#loved it since i was 9 and will forever be a royale high princess in my mind

[huellitaa]

mentally i live in the royale high castle

[alreadyblondenow]

It’s a Love Story

Pairing: knight Jeno x princess reader (somewhat love triangle with prince Jaemin tho)

Genre: Smut, fluff, angst? Kingdom AU, Royalty AU

Warning: NOT PROOFREAD, unprotected sex, mentions of death, war, mentions of bruises, poverty, heavy cheating themes and I am no way promoting it, but its not cheating actually, mentioned of pregnancy

Note: inspired by Taylor Swift’s ‘Love Story’ and also this was ling overdue im sorry :( please enjoy

——————

It was a beautiful afternoon to hunt and enjoy the weather to its fullest as you continue to not care wether everyone in the palace is searching everywhere for you. You don’t care. As long as you get to enjoy this so little freedom that you have.

Steady as you point the arrow, aiming it to the deer in front of you. Clearing your mind before you release the arrow. A successful kill.

“Good aim. For a second there I thought you will waste a good chance to shoot it, but I was wrong… My lady”

You turn your back and see an unfamiliar face. A face you’ve never seen before even inside the palace. He could be your new bodyguard, but judging by the looks of his uniform, he belongs to a different royal family.

“And you are?” You ask with a gentle tone.

“Lee Jeno, my lady. I am prince Jaemin’s royal bodyguard. We are here in your land for your family invited us so you and prince Jaemin—“

“Okay I understand now,” you said. “Has my fiancé been well?”

“He’s excited to meet you. Although I didn’t quite expect I’d meet you first before him”

“Well I should I get back,” but you looked at the deer you just shot, hesitating to leave it.

“Would you like me to deliver it somewhere? It’s not proper for a lady to carry a big deer somewhere “ Jeno offered. Completely aware of your plan for you were easy to read.

You came closer to him without hesitation with a small smile on your face and turned towards the direction where the village is located. “There’s a small village there, look for their leader and give the deer to him”

And as you were telling the directions to Jeno, the man immediately noticed how pretty you are up close, how you smelled like expensive perfume and how you value gratitude. He didn’t quite expect that he will not be immune to your charms.

Jaemin is really lucky to have you.

By the time you got back, you immediately changed clothes and soon welcome your guest with your parents. It wasn’t easy to swallow your pride, even though you told to yourself a hundred times already that this is your duty to your family. And that marrying prince Jaemin can give you and your village the protection you can’t give them.

But if you were given the chance to love whom ever you wish to… you will pick someone who is not just warm on the outside, but on the inside too. Someone who has a kind heart, and will stay forever like that. And someone who will love the real you.

“Am I making you uncomfortable?”

Jaemin politely asks, noticing how your mind was not present at the moment. Scared that somehow you feel that his family is forcing you to marry him. But to be honest, you can’t blame him. For prince Jaemin is already madly and deeply in love with you, ever since you two were first introduced to each other.

“You changed a lot— I mean… the last time I saw you were… I think we were only 9 years old and I already had a crush on you”

“Oh calm down prince, you don’t need to flatter me,” you smiled and took away his worries. “And no you’re not making me uncomfortable. I too want to give this a try”

But after that meeting you kept prince Jaemin waiting for months and never showed up whenever he tries to make time for you or even visit you. You always have excuses and you try your best to avoid him. “I think you should meet him before he goes to war, your highness” Your trusted maid said to you. “His family’s army is the one keeping this palace safe” she added.

And so you followed what your maid suggested and finally took the courage to meet Prince Jaemin. With a heavy heart, and with a strong reminder to yourself that you are only meeting him to thank him for his family’s protection. That’s all.

“Come in- oh it’s finally you… I uh, I wasn’t expecting you princess I’m so sorry for the mess” You watch prince Jaemin as he hurries and fix the room that your people gave him. “I look like a mess. I was working with some urgent matters that’s why it’s messy when you came in” he explains and stutters, but you can’t help but to notice he was blushing and smiling like a fool.

“If you’re this busy why do you keep on trying to see me and waste your time” you chuckled awkwardly. “Thank you for your protection for my family. If it wasn’t for you we wouldn’t be safe” you added.

“It’s my duty” he answered fast while keeping his eyes on you. “We are ready to go to war, but making peace and negotiating is still the best solution” but you have to leave this place— for your own good.

“What about my family?”

“”The future queen’s safety is more important” your father’s choice of words, not mine” Jaemin explained, scared that you might hate him forever, scared that you might change your mind about the marriage. “Jeno will take care of you while were apart,” he said without further explanations. He noticed that your mind was somewhere else, you are close enough for him to touch you and bid you goodbye but he won’t do it. Simply because he can’t.

——

“You of all people knew that I can’t leave your side especially in times of war!” Jeno exclaimed to his friend. Yes, friend. Prince Jaemin is not his prince at this moment for he is getting angry as a friend. “I did not became a royal guard to babysit a princess—“

“You will guard and protect a part of my soul. Please do your job” Jaemin teases his friend.

“Part of my soul my ass, you’re not yet married— I’m not even sure if a wedding is gonna happen eventually!”

“Jeno please” Jaemin pleaded and tried to calm his friend. “You and y/n may not know each other yet but, she is the future of two kingdoms… and I love her”

“Love? You haven’t touch her yet, what you’re talking about is infatuation”

And that is the end of the conversation between the prince and his royal guard. Which of course Jeno followed what the prince commanded and escorted you secretly and away from the war and was forced to live a simple life. No servants, no expensive clothes, no palace… but you have first class protection.

At least you’re not forced to mary Jaemin sooner or later, you thought.

Maybe this escape is a blessing in disguise, you thought.

Maybe Jaemin would change his mind and decide to mary someone he loves too.

But amidst all these thoughts and all the time you devoted to overthinking, you can’t understand why Jeno, the guard you met in the whom you thought was nice and friendly, is suddenly cold as ice towards you. You’re not stupid. You can see that he is annoyed whenever you call his name, whenever you start a friendly conversation, and whenever you try to confront him.

“I just checked the house and it’s safe now” Jeno said after making sure the place was safe for you, but to be honest he wasn’t sure if it is comfortable enough for a princess.

As you enter the house, it was cold and old. Dust was everywhere and it’s like a shoebox you thought. Not to mention the company Jeno has is not that warming, unlike your first as time meeting each other. It was as if he is a totally different man right now. Oh you can’t wait to leave this place.

—-

Days

Weeks

Months

Have passed by quietly and uncomfortably. Your relationship remains the same and to be honest this has been that saddest you’ve ever been. Jeno got a job at the market, it was a tough job but he needed to earn money for the both of you. And when he comes home, he’s always tired but still he makes you dinner even though sometimes he skips meals just you can have a heavy meal.

And living like this made you feel that you’re such a burden for Jeno. You can’t do anything around here, even though you’re capable of doing anything. He just doesn’t know it yet.

“Jeno…”

You bravely whispered during his sleep. You noticed that he was tired today and forgot to make you dinner, but you don’t mind.

“Mmm?” He weakly answered.

“I want to go home” you said, even though you know the answer already. But unexpectedly, Jeno woke up from his sleep and got up real quick from the mat on the floor and went outside.

For Jeno, he’s sick and tired of all your whining… not knowing what you really feel. He felt small and most of the time not enough because this is only the life he can give you. Well, not that he have much of a choice, “You’re not even my wife, but I act like I’m your husband and everything I do is still not enough” Jeno murmurs. But little did he know… you followed him so you could apologize and hear your side.

But anger got the best of you.

“Well I didn’t told you to do such things! And more importantly I didn’t asked to be with you! Your prince insisted!” you exclaimed, and to his shock, Jeno burst into anger too and yelled at you.

“Well, do you think that I wanted to guard you? Who would want to be with you? All you do is eat, take a walk and be a burden! Future queen? You can’t even do anything let alone run a kingdom”

And that made your heart broke.

Weeks passed by uncomfortably again but this time it got worst. You secretly found a job as the town sweeper at the market and pay for your own meals to feed yourself. And whenever Jeno comes home, you leave the house and sleep on bench at the garden.

One night, you were gravely tired and your hand had bruises and redness all over. Jeno couldn’t just let you sleep like that. He immediately cleaned your hands and feet, and let you sleep soundly and comfortably.

The next day, hi efforts and kindness weren’t unnoticed. To give back, you prepared breakfast for the two of you before you two leave and go to your respective jobs.

“I think you should stop working- this type of work… isn’t for you. I’m sure there are a lot of other jobs there… just not this one…” he bravely asked of you. This time you see the worry in his eyes while he looks at your hand. You understand where this is coming from.

After that wonderful peace making, you and Jeno had nicer days and eventually you two became nicer to each other. At the end of each passing day, you two have long conversations until one of you sleep. A way to know and learn about each other. Suddenly each other’s company is all you need, and as days go by you two noticed that you’re becoming very close even sometimes physically close. You are now comfortable lying on Jeno’s lap while you read a book. Jeno can now pull you closer to him whenever he feels like being overprotective. You two have become incredibly close and slowly falling in love secretly in each other.

And that is a problem.

Soon you found a decent work at the town nursery. And everyone in town thought you two were a married couple… and you love how Jeno never deny it. He was happy and you can see it. And you can’t help but to be happy too because… now you know that your feelings are mutual.

A few months passed by, you and Jeno enjoyed your relationship to the fullest as if he wasn’t here to guard you and do his duty and you weren’t this precious gem of a huge kingdom. But whenever Jeno thinks about the reality, he just shook his head, look at you and thank the heavens for this given time with you. The future can worry for itself someday, he thought.

“What if we never go back?”

He murmurs while he hugs you tightly with his strong arms. The night was quiet and only the crickets from outside are the ones you can hear. You smiled sweetly and kissed his lips without warning just because you wanted the night to be even more beautiful.

That was your first kiss together.

His eyes went from sleepy to fully awake in no time and returned the kiss too. “Never going back isn’t such a bad idea” you tell him while raking his hair away from his face.

“Then let’s forget everything about them and start a new life together. What do you say?” He happily reached for your hand and kiss it more.

“Not until you ask me to marry you first” you bravely said to him.

“Oh I will- Oh Y/n you have no idea how much I want to spend the rest of my life with you” he said proudly, rolling on top of you and keeping you closer. His face was so near from yours, lips almost touching but it didn’t bother you.

“Have I told you that I started loving you the day we met at the forest?” He whispered softly and looked at you lovingly. His face was so calm, he looked so happy and you have to admit… you’ve never seen him happy like this.

“You’re suppose to protect me” you teased him and made his eyes roll. You let out a giggle and this time, it’s you who rolled on top of him. His body was hard as a rock, but his skin was soft, imperfect because of his battle scars but somehow still beautiful.

“Don’t get me wrong, I’m still protecting you,” he smiled and hugged you so you could come closer to him. “I’m protecting you in a different way now. I’ll protect you how a husband protects his wife,”

And from that moment on, you opened your heart for Jeno and Jeno only. Not thinking about Jaemin, not thinking about your family, not thinking about your responsibilities. He made you happy everyday, and even more happier the next days. Who would have thought that you will find love in the most simplest form. Back when you used to have anything and your life is full of riches, even the most expensive dress or perfume cant please you. But now that you have a simple life, the milk, bread, meat to eat that Jeno puts on the table every morning gives you so much joy because you knew how much hard work he has put into just so he can afford and food and feed you.

You’re happy and there’s no doubt about that.

One morning, when the sun hasn’t come up yet, you heard Jeno keeping himself busy at the garden. At times like this, the Earth was still quiet and peaceful, as if only you and Jeno has the world for yourselves now. You ask him, “what are you doing up so early?”

“Did I wake you up? Sorry,” he was obviously in a good mood. You see him making two garden chairs, one for you and one for him. He made you sit on your chair with a big smile on his face, excited and very happy. You wonder why

But suddenly… he pulled a small silver ring from his pocket and bend down on one knee.

“I’m sorry if this is all I can afford for now,” he was still smiling and happy waiting for your answer. Of course you said yes and went on the ground with him. As much as it hurts him removing the ring Jaemin gave you, he didn’t care because all he could think of is you.

The ring was simple but it weighs even more than that diamond ring Jaemin gave you. It weighs even more because you know how Jeno loves you and how it’s never going to be easy for the both of you if ever you go back.

As your lives went on and only beautiful days were happening, you couldn’t help but think about the future because you’re sure that you wouldn’t last a day without Jeno’s hugs, sweet and sincere kisses, and his love.

“What are you thinking?”He kissed your hand one too many times until his kisses became even more inviting to get your attention.

“I was just thinking about the future- maybe it would be easy for us to be in love if I was born a commoner right? Why do I have to be the queen” you sigh and came closer to him, he smells nice as always warm akin, strong built. As if nothing can tear you apart as long as he’s holding you like this.

“Don’t think about it” he smiled softly and put away bits of hair covering your face before kissing it. Then he started slowly with his hands creeping under your dress, all the way up to your underwear, slipping his cold hand inside it and tease your wet slit which you love. You smiled at the feeling of his rough hands against your skin, inviting him more to come to you by spreading your legs wider and pulling him closer.

He helped you remove your dress and underwear, you help him remove his trousers and well, he stopped you from removing his underwear, “you’re not fair” you protest, but he just continues to take the lead in bed, completely knowing that you dont know enough. He started making you weak by his soft kisses around your body, his hands is roaming around your thighs as well making sure that he has your whole attention.

“You’re beautiful. So beautiful” he whispers and started to touch your body in a way that is very new to you given that youre a virgin. You let out small sounds of approval, moaning his name deliciously which he love. Later on you feel him slowly going down on you, kissing your lower abdomen until he reaches your wet slit and lick it softly up and down. Of course you were shocked to the core that you immediately tried to get away from him but he only smirked and said, “you’ll love this trust me” he then kissed your lower abdomen again softly, all the way down to your wer slit, kissing is again like its your lips gently and careful not to schock you again “better?” He asked, you nod. And when his tongue made contact to your slit again you were back to moaning to hard and letting him know that you love it through your sounds. Of course, by the time you cum, he was teasing you for loving it, looking so ruin beneath him.

“Ready for the main event princess?” He whispered softly beside your ear, kissing you neck while you feel him spread your legs and tease your slit again. You giggle and put both of your arms around him, returning the kisses he gave you and making him feel good too. “You learn fast” he says while removing his underwear. And as soon as he was naked, you can feel the bulge on your thigh and he’s hard as a rock.

When he finally lines his cock on your hole, you felt nervous but at the same time excited and it’s obvious. So obvious that Jeno needed to reach for your hand and whisper “dont be nervous, this will feel good I promise”

And so you trusted him and let go. Of course it hurt, the stretch was giving you pain because he was so big but he was right, it feels good. Oh so slowly he was making you remember every second of this moment, kissing you from time to time and whispering sweet words. Then suddenly he removed his cock and began kissing every part of you, you don’t know why he’s doing this and quite frankly you miss him inside you already. “I know what you’re thinking” he teases you and gave you a few more kiss on the lips before he pushes back in slowly. This time it was far more better and the stretch felt good it’s addicting.

He thrust and thrust until he found your sweet spot, hitting it over and over again, making you moan while begging him to stop but you didn’t mean that. You love what he’s doing. And when the time you started clenching around his cock he knew you’re close to your release, he went closer to your body, fucking you close. He was looking at your eyes while you catch you breath and feel the tingle in your toes. He was just smiling sweetly with lidded eyes while watching you catch your high, until you feel him go deeper and faster, you couldn’t take it anymore but he was the one catching his release this time. He pulled you in for a hug, caging you with his strong arms and release a good amount of cum inside of you.

Both of your bodies are hot and you’re both catching your breaths with a smile on your faces. When Jeno’s cock gone soft immediately the white fluid from your hole was dripping and only one thing was on his mind that time. If he gets you pregnant, he will never return you to your family.

On the same night, you two talked until the sun comes up and make love for a couple of times again. It was the night you two started dreaming and planning for your future, he told you how he wanted to take care of you for the rest of your life and build a home with you. Somewhere your past cant find you. And you love that idea even though that mean abandoning your crown.

But just as life became even more sweeter for the two of you, an unexpected visit ruined your lives changed it in a matter of minutes.

The general of Jaemin’s army came to deliver the news personally that Jaemin did not make it through the battle field which made Jeno furious and angry that he started to punch the wall and hurt his hand. Screaming and blaming himself for not protecting his friend in times of need. You cant blame him, they were best of friends.

“This is all your fault!” He shouted towards you. And suddenly all those happy memories you had with became pointless and useless. It hurt you, his words hurt you but all you can do is stand up for yourself.

“Please bring me home general” you said sternly and made your way out. The general immediately followed your command and did not let Jeno come near you even though he said he was sorry and he didn’t mean what he said.

“Respect your future queen. Whatever happened in this place will stay in this place. Don’t tell a single soul about your relationship here— I can’t believe you betrayed your friend Jeno. Now go home! I will bring the princess back”

After you came back to your kingdom and family, you still can’t believe that Jaemin sacrificed his life to save your kingdom and his while you were secretly loving Jeno. What kind of queen are you?

You wanted to be alone. And so were left alone for days, even weeks.

The kingdom was healing and you wish you were too.

Until one day, you got sick and the word traveled fast around the kingdom. Everyone got scared because they thought they will lose their queen too. But one person was worried sick that he can’t calm himself until he sees you right before his eyes.

Jeno sneaked inside your room one peaceful night just to make sure you’re alright. Of course when he saw that you’re weak and sweating in your bed he didn’t think twice and came closer to you. He kneeled beside your bed quietly which made him recognize the ring on your table. He slowly grabbed it and tried putting it on your finger again while he feels his heart break slowly. “Why did you remove it?” He asked softly while asking you in your sleep, but you opened your eyes slowly and weakly tried to sit so you can see him better. Of course he helped you, he still cares for you.

“I didn’t mean what I said- please believe me, I love you” Jeno whispered and kissed you, oh you miss him.

“Did it ever cross your mind that maybe you’re pregnant?” He added with hopeful eyes, but even though you returned the kiss and you’re happy to see him now, this time you know that leaving your crown is not a right thing to do.

“I am not. The doctor said I was just sick,” and there Jeno just nodded and thank the heavens that it wasn’t a serious health issue. But he was really hoping that you were pregnant because that is the only way he could stay in your life. “I need you to protect Jaemin’s family and be their protector-“ you added but just before you could finish what you were about to say he cut you off and immediately got mad.

“So this is it then? You’re just gonna throw me like that, huh? Now you can command whatever because you’re queen?”

And just as you thought… he will hurt you with his words again.

“I love you. That’s why I’m like this. Please don’t send me away. I can love you from afar, but please this is too much“ he scoffed and begged you in his tears, reaching for hand and kiss it like how he did the first night you two made love, “do you understand? I can’t accept not seeing you everyday”

“You won’t like it when you see me marry Mark Lee”

And that is it.

You didn’t want to tell him but you have to.

“He’s not a prince, Y/n… i don’t understand… he’s just rich” Jeno rambled.

“But I need a husband soon and he’s a good person,” you said weakly.

“You’re not being fair! Im not a prince too and you loved me!” He was crying already and not letting go of your hand, “please Y/n”

Tears in your eyes were falling as you remove the ring and hand it over to him.

And then you wake up.

Your phone was ringing and the rain was crazy.

Jeno’s arm is around your waist and he was sleeping soundly, he didn’t even had the time to change his clothes. Maybe he was that tired you thought.

“You were crying in your sleep, why? I was worried I tried waking you up then I fell asleep, I’m sorry” Jeno said in a very tired voice.

“I had a really weird dream” you said honestly.

“Tell me” he said and pulled you closer,

“I was a queen and I was supposed to marry someone that is not you. Then we cheated and tried having a normal life together but still, destiny is not on our side, so I made you leave me”

“Well that’s some, love story shit baby haha” he laughed and hugged you tighter. “I’d love you from afar even if you throw me away and come back over and over again. Got that?”

You nodded sweetly. Happy that it was only just a dream.

“You’re mine, even in our next lives” he added

[kerizaret]

Ok so it's An centric because of course it is. It's mine. It's also an au of an au so a lot of pairings likely won't make sense lol beware of that

I don't remember too much about the settings just that the Tenmas are the royals as is thr usual, also there is magic but it doesn't play that much of a role. I'll work on digging that up later...

The basic concept is that the cast lives in this high-ish fantasy world with a less than good kingdom, and Radder were once upon a time a group of knights, but Nagi happened and after that Taiga stayed loyal to the knights order and Ken... Didn't. And since the army or the knight order are like Basically the only well-paid jobs, they're not well off. Managing, but not well off.

Fast forward to the present day An is a bit of a brat who likes to do minor crime and steal stuff, not out of malice but more of a "stick it" attitude to the rulers (she knows Ken dislikes the knights, but not why), except one day she decides to steal something too fancy from the rich bakery and gets caugh red-handed by the hood of her shirt (literally). And basically you know that thing where a wise mentor catches a thief and makes them join forces of good saying "you'd be better off using those skills for goos"? Well, basically that, but An and (disguised) Taiga.

Since the justice system in the kingdom is... Not good, An is dragged to the castle and sat in front of a choice of a) either her father pays a fine for stealing (like x100 the times what the stolen thing actually worth "to discourage crime") b) she joins the knights to train and eventually pay it off herself, because she has a lot of potential and Taiga knows it. And An, being who she is, would rather walk off a cliff than do that to her dad.

That's how she ends up living in a royal castle as a trainee with an Attitude and meets (not necessarily in the castle, but just by Being Around these people)

1) Nene, a senior in experience but not in age knight, who is horrible with making friends & overall much more jaded than An is, but An is literally dead set on making friends with her

2) Touya, a son of a renowned court magician currently on house house arrest for almost taking off into the wilderness with a rogue

3) Akito, the aforementioned rogue/exiled knight, who literally cannot stay away from the castle for some reason??

4) Shiho, his partner in crime with much more brain power than he has

5) Kanade, a white mage/priestess/healer with a bad reputation for not using her magic unless she absolutely has to a d wasting her talent

6) Mafuyu, an apprentice white mage from a known family and very confusing, definitely out of the ordinary powers

7) Rui, a dark magician and alchemist with ties to both the royals and Nene that An literally cannot wrap her head around

8) His Highness Tsukasa being his best self (obnoxious & out of touch. He'll grow dw)

9) Saki, the princess & like the only person An considers to be fun to hang out in this Wretched Place

and the rest of them.

It's more of a collection of random scenes & scenarios & ideas than a full blown au if I'm honest; Annene is the central piece of it. I don't know if it's worth anything, I just think An is funny. She really struggles to take things seriously & copes with humour until it hits her that Oh fuck, she's actually stuck there forever and will just have to do whatever the royals tell her to. Even if her morals go against it. And she might die. Welp. Because she's my stress ball and putting her into moral dilemmas is my favourite hobby

Tl;dr:

THATS SO COOL ANS AMAZING I LOVE IT an you poor girl lmaooo.... ohfhh I do wonder how she finds out the truth n all.... ALSO POOR KEN THEY JUST KIDNAPPED HIS DSUGHER HES PROBABLY WORRIED SICK 😭

The side characters are so interesting... kanamafu especially 👀

Man Jay your aus never disappoint I could read them forever

[wefoundloveunderthelight]

Skyline Manor by GleefullyCaptainSwan Chapter 11/13

Read on AO3: | Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4 | Chapter 5 | Chapter 6 | Chapter 7 | Chapter 8 | Chapter 9 | Chapter 10 | Chapter 11

Or on FF

Stacy's Tortured Crew: @teamhook @kmomof4 @stahlop @lfh1226-linda @ilovemesomekillianjones @itsfabianadocarmo @mariakov81 @qualitycoffeethings @zaharadessert @jrob64 @jonesfandomfanatic @natascha-ronin @tiganasummertree @xarandomdreamx @therooksshiningknight @batana54 @superchocovian @onceratheart18 @ultraluckycatnd @snowbellewells @karlyfr13s @the-darkdragonfly @xsajx @deckerstarblanche

Chapter 11: All I See is You

Emma woke up and stared at the text message she received the night before. She didn’t know what to make of the request from Killian to meet her tonight. She wasn’t sure what he wanted to talk about that he couldn’t just come over and tell her now. Why would he need to wait until 7pm to meet her on the roof?

She tried to stay busy throughout the day, cleaning her house, making her grocery list for the following week, while also fielding calls from her brother to find out how she was doing after her relationship with Graham had ended. He couldn’t understand what had gone wrong, but then Emma knew he had been too caught up in the possibility of Emma settling down that he never once stopped to ask her if Graham actually made her happy. Emma couldn’t fault him for that, she should have stopped and asked herself that question before it got to a place where Graham found himself on one knee in front of their friends.

Honestly, Emma hadn’t felt more at ease since ending things with Graham. She knew she could have just told him she wasn’t ready to get married without ending the relationship, but when he asked her to spend the rest of her life with him, she knew that it wasn’t just getting married to Graham that she was unable to do, it was in that moment that she knew being with him at all wasn’t right for her.

That evening, she wasn’t worried about her own feelings; she had mourned the destruction of her relationship with a glass of wine and a bar of chocolate. She was more concerned about Henry. She hated taking away yet another father figure from his life. However, the boy hardly seemed phased, and she realized that perhaps Henry wasn’t as taken with Graham as she wanted him to be.

“So, things seem to be going well with Belle.” Emma tried to ask without sounding too interested in how Killian’s ex was doing with her new relationship.

“Well enough that she’s not going back to him, if that’s what you’re worried about.” He teased.

“What?” Emma asked in shock. “My statement wasn’t about Killian. I just wanted to know how my best friend was doing with his new relationship.”

“Well then, your best friend is doing amazing. She’s bloody brilliant Em.” Emma could tell that Will was smitten with Belle. He hadn’t stopped smiling since they started going out and she loved seeing the smile permanently on his face. Will deserved someone who treated him as special as she had always seen him.

“I’m happy for you.” She responded, trying not to feel a pit of sadness forming in her stomach. She was happy for him, she just wondered if she would ever feel as happy as he did.

“Killian seems pretty happy for Belle, too. He even gave me some advice on her favorite foods and flowers so that I could cook for her this weekend.”

“That’s odd.” She chuckled.

“Not really, I mean the way Belle tells me, they never really had a serious relationship. They seem like really good friends though.”

Emma nervously cleaned the table, putting the dirty dishes into the sink, she looked down at her watch and realized it was almost 7pm. “Can you watch Henry for a little bit, I need to do something.”

“Yeah, everything alright?” Will asked.

“Oh yeah, I won’t be long.” Emma left the apartment and made her way to the roof, anxiety and curiosity starting to build up in her mind.

~*~

Killian wasn’t sure what Emma would need to discuss with him or why the need to wait until evening.

He had been surprised to find out that she declined Graham’s marriage proposal, but Henry didn’t seem to know anything about his mother’s text asking to meet with him. He resisted responding to her after he tried four different responses, none being satisfactory. In the end he opted to just leave the phone sitting on the counter. He would simply show up at 7pm and hope for the best.

At around 6:30, he found he could no longer sit in his apartment watching the clock. Instead, he headed to the roof to wait for Emma.

At 7:05 she walked through the door; an anxious worry written all over her face.

“Hey.”

“Hello, Swan.” He greeted the woman when she approached him.

“So…” She said as if she was waiting for him to start the conversation.

“What is the reason for all the secrecy?”

“Secrecy?” Her eyes narrowed. “You tell me.”

Killian chuckled. “I haven’t a clue, I assumed you would know the reason you asked me here.”

“I asked you here?”

“Aye.”

She shook her head. “That’s ridiculous. You asked me to meet you.”

“I can assure you I did no such thing, love.”

Emma dug into her pocket, producing her phone, a nervous laugh leaving her lips. “I’m not crazy.” She mumbled under her breath. “See, right here.” She held up the phone and Killian squinted to read the message on the screen. When he saw it came from him, he reached out and grabbed the phone from her hands.

“No that’s not possible.” Reaching into his pocket, he pulled his own phone, finding his message from Emma and holding it to her. “You can clearly see that you sent me the message last night.”

Emma looked at the two phones. “What the hell.”

“How is this possible?”

“I haven’t a clue, love. But it appears that someone is messing with us.”

“Who would do that? Besides, who has access to both of our phones?” Emma asked.

They both looked up at each other simultaneously and spoke. “Henry.”

“But why would the lad send this message?”

“I don’t know, but I’m about to go find out.” Emma said angrily, turning to leave when suddenly the boy in question appeared in the doorway. “Henry. We need to talk.”

“Sorry mom, I love you a lot but you’re too stubborn for your own good. You and Killian need to talk.” He looked at Killian. “You both need to stop running from each other. Killian, you don’t have to be alone, but you need to believe that you are worthy of being loved. And mom, true love can conquer anything, but you have to be willing to open yourself up to it.”

“Henry David Swan, this is not one of your fairytales, you can’t just…”

“Love you guys. I’ll be back in a bit.” And with that, the door slammed shut.

~*~

Henry pulled the door shut, turning the lock, effectively trapping his mother and Killian on the roof.

“Are you sure about this kid?”

Henry turned around, sitting on the step next to Will. “Mom always needs a little push when it comes to being honest with herself.” There was a bang on the door behind him and he heard his mother yelling, flinching he turned back to look at Will with a nervous laugh.

“Aye, I know this, but you also know that she’s gonna ground you until you turn 18. You weighed that risk right?”

