#lady this is a war that you and your son started

[silver-dragonborn]

Dead ass watch the hardcore Alicent Stans drop Aemond like a hot potato once he stops acting like their perfect Mummy's Boy and starts questioning Saint Puppy Eyes Alicent's devotion to Aegon's cause because she won't stop begging him to make peace with the sister she's been raising them to fear and hate for YEARS. Watch as they get mad at him for rightfully calling Alicent a fool, calling her by her government name, talking about her behind her back, and just slowly pulling away from her. They'll call him an ungrateful child, talk about how Alicent SUFFERED to bring him into this world, and just rag on him for having LEGITIMATE concerns instead of kissing his mother's ass.

[rosiereveries]

Regency!John Price who inherited his brothers duke title, because his brother died without an heir. John was the second oldest son, and he never thought about being the successor to the title, so he chose a military career.

He was a captain who fought wars and won them, not some lord who fancied balls and dressed in fancy clothing. But now he doesn’t have a choice. John comes back home after he has been badly injured in the battle, he was shot in his leg, and he had to use a wheelchair for quite some time.

When he comes home, to the new house and staff who pities him, he doesn’t feel like a man he once was. At the first ball he must attend he can see everyone eyes on him as he stumbles with his cane. He absolutely hates it. So, he makes a plane, he has to quickly marry some girl, make an heir and go live to the countryside where everyone will leave him alone.

You were on the other hand the youngest daughter of noble family. You weren’t rich, but your sisters and brothers married well, so you could keep good family reputation. Now it was your turn to marry, and as you were introduced to the society you quickly came to the realization, that you will probably end as a wife of some old man, who could be your grandfather.

So, when your cousin Johnny mentions, that his loyal friend and mentor John Price is looking for a wife you are interested. He tells you that John is a duke now and that he wants to get married as soon as possible. From Johnnys stories you know that John is a good man, who will hopefully respect you and treat you well.

You don’t get to meet your husband till the day of the wedding. The whole engagement is short and feels very official. He writes you a letter with things that you should know about your new home and your mother and sisters help you prepare for the married life.

When you finally see your future husband standing in the church, you’re quite surprised. He is very handsome, older than you, probably in his late 30s, but you’re sure that if he waited a little, he could find a better wife that you will be. John on the other hand is smitten by you, he also doesn’t understand why you would choose to marry him.

After the ceremony you immediately leave the town. He is very quiet the whole ride to his mansion and even thought you have many questions you stay quiet too. You arrive late in the night, exhausted from the long travel, but the only thing that concerns you is the wedding night. You heard a lot of horrible stories told by maids about their first nights with their husbands. The only thing that John does is that he shows you your room, tells you which butler to call if you have any troubles and he is gone. You’re left in the huge mansion alone and confused.

The breakfast takes place in the dining room. You sit at the table so far from John that you would have to shout to get his attention. He ignores you most of the time. At first you don’t mind it, you finally have some sort of freedom, you explore the land, the house and you find a huge library with many books you want to read.

But after some time, you start to crave his attention. The maids don’t want to be your friends, they think that it is highly inappropriate, you as a couple don’t attend any balls and there is no noble lady in the near distance you could visit and be friends with.

So, you start to write a diary, you write about how you feel and how would you like your husband to actually acknowledge you. Sometimes you also mention that you find him very attractive and the romance novels that you found in the library don’t help your imagination.

One time you forget your diary in the library and John accidentally picks it up. He thinks its some book that he hasn’t read yet. When he realizes that it is your handwriting, he knows that he should put it down, it is not right to invade your privacy. But then he sees his name there and he must know what you write about him.

He reads the whole paragraphs about how your meetings in the dinning room leaves you all flustered and how you crave his attention. He didn’t think that a young girl like you could find him attractive, and he wanted to be a good husband and leave you as much freedom as you could want. He didn’t want to pressure you into any kind of intimate relationship even though he was pressured by the rest of his family to have an heir. John leaves your diary where he found it, without any evidence that he read it.

The next morning, he invites you to eat breakfast with him in the garden. It is far more intimate, and you finally have a conversation with him. He asks you questions about your hobbies, your family and if you like it here.

It finally feels like he is courting you and you leave every encounter with him with rosy cheeks and butterflies in your stomach. He invites you on walks where he holds your hand as you tell him about your day or about the new book you just left. You spend the whole days together learning about each other.  

John tells you stories about the war, the battles he fought. His leg heals up perfectly and now, that he is healthy again, he takes you with him when he goes riding. When you ask him if he likes the hight society he tells you the truth. He tells you how much he despises the formal event and the balls and suddenly it all makes sense to you.

You finally understand why he wanted to marry so quickly and why you live alone in the middle of nowhere. You tell him that you loved the dancing and the beautiful gown you could wear at balls but now you don’t mind the quiet life. Now you have him and that is all that matters.  

One evening he makes a ball just for you. He invites a musician to play, he buys you an expensive gown and you pretend that you are at some formal event. It’s just the two of you dancing, laughing and drinking expensive champaign he bought for the ball. You dance the whole night and after he walks you to your bedroom he kisses you. It is a soft kiss, just your lips barely touching, but it starts a fire in you, and you want more.

When John realizes that you’re not pulling away he deepens the kiss. He knows that you have no experiences, and he wants to show you that he will treat you well. He spends the night with you, showing you in many ways how much he loves you.

And when you finally fall asleep, he thinks how lucky he is to find a wife like you. When you wake up and you see your husband sleeping in your bad you are very grateful that you accidentally left your diary in the library open on the page that mentioned how hot he was. Such a shame you didn’t come up with the plan a little earlier.

Masterlist You can support my work here : ko-fi

[galaxymagitech]

Jason: Hey, Alfie! Which of us was the least crazy as a kid?

Bruce: Let’s face it. None of us were easy children. I dropped out of college and then dropped off the grid. Dick was a menace—

Jason: Nah, Dick’s the Golden Boy.

Bruce: He wanted to single-handedly hunt down a powerful criminal and thought the entire manor was a trapeze.

Dick: Well, Jason was like the perfect kid.

Bruce: He ran away, died, and started murdering people.

Jason: Fair. But the Replacement’s your perfect little soldier, isn’t he?

Bruce: He stalked me, he says incredibly concerning things with no idea how concerning he sounds, he started YOUNG JUSTICE, I—

Damian: Batgirl III is boring. Surely she was easy to deal with?

Bruce: Are you kidding me? She got pregnant and started a gang war!

Steph: Guilty as charged. But Duke’s the normal one, so—

Bruce: You started a gang war? Duke started a gang!

Damian: I’m the perfect heir.

Bruce: You’re an assassin who is currently attempting to turn my house into a zoo. And you keep trying to murder Tim.

Jason: Eh, we’ve all been there. Except Cass. Cass hasn’t tried to murder anyone.

Bruce: Cass tried to fight Lady Shiva to the death, despite refusing to kill. Cass is not well-adjusted either.

Cass: Barbara is good.

Bruce: No, she keeps hacking the Batcomputer. And she’s dating my son. Honestly I have no idea how I’m still sane.

Alfred: I’m afraid your sanity is very much in question, Master Bruce.

[eraenaa]

Worth the Price

Aemond Targaryen x Lannister Reader

Synopsis: Aemond does everything to prove that he is worthy of you— even if it means that he would be a kinslayer twice.

Warnings: Aemond Plots Against Aegon, Oral Sex (f & m receiving), Mature, 18+, Semi-Public Relations, Choking, Edging, P in V Sex, Not Proof Read

Word Count: 5,585

A/N: Reposting bc I was uncertain about this dynamic, but fuck it, I have a soft spot for a Lannister reader and cannot let it rest in my drafts.

Aemond had wanted you since he was young, but as a second son, he would always come second best to his brother. You were a daughter of house Lannister, betrothed to Aegon the moment you were born, an alliance not to keep their Valyrain blood pure but rather to be mixed with gold. You had grown in the walls of the keep, taken from your mother’s arms a few moons after your birth, and grew up under the supervision of your uncle, Tyland Lannister, as a measure to keep you acquainted with your betrothed, Aegon. 

However, such arrangements instilled since your infancy were changed when Queen Alicent was offered a bastard for her only daughter. The queen was quick to cut the engagement made in your infancy and instead betrothed her firstborn son to her firstborn daughter, offering Aemond as your consolation prize. Aemond, who was ten at the time, was thrilled to hear of such arrangements, finally gaining one of the things his heart yearned for the most: you. However, he could see the quiet and greatly covered disappointment not only in your house but in you as well— you were set to be queen, now you were now only to be the lady-wife of a mere second-born son. 

Aemond never truly heard such qualms leave your lips. He was fortunate enough that you had always been keen and kind to him in childhood, and your affection for him only grew in time. But he could not help but be affected by your quiet and greatly oppressed disappointment. For the first ten years of your life, you were prepared and molded to be a queen, hours of unending lessons on how to play the part wasted as you were to be bound to a mere second son. Aemond could not stand for it. He ambitioned to be so much more. He could not stand to be just the second. Second son, second in line, second in your heart. 

“My love, are you listening?” You asked as your husband’s gaze was afar, and you had noticed his attention was not on you. You furrowed your brows as he made no reply, tugging at his arm to bring him out of his trance. “I— I apologize, my heart, I was thinking of another matter,” You pursed your lips and hummed, “And praytell, what matter may that be? Certainly, it is of much importance that you have started ignoring me,” Aemond bit his lip to hinder his amused smirk; he just absolutely adored how you were never afraid to voice out and demand his undivided attention— in others, he would find that absolutely insufferable, but of course, that sentiment was not the same for his dear lady-wife. 

Aemond sighed and could not help but kiss you, unbothered that you two were in the halls and anyone could walk in and see such passion exuding from his usually stoic and rigged demeanor. As your lips parted and Aemond’s body was alight by the feel of your lips and the taste of you, you simply raised your brow, silently urging him to tell the matters that plagued his mind. Aemond tucked a strand of your golden hair and sighed once more, “Nothing— just mere matters of the realm that the king is too incompetent to comprehend and tend to,” You nodded, “Then he is lucky to have you— his brother forever capable and loyal to him and the kingdom,” Aemond bit his tongue. “You must steer him in the right direction, my love. We are already at war; we cannot have the kingdom in shambles because of Aegon’s squandering self. You have always been the diligent one, unending hours poured into learning the histories of your house and training with your sword… your great knowledge must be exercised greatly in this hour of war.” Aemond could only nod his agreement. You smiled and cupped his cheek, tracing his scar, and you hummed as Aemond pressed his cheek further into your soft palm. 

“Now go; I believe that it is the hour of the small council. Best be there and see to it that your brother does not humiliate your family’s claim to the throne further,” You say, reluctantly urging him to let go of his hold on you, even though you were always quick to miss his touch. Aemond shook his head, “Do not be so stubborn,” you said, and you smiled further when Aemond wrapped both of his arms around your waist. You rose to the tip of your toes and pecked your husband’s lips as encouragement. Even though you had shared his kisses countless of times, you still felt the quiet tingle on your plush lips as you two did such actions. “Very well then, I shall do whatever my lady-wife should ask of me,” He said against your lips, making your smile widen. You parted and tried to walk off, but Aemond took hold of your wrist and pulled you back to him, a laugh escaping from your lips, and you rested your hands atop his chest. “And where are you off to?” 

You smirked, “To some engagements for the court that I offered Helaena reprieve from. And after, you shall find me in our chambers… warming our bed… waiting impatiently for you.” You whispered the final part, watching as Aemond’s lilac eye darkened with want, pupils dilated that it made your core turn— finding it utterly flattering how quickly your husband will always grow in want of you. “Now go; the quicker you are to attend the meeting, the quicker they are to end, and you can be my arms.” You said and gave a final kiss on your husband’s cheek before hastily walking off, afraid that Aemond’s wants would get the better of him and take you against the alcove in the hall; it had occurred once or twice before. 

Aemond stomped off the room of the small council after a rather aggravating session with his brother. Seeing Aegon be so clueless with the matters of the realm and the war was pathetic. And in a way, Aemond found great satisfaction in that— seeing Aegon struggle to comprehend his words as he spoke in the ancient tongue, his brother unable to articulate even just one sentence without stammering like a simpleton was quite amusing but overly embarrassing. As the meeting ended, Aemond was quick to rise to his feet and leave, overly impatient to be with you— savoring every second in your arms before he had to leave quietly in the night to make good of his secret plottings with Ser Criston. 

Aemond walked the halls that led to his chambers, each step fervent and quick. The fading sun illuminated his chambers when he entered, setting it aglow in an amber hue. “I’ve been waiting,” Aemond heard you breathlessly call, his head quickly turning to your bed; he squinted his eye as he could not see you through the canopy covers. Aemond wasted no time to march in your direction; his breath caught in his throat as he saw your figure covered by nothing but a thin sheet that was comparable to what the whores in the street of silk wore. You lounged laxly in the middle of the bed, your body in full display for your husband, who stared at you dumbfounded and filled with desire. 

“Seven hells,” Aemond could not help but mutter in pure amazement. His knees felt weak, and his stomach coiled painfully in burning want of you. “Do you not like it?” You frowned as he only stood there, you feigned innocence— of course, you knew he would like it. You knew your husband better than he knew himself. Having grown up with him, you knew every possible thing there is to know about Aemond. Aegon may have been your betrothed at the start, but you were not at all keen to know him to such a deeper level than you had his brother. 

You went to the edge of the bed to meet your husband, who stood by the foot of it, kneeling before him as he hungrily raked his gaze through your body, yet he still did not dare to move. “Has my display rendered you simple, my prince?” You asked lowly, peeking up at him through your lashes and watching as the ball on his throat bobbed and hearing how his breathing turned ragged. You hummed and raised your hand to caress his cheek, rising higher to be met with his face, slyly pushing your breast against his clothed chest. Aemond groaned at just the simple feeling of that. You ghosted your lips against his jaw and neck, your fingers effortlessly undoing the buckles of his leather doublet. 

Your hand slowly trailed south after you had successfully removed his upper clothing; you heard the catch in Aemond’s breath as your fingers trailed his toned chest and torso. Every single inch of him was carved by the gods and embodied a warrior. Aemond hissed as he felt you cup his needing length through his trousers, watching as a sly smirk rose to your lips. “I see that you are quite… tense, my love,” You whispered against his lips, catching as his eye fluttered to a close as you added pressure into his length. “I am.” He gritted, and your smirk widened. “Hm… tell me then what do you need— what do you want, my prince?” You taunted and felt him shudder as you slipped your hand into his trousers, finally letting him feel skin against skin.

“I want… I need you, little wife. I desperately need you,” He muttered as his eye opened. Aemond moved to kiss your lips, but you instead lowered yourself to be met with his length, yanking down his trousers and letting your lips wrap around the tip of his needing and weeping cock. Aemond’s hands lost themselves in your hair, fisting the gold strands in utter pleasure, hissing as you sucked his length, urging yourself to take his cock deeper into your throat. Lewd sounds of your and Aemond’s heavy breathing, along with you gagging on his cock echoed through the chambers. Quiet praises leave your husband’s lips as you pleasure him with your mouth. You reached out to fondle his stones, earning a loud groan from him, and his head tilted to the heavens. Aemond could only stand there and marvel at you, his eye torn as to what to stare upon, your pretty face or your ample behind that hung in the air and squirmed with each of your pleasurable movements. He began to wonder what he had done to have you as his lady wife and pondered the ways he could prove himself worthy of you. 

Aemond felt himself ready to come undone, and he forcefully slipped out his cock from your lips, earning a whine from you. “Had I done something wrong?” You panted as you wiped away the traces of drool on your chin, looking up at Aemond with slight hurt in your eyes. Your husband was quick to shake his head and cup your cheeks, “No— you could never do me wrong, my heart,” He reassured, but you felt yourself pout and wonder as to why he had ceased your actions, if you were being honest, you quite enjoyed sucking his cock. 

“Then wh—“ Your words were left unfinished as you felt Aemond cup your dripping heat. Your eyes widened, and the earlier smirk on your lips had now flown to your husband’s. “Already so wet for me… you are a saint, my heart. Tending to my needs first even though you yourself are in desperate want of release.” Aemond hummed as your eyes rolled back; he effortlessly slipped two digits into your dripping core. You mewled out his name, squealing as he curled the digits and as his thumb fervently rubbed your sensitive pearl. “I want your cock,” You said distractedly, any form of decorum or chasteness gone as your want for Aemond had made you utterly desperate. 

Aemond let out an amused breath, “Of course you do,” He taunted and smashed his lips unto yours. You clawed at his toned arm as you felt your release bubbling, but before you could finally feel the climax you sought, Aemond parted your lips and ceased the pleasure of his fingers. You whined, glaring at your husband, who only stared down at you in amusement as he brought his fingers to his lips and licked off your essence. “Patience, my heart. All that you want shall come in due time,” He whispered his oath, and you huffed as he walked away, leaving you to wonder what had gotten into his mind. 

You lay on the bed as your husband went to one corner of your chambers. Your legs were spread, and your cunt was pulsating in need. You could not help yourself as your fingers slipped along the wet folds, holding back your moans as you touched yourself because you could not wait for your husband to give you your release. Aemond stilled as he heard your once still breathing hitch and the distant and quiet sound of your wetness. He turned to the bed and saw as your back was arched, and your fingers disappeared to pleasure your cunt. 

He took large strides only to witness you on the verge of an orgasm that he had denied you of. You groaned as Aemond took hold of your wrist, your second time being denied your release. “You’re being cruel, husband,” You whined as you stared up at your husband, a wicked glint in his eye. “Please, Aemond… I need you,” You breathed out, and all he did was hum. That was then you realized he held something in his other hand. You sat up, skin slick with a thin sheen of sweat. Aemond moved his lips to pepper kisses on the side of your neck, bitting to leave his mark as a reminder as to who you belonged to. 

“Open it,” Aemond murmured against your skin as he placed a velvet box into your hands. You frowned as he continued on to pepper kisses on your neck and down the swell of your breasts, ripping off the thin sheet you had worn. You did as he told and felt a gasp escape your lips as you saw what was inside and as his fingers pinched the bud of your tit. “W—What is this for?” You said mind befuddled as you did not know where to focus, your husband’s gift or his pleasure. “It is for you, of course.” He said plainly, took the ruby tiara into his hands, and moved to place it atop your head. Aemond grew further with need at the sight of you flushed and naked; the only thing you had on was the tiara he had commissioned for you. 

You stared up at your husband in wonder, “I— It’s lovely… thank you, but my love, I am in no position to warrant a tiara— it is rather inappropriate, do you not think?” You asked and tried your best to focus as Aemond fondled your breasts. Aemond placed open kisses onto the side of your breasts, trying to form his words. “Aemond,” You called and Feld his face to look you in the eye. You delicately took off his eye patch as his lips pursed. “What is this for?” You asked once again. 

“Do you wish to be queen?” He instead asked you, and you were rendered speechless. “Do not deny it, my heart… You were born and bred with the purpose of being queen of the seven kingdoms.” He sighed, and you tried to find your words. “Even now, you bear the duties of a Queen that Helaena cannot tend to,” He added, as you were always by his sister’s side, aiding her with her duties until she all together left the role up to you. You let out a heavy breath. “I… Sometimes I do— seeing that was my whole purpose, why I was taken out of my parents’ care and instead raised here to do what was expected of me.” You admitted and felt your heart pit as Aemond avoided your gaze. “But I’d rather have married you than be queen.” You quickly added. 

“I may have wanted the title, Aemond… but I want you more. I am perfectly content with just being your wife,” You reassured, but something in Aemond burned in anger. Anger at the gods as to why he was born the second son— anger at himself as to why he had to seek out Aegon instead of just letting him escape. You sighed as you rested your forehead against Aemond’s, “Do you believe me?” You questioned and waited for his reply. Aemond bit his tongue not completely believing that you were perfectly content with your station because even he was not contented. He knew envy was a lesser emotion that he must not succumb to, but it was inevitable, especially as he bore witness to how his brother squandered off the most coveted station in the kingdom. He gave a nod and connected your lips, deciding to lay the matter to rest for the moment. 

You sighed and steadied yourself as he hoisted you on his lap, moans leaving your lips as you sank down on his cock. Aemond’s breathing labored as he felt your tight cunt around his length and as your nails left traces along his back. “Oh… gods, Aemond—“ You cried as you rocked your hips, the tip of his cock hitting the perfect spot that made your back arch and your eyes rolled back in utter pleasure. Your moans filled his ears, and Aemond could only hum with satisfaction. “You sound like such a whore, little wife,” he muttered as he reached downwards to trace circles on your nubbin. You could only whine louder, too focused as you bounced on his cock and sought out your high. “Such a vision you are… bouncing on my cock and moaning out my name with a tiara on your pretty head.” 

Aemond’s other hand harshly gripped your tit as he was overwhelmed by the feel of you. “So perfect you are,” He praised, and you smirked at him through the haze of pleasure, your cunt clenching further as you had always loved when he would compliment you. “Such a perfect wife— you would have been wasted on my squandering brother.” He gritted and groaned as you clenched around him tightly and as you nodded your head in agreement. “I was meant to be yours, Aemond,” You breathed as you felt your skin alight with your nearing climax. “You’re mine… all mine.” He groaned as you came undone, your loud moans spurring his own release. “All yours,” You swore and watched as his face contorted in pleasure. 

You sighed in contentment as you lay on Aemond’s chest and as he ran his hands through your hair. “I must leave,” He suddenly cut the silence. “I must meet with Cole,” You pursed your lips. “I know.” You said, trying not to let the tone of bitterness and concern be heard. Aemond furrowed his brows as he looked down upon you. You raised your gaze to meet his, “I know you, Aemond. I know you better than I know the back of my hand— did you really think I would not figure out that you had plotted secretly with Ser Criston?” You questioned, and Aemond sighed, his heart warming further for you as you uttered such words. 

You sat upright to gain a better view of your husband, Aemond already feeling cold, as you removed yourself from his chest. “Be cautious, my love— do not be so reliant on Vhagar. Swear that you will return to me unscathed.” You implored, and Aemond leaned forward to capture your lips. When your lips parted, whatever tenderness you had was hidden behind your serious and threatening expression, urging your husband to be cautious and vigilant. “You will not make me a widow at only nine and ten, Aemond.” You said, voice overly serious and gaze scorching, but your husband still had the gall to laugh. “I wouldn’t dare to, my heart.” He said and captured your lips once more to seal his oath that he would return to you unharmed. 

The whispers of vipers were deafening. ‘The king was slain,’ they would say. And murmurs had spread that the fall of the king was not caused by the Queen Who Never Was but rather by the One-Eyed Prince. You had stewed in silence as you could not possibly fathom what had happened. The only thing that had kept you sane was a single letter that came from your husband stating that he was well and would fly back and return to you in a day or two. 

You stood in the gardens alone as you pondered upon the whispers spreading around the keep when you felt strong hands wrap around your frame and lips pressing kisses upon your neck. Your tense frame momentarily turned lax at the touch of your husband. “I have missed you, my heart,” He said softly and tried to capture your lips— for him, a week was far too long not to be in your presence. Suspicion rose in you as you heard elation in his voice— elation that was rarely present in him. You turned and saw satisfaction glinting in Aemond’s eye. “What has happened?” You questioned, a sickening feeling in your stomach as your intuition told you that there was something afoot. 

Aemond frowned at the seriousness on your face. “We had won the battle— we had effectively cut off Dragonstone by land, my plan proven effective.” He said, dipping down to try and capture your lips, but you backed away, your movements sending a tinge to Aemond’s heart. “What has happened to Aegon?” You whispered and saw how quickly the satisfaction in your husband’s eye disappeared. “The king was inexperienced in battle— he fought against the qualms of his council, and now he reaps the consequences.” You shook your head as you studied each expression of your husband. “Who had caused his injuries? They are whispering that it was not made by Rhaenys but rather by his own brother… tell me the truth of it, Aemond.” 

Your husband sighed, stirring you to the side, away from prying eyes and ears. “It was an unfortunate incident… but it was a necessary one. The end justifies the means, my heart. You must know this.” He whispered, hoping to see understanding in your eyes, but he could only see horror. Your mind spun at the words your husband said; you felt bile rising to your throat because, within a blink of an eye, you scarcely recognized the man before you— the man you had spent your whole life with, unrecognisable. Aemond felt his heart sink as you shook your head and removed his hold on you, hastily running away from him.  

He knew what he had done was cruel— treasonous, but it was for the greater good. He could not watch idly as his brother commanded the throne even though he was unfit to rule. He could not stand to watch as Aegon squandered away his birthright and made their cause’s claim weak. It was a last resort that he had to succumb to— a last resort to save their faction and to prove himself worthy of you. Your words haunted him; the way you admitted that a part of you wished to be queen and the image of you wearing a tiara of rubies burned into his mind. He had to make it a reality. He needed to be king and have you by his side as his queen.  

You avoided your husband the following days, unable to comprehend what he had somehow become. You had always known he had great ambitions—you would lie if you said that you had not encouraged his, for you as well had your own—but you never meant for it to come to this. You never thought of the possibility that Aemond would kill for the throne. For revenge, yes, but certainly not for his own brother’s station. 

It was the day of Ser Criston’s return when you finally revealed yourself to Aemond. Standing by his side along with his mother as you three peered down on the few soldiers returning from battle, along with a cart that housed the fallen king who was clinging to life. You stared head-on as you felt the questioning and almost spiteful stare of the Queen Mother towards your husband. Not an ounce of remorse was shown by Aemond as he proudly wore the Valyrian steel dagger. 

The queen walked off, ready to meet her firstborn son, and you moved to follow, but your husband took hold of your upper arm and forced you to look upon him. “How long will you ignore me, little wife?” He hummed, growing impatient with each day of your ignorance of him. You stayed quiet, unable to meet his gaze. It was torture for you as well— you had missed your husband greatly, but the guilt you felt by his actions, which you knew were partly because of you, was greater. You long tried to hide your disappointment as you were not made queen; you thought it cruel that they had taken you away from the arms of your mother moments after your birth just to be raised in the keep and groomed to be the perfect and dotting wife of a king and take it all away with just one notion. 

All those years of effort and sacrifices were wasted. But you did not dwell on it further as they presented Aemond to be your husband instead. You knew he believed you and your family see him as a consolation prize— and for your house, he was, but for you, you would gladly trade away all the gold in your house’s coffers and the crown for Aemond. You had loved him ever since you two were children; you were intended for Aegon, but your heart had always longed for his younger brother. It was a shame that he could not see it until now. 

It was flattering that he tried to prove himself to you— that he says he does not deserve you, but you could never agree to such sentiments because you knew in yourself that you were meant to be his. It pains you that whatever you say, whatever you do to reassure him that you are happy and content in his arms, even without the prestige of titles, he still does not believe you. 

Aemond felt his heart twist further as you shook your head and walked off. He followed you quietly as you two ventured to the chambers of the king to bear witness to the price of ambition. You could not will yourself to walk in; the distant sight of Aegon filled with burns, clinging to life, along with his death rattle breathing, was enough for you to flee away. Aemond watched as you stumbled through the halls, unable to bear the sight of what he had done. It was only then did Aemond felt guilt. Not guilt for what he had done to his brother but guilt as he saw your reaction— it was only then did he realized that the weight of his actions would affect his lady-wife as well. 

It was sundown when your uncle sought you out. Telling you what had transpired in the small council and how Aemond was named Prince Regent. He as well questioned you as to what you knew about the battle in Rook’s Rest and if your husband had confided in you any secrets, as all who had returned from the battlefield kept a tight lip. You said not a word. Your loyalty to your husband has proven to be greater than your guilt for Aegon’s state. 

“Greatly unfortunate as the events were… I must say that the council and I are relieved that your husband shall see to the concerns of the Realm.” Your uncle muttered, and you sat stiffly in your seat. “Really?” You asked in a small voice. “King Aegon might be the firstborn, but all are aware that Aemond has the tact to rule. Let us pray that he would lead our side to victory— his brother certainly cannot.” He sighed as he stood, kissing your cheek as he exited your private chambers, leaving you to ponder on his words. 

A storm came at night, and you could not find rest as your husband was not by your side. The rain and thunder always made you uneasy, and at times like these, you greatly relied on Aemond for comfort. You walked the path to your marital chambers and peeked inside, only to see your husband was absent. You walked along the cold halls of the keep, searching for Aemond in his usual spots, but to no avail. Your feet carried you to the great hall, and there you found him, staring upon the iron throne. You bit your lip as you studied him, staring at the prize of his efforts. 

Aemond felt a presence join him, and he turned his gaze and was met with you. “Was it worth the price?” You questioned, a steely look on his face as he thought over your words. You stood still as your husband took slow strides towards you. “If it proves me worthy of you, then it does.” You let out a breath as he said the words. “Aemond… how many times must I repeat myself— you do not need to prove yourself to me. I— I love you unconditionally. I do not need the throne or a crown… can you still not see that all I want is you?” 

Aemond cupped your cheek, and you leaned into his touch. “What’s done is done. We need not dwell on this matter, my heart. What is important is that we got what we wanted— we finally have what we deserve.” He whispered, lips flying towards yours. You felt weak as your lips entangled with your husband’s. “This… this is not right.” You whispered as his kisses trailed down to your neck and to the valley of your breasts, his fingers slipping off the shift you wore, leaving you standing bare in the middle of the throne room. “What is not right is that our efforts and potential are wasted as those who are unfit for the title, rule. We were made for the throne, my heart… stop resisting it; you know it is the truth.” 

