#how will i gif firebird. so many tears

[mccallhero]

favourite otp meme: captain swan

[1/7] kisses: killian’s resurrection

[bigball-thefrog]

Why Not Me?: Usopp X Reader

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Hello hi, I'll be posting again this week, I'm doing another request. So have this for now and enjoy!

Warnings/Tags:

Angst wihh comfort

Usopp has daddy issues

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Reader POV

Nami and I had just received the most recent newspaper and were reading it together. There was an article about something the Red Haired pirates did, some huge fight again which didn't catch my interest too much until a wanted poster fell out.

I picked it up and smirked it was an updated wanted poster of Yasopp, Usopps father. I turned to Usopp who had just come out of the kitchen and waved him over, "Hey, Usopp! Guess who just had a bounty increase!!" I knew Usopp would be excited because whenever we'd see something about Yasopp or the Red Haired Pirates, Usopp would always brag about his dad and how amazing he is as a pirate and how he was gifted with his father's sniper genes. Usopp perked up when he heard me called out to him and quickly jogged over. He looked over my shoulder at the wanted poster but instead of hearing him chuckle like usual there was just a sigh. Nami and I looked back at Usopp confused and saw that Usopp had a look of disinterest and resentment flashing through his eyes quickly before he covered it up, "Ah, my old man again." He simply said before standing back up and going to his workshop. I gave Nami a concerned glance and she just looked confused, she simply shrugged it off but I couldn't. This is unlike Usopp to just become so disinterested in something, so I got up and made my way to his workshop.

I knocked on the door and after hearing I quiet, "come in," I opened up the door and stepped inside. He was already hard at work making new ammo for the next battle. I sat down close to him and spoke, "Hey, are you alright Usopp?" "Yup! I'm doing amazing! I'm just preparing some more firebird stars before we reach land, you never know when we're gonna be attacked by marines or new pirates. I gotta stay prepared." I nodded at his answer but still didn't feel reassured, "Are you sure? You didn't seem alright just now. You're usually so excited when you see your dad in the newspaper..." "I was just in a hurry, no time for telling stories or bragging today." "But you always tell stories and brag about your father... If there's something wrong you can tell me you know?" "I'm fine alright? I just... Don't feel like telling stories about him today..." we both went quiet after that and Usopp went back to his work, yet I couldn't help but notice tears forming under his goggles. I gently placed my hand on his shoulder and squeezed it reassuringly, "Usopp, please tell me what's wrong..." I heard him choke up a little before he spoke, "I hate him..." I was shocked when he said that, he always talked about his father like he loved him and now he's admitting to hating him?

Usopp took off his goggles and wiped the tears that were forming in his eyes before speaking again, "That man is not my father... At least, I don't consider him my father. All he's done for me was got my mother pregnant with me and leave..." I stayed quiet and listened to him speak, the tears were forming in his eyes again but he didn't wipe them away this time, "Does he know about me? Does he even care? He's never sent a letter, he's never come back to check up on me. Does he even know what I went through?! Does he even know that my mother, his *wife* got sick and died when I was still young?! Does he know that I was orphaned at seven fucking years old with no one to take care of me?! Does he know I was alone for so many years until I met Tamanegi, Ninjin, and Piiman back at syrup village?! Or does he even care...?" The tears were pouring out of his eyes but no matter how much he wiped them the tears still kept flowing. "I learned something those past two years everyone was separated. My father has never cared once and never will care. Luffy said Shanks came back to his village a few times when he was young, so what was stopping my father from coming back to me? Was I never good enough for him? Was I already a disappointment when I was born...?"

I pulled Usopp into a tight embrace and he instantly hugged me back and cried into my shoulder. "You're not a disappointment... I'd say you're the bravest and most talented in the crew. Your sniper skills are beyond most human ability, you make your own ammo and weapons, you paint and you're the one that cuts the boys hair when they need it! You're an amazing and talented member of this crew, and your father's a jerk for leaving you like that." Usopp calmed down a little and looked up at me with a small smile, "You really think so?" He asked. "Oh I know so~ Who else risked his life to save syrup village even when the villagers didn't like or believe him? Who else shot down a marine flag at Enis lobby and then was the one to motivate Luffy to get up during his fight with Lucci? Who else raised their weapon at Admiral Kizaru despite knowing you wouldn't be able to beat him? None other than the great captain Usopp of course!" I exclaimed as I took Usopp by the shoulders. He grinned and sat up again, "Yeah, you're right! I did do a that, because I am the great captain Usopp!" he looked proud of himself and put his hands on his hips, "I am amazing aren't I?~" he said cheekily and we both chuckled. He suddenly grabbed me in a hug and sighed, "You're a great friend." He said more quietly, I smiled and hugged him back, "Of course, you're my best friend Usopp. You matter to me so, so much."

