she is very sensitive towards the death of her people. whether they were close to her or not, as far as she knows, they were innocent souls, and they were dragged into this war unprepared. so many lives lost, so many deaths unjustified — it is simply unfair to her people, who have done nothing wrong. && no matter how many times she’s seen a body belonging to the first lands, it never hurts any less. she’s been able to mask that pain over the years she’s grown, but she still grieves, and it can be seen/heard whenever someone very close to her dies.

another difference i like to point out between the two leaders is their viewpoints on war: azir sees war almost like survival of the fittest. in the second quote, war is a way to create leaders, the best of the best while irelia sees it as destroying the beauty of life. war is a massacre, no matter which side wins, && even though she also strives for victory, she will only remember it as the day that peace died.

nasus: sorrow weighs upon you, but death could bring you peace. irelia: not yet, curator. i am far from done.

this made me snort because it’s basically nasus telling irelia, “k’ing yourself would make you feel better,” but i’m sure it isn’t meant to sound that way. rather, he understands her grief && how badly it is affecting her, so he is “testing” her will to see how strong it really is. if she had the opportunity, would she die && end her suffering there, or would she continue to preserve despite the agony she holds in her heart? irelia answers almost incredulously; if she dies now, ends her suffering now, who will lead her people to victory? certainly not anyone she knows/trusts. so, she cannot die. she will not die, not until she knows that her home is safe. ( this plays a bit into my headcanon that irelia doesn’t really fear death since she anticipates the day of reuniting with her family && ending her torment. )

there isn’t much to say about her interactions with the soothsayer && the voice of the risen other than she’s grateful for their aid in these trying times.

on: miscellaneous champs

lastly, i’ll be touching upon her interactions with in-game characters — which, suffice to say, isn’t a whole lot. it’s a bit disappointing. i expected more interactions with shen, karma, riven, and zed; i expected interactions with yasuo, yone, and lulu ( who is apparently in ionia?? ) but unfortunately, we weren’t given that. but i won’t say i’m heavily disappointed either because we did get some interactions with ionian && noxian champs plus extra.

shen: the balance requires a watchful eye. irelia: ionia needs brave hearts and able hands, too.

much like akali, irelia does not believe in waiting around && letting the land fight on its own. she even questions shen’s philosophy because of the slaughter that happened, which makes me theorize her faith in the spirit; clearly, she still believes in it but not so deeply like shen and the elders.

karma: ionia speaks through me. irelia: then tell me when this bloody fight will end?

she even questions the spirit of ionia itself, in a tone that is tired and desperate to end this terror. she is a lot nicer to karma in lor than lol, which confirms my suspicion that while irelia was initially frustrated with karma’s ( lack of ) action, she has come to understand her reasoning through the years that they’ve worked together.

zed: pledge yourself to the shadows. irelia: noxian tyranny has already forged our bond.

riven: [ dies ] irelia: irredeemable.

isn’t it crazy how irelia would rather side with the “evil” shadow master rather than the former noxian? of course, zed isn’t all bad, and riven isn’t all good, but it just further proves how she doesn’t treat noxians as humans at all; however, i would also like to point out her interaction with riven is if she’s against her. irelia would perhaps give her a chance if her quote in-game with her proves anything: “you want redemption? join me, and kill your masters!”

&& i’m still flabbergasted by her interaction with zed. she might not entirely agree with him, but she’ll work with him without hesitance. after all, they do share the philosophy of killing all noxians.

irelia: join us, prince jarvan. dance by our side. jarvan: i’m afraid i was born with two left feet. it’s a lightshield thing…

jarvan: noxus will pay for what they did to your people. irelia: yes, demacian prince. we will see to that.

so not only does she have shurima’s support but also demacia’s! a bit shocking since demacia is antimage and irelia is technically a mage, but i am glad to see that she and jarvan are on good terms.

irelia: my family...h-have you seen them? kindred: drifting between innocence and consequence.

STOP!! astra and i literally discussed this: if irelia was given the chance to talk to kindred, she would most certainly ask for her family && question why she was spared. of course, kindred would answer ominously, which in this interaction, makes me curious. between innocence and consequence? what do they mean? is her family stuck in limbo? are they currently being judged based on irelia’s actions in life? or are they waiting for irelia to join them? perhaps we’ll never know.

[pyrscs-a]

LORE

PYRE, NOXUS' FLAME

[ART BY MY HOT BF! ]

Pyre is a dragon Vastayan, he lived a nice life in Ixtal with his family. He was a hard worker. trying his best to help feed his mother and siblings. However, this didnt last when Noxian spies invaded for information and trade. To protect his family he went with the spies and was questioned for hours on end. Even tortured to protect his home. It was exhausting and he felt like he would die from his wounds but something inside lit a fire in him that wasn't there before. He forgot completely about his family and stopped trying to protect them.

He set his surroundings ablaze. But, instead of punishment he was taken in with open arms. Clearly being a good asset to the country. He was reborn, instead of hating the country that destroyed his good soul he took on a new name and life and showed loyalty to his new identity. Completely wiping his old memories clean. He had no fear, he was completely loyal to his new home. Working as a body guard for the higher classes of Noxus.

Pyre Gladly took any gold of anyone beneath him. He was a fire breathing dragon and should be feared; taking pride in taking on his full form and following orders from his bosses. This side was only seen when he had to fight though. The Vastayan wasn't always serious; he was mischievous when he wasn't needed and would use his status to get free meals. Emptying restaurants stock within hours. Showing off any jewelry he could get his hands on and teasing the humans. Was he truly a good asset to Noxus, or a curse?