You breathed heavily as you watched your husband fall to his knees, and his lips kissed your cunny. “Admit what you want, my heart.” His voice muffled against your skin, your hands moving to grip his hair and steady yourself as his tongue drew circles upon your cunt. You feel him grip your thighs, urging you to speak. “You… I want you.” You cried, desperately writhing your cunt against his face. “And?” He questioned, and you tilted your head back, your climax quick to come as your body ached for your husband’s touch. “To be queen… I want you and be queen,” You admitted with a gasp as you felt his tongue enter your dripping core. Aemond smirked against your cunt; his body fueled with need as he tasted your essence. When you came undone, he greedily licked and lapped any remnants of your release, not at all conscious that you two may be caught in such compromising situations. 

You watched through the haze of your release as your husband stood and undid his trousers. Your gaze followed him as he stood behind you and slipped in his length; your loud, surprised moan echoed through the empty hall and was accompanied by the clap of thunder. You cried as Aemond mercilessly pounded into your cunt, your dazed gazes planted on the throne. You gasped for air as Aemond wrapped his calloused hand around your throat and urged you to rest your weight on his leather-covered chest; all the while, his thrusts were relentless. “Are you to come? Are you to come before the throne, my wife?” He taunted in your ear, biting the lobe, and you could only cry in pleasure, your body arching and your hips meeting each of his thrusts. “Yes… yes!” You cried as his other hand returned to its usual torment and drew circles upon your cunt. 

You threw your head back upon Aemond’s shoulders as you were met with your second release. With a few more thrusts, you feel him come undone, his seed filling your cunt, and he could only hope that it would finally take, for he surely needed heirs. Aemond turned your head to face his and kissed your lips, finally feeling a speck of calm in his raging being, for he knew he had secured the station that you both deserved. 

As you two tried to relish in the calm brought by your climaxes, outside the great hall, the castle was in an uproar as the king drew in his last breath. Men searching for the prince regent to inform him of the dire news. They scoured every corner of the castle and soon found their new king seated on the iron throne with his queen bouncing on his cock, Aemond fucking her in their rightful place.

[ddejavvu]

JAMES POTTER THE MAN THAT HE IS i wholeheartedly believe would spoil you so much and you’d make sugar daddy joke about him CONSTANTLY even if you were the same age

"Why has your aunt just told me I look too young to be your boyfriend?" James leans over to murmur against your ear, throwing a glance at your aunt who's currently indulging in another glass of wine that she doesn't need.

"I dunno," You shrug, "Older ladies are always saying things about the way people look for their ages."

"Your grandma frowned at me when I came in," James recalls with a groan, "Not necessarily angry, I don't think. Just confused."

"She's always confused," You scoff, "Don't worry James; no one else thinks I've robbed the cradle."

"Y/N," It's a cousin of yours this time, elbowing you hard in the shoulder and sitting down beside you like you're not huddled up privately with your boyfriend, "I thought the wallet you snagged was halfway to the grave already. 'This his son?"

"Wallet?" Your eyes narrow, nose crinkling at the accusation, "What are you talking about?"

"You said you had a sugar daddy," Your cousin scoffs, and realization hooks your stomach, dragging it down towards your feet through an ocean of blood, "We all thought you were gonna bring some war veteran tonight, this kid looks like he just graduated high school."

"I'm twenty-two," James rambles, scandalized, "Y/N, you told them I was your sugar daddy?"

"No! No, I told them ages ago - when we started dating, that I had a boyfriend but- I mean, I dunno, I've thrown around the term sugar daddy while showing off some of your more... extravagant purchases."

"Like the cruise," Your cousin helpfully supplies, "And the tennis bracelet, and the summer home."

"That was a rental," You hiss, "Jamie, I swear I've used boyfriend 90% of the time."

"We thought she was just being optimistic," Your cousin admits, a wrinkled grimace on their face as they rush to free themselves from the awkward conversation, "But- uh, good for you two, remember me in the will."

"Oh my god," James buries his face in his hands, "They thought I was ancient. They thought I was some pervert chasing after girls, throwing money at the ones who'd pity me enough to look my way."

"I'm sorry! I'm sorry, Jamie," You croon, taking his face into your hands and shooing his own away. He leans in desperately to the soothing kisses that you stick to his face, looking for all the world like he might die of embarrassment right here right now. For all that he moans and groans, he's tucked himself into your hold like a helpless infant, and you're happy to oblige his neediness.

"No more using the word daddy." James instructs, though he's not in a position to make orders while nestled securely in your protective grip, "Not unless we decide to take a leap of faith in the bedroom. God, no wonder your grandma was so disappointed when she saw me- I don't have enough wrinkles for her."

[medievalharlot]

A gift for the princess 彡 Geta x princess f!reader x Caracalla

Pairing: Geta x princess f!reader x Caracalla

Synopsis: The empire comes to your aid and you are reunited with your childhood friends, they end up having a gift you cannot turn down

Wordcount: 3,1k

Request: ‘I’ve been thinking of this plot for a while, but I’m not a writer and could never write it myself. But what if both of the twins x reader, who was their childhood best friend, she came from a very wealthy family (for some reason I like to think she was royalty in a neighboring country or smth, anyway, she was forced to move away, and the twins and here were devestated (cause they like LIKED each other) years go by, and they are now emperors, they have to go to a place for business, with other royals (like where the reader lives) and they meet again, and like, fall in loveeee’ by anon

Tags: Childhood friends to lovers, reader is a princess, some light groping but no full on smut, period accurate misogyny, implied violence, implied abuse.

A/N: Phew this one is a little longer than I intended it to be. Maybe a little less historically accurate than my last one but I tried sticking to historical facts. I always thought of Caracalla as a shy child that turned mad and Geta being the brave one. This will be the last full on fic I post before I go to Paris, enjoy!

It would be a short seige, your castle walls were never strong enough to withstand the Parthian army. Yet your father, having spiraled into madness, insisted to keep fighting. For years your small kingdom had been an ally to the empire. Even if it was small, it had a strategic and important port. Under Marcus Aurelius it had it added to the list of allies and it had been loyal up. Your father suddenly decided to start a war against Parthia. Voices plagued his mind, advisors gone corrupt filled his mind with delusions. You had been supportive of your father, trying to see the good in his actions as a way to cope. Giving up on the man that had raised you felt like betrayel. Your mother was a noble lady and after giving birth to you ander your brother she moved back to her own home. Their marriage was arranged and quite an unpleasant one. You were his only daughter, his sweet delight. Your brother was aiding the empire in the conquest of Numidia by order of the emperor, leaving you to watch over your father. Every day he slipped further into madness, and everyday it became more painful to watch.

At a certain point his advisors convinced him to go to war. Once you got wind of the idea you had the advisors sent away, unleashing your fury upon him. But your father had already sent out the command. You had prayed to Pax, Fortuna and Minerva for the war to end well and for the Romans to send aid. Emperor Severus had been a good friend to your father. You weren’t aware that he had passed and his sons, Geta and Caracalla, were terrorizing the empire. News travelled slow in the empire and before you knew it there was an entire army knocking on your door with no aid in sight. You had witnissed the Pathian generals slaughter the people on the outskirts of the city being killed. Their screams haunting your mind as you hid.

Once, you knew the twins. It was a long time ago, before your father had become king. He took you and your brother to Rome quite often, in hindsight you understood it was probably to find a suitable match amongst the sons of the senators. Due to the friendship your father and the emperor shared you were often on the Forum. You remember meeting the twins for the first time.

Caracalla was a shy boy, hiding behind his brother. Geta was a bit cocky but curious about you. They were a few years older than you were. You were clinging to your fathers toga, you never played with boys. At home you were either being taught by master or you were playing with the daughters of your fathers advisors. Boys sucked. And yet here you were, alone with these boys in a room.

“Do you wanna play soldiers?” Geta had asked eventually. “You can be the helpless girl and we-” He had shoved his brother from behind him. “We will save you.” There was a proud smirk on his face.

Soldiers? Why would you want to play that, why would you be the helpless girl. “I don’t want to play that.” You reached for the wooden sword. Geta tried to grasp for it.

“You can’t play with that, that isn’t for girls.” He sneered as you pulled away. Caracalla still hadn’t spoken a word.

“Stop it!” You frowned, you weren’t one to let somebody to tell you what to do.

Soon, chaos ensued. Somehow you ended up in a brawl with him, and to your surprise you were winning. All that commotion had alarmed the servants, who had fetched your fathers. Emperor Severus was pissed. He had dragged Geta off you, shouting stuff like ‘this is not how you treat guests’ and ‘you let that little girl beat you up’. Caracalla chased after them while sobbing as the emperor dragged Geta by his collar out of the room.

The banging on the door only got louder, together with the other women of this court you were hiding in the cellar. Soft prayers were whispered, hopes that the devine above might save them. You didn’t pray, you knew there was no stopping an army, your kingdom was way too small to beat Parthia. Your father didn’t have the men, nor did he have much expierence. It would be over soon and all you could hope for is that they wouldn’t slaughter and take every single woman in this room.

Over the years you luckily grew to appreciate each other’s company. Visits to Rome became more frequent. Your father enjoyed the wine, food, feasts and whores in the capital better. Geta was still as boisterous as before as he often liked to remind you of how he would become emperor someday. Caracalla had grown out of his shyness, but he got reckless and often faced his father’s wrath.

You were sitting on Caracalla’s bed, soflty dapping your handkerchief against his busted lip. Geta was leaning agaisnt a pillar as he watched you tend to his brother. “What happened.” You had asked Geta, Caracalla was still visibly upset. He was rambling some words you couldn’t understand, making himself small and leaning out of his touch. Sometimes it felt like you were talking to a child.

“Drank too much wine last night and was found in the horse stables.” Geta replied, keeping it short. You could tell his fathers violence got to him.

“You’re a fool sometimes Caracalla.” You spoke to him, lifting his chin to get a better look.

“He just needs to die then I will be emperor.” He had spouted a bit angrily in return.

You sighed softly and stood up. “We will fetch a doctor.” You spoke, nodding your head to Geta to signal him to come along. Something was up with Caracalla, he was reckless but he had become more unpredictable and forgetful over the last few months. It was eating away at you, you saw them as your closest friends.

“Something is wrong with him, Geta.” You spoke as soon as the two of you turned a corner. “Did the doctors say anything last time?”

“They say his peverse nature has infected his mind.” Geta spoke as he walked with you. “They’re trying to treat him but father says he is fine.”

“He’s not.”

“I know.”

Then the screams came. The walls had been breached. Younger girls started sobbing, with a stern look you tried to make them shut up. You couldn’t blame them, the worse thing that could happen to you is that they would make you a concubine. Soldiers knew better than harming a princess that could be used for blackmail. But those girls, they would have to endure the worst. You held your breath as you could hear them getting closer, your heart beating in your chest. The doors opened, but to your surprise it weren't Parthian soldiers. Their shields carried the Roman chrest. It were Roman Soldiers. Had they come to your aid? You got up, your dress was dirty and your messy. The seige lasted a few hours and you had been stuck in this stuffy room.

“Princess Y/N, you have summoned by imperial decree.” One of the generals entered, you did not recognize him. He looked older, his black hair slowly graying. They took you, dragging you out of the room despite your protests. The didn’t take commands from a woman, they took direct orders from the emperors and the emperors alone.

It was a particularly hot summer that year. This time you had went ahead of your father to Rome, he had some business to take care of back home. It was uncommon for girls your age to travel alone, you had long passed the age to be wed, but you were of age. It was the only reason your father let you go alone. Something had changed this year tho, you weren’t sure about what. The three of you always went swimming in their private pool, it had been a tradition for you of some sort. You never thought of it as strange. Yet, this year you could feel your cheeks heating up as you watched them swim around.

“Are you just going to lay there?” Geta spoke up. You were still laying in the shade and still dressed.

“Don't feel like swimming.” You spoke as you grinned softly.

“Is the princess afraid of getting wet?” He laughed loudly as he swam to the side of the pool.

“I am not!” You got up defensively. In the midst of your conversation you had not noticed Caracalla lurked behind you. With a giggle he flung you into the water.

“There we go.” Geta laughed, watching you struggle to swim in the flowly stola you were wearing. You would have bothered to undress first if you knew they were gonna force you in.

The echoes of Caracalla's laughter rung around the pool. It had gotten worse, you knew that. Both of them got worse in their own way. From what you heard they were drunks with concubines from all over the empire and a lust for blood. It made you sad.

“You should come to the Colosseum soon.” Geta swam closer to you, looking slightly down on you. The water was up to your shoulders but you could still stand. The way he looked at you made your head do summersaults. He lifted your chin. “I think you would enjoy what we have prepared for you.” He got closer, eye contact still remaining as your lips almost touched.

“I am not sure if-” He cut you off with a kiss. Caracalla was behind you now, his hands roamed your hips and his lips were on your neck. He softly bit down on the skin as he whimpered while rutting against you. You were sandwhiched between them. One of Geta's hands was on your breast, the other holding your chin in place.

It was so perfect, until it wasn't. Your father had barged in and saw the scene. He, too, had heard of the twins endeavours. And upon seeing you sandwiched between them he got furious. He ordered you out of the pool and he scolded the both of them. Surely, they would never hear the end of it from their own father. It made you anxious for what would happen when the emperor got word of what had happened here. That didn't matter tho, you would be there to patch up their bruises.

Atleast, that is what you thought. Your father had send you home right away and you never saw the two of them again. The first year was hard but you learned to live with the heartache. With your father illness you had more pressing matters than Rome.

They had dragged you back all the way to Rome. It was early in the morning when you finally arrived, your head ached and your feet were sore. On the way you were informed your father was killed, only worsening your pain. The soldiers had given you a minimum of food and water and kept you dressed in simple rags. You felt like a prisoner and you still weren’t none the wiser about why you were summoned. Atleast you didn’t have to walk all the way.

You arrived in Rome filthy, dehydrated, hungry and confused. At once, you were taken to the throne room. It was nearly the same as you remembered, only there were two thrones. Maybe he put it there as a way to honor his deceased wife. Taking in the surroundings you heard the emperor and the guards come in.

“I hope there is a good reason for my treatment on this journey, your imperial highness.” You turned around, but instead of seeing emperor Severus, you stood eye to eye with them. Geta and Caracalla. Your heart dropped. It been years since you had seen them. They were the emperors now?

“We apologise for your treatment, my lady.” Geta spoke first as he offered his hand. You stood frozen, taking in the both of them. You couldn’t lie, it was good to see them. It was like a weight falling of your shoulders. But something felt off. Geta had a cold look in his eyes and Caralla looked almost insane. His eyes reminded you of your father. Both of them were dressed in gold armour with a gold laurel crown on their heads. They radiated divinity. It didn’t feel the same as it once did.

With a trembling lip you stumbled over to them, falling on your knees infront of them. You had grasped ahold of Geta’s robe. Caracalla grinned as he crouched down to look at you. “We saved your kingdom. You must thank us, your brother will be king now.”

You looked up at him with fat tears rolling down your face as you were reminded of your father’s death. Geta grabbed your face in his hand. “What my brother means to say is that we are very sorry about your father. He may have acted like a fool but no ally of Rome should suffer like you have.” He gave you a hand, you took it and stood. “There will be games in his honour tonight. You will be attending.” It wasn’t a question, it was a demand.

Softly, you nodded. You tried to process what was going on. “Yes, games.”

“Real games, with bloodshed. No mercy.” Caracalla spoke to you as if he tried to comfort you. “We got you a dress.”

“Yes, Cassia will help you get dressed. You must get some rest now.” Geta turned to a young girl, she looked foreign but she had a Roman. She was probably a concubine that they liked so much she got promoded to a handmaid. “Cassia, get her cleaned up.” He snided at the girl.

Cassia led you out of the throne room to the baths. The hot water felt nice against your sore skin, you felt clean atlast. An essence of mint and citrus hanging in the air.

After the bath, Cassia had dressed you in your gown. It was purple with gold trimmings, it must’ve cost a fortune. The fabric felt expensive. Your hair was done in an elaborate hairstyle. Even if you were a princess, the luxeries in Rome was something your father could not afford. You looked like an empress, the empress. “The emperors wish to see you before you leave for the Colosseum.” She eventually spoke after she finished doing your hair.

With heavy feet you made your way to the throne room. It did feel better to be dolled up again, but under these circumstances you doubt you could feel anything at all. You were alone in a city full of people that would probably want you dead, you had no moment of peace as two guards followed you at all costs. They pushed the door open to the throne room, Geta and Caracalla were already waiting for you.

They had changed into new clothes too. Caracalla wore a black gown, Geta opted for a rich red. The twins turned to look at you.

“You look splendid, my lady.” Geta spoke first before Caracalla interrupted him.

“My brother and I have a proposal to make.” He sat in his throne like a giddy child. You carefully watched them.

“Your father has passed, leaving you unmarried and under nobody’s protection.” Geta started, you weren’t sure what he was getting at. “Your brother is too busy being king, so..”

“What is it you want from me.” You cautiously narrowed your eyes.

Caracalla rose to his feet and walked towards you, grabbing your hands. “Marry us. You loved us when we were children, you love us now right?” There was a hint of desperation in his eyes. “Right?” He repeated, now sounding a little more angry.

You were left speechless. If they had asked you this question a few years ago you would’ve agreed without a second thought, but after all these years and all that happened you just couldn’t process what they asked of you.

“Nothing would happen to your kingdom once you are empress.” Geta was suddenly behind you, whispering in your ears. “We will make the man that murdered your father die a painfull death, my lady.” He stroked a ringed finger against your arm, the metal felt cold against your skin.

Geta took a step back. “We will give you some time to think, we have a surprise for you during the games first.” You heard Caracalla giggling, what had they planned?

In the Colosseum you were seated in between them. The two of them clearly enjoyed the bloodshed. Geta watched with a calm gaze and a smile on his face, Caracalla on the other hand was clapping and laughing as soon as blood was spilled. They had plenty of servants filling their cups, while they drank and enjoyed the finest food. You watched silently with your hands folded in your lap. The screams of agony from whoever was being slaughtered only reminded you of home. When you closed your eyes you could see the families being slain, the face of the Parthian general clear as day. You couldn’t have protected them even if you wanted, it made you feel helpless.

“And now! For the main event, our undefeated champion!” The master of ceremonies announced. Geta gave you a shove, making you look up at what was actually going on in the arena. “The Tigris of Gaul!” The crowd roared when he entered. He rode in on a rhino, the heavy beast trotting in.

Caracalla was basically jumping of his chair now, he took your hand and led you to the edge of the balcony. His grin was like a cheshire cat. “This will be our gift to you.” He spoke.

Geta got up as well, gracefully walking to place a hand on your back.

“Our champion will be taking it up against the Parthian Mithridates!” A beat up and confused man entered the ring, you recognized his face immediatly. It was the general that had killed your citizens. You remained silently as you coldheartedly watched the man taking it up against the Tigris of Gaul.

It didn’t take long for the gladiator to have the general on his back, he had only been given a dull sword. He had no chance of winning. The Tigris held his blade against the general’s neck, looking up to the emperor’s balcony for approval to kill him.

Geta had been smiling this entire time, gauging your reaction. “Well? What do you say? What judgement will the gods render.”

“Kill him.” Caracalla almost spat in your ear, his behaviour getting more erratic. “Kill him!”

Your thoughts ran a hundred miles an hour. That was the man that killed your people, he might even have killed your father. He caused so much suffering, so much death. You had him in your clutches now, you were the one deciding his faith. You looked down at him, the tears had fallen down your cheek a while ago. Were you able to say word, have this man killed? You had always been a sweet girl, your father sang praises of your gentle nature whenever he could. But something had changed, something had stirred.

They had given you this chance. This could mean war with Parthia and yet they still did it. They did it because they could, and they wanted you to have revenge. If being of empress of Rome ment you could reign terror down on the ones that hurt your people you had made your decision.

You looked at Geta, giving him a small nod. His grin grew even wider as he grabbed your hand. He lifted it slightly, he held his other fist up. “The gods have rendered their judgement!” The crowd went silent. They all watched the downturned thumb and they cheered once more. It was true what they said about the games, show them blood or else they will want yours.

You watched coolly as general Mithridates got his throat slid, only flinching slightly as the blade his neck and the blood spurted out. Before you could see the rest you had turned around to leave the emperors box.

“Where are you going. You are missing the best part.” Caracalla frowned as he watched you leave.

“There is a wedding to be planned.” You replied calmly. The twins looked at each other, their gift had worked. Rome would have a new empress soon, and she would show no mercy to her enemies.

[softspiderling]

est-ce que tu m’aimes? | j.v

summary:

“I am sorry, I-“ you pulled the door open, but to your surprise, you came face to face with the source of your sorrows.

“Jace,” you spoke, voice even, crossing your arms over your chest. “Have you come to throw some more insults? Maybe some at me this time?”

Jace clenched his jaw, his hand on the goddamned sword again. Was he itching to take your head off so badly?

OR; Jace’s reaction truly confuses you, you settle in at Dragonstone and a surprising addition to the team makes themselves known.

pairing: jacaerys velaryon x reader, platonic!daeron targaryen x reader

warnings: Jace being a little mean (we all know he’s capable of it)

word count: 5,6k

author’s note: yoooo pt. 2 is finally here!! i hope you love it sm!!! pls don’t forget to reblog/leave comments etc if you liked it!!!

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦

“I cannot believe you would let her waltz into our home like that! She’s putting all of us in danger!”

In less than two days, you were sat outside a study as a heated argument about you took place behind closed doors. It was merely a coincidence that it was within the same family.

After Jace had stormed into the council room, meeting you with open hostility, Rhaenerya had asked you to give them some privacy. You had barely left the room before Jace had started spitting ill words about you.

“She saved me, Jace!”

“What if this is some plot for her to put herself in our midst and feed information back to King’s Landing?”

“Was she not residing in Oldtown with Daeron ever since we left for Dragonstone? It is doubtful she has been let in on the plans to usurp the throne.”

Jace let out a frustrated groan and it was silent for a few moments before Rhaenyra spoke again.

“It seems to me you have a different issue with her… Is it because you have feelings for her?”

Your breath stocked in your throat, your hand stilling against the door. Jace’s behavior towards you confused you deeply. It seemed like he harbored resentment, but you weren’t sure when it had started, when you had suddenly become a traitor in his eyes, instead of a friend.

“Don’t be ridiculous, mother.”

The way Jace scoffed hurt you more than ten daggers in your back, and you pressed your lips together, refusing to let the words of a man affect you.

“I only wish to protect you.”

Swallowing thickly, your hands balled into fists and you jumped back when the door suddenly opened, a knight gesturing for you to step in.

Hesitantly, you entered the room, the tensions still high and you looked at Jace, but he refused to meet your eyes, turning his head away.

Rhaenyra on the other hand stepped up you, taking your hand in hers, cradling it gently.

“I will never be able to repay the debt,” she said in a soft voice, her eyes warm. “You saved my son, even though you weren’t obligated to do it. For that, I will offer you a place here, at Dragonstone, and a place in my council, if you wish to take it.”

“Mother!-“

Rhaenyra ignored Jace’s protest, her voice unwavering. “I believe your insight into our enemies will give us an advantage to win this war.”

“I do not wish to cause a drift between you,” you said honestly. “If Jace does not wish for me to stay-“

“It is not his place,” Rhaenyra said and Jace only scoffed. You fought the urge to glare at him, you didn’t want to antagonize him even further.

“Thank you, your Grace,” you said, lowering your head. “I would very much like to stay.”

Frankly, you wouldn’t know where to go, had Rhaenyra not offered for you to stay, you weren’t sure what expected you, would you return to King’s Landing; it surely wouldn’t go over well.

“And the seat on the council?”

You pressed your lips together. It was an honor, an offer like that, but you could tell Jace wanted you to say no with the way he was looking at you when he thought you wouldn’t notice.

“May I think about it?”

“Of course,” Rhaenyra said, squeezing your hand. “Ser Lorent, escort the Lady to her chambers. I think the ones in the West Wing will be fitting.”

Ser Lorent bowed, before gesturing his arm out to you. “My Lady, if you please follow me.”

You bowed your head to Rhaenyra, turning to leave, but just before you stepped over the threshold of the room, you glanced back. Luke gave you a small smile, but Jace had turned his back to you again. You tried not to let it go to your head, but your mind was racing with questions after Ser Lorent had dropped you off in your chambers.

The sun was shining through the windows when you awoke the next day. You had chosen to take supper in your chambers the night before, trying to give Jace some space. There had been no maid to wake you, so it must still be early. A loud clang of swords floated up from outside and you wrapped a robe around your shoulders as you got out of the bed, glancing out the window.

It turned out that your chambers laid directly above the training grounds, where Jace and Luke were currently in the middle of training. It was nice to see Jace without a scowl on his face for a change, and you took the opportunity to look at him.

He had grown into a very fine Prince, his hair long, curling around his face, his cheekbones high. You had always known he’d grow up to be very handsome. It was hard to imagine he’s the same boy who had told you to write to him every day.

Now, he hadn’t spoken to you a single word after his agitated discussion with his mother.

“Lift your sword up higher when you are in offense, but when someone is advancing on you, make sure to defend the lower part of yourself as well.”

Luke sighed, dropping the point of his sword on the ground, wiping his forehead with the sleeve of his tunic. “We have been training since the sun has risen, can we go break fast now?”

“No, you need this.”

“What am I to do with a sword when Aemond descends upon me with Vhagar? Slash at her wings?” Luke scoffed. “I’m not lacking in swordsmanship.”

You pressed yourself against the window as Jace laid a hand on his younger brother’s shoulder, lending him comfort similar in a way you have done with Daeron.

“It will not happen again, Luke. I will make sure Aemond will not get the chance to get near you again.”

Jace let out a breath, his face pained, you could even see it from a distance.

“It was foolish of me to suggest we go deliver the messages,” Jace sighed. “I should’ve gone with you, you had no protection. I never would have forgiven myself if something had happened to you.”

“Jace…” Luke looked at his brother, his forehead creased. “It wasn’t your fault. Our uncle behaved himself with no honor.”

“I should have expected that.” Jace smiled at him wryly. “You were lucky to escape Vhagar when you did.”

“I wasn’t lucky, I had help.”

Jace let out a loud sigh, giving Luke a squeeze on the shoulder.

“Let us go break fast, then.”

“Oh so now you want to end training,” Luke nagged, resheating his sword. “Because I mentioned Lady-“

“Do not speak her name to me,” Jace snapped, stopping Luke in the middle of his sentence.

Luke only sighed at his older brother.

“Jace… None of this is her doing. You cannot-“

A knock on your door quickly made you push away from the window, your cheeks red, almost having been caught eavesdropping.

The two young women standing in front of your chambers gave you a friendly smile, their hair - already twisted in intricate fashion despite the early hour - immediately told you of their parentage.

“You must be Baela and Rhaena.”

One of them, you assumed Baela, as she was wearing riding gear and last you had heard, Rhaena had yet to claim a dragon, inclined her head in yes. You gave them a smile.

“It is a pleasure to meet you. I’m-“

“Oh we have heard all about you.”

Rhaena gave Baela a jab in the side, glaring at her sister and even though Baela had fallen into your word, it did not seem like she had done it in chargrin, as she had a friendly look on her face.

“We were about to break fast. Her Grace asked us to extend the invitation to you,” Rhaena said and you nodded.

“Thank you. Let me get dressed and I will meet you in the dining hall.”

After getting dressed and making yourself presentable, you made your way to the dining hall. Well, you tried, at least. The keep was much bigger than you had anticipated. Finally you rounded the corner, thinking you had reached the dining hall, but instead you were standing in a hallway that split into three more hallways.

“I could have sworn this was the way to the dining hall,” you muttered to yourself, looking around in confusion, when someone called your name.

“… Are you lost?”

Luke stepped out of his chambers, lingering in the doorway. He must have gotten changed after training in the pit, his doublet a little askew as he walked towards you.

“I was exploring the keep.”

Luke gave you a suspicious look, a grin growing on his face.

“How long have you been wandering around?”

“Why do you assume I wasn’t waiting for you to walk me to the dining hall?”

Luke laughed, offering you his arm, which you accepted gratefully as the two of you walked together. You found it was easy to converse with Luke, he was telling you about Arrax and how he has been faring ever since you got back, and that he wished for some more meat instead of fish. His cheeky grin reminded you a lot of Daeron when he was pulling one of his jests on his uncle. It was nice, to have something to remind you of home in a place that felt so unfamiliar.

“And here we are, at the dining hall,” Luke announced as you stepped into a completely different hallway, the large doors to the dining hall open.

“I never would have found my own way here,” you admitted and Luke laughed.

“I know.”

Judging by the sound of easy conversation coming out of the hall, you were the last to arrive. You were hesitant, unwilling to cause any tension but Luke tugged on your arm, sensing your discomfort.

“Come. You shall sit with me.”

You relented, following the young boy inside. The conversation at the table ceased as you entered, everyone bidding you a good morrow. Well, almost everyone.

“Have you slept well?” Rhaenyra asked as you sat down next to Luke. You nodded, giving her a smile.

