#honor reigns supreme

[mrsmess]

Thank you.

[banannabethchase]

Watching old Bullet Club Ring of Honor matches because my anxiety is so high I can't move very well (thanks unexpected thunderstorm), and oh boy are younger Matt, Nick, and Hangy adorable.

[celepeace]

Someday I'm going to make another masterpost of monster capture games but that day has to wait until I've crossed another several games off my list

[andy-15-07]

Forbidden Bonds

masterlist ! pairing Feyd-Rautha x reader

SUMMARY : Y/n is Princess Irulan sister and she falls in love with Feyd Rautha

Dune Masterlist

In the opulent halls of the Imperial Palace on Kaitain, Princess Y/N, sister to Princess Irulan, found herself drawn to a figure that stood at the center of intrigue and danger—Feyd-Rautha, the enigmatic heir of House Harkonnen.

As the daughter of the Emperor, Y/N was accustomed to a life of privilege and duty, her every move dictated by the expectations of her royal lineage. But in the shadows of the palace corridors, she found herself yearning for something more—a taste of freedom, a glimpse of passion.

One fateful evening, as she attended a lavish gala in honor of her sister's betrothal to another nobleman, Y/N's eyes met Feyd-Rautha's across the crowded ballroom. There was an intensity in his gaze, a magnetism that drew her in like a moth to a flame.

Approaching him with cautious steps, Y/N found herself ensnared by the allure of his presence. "Feyd-Rautha," she began, her voice barely above a whisper, "you are a mystery I am eager to unravel."

Feyd-Rautha, with his customary confidence, offered her a charming smile. "And you, Princess Y/N, are a vision of beauty that has captured my heart."

In the midst of the swirling dancers and whispered conversations, Y/N and Feyd-Rautha found themselves drawn into a dance unlike any other. Their movements were fluid, their gazes locked in a silent exchange that spoke volumes of the forbidden attraction that simmered between them.

As the music swelled and the world faded away, Y/N and Feyd-Rautha found themselves lost in each other's arms—a fleeting moment of freedom amidst the constraints of their respective worlds.

But their stolen moment of passion was not to last. As whispers of their clandestine encounter spread through the palace, Y/N's father, the Emperor, grew increasingly suspicious of her affections.

Confronted by her father's disapproval, Y/N was torn between duty and desire, between the expectations of her station and the longing of her heart. But in Feyd-Rautha's arms, she found a sanctuary—a refuge from the pressures of her royal lineage.

"I cannot deny the pull I feel toward you, Feyd-Rautha," Y/N confessed, her voice trembling with emotion. "But our love is forbidden, a flame that threatens to consume us both."

Feyd-Rautha's gaze held a mixture of determination and longing. "I would defy the entire galaxy for you, Y/N. Our love may be forbidden, but it is also undeniable."

As the palace walls closed in around them, Y/N and Feyd-Rautha made a pact to defy the constraints of their worlds—to carve out a future where their love could flourish, unburdened by the expectations of others.

But as they stole one last embrace beneath the moonlit sky, they knew that the path ahead would be fraught with challenges and sacrifices. For in a world where power and politics reigned supreme, their love was a delicate flower, threatened by the looming shadows of betrayal and deceit.

Yet, as they parted ways, their hearts intertwined in a bond that transcended the boundaries of their worlds. For in each other's arms, Y/N and Feyd-Rautha found a love that was worth fighting for—a love that would defy empires and endure for eternity.

[blasphemousclaw]

I’ve been seeing a lot of people argue that Radahn would never agree to Miquella’s plans because he loves the Golden Order and would never want to replace it… but I think there are some nuances about the current state of the Golden Order that call that assumption into question?

The first thing to know about Radahn is that he’s defined by his idealization of Godfrey and his reign as Elden Lord. His lion armor is an explicit tribute to him, and he tries to emulate the “Lord of the Battlefield’s” martial prowess and heroic, honorable nature. When looking at the iconography associated with Radahn, it is always directly tied to Godfrey alone.

But Godfrey isn’t here anymore, he was banished… and the current state of the Golden Order is now extremely culturally different than it had been under his rule. The crucible and those associated with it gradually became less and less accepted, and more and more “disdained as an impurity as civilization advanced.” Godfrey’s crucible knights used to be heroes, and it’s even implied that they were the very face of the colosseums’ ritual combat… the Ritual Sword Talisman is “patterned after swords used in ritual combat held to honor the Erdtree,” and it’s the exact same design as Crucible Knight Ordovis’s sword:

so there’s this connection between the colosseums under Godfrey’s reign and the crucible.

But, in the present day, both the crucible knights and the colosseums have fallen by the wayside: “In time, the strength shown by these knights, and even their appearance, was seen as chaotic and deserving of scorn,” and regarding ritual combat, “the practice had died out by the age of King Consort Radagon.”

We do in fact see these hallmarks of Godfrey’s reign in association with Radahn as well — from Freyja’s backstory, we know that Radahn first met her by watching her fight as a gladiator at the colosseum (probably the one in Caelid!). And there’s a boss fight at Redmane castle with a Crucible Knight and a (red-haired!) Leonine Misbegotten! It’s also worth nothing that Godfrey, his crucible knights, and Consort Radahn all share the same earth-stomp move! Another interesting point is that Godfrey is associated with lions (Beast-Regent Serosh), and of course Radahn wears lion armor inspired by this, but there is also a Lion Guardian enemy at Redmane castle that has horns:

the old crucible society of the Hornsent revered the horned lion above all…

and Radahn, the “Lord of the Battlefield’s lion,” gains horns after being resurrected in Mohg’s body… literally becoming a horned lion!

I think it means something that Radahn is associated again and again with these symbols of the OLD Golden Order and the crucible… the time when Godfrey ruled, the crucible still flourished, and glorious combat reigned supreme. Yes, Radahn is absolutely defined by nostalgia and trying to recapture the glory of an old age�� but I think this is actually a reason for him to OPPOSE the current Order, because now all the things he loved and admired about it are GONE! Indeed, there’s no evidence that Radahn made any attempt to preserve the current Order during the Shattering, and Morgott considers him to be a “willful traitor” with the rest of his siblings!

Does this mean that I think Radahn planned to be where he is with Miquella at the end of the dlc? Not necessarily, and I personally am really skeptical that where he ended up was entirely of his own choosing… I just think that the logic of assuming Radahn would want to preserve the Order in its current state is flawed, because the differences between Godfrey’s reign and Radagon’s reign are quite significant!

[turtleblogatlast]

Something I love to think about is every iteration of Leo’s relationship with Splinter and how Splinter’s interests always define how a Leo presents himself.