He shrugged. “It’ll be worth it.” He said with a grin.

“I owe you a huge debt, Captain.” The King reached out to pass the bundle of coins into the man’s hand. “Should you ever find yourself in our Kingdom again, please make sure to make our acquaintance.”

“It was a pleasure meeting you, your highness.” Captain Jones paused. “I’m sure you are anxious for things to return to normal, with Baelfire behind bars, your sister is free to marry the Duke.”

The King laughed, “I’m afraid my sister is anything but normal. She has already informed me that she has decided not to marry the Duke.”

“Emm…Princess Swan does indeed appear to do things her own way.”

“I never did get a chance to apologize for my sister’s interference with your mission.”

“Apologizes are not necessary, she was of great assistance.”

“Emma has always wished for more than these stone walls.”

“You can’t cage a bird forever.” The Captain stated before rising to leave. “I must take my leave; I fear I have stayed too long, and the sea is calling my name.”

“Thank you again, Captain.”

Killian left the King, heading out of the castle to retreat to the Jolly to prepare her for sailing in the morning. As he rounded the corner he saw Master Henry waiting at the end of the corridor.

“Captain Jones!”

“Master Henry, so happy to see you well.”

“Are you leaving already?”

“Aye, this is not the only kingdom in need of my assistance, my crew and I must be on our way to Arendelle by first light.”

“Can I ask you something?”

“Anything, lad.”

“I was wondering if you were in need of additional crew on the Jolly Roger?”

The Captain laughed. “Is this inquiry personal? I’m not certain your mother would approve.”

“I’m not a child. I’m not even officially a royal. I have no claim to the throne. My place here is unnecessary. I want to explore new worlds, find adventure, learn to sword fight like you.”

“Henry, I would be honored for you to join my crew, with your mother’s permission of course.”

“Really?”

“Aye, I’m always in need of good men who are willing to have my back. But I fear your mother may not be in agreement with you leaving the nest.”

“My mother might surprise you.” He said with a smile.

“I believe that. Your mother is not like many I have met.”

“Have you spoken to her?”

“Not since we turned Baelfire over to the Sheriff. A man of my stature does not seek out the company of royalty without being called upon.”

“I’m sure she will be sad to find that she missed you before you left.”

“I’m on my way to the Thirsty Lion; I need to rally the troops before we set sail in the morning. In case anyone would find themselves interested in joining my crew or needing to speak to me, that’s where they will find me until sundown.” He said with a wink.

“Thank you Captain.” Henry took his leave as the Captain left the castle, a nervous excitement taking over him.

After dinner, Henry found himself confronting his mother about the man they turned over to the Sheriff. “Why didn’t you tell me the truth about my father?”

“I didn’t want to hurt you, to make you think that you weren’t wanted. Your father may have left us, but you have always been loved Henry.”

“I never felt unloved, mother.”

Princess Emma wrapped her arms around her son and hugged him. “I’m sorry you had to find out this way.” She pulled back, looking at her son. “Why did you follow me to the Jolly Roger?”

“I didn’t. I was actually following Captain Jones. After he came to my room that evening, I just wanted to see what it was like to go on an adventure. I’m always stuck here in the castle.”

“Being royalty means we have responsibilities. It’s our duty to be here, to be seen.”

“But I’m not royalty. You are though. So why did you follow Captain Jones then?” He asked with a smirk. “That doesn’t seem like part of your responsibility. Uncle David says that you are supposed to be choosing a husband.”

“I suppose you are very much like your mother; I don’t like being told what to do either.”

“Do you not intend to marry the Duke?”

Princess Emma crinkled her nose, “I always thought my life would be so different than what it has become.”

“You wish for adventure too.”

“Why does a Princess have to stay in court, bound to a man of royal blood?”

“It’s a shame that Captain Jones isn’t sticking around.” Henry said with a sly smile.

“You’ve talked to him?”

“I saw him this morning when Uncle David met with him, he said that he was to set sail for Arendelle at first light.”

“Oh, is that so?” Her tone was full of disappointment and longing.

“I believe he was headed to the Thirsty Lion. He was sure to make mention of that in case anyone needed to speak with him before he lifted anchor.”

“Did he mention anyone specifically?”

“Of course not, that would be improper, would it not, Mother?” She kissed her son on the forehead, standing up and rushing to the door. “Mother.” She turned back to face him. “Wear the green cloak, it matches your eyes, and is less recognizable in public than the gold frock you tried to hide in when I tracked you.”

~*~

Killian watched as Henry stepped away into the stairwell, the large metal door slamming shut in slow motion.

“Shit.” Killian ran for the door, tugging on the handle but it wouldn’t budge. “Sneaky little bugger, he’s locked us out.”

“What? Are you kidding me?”

“I can assure you, love; it won’t budge.” Emma pushed past him and yanked on the handle.

“Oh, he’s grounded for a month!” She screeched as she kicked the door with her foot and Killian couldn’t stop the laugh escaping his mouth. She turned quickly. “Do you think this is funny?”

“Of course not, but I hardly think the punishment fits the crime.”

“He locked us on the rooftop because he thinks we are running away from true love. You realize that’s ridiculous, don’t you? There’s no such thing as true love, you find someone you don’t want to kill, and you hope for the best.”

He couldn’t hold in the sad laugh at her comment. Their eyes locked and Killian swallowed, his throat suddenly feeling dry. The boy did have an active imagination, that he was sure of since the literacy fair. However, his assessment that Killian was running wasn’t exactly a lie.

“Aye, I admit that the boy has a flair for the dramatics, however he makes a fair point, at least on my account.” Her eyes widened.

“You’re not telling me that you agree with him?”

“I didn’t say that Swan. I’m just saying that he makes a fair point. I’ve hurt more people than I care to admit in my quest to escape my past, Belle included.”

“I don’t understand, what are you escaping from?” She paused, horror framing her face. “Oh God, you aren’t a serial killer are you?”

“Bloody hell woman, you immediately jump to serial killer. The boy isn’t kidding, you do have trust issues.”

“He told you I have trust issues?”

Killian rolled his eyes. “Is he wrong?”

“No, but that’s not the point.” She pouted angrily.

Killian paced his spot on the roof, watching the woman seated in front of him. He was in dangerous waters here; he knew that opening up to her could lead to ramifications for their friendship. He wasn’t sure he could afford to lose both Emma and Henry in his life. However, not talking to her could also drastically change things anyway.

“I’m not a serial Killer, Swan, so you can stop planning your escape.” He sighed and sat down next to her. “However, I’m not proud of my past. My previous relationship was the definition of muddy waters at best.”

“I was married to a man who took me clubbing on our first date only to come back and rob it later that night. Trust me, I get muddy waters.”

Killian narrowed his eyes; this Neal character was dumber than he thought. “Perhaps you do.”

“We all do stupid shit; it doesn’t mean we are bad people.”

He took a deep breath, “I dated a woman while I was in the Navy. Milah. I was consumed with her the moment I laid eyes on her at the bar. She had the mouth of a sailor, the body of a goddess, and I swore she knew me more than I knew myself.” Emma squirmed in her seat beside him. “I fell in love with her the way most people do, feet first with my eyes closed. I gave her everything I had, my entire soul.”

“Is she the reason you moved to Boston?”

“Aye, though I wouldn’t call it a move, more of an escape. I intended to ask her to marry me. Liam didn’t approve, he felt she would not live up to my mother’s expectation for her son, he refused to give me his blessing, or my mother’s ring, but it didn’t deter me. She was my world.”

“So, you asked her anyway?”

He nodded. “It was the happiest day of my life, and sadly the day my entire world exploded around me.” He paused. “Milah was unable to accept my proposal, because she was already married.”

“Oh wow, that’s... I’m sorry.”

“I wish that was where the tale ended, however I’m ashamed to say that my part in the story continued.” He hung his head, taking his eyes off her. “As I said, she was my world, and I could not let her go. My brother always told me that a man unwilling to fight for what he wants, deserves what he gets.” He laughed. “I never stopped to question if what I was fighting for was worthy of my time and effort.”

“You wanted her to leave her husband?”

“Aye, she told me she was going to leave him, he was abusive, and things escalated. Many nights I spent cleaning her up, tending to her wounds, begging her not to go back to him. She always told me it was the last time, I would send her home to pack her things and return to me. But she never did.” He laughed. “I was a fool. I should have ended it, walked away. But the last night was worse than anything he had ever done. He had broken her arm, threatened to kill her. It was the last straw. I went after him, gave him an ass beating he won’t soon forget.”

Emma gasped beside him. “It sounds like he deserved it.”

He chuckled. “I got arrested for assault and battery. Turns out her husband was an up-and-coming politician.”

“But what about his wife, surely there was evidence to prove she was being battered?”

“It was her word against mine.” He said sadly.

“What? She lied?”

“She told the police I was a jealous ex-lover, and that she had begged me to leave her alone. I went to jail for a time and when I was released, I had been dishonorably discharged from the Navy. Everything I had built and dreamed of since I was a child was gone.”

“Killian that’s terrible. But that hardly sounds like you were the bad guy.”

He sat up in his chair, “Perhaps not, but I knew I brought this on myself. I allowed Milah to continue to cheat on her husband, I should have stopped it. I should have walked away. I deserved the punishment I got.”

“And I made you do it again when I kissed you while I was dating Graham.” She said sadly.

“I couldn’t allow anything to progress with us, no matter how much I wished it.”

“You wished for it?”

“Aye, but after Milah, I got shit faced and made a promise to my brother that I would never have a relationship with a woman again.”

“But you were just dating Belle.”

“Belle and I were merely existing. I never called her my girlfriend, a fact that I believe hurt her more than I could comprehend. Belle is a good woman and someone I consider a cherished friend. She deserved better than me.”

“So, you’re just going to keep running from feeling anything because of a drunken promise after making a mistake?”

“Can I ask you something, Emma?”

“Interesting, asking a question to avoid answering one.”

Killian pushed forward. “Why did you turn down Graham’s proposal?”

She frowned. “Guess I didn’t feel like getting married again, seemed like a lot of work.”

“I just told you the thing I am most fearful of people learning about me and you return the favor by being less than honest in your answer.”

“What do you want me to say?”

“Try the truth. Why does your boy think you are running?”

“Why does Henry think anything? He has an active imagination.” Killian rolled his eyes. “Ok fine, you want the truth? Graham was a good guy, he treated me well, he was good to Henry. I could have married him and let him take care of me for the rest of our lives.”

“And you think that’s a bad thing?”

“Of course not, but he didn’t make me feel anything. I loved him but I wasn’t in love with him. I just wanted to feel alive, desired, wanted.”

“So, you kissed me?”

“You make it sound like I was using you. I wasn’t. I kissed you because I wanted to. Because you scare me. You make me feel things I’ve never felt before.”

“Scaring a woman hardly sounds like a good thing.” He laughed.

“When I was younger, I was a different person. I wanted adventure, excitement. I was the type of person who wanted to get up at 3am, take a boat out into the middle of the ocean, and watch the sun come up. I took trips without even knowing where I was going. I was 18 years old when I met Neal, we ran hard and fast and we almost destroyed each other. We were married and divorced before I even knew who he was. By the time I figured it out, Henry came. And then I had responsibilities and someone else depending on me.”

Killian watched her face, imagining what Emma must have been like back then. She would have been the type of woman he would have fallen for in a heartbeat. Perhaps if they had met back then, neither of them would have gone through what they did.

“I started playing things safe. My ex, Walsh, was a banker, you couldn’t get more boring than him if you tried. And then there was Graham, I’ve known him since I was a child, he was a friend, a security guard who took care of old people.” She laughed.

“And then one day, this man in a leather jacket rode up on his bike, I could practically smell danger and adventure and excitement from the moment I met you.” Her eyes never left his as she spoke. “And I was ok just fantasizing about it because I don’t date men like you. But then you went and did the most aggravating thing anyone could have ever done.”

He couldn’t stop the smirk. “What’s that, love?”

“This man who was supposed to be dangerous and terrifying became friends with my eleven-year-old son.”

“He’s friends with Will too, love, I fail to see how that’s aggravating.”

“Will doesn’t count. He’s been my best friend since before I even realized what boys were. But you…you became friends with Henry because you wanted to. And it was aggravating because you did it without even trying to get into my pants. You just hung out with him. Despite my protests, my distrust, even though you had no reason at all to even pay him the time of day, you talked to him like he was a human who deserved an audience.”

“Perhaps I’m missing the point.” He said with a chuckle.

“Dangerous men don’t become friends with my son. They don’t listen to him when he’s having a bad day. They don’t show up at his literacy fair to watch him recite a poem that he wrote about him and his mother.”

“Why Swan, are you saying that you are the Princess, and I am the Pirate from Henry’s tale?” He teased with a grin.

“Stop it, you already knew as much.”

“I had my suspicions, yes.”

“That’s my point, even after all that, you still hung around. You babysat him, I mean you almost set my house on fire doing so, but, even after Henry faked being sick just so I would end my date early with Graham, you still stayed.” She shook her head. “You let him come to your house to play with your dog every night before he went to bed, you eat my food, and you never complain that it’s burned…” She closed her eyes, words almost coming out in a whisper, “and sometimes I catch you looking at me and it takes my breath away.”

Without even thinking, he reached out, his thumb tracing a line against her cheek. “Sometimes, when I look at you, I swear my heart is going to pound out of my chest and everything around me ceases to exist. Because all I see is you.”

Her eyes opened, locking with his, and in a single heartbeat, she was in his arms, her lips crashing against his mouth, and the world stopped.

[geekgirles]

Look Me in the Eye

Whelp, it’s officially Novmeber 27th here where I live, so... HAPPY BIRTHDAY @tipolover22!!!! LOVE YA TO BITS AND I HOPE YOU ENJOY THIS LITTLE SOMETHING!

READ ON AO3

“A retelling of ‘Eye’ll Be Watching You’ set in the Betrothed AU.”

It all started just like any other day. Poppy was showing Branch around her kingdom as she promised to do once she learned that, apparently, her father had only shown her husband what he’d seen fit for his plans and training. In other words, only anything that could be related to safety procedures. Everything else had been temporarily shut down until her subjects were in the advanced stages of their training.

But now the time had finally come. Her people were almost ready to defend themselves without the prince and his men’s help. And now that they had finally become two sickening sweethearts —like she’d always dreamed of being with whoever troll she’d end up marrying—, it was high time her dear husband learned of the wildest side of Rainbow troll fun.

At first Branch was hesitant. Whatever Poppy had planned had planted the seed of doubt deep inside his chest. In all fairness, it could have very well been because she refused to tell him what it was since it was a surprise. And while his adorable wife was incredibly thoughtful and a master at surprising people, he still did not like surprises.

Only when he was the one giving them.

And 9 out of 10 times when it was Poppy he was trying to surprise.

When they finally made it to the course race of the Flyer Riding event, his mind was conflicted. On the one hand, he could feel the anxiety spiking in his heart because Flyer Riding could be extremely dangerous if one didn’t have the proper safety equipment, which of course the Rainbow Trolls, being easy-going, fun-loving creatures, did not have. And on the other, those bugs were very promising steeds their subjects could use since there weren’t many hummingbirds in the Valley.

Hummingbirds had to be the only friendly critter that was scarcer in the Valley than in the Forest.

Despite his —countless— worries, everything seemed to be going alright. After all, as unexpected as it was to a Forest troll, Rainbow trolls were seasoned pilots when it came to Flyer Bugs. Poppy even made a point to remind him that too much safety could be smothering before flying off with her very own steed.

For a few, glorious minutes Branch couldn’t do anything else but gaze lovingly at the pink beauty he married. There she was, flying with a confidence and ease most of his soldiers would’ve been envious of when they were learning to fly their hummingbirds. And she did it so beautifully, too. The wind caressed her silky, magenta locks as it carried the melodious sound of her laughter, and for a moment, he was jealous of the wind. The sun hit her skin just right, giving it a rich pink hue. And her face was the pure definition of excitement. Just from a glance, one could feel the adrenaline coursing through their own veins, very much like she was experiencing at the moment.

Yeah, that gorgeous, brave and charming princess was his wife, and he didn’t know what he’d do if he lost her.

But, of course, he had to jinx himself.

Everything happened so fast he barely had time to register it.

At the same time as Poppy was trying one of her signature moves she’d learned a few summers ago from Vanessa Heitz, Aspen Heitz’s late sister, Suki, who was on her free day, collided with her in a moment of uncharacteristic irresponsibility. And while Suki managed to regain balance on her bug, Poppy wasn’t so lucky. She plummeted to the ground, her terrified screams promising to hunt Branch in his nightmares until his last breath. But the second most terrifying thing was that Branch could only watch as it all happened right before his very eyes, the scene before him so shocking it paralysed him completely.

But the most terrifying thing was, without a doubt, the few agonising moments where he thought he’d lost his wife forever. As she fell, he could see his entire life flash before his eyes. It was said that such thing could only happen to the person whose life was in danger, but in all honesty, if Poppy didn’t make it, Branch’s own life was as well as over.

His heart was pumping so wildly it could’ve shot off of his chest at any time. Dread overflowing him, he hastily peaked his head from the cliff he stood from to catch a glance of his wife, “Poppy!” he cried.

From his vantage point he could see a mass of trolls circling around Poppy’s form. Her eyes were close, and he begged to all things above him that she was just unconscious. With dread as his only motivation, he strode down to where his wife lay, kneeling by her side, her hand in his, “Somebody call Doctor Plum Plimsy, quick!”

The trolls around him could only gasp in astonishment. In all the months the Forest Prince had lived with them, his voice had never hold such fear. The pain inside him so overwhelming it manifested in the form of his breaking voice. It was such a stark contrast to the stoic, collected leader who worked so well under pressure they’d come to know, that it rendered them speechless. And to Branch’s frustration, motionless.

“Are you deaf?! We need Dr Plimsy, pronto!” he bellowed.

“Branch, she’s with me! She’s here!” Smidge said. True to her word, the purple troll with band-aits adorning her neon green hair was right behind her.

Dr Plimsy kneeled down beside Poppy, opposite from the princess’ distressed husband. “Your Highness, please, if you would be so kind to tell me what happened.”

“Poppy was riding her Flyer Bug when she collided with Suki. She lost control of her steed and came plummeting to the ground, hitting a few leaves and branches in the process.” He recounted, his hand never letting go of Poppy’s. “Please, Dr, will she be OK?”

The purple troll took a deep breath, “I must figure out what the trouble is first, Your Highness.” She then proceeded to examine Poppy, gently touching and rubbing the areas that seemed to have taken the worst of the fall. When she rubbed the princess’ ankle, Poppy finally stirred.

Relief washed over him in waves when he saw her eyes opening. And he could have cried of joy the moment he heard her voice. “B-Branch…? Wha-what happened?”

Branch was about to answer when he felt Dr Plum’s hand on his shoulder, interrupting him. “You fell and sprained your ankle, Poppy. But let’s take you to your room so I can examine it further just to make sure.” She then turned to Smidge, “Smidge, could you please help me lift her up so we can take her to the Castle-pod?”

Smidge did as she was told, but before the green-haired troll could reach them, Branch addressed her, “Dr Plum, shouldn’t I accompany my wife? She just had such a nasty fall that I…” I thought I was going to lose her, that thought was so horrifying, Branch didn’t even want to say it aloud.

Fortunately for him, the lab coat clad troll spoke first. “Your Highness, I believe it is best if I make sure Poppy has just sprained her ankle, and I will work better if it is just her and me in your room.” Seeing his anxious expression, she added, smiling softly, “But you’re free to spend as much time with her as you want once she’s all patched up. I know how much she’ll appreciate having you near.” After patting his back gently, she made her way to where Smidge was waiting for her, a disoriented Poppy leaning on the teaspoon troll’s shoulder.

As the three girls became spots in the distance, Branch’s expression hardened. “Commander, we have got to talk.”

.......................................................................................................................

Inside the Castle-pod, in the hall that led to the Royal couple’s bedroom, a furious Branch was pacing in front of Suki, her head hung low in shame. If she hadn’t known she was in trouble the moment she crushed into Poppy’s bug, she was well aware of it the moment Branch called her ‘Commander.’ He hadn’t called her by her military title ever since Poppy started help him to lower his guard, and even before that he only really called her like that in the Forest when they were on duty or the circumstances were serious.

Just like now.

“I just don’t understand!” Branch ranted, just like he’d been doing for the last half hour. “How could you be so irresponsible as to not look where you were going?! And while you were flying, no less!” The grey troll was so far gone in his own rage and bewilderment, he still hadn’t moved on from asking that same question. But it was surreal! The whole situation didn’t make sense! Suki had been so reckless she didn’t pay attention to where she was going, which could have resulted in Poppy getting gravely hurt… He could have expected that kind of behaviour from Mulberry, or Fiona and Finnick, but Suki?! “Do you have any idea what could have happened?! Poppy could’ve-!”

“Branch, enough!” Under any other circumstances, the DJ would’ve never raised her voice at her Prince when he was scolding her for something that was her fault. But he went too far, acting like she wouldn’t be shaken too if something serious had happened to Poppy. “I know what I did was one of the most stupid things I have ever done, but you don’t get to treat me like I’m not perfectly aware of it either!” She was so stressed out, she could feel the tears in her eyes threatening to spill. “I know you could have lost the love of your life, but I…” she pointed at herself, her eyes red from unshed tears and her teeth gritted from helplessness, “I could’ve killed my best friend. So you don’t have to beat me up about it; I’m doing a fine job at it myself.” And with that, she hurried down the halls, her hands desperately trying to hold back the cries coming from her throat.

Branch looked down in shame. While it was undeniable Suki had been too reckless, she was right in being angry at him. He was being too selfish. Even if the both of them were clearly shaken for what could’ve happened, it was Suki who would’ve had to live with the guilt, not him.

He made a mental note to apologise to her as soon as he’d checked on Poppy.

At that moment, Dr Plimsy exited the room. “Just as I thought, just a sprained ankle. She just needs a few days of rest and to keep her foot high while she’s in bed.” She gave him a coy, knowing smile. “You can go see her, Your Highness.”

Branch was convinced he’d never moved so fast in his life, but he had to see her. He just had to see her smile. After the absolute terror he’d experienced not long ago, he was sure he would die if he couldn’t enjoy her radiant smile again. He needed it like oxygen.

Lying on bed, with her right ankle high, was Poppy. And the moment she saw him enter the room, she breathed air into his lungs. She smiled at him. Even when she was weary from what had soon become a very long day, she still found the time to gift him with the object of the sun’s envy. He couldn’t believe how lucky he was to have her in his life.

“Hey, honey. Are you OK- Branch?!”

He fell to his knees beside the mattress, startling his darling. Taking her hands in both of his, he started peppering them with desperate kisses, he could already feel the moisture in his eyes. Finally, he choked out, “I am now.”

Poppy couldn’t take it anymore, she hated to see him sad, especially because of her, so she did what she knew best; she brought him into a hug. “Oh, Branch!” She began to gently stroke his hair to calm him down, just the way he liked it. “Oh, honey, I’m so, so sorry I worried you like that! But I’m fine! …Well, mostly… But really, there’s nothing to worry about, I’m safe.” He didn’t answer, just held her tighter. Knowing it would take a while for Branch to calm down from such a scare, she just hummed appreciatively and returned his embrace with the same intensity and love as he offered.

But Branch’s mind was made up. That one had been way too close for his liking. He could take many things as the king-to-be of two nations, but losing the love of his life was something that would certainly end him. If there was anybody he wanted to keep safe at all costs, that was Poppy. He would do anything in his power to keep his wife by his side.

And he knew just what he had to do.

.........................................................................................................................

Walking down the tunnels of the bunker he and his men had been digging for months ever since they arrived at the Valley Kingdom —the very same bunker he still hadn’t shown to his wife, who was sure to kill him for making her wait for so long—, Branch approached the fortified door that hid away the key element of his plan.

Guarding said doors were the siblings Arum and Mulberry. Any other day, Branch would’ve made a point to let them know they had better behave and not argue while they were on duty. But today he just had one goal in mind: retrieve one of the items behind that door and make sure no one ever got hurt on his watch again.

“Mulberry,” he called the yellow troll, “open the vault.”

Mulberry nodded before he began unlocking the door. While he was putting the codes and turning the keys, he asked, “How’s Poppy?” Suddenly, someone smacked him on the back of his head. “Ow! Why’d you do that for?!”

Arum sent him a glare, “Because you’re on duty, so stop socialising!” While that was what she said with her words, with her eyes she was trying to let him know that he should have a little more tact when speaking about the princess before their leader.

But of course, Mulberry was never good at taking a hint. “Well, excuse me! Maybe you’ve only socialised with Cybil since we got here, but I happen to be friends with Poppy! I’m worried about her, OK?!”

Arum felt like face-palming herself. Even though the idea of face-punching her brother sounded much more appealing at the moment. But before she could sock the idiot she had the misfortune of being related to, Branch spoke up. “She’s doing OK; just a sprained ankle. She should be fine in a few days.”

Arum almost let out the breath she was holding when she saw their prince wasn’t going to try to kill her brother for being an insensitive idiot. Again. Mulberry wasn’t quite the same ever since the Valentine’s Day scare…

“Well, I’m glad. From what I’ve heard, that sure was one nasty fall…” OK, nevermind! The idiot wanted to die, so she would grant him his wish. By the time he said this, Mulberry had finished opening the vault. He stepped aside to let Branch in.

Again, Branch only sighed. “Yes, it was. Despite our best efforts, the Valley has proved itself to be a challenge time and time again, and after what happened yesterday…” he shook his head, he didn’t even want to think about it. “I am initiating Plan Five Delta Zero.”

Arum and Mulberry gasped. Plan Five Delta Zero was so extreme they agreed on using it only on desperate circumstances, like finding out there was an impostor or a spy in their midst. “Branch?” The prince turned his head slightly to Mulberry, humming a little to let him know he’d heard him, “Are you sure we wouldn’t be going overboard? I mean, compared to us, the Rainbow trolls aren’t as-.”

“Well-prepared? Cautious? Ready for anything?” Arum suggested.

“I was going to say paranoid, but sure, that works, too.”

“Mulberry, we’ve been too lenient lately.” Branch said, his back turned to his soldiers as he scanned the room, trying to find what he was looking for. “Believe it or not, Poppy’s accident was because Suki was too reckless when flying her bug.” Again, the siblings could only gasp. “Had we all been in top shape, their bugs wouldn’t have even brushed against each other. So, no. I’m not taking any chances.”

Finally, he spotted what he’d come for. In the far corner of the room, resting on a shelf was a little bag. He used his hair to pick it up before going back the way he came from, leaving behind too flabbergasted trolls.

“…I am so making fun of Suki for being the reckless one for once… Ow! Would you care to stop that?!” This time, Arum had punched him on the arm.

.............................................................................................................................

Poppy lay in bed, sleeping soundly. Normally she would hate not being active, which is why she hated training so much when they first started —well, that and because her husband was one Hair of a smug little motherhugger about it back then—, but now that she was recovering from her sprained ankle, she could welcome a few extra hours of rest.

If only her husband were there to cuddle with her…

In her semi-unconscious state, she felt the weight of the mattress shift. She smiled, it looked like her wish had come true. “Hello there, handsome…” She said groggily as she turned around to face Branch, “How’s it going-what in the name of everything trolly is that?!” When she opened her eyes, instead of her husband’s handsome features, she was greeted by one big, bulging eye. She was so spooked she jumped out of bed. But before her face could meet the floor, the thing’s arms —wait, were those arms, or were they leaves? Arm-leaves? — wrapped around her and tugged her safely in bed once again.

“Poppy,” Branch’s voice caught her attention, “meet the Eyestalk. These little guys are my people’s ultimate form of surveillance.” He sat on his side of the bed, right next to her, and gently began to stroke the back of her hand with his thumb. “I was thinking about using them in the kingdom. That way we can avoid any more unfortunate accidents.”

Poppy made a face. “Branch, I know you just want to keep everyone safe, but don’t you think this might be a bit much?”

“Actually, I think I was settling for too little before.” He took a deep breath and squeezed her hand just a little tighter. “If we’d been more on guard yesterday, you wouldn’t have fallen. You scared me to death for a moment there, Poppy. I can live without a lot of things, but I can’t live without you. And I don’t want any more of your trolls going through the excruciating pain of losing someone dear when it could’ve been avoided.” He looked her dead in the eye, his expression so vulnerable she felt her heart constricting in empathy for the troll she loved. “Please, Poppy, let me introduce the Eyestalks to the kingdom.”

His words held so much emotion, he almost moved her to tears. Even to this day she still couldn’t believe how much Branch loved her. It was so wonderful knowing somebody cared about her more than anyone else in the world… Still, she was Acting Queen and needed to think about her trolls and their reaction to those creepy plants.

“Branch, this could be such a great idea, I mean it!” Branch’s grin widened at her words. “But…” and then it fell, “it would also be a huge change for us, Rainbow trolls. We’re not used to such things, it could become very invasive very quickly. How about I get acquaintanced with this… little fella… first and then I tell you if it’d be a good idea to plant some more?”

Though he was a bit disappointed that things didn’t go his way, Poppy was taking her role as Acting Queen very seriously, and she offered a very good compromise. He could wait a little. “Deal.”

............................................................................................................................