“Yes, thank you. I am very grateful that you have offered for me to stay. And for the clothes, of course.“

Next to Rhaenyra, her lord husband Daemon only gave you a subdued smirk.

“It appears we are the ones who have to offer our thanks,” he said, his fingers circling the brim of his cup. “You acted when it was easier to do nothing. You showed true courage.”

“Please,” you said, nearly melting into your seat out of embarrassment. “I did what was right.”

You ignored how Jace visibly rolled his eyes, turning his head as he took a sip from his cup. He seemed incredibly displeased by this all.

“You should have seen her,” Luke said, nodding fervently. “She leapt from Vhagar to Arrax just above the clouds like it was a small jump over a beck.”

“That sounds terrifying,” Rhaena said and you nodded.

“It was. I truly do not know what came over me in that instant.”

“Sometimes we don’t know how brave we are until the moment asks for it,” Rhaenyra said with an encouraging smile and you nodded, your cheeks red. Thankfully this scene of praising you was interrupted by the servants starting to serve food.

“You have been living most of your recent name days in Oldtown, is that right?” Baela asked curiously, leaning towards you.

“Yes, Alicent sent Daeron to Oldtown and asked me to accompany him to make the distance from home easier.”

You have always thought it cruel of Alicent to send Daeron away from his family, his siblings. But now you wondered if Daeron was better off for it.

“It was really different from King’s Landing. The grandmaesters were incredibly wise and I have learned a lot from the them,” you told her, a smile on your face. “Daeron of course always dragged his feet, but I knew he enjoyed it as well.”

“How old is Daeron now?” Luke asked, swallowing his food.

“Eight and ten,” you answered. “Not quite a man just yet, even if he believes otherwise.”

The family laughed, and even Jacaerys cracked a smile, though it seemed more unkind than the rest.

“That seems to be running on his side of the family, no?” he asked, taking a sip from his cup. His voice was so cutting, and the light mood seemed to dissipate at once. “Aegon, Aemond, none of them display characteristics of a what a real man is… I wonder if Daeron turned out any better than his usurping and kinslaying brothers, though I-“

Before Jace could continue, you slammed both of your hands on the table as you stood, the tableware clattering. The table grew quiet, the tension thick as everyone laid their eyes on you, but you paid them no mind, your focus on Jace as you glared at him, and he seemed surprised at your outburst.

“Please excuse me,” you pressed out, eyes gleaming with anger. You barely waited for Rhaenyra to excuse you as you left the table, your food still untouched on your place.

As you hasten out of the dining room, you could hear Rhaenyra raising her voice.

“-unacceptable behavior!”

“Why are you all rushing to her defense? Or Daeron’s? She’s just being sensitive!”

“I have lived with you about as long as she has with Daeron,” Rhaena argued. “Would you not come to my defense if someone spoke ill about me?”

You didn’t wait to hear Jace’s answer rushing past the Queensguard that was standing by the door. By some miracle, you easily found your way back to your chambers, the heavy door falling shut as you threw yourself on the bed, letting out a scream of frustration.

You were at a loss.

Jace seemed to use every opportunity to antagonize you, treating you like an enemy instead of a friend he had grown up with. You were no damsel in distress who couldn’t handle tough words, but it was to hard to hear them from someone you harbored feelings for.

You wished you could talk to someone about this. You wished you could talk to Daeron about this. A part of you longed for the days when you were in Oldtown, before any of this occurred.

A knock brought you out of your thoughts and you lifted your head from the cushions, frowning.

“I wish to be alone for a little longer,” you called out. It was probably a handmaiden Rhaenyra had sent to check up on you. You hoped she would respect your wishes, but the knocking didn’t cease and with a small sigh, you pulled yourself up, heading to the door.

“I am sorry, I-“ you pulled the door open, but to your surprise, you came face to face with the source of your sorrows.

“Jace,” you spoke, voice even, crossing your arms over your chest. “Have you come to throw some more insults? Maybe some at me this time?”

Jace clenched his jaw, his hand on the goddamned sword again. Was he itching to take your head off so badly?

“I have been told that my behavior this morning was unbefitting for a Prince,” he ground out, the words like gravel in his mouth. “I’m here to extend an apology.”

You bit back a scoff, rolling your eyes. “Fine. Go ahead, then.”

He guffawed at your words.

“If you are going to be like this, I am not sure it makes much sense for me to apologize,” Jace said haughtily and you snorted.

“If I were to believe that a single word of your apology were genuine, I would readily accept it.”

Jace only scoffed, shaking his head but not denying your accusation. His nostrils were flared and you searched for his eyes, but he refused to meet your gaze. Exhaling softly, trying to let go of your anger, you uncrossed your arms, letting them fall to your sides.

“Why are you so angry?”

Suddenly, Jace’s eyes snapped up to yours, his lips parted in disbelief.

“My mother’s claim to the throne has been stolen by her usurper brother, my uncle! Whereas my other uncle tried to murder Luke, and you ask why I’m angry?”

You let out a small sigh, pinching the bridge of your nose.

“Forgive me, I should have been more clear. Let me rephrase,” you said. “Why are you angry with me?”

Jace took a step back, surprised by your question.

“You treat me like I myself have usurped the throne, Jace.”

You looked at Jace expectantly; his mouth opening, like he wanted to say something, before he closed it again, his words unspoken. Before you could demand an answer, hurried steps came down the hallway, Ser Lorent appearing, stopping next to your chambers. Jace seemed relieved at the distraction as the knight inclined his head at him.

“My Prince, the Queen has requested your presence for the council meeting.”

Jace nodded, giving you one last glance before stepping towards Ser Lorent, expecting him to leave right away, but Ser Lorent turned his eyes on you.

“You as well, my Lady.”

Jace let out a scoff and turned on his heel without waiting.

“Unbelievable,” he muttered under his breath as he stalked away. You sighed, glancing at Ser Lorent but he only extended his hand in silent invitation, leaving you no choice but to go with him.

The painted table in the council room was already fully seated, save for one empty space, two seats down from Jace. Most of the council consisted of lords of various houses, who eyed you sceptically as you took your seat next to Baela.

“What is a girl like her doing at a council meeting?” The Lord sat across from you asked, clear disdain on his face. You only stared back at him, not knowing how to answer yourself, but disliking his tone towards you only for the fact that you were not a man.

“This girl,” Jace replied, and you already resigned to another slight at you, “Has saved my brother up thousand feet on the air with no training. What have you achieved for my mother, Lord Bartimos?”

Lord Bartimos only let out an aggrieved sigh as he leaned back in his seat, while you turned to Jace with a surprised look on your face. He didn’t meet your eyes. Luke on the other hand, was ducking his head to hide a grin, failing miserably.

“She can offer us insights into the plan of the usurpers,” Rhaenyra said, effectively stopping any more arguments. “I hope we can avoid any bloodshed.”

“Avoid?” Daemon asked, leaning forward with a crease in his forehead. “They blatantly attacked a messenger after you wished for some time to think about their offer.”

“Daemon is right.”

Jace’s voice was strong as he agreed with Daemon, his shoulders tight.

“This is not the time to sit back and watch their plans unfold. We have come too close to unimaginable tragedy.”

Jace’s eyes flickered to his younger brother, before he turned to look to his mother. “We need to fight back.”

Rhaenyra opened her mouth, seemingly to disagree with her eldest son, but a commotion outside caught everyone’s attention.

“Dragon!”

“It’s a dragon with a rider!”

Everyone at the table looked at each other, unsure of what was happening when a knight from the watch outside came storming into the room.

“Your Grace!” he called, bowing quickly. “There has been a dragon sighted with a rider, he’s headed straight for Dragonstone.”

Rhaenyra’s forehead creased in concern.

“Do we know who it is?”

“No, your Grace.”

Rhaenyra stood, her strides quick as she walked outside, the rest of you were not too far behind her. Outside, the folks were rushing in, trying to get to safety from an imminent attack from the dragon.

“I will mount Moondancer,” Baela said, already turning on her heel but Rhaenyra stopped her, shaking her head.

“No. We do not know his intention yet, another dragon might provoke him into attacking.”

You lifted your eyes to the sky, sight blinded by the sun for the first few moments. The dragon’s movements seemed familiar to you, and as your vision adjusted, you let out a laughter, relief coursing through you.

“That’s Tessarion!” you exlaimed, turning to Rhaenyra with a smile. “It’s Daeron!”

You broke out in a run, skirt of your dress lifted as you skidded down the stoney hill, ignoring how Jacaerys was yelling after you to wait.

Tessarion landed on the green grass, stretching her orange-blue wings, as Daeron slid off his saddle, feet on solid ground again. He oriented himself looking around, before relief took over his face when he saw you.

“Sister!”

“Daeron!”

You fell around his arms like countless times before and he held you so tightly, you were afraid he’d never let you go.

“You promised,” he whispered into your neck in a choked voice. “You promised you wouldn’t abandon me.”

“I’m sorry. I’m so so sorry,” you mumbled, squeezing Daeron. You didn’t let go of him until his hold on you lessened, knowing he needed to realize that you were, and not gone. Pushing his hair out of his face, you gave him a watery smile.

“How did you know I was here?”

“Brother.”

Rhaenyra’s voice brought you back to reality, as the both of you stood straight, Rhaenyra’s face null of emotion. Jace was furious, his eyes flitting between you and Daeron continuously, while Daemon stood behind Rhaenyra.

“Are you here to deliver a message from the false King that is your brother?”

“I am not a messenger,” Daeron said, his voiced heated. “And as I recall he’s your brother as well.”

His tone is starting to border on disrespect so you glanced over to him, your eyebrows creased. Daeron let out a small sigh.

“I hold no loyalty to my brother,” he added, his voice softer. “Nor am I here to deliver any messages.”

“Then what is your purpose of being here?”

“I’m here because she is,” Daeron answered simply, squeezing your hand. “She has been more kin to me than either Aegon or Aemond. I want to stay on Dragonstone, if you allow it. Fight alongside you.”

“Are we offering shelter for anyone who comes here now?”

Jace’s voice was directed at Rhaenyra, but Daeron narrowed his eyes at him.

“What happened to him?” he muttered to you under his breath. “I do not recall him being this miserable.”

“Daeron!” you hissed, the corners of your mouth tugging up anyways. Jace scoffed, taking a step forward, only to be stopped by Rhaenyra.

“If you are willing to trust me, you have to trust Daeron,” you said, looking at Rhaenyra. You understood that she was wary, she and Daeron barely spent any time together, he was a stranger to her. But you hoped that her trust in you was only half as strong as your trust in Daeron. “If anything, it adds another dragon on your side.”

Rhaenyra regarded you with a impressed smile, giving a small nod.

“Very well. You might stay, Daeron,” she said; behind her, Jacaerys and Daemon exchanged a look, neither of them happy about her decision. “However, I wish to speak with you, alone.”

Daeron nodded, and you squeezed his hand as you followed Rhaenyra back inside the keep, trying not to let Jace’s piercing eyes on you bother you.

“I think it odd. Seeing Rhaenyra again after all this time. My sister.”

You were sitting out in the grass, Daeron’s head in your lap as he talked. He had spent the last two hours in the council room speaking to Rhaenyra. You weren’t sure what exactly they had talked about, but when they both came out, they seemed calm, almost peaceful. You didn’t pry, knowing that Daeron would share whatever he felt comfortable with.

“Does she feel like kin to you?” you asked, knowing how distant Rhaenyra was to Alicent’s children, even when they were younger.

Daeron shrugged, ripping up a blade of grass with his hand.

“She was polite enough. She knows what advantage she has having me on her side. I cannot see us become closer,” he said. “Like us.”

Daeron peered up at you with a grin and you rolled your eyes. Something was still nagging at you, and you knew it wouldn’t leave your head until you had answers

“What happened when Aemond got back? How did you know I was here?”

Daeron’s smile dimmed a little and he looked away, his eyes focusing on the blue sky above you.

“I was already searching for you by the time Aemond returned. I could tell by the look on his face that something had happened, so he told me that he had been out in Storm’s End to secure pledges for Aegon, and that you had come with. Luke had arrived just shortly after Aemond had negotiated with Lord Borros and he got angry, starting a fight, bringing up what had happened at Driftmark.”

Your brows furrowed. You had suspected that Aemond wouldn’t tell the truth, but blaming Lucerys for his bad temper? Anything to paint you as the villain.

“Aemond said you took Luke’s side, your feelings for Jace swaying you.”

Your cheeks reddened. You hadn’t realized that your affections for Jace were so apparent that Aemond would take notice. Daeron continued, unperturbed.

“- and that was when Aemond returned to King’s Landing.”

“That’s not-“

Before you could finish, Daeron interrupted you, his eyes finding yours again.

“I know, Rhaenyra told me what truly happened.”

“But did you really believe what Aemond had told you? That I would just go with Luke because of an argument, leave you?”

Daeron shrugged with his shoulders, his eyes downcast.

“I did not want to. But what was I supposed to do? Call Aemond a liar? I don’t think that would have gone well,” he argued. “I did not have choice but to accept his truth as mine.”

“Then why did you come here if you thought me a traitor?”

Stilling, Daeron pressed his lips together.

“Helaena… She was behaving peculiar… I was sitting with her in the day room, watching Jahaerys and Jahaera play, and all she kept saying was “To save her brother, you must trust your sister” while looking between me and Jahaera,” he told you and you frowned.

To save her brother, you must trust your sister?

“What does that mean?”

“I am not quite sure,” Daeron said, shaking his head. “But I knew it must mean that Aemond was not telling the truth, that you had left because of something else.”

You bit back a smile; it amused you how Daeron did not hesitate to think of you when someone mentioned his sister, but hummed in thought, unsatisfied with his words.

“What if she did not mean me? What if she was talking about Rhaenyra?”

The sound of footsteps crunching on the gravel leading up to the small cliff made the two of you paused. You both looked up just to see Jace arrive to the top, stopping at the edge of the field stiffly. Daeron propped himself up on his elbows, glancing to you, then back to Jace slowly before he got to his feet, dusting off his clothes.

“I should go to the dragon mount. See how Tessarion is faring.”

You knew exactly what he was trying to do and you shook your head quickly, pulling yourself up.

“Daeron…!” you almost shouted, but the young Prince already departed. As he passed Jace, the older gave him an almost imperceptible nod, before Daeron disappeared down the hill. You let out a small frustrated huff, your eyes flickering to Jace before you turned away again. His steps were careful as he came closer, and you wrapped your arms around yourself, not looking at him as he came to a stop next to you.

You were the first to speak.

“I am surprised you didn’t call Daeron a traitor as he passed you.”

In hindsight, you could have chosen less biting words. Out of the corner of your eye, you could see Jace clench his jaw.

“I wouldn’t.”

“Don’t patronize me.”

“I am not!” Jace sighed. “I did not come to argue with you.”

“Then what have you come for?”

Jace fell silent again and you shook your head in exasperation. It was hard for you to read him; he seemingly had made it a habit to guard his emotions. When Jace finally spoke again, his words surprised you.

“I always envied him.”

“What?”

“Daeron,” he clarified. “When you wrote to me that you were to be sent to Oldtown with Daeron, I was furious. I begged mother to let you come with us, but she said it would be seen as disrespectful towards Alicent. She wanted to avoid a fight.” Jace scoffed, shaking his head. “The irony does not escape me.”

He paused, his gaze on the horizon. Two dragons had made their way out of the dragon mount, flying in the sky, stretching their wings. One, you were able to recognize as Vermax, with his orange green scales. He had grown exponentially since the last time you saw him. The other dragon was unfamiliar to you, but the dragons seemed to have a bond as they flew around each other playfully. You took your eyes off of the dragons to look at Jace. He was already looking at you, his cheeks pink.

“I looked forward to your letters every day,” Jace admitted, ducking his head. “… It eased my longing, if only slightly.”

Your lips pursed into a pleased smile.

“You longed for me?” you teased.

“Did you not long for me?” he asked quite bluntly, his eyes searching yours. “Or was what you had enough for you?”

Letting out a small huff, you shook your head, knowing what he was insinuating; the same thing that Aemond had hinted at only a few days prior.

“Daeron and I are like brother and sister, I do not long for him in any way than you do for Luke.”

Jace nodded, his smile delighted. But you let out a sigh, wringing your hands.

“If you truly felt like this… Why have you treated me so horribly ever since I’ve been here? Why have you stopped replying to my letters?”

“It’s not…” Jace trailed off, pulling his face into a frown. “After we received the news of my grandsire’s passing, mother has been on edge, preparing for war. We all have. And I felt guilty, I didn’t want to be distracted by anything, and whenever one of your letters arrived, I couldn’t get my mind on anything else than sitting down to write back to you. So I just… Stopped answering. And I thought I could write to you when all of this is over, but then you were suddenly… Here.”

Jace broke off, pressing his lips together. “You were supposed to stay in Oldtown, far away from the war that is brewing. Now you quite literally launched yourself right into the middle of it all. I thought it incredulous that you would just show up and save my brother… Like in a dream.”

Your chest ached. You had not realized how worried Jace was for you.

“But you thought I was spying for information,” you reminded him.

“I didn’t really believe you would be capable of doing so… But I couldn’t let my feelings cloud my judgement. Mother counts on me, and as her heir, I have to fulfill my duties.”

Biting your lip, you nodded, your chin low. While you understood why Jace had been behaving the way he was, it still hurt to be treated that way.

“I dislike causing you anguish,” he said quietly. “Can you find it in yourself to forgive me?”

“The way to forgiveness may not be easy,” you warned him, a small smile on your face. “I am not known for being very forgiving.”

“Then it will be so much more rewarding,” Jace quipped, smiling at you.

The both of you fell into a comfortable silence, staring out in the distance, the dragons dancing in the sky. You almost flinched when you felt Jace hesitantly reach for your hand; it was the first time he let go of the hilt of his sword since you got to Dragonstone. Swallowing nervously, you laced your fingers with his, feeling the tension bleed away from his limbs. For a while, you just stood there, hand in hand, lending each other comfort in the silence. A silence Jace soon broke.

“Do you want to go for a ride on Vermax?”

Your eyes lit up at the sudden invitation, but you held your excitement at bay, not wanting to seem too eager. Seeing Jace’s face however, it told you that you better work on masking your emotions. While the imminent war brewing in the near future scares you, you didn’t want to forego small moments of happiness, you were sure the war held plenty of misery and frustration. You would enjoy every single smile you could shed.

“I’d love to.”

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦

author’s note: before you ask, i’m not planning on writing another part! maybe a few drabbles in the future! 🫶🏼

[cameronsbabydoll]

hi <33 can i request silent treatment with ex-husband!rafe? thank you !! I loved your SCC series btw 💘💘

silent treatment with ex!husband!rafe

wc: 343 — a/n: i’m making a mini masterlist for this au!

it starts in the driveway.

you don’t even slam your car door — you gently push it shut, like even that noise would be giving him too much. purse on your shoulder, sunglasses on, jaw tight. you don't look at him where he's leaning against the front steps like he’s waiting on you.

rafe doesn’t say anything either.

of course he doesn’t.

he just watches you with that infuriating calm — arms crossed over his chest, jaw working, chewing at the inside of his cheek like he's this close to breaking the silence first.

but he won't.

not after your last argument — not after the things you said. not after you told him, “you don’t get to screw with my time and my kid and then charm your way out of it, rafe.”

so now? it’s war.

a silent, petty, exhausting war.

you march up the steps, not even sparing him a glance. he steps aside at the last second, all faux-chivalry, sweeping his hand out like ladies first, sweetheart — and you don't react. not a twitch.

inside, it gets worse.

the house smells like cologne and expensive cleaning products. there’s a glass on the counter — his drink — half-melted ice, untouched since he poured it. the tv is on mute. espn highlights flickering across the screen.

still, nothing.

no, hey. no, you look tired. no, your car’s making that weird noise again, like he usually says, just to be annoying.

you dig through the backpack on the kitchen island — your son's stuff —triple-checking everything even though you know rafe’s thorough when it comes to him. it’s not about the stuff. it’s about the principle.

rafe lingers near the doorway, arms crossed again, broad shoulders framed in that stupid expensive henley you hate because he knows it looks good on him.

silence stretches like wire pulled tight.

finally — finally — you snap.

without looking at him:

"real mature, rafe."

and he huffs a dry little laugh under his breath.

"funny," he drawls, voice low, rough from disuse. "was just thinking the same thing about you, sweetheart."

[rhaenyra-storms]

STOPP your drabble of cregan was adorable, we need more stories of him!! i would like to request something for cregan, where the reader is his lady wife and is introduced to jacaerys for the first time!! it’s up to you whether they have children of their own or it’s just rickon (cregan’s child from his first marriage), i like to think lady stark!reader would become eager to talk to jacaerys and his dragon!!

thank you so much!! i literally love writing for him omg. and i would definitely freak out too if i was able to see a dragon!! :,)

it got a lot longer than expected, but i hope you enjoy!!

pairing: cregan stark x wife!reader warnings: cregan is a little overprotective, that's it, just fluff words: 1.7k

You didn't want to believe it at first.

Cregan was sitting in the Great Hall of Winterfell when the news arrived. A few scouts had spotted a dragon flying north at a rapid pace and tensions were high in the castle.

Winterfell was far away from King's Landing, as was the coronation of the new King Aegon, but the Starks and the North were still sworn to the Targaryens. You and your husband had already suspected that sooner or later, you would be dragged into their mess as well.

Judging from the little time you had spent at court in the South, you knew the Targaryen family was a horrible mess. When King Viserys made the decision to name Rhaenyra heir to the Iron Throne, you knew it would be catastrophic as soon as the old King would pass.

"Do we know who the dragon belongs to?" Your husband's deep voice pulled you out of your thoughts. Cregan always asked the right questions, to the right people, but this time... everyone seemed a little clueless.

You placed a hand on your husband's arm, giving it a little squeeze. "They will not attack alone and without an army. They don't have reason to," you said in a quiet voice, just for him to hear. Cregan gave you a soft smile as he looked over at you, but his eyes were filled with concern.

While an attack was highly unlikely, he couldn't really exclude it entirely and that was already enough reason for him to worry. He wanted to keep you safe and all the people in Winterfell.

"We should still proceed with caution," your husband answered, his hand finding yours and giving it a small squeeze in return. He then pushed himself out of the chair, towering next to you, before he addressed the rest of the people in the room. "We will welcome the dragon rider into our home. With caution. I do not want to start a war with the crown, not when we have more important things to worry about."

Cregan knew the next winter would not be far and he needed to make sure his people were well-prepared and his men were strong. You had always admired your husband for his composure and his natural talent for ruling.

Two hours later, you welcomed the oldest son of Rhaenyra Targaryen into your home. Your husband had talked to him alone at first, using the Godswood as a sight of common ground and when a servant informed you that he wished for you to join them for dinner, you knew their conversation had probably been a positive one.

"Lady Stark," Jacaerys nodded his head at you as soon as you entered the Great Hall. He was a pretty man, his black curls a mesmerising sight. However, you couldn't deny that all the rumours you had heard about his father might be true then. He didn't have the signature Targaryen white hair and from the few times you had met Lord Harwin Strong, he seemed to resemble him quite clearly.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, my Prince," you greeted him with a smile. Jace gently placed a kiss upon your knuckles.

"The pleasure is all mine, m'lady."

Cregan watched Jace closely as you two introduced yourselves to each other, but after their short conversation he felt like he could trust Jacaerys. He had been kind enough not to threaten him with his dragon. Said creature was now waiting outside the Winterfell gates and he was sure the people of the castle couldn't take their eyes off it. The Lord of Winterfell himself could only describe the creature as mesmerising and a sight to behold. And he knew that his wife would probably love to meet a dragon.

The dinner went by quite fast and the conversations were lighthearted despite the general situation of the realm. Jacaerys didn't mean to only talk about the conflict between his mother and Aegon, but he knew that he had a chance to win Cregan Stark over for their cause. And winning over his wife as well in a way would be beneficial too.

"Have you ever seen a dragon, my lady?" Jace asked you after he placed his cup of wine back on the table. You could feel your husband smile next to you. He was very aware of the fact that you had always been fascinated by those creatures. Their freedom to fly, their strength and their sheer power. Dragons were pure magic in your eyes.

"Unfortunately not, my Prince," you answered, leaning back in your chair a little. Jace had mentioned "Vermax" throughout the conversation and you knew the dragon was waiting outside the gates. Its roars were hard to miss throughout the day.

"But I would love to. One day."

"Then today might be the day. If you wish to, of course," Jace gave you another polite nod and an inviting smile. The prospect of meeting a dragon had you ecstatic in seconds, but you knew your husband would suspect danger in this situation. He was more than right for that.

"I would love to accompany you two then." Cregan sounded determined, but still polite. A subtle sign for Jace to understand that he was good-willed, but still cautious.

The support of the North was vital to Rhaenyra's cause, so Jacaerys really didn't intend to mess it up.

"Vermax is a kind dragon. As long as you mean no harm." Jace waited for your husband to push his chair back and stand up first. You followed right after, hooking your arm with Cregan's as you made your way outside.

The sight before you was stunning.

It was already dark outside, but the dragon could hardly be missed. His olive green scales appeared almost black in the dark and your husband grabbed a torch from a guard as you approached.

"Relax, Vermax", Jacaerys spoke in Valyrian, making you raise your eyebrows for a moment. You wished you would have paid more when your family's maester had tried to teach you a few simple words in Valyrian.

"They're our friends."

Vermax' eyes turned into slits for a moment, studying both you and Cregan. The dragon was probably evaluating if you were a threat despite his rider's kind words.

"I've seen more outgoing dragons than Vermax, but he's a gentle one at heart," Jace explained.

It was fascinating to hear about dragons having different personalities and being a little more like humans in a way. Some were impulsive, others were shy. As a child, you had always wished for a dragon as a pet.

"It's... He's wonderful," you whispered, feeling your husband's arm wrap protectively around your waist. Cregan would rather throw himself in front of the dragon's teeth than watch anything happen to you.

"I know. Do you want to touch him?" Jace asked, his voice soft and inviting. "Only if you want to, of course. I do not wish to make you uncomfortable in any way."

Excitement bubbled in your stomach. You could feel the heat rush to your face. All your childhood dreams seemed so close now – meeting a dragon, touching a dragon and pretending for just a moment that you could be a dragonrider too.

Cregan's grip around you tightened, a small reminder of how all of this could backfire. A cold wind blew by and you took a deep breath.

"I will be fine," you assured your husband, taking the time to plant a kiss to his cheek. A small attempt to calm him, but you knew that he would always be worried for your safety. The Lord of Winterfell only knew you were safe when you were in his arms, sleeping safe and sound.

Slowly, you made your way over to the dragon. It seemed to smell your anxiety and retreated for a moment. Jace put up his hand, a sign for Vermax to calm down – to relax. There was nothing bad that would happen.

You gave the dragon time, your heart beating wildly in your chest as you couldn't take your eyes off the creature in front of you. It still seemed wary, but after a few short moments, the dragon eventually bowed down a little, lowering itself to the ground. It was a silent invitation for you to come closer.

But you still wanted to get reassurance from Prince Jacaerys who quickly gave you a nod and beckoned you closer.

It felt like your heart was about to jump out of your chest when the dragon sniffed your hand.

Your husband was on the edge of his nerves behind you. His hand was already positioned at his sword, as if he would stand a chance against a dragon. "Careful, my love," he mumbled. He was feeling increasingly uneasy as he watched you and he let out a small gasp when you eventually laid your hand on the dragon's head.

Vermax closed his eyes slowly after he had eyed you enough. You weren't a threat. Not to him and not to Jace.

The dragon's skin was warm and hard, rough against the soft palm of your hand. "Seven hells..." you mumbled, watching in fascination as Vermax continued to relax.

Jace placed his hand on the dragon's wing for a moment, stroking it softly. "I told you he is a kind one. I would offer you a ride, but I think your husband might fall over dead if I do." It was a small jest, but it made you laugh softly.

You turned your head a little, spotting the Lord of Winterfell as he was tensing up more and more behind you. He forced a smile to his lips, trying to look more relaxed than he was. Cregan wanted you to fulfil your dreams, but he needed to keep you safe as well.

However, seeing you as happy as this, as your hand laid upon the dragon's nose, he couldn't help himself but smile a little more genuinely. His hand remained at his sword, but his shoulders relaxed nonetheless.

Seeing the joy in your eyes as Jace told you more about Vermax and the dragon seemed to be content with your presence, Cregan couldn't help but think about how many more days he wanted to spend like this. Seeing you happy was the biggest light in his world.

He'd do anything to see that beautiful smile. Over and over.