I used to abide by the idea that a Leo will simply emulate his Splinter directly, and to an extent I still believe that to be the case, but moreso I think Leos have a tendency to mold themselves into what they believe is their Splinter’s ideal son - someone who embodies all the traits Splinter has explicitly shown to admire or value in a person.

Most of the time, they try to be a dutiful and honorable boy abiding by the full extent of ninjitsu teachings. Then you have Rise Splinter, who very much still has undeniable prowess in the art of fighting and being a ninja, but when it comes to how he shows his interests to his boys…one thing reigns supreme.

Acting. Shows. One liners. Flamboyance in the name of gaining an audience’s attention.

He showcases Lou Jitsu movies on repeat for the boys, passing down the morals and words from those movies to them with no small amount of pride. All while fully expecting them to respect these teachings.

So, of course, Rise Leo picks up on this. He’s a Leo, after all, as much a daddy’s boy as any other variation of him, only he clocked his father’s interests to be different than most others. He picks up on the art of showmanship, of keeping things to himself so as to be a more exciting twist later, of treating the world as a set to act in.

He’s an actor, not just because Splinter himself was one, but because Splinter likes acting and showed one particular actor (unknowingly to the boys, it was himself) as the pinnacle of all his teachings. As someone to value and admire. And even more than that - Splinter focuses on the character the actor is portraying rather than just the man himself.

And I think this is all even more interesting when taking the turtle tot short into consideration, because very, very briefly, just as with many times else throughout the series, we see how easily Rise Leo aligns with his other selves, seeming to pick up the sword easier than his brothers do their own weapons - after quoting Lou Jitsu of course. After emulating his idol - the person who his father seems to admire so much.

Point being, it’s so interesting to see how Leos tend to mold themselves in one particular way throughout every variation - that being, what their father is shown to value most in people.

[spinji]

The king reigns supreme, was there ever any doubt 💕

(and tododeku besties aww)

They're riding togetherrrrrr 🥹

Dabi placing above Enji is just funny as hell. Also! Not only has all of the villain trio finally gotten top 10 status, Dabi has ranked the highest out of all of them by a mile.

They're boyfriends, your honor.

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

[a-dauntless-daffodil]

One night at the Hotel, they're scrolling through HellFlix and Vaggie suddenly gasps.

Vaggie: NO FUCKING WAY! It's finally on here!

Charlie: What? You find a show you like?

Vaggie: Not just "like", this is the best show EVER! I've wanted to binge it with you for years!

Charlie: Oh, neat! So, what show is it? What's it about?

Vaggie: I got three words for you, babe. Xena. Warrior. Princess!

SHE WILL RULE IN HELL AT LAST! HER TV SHOW SHALL REIGN SUPREME IN THE HEARTS OF THE MOST DANGEROUS BEINGS IN HELL!!!!! there is just ONE worrying part to that though....

Charlie: "Wait, she kills the king of hell?"

Vaggie: "It's not a historically accurate show babe don't worry about it."

Charlie: "Still... now I'm picturing her murdering my dad. Not sure how to feel about it..."

Lucifer: (intensely eating popcorn behind them) "Well I'd feel GREAT about it!"

Charlie: "Wh- Dad!?"

Lucifer: "It would be an honor."

Charlie: "To be KILLED by her???"

Lucifer: "Of course! Look at her snarling war face! Look at her THIGHS-"

Charlie: "DAD!!!!!"

Vaggie: (sighing) "Wish I was king of hell so she'd murder me..."

Lucifer: "Poor Maggie." (pats her) "There there, maybe Xena- or Gabrielle might be better seeing as you've been cheering every time she comes on screen- maybe they'd agree to murder the princess consort of hell too?"

Vaggie: "I uhhhh- s-sir, me and Charlie, we're not-"

Lucifer: "Right yes of course! Future princess consort."

Vaggie: "Ffffffuture-?"

Charlie: "DAD HOW CAN YOU SAY THAT ABOUT XENA!? YOU ARE STILL MARRIED TO MOM!"

Lucifer: "Ohhh Char-Char.... Lilith would be FIRST in line for death at the hands of this warrior princess lady and her gal pal. Especially if they used those amazing thighs of theirs to-"

Vaggie: "Sir, please don't finish that sentence and ruin the best show in all creation for my girlfriend by adding more family trauma."

Lucifer: "Whoops! Gosh am I saying too much now? Oh golly, my bad my bad, ha ha ha!"

Charlie: "...."

Vaggie: "Sweetie? Wanna switch the show off for a while?"

Charlie: "....actually, Vaggie..."

Vaggie: "?"

Charlie: "... D'you think we could get a Xena costume in your size?"

Lucifer: (jaw drops)

Vaggie: "Hhhhh... I- yeah, probably? I mean.... this is hell, and her outfit is mostly leather, so...."

Charlie: "Would you wanna wearrrrr it~?"

Lucifer: (drops popcorn)

Vaggie: "Do you even have to ask?"

Charlie: "Mmmm heheh- but I like setting a good example, and you know I loooove it when people ask~"

-THUD-

Charlie: "ohshitballsdickfuck- DAD-"

Vaggie: "Hostia!" 

Lucifer: "IM FINE! AHAHAHA"

Charlie: "Dad- dad im so SORRY i forgot you were here-!"

Lucifer: "NO NO I HEARD NOTHING AND AM A-O-KAYYY!!!!"

Charlie: "You fell face first onto your own cane! You're BLEEDING!"

Lucifer: "Everything is fine! Once I've been sick into this bag of popcorn i will be extra specially FINE and our little impromptu family tv night together is going SO SPLENDEDLY WELL, isn't it Maggie!?"

Vaggie: "Ajo y agua..."

Charlie: "VAGGIE HELP- THE BLOOD??"

Vaggie: (sighing) (smiling) (standing up)

Vaggie: "...I'll go get the first aid kit."

-silly bonus-

Niffty: (from under couch) "I'll trade you the first aid kit for a vile of his bloooooood~~"

Charlie, Vaggie, Lucifer: (screaming and jumping on the couch and clinging to each other in terror)

Niffty: "Don't worry!" (giggles) "It's just for my Collection~"

Charlie, Vaggie, Lucifer: (screaming LOUDER)

[bruciemilf]

Bruharvey but Harvey desperately has to impress single parent Bruce Wayne's flock of protective kids.

OHH, I think both Harvey and Two Face acknowledge that, while Bruce loves all his children dearly and needs all of their blessings, they can be bribed one way or another;

Harvey's a whole mafioso that robs banks on the regular. He becomes the personification of " daddy's money."

Dick? All the gym equipment he can imagine.

Damian? Lifetime access to the Zoo + petting privileges.

Tim? His own coffee shop.