Now that he’d agreed on giving Poppy some time to reflect on the use of Eyestalks in her kingdom, Branch knew he had some matters to take care of. After talking a little with Poppy about their day so far —although she insisted on listening mostly to his because, as she put it, “Branch, I am confined to our bed. There’s literally nothing going on for me.”—, he told her he had to go, much to their mutual disappointment, but promised some extra cuddles for the next day.

He was following the path to one particular pod. One he didn’t really visit often but that the troll he was looking for certainly did. But as he was making his way to the twins’ pod, a troll riding a Flyer Bug passed by him, missing him by a hair. The troll in question yelled a quick “Sorry, Your Highness!” before focusing again on flying.

That troll caught Branch’s attention. Now wherever he looked, all he could see where trolls acting recklessly on their bugs. Hadn’t they learned anything from the previous day’s events?

The more trolls flew around, carelessly doing tricks and antics that could cost them greatly, the more anxious Branch grew. His eyes kept darting from one troll to another, one wrong movement shy from disaster to another. He couldn’t take it anymore. He knew he’d promised Poppy he’d wait for her verdict, but this was for everyone’s sake. She would thank him later.

Using his hair to swing from one branch to another, the grey troll landed on top of a particularly big mushroom, took the bag containing the Eyestalk seeds out, and planted one on top of the platform. Immediately, it grew, and declaring danger with its nasal little voice, it extended its vines to carefully tie the Flyer Bugs around it until the plant deemed the activity safe.

“Don’t worry, everyone!” Branch tried to reassure the now bored trolls. “You’re all safe now.”

He was about to resume his previous walk when the Eyestalk stopped him dead in his tracks. “Danger!” It said while pointing somewhere else with its one eye.

Intrigued, Branch took a look at the direction the Eyestalk was pointing at. When he registered what the plant was trying to warn him about, a knowing smile appeared on his face. “Ah, so you want to solve that too, right? Well, little buddy, you read my mind.”

And so, Branch spent the best part of the morning planting Eyestalk after Eyestalk in places where potential dangers could take place. Such as the Jumping Mushrooms, or Cooper’s cupcake stand, or Guy and Biggie’s “fencing.”

“Well, that should do it.” He declared proudly. With that taken care of, he finally went back the way he came from. He still had some important matters to discuss with one particular troll.

Unfortunately, he failed to see the Eyestalks’ ambition growing, as well as their cunning…

..............................................................................................................................

When he finally made it to the unusually big pod that held the Fashion Twins’ shop, he tried to compose himself. What he came to do wasn’t going to be easy, but it needed to be done. He knocked on the hairy wall a few times when he arrived at the entrance. Satin was the one to greet him. “Oh! Hi, Branch! How’s Poppy?” she asked, worried about her best friend.

“She’s fine, just needs to rest her ankle a little.” He tried to sneak a peek from over the fashionista’s shoulder. “Can I come in?”

Satin looked hesitant. “Um… I don’t think it’s a good idea, actually. Suki’s in there and she’s told Chenille all about your little spat yesterday.”

“So you’re saying Suki doesn’t want to see me?”

“Well…yeah.” She gave him a sheepish smile. “But mostly I’m saying Chenille’s livid at you for talking to Suki like that. So unless you want to lose your royal jewels, I’d stay away if I were you.”

Branch gulped, who knew Rainbow trolls could be this vicious? But then again, the time Poppy told him off for his behaviour she’d also been a force to be reckoned with. So maybe it shouldn’t have come off as surprising. But he had to see Suki. “Satin, please. I know I was out of line yesterday, that’s what I came here for.”

Satin was about to retort when a voice coming from inside interrupted her, “Let him in, Satin.”

Branch and Satin turned their heads to see Suki, arms intertwined with Chenille’s (who looked like she was trying to hold back from glaring at her future king). Suki, in turn, turned her head to her fiancée, “Can you guys leave us alone for a while? We need to talk.”

“Are you sure?” Chenille asked, clearly worried for her mate.

Suki nodded before giving her a reassuring smile, “Positive.”

“OK.” And with that the twins left them alone inside the pod.

Suki and Branch looked like they were uncomfortable in each other’s presence. Something that hadn’t taken place ever since Suki’s first few months at the Forest. Each of them opened and closed their mouths a few times, before realising they were looking at each other’s eyes and promptly avoiding all eye contact.

Just when Branch had gathered enough courage to speak up, Suki beat him to it. “Look, Branch…” She took a deep breath, “I’m sorry I yelled at you. You’re my prince, I should’ve never done that.” She averted her eyes again, obviously ashamed, “…especially when you were right; I put Poppy in danger. And I know that you were also in very bad shape after the accident. I know that it takes you so long to let people in because your greatest fear is losing them forever. And considering I have never seen you so in love with anyone before, I could always tell from a mile away that Poppy means the world to you.” She finally looked him into the eye again, “Branch, I’m-.”

“I’m really sorry, Suki.”

The Commander’s eyes widened. “Wait, what? You’re sorry?!” She couldn’t believe it! “Branch, I’m the one who acted recklessly and put your wife’s life in danger, not the other way around!”

Branch chuckled lightly. “I know,” he shrugged nonchalantly, “but you were right too, Suki. I shouldn’t have snapped at you like I did. I’m ashamed to admit it, but I think I took all the day’s stress out on you, and that was unfair of me.” He rested one hand on her shoulder, making her look at him. “Suki, you were too reckless for what I’m used of you, that’s true. But you had a point; while I would’ve been devastated had anything happened to Poppy, you would have had to live with the guilt.” He chuckled again, confusing her. Couldn’t he read a room? This was not the sort of subject that elicited a chuckle. “And you and I know that Poppy is unknowingly good at making guilt feel even worse because of her sunny, forgiving nature.” He would be lying if he said he didn’t feel a pang of regret now and then (or every day, really) when she offered him her love and he remembered how cold he’d been to her during their first months together.

“I guess what I’m trying to say is, I forgive you. Can you forgive me, too?”

She smiled, “Of course I do, my prince.”

Now that the air had been cleared between them, Suki felt confident enough to sass him. Crossing her arms and aiming a smirk at his direction, she dared to ask, “So, what’cha been up to? Couldn’t stay away from your wife to come see me sooner?”

Branch actually laughed at that. “No, I was actually planting some Eyestalks on my way here. You could say I got distracted.”

Suki’s eyes were as wide as saucers at the revelation, “Wait, are you saying you’ve set Plan Five Delta Zero in motion?”

“Yes, after what happened yesterday, it was necessary.”

“And Poppy’s OK with this? I dunno, Branch… Such a surveillance system is a huge change in the Valley’s lifestyle. I mean, even in the Forest Kingdom we only use it on very extreme cases… And-, why are you looking at me like that?” When realisation hit her, she gasped. “Oh, Branch! You didn’t!”

The moment Suki mentioned Poppy’s opinion on the Eyestalks, Branch started sweating bullets. “Suki, don’t worry! I mean, sure, Poppy asked me to give her a little time to think things through, but the moment she sees what the Eyestalks can do for the kingdom, she’ll be totally on board with it!”

Suki wasn’t so convinced, “Are you sure about that? ‘Cause it can either go your way, or it can make Poppy think you’ve been stepping on her toes.” She tapped her fingers on her chin in a contemplative manner, “And now that I think about it, as Acting Queen, she’s higher up in the hierarchy than you Branch, and you should know better than anyone what if feels like to be ignored even when you have the last say in something.”

Branch waved it off, “Suki, relax. I know what I’m doing. And Poppy just wants what’s best for her kingdom. Trust me, the moment she sees what those babies can do, she’ll agree with me. Anyway, I gotta go back to her, it’s almost lunch. See you around!”

As Branch’s form retreated in the distance, the DJ’s gut told her not to be so sure about what her prince promised. “You’d better be right, Branch. For your own sake.”

...........................................................................................................................

Branch was walking down the Castle-pod’s countless halls, making his way back to his and Poppy’s pod-room, a skip in his step due to how productive the day had turned out to be. “The moment Poppy sees how useful the Eyestalks are, she’s going to want them everywhere.” He optimistically thought to himself.

But just as he was rounding the corner to his room, a tray with their food in hand, a scream came out from inside. Hastily placing the tray on the floor, he ran towards the room where his wife was; he could recognise her screams anywhere. The day she’d almost been taken by a tarantapuff made sure to engrave the sound in his memory. He slammed the door open with a powerful kick…

Only to find his pink beauty wrestling with the Eyestalk he’d left with her.

“Listen up, you horticultural menace!” She cried out with an apparent note of frustration in her voice as she struggled against the plant’s vines. “The only ones I allow to lovingly tug me in are my father when I was a trolling and my husband when I’m having a bad day. And you’re neither! So if you step your boundaries one more time, so help me!”

Taking advantage of the plant’s fixation on his wife, Branch snuck behind it… And effectively took care of the problem by simply smacking and breaking the pot. He looked up at his wife, “You OK, Poppy?”

The pink princess let out a sigh of relief once she’d regained her breath. “Yeah, thank you.” She wiped the sweat in her brow away. “Boy, those things are crazy. I’m so glad we didn’t use them in the village.” She giggled.

The moment she said that, Branch started blushing furiously in embarrassment and turned his back on her so she wouldn’t see him. “Y-yeah! M-me, too!” He stuttered.

Poppy raised a suspicious eyebrow at him, “Why are you turning red?”

“O-oh!” He jumped at her question. He could still get his plan to work if he played his cards well. “I just remembered how much I love you, that’s all!”

Of course, he’d spent his whole life staying clear from bets and card games, so he was terrible gambler material. “Yeah…” Poppy drawled. “You gonna have to do better than that, Branch. ‘Cause you remembering how much you love me would imply that we could possibly forget, which you and I know it’s impossible.” She crossed her arms. “So you’d better spill: What’s. Going. On. Branch?” She made sure to enunciate every word slowly and clearly enough so he would get the point that lying to her was not the way to go.

Her husband tried to come up with a convincing enough story to stall her until he’d made sure what happened to her Eyestalk was just a fluke. Unfortunately, the moment his eyes landed on the broken pot with the dead plant, Poppy’s narrowed on him; her mind finally connecting the dots. She gasped. “Wait. Branch, did you use the Eyestalks in the village when I specifically told you not to?”

“W-well, yeah… But!” he put his hands up in defence, “…But they’re really useful Poppy! You’ll see, the kingdom’s never going to be safer than with these beauties.”

“Beauties?!” She all but screeched. “That thing basically put me under house arrest! It wouldn’t even let me go to the bathroom!”

The uncharacteristic scowl on her face as well as her exasperated tone indicated she was not in a good mood. But just as Branch was racking his brain to find something that would reassure her that everything was under control, she spat at him. “You know, Branch? For someone who’s been raised his whole life to respect hierarchies and protocol, you sure don’t give a cupcake when it applies to you.”

“What is that supposed to mean?”

“It means that I”, she pointed at herself, “am currently the Valley Kingdom’s Acting Queen, while you,” she was then pointing at him, “are my Prince Consort. According to your precious hierarchy, my decisions are above yours, and you should respect them!”

She was mad. Very, very mad. She was very, very mad at him. She was sure she’d never been this mad at him before. Not since she supposedly called him out on his behaviour on the Coming of Autumn Ball. But he’d crossed the line. It was one thing that they had different ways of looking after their subjects; that was what upbringing was for. But it was another thing entirely that he’d deliberately ignore his own kingdom’s teachings and her judgement on a matter that involved her kingdom.

She was so angry with him, she was sure she could’ve set her hair ablaze. But what he said next froze her to her very core.

“Look, Poppy. I know you were just trying to look out for your people, and that’s great! But really, when it comes to safety procedures, I’m the expert, so just leave it all to me. Just like I would leave party planning to you!”

For a moment, Poppy was completely motionless. His words repeating in her head on a loop. She was numb and disoriented from such a low blow... Until the numbness made way for the crushing weight of disappointment, accompanied by the freezing waves of sadness. Feelings that were sure to break her poor heart. Unconsciously, she gripped her sheets tighter, so tight her knuckles turned white. So that was what he thought of her? After all this time? He really saw her as a dumb pinkette, a funny but not very bright party girl who couldn’t take proper care of her trolls. After all they’d been through, he still thought she wasn’t good enough to rule. To him, she was still the lost child he scolded and belittled during his first months there. A child who clearly didn’t know anything about running a kingdom. He still treated her like an inconvenience, not a capable life partner who was worthy of being Queen by his side. Before she knew it, the tears were threatening to spill.

Worried from her lack of response, Branch tried to reach out a hand to her, “Poppy…?”

“I’m,” she tried to say, but the lump in her throat and the tears blurring her vision made it almost impossible, “I’m never gonna be good enough for you, am I?” She finally choked out.

The sound of his wife’s voice cracking and her tear-stained face immediately sent him into a panic. “What? Poppy, no! Y-you’re perfect for me!” He tried desperately to reason with her. “I just need you to trust me…”

“Trust?!” She screeched. He just put the last nail on the coffin. “You are talking to me about trust when it’s obvious you can’t trust my judgement?!” She let out a sardonic laugh. “That’s just rich!”

“Poppy, listen-“

“Get out.”

“What?”

“I said ‘get out’! I don’t want to see your face, you hear me?!”

The pink troll chose to ignore the pang of guilt she felt when she saw the hurt reflecting in his eyes; he wasn’t the one who’d just had a reality check that proved he’d never be someone she could count on. He wasn’t the one who’d just got two months of emotional abuse shoved back right in the face at full force.

But the plant lurking by the window didn’t choose to ignore how the troll their beloved prince claimed to care so much about just gave him the cold shoulder when he was just trying to help. It did choose, however, to get rid of the dangerous female once and for all…

............................................................................................................................

Still dumbfounded at how badly things had turned out, and hurt by Poppy’s words, Branch was stomping down the kingdom while grumbling to himself. “How could Poppy react like that? One little fluke and she just decided the Eyestalks aren’t good enough?” he rolled his eyes, “But of course, her father losing his mind was the sort of fluke she could totally ignore…” His eyes widened in shock when he registered his thoughts. He felt like slapping himself. Poppy was worried sick about her father and having a really hard time dealing with his condition. No matter how mad he might be, he should never use it against her.

Raising one hand, he rummaged through his hair until he found what he was looking for. When his eyes landed on the picture Biggie took of them during the cupcake fiasco from his birthday, he couldn’t help but tentatively stroke his wife’s laughing face. Seeing how happy they were even before confessing their feelings for one another always gave him hope that things between them would turn out OK. Funny how one little photo could bring him the hope he’d been missing for most of his life…

“I guess it’ll be best to let her cool down a little before bringing the Eyestalks up again…” he muttered quietly to himself. Before he knew it, he’d made it to the main square, but when his eyes landed on the scene before him, he stopped dead in his tracks. Wherever he looked, there were vines covering every inch of the place, trolls were being held against their will by the plants, and some of them were basically breathing down their necks about how they should live their lives. What had the plants done?

A familiar voice shook him away from his reverie. “Hi, Branch. Your friends like hugging, don’t they?” Biggie said from his vegetable confinement. Guy Diamond was as tied up as him. As if on cue, the vines started holding them tighter, almost cutting out their oxygen.

“We…loooooove…you…too!” The glitter troll choked out.

“What happened?” Branch asked in fright.

“Oh! W-we were just working on Guy’s fence w-when this weird plant, that seems to be everywhere now,” he muttered under his breath, but Branch’s enhanced hearing allowed him to make out the words, “came o-out of nowhere and s-started doing the job for us.” Biggie explained.

“Y-yeeeeah! And because we were s-suddenly free, we thought about t-taking a bath at the lake. But the moment I mentioned I hadn’t p-properly digested my lunch, the plant went craaaaazy! In the blink of an eye, there were dozens of them c-capturing trolls.” Guy finished in his auto-tuned voice.

“Sorry we couldn’t fight them off, but they caught us by surprise.” Biggie apologised.

“And where are my men?!” Branch was already trying to come up with a plan. If he assembled his men, together they could get rid of the plants. But there was one little problem: they were nowhere to be seen.

“Over here!”

When Branch turned around, he saw Suki, Mulberry, Arum, and Sap. They were captured as well. While Mulberry was upside down and blindfolded, Suki was glaring daggers at him.

“Oh, Sap! My darling!” Biggie cried, “Are you alright!?”

“I am, my love. Don’t worry. And you?”

“Better now that I know you’re safe.”

“Well, I wouldn’t exactly identify being held hostage by a safety-obsessed plant as ‘being safe’ but… Ow! Really, Arum? Even now?!” Somehow, his sister had managed to find a way to smack him even when the both were tied up. Muttering obscenities under his breath, the Sargent returned his focus to Branch. “Hate to say it, but told ya! The Valley was not ready for Plan Five Delta Zero. Hm…you know what? I don’t hate it at all! Feels good to be in the right for once.”

“And I can’t believe I’m saying this,” Suki said, “but I so agree with you, Mulberry.”

“OK, now this is just weird.” Arum muttered.

Suki decided to ignore the two siblings bickering to address her prince. “I warned you this could blow up in your face, but did you listen? Nooooo.” She rolled her eyes at him.

“Well, in all fairness, you warned me about the consequences this could bring to me and Poppy’s relationship. You never mentioned the plants could go rogue.” Branch tried to defend himself the best way he knew besides hand-to-hand combat; he used technicalities.

Suki merely hummed. “And how did that go?” The sight of Branch flinching was all she needed. “Yup. Told ya.”

“Look, never mind that. Because I’m going to put an end to this.”

“We’re afraid we can’t let you do that, Sire.”

The captured trolls’ eyes widened in shock, and Branch turned around just in time to witness how the Eyestalks had morphed themselves together into one giant plant with several eyes. Its voice a combination of the plants’ it was made of. “We have accomplished almost all our goals, Your Highness. The Valley Kingdom has never been safer!” They rejoiced.

“Why are you doing this?” Branch demanded to know, ready to unsheathe his sword.

“Why, because it is what you planted us for, of course!” They answered in their creepy monotone. "You wanted the kingdom to be safer, and that is exactly what we did. Are you not content with the result, Sire?” The plant seemed to be genuinely confused by their master’s disapproval of their actions.

“Of course not! You’re more of a danger to my subjects than anything that could come out of the forest!”

Despite Branch’s very specific outburst, the Eyestalks ignored his reasoning completely. “Oh, right! You are disappointed because we have not completed all our goals! But worry not, Sire. Our last objective is about to be met.”

For some reason, the grey troll had a bad feeling about that. “And that is?” He asked with caution.

“Why, to eliminate the pink menace who dare hurt you, your Highness!” Then it proceeded to play a scene where Poppy was being dragged through the floor by the all-seeing plants towards the mouth of a bigger, carnivore plant. “She is, by far, the biggest danger of all.”

Branch’s eyes widened in terror at the sight of his beloved about to be fed to the giant plant. She told him. She told him the Eyestalks were a bad idea that needed to be carefully thought through and he refused to listen, believing he knew which one was the best way to handle her kingdom. No wonder she was so upset. He’d unintentionally looked down on her and her leadership like he hadn’t done since the beginning of November. And now he was paying the price. He started all this because he didn’t want to risk losing her? Well, he was closer to losing her now than ever.

“Oh, my gah! Poppy was right, too much safety can be smothering! What have I done?” While he was on the verge of a full-scale panic attack, the distant sounds of Poppy’s screaming brought him back to reality. Right, he had to save her. He had to save her, and make everything right in the village, and apologise to Poppy for being an idiot. With a determined look in his eyes, Branch used his hair to swing from one branch to another, swiftly avoiding vine after vine. Landing on top of Cooper’s cupcake stand, he picked up a plater full of them and threw the tray at some of the Eyestalks that were coming his way, cutting their heads off with it. Just as he threw the plater away, he tossed the cupcakes that were on top of it inside his hair, and morphing it into a cannon, began shooting them at the safety-obsessed menace, effectively blinding them.

As he battled the vicious plant, there was but one thought running cross his mind, “I’m coming, Poppy.”

Poppy was rightfully terrified. First she had a Flyer Bug accident that forced her to go through several dreadful days of bedrest, and now she was about to be eaten by a glorified insecticide? This clearly wasn’t her week.

The worst part was that her sprained ankle made it impossible to fight back when the Eyestalks were first capturing her. She felt so useless… Maybe Branch was right and she didn’t know how to take care of her kingdom… Seeing how she was getting closer and closer to the carnivore plant’s gigantic mouth, she closed her eyes shut. Her biggest regrets were not living long enough to become the queen her people needed and deserved, and parting ways with Branch in bad terms. How she wished they could just be cuddling in bed, instead of being about to die.

She prepared herself for the upcoming crunch! she was sure to feel when the giant plant bit her, but instead she heard something being sliced. Right before a hand swoop her up and positioned her protectively behind a very strong body she knew very well. Hair, she wished she could hug that same body one last time just seconds ago! “Branch?” she gasped.

“Yeah, Poppy. It’s me.” He sent her a small smile before turning serious again. “Now stay behind me! I’m about to end this!”

She did as she was told and witnessed her husband unsheathe his sword. While she felt extremely uncomfortable around sharp objects that could injure others, she had to admit her husband was an expert swordsman. He moved with ease, blocking any attack that came his way and slicing any Eyestalk that was foolish enough to get too close. But after a while she could feel him growing anxious, his breathing shallow and his eyes darting to any direction.

“Branch, what’s wrong?” She gently put a hand on his shoulder.

“They’re cornering us, I’m running out of moves!” He panted. The Eyestalks took that moment of distraction to strip him of his sword, rightfully declaring it was a danger. Seeing no escape and understanding he’d brought it on himself for being too impulsive when trying to be cautious, Branch slumped his shoulders and sent a regretful look at his dear wife. She was the most important person in his life and he’d been enough of an idiot to endanger her.

“Poppy, you were right. I never should’ve acted before having your approval on the matter. I’m so sorry.”

The pink-haired troll smiled at him, tears already forming in the corners of her eyes. She threw herself at his arms and hugged him tightly. “You should be.” She broke the hug slightly to give him one last slow, passionate kiss on the lips. “I love you.” She whispered.

“I love you too.” He said back, hugging her just as tightly.

They awaited for their bitter end, but when it didn’t come, they both opened their eyes to see the Eyestalks weren’t responding. “Not…danger?” One of them asked.

“Yes!” Branch exclaimed. “She’s not dangerous! She loves me and I love her too! Sure, she hurt my feelings, but I hurt hers, too. And…she was right; too much safety can be smothering.”

Poppy could only smile at her husband. He admitted to her being right! She was so happy she could just kiss him all over again. But before she had a chance, she was interrupted by the Eyestalks malfunctioning, incapable of processing that there could be something as ‘too much safety.’

Soon, only one remained. “Awesome!” it chanted.

“Branch, look! This one seems to get it!”

“Yeah…” he wrapped his hair around his sword before pointing at the plant with it. “Well, better take care of it!”

“Wait!” His wife put a hand on his chest to stop him. “I think I have a better idea.”

...............................................................................................................................

The pod-room’s window was placed so Poppy and Branch could have a perfect view of the kingdom even from bed. Which was a good thing, considering the princess was still on bedrest and standing up would certainly tire her out. But they had a perfect view of the harmless Eyestalk, who was now directing the Flyer Bugs so there wouldn’t be more accidents, from where they lay.

“You were right, Poppy. That is the perfect way to keep the village safe.” Branch said as he put one arm around her shoulders before bringing her close to him.

“Told ya!” she giggled as she snuggled closer to his side.

“Yeah, you did…” he whispered, “Just like you told me too much safety could be smothering, and I ignored you…” he looked away, ashamed of himself.

“Aw, Branch… It’s OK. Sure, it was a very stupid mistake, but we all make those sometimes!” she wiggled her eyebrows at him in a playful manner. “Have you forgotten already about that time I ate a poisonous berry that turned me into this huge, round thing?”

That earned her a snicker from her husband. “Besides, I was too harsh on you. Sorry I yelled at you.”

“Sorry?” He asked, incredulous. “Poppy, I’m the one who’s sorry!” He used his free hand to point at himself. “I didn’t get it when we fought, but the moment I saw what the Eyestalks had turned into, it was crystal clear.” Gah, how he hated when Suki was right…”I stepped on your toes. As Acting Queen you decided to think things first before changing anything in the village, and I, as your husband, the troll who’s supposed to trust and support you more than anyone else, acted like I knew best…” He finished, the guilt apparent in his voice. “I’m truly sorry, Poppy.”

Poppy just sent him one of those radiant smiles that ignited a fire in his heart every time he saw them. Just what was life before this wonderful creature became a part of his world? “Thank you, Branch. That’s all I wanted to hear, a sincere apology.” She leaned in to give him a kiss on the cheek. “And I forgive you.” Feeling like he’d fallen even more for his pink beauty, the grey troll brought her into a sweet kiss. When they broke it, she snickered, “Though, gotta warn you! Another stunt like that and my most reliable troll will end up being Smidge! And you know she’ll physically fight you for that title!”

Branch burst out laughing at that. It was true, the teaspoon troll’s devotion to Poppy was deep enough to rival his, and he was her mate! “Then I sure hope it doesn’t come to that!” he joked, making Poppy giggle. With eyes full of love and a fast beating heart, he whispered, “I love you so much, Poppy.”

She smiled back at him, “I love you too, Branch.” Then she began getting comfortable in bed, “Now, c’mon! I believe someone owes me some extra cuddles!”

And the two drifted to a peaceful sleep in each other’s arms…

.............................................................................................................................

“The end!” A male glitter troll with watermelon pink skin and sparkling white hair said, closing a binder full of notes. “And with that it can be concluded that His Majesty, King Branch, didn’t always care for his wife the Queen as much as he was known for doing.”

A completely disinterested female glitter troll, who looked very much like her brother except for having bright red skin, simply rolled her eyes from where she was standing. “For the last time, Charles,” she said, exasperated. “How many times do I have to tell you to check your sources?! That is clearly not how the Eyestalk Crisis happened!” She walked to where he was, until their faces were barely a hair apart. “King Branch was hopelessly in love with Queen Poppy since day 1! Stop with your nonsense, already!”

“It’s not nonsense, Monique!” Charles retorted. ”Their Majesties didn’t always have the loving relationship they are known for today, and I can prove it!”

She sighed, “How?”                    

“Simple.” He grinned before holding out his binder for her to see. “Grandpa told me everything!”

Monique face-palmed herself. “And you believed him? Charles, Grandpa has a fondness for making up stories! You might as well have used Trollipedia and it would’ve been much more accurate!”

“Oh, yeah? And how do you explain the Mandolin Incident, huh?!”

Her brother would be the death of her and of the entire historian community. “For the last time! The mandolin wasn’t properly made, the princess got stabbed with a splinter and the prince, in an act of overprotectiveness over his dear wife, got rid of it for hurting her. Seriously, dude! Check your sources!”

Apparently, the truth behind Queen Poppy and King Branch’s marriage would be one of the best hidden secrets in Trolls history.

[mochikeiji]

Just Say Yes

↠ Pairing: Bokuto Koutarou x Akaashi Keiji

↠ Warning: Royal AU! Slight nsfw mentioned, angst to fluff, mention of death, Songfic! Love Story by: Taylor Swift

↬ Word Count: 2,235

Summary: In between saving your own kingdom and throwing away your freedom, wouldn't you rather run away and be free like all the birds you see fly from your window up in a palace? Would you dare take another's hand as they lead you to another chapter of your life? Or would you stay forever held against your will as young prince Akaashi Keiji?

⇢ Day 9: Royal AU @bokuakaweek2020

✎﹏

Being the only son meant a lot of responsibilities. Whether you grew up from the villages or up in the palace, it was always like that for the eldest and only child.

"You are to be married next week, Akaashi. Your bride is a true gem and will serve as our palace and cities security."

What more can be shouldered in the stoic males shoulder than being his own father's pawn to his own game.

Nothing truly mattered to the king other than his own entitlement and grounds. Having to force his own son take on more and more duties and him to sit down and watch as things unfolf according to his desire.

"I refuse, father. I do not want to single handedly marry someone whom I have never encountered nor have developed such feelings with. It is unfair."

If only his mother were here, she would've said the same thing to her husband. But upon the death of the kingdom's queen casted a dark void to their king. Leaving the poor prince to be his only way of letting all emotions out on such reckless demands.

"You will do as you are told. This is for the good of our people and our kingdom standing. Do you want to see all this fall out of your own selfish desire?"

Had his father have the nerve to talk about such topic.

A true hypocrite.

"No father."

"Then you are dismissed."

Despite the sadness now slowly forming into a dam that is yet to crack, Akaashi held his head high as he passes by the royal guards, bowing before him as he made his way up to his room, walking a bit faster as to know he was a ticking bomb.

When he shuts the wooden door behind him, he slouches down against it, unable to bottle up all the pent emotions years had held.

How he truly wishes he could trade anything to have his mother here holding him in her arms again. But he knows that not even the amount of golds and diamonds are enough to bring the dead back.

He lets his tear fall from the silver object that was wrapped around his finger. A cheap knock off ring that was on sale from the village not too long ago.

Recalling the time he had snuck out that night of an event held inside the palace. He couldn't help but feel overwhelmed from the surrounding of those who wished to have their boots kissed and princesses swarming around him just for his hand in marriage, he went out in full cloack and straight to the festival that was held in the village.

He could never understand why his father didn't want to invite these people inside their humongous ball room. They seemed more fun and outgoing than the ones in full boast of their attire. The chuldren held some kind of stick that was lit with fire sparkling from the tip, people dancing in some kind of folklore but jolly tune, and there were so many stalls of food he wasn't allowed to try!