[sorryimananti-romantic]

The Leaders | Chapter XI

"lies, control, rules, numb, hatred, emptiness."

masterlist

ot8!ateez x f!reader, mafia au

chapter warnings: drinking, smoking, illegal businesses, mentions of war/military, drugs, gangs and corruption, things get fluffy with woogi, angst levels up with hj, smut mdni! (fingering, overstimulation), mention of bombing.

chapter wc: 10.7k

chapter synopsis: you continue to deal with clients at the warehouse with wooyoung and mingi and you find solace in each other’s company amidst the tough times. you meet ji chang wook of the sirens with hongjoong who helps you formulate a plan– to get assemblyman wi on your side before president lee does. in between all of this, you suspect that hongjoong and seonghwa are hiding something from you. seonghwa assures you that they will tell you when it’s time and you spend the night with him. things take a dark, dangerous turn, creating confusion and chaos.

prev chapter recap: you meet president son and lady kim with hongjoong and they confirm that they are the anonymous funders of the weapons channel. they also share their suspicions of president lee regarding president han’s assassination and reveal that he is the man behind strictland’s nuclear ops. you and lady kim share your fond memories of president han and she takes an interest in your pearl ring. hongjoong reveals that the sirens answer to president son and they have a meeting scheduled with them now. as per president son’s request, you find yourself with winter, an rv spy, as your bodyguard. you go to the warehouse and start to deal with unsatisfied clients with wooyoung and mingi. among them is ju seok tae, the nephew of mr. jang of eden news. hongjoong and seonghwa begin to look into your mother’s pearl ring with sunmi of maddox and co. and discover that all records of the ring’s purchase are absent which raises suspicion.

For most of your life, you had believed that there was a stark difference between the elites of Eden and the common man. 

There was no way that the elites breathed the same air, walked on the same ground and looked at the same sky as the common man. Those were the people of struggle and loss, of constraints and darkness. As someone living in Edenary which was a safe haven for the elites, you did not need to fret about the people that dwelled elsewhere. They could never look you in the eyes, your father told you, because you were an elite.

They did. They looked you in the eyes whenever and wherever you encountered them– be it in Edenary itself, in the warzones where your status meant nothing, or even post-treaty when they carried the burden of rebuilding Eden. They looked you in the eyes and showed you that as an elite, you shared the same struggles and constraints. You were not different. They were simply more empathetic than you because they did not choose to exercise their power to create a distinction between humans.

There was something about the common man that always pulled you in– your attention was always drawn towards how freely they laughed, as if they had no care in this world, as if the weight of this world wasn’t on their shoulders. The crescendo of their laughter was enough to make you realise that Edenary was not the paradise that the elites made it out to be. Edenary was a bound city where every man was on his own. It was a place where the people dressed their finest to hide the ugliness they carried within their souls. It was a place where you couldn’t really exhale loudly, lest people learned the secrets that your breath threatened to carry away with the wind. 

Edenary was a prison. You realised that your circumstances weren’t unique– each family in Edenary was caged in the walls of their homes, the walls that were built on the blood of the innocent. Each individual in Edenary carried with them the sins of their forefathers. Some carried those sins in their proud smiles or watchful eyes. Others attempted to conceal them with soft words and gentle touches. But there was one thing that these two shared– the fact that they were proud to be here, despite everything.

And that pride was a double-edged sword, and double-edged swords often turned on their wielders especially when the wielder found themselves surrounded by predators.

There was only one predator in the room right now, and it was you. Seated in the centre of the small, dark office room at the warehouse with only a card table separating you was your client, who was currently pretending that the bead of sweat trickling down his temple wasn’t annoying him. You swirled the red wine in your glass casually before shifting in the chair so your client got a brief glance of the two daggers and a gun snug on the belt against your thigh. 

You fixed your leather jacket and concealed the weapons when you were sure that he got a good look.

“It’s quite simple, Mr. Kudo,” you clasped your hands on top of your knees, not breaking eye contact. “You will lose more if you back out of your deal now. You should be a gentleman and keep your word, don’t you think?”

“The weapons project might shut down for good,” he warned with wide eyes. “There’s been rumours about the network closing. As someone from Utopia, I have to make sure that my country does not get involved if they start arresting everyone who’s been funding the project.”

“That will not happen, I assure you,” you replied calmly. “If that was the case, the identity of the person who got arrested for funding us would have been exposed. Isn’t that right?”

Mr. Kudo contemplated over his cigarette, shifting uncomfortably. “You’ll guarantee that if things start to take the right direction, me and my client can back out of funding before Utopia’s name gets dragged in the mud?”

“Absolutely,” you assured him. “In fact, we will be terminating our contracts with all foreign parties to ensure their animosity if things look bleak. Before any damage can occur.”

“And what’s the guarantee of that? How can I trust you?”

“The same way that I did not shoot you in the head when you walked in instead of your client and demanded that we hear you out. We excused your spies trespassing here– they’re still alive if you wish to take them back. Barely, might I add. I’d be making my decisions quickly if I were you, Mr. Kudo.”

You had to admit– you had a knack for negotiating, and seeing the man squirm and look as if he was about to burst the veins on his head was oddly satisfying. He nodded in resignation and you refrained from passing another comment on the man’s bruised ego, shaking hands and signalling Winter who had been stationed in the corner to let his spies go.

Winter accompanied the man outside and when he disappeared, you let out a big sigh, grinning when Wooyoung and Mingi walked inside, looking proud.

“We heard everything– it was a struggle to keep Wooyoung from laughing out loud,” Mingi said, shaking his head in amusement. 

“You did well!” Wooyoung patted your shoulder. “I told you this would work.”

What he meant by that was the leather, the weapons on display on your belt, and the bold red lipstick. According to Wooyoung, any man would get intimidated by such a combination, and you had to admit that he was right. 

“Plus, you look awfully hot,” Wooyoung tugged at your chin affectionately and you rolled your eyes but smiled anyway.

“I might do this more often. I feel confident in this getup,” you said, assessing your form. If all it took for men to get intimidated and fold under your glare was a daring outfit choice and the confidence that came along with it, you would definitely be doing this again. Winter came back and you smiled gratefully at her– the idea was Wooyoung’s, but it was Winter who got you prepared for tonight. 

A master spy for sure. You felt like you were wearing another skin during the meeting, and perhaps, that’s what you needed to do from now on. Wear different skins and trick people into granting your wishes.

“Well, this concludes the last client for this month?” You asked, recalling the list mentally. You had been dealing with a number of clients in the past two weeks, dividing and conquering for the most part. 

“Yes, looks like we’re finally getting a breather,” Mingi said as he adjusted his jacket. “Are you going back to the office?”

“Yeah, I need to report back and get updated about the other matters,” you pursed your lips. “Can’t talk about it on the phone– Seonghwa said the line might be tapped.”

“He wouldn’t be wrong,” Wooyoung agreed, the three of you moving out of the warehouse to the break area. “We usually rely on an informant doing the job for us and relaying messages when we fear getting tapped.”

“Oh? Who’s your informant?”

“Usually some kids from the orphanage, or one of the RV spies if they cooperate,” Wooyoung eyed Winter who was currently out of earshot, drinking from a can of beer. “Jaemin and Renjun could do that job for you– the pair is the best when it comes to trading information, and they’re reliable and inconspicuous. They’d give the RV spies some competition, I bet.”

“Jaemin and… Renjun?” You asked, the second name unfamiliar.

“Renjun is also one of the kids from the orphanage. I’ll see what he’s up to these days, but you can use them even if you’re back at the office and want to send us a quick message,” Mingi said and you nodded. The kids must really be trustworthy then. 

“Yeah, I have to get back to the office for the meeting with the Sirens, but I’ll probably need the kids to relay messages once I’m back here.”

“And when are you planning to leave, sweetheart?” Wooyoung asked. “Want me to drop you off?”

“I’ll get back with Winter in my own car tomorrow, and hopefully squeeze in a nap before things get hectic,” you passed Wooyoung a knowing look and he stifled a smirk, making Mingi laugh out loud. “I mean… we have the rest of the evening free, right? What are you up to?”

“I don’t know,” Wooyoung shrugged, “No plans… yet. I don’t think you want to go practising again.”

You groaned– you had been doing plenty of shooting practising with the boys and basic self defence with Winter in your free time here. That involved you getting roughed up in the process and while it was not a very enjoyable experience, it was necessary.

“We could go to the beach if you feel like it,” Mingi suggested.

“The beach?” You straightened. “I mean, if we’re all free,” you said and the boys nodded eagerly. “I would love to.”

The drive had to be more than an hour long, but it felt shorter because Mingi and Wooyoung kept you engaged in discussion, talking about everything but business. They managed to wring out details about your life in Edenary which you weren’t reluctant to share, just a bit hesitant since it really wasn’t much except a brooding father and an annoying brother. 

You told them about how Sector 1 and Edenary felt like two different worlds sometimes, but you had never felt as if you were free in Edenary. Somehow, Edenary was more suffocating which you realised on your trip with Hongjoong and Seonghwa back when you were to make the deal with Tiffany.

In exchange, you also managed to hear some stories from their past. Wooyoung told you about his family who lived in Sector 2, away from all the mess of the Crescents. He was on good terms with his family, as were the rest of the Crescents, and he often paid visits.

You learned that Wooyoung was Yeosang’s friend from before the war and as a strategist, he encountered Hongjoong which was how he met the rest of the boys. He was surprised to learn that you and Mingi were in the same squad and he was pretty sure you must have encountered paths with Mingi as a medic, since apparently, Mingi was usually the one who had to get nursed most often. While both of you did not recall ever encountering each other, it was still a nice thought. 

“It’s not that he got hurt often,” Wooyoung teased, earning a smack from Mingi who was driving tonight. “He just loved being nursed. He claims that he met every nurse in his squad which was quite a handful, right?”

“Must be why he does not recall seeing me then,” you pouted. 

“And why do you not recall seeing me? If we ever met, that is,” Mingi questioned.

“Because you have changed so much since,” you laughed at the memory of the photo that he showed you not long ago. “You were just a scrawny lad back then.”

“And now?” Wooyoung questioned, craning his neck back with a deep smirk to see how you would respond.

“Now…” you folded your arms, catching Mingi’s eye in the rearview mirror. “Scrawny grownup lad?”

“Unfair,” he muttered and Wooyoung shook his head.

“You’re a man now, that’s what she means,” Wooyoung explained and you hummed in agreement. Mingi was a man now– tall, strong and handsome. Nothing like the kid that he was during the war.

You finally reached the sandy shores that bordered Sector 2, the sea a bit clearer here since it was quite a distance from the port. You could still spot a few boats and ships in the distance, illuminated by the half moon that pulled the tides, making them crash loudly against the rocks. You shut your eyes and breathed deeply, relishing the smell of the salty waves with a smile.

“Why the lack of people?” You wondered, though you weren’t complaining.

“It’s kind of dangerous during the night. The tide is unpredictable,” Wooyoung explained. “But it’s always crowded during the day, and especially during the weekends.”

“Look,” Mingi pointed in the distance at a group of people. “Some people still come at night but it’s better to stay away from the waves.”

“Ah,” you pursed your lips. “Can we at least walk on the shore?”

“Definitely,” Wooyoung took one hand and Mingi took the other, almost in synchronisation. “We are your guards. We won’t let you drown.”

“If you let me go,” you warned as you walked deeper into the shore until the waves washed your mid-calves, “let it be known that you both make the worst guards.”

“No body, no crime,” Mingi shrugged and you tsk-ed, though the three of you ended up laughing. 

The pair swung your hands and did not let go even when you wished to tuck your hair back. They did that for you, only after laughing whenever you got smacked on the face by your own hair thanks to the fierce gusts of the wind. In return, you splashed them with your feet.

After a good, long walk, the three of you settled down on the sand to take a breather. You pulled your knees forward, not minding the sand that stuck to your bare legs– in fact, you quite liked where you were right now. The sound of the waves crashing against each other was soothing enough to make you feel content. 

“Do you think we’ll ever get such a moment of peace again?” You mused, digging your fingertips into the sand. “It feels like we have to steal these moments ever since the silver light project began.”

Mingi hummed in thought but it was Wooyoung who said, “I don’t think we can fully rest anymore, Luna. At least, not until silver light is a medicinal drug available in all hospitals of Eden, and the Strictland nuclear base matter gets settled.”

“It’s only going to get more chaotic with the elections coming up soon,” Mingi added. “President Lee must be anxious now. He’s going to suffer damage when the public learns what he’s been doing behind their back.”

Wooyoung straightened his back proudly. “I knew something was off about that man. I was right. But for once…” He faltered, mirroring your position and resting his head against his knees. “I wish I was wrong.”

You smiled in defeat. “The elites will suffer, we shall make sure of it. We will keep stealing these little moments of peace. Everything will be okay– no matter how trapped we feel, we must be in control of our life. That is all that matters at the end of the day.”

“Wise words,” Mingi said playfully and you grinned, the three of you soaking in serenity, tucking the memory of tonight in a corner of your heart. With Mingi’s hand intertwining with yours as he scooted closer, you let Wooyoung rest his head on your shoulder. The three of you huddled into a cocoon, cherishing the last few moments of peace before you would go back to being a Crescent and a Leader.

It was good to be back at the office, working alongside Jihoon and Eunha and getting the recent updates. Apparently, the boss’s nonchalance was slowly taking the shape of anger. You heard about how Hongjoong and Seonghwa had taken upon themselves to find the mole among all of the Crescent employees, which was quite the number. As someone who had witnessed Seonghwa’s methods firsthand, you shivered at the thought of what the others would be facing. You did not want to think about how Hongjoong would be navigating that course. 

The office was empty for the most part of the day, especially after Eunha’s shift that left you alone on the upper story. You unlocked Hongjoong’s room and decided to wait there, having done most of your work and knowing that the two would be arriving at any moment. You were surprised to see the mess on Hongjoong’s desk– Seonghwa was usually cleaning everything up, organising everything and making sure nothing was out of place. 

They must have been really busy or tired, you thought. You were aware that the two had been here in the morning so you wondered if they left in a hurry.

Taking it upon yourself, you started organising Hongjoong’s desk– also because the time would not pass. You hummed a tune that you had picked from Mingi, an addictive melody he was usually singing while he was absorbed in work. You put the extra documents in the cupboard and just as you closed it, the door opened, revealing Seonghwa.

“You’re here,” he smiled, “I was wondering if I left the door unlocked.”

“You would never,” you grinned, spreading your arms for the underboss who gladly held you, spinning you around and making you chuckle as you clung to him. He set you down and you tucked the long silver strands of his hair back. “Where’s Hongjoong? I heard that he was with you.”

“We parted ways to save some time but he’ll be back soon,” Seonghwa pressed his lips to your forehead. “How was the warehouse?”

“Fun, I’m not even going to lie about it,” you said and Seonghwa scoffed in amusement. “But it’s really good to be back. I missed you.”

“I missed you too,” Seonghwa kissed your cheek, lingering there. Your fingers tightened around the lapels of his coat in response and you found his eyes fluttering shut as he relished the feeling of being so close to you. Your heart warmed infinitely.

“Is everything alright at work?” You asked in a low voice as if you did not dare to interrupt his train of thoughts. However, you might have actually done that because he shook his head.

“Let’s talk about work when Hongjoong gets back, yeah?” Seonghwa looked you in the eyes, brows furrowed and you thought you spotted true yearning in his eyes. 

You smiled and nodded, meeting his lips with yours and losing yourself to the bliss that came along. It truly blew your mind that Park Seonghwa was a man who yearned for you. Perhaps, he could hear your thoughts because he held you all the more delicately and kissed you all the more passionately, proving that you needed to pay no heed to your silly thoughts.

“Are you here for the weekend?” Seonghwa asked when he allowed you to break apart for breath and you nodded. 

“I have to leave on Monday though,” you told him. “Need to tie a few more loose ends before I come back.”

“Good enough,” Seonghwa caressed your cheek. “That means we have time.”

“Time for?” You asked, though you already knew the answer, and Seonghwa confirmed it with a searing kiss, making you take steps back instinctively until your back met with the wooden surface of the cupboard. You laughed into the kiss but Seonghwa intended to swallow every sound that he could draw out of your mouth. He pulled away with a dangerous smirk, one that had your legs feeling weak and your grasp tightening around him.

“Love,” Seonghwa muttered, cocking his head and letting his hands trace the curves of your body until they met the little gap between your blouse and your skirt, cold fingertips finding purchase on your bare skin and making you stifle a gasp. “If you keep making such pretty sounds, I’ll only have to do better and see what other sounds you’re capable of making.”

You let out an elongated sigh, indicating that you did not really oppose that proposition. Seonghwa gave your waist a squeeze before tilting your neck with his other hand, leaving soft kisses and bites on your sensitive skin, letting your tiny whimpers fuel him until he could no longer take it, capturing your mouth in another kiss and doing wonders with his tongue. You let yourself get consumed by the feelings in that moment, hearing nothing but the sound of your lips and tongues clashing against each other, though you did think for a moment that perhaps, you heard the sound of dull footsteps. But who would dare interrupt you–

You pushed Seonghwa back gently, catching your breath and looking towards the door– shut. You were about to go back to kissing Seonghwa when you spotted a figure from the corner of your eye.

“Oh, carry on, by all means,” Hongjoong said, thoroughly amused. He was sitting cockily on the couch, having been enjoying the show for a few moments now. “Don’t stop on my account.”

You felt heat creep up your face and you looked away, positive your face was red as beet now. How could you both miss the sound of Hongjoong coming inside? There was no way you both were that occupied with each other to miss the sound of the door–

The smirk Seonghwa sent in Hongjoong’s direction gave him away and your eyes widened. Seonghwa knew that Hongjoong had entered, yet he had made no move to stop himself. On purpose.

“Wasn’t planning to,” Seonghwa’s raspy voice responded. Hongjoong’s own smirk only deepened and Seonghwa chuckled, finding your shock funny. 

“Relax,” Seonghwa whispered, pecking your cheek and then trailing his lips to the corner of your mouth. While your hands clutching his collar were an indication of your confusion, because were you really going to give the Captain a little show?, Seonghwa pulled your body flush to his and pressed his lips to yours in a deep kiss.

You didn’t initially respond, far too aware of the Captain’s gaze stuck on the two of you. He was in your vision, and you could see him. But the way he licked his lips, anticipating your move, had your head spinning as if you were high on some drug and you made a split-second decision, opening your mouth for the underboss and kissing him back even more enthusiastically, just for a few seconds, before pulling apart and resting your hands on his chest to tell him that this was enough.

All the while, your eyes never leaving Hongjoong’s. He didn’t seem fazed, only mildly amused. You looked at Seonghwa who seemed more surprised that you responded but his surprise quickly shifted into laughter, shaking his head in resignation.

“I’ve found out something new about you tonight, Luna,” Seonghwa whispered in your ear. “And I plan to make use of that very soon.”

Vaguely, you remembered Yunho once mentioning something about how Seonghwa enjoyed watching. You had been too oblivious to understand back then but now… it was clear that the underboss had a very specific kink.

“Shut up,” you muttered, smacking his arm before straightening your clothes and going to sit in front of the boss. “Captain. How do you do?”

“Oh, I’m fine now,” he scoffed, looking at Seonghwa. “Get back here, you lovesick bastard.”

You stifled a smile and Seonghwa plopped down on the couch in front of you, laughing shamelessly. Something told you that it was not Hongjoong’s first time being an observer, and the thought alone sent warmth and tickles in your body but you did your best to push those thoughts away.

For now.

“I’ve met with and sent some spies in Tiffany’s direction– wherever that is,” Hongjoong decided to take upon himself to break the awkwardness. “She’s pretty much disappeared. I don’t think she’s in Wonderland.”

“I personally think she’s in Halaland,” Seonghwa added. “Let’s not forget that she’s half-Hala and it is the perfect spot to hide given her circumstances.”

“Maybe not the best,” Hongjoong countered, “If she’s involved with the Strictland business. Though in retrospect… there are probably some people from Halaland who are part of the group vouching for Strictland nuclear ops to be a success.”

“I think someone of Tiffany’s standing won’t step out of the shadows until she wants to be found. All we need to do is wait,” you suggested.

“I don’t get why we’re waiting,” Hongjoong grunted. “She’s tempting me to go back to my old ways and pull out my sniper rifle from the basement of my house.”

“That’s mine,” Seonghwa huffed. “You ditched yours on the battleground.”

“What’s yours is mine,” Hongjoong shrugged. “What’s it doing in my house if it’s yours?”

“Uh, I get that you’re gangsters but let’s be civil for now– Tiffany hasn’t really attacked us yet. We received her advance payments. Silver light is in production. I’d rather wait for her to provoke us before making a move.”

“Fine,” Hongjoong nodded in thought. “While we wait, we’ve got a meeting with one of the leaders of the Sirens on Sunday. The meeting point will remain undisclosed. They’ll send a driver who’ll take us to the location. Luna, you’re coming with me.”

You nodded. “Who else?”

“We’ll take one bodyguard. Let’s take Winter this time,” Hongjoong said. “Taeyong will be tailing us just in case.”

“Got it,” you said. “Should we be candid with the Sirens about what we have on Strictland?”

“President Son says we can. They can be trusted and they already know a great deal,” Hongjoong scratched his chin. “Maybe they will provide us with the missing pieces of this puzzle.”

“I sure hope so,” you slumped back. “Because it feels like we’re going in circles. We can’t move forward until we know who can be trusted.”

“The answer is no one. Not a single person can be trusted,” Seonghwa sounded sombre. “We have to watch our backs. An ally means that we have the same goal. It does not mean that there is trust.”

And with that in mind, you prepared yourself for the meeting with the Sirens. While you got ready, Winter briefed you about the Sirens and their history, a very insightful account of her experience with the rebel group that was formed right after President Han’s assassination in 1966. 

According to her, it was never a one-man party. It always had a considerable number of members despite the police’s great efforts to quell their spirits. What was odd about the group was that they didn’t have a specific ‘leader’. There were a few people who claimed to be leading the group, one of whom was probably going to be meeting with you. 

Winter also added that there was suspicion that some of the leading members of this group had been President Han’s supporters or her private spies when she was alive. President Lee was not at all acquainted with any of the Sirens so President Han must have never shared anything about these people with her husband– or if she did, or in the case that President Lee found out later, he was doing his damned best to root out all members on the grounds that they never became an official group and remained a privately operating organisation. 

The ride to the location of the meeting was mostly silent, with Winter in the front seat next to the driver who you reckoned was a Siren himself. It took about 20 minutes to reach what was a plain looking house in a well-populated residential area. Clever, you thought, to have a meeting here to draw minimal attention. No one paid heed to the car so you figured that it was the driver’s own house.

You were right. As soon as you stepped inside, you were hit by the smell of herbs and butter. The driver led you to the backyard and you spotted a middle-aged woman, presumably the driver’s wife, standing in an apron and buttering trays to be fed to the oven with a small girl clutching at her knees. You didn’t dare to pass a smile to the two, finding the air in the house oddly unsettling.

Stepping out in the open air of the backyard, you were met with the sturdy back of a man with hair that needed a cut badly, smoke blowing from the tip of his cigarette. Upon hearing the sound of your steps, he turned and gave the three of you a long look, waiting until Winter stationed herself at the corner before finally breaking into a handsome smile.

“It’s a pleasure to finally meet the man who has done a great deal for Eden,” His rich voice sounded. He dropped the cigarette and crushed it under his boot on the grass. Hongjoong walked towards him and they shook hands.

“Good things, I hope?” Hongjoong asked.

“A little bit of both,” The man shrugged in good nature, turning to you. “And a woman of many names. How shall I address you, then?”

You bowed your head in greeting, glancing at Hongjoong. He definitely knew about your connection with Secretary Park then, but that was no surprise considering that the Sirens now answered to President Son. “Luna would be fine.”

“Lovely name for a pretty lady like yourself,” he pressed his palm over his chest. “I’m Ji Changwook. I don’t think we’ve ever had the chance to meet. Please, have a seat.”

The three of you settled down on the lawn chairs and the man of the house served you with wine and fresh garlic loaf from the oven. The three of you made small talk about the weather and politics for a few minutes. You watched the driver offer Winter some bread but she refused, trained not to consume anything especially when active. The driver only proceeded to stand alongside her, chatting in a low voice.

“I heard about your weapons channel facing some difficulties,” Mr. Ji said, lighting another cigarette and giving you both a look. “When do you plan to resume your activities?”

Hongjoong cracked his knuckles in thought. “As soon as we know what our enemies really want. It’s unfortunate that the weapons dealings had to be put on hold when clearly, it was only meant to aggravate us.”

“And?” Mr. Ji blew the smoke sideways. “Were they successful?”

“Not quite,” Hongjoong smirked but added. “It only means that we’re on the right path. They wouldn’t be wasting time attacking us if we were barking up the wrong tree.”

“And they will continue with their little attacks, though I must warn that you should be prepared,” the Siren leaned forward. “These people stop at nothing.”

“And who are these people?” You asked.

“Why, the elites, of course,” Mr. Ji cocked his head. “Who specifically, we are not sure. Secretary Park and President Lee, definitely. Major Sung of Strictland. They’re planning a hoax as we speak. Our president aims to create an opportunity to send his troops to Strictland and annex it.”

“Is that really true?” You asked. “That would be violating a lot of international laws.”

“Which is why he’s planting baits for Halaland. Just watch, and be prepared,” Mr. Ji warned. “President Lee has the military under his control, be fooled no more. He is planning to join hands with Assemblyman General Wi, probably promising him a presidential seat.”

“Is that why you called us?” Hongjoong asked. “You cannot convince General Wi, but we might.”

“Bingo,” Mr. Ji said, accentuating the syllables, his eyes twinkling. “The elections are not too far away. With the Strictland business, time will travel far too speedily and before you know it, you’ll be casting your votes. We are a rebel party– no politician would want to be acquainted with us, for the right reasons. However… you can shift the political tide to your favour.”

Hongjoong hummed in thought, probably planning in his head already.

“Ever thought of getting into politics?”

“I’ll be damned,” Hongjoong raised his hands in surrender. “What can the Sirens do for us?”

“We can help you resume your weapons channel, for now,” Mr. Ji offered and Hongjoong looked interested. “Under wraps, of course. Provide you with a little stability while you mess with the elites. If you need manpower, let us know. We answer to President Son and will be happy to help you.”

“Noted,” Hongjoong shook hands with the man. He settled back and took a deep breath before asking, “Can I ask how you know so much about President Lee’s movements?”

Mr. Ji smiled. “Just like your spies,” he said, pointing at Winter who simply grunted in mild annoyance, “We’re everywhere too. We were originally a group of few private investigators for President Han, but…” Mr. Ji met your eyes and held the contact. “We had to pause after her death for safety reasons. Anyways, our people are in the Eden Hall. President Lee is very queasy because of us and is making rash moves, so we are a little responsible for the recent messes, my bad.”

“No worries–”

“Safety reasons?” You asked, your question overlapping with Hongjoong’s. Hongjoong motioned for you to continue. “Were you being threatened for investigating whatever President Han put you up to?”

“Not quite,” Mr. Ji said, unconsciously looking towards Hongjoong and you didn’t miss the look they shared. 

“We’re on the same page,” Hongjoong interrupted your train of thought. “We will contact you soon with an update on General Wi.”

Mr. Ji nodded and Hongjoong got up, indicating that the meeting was over. You followed Winter and Hongjoong asked you to wait in the car, sharing a word with Mr. Ji. 

You did not know why but you could not swallow the bitter taste at the back of your throat. There was something that Mr. Ji knew about you, something that perhaps Hongjoong was aware about as well. 

Some things were definitely being kept from you. Was it because they did not trust you? Or was it some stupid excuse like your own good? You did not know, and you were not sure if you wanted to know. Hongjoong was always stressing about how you were a Leader now so you decided to let the matter go for now and give him some leverage. If something was being kept from you, they must have a reason.

However, Hongjoong was also a very observant man and he did not miss how you were lost in your own head. Now that you were in your own car with Taeyong and Winter in the front, he felt comfortable enough to brush his fingers against yours, making you look his way.

“Everything good?” He asked.

You nodded. “Just thinking.”

Hongjoong nodded slowly, understanding. 

“Don’t think too much.”

Not an order, but a request. You met Hongjoong’s eyes, his gaze focused on the contact between your hands. When he pressed his hand against the back of yours, you gave in and intertwined your fingers.

And that was enough.

“We’ve been summoned, we hear.”

“By a certain Miss… Madness?”

“Lunatic,” Jaemin corrected and you shot glares at the pair.

“That’s Miss Luna for you both,” you added, beckoning the boys to come closer. “You must be Renjun.”

The new informant boy seemed to be Jaemin’s age, the same mischievous glint in his eyes that curved as he smiled, long strands of hair framing his face. His getup was simpler than Jaemin– no cap but a woolen scarf wrapped around his neck over a plain set of clothes. 

“We bring news from the warehouse,” Renjun bowed and Jaemin followed suit and you chuckled at their theatrics. “It’s weird to deliver news to a new face, though.”

“Get used to it,” Jaemin told him. “The Captain likes her. She’s his first mate.”

“Ah, is that so?” Renjun asked innocently and you pressed your forehead against your palm.

Such innocent kids.

“Are you going to keep me waiting?” You asked and Renjun scoffed, muttering something about how he could see why the Captain took a liking to you.

“‘Production phase is almost over. Transportation is beginning soon. Please confirm– we’re occupied by security concerns’. Says Choi San.”

“Ah, I’ll relay the message to the boss and you can come back for an answer in the evening– or whenever you spot your Captain. Okay?” 

The kids nodded, waiting for any other instructions. You only dug out a handful of chocolates that you had received from Lady Kim from your visit to the Son Residence in Sector 2. The boys happily took the treat.

“Is this a bribe?” Jaemin narrowed his eyes.