Cass doesn't ask for anything besides her dads happiness and safety, but Harvey buys her a ballet studio cause she's his princess

Duke? Again, doesn't ask for anything. " I'm frankly offended that you think my honor and love has a price, --"

" So you don't want your own Batmobile?"

"...Hold on. Let's talk."

But. That being said. There's one child whose word reigns supreme over everyone else's. The one lounged on Bruce's lap like an evil cat.

Jason.

He can't be bought; Or flattered. Or impressed. Or be reasoned with.

Let's face it, the guy who masterfully bended an entire criminal network on a rebellious whim has little reason to value your word over his.

Harvey tried everything. A library cropped straight out of beauty and the beast. A fully paid college tuition for creative writing and English literature. Sending Tim to Mexico.

Nothing.

"Well," Harvey looks at Alfred while downing his 4th glass of whiskey. Jason had just BIT HIM after he tried petting Bruce's hair, " If I made YOU like me, this should be nothing, right?"

Alfred looks at him as if he's a particularly stupid puppy.

"...You like me, right, Alfie?"

" You're breathing, aren't you?"

[1989taylorsversion]

1989 Vault reigns supreme I've heard enough your honor COURT DISMISSED!!!!!!

[damian-lil-babybat]

Boy Wonder #5 by Juni Ba

I tell you, I gasped! (Talia is so bamf. They are a family, your honor. I love them, dearly, your honor!)

Me, a lowly fanartist, who drew baby Talia and baby Damian, am singing joy to my heart.

Spoiler below:

I want. I want. I want. The mystic martial world that the al Ghul reign supreme. A family of non-magic wielders that defies the customs of old, because their magic is learned, stolen, and hoarded...and not innate, nor gifted to them! For close to a millenia, the underworld of crime...have an underside for the myths and the legends..and the al Ghuls are protector of that! Not just endangered species, but also of fantastical and mystical beasts.

It gave them a more niche place which just fits the al Ghuls perfectly!

The Robin Movement being alive and kicking makes me so happy. Gotham as a community is so fun and lovely too. I teared up on this issue. Also added the group photo for prosperity.

Hope to see another series of this, but just this made me happy already 🤞

[artifacts-archive]

Tetradrachm (Coin) Depicting the God Zeus

Greek, Reign of Phillip II (359–336 BCE)

The official record of quadrennial games honoring the supreme Greek god Zeus at a sanctuary dedicated to him at Olympia began in 776 BCE. With few interruptions, they took place every four years for about 1,100 years. In 394, CE the Christian emperor Theodosius I (reigned 379–95) abolished them as pagan rites. The most prestigious competition remained the footrace, but eventually it was supplanted in popularity by the horse races. Horses were symbols of socioeconomic status, since only the privileged could afford to buy, feed, and train them and transport their teams and trainers to Olympia every four years. In time, many of the victors in the horse races included kings and tyrants. Philip II, king of Macedon, who minted this coin, owned the horse that won the race in Olympia in 356 BCE. The same year his son was born; he would grow up to become Alexander the Great (356–332 BCE). The head of Zeus on the front referred to Philip’s claim that his family descended from the god. On the back Philip commemorated his victory in the horse races of the Olympic Games with an image of a jockey astride his mount.

[sorcererofsolitude]

Ever since Wednesday solved the mystery of her stalker, she'd begun to get stir-crazy. Her mind craved a new project, something to channel her wits and rage into.

Bianca made the mistake of introducing Wednesday to Minecraft, taking advantage of her begrudging but ever-advancing embrace of modern technology.

She created a monster.

Wednesday's main world consisted of a painstakingly constructed city meant to torture villagers with the simulated monotony of a 9-5 office job in an urban dystopia, of which she was the supreme ruler.

Her home was a large turreted castle in the ice biome with a sprawling back yard for her over 100 pet polar bears.

Everything in her castle is either black, white, or grey, save for the pink potted tulip she kept near her bed in honor of a certain someone.

Saturday was game night on the Nevermore Minecraft server. It devolved into chaos ever since Wednesday joined.

Gone were the days of peaceful cooperation. Not on her watch. Instead, Wednesday had taken to ruthlessly hunting other players and using TNT to blow their structures to the shit house.

Bianca: God dammit, Wednesday! Stop griefing my iron farm!

Wednesday: Your rebellion is at an end. The means of production will be seized, and you'll all be sent to work in the mines.

Ajax: You can't just rule over the server!

Wednesday, smirking darkly: I am your god now.

Enid, sighing: ...Wednesday? What the fuck are you doing?

Wednesday: Ah, Enid! Come join me in my conquest, I will make you queen of these lands.

Enid: Care to explain why I got a text from Bianca saying I need to 'reign in my tiny terror'?

Wednesday: ...political pressure.

AO3: SorcererOfSolitude

[romanreignseater]

Mr. WrestleMania

Roman Reigns x Reader

Rating: 18+

Warning: Smut, smut and more smut. A little honorable mention fluff; but very brief

“After a flawless victory at his 3rd Main Event at WrestleMania, your Tribal Chief deserved three special treats.”

A/N: Had to write this in honor of our Tribal Chief retaining last night, I was real nervous, and was even setting myself up for failure. But, I’LL NEVER DO IT AGAIN 😭!!

GIF: @doinggreat

“Acknowledge me.” His wispy voice brought chills to your body.

“Cut! Great job baby.”

“Thank you babe, don’t forget to post that.”

Here he was, your husband, Roman Reigns. Still reigning supreme and he’s just getting started.

Whether or not people are upset Roman won, you’ll always and forever be proud of him.

Kudos to the white knight, but it wasn’t his time. “You already know how I do mama.” His hands grip your waist and a chaste kiss was placed upon your lips. Your smile as bright as ever and his eyes lighting up at your beauty.

“My Tribal Chief?” The voice of the wiseman interrupted your serene moment with your man. “Yes wiseman?”

“The Escalade is ready for you and Y/N to take you back to the hotel.” “Thanks wiseman! Now… vanish.” Your arms wrapped tightly around Roman’s right bicep. “Of course.” And with that, the wiseman was left scurrying.

“Why do you have to be so nasty to him?” Roman laughed as he witnessed you verbally abuse his special counsel. “I’m not nasty with him, but I wanna be nasty to you.” Your hands grip the neck of his shirt and your face centimeters away from his.

“Ohhh, that’s how you feel?!” Your Tribal Chief couldn’t contain his desire for your dominance.

“That’s exactly how I feel.” You said almost immediately.

His brow arched into a questioning look. “And exactly how are you gonna do that?!” A gasp slid passed your lips as he roughly pulled you in by your hips, so there was no space between you. His large hands quickly travelled down to your plump ass, which was waiting to be grasped.