We stayed in that hug for a minute or two before he gave me one last squeeze and let me go, "Alright now if you'll excuse me, I need to make more ammo so I can continue to be the best." He said as he put his goggles back on. I smiled and got up, I looked back at him one last time before exiting his workshop and letting him work.

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Something sweet for today. I edecude I am gonna start making bits on Character ai based on my shorts here in Tumblr, there isn't much to checkout now, other than one bot but I'll be making a second bit right now so I'll put my account name here and in my pinned post: BigBall_TheFrog

Kelly🐸

[emeritus-fuckers]

Howdy hey I'm interested in trying the match-up event. I always enjoy reading the things y'all've written.

Apologies in advance if this is a mess. 1. Identity: I am nonbinary, use they/them and she/her pronouns. I'm bisexual and a bit on the demisexual side.

2. Who I like: I'm cool with either the papas or ghouls

3. What I look like: I'm 5'8" and chubby. I'm pretty strong and got some muscle so I'm built perfect for giving big hugs and cuddles (though it'll take a bit of convincing to get me cuddly). At the moment my hair is dyed bright red but it changes colors often. Both my eyes have sectoral heterochromia and are green with a bright blue chunk. I usually wear all black graphic tees, skinny jeans, boots, and fun colored socks that often show because i never find pants that are long enough in my size lol.

4. My personality: I am introverted but enjoy being around others even if it wears me out. I'm good with kids (I'm a human jungle gym at this point) and people tend to tell me their secrets and find it easy to be open/themselves around me. I'd say i'm pretty smart but I will do stupid things just because i'm curious. Folks i'm comfortable around will never hear the end of my current interests and I'm a complete goofball (I've been banned from being funny at the table because i've caused too many people to choke laughing oops). It takes a while to actually get to know me deeply because I keep things close to my chest and dont open up easily. I've got a lot of anxiety and some baggage that I keep hidden but I'm working on I swear. I can get really competitive over trivial things and can turn anything into a game. I sometimes go MIA when im distracted with whatever the hell i'm into at that time but when I reappear there's always something new to share. (I can tell you everything you never wanted to know about pipe organs!)

5. Interests: I've got the adhd so my interests bounce around a lot. I like making things and I mess around with a lot with different crafts. I do a lot of fiber arts stuff and I've also recently been whittling bears (I have a few around somewhere). I love music both listening and playing it. I play 8 instruments (violin, viola, cello, mandolin, ukulele, trumpet, trombone, and french horn) but I'm best with the violin because i've been playing it for around 17 years. I'm also teaching myself accordion and guitar. I play video games sometimes and I especially enjoy getting 100% completion. In general I love learning anything and everything and am a "jack of many trades but master of none"

6.Trivia: My favorite movie is fantasia 2000 and recently I completed my goal of performing every music piece in an orchestra (The Pines of Rome and the Firebird Suite are my favs). I collect knickknacks and random things I find and use them to decorate my spaces and I have a skeleton with a mustache in a wizard costume in the back seat of my car and its name is Todd. I also keep googly eyes in my bag just in case

This post is part of the 1000 followers match up event. Entries for the event are now closed.

Your match is...Swiss

You and Swiss quickly became friends, he's so excited by things and so enthusiastic that you got swept up in it all. He's charming and really sweet to you, so you started to fall for him. One day you were sitting outside, Swiss taking a large drag of his vape before he looks at you and grins. "I love ya, you know that right gorgeous one?" You blush and blurt out that you feel the same way. Swiss responds by biting your shoulder just under the collar of your t-shirt. "There now it's offical" he says so excited he's practically jumping up and down "you're my mate!"

Swiss adores your eyes, he thinks they are the most awesome thing ever, and so beautiful. He tells you this a lot.

Swiss adores how much of a goofball you are, he is too, and you spend a lot of time together both laughing so hard you end up tearing up.

If your anxeity is getting bad he will cuddle and do anythig he can to help. If things get too much and you seem sad he'll hold you. He will cuddle you as long as you need. Then he'll try and take your mind off things, anything to get you to laugh a little and smile. Swiss is chaos personified but one thing is constant for him, he loves you and is devoted to you.

