#my brother asked them for a lyre

[timdrake-yumm]

I knew I was getting it, because I’m the one who sent my grandparents the link when they asked me to sent them something around $40 for them to buy me for Christmas, but it still made me very excited to see it when I opened their gift. 🥰

[deaddovedecadence]

Title: First Meeting (The Sunshine Verse)

Summary: You come face to face with the leader of the Batclan mob

Warning(s): Possesive behavior, scarring, kidnapping

You don’t remember being drugged, you don’t remember losing track of Lyre, you don’t remember going anywhere and yet you’re here, stuck in an unfamiliar room, a chain on your ankle. You’re unsafe, you know this, and there’s nothing you can do about it. The room is clean, not a speck of dust anywhere, and it smells like lemons, not lemon scented cleaner but real, fresh lemons. You hate it. It's not your first time being kidnapped but usually you’re confined to a dark room or messy, dirty basements that make you want to throw up. This is your first time being kidnapped since joining the force (you had a really unique childhood okay)  and you can’t help but wonder why you've been taken, if someone thinks you'll have real information for that.

Soft, well muffled sounds start up next to the door but quickly fade to silence. You hate it here, the thick silence, the not knowing where your best friend (brother) is, the chain that rests on your ankle. Speaking of the chain, you haven’t tried to walk yet and you can’t help but be curious. Slowly, carefully,, you get yourself out of bed and walk to one of the doors, letting it creak open. It;s only a bathroom. There’s one other door in the room and you’re pretty sure that you know where it leads. Out of here. You start walking towards that door but the chain stops you before you can get too close. Going back a few steps, you make a few loops in the area that seems safe and attempt to run towards the door. Immediately the chains are pulling you back and you slam to the floor. Well whoever has you certainly isn’t an idiot, which makes your job all that much harder. 

Eventually you pull yourself off of the floor and crawl to the bed. As soon as you’ve arranged yourself in a manner that doesn’t hurt too much, you’re asleep. 

“Lyre,” you call, listening to the echoing chirps of the birds, trying to ignore the sounds of “lyre, lyre, not lyre,” to themselves, loud as can be. It’s foggy out today, but not so much that you can’t see in front of you. The walk to work is weird without your best friend, but peaceful, even though the birds are chirping loudly, mocking birds calling Lyre’s name. As you’re approaching the police station, you note the crowd of people, how their murmurs grow and change. They’re all saying his name. You get closer and your best friend (brother) is just laying there, spread out on the pavement, his blood staining everything a terrible shade of red. You kneel down, staring at him. Lyre’s eyes are wide open, unseeing and you can’t help closing them. Your hands are red now. 

You wake up screaming. 

It takes a minute of blind panic for you to calm down and become aware of your surroundings again. You’re in the same room as yesterday and still sore as fuck. The only real change is that there’s a chair in the middle of the room, well more like a throne (you may or may not role your eyes) and a man sitting on the throne. He’s wearing a venetian carnival mask, black with a white bat around each eye. Every gothamite knows it as Sire’s mask. 

You’ve been kidnapped by the fucking bats. Shit! 

“May I help you?” You ask politely as you can manage. Sire’s mask, cold and porcelain keeps smiling,golden even as the man takes off his fucking mask. You’re going to die, you’re going to fucking die. You look down so you can’t see his face. The man sighs.

“You can look up. I have no plans to kill you. Rather I’d like to thank you. You took care of my son while he wouldn’t allow me to.” Now you’re confused. You chance a look up and meet the eyes of bruce fucking wayne, gotham’s biggest  philanthropist. You don’t even know what to say, because the man who’s been credited for saving Gotham is the one keeping it in order as the cruelest man on the east coast.  “I don’t understand Mr.Wayne. I don’t know any of your children.” 

Bruce Wayne smiles faintly, “Not even Jason?” Every single person born and bred in Gotham knows the tragedy of Jason. It’s said that a mobster went after him and killed him, and in revenge Mr. Wayne swore to oust the mob from Gotham city. Knowing what  you know now makes you wonder what really happened. “No offense but I’m pretty sure that Jason is dead.” Wayne laughs bitterly. “We thought so but when your friend Lyre had to go to the hospital,, my doctors found something pretty interesting. A blood match. Would you like to guess who exactly is the match” everything starts to fade out and go dizzy. You were the one that made Lyre go to the hospital because he’s always hated hospitals. “Was it Jason?” 

“It was Jason.” Wayne unless his legs, neatly rearranging himself. “I’d like to tell you a story.” You shrug, looking away. “When my son was a child, he lived on the streets. One day I had a meeting in Crime alley and he was crazy enough to try and steal the tires off my car. You can’t help the laugh that bubbles out of you. It’s so much like the Lyre you know that you know, mischievous and carefully reckless, always doing something that he shouldn’t be. What was real? “And when I came back to my car, there was this tiny vicious little boy fighting my guards and fucking winning. I’ve always been fond of stubbornness and there was something about Jason’s desperate desire to survive that stuck me so I brought him home with me. He’s been a member of the family ever since.” 

When Wayne talks about Jason, you’re reminded of a Pet owner talking about their best show animal or something. He’s not talking about them like they’re humans but as if they’re prizes to be won. He sounds like a collector, marveling over his trophies. You can’t help but want to upset this man, can’t help but dislike him. 