“Give it back,” you ordered and the two broke into giggles, running away before you could take action, leaving you smiling for a while even as you went back to filing boring reports. 

It was just past 7 in the evening, which meant Seonghwa would be coming back any time now. Hongjoong had already left with Taeyong to have another meeting with the Crescent employees who were aware of the illegal side of the business. It seemed like Hongjoong was taking out his frustration on finding the mole– he was resolute, and he insisted that he had to be the one to get to the bottom of it, only allowing Seonghwa to tag along sometimes.

It was Yunho who was in charge of testing the Crescents’ loyalties and reminding them who the boss was around here. Since he was still in Edenary, due to come back in two days, Hongjoong was keeping himself busy in any way that he could, insisting that sitting idle and waiting for things to fall back to place was not his style. You wished Yunho was here– the boss was certainly a lot calmer when his reliable consigliere was around. Plus, Yunho’s presence alone relaxed not only Hongjoong but Seonghwa and you as well. 

You missed him. Even though you were always occupied by someone or something, you missed Yunho. It was interesting how big of a headspace he occupied, but it was also strange how you had made a space for everyone in your heart in a matter of a few months. 

You missed Yunho when you were stressed and needed to feel grounded. You missed San when you felt alone and wanted company– a friend. You missed Yeosang when you doubted yourself and wondered if you were at the right place. You missed Hongjoong– a lot, especially when you were at the warehouse– because he saw something in you that no one else did, and always reminded you of who you were. A Crescent. A Leader. An equal.

The door of Yunho’s office room opened with a knock and Seonghwa peeked inside before entering. He shut the door behind him, not taking off his coat but standing and watching you.

“What’s up?”

You missed Seonghwa whenever you felt lost. He always guided you back to the light. And right now, you felt lost. You couldn’t get the ugly feeling of something happening behind your back out of your head. You knew that Hongjoong would never betray you like that, but it had happened twice now– a private word with President Son and Lady Kim, and a private word with Mr. Ji. 

You were also conscious of the fact that if Hongjoong was up to something, Seonghwa might be the only person who would know. 

“Just a bit tired,” you admitted. All your energy was being used up by your gut warning you that something was amiss. If not with Hongjoong, then with someone else.

“Something is up,” Seonghwa cocked his head as he watched you and you gave him a tight-lipped smile. “Come here.”

Before you could process his request, you had already moved into his arms. You rested your head against his chest, hearing his firm heartbeat. Seonghwa wrapped his arms around your shoulders, planting a soft kiss on the top of your head and waiting for you to speak.

“I’m just being silly,” you began, and he stifled a chuckle, earning a smack. “But I think Hongjoong is hiding something from me. And if he is, you are too.”

Seonghwa’s expressions didn’t change in the slightest, his lips remaining in a small smile as he met your eyes, as if daring you to challenge him. “Whatever gave you the idea?”

“Hmm, you’re not denying it,” you pointed out. “Just a feeling.”

Seonghwa tucked your hair behind your ears. “Have you heard of the phrase, ignorance is bliss?”

“Seonghwa,” you warned, feeling your stomach churn in disappointment but he shook his head. 

“I bet you have,” Seonghwa continued. “Do you know why it is so true? Because what you don’t know can’t hurt you.”

“So it is something that could hurt me?” You raised a brow, your hands curling into fists subconsciously and Seonghwa wrapped his own hands around yours.

“No. We’re just looking into something, and if we end up finding anything of importance, you will be the first to know, I promise. But until we’re in the void, we’d rather stress about it ourselves, yeah?” Seonghwa planted a kiss on your forehead. “You’ve already got a lot on your plate.”

“I can handle more,” you pleaded but when he gave you a look, you muttered, “I know.”

“I know you can handle more, but we may be looking in a very wrong direction and we don’t want to get anyone’s hopes up or contribute to the confusion. There’s already too much going on.”

“I understand,” you nodded.

Seonghwa hummed. “How can I make you feel better, love?”

“Hmm… have you had dinner yet?”

Seonghwa smiled deeply, glad about the opportunity. “I know just the right place.”

Which was how you ended up in his house– awfully organised and neat, but still very homey, just as you had left it when San brought you home. You told him that you were getting deja vu since a certain lieutenant had also taken you home like this, though it wasn’t a dinner date. Seonghwa told you that he had heard all about it which made you blush deeply. 

Seonghwa had a lavish dinner in mind, so you washed up in the meantime and joined him in the kitchen, sitting on an empty spot on the counter and admiring his back as he cooked on the stove.

Seonghwa laughed deeply when he turned around, his gaze raking down your figure and taking account of your state– you had changed into one of his dress shirts, a white piece that barely covered your thighs. He met your eyes and raised a brow. 

“I’m not an easily riled up man, I must tell,” Seonghwa said casually, adding spices into the soup and tasting it, nodding to himself and turning the stove off. You didn’t miss the way the muscles in his jaw moved.

“But you’re all tense now,” you teased, hopping down and setting the table with him. He already had a bunch of ingredients and side dishes prepared so all he had to do was whip a quick dinner. You took a seat across from him, your bare legs no longer a distraction.

But his bare forearms were.

“Eat up, love,” Seonghwa set a piece of meat on your rice bowl and you passed him a look, taking a bite and praising his cooking skills. As you ate, Seonghwa told you about how he was basically the housekeeper here. The Crescents– Ateez– preferred eating at home instead of outside to avoid eyes. The Bar was their more frequented place since they had privacy there.

After the war, the eight of them lived together for quite a while in a small apartment, sharing rooms and focusing on growing their business. They only got separate places some couple of years ago, but they still could not let each other go. This house, he revealed, was everyone’s hangout place since Seonghwa maintained it so well. Took advantage of him, he complained, but the twinkle in his eyes said otherwise. 

“So no one minds, and anyone can come and go as they wish?” You asked, and he nodded. “It must be lively here then.”

“It’s lively even when only San is here,” Seonghwa chuckled. “He never sleeps alone.”

“Yeah, I’ve seen the state of his room. He probably stays up all night with his pillows if he’s alone,” you said and Seonghwa laughed loudly.

“No, it’s not that he can’t sleep alone. It’s that he refuses to.”

“Ah,” you nodded in understanding, grinning. “Must be nice to have someone to go home to. I understand why San is like that. I quite like my peace and space, but it’s nice to not be alone.”

Seonghwa smiled at your words. “Yeah, you have a roommate, eh? You get along with her?”

“Yep. Wendy. Even though we barely have time now, it’s still nice to have some life in the house. She’s like you– cooks for us despite being busier than me, lets me crash in her bed even though I can sleep alone. She’s a wonderful friend.”

“You sound like someone who hates being alone,” Seonghwa pointed out.

“I don’t hate being alone,” you shrugged. “I just didn’t realise I was lonely until I met Wendy. I thought I would prefer my peace and quiet, but it turns out I just needed the right people in my life.”

“Ah, one of life’s greatest lessons,” Seonghwa grinned, the two of you chatting some more as you finished your food. You thanked him for cooking a lovely meal for you and offered to clear the kitchen while he washed up. Since he seemed to have no intentions to let you go, he accepted that and you started your job, making sure to place everything as it was before.

You were reading the notes taped to the refrigerator– grocery, reminders, silly scribbles, when Seonghwa snaked up behind you, wrapping his arms around your shoulders and nudging your cheek with the tip of his nose. “What are you smiling at?”

“Whose idea was this?” You pointed at a silly doodle that seemed to be an attempt to capture Mingi’s facial features.

“Probably San’s,” Seonghwa chuckled. “I no longer remember because everyone uses it now.”

“Bet Mingi loves that,” you scoffed, your attention shifting to Seonghwa when he nudged your cheek again. 

You shifted in his arms, pushing him back gently until he leaned against the counter to match your height. You caressed his cheek lovingly, meeting his strong gaze and tracing the pad of your thumb over his bottom lip. 

When Seonghwa tugged you closer, you joined your foreheads and brushed your nose against his, gauging his reaction. You were aware of every little movement that he made and just when it looked like he was about to kiss you, you drew back.

“I’m still mad about the other night, by the way,” you said and Seonghwa shut his eyes, stifling a laugh. “I haven’t even kissed Hongjoong on the cheek yet, Seonghwa. How could you make him watch us… making out?”

“That’s on you,” Seonghwa challenged. “Don’t pretend you did not like it when he watched.”

You pursed your lips, caressing his neck absently. “Does Hongjoong… like me?”

“Why don’t you ask him yourself?” Seonghwa suggested. “Because you seem to hold him in high reverence… is that why you’re so afraid to make a move with him?”

“I don’t know,” you shrugged. “I just… I guess I’m waiting for the right timing.”

“And what about us?” Seonghwa smiled. “Did we have good timing?”

“Very good,” you grinned. “You’re somehow always there to pick up the pieces when Hongjoong breaks my heart.”

“Wish Hongjoong could see how I do that,” Seonghwa said in a raspy voice, capturing your lips in a searing kiss just a beat later. 

Just like in Edenary when Hongjoong had made you cry, Seonghwa was healing you up with his passionate kiss. He wasn’t wrong– you were afraid of doing something wrong with Hongjoong. He seemed to respect you too, or maybe he was waiting for you. Whatever it was, you could make sense of it later, for now…

You were hyper aware of Seonghwa’s hands on the small of your waist as he deepened the kiss and fell into a familiar rhythm with you. His plump lips tasted sweet and you thought you could kiss him forever, or let him kiss you until you would lose all sense of self. The movements of his hands up and down from your waist to your hips sent a trail of electricity in its wake, reminding you about how much you desired Seonghwa. 

It had taken you far too long to come here, but now that you were in his arms, almost bare, you planned to let yourself go.

Seonghwa perhaps understood that, picking you up in his arms and making you wrap your legs around him, your laughter ringing in the empty house as he steered towards his room. You only had a second to look around before he dropped you on the bed, his demeanor shifting noticeably. 

“Do you know what I plan to do with you tonight, love?” He asked, holding your chin and running his thumb across your parted lips. He didn’t need to hear the answer, for it was evident in your eyes. “Are we good?”

“Yes,” you breathed. 

“I’m going to kiss every inch of your body,” Seonghwa promised in a deep voice, making you shiver as his words registered in your being. “And then I’m going to make you mine.”

You nodded and he leaned down to kiss your mouth sweetly, the wet tendrils of his hair tickling your face when he drew apart just a fraction, reading your face. 

“You’re going to tell me if at any point you are uncomfortable, or simply want to stop. Understood?”

Your heart did a big flip inside your chest– just what were you getting into? Where was the gentleman? There was not a hint of the gentleness in the way he was grabbing your chin now, his gaze darkening. 

“Are you ready?”

You nodded almost absently, and Seonghwa shook his head.

“Words.”

“I’m ready,” you breathed, pulling his arm to bring him closer. “Have your way with me, Mr. Park.”

Seonghwa smirked so dangerously and slowly that your toes curled. You understood then– he planned to make a mess of you first before he would break you with his gentleness.

And he started by unbuttoning your– his shirt but he did not take it off, letting it fall sideways to reveal your bare chest. His eyes left a burning trail on your bare skin and he crawled forwards, making space for himself between your legs. With a lick to his lips, he lowered his face and met your lips in a searing kiss, gripping your waist as he moved his mouth against you, leaving wet kisses on your mouth before trailing his lips down to your neck, licking and sucking relentlessly wherever he decided was the right spot.

Perhaps the way you squirmed and moaned under him was indication enough that he was on the right path, sucking at the right spots and touching you just the way you needed to be touched tonight. He didn’t hold back his own satisfied moans, digging his thigh purposely on your clothed core, smiling against your neck devilishly when you let out a groan. He drew apart to watch you, cupping your flushed face and teasing your lips with his over and over.

“Seonghwa,” you breathed and he planted a sweet kiss on your mouth. You started to grind against his thigh, lifting yourself up better with your elbows propped on the bed while his hands went to cup and fondle your breasts. You repeated his name over and over like a chant and he kissed you after every breath, almost losing himself there before he pushed you down, making you lay flat on the bed. He trailed his lips down your chest, leaving kisses everywhere, running his hands lovingly across your body until he reached your navel. 

He looked up at you and waited until you gave another confirmation before he started spreading fluttering kisses along your thighs, nudging your clothed clit with the tip of his nose and holding you steady when your back arched in response. He hummed against the fabric of your panties.

“You’re already a mess, darling,” he muttered, teasing you further by tracing his thumb over your core. “And I haven’t even begun.”

“You’re something,” you breathed, sharing a laugh with him. His mouth ghosted over your throbbing core and it took everything in you to not take control of the situation. It’s not like you could either– his gaze remained challenging as if daring you to try. 

When you looked at him pleadingly, he finally gave in and slowly but surely removed your black panties, getting back between your legs and giving you one look dripping with lust before latching his mouth to your clit, making your legs squeeze against his head as a loud moan escaped your mouth. While he sucked and kissed relentlessly, you clutched at his hair, only fuelling him.

“Seonghwa– too much,” you said, feeling wave after wave of arousal course through your body and leaving a tingling sensation in your extremities, making your fingers and toes curl as you lay helpless and completely submitted to the underboss.

“You can take it,” he simply said in a raspy voice, licking up your slick folds and humming in satisfaction. 

“I can,” you told yourself, barely able to hold yourself when your legs threatened to squeeze shut. Seonghwa kept one hand as a brace on your thigh while the other played with your clit in circular motions as he dived his tongue deeper inside. A string of curses left your mouth while he toyed with you, the lewd sound of his lips making out with your cunt mingling with the breathy sounds of your moan that only grew louder with each passing second as the knot in your stomach tightened.

“Seonghwa,” you breathed. “I– I won’t last–”

“That’s okay,” he looked up at you, the sight of your wetness spread over his mouth and jaw making all strength leave your body. “Let it go.”

With that, he went right back to continuing his ministrations, his hands tightening around your thighs and the tip of his nose providing just enough friction as he swirled his tongue. You could do nothing but moan out his name as your vision went white with pleasure, release coursing through you as if it had been whipped out of you. For a few ecstatic moments, you were gone before you came back to Seonghwa gently cleaning you up with his tongue. 

He smiled at you and wiped his mouth with his sleeve before crawling upwards on top of you, tucking your hair back and murmuring in low whispers about how good you did for him, peppering kisses all over your face. 

And then he whispered something in your ear that made you shiver involuntarily, followed by more praise as his kisses began to feel laced with innuendo, his hands rubbing soothing circles preparing you for what was next.

“You can take another, right? I know you can.”

He proved himself right again and again, testing your capabilities and switching from holding you gently and making love to you, to showing you what he himself was capable of. By the end of the night, you lay limp in his arms but no other place could have been better. 

You were home, and you were loved.

Sometimes, you wondered what the fates had in store for you. The world did not revolve around you, but it sure felt like you were no more than a mere puppet in this twisted game of lies, control and hatred. A pawn in the big game of chess. Maybe the fates would lead you to the altar to be the sacrificial lamb soon. You wouldn’t be surprised.

Whatever the case was, you weren’t alone. You were sure Wooyoung and Mingi felt the same way as one of their crew members arrived at the warehouse to deliver news that had you all holding your breaths.

“What do you mean the MX warehouse was bombed?” You looked towards Wooyoung and Mingi who were equally shocked, if not more. Wooyoung got up slowly, the colour draining from his face.

“Yeosang and San– are they safe?” 

You felt your heart sink at the vulnerability in his voice– never had you heard his voice break like this in all of the two years that you had known him. 

“They’re safe and assessing the damage– they were not at the warehouse when the blast occurred,” Soonyoung assured and Mingi groaned in relief, rubbing his face. You sighed, finding Wooyoung’s hand and squeezing it in assurance.

“Hyungwon and Jooheon got injured, but nothing too critical,” Soonyoung revealed and you breathed ‘oh my god’. “A few soldiers also got injured, but no casualties.”

“And the goods?” Mingi asked.

“Safely transported before the attack happened,” he confirmed and Mingi collapsed back onto his chair in relief.

“Are we sure this was a deliberate attack?” Mingi inquired.

“Pretty damn sure,” Soonyoung admitted, shifting uncomfortably. “Our hitmen are after them, on their trail as we speak.”

“Okay, well,” Wooyoung got up, determined, hands in his pockets. “This changes things. I’m going to have to take matters into my own bloody hands now.”

“Wooyoung,” Mingi warned but he only shook his head and proceeded to dial the phone to order Seokmin’s presence in the office. He all but slammed the receiver down, gulping down his anger. You could understand why he felt that way. It was very well warranted.

As soon as Seokmin arrived, Wooyoung asked him to round all the workers present at this warehouse for he was going to conduct an interrogation to check if there was a mole right under their nose. Seokmin seemed to understand. He did not try to defend himself or the others, simply did what he was asked to. 

Considering the gravity of the matter, this seemed to be the wiser take, the first step to ensure their safety as a whole. If MX warehouse could be bombed, no place else was safe and they would have to make sure that security around this Pledis warehouse remained tight.

Mingi went to squeeze Wooyoung’s shoulder, muttering something in his ear and kissing the corner of his mouth before leaving. You took a deep breath and shared a nod with the older capo who must have decided to lead the interrogation in Wooyoung’s stead. Wooyoung was rubbing his face while he tried to calm his nerves, pacing in the room. You let him be for a few moments before you walked towards him in the corner of the room and held his hands.

“Everyone is safe,” you reminded him. “No one got hurt.”

“But they could have gotten killed,” Wooyoung looked at you dead in the eyes.

“That’s true, but they didn’t,” you insisted. “So take your breather and then straighten your shoulders. We’ve got to keep our cool.”

“I know,” Wooyoung sighed deeply, looking away. You let go of his hands to tuck his long hair away from his eyes, cupping his face in the process.

“Tell me what you’re thinking.”

Vulnerable. His eyes gave away what he felt. He did not need to speak to tell you the rest, but he decided to try anyway. 

“Someone is deliberately targeting us,” Wooyoung almost whispered. “And I’m trying not to lose it right now. I could take out my weapons and round everyone up– anyone who was aware of what we were doing at the MX warehouse could be the mole, and that’s not a lot of people, Luna. We were betrayed by someone close, and I’m not sure I can forgive them when I find out their identity.”

You nodded in understanding. “Someone who was close to you… they must have been in quite the pinch to betray you and risk getting caught.”

“I don’t care,” Wooyoung announced, cupping your hands but keeping them where they were on his face, lowering them just a tad bit towards his neck. “We have a code. You break that, you lose your neck, friend or not.”

“But do you know what the mole has done in giving away the location of the warehouse?” You began and Wooyoung raised a brow in anticipation of your answer. “Exposed the pool of people who we need to look into. We can now use that pool to draw them out. We won’t need to find the mole– the mole will willingly walk into the trap now.”

“You’ve got an idea,” Wooyoung finally smiled. “I can see that in the twinkle in your eyes.”

“I’m tired of being the marionette, Wooyoung,” you admitted. “It’s about time we cut our strings and pull the player onto the stage.”

Wooyoung hummed in agreement, planting a soft kiss on your forehead as a thanks. “I’ll make sure Mingi isn’t terrorising our crew.”

You chuckled softly. “You do that. I’ll make some calls.”

You rang the main office and Eunha picked up, informing you that the ‘goods’ were safely transported to their new location. Seonghwa and Hongjoong seemed to be away, probably making their own rounds of interrogation. There were only a handful of trusted people who were aware about the new location of production of silver light, and that included the immediate bodyguards and hardly a handful of other people involved directly in its transport or safety. To think that the mole was so close…

It was time to make your move now.

However, any thoughts about scheming evaporated when Jaemin and Renjun came rushing through the warehouse in the dark hours of the night, right before you were about to leave with the boys to go home. The duo could barely catch their breaths and you watched them, baffled. 

“This is no time for kids to be out and delivering news, no matter how important it is,” you reprimanded, taking in their state. Sweat trickling down their foreheads, cheeks flushed from running, you assumed. “A call would have been fine.”

“No, it’s not the Captain who sent us,” Jaemin shook his head, going from leaning against Renjun to straightening a bit, flinching. “We got news, and it’s bad.”

“Well?” You frowned. “What is it?”

“President Lee has dispatched a troop of soldiers for Strictland,” Renjun breathed and you failed to contain a gasp. “It’s not on the news yet, they’re doing heavy censoring but it’s only a matter of time before the public learns–”

“Hold on,” you raised a hand, trying to make sense of that and failing. “How? Why?”

“Apparently, Halaland has ‘violated’ some terms of the Treaty of the Eight Hills,” Jaemin huffed. “I don’t know what that is about, but that’s what we’re hearing. Assemblyman General Wi seems to have joined hands with President Lee.”

“No,” you breathed. Your loud heartbeat sounded right between your ears. “What does that mean for us?”

The kids did not know the answer to that, but you knew. This was how it began in 1958, a simple accusation thrown in the air with no verifications and no credibility, triggering the events that lead to the long, bloody war. And with a troop of soldiers now on their way to Halaland? There was no way Halaland would just sit back and not retaliate. 

“Go home,” you instructed the kids. “Don’t stay out too late, and stay safe, you hear me?”

The kids nodded, sombre like nothing you had seen before from them. You passed a weak smile to Jaemin but he didn’t return the sentiment, pale. They only bowed and left, disappearing into the shadows.

You did not know how long you stood in the office room, thinking and thinking, when Wooyoung and Mingi arrived to let you know that the car was waiting.

“You look like you’ve seen a ghost,” Mingi commented, “What’s wrong?”

You met their eyes and they waited for an explanation. However, nothing made sense anymore.

All you could hear was the ringing in your ears and all you could see in front of your eyes were the young and tired, weary soldiers who wished to go home but made a house 6 feet under the ground.

You would not let it happen again. This time, you had power. This time, you would wield it and make sure to protect your people.

“I become the bearer of the bad news yet again. Call the boys, Wooyoung. We’ve got a war to stop.”

next chapter

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[valyriians]

-values of marriage.

cregan stark x fem!targ!reader.

requested: yes.

wc: 7287.

warnings: mention of childbirth, miscarriage, smut, MDNI, oral (f receiving), mention of death. brackets are high valyrian translation.

You let out a laugh while Vermithor roared a victorious screech that could be heard everywhere on the island and patted his back.

’’Tegon, Vermithor!’’ you told him. (land)

He landed at the base of the staircase that led up to the great castle, sliding down as he lowered his body so your fall to the ground wouldn't be harsh you trailed your hand over his neck while you told him to be calm as the dragon keepers walked over to you preparing him to break his fast.

’’What is on today’s menu Claedon?’’ you asked the dragon keeper who is in charge of the dragons.

’’A dozen cattle and three goats, Princess.’’ Claedon says.

’’Give him some more goats, he did so very well today and the rope on the left side is starting to become loose so you need to fix that and maybe have the saddle adjusted while you’re at it.’’ You say while walking to your brothers who are landing with their dragons.

’’Of course Princess, anything else?’’ Claedon asks.

’’No that will be all thank you Claedon.’’ You say as you dismiss him.

’’While my dragon may be smaller and swifter you still somehow manage to best us both.’’ Jace says while he slides down his saddle.

’’Maybe you should’ve paid better attention to the dragon keeper lesson in King’s Landing, you would then be the better rider.’’ You say, half jesting but you always paid attention to anything dragon related, whether it was history, anatomy or just basic stuff.

’’I’ve only been a dragon rider for five moons but I assure you I will one day beat you.’’ Luke says, Arrax was small and had only recently begun taking Luke to the skies.

The three of you share a laugh until you see your grandmother, Princess Rhaenys, you hit Jace beckoning him to stop laughing.

’’Your lady mother needs to see you!’’ She shouts.

You take Luke's hand and begin walking to her and bow to her asking what is the matter.

’’It is best if your mother tells you.’’ Rhaenys looks at you, taking your face into her hands.

Unlike your brothers, you were the result of a successful bedding with Princess Rhaenyra and Ser Laenor, you had the golden-silver hair of Old Valyria. Your grandmother loved all of her grandchildren, she saw her son in you the most. In your looks and your love for your dragon. It was known that Seasmoke was Ser Laenors pride and joy, just like Vermithor was yours.

A concerning look dwelled upon your face as you raced up the staircase to your mother's chambers where you heard screaming and grunting, you entered with your brothers in tow.

’’Mother?’’ Jace asks.

’’Your grandsire, King Viserys has passed.”

Your mother said, panting.

“Viserys?!” Luke cries out.

“The greens have repudiated the succession and claimed The Iron Throne. Aegon has been crowned king.” Your mother said, following cries and grunting.

Your grandfather is dead and your uncle has been crowned king, your mother's birthright and throne had been stolen from her, causing her to go into early labour Maester Gerardys believes.

You felt faint and everything blurred, you sat down and thought about how this had happened, just last night you were having dinner with your king, and everything felt like it was in place. You would’ve never thought that everything happened so quickly and soon.

“What is there to be done about it?” Jace asked in an angry tone, the fire inside him is ready to burst but for the sake of his mother he kept himself composed.

“Nothing yet.” your mother replies, crying and sweating.

“Where is Daemon?” You ask, wiping away your tears and standing up.

“I don’t know, gone to madness, gone to plot his war.” she cries out.

“Leave him with me.” you say to your mother while crouching to her.

“Whatever claim remains to me you are now its heir, the burden is a heavy one.” your mother says to you, clutching your arm.

“I won’t fail you, mother.” You say to her and then walk out of the room.

-

You walk into the main hall with red puffy cheeks and still in your riding clothes, Daemon is by the table pointing to the figurines on the table while the lords are writing things down and talking to each other.

“I will fly to the Riverlands myself and affirm Lord Tullys support.” Daemon says.

“You will do no such thing.” You say, making your presence in the hall known, Daemon looks at you.

“My mother has decreed no action be taken while she is abed.” You say firmly.

“It’s good you’re here young princess, you’re needed to patr-“

“Did you not hear what I said? As Princess of Dragonstone I command this.” You shout, making all the lords look at you, Daemon with rage in his eyes.

“Come with me.” Daemon says gritting through his teeth.

He takes you to the highest top on the Dragonmount. Where he stands before you and shouts at you.

“You dare to command me? I don’t take orders from you, I am your mothers right hand and while she is abed I have the control not you!” He shouts.

“That’s it, your control is only so limited, I will however be my mothers heir as long as I breathe air!” You scream at him, unleashing the anger and grief you feel.

“None of this would have happened if my mother married you!” you said, it was partly true.

“You have only brought pain and torment to her, she’s more than some brood mare who you can have children with and right now she is in anguish, screaming and begging for you! Her husband! The father of her children!” You shout at him, unleashing a scream from you and at the same time a dragons roar shakes the ground, Vermithor felt you, he mirrored your emotions.

You fell to your knees, crying clutching your arms to your chest. You hear footsteps and see Daemon kneeling before you.

“I'm taking control because I am her husband and the mother of my children, for all our safety.” he says, taking your shoulder.

“Now come, we are both needed by someone.” He grabs your hand the both of you walk to the castle.

-

“Wait here.” Daemon says before he walks into his shared chamber with Rhaenyra.

It was good to let your feelings out, the rage inside you had finally burst out and you were feeling confident.

You went to your brothers who were in the nursery with Aegon and Viserys, trying to keep your mind occupied while you comforted them.

You played with Aegon's curls and looked at the toy Viserys was playing with which was a toy soldier and wooden sword. It filled you with fear to think about your brothers having to fight, Aegon had his dragon of course while Viserys didn’t have one.

-

Syrax lit the funeral pyre for your sister whom your mother named Visenya, seeing your mother and Daemon standing on the over the pyre is heartbreaking, you hear armor clinking and see a white cloak walking towards your mother.

“I mean no harm brothers.” Ser Erryk calls out, reaching into his bag he pulls out your grandfathers crown.

“I swear to ward the Queen, with all my strength and give my blood for hers. I shall take no wife. Hold no lands. Father no children. I shall guard her secrets. Obey her commands. Ride at her side and defend her name and honour.” he calls out, holding the crown.

Daemon takes the crown from him and crowns your mother, then kneels before her, calling her his queen.

You kneel with your brothers, acknowledging your mother as the Queen.

-

You get dressed into a more comfortable outfit, with dragon scale detailing and red and blue lace design.

Walking into the room and taking your place beside your brother who looked anxious and troubled.

“What is it?” you ask.

“Everything is happening so fast, I wish for this to be over quickly.” Luke says.

You take his hand comforting him and give him a faint smile.

“Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen, first of her name, Queen of the Andals and the Rhoynar and the First Men, Lady of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of the Realm. Your Grace.” Daemon proclaims, looking at his wife proudly.

You would have never guessed that she had just said goodbye to her child, she looked ethereal and stood tall despite the circumstances.

“Where do we stand?” The queen asks and Daemon and the maester reply to her.

You had the majority of the houses on your side, there were some who needed to be reminded of who King Viserys named his heir.

“Your Grace, a ship has been sighted offshore flying the banner of a three headed green dragon.” a white cloak announced.

You looked at your mother who knew well who it was.

“I shall meet them.” The queen said, beckoning you closer to her.

“Take your brothers to your chamber, if anything should happen to me, it’s your duty to take care of them. Do you understand?” she says.

“Yes, my queen.” You bow and gather your brothers, Baela and Rhaena.

-

A load of things happened before everyone were once again gathered in the hall, your mother lost in her thoughts as you listened to the lords talking about how their troops are ready to fight and have been dispatched to their locations.