His hands squeezed and released your supple cheeks as you looked him up in his eyes and bit your lip. “You haven’t answered me mama?!” Your eyes began searching his as his hands still worked their magic…

“You are an icon, you are a Hall of Famer, you are the one, and you ARE the Greatest. Of. All. Time, and that’s why you deserve to fuck my throat tonight.” Roman’s couldn’t contain his smile. By god, did he love a woman who can hype him on his accomplishments and speak so dirty to him at the same damn time.

“Reallyyyyy?! Anything else?” Your smile couldn’t contain itself either. “Why, of course there is. What kind of woman would I be if I didn’t give you a proper way to celebrate tonight’s victory?”

“So… Mrs. Reigns, in what other ways are you gonna treat me?!” Both of your smirks seemed to never falter from each others face. “Well Mr. WrestleMania… I know you love how much I taste, so I was planning for you eat my cunt with a little strawberries and whipped cream.”

Roman grunted at the thought of having you spread open with whipped cream sprawled all over your sweet cunt.

His voice became deeper and huskier, “What else?”

“What else?! Baby, you already know how I get down when I’m treating you.” You smiled.

You took care of Roman very well, at home, all over the world, and especially in the bedroom, or floor, or kitchen counter, or the living room couch. It doesn’t matter where, you knew how to please your man and make him feel like the king he already is.

You went on your tippy toes to reach his ear. “And I’m gonna ride that dick. All. The. Way. Back. Home.” You fell back on your feet to look him in his eyes and gauge his reaction. “Thanks.” His random vow of appreciation to you stumped your mind, you were confused as to what he was thanking you for.

“Ummm, for what baby?!”

“For being here for me throughout this entire journey, being by my side, and uplifting me all the way.” He walked away from you and towards the chair where his belts laid.

“This is for you, and all the work you do. And before I beat the brakes off that pussy up in that hotel room tonight, I just needed to let you know how much you mean to me and you’ve made me into the man I am today. Without no Y/N, there would be no Roman Reigns or Joe Anoa’i, and I wouldn’t be operating at this level without you, so thanks mama.”

Your eyes became misty thinking about how far he’s come and the absolute success and power he has earned. “You’re welcome baby, I really appreciate that!”

You both smiled at one another, but his faded quickly. He stepped up to as you back away, you backed away so far you hit the wall.

“I meant what I said when I’m gonna beat the brakes off of my pussy.” You gulped what felt like your last breath. As he left you breathless, he grabbed bag for you and headed toward the door.

“Shall we, my queen?”