“If he was a member of your family, why did he leave you?” Maybe he’ll hurt you, maybe he’ll kill you but either way you’re going to mouth off for lyre. Wayne’s expression doesn’t even change.  “I have six other children,” he explains, “and half of them have anger issues. Do you really think that you’re going to phase me?” 

Your logical mind reminds you to be polite, your desire to live tells you to go apeshit. “That doesn’t answer my question,” you snap, ignoring his question all together. He doesn’t even blink. “Jason left because he didn’t agree with our methods. He did not understand the reasons I allowed my youngest to work in the basement at twelve nor did he appreciate our love. “ You’ve heard the stories from Lyre about his family, about the scars he carries from their love. Now that you've met Wayne you can’t help but wonder how many of those scars are physical. There’s a scars on Lyre’s back, tally marks, five of them to be exact. Are those from here? Are his tattoos from here? 

“When do I get to see Lyre again?” 

Wayne smiles Serenely, and for a moment he doesn’t look like a monster, instead he looks soft, and almost genuine. “When Jason calms down enough to be safe to be around again.” You tilt your head, wonder what he means and carefully do not ask. “Am I stuck in here permanently?” Wayne shakes his head politely. “No you’ll be coming to dinner tonight and Alfred will help you order anything that you might need.” That’s not what you mean. You want to go home. “Can I go home?” “This is your home.” You scoff and bear teeth. “My home is a little apartment by the wharf, not a mansion full of crazy people.” 

Wayne’s smile turns sharp, vicious. “I’d like to remind you that your privileges hedge on your good behavior. It’d be very easy to lock you away until you’re feeling more polite.” You get the feeling that wayne isn’t making a threat. He’s making a promise. 

[apricot-blossomss]

Hellooo can you write a fic with Apollo x reader where he has to convince his father to grant her immortality so that they can get married, and later in the story their telling they’re kids how they fell in love and please make reader a daughter of poseidon. Thank u💋💋

☛ apollo asks his father for fem!daughter of poseidon! reader's immortality & his uncle for reader's hand in marriage

☛ sfw

☛ changed it a bit, hope you don't mind!

"father, have i ever asked something from you?"

apollo was a young god. not age-wise, of course. but his appearance had always been that of a young man, and though he had lived for a millennia, his bright and youthful character had never made him look a day older than twenty-one. now, his palms upward as if in prayer, his eyes pleading, he looked even younger. his lyre he had placed before his fathers throne, where he, too, stood. not as a fellow god, but as a son.

"no, you don't ask. you just take" zeus mused, frowning at his sons defeated stance. the god looked as if he was about to fall to his knees and prostrate if he didn't get what he asked. whatever kind of spell you had on him, it was working. "but this you can't take, can you?" with a sigh, he rose and stepped down the steps of his throne.

"i love her," apollo breathed, green eyes shining with the intensity of the declaration. "what must i do to convince you? i'll do anything, father." he meant it. he was ready to face every obstacle and trial, to fight sny creature, endure every torture to be with you forever.

"anything?" his father raised his brows and stepped away from him towards the center of the throne room. the gold tinted windows, reflecting the sunlight off the walls, surrounded his son with a golden hue, as if emitted from his golden locks themselves. he was one of the most glorious and mighty gods in the pantheon. as the mightiest one himself, he of course knew how crazy love could make you. but an eternal life? he frowned. "for this one mortal woman?"

"what are you saying?" apollo asked challengingly but his father raised a hand to silence him. with a sigh, he stepped closer and placed an understanding hand on his sons shoulder.

"son, I know how love can make you feel. I know how a good woman can uh", he chose his words with caution, "twist the mind of any man. but she is a mortal woman. son, you may be head over heels in love, but think of all the men and women you have loved." he chuckled. "the number may rise close to mine. the way i see it, she's just a fling. you'll grow tired of her. marriage does that."

"don't project your character onto others," apollo replied coldly and the golden glass of his eyes hardened with a frown. he didn't like the way his father was talking about you.

his fathers eyes widened slightly. but he overplayed it with a fatherly chuckle, stepping away a safety distance or two. "out of all the ladies, why did it have to be this one?"

"don't worry about your brother. i will take care of him," his son replied immediately and with a confidence that zeus could only admire. he wouldn't feel overly keen to break the news of his lovesick son over poseidon's daughter to him. he doubted it would be that easy, though it had not been the original intent of his question.

"that wasn't my concern son," he said calmly and began to stroll next to the windows. "just... i get a beautiful woman messing with the mind. but this one... not that she isn't fairly pretty, but you can't say she's a beauty, not compared to the mortals that usually catch our divine eye. in comparison with them, she's plain. beneath you."

"how dare you."

zeus was surprised to find his son's furious eyes gritted teeth and clenched fists. his father's raised eyebrow only made the storm swirling inside apollo thunder. until he heard your soft voice in his head. yes, if you were here, you would tell him to calm down. then, you would snort and say that his father wasn't really wrong, you know? And he would lean over and press kisses all over your face, trying to convey to you just how wrong he was. and you would giggle and pull him towards your lips.

the thought of you allowed him to calm down for now, unclench his fists and change his gaze from a glare to a firm look of determination. "i don't care about your opinion on her looks. all i want is her. forever."