Swiss can keep up with your changing interestests. Infact he loves it! This Ghoul enjoys chaos and jumping around from thing to thing, that keeps him occupied. Whatever you get into he'll throw himself into it completely with you.

He is fascinated by all the things you collect. He loves how varied they are and the skeleton with a moutache is his favourite. He was very excited when you whittled him a bear. You handed it to him and he just looked at it like 'woow this is awesome'. he keeps it in his room, pride of place.

He's more than happy to help you learn guitar, he gets so excited his tail starts swishing around. He passes you his guitar and sits behind you legs either side of you showing you a cord and then letting you practice. He'll kiss your neck or softly bite your shoulder every now and then. He'll rest his chin on your shoulder and watches. He smiles at how fast you are learning, his smile is gorgeous enough to make your heart melt for him, to forget completely what you were playing and you just smile back. Often this leads to you getting so distracted the guitar gets forgotten as he presses his lips to yours.

~

Written by Nyx

[padme-parker]

Mizpah // the darkling x reader // ch 4

summary: The Darkling and Alina talk. You get a tour of the Little Palace.

warnings: cussing, getting drunk, maybe some violence maybe not. not proof read either </3

AFTER showing you to your room, the Darkling hurried back to Alina. Inside, the sun summoner had been pacing relentlessly. What did he mean we weren’t together? The girl understood that the two had shared nothing more than a kiss. He didn’t owe her anything, so why did she feel like this? Hearing the door swing open made her stop in place.

“Forgive me, Alina.” He started. “But I made a mistake. I shouldn’t have kissed you that night.” Aleksander didn’t know what he was saying. He knew that he had to have the sun summoner by his side, and he didn’t know how to execute his plan if he didn’t have her. Truthfully, there had been some part of him that enjoyed indulging in her. He had convinced himself and Alina that it was them against the world, which he had believed. Until you showed up.

On the contrary, Alina was seething. She didn’t know whether to be angry with herself or the Darkling. “But you said-” She let the words die on the tip of her tongue, she couldn’t recall what he had said exactly. All she knew was that he made a promise that they would save the world, together. Had she interpreted his words and actions wrong, the girl didn’t know. She left Mal, she just let Mal walk out of her life for a man she had known for less than a year. A man who had promised her everything yet nothing. “Saints, I…”

“I really am sorry.” Alina knew something was off, the Darkling never apologized for his actions, deliberate or not. He had no problem taking up lovers in the past, so what had made him change his mind? He seemed so ready to give himself to her.

The sun summoner gave him a weak smile, “No, I understand.” She could feel the tender strings of her heart snapping. How could I let myself fall for someone like him so easily? She began to berate herself. She quickly excused herself, not wanting the Darkling to see the tears threatening to spill out of her eyes. As soon as she shut the door, she paused. Willing herself to calm in order to go to her room. On the other side of the door, the Darkling approached it yearnfully. He had risked everything for a whim.

With a sigh, the Darkling left the war room and headed to his sleeping quarters. He took a short bath before putting on his sleep attire. He found himself falling asleep to the thought that you would soon be in his arms.

-

THE DARKLING had been roused from his sleep, your screams echoing in the barren hall. Hurriedly, he threw open the doors of his room and gathered his oprichniki before entering your room. He ordered his guards to survey your room as he made his way to your trembling figure. He desperately wanted to reach out to you. To take you into his embrace and kiss your forehead until you stopped crying. But he couldn’t, not yet. It was still too soon. After no threat was found, he directed his guards to leave the two of you alone. He finds himself crouching down to you, his hand hovering over yours, asking for permission. He didn’t want to take advantage of you in such a vulnerable state like this.

With the nod of your head, he takes your hands into his, unconsciously rubbing his thumb along the soft skin of your palm. He does his best to subdue the emotion in his face as he sees the raw skin of your neck. His mouth seemed to dry, his throat feeling like the sands of West Ravka. With caution, he traces along the lines of your birthmark, noticing the shudder you had so deeply tried to suppress.

“I can call for Genya, if you’d like that.” You knew what he was insinuating. As humiliated as you were by it growing up, you wouldn’t get rid of it or try to hide it. Not anymore, not ever again.