You looked as his inviting bent arm, and nodded.

~~~~

Later on, you both arrived at the hotel after a long, hot, and steamy make out session in the back of the Escalade.

Thank god there was a curtain separating you guys from the driver.

On the 50th floor, you and your man took a shower together. Washing each others bodies, and groping one another.

But now, Roman’s ass was pressed against the bathroom counter, and you were on your knees.

You looked up at your Tribal Chief as you stroked his member and cupped his balls. “Couldn’t wait to get me up here, huh?!” Your smile couldn’t leave your face as you reminisce on the utter urgency you felt on pleasuring your man and rushing him up to the room. The elevator felt like it wasn’t going anywhere.

But soon, your smile faltered, your eyes darken, and your ministrations on his cock begin to quicken. His puffy, pink lips trapped between his pearly, white teeth as he watched you abused his cock.

Roman hissed as you roughly rubbed your thumb against his tip. “You like that daddy?!” Who am I kidding, I know you do.” Your voice set into a sultry tone wanting to seduce him as much as possible.

Your lips soon engulf the head of his dick and began suckling his sweet, fat tip. Roman’s eyes rolled to back of his head as he indulged in the savory feeling of you pleasuring him.

“Oh my god… do that shit baby girl, do that shiiitt.” His tongue passed over his top lip, and he placed his right hand on your head to fasten your movements.

You bobbed you head back and forth, as you knew the throat fucking was starting to begin.

You relaxed your throat, sat on your shins, and placed your hands on Roman’s thick thighs. Roman ceased his lean against bathroom counter and stood up straight.

“You ready baby?!” You sent for a go with a thumbs up. You felt dizzy as Roman’s huge hands were clasped against both sides of your head. Your tongue laid flat against the underside of his cock and your mouth agape.

Roman began pumping his cock in and out of your wet mouth tenderly. Your eyes hung low as you watched the sly expression on his face. “Watch my cock fuck your throat mama.” Already naked from taking a shower together, your pussy wet, and leaking onto the ground.

Your eyes transversed from his eyes to the tanned dick pumping in and out of your mouth. Roman’s left hand clamped the back of your head making a makeshift ponytail, and his right cupped underneath your chin. The inside of his thighs hit your cheeks as he brutally slammed his cock into your mouth.

You gagged, your saliva coating the entirety of his member. Your red painted nails pressed into his thighs as he held a stalemate in your throat. His eyes now set on your hands, waiting for the signal. But, your eyes deep and filled with lust, you let his cock stay still in your throat.

“F-uuuckkkk, you’re gonna let me stay in that throat baby?” Shit, he could live in there for all you care. Roman pulled his cock out of your mouth, and your hand rubbed your pussy. Collecting all of your essence, you then smear your juices all over his dick. His chest rising up and down as you sucked the head of his cock hard. He was quick to make you stand up, and pushed you towards the door.

You crawled on the bed sensually with your back arched, and your ass propped up. You quickly maneuvered to your back and spread your legs open. Your honey essence covering the expansion of your spread thighs.

“Fuckkkk, that pussy real wet for me huh?!” Your eyes shifted immediately to the strawberries and whipped room service left on the nightstand. Roman’s eyes followed and flew to the berries and cream. (I’m a little lad who loves berries and cream; I couldn’t help it 😭).

A plump, red strawberry was vastly put up against your lips. And as you opened your lips, you darted your tongue out to sensually grasp the sweet fruit. The juices burst into a flavorful explosion inside of your mouth. The whipped cream canister was shook by the Tribal Chief as he lowered his head to your cunt.

“I ain’t even have dinner yet baby, but I’m skipping straight to dessert.”

The noisy canister explodes whipped cream around your cunt, and a dollop on your clit. The can was throw across the room, and the menace immediately licked up the cream around your pussy. His tongue pointed out, scoped the cream on your clit; just narrowly hitting your sensitive spot.

His lips wrapped around his cunt ever so delightfully, and his abuse began. He lapped up your juices from your flowing center and sucked it up. “Mmmmmm.” Your lips pressed together as you revel in the pleasure. Roman continued his ministrations; continually lapping up your sweet nectar.

“Oh my god, don’t stop dadd-…” Just as you were mid sentence, Roman licked a bold stripe from your hole up to your heated clit. Your body shivered living in the sensation. “Who said I was gonna stop baby?!” His mouth enclosed your pussy as he spoke those words.

He kept licking and licking and licking your sensitive, pulsing clit. “Hol-yyyy shittt, right there, *grunt*, right FUCKING there!” Your legs quaked as your climax took over you. As you were catching your breath, the Tribal Chief stole it with a heavy kiss. The dizzy feeling in your head didn’t prolong when Roman soon dragged your legs to the edge of the bed.

He spread them all the way open, almost ready to dive in again. But, you stopped him.

“Baby… I told you I was gonna ride yo ass all the way back home, and I meant what I said.” His hands lifted up in surrender and marched his way to the middle of the large hotel bed.

Your thighs encased each side of his and you lowered yourself onto his cock. You both moaned as you ease his length into your throbbing cunt. “I’m gonna take you there baby.”

“I’d like to see you try.”

Taking his words as a threat you began pounding onto your man’s lap, taking his dick real good. As you rode him, you made sure to squeeze his dick with your pussy to increase the pleasure and pressure. You pushed him to lay flat on the bed and kept your hands on his burly chest. You rode him faster and faster; his teeth clenched together enjoying the moment of ecstasy.

“Mmmmm, ride that fuckin’ dick mama.” You wrapped your arms around his neck and slammed yourself continuously on his member. Roman grabbed two handfuls of your ass and guided your rough fucking session. Your moans booming through the room and the wet slapping sounds clouded the air. Roman’s eyes hit the back of his head as he reached his high.

His cum filled up your entire pussy as you released as well. You got off of Roman and cuddled up to his side. “That was exactly what I needed after today.” You caressed his beard and stared at him lovingly. “It’s what you deserve.”

Your smiles heavy as you both drifted off to sleep in each others arms.

Then. Now. Forever. Together

THE END!!

MY TAG SQUAD: @cyberdejos2 @thesamoanqueen @alyanarossi @nayys-world @mzv11 @babybatlover @vogueyonce

[blackbacchus999]

Nyx's Veil 🌌🍹

Embrace the profound darkness and the mysterious allure of the goddess Nyx with the Nyx's Veil cocktail. Crafted as a devotional act to the primordial goddess of the night, this drink captures the essence of her in every sip. Each ingredient is chosen to honor her power and beauty, making this a perfect offering to prepare at midnight, the hour when Nyx reigns supreme.

Ingredients and Their Connection to Nyx:

1 1/2 oz Gin: Gin represents clarity amidst the darkness, a nod to Nyx's role as the mother of Aether (Brightness) and Hemera (Day). It symbolizes the balance between night and day, light and shadow.

1 oz Blackberry Liqueur: The deep, dark hue of blackberry liqueur reflects the inky blackness of the night sky that Nyx envelops the world in. The liqueur's rich, slightly sweet flavor mirrors the hidden depths and mysteries that she embodies.

1 oz Lemon Juice: Lemon juice adds a sharp, tart contrast to the drink, representing the sharpness and precision with which Nyx controls the night. It also honors her as a protector, with citrus symbolizing purification and protection from unseen forces.

1/2 oz Blue Curaçao: The vibrant blue of curaçao evokes the twilight sky as it fades into night. Its color and subtle bitterness are a tribute to the dusk that heralds Nyx's arrival each evening, as she cloaks the world in darkness.

Edible Black Glitter: The black glitter sprinkled on top is a reflection of the stars that Nyx scatters across the night sky. It’s a reminder of the cosmic beauty she creates, even in the deepest of shadows.

Candied Moon Slice: The candied moon slice represents the lunar cycle, which Nyx governs alongside her daughter, Selene, the goddess of the moon. It’s a sweet homage to her influence over the celestial bodies.

Instructions:

Mix: In a shaker, combine the gin, blackberry liqueur, and lemon juice with ice. Shake well, channeling your devotion to Nyx with each movement.

Strain: Strain the mixture into a glass, visualizing the dark liquid as the night sky forming under Nyx's command.