"and what if i say no?"

apollo felt his heart skip a beat. "i-" his voice trembled. the iron grip around his soul tightened and a desperation crept up, up his throat, out of his mouth. "i'll come upon the mortal realm a monster. i'll be a catastrophe, wage war against your worshippers until you grant me my wish."

he didn't dare imagine your reaction should you ever hear of those words. oh how you would scold him, how you would hug him, ground him to the earth. the longer he was away from you, the more he craved your touch, your voice, your reassurance. you would never condone the actions he was threatening his father and the world with, but he couldn't exist without you. that's why he held his fathers shocked gaze. "my arrows will wipe out all that pleases you, father, if you take her from me."

zeus was, contrary to what some would have you believe, not stupid. the only thing stopping him now from granting his son this wish was his stubbornness. but he had to recognize that you were not worth the war his son was threatening- at least not to him. "alright," he said begrudgingly. "if you manage to persuade my brother, i will grant you your wish."

the iron grip around his heart loosened and apollo felt like he could finally breathe again. a triumphant smile crept onto his lips as he picked up his lyre. he couldn't wait to get back and break the news to you, you, who had been so rightfully skeptical. there was only one obstacle in the way. your father.

☀️

poseidon let him wait, but that was just to make him antsy and apollo knew that. your father had known of the relationship for a long time for you would frequent the beach -this beach more specifically-for your picknick dates. no doubt the ocean and its inhabitants had informed him of his daughter's company. but this would be the first time the two men would get to talk about your relationship.

not that apollo cared very much for your or his father's approval. poseidon had never taken a great interest in you or your life, apollo didn't see what right he had to approve or disapprove of any of your choices. but you had sensibly reminded him that he should at least pretend to ask for your hand to not offend your quick-tempered father. so, here he was, as the last rays of sunlight, golden, orange and red, danced ontop of the surface in an ethereal display of beauty and poseidon emerged from the waves.

apollo rose from his sitting position to go over and greet him when your father stepped onto the fine white sand of your favorite beach. "uncle"

"apollo," poseidon said, sizing him up in suspicion. "you wanted to talk to me. is this about your relationship with my daughter?" when apollo simply gave him a nod, the god sighed and began walking up the beach, the younger god walking next to him.

"so?"

"i'm going to propose to her."

poseidon stopped dead in his tracks and turned around to face apollo, who stared him down without a hint of reluctance. the god knew that you were his nephew's latest favored mortal, but nothing could have prepared him for this. marriage? "you can't marry her, apollo," he said. "she is a mortal. you are a god."

"that doesn't matter anymore," apollo replied and resumed their walk.

"need i remind you of your past relationships with mortals?" poseidon argued. "your lovers have a strange habit of dying or turning into vegetation, you can't deny that."

the other god didn't answer. of course, he had pandered the risk for a long time, it had haunted him every time you weren't in his sights and the worry could only be forgotten when you were there, wonderful as you were, and kissed them away. the truth was, he had nothing to say in return.

"did you tell her about the risks involved?" poseidon pressed and the question drew an ironic laugh from the sun god.

"she knows of the risks involved. you may not know because you didn't care but she is smart and she always has the upper hand. she decided to be with me, and when i had worked up the courage to talk to her about them, tell her being with me was dangerous, she only smiled because she, of course, already knew." he locked eyes with your father who had fallen silent. "she can make her own decision. she has made her own decision."

poseidon's eyes narrowed in realization. "you didn't come here to ask me for her hand."

"no," apollo said coolly. "i came here to ask you to respect her decision, whatever it may be."

apollo had expected another protest, maybe even a fight, but, as unpredictable as ever, poseidon nodded hesitantly. "fine. do you want to ask her now? because I think she is heading our way"

as soon as he saw you in your white and blue dress, smiling brightly and hurriedly approaching him on the beach, all the stress and uncertainty of the last hours washed off of him, leaving behind nothing but love and excitement. your father had left, and like a little child, he ran towards you to lock his arms around your waist. you shrieked in surprise when you were lifted clean off your feet and into the air by your lover who spun you around with the brightest smile you had ever seen.

"good news?" you asked when he set you down, still holding on tightly onto your waist. your lover settled for a simple hum and leaned down for a kiss, but your hand got in the way. only reluctantly he opened his eyes and lightly kissed the fingers blocking his mouth. your eyebrow was raised and he knew that you knew. "apollo, how many lives did you threaten to make this happen?"

☀️

"dad?"

"hm?"

"how much do you love mommy?" your son asked, laying on his fathers chest, just having finished his bedtime song. you were closing the nursery's window and looked over at your boys expectantly. it had been five wonderful years of marriage, yet just a small part of what would be your immortal life with the person you loved more than anything.

"that's a good question, darling. how much do you love me, apollo?" you smiled and walked over to them, running a gentle hand through the golden locks your son had inherented from his father.

a grin flashed over your husbands face and he reached out to you with one arm, the other one draped over his son's shoulders. "i love you from the upwards most point of the sky down to the depths of tartarus. so much that years would not be enough time to sing all the songs I have composed in honor of our love. so much that aphrodite cried at our wedding, do you remember that, sunshine?"