[virtuosin]

💔 (and Yone hehe. If you want!)

a    ‘  please  ’   kiss.

It was yet another brisk night, the air promising of more rain. Sona found herself traversing the meadow once more, finding a suitable spot in the grass beside her newfound friend. She knows of the warnings in regards to night travel into the forests. The First Lands were not brimming with tales of demons and spirits for amusement. Being snatched up was a real threat, one the maven understood, but even stills he cannot resist the urge to find him. In the very least, she’s capable enough to escape an altercation, her etwahl and magical prowess refined for such a feat. It was all she could do to ease some of Yone’s woe, though it was apparent that he still wasn’t entirely pleased about her traversing the wilds alone at night. “I know,” Sona says sweetly before Yone has the chance to speak, a groomed eyebrow arched high. “I shouldn’t come, I shouldn’t keep coming, but I am. I know of the dangers, but your good company is worth the trouble. The only bother I’m faced with is this awful chill.” She quietly snickers as the etwahl settles into the grass before her, at ease with Yone’s presence at this point. Thankfully, it only took a single scolding. Though, Sona noticed how lax the instrument was now. No longer were its strings taught, as if ready to unleash of volley of notes for the sake of its master. It was content in the grass, idle and at peace with the situation. It seemed it was of the same mind as Sona. “It’s funny,” Sona begins to pluck a gentle, lazy melody on those gilded strings, her smile thoughtful as she peers down at the dull glint of gold. “I have faced many things in my time. Do you know what is the most grotesque, vile encounter I’ve had?” After a pause, a string is struck with a dense reverberation, then silence. Another beat of silence. And another. Then, a quiet trill of notes echo into the expanse of the woodlands. It’s a foreboding minuet, one that grips the attention of any who hear it. Not for its beauty, but it’s sorrow. One look at Sona and you’d think such a song could not come from a woman of such fair features, of a noble upbringing. What would be more distressing is how unusual the deeper tones are in contrast to her standard orchestrations. “Azakana, Kanmei, the other various creatures from the land of our birth?” Another pause of silence, then a discordant tune is played, grating but somehow blending into the melancholy of her melody. “It is the mortal races that repulse me most. They are the most treacherous things I’ve seen.” She draws her lips into a thin line before continuing. “The heart is capable of great feats, but a touch of darkness can corrupt the pious, the confident, the resolute...and that darkness spreads, like a disease, and at some point it becomes uncontrollable. They feast upon each other’s fears, secrets, nightmares...feast upon those negative emotions as if they’re no better than the Akana that torment them.” “I was born here, but I fled during the Noxian invasion. Did I tell you that?” It’s now that Sona raises her features, offering a warm grimace towards Yone. “I was adopted by a reputable family in Demacia’s court. An upgrade to my days at the orphanage in Galrin. But,” She glances back down, her tune continuing on as she’d been speaking. Never does it speed up, instead keeping this dreadful slow pace that beckons the listener in. “I was forced to hide my abilities...told that, should any find out about my magic or beloved etwahl, I could be taken away and executed. Heh, I fled my homeland to avoid the war, but I am welcomed in the iron embrace of a bird cage.” Fingers twitch, hesitant to strike another chord. If he were to glance, he might notice this as a moment of great emotions for Sona, the anguish flickering through her gaze for but a moment. “I have witnessed what Demacia does to magic users...and I have been hunted by their Mageseekers that would see me in chains. All because I merely exist, for something outside of my control...but I do not hate Demacia. I only wish for them to grow. Heh, I do hate the Mageseekers, I will not lie, but,” There’s another distinct pause, and when her fingers pluck the strings next, the uplifting trill returns. It’s gentle, light, like morning rain against a glass pane. “I find myself happier here, seated beside my curious new friend, happier than I’ve been with any other human being. Yes, I must be on my guard in order to traverse these woods safely, but...dear Yone, I promise you that your presence in my life is worth the risk.” As the melody shifts into this heartfelt chorus of notes, Sona’s body would sway gently. Part of her melted into the music she crafted, as if her very body was responding to the symphony being created. This lighter, hopeful tune were the escape of her lighthearted emotions, all the wonderful thoughts and feelings she’s ever felt since meeting Yone. With any luck, he can hear the echo of the memories in his mind. It would come to its inevitable end, the last note drifting up towards the night sky. “Yone,” She muses his name softly, like a precious secret on her lips. Leaning over on a hand to get the right leverage, Sona would stretch across the distance to press a kiss into his cheek, right where the flesh was exposed. She lingers there, the mirth of her smile infectious. “Please,” It’s spoke with such quiet urgency, and while she lingers close, she does not move to kiss him again in any facet. Instead, she scoots closer, a hand gingerly holding the edge of his face to keep their gaze steady. There’s something harrowing in this red mask, in those eyes--but there is also Yone. The smile broadens a touch as she presses her forehead against the crimson visage, her cerulean eyes drooping shut. “I know it displeases you, but I have made this choice, so please,” She exhales softly, long lashes pressing into her cheeks. “Please, I don’t wish for you to run on me...to disappear ‘for my own good’...I have finally found someone I care for, someone worth my time and efforts, someone who has seen me for who I truly am. I don’t wish to lose that...I wish to cherish it with all my heart...I wish to nurture this and see it grow. You say it is unwise, and you might not be wrong, but it feels right to my heart that I am here...so please, forgive me this transgression, but I shall be your loyal friend, if you will have me, Yone.”

[witchcraftandburialdirt]

of all the people robin has come across in his work as a healer , is there any particular npc that sticks out in his memory ?