“No.” You said sternly. The sunlight had completely changed the way your room looked. In turn you observed how the rays of light painted your room in a warm, welcoming tone. You had managed to finally calm yourself, his presence oddly enough brought you comfort. You should’ve been scared of General Kirigan, The Darkling, Starless Saint, or whatever it was he went by. He was a ruthless man who was willing to do anything he could to end the war. But was that not a good thing? You asked yourself. He would risk everything to end the war. Ravka needs someone like him. He certainly did far more for your country than the King ever did.

A realization came over you as you stared at him, a smile coming to your lips. “I think it’s time for that tour you promised me.” The Darkling lent his hand out to you, and you gladly took it. You dusted yourself off, pretending like nothing had happened. “Give me a second to get dressed.” Without waiting for his reply, you took the same undershirt and trousers from yesterday, and changed in the bathroom. Before leaving the room, you made sure to throw your raggedy soldier’s jacket over your shoulders.

The Darkling started with the obvious, his sleeping quarters and the war room. He had told you how the sleeping quarters connected to his war room wasn’t actually his bedroom. He found it too much of a hassle to move from the war room to all the way down the hall in order to sleep every night. The next room he showed you was his own, but he never granted you entrance.

“I don’t go in there often, it reminds me of..” His eyes briefly met yours, he cleared his throat and looked away. “..someone.” There was a flash of something, some emotion, that you couldn’t pinpoint. But if one thing was clear, whoever this person was really hurt him. You tried not to press on further as the curiosity got the best of you.

“I didn’t peg you as someone who would settle for a relationship.” You said as he started to lead you away from his room.

“I’m not.” He said solemnly. You could tell he wanted to say more. That there was something that wanted to escape his lips, but he didn’t allow those words to leave them. He took his time explaining the halls and rooms of the Little Palace.

“This is where the Corporalki practice, I don’t recommend going inside.” He stated. Their practice room had no windows, unlike the many other rooms within the Little Palace. You could only imagine the horrid smell in there. Perhaps they convinced a squaller to air it out once in a while.

The next room he took you to was where they all gathered to eat. He told you how Grisha were separated into their own tables. The Darkling had sat in the middle, while the Corporalki and Etherealki were seated to the right and left of him. However, it wasn’t often he made an appearance here. He usually ate in his war room.

After showing you the inside, he then took you outdoors towards the garden. He had managed to avoid large crowds inside, but due to nearly everyone training outdoors, there had been some people who stopped and stared as you walked past. The lake had begun to freeze, some Grisha ice skating on the shallow side where the ice froze first. The others had been practicing their magic. It had mainly been the Etherealki who practiced outdoors. Eventually everyone had to come outdoors though to train with Botkin.

“Perhaps I could train with him too?” You asked. Afterall, you were in the First Army. It would be a waste to sit in the palace and do nothing while you could be training and brushing up on your skills.

“If that’s what you want, sure. All Grisha are permitted from using their powers while training with Botkin. I can assure that you’ll be given a fair fight.”

“Oh, I won’t be the one needing a fair fight.” You mused, peering at your knuckles, remembering all the fights you had gotten into at Keramzin after Alina and Mal came. You’d come a long way from that damned orphanage.

“Well, I guess that concludes our tour of the Little Palace for now.” The two of you walked aimlessly, trying to make conversation. Out of the corner of your eye you spotted a small hut, encapsulated by the trees.

“What’s over there?” You asked. The Darkling looked in the direction you had pointed to before swiftly leading you away.

“That's where Grisha go to train one on one with a teacher.” He explained. “I have a meeting to get to, but I can walk you to Alina’s room if you’d like.” The Darkling had hoped you accepted his offer, and tried to hide his disappointment when you had told him you’d like to walk there on your own. As you left, the Darkling kept his gaze on you the whole time. And if only you had turned once, you would see the longing he had so desperately tried to keep back.

The walk back to Alina’s room had been uneventful since Grisha were off training, including Alina. As you return to her room, you traversed about. You were sure she wouldn’t mind you looking around. You and Alina had grown accustomed to sharing most things while growing up. Everything from food, toys, even to Mal. As you neared her desk, you noticed a red book that she failed to hide. The cover had a beautiful gold design and lettering on it, Istorii Sankt’ya, it displayed.

“The Lives of Saints.” You whispered as you flipped through the pages. You were confused as to why Alina had this, she was never one to believe in the Saints growing up. Surely there was no way she had converted to a believer in a matter of months. Then again, faith was a strong thing that could cause Kingdoms to rise and fall. You’d heard of the whispers, some calling her Sankta Alina. As you continued to flip through the pages, you abruptly stopped, one of the images catching your eyes.