But what really made that night more surreal was when he had stumbled upon a small bar. Deciding to take a break from all of his wonderings, he was lost in the sight of so many unfamiliar dish being told to him.

"You're not from here, are you?"

He can remember his face getting pale. It was risky to have the prince spotted outside the palace. His father's rules including, "If thy prince is to be found wondering out of the palace, return thee at once and you shall be given an award for escorting him safely."

That person grabbed his wrist and ran out of that bar. He thought he was done for but quickly surged into panic when they both ran into another direction that led underneath the bridge. Was he going to eat the dust now?

"Here, you should be safe here, your highness."

The man had sat down on the grass, placing the sack he had been carrying when they ran out beside him, opening it gingerly to reveal the amount of food he had brought.

"I don't mind sharing but," Akaashi flinches when his golden eyes were more prompt from the moonlight, giving him that kind of dangerous look in them, "I know for one thing the palace doesn't allow you to eat this. It might be rubbish for you, but dig in to whatever suits your likings!" grinning, Akaashi was baffled by his kindess. His father would tell him stories about the villagers and them being nothing but cruel and savages to one another. But he was different. Come to think of it, everyone he had his eyes on the village seemed too different from the stories.

"Um." he watches as he scarfs down a loaf of bread, dipping it into some kind of white substance thag had green litterings on them.

"Hm? Oh, you wanna try the bread? Its good when you dip it in sour cream." ripping half of his bread, he hands one gently on Akaashi's palm, sliding in the dipping he was talking about. He knelts on the ground in wary, before he gives his bread a little dip in the cream and nibbles on it.

Eyes sparkling a bit at the foreign taste, he dips it once more and this time takes a bigger bite. At this moment, he didn't realized he was already starving so much.

"Good right? You should try it with the potato, it's amazing."

He gulps on his meal, giving the kind man a smile, "Thank you, for being so kind to me, um.." he trails off bashfully when he was given another one of his captivating grin.

"Bokuto, Bokuto Koutarou at your service."

And from that day he had his first meal outside the palace. His first time to ever talk to someone outside the palace and spent the entire evening with.

The day he found love.

Since then, they both made a tradition. Once a week Bokuto would help him sneak out of the palace and out to the outskirts of town where they can enjoy some time alone and explore places Akaashi wishes he could see. And most of the time, Bokuto would make his way up from the tallest tree to meet up with him from the castles balcony below his room.

It was terrifying to get caught, but what made it worthwhile was Akaashi's happiness and both of their romance blooming to one another.

He smiles sadly as he raises his finger to his eye level. The ring he was given by Bokuto, the symbol of his undying love for him, next week to be replaced by some golden band and to be owned by someone whom he will never let in his already taken heart.

"Hey, Akaashi. Gimme your hand for a second."

Both males sat on their usual spot underneath the bridge outside of town. It had been their go to since no one comes out of night.

"Are you going to place your chin again, Bokuto?"

The last time he asked for this was when he wanted to tease the prince by placing his chin on his palm and whisper an I love you to him just to see his face bloom into a pretty shade of red.

"Nooo, this is something else, trust me. You'll like it!"

Sighing but smiles at him, he obliged to his request and places his hand onto his callused palm, awaiting for his next move.

"Atleast, I hope you'll like it."

He looks up to his golden eyes, taken back a little when he sees how flustered Bokuto has gotten before feeling a cold metalic like band slid on his finger.

"Is this?"

"It's plastic, I know." he scratches the back of his head as Akaashi stares in awe at the ring, "It's not really something that should be given to someone who's from the royal palace, but I promise you this will change into a gold one soon one day."

Akaashi's cheeks flushed. Was this a pre proposal?

"Here," Bokuto shows him his hand, "I have the same one as you. This'll be our promise ring together."

The amount of love Akaashi can feel in his chest was starting to swell it made his eyes a bit teary. Yet for some reason he couldn't help but smile widely at the thought of getting away from his palace and start a new life with someone who he truly loves.

"I'll be the one who'll marry you. That's a promise."

(Romeo, save me, I've been feeling so alone)

He sobs at the last line he has stuck to his head, "I'm so sorry, Bokuto." afraid of what his father might have done if he was to find out he already has someone. Let alone the opposite gender, he knows behind bars wasn't going to be Bokuto's consequence.

He fears that if he were to tell his father he loves a man. A man outside the palace he would meet with the same faith as those who defiled the king. Losing another person he has loved and clung on will be the last thing to snap Akaashi from his own sanity.

And for one moment, he actually thought of marrying the woman he was told to if it meant Bokuto would stay alive until the very end.

(I keep waiting for you, but you never come)

"Akaashi?"

His body jolts from the sound coming from his balcony windows he has forgotten to close a while back. Eyes focused on the silhouette that was squated down outside, looking warily for any guards that were on patrol for the night.

Just as all hope was lost, he had forgotten that it was that time of the night Bokuto would sneak in his room like he always does to check on him and spend a little time before he leaves at dawn.

(Is this in my head? I don't know what to think)

Bokuto sprints inside his room quietly, quickly kneeling beside the sobbing prince and places his hands on his cheeks.

"Y-you,"

"I know," softly stroking his cheeks, he swipes away the sad tears, "I heard. That's why I came."

The dam finally broken, Akaashi breaks into another wave of sobs, wrecking his body as Bokuto shields him away from everything the world can offer, whispering sweet nothings into his ear as he weaves his fingers in his tossled hair.

Knowing his story, his past, Bokuto vowed he would take him away from all of this misery that has chained him up from his freedom from the world. That he will be the one to take care of him and tend to him unlike now where he was being left in the shadows as a worn out doll.

"Let's run away."

(He knelt to the ground and pulled out a ring and said, )

Akaashi's eyes widened at his words. The fear striking back at him stronger.

"R-run? Run where?" his voice strained, looking like a frightful deer to Bokuto, who held a stern expression and his grip on his shoulders tighten.

"Run far away from here, anywhere. I'm not letting you marry someone you don't love and have your freedom taken away."

Bokuto's breathing was calm compared to Akaashi's ragged ones. He was quivering in so much fear he almost let's a yell out, instead it was a cracked voice that held a small plea into them.

"But you'll get killed! Bokuto...I can't have that.."

Burying his face on this broaded chest, his cries muffled as he clutches on his cloak, afraid to let go and meet with his faith.

"I don't want this.."

Bokuto forces his face up gently to look into his eyes, nothing but love and determination in them. He wonders, why isn't he afraid to lose his own life? Did he want to die so easily?

His lips suddenly captured by his, letting him melt into his hold and peck even for a second as he feels the swarm of emotion rising from within Bokuto to him before he pulls away and spoke,

"Marry me, Akaashi.

You'll never have to be alone

I love you and that's all I really know."

He listens to him, taking in every word and body language he could see from Bokuto.

"That's all I care about and should matter. Everything will follow if we take a step away from all of this."

"But my father—

"Let go of your dad, and go pack up your stuff."

For a second, he thought he saw his mother right before his eyes. Telling him exactly to follow Bokuto with a small smile, wanting her son to be freed from the greed and power she has known from her husband ever since she too, was forced to marry him out of demand.

There were too many things happening in one night. Yesterday they were happy, spent an entire evening exploring ones body and littering kisses all over, spilling out each other's love speeches and now,

Now marks the day Akaashi leaves his hell hole alone and live the life his mother would've wanted for him and her.

"It's a love our story, please, just say, "Yes"

And he did, for he knows he wants to keep this story going until their last breath.

[1zashreena1]

I Am Having a Sad -9

18+, m/f, technically OCxDiego Jimenez [Power]

Summary: Princess has a bad and lonely self-esteem day. Diego goes too far too fast from 2500 miles away and she calls her safeword for the first time in her life. 

WARNINGS: Ridiculous descriptions and ‘the code is more like guidelines’ outlook on grammar. Is it OOC if the character was given essentially zero development in canon???

FEELS. the L word, SAFEWORD, depression/anxiety, self-esteem issues, sensory processing issues, sel-expression difficulties, plus size woman+fit man, soft!Diego,  overwhelmed Princess, is a relationship happening?? apparently. Leftover high school Spanish.

A/N:  Princess took on a life of her own and has essentially become an OC. There are infrequent mentions of her description (specifically as plus size) and her actual name in later pieces (its Bicki). She started as self-insert so she looks like me (plus size, white, short, blue eyes, curly hair). If that is not your thing, I totally understand. And do not feel obligated to read this, I will not be offended!

I’m not a fan of “plot” so be aware that most of this series is just meandering through their relationship, angst-fluff-smut whiplash style. But with dick jokes.

TAGLIST: @chelsfic​​​​ @symbiont13​​​​ @nicke0115​​​​ @bunnykjm​​​​ @rosee-sensuelle​​​​ @girlpornparadise​​​​ @mandoplease​​​​ @heresathreebee​​​​ @xxsteph-enrixx​​​​ @jetiikad​​​​ @joalsglasses​​​​ @mutantcookiesecrets​​​​ @demoncatstone​​​​ @squidlywiddly87​​​​ @lockedoutofmyotherblog​​​ @poeedamerons​​

I am having a sad. This is normal and okay. I just have to wait it out. I do not need to text him. This pep talk would be more effective if you would stop staring longingly at the last selfie he sent you.

It isn't working. All you want right now is to be smothered in Diego but he is in a different time zone. And you don't want to be clingy. And demanding. And needy.

Surely making yesterday's selfie your new lock screen will help, right? 

With a big sigh you flop backwards into your bed. You eye your phone like it's a live grenade. It hasn't even been eight hours since the last text and. And you have this… pain? In your chest? What if I'm annoying him?

He has to be super busy, I should just wait. What time even is it in LA right now?

You snatch up the phone and check. 7:46 pm PDT. You wonder what he ate today. Did he have dinner yet? What shirt is he wearing? Does he have a headache? He always says he has a headache when he gets back to New York. And then you rub his head, stroke through his soft hair, stretch out his solid neck, break up all the adhesions in those broad shoulders.

Bitch, this is not helping. What do you hate about him?

Oh yeah, that list is blank.

You open up the text conversation and stare at the blinking cursor. Just one text can't hurt, right?

You look at the selfie again. He's in bed, deep plum sheet tucked up under his chin, all sleepy chocolate eyes and a soft little smile. His face is relaxed, leaning against his left hand. His beard is ruffled on one side, flattened on the other from where he must have slept on it. You can feel tears welling up again. 

How the fuck is he so gorgeous? Why is someone who looks like that sending me selfies? I have no right to this. I don't deserve this. 

You reach out and trace one finger down his cheek. His right dimple is visible under the stubble. Minimizing the picture, you go back to the cursor. The screen is blurry until you blink and one tear slips out. 

You type out one hasty 'hey' and hit send before you can quadruple guess yourself. This is stupid. He's too busy for your little drama queen hissy fit meltdown.

Sorry, should've asked if you're busy first 

Send.

Enough time passes that you flip the phone screen-down and plop it on your heaving chest. You bring both hands to your face and press into your closed eyelids. Just as you reach back down with a huge sigh the phone vibrates.

Princessssss. You know I'm never busy to you

You choke out a sob-laugh and try to breathe normally. Okay, now a decision. Idle chatter or metric fuckton of feels? While you waffle about it, Diego initiates a videocall. Oh, hell no. You jab 'Decline' so hard it bends your nail back.

What is wrong? Why can't I see you?

I just look like shit rn. Please don't 

That has never been true. Mi princesa bonita

Always quick with the compliments. You sniffle.

I just. I guess I just miss you. Tonight

Perfect, you hit send before could have deleted it. Great job. Wonderful. Brilliant. 

Is everything ok? This does not sound like sexytimes

Oh, Diego. 

Yeah, I'm fine. Mostly. I mean nothing is wrong, its just me

Just me having feels

… should you have sent that? Probably not. Do you regret it? Yes, instantly. In fact, if preemptive regret were possible you would already have drowned in it.

The phone is quiet for a minute. Good job dumbass, now he IS annoyed.

What kind? Sad feels? Headache feels? Work is stupid and frustrating feels? Huffy feels that require cheese? You have many feels. At all times. It sounds exhausting 

Yep. I'm annoying and clingy. You chastise yourself rather effectively.

You're right. Sorry. I got this

Does that sound bitchy? Is it bitchy? Oh my god, I need an off button.

Nonono. I asked. You have to answer. Its a rule

Your laugh is sharp. 

Since when do you care about rules lol

When they're your rules. We agreed to answer direct questions honestly, yes?

Well fuck. He got you there. You had agreed to that. When you two sat down in your living room after the Emotional Spanking*™ and had a 'groundframe setup' discussion. Sometimes you were fairly certain he mangled phrases just to watch your eye twitch violently. Little shit. 

OK fine. I'm feeling shitty about myself.  Happy??

Now that is bitchy. 

FORBIDDEN

And no, that does not please Diego

And is that why I exist? To please you??? 

Before you can stop it, your temper flares.

No Princess. The other way. Let me please you

Oh no. Oh shit. What. Is. Happening?? You are royally fucked now. This entire conversation has gone so completely off the rails that you can't even define a 'train'. Those little bouncing dots have not stopped yet.

Should I tell you how I miss you? How these stupid meetings and these stupid people and my stupid sister bore me when I would rather be listening to you read a dictionary? Or sing every word to every song ever played on the radio? Or explain the differences between cat breeds?

Or maybe I could say how ridiculously empty this bed is with only me in it. How there are no tiny socks hidden under the comforter. Not a single lip balm in sight.

Perhaps you need a list of everything I would touch. The soft lips. A little bitty hand. That tiny ribcage. Those thick thighs. With my beard, ofc. Your forehead with mine?

Oh. Ohh. Oh no. This is not fair. This is an attack. How did he just break me like this? Your face is flushed and you are crying outright now. You have to stop this right now.

Stop.stop please. Diego no

Diego yessss 

You can't take anymore. This isn't funny. You can't even form words. When autocorrect suggests the picture of a pineapple you stab it and then hit send in rapid succession.

Pinnaea🍍🍍

………………………...

Your phone emits one aborted ring then it cuts off.

Can I call? Please

You're trying to figure out a way to calm yourself, to stifle the heaving gasps and whiny sobs. You're nodding. Not useful, idiot, you scold yourself.

No video. Just talk. Please Princess

You can't say no to that when he is trying so hard. 

Ok yeah 

You barely see the message load on the screen when the ringing starts up again. Smacking the green button entirely too hard, you hold your breath to stop the pitiful sounds.

"Princess?" His voice is cautious, tone soft.

"I'm h-here." Is all you can manage. Any more and you'll burst into sobs again.

"Are you in bed?" Keeping it short and precise. Yes or no answers. Nothing too demanding. 

"Yeah. S-s-sitting." He is being so sweet. How is someone like Diego so sweet to you. Something rustles in the background. 

"What was it? A specific word? Or just too much?" His voice is hushed, like he might be in a small room…

"Are… are you in a c-c-closet?" Is he really…? You hold your breath.

"Si. Your closet is too small. I was going to send you a picture." He answers.

You absolutely cannot deal with this man. 

"Baby, I--" Your stupid soprano voice gives away how emotional you really are. He was going to send you a picture of a closet big enough for you to hide. Probably a panoramic shot so you could fully visualize it. Your chest compresses and you gasp.

"Princess? Talk. Make a noise. Something!" He sounds panicked. You suddenly remember he can't read your face this way. He can't see your pleased smile.

"That's. That's just. Diego, I love you so much." Its out before you can stop it. Even though you know he can't see it, you still hide your face.

"Love." He breathes softly into the phone. "Tell Diego what you need, my good little girl." His voice is quiet, controlled. He is letting you lead him where you want him. Everywhere. Forever.

You feel safe enough to actually confess, "I just have a, a really hard time believing… all of. That." You wave your hand in the air vaguely. "Not that you're lying!" You rush to clarify. "Just that anyone could actually like, well seems to, at least, everything…?"

"Did that make any sense?" You chew your lip anxiously.

His soft chuckle makes your stomach flip. "Well, it was technically English." Your snort sends him into quiet giggles.

"I like hearing you laugh." You whisper. He goes silent. You tense up.

"Perfect little princess. No one has ever told me that before. Most people are frightened of my laugh." He seems a little bewildered by his own words. Like he didn't mean for that to come out but now he definitely wants to hear the reaction.

You cover your smile, then pick up the phone so you can lie down. "Apparently I'm not most people." You feel around blindly until you locate TMP (Tiny Murder Panther) and tuck the stuffed animal under your chin for cuddles. "I like your voice, too. Like when you talk to me. Sometimes its just the words. Or rather my ingesting of them of that trips me up." Your quiet sniffle is hidden in silky black fur.

"The words are the problem? Do I need a, a…. The book with words that all mean the same thing." He bites out.

Sometimes you forget that English is his second language. Then things like this happen. And its fucking adorable.

"Thesaurus. Synonyms, baby." Your smile is audible.

"I know!" He huffs in mock indignation.

"I know you know. That's cute, though."

"So are your little 'aqui's and 'si's and 'ahora's."

"Fine! Gawd!" 

You both dissolve into laughter. It fades into easy silence while you rub your cheek over faux fur. 

He sighs gently into the phone. "Was it the forehead touching?" His voice trembles a bit, like he is unsure that he should have asked. As though afraid. A little overwhelmed, just like you.

"Um. Yes. Actually. That was. Yeah, that did it." You blink back tears. "We have a thing. We're a 'we'."

"That is what you want, yes?" Diego sounds cautious. As if he might accidentally utter an irreversible spell or something. Then, a quiet whisper, "It's what I want."

You suck in a deep breath and decide to just force it out. Just take what you desire. Jump already.

"I want you. I don't think a typical, um, relationship would work. But, people can define themselves. Relationships should operate the same way."

That… that actually sounded decisive and authoritative. Wow. You're really that bitch tonight, huh? You are very pleased with yourself. You can hear something sliding against the phone but can't identify the sound.

"There she is." The wide smile in his voice stabs directly into your heart. It was his beard rubbing the phone when he smiled. You laugh with his approval, pleasure burning through your veins.

"Maybe I can write some stuff down. For discussion purposes. Maybe you can write some stuff down for me. Reading it makes it seem more real to me."

"If that is your royal decree, Princess." He shuffles around, you can hear clothing rustling.

"Do you really like finding my orphan socks?" Your voice is sly, like a kid springing a trap question. He likes that smirky tone and you know it.

"They are cute. Just like the tiny feet. You are so very little, Princess." Oh, but he knows exactly how to flip the trap back onto you. The sound of muffled tapping comes through the line. "Tiny feet. Added to the list." His voice echoes the smallest bit, he must have you on speaker so he can access the note app. "Next item: fat ass."

You explode into guffaws. "Damnit Diego!" Your wheezing almost drowns out his husky laughter. 

"Wait! I almost forgot! Fan-tasss-tic. Rrrrack." He sounds out the words as he types them. You lose vocal control again, giggling like a child. Logically you know these juvenile jokes shouldn't be this amusing, but clearly you both have the same maturity level.

"Baby, you are my favorite pervert." Your declaration is met with haughtiness. 

"I had better be your only pervert, Princess." The possessive tone straightens your spine with shock. "You are mine!" He growls fiercely. 

Everything is quiet for a very long minute. You seem to have consumed every butterfly, hot sauce, and poprocks-and-cola mixture on the planet when you weren't paying attention. 

You think about all the gifts. Designer purses, specially tailored clothing, the six pairs of redbottoms you now own, how the last ring he gave you still twinkles up at you from your right hand (he took great pleasure in ensuring it fit your middle finger so you can still be pretty while you flip him off).

You remember all the places he has taken you. The Michelin starred restaurants, that hole-in-the-wall Mexican place where they know him by first name is your favorite, the stupid stores he wanders through with you, the cheesy tourist traps where he always gets you a hideously clichéd souvenir. 

Your memory flashes through a slide show of his laughter. Gleeful giggles at your horrified reaction to the neon orange lipstick he presented in Sephora. His wheezing delight when you gagged on the seaweed appetizer he shoveled into your mouth before you could object. The gentle, knowing chuckle when you pulled TMP out of your bag to take a nap two weekends ago.

You realize he is entirely correct.

"Yes I am, Diego." Is your quiet confirmation. 

"Bicki. I." He seems startled. You stay silent and let him gather his thoughts. The swallow is audible before he continues hesitantly, "I will see you this weekend, mi amor?"

All the ways this man says 'I love you' are so many more than just the actual words. Your pleased smile stretches your cheeks so far it hurts.

"Yes please!" Your shameless request ends in a yawn. "Sorry." 

"You need to sleep for work, Princess. I have one last meeting here then I will be there tomorrow." 

You wish he was here now but keep that to yourself. 

"OK, let me know when you're here." 

I am so not wearing panties under that new maxidress for the flight up and demanding that he pick me up personally. Yes. A perfect plan. You amuse even yourself with your scheming.

"Be careful tonight, Diego. I want you to come home to me." The thought of anything happening to him crushes your throat.

"I, I want that, too. Love you." All comes tumbling out of him in a rushed confession of quiet hopefulness. It makes you so happy that tears well up again. Fucking stop this, woman.

"Love you. Bye, baby." You whisper warmly, hoping he can feel even an ounce of how deliriously happy he makes you.

"Goodnight, Princess." The reply is sighed, full of self-conscious relief and pleasure. His rough voice is so calm and soothing that you nod off before the line disconnects, face tucked into his miniature proxy.

…………………………...

Incoming text

Friday 12:09am

From: Murder Panther

🥰💋💟💯🔜

[chinchuqui]

A Tale of a Diamond: Beautia

Month 1: Turqui 19th, 251

(November 18th, 731 CE)

The morning struck Sunar in such a manner, for it was Winter. The snow painted the ground just like the artists painted the heiress, Princess Beautia Diamond.

A princess who should’ve been up already. She was still lying in bed, taking in all of the heat that her sheets brought her. She was the prettiest maiden, or woman, in all the land. (Some still have yet to know she is no longer a maiden)

Her eye-captivating blue hair and eyes, both inherited from her parents. Her figure that of a Goddess as some would say. Some would also call her a servant of evil considering her attitude towards her beauty.

It was about 9:00 AM, and the child was feeling miserable. She would be turning 18 soon enough, come next Varoth (January), and she was not looking forward to it.

Why? Well, it’s simple. It’s due to the fact she would most likely be forced to find a suitable husband, and she would most likely be crowned Queen in the next three years.

Why could she not be 14 forever? That was a great year. For it was the first year she got into the idea of “indulging in the bowl of delectable fruits.” Yes, she was 14, and way too young in everyone’s eyes. But did she care? No.

Why should she? It seemed as though everyone was against her anyway. She was always irritated, and she had no idea why. So the Princess decided to try and block out that irritation by participating in intimate activities.

But nothing seemed to work, she was always irritated. Beautia used this irritation to boost her already massive ego, and put down her sister who she saw as “ugly.”

The castle was already bustling with servants and nobles. Princess Pretia Diamond and Prince Hando Diamond were already up and doing their duties as royals.

Princess Lalaola Diamond was reading her books with her tutor, and old man. He had taught Beautia way back when, and now he was old and gray. Beautia had taken an interest in him when she was around the age of 10, but lost it as soon as she met a noble boy.

The two young Princes, Prince Corrow, and Prince Bendressed Diamond, were in the nursery, playing the day away. Beautia sometimes found herself envying the boys, wishing for her simpler days to return as well.

But it was 9 AM, and the Princess had yet to rise from her chambers. So a maid was sent by her mother, the Queen, to go and wake her. The maid looked at the wooden door, afraid to find out how the dearest Princess would react.

She gathered up her courage and lightly knocked on the door.

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Nothing.

She tried again.

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Nothing once again.

The woman sighed in defeat and opened the door. The lights were out, curtains over the windows, and darkness overcame the room. Grabbing a torch, she marched into the darkness.

The child slept in her bed, which her ancestors have used before her. This bedframe has lasted a while. Though, it was getting quite old, very old. Could break at any moment.

The maid looked over and saw her, the Crown Princess. Her hair covered her face, skin glowing with the light of the torch, and a blanket covering her most likely nude body.

The woman placed her hand lightly on the child’s back, whispering, “Princess Beautia, your Highness.”

Beautia groaned and rolled away from her humble servant. She knew exactly what she was here for, and she didn’t want to open her eyes.

The maid sat there for a good while, not knowing exactly what to do. She let the sounds of chattering people fill her ears as she thought.

Her Highness seems to be a bit more tired than usual. Did something happen? Is she alright?

Beautia groaned as the maid walked over to face her. The torch seemed to have been hurting the girl’s eyes since she squeezed them shut. The maid looked at the girl, trying to see if there were any love marks on her neck.

This maid had known Beautia for basically all of her adolescence. The maid had blonde hair that resembled the sun, fair skin, emerald green eyes, and a pointed nose.

The maid shook the Princess again. Beautia mumbled and her eyes fluttered open. She looked at the woman who had been serving her for the past seven years. She had to be at least 37 by now.

As soon as the blew orbs spotted the woman, all the Princess could think was, Fantastic, the witch is here again. Beautia judged people based on their appearance. So she thought all were below her.

The maid continued, “Your Highness, it is now 9:15 AM, her Majesty requests your presence.”

Beautia groggily responded, “Yes, yes, send in my servants to dress such a lady as myself. Go on now.”

The maid bowed, “As you wish your highness. May Sunar prosper in your hands.” She then proceeded to walk out.

Beautia sighed as she looked at the ceiling. The events that occurred the previous night seemed to have tired her out. She brushed her hand through her soft, silky, cornflower shaded hair.

She slowly sat up and looked at her surroundings. The blanket fell off to reveal she did indeed have sleepwear on, something uncommon for Her Highness.

As she took her first step, a sharp pain emitted from her lower regions. Beautia stumbled back into her bed, the pain continuing. What was this? This definitely wasn’t normal for a Sunarian.

The sheets surrounded the Princess, those soft sheets. They almost knocked her out, but another wave of sharp pains washed over her. Beautia groaned as she gripped her stomach, rolling over.

The maids soon arrived, causing Beautia to force herself to act as if everything was alright.

Perhaps this was from last night. Lord Tino was a bit rougher than most of the men. Yes, that is it. Nothing I myself haven’t endured.

She decided that is what it would be and continued on with her day, wearing her usual scandalous attire. She proceeded to walk to her office, the office in which she stared at a portrait of Sunria.

Violaina did all of her work, only because she didn’t want to upset her daughter and cause her to hate her. So there she was, the future Queen just starring at the same Portrait.

Knock

Knock

Knock

Beautia’s attention was soon directed towards the door. She instructed, “You may enter.”

The door opened and Pretia walked in. She was wearing a simple outfit, very simple. The base color was light blue, with white as a side color. The dress was a long-sleeved turtle neck, white ruffles at the neck, sleeves, and bottom. Her brown hair was tied up into braids, and her eyes shone, as usual.

Beautia sharply asked, “May I help you?”

Pretia rolled her eyes as she bowed. “Greetings dearest sister of mine. I have brought you papers for the New Years’ Ball.”

Beautia looked at her little sister, confused. “The New Years’ Ball,” she questioned. The Princess nodded her head in affirmation. Beautia stood up and continued, “Why are these papers here?”

“Her Majesty, Queen Violaina Diamond, our mother, has asked that you organize the festival. The people don’t trust you enough to govern this country,” the girl responded.

Beautia groaned as she sat back down in her chair. And here she thought that this would be a dress choosing. She wanted to help her sister who seemed to lack a sense of style.

She didn’t want to do this, she wanted to meet new boys from other countries, taste their fruits. But no, she is stuck in royal business.  Why her of all the poor women?

Beautia was about to march on down to meet her mother, but she looked to her sister. She was 15 now and was more than capable of planning parties. Beautia smirked.

“Sister,” she started. Pretia’s eyes widened a bit. Beautia had rarely ever addressed her as “sister,” so this was a first.

She stammered, “Y-Yes Beautia?”

Beautia pleaded, “Oh Pretia, my dearest sister! I am too busy doing work and am ever so tired! Can you please plan the party for me?”

Pretia was caught off guard by her sister. Her voice was sweet as honey and could convince anyone. Figures as to why she gets so many men, but that makes it difficult to find herself a man that hasn’t indulged in pleasures with her elder sister.

Pretia grumbled, “You want me to plan it in your name?” Beautia nodded. The brunette shook her head, “No, not this time Beautia. You always have manipulated me into doing your dirty work. I have had about enough!”

Beautia’s smile turned into a frown. She rubbed her head which seemed to be aching. “You may not have any beauty, but you seem to have brains,” she griped.

Pretia snapped, “Why are you so cruel Beautia? Just because I don’t look like you? I am well aware of the fact, it haunts me every night! And you have the audacity to sit here and call me ugly?”

“What? I only speak the truth,” Beautia said in a monotone voice.

Just as Pretia was about to go off on her sister, Beautia felt the sharp pains again. This one was worse. Beautia flinched, noticeably. It caught Pretia’s attention, which directed towards the girl.

The green orbs stared at her elder sister, cautious to see what was going on. Beautia tried to brush it off, but another pain arrived and the girl stumbled onto the hard, cold, stone floor.

“Sister,” Pretia fretted. She tossed the papers aside as rushed to meet her sister’s gaze. She asked, “Sister! What is wrong?”