✧ ─ 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐂𝐀𝐍𝐎𝐍 𝐈𝐍𝐐𝐔𝐈𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐒 ─ ✧

── Robin's time as a healer was unfortunately during the darkest times in his life the first being his initial introduction into the underbelly of Zaun where his healing was used as a way to keep interrogation victums in tact, and secondly when he was present in Ionia during the Noxian invasion. With the amount of people he healed in Zaun and the issues he was facing emotionally at the time - there was no real room to bond or know any of them; they were all victims of the same torture methods Robin had seen a thousand times over. When he had met them there was practically nothing left - once all of the trivial bits were flayed away and all that remained was a shell of the person who resided infront of him. It was a job. He would heal them, get paid, and subsequently move onto the next poor ripped apart soul - they were simply fodder to him. He does have occassional pangs of guilt over this time, but he realizes now that what's done is done and he paid his price - it is time to move on from those sins.

Ionia is a different story entirely - wartime injuries are never meticulous - sure the battle plans are but the actual casualties that follow can never truly be planned. Robin saw things during the war that led him into joining alongside the Yanlei and denouncing his belief in Ionian leadership. At this point Robin had nothing left - he did it by choice and the people he was healing were exactly that to him: people. They weren't hardened criminals from Zaun, they were innocent farmers and fishermen - people who never would have wanted conflict - people who never deserved conflict. During the occupation Robin met various different poeple but the idea that has stuck with me the most is him meeting a young woman. He's pushed most of the memory out of his head - she had been blinded by gas, and she'd lost her leg; made only worse by the heavy bump of her stomach.

By the time he'd arrived she was already lost - he knew that; but he still tried to give her some semblance of peace. He asked about her life, her husband, what she was going to name their son when he was born: Taga after the first Fist of Shadow from their beloved Kinkou. Robin lied to her; promising that she would make it, that she would be able to see the cherry blossoms bloom in spring with her husband - that he was going to save her. He felt her body grow heavier with each passing moment - until there was no resistance left; and then he had to make an even more gruesome decision. He could desecrate the corpse in an attempt to save the child, or leave it be ... He left with his arms from fingertip to elbow drenched in blood, and a crying infant in them - once again damning himself as people watched this strange beast trek across the carrion and dead. And for the first time since his death; he wept. He wept as he brought the child to the nearest Kinkou affiliated temple and watched from beyond its sacred grounds as the various priests and monks swaddled and took the child away.

He didn't leave a note of the child's given name - not with the boiling pit of hatred in his stomach telling him to burn the temple to the ground. Where had they been? Dozens of healers, monks, warriors all hiding behind their high walls while the general populace choked on gas and were chopped into pieces - lacerated like animals. It was that day that he decided to hate them all, and it was that day when Robin mentally joined the Yanlei's beliefs - eventually leading him to meet Zed and swear fealty to him.

[expirator]

Zed's opinion on Syndra? I know some people ship them and stuff but that's a pretty big meh to me unless it's well developed.

I’m really glad you asked this because I’m a big follower of the church of Zed/Syndra but it’s not an easy ship to pilot. They’re two ambitious individuals that might clash if the settings weren’t right, and put their own ambitions over developing personal relationships.

But there are a few things that I see between them that’s given me the inspiration to support them. The first is Zed’s direction of becoming more of a mature antihero and less of the Saturday morning villain. He’s shown his paternal side in raising Kayn, and the comics plus his new lore show his devotion to those affected by the Noxian invasion and his commitment towards making Ionia a better place. I believe Zed has the capacity to love. Maybe it won’t come until much further down the line, but if he achieves most of his goals I feel like he would have room in his heart to learn to love someone deeply and truly. (of course, not every ship has to go this deep, but it is a good sign for Zed)

I don’t like Syndra’s new lore. Specifically her being imprisoned for fifty-something odd years. So I choose to keep the story of her old lore, with small details from her new one like how she had a brother and how her hair was originally black.

So, the second point. I don’t believe that Zed and Syndra have opposing goals. It’s a bit unclear as to what Syndra wants, at least in old lore. I know in the new lore she abhors Ionians for imprisoning her, but in the old lore it suggests that she despised the system that was responsible for stifling her power in fear of it spiraling out of control. So to me, that says that she still values Ionia, but she hates institutions like the Council of Elders and its conservative lean. When you consider the political background of the new lore, it makes sense that she would have views closer to people like Zed.

Although there’s no canon basis for Zed and Syndra interacting, I think Zed’s system of intelligence would inevitably bring him into knowledge of her and the rumors around her. Zed should be a person that’s carefully evaluating the power levels of the different forces in Ionia. If there is a sorceress around that is as powerful as Syndra, he should be interested in meeting with her. It’s not his job to get her to fully cooperate with him, but as people dissatisfied with the old order, and at some level wronged by it, they would have grounds to work together.

What is important here is that Syndra is not a tool for Zed to use. It’s hard to fill in the blanks regarding her personal motivations, but I feel like she also wants a place to belong. If you go by her new lore, she was never really accepted as a child. The Order of Shadows is a place that doesn’t care about your upbringing, or who you are as a person. As long as you respect the environment and pull your weight, you’ll be treated fairly. So I think Syndra would appreciate that.

The biggest question here is probably: What if Zed and Syndra turn on each other? And I’ve actually been thinking about this and realized they don’t really have anything to gain from betraying each other. Would Syndra really want to work with other less cooperative factions and backstab Zed, only to get an enraged Order hunting her down? And would Zed want to kill a powerful mage whose abilities would be forever gone to him if he stabbed her through the heart? Neither of them has the power to manipulate the other, and neither really has anything to gain by using the other.