Depicted was an image of Sankt Ilya in chains. Behind the Saint was a white serpent that splashed in the waters. At his feet was the stag you’d been tasked with tracking down. And in the background behind the Saint’s left shoulder was a bird. Your fingers traced over the antlers of the Stag, trying to recall why you’d been tasked with tracking it in the first place. You’d heard about all the myths. The Stag, the Sea Whip, and the Firebird. If the Stag had been more than a myth, more than a children’s story, then did that mean the Sea Whip and the Firebird were real too? If so, what could the Darkling possibly want with them.

The sound of approaching footsteps startled you, making you drop the book in your hands onto the desk. You quickly seated yourself on the chair in front of the mirror, trying to seem inconspicuous. Alina came in through the doors alone.

“Well, well, well, if it isn’t my sun summoner. How are you my friend?” You played off, which Alina squinted her eyes at.

“What do you want, y/n?” The question made you roll your eyes, letting out a huff as you got up from the chair.

“What, I can’t visit my friend while I’m staying as a guest here?” You noticed the furrow of her brows, reminding you of the conversation that you, the Darkling, and Alina had last night. “What happened to Mal? Why’d he leave?” You whispered, knowing she was still hurt from the events that took place.

“I.. He..” She began, the whimpering in her voice evident. “We got into an argument, he told me I had changed since I left. That the kefta and jewels made me different. He told me that he saw how the Darkling looked at me. One thing led to another, and then he just left.” She explained, a single tear falling from her eye.

“Did you?” You asked, “Did you like the way he looked at you?” You clarified. Your eyes never leaving hers as she stared at you.

“I thought I did. There was something that was luring me to him. I thought I wanted to be with the Darkling, and then something changed within him. Maybe I took his words the wrong way. But either way you're the only person I have left now. Mal is… gone. The Darkling probably only wants me here to get rid of the fold.” She sighed. You tugged her into her grasp, feeling her body let out small sobs.

“Mal will come back to us, he always does.” You assured while stroking her hair. “Now can we get something to eat, I’m starving.” She let out a laugh as she wiped away her tears. She walked towards a bell that had been sitting upon a tray. She rang it once, signaling a servant. Right after, a young servant had knocked on the door. Alina had promptly opened it and asked for a meal for two to be brought to her room. The servant obliged, bowing before leaving once more.

Soon after the servant had returned with a cart full of food. She served you several small plates of Zakuski, a pitcher of Kvas, along with some pickled herring on top of crackers. You grimaced at the selection placed in front of you.

“Well they’re certainly feeding you ...something.” You giggled. You gravitated towards the Zakuski as your other hand went to pour a glass of Kvas.

“The General orders we have a balanced diet, or something like that.” She replied. “Since when do you drink?”

“Ever since I got stationed at Caryeva.” You shuddered thinking about your time there. “It was my only escape. I remember that night, it was a quiet night, but it didn’t stop the Shu from attacking and capturing Grisha.” The words seemed to just slip from your mouth, it was the first time Alina had heard about what your time was like down in Caryeva. “I tried to fight back, to help the Second Army. Hell, I even suggested that they take me with them. But they spared me because I wasn’t Grisha. Of course I didn’t come out unscathed.” You said, referring to the scars she’d seen yesterday. “And ever since then, I’ve been drinking because why the fuck not.” You raise your glass in a toast before downing it in one go. You reached for the pitcher again as Alina began to talk about her experience here.

“It wasn’t easy at first. It still isn’t. Some of them still don’t believe I’m a sun summoner, that I’m doing some kind of illusion. But surely the Darkling would’ve killed me if I wasn’t what I claimed he was.”

“Can I see it?” You interrupted, while you only got a glimpse of her at the fete, you had yet to see her powers one to one. In an instant, the room is filled with a bright light. You set down the Kvas in order to shield your eyes. A smile came onto your lips, “I can’t believe it, my best friend is the sun summoner.”

“Whenever you return to the First Army, you can’t mention that you know me. Someone will use that against us and try to get us both killed.” She warned, “While we're on that topic, how long will you be staying?”