"of course," you laughed and let him pull you closer. "i love you too, my love" apollo came up to meet you for a sweet kiss. his lips tasted of the apple cake you three had made together today, a baking session that resulted in dough-stained shirts and a messy but delicious and only slightly burned cake.

"eww," your toddler squealed and trashed in his fathers arms, causing the two of you to break the kiss. apollo pouted jokingly at his little boy who pouted back. "why do you kiss mommy so much?"

"'cause mommy wants to be kissed,” his father retorted and ran his fingers over his sons tummy in a way that had him giggling and kicking his feet. "and now, you're going to bed so i can kiss mommy some more."

"nooo," your son protested but apollo swiftly tucked him in and ruffled his blond hair. you took a hold of his small hand and pecked his little palm, still sticky from the dough. he hadn't properly cleaned himself up.

"good night, darling," you hummed and followed your lover out of the room, turning off the lights. now, the only thing illuminating the room was the night light in the form of a sun.

just when you had closed the door, warm lips consumed yours once more. you smiled into the kiss and buried your hands in his hair as apollo deepened the kiss. head angled back, back against the doorframe, and an apple-tarte-kiss. "what about another one of those?" he whispered in between kisses before moving on to your neck.

"that doesn't sound bad." your hands sneaked around his waist, pulling him impossibly closer. "doesn't sound bad at all."

[lucienarcheron]

Spirit Meets the Bones XXXIII

Genre: Angst/Romance/Drama Warnings: Mentions of physical abuse. Author’s Note:  Thank you for reading <3 I hope you enjoy this next chapter and where the story is going :)

thank you @elidelochans for always being my beta <3

tagging: @climb-the-mountian / @zenkindoflove / @animezinglife / @rosewood-cafe / @vanserrass / @positivewitch / @clockwork-ashes / @carnythian / @secret-third-thing / @runningwiththeoceans / @that-golden-lyre / @thedarkinmansfield / @readychilledwine / @goldenmagnolias / @mali22 / @readthelastpaage / @maidr-00 / @electromagnetic-waves / @eastofatlanta / @moobell55 / @bibliophiliaxvignette / @devilsfoodcake22 / @weesablackbeak / @ladywhilemia / @alohaangels / @feysandfeels / @corcracrow / @dawneternal / @gracie-rosee / @mage-neve / @illyrianvalkyrie / @saint-stella / @rainbowsnowflake / @queenoftheworld1998 / @wolvesnravens

Find it all here.

When two days passed, Eris gathered with his brothers and mother in her garden. For this conversation, Iris stood by his side. He had carefully shielded their scents and if his brothers noticed, they didn’t comment. 

He may trust them but as he shared a glance with his wife, Eris couldn’t help but want to keep this…gift to himself a little longer. If they made it through this, Eris would let himself reflect on how the Mother had a strange sense of humor; to give him Iris with the possibility of losing her. 

Then again, the Mother knew this would be a hard fight. Sending his mate only gave him more reason to insist on making it out. 

“You don’t think it’s too dangerous to be gathered like this in one place?” Lady Enya asked in the silence, her hands wringing in her lap. 

“I glamored us as we arrived,” Eris assured her. “No one saw us coming in.” 

But his mother was more nervous than usual, which added to his stress. Eris could tell she was tired and it made him want to choke his father more viciously than usual; that fucker knew his wife hated his guts and yet he kept his paws all over her. 

Forcing the thought from his mind, his expression tight, he addressed his mother with a nod. “Are you prepared?” he asked. “Do you have everything you need?”

Lady Enya nodded, her hands clenching in her gown. “Yes,” she answered, clearing her throat. “I don’t wish to take anything with me but the clothes on my back. I have nothing of value that I shared with him.” 

The words made him grimace. He knew his mother hadn’t meant her words to be about her sons but it didn’t stop the sting of knowing how she had held herself back. It didn’t hurt any less that she had endured all this because of them. For them. 

The brothers shared a frown.

“I’ve checked with every one of my sources and nothing seems to be amiss,” Emil said, his arms crossed. “My soldiers are ready.”

Izak, seated next to their mother, nodded. “The same with mine. Everything is going according to plan.” 

“What about Lucien?” Finn asked. 

“I’ve been in touch. Everything is fine on his end.” Eris confirmed. “Winter and Dawn have given us passage to winnow from the court lines.”

“No questions asked?” Iris inquired carefully. 

“Lucien has enough connections that no one bats an eye when he mentions he’s passing through with people,” he explained. “Especially when Helion and Rhys are welcoming. There’s no reason to object when there won’t be lingering.”

“Does Rhys know?” Lady Enya asked quietly. 

A muscle flexed in Eris’s jaw. “Rhys has always known this day would come but he doesn’t ask questions. He knows it’s near.” 

Finn shifted on his feet. “We’ve checked and triple-checked everything. Things are going according to plan and yet…why does it feel like something isn’t right?”

“Because we’re a bunch of paranoid motherfuckers.” Izak said then glanced at his mother. “Apologies, mother.”