[kumihao]

👄 (hate, love, but definitely not platonic)

𝓢𝓶𝓸𝓸𝓬𝓱 𝓐𝓱𝓻𝓲👄 (accepting)

The Noxian scum... Still, after so many beatings and losses, they refused to leave their sacred lands.

Ahri’s eyes were as cold as shards of ice. After being wounded, it took her days to recover completely and days she went without hunting the sworn enemies of both her people and the humans. Why were they hunting, pillaging, raping and murdering the defenseless was beyond the fox’s understanding, but she was determined to put a stop to it.

Even when wounded was she lurking around their encampment, constantly seeking out the defenseless prey, yet never truly killing them for she knew that their Alpha, who had caused her so much distress and pain by wounding her, was expecting her return by often glancing in the direction of the forest. Sometimes, his glance passed her, and that was when she felt something wash over her. It was both hot and cold: the sensation burned on the inside, igniting her lungs and heart, yet cold as the shivers ran down her spine.

This human male was special, she could tell, and it was a pity he chose to follow the orders of his superiors, for now, he had acquired the role of her victim.

Her obsession with this male became overwhelming to the extent she was more determined to gather information about him rather than the orders he gave out or how many men were assigned to each post. 

Her long hunt came to an end when she decided to quit playing cat and mouse. 

Once more they went on a scouting mission. Reserving a position between his men, the Alpha must have felt safe. But was any human really safe from the enchanting vixen? Or did she truly know what was going on in this calculating head of his? She knew now that she had to be careful. 

Suddenly, their leader decided to step aside from the group. After a long day’s walk, they were all exhausted, and to keep them all at a distance, Ahri soothed their minds and bodies and followed quietly the young male. He made his way towards the lake to refill the little bottle when Ahri struck him. He was fast to react, and even faster in an attempt to suppress her, and after a loud struggle to keep her beneath him, the fox and the general found each other breathing heavily and staring at each other’s eyes.

Surprised at his strenght, the ability to calculate each her step and predict her attack, Ahri felt rather captivated. And, apparently, so did he, as the two inched closer and closer until their lips met. 

They both were reluctant at first, yet this was forgotten soon when even their lips began battling for dominance. A moan escaped her lips and liberated her hands from his iron grasp only to pull him even closer and first scratch his back with the tips of her nails, ripping the material of his clothes and some of his skin. The male, in turn, continued assaulting her lips with his own, his hands grasping every single aspect of her body that was available.

And as suddenly as their kiss began, it ended. They were both seemingly shocked by the primal desire that had taken over both of their minds, and he was the first one to pull away. Both their eyes were wide, cheeks glowing and they were breathing heavy. She backed away before rushing back towards the trees, leaving the general alone with his thoughts.

He’d return to the camp as the only survivor as the rest of his soldiers had been ripped of their souls and the bodies were left to the wild beasts. 

[tragedybunny]

The Blade’s Edge - A League of Legends Fanfiction - Chapter 9

It’s not much of a chapter, but it is a chapter. 

They had a simple arrangement. She was the weapon to be used on his enemies. Things get more complicated when emotions bleed into what should simple. Now the two of them find themselves on the precipice of something that was entirely unexpected.

I hold up the chain of black diamonds to examine it and watch them shimmer in the gaslight. The largest sits at the front, receding to smaller ones to the back. I’ve always found the cost of shiny rocks to be quite vulgar, but for once it felt worth it.

I’d offended Kat a few days ago and she’d been cold with me since. She wasn’t outright hostile, but it was clear what I’d said stuck with her, even after my apology. I hadn’t even mentioned her little art expenditure, thinking that would appease her. 

Hopefully, this little peace offering would finally put it to rest. It’d been something I had planned before all this anyway after her comments about wearing jewels that didn’t belong to her. Gwen had been an excellent source of intel for her preferences, and of course, her preferences were painfully expensive. 

I finally hear her stirring about in her room, the hour long past morning. While I’m not sure where she was all night, I suspect she was out drinking, given that she came in the front door and not a window. I tuck the necklace in a pocket and approach her door, knocking softly. I know she hates it when I don’t. I find myself spending an inordinate amount of time either avoiding offending her or figuring out how I’ve offended her. Ironic since this situation was arranged to further my influence over her. I suppose I’m only really delaying the inevitable. One day she’ll figure out that she doesn’t need me to survive, especially once she controls the Guild.

“Are you actually knocking?” She sounds half asleep still. 

I take her words as permission and enter, finding her seated at her dressing table, fighting to get a brush through the tangled waves of her hair. “You’ve requested it in the past.” 

“Since when do you ever listen to anything I say?” Of course, we have a very public event tonight and she’s trying to start a fight, definitely still indignant at me. 

“Good morning to you too Kitten.” I lean down and kiss her on the cheek, I’m not taking the bait. Her expression softens and for the moment there’s peace between us. “I have something for you, for tonight. Close your eyes.” 

She mocks annoyance but does as I ask. I withdraw the chain and clasp it around her neck. “Take a look.” I whisper in her ear and then nip it lightly. 

Her eyes get wide as soon as she opens them and her hand reaches up to lightly caress the stones settled around her neck. “It’s incredible. You can’t be serious.” There’s almost a reverence to her voice. 

“Of course I am.” I reach out and let my hand travel through her silken tresses. “You should have something of your own.”