“Well, he did say I could stay for as long as I’d like; as long as you permitted it.” You said, taking another gulp of your Kvas. You could feel it begin to take its effect, a slight warmth blooming throughout your body while your cheeks were tinted with a light blush. Time seemed to pass quickly as the two of you continued to catch each other up on what the other had missed. Soon enough the moonlight had taken over, leaving you with nothing but candles and lanterns to light up the room. And Alina of course.

“Alright, I think it’s time I head back.” You announced, getting up from your chair seemed to be a difficult task made obvious by the wobble in your knees.

“Maybe you should stay here for tonight.” She tried to convince you.

“I think I’m fine, Alina. Besides who would miss out on being able to sleep across the hall from that hunk of a man.” You snickered as Alina stuck her tongue at you. “What, I know a hot man when I see one.” You admitted.

“Yeah well, good luck trying to get into his pants.” She countered, a smirk on her face. She walked you to her door before giving you a quick hug and wishing you goodnight. As soon as she closed the door, you were alone again. Even in a hall filled with people, you had never felt more alone, more out of place. At least with the First Army you were surrounded by fellow soldiers, while here you were surrounded by Grisha who didn’t know you even existed.

The journey back to your room consisted of you constantly hugging the wall for stability. You thought you hadn’t drunk that much but the effect of the Kvas had just started hitting you more harshly. You’d probably woken up a Grisha or two with your annoying giggling while you mumbled to yourself. Before you know it, someone is walking up to you, their arm supporting your waist as they rest your arm atop their shoulders.

“Oh, hello Mr. General, sir.” You tried to salute him, but failed miserably. You could see the corners of his mouth slightly turn up as he tried to fight it.

“I assume you had a good time?” He questioned as he made his way back to your room.

“Yes, it would’ve been better if you were there.” You suggested, wagging your eyebrows. Sooner than you’d like, you arrived at your door. The Darkling gently laid you onto the bed as he went to take off your shoes, leaving them at the foot of your bed. He lit the lantern that had been placed on the side table. Before he could leave, you grabbed his hand.

“Thank you for walking me back. Goodnight..” You didn’t know what came over you, but the words left your lips before you could even think to stop, “..my darkling.”

If you had stayed awake for a few more seconds, you would’ve seen the genuine smile that came to his face. His fingers stroking your hair, tucking some behind your ear.

“Goodnight, my darling.”

-

A/N: sorry this took so long lol. I was quite busy over the weekend. I usually post every other day. But my question is if y'all like shorter, more frequent updates, or longer updates. Obviously the longer updates wouldn’t be posted every other day. Most likely once a week though. However I enjoy writing and posting every other day because it keeps me motivated. 

Mizpah tag: @all-art-is-quite-useless @devilxangel @musicconversedance @parabatai-winchester @runawayolives @tartiflvtte @rbg1933 @thatguppienamedbae @batgal96 @thebarisinhell99 @5hundreddaysofsummer @kaqua @queenseneschal @benbarnes-supremacy @princessofpersia96 @takethee @dontjinx-it @freakytillthemoon @amortentiaaaa @marvel-ousnesss @coolninjavoid @areomalfoy @pansysgirlfriend @universalirwin @leavejuliaalone @xx-winwin-wednesday-xx @honeyofthegods @lunamyangel @d-list-goddess @comphersjost@telepathdestiel @the-celestial-kitsune @thestoryofmylife9 @s-corpionem @pancakeisreading @sanna2020 @secretsandtinyshadows @savannah-elliott @maliasblue @tea-effect @disneyandharrypotter @futuristicpinklemur @tanyaherondale @the-puff-is-strong-with-this-one @hxgreeves @yourboiialucard @thereeallink @ladyblablabla @wolfieellsworld @p3nny4urth0ught5 @louweasleymalfoy @the-natureofme @itsloveroflife @oddlittleminx @within-thehollowcrown @itsfangirlmendes @heyyimlaynna @jgtfvhsg @gloriousmoneyrascalbiscuit @auggie2000 @itsnotquimey @jtownraindancer @sonnensplitter​ @sarcastic-and-cool​ @poulterfilms​ @spookybooisa​ @stickyknightflowerbailiff​ @hollandsweetie​

S.a.B. forever tag: @deceivedeer

[geekywritings]

Rise of a Queen - Nikolai Lantsov x OC PART 10

"What?"

Taya didn't quite know how to process Nikolai's last words. Surely they must mean something else. Silence hung in the air, as the winds around them began to pick up. It just wasn't clear whether they had come naturally or whether Taya had subconsciously used her powers.