Beautia blinked for a few seconds before turning to her younger sister. She had never seen Pretia worry so much for her. She never had any reason, Beautia had always been so cruel.

Just as Beautia could feel her heart warm, her head began to ache and the resentment came back. The heiress glared at her younger sister and slapped her hand away.

She spat, “It’s nothing, I’m fine. See to it that the party is organized.”

Pretia felt her heart ache as she bowed and left. Her sister had no need to be cold, but she always was. Why did she even try to help the hopeless case? But as the Princess roamed the halls of her home, she felt a slight discomfort in her chest.

It felt refreshing, but at the same time painful. This feeling felt so familiar but exotic at the same time. Like it had abandoned her long ago, but just now was returning.

As she entered her office, she couldn’t help but smile. What was this feeling? Why isn’t she mad at Beautia? Nonetheless, all the girl thought was forgiveness.

I shall forgive you Beautia.

Month 1:

Turqui 24th, 251

(November 23rd, 731 CE)

It was a very busy day for the royal family, only a little more than a month until the new year. Everyone was bustling. All except for Beautia. The child sat in her chambers, feeling very ill. Maybe it was a simple cold?

Beautia looked out the window and down at her village. The snow lighting everything up, the sun shining the fields brightly, and little dots scurrying around. So pitiful.

The world could end right here and now, and they’re all happy? All happy. Happy families, happy sisters, happy brothers, and happy parents. Beautia envied them all. For they had something even a girl who seemed to have it all lacked, the feeling of love.

Beautia couldn’t decipher when she stopped feeling joy and love. Maybe around the time her Aunt was beheaded. So long ago. It was so long ago. She was 13 at the time. She remembered their faces of pain and fear. But she felt nothing.

She felt like something was forcing her to make the love submit to her. Something like magic. Nonetheless, she continued to feel like nothing. The only time she felt an ounce of love or joy was in the bedroom, with the men.

But even then it felt so fake. They only were after her body, not for who she was. But who was she? She was rude and narcissistic, but she felt like she was kind inside.

Beautia chuckled. How silly. She was the most beautiful girl in all of the land, and deserved all. How hard was that? Nothing worth questioning.

Soon a maid arrived. “Princess, her majesty has asked for your audience,” she announced. The child grumbled as she stood up. The pains continued, but she could bear them now.

The girl followed the servant to the office in which the Queen stood. Violaina Diamond was a curious case. She is known for beheading her siblings but is a well-loved Queen. Much like her mother. She is recognized for her fire-red hair and sky blue eyes.

There beside her stood the nobles, those rats as Beautia referred to them. She huffed as she took her seat next to her mother. She blankly stared as they discussed plans for 252.

Fatigue began to sweep over the Princess’s eyelids. Why was she so tired all of the sudden? She tried to not think of that and focus on the old voices that echoed throughout the room.

“Beautia?”

The blue-haired girl was snapped out of her daze and looked at her mother. Her eyes were filled with concern, as was her voice. The nobles looked at the two royals in confusion.

Beautia and Violaina looked nothing alike. The only thing they shared was their skin tone and the color of their eyes. But their attitude was similar. They both looked like they were planning something. But one can always question, “What is it exactly that they are planning?”

“What,” the girl asked, looking at them all. She just wanted to plop down in her warm bed.

“Are you alright,” the Queen asked.

Thinking for only a moment, Beautia slowly nodded. Her head began to ache immensely with each shake of her head. She almost passed out. But she did blackout for a good second.

The colors appeared before the imperial Princess. She spotted many in front of her, asking if she was alright. Looking around, she realized she wasn’t in her chair, but on the floor.

Violaina pushed through and brought herself on her daughter’s level. Her mouth was moving, but Beautia heard nothing. Nothing was coming out. Only ringing, sweet ringing.

The air was cold. Was she dead? Did the fates finally show the girl mercy and end her suffering? Was this it? It was very much painless. So painless. Why didn’t she try dying sooner? It would’ve been a weight lifted off her shoulders.

Violaina screamed, or it seemed like it. Soon enough, Beautia’s eyes shut.

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“~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~”

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“~~~~~~~~~~~~”

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“H~~~~~”

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“~~~~~~n”

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“Your Highness!”

Beautia’s eyes shot open. Her head felt like someone whacked her with a book full of a thousand words. Her lower regions ached even more. And she had about a dozen people around her bed.

Groggily, she asked, “Wh-what has happened?”

The maids cried out in joy as they paraded around the girl. Why were they so happy? Did they not hate the Princess with a passion? The doors burst open, and there stood a tear-filled eye Violaina.

“Beautia my dear,” she cried. Beautia froze as she felt her mother’s arms wrap around her. It felt comforting and soothing. She hadn’t felt this warmth since her father was banished.

But that feeling, the feeling of putting up a front formed. Beautia scoffed, “Let me go your Majesty.” Violaina’s eyes widened as she looked at her daughter. Why was she so cold?

Beautia looked around the chambers she had grown so familiar with. The gray stone walls, each delicately placed. The shadows painting them in such a perfect tone. So beautiful.

Still looking around, she asked, “What happened?”

Violaina sighed seeing her daughter show no interest. “You passes out in the meeting room dear. You were too tired. You’ve been out for an hour now,” explained the Queen.

Beautia looked at all the maids, she then smirked, “Ah! Of course. The most beautiful woman would only earn such great treatment from those who are below her.”

The maids were hurt. Many sighed and left in defeat. Violaina glared at her daughter but said nothing. No words came out of her mouth. She didn’t want a strained relationship that she and Salvia had.

Beautia sighed and looked out the window again. It was difficult to see from her position, but it seemed to have snowed once again. Made sense. The New Year shall soon come to an end.

Month 3:

Modia 12th, 251

(December 31st, 731 CE)

The castle was bustling with the arrival of nobles from Sunar and other nations. Many royals would also be arriving. Beautia happily skipped through the hallways of the castle.

She had been going through quite a couple of mood swings. And it irritated her younger sister, the Princess Pretia Diamond. Lalaola thought of it as funny.

The maids were trying to hunt her down, she needed to get dressed. Tomorrow was the mark of a New Year! The maids finally caught their bubbly Princess.

But something strange was definitely going on with the girl. She had been vomiting all morning, and feeling madly ill. But she still wanted to run around like a child. Many of the maids already figured out what was the cause of this strange behavior.

Violaina had heard of this behavior and wanted to see if it was true. Maybe her daughter was just deathly ill? But that in itself was worse. The physician soon arrived.

Beautia wore a dark green sleeveless dress. It was skin-tight, and the skirt was poofy. Her hair was curled and her face painted with lipstick and blush. She flat out looked like a prostitute.

Beautia looked at the old man, she scoffed at his disgusting appearance. He bowed, “Your Highness, I am here to examine you.”

“What for,” Beautia asked in a concerned tone. She thought she was just fine. She had to be. Pretia’s head popped out of the corner, she wanted to see what was wrong with her sister.

She was a bit shocked to see Beautia in such a good mood. She was so agitated yesterday. Pretia looked behind her to see her mother. Violaina had a suspicion but decided to have the old man confirm it.

Pretia felt worried. She didn’t know why, but something had changed within her heart. Like a horrible spell had been broken after years of its horror.

After a good thirty minutes, the old man approached the Queen and her second daughter. He bowed down to the two. Pretia knew the worse had to have happened, for his face was that of a stone.

He began, “Y-your Majesty, it seems that Her Highness is with child.” He proceeded to look down. Pretia’s eyes widened. She was going to be an aunt! But so soon?

When a smiling Pretia looked to her mother, the smile shrieked away. Her mother was angry. Her teeth were gritted and her eye glowed with that alarming glow. She barged into the room, Pretia close behind.

She only found a Beautia relaxing on the bed, smiling. Did she not care that she was with child? Beautia spotted her mother and sister and sighed, “Oh Mother! Did you hear the news? I don’t have to work for the next few months!”

The Queen almost gagged with her daughter’s sudden attitude. She questioned, “Beautia, who is the father?”

Beautia shrugged, “Beats me, it’s been what? Four months? So many men Mother, so many. We shall see shall we not?” Violaina’s rage only grew as her daughter stated, “No matter, more sleep for me!”

Violaina screamed as she threw a chair at the wall, everyone in the room fell silent. Beautia went wide-eyed as her mother stormed over to her. The Crown Princess hid under her covers as a last-minute escape only to have them ripped away from her. The girl shrieked as she was grabbed by the hair to face the Queen.

“I should’ve known this would happen! How did I raise such a wench,” she sneered. She slapped Beautia, leaving a small mark. Beautia met her mother’s eyes, and they were not filled with kindness.

The red-head looked to her servants and announced, “I now abdicate my crown to my eldest daughter, Her Highness the Crown Princess Beautia Diamond, heiress to the throne of the kingdom Sunar!”

Pretia and everyone else gasped. Beautia’s face went pale as she looked around. She tried to think. She smirked as a thought arose, “Ha! Good luck with that! Coronations take weeks of planning. I shall not be Queen until I have a crown set on my head!”

Violaina glared at the woman who she called daughter. “I figured a wench such as yourself would say something so dull. Which is why you are being coronated tonight.”

Beautia stayed silent in her shock. Being coronated, tonight? Something like this has never been heard in the kingdom!

The Queen continued, “I figured you were pregnant, so I planned a coronation ceremony for this ball! It only takes a few days when you are attentive to such matters.”

Beautia felt her whole world being torn apart bit by bit. She wasn’t ready! She was only but a child! How could she be a Queen?

As Violaina approached the door, she faced her daughter for a final time. “Consider this a final punishment. You are bearing the weight of the crown. I shall never accept your child as my own flesh and blood, for they are a bastard. I shall leave to Flutia’s mansion after tonight.”

The door shut, leaving the air cold. The servants all looked at each other, confusion in their whispers. Beautia felt her face heat up, eyes sting, and stomach ache. She screamed as she tore her bedroom apart.

Pretia began to shake a bit. Beautia, a queen? Was this the downfall for Sunar? And what of the child? If it is a boy, then the line of succession will pass to her. But if it is a girl, her name would be shamed and she would be called a bastard throughout the kingdom.

Pretia’s eyes widened as she saw her sister’s eyes glow. The glow in the family only happens when one has strong magical energy and strong emotion, but it only occurs to the true Queen and heiress. So this was the first time Pretia had witnessed the glow.

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The crowd fell silent as the trumpets played. The ball had been splendid, and all were annoying themselves. The night shone brightly. The stars glowed as the snow fell. What a great way to welcome 252! Or so it seemed.

The Lords and Ladies gasped to find their Queen, or Queen  Mother, walk down and place her crown on the throne. They were even more surprised to find Beauia walking down in an extravagant gown.

She looked angry, very angry. The MHC stood there, not knowing what to say. They thought this was truly the end of their kingdom. Pretia and Hando watched from afar, judging their mother and her harsh actions.

As Violaina spoke, Hando chided, “How could she give the crown to her? She is an inept snake who shall be the end of us all.” Pretia eyed her brother, telling him to hush. But he didn’t hush, he only continued, “And that child. If it is a girl, she shall be the next Queen! The first bastard on the throne. Our names and generation shall be shamed.”

“No matter, she is now our Queen. And if the child is our next Queen, I shall bow down, as should you,” muttered the brunette maiden.

Hando scowled, “Do you not understand? We will be shamed for being the siblings of the wench!”

Pretia snapped her head to her brother. “Hando! Watch your tongue! You are only a boy, and you should not shame the crown!” Hando glared at his elder sister.

He was only 12 but was very smart. Much like the second Princess. He hesitated, “Mother is leaving to Aunt Flutia’s residence for a while. She ordered for our belongings to be sent to the palace in the countryside. I assume we shall be living there from now on.”

Pretia stared at the two royals, stone-faced. “I heard that you rejected mother’s offer and told her that you are staying here,” he cautioned. Pretia looked at her brother.  He was her height, and he was still growing. “You know what Mother can do when she is rejected,” he warned.

“She cannot harm me if Beautia requests me to stay,” the girl bluntly stated.

Hando chuckled, “You are foolish. You think now Beautia will be kind?”

“She is a naïve girl, only goes after what will make her happy. She will gladly accept me when I accept her child as my flesh and blood,” she explained.

The redhead’s eyes went wide as he whispered, “You what?”

She looked at him. “You heard me, I am accepting the child as my flesh and blood.”

“Why? It is a bastard! I don’t want to be related to that. It is a shame upon me and my future children,” he scowled.

“You may be laughing at me now, but that child is a girl. I can tell. We’ll see who has the last laugh when I am in the future Queen’s favor.”

“Tch, you are crazy.”

“I present Queen Beautia Diamond,” announced Violaina. All clapped and bowed to the new Queen. The clock struck midnight. Beautia was crowned in the last minute of 251.

All the girl could hear was ringing and whispering. The people would never accept her as Queen. Her and her bastard child.

Month 5:

Nathiov 12th, 252

(January 12th, 732 CE)

The castle was silent, as usual. Maids began to whisper about the arrival of the new baby. The new Queen was still pregnant with her child, and the nursery was being prepared for it.

Beautia looked pregnant now. Her belly stuck out like a sore thumb. Many were excited that there would be another young one. Ever since the other royals’ departure, the castle has been so silent.

Pretia offered to stay behind and Beautia allowed it. Violaina could not object since the Queen had approved of it. Pretia had been in charge of a lot of things. So much now that she worked for a Queen.

Doing things for the Crown Princess wasn’t too difficult. It wasn’t this much work. But now it felt as if she was a Queen. She looked at the crumpled papers that the nobles gave her.

A tax needed to be implemented because there weren’t as many guards as Sunar once had. So the Kingdom needed more. And that required money, which required a tax to be placed.

Looking at the door, the Princess nervously knocked. She waited for Beautia’s response. A few moments later, a soft reply, “Enter.”

Pretia opened the door to see a very dark room. Only one candle sat on the wooden desk. And it was very cold as well. Beautia stared at the floor. She was still in her sleepwear, with only a small light green jacket to warm herself. Her baby bump showed through the dress.

Her face emotionless, just blank. Her eyes shone strangely, and the black bags were very evident. She hadn’t been getting the proper amount of rest needed.

Pretia sighed as she as in the chair across from her sister. She began, “Your Majesty, I-”

“Beautia,” the Queen cut her off.

“Pardon?”

“You shall address me as Beautia. We are sisters are we not?”

Pretia nodded, “Yes, Your Majesty-er Beautia. We are. I just never expected you to ask me to address you in such a kind manner.”

The Queen stayed silent as the young maiden pulled out sheets of paper. Pretia began to read them off and explain the situation. Beautia looked at the green eyes and then at what they were reading. The blue-haired woman chuckled.

Pretia looked up to see her sister staring at the side. “Is there something wrong,” asked the girl.

Beautia’s eyes soon met her sisters. “The nobles just want money,” she bluntly stated.

Pretia’s eyes widened a bit.

The Queen continued, “They are using you as a method to get me to sign things off. They believe that I am unable to rule.” Her voice was so empty. It was filled with grief and anger all at once.

“We will not implement taxes. I’ve seen the way they treat young squires. Improve the conditions of the guardsmen. Use some of our money, 15,000 should be good. We will ensure the safety of those boys and girls. Taxes would only cause a riot.”

Pretia was in shock. For someone who acts so crudely, she sure was smart. Pretia bowed, “Yes Beautia, I will see that it is done.”

Just as the brunette placed her hand on the metal handle, Beautia spoke up, “Should I just die?”

Pretia looked back to see her sister glaring at her. “Wh-what?”

“Don’t what me,” spat the woman. “Everyone wants me gone already. Do you think I don’t hear the whispers? My child is already called a bastard and they have done nothing wrong!” Her voice was getting angrier and angrier by the second.

“B-Beautia, they are just rumors,” shivered the girl.

SLAM

“Rumors!? Rumors haunt and damage,” Beautia shouted. The desk slam had scared Pretia into dropping the papers. She stood there, paralyzed. She looked like Violaina when Harpaina was still alive.

Beautia’s eyes widened a bit as she slumped back down into her chair. “They are planning on killing me you know,” she whispered.

“W-What,” asked Pretia.

“The nobles. Once my baby is born, they will kill me. If the child is a boy, then he will be slain too. Boys aren’t preferred on the throne. If she is a girl, they will most likely raise her to hate me. Lie about me.”

Pretia felt rage build up inside her chest. Kill the Queen? Even thinking about that was treason! Why does she not care that she is going to die!?

Beautia began to laugh, “Ha! I should just die now so that Sunar doesn’t have to deal with me! And the child won’t grow in despair!”

Beautia heard a shift in the room and she was soon lifted up from her chair. Pretia had brought her to stand up, her hands tightly gripping her shoulders.

Just as Beautia’s mouth opened, Pretia cried, “Don’t you ever speak like that again!” Beautia’s eyes widened a bit to see her sister so upset. She didn’t even insult her, so why was she crying?

“You mustn’t let the nobles get to you! Please,” her voice began to slightly break. Beautia was soon pulled into a tight hug. It hurt a bit with the baby bump.

Pretia began to shake as warm tears fell from her eyes. Some of it landed on the jacked the Queen wore. Beautia hesitated before lightly placing her left hand on Pretia’s head.

The Queen sighed as Pretia pulled away. “I’m s-s-sorry,” stammered the royal. Pretia smiled. It had been a while since her sister had apologized.

Pretia whipped her tears away as she beamed, “I will inform the guards about your decision! And I shall hire some to keep an eye on the nobles and you!”

The door shut leaving Beautia alone with her thought once again. She smiled as anger built up in her mind again. This anger felt so much like magic like it was forcing her to be angry.

For someone so ugly, she sure does have a beautiful smile.

Month 7:

Agioni 5th, 252

(April 19th, 732 CE)

The party boomed with people as many chattered away. This was a last-minute party since the baby would be due in about two months. The due date being Kioligo 20th.

Beautia stared at all the nobles who were most likely making fun of the baby. She sat on her throne, not bothering to enter the party. She did try to have fun and flirt with a man.

“Sorry my Queen, you are a bit too big,” he stated.

Beautia wanted to hate the baby, she wanted to hate it so much. It took everything from her. Her family, freedom, and happiness. But she couldn’t bring herself to hate it, only resent it.

This child would come into the world not knowing all of the pains, free from the evils. Beautia wished she could be an infant again, start over. Maybe she would be able to mend the relationship between her mother and aunt.

It seems like that’s when everything went downhill. Harpaiana’s death caused the downfall of Beautia. The singing, conversing, and music soon got all too loud for Her Majesty to handle.

She looked around and decided to take her leave. Many bowed and mocked her as she walked by. Beautia scoffed as she walked the empty halls. The physician two days ago predicted the baby was a girl. Beautia was just showing all of the signs such as glowing cheekmarks.

Servants passed and bowed her. Oddly enough, the plebs and commoners seemed to have respect for Beautia. She figured it was due to the fact she didn’t place a tax on them. The number of new squires has doubled since that day.

The castle echoed with the footsteps of servants. Beautia felt her anger build up again. She wanted to cry, but a Queen cannot cry. The crown weighs, and this was her punishment.

Beautia entered the nursery in which her baby would lay. It was a nice spot. It had a beautiful view of a river and village. The child would be able to see their people from there.

The cradle was made of some sort of blackwood. She had read that in another dimension it is known as “African Blackwood.” It had diamonds encrusted in it to represent the child’s position. The cushion was magenta with a nice, silk, pink blanket. The blanket had golden designs.

Next to the cradle was a toy castle. And inside lay Beautia as a doll. The Queen picked it up to feel it’s material. The doll was smiling. It made the child seem even more pitiful than it already was.

Beautia looked out the window and down at her people. She felt her stomach ache a bit as the baby began to kick. The blue-eyed woman smiled as the baby continued to kick.

Perhaps this won’t be so bad.

Month 9:

Kioligo 18th, 252

(May 27th, 732 CE)

“Gahh,” cried the Queen as she gripped the bedsheets. Maids scurried around the castle and room, hurrying for the baby was coming!

About a day before Beautia’s water broke and she began to get contractions. The maids had informed her that the baby would most likely not arrive for another day, so she should just relax.

Beautia continued to scream out in agony throughout the day. She couldn’t relax and got only three hours of rest. This morning her contractions began to get less spread out. And the physician was called in.

The news spread throughout the castle, their Queen’s baby would arrive within the next hour! Pretia rushed to be by her sister’s side as soon as she heard the news.

The nobles began to prepare orders for their gifts to the new addition to the royal family. And the people planned festivals for every neighborhood.

The doors burst open and Pretia entered the room. She flinched as Beautia began to scream even louder. Pretia looked at her sister and was a bit upset.

Beautia’s hair had been tied up in a bun to prevent it from getting in her hair. Her face was very sweaty and her eyes were full of tears. She looked very tired and like she wanted to give up.

Pretia walked to her side, avoiding maids who held water and towels. Beautia’s screams soon morphed into choked out sobs as she continued to push.

Pretia gripped her sister’s hand. Beautia slowly more and more got tired, she looked as if she was going to faint. Her face went pale as her sobs began to quiet down.

Pretia soon began to feel herself cry. Nothing else mattered at that moment. If Beautia fainted she had a chance to die, and so did the baby! Pretia begged, “Beautia! Please stay awake! Please! If not for yourself, for your child that is still in your womb! Please!”

Beautia’s eye slowly opened again as she began to scream again. She was overworking herself too much. Pretia began to pray and sob. Was this the end for her sister?

.

.

.

.

.

“Ehhwahhh!”

Pretia’s eyes shot open with the cry of an infant. She looked up to see the maids cry with joy. She barely saw a little head, but the cries of the child showed it’s health.

Beautia gasped as she set her head down. Her body exhausted from two days in labor. Pretia began to nervously laugh as she looked at her sister. Beautia’s eyes closed as she smiled in relief. It was over. That was a nightmare.

.

.

.

.

.

.

Pretia stood outside the door speaking to Duchess Quofer. She was one of the few that had supported Beautia and her bastard. Beautia sat on her bed in the stone room.

She heard her child make little noises. Many awaited the gender reveal. Finally, a maid walked over with the little child in her arms. She handed the Queen the baby as she softly whispered, “The baby is a girl Your Majesty. You have given birth to a healthy baby girl.”

Beautia felt very nervous as she slowly looked down. The first thing that caught her eye was the girl’s cheekmarks. They were clocks with wings at the sides.

The woman looked at the girl and saw big blue orbs starring at her. The girl looked at peace. Her hair was cotton-candy pink, and Beautia recognized who her father was. A man named Coòo. He was the short one from that night all those months ago.

The baby girl blinked a couple of times before smiling. Beautia’s eyes widened as tears fell down from her cheeks. The girl’s eyes fluttered closed as she began to sleep.

She is so beautiful, even more than me.

Beautia’s head experienced a shock as all the memories came back to her. All this time, she was under her mother’s spell. The spell that excused the execution of Harpaina.

Had she been under it all these years? If so, was the pregnancy taking her out of it? Is that why she despised the thought of being with men and was so agitated all of the time? All these thoughts raced through the Queen’s mind.

Pretia soon entered and walked over to meet the new baby. “So,” she began, “What gender is it?”

Beautia mumbled, “It is a girl.”

Pretia chirped, “That is wonderful! Sunar’s future right here in this room!”

Beautia bit her lip as more tears began to fall down her cheeks. Pretia noticed and her expression went soft.

“What is it? Are you not happy,” she asked.

Beautia shook her head, “No, that’s not it. I am filled with joy. But, Pretia. Look at her.” Pretia observed the baby a bit more. “She’s the most beautiful girl I have ever seen in my entire life,” Beautia stated.

Pretia’s eyes widened. Her head too began to ache as more memories flooded in.

Beautia sniffed, “You remember, don’t you? Mother’s spell?”

Pretia looked at her sister and slowly nodded. How could she forget? It’s been so long. Perhaps that was the reason why.

“But this child, she has taken us out of that spell. She saved us,” Beautia explained.

“What are you going to do,” asked the maiden.

Beautia thought for a moment. She let the noise of maids laughing, birds chirping, and leaves blowing take up her mind.

“She can’t be like me,” she fretted. Pretia tilted her head seeing her sister’s eyes begin to widen even more.

“Pretia, I mustn’t let her be like me. A disgrace! She shall be the best Queen to come by Sunar! She has to be,” wept Beautia.

The woman looked at the clocks that decorated her daughter’s face, her soft hair that could make anyone smile.

“I shall name her Pala Diamond,” Beautia said determinedly.

“Pala!? That’s an awful name for one so beautiful,” Pretia objected.

Beautia nodded her head, “Yes I know, it pains me to do this. But she needs to hate me. She needs to. She needs to grow up to not want to be me.” Pulling her daughter closer, the Queen planted a dozen kisses on the Princess’s face.

“This is the only time I will be able to hold her like this and lover her so,” quivered the Queen. Pretia felt tears fall down her cheeks. “I shall watch her from afar, and ensure she gets the best education. All of those who will not accept her as their blood will regret it the day she is crowned Queen.”

Pretia admired Pala’s features as Beautia spoke. The Queen looked to her sister.

“I cannot atone for the sins that I have committed, and I know you may never forgive me Pretia. But can I ask you to protect my daughter and your niece? I cannot hush the rumors that shall arise, but you can!”

Pretia looked at the two relatives sitting before her. A Queen and a future Queen. She nodded, “Yes, I will watch over and protect the Princess. I will remain in the castle, but on the far side. I will ensure that all rumors will be hushed while she is under the impression that I hate her.”

Beautia cried, “Thank you.” The three hugged one another that night. All taking in this last moment of affection that would be shared between them.

Beautia asked for a maid to take Pala to her chambers. The Queen watched as her daughter was taken away from her. She wished things could be different. But this was for the best.

Queen Beautia gave birth to her heiress on Kioligo 18th at 8:43 AM. The baby girl was healthy and strong. Many gave gifts as congratulations to Her Highness and Majesty.

The baby was named Princess Pala Diamond.

[heauxplesslydevoted]

Moments (King Liam x MC)

Summary: Liam and Kendall enjoy the first few moments of their daughter’s life.

A/N: This has been siting on my computer for months now, and with TRH coming out on Friday, I decided I might as well upload it. Again, I’m not subscribing to the fact that my MC will more than likely give birth while trapped in the palace, so I’m retconning it.

Tags: @canknot @akacalliope @drakewalker04 @senseofduties @badchoicesposts @sirbeepsalot @janezillow @hopefulmoonobject @eadanga @texaskitten30

~v~

It’s a peaceful winter evening in Cordonia. Everything outside is quiet, the streets are calm, the sun is setting beautifully, and it almost doesn’t feel real.

King Liam decides it’s a perfect day. Not because of the weather or the sunset, no those are just added incentives. Today is perfect because it’s the day the Her Royal Highness, Victoria Juliette Eleanor, Princess of Cordonia was born. The official announcement hasn’t been made. Liam and Kendall decided that they’d do it first thing in the morning, opting to enjoy those first few hours of their daughter’s life in private.

In the privacy of Kendall’s luxurious maternity suite, Liam marvels at the tiny bundle of joy swaddled in a warm blanket. He reaches into the bassinet and slowly pulls the baby out, careful not to make any noise. The Queen is sleeping, 18 hours of labor having completely exhausted her, and the last thing Liam wants to do is disrupt her peace.

He has a daughter. A beautiful baby girl, a spitting image of her mother. Once she’s securely in his arms, he smiles down at her, a smile so bright and wide, his face might burst. “Hello there, little cub! I’m your daddy, and I am so happy to finally meet you. I’ve been waiting rather impatiently for the last 9 months to have this moment.”

“You look so much like your mother, it’s uncanny,” Liam says. “It’s a good thing, because in my completely biased opinion, she’s the most beautiful woman in all of Cordonia. And you’re the most perfect baby in all of Cordonia, so I consider myself to be a pretty lucky man.”

Liam slowly walks around the room, trying to keep the young princess calm. She’s awake, her bright blue eyes that rival his own slowly adjusting to how bright the world is. “You’ve had a very eventful day. I know this is probably weird for you, being out here. You’re used to a pretty calm, dark, quiet atmosphere in mommy’s tummy and all of a sudden, you’re being thrust into the world, with all of these noises and bright lights. It’s quite a shock.”

“I don’t think there are enough words to describe the joy I’m feeling right now. I didn’t think it was possible to be happier than I was than the day I married your mother, but here we are. When she told me she was pregnant with you, I was on cloud 9. Above everything else, I’ve always wanted to have a family of my own, and your mother gave that to me. She showed me that true love exists and it’s possible for someone in my station to find it. So when you grow up, I want you to always strive for what you want. Never settle for less, okay?”

The baby yawns in reply, earning a small chuckle from Liam. “Am I boring you, princess? I’ll have you know that your mother and I have a very fascinating love story, and I can’t wait to share it with you one day.”

Liam sighs. He’s been up for the past 24 hours straight, and he knows he should be getting some sleep, but he’s just too excited.

“Since you’re up and I’m up, maybe I should tell you a little bit about our lives and about myself. We live in a small country called Cordonia, right off the coast of Greece. I’m the King, and one day you will be the Queen. I know it sounds daunting and at times, I’m sure it will be, but your mother and I will be there to teach you and advise you along the way. But that’s a long time from now, and while it is a great privilege and responsibility, I will never burden you with the weight of the crown. I know all too well what that pressure can do to a person.”