She leans back against me, finally, I believe she is no longer cross with me. I wrap my arms around her, her head resting in the crook of my left elbow, my arm casting its glow against her pale skin. I wonder how she’s never been unnerved by it, treating it as normal. “You spoil me.” 

“Perhaps I should try it more often.” The familiar urges of having her so close start stirring. I contemplate throwing her on the bed and stripping her down to nothing but that necklace. But no, I have some last minute matters to attend to before tonight. I kiss the top of her head. “Until later, Kitten.” 

She makes a small noise of protest as I pull away, making me aware her thoughts had traveled the same path as mine. “Stay.” She purrs at me, taking my hand. 

“Busy.” I squeeze her hand and let go. 

“Fine.” She rolls her eyes but blows me a kiss on my way out.

Several hours and one clandestine meeting later I find myself waiting for her appearance so we can begin this absurdly long evening. I’ve only told her half the truth about why she’s coming with tonight. Having her company is, of course, a welcome addition to the tedium of official functions but there’s something I wish to accomplish tonight. I’m not ignorant to what’s said about her. I know the little nickname that’s trotted out behind my back, Grand Whore of Noxus. Tonight I want them to see her with me, to bow and scrape a little bit when she’s around. They can’t disrespect her in my presence without disrespecting me. Which is really the point, if they do it at all, even behind my back, it reflects on me. 

At the moment though, I’m reconsidering the whole plan since she’s taking an eternity to be ready. I pace the floor of the Hall, listening to my steps echoing off the walls, patience wearing thin. I finally hear her descending the stairs, Gwen trailing close behind her. I snap my head in her direction. “Fin..” The word dies in my throat. 

The scarlet lace clings to every one of her flawless curves, the small crystals sewn into it create a soft glow around her. The necklace is settled around a dramatic high collar, matching perfectly with the tiara set on her pinned-up hair. I involuntarily suck in a breath, the wait was admittedly worth it. 

She reaches the bottom of the stairs and stops before me. “Well, what do you think?” She turns around, letting me appreciate every angle. 

“You look like you’re somehow wearing half my fortune.” Her expressions falls, I didn’t think she’d take the comment seriously. I hurry to smooth it over before she responds. “I’m only teasing. You look lovely Kat.” She always did though, I wonder if she ever truly realized it. “But tell me how many knives have you managed to hide in there?”

Now she smiles so genuinely. When was the last time she smiled at me like that? ‘Wouldn’t you like to know.” 

Gwen wraps her cloak around her shoulders carefully avoiding her hair. I offer her my arm. “Let’s enjoy making everyone talk tonight.” 

Throngs of people from every station and background fill the Temple of the Sun. It feels as though every one of them is staring at us as we make our way toward the balcony that overlooks the temple proper. Every few feet we’re stopped to engage in meaningless pleasantries, whispering consuming the crowd in our wake. We’re successfully causing a scandal, the Grand General and his House pariah mistress. “You’ll crack a molar if you keep your jaw clenched like that all night.” 

“I’m trying to keep smiling. This is the best I can do at being congenial.” She hisses.

I pull her close, give her one quick kiss. “Just relax.” I forgot how much she dislikes crowds. 

Argos parts through the mass to stand by my side. “Greetings, Grand General, Sir.” 

The new rank insignia on display seems to have added a bit of pride to his bearing. “Argos”, I nod. I do owe Kat for that, her words pushed Darius into his part of that promotion, whether either of them knows that or not. Head of Strategic Defense would sound boring to those more interested in the outright “glory” of conquest, but Argos is smart enough to realize it puts him in a position over a rather significant force. And with his established loyalty, I tighten my grasp over the most central parts of the Empire. Too bad for his extremely incompetent predecessor, I heard they had their throat slit in their own home. 

“Will you be joining the festivities later?” He fumbles around for small talk, a true military man adrift in the sea of ceremony and formality.

“For as long as I can tolerate it. It is unfortunately expected of me.” Lady Montrose, a relic of another era, is hosting and nearly the whole of Noxian society will attend. I’ve got plans to be laid, so at least it will serve some purpose. I can’t stomach these vainglorious, ostentatious displays. “I’ll look for you there.” He starts to speak, but another voice draws my attention away. 

“Do you enjoy spreading your legs every night for your father’s murderer?” Of course, she’s here. I whirl around, leaving Argos mid-word, and storm through those pressed in around me to stand behind Kat, putting my hands on her shoulders.

“Soreana, it’s been a while.” Her eyes get even more narrow, leaving her whole pinched expression. I let my hands travel to Kat’s waist and pull her a step closer to me. 

“Good evening, Grand General.” Pure hatred flows through her words. Kat is pointedly looking staring at the ground, her mood from earlier completely evaporated. 

“You know I don’t think I’ve ever properly thanked you for that night at your home. It was good of you to reintroduce Katarina and I, much has come from it.” 

Kat laughs quietly, and finally looks up. “You make an excellent point.” She leans up and kisses my cheek. “We are grateful.” 

Soreana looks like a fish out of water, gasping for air. “We should head inside.” I slide my hand to the small of Kat’s back and guide her forward, lobbing one last parting shot behind me. “Perhaps this new year will see your husband returned to you.” She sounds like she’s choking as we walk away. Good, I always hated Soreana.

“Bit much, don’t you think?” She lets me lead her toward the pew at the front of the balcony. From here those of rank look down on the teeming masses below. 

“No, I heard what she said and I put her in her place.” I put my hand over hers and feel her run her nails along my palm. 

“It had truth to it.” She’s starting to dwell on it. 