“Do your forces have enough food and supplies?” you ask Lord Celtigar.

“We have enough to last us for two moons but we shall be prepared for anything Princess.” he replies looking over his books.

“Vermithor and I will patrol the skies for food and drop some for your forces.” You say, Lord Celtigar bows to you and gives his thanks.

“The Lord of the Tides! Lord Corlys Velaryon and his wife, the Princess Rhaenys Targaryen!” Ser Erryk shouts, all eyes gloom at the limping man going down the stairs.

“My lords.” Corlys says,

“Lord Corlys, it brings much relief to see you hale and healthy again.” the queen says.

“I’m very sorry about your father, Your Grace.” he says, offering his sincere condolences.

Corlys looks at you, proud as ever, you looked so much like your father in certain lights.

-

“We must first secure the support of Winterfell, the Eyrie and Storm's End.” Lord Bartimos says.

“I will prepare the ravens Your Grace” the maester says.

“We should bear those messages, dragons can fly faster than ravens, and are more convincing.” Jacaerys says.

“Send us.” he asks, but more like demands.

“My brother is right, the last King in the North bent the knee to the Conqueror when he saw Balerion.” you say, remembering your history lesson.

Your mother was not very keen on the idea, sending her children away, but her daughter was correct. Dragons are faster and they have no time to loose.

“Very well, Prince Jaceaerys will fly to the Eyrie to see my mother’s cousin, the Lady Jeyne Arryn. Princess Y/n will fly north to Winterfell to treat with Lord Cregan Stark for the support of the North. Prince Lucerys will fly south to Storm's End and treat Lord Borros Baratheon.

We must remind these lords of the oaths they swore and the cost of breaking them.” your mother says, you are up to the task, Vermithor has seen the snow in the north so it will be easier for you to go north.

-

“If you take this errand, you go as messengers, not as warriors, you must take part in any fighting, swear it to me now under the eyes of the Seven.”

Luke was the first one to place his hand on the book, then you, then Jace.

“I swear it.” you say.

You bow to her, she takes your face into her hand and kisses your forehead, she knows you will be safe but goodbyes are always hard.

You walk to Vermithor who has been on the coast, he was sleeping but roused up when you walked closer. You placed your hand on his neck and urged him to lower his body so you could climb onto the saddle, you then strapped yourself in and took the reins and commanded him to fly, he stretched out his bronze wings and let out a roar then he took flight, climbing higher and higher into the cloud.

You looked at your grandmother Rhaenys and then your brother Luke who was on his way to Storm's End and waved them goodbye.

-

The flight was long and cold, stormy weather and winds made it difficult to hold on but it was easy for Vermithor, being used to harsh climate and familiar to the North, the old king Jaehaerys I visited the North once.

You spotted Winterfell, it was covered in snow and the walls were high and covered in the banners of House Stark. You circled over the castle thrice and then landed outside the castle, shaking the ground and the snow melted beneath Vermithors body, many servants and guards looked at the Bronze Fury in terror and awe.

You unclasped yourself from the saddle and dismounted, giving him a stroke on his neck and whispering to him to stay calm.

Four guardsmen approached you.

“Princess Y/n, we are here to escort you to the inner courtyard of Winterfell.” one guard said.

You nodded your head, then allowed Vermithor to linger around and then you approached the guards and began to make your way into Winterfell.

-

“Princess Y/n Velaryon, daughter of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen” a guard shouted in the courtyard as you looked around the courtyard, it was in some ways like Dragonstone, high black walls and everything was made from stone.

You turn your head to look at the man who stands tall among the crowd, a huge sword in his hand, his black hair is pulled back and is covered in light snow. His coat is big and covers his left arm.

“Winterfell is yours, princess.” he bows down to you, beckoning a young child beside him to walk to you with a bouquet of blue winter roses, native to the North.

“Welcome to Winterfell princess, I hope your journey fared well.” the young man said while handing you the bouquet, it was Lord Starks first born child, Rickon.

“Why thank you my lord.” you crouch down to him so you can talk with him better.

“These roses are very beautiful, how did you know blue is my favorite colour?” you joke with him and he laughs.

“Would you perhaps escort me to your father? For I desire to speak with him.” You ask him while inspecting the bouquet.

He nods his head and takes your hand and drags you to his father. Cregan was tall and had a handsome sharp face. He had the eyes you could fall into easily.

“Princess.” Cregan said to you, as he took your hand and kissed it softly and gently. You fully got lost in a trance and stood there for a moment.

“Lord Stark, I have brought you messages from my mother, the Queen.” you say, giving him the scroll.

“Let us go inside.” He said, taking your hand and leading you into the castle where a fire was lit.

You arrived into the hall and looked around, not many decorations were around but it was warm and welcoming.

“Would you like some refreshments Princess? some ale perhaps?”

“That would be wonderful, thank you.” you say, sitting down while straightening out your dress.

Cregan poured some ale into a jug and handed it to you, taking a sip of the drink made you cough and Cregan let out a laugh.

“Not the drink you’re used to eh?” he asked.

“Certainly not my lord.” you say with a sour look on your face.

There was a moment of silence, he looked at you as if he had seen the gods, he was taken away by you.

“Lord Stark, I am not sure if the news has reached so far but my grandfather, the king, has passed away.” you stand up and walk around the room.

“He was a good king with a gentle heart, my condolences princess.” he says while clasping his hands together.

“That he was, he always…. he always cared for me.” you say with a heavy heart and sniffled.

Cregan stands up and goes to comfort you.

“Princess-“ he begins.

“Your father Lord Rickon Stark swore an oath to King Viserys and my mother to acknowledge her as the princess of Dragonstone and the heir to the Iron Throne and I need to affirm your support. The Hightowers have placed Prince Aegon on the throne and crowned him in the Dragonpit. You have a choice to make my Lord, you can choose to honor your fathers oath and stand with the rightful ruler or you can learn the consequences of being an oathbreaker.” You proclaim to him, he steps back and his mind is clouded.

“You sound tired princess, have your rest change your attire because as the evening grows, the colder it will be.” he says as he walks away.

“I will send a lady to attend to you.” he added as a guard guided you to your chamber.

You walked into the chamber where a large tub and bed was waiting, you looked around, put your gloves down on the table where old maps and books layed around.

‘Was I too harsh?’ you asked yourself and placed your head in your hands and felt the urge to cry but straightened up when you heard a knock.

“Come in.” you said, straightening your dress.

A girl entered the room, she was about the same age as you, with brown hair and hazel eyes, her clothes were probably mended just a few moments ago.

“Princess, Lord Stark sent me.” she said.

“Yes, what is your name?” you asked.

“Mariah, princess.” she said.

“Right, I wish to bathe before I meet with Lord Stark again, I didn’t bring anything with me. I was wondering if there is something I might be able to wear.” you ask her.

“We have already prepared you a gown for tonight princess, it is quite splendid.” she says.

You start to undo your dress with the help of Mariah, she looks at your gown with awe in her eyes, she runs her fingers over the intricate design and lace and quickly shakes herself out of the trance and undid your hair.

You enter the tub and allow yourself to submerge into the water, Mariah gathers some oils and herbs to add into the water, along with soap.

“Your hair princess, may I?” Mariah asks and you nod your head, allowing her to rinse through it and wash it gently.

There was a long momentary silence when you finally spoke up.

“Tell me Mariah, how are the customs here in the North, I wish to be as respectful and modest as I can.” you ask her, she’s clearly stressed at the question but answers with grace.

“Well, it has been some time since your house has arrived here, last time it was King Jaehaerys and Queen Alysanne so you can imagine our surprise when the Bronze Fury graced the northern sky once again.” she said, she had clearly done her research.

“Well, I know that Queen Alysannes visit here brought great fortune, I certainly wish to do the same.” you tell her.

“You have already won the favor of Lord Cregans, ever since the late Lady Stark passed away Lord Stark has been very cautious about his son, protecting him from all harm and danger.” she says, clearly reminiscing about the old days.

“What was the late Lady Stark like?” you ask, in a low voice.

“She was very beautiful, the epitome of a lady.” Mariah answered.

You stayed in the tub for some time, not wanting to get out as riding for such a long time made your legs ache and the comfort from the hot water soothed the pain.

“Princess, I have gathered some gowns for you to pick from.” Mariah says while she helps you cover up.

Before you there were three beautiful gowns that were clearly fashioned for the North, you let your fingers glide over the dresses and then you picked a grey gown that showed your shoulders and covered your arms with another piece of fabric draped around your arms. Mariah brushed your hair and braided the top of it, allowing some hair to fall to your shoulders and back.

She lathered some oil on your collarbone and placed a dragon broach in the dress.

Mariah took one last look at you and bowed, leaving the room, letting you have some time alone before the feast began.

-

You walked into the great hall as a guard announced your presence, making everyone stand up and looking in your direction.

“Princess Y/n Velaryon, daughter of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen.” was announced loudly.

You walked through the hall with your head high and when you reached the table where Lord Cregan and his family were sitting you nodded to him, making sure to keep eye contact. You then took your place beside him on the table.

The commotion in the hall began after you had taken your seat and you looked over at the great number of people, taking a sip from your drink.

“I hope Mariah was satisfactory, princess.” Cregan asks you.

“She was, my lord. I thank you for the hospitality.” you answered.

“You must forgive her, she was only trained to serve ladies, not princesses.” he jests, trying to make something of the conversation.

The tension between the two of you didn’t go unnoticed, some man then marched over to the table and bowed.

“Princess Y/n, the tales are true then.” the old lord says.

“Which tales might that be my lord-?” you ask him, wondering about his name.

“Hornwood, princess. Lord Cregan told us of your beauty, said you were as beautiful as the dawn.” Lord Hornwood said, making you blush and smile at him.

“You are much too kind my lord.” you replied and looked at Cregan who was embarrassed as he hid his face in a horn of wine. Lord Hornwood walked away after bowing to you and his lord.

The feast continued with lots of drinking and singing when you finally managed to talk with Cregan about your reason here.

“As much as I appreciate your hospitality and welcome here, I will need an answer from you before I leave for Dragonstone again.’’ you told Cregan, who sighed and looked at your face with much admiration.

‘’Of course princess, I have gone over the demands and conditions in the letter from your mother with my council and we have decided that, while my duty as Warden of the North is the most important to me, fulfilling my father's oath is just as important to me.’’ Cregan answers.

He rises and grabs the attention of everyone in the hall, raising his cup.

‘’My lords and ladies, I bid you all a warm welcome to my home on this occasion, while the harshest of winter snow has not yet fallen from the sky, a harsher wound this realm has faced. The king is dead.’’ he says, with a crack in his voice and people begin talking, looking at you with apologizing eyes. You looked down at your hands and tears began to swell your eyes.

‘’While I never met King Viserys, my father told me he was a just man and always wanted peace and unity across the realm. He also told me about the time he travelled South and bent the knee to him on the Iron Throne alongside Princess Rhaenyra, swearing his sword and allegiance to them both and acknowledging his first-born child as his heir and successor.’’ He shouts across the hall, having everyone listening to him. It was quite a show.

‘’Princess Y/n arrived here with a message, signed by her mother, the Queen.’’ he says, he recognized your mother as the queen, you felt shivering in your spine and arms.

‘’She says that the Hightowers have usurped her throne and crowned her half-brother Aegon as king, she asks that I do not forget my father’s oath and pledge for her if war will ensue which she does not wish for’‘ Cregan continues

The North does not forget oaths easily, we stay true to our word.’’ Creagns says, earning an agreeable shout from everyone.

“The North will honor the sworn oath to Rhaenyra Targaryen, the Queen of the seven kingdoms and protector of the realm. We know that a Targaryen must sit the Iron Throne when the Long Night arrives, an alliance between the crown and the North is crucial.” He shouted, banging on the table to capture everyone’s attention. The way his hand fists met the wooden table and made everything shake was riveting.

“Each house will supply a hundred men that will march for Harrenhal and await my commands.” he made his decree.

You looked at him, with glossy eyes, you thought your mission had failed when he distanced himself from you, maybe stalling so the greens could come for you but how wrong you were.

“To Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen, first of her name!” He lifted his cup and shouted, being met with joyous screams and cheers from the hall.

The celebrations continued until you decided to retire and Cregan himself escorted you to your chambers

“The Queen is most thankful for your support, with the strength of the North by our side we shall see much success if war ensues.” you say while walking slowly.

“Of course princess, we will start making progress in the next few days.” he says to you, clearly anxious.

“I shall be returning back to Dragonstone on the morrow, my mother will be most pleased with the news.” you tell him as you stop in the hallway.

“What will you do next?” he asks, questioning you.

“I will do what my mother commands, whether it is fighting, being by her side or marrying someone.” you say, with disappointment in the last words.

You always knew you had to marry, not for love but for political alliances or stability, a marriage for love in your position is not something that would be possible. You would always put the responsibility of the crown first.

“Marriage? You have someone in mind, princess?” he asks.

“No, my Lord.” you say then begin to laugh.

“Well there was this one boy who worked in the kitchen in the Red Keep, he always sneaked some sweets to me when I was younger, I told myself I would marry him because he always listened to me and bring me sweets, I like to think of him as my first love but it was childish really.” you say, clinging to the sweet memory like a child with a blanket.

“I wish to share my life with someone who listens to me and honors the values I myself uphold, who wants the same things as I, someone that knows their histories and cultures.” you say to him, imagining a life with your future one and smiling.

“That sounds like a very fine match princess, I do hope you find him.” he says with a sincere smile.

You both smile at each other and chuckle.

You see a small shadow behind the corner of the hallway, and soon find out that it is Rickon as he runs up to his father.

“Rickon! What are you doing here little one, you’re supposed to be abed.” Cregan says to him as he picks him up and puts a kiss on his forehead.

“I had a nightmare, the Others were coming for me riding giant spiders and I was so scared.” Little Rickon said as he snuggled with his father, burying his face into the thick coat his father wore.

“Oh my son, the Others have been dead for thousands of years, no harm will come to you, I swear it.” Cregan says, sharing a sweet moment with his son. You smile at the sight.

You hear someone walk to you, it is a guard wearing the Stark sigil and he bows before you.

“My lord, you are needed in the great hall.” he says.

“I will be there soon, I must put my son to bed”. Cregan says.

“Forgive me my lord, it is quite urgent.” the guard says.

Cregan becomes annoyed, sighing to himself and then starts putting him down when you intervene.

“I can tuck him in, if the little Lord would have me.” you smile as you stroke his cheek.

“Is that okay Rickon?” Cregan asks his son and he responds with a nod.

You pick Rickon up and caress his curls and begin walking to his chambers, you set him down in bed and tuck him in so he is comfortable.

“There you go Rickon, are you comfortable?” you ask as he nods and begins playing with his toy. You begin to walk away when he starts asking for a story. You sit down beside his bed.

“I heard you were talking about the Others to your father, can you tell me about them?” you ask him.

“They are big scary creatures and they ride dead horses and big spiders, they are made of ice and are very strong.” he says, shaking with fear, no wonder he woke up and asked for comfort. You nod to him and then straighten your back to grab the dragon broach from your dress and show it to him.

“You know what this is?” you smile and show it to him.

“Yes, a dragon!” he says with a smile on his face.

“Yes! a dragon you are correct and can you tell me what dragons do my lord?” you ask while holding the broach.

“They fly high into the sky!” he raises his arms up.

“Yes and what else?” you say with a smirk.

“They can breathe fire!” he says at last.

“Yes they can, and what does fire do to ice?” you ask.

“I don’t know.” he says with a confused look.

“Fire melts ice.” you say with a serious tone while spinning the broach in your hand.

“My dragon can breath so much fire that if the Others were to ever come, they would melt in an instant and turn into a big puddle. His wingspan is so wide it can cover a small town. My dragon would do anything I tell him to, all I must do is tell him ‘dracarys’ and he will breathe fire.” you tell him, he looks at you with much admiration and smiles.

“So if the Others were ever to come, all you must do is call me and I will arrive with my dragon.” you say to him and lastly give him the broach.

“So you remember me.” you say, giving him a kiss on the forehead as he begins to yawn and rub his eyes.

“Goodnight, my lord.” you whisper.

You stand up and see Cregan in the doorway, smiling at him and begin walking out.

“He’s a sweet boy.” you say as you cross your arms.

“It’s been hard, his mother died giving birth to him. He has never been satisfied with any maid or woman that has tried to comfort him.” Cregan tells you while dropping his head.

“I have experience, my younger brothers Aegon and Viserys are quite a handful, they only want my mother or me to tuck them in.” you tell him, you miss your brothers dearly.

You walk to your chambers at a slow pace.

“He has your eyes, you know.” you tell him, offering some comfort.

You reach your chambers, the walk to it felt so short and you felt heavy at heart when you reached the door. Wanting the company of Cregan to last forever you reach for his hand.

“I thank you for tonight Cregan, it was most enjoyable my lord.” you say caressing his hand.

“I am most pleased princess, I shall see you on the morrow before you leave.” he tells you as he places a kiss on your hand.

Looking into his eyes you felt your heart skip a beat and felt your hair rising when he kissed your hand, making you twitch inside with excitement.

“See you then, my lord.” you tell him.

He bows and leaves you.

You walk into your chambers and begin to discard your clothes and dress into a warm nightgown suited for the north, Mariah helps you and then bids you a good night.

The kiss Cregan left on your hands made you sigh and smile, the day had been long and tiring but being with Cregan was worth it, how his hair moved in the wind, how delicate his rough hands were and the way his voice rasped when he talked in the great hall. You were ashamed to admit it but you felt excitement and pleasure. You wanted to spend the moment with Cregan and have his body close to yours and feel his hands in yours.

You got under the endless pelts in the bed hoping to that sleep would find you but as you twisted and turned in bed making it impossible for you to rest, staring at the ceiling as you took a deep breath you started rub your thighs together and felt a tingling sensation where your womanhood was placed. You had one time felt that sensation when you saw servants in the Red Keep, the man was buried under the skirts of the woman and she clutched his hair and her mouth made an O shape, it was like she was drowning but at last she let out a gasp and the man slowed down and started to kiss her, you ran away before they could see you.

She felt like she was drowning and wanted to come back up for air, desperately wanting for air but not knowing how to breathe. You felt ashamed, you were a princess and this was not appropriate behavior. You finally gave up and got up from the bed and reached for the door and walked to the room where a maestar was located, you knocked on the door and the maestar opened.

“I am sorry for the late hour maestar but i have trouble finding any sleep, I was wondering if I could request a drought to help me?” you ask the man, who looks young and hale.

“Yes princess, I shall have it sent to your room if it pleases you.” he answered.

“Thank you.” you tell him and walk the cold corridor that leads to your room, you grab the door handle when you gasp, feeling the excitement you felt before once again clutching to your skirt and feeling your legs tremble.

You walked in and took off a layer of your nightgown trying to escape the burning heat that filled you up, pacing the room trying to catch your breath when a knock on the door drove your eyes to the door and opened it.

“Princess.”

It was Cregan, the maestar told Cregan what you needed and he delivered it personally. He held the bottle by the throttle with his arms crossed, the way his veins were illuminated by the torch in the hallway.

He barged into the room and placed the bottle on the table. You inhale the scent as he walks by you and once again feel that sensation but manage to contain your breath.

“Lord Cregan, the hour is late.” you tell him, ashamed to be feeling like this.

“Please, enough with the formalities, I am Cregan to you.” he says as he walks slowly to you, discarding his cloak.

“Cregan..” you say but he grabs your face and kisses you, a hand slides around your waist and takes hold on the nape of your neck, pushing deeper and deeper into the kiss and then going down to kiss your neck as a moan escapes your lips. You are lost in your thoughts and as you grab his hair he pushes back.

“I’m sorry princess, that was improper of me.” he says as he avoids eye contact and begins to walk away.

“Cregan” you shout at him, as you grab your chest and then you walk to him.

“I want this.” you say shyly, “I want you… to be touched by you.” you manage to form those words into a sentence with a shaky voice.

“Whatever the princess commands.” he answers and grabs your face and plants a harsh kiss on your lips with no warning and he begins to move your hair from your face to see the whole of your face. Then he stops and looks into your eyes.

“I will not sully you princess, you have my word.” he says, while caressing your cheek.

He leads you to the bed and motions you to sit down, looking at you with hungry eyes like a wolf looking at its prey as he removes your dress, shyness crept over you but you kept eye contact.

He kneels down facing your body and lift his two rough hands to separate your legs, revealing your womanhood and then he rises up to your face and starts kissing you as he places his body between your legs, you lay your back down on the furs as he starts leaving kisses on your body, the shoulders, the arms, the belly. Your soul was on fire, the constant kissing and touching made you twitch inside and with every kiss the fire grew larger and stronger. He placed your legs over his shoulders and began to place kisses in between your thighs and then started to kiss the place where you felt the burning sensation, he started to pleasure you with his mouth and with each breath you started to see stars, the way his hands grabbed your hips and thighs was just a beginning, he continued to be glued to your womanhood and you grabbed his hair and gasp, you had never felt that before. they way he stayed in a comfortable pace but also made sure you always felt pleasure, your back arched when he had started a faster pace and you started to feel your legs tremble and as you moaned out your body felt electric, this release was the thing you needed, he still touched you as you were calming down from your high and looked at you with glimmer in his eyes as you gasped and panted.

When he was finished with you, he climbed on top of you and started to kiss you passionately, the wetness from your womanhood still on his lips while he cupped your behind.

The two of you laid there together for a long while, he continued to kiss your shoulders and grasp your behind as you started drawing shapes on his chest, he didn’t leave you, he stayed with you.

“Princess.” Cregan says.

“It is Y/n, my name is Y/n.” you correct him.

“Y/n, I hope this did not scare you.” he asks.

“I’ll admit I was scared but when you touched me, something in me fired up, something I've been wanting to experience for some time. I thank you, my lord.” you say.

“My name is Cregan, you will call me Cregan.” he then says as he grabs your waist and rolls you under him as you laugh. You start kissing each other again and when sleep finally reaches you he leaves, making sure not to make a sound.

-

You wake up to the sound of ravens crying out, you call for Mariah and she gets you ready, helping you with your hair and riding attire. You thank her for the help and give her a bag of coins for her service which she accepts gleefully and runs off.

As you make your way to the courtyard to formally leave Winterfell you notice everyone looking at you, with a confused expression and also sadness. Your heart begins to race when you start thinking about what happened last night, did someone see you? or hear you with Cregan? Did Cregan himself tell someone? Your reputation will be ruined if word reaches the Queen.

You get to the courtyard and see the great host that has come to say goodbye to you. Cregan stands in the middle with a letter in his hands and looks at you, his eyes are glistening and looking at you with sorrowful eyes.

“My lord, is everything well?” you ask him.

He takes your hand and walks away from the crowd leading you to a secluded place and gives you the letter he was holding. It had the sigil of House Targaryen, likely from Dragonstone. He hands you the letter and gives you some space. As you read the letter, sadness overcomes you but also rage and guilt. In the letter that was signed by your mother, was the news on the death of your brother Lucerys, he had been slaughtered by your uncle Aemond when they met each other at Storm's End.

Your sweet younger brother was dead, he died alone with only his dragon who did not survive. They clashed into the sea and the red cape he wore tangled into his dragon's wing. Your mother had found it while searching for your brother.

You stared at the paper while tears began to run down your cheeks and you quietly walked away and then you broke down and hit the cold ground beneath you, clutching the letter and screaming cries of anguish and in the moment a loud roar was heard that shook the earth, Cregan flinched but you sat still letting cries and scream escape your body.

You stayed there for a while until Cregan came to you, putting his hand on your shoulder.

“The Queen requested you to return to Dragonstone at once princess, she will be wanting you back no doubt.” he said.

“The first thing Luke said to me after I claimed Vermithor was that I was now the rider of the second largest dragon in the world, almost the same size, I do wonder what would have happened if I went to Storm's End in place of Luke, I could’ve matched with Vhagars size and ferociousness.” you tell him in between sobs as you sit motionless.

“You cannot blame yourself.” Cregan says.

“I know I should not but I cannot help myself.” you cry out.

A thunderous roar came from above as Vermithor landed before you, walking towards you and shaking his entire body.

“Gather your army and march to Harrenhal, when the time is right you and I will lay waste to the Greens army.” you tell him as you take his hand.

“Winter will be coming for them, I swear this.”He places his lips on your hand and bows and walks away, he senses Vermithor getting himself ready to take flight and he backs away, allowing himself to be alone with your dragon.

“Gūrogon issa lenton.” you tell Vermithor, as you mount him, the tears on your face freezing as you go higher and higher, sadness quickly becomes rage as you think about Luke. The Greens will never know peace again. (take me home)

-

this is only part one! i am thinking of turning it into a series but we will see. hope you guys enjoyed!

[angelfishe]

>> 𝐃𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐇 𝐖𝐈𝐋𝐋 𝐍𝐎𝐓 𝐃𝐎 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓

>> prince scaramouche x reader ( manhwa AU )

You were suddenly reincarnated or transmigrated to one of your novels as one of the villainess of the story, using your knowledge of the novel and world you will find a way to escape your original fate and live

( scaramouche pov )

Art by @XIAOJIAJU Twitter

Dividers by @cafekitsune

Side story my other < fic >read it first if you want more understanding

<< seems you guys enjoy the fic about prince scaramouche so I decided to create a side story from his point of view, I will make a part 2 if you guys want >>

Kunikuzushi's life has never been easy in the first place, he is the prince as well as the first born of the shogunate which means he's gonna be the future heir soon of the throne.

He has tutors and lessons 24/7 non stop, he wishes to have fun on the outside world but he's unable, this castle is his prison and he wishes to be more free than rather be locked up in his room. His mother doesn't even acknowledge him even tho she cares for him she doesn't know how to express it as well of her being busy with duties.

And as expected being royalty he has to choose a bride soon, the line of exquisite as well beautiful noble ladies are lining up waiting for him to choose but not one caught his attention all of them are snobbish as well to clingy.

His mother has enough and set up another meeting with another noble lady and then he has to choose one.

Originally he was opposed to this idea, but he's unable to go against his mother's wishes.

When he finally met you, he originally thought that you were weird, you were open minded as well not very obedient unlike his other suitors a personality unfit of a noble.

Due to this personality, you were not very liked by the other nobles as well others saying he shouldn't marry this barbaric woman with no respect but he pays no attention.

Sometimes you and him would sneak out of tenshukaku, to hang out and go to inazuma city, you seem to be very popular since the locals very much knew you and he of course has to wear a disguise to avoid getting caught

When the day is over you and him would go to a cliff and admire the sunset, but little did you know he was admiring you, your hair, your face, your eyes everything about you is radiant as if the gods hand crafted you by themselves he immediately knew who he wants to spend the rest of his life as well the one who will rule the nation right next to him.

Recently he noticed that every time you visit him, you will be covered in bruises and he is always the one that bandages you up and sometimes kisses the injury.

One time he once heard that you were confronted his mother and bolted towards the throne room afraid that you would be punished and was about to open the door he heard you talking to his mother saying how he always wanted to have a normal relationship with him a mother and son relationship. He stops and listens to you talking about how he's the sweetest person and begs his mother to spend time with him I guess it reaches his mother because she started to spend time with him.

Everything started to glow when you were around, everything in his life that was wrong was fixed by you, you are his sun that shines upon the world of his.

He made a promise towards you of becoming the best husband and that nothing will do you apart from him the original vows were till death do us part but for him he will find you and love you in every universe and will find you at any cost.

Recently there's been a rebellion between the watatsumi island and he's been busy training as well helping strategizing with his mother and generals. So which means he Less you but it's fine because after this war ends he can marry and see you everyday as his queen and wife. He could already picture it until it was suddenly shattered

Until "that" day happened his mother was supposed to deliver a speech with him and you present in the back suddenly a group of watatsumi soldiers appeared and tried to ambush them, one of the soldiers threw a spear towards you and everything was slowing down in his vision... He watched as the spear pierced towards your beautiful kimono and blood poured from the wound and you fell down on the floor.

He stood there stunt and was about to approach your body until multiple guards tried to drag him from you, all sanity burst thru the window he struggled and fought against the guards that were trying to bring him to safety tears shout out from his eyes, your corpse getting further from his vision and release an agonizing scream calling your name until he was drag back to the palace.

When he was inside the castle walls, he released a large wave of electricity killing the guards that were holding him from you. He felt empty, for the next 2 months he locked himself inside your room and held your kimono non stop until his mother intervened and wanted him to snap out of it.

He felt empty, you were his light and now you were there was not even a body he wasn't unable to say goodbye one last time, was it painful when the spear pierced you, was it quick so you don't experience the pain and this question circled around his head he swore he would revenge you and punish whoever opposed of him.

First he will punish your clan for laying their filthy hands on you, they were soon punished by hanging. And when one of the elders of your clan begged him to spare them "I'm pretty much sure young master you have a heart" he replied with "no, it was taken from the moment when she died" and the execution was soon continued.

No one dares to oppose him not even his mother could stop the hatred from his heart, he trained non-stop and at night he would go to your room and hold your kimono and talk towards it as if it was you.

He punished anyone who opposed him even if it was a small mistake no one can escape his raft, he ruled with an iron fist.