"I said, a Queen doesn't bow.", Nikolai repeated, more seriously this time. What they had was fresh and new and he was probably rushing things, but he wasn't one to wait once his mind had latched onto an idea. Besides, Taya was the right one for the crown, he knew. She had shown intelligence and the willingness to give up everything for her country. At the same time, she could be passionate and understanding. And she was the perfect one for him.

"Stop teasing." She still didn't believe a word he said.

So he closed the short distance between them, grasping her hands in his. "I'm serious.", he insisted. "When we get back to Os Alta, marry me."

This should be the most joyous moment in her life. She had read about so many proposals in books and fairytales, but the reality of it was staggering. Taya was happy because this wasn't just a political move on his side now, but at the same time unsure, because it had come so suddenly.

"I love you, Nikolai.", she started.

"Oh Saints, this sounds like the beginning of a rejection...", he breathed out with a nervous chuckle.

"It's not a rejection.", Taya clarified. "It's more of an 'Are you sure? You should take your time to think about it'."

But Nikolai didn't need more time. The more he thought about it, the more certain he became that this was right. "I know what I want. I want you, Taya. As my wife and Queen."

She was far too susceptible to his charm, she realized. The way he looked at her now, so full of love and determination, while his hands held her securely, had her ready to say yes over and over again.

"I want to marry you.", she finally said. "I want to spend my life with you." His arms flew around her, ready to sweep her up, but she paused him for just a moment. "But first, let's solve the problems we have on our hands now. Your coronation and the Darkling."

Now he did lift her up, holding her tightly to himself and laughing happily. "Anything you want, my Queen."

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Although Nikolai would have loved nothing more than to shout it out to the world, Taya convinced him to keep their engagement secret for now. Other things took priority and so their lives quickly fell back into a routine. They needed to continue preparations for a possible attack, while Alina practiced the Cut with Baghra.

During the two weeks that followed, Nikolai and Taya often made the journey to Os Alta and back to initiate Nikolai's reign. As she had expected, the shift of power wasn't that unwelcome at first. Nikolai had proven himself during the last months and so the generals and nobles were ready to pledge their allegiance. A proper coronation would have to wait, however, the event being far too open for an attack.

They celebrated in their small circle of friends, however, toasting to a better future for Ravka. If only the laughter and banter of that evening could have lasted forever...

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The attack came unexpectedly. They had all felt safe at the Spinning Wheel, hidden away in the mountains. But the Darkling had found them regardless and within minutes, they had Nichevo'ya raining down on them, tearing everything and everyone they could grab into pieces. It was a massacre just as bad as the one at the capital weeks ago.

"You need to get them into safety!", Nikolai had shouted for Taya, as children and injured soldiers and Grisha boarded the one aircraft they had managed to get ready. "Take them to the capital!"

She didn't want to. She wanted to stay behind and told him as much. "Do it for me.", he said, before pulling her into a kiss.

"Please be careful.", she whispered.

"I never am. That's what you love about me." Despite the chaos, she smiled.

As she summoned the wind, she felt a horrible knot form in her stomach. It wasn't right to leave. She turned to look back, seeing Gregori and Alexander standing next to Nikolai. The two Squallers had become fiercely loyal to him and were currently on the lookout for possible attackers. Yet although they had kept Nikolai safe before, Taya had a bad feeling this time. Something in her heart screamed that she would not see him again. Then the clouds blocked her vision, as she continued on to the newly fortified Little Palace in Os Alta.

_________________________________

"We saw the Darkling get close to him... And we haven't seen him since."

Taya sank to her knees at those words, the tears spilling out just a moment later. She was in the Grand Palace, in Nikolai's working chamber, where Genya and David were giving her a report. Or rather a retelling of the things they had seen.

Gregori and Alexander were there as well, one of them sporting a broken arm. They had given their own reports already, including the moment where they had been absorbed in a fight with several Nichevo'ya and had lost sight of their new Tsar.

Taya had never felt so empty. She didn't even hear anything else Genya said at this point. Something about Alina, Dva Stolba and a firebird. But what did it matter? The next thing she consciously realized was Genya by her side, trying to help her up, but she would not budge.

"Nikolai...", his name escaped her in a sob and more tears followed. She should have married him the day he had asked. She should have told him ten times a day how much she loved him. She should have... There were too many things she should have said and done. None of which she would get a chance for now.

"The generals are asking for you.", Sonya announced, as she walked into the room, before realizing the scene in front of her. She was being accompanied by Andrej, who was quick to dash forward.