I lean over and whisper in her ear. “Nonsense, every night would be a lot to ask of a man with my responsibilities.” I kiss her temple softly. 

“Honestly.” She slaps playfully at my shoulder and I believe she is sufficiently distracted. I hear enough murmuring to know we’re being talked about again, I find that deeply satisfying. 

“They let anyone sit up here these days.” Darius lowers his considerable form into the seat next to Kat. 

“Well, they did let you in.” She’s all smiles for him I note. 

“I kinda wish they hadn’t. The burdens of leadership I suppose.” 

“Poor DarDar, he might get bored.” It’s always like this between them, astoundingly easy. I’ve never seen them fail to get along, even when Kat is in one of her moods. Tonight it grates on me as he leans in and whispers something that has her choking back a laugh. 

Thankfully their banter is interrupted as the ceremony begins and the Priest steps forward. I note the seat next to me where the third of the Trifarix should sit is empty. Just as well, it keeps me from having to deal with LeBlanc in addition to everything else. 

It’s as though she’s summoned by that thought, her veiled figure practically floating as she approaches. She settles in, too close for comfort. “Well, someone brought their little pet with.” Her voice is so low only I can hear it. I shoot her a look and turn back to the ceremony, a sacrificial killing of the old year to bring forth the new. A deserter stands in for the old year, looking to atone for his cowardice by giving his life to satisfy the gods. It’d be meaningful if I believed in gods. 

Kat has turned her attention back to Darius, gesturing and whispering furiously. “What? I admire you, keeping up with that young little thing.” 

I wonder if the demon could strangle the immortal life out of her. “Are you jealous?”

“And if I was?” Now there’s almost a playfulness to her tone. 

Before I can answer I feel Kat’s arm hook through my mine. She carefully lays her head on my shoulder, not disturbing her pinned-up hair. I catch her hand and squeeze it a bit. She smiles up at me before exaggeratedly yawning.”Behave.” I scold and she pouts, her nails again running along my palm. Perhaps the crowd is getting to her, I should have considered that possibility. 

The ceremony is brief enough at least, Noxians don’t tend to prattle on to the gods, even when they do believe in them. Off to the self-indulgence of the nobility and, if fortune smiles, home before long. As we stand Kat turns again to Darius, and like a coiled predator waiting to strike, LeBlanc leans in to whisper to me. “You’ve been so...occupied recently, we haven’t truly spoken in ages. We should remedy that.” And with that she vanishes into the crowd, her invitation lingering behind her as we begin to leave. 

It is tempting. Leblanc can be charming when she wants something. And she most definitely wants something. Though what it is this time, I’m not sure. Perhaps she just needs to reassure herself my attention is hers when she wants it. Still, it’s always been a benefit when she gets what a little of what she wants. It keeps her docile to think she’s winning. 

“Jericho.” There’s a sharp edge of irritation to Kat’s voice.

“Yes?” She turns back to glare at me, halting the crowd a bit around her. 

“Nevermind.” She turns and starts walking away. I try to hurry after her without appearing to and catching up, I take her hand. 

There’s a moment where I feel her almost pull away. “Apologies, I was distracted.” She doesn’t say anything, but she leaves her hand in mine. It seems everything tonight must be difficult.

The crowd parts, some still daring to stare and take in the spectacle or try to whisper covertly to their companions. I stop suddenly and lean down to kiss her deeply, hands around her hips, fueling the fire. 

I’d almost say she was blushing slightly as we pulled apart. “You’re making quite a scene.” 

“That was entirely my intention, my dear.” I take her hand and continue our way out, leaving the masses gawking behind us. 

[danceblades-a]

ON EMOTIONS.

So as I was inspired by this amazing Irelia piece , I thought I’d share a bit about how Irelia deals with her emotions / her feelings in general .

As a young child , she was far more open && generally jovial . Her family were pretty well - off and as the eldest daughter , she received many advantages . Her parents allowed her to pursue whatever interests she had and cultivated a general zest for life within Irelia . She took care of her younger siblings , but when she grew more preoccupied with silk dancing , she did not spend as much time with them . Still , she remained open and preserved her humility and gratefulness towards her parents .

When she left her family to study at the Placidium at age nine , she suddenly found herself to be the youngest among many , many seniors . She retained her humble && kind personality , an eager student and a good friend . She did make a few close acquaintances during her time there , very few of them would go on to keep in contact with Irelia to this day . 

Her open personality took a sharp turn as the Noxian invasion and subsequent deaths of her family took place . Never in her young life had she experienced such sorrow , and never had she ever expected to . She had very little coping mechanisms in place as she never needed them . Instead of bringing comfort to her in this traumatic incident , dancing became something she was almost afraid of , knowing that her dance has the power to kill . As a form of self defense , she completely retreated into herself . 

At the age of twelve , she forbade herself from crying in front of anybody , she learned to muffle her crying with blankets at night , she trained herself to keep her distance away from everybody . This obviously had a lasting negative impact , one which would remain with her well into her adulthood . Irelia’s somebody who needs positive relationships in her life , people who can support her && people who she can support . To lose every single support structure she had around her at such a young age meant that it would only be harder for her to heal these wounds later on . 

Not only was she burdened with the pain , Irelia’s anger ate away at her . Her desire for the Noxians to pay for their crimes was a fire with amazing destructive potential , a power which could’ve so easily been misled or directed at herself . Here’s where she could’ve became what we know as Nightblade . If she did not receive guidance here , ( cough , Karma please ) Irelia’s anguish && wrath would’ve led to some very rash decisions . 