Layer: Carefully layer the blue curaçao on top, representing the transition from day to night as Nyx’s veil of darkness takes over.

Sprinkle: Add a sprinkle of edible black glitter to give the drink a touch of celestial magic, like stars twinkling in the night.

Garnish: Finish with a candied moon slice for a lunar tribute, acknowledging Nyx’s connection to the moon and the night.

Ritual: Prepare Nyx’s Veil at the stroke of midnight, the hour when Nyx’s power is at its peak. As you sip, reflect on the mysteries of the night and offer your thoughts to the goddess in gratitude. This act of devotion not only honors Nyx but also connects you to the timeless power she wields over the night.

[lendeah]

After the Weave 1.

series masterlist

Summary:

After defeating the Nether Brain, Gale makes a promise to Tav: he will move to Waterdeep and marry her. However, he breaks his pledge when he feels the pull of his former goddess, Mystra, and leaves to forge the Karsus Crown and become a god, which leaves Tav feeling betrayed and alone.

Astarion, now fully consumed by the shadows, offers Tav a new mission. Together, they try to rebuild themselves and move on from their past. As they rely on each other in unexpected ways, they find a new sense of purpose and meaning, and realize that fate will always lead you back to where you belong.

Pairing: Astarion x OFC!Tav, past Gale x OFC!Tav

Tags: Angst, Drinking to Cope, References to Depression, Eventual Fluff, Eventual Smut, Emotional Baggage, Unresolved Emotional Tension, Post-Break Up, Tav finds herself again with Astarion, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder - PTSD

Word count: 4.4k

Warnings: mentions of alcohol consumption, language.

Also on AO3

Being with him was like being enveloped in a warm, golden glow; his presence adding vibrancy and light to every moment. Even in the bleakest moments, when I felt lost in the chaos of battle, he remained a constant beacon of hope and love. His strong arms always provided support and comfort, our souls intertwining in ways I never thought possible. But every now and then, when the chaos around us subsided and we had a moment of peace, Gale would pull me away from the rest of our troop. We would find a quiet spot, away from prying eyes, and just be together. In those moments, it was like the rest of the world didn't exist. It was just him and me.

"With you, I forget my goddess. I love you" he had whispered in my ear, under a sea of stars. And in that moment, it felt like all of my doubts and fears disappeared. Gale's love for me was real and true; it was something worth holding onto amidst the chaos of war.

So as we stood victorious over the defeated Brain, I turned to the wizard with a triumphant smile and tears streaming down my cheeks. This was what we had risked our lives for, what we had fought and bled for.

"Beloved," Gale whispered, his voice brimming with emotion. "We have faced countless perils together, defying fate itself. Our love has withstood trials and tribulations that most would crumble under. I cannot fathom another day without you by my side."He took a step closer, our bodies gravitating towards each other as if pulled by an invisible force.

The crashing waves and salty sea air filled their lungs as they stood on the decks of the city, overlooking the ocean. The sun was setting in a blaze of pink and orange, casting a warm glow over our faces. "Let us leave this place," he said, his voice trembling with emotion. "We should go back home to Waterdeep. We can build a life together, away from the battles and the constant threat of danger. We can find solace in each other's arms, and create a haven where love and peace reign supreme." he took a deep breath, mustering the courage to add, "Let's get married." His words resonated deep within my soul, stirring a longing I hadn't realized was there. Yes, Waterdeep, the city of wonders and dreams, seemed like the perfect place to start our new chapter.

"Yes," I whispered, the word escaping my lips like a fervent prayer. "I'd be honored to marry you, Gale Dekarios."

He took me that same night, slow and deliberate, as if we had all the time in the world. As we laid in each other's arms, the the warm body next to mine, our intertwined hands, and synchronized breaths felt like an unbreakable bond, our future stretching out before us like an endless summer day. And through the days following the battle, it did. Helping reconstruct buildings, tending the wounded, and giving food and shelter to those in need; everything was keeping us so busy that I didn't notice the faraway look in his eyes. He still held me close at night, his touch as loving as ever, but something seemed to be weighing heavily on his mind.

One morning, exactly one week after the last battle, when my hand reached out instinctively to the side of the bed where Gale used to lay, I felt coldness that wasn't there before. The familiar scent of his cologne lingered in the air, but the silence revealed a very different reality. A heavy feeling settled in my chest as I tried to swallow down the lump in my throat. My eyes scanned our small tent frantically, searching for any sign of him, but all that remained was a single letter addressed to me. Its edges were slightly crumpled, evidence of many folds and unfolding during long nights. With trembling hands, I opened it and read every word carefully, trying to hold onto every piece of him that I could.

To my love

The crown is somewhere in the Chionthar. If I salvage the stones I can reforge it. Only then can I attain the power to protect us from all harm, my love. We could rule together, you as my goddess by my side as I ascend to godhood. I know I pledged to forsake my past for you, but now I must break that vow. The weight of this curse is too heavy for me to bear alone, and I cannot bear the thought of living with it forever. I need to confront her, to stand as her equal this time. I will do everything in my power to surpass her, to make up for all the wrongs she has done, even if it means leaving you behind. But you must understand that if I am successful, I will return to you and make up for all the time we have lost. Please hold onto hope and know that my heart aches with every step I take away from you.

Farewell, my love, until we can be reunited once again.

My tears turned into a relentless stream, blurring the words on Gale's letter as I read it for what felt like the hundredth time. Each phrase cut deeper than the last, carving painful wounds that would never heal. How could he do this to me? Betrayal and rage consumed me as I struggled to understand how the person who had asked me to marry him barely days before could turn their back on it for the sake of power and vengeance.

After that, everything became a blur. I found myself falling into a rhythm of constant busyness. I would wake up at the crack of dawn and immediately begin tackling the tasks that awaited me. And while it brought me some sense of fulfillment to help those in need, it also served as a convenient distraction from Gale's absence and his quest for power. If I kept myself busy enough, I wouldn't have time to dwell on my shattered relationship with Gale, on the nightmares that plagued my mind with the blood and death I had been through in the last year.

I had become known as the go-to person for any problem, big or small. I made sure to accept every task that came my way, no matter how difficult or time-consuming it may have been. Whether it was helping someone mend their broken roof or comforting a grieving family, I threw myself into each task with determination and purpose. But it wasn't just physical tasks that occupied my time. Many villagers would come to me seeking advice or simply wanting someone to listen to their troubles. And so, in addition to being their physical savior, I became their emotional support as well. For that brief moment when they smiled or thanked me for my help, all the weight on my shoulders lifted and for just a moment, everything felt okay again. Yet, behind my forced smile and empathetic words lay the reality of my shattered existence, haunted each night by the memories of my past as the darkness enveloped me.

Each night, I awoke drenched in sweat, my mind haunted by visions of cruel emperors, slaughtered gnomes, and fallen tieflings. The stench of death clung to me, as if the blood was still fresh on my hands. And the nightmare continued, as I woke up alone in a dirty basement, with no one to turn to. So it became my mission not to sleep; if I was busy and distracted, I didn't have time to think about Gale or death. And if my actions were making other people happy in the process, then everyone won.