“Your uncle and I didn’t have the luxury of just being children, but I promise that changes with you. If you want to have tea parties with Auntie Hana, go fishing with your Uncle Drake, or have dance parties with Uncle Maxwell, you go right ahead. I welcome it, and I encourage it. I never want you to feel like you’re being stifled.”

“You have so many people who can’t wait to meet you,” Liam continues. “There’s your grandmother Regina, and tons of aunts and uncles. Drake, Olivia, Hana, Leo, Maxwell, Bertrand and Savannah. They also have a baby, so you won’t be the only kid around here. And If your auntie Olivia ever tries to teach you knife throwing or weapon concealment, promise that you’ll tell me or your mommy right away. We told her she’s not allowed to introduce you to weaponry until you’re 16.”

“And there are tons of pets. Chance and Lucky, and their babies already love you dearly. I couldn’t tear them away from your mom while you were still in her tummy. I’m sure you all will be best friends. And there’s also two pandas, and a horse. They live in Valtoria at your mommy’s duchy.”

Liam stares down at the baby again. It still feels surreal, like this is a dream and he’s going to wake up soon. “I love you so much. I don’t know if there are enough ways I can express it. I love you. Te amo. Ti amo. Se agapó. Je t'aime. That’s all the different languages I know how to speak, and it still doesn’t put into words just how much you mean to me. But I’ll gladly learn more.”

They walked around the spacious suite for a few more minutes, Liam alternating between talking to his daughter and just marveling at how precious she is. He’s halfway through telling her about how his ancestor, Queen Valentina went from a scribe to a noblewoman to a queen, when he hears his own queen stirring from her sleep.

“Liam?”

He rushes to her bedside. “Hello, my love. I didn’t wake you, did I?”

“No.” Kendall’s eyes land on the baby and she smiles softly. “Is she sleeping?”

“She’s actually awake. I’ve just been telling her stories about Cordonian history. She’s an excellent listener.” Kendall chuckles and attempts to sit up, wincing slightly as she moves the wrong way. Liam instantly notices the discomfort. “Are you okay?”

“I’m fine, I just moved too quickly.”

Liam places the baby back in her bassinet and moves to his wife’s side. Placing a strong hand on her back, he helps her sit up, propping up pillows to use as support. He also drapes a blanket— a ridiculously expensive thing from Hermès, courtesy of Princess Marguerite — around her shoulders.

Once Kendall is settled into a sitting position, he picks up Victoria again and places her in Kendall’s arms.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen someone so...perfect.”

“She takes after her mother,” Liam says smoothly, joining his wife and daughter on the bed.

“Forever the charmer.”

“I only speak the truth.”

Kendall stares down at the baby again, fully taking her in. Her perfectly round head, her chubby cheeks, her stunning blue eyes, her dark hair peeking out of her tiny cap. “I think I want to stare at her 24/7 for the rest of my life.”

“We have a country to run, my queen,” Liam teases.

“Once they see how cute she is, the citizens will understand.” Kendall runs a finger along Victoria’s cheek and the baby leans into her mother’s touch. The simple act makes Kendall’s heart thud in her chest and tears prick the corners of her eyes. She’s a mom, this perfect bundle of joy in front of her is her’s. “I love her so much.”

“I love her too.”

Kendall thinks back to the past year and a half that she and Liam have endured. Conspiracies, assassination attempts, kidnappings, and intense alliance negotiations. All of that has brought them here, to this moment. To this serene, wonderful moment. 

“Maybe it’s the hormones, but I feel like crying,” Kendall confesses.

“It’s fine. I’ve been teetering on the verge of crying all day.”

“I just can’t believe she’s finally here. This feels like a dream.” Kendall leans down and kisses Victoria’s forehead. “You are...a site for sore eyes.”

Liam kisses Kendall’s temple, his lips lingering there for a moment. “You were amazing, my love. I can’t thank you enough for bringing Victoria into this world.”

“It was worth it,” Kendall says. “I’d do it all over again for her. All 18 hours.”

“When do you think we should call Madeleine, so she can tell the press?” Liam asks.

“It’s nighttime now,” Kendall replies, softly. “We can call her in the morning.”

“She’s going to be absolutely incensed that we waited a full 24 hours before notifying her.”

Kendall shrugs in nonchalance. Madeleine being upset with her is at the very bottom of her list of priorities. “She’ll just have to be mad then. I don’t care.”

She leans back against Liam’s chest and he wraps an arm around her shoulder. They sit in silence for a while, just soaking in all of the happiness of the moment.

“Kendall?”

Kendall manages to tear her eyes away from Victoria and looks at her husband. “Yes?”

“I love you,” Liam says simply. “I love you so much. You are heaven sent, and you’ve made every single one of my dreams come true.”

The Queen leans forward and gives Liam a soft kiss on the lips. “I love you just as much.”

Victoria makes a tiny noise, and Liam and Kendall look down at her, smiles on their faces. “And we love you too, princess.”

[harry-sussex]

KATIE’S TOP 10 15 WORST ROYAL WEDDING DRESSES OF ALL TIME

15.  Silvia Sommerlath in Dior by Marc Bohan (Sweden, m. King Carl XVI Gustaf, 19 June 1976)

I love a good simple wedding dress, but this thing needed a tailor from the heavens to save it.  It looks like she’s wearing a bedsheet, or a nightgown.  The veil is fine, but I hate the little short part just dangling from the Cameo tiara in midair.  I don’t hate the whole look in theory, but a lot of adjustments needed to be made for it to work, especially since she went from commoner straight to Queen.

14.  Marie-Chantal Miller in Valentino (Greece, m. Crown Prince Pavlos, 1 July 1995)

This is a case of way too much going on.  It looks like the designer took pretty parts of multiple wedding dresses and sewed them together without seeing that the individual concepts worked well together.  This thing has mismatched lace, I mean, come on.  Also, the corset does her no favors.

13.  Sophie Rhys-Jones in Samantha Shaw (United Kingdom, m. Prince Edward, 19 June 1999)

Beaded jewelry - especially a cross - does not belong anywhere near a royal wedding.  The dress is way too plain, even for my ordinarily plain taste.  It looks like a nightgown.  The bouquet and veil were nice, but that necklace is just terrible.  Combined with quite the unfortunate tiara, this bridal look missed the mark in a lot of ways.

12.  Charlotte Casiraghi in Chanel Haute Couture and Giambattista Valli (Monaco, m. Dimitri Rassam, 1 June 2019)

I couldn’t decide which of Charlotte’s two gowns (excluding the short Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello from her civil ceremony) was worse, so I chose both for this spot.  The Chanel didn’t fit her anywhere, and those shoes need to be burned in a fire.  The fabric is wrinkly and heavy and the bodice drowns her.  The Giambattista Valli looked like all of the elements of a typical boho beach wedding, but all sewn together in some haphazard, last-minute fashion.  There’s just too much going on - lace and mesh and ruffles and appliqué and polka dots and tulle and wide sleeves.  I genuinely hate them both, especially since I had such high hopes.

11.  Mabel Wisse Smit in Victor & Rolf (The Netherlands, m. Prince Friso, 24 April 2004)

I don’t hate the silhouette, but that super short veil and those bows have to go.  The bows literally ascend in size down the train - I just don’t get it.  I can’t get it.  This could have been a success if it wasn’t so heavy (weighed down by those ridiculous bows) but the small details just kill the entire thing for me.

10.  Marilène van den Broek in Pierre Yves (The Netherlands, m. Prince Maurits, 29 May 1988)

Wedding dresses should never have collars, and you should never see the ribbing of the corset through the fabric.  It looks like Pierre Yves missed the entire midsection of fabric and just decided to let Marilène walk out with her lingerie showing.  The collar would be weird on a shirt, let alone on a wedding dress.  I hate it.

9.  Sarah Ferguson in Lindka Cierach (United Kingdom, m. Prince Andrew, 23 July 1986)

The 80s were a terrible era for fashion.  I hate satin with a passion - it is possibly the ugliest fabric on the face of the earth.  Combine that with shoulder pads and puffy sleeves... yikes.  The skirt of the dress looked wrinkled (satin is the least forgiving fabric) and her veil swallowed her entire head and her hair - which is almost impressive, considering one can ordinarily see Sarah’s hair from the International Space Station.  Also, those bows on the veil... nope.  Bows just seem so juvenile for such a massive event.  This is just a case of 80s fashion gone wrong - at least the proportions were right, but the rest of it completely missed the mark.

8.  Masako Owada in Jun Ashida (Japan, m. Crown Prince Naruhito, 9 June 1993)

Another case of too much happening at once.  The lace is pretty but combined with the excessively ruffled collar, buttons, elbow-length gloves in a mismatched fabric/color, matching handbag (??), and over-the-top necklace and tiara (which I love, but not with this), the look in full is... unfortunate.  Also, I hate with a passion when royal ladies in gowns cover their sashes.  This was the day she became the Crown Princess of Japan - that sash is a lot more important than that ugly little overcoat!!  The sash should always go over the outfit.  Period.  

7.  Letizia Ortiz in Manuel Pertegaz (Spain, m. The Prince of Asturias, 22 May 2004)

I’ve said it once, I’ll say it again - wedding dresses should not have collars.  For someone whose fashion almost always knocks it out of the park, I’m flabbergasted that Letizia chose this look for her wedding day.  It looks like she’s wearing a camisole underneath to bring up the neckline... I used to do that when I was 13.  It wasn’t a good look for a teenage American, and it’s not a good look for a future Queen on her wedding day.  Also, the fabric swallows her petite figure alive.  The shape is closer to a nightgown than to a wedding dress.

6.  Princess Märtha-Louise in Wenche Lyche (Norway, m. Ari Behn, 24 May 2002)

Wedding!! dresses!! should!! not!!! have!! collars!!!  The only thing worse than a collar is a jacket... Märtha-Louise went with both in this case.  The color is unforgiving and the jacket doesn’t match the slip dress beneath it.  I think I like the tiara individually but it just does not work with the dress/vampire cape thing she has going on.

5.  Mathilde d'Udekem d'Acoz in Édouard Vermeulen (Belgium, m. Prince Philippe, 4 December 1999)

Honestly, I’m getting tired of saying it, but... wedding dresses should not have collars.  The color is pretty but that’s about all I can say about this dress.  What’s with those polka dots?  Who on earth would think that polka dots and ruffles should go in the same veil?  With lace?  And tulle?  It looks like the designer took all of the leftover fabric from his past designs and stitched them into a ridiculously mismatched veil that was paired with an extraordinary simple dress (that would have been fine on its own, had the collar/coat thing been totally eliminated).  Seriously, these collars make all of these gorgeous royal ladies look like Dracula.

4.  Rania al-Yassin in Bruce Oldfield (Jordan, m. King Abdullah II, 10 June 1993)

This like something you could get at Party City for $75.00 so a child can call herself “The Bride of Franken-Elvis” while trick-or-treating on Halloween.  Seriously, what is it with these ladies and their collars?  That embroidery... no.  It’d be bad enough if it was white or silver, but the fact that it’s gold?  Just no.  And it’s repeated on her shoes!!  Short-sleeved jackets are simply the worst, especially over a wedding dress.  The fabric is unforgiving (I hate satin) and the whole thing looks like it was just pulled out of a suitcase before being thrown on the bride.  The bouquet is terrible, the earrings are terrible, the hair is terrible... why does it look like the veil is both pulling on Rania’s scalp and strangling her beehive?  I don’t get it, I hate it, I can’t imagine why anyone would think any part of this ensemble looked good.

3.  Mary Donaldson in Uffe Frank (Denmark, m. Crown Prince Frederik, 14 May 2004)

By far, the worst wedding ensemble of all the modern royal brides.  Mary has such an incredible fashion sense, which is why this one hurts so much.  What is going on here?  A bad case of wedding hair, for one - suffocated of course by an ugly tiara, excessive earrings, and a veil that looks like it just came out of someone’s attic, unpreserved and yellow-tinted.  The same goes with the dress - what’s wrong with the color?  Why does it look like it’s been sitting in a studio with a bunch of chain smokers for a year?  The color just washes her out completely.  The shape isn’t horrible but those weird panels on the front look like they were sewn on the morning of the wedding as an afterthought.  I hate the fabric, I hate the sleeves, I hate the fabric, I hate the design execution, I hate the veil, I hate the bouquet, I hate the accessories... overall, I hate the whole thing.

2.  Soraya Esfandiary-Bahktiary in Christian Dior (Iran, m. Shah Mohammed Reza Pahlavi, 12 February 1951)

Feathers... just no.  Nope, no way.  I have nothing good to say.  I have nothing to say.  Just no.  

1.  Lady Diana Spencer in David and Elizabeth Emmanuel (United Kingdom, m. The Prince of Wales, 29 July 1981)

The epitome of god-awful 80s fashion.  I get that hindsight is 20-20 but I can’t believe that anyone on Diana’s design team would think this thing would age well.  It looks like it weighed more than Diana ever did!  Puffy sleeves, ruffles, mounds and mounds of ridiculous, wrinkled fabric... it’s a wonder she wasn’t sucking wind by the time she got to the altar!  It’s like a workout!!  Who needs to go to the gym when you could just put on Diana’s wedding dress and walk a couple hundred feet?  For such a young, beautiful bride - this entire thing missed every mark.  It wore her, not the other way around.  She was barely out of her teens when she wore this and it just aged her... I could do this forever.  This is one of the worst royal wedding dresses of all time, then and now, and I can’t fathom anyone ever approving this design much less wearing it down the aisle during the wedding of the century.

[aion-rsa]

Top New Fantasy Books in April 2021

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Fantasy helps us take a break from reality when we need the respite, or learn more about our real world. Here are some of the fantasy books we’re planning on checking out this year…

Top New Fantasy Books April 2021

The Light of the Midnight Stars by Rena Rossner

Type: Novel Publisher: Redhook Release date: April 13

Den of Geek says: It’s always good to see more Jewish voices in fantasy. This book sees the root of superhero stories made specific as a threat can only be defeated by a cast of Jewish miracle-workers.

Publisher’s summary: Deep in the Hungarian woods, the sacred magic of King Solomon lives on in his descendants. Gathering under the midnight stars, they perform small miracles and none are more gifted than the great Rabbi Isaac and his three daughters. 

Hannah, bookish and calm, can coax plants to grow even when the weather is bitterly cold. Sarah, defiant and strong, can control the impulsive nature of fire. And Levana, the fey one, can read the path of the stars to decipher their secrets. 

But darkness is creeping across Europe, threatening the lives of every Jewish person in every village. Each sister will have to make an impossible choice in an effort to survive – and change the fate of their family forever.

Buy The Light of the Midnight Stars by Rena Rossner.

The Helm of Midnight by Marina Lostetter

Type: Novel Publisher: Tor Books Release date: April 13

Den of Geek says: Alternate genders and inventive magic spice up a serial killer story in a weird city.

Publisher’s summary: In a daring and deadly heist, thieves have made away with an artifact of terrible power―the death mask of Louis Charbon. Made by a master craftsman, it is imbued with the spirit of a monster from history, a serial murderer who terrorized the city.

Now Charbon is loose once more, killing from beyond the grave. But these murders are different from before, not simply random but the work of a deliberate mind probing for answers to a sinister question.

It is up to Krona Hirvath and her fellow Regulators to enter the mind of madness to stop this insatiable killer while facing the terrible truths left in his wake.

Buy The Helm of Midnight by Marina Lostetter.

Witches Steeped in Gold by Ciannon Smart

Type: Novel Publisher: HarperTeen Release date: April 20

Den of Geek says: The line between genre fiction and genre YA is sometimes muddy. Is it about the age of the protagonist? Purely a marketing decision? We’ve decided to err on the side of promoting Witches Steeped in Gold here, mostly on the strength of the dynamic between the two prickly characters.

Publisher’s summary: Divided by their order. United by their vengeance.

Iraya has spent her life in a cell, but every day brings her closer to freedom—and vengeance. 

Jazmyne is the Queen’s daughter, but unlike her sister before her, she has no intention of dying to strengthen her mother’s power.

Sworn enemies, these two witches enter a precarious alliance to take down a mutual threat. But power is intoxicating, revenge is a bloody pursuit, and nothing is certain—except the lengths they will go to win this game.

Buy Witches Steeped in Gold by Ciannon Smart.

Top New Fantasy Books March 2021

Bridge of Souls by Victoria Schwab

Type: Novel Publisher: Scholastic Press  Release date: March 2

Den of Geek says: The next entry in this well-received series mixes fantasy and horror in a twisty mystery about a ghost-hunter in an atmospheric New Orleans.

Publisher’s summary: Where there are ghosts, Cassidy Blake follows . . .

Unless it’s the other way around?

Cass thinks she might have this ghost-hunting thing down. After all, she and her ghost best friend, Jacob, have survived two haunted cities while traveling for her parents’ TV show.

But nothing can prepare Cass for New Orleans, which wears all of its hauntings on its sleeve. In a city of ghost tours and tombs, raucous music and all kinds of magic, Cass could get lost in all the colorful, grisly local legends. And the city’s biggest surprise is a foe Cass never expected to face: a servant of Death itself.

Buy Bridge of Souls by Victoria Schwab.

A Broken Darkness by Premee Mohamed

Type: Novel Publisher: Solaris Release date: March 30

Den of Geek says: This is another one hard to categorize. It’s a little bit fantasy, a little bit science fiction, and a little bit eldritch. The first book in the series showed off Mohamed’s unique aesthetic and mix of serious stakes and wry humor.

Publisher’s summary: It’s been a year and a half since the Anomaly, when They tried to force their way into the world from the shapeless void.

Nick Prasad is piecing his life together, and has joined the secretive Ssarati Society to help monitor threats to humanity – including his former friend Johnny.

Right on cue, the unveiling of Johnny’s latest experiment sees more portals opened to Them, leaving her protesting her innocence even as the two of them are thrown together to fight the darkness once more…

Buy A Broken Darkness by Premee Mohamed.

The Councillor by E.J. Beaton

Type: Novel Publisher: DAW Release date: March 2 Den of Geek says: This political fantasy follows in the footsteps of The Traitor Baru Cormorant. We’re intrigued by the story of a character tangled in her own ambition, and fantasy where words are more important than swords.

Publisher’s summary: This Machiavellian fantasy follows a scholar’s quest to choose the next ruler of her nation amidst lies, conspiracy, and assassination

When the death of Iron Queen Sarelin Brey fractures the realm of Elira, Lysande Prior, the palace scholar and the queen’s closest friend, is appointed Councillor. Publically, Lysande must choose the next monarch from amongst the city-rulers vying for the throne. Privately, she seeks to discover which ruler murdered the queen, suspecting the use of magic. Resourceful, analytical, and quiet, Lysande appears to embody the motto she was raised with: everything in its place. Yet while she hides her drug addiction from her new associates, she cannot hide her growing interest in power. She becomes locked in a game of strategy with the city-rulers – especially the erudite prince Luca Fontaine, who seems to shift between ally and rival. Further from home, an old enemy is stirring: the magic-wielding White Queen is on the move again, and her alliance with a traitor among the royal milieu poses a danger not just to the peace of the realm, but to the survival of everything that Lysande cares about.  In a world where the low-born keep their heads down, Lysande must learn to fight an enemy who wears many guises… even as she wages her own battle between ambition and restraint.

Buy The Councillor by E.J. Beaton.

Top New Fantasy Books February 2021

Fireheart Tiger by Aliette de Bodard

Type: Novella Publisher: Tordotcom Release date: Feb. 9 Den of Geek says: De Bodard is a staple around here for lush settings and unique characters. Here she turns her hand to a romance (and maybe love that doesn’t work out after all) compared to Howl’s Moving Castle. Publisher’s Summary:

Fire burns bright and has a long memory….

Quiet, thoughtful princess Thanh was sent away as a hostage to the powerful faraway country of Ephteria as a child. Now she’s returned to her mother’s imperial court, haunted not only by memories of her first romance, but by worrying magical echoes of a fire that devastated Ephteria’s royal palace.

Thanh’s new role as a diplomat places her once again in the path of her first love, the powerful and magnetic Eldris of Ephteria, who knows exactly what she wants: romance from Thanh and much more from Thanh’s home. Eldris won’t take no for an answer, on either front. But the fire that burned down one palace is tempting Thanh with the possibility of making her own dangerous decisions.

Can Thanh find the freedom to shape her country’s fate―and her own?

Buy Fireheart Tiger by Aliette de Bodard.

City of the Uncommon Thief by Lynne Bertrand

Type: Novel Publisher: Dutton Books for Young Readers Release date: Feb. 9

Den of Geek says: This novel sits at the crossroads of fantasy, horror, and YA. A gothic city provides a pleasantly weird background to a dark adventure about teens who lurk on the rooftops of the city.

Publisher’s Summary:

“Guilders work. Foundlings scrub the bogs. Needles bind. Swords tear. And men leave. There is nothing uncommon in this city. I hope Errol Thebes is dead. We both know he is safer that way.”

In a walled city of a mile-high iron guild towers, many things are common knowledge: No book in any of the city’s libraries reveals its place on a calendar or a map. No living beasts can be found within the city’s walls. And no good comes to the guilder or foundling who trespasses too far from their labors. Even on the tower rooftops, where Errol Thebes and the rest of the city’s teenagers pass a few short years under an open sky, no one truly believes anything uncommon is possible within the city walls. But one guildmaster has broken tradition to protect her child, and now the whole city faces an uncommon threat: a pair of black iron spikes that has the power of both sword and needle on the rib cages of men has gone missing, but the mayhem they cause rises everywhere. If the spikes are not found, no wall will be high enough to protect the city—or the world beyond it.   And Errol Thebes? He’s not dead and he’s certainly not safe.

Buy City of the Uncommon Thief by Lynne Bertrand.

The Memory Theater by Karin Tidbeck

Type: Novel Publisher: Pantheon Release date: Feb. 16 Den of Geek says: Tidbeck is known for her strange and literary short stories, full of musing and teeth. Her take on portal fantasy is bound to bring something new to the subgenre. Publisher’s summary: From the award-winning author of Amatka and Jagannath—a fantastical tour de force about friendship, interdimensional theater, and a magical place where no one ages, except the young In a world just parallel to ours exists a mystical realm known only as the Gardens. It’s a place where feasts never end, games of croquet have devastating consequences, and teenagers are punished for growing up. For a select group of masters, it’s a decadent paradise where time stands still. But for those who serve them, it’s a slow torture where their lives can be ended in a blink. In a bid to escape before their youth betrays them, Dora and Thistle—best friends and confidants—set out on a remarkable journey through time and space. Traveling between their world and ours, they hunt for the one person who can grant them freedom. Along the way, they encounter a mysterious traveler who trades in favors and never forgets debts, a crossroads at the center of the universe, our own world on the brink of war, and a traveling troupe of actors with the ability to unlock the fabric of reality.   Endlessly inventive, The Memory Theater takes us to a wondrous place where destiny has yet to be written, life is a performance, and magic can erupt at any moment. It is Karin Tidbeck’s most engrossing and irresistible tale yet. Buy The Memory Theater by Karin Tidbeck.

Top New Fantasy Books January 2021

Across the Green Grass Fields by Seanan McGuire

Type: Novel Publisher: Tordotcom Release date: Jan. 12, 2021

Den of Geek says: McGuire’s Wayward Children series is a loosely connected group of novels all playing with fantasy tropes. What does it really mean to be a chosen one in a magical world? In the latest installment she turns her careful wit to centaurs and unicorns.

Publisher’s summary: “Welcome to the Hooflands. We’re happy to have you, even if you being here means something’s coming.”

Regan loves, and is loved, though her school-friend situation has become complicated, of late.

When she suddenly finds herself thrust through a doorway that asks her to “Be Sure” before swallowing her whole, Regan must learn to live in a world filled with centaurs, kelpies, and other magical equines―a world that expects its human visitors to step up and be heroes.

But after embracing her time with the herd, Regan discovers that not all forms of heroism are equal, and not all quests are as they seem…

Buy Across the Green Grass Fields by Seanan McGuire.

The Ruthless Lady’s Guide to Wizardry by C.M. Waggoner

Type: Novel Publisher: Ace Release date: Jan 12, 2021

Den of Geek says: Romance and magic come together in what looks like a fun tale with a wide variety of characters. The roguish setting reminds us of The Lies of Locke Lamora with more women. Publisher’s summary: Dellaria Wells, petty con artist, occasional thief, and partly educated fire witch, is behind on her rent in the city of Leiscourt—again. Then she sees the “wanted” sign, seeking Female Persons, of Martial or Magical ability, to guard a Lady of some Importance, prior to the celebration of her Marriage. Delly fast-talks her way into the job and joins a team of highly peculiar women tasked with protecting their wealthy charge from unknown assassins.   Delly quickly sets her sights on one of her companions, the confident and well-bred Winn Cynallum. The job looks like nothing but romance and easy money until things take a deadly (and undead) turn. With the help of a bird-loving necromancer, a shapeshifting schoolgirl, and an ill-tempered reanimated mouse named Buttons, Delly and Winn are determined to get the best of an adversary who wields a twisted magic and has friends in the highest of places.

Buy The Ruthless Lady’s Guide to Wizardry by C.M. Waggoner.

The Forever Sea by Joshua Phillip Johnson

Type: Novel Publisher: DAW Release date: Jan. 19 Den of Geek says: A gorgeous and mysterious fantasy world is ready to unfold. The world-building here looks delightfully weird, with sailing ships on fields of greenery.

Publisher’s Summary: On the never-ending, miles-high expanse of prairie grasses known as the Forever Sea, Kindred Greyreach, hearthfire keeper and sailor aboard harvesting vessel The Errant, is just beginning to fit in with the crew of her new ship when she receives devastating news. Her grandmother—The Marchess, legendary captain and hearthfire keeper—has stepped from her vessel and disappeared into the sea.

But the note she leaves Kindred suggests this was not an act of suicide. Something waits in the depths, and the Marchess has set out to find it.

To follow in her grandmother’s footsteps, Kindred must embroil herself in conflicts bigger than she could imagine: a water war simmering below the surface of two cultures; the politics of a mythic pirate city floating beyond the edges of safe seas; battles against beasts of the deep, driven to the brink of madness; and the elusive promise of a world below the waves. 

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Kindred finds that she will sacrifice almost everything—ship, crew, and a life sailing in the sun—to discover the truth of the darkness that waits below the Forever Sea. Buy The Forever Sea by Joshua Phillip Johnson.

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[aiimaginesbts]

Of Two Hearts: Chapter 2

Seokjin x Reader x Taehyung (ft. Jimin and Namjoon)

Genres: Royalty AU, angst

Word count: 6,112 words

Chapter 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10

Read the First Part: What You Never Had

A/N: Thanks Ann @godsavemefrombts for beta-ing this!

Disclaimer/Copyright

Your knees simply gave out.

There was no other word for it. Suddenly all the strength within you vanished into thin air, your legs could no longer support the weight of your body and you crumpled to the ground. “Y/n!” Namjoon cried out and went swiftly around his desk to rush to your aid. When he had you cradled safely in his arms, he turned to the messenger and said, “Thank you for giving us the news as quickly as you could. I have to ask you to refrain from sharing it with anyone else until we can figure out how to deal with it. Otherwise there will be panic.”

The messenger nodded gravely. “Understood, Your Highness.”

“You are dismissed. Make sure you get medical attention for your wounds at once.”

You were only vaguely aware of the messenger’s departure from the room. Any thoughts of Jin and Jimin flew from your mind; the only thing that remained was your father. The news left you in such a state of shock that your eyes didn’t even form tears. Yes, you had been dreading exactly this, but now that it really happened, you realised that you’d never really believed that it would. Regardless of the situation, your father was invincible in your eyes. He would live forever, you’d thought. Outliving you, even. That he would no longer be there, forever, shattered everything around you until you felt nothing.

Eventually, you became aware of Namjoon’s arms tightening around you, and your inelegant position on the carpet. You had no idea how much time had passed; for all you know, you’d only lost your mind for a moment or two, but it felt like forever. It hurt so very badly, that it wouldn’t have subsided in a million years. Yet the sun was still shining outside. It shouldn’t, in your opinion. It was the darkest day of your life, and you were unreasonably angry at the sun for continuing to be so warm and bright. That misplaced rage that should be directed of the faceless men of Zinnis pricked at the corner of your eyes, and it brought clarity. And with it, grief. You clutched at the lapel of Namjoon’s coat and sobbed. It was much more subdued than you’d have thought warranted on such an occasion. Truthfully, you wanted to wail and scream at the cruelty, the injustice, but you couldn’t. The passing of your father left you broken, and you felt weak. Your eldest brother’s support gave you the strength to let out your emotions in continuous but short, soft whimpers, and nothing more. Even though you knew that Namjoon was as stricken as you were at the news, perhaps he was as comforted by your presence as you were by his. Thus, you sought solace in each other, during that small window of opportunity when you didn’t have to pretend, until you needed to go on and be strong for the sake of others.

Unfortunately, that time wasn’t long in coming. News of the King’s passing spread like wildfire through the bordering villages, eventually making its way to the towns, then, the entire country and beyond. All at an alarming rate that you weren’t sure you were prepared for. Amidst the chaos that wracked the castle for the next two weeks came the confirmation that Jimin had escaped the ambush. Apparently, he’d been caught in the attack, but managed to flee with the help of the guards.