Assuming that she did receive some amount of reassurance and healing from a positive figure , she would slowly grow into her shoes as a leader . Her quiet and honest way with words combined with her achingly deep sense of empathy for others drew in followers of the revolution as much as her fighting spirit did . Though she now has a few people to confide in her worries and pains , she’d still be rather reluctant to burden others with the weight which she chose to carry . 

During the war , Irelia placed her emotions to the side and dedicated herself to the cause . Her kindness towards all those on her side was genuine . As much as she hated to admit it to herself back then , the Irelia of today would not hesitate to say that she took her anger out during battle . Every negative emotion was channeled through the blades , or at least , the most she could manage without breaking her concentration on dancing . Though she truly had very little time to herself , meditation also helped her out a lot and she still keeps it up to this day .

Post Admiral Duqual’s defeat , Irelia dealt with large amounts of self doubt . She had finally exacted the revenge she was craving for so many years , yet after she killed him with the very shards of the Xan family crest he had ordered to be broken , she felt nothing . Only a dull sense of relief , nothing more . This was doubled by the general political unrest within Ionia . Closer to the end of the war , rival factions such as the Order of Shadows and the Navori Brotherhood had formed and while they did not directly oppose Ionia’s ruling seats of power , the sense of unrest was certainly present .

After the Noxian forces retreated from Ionia and the war was announced to be over , the psychological scars would remain with Irelia for a long time . Even now , she certainly cannot say that she has fully recovered . Though the nightmares of the war slowly became few and far between , her once jovial && carefree attitude is gone for good . Forced to grow up amidst bloodshed and the burden of leadership , Irelia has finally accepted her role as Captain of the Ionian guard . 

As somewhat of a coping mechanism , she places the needs of others very high above the needs of herself . Irelia finds it fairly easy to open herself up to friendships and making new acquaintances , but placing trust into a romantic partner became something she hardly even thought about , much less felt very comfortable with . Her compassion and love for the Ionian people has seemingly only grown stronger as a result of the war . Irelia’s tendencies of isolating herself whenever she feels sad are still very much present .

[lightshielded]

jarvan iv’s new lore / the good, the bad and the oh?

i just wanted to make a more official post on the changes or expansions in his new bio and my own opinions on them and why i think they’re good or bad or if they’re confusing. i will be posting a like thing to the forums in hopes of getting some answers from riot.

THE GOOD !

JARVAN III ! riot has added further information about jarvan the third, the current king of demacia. it’s really nice to actually have some official information on the man who rules the entirety of demacia rather than having to infer things from a mix of slight mentions in character bios and old lore. we know he is a smart ruler, one with a strong political mind allowing him to prevent infighting between political houses. we now know him to a loving, if a bit absent father, and a devoted husband and is truly trying to do right by his son. man even seemed unfazed by his son bringing home a half dragon when the entire demacian court was questioning the wisdom of letting the prince have a dragon on his personal guard. i don’t know man, they’ve made jarvan iii chill and i like him.

XIN ZHAO EXISTS ! this is more existence xin has seen in years and look i know it’s a brief ass mention in jarvan’s lore on how y’know he is actually doing his job of the seneschal of demacia and the lightshield family’s steward and just looking after a young jarvan but damn. yes. give xin lore and give jarvan the personal relationships which should have been established before and did exist back in the old - old lore.

EXTRA DETAILS ! i do like the small extra details given to events in this new biography. for instance, before he warred in the areas to the south, now we know the true names of these areas and where he fought and that these were also the same lands jarvan i lost his head to sion fighting in. we know a little more about his childhood and his education and why things were the way they were. just nice little details which gives his early bits of lore some interesting bits and bobs.

THIS LINE ! ‘ and the king beginning to feel the weight of his years, the prince must ensure he is prepared to one day inherit the throne, and be crowned King Jarvan IV of Demacia. ’ this line right here. this makes me feel things, that is all. just damn, king jarvan iv of demacia. now ain’t that a mood.

THE BAD !

LADY CATHERINE ! now, jarvan’s mother was only once mentioned back in the journals of justice and i honestly thought riot had forgotten about her. yet, i still joked with the release of sylas that they do not touch her. and, you know what, they really shouldn’t have. i am happy she got mention but i hate that she was revived into lore purely for the trope of killing off female characters as some kind of poor excuse for development and angst in male character’s lives. like yes, demacia is low technology and anti - magic so childbirth is probably a dangerous thing which results in a great many more deaths than in the modern day, but it was wholly unnecessary for jarvan’s older lore did not require it so it was a detail cheaply used and unwarranted. 

NO CAPTURE ! jarvan’s narrative across all lores from the oldest to the one just prior to now have included him spending time in noxian custody due to a mistake on his part and him feeling the need for self - improvement and redemption. this has been his hallmark for many years and provided strong reason for character development by curbing his pride and his rash behaviour, showing his strong empathy for his fellow man and how that is both boon as well as cause cause him to make blind errors. each of these lores has provided us with a sheltered character pulled into a world far more gritty than he was living in, struggling, failing but rebuilding himself into a stronger person. yet here, jarvan barely fails. his ‘ downfall ’ moment is simply that his battalion gets splintered off after scores of victories which spread them too thin. that’s right, he won too much, got cocky and kept pressing forward. while it mentions he was troubled by what he saw there was no blind dash ignoring of orders cause he couldn’t let the murderers of his people walk free. nah, now it’s more an ego complex following a pledge to bring stability to the region and possibly regrouping when you hear the gates of mourning fell is not on the agenda when doing that. so instead, he is splintered off and he and some survivors wouldn’t surrender and escaped into the forests where they were hunted down and jarvan finally took an arrow to the knee side. here it catches up with the older lore and he lies dying in a fallen tree till our dragon friend comes to save him after mistaking him for food ( i hope they don’t remove that line from her lore when it gets updated i love it ). not to mention it removes his torture by noxus and i have no idea how swain’s line works anymore or how sion even exists.