The corner of Iris’s lips twitched as her mother-in-law rolled her eyes at her son and she couldn’t help but let her gaze shift between the brothers and their mother, feeling slightly out of place. This was her first time meeting Emil and Izak personally and other than an awkward greeting, they kept their distance; the tension lining Eris’s back and the way he watched his brothers with every breath they took near her had Iris do the same. Given what Eris had shared with her about each of them, Iris couldn’t help but have a soft spot for the brothers who were all trying to find the light with love as they battled their own demons. It didn’t change how close Eris had her stand and if anything, his brothers understood his possessiveness too well, even if they didn’t know to what extent.

The last two nights seemed to escalate his levels of stress and Iris had watched him have to expel his anger, nearly setting their whole suite aflame to get himself through the day. He’d leave her early and return late, checking in with her periodically throughout the day and whenever he did, they would end up releasing his stress in a much more intimate way. Iris had found that whenever his body was draped over hers, was the only time he actually relaxed. 

Even in his sleep, her husband struggled and she found herself awake more often, watching him as he shuddered through every breath. 

Iris kept her eyes on Eris as he ran his tongue over his teeth, sharing a look with Emil. “We did find one idiot who was ready to sell out,” he said carefully. “He was hoping to get in with the High Lord and rise through the rankings.” 

“And what happened to him?” Finn asked, his tone casual.

“By the time Eris and I got to him, our sentries had let him know exactly how they felt about ruining our chances,” Emil said, the corner of his mouth lifting. “We aren’t the only ones desperate for change.”

“I would’ve cut out his tongue.” Izak huffed.

“Emil did,” Eris said with a smile that didn’t reach his eyes. “Then we hung him in the center of the training ring with a knife lodged in his throat.”

“That seems unnecessary.” Lady Enya muttered mildly.

But Finn nodded at them. “Nice.”

“You have a very odd definition of nice.” Iris said with a raised brow and Finn’s answering grin was a little too sinister. 

“I would’ve carved out his internal organs to hang him by and then pinned his body to the wall with knives so he could bleed to death, slowly and painfully. What they did was nice.” he said and Iris couldn’t help her grimace.

“Please –” their mother started and glanced at Eris who sighed.

“Let’s focus,” he waved a hand. “We have another week before this hell is over. Keep straightening things out. If you hear even a whisper of something, you let me know immediately.” Eris glanced back at his mother. “We wait for the signal that Helene, Theo, and Cosette are fine. We dance. We mingle. Once Father gives his bore of a speech like every year, Emil will be walking you to where you will meet Mikel and then to where you will meet Iris and Oren. From there, you two will pretend to walk towards your gardens until you cross the gates. Serphan will winnow you to Lucien and then report back to me. Helion will also be waiting.”

Lady Enya swallowed, a hand rubbing her throat. “And they – Lucien knows what to do in case something goes wrong?”

Eris nodded then gave them all a pointed look. “Rumor has it that our youngest brother was invited and he may be making an appearance,” he said. “Should he need to use it, he knows the code. Each of our sentries has a uniform color. Lucien knows my insignia and who he can ask if needed.” 

A silence fell on the group and Iris’s gaze couldn’t help but flicker between them all. She couldn’t imagine how long they’d been waiting for this and how these last few days were causing more agony than anything else. 

Lady Enya broke the silence first, rubbing a shaky hand to her forehead. “I’m – I’m sorry,” she whispered. “I’m sorry to be causing all this.” 

A collective noise of disapproval rang from the brothers and she looked at them with a watery smile. 

“But I am. I always will be,” she added, her grip tightening in the folds of her dress. “If I could stay and help avoid all this, I would but I  — I can’t anymore.”

“Mother.” Finn chasted her gently and his expression tightened when Izak wrapped his burly arm around their mother’s delicate frame and kissed the top of her head. 

“Don’t apologize,” Izak said. “We can’t keep living this way regardless.”

“Enough is enough,” Emil added solemnly. “We are more than what he’s forced us to be.” 

Eris met his mother’s gaze. “You are a phoenix ready to rise from the ashes, remember?” he asked quietly. “Don’t look back now.” 

Lady Enya glanced at each of her sons and then took a shaky breath. “You are all the light of my life. I am proud of each of you and know you will always be more than he could ever dream. Better than he could ever dare to be.” she said softly. “I love you.” 

And Iris had to look away from them as each of the brothers, including her husband, flushed lightly at their mother’s words. But she could feel their content, felt how it filled them with joy and Iris felt an ache in her chest. She hadn’t met her own mother but Lady Enya had easily and so quickly filled that role. This wasn’t her moment and yet Iris felt so honored to be a part of it.

Clearing his throat, Izak gruffly mumbled, “We love you too.”  

Lady Enya chuckled and patted Izak’s cheek. “I know, my beautiful boy,” she said, then sighed quietly, straightening. “Do not underestimate him. He will not respond well and I know he has something up his sleeve.” 

“The bridal party waiting for us isn’t for nothing,” Emil mused. “He’s invited every influential family in the court and somehow, they all have eligible daughters.” 

“We dance and we mingle,” Eris repeated his instructions firmly. “Lying is a form of art we’ve excelled at for years. It won’t kill you to dance with a potential bride to keep up the ruse.” 

“Yeah, but Helene might kill me.” Izak mumbled and Finn snorted as Iris’s lips twitched. 