The guards. You had bitten the inside of your cheek so hard when you’d heard the message alongside Namjoon, trying to keep your tongue still and your face calm, that you could taste blood in your mouth from biting your lower lip. Relief that your second brother was safe was immense, but what of Jin? You were dying to know. However, that was the least of your worries. On the surface, at least. Even whilst still mourning for the late King, Namjoon had to take over the role — in responsibilities if not yet in name. The people were in a panic, and rightly so. In the castle, the overlapping voices of the nobles were only making everything more confusing, all of them anxious to make themselves heard, each one convinced that their opinion was the only one that mattered.

It was enough to drive you mad. You’d barely been allowed time to grieve for your father before you’d been drowned with responsibilities and your sense of loyalty towards Namjoon. He needed all the support he could get. Heaven knew how he was coping with it all. Even with the news that Jimin had survived, both of you couldn’t be assured of the fact until you’d seen him with your own eyes. It was even worse for you, since you couldn’t even ask after Jin without making yourself look suspicious, so you had two people to worry about.

“His my Royal Guard, after all. Perhaps it would be fine to ask?” You tried to cajole Ji Eun into agreeing with you, but the sentence ended up as a question, rather than a statement. Really, you were just trying to convince yourself. It didn’t even take much reasoning to see that there was no way for you to find out about Jin’s condition. Even if you inquired about him, you doubted that the status of each of the guards that had followed the late King and his youngest son were known. All you could do was worry about Jin all by yourself—

Your head snapped up sharply as you came to a realisation. No, you were not the only one worrying about Jin. Some distance away from the castle, his parents were surely wondering the fate of their only child. A twinge of guilt nagged at you when you remembered that you hadn’t visited since the day you came of age. The day that introduced you as the Princess to the whole world. The day that Jin discovered your true identity. So many things had happened since then. More importantly, sneaking out of the castle became even more dangerous, now that many of the citizens knew the face of their Princess. Thus, you’d stopped your clandestine visits out of the castle, limiting your outings to the ones carried out due to your duties. Clearly, those hadn’t allowed a trip to your beloved’s parents’ house.

Yet now you felt the urgent need to go. As painful as your concern for Jin was, his parents must be feeling it a hundred times over. Your hands fisted in your skirts in anger and guilt, directed inwards. It was shameful that you didn’t remember about it until now. Even though you hadn’t had the opportunity to communicate with his father often, since he was usually out the few times you visited, and the handful of times you did see him, you’d found that he wasn’t one for many words, Jin’s mother had always been friendly and welcoming. Perhaps she knew that there was something going on between you and her son. You wondered if she’d disapprove of your relationship, knowing now who you actually were. Surely the stopping of your visits didn’t help your cause, but you’d like to believe that she understood your position. And you wished that she would have blessed the feelings that you and Jin had for each other.

However, none of that mattered if something had happened to him. It was a moment of clarity for you. Jin’s life far outweighed the love you had for him — the very emotion that had been the center of your turbulent thoughts these past few months. You would do anything if it would guarantee his safety. Which made the whole situation all the more unbearable, since there was nothing you could do. You turned to Ji Eun, wearing a pleading look that put her on guard immediately.

Over three hours later, you flopped inelegantly on your bed and closed your eyes. Exhaustion from arguing with your lady-in-waiting can be felt not just in your brain and throat, but somehow all over your body. Yet it was still far from over, it seems. Neither of you had budged from your initial opinions; you asserting that Jin’s parents needed to be reassured, even if there was no reassurance to be given, and Ji Eun insisting that such an endeavour was unnecessary and out of the question. She’d only agreed to summon Jungkook to your study. When you’d asked her to do so, you’d been hoping that the guard would agree to accompany you on your visit. Yet Ji Eun had agreed to your request to bring Jungkook over quite readily. The right corner of your mouth dipped in a thoughtful frown. You had no doubt that she was browbeating Jungkook into agreeing to refuse any of your requests on their way back to you.

Maybe it was because you were lying flat on your back, but your sigh felt especially loud and heavy. A few moments of silence passed, then your groan filled the air as you sat up and brought your forehead to your knees. Jin’s soft but stern voice sounded in your head, reminding you not to do anything foolish or dangerous. With an unladylike groan, you shifted to press your eyes against your knees, as if that could block out his sensible words. It hurt to think of him when you didn’t even know if he was still alive or not. You had always followed your instinct, even though you knew that it wasn’t the wisest course of action. Yet this time it was your head that told you to go to provide comfort to Jin’s parents, and hopefully, selfishly, gain some solace for yourself, too. However, your instinct remained unmoved, giving no drive for you to move. Instead, you heard — or perhaps remembered, you weren’t sure — Jin’s warning, advising you against it.

Even though you had no idea what it meant, a wave of unease washed over you. All of a sudden, you felt unsure and extremely vulnerable. All the more Jin’s absence left you completely lost. You had taken him for granted, and now only when he wasn’t around that you knew how much you needed him. Remorse filled you as you remembered how you’d avoided him for the past few weeks. It was hardly fair for him to be pushed away while you tried to figure out the obstacles in your relationship. Especially when he’d been fully aware of the impossibility of the situation due to the difference in your stations from the very beginning. It was you who’d been convinced that everything would turn out fine, too short-sighted to really contemplate your obligations as a princess. Perhaps you shouldn’t have pushed him away, even if you couldn’t bear to share your insecurities with him. You had no idea how much you’d depended on him. Jin was the reason you had felt so safe, even when you were doing reckless things. Ever since the first day you’d met him, you knew he was your very own knight. Not just because he was your personal Royal Guard. You just knew that no matter what you did, no matter how dangerous the situation you found yourself in, Jin would be there to save you.

But Jin wasn’t here now. Even if he had survived the Zinnis ambush, there was no way he could come to your aid should something happen. The chaos inside the castle was just a small sample of the state of things outside in the capital; the whole country was in a state of unrest. People were surely anxious and fearful of the fate of their youngest Prince, all the while preparing themselves for a war. It was inevitable now. You didn’t have to ask Namjoon to know that even leaving the castle fully guarded was ill-advised; to sneak out with only one protector would be foolish to the extreme. As it was, you were sure that you were already halfway to insanity, arguing within yourself with someone who wasn’t even there.

By the time Ji Eun returned with Jungkook to meet you in your small study within your suite of chambers, you were already weary from your battle with yourself. Still, you tried to appear collected and authoritative as you sat behind your desk; the way you should appear. You could tell that Ji Eun had already warned him of the request you wanted to make, and couldn’t blame him for holding himself so stiffly, as if bracing himself for something unpleasant. And just a short while ago, you would have gone ahead and told him of your initial request. “Jungkook, I have been told that the Royal Guard Seokjin’s parents live in the capital,” you said slowly, carefully weighing the words on your tongue before uttering them. “Do you know where it is?”

He looked surprised, but nodded, wide-eyed. “I have been to visit before, Your Highness.” Of course; you remembered that Jungkook was Jin’s junior in the military academy. The younger man looked up to him, and so Jin had taken it upon himself to keep an eye on Jungkook. They had gotten rather close. You tried to work the words out in your head before saying them. It didn’t seem like he suspected your feign of ignorance. Your words made it seem like it was just something you’d heard in passing. Perhaps a tidbit that Jin has shared with you himself. He was your Royal Guard, after all.

In the end, you decided to stay as close to the truth as possible. “They must be worried sick about him,” you conveyed your real feelings with words disguised as concern as a princess. “Would you mind checking in on them to make sure they are alright?”

“Of course not. I would be happy to.” Jungkook’s soft sigh of relief followed his agreement, and you had to try hard to pretend that you didn’t hear it. Even though you had no idea what Ji Eun had told him, you could easily hazard a guess; a favour, probably unpleasant, and definitely dangerous to your safety. You bit back a wry smile. Jungkook was lucky that you weren’t being wilful today, you supposed. Truth be told, you really wanted to go — the original request that you’d had for him was to accompany you there. But somewhere between sending a reluctant Ji Eun with your request and Jungkook’s arrival, you’d changed your intentions. You were sure that she would ask you why you’d changed your mind, but you didn’t have a ready answer. It wasn’t as if Jin was by your side, persuading you to abandon the idea, as much as you’d like it to be true. It didn’t matter, anyway. Even if you did go, what could you do, other than apologise for not visiting for so long due to the real nature of your position? How would you even explain that — posing as a commoner and making their son fall in love with you, only to end up in a relationship that couldn’t possibly head anywhere? You knew you couldn’t bring yourself to reassure them that Jin was fine. Not when you were worried and deathly afraid that might not be the case yourself. Your shook your head mentally, forcing yourself to focus on the two people actually in front of you, and off the person who wasn’t even there.

“Thank you, Jungkook. Do let me know if they need anything,” you said with a nod, dismissing him. A part of you debated the wisdom of telling him to relay the message saying that you were praying for his safe return, but you decided against it. Although Jin had probably told his parents who you really were, you weren’t completely sure of that fact. Even if they knew, you couldn’t guarantee that they won’t say something about your relationship with Jin to Jungkook. Best to play it safe and not ask him to say anything about you at all. However, just before he could leave the room, you asked him, “perhaps it would be best not to let others know of my request. I do not want to be seen as having favourites, but I do not know the circumstances of the other men in the group.” It was a lame excuse, since you were playing favourites, in a way. But it was the only way you could think of to inform Jungkook not to tell anyone else. You trusted that he wouldn’t if you’d instructed him not to.

Jungkook nodded his assent, then left. As expected, your lady-in-waiting immediately pounced, insanely curious as to what made you change your mind. You were aware that you were the most obstinate person, which was why she wasn’t completely satisfied when you said it was your instinct. Surely there must be something more, she’d said, and you would have agreed with her if you hadn’t known your own heart.

It turned out that your guts had been pulling you in the right direction, after all. The sun had barely left the skies and the darkness had hardly claimed the night when Ji Eun arrived with a message. She took care to be suspiciously quiet, even though she was visibly excited — her eyes were wide, mouth opening and closing like a goldfish, as if she couldn’t believe the news herself, even though she was the one delivering it. After taking a deep breath, she exclaimed in the lowest voice she could muster, “They are back!”

“What?” You asked cluelessly, never for one second thinking that such news would come at that moment. It took a few seconds for you to digest her meaning, but when you did, you started up from your seat, almost upsetting the tea service in the process. “You mean, Jimin—“

She nodded vigorously in confirmation, and your fingers dig into the soft material of the chair. “What about...” you choked on your words, too scared to bring yourself to finish the sentence. As if stopping in the middle would protect you from any bad tidings. But you didn’t have to, because Ji Eun knew exactly what you wanted to say. She nodded firmly.

Immediately you stood, ready to rush to Jin’s side, but then you stopped yourself. With your brain catching up with the instinctive actions that your body took, everything came rushing to you, and you sagged back into your seat. Relief unlike anything you’d ever felt before washed over you, even as your feet itched to run towards him. Thank goodness you didn’t leave the castle with Jungkook to go to Jin’s house earlier. You didn’t even know where he was, exactly, but you would search every nook and cranny of the castle if you’d followed your heart’s desire. Jin was alive! Just a few minutes ago your heart was heavy with guilt and the uncertainty of Jin’s condition. Right now he and Jimin were in the same building as you. You could hardly believe it. Yet you couldn’t rush to Jin like you wanted to. It was painful to hold yourself back, but you were thankful enough that he was alive. You could almost bear anything as long as he was safe.

After composing yourself as best you could, you started out of your chambers with Ji Eun. You wanted to see your brother. At least that wasn’t out of the ordinary. Hopefully Jin was there with him. However, when you arrived, he clearly wasn’t in attendance, since the only people who were present in Namjoon’s study was himself and Jimin, but upon seeing your second brother, thoughts of Jin was easily put aside. After all, even though you knew that he was alive, you’d been just as concerned about Jimin as you were about Jin. Yes, you’d known that Jimin had survived the attack early on, but that didn’t mean you weren’t worried about him. You wanted to make sure that he was unhurt — at least physically; you were sure that the passing of your father had affected him even more than it did you, since it happened in his presence — and simply to reassure yourself that he was there. He looked haggard, and your heart cried for him. The physical, mental and emotional exertion of the travel and the ambush had clearly taken a toll on him, and even though he smiled the moment he saw you, the expression was tired, almost strained.

With no regard to propriety, you ran towards Jimin, stopping short just before you crashed into him. Grabbing his forearms, you assessed him from top to bottom, eyes narrowed to catch every single scratch. It might not have been a good idea, though. There were more than a few scratches on the younger prince, even a gash that you were sure was the surface of an even deeper wound. He was in one piece, but every single injury on him tore at your heart, making you tremble and envisioning tearing faceless men limb from limb for laying their hands on your brother. For a short while, Jimin indulged in your quiet assessment of his well-being. But it didn’t take long for him to deduce that you’d never be completely assured, and so he runs his thumb gently over the creases between your brows. “I’m fine,” he informed you.

Your lips trembled at his voice; whether it was because you missed it, or because you knew that he wasn’t actually fine — not really — and you threw your arms around him. Pressing your face as hard as you could against his chest, you managed to keep the tears at bay. “Do you have any idea how worried we were?” Your muffled words were more watery than angry, devoid of any actual accusation. Jimin was home, and that was all that mattered. Losing your father had caused you enough grief without having to cry over your brother as well, and you knew Namjoon agreed. After calming yourself down, you and your brothers had a long talk over the devastating incident.

Listening to Jimin’s first-hand recounting was a painful but necessary experience. The gist of it was as you’d heard from the messenger, but Jimin filled in the blanks. He was inside the carriage with the late King, going over the more important issues that they’d hoped to discuss with the King of Zinnis, when shouts rang from outside. The men from Zinnis far outnumbered the guards protecting the carriage, easily decimating the ones from the right of it with hardly any time for your men to sound the alarm. From Jimin’s point of view, the enemy was on top of them before he could even draw his sword. The shock and force was such that he wouldn’t have been surprised if the sturdy carriage had overturned from the sheer strength of horse and men. Jimin had rushed outside to join the men, while being wary of straying too far from the carriage.

Yet it was all for naught. As he was furiously slashing at his enemies, a hand had pulled on his shoulder, and he almost took a swipe at the unwitting man behind as he turned around. “It was Sir Kim Seokjin.” Jimin’s voice remained calm, but his eyes flicked in your direction for an instant before settling on Namjoon again.

The eldest Prince frowned in confusion. “Kim Seokjin?” He asked, unfamiliar with the name.

“Y/n’s Royal Guard.” Jimin nodded towards you, and Namjoon made a sound of recognition.

“Ah. Yes. He was the one who discovered the pirates’ hideout, wasn’t he?” Your eldest brother turned towards you for confirmation, and you muttered your assent.

“He had also protected her on several occasions,” Jimin added, and you looked at him carefully. Was he up to something? You had convinced yourself that Jimin wouldn’t reveal the relationship you had with Jin, but it wasn’t hard to put yourself on guard.

Namjoon shot you a withering look, clearly disapproving of the fact that his baby sister had needed so much saving in the first place, but thankfully he didn’t comment further. Instead, he told Jimin to continue with his tale. After jumping back to narrowly escape Jimin’s blade, Jin had fearlessly approached your brother again, grabbing his arm to urge that he leave at once. You had to bite back a whimper when he’d refused, telling Jin that he had to protect the King. Somehow you’d known, even before Jimin sadly recounted that Jin had shook his head and pointed towards the carriage. In the midst of fighting, they had unconsciously moved away from the vehicle, but they were still close enough for Jimin to see your father lying in a puddle of blood on the ground next to it. Even though days had passed since receiving the news on your father, you remembered the devastation that you had felt — and was still feeling now. So you weren’t surprised to find out that Jin had dragged Jimin, who would have remained immobile in his state of shock, away from the chaos of battle.

“I was completely useless,” Jimin berated himself, hanging his head in shame. Even though he’d confessed that Jin had to fend off the attackers as they made their way towards some horses to escape, you couldn’t bear to listen to your brother’s self-loathing. You moved to sit next to him, enveloping him in a fierce hug.

“You are not useless,” you said firmly. “If you hadn’t escaped, Amaryll would have lost their King and their Prince. And I would have lost my brother, too.” A sob lodged in your throat, so you cleared it to ensure that it wouldn’t escape, composing yourself at the same time. “Our remaining men followed you to make sure that you are safe, and that is why there are as many survivors as there are now. You saved the lives of those men.”

Jimin’s only response was a wan smile, acknowledging your point, but you knew his heart wasn’t able to accept it, even if he understood it in his head. Suddenly desperate not to see his heartbreaking expression for a moment longer, you tried for a change in subject. “How are we to proceed from here?”

If the hushed voices that the three of you were using before was unsettling, the silence following your question was deafening. None of you knew what to say. It wasn’t that no one had the answer. That much was apparent. It was that neither you nor your brothers could bring yourselves to form the words. You nibbled on the inside of your cheek, regret sprouting from asking. However, you knew that it was something that needed to be addressed, and better sooner than later.

Your second brother was of the same mind, because he stated, “tongues will wag, but your coronation cannot be postponed, Namjoon. There will be chaos as it is, when word goes out that Father was murdered. We need to present a confident and prepared front.” After seeing Namjoon blanch at the suggestion, Jimin added, “it can be a simple one, just for formality.”

There really was no way around it, so in the end your eldest brother agreed. The rest of the evening was spent planning the occasion, as well as discussions on the first steps to be taken to prepare for the war. Everything must appear to be in place before informing people on the lower chain of command, as well as the masses. It all went more smoothly than you’d expected. Calmer and orderly. The ministers were clearly distressed by the news of the King’s passing, but you three siblings worked clinically, showing no effects from the heavy loss.

And you were still in the state of mind when (maid) found you later that night — in your night clothes, with your hair brushed down, ready for bed — yet sitting on the edge of it. Staring blankly at the floor, as if detached from reality. Your mind was just a blank, but nowhere ready to rest. Even when she called for you, your “Hmm?” was said out of habit more than anything else. In truth, you didn’t even notice her presence. You didn’t notice anything; not even the soft mattress you were perched on.

“Sir Seokjin is here to see you. I told him that it is very inappropriate—“ Her distressed tone barely registered with you, and when she ended her speech with a question, you simply answered with, “fine.”

“Fine?! But—“ her shrill reply was cut short by soft footsteps on the plushly carpeted floor, but you only felt relief that she’d stopped. You simply couldn’t summon the energy to move, not even an inch.

That was until heavy, comforting hands rested upon your shoulders. It startled you enough to make you look up into brown eyes that were filled with worry. “Jin?” It was hard to believe your own eyes. This was like a dream. Or a nightmare. All of it. Reality’s cruel weight suddenly crashed down on you, leaving you broken, a sobbing mess. The only thing keeping you sane was his arms around you, squeezing you so tightly as if to keep you together. It felt like he was the only good thing in your life at the moment.

“You’re alive,” you gasped, clutching at the front of his shirt. You needed to hold onto him, lest he disappeared like you’d seen so many times when you were asleep.

His response was to tighten his hold on you. Even though his breath that softly blew against the top of your head was warm, his words were more comforting, oddly. “I’m sorry.”

It was just that. He was sorry — for the death of your father, for his failure at protecting him, at the situation you were in now — it might be for one thing, or it might be for everything; you didn’t need to ask. There was no doubt that Jin would always want the best for you, and would do anything for your sake, and so just those simple two words conveyed enough. You nodded, throat still too clogged by your sobs to say anything.

He held you until your tears subsided, then coaxed you to sit side by side on the edge of the bed. Ji Eun had discreetly made an exit sometime after showing Jin in, and you were grateful for that. She was your confidante, but there are things that you just couldn’t share with her. Besides, you had always felt that she had often shouldered more than her share of burden, with your recklessness and frequent (some nobles might even say unhealthy for a woman) interest in Amaryll’s affairs. She also didn’t know Jin as you did, thus you wanted this time alone with him, after so long being apart, to just be the two of you.

“You’re hurt,” was your next, obvious assessment to his well-being. It was all you were capable of at the moment, but he understood the sentiment behind it. There was nothing you could do about him being in dangerous situations, yet you wouldn’t be able to stop yourself from worrying. The best he could do was be forthright with you; so you could fuss over him when he was injured and feel genuine relief when he was not. It was better than hiding his pain from you – you had pointed that if you discovered that he was lying, even just once, you could never believe him again if he tried to reassure you that he was fine. Of course, you never wanted him to be hurt, but as long as he was alive, that was the most important part, in your opinion.

While he did not escape the ambush unscathed, Jin hadn’t sustained any serious injuries. After examining his cuts and bruises, you felt slightly more like yourself. It should be unsettling, to see your beloved in this state, but the fresh scars were undeniable proof that he was indeed alive. That simple fact did wonders for your frayed nerves and battered heart. Neither of you talked much. Whether it was because there was not much to talk about, or because you were both physically and mentally exhausted, or both, you weren’t completely sure.

It was comforting, but it wouldn’t last for long. Jin suddenly stopped moving, as if deep in thought. “So, we are at war now,” Jin sighed. You nodded, but you could tell that this was not what he wanted to say. There was also a forbidding feeling that you weren’t going to like whatever it was he was going to bring up. “It’s inevitable, of course, considering what happened.” Not knowing what to add to the one-way conversation, you made a soft sound of assent. “Zinnis may be a smaller country, but they are renowned for their military strength.” That was not news to you, either. While Amaryll is more than twice the size of Zinnis, most of your people were farmers and merchants, not soldiers. Trade was what your country was known for, and with its abundant fertile lands, Amaryll was a prime target for Zinnis. “We will need all the help that we can get if we are going to win this war.”

A part of you had anticipated what Jin was getting at from the beginning, but you were still unprepared to tell him the truth. He laid his hand on yours, and only then you noticed that you were trembling. Your hands clasped atop your lap were almost completely covered by his large one, and the sight fascinated you, for some reason. You just couldn’t look at the expression on his face right now. He called your name in a voice that was so gentle and kind. It was the reason you took his hand the first day you’d met him – he made you feel protected, like everything was going to be all right. Even as the world was crumbling all around you.

“My feelings for you will never change, even if you marry someone else.”

“How could I possibly?” The question was high-pitched with anger and cracked with pain as your head whipped around to finally look at him. Jin’s beautiful features were calm, already accepting the fact, but his eyes were filled with sadness that was more similar to your own feelings. “You’re the only one for me, Jin. You always have been. How could I marry Prince Taehyung?” Voicing it out in front of him for the first time was like finally validating the truth that you’d been trying to deny for so long. Once again, tears formed anew.

Jin raised his free hand to cup the side of your face, slowly brushing away the tears from your left cheek. “I have always known that this would never last. You should have known that too.” Yes, you knew that Jin had thought about this from the start. That was why he had refused to prolong your relationship when he’d found out who you were. Still, you had never wanted to believe that was true. It might be foolish of you. And it was definitely idiotic to want to continue believing that you and Jin still had a chance to be together. Your head knew without a shred of a doubt, but your heart remained unmoved in your feelings for Jin.

He brought your head to rest on his chest, and you went readily into his arms. Even though his stroked your hair softly, Jin had no intentions on letting you continue evading the inescapable. “The Crown Prince of Delphina has military strength that rivals – maybe even surpass – Zinnis. He himself has been known to be a great leader. And he hasn’t treated you with anything other than kindness and respect, has he?”

You cringed at the way Jin had phrased the question. Of course he had noticed the interactions between you and Prince Taehyung. The Crown Prince was admirable, friendly, and you liked him very much; but you had never been unfaithful to Jin. Nor did you ever want to. Just one look at Jin and no other man could compare. None could remain in your mind, not when Jin already had your heart. But your station forced you to listen to Jin’s words. It reminded you of your duty to your country. The position that you had been blessed with is one that made you act on the behalf of your people at all times, even at the cost of your own feelings. An alliance with Prince Taehyung would mean saving thousands of lives. The lives of your people. It could mean Jin’s life.

“No, he hasn’t.” You whispered brokenly.

[frelianknight13]

Welcome to Dansante:

The kingdom of Dansante is founded on the arts, but is especially well-known for its’ profficiency in dance, namely ballet. There are 7 provinces, each known for a different form of art. 

Effectuer, the performing arts province, contains the capital, La Ville de Dansante, and is a lovely, cool-weathered seaside town at the northern-most of the country: On a nice day, it isn’t at all uncommon to see citizens walking their dogs or cats hunting for unsuspecting prey.

Pellicule is the film province, a sprawling, summery city in South-East Dansante with lights that never seem to die and movie stars that never seem to fade: Pellicule has been producing the best films in the nation for over a century, and their legacy will surely live on. 

Musique, the music province, is a cluster of tropical islands with the most beautiful singers and the most skilled instrument players: This may be due to the abundance of mermaids concentrated in Dansante’s most aquatic lands.

Construir, the architecture province, is located in North-West Dansante, best known for their beautiful, yet old buildings that appear to be based on Northern European architecture, and their extremely social lifestyles.

L’ecriture is the literature province: Small, forest-y, and secluded, hearing a whole lot from them is certainly uncommon, as most there tend to have their nose stuck in their books, or their minds are occupied writing new best-selling novels---Although they do have a tendency to produce their fair share of wizards, witches, and fairies, now that you mention it....

Peinture, the painting and photography province, neighbors Construir, although it is known as a peaceful town with blooming willow trees, clear streams and nice warm weather; when one visits, they can always expect to see pops of color and artistic masterpieces everywhere they go.

 Taillent, the sculpture province, is the most industrial of the provinces, as well as being a bustling center of culture and diversity: The skyscrapers are magnifiscent and filled with towering marble sculptures and columns....not to mention, the food from the street vendors is delicious!

Introducing the Royal Family of Dansante

1. The current rulers of Dansante are King William and his wife, Queen Andrea have been ruling since June of 2004. Both have been known for being fair and just in their rule---the people of Dansante don’t want to see them go anytime soon!

2. Their eldest daughter and only child, The Crown Princess Clarissa, is heir to the throne. She is one of the most talented dancers in the kingdom, and is often referreed to as “The buffest princess Dansante has ever seen”, earning her the nickname “Wonderwoman” by her people---this, of course, is a compliment. Dansante deeply values physical strength.

3. Mrs. Adele Wickidson has been Queen Andrea’s attendant ever since she was training to enter the Dansante Monarchy. The two have since become best friends, and although they departed once Andrea married the then-Crown Prince, she came back to live in Dansante Palace (upon Queen Andrea’s offer) with her daughter, Bree, after a horrific housefire took her husband, the late Lord Isaac Wickidson.

4. The ladies-in-waiting of the Crown Princess Clarissa, (from left to right) Lady Crystallina, Lady Bree, Lady Vickie, and Lady Marcie.

5. The Crown Princess Clarissa has had her ladies in waiting since she was 12 years old: They’ve practically grown up together, creating a sisterly bond that each girl will cherish forever.

6. While Princess Clarissa loves each of her ladies in waiting, she is especially close with Lady Bree Wickidson, her best friend.

7. Lady Brenda (Bree) Wickidson is the daughter of the late Lord Isaac Wickidson and Lady Adele Wickidson. She has lived in Dansante Palace with her mother since she was 8 years old, after that housefire took her father’s life and irreperably damaged the home. She met Princess Clarissa, of course, but the girls never really interacted much until they were 12, when Bree became her lady in waiting as her mother had been for Clarissa’s. The girls were fast friends, and Bree has now grown up to be an intelligent, creative-minded 16 year old with a penchant for writing, reading, and playing chess. Clarissa has often considered Bree for her royal advisor, once she ascends to the throne.

8. Lady Crystallina Sirenos was originally born in Australia, where her mother is from, and has spent most of her early childhood there. She and her family moved back to Musique, Dansante when she was 9, once her grandfather died and her dad had to take the title, and to this day she still loves Musique with all her heart. How very fitting that is, seeing as she is a mermaid! She and Clarissa haven’t always gotten along the best, especially since Crystallina has the tendency to be quite temperamental, but they still love one another in the end.

9. Lady Victoria (Vickie) Albertson comes from a noble family in L’ectriture. Although she loves a good book, Vickie’s real passion is cooking and baking. Her family owns a baking shop and restaurant (all in one!) which is highly spoken of throughout all of L’ectriture. Quiet, sweet, and soft-spoken, Vickie is not one to cause a fuss, but she is always there for her friends with a listening ear, a gentle hug, and a warm plate of her famous chocolate chip cookies.

10. Marcie Delacour lived in France as a child, but her family quickly moved back to Peinture. Bold yet elegant, Marcie is sharp and well-known for her high fashion sense and advanced painting skills. She’s not bad on the violin either, and she absolutely loves to dance, but her ultimate dream is to open a fashion line in Peinture.

P.S. If anyone perhaps knows how to move this to my Dansante Royal Family page please help because I have no clue DX

[angelsarts]

I'm sorry to be a bother but, could we have a new anime list? I don't mind if it involves the animes on the original list!

O-K!! I will friendo!

1. My hero Academia! - adventure, superhero

Born without special powers in a world where 80% of the population has them, Izuku Midoriya still dreams of becoming a hero. An unexpected encounter with the legendary hero All Might gives him a chance to change his fate, but first he must master his newly-acquired Quirk in order to pass U.A.’s entrance exam.