NO VILLAGE ! so jarvan gets saved and brought to castle wrenwall which is where he combated yvva in older lore and not the small demacian village. this further changes jarvan’s narrative as they know who he is. the garrison commander instantly knows jarvan is the prince and thanks shyvana for saving her. her being a part of demacia no longer becomes because they saw her saving some random demacian and helping him and so having demacian like values and so inviting her to stay because she is a good person. it instead becomes well you saved the prince we are indebted to you. it also loses the charm of shyvana helping out in a village and the prince having to learn to live as a normal person since he is pretending to be so. it also squishes the timeline some but i’ll cover that in the next bit . . .

JARVAN’S SELFISH ! jarvan’s motivation to help shyvana is completely changed. i doubt this was intentional but the wording is very off. before: shyvana tries to leave because she knows the dragon attacks that have started happening are her fault. jarvan stops her, learns of her past and then pledges to help her because she is his friend and he owes his life to her. his own doesn’t matter, he will help her or die trying. now: the very recount heavy style of the rewriting of this new lore implies he sees yvva coming in the distance and he sees her as an opportunity to redeem himself, not help shyvana. in fact, in this new lore they barely interact. jarvan has no reason to care for her since he is still injured when yvva appears so they haven’t spent long together. like when i said the timeline is squashed i mean from several months down to maybe a couple weeks. there is no need for this reduction and all it does is hurt jarvan and shyvana’s friendship and turn jarvan into someone who cares more for his ego than his friend. what happened to learning about charity, huh?

GAREN BARELY EXISTS ! do i need to say more, jarvan’s old lore told much of their friendship and how garen’s efforts saved him but thats now deleted from the timeline and all jarvan is left with is a mention that they were friends, an almost copy paste from garen’s older lore which mentions he admires his fortitude and that now he is shield - captain so jarvan needs to shape up. it just doesn’t feel connected or personal. how am i meant to see that two people are friends if all you say is, yeah, they’re friends. how about some show not tell?

TOO MANY OTHER PEOPLE / REALLY RUSHED ! now i’m sure you’ll be surprised since i said i was happy to see stuff on jarvan iii and xin ( cause i am ) the issue is the writers are working under a kind of word limit system so while i love reading about other champions and characters, devoting several paragraphs of jarvan’s limited amount to other characters and info which is interesting but doesn’t push his story too much feels a little cheap. this rushed pace they then had to write with acts to flatten his character. things that were written once in beautiful detail are now reduced to recounted fact that lack the emotion of what the previous did. ie: CURRENT: ‘ He was devastated. He had failed his family, his kingdom, and his brothers-in-arms. ’ OLDER: ‘ As Jarvan was dragged further from Demacia during his weeks of captivity, he was ashamed that the rashness of his decision to pursue the Noxians had led to needless Demacian deaths. Crushed by the loss, he came to believe he no longer deserved to live in Demacia, let alone inherit its throne. ‘ even just this little bit on his emotions post failure. before it goes into how he stews in his grief for weeks. his shame. his loss. he no longer feels like he can be called demacian. now he is just devastated because he failed.

THE OH ?

JARVAN’S STANCE ON MAGIC IS KNOWN ? people know shyvana is a dragon now. all the nobles in attendance know. jarvan’s father knows. his friend who hates mages probably knows. literally anyone who can hear court or military gossip knows. how is this man left to do his shit when everyone knows that jarvan has a dragon on his personal guard ? this is the prince of a magic fearing nation, a nation who has in recent times made their laws significantly stricter. HOW IS HE JUST AROUND? DOES LUX KNOW THIS? DOES SYLAS KNOW ANY OF THIS? HOW IS SHYVANA NOT LOCKED UP WITH THE NEW STRICTER LAWS ??????????

IS THE KING / QUEEN STILL ELECTED ? a big part of jarvan’s character previously was that he had to toe around his nation’s views because his actions could easily be seen as treasonous or wrong and prevent him from being elected king when his father relinquishes the throne. but now it just mentions he is the heir and he is to inherit it, which it was mentioned in the other lore that he would inherit it ( or rather it was mentioned he didn’t feel like he could since it was mentioned when he was depressed ) so i don’t know if they have scrapped this part of demacian lore or if it just wasn’t mentioned. i have no idea.

[inevectus-protector-blog]

Continued from here | @exemplarum

Taric nodded his head in agreement as the Prince spoke. All beings deserved to be protected- and that is all humans truly want. It is only when their safety is threatened do they panic and bang the drums of war.

“Your words honor me, Prince Jarvan.” The aspect smiled. “You and your people, as well as all others, are watched over by the Protectors light. Should you need their help I shall come to your aid.”

But he understood the plight which laid in the hearts of some Demacian men; how they would, like the Noxians, carve down those in their path to obtain greatness. He was to protect everyone, but not all are innocent. “But know, old friend, that I will not hesitate to stop your countrymen if they ignore the Protectors wishes and harm the innocent.”

It was a bold thing to say in front of the Demacian Prince, yet a necessary one. Taric held no allegiances to the land of the virtuous anymore, but no matter how hated he was within it’s walls it was still his birthplace. He sided with Targon, but he was biased towards Demacia. “I trust that if your men go astray, you would take action.”