However, as the days passed, I could feel myself becoming more and more distant from my friends. With Halsin, Wyll and Karlach gone, Lae'zel busy settling her people in the city, Shadowheart tirelessly rebuilding Selûne's temple, and Astarion retreating into the shadows, I felt completely alone. I found myself longing for their company, for the familiar banter and laughter we used to share. But every time I even attempted to reach out to them, something held me back. Maybe it was fear of being a burden or just not wanting to face my own emotions by confronting theirs. And even on those few occasions I did meet with Lae'zel or Shadowheart, I couldn't bring myself to tell them about Gale's letter or how much it hurt me because I couldn't bear to see their pity or judgment.

"He's just traveling. You know him, always seeking knowledge!" I lied through gritted teeth.

But deep down, I knew that the lie was eating away at my soul. The truth was too painful to voice out loud, even to my closest companions.

So, I buried my agony in feeling helpful, as I always did. I worked tirelessly to provide aid to those who had lost their homes and loved ones. I took on more tasks, stayed up later, and pushed myself beyond my limits. But it seemed like the harder I tried to deny my emotions, the louder they screamed for attention. My exhaustion finally caught up to me, both physically and mentally. One day, as I was helping a family rebuild their home after a devastating fire, I collapsed from exhaustion. The family helped me, of course, but word quickly spread that I had fallen ill. People began to avoid me, their once-welcoming demeanor turning cold and distant. They no longer sought out my help or accepted any aid I offered. This only added to my mounting frustration and despair, until finally, I reached my breaking point.

With nothing but time on my hands, the memories of Gale flooded back with a force that knocked me off balance. All those moments we shared flashed before my eyes in vivid detail – our first meeting on the portal, our adventures in the underdark, where we had first kissed, him asking to marry me... It was like ripping open an old wound that never fully healed. But even worse were the memories of slashing, cutting, severing flesh, of fresh blood and dead bodies. I needed another distraction; and that distraction came in the form of wine and rum. But even as I drowned my sorrows in ale, I knew it was a temporary escape. The sweet burn of alcohol numbed the pain for a little while, but it always came back tenfold once the drinks wore off. Before long, I found myself frequenting taverns more and more often. It was my new coping mechanism, my escape from reality. With each passing day, I could feel myself spiraling deeper into despair and self-pity.

One night, as I stumbled out of yet another tavern, swaying on unsteady legs, the piercing sound of my name being called cut through the fog of alcohol-induced numbness.

"Elara, what-?" The voice was familiar and filled with concern. "Oh gosh... he has left for good, hasn't he?" the tone was gentle but firm.

My dizzy eyes can make up a silver updo and tan skin. I take a deep breath, trying to steady myself as I glance over at Shadowheart. Her usually warm and welcoming expression was replaced by a mix of concern and disappointment.

I let out a bitter laugh before taking another swig of rum. "No shit," my words are slurred and barely coherent. "I can't believe you really bought into that whole traveling bullshit."

Shadowheart's expression shifts from concern to irritation as she leans closer to me. "Don't you dare mock me," she hisses. "You know as well as I do that something is wrong with you."

I smile grimly

"Oh, so now you care?" I say, trying to glare at Shadowheart through bleary eyes. "You have been away for months and it's only now you decide to play the savior card."

Shadowheart's expression darkened at my words, and I could see the hurt in her eyes. But I am too angry, too drunk, to care.

"Well, I'm doing just fine," I continue, taking another long sip of my drink. "So why don't you return to your temple or whatever shithole you came from and leave me alone."

She rolls her eyes.

"Yes. Of course, you're doing fine. You're so fine that I found you lying in a tavern, wallowing in self-pity, drunk off your ass. Clearly the picture of good health and sound mind."

I scoffed, staring at Shadowheart with glazed eyes. "What do you know about me? About what I've been through?" My words slurred together, fueled by the mixture of anger and alcohol coursing through my veins. "You think you can just waltz back into my life and judge me? Well, you can't. You have no idea what it feels like to be abandoned by the person you love."

Shadowheart's brows furrowed, her normally composed demeanor faltering for a moment. "I do know" she snapped "In fact, the person I love is all the way down in the freaking avernus!"

The word hung in the air between us, the weight of its significance crashing down on me like a heavy stone. I stare at Shadowheart, the alcohol dulling my senses but unable to numb the pang of guilt in my chest. She's right - I hadn't even considered what she must be going through, separated from Karlach.

"I'm sorry," I mumble, lowering my eyes in shame.

Shadowheart's expression softens slightly.

"It's alright. I know you're hurting." She pauses, choosing her next words carefully. "But drinking yourself to death won't make the pain go away. It will only make things worse."

I struggle to keep my mouth shut, but my stubbornness gets the best of me and I shake my head defiantly. "I don't care," I mutter through clenched teeth, taking another long sip of my drink. But deep down, I know that's a lie. All I want is to forget, but part of me knows that I can't just push these feelings away so easily.

Shadowheart sighs and reaches to grab my hand.

"Listen to me," she says firmly, looking me in the eyes with a determined gaze. "I know how hard this is for you. But you can't give up like this. We need you - your friends need you."

A surge of anger rises within me at her words, and I jerk my hand away from hers.

"Don't talk to me about friends," I snap bitterly. "Where were my friends when I needed them? Everyone left." I choke "Everyone always leaves."

Shadowheart's face creases "We were all dealing with grief in our own ways."

I scoff and take another gulp of my drink.

"Grief? Is that what you call it? How convenient."

Shadowheart's eyes narrow slightly at my accusation, but she keeps her composure. "I never abandoned you," she says firmly."None of us did. We were worried about you."

I let out a bitter laugh.

"Sure, you were all so worried."

After a long moment, she lets out an exhausted sigh, seemingly coming to terms with the fact that I will not budge on my decision. "You know what? Fine. Drink yourself into oblivion," she says with a resigned tone. "But just know that when you're ready to face reality, we'll be waiting." Slowly, she turns and leaves the dimly lit street.

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

Several days later, I find myself in a similar situation, but at a different place. I wanted to ensure that none of the others will attempt to track me down. While Shadowheart's words still hangered in my mind, I couldn't help but feel shame at the person I have become. It was hard to admit that I needed their help. Accepting it would mean admitting defeat and acknowledging that I hit rock bottom. But the hardest part was accepting that Gale would never come back to me, enduring the nightmares without any ale to numb them.

I sit alone at a table in the corner, watching the other clients as they laugh and drink with their companions. I envy their untroubled attitude and wish I could join in on their happiness. But deep down, I know that my grief is consuming me.

A group of rowdy half-orcs stumble over to my table, clearly drunk and looking for trouble. I try to ignore them, hoping they will just pass by. But instead, they stop right beside me and leer down at me with malicious grins.

"Looks like we found ourselves a little present," one of them slurs, gesturing towards me with his mug.

Another one takes a step closer and smirks at my face, his breath reeking of alcohol. "Look at her, all alone and pathetic."

My hands grip the edge of the table tightly as I feel a surge of anger rising within me. If I had my magic... But I take a deep breath and try to keep my voice steady as I respond,"There is nothing here for you."

The orcs, however, don't seem to care about my words as they continue to make crude comments about my appearance.

"All those scars, what are you? A mercenary?" one of them snorts, taking another step closer.

I feel a lump form in my throat as I struggle to hold back tears. Normally, I would have stood up for myself or even fought back, but tonight I am too lost in my own misery to even react. Suddenly, one of them reaches out and grabs my arm forcefully, causing me to flinch in fear.

"Come on, babe," he slurs. "I'll make you forget all about your troubles."

I start to panic, my mind racing as I search for a way out of this situation.

But before things can escalate any further, a strong hand grabs one of the men's wrists and forcefully pulls him away from me.