Until one day a diplomat from Snezhnaya one of the harbingers of the tsaritsa appears to discuss some matters he was known as the "doctor or Ill dottore" he was rumored to be a necromancer having the ability to raise the dead this catch his eyes and approach the doctor.

He ask whenever or not that can bring back the dead and the doctor replied with yes but it comes with price he need to have the body of the disease person in order to bring back the dead unfortunately your body was taken by the watatsumi.

Soon the doctor started to teach him the arts of necromancy as well as dark magic but it comes with a price but don't worry you are worth more than anything even if he falls in the eyes of darkness.

Don't worry he will have you back soon, you and him will get married and live happily ever after he promised

[myladysapphire]

Hello!!! So I was thinking if you could do this +18 dic for Jace

So like reader is from a kingdom or land outside from Westeros (royalty not Dothraki) and to make alliances it’s decided that readers sister is gonna be betrothed to someone in the Targaryen family BUT reader is against making alliances with Westeros because of their culture and how women are inferior and after the feast jace shows her why Westeros and her land should make alliances if yk what I mean👀

It would be awesome if you could make this!!

Thanks bye bye!!

oooh love this idea! Hope you enjoy it <3

why don’t i show you?

when you come to westeros to arrange your sisters marriage in an alliance with westeros you find there customs to be anything but acceptable and start to question the need for an alliance, it takes jace to show you why an alliance is needed.

word count: 2,134

CW: MDI 18+, smut, hate s*x, oral (m receiving), fingering, p in v, semi-public s*x, misogyny.

Jacaerys Veleryon x fem!reader

Masterlist

Once queen Rhaenyra Targaryen took the iron throne she looked to Essos for alliances, particularly the free city of Bravvos. Your family was one of the most powerful of the sea lords, with deep connections and influence in the iron bank, and with Westeros in deep need of money following the war, it made your older sister the perfect candidate for said alliance.

She content with the match, the idea of one day being queen seeming to be very appealing, even if it was of Westros.

You however were anything but happy about it. You knew all about Westros, especially there views on woman, the purity culture, the fact that a husband by law could strike his wife seven times, one for each of their gods.

You had argued against the match, seeing little benefits for your family or Bravvos in the union, but your parents were insistent on it, deeming there to be more rewards than I could understand.

They had sent you alongside your sister to Westros despite this.

And though the climate was so different from what you and your sister were used too, Westros was beautiful. The red keep, though nothing compared to the architecture of Bravvos, was a sight to behold.

If only you could say the same about the company with in it.

The prince Jacaerys had not once left you alone, seeing to prefer you over your sister. Not that you could see why, not once had you expressed joy over the union, and in fact had very publicly declared your distaste of it. But Jacaerys seemed persistent to irritate you with his constant presence.

He had practically ignored your sister, not that she cared much, in fact she spent most her time with the princess Heleana, finding more in common with her than the few conversations Jacaerys had spaired her. She also had taken a full backseat in the betrothal, not caring to attend the meetings to discuss said marriage and the alliance it would hold, leaving it all too you. Meaning more time spent with Jacaerys, in a room full of men, despite their being a queen.

You scoffed as one of the lords mentioned a marriage between you and another lord of Westros, your were sure he was talking about himself, as he started to ramble on about the rock he called a castle, not that you were really listening, to focused on how Jacaerys had yet to take his eyes off you.

“I do not think a marriage between both sisters is beneficial for Bravvos” you interrupted, “in fact this marriage alliance is hardly giving us anything beneficial in the first place” you sneered.

“How so, my lady?” Jacaerys asked, as an amused look filled his face. “Though you are giving us a loan, that I shall admit will benefit us greatly, we are giving your family a daughter who shall one day be queen, and her sons shall be kings.” You had noticed how he never once referred to your sister when he talked about said marriage alliance, always using a general term, being unspecific in who exactly he was talking about. “Not only that but we have offered our dragon riders to support Bravvos in any militarily matters until the foreseeable future”

You shook your head, “so a queen and dragons is what we get, whilst you get one of the largest loans we have offered, with minimal interest. We are saving you and your kingdom from bankruptcy, and yet my sister shall be queen of a kingdom that can’t even respect her!” She shook her head in anger, “the sea lords however seem insistent upon it, so I believe discussions on the matter are at an end, the marriage will take place in a week and I see no reason for me to continue to attend these meeting” you said as you stood to stand, Jacaerys joined you.

“I’ll walk with you”

“I can walk by myself” you whispered to yourself, and heard Jacaerys laugh as he walked with you.

“Why are you so against the marriage?” He asked, as he walked with you to your chambers.

“Because I do not desire for my sister to be thrusted into a country where the customs are so… so anti-woman” you spoke, trying to remain calm.

He hummed “my mother is queen and she is a woman, that does not seem anti-woman to me”

“Was there not a war against her being queen?”

He laughed “there was, but we won, and all is now well”

“Really?” It was your turn to laugh “then explain to me why the order of westros is so heavily favoured towards men?”

“It takes a while to change peoples thinking, my mother has been queen for only a few years, and whilst things are changing, I shall admit it Is happening slowly”

You scoffed, as you reached the threshold of your chambers, “I shall see you at dinner” you dismissed done with the conversation. It was the same one you always seemed to have.

That night at dinner, your sister once again did not sit with her betrothed, favouring sitting with Heleana once more, granting Jacaerys the opportunity to once again sit next to you. An event that seemed to happen every night.

You tried to ignore him, but he seemed insistent upon talking to you, “how is it you like your tea my lady?” Your not quite sure how you got onto the topic of tea, perhaps it was because he noticed tea was your go to drink.

“Oh um, well I mostly take it with honey, but depending on my mood I have been know to mix lavender or peppermint into it.” You said casually, “do you like tea?” You found yourself asking.

“I normally have it in the morning, but I tend not to add anything to it other than sugar” he said, happy to have an actual conversation with you, “what about wine?”

“Wine? I drink it on occasion, such as tonight.” You said as you as flagged down a servant to pour you some, you rarely drank, especially here, with there watered down wine.

“Interesting, I too rarely drink” he said, nodding his head “and what about-“

“If your going to ask me another question about what drink I like I will slam your head against the table” you snickered, as he laughed at your tone.

“I apologise” he continued to laugh “perhaps you could tell me about your interest’s mayhaps?”

You shook your head “and why should I do that?”

“Because I wish to know you, other than how you take your tea and that you are incredibly headstrong-”

You scoffed “headstrong? I simple wish for woman to at least be treated the same way men are, and yet the whole of westros is so against it that I am the one causing an issue!” You whispered angrily to him, trying not to start a scene.

“And you are wrong, woman may not be treated the same as in Bravvos but we are making attempts to change it, trust me I am as against it as you are!” He whispered back.

You scoffed “oh please.” You said as stood to stand, declaring you wished to retire early.

Your practically stormed out of the room, nearly running down the hallway. You stopped in an alcove to catch your breath, and recover and wonder why so little words had made you so angry.

Then you heard footsteps, his footsteps.

“My lady, I am sorry to offend you.” He started “I know there are a great many differences between our to lands and I am sorry, I am striving to do everything I can to change this, but our lands need this alliance”

“And why is that?”

“Because I-“ stopped himself before looking at you, and suddenly, he kissed you, it was soft and passionate, full of the emotions you had long craved to believe where hate, but as you kissed him back, though some hate was there, it clicked, you liked him, and were jealous of your sister. You pushed away from him, your hands on his shoulders, your back pushed against the wall, breath heavy.

“I need you” he finally finished, his head leaning against yours.

“Your betrothed to my sister” you argued.

“The alliance does not state her name, I could marry either of you” he said, his mouth coming down to yours again “and your sister seems more occupied with others than me, I doubt she’ll mind”

It was true, and so you kissed him back, not caring to think much about what he was implying.

His hands descended to your waist pulling you closer to him.

Your kisses grew more heated, your bodies slowly grinding against eachother the as you kissed. His mouth descended to your neck, leaving soft marks as he descended lower, before finally coming down to were your bodice starts, his hands had moved up your back, toying with the strings of your corset.

“Please.” You begged.

His hands started to undo the ties of your corset, your bodice slowly loosened, allowing him to pull it down and take your breast into his mouth.

He licked and sucked at your breasts as you let out low moans, careful as to not alert passers by of your presence.

His hand moved lower, coming up under your dress, caressing your wet cunt. You shuddered as his finger descended to your hole, your mouth moving to his once again as you urged him on.

Pumping his fingers in and out of you, you continued to kiss him to cover up your moans, as you felt your cunt start to tighten around his fingers, your peak edging closer and closer, but just as you where about to cum, he withdrew his fingers causing a moan of protest to leave you.

He laughed, “if I am going to truly show you why we need this alliance, then the only way your going to be cumming, is around my cock.”

You moaned as he said that, kissing him once again as your hands went to untie his breeches.

Freeing his cock, you slowly started to stop kissing him, before sending him a smirk and going down on to your knees, and taking him into your mouth.

He moaned as you did, his hands coming to hold your head, as you started to pump in his cock in and out of your mouth, his hips shattering as you tongue wrapped around his tip.

“Gods!” He moaned, a little too loudly, as he started to thrust his cock in and out of your mouth, before swiftly withdrawing himself from, you stood up, laughing softly at the flushed look on his face.

He kissed your mouth softly, before picking you up, your legs wrapping around his waist, your dress bunching around your own, and his cock swiftly entered you.

You both moaned, as your walls wrapped around his length tightly. He moved after a moment, starting to pump his hips slowly into you.

“Faster.” You demanded, and he happily complied.

Pounding into you, you both moaning as his pace picked up.

He kissed your neck softly, hiding his moans in your shoulder, as you bit your hand trying to cover up your own.

You peak getting closer and closer.

You could feel his coming too, your cunt wrapping around his throbbing cock, as you both let out a moan.

“Where?” He asked, his peak getting closer and closer.

“Inside” you groaned, egar to cum.

As he continued to pump into you, he felt your walls tighten even more, and a high pitched moan leave your mouth as you finally came, and he was quick to follow.

“Jacaerys” you said, as he pulled out of you, his head resting on your shoulder.

“Jace. Please call me Jace”

“Jace” you corrected “what-“ you were cut off at the sight of Queen Rhaenyra and her husband Daemon, appearing in the entryway of the alcove.

Daemon laughed as he saw the two of you, what you had done seemingly obvious.

Rhaenyra shook her head, going to speak, before being cut off by your sister appearing.

She laughed herself, mainly at the shocked look on both your and Jace’s face. “Well, good thing I didn’t want to marry him anyway” she said, unconcerned with what she walked in on.

A week later you married Jace instead of your sister. And Rhaenyra had made you her key advisor on the matters you so strongly spoke about, as was agreed upon in the new terms of your alliance.

And though you hated most customs in westros you found instead of hating the company as you once did, you now rather enjoyed it, even falling in love with one of them in particular.

Taglist

@aleemendoza2425-blog @apollonshootafar @zillahvathek @flrboyd @theanxietyqueen17 @leavesmealobe @dark-night-sky-99 @winter-soldier-101 @bunbunblogsblog @ka1afbr @tesha-i-guess @aemondwhoresworld

to be added to taglist

[hedwig221b]

I absolutely love all the fic recommendations you give and I think you are an absolute angel for doing them. And I feel really bad for asking for some but I’ve been searching and I’m coming up short on them so I wanted to ask if you (or your follows because the suggestions they leave on other asks always so good!) know of any good Viking or medieval type of Sterek stories. Please and thank you so much!

💐💐💐💐

Hello, my love, here you are, hope you like these

Medieval

Under the Wide Blue Sky by zeit

Crown Prince Stiles returns home after many long months away commanding his father's armies. He doesn't feel he understands the true motives of his enemies, but having ended the battle for now, he turns his attention instead, albeit begrudgingly, to finding someone who might sit at his side someday when he assumes the throne. His childhood affection for Sir Derek blooms anew when the man accompanies his younger sister, Lady Cora, to the capital to be presented as a formal suitor for Stiles's hand in marriage.

Weaving Peace, Stitch My Heart by Susihukka, wanderingeyre

After a generation of a devastating war, the countries of Triskel and Astoria have come to a peace agreement. The only son of Astoria, Stiles, will offer himself as a Peaceweaver in marriage to the second oldest child of Triskel, Derek. Stiles is nervous but excited to meet his new husband and start a family. Unfortunately, for Stiles, his intended wants nothing to do with him.

A Princely Knight by Dexterous_Sinistrous

He would stand by Stiles’ side, a constant shadow of protection until his death. A life for a life, one worth much more than an orphan turned thief turned royal guard could comprehend. In truth, Derek saw the one person he would gladly give his life for, because Stiles made this world better. ~*~ Or, Stiles is a prince and Derek is his knight.

Wolf Winter by DarkAthena (seraphim_grace)

Stiles is the legitimate omega son of King Deucalion, tricked by his brother Theo into running away he is trapped, ruined and unable to return home he finds himself stuck, captured as a poacher by the infamous Hale clan he claims sanctuary in their small chapel and Peter puts him to work, with Derek just returned from the crusades he needs a new healer and the only option they've got is the boy in the chapel who is pretending to be a beta

The White Hart of Winter by DarkAthena (seraphim_grace)

Sent to marry the Hale Beast Stiles finds himself alone in a castle left to ruin and watched over by Kate Argent, who he thinks is sleeping with his new husband and seems determined to destroy him.

A Devotion by TroubleIWant

There’s a boy exiting the doors as they approach. Where Derek is tan from hours outside, the boy is pale except for a few beauty marks on one cheek. He’s dressed in fine riding clothes, and flanked by a guard wearing the sign of the royal house. A noble, then. He’s younger than Derek, but, considering his higher station, a bow would be appropriate. Despite that, Derek can’t help looking curiously at the boy, who’s looking back at Derek with just as much interest. For a moment, their eyes meet - the boy’s are a deep amber in the sunlit courtyard, ringed by long, tawny lashes. A gloved hand smacks the back of Derek’s head and he instinctively flinches away, hunching his shoulders. He loses track of the other boy as they pass one another, and as he turns to get another look, the knight grabs his shoulder and marches him forward into the stable. “Keep your eyes to yourself,” the knight instructs. “And next time, show the proper respect to Crown Prince Stiles.” Or: A medieval AU that's a little Princess Bride, a little bit more Game of Thrones, and a healthy side-serving of gay erotica.

The Thorns of a Rose by Dexterous_Sinistrous

"You have your mother’s eyes,” Peter suddenly commented, his tone light in his observation. Stiles stiffened at the mention of his mother. “Honest eyes,” Peter added as an afterthought. “Sunlit like the golden embers of coal burning in a forge.” Stiles turned a soured expression on Peter. “Have you a point?” He asked. “Many men have struggled to have those eyes even spare them a glance,” Peter simply stated. “An honest but naive treasure that managed to fool a dragon.” He placed the crown on Stiles’ head, amused when the boy immediately pushed away from him once the ornament was in place. “Hopefully those eyes can fool the Seven Kingdoms into thinking you could love a wolf.”

an exaltation of larks by llassah

There are times when he feels as if they could fall into bed together, easy as breathing. If Stiles were not highborn, if he were an omega without connections, Derek would be sorely tempted. As it is, he resists. Derek wants, he yearns, but he resists. Still, the sight of Stiles in his cot is enough to test him, even now that it is familiar. At the end of each lambing season, he sleeps for a week, worn down by months of hard work, of relentless struggle. He doesn’t know how he’ll feel by the time Stiles leaves, how he’ll feel after long days and longer nights spent resisting the insistent tug of Stiles’s scent and the inclinations of his own foolish heart. All Derek wants is to get through the lambing season with his body and spirit intact. He had thought that the blizzards would be the main danger, not a highborn omega with beautiful eyes and a stubborn streak.

The Light in the Woods by DiscontentedWinter

To honour a treaty with the people of a strange land, Derek Hale, prince of the kingdom of Triskelion, has to marry Stiles.

bend bridges, mend bones by Thealmostrhetoricalquestion

They burst through the portal in a gust of stale air and violet light, landing hard on the outskirts of a swamp. Stiles feels his knees buckle, both from the magic required to keep the portal open and from the force of their landing, but he grits his teeth, determined to stay standing in the presence of Derek Hale and his pack. Christ, it would be just his luck to rocket through his own portal at neck-breaking speeds and collide face-first with a puddle of sticky, disgusting mud. Thankfully that doesn’t happen, which is good because Stiles can’t really afford to add useless to the list of things that Mage’s are; untrustworthy cowards, meddlers, monsters. (In which there's an awful lot of fighting, people learn to trust people, and Stiles saves the day. Repeatedly. Over and over again. And he would like some credit, goddamnit, Derek.)

The Demands of Duty by Reiya_Wakayama

With the threat of war hanging over them, Stiles and his people are caught in the middle and must chose a side before they get smashed between both and with the threat of winter and a bad harvest weighing them down, he must chose quickly.

Deflowered by astrugglingstoic

In which there is a prince, a knight, sequential sword fights, and an anecdote about pressed flower petals.

If I die before my time, bury me upside down by ElisAttack

The boy is all of sixteen years old, a too large crown of gold resting on his head. The boy is sixteen years old, and Derek knows he would die for him. Or the one where Stiles is a young King, barely holding onto power, and Derek is his most trusted knight.

The Vow of a Wolf by Dexterous_Sinistrous

"There’s a boy with alabaster skin, scattered with moles,” Jennifer explained as she thought about Stiles. “With large, dove-like eyes. He’s accompanied by this wolf—the one with fur as black as the night they travel by.” “Is it the boy or the wolf you want dead?” The hunter questioned. “Kill the boy before you end the wolf’s life,” Jennifer commanded. “Let the wolf smell the blood of the boy it loves. Let it howl in pain before you end it.” “Yes, my lady,” the hunter dutifully answered.

For the Love of The Game (It Made Me Love You) by Quirky_chemist

Stiles tugs on the arm braces of his armor, tightening the leather straps so that they were snug and in place. Scott was watching him with worried eyes as he finishes suiting up for the tournament. Every few minutes he would mumble under his breath about how Stiles’ father would kill him if he found out what they were doing. It was easy enough to fake the papers needed for an unknown knight from a rarely heard of territory, especially when you had the resources that Stiles did. He would ride as his true identity, but none would ever ride against him. Knowing that he was royalty, every knight would quickly and surely send one of their men to cover their shield with a white flag in withdrawal. It was an annoying truth that Stiles could not deny.

Moon Tribe Battles by 3rdgenderfromthesun

Derek was an alpha and a general of the Moon Tribe and he was fierce and unfaltering. This war had been going on for generations and Derek had grown up with blood beneath his claws. Beyond the stench of death, blood, gunpowder, and crackling magic was the unbelievably alluring scent of Derek's mate.

Faoladh by 3rdgenderfromthesun

Prince Stiles has always been in love with the legend of the Faoladh- skin walkers who use the pelt of wolves to transform into their feral counterparts- but he never imagined he would be kidnapped in order to lure out the supposedly mythical creatures. The legends said that they found and returned lost children to their families and guarded the woods surrounding his father's kingdom, but Stiles was long past being a child when a dark furred Faoladh came to his rescue.

When All the Pieces Fit BY NARKOTIKA

"Does he even realize? With the cooking and cleaning andandand—now this fucking baby?" Isaac fumes. Said baby waves its fist in the air, and Stiles bends to haul him onto a hip. The baby babbles something and Stiles nods his head with complete seriousness, as if everything out of its mouth is perfectly sensible and coherent. Then the kid starts mouthing at Stiles' nipple through his dress and everyone goes dead silent. "I'm going to wife him so hard," Ethan announces, and they all break out into argument over who has the best chance at mating the boy in the river.

Under the Golden Moon BY NARKOTIKA

Derek doesn't know how long he sits in his wolf skin, on his haunches, observing Stiles as the sunbeams slant through the trees and cast slashes of light across the omega's willowy form. The boy has his feet in the water, a babe on his hip, a bright smile on his face as the other younglings splash around and soak his garb. The creamy skin of his thighs peek out from the slits running down the sides of his draping skirt, and Derek has never wanted anything more than he wants this beautiful being of the woods.

also these are vaguely medieval so there

Incandescent

"You are trying to court our alpha,” sang Lydia. “Surely you realize that he does not reciprocate.” “He doesn’t stop it.” There was no point in lying. Paige was courting Derek. She would be a fool not to. “He doesn’t care to.” Lydia arched her thin eyebrow. “Why do you think he’s still searching for his mate, hmm? Why didn’t he stop once you were here? You think you can annoy him into sleeping with you?” Lydia laughed. “He is a born wolf, darling. He will not fuck you if you are not his.”

your fangs against my skin (the sound of your bones)

This was it, then, huh? It was that easy for Derek to invite someone to his den. Someone other than Stiles. He healed the wolf. Stiles killed his tormentor, mended his blood and bones, and let him sleep beside him. But none of it was enough. He wasn’t a spark, after all, but a witch — evil and alone, locked up in his tower. Witches didn’t get happy endings.

Resistance

How dare the wolf taste those lips, hold him, panting and soft, trembling and eager, so close to his chest? How dare he? Jordan could not move, even if he wanted to. The slick sounds of their kiss, of tongues sliding softly against one another, bitten-off moans, and muffled mewls interspersed with crackling fire — it was hell for him. Stiles was everything Jordan dreamed he would be in a moment like this — he moved just right, arched so beautifully, bared his throat, and grabbed the hand that pressed to his stomach, keeping it there. His smell seeped across the tent, sweeter than ever before and deadly because of it. Jordan’s eyes stung, his fists clenching the cold sheets. Yet, he could not even take a proper breath, for everything smelled of him. For three years, Jordan told himself to resist. Three years of catching Stiles only for the omega to seep from his fingers. Years without ever holding his waist like Jordan wanted to. A month was all it took for Stiles to give it to the wolf.

Viking

Open Seas and Boundless Skies by violet_vengeance

Stiles has been used and abused by his step-brother for more years than he can count. In a final act of cruelty, Stiles is traded away to a fearsome Viking warrior. Little does Stiles know that this strange and brutish man may just be the start of his freedom.

A house without kindness by DarkAthena (seraphim_grace)

Driven to the far north by hunters Derek finds shelter in the snow

like the old gods

A wolf in the woods, a raven in the sky. (fenrir!derek)

The Downed Dragon by orangecrow

A thunderous crash brings viking werewolf Derek Hale to the edge of his pack's lands four days before the last autumn moon.

[masterlist link]

[nostarfights]

I Would Do It Again

Pairing: king!Bucky Barnes X lady-in-waiting!Reader

Summary: After the King and Queen of your kingdom pass away and their son Prince Bucky Barnes is made King, he begins to become more aware of his loneliness.

Warnings: Royalty au, forbidden love, mutual pining, yearning, mentions of arranged marriage, loss of family members, Bucky’s parents being verbally abusive, classism and a planned murder, kissing, violence, Bucky standing up for and protecting the reader, a few uses of y/n and y/L/n, dialogue is mostly modern English with a few old English elements mixed in.

Word Count: 5.7K

a/n: for the purpose of this oneshot, the reader is a servant who became a lady-in-waiting not a hired one.

the gif below does not belong to me

The past month since Bucky’s parents passed away and he’d become King had been a blur. Even as he got used to his duties as King, he had to admit, he’d become tired of how lonely and repetitive his life had been. He did the same thing day after day, week after week and with the men on his court persistently proposing arranged marriage, all he wanted was to be left alone in the company of someone who wasn’t being forced to marry him. 

Prior to their passing, Bucky’s parents had once been the reason he was always alone; they hadn’t even allowed him to leave the castle or have his own servants. But now that he was King, things were going to change. 

As a way of achieving this goal, Bucky had decided to announce an idea he came up with the night before to his court during one dreary morning. He quietly cleared his throat to grab their attention as he sat in his chair at the head of the table, causing eight pairs of eyes to almost instantly land on him.

“As you all know, I have been a bachelor for quite some time and now that I am King it is time for this period of my life to end. I have decided to select a companion for myself until I marry.” Bucky said, earning a few nods in agreement and not much else from the men in his court since it was unnecessary to discuss his love life more than this when there were much more important topics at hand. 

Their wordless agreement encouraged Bucky to select who exactly was going to be his companion, something he did in his head whilst the men sitting at the table began to discuss matters of a possible impending war and the foreign dignitaries that would be arriving today to speak with Bucky.

There weren’t many women he knew that he could select from now that his mother had died then the idea of you, the young woman who had been one of his mother’s ladies-in-waiting, becoming his companion popped into his head. You were beautiful, kind, soft, delicate and someone he wouldn’t mind having around and if his mother trusted you then so would he. But he made sure to vow to himself that he wouldn’t fall in love with you, you would simply just be someone to spend his time with.

And once the meeting had come to an end just thirty minutes later, Bucky quickly began to start speaking as the men in his court started to get up from their chairs, “I have selected a companion, Lady (y/Ln), one of my mother’s former ladies-in-waiting.” he announced, earning a few eyebrow raises from the men in the room. “But Sir, she is a servant, she is below you. At least pick someone more respectable.” Bucky’s Chief Advisor, Antony, commented, which prompted a bit of anger to arise in Bucky. “Do not question my decisions, I have made up my mind. That is final.” Bucky sternly replied and that was the end of it. The men surrounding him then became silent as they waited for him to leave the room, thinking he’d get bored of you eventually and give into the idea of an arranged marriage soon enough. 

Following this meeting, Bucky immediately went to one of the guards outside of the room, “You,” he began as he walked directly up to this guard, “Go find Lady (y/L/n) and tell her to meet me in the throne room right away.” he instructed, instantly eliciting a response from the guard. “Yes, Your Highness.” the guard replied as he bowed his head then proceeded to walk away to find you. 

—----------------------------------------------------

Your heart basically pounded out of your chest as you walked up to the doors of the throne room, extremely nervous to see why the King had wanted to speak to you alone when he had never spoken to you personally the entire time you had worked in the castle. “Have I done something wrong? Am I to be punished?” you wondered as you stopped at the doors and the guards let you enter, not giving you time to weigh out any possibilities in your head. 

Bucky’s breath hitched in his throat as you entered the room, you were ethereal, even in the simple dress you were wearing, it was as if you had become more beautiful since the last time he had seen you. The longer he stared at you, the more he felt himself falling in love with you in this moment, his rule to not let himself feel this way for you going out the window. And as soon as the guards closed the doors behind you, you walked up to the throne Bucky was sat upon and curtsied, “Your Highness.” you said as you began to stand straight again, discontinuing his thoughts. 

“From this day forward, you are to be my companion. You will accompany me to meetings, meals, training as well as my other daily activities. You will also spend time with me in my quarters in the morning before I tend to my duties and at night after dinner. You are to start this evening at dinner.” he explained, resulting in your worries going away now that you knew that you weren’t going to be punished. “Yes, Your Highness.” you replied as Bucky then dismissed you to attend to your responsibilities in the castle.

As you left the room, that lonely feeling that had long buried itself in Bucky’s heart began to slowly disappear now that he knew that you would always be by his side. And although he’d never been one for love or marriage due to the lack of love his parents had shown him, he found himself looking forward to seeing you again, causing him to feel like a fool for falling in love with you so quickly. 

—----------------------------------------------------

Hours had passed since you had spoken with Bucky that morning and he had informed you of his decision to make you his companion while you entered the Great Hall where you were to accompany Bucky as he ate, finding it empty except for the two guards who stood outside. Awaiting his arrival, you quickly walked over to where you remembered Bucky’s father used to sit and stood behind the chair next to it, not wanting to risk not being in the proper spot before Bucky got there. 

In good timing, once you had gotten comfortable where you were standing, Bucky entered the room wearing a black long sleeve shirt and a pair of loose pants, an outfit a lot less formal compared to what you were used to seeing him wear. Seeing him like this made him seem less intimidating and in a way you longed for him, you longed to kiss him and stroke his cheek with your thumb, something you would have been allowed to do in a private situation like this if you were also royalty. And in this moment, you cursed yourself for feeling like this and began to ignore your thoughts before you got too ahead of yourself. 

“Your Highness.” you greeted as you curtsied with a calm look on your face that you hoped didn’t reveal what you were feeling. Bucky barely acknowledged you at first as he crossed the room to his chair, something he was doing to secretly punish himself for falling in love with you, and a deafening silence took over. “Sit.” he plainly said as he pointed to the chair that was next to his and looked into your eyes, causing your heart to pound once more. “Yes, Your Grace.” you replied as you sat down next to him, resting your hands in your lap. 

The two of you sat in silence before Bucky finally spoke up after a few minutes, “How was your day, (y/n)?” he asked as he peered over at you, fork in hand. You were shocked in this moment, shocked to hear that a King of all people wanted to hear about how your day had gone. “Good, Your Grace.” you answered as you briefly looked into his eyes, their beauty causing you to quickly look away. You wanted to stare at them forever and that made you feel ashamed, it didn’t feel right to you to have these feelings for a man you worked for. 

“You needn't be so proper, I want you to be comfortable around me. So from now on you may call me Bucky.” he told you, creating a shocked feeling in you yet again. “Are you sure, Your Grace-I mean, Bucky? This doesn’t seem appropriate.” you asked him as you bravely looked into his eyes again, you’d never been allowed to call anyone above you by their first name before. “Yes, I am sure.” he replied, encouraging you to not question him again while the two of you continued to talk. 