“Considering Father might kill you first should you not dance, you’ll have to risk it,” Eris said dryly. “He’s surrounding himself with people like him for a reason. He believes in the strength of numbers and has purposely kept some of the guest list names from mother.”

“I think it’s a mighty coincidence that this particular ball is the one he’s having potential brides from powerful families attend,” Emil said. “If the High Lord is promising your daughter a prince, you’d be more than happy to side with a tyrant than against him.”

“It might not be to the extent that families have turned,” Finn said. “But it doesn’t help us if he has some of them present.”

Izak shook his head. “Those families have always been in his pocket, they keep each other comfortable. We knew this.”

“Those families are full of nothing but lofty words.” Lady Enya added. “Nothing in the preparations should change but I still don’t think you should trust them.” 

Finn glanced at Eris. “Once we’re done with Father, we get to clean out the garbage, right?”

“Whoever does not bend to the new ruling will be taken out immediately,” Eris said, his expression tightening. “We know who these people are. They have one chance to make the right choice or they won’t live to make another one.” He glanced at each of his brothers. “This is the only shot we have to disinfect this court and make it into something worth living in. This is bigger than just us.” 

“You should anticipate your father being there.” Lady Enya said to Iris. “He was one of the people the High Lord insisted on adding to the guest list and I don’t see Aron declining the invitation.”

Iris grimaced, her fists clenching at her sides. “I have no doubt he’ll be there,” she said then glanced at Eris. “Even if he knows he’s not wanted.” 

“Especially if he knows he’s not wanted,” Eris muttered. “He knows what awaits him should he step one toe out of line.” And he forced himself to roll his shoulders back, pushing back the surge of anger thumping in his chest at the mention of his father-in-law. He glanced at Izak instead and waved a hand for a letter to appear then flicked it to his brother. “Lucien let me know this morning that Helene and her mother have been settling in nicely. She sent you a letter.” 

Izak caught it and held it tightly, nodding at Eris. “Thank you.” 

Eris nodded back and then glanced at Emil. “Cosette?”

“She’s ready to leave.” his brother answered tightly.

“Adler?”

“He knows his orders.” 

Eris nodded again and ran a hand through his hair. “We have to be on guard for anything.”

“I know.” 

Eris shifted as he stared at his family, feeling the blood pumping beneath his skin. “If –”

“Eris.” Emil’s calm tone cut through his. “We’ve done every single thing we could. The only thing we can do is set it in motion and make it through.” 

Taking a breath through his nose, Eris let his head fall back, his eyes on the open air above them. “I won’t pretend I’m not filled with dread and it’s been getting harder to tighten the leash on my powers,” he mumbled then fixed his gaze back on his brothers. “I set fire to one of the stables yesterday because Father made a snippy comment.”

“What a pity he wasn’t standing in it,” Finn said, his lips twitching and Eris snorted. 

“Pity, indeed.” 

Iris’s gaze locked on Eris and his tightened shoulders and she couldn’t help stepping closer to him, her hand sliding to his back as she leaned into him. He glanced at her with a thin smile then cleared his throat, addressing them all. 

“He’s going to make this a hard fight. We fight as dirty as he does.” Eris said firmly. “Whatever it takes.”

It fell silent as his brothers nodded. His mother’s eyes welled up again, and Eris had to look away from her so it didn’t pain him. He glanced at Iris instead, and even though her smile was a small sad one, it managed to loosen a breath from his chest. Whatever it took, he would crawl his way out of this and back to her. 

“Well,” Finn began and Eris let out a long-suffering sigh echoed by Emil and Izak. “He can’t kill all of us, right? One of us has to survive him to continue the Vanserra line.” 

“Finn.” Eris warned as their mother made a noise of distress.

“What? I’m only reassuring you once again, that if the task comes to me, I would be happy to marry all your lovely ladies and take care of them should you all bite the dust at the ball,” Finn said graciously.

“Don’t you have a certain someone in your life?” Iris asked, holding back a laugh and Finn waved a hand good-naturedly.

“He’s very reasonable, you’ll love him,” he reassured Iris as he wiggled his brows at her. “You won’t mind having sister wives, right? As the wife of my oldest brother, you would be my first wedded, of course.”

Before Eris could do more than snarl rather viciously at his brother’s teasing, Iris held a hand to her husband’s chest and raised a brow at Finn. “It’s sweet you think you can handle one wife, much less three,” she said then turned back to Eris. “If you bite the dust as your brother says, I promise I won’t marry him.” She patted his chest gently. “But, you’ll be perfectly safe so there’s nothing to worry about. You don’t need to punch him.” 

Eris scowled then narrowed his eyes at Finn’s smug smile. “I still want to punch him.”

“We can save it for another day. When all this is over.” Iris couldn’t help but glance at the rest of them. “When we’re all safe. You can punch each other all you want then.” 

“Your wife is an optimist,” Emil noted, tilting his head at her curiously. “What a fate to be married to a Vanserra.”  

Iris’s lips twitched then made a show of stepping back to run her gaze down Eris’s body and back up. Eris’s brow lifted as she made a noise of approval. “Well, he is pretty so it balances out all the struggle,” she said and Eris rolled his eyes as she turned back to shrug at his brothers. “It isn’t much, but it’s honest work.” 