I look up to see a familiar face - For a second, I think it's going to be Shadowheart again, a flash of ivory hair aprearing in the corner of my eye. But then I realize it's someone much, much worse.

"Leave her alone," he growls, his voice full of authority.

It seems like they want to replicate, but once they take a look at his bared fangs, the half-orcs hesitate for a moment before backing off and leaving the tavern with grumbles and curses. When he turns his head back to me, Astarion has his usual smirk plastered over his face.

"Hello, my dear" His sharp features and piercing eyes send a shiver down my spine. "I see you've fallen quite low since our last encounter."

"What do you want, Astarion?" I spit out through gritted teeth, still shaken. Yet another companion to make fun of my state. Great.

Astarion sits down across from me, still wearing his smirk. "Just curious to see how you were coping without your favorite vampire comrade," he taunts, taking a sip of his drink. "Not very well, by the looks of you." he comments, gesturing towards my disheveled appearance. I feel my cheeks flush with embarrassment as I try to smooth out my hair and straighten my clothes. This is not how I wanted to be seen by any of my friends, let alone Astarion.

"Whatever" I reply nonchalantly, "Did Shadowheart tell you to come here?"

Astarion smirks, knowing exactly how to push my buttons. "No, no, she didn't. I just happened to be in the area and thought I'd check up on my dear friend." His words drip with sarcasm.

I scoff and take another swig of my drink, trying to ignore him.

"But really," Astarion leans in closer. "What happened? One minute we're all fighting side by side, and the next, you're drowning yourself in ale."

I glared back at him, feeling defensive. "None of your damn business."

He leaned back with a smug grin. "Ah, but I think it is."

I let out an exasperated sigh and take another swig of my drink, hoping he'll get the hint and leave me alone. But as usual, Astarion seems to enjoy getting under my skin. He reaches across the table and grabs my drink before I can protest.

"Hey!" I try to grab it back but he holds it out of reach.

"No more drinking for you," he says with a mock stern expression. "Now tell me what's going on."

"Thank you for your concern, but I'm fine." I say, trying to dismiss the conversation.

Astarion's eyes narrow as he studies me intently. "Fine? You look like you've been through hell." he states bluntly.

I sigh and run a hand through my hair again, feeling a sense of exhaustion wash over me. Maybe it's because of everything that has happened in the past few days or maybe it's just the alcohol finally catching up to me.

I glare daggers at him and finally relent with a heavy sigh. "Fine. Gale...he's gone."

"Gone?" Astarion's eyebrows raise in surprise. "As in dead?"

I shake my head sadly. "No...just...gone." My voice cracks on the last word and I have to take a deep breath to compose myself.

A look of understanding crosses Astarion's face and he nods slowly. "Well, it looks like he really went all in on his illusions this time."

I sigh, in no mood for jesting.

Astarion, sensing my lack of humor, leans back in his chair and adopts a more serious expression. "I'm sorry for your loss," he says sincerely, sliding my drink back across the table towards me.

I reluctantly take the drink and give him a nod of acknowledgment, appreciating his rare display of empathy."Thank you," I reply, my voice softening slightly. "I appreciate that."

He nods, seemingly lost in thought for a moment before speaking again. "Although, you know, at the end of the day it's Gale we are talking about, so is it really that big of a loss?"

I roll my eyes at Astarion's insensitive comment. "He was still a good boyfriend, despite his flaws," I reply pointedly.

"Hmm..." Astarion seems to be pondering this before shrugging nonchalantly. "Well, if you say so."

I take a deep breath and try to calm myself down before continuing. "Anyway, what do you want from me? You always have an ulterior motive for your visits"

Astarion smirks again, leaning back in his chair. "You know me so well," he drawls sarcastically. "I actually came here with an interesting proposition."

I raise an eyebrow skeptically. "What kind of proposition?"

He smirks, "You see, even though I excel at pretty much everything, it appears I'm struggling with the... spawn issue, if you know what I mean." He pauses dramatically, waiting for my reaction. "And being the hero that you are," he continues with a hint of condescension, "I was wondering if you could grace me with your whole knight in shining armor wisdom and help me out. Not that I actually need it, mind you. I just think even someone as skilled as myself needs guidance in this kind of situations." He leans back in his chair, with a relaxed smile.

"No"

His face falls dramatically. "What? What do you mean no?"

I roll my eyes.

"I mean exactly what I said," I reply firmly, not breaking eye contact with Astarion. "I have no interest in being your 'knight in shining armor' or helping you with any spawn issues. Find someone else to pester."

Astarion's face falls at my immediate rejection, but he quickly composes himself and leans forward with a suave smile. "Come on, darling," he purrs, reaching out to touch my hand. "Think of the thrill, the excitement of facing such a challenge together."He pauses and adds "just like the old times."

A wave of emotion washes over me at the mere thought. Memories of the past flood my mind, when Gale's presence provided a comforting weight on my side. When our group was at its strongest and most united, standing together against all odds. When everything seemed so easy, so at reach.

I reply with a bitter tone, "Those days are gone for good."

Astarion groans "Gosh, will you stop being so dramatic."

I raise an eyebrow at that. He is one to talk.

Astarion chuckles at my eyebrow raise, a playful glint in his eyes. "Touché, my dear." he admits. "But I'm serious about this, you know. We make a great team, you and I. And who knows, maybe hunting down vampire spawn will help distract you from your... sorrows."

I sigh, torn between the desire to wallow in my grief and the possibility of finding some kind of purpose again. I will admit, weeping and drinking myself to sleep every night does, while comforting, sounds sad. Plus, Astarion's proposition is tempting. At least that way I will have something other than ale to distract myself with.

"Fine," I finally relent, surprising both him and myself. "But Just because I'm agreeing to this doesn't mean I have forgotten you haven't reached out in months."

Astarion's smirk widens as he raises an eyebrow mockingly. "Oh, I would never dream of such a thing," he says with exaggerated sincerity."But let's just say, I did save your sorry behind from those hideous orcs. So I'd say we're even now."

I roll my eyes at his theatrics but can't help feeling a glimmer of anticipation deep within me. Perhaps there is still some fight left in me after all.

With a clap of his hands, he exclaims triumphantly,"It's decided then, dear Elara. You'll join me at the Crimson Palace tomorrow. I've already arranged for a room for you here," he says smoothly. "And trust me, it's much more luxurious than any tent or tavern room you've ever stayed in."

My brows furrow

"Absolutely not. I refuse to live in that sinister place." I say firmly. "Much less if it's with you"

Astarion lets out a dramatic sigh. "Oh, of course not. Because living alone in a moldy, cramped basement beneath the barracks is much more appealing."

I narrow my eyes at him suspiciously. It almost sounds like he's been planning this for a while now.

"Wait, what? How do you even..." And then, I know. "Shadowheart told you, didn't she? Is there anything she didn't tell you? That damned snitch."

Astarion chuckles at my outburst and shrugs nonchalantly. "She may have mentioned it," he admits with a sly grin."She has always been keen on gossip, after all."

I let out an exasperated sigh and shake my head.

Astarion grins, his red eyes sparkling with amusement "You can't expect me to trust you to do a good job while out of my sight. I mean, from what I see now, you could scape at any moment to get drunk and pass out in the street. And then, what good would that do to our poor spawn?" He says, pretending to be deeply worried.

I roll my eyes and cross my arms defensively. "Fine," I huff. "You win. I'll stay at the Crimson Palace, but only because it's the best option for the spawn."

Astarion raises an eyebrow in mock surprise. "Oh, so you do care about the spawn after all? I'm touched," he says sarcastically.

I shoot him a glare, and he relents with a smirk.

"Alright, alright. Enjoy your drinking session then. But don't forget, tomorrow we have important responsibilities."

"Ah yes, the joys of parenthood" I say sarcastically.

And to my surprise, I don't even finish my drink before returning to my basement, finally having something to look forward to.