But even with formalities out of the way, you still felt shy about being around Bucky and not having to be proper like you were so used to being. “You shall adjust soon.” you thought as Bucky began to tell you about his own day. 

—----------------------------------------------------

Upon finishing his meal, you followed Bucky back to his quarters, the entire five minute walk spent in silence as you trailed behind him. When the two of you arrived, you began to feel shocked once again. This time at the size of the room and how kind Bucky had been to you tonight, after all you had been used to tiny bedrooms and being treated horrible your entire life. The mere idea of suddenly being treated better simply because you were the King’s companion was a peculiar feeling to you. 

But now was not the time to get lost in your thoughts as you followed him out to the balcony attached to his quarters. “Sit, I wish to watch the sunset with you.” he requested as he lowered himself into the chair next to you. “As you wish.” you quietly replied with a slight bow of your head while you sat down. 

As for the rest of the evening, the two of you sat together in silence once more, this time a more comfortable one whilst the sky became a beautiful orange and the moon reclaimed its spot in the sky. The longer you sat there together, Bucky found himself being reminded of you by everything around him. From the sky to the moon, to the warm nighttime breeze that danced around your bodies. No matter what he did, he could not escape the fact that he had already fallen head over heels in love with you. 

“Goodnight, (y/n).” he abruptly said as he stood up from his chair, signaling to you that it was now time for you to go back to the servants quarters for the night. “Goodnight, Bucky.” you quietly replied, a soft smile on your face as you curtsied, accidentally forgetting how he had told you that you didn’t need to do that anymore, and left his quarters. 

And even though you had only been gone for a few moments now, Bucky still began to miss you again but once more, he started to ignore his blossoming feelings for you. You could never be together, it wouldn’t be approved of, he had to accept this. He had to wake up early in the morning anyway, he didn’t have the time to think about how badly he wanted to kiss you and call you his. 

He then dressed for bed in silence as these thoughts continued to fill his mind. You were just trying to do your job, there was no possibility of you loving him back and this too was something he had to accept. 

—----------------------------------------------------

You walked with a pep in your step the following morning as you approached the doors to Bucky’s quarters shortly after the sun had started to rise. You knew it was wrong yet in this moment you couldn’t help but feel excited to see the man you had started to fall for all too quickly. 

Your thoughts were soon interrupted by the sight of Bucky sitting in a chair by the windows in his quarters, reading, seemingly as if he had been waiting for you. “That is not possible, I am his servant. Why would he ever wait for me?” you reminded yourself as you kept walking into the room. 

“Good morning, Bucky.” you said with a curtsy, forgetting yourself once more, Bucky smiled at this. “Good morning, (y/n). There is no need to do that around me any longer.” he reminded you, making both of you smile softly. “Right, my apologies.” you replied, causing Bucky to dismiss your apology with a wave of his hand as he tried to ignore how happy seeing your smile had just made him feel. “You can never be with her.” he reminded himself. 

“I do not have much that requires my attention today. You will accompany me while I attend a court meeting, receive people in the throne room, train and tend to my garden.” he informed you as he looked into your eyes, causing goosebumps to appear on your partially exposed arms. Which Bucky had seen, the sight of this alone caused him to worry that being around him made you nervous. 

But little did he know, these goosebumps had appeared because the feeling of his eyes on you made you feel as if your body was on fire. All you wanted was for him to kiss you and touch you, in spite of how ashamed you felt. “Understood.” you simply replied as Bucky abandoned the book he had been reading and rose from his chair. 

—----------------------------------------------------

Once it was time for Bucky to train, you followed him to the one of the castle’s courtyards after he had changed into his training gear, trying your best not to stare at how big his muscles were or how gorgeous he looked. It was practically torture not being able to touch him and kiss him in this moment, you felt like a caged animal forced to watch its prey get away. 

Watching him train with one of the knights was a whole different kind of torture. From the skillful way he sparred with this knight to how his hair moved as he moved to the way he twirled his sword through the air to the way his skin glistened in the sun, you didn’t know how you would get through being his companion without eventually becoming his lover. It was all you wanted, no matter how ashamed it made you feel to have these feelings for your King. You yearned for him like a man who had been starved for days. 

But it didn’t matter how badly you wanted him, that feeling of shame soon took over any other feeling yet again. Seeing as you were a servant, you felt like you weren’t good enough for him and you never would be in your eyes. He deserved to be with a princess, not the lowly woman who used to assist his mother. You could never be together even though that’s all you wanted. You were from two different worlds. 

And just like Bucky could feel the temperature change outside, it was as if he could feel your mood change too, worrying him. “Is everything alright, (y/n)?” he asked you, hoping it was nothing and that you were simply lost in thought. “I am fine.” you said, your jaw clenched. Bucky knew right away that you were lying and that something was bothering you but unfortunately he didn’t have the time to bother you about it any further. He had to keep training but he promised himself that he’d bring it up again later. 

—----------------------------------------------------

Uncomfortable silence blanketed the two of you as you walked around the garden with Bucky and he occasionally stopped to water a few of the plants and cut any weeds he spotted. 

While these were things the castle gardener normally did, Bucky had insisted on helping out ever since he’d found a book about horticulture a few years ago while looking through his father’s library. Being here gave him peace, it gave him a place to feel normal and as he fell in love with you, it became a place he wanted to show you. He wanted it to be your favorite place to be as well.

“Why were you so quiet before?” Bucky asked as you continued to walk with him and he bent down to cut a rose out of its bush. Your heart sank at the sound of this question, you’d hoped that he wouldn’t bring this up again. “It is nothing, Bucky. I just got lost in my thoughts.” you explained, hoping that he’d take this explanation and not keep trying to get the truth out of you. “Ah, I understand. I get that way too sometimes.” he replied as he cut the thorns off of the rose in his hand, he didn’t entirely believe you but he could tell that you were done with this topic so he let it go. 

As you neared the end of your walk and you got closer to the doors that lead back into the castle, you both felt yourselves growing sad. Neither of you wanted to leave each other’s side, no matter how forbidden it felt to have such strong feelings for one another. Still, it was time for you to part until dinner. 

You then began to walk in the direction of the servants quarters until Bucky stopped you. “Wait! This is for you.” Bucky said once you had stopped walking away from him, now nervously handing you the rose he had cut for you. Your cheeks blushed as you took it from him and your fingers brushed it against his, “Thank you.” you replied as you stared at it, not having the confidence to look into his eyes at this moment. 

He then placed his index finger and thumb on your chin and gently tipped your head up so that you were making eye contact with him, causing your heart to pound while you started to get butterflies. “Will you eat dinner with me tonight?” he asked you, the tension in this moment causing you to feel as if you were floating. “Of course.” you answered as you slowly removed your face from his hand and started to walk away, trying to ignore how good his touch had felt. 

You’d heard of how flirty Bucky could be first hand from his mother but now that you’d actually experienced it, you couldn’t believe that Bucky didn’t have Princesses, Ladys and Queens from every Kingdom throwing themselves at him. “How is it possible that he seems to care for me more than any other woman? More than women who deserve to be with him more than I?” you wondered as you walked back to the servants quarters. 

—----------------------------------------------------

You were alone with Bucky for dinner in the Great Hall once again as you ate side by side that evening and talked about the random things that came to mind. In this moment, as a result of the day you’d just spent together, you both felt yourselves falling deeper in love with each other but no matter how much you wanted to give into these feelings, you still decided to ignore them. 

Bucky wanted more than anything else to be your husband, your lover but he feared how frowned upon your relationship would be so he decided to keep what he felt for you to himself forever. If he could bear to keep his feelings a secret for the rest of his life that is. But even so, he would still be kind to you and show that he cared for you. You deserved to be treated well.

Soon enough due to your busy minds, you and Bucky lost your appetites and abandoned your meals. “Follow me, I have something else to show you.” he said, causing you to nod your head in response and follow him right away.

The short walk to where Bucky was taking you in the castle saddened him. The two of you were barely speaking again while you were together, making him wish that he hadn’t held your face in his hand. It had clearly made you at least a little uncomfortable around him and he hated himself for making you feel like this. He just wanted to be someone you could trust, be comfortable around and love, even.  

This time instead of going back to his quarters after dinner, you and Bucky went to the castle’s library. “Sit,” Bucky said as he sat down in one of the chairs in the room, “I want to read to you.” he told you while he patted the chair next to him a few times. You softly smiled as you nodded your head and sat with him, making Bucky feel a little better about how he’d made you feel earlier. 

He then retrieved a book from the small end table next to him that had been oh so carefully placed earlier in the day by a servant and he began to read to you from one of favorite books, The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri. The sound of his now deeper voice as a result of all the talking he’d done today easily started to lull you to sleep the moment he’d started to read to you. It was calming to hear him speak and just an hour later after the moon rose in the sky, your eyes fluttered shut and you fell into a peaceful, dreamless sleep in your chair. 

Once Bucky noticed, he began to softly smile to himself and returned the book to its spot on the table next to him. He’d put it back another time, he had to get you to a much more comfortable place to sleep, his bed, not wanting to risk waking up the other servants if he returned you to the bed you normally slept in. So he gently scooped your sleeping body up in his arms and began to walk down the hall to his quarters, his heart warming at the feeling of you snuggling into him in your unconscious state. 

And once he reached his bed, he gently placed you beneath the blankets, tucked you in and pressed a light kiss to your forehead. What you didn’t know couldn’t ruin what the two of you had, right? As for where he would sleep that night, he grabbed an extra blanket he’d stashed away for when the castle got particularly cold, his pillow and laid down on the settee in his quarters. You sleeping comfortably was far more important to him than his own sleep.

—----------------------------------------------------

It was almost the afternoon when Bucky awoke the following morning, shamelessly using the time before you woke up yourself to admire you as he sat next to you on the bed. You looked so beautiful as you slept, so calm and relaxed. But before he got too ahead of himself, Bucky’s shame stopped his admiration of you. 

Admiring you like this was what was causing him to continue to fall in love with you. But the longer he thought about his shame, his fear of what people would think if people found out he fell in love with his companion and your differences, the more he began to not care about any of those things. He loved you and that’s all that mattered, not anyone or anything else. Now all he had to wait for was the perfect time to tell you how he felt. 

Amidst his thinking, you started to wake up and soon began to feel stunned as you realized that you were in Bucky’s bed and that it was a lot later in the day than when you usually woke up. Bucky began to smile once he realized you had woken up, “Good mornin-.” he’d started to say before you interrupted him. “Why am I in your bed?” you rapidly asked as you started to get up and slip your shoes back on. “You fell asleep not long after I began to read to you last night so I brought you here and slept on the settee.” he explained as you started to stand closer to where he was sitting. 

You were appalled at this, your King let you sleep in his bed while he uncomfortably slept on a settee. “Why did you not just wake me? I would have been fine with that.” you asked him, a confused look now present on your face. He softly sighed then began to speak again, hoping you wouldn’t be angry with him, “You just looked so peaceful, I did not want to wake you.” he told you, causing your heart to skip a beat while you and Bucky both started to blush. “But you must wake me up the next time this happens. Alright?” you jokingly said as you pointed at him like you were disciplining a child, making him laugh. “Alright.” he replied, still laughing. 

But now that you knew that Bucky was so willing to sleep uncomfortably so that you could sleep comfortably, your thoughts began to shift. Maybe he really did love you? And if he did, would that really be so bad?

No.

—----------------------------------------------------

Three Weeks Later

As you and Bucky stood next to each other under the moon and stars, the feeling of not being able to touch you became unbearable to him. So as you stared up the stars, he slowly began to brush his fingers against your own and hold your hand in his. It felt so good to be able to touch you in any way but this feeling soon ended when you snatched your hand away, causing Bucky to look over at you immediately. 

“What are you doing, Bucky?” you asked him as your eyebrows furrowed. “I love you, (y/n). I have been in love with you since the day you walked into the throne room. I have been yearning for you and your touch for weeks. I cannot bear to not be yours for another moment.” he explained, causing a shocked expression to take over your face.

“But how? How could you ever love someone as low as me?” you asked him, the fact that you had been ashamed of yourself this entire time becoming more and more clear to Bucky. “I just do! You make me feel as if I deserve to be loved for once in my life!” he shouted, letting his emotions get the best of him. “But I am not worthy of you, you deserve someone better. I am not good enoug-.” you’d started to say until Bucky cut you off with a kiss, you kissed him back almost instantly as he placed one hand on your face while his other arm wrapped around your waist and brought you closer to him.

“I love you too, but I’m scared, what will people say if they find out?” you said as your eyes started to well up and a few tears fell down your face. Bucky then started to hold your face in both of his hands, “I’m sorry for yelling, my love, but remember I am their King. What I say and want goes and what I want is you.” he said as he wiped your tears away, comforting you. Hearing him say this started to ease the worries that had been running rampant in your mind for weeks and you kissed him again, feeling grateful for him and his kind words. 

But little did the two of you know, you were being watched by a guard who had seen and heard everything from the castle garden during a nighttime stroll. Seeing this was appalling to him, to see his King with someone as low as you, he needed to report this to Bucky’s Chief Advisor right away. He ran and ran across the castle until he finally discovered the Advisor in his office, working on the details of a possible impending war. 

Without thinking, the guard shut the door behind him and began rapidly speaking to the Advisor, without apologizing for bothering him first, “Sir, I have something I must report to you. The King has fallen in love with his servant!” the guard practically shrieked at the man. This was not good, not at all. “Keep your voice down! What are you talking about?” he asked, wanting to confirm what was just shouted at him. “It’s true, I heard him profess his love to her tonight.” the guard explained. 

Antony’s eyes widened, “If it got out that the King is in love with a servant, the kingdom’s reputation would be ruined. We have to kill her.” he replied, causing the guard to nod in agreement. “But how? They never leave each other’s side.” the guard inquired as he looked around the room, worried that someone might be listening to their discussion from the hall.

“Here’s what we’ll do, we’ll wait a couple hours, I will wake up the King and get him out of his quarters with the ruse of getting him to take a look at battle plans. And once she’s alone, you’ll sneak in there and slit her throat.” Antony proposed, wanting the guard to do his dirty work because he knew that Bucky would suspect him immediately if he killed you. “Got it. And now we wait.” the guard said impatiently as they both began to prepare themselves for the night ahead.

—----------------------------------------------------

“What is it, Antony?” Bucky sleepily muttered, an annoyed tone to his voice. “I have just had a breakthrough in our battle plans, you must come to my office now to look at them.” he quietly explained as Bucky sleepily got out of bed, feeling too tired to tell that his Advisor was clearly lying to him. “Fine, but make this quick.” Bucky said as he started to exit his quarters and head for Antony’s office. 

And once you were completely alone just minutes later, the guard snuck in, dagger in hand and approached your sleeping body. He slowly peeled the blankets back and started to position the blade just centimeters away from your throat. But unluckily for him, you had started to wake up the second he moved blankets, thinking he was Bucky. Once you felt this unfamiliar man’s breath on your face and you opened your eyes to see him hovering over you, you started to scream as loud as you possibly could, with all the strength you had, hoping it would save your life. Unfortunately for the guard and Antony’s plan, the guard had completely forgotten to threaten you to stay quiet.

“Bucky! Help!” you screamed, prompting Bucky to immediately run as fast as his legs could carry him to his quarters. What he saw once he arrived terrified him, someone had found out that he was in love with you and tried to have you killed. Not someone, Antony. His father had warned him years ago not to trust the man but instead of listening to his father’s advice, he let Antony become his Advisor. 

And without another second passing, Bucky rushed over to where you were, ripped the guard off you and pinned him against a nearby wall, the guard's own dagger now pressed to his throat, “Who told you to do this?” Bucky demanded through his clenched teeth, knowing it was unlikely that a guard would do this unless ordered to. “Your Advisor! I am so sorry, Your Highness.” the guard explained, the amount of fear Bucky had instilled in him encouraging his surrender. 

“Save it.” Bucky sternly said as he dropped the guard to the ground as Antony walked into the room. “You! You did this.” Bucky accused as he made a beeline for Antony, the tip of the dagger pointed directly at his throat. “I had to! She’s not good enough for a King, she’ll ruin the Kingdom’s reputation!” Antony explained as he held his hands up in surrender, his voice shaking with fear. 

“Shut your mouth, you do not speak for me! You have until morning to leave and if I see either of you ever again, you will be executed.” Bucky sternly said as he removed the dagger from Antony’s throat and before he had the chance to change his mind, both the guard and Antony ran out of the room.

Once they were gone, Bucky threw the dagger on a nearby table and rushed to you as you got out of bed and ran into his waiting arms. “My love.” he tearfully muttered as he caught you and began to hold you in his arms. In this moment, he was more than relieved that he was able to save you. He wouldn't have been able to ever forgive himself if he had failed. And although he hadn’t failed, he was still furious with himself for falling for Antony’s lies. 

Bucky cupped your face in his hand and kissed you, his tears dripping down both of your lips. “I thought I was going to lose you, my love, I’m so sorry I let this happen.” he said as he sat down on the bed and cried on your shoulder whilst you were still in his arms. You then gently rubbed his back as you opened your mouth to speak, “Do not be angry with yourself, Bucky, neither of us saw this coming. I’m glad that you got here when you did but please, promise me that this will never happen again. I was so scared.” you replied as your own voice started to break.

“No one is ever going to take you away from me, even if I have to go to the ends of the Earth to stop that from happening. As long as I’m here, you will never have to worry about what other people say or someone hurting you ever again. You will always be safe in this castle, I promise.” he reassured you as you nodded against him and he started to tighten his grip on you as if he was afraid that you’d disappear.

Silence took over the room once more before Bucky started to speak again and you removed your head from his shoulder, “I cannot bear the idea of you not being mine forever. Please, marry me.” Bucky begged as he started to hold your face in his hands again. “Yes.” you simply replied.

NAVIGATION

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[prythianpages]

Just A Girl | Eris x Rhysand's Sister

series masterlist | summary: Your father throws a ball in your honor. When Beron belittles you, you decide to show him what you're capable of, catching the attention of his firstborn.

word count: 2K

a/n: Hi guys! It's been a hot minute since I've written anything and I feel rusty lol (kinda like when you stop riding your bike and have to relearn type of feel.) Anyway, this is entirely based off no doubt's just a girl bc I felt like it gave off Rhys's sister vibes and then I thought why not incorporate this into an au I had planned for an Eris x Rhys's sister one shot??

“When I’m High Lord, I’ll go–”

“I’m sure you’ll go far,” you interrupt, a half smile playing on your lips as you look up at the first born of Spring. With his luscious blond hair, striking green eyes, and well-defined jawline, he's undeniably a sight to behold. Unfortunately, his personality doesn't match his looks—dull yet somehow arrogant and miserably misogynistic. 

You don’t have it in you to spare him a moment longer, especially not when his overbearing pride is becoming overwhelming for your senses. You push past the desire to call upon your abilities and manipulate his emotions into something more humbling. He is not worth exposing your powers.

With a pat on his shoulder–too harsh for his liking– you add, “and I really hope you stay there. It was nice speaking with you, Heathen.”

“It’s Heath.”

You give an uninterested hum before making your way to the refreshments table, desperate for something to soothe the tension between your brows. A silent prayer is sent to the Cauldron that no other male approaches you with a lame attempt at conversation. If they are interested in you, they should at least be able to hold a good one. One that doesn’t incorporate any microaggressions toward you.

Fortunately for you, it is your brother who approaches you next. He takes your–what was it? fourth or sixth, you can’t remember– champagne flute from your grasp with an effortless ease. A glare settles upon your features as you watch him chug it before fixing your gaze straight ahead, to the dais where your father and mother sit. 

Your father occupies the grand throne, while your mother sits beside him in a smaller, less ornate chair. The Lady of the Night Court—magnificent and burdened with countless responsibilities—receives none of the praise that is lavished upon your father. Despite her contributions to your court, she is not held in the same regard… simply because she is a female.

It leaves you to wonder what your destiny is.

Rhysand looks at you with sympathy, and you realize that in your moment of vulnerability, you've let your mental shields slip. “Please, save your breath,” you mutter.

Sensing Cassian and Azriel approaching, you flash them a small, relieved smile. “And please, stay by my side,” you say, your eyes scanning the room where multiple pairs of eyes are fixed on you. You feel so exposed and though it’s no surprise, it still leaves you unsettled. When your gaze meets that of one of Autumn's sons, you quickly look away and strengthen the shield around you.

“I could use my scary brother privileges right now.”

“Who are we scaring, princess?” Cassian asks, flexing his muscles as he pretends to adjust the cuffs of his dress shirt, rolled up to his elbows.

Azriel lets out a snort, but his keen eyes are already scanning the room, easily locating the Autumn male. The red-haired male immediately cowers under his cold, hard stare.

“No one.” Rhysand replies, shooting them both a warning look. He then turns to you and you don’t need his daemati abilities to know what he’s about to say. “y/n–”

“Don’t you think I know exactly where I stand?” You interrupt him with an exhausted sigh.

Tonight was a celebration–a ball to honor you and all you’ve done for the Night Court during the war. When the war started, you were twenty-three and deemed too young to participate. Though, at that age, Rhysand had already completed the bloodrite and was esteemed a formidable warrior. You were fortunate that your father allowed you to train and even more so that he allowed you to join the Night Court council.

You quickly mastered the politics of war and the intricacies of the Prythian courts. Midway through the war, your father entrusted you to visit the war camps and delegate on his behalf. There was no doubt that it was a privilege you were granted due to your powers. Still, you embraced it eagerly and tonight was the night you would officially be recognized as an emissary.

But of course, many–especially the sons of the High Lords–confused tonight as your debutante ball. You were in your third decade, after all. While your brother was recognized as a fierce warrior and heir, you were regarded as a highly sought out bachelorette. 

Lucky you.

“I am meant to be pretty and docile,” you continue, gesturing to yourself. 

The dress you wore was far from your usual preference. The bodice, adorned with intricate beadwork and sequins, featured a sweetheart neckline that teased a glimpse of your breast—but not too much. The skirt of the gown was voluminous, made of layers of soft tulle that shimmered with every step as the light caught the scattered sequins. It was a beautiful black ball gown, crafted by your mother's talented hands. Yet, you much preferred dresses that clung to you like a second skin, revealing more of your figure.

To put it frankly, you felt quite suffocated in this gown. And you rather not even get started on your makeup. You were transformed into a perfect painting of a sweet and innocent princess. Not the daring and powerful female you knew yourself to be.

“Desirable but not too attainable.”

 “However, that does not mean I need to be consistently tortured by dull conversations and hungry stares from controlling males,” you finish, crossing your arms against your chest with a scowl. “No one has even asked me about my role in this court.”

“Oh, yeah. How is it being an emissary to the Night Court?” Cassian asks, earning a smack to the back of his head from Azriel.

“Just splendid,” you reply with a sarcastic smile.

“You played a significant role in establishing peace between Spring and the rest of the courts after the war. I’m sure your efforts will not go unnoticed,” Rhysand assures you.

“Perhaps I played my role too well. Heathen has seemed to have taken an interest in me.”

It’s as if he heard his name being called, for the blonde male’s gaze meets yours across the ballroom. He winks at you with that stupid, cocky smirk of his. A grimace crosses your face. You had been hoping your conversation from earlier would deter him. It seems it has only spurred him on.

“He’s... pretty,” Rhysand starts, but then trails off, struggling to find a compliment for Heath. “Pretty full of himself,” he finally manages, shooting you an almost apologetic glance.

Both of you erupt into laughter.

“It could be worse,” Azriel comments after a moment, a futile attempt at making you feel better. “It could be the heir to Autumn. As the by-product of growing up under Beron’s cruelty, I hear he’s pretty ruthless. Might even turn out to be crueler than him. At least Heath isn’t as bright…”

“Ouch,” Cassian says with a playful wince, almost feeling bad for the Spring heir.

Your eyes find the male in question. Eris Vanserra. His vibrant red hair makes him and his siblings easy to spot in a crowded room. Surprisingly, Eris hasn't made any attempt to approach you tonight. Unlike his brothers. Instead, he stands by his mother's side. She appears uncomfortable and weary, her arm linked with his as she rubs her swollen, pregnant belly.

 As you focus on him, you feel a mix of anger and concern. “Somehow, I doubt that,” you voice your thoughts out loud, following the trail of emotions. Your eyes land on the recipient of his anger. Beron. The High Lord of Autumn stands amongst the other High Lords, engaged in conversation with your father.

Sensing your gaze on him, your father looks up from where you stand. He holds a hand up, summoning you and your brother.

“Time to shine,” Rhysand says, holding his hand out to you.

**

“Ah, my son,” your father greets with a smile as you and Rhysand come to a stop before him and the other High Lords. He then turns to you, violet eyes alight with pride that has your chest swelling with warmth. At least your father recognizes your worth and you don't dare to wonder if he'd see you the same if you weren't blessed with your power.

“My daughter, the guest of honor," he introduces, reaching for your hand to pull you to his side. You offer a polite smile and curtsy to the High Lords. “Y/n has done a lot for this court and all of Prythian. Tonight is a means to show my immense gratitude and present her with the official title of lead emissary of the Night Court.”

It is the High Lord of the Winter Court who speaks first, offering a slight bow of his head. “I look forward to continuing working with you, Lady y/n.”

“A wise and thoughtful member of the Night Court.” High Lord Thesan says with an amiable smile, the High Lords of Day, Summer and Spring sharing his sentiments.

However, the same cannot be said for the High Lord of Autumn. His lips curl in distaste, the thought of having to interact with a female tasting sour on his tongue. He had tolerated you before but only due to the war.

“You expect me to welcome her to my court to discuss important matter?" Beron huffs. "She’s just a girl.”

You don’t speak. You don’t even make a sound. But the look in your eyes…the look in your eyes was downright murderous.

Memories begin to flood your mind of you being berated and undermined. The box in which you had locked away your emotions can no longer contain them. A wave of anger and frustration begins to surge forth...

Rhysand knew exactly what was about to happen, his hand silently reaching out for yours. To hold you back.

But it was too late. Your mind was like a wall of steel. Impenetrable.

All you saw was red, your wings bursting forth from your glamor, unfurling behind you. They tore through the seams of your dress, provoking gasps. Swiftly, your magic mends the fabric, accommodating your true form.

Tendrils of darkness emanate from your outstretched hands, weaving through the air like sinister ribbons. Your gaze, unwavering and intense, remains fixated on Beron.  With each movement of your fingers, the room plunges deeper into shadow. The once-illuminated space is now consumed by a thick veil of darkness. Even Azriel’s shadows, accustomed to the darkness themselves, cling onto him like a second skin.

As the last glimmer of light fades into oblivion, the ballroom becomes a chamber of obsidian night. With a mere thought, you tap into the emotions swirling within the hearts of those present. Careful to be subtle upon the intrusion as you do not want to expose the true extent of your abilities.

You summon only the most negative emotions like a maestro orchestrating a symphony. Screams erupt, drawing your lips upwards. You can feel resistance against your power and whether it is from your father or brother or even one of the other High Lords, you can’t tell.

Gathering all your pent up frustrations, you use it to fuel your strength, wanting to hold onto this moment of mayhem just a bit longer. It is only when you feel Beron’s heart racing, feel the trace of fear threatening to dim the fire in his veins that you let go.

In the blink of an eye, your tendrils of darkness disperse, succumbing to the resistance. The faelights around the ballroom shimmer to life once more and the moon’s light seeps back into the room. It casts an ethereal glow over you, revealing the calm and cool expression on your face. Yet, your eyes remain seething with the fury of a dark, raging storm.

Beron's scowl deepens at your display. He parts his mouth in disbelief, looking towards your father, who says nothing. Beron then looks back at you.

For once in his miserable life, he is at a loss for words. Pride swells in your chest and you push against the talons raking across your mind, wanting to bask in your small victory.

“I’m just a girl,” you finally say and then give a nonchalant shrug of your shoulders before turning to leave.

Reveling in the animosity radiating off of him, your smirk deepens as you recognize a faint trace of humiliation somewhere among the fire of his wrath.

The assembled crowd parts before you, their gazes a mixture of disdain, shock, and fear. You keep your head held high and eyes focused straight ahead. Dread begins to settle in, the onset of a headache from overexertion threatening to break your composure.

Still, you carry on, feigning nonchalance. The only sounds echoing through the room are the hushed whispers and the sharp click of your heels against the marble floors.

Yet, amidst the sea of wary onlookers, one figure stands apart.

Eris.

The heir to the Autumn court is leaning casually against the wall near the exit doors, his mother nowhere to be seen. The corner of his lips are upturned into a smirk, amber eyes alight with amusement and curiosity and perhaps, even something more.

Your steps threaten to falter as your eyes meets his. He looks back at you, holding your gaze with a searing intensity, it sends a shiver down your spine. He looks at you in a way no one ever has...as if he can see you for you who you really are.

Because you aren’t just a girl.

You’re the daughter of the Night Court. A shining star. A force to be reckoned with and one he finds himself irresistibly drawn to.

series masterlist

a/n: I honestly don't know how to feel about this one. I guess it's kind of a prequel to my upcoming one shot. Also, you can't tell me Eris wouldn't find anyone besting his dad like reader did in this hot lol

general tag list: @scooobies, @kennedy-brooke, @sillysillygoose444, @lilah-asteria