Izak’s head tipped back with a laugh as Finn hooted and Emil couldn’t help his chuckle. 

And Eris wanted to devour her when she gave him a cheeky smile that made him roll his eyes again. “Hysterical,” he deadpanned, the tips of his ears heating at his mother’s small smile. 

“I told you she was funny,” Finn said to his brothers. 

“My wife’s jokes and Finn’s enthusiasm to marry females who won’t want him aside –” Eris began, warning Finn with a look when his brother opened his mouth. “We’ve lingered enough, I think. Should anything else come up, be quick and be discreet.” 

The brothers let themselves slowly disperse with Emil vanishing first then Finn. Izak delayed for a moment and approached Iris with a thin smile. Eris’s brow quirked up as his brother ran a hand over his beard, his expression curiously cautious. “I just wanted to say…I think you and Helene would get along well,” he said and glanced at Eris before meeting Iris’s gaze. “It’s not easy being married to a Vanserra but…I think you two could be friends. If – if you wanted.” 

Iris’s smile was warm. “Based on what Eris mentioned to me, I think so too. I look forward to meeting her when I can.” she said then added quietly, “Congratulations on the pregnancy.” 

Izak flushed, pleased as he nodded. “Thank you. I’ll see you again at the ball.” 

As Izak departed and only his mother remained, Eris gave her a moment as she took in her gardens, her expression tight. He knew this place had always been a sanctuary for her and though she’d be leaving it behind for a better place, he knew it wouldn’t be easy. 

“Mother.”

Lady Enya turned towards him. “Yes?”

“If needed…will you be ready to use your magic?” he asked carefully and his mother took a breath, nodding.

“Yes. Whatever I can do, I will support your every step,” she said, her expression shifting into grim determination. “Whatever it takes, Eris.”

He nodded at his mother then shared a glance with his wife and Iris’s smile was tight as Eris promised, “Whatever it takes.” 

-

Eris blinked and as the ball crept closer, he barely slept. He went about his daily routine, spent time with his wife, and plotted through the night. He tried to be more relaxed, tried to stay focused but as everything slowly came together, he couldn’t help but anticipate that something would go wrong. He’d readjusted his plan with Oren, Mikel, and Seprhan twice already; he was driving his friends crazy. 

The feeling intensified when it was finally the night before the ball and his Father summoned him to the throne room. Eris had hesitated for only a moment in front of the door, the memory of the last time he was summoned here lingering in the back of his mind. But he forced himself forward and allowed himself a glance around the room as he walked towards where his father stood, taking in the splendor of decor as he went. His mother always outdid herself with the way she planned for these events. He knew how this particular event was one of significance and didn’t miss the little signs around the room. The abundance of gold. The wisps of fire magic. The miniature phoenix art scattered around the room. His lips couldn’t help but twitch. 

Eris paused a healthy distance from the High Lord who stood with his back to him, facing the throne. As his Father deliberately took his time to acknowledge him, Eris ran his tongue over his teeth and made himself take a deep breath, schooling his expression into that careful calm he desperately needed around his least favorite person. 

After a few moments of silence, Eris clenched his fists behind his back and cleared his throat. “You called, Father.”

Beron glanced over his shoulder and then made a noise of disapproval as he turned to face his son. The two watched each other in silence and though Eris was used to his father’s mind games, something about this summoning felt…sinister.

Beron gestured for Eris to come closer and immediately, his shoulders couldn’t help tensing further.

But Eris moved and stopped at the place Beron had pointed to, right in front of him. “Do you know why I called you here, son?”

“I really hope it’s because you missed me,” Eris said with a thin smile. “Otherwise my feelings will be hurt.” 

Beron snorted. “Funny,” he said and shifted his head slightly as he watched Eris. “I wonder if you get your humor from your wife. I hear she’s very funny.” 

A beat of silence passed and Eris felt his heart nearly leap out of his chest. “Pray tell, who has been passing along her jokes?”

His father’s answering smile made Eris’s fists tighten. “The wind carries all kinds of whispers, son. I didn’t realize it was a secret.”

The moment stretched between them and Eris tried to keep the beating of his heart calm as his father watched him. What did that even mean? Who was talking?

The High Lord’s mouth curled and Eris tried to tamper down his agitation as his father added, “Then again, everything about your wife would be a secret if it was up to you.” 

Eris’s expression flattened. “Are we really doing this again, Father?” he said and tried to keep his tone even. “I thought we were past this.” 

“Of course, of course,” Beron said casually. “Though how sensitive you are about her is still concerning, I suppose we have other things to worry about with our big event tomorrow.”

Tension lined Eris’s spine as he watched his father watch him, every sentence loaded with words left unsaid, and Eris’s mind scrambled to catch it all. “Indeed,” he said carefully. “What can I assist you with, Father?”

“Always so eager to assist, son,” Beron said. “Sometimes I forget just how much.”

Eris’s gaze narrowed slightly in confusion. He didn’t want to believe his father was bored and wasting his time like this. Eris could barely keep awake these days; with this last night, he wanted to be alone with his wife. His mate. He wanted that fucken time with her. 

Yet here he was, squandering that time with this.