"She is in no state to see them now.", he announced what everyone clearly saw already.

"Then I will go and speak to them." Zoya had kept back all this time, dealing with the situation in her own way.

"And what will you tell them?", Genya asked.

"The truth. That now is a time for mourning and that we will deal with all matters in three days' time." Head raised high, she turned on her heel and walked out, ready to handle the situation at hand.

"Taya, you need to get up.", Genya spoke gently. "Let Andrej bring you to your room."

No answer, just more tears and sobs. But she didn't fight when the Healer picked her up carefully, carrying her through the hallways towards Nikolai's chambers that everyone knew they had shared in recent times.

"Not a good idea.", Sonya pointed out and instead guided the small group back to the Little Palace, where Taya was placed in one of the empty rooms. They all deemed it better if she was not surrounded by his belongings right now.

Alexander and Gregori returned to their respective rooms, while David and Genya went to check on Zoya. Sonya took it upon herself to get some tea and food for Taya, while Andrej did a quick checkup. She was badly shaken and probably in shock, but there was nothing he could do for her. She was mourning and she would just need time.

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Things got even worse when news reached that her family had died during their escape, leaving her orphaned as well. For three days Taya refused to touch food. Most of the time she would sit in bed, cry and keep her thoughts to herself. She would not push people away, but she wouldn't engage with them either. She was like a shell of a person, existing, but not really alive. The people around her tried everything they could to help her, but nothing seemed to work.

Therefore it was a surprise for everyone when, after a week, Taya suddenly appeared in the war room, where Zoya, Genya and David were speaking with the generals gathered there. She walked in quietly, her head raised high and looking royal in her dark blue dress and Squaller Kefta. All present bowed their head, as she announced: "Tell me what we have so far."

She was all business from that moment on. She coordinated war efforts, continued Nikolai's work on weapon production, and continuously evaluated news about the Darkling's and Alina's whereabouts. She took care of Ravka's finances and wrote letters to foreign diplomats and rulers in his name. Nobody questioned her or asked, whether she was entitled to fill that role. Instead, they all treated her like their acting ruler.

At night was the only time when she would show her true feelings. Maids would always find her pillow drowned in tears in the morning despite the sleeping potion she took every night to find peace in the first place. She also continued staying in the Little Palace, still unable to set foot into Nikolai's old chambers.

One night, when she was working late, calculating expenses, she thought she saw something pass in front of the window, but it was so dark, it was probably her mind playing tricks on her. From that moment on, she worked the nights in a windowless corner of the library.

Days passed, then weeks and eventually, the attack on the Spinning wheel happened more than a month ago. For those who had no one to mourn, life had become normal again in the capital and it showed when nobles suggested social events to pick up again. Taya allowed it, but never attended for more than five minutes to greet everyone. She was still all work and while the weapon production had accelerated formidably, her friends worried about her. Even Zoya, who had come to respect Taya's work ethic and dedication, knew that she was far from alright.

"We have news from Alina.", she announced one day, coming to the desk at the library that Taya had turned into her working corner.

"Good ones, I hope.", Taya said, as she continued to write a letter to a Kerch trader, they owed money to.

"Yes, they found the third amplifier and know where to attack the Darkling."

Those weren't the first good news, but certainly, the best in a while, and Taya even dropped her work and turned around to face the messenger.

"Very good. Make sure everything is prepared for their arrival and the attack. I will go myself as well."

"No." Zoya had never disagreed with her before and it startled Taya. "You cannot go. You are needed here.", the other Squaller continued. "We have lost one good ruler already. Ravka cannot lose another."

Taya should have been touched by such a clear compliment from none other than Zoya Nazyalensky, but it was not her forefront emotion.

"I want my revenge, Zoya."

"And you will get it. Through Alina.", the other said. "Take your revenge in a different way. Create a Ravka that the Darkling would have loved to build on fear and merzost and show him that he isn't needed."

She was right of course, but Taya hesitated. She would love nothing more than to take the dark one out with her bare hands, but that was impossible. Not even improbable, but truly unfeasible. This power belonged to Alina alone.

So eventually she nodded. "But please give the sun summoner any and all resources she may need. Provisions, weapons, men, or otherwise. She has my full support."

Zoya bowed and left.

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Don’t forget, you can also read the chapters on Wattpad: https://www.wattpad.com/story/275585861-rise-of-a-queen