2. Ore Monogatari! - Romantic comedy

With his muscular build and tall stature, Takeo Gouda is not exactly your average high school freshman. However, behind his intimidating appearance hides a heart of gold, and he is considered a hero by the boys for his courage and chivalry. Unfortunately, these traits do not help much with his love life. As if his looks are not enough to scare the opposite sex away, Takeo’s cool and handsome best friend and constant companion Makoto Sunakawa easily steals the hearts of the female students—including every girl Takeo has ever liked.

When Takeo gallantly saves cute and angelic Rinko Yamato from being molested, he falls in love with her instantly, but suspects that she might be interested in Sunakawa. With his own love for Yamato continuing to bloom, Takeo unselfishly decides to act as her cupid, even as he yearns for his own love story.

3. Gakuen babysitter - Comedy-drama, Slice of life, School story

After their parents are killed in a plane crash, Ryuuichi and his younger brother Kotarou are taken in by Youko Morinomiya, the stern chairman of an elite academy whose son and daughter-in-law died in the same accident. The Chairman makes it clear that in exchange for being their legal guardians, Ryuuichi must work outside of class hours at the school’s daycare, where Kotarou will stay during the day.

The series tells the story of the daycare children’s antics as well as how the two brothers adapt to their new lives.

4. Fruits basket - comedy romance slice of life

After her mother’s death, Tohru Honda finds herself living with the Sohma family consisting of three cousins: Yuki, the ‘prince charming’ of their high school, Kyo the hot headed, short tempered outcast, and Shigure the mischievous novelist, if not sometimes that of a pervert. Tohru finds out the Sohma family secret that when a member is hugged by the opposite gender or they are tired out, they turn into the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac. Filled with many lovable character and many plot twists along the way, life at the Sohma house will never be the same again.

5. Say I love you - pure shoujo

Friends will only let you down—that is the sad truth Mei Tachibana lives with, ever since she was wrongfully blamed for the death of a class pet by her so-called friends in grade school. Since then, she stays away from people in order to avoid ever being hurt again. However, Mei’s life begins to change drastically when a misunderstanding in high school causes her to encounter popular student Yamato Kurosawa.

Yamato finds her intriguing and insists on being her friend, even though Mei wants nothing to do with him. But when a dangerous situation ends with Yamato kissing Mei to save her from the unwanted attention of a stalker, Mei begins to develop feelings for him. On the heels of her discovery that their feelings are mutual, they start dating and she gains not only a boyfriend, but friends as well. Mei, however, finds it very hard to adapt to this new lifestyle, especially in expressing her true feelings towards Yamato.

6. Yuri on ice - sports

After a disgrace in the Grand Prix Final, Japanese figure skater Katsuki Yuri seeks to retire. Victor Nikiforov, Russian world champion in figure skating is known for his surprises but is feeling stuck when he realises he has no more surprises left. When Yuri dances to Victor’s most famous routine 'Stay Close to Me’ the video is posted online and is seen by Victor. In this moment the Russian world champion decides to move to Japan and become Yuri’s coach. Over the course of various competitions, the two form a powerful bond and see that each other was all they needed to accomplish what both had hoped for.

7.  Kyou kara maou - comedy, fantasy adventure with a hint of gayness

Kyou kara Maou! revolves around Yuri Shibuya, your average Japanese teenager. One day, Yuri sees a classmate being harassed by bullies. Thanks to this intervention, his friend is able to escape, but unfortunately Yuri becomes the new target of the bullies in the process and gets his head shoved into a toilet. But instead of water, the toilet contains a swirling portal that sucks him into another world, largely resembling medieval Europe. There, he is told that he will become the next Demon King due to his black hair and black eyes, traits only possessed by the demon’s royal lineage.Yuri’s arrival is met with some skepticism by some of the demons, who view him as unworthy to be their king. However, after Yuri wins a duel by utilizing his magical powers, the demons slowly begin to acknowledge him as their monarch. Yuri must now learn what it takes be a true Demon King, as he tries to keep the peace between demons and humans in this strange new realm.

8. Princess Jellyfish -  comedy romance

Ever since her late mother took her to an aquarium when she was young, Tsukimi Kurashita has been obsessed with jellyfish, comparing their flowing tentacles to a princess’s white dress. Now living with five other unemployed otaku women, 19-year-old Tsukimi spends her days as a social outcast dreaming of becoming an illustrator.

However, her life changes forever when one day, a beautiful woman unexpectedly helps her save a jellyfish in a local pet store. From then on, the stranger—confident, fashionable, and the complete opposite of Tsukimi and her roommates—begins to regularly visit the girls’ building. This trendy hipster, though appearing shallow at first, harbours some secrets of her own, starting with the fact that “she” isn’t really a girl at all, but a wealthy male college student named Kuranosuke Koibuchi!

9. Fullmetal Alchemist - adventure, sci fi, dark fantasy

The Elric brothers’ mother is dead and their father has long since abandoned them. Deciding to perform a forbidden human transmutation to bring their mother back, they end up losing their bodies. Now Edward must join the military in order to gain certain alchemical privileges, with his one goal being to restore his brother to his original state. But with war on the horizon it’s only a matter of time before they are both forced to question their morals and ultimately decide the value of human life.

10. The world god only knows - comedy romance

Keima Katsuragi prefers immersing himself in the 2D world, chasing digital girlfriends. However, after answering a mysterious email he finds himself bound by a contract helping the demon Elsie capture 'lost souls’ from the underworld. He must now win over these real-life ladies in order to fill the void in their hearts which these souls have entered, releasing the souls and allowing for their capture. Also to further motivate, if he does not perform this 'duty’ a collar around his neck will explode.

[swindlersstole]

For the kisses prompt lumineric 7 or 17 if it's ok?

hell YES it is absolutely ok

two quick disclaimers, I did pick 7 because that one came to me first… but the catch is it DID turn into an FF9 au (because if I like a ship I’m gonna make a 9 au out of it, it’s just the Cosmic Bear Order). specifically I’m going off of the ending of 9, so it might help to watch the ending first if you don’t already know how it goes (I started it off at the 18:10 mark on the video)

I’m gonna take a crack at 17 though when I figure out something aside from “get caught in rain” I promise you that at least

~

7. Slowly, while everyone is watching

It’s been a long time, Nova thinks, since he last saw a play.

His musings don’t go unnoticed. Once Hendrik and Krystalinda have announced themselves, salutes and all, they don’t waste any time in coming closer to the throne, and to his side. It’s rather comforting that Hendrik is all the more familiar with him now, though Nova doubts he’ll ever be as casual as Krystalinda, who places a hand on his shoulder without much thought. “Are you alright, dear boy?”

“Yes. I’m alright.” And he is, all things considered. “The theatre ship should be arriving any minute now.” Nova smiles. “I can’t wait to see everyone again.”

“And you’re sure about this, Your Majesty?” Hendrik has gotten better, but Nova supposes he couldn’t expect him to forgo all his knightly training. He would expect no less from the captain of the guard. “No one would think ill of you, should you need more time.”

But Nova shakes his head, wizened and serene. “No. If I keep pushing it aside, then I’ll never be ready.” He pauses a moment, to brush his hair back behind his ear. He’s been letting it grow out since then, brown tresses now only ghosting over his shoulders. “I have to let go of the past.”

Before Hendrik can speak again, the roaring sound of propellers cuts the conversation short. Above the castle balcony hangs the Salty Stallion, preparing to dock amidst the growing crowd, eager to see the upcoming show. Everyone in Dundrasil could do with some excitement. Everyone could do with some new, happy memories.

Nova looks up to the ship. Sylvando is at the bow, waving down at him with a grin so wide it could be seen from the heavens. He returns the gesture with gusto.

It won’t ever be the same, Nova thinks, his heart still heavy but healing every day, but I have to move on. Just like he taught me.

~

It is unsurprising, what the play chosen for tonight was going to be.

Nova isn’t sure what else he thought Sylvando would have organized, back when this whole event was scheduled. “It’s your favorite play, darling,” he had said, “and to be fair, we never did finish the show proper for your birthday. As far as I’m concerned, we owe our king this one!”

Nova had wanted to argue, but Sylvando is always insistent, and there was little point in fighting him. And when Sylvando steps out onto the stage front, he’s beaming with that same enthusiasm he had in the weeks prior. 

It sets Nova’s heart at ease. Some things don’t change, he supposes.

“Ladies and gentlemen!” Sylvando begins, “Tonight’s performance is a story that takes place long, long ago. Our heroine, Princess Serenica, is torn from her lover, Erdwin. She attempts to flee the castle, only to be captured by her father, King Morcant. Tonight’s story begins when Erdwin and Serenica decide to run away together.”

Sylvando begins to step back at the light dims, flourishing his exit with a bow. 

“And now, Your Royal Majesty, King Nova; Lord Hendrik; Lady Krystalinda…”

He rises up, both arms extended, and the crowd begins to cheer.

“…noble ladies and lords, and our rooftop viewers! The Soldiers of Smile proudly present–’I Want To Be Your Canary’!”

~

The play proceeds as expected, and Nova cannot express how happy he is to see Serena in the lead.

He supposes it’s not that surprising–she’s much more soft and sweet than her sister, better suited for such a bespoken role–but from the start of their travels, she was complacent in letting Veronica take center stage. Serena came into her own right through trials and error and tribulation, her voice stronger than ever before, and Nova is so proud to call her his friend.

“Erdwin?” She calls from the stage’s castle wall, coming down to the center stage to meet a man coming from the right. He’s cloaked, heavily so, and Nova can’t discern anything about him, but he’s seen the Soldiers of Smile before, and he knows it can only be Faris under the cloak.

“Sweet Erdwin,” Serena lets herself fall into Faris’ arms, and he cradles her head against his chest, “I fear I love thee more than I should!”

“Princess…” Faris speaks now, his voice more powerful than Nova recalls, but he thinks he has Sylvando to thank for that, “Wilt thou be happy, married to a lowly peasant such as I?”

“Prithee, call me ‘princess’ no more!” Serena lifted herself from Faris’ chest. “Erdwin, wilt thou truly cherish me, the king’s only daughter? Or is such a desire too dear to wish for?!”

Her excitement seems to be getting the better of her; Nova can see the way her lips curl for miles, even as she speaks such serious, sad words, “After our nuptials, shall I become no more than a puppet? A mindless puppet–never to laugh, never to cry?”

Her head shakes, and Serena turns her face to the sky. “I wish to live my life under the sky. At times, I shall laugh, and at other times, cry. For no life is more insincere, than that lived as a masquerade.”

Faris laughs, and raises a hand from Serena’s shoulder to her cheek, drawing her face back to him. “Such consideration thou hast given it! But worry not!”

He draws Serena back into his arms, so soft, so eager. “Cast aside thy trappings of royalty, and I shall swaddle thee in a gown of pure love. Never again will I part from thee–pray, my love! Make me thy canary, to keep forever in the cage of your bosom.”

Nova hears the swoons from the audience below loud as day, as they both part once again. 

“Let us embark on the first ship tomorrow,” Faris continues, “before dawn can can tell of our elopement.”

“All my fortunes at thy feet, I lay,” Serena answers, “and I shall follow thee throughout the world!”

Faris begins to tread backward, to leave the stage once more, and he holds Serena’s hand as long as he can. “No cloud, no squall, shall hinder us!”

He releases her reluctantly, reaching for her even as he departs, leaving Serena alone on stage once more.

“O, love is the sweetest joy, and the wildest woe.” Serena falls to her knees, hands clutching at her heart. “All I wish… is to be by my sweet Erdwin’s side.”

She speaks wistfully, longing in her voice, and it’s strange, because suddenly, Nova truly understands those words now. And it stings all the more now, because he knows how this play ends.

On stage left, crouched behind the backdrop of stars, the wheels of this tragic tale have already begun to spin–but what Nova isn’t expecting is that Faris is the one to turn them.

“Fie!” He curses, and now Nova can’t even imagine why he thought he was playing Erdwin, “It shall be war again unless this marriage is stopped. Ne’er will I let their plan come to fruition.”

He stands from his hiding spot, and comes to center stage alongside Serena. He bows. “Good day to ye, Highness.”

Serena, rising from the ground, curtsies, cautiously. “Good day…”

“Wist thee of Erdwin?”

“Erdwin?!” She crosses the gap between them without a second thought, “What news dost thou bring?”

“This!”

Faris reels back his fist, and sends it down into Serena’s stomach. It isn’t a real strike, clearly, but the chorus of gasps from the audience make it seem all the more lifelike. And as Serena cries out and crumples into Faris’ arms, the stage goes dark, leaving Nova with far more questions than he’d anticipated.

~

When the lights come back on, they shine on Sylvando, who strides on stage every bit of the imposing king he’s meant to portray. “Where is she?!” He shouts. “Where has mine only daughter gone?!”

It doesn’t surprise Nova–even if the theatre troupe is a front, Sylvando has always taken that front very seriously–but it is strange to see such a jovial man so serious. He must be enjoying himself tonight, Nova thinks.

Faris enters the stage once more, descending from the staircase, and Sylvando turns to greet him. “Faris, good man! Hast thou seen Serenica?”

When Faris reaches the stage, he bows assuredly. “Worry not, Majesty. I shall make sure Serenica marries Prince Drustan. Be thou at ease.”

“At ease, sayest thou?” Sylvando retorts, “How can I rest, not knowing she is safe? Could it be…” He eyes Faris with a glare, “thou hast betrayed me?”

“By my troth, sir,” Faris asserts, “I betrayed none other than poor Erdwin!”

“Thou had the gall to betray thy dearest friend.” Sylvando snorts, and steps closer to Faris. “Would thou not betray me as swiftly?”

Faris takes a step back, panic beginning to fill his eyes. “Stay thy hand, I merely…”

But Sylvando does not stay his hand. He draws his sword, and strikes Faris down. Even knowing that it is fake, Nova cannot help but wince at the sight, as do many others in the audience below.

As Sylvando walks away from Faris’ crumpled from, Faris cries out with his last breath, “I merely sought a lasting peace between two kingdoms!”

Jade and Veronica arrive from both sides of the stage; Veronica’s hair has been hidden away into her hat, Nova notes, most likely to separate her from her sister.

“The traitor is dead!”

“O, cruel fate!”

But Sylvando does not give them the time to talk, and addresses them with a wave of his hand. “You two–quickly, find Serenica and bring her to me!”

Each girl addresses him with a bow–”Yes, Your Majesty.”–and are off just as quickly as they came.

“Wretched daughter!” Alone once more, save for Faris playing dead on the floor, Sylvando turns to the audience as the stage turns black again. “How dare she disobey her father’s wishes!”

~

When the stage lights again, the play is in it’s final scene. 

Or at least, so Nova believes it to be. He knows this play so well, reading it cover to cover endlessly over the course of his life, but this scene, with the painted sky of two moons and the encroaching dawn, are unfamiliar to him. Erdwin–who he can only assume now is being played by Dave, because Nova can think of no one else–awaits on stage, alone, for Serenica. 

Sylvando, it seems, has taken artistic liberty, which isn’t uncommon for a play so old. Nova supposes he understands the excitement now.

“The time for our departure is long past.” Erdwin speaks. “Where is Serenica?”

As fate would have it, from stage left comes Dave, and now Nova is finally out of options for who the leading man is. Perhaps it’s someone new, he thinks, someone he hasn’t met yet in the time since their journey ended.

“Erdwin!” shouts Dave, “The ship soon embarks! Board ye this boat alone, and peace could come to both kingdoms, as Faris so said.”

Erdwin says nothing, and Dave implores again, “Speak, Erdwin!”

“…she told me should could not live without me.” 

The melancholy, performative as it is, is still almost too much to bear, even if Nova does not know the words this time. Erdwin turns his back to the crowd, to face the painted sky; shadows of birds now dance along the coming sun. 

“So, the sun is our enemy, too. The eastern sky grows bright. Will we not spread our wings, as yonder birds in joyous flight?”

“Hark, Erdwin!” Dave pleads, beginning to run off stage. “They cannot wait any longer! The ship departs!”

But Erdwin does not move, now alone, gaze trained to the birds above him. “Could she… have betrayed me?” He begins a pace across the stage, desperation in his every move. “Nay, ne’er would my love speak false–I must have faith! She shall appear, if I only believe! As the sun lends me no ear, I pray instead to the twin moons!”

His stance now strong once more, Erdwin turns to face the painted moons, arms raised in prayer. “I beseech thee, wondrous moonlight–grant me my only wish!”

He lowers himself to the ground, and for a moment, Nova thinks he is preparing to beg. But then, Erdwin’s hand grabs at the bottom of his cloak, and tears it up and away from him–and when the first thing Nova sees of this man is a blue tail, he all but jumps to his feet.

Erik throws the cloak away from him, chest heaving, face grinning, hand outstretched to the throne. “Bring my beloved Eleven to me!”

~

Everything else after that is a blur.

Nova stands on the balcony dumbfounded for what feels like eons, but when he finally registers that yes, he isn’t dreaming, and yes, Erik is alive, and yes, Erik is waiting for him, he dashes to the doors, and if not for Hendrik and Krystalinda holding their arms out to block the way, he would have barreled through them without stopping.

Nova does skid to a stop, though, and is prepared to command and plead his way through–but the two push the doors open for him without a word.

He looks to Hendrik, who smiles, and nods. He looks to Krystalinda, who chuckles, and bows at the door. He wonders if they knew all along, and then decides that he doesn’t really care.

Nova gasps out a hushed, “Thank you”, and runs once again, down the spiral staircase, tripping on the last stair but refusing to fall. The guards at the front door jump away when he charges ahead, and he pushes through into the crowd below.

The sudden burst of sunlight is blinding, and Nova finds himself bumping into a man before pushing through, past noblemen and women and all sorts, none of whom are prepared to see their king stumbling through the crowd as fast as he can. 

And the crowd only begins to part for him when cries of his presence begin to rise and carry like a wave, and by that point, the goal is in sight. Erik is stepping down from the stage waiting to greet him, and when he sees Erik run a hand through his hair with a shy grin, Nova throws his crown off his head onto the ground, and all but leaps into Erik’s open arms.

He almost knocks Erik off his feet. Serves him right, a part of Nova thinks, for leaving him alone like that for so long, but the rest of him is too caught up with the feeling of Erik’s arms wrapped around his waist, tight as can be, spinning him in circles before finally setting Nova down. And when Nova looks at Erik in the eyes once more, he realizes that it’s through his own tears and held back sobs.

He brings his hands to cup Erik’s face, and Erik gives him an apologetic look. He puts a hand between them, and wipes away a tear from Nova’s cheek with his finger.

“Sorry it took me so long,” Erik says, or at least, he might have said it, because Nova had pulled Erik’s lips against his own before he even had time to think about it.

There was so much that could be said, so much that had to be said still. Everything they all saw and felt that day Erik parted from them. Nova had thought he’d said them all on that fateful goodbye, but as he kissed Erik, and Erik squeezed his waist and kissed him tenfold in return, he realizes that he’d still been holding back. Nova always knew he had been, he supposes, but it a gentle lie like that had been helping him along to heal. He would have faced the full truth, one day, when the past was truly behind him.

The past is behind him now. Behind all of them. And in its place, a brighter future Nova couldn’t have dared to dream of.

There is still so much he wanted to say, and could only say between desperate lips and hushed voices, but Erik pulls Nova away from him, and knocks their foreheads together. In the distance, Nova can hear the cheers of the kingdom, and their companions, but he’s far too lost in Erik to give them much thought.

Nova’s arms against his shoulders, Erik shrugs, and smiles. And Nova falls into Erik’s arms, his head on his shoulder, and fist pounding against his chest. He only stops when he feels Erik’s hand slide up his back, and when Erik lays his head against his, and presses a kiss to his ear, Nova begins to cry without relent.

[alistonjdrake]

Of Rust and Gold: Ardunese Peace, Religious Royalty,  the Dtieri, and The Red Wolf

Wow that’s a mouthful. And I haven’t done one of these in a while! Links to the other world building posts  1 2 3  4 5 6 7 8 9

Of Rust and Gold is the first book in what I call The Saints Song Series. It’s a multi-pov low fantasy, court intrigue drama with romance and adventure elements.  It follows the stories of Argus and Leo. Prince and pirate respectfully, brought together by the plot of a stolen ship holding dangerous cargo and a secret that shakes what they know about their world.

main wip intro here.

One of the main things King Frederick of Escan is famous for is bringing peace to the continent. He is praised for it, so much so that it silences most criticism against him. Before him (and during his reign but people often justify it) there was war between the nations, land switched hands, and conflict was everywhere. It stopped when King Frederick built his empire and emerged as a leading power in the world.

But no such peace exists among the city-states and territories of Codua. It’s often been said, among the Ardunese, Codua would have nothing holding them together as a country if it wasn’t for a few things. Sharing a language, swearing (some more than others) ultimate loyalty to the Justice, and their stance in guarding the shore of the Laniora against those from the Rhine looking to cross into the north. 

They stand together reluctantly. The concept of peace in Codua constantly changes definitions. There is rarely a time where someone isn’t fighting or blood isn’t being shed. There is so much murder in Codua and so few stepping forward as witnesses or confessing to crimes that most Ardunese Knights have taken to sweeping it under the rug if the victim was popularly disliked enough or replaced by someone reasonably lawful. 

Commonly, most wars in Codua start over land and who owns it or old family rivalries. Often a mix of both. But recent Ardunese conflict also revolves around a few groups of people and a unique mix of scheming and climbing social ladders that could only occur in Codua. 

While all of Codua does not fall under the direct rule of the Justice as the city-state Mignola (the holy capital of the Santivian church) does, since every ruler who follows the religion has to swear their loyalty to the one who speaks for the Saints, they all follow under indirect rule. More so than other countries whose sovereigns only swear their loyalty and pay and their dues. In Codua, a Justice is given certain privileges over the surrounding territories. This is often because of the Conclave, the group directly below the Justice. 

This is where old family rivalries and alliances come into play. Mignola is smack in the middle of the Sandotta states, formally republics but often under the aristocratic thumb of the powerful families living there. These families being the Carulli, the Zisa, the Licari, the Fratella, and the Giachetti. Historically, they’ve had the most sitting members on the Conclave and reigning Justices. Beyond picking the most qualified candidate, Justices have often been chosen based on which of these powerful families weren’t in the middle of killing each other when a vote was required, or which family currently dominated the killing and thus shouldn’t be messed with. Rarely, Justices outside this group have been chosen in periods where the constant conflict is tiring, like the vote that placed Justice Dursten (a Kellish man) in the holy chair. His predecessor was a Licari and so much strife was around during his disastrous reign choosing someone unrelated to the inner conflict seemed the safest choice. 

But the five families have already risen high above other Ardunese nobility and cannot be touched. While not quite on the stage of the royal families or important names outside of Codua, they’re not far behind and a few have gone on to make good marriage matches outside of Codua.  However, it’s the marriages they make here that are often the most important. 

In the years leading up to 1782 and the beginning of Of Rust and Gold, a class of contracted soldiers have risen well beyond their means and when the decision is made to marry the most powerful to a sister of a Chancellor (a sitting member on the Conclave), things change forever. 

There’s the Order of the Knights. Fates, soldiers of the Saints’ and the Justice’s army, and the Dtieri. In plain terms, they are a class of contracted soldiers. They started out as anyone, simply men signing away their services to anyone who would hire them and sometime around the 1500s they changed into families built around this purpose and closed off into exclusivity. One is born a Dtieri. 

This does not always make them the best soldiers although when a war is fought in Codua they often make up the majority of the armies. The best example of how effective they are comes from the story of the Albuvo Conflict, where two lords fought over the right to a small port city and their armies both were made from men of the Bottino family. Cousin viciously fought cousin until Neopolo Bottino chose to slay both lords and claim the city for himself. 

Not all of them are treacherous or backstabbing but the stereotype lends to them all being bloodthirsty and mad. 

In 1762, there was war in Codua as there always is. But this one was different. One Dtieri family, the Astorino, had been born from a branch of the Acocella family who held a shaky hold on the duchy of Pontegrono. When the last Acocella died childless, his elderly wife moved to install her nephew as her heir. Benedetto Astorino stepped forward, then one of the most infamous Dtieri generals and feared among many, and claimed Pontegrono as rightfully his. Despite Astorino’s prowess, the fight for Pontegrono lasted years as others kept putting themselves forward as possible new dukes. Only in 1768, did the reigning Justice step forward after pressure landed on his shoulders to choose who had the most legitimate claim to the duchy. To choose Astorino would set the stage for other Dtieri to climb the social ladder, and to choose one among the squabbling nobles might further inspire war and conflict. At least Astorino’s reputation quelled more from trying their hand at taking the duchy. Most of the fighting had taken place away from him after he cruelly slew his first batch of opponents, and he’d been living unofficially as duke in Pontegrono’s palace since 1763. 

Two decisions were made. Benedetto Astorino would be crowned but he would have a bride from a family of the Conclave to ensure his path was righteous. And so, he married Ermenegarda Anna Venessa di ava Zisa, sister to Chancellor Ercolano Zisa. A year later, they had a daughter. She was granted the rights of Dtieri, wrapped in the colors of her father’s men, but given the birth ceremony and name of a princess of the Sandotta states. 

When her father died some months after her birth, no one batted an eyelash. Benedetto Astorino had many enemies and Dtieri leaders are often the victim of murder. There was some talk this was planned by the Zisa and the Justice, but again with no proof, the knights did not step in and at 5 months old, Benedetta Onesta Cassiopeia de ave Astorino became Duchess of Pontegrono. Those who felt slighted a year before when Astorino took the duchy quickly made plans to usurp the throne from the squealing baby, but Astorino’s men had sworn their loyalty to his bloodline and would not let anyone near Benedetta, sometimes not even her own mother. Her cousins protected her fiercely and while the Sandotta thought of her as a Zisa, she was raised like a Dtieri. 

 Most careers in the Dtieri start young, with some children becoming soldiers at the age of ten. Much to her mother’s displeasure, things proved no differently for Benedetta. She took quickly to the blend of her two worlds. She minded her manner lessons, charmed her tutors, could sing and play an instrument, and dressed in the stunning gowns afforded to her by the esteem of her mother’s family and being a duchess in her own right. But under the watchful guise of her oldest cousin, Bertolfo Astorino, she also became adept in the art of war. She studied strategy and by nine had recreated the maps for each of her father’s battles and even began to criticize his decisions. 

She had a great love for hunting and drew first blood when she was seven, which is where her nickname came from. Red for the bloody stain of her father’s reputation. 

Before her tenth birthday, Bentolfo began encouraging her to set in motion her first war campaign. Pontegrono was surrounded by profitable city-states, and while it was rich from its position on Laniora’s coast it all suffered from attacks from Rhine pirates and smugglers.  Her mother greatly disagreed and went to Mignola to call on her brother in hopes holy interference would convince her daughter and the meddlesome cousins. Chancellor Zisa must have seen the benefits in having his family take over more land, and what it would mean for him as Justice Dursten got older and the holy chair was empty again, and his letters to his niece lacked the forceful discouragements Lady Ermenegarda was hoping for. 

Benedetta’s first war campaign began. She played a small part, riding beside Bertolfo and staying away from the main action. She sat in on plans for battle strategy and made her first decisions, but the Red Wolf was unknown outside of Pontegrono and her successful decision making was assumed to be Bertolfo’s genius. In truth, Bertolfo was not as smart as his much younger cousin. He was ambitious but had not learned to read until his twenties when Benedetto raised their family. He was a career soldier and knew the ins and outs of battle. Benedetta trusted him greatly. When was eleven and began riding into battle on her own, it was him who was by her side during her first siege where she kidnapped a rival lord’s wife and only heir to persuade him into submission.  As Pontegrono’s land began to expand, people heard more and more about Zisa’s niece and who was really behind the series of terrors. 

Justice Dursten was getting older and unpopular as he continued to not die and remain as a non-Ardunese authority. Zisa began imposing his niece on people, knowing her reputation and that of her father served as an unspoken promise of what could happen if he was not the next candidate for Justice. 

Benedetta approached twelve. Thoughts turned towards marriage. Lady Ermenegarda chose some likely suitors and sent a list to her daughter. All boys from the Sandotta states, most of them Zisas. It was at this point when Benedetta was holding council and in the middle of tearing up the list her mother sent her, that Bertolfo stood up and announced his intentions to marry her. 

Perhaps he was hoping for her to weep from joy, or be relieved the duchy would stay in her father’s family, or that her fondness for her cousin was likely the cause of a childhood crush. But stories tell that Benedetta recoiled in disgust and had her adviser and right hand stripped off all his titles and benefits for such an insult. Riding into her next battle, she demanded Bertolfo mount his horse naked and without a weapon. He was said to have gotten down on his knees and begged. Whether or not that is true is debatable, but what is true is that he at first refused and when he did, Benedetta had her men strip him against his will and yank his weapon and pride from him. Bertolfo was shot and killed during the battle.

 Another close cousin asked why Benedetta did not weep when they heard the news and were shown the dead body, and Benedetta, still flush from the pride of successfully swallowing another port city into Pontegrono, exclaimed that a few causalities were to be expected and that she did not “cry over fools”.

With the death of Bertolfo, Lady Ermenegarda returned to Pontegrono in hopes of assuming his role and becoming close to her daughter. As of 1782 and with her daughter’s thirteenth birthday behind her, she has not been successful. 

While Benedetta is young, she falls into a long line of power-hungry and bloodthirsty Dtieri, but also comes from blessed religious royalty and might be set to become the most powerful if not famous princess to come out of Codua.