“Is there anything about the event tomorrow you’d like me to do? I do believe everything has been taken care of.” 

“I didn’t call you here for that.” Beron said and Eris lifted a brow.

“If not that, to what do I owe the pleasure of being here?”

The words seemed to cause a slight shift in his father and Eris noted exactly when his expression went from amused disdain to anger.

“You overstep and I tire of it.”

Eris blinked. “Oh?”

“You are my eldest son. I acknowledge that a certain load of responsibility has been expected of you and even added to your shoulders. You have always done your duty as required and yet…” Beron pursed his lips, his gaze narrowing. “The past few months, you have overstepped so very often.”

Eris forced his expression into polite indifference. “Is there something I did in particular that bothered you deeply enough to summon me?” he asked and his father’s eyes narrowed. “I would like to ensure I apologize profusely for my errors.”

“You and that fucken mouth of yours.” Beron snarled and backhanded Eris so quickly he barely took a breath, his face snapping to the side and Eris nearly swore at the sheer force that went into his father’s hand. 

Oh, the High Lord was pissed to be this triggered by his tone.

Eris ran his tongue over his teeth, slowly facing his father again and he knew there was nothing to be done about the anger that coursed through his body – anger he knew the High Lord felt despite the bland expression Eris managed to push through on his face. “That seemed rather unnecessary.” he managed to say lightly, even though his fisted hands were shaking violently behind his back. “Was it something I said, High Lord?”

And this time when his father lifted his hand in warning, Eris leaned back, his expression flattening again. “I can handle words, Father. You don’t need to put your hands on me to tell me when I’ve supposedly wronged you.” 

His father’s mouth curled in anger and the High Lord stepped into Eris’s personal space even further. “Back away from me again and a flogging pole will be the least of your worries.”

A strained silence pulsed in the air between them and Eris knew he was venturing into dangerous territory when he couldn’t hold in his humorless laugh and his father’s eyes narrowed.

“And get blood all over the floor? That wouldn’t be the kind of welcome you’d want to give our guests.”

Beron yanked Eris by the front of his tunic. “Keep speaking in that sarcastic tone and your body hanging by the gates will be what welcomes the guests instead.” 

Eris felt his fire nearly burst out of him, his anger shooting up his spine but he held that leash on his magic and held it tight because he wouldn’t blow up here. Given the kind of pressure he’d been under the last three weeks, it would be so fucken easy to unleash everything and be done. 

But no. Not now. Not when they were so fucken close. Not when they could wipe the slate clean in front of the whole court and step into a new age with history on their side.

Nevertheless, Eris couldn’t stop the steam from pouring out of him and he certainly couldn’t stop his glare when his Father’s cold smirk appeared. 

“I don’t know if that would match the theme Mother’s going for this year.” Eris said tightly as he tried to reign in his anger even as Beron’s answering chuckle was laced with cruelty.

“You keep speaking to me that way and your mother will have more things to worry about than her tacky theme.” Beron spat then shoved Eris back. “Fix your face and apologize.” 

A muscle flexed in Eris’s jaw as father and son stared down one another. They had barely started talking and his father was already goading him just to lay hands on him. Had the High Lord sensed anything amiss? What was it that seemed to be putting his father in such a foul mood? 

Eris’s hands remained behind his back, flexing his fingers then fisting them again as he forced himself to bow his head and as calmly as he could choke out said, “Apologies, High Lord.” 

Beron’s head cocked to the side. “An apology should come with a full bow, boy. Do not disrespect me.” 

Eris’s expression blanked immediately and he forced his body not to react negatively, not to tense further. His well of power would not be blown away on this. This was nothing. He’d tolerated more. 

So forcing himself once more, Eris bowed fully to his father and said as dull as possible, “Apologies, High Lord.”

His father said nothing for a moment and Eris took the opportunity to glare at the sparkling floors they stood on. When another minute ticked by in silence, he couldn’t help but lift his head to find his father smirking at him. And that was never good.

Especially when he opened his mouth and said, “Your wife says my High Lord. You should say it the way she does.” 

Eris’s body straightened before he could stop himself, his vision going red and the only thing that managed to hold him back from ripping his father’s throat out was the laugh that slipped out of the High Lord’s mouth, mocking him.

“You’re so easy to rile these days.” Beron taunted. “Which goes to show you how bad of an influence that wife of yours is.” Giving Eris a sly look, his father continued, “Maybe you should pick out a new bride tomorrow.” 

Eris didn’t bother fighting back his eye roll, despite how much his clenched fists were shaking. “This conversation is getting tedious, Father,” he said curtly. “May I please know what it is you wish to discuss with me?”

The High Lord’s expression filled with contempt as he stared down his son, the silence between them was heavy with trepidation. 

“Tedious, you say.”

“Yes. We both know there are about a thousand other things we could be doing instead of this little dance between us.” 

Beron made a disinterested noise. “I had no plans other than to fuck your mother this evening. Though her lack of enthusiasm doesn’t make it as enjoyable as it could be, it is better than nothing.” 

“Are you fucking kidding me?” Eris snapped and nothing could stop his fists from catching flame. “Show some respect when you speak about her.” 

And Eris knew his father’s fist would fly out. H​​e let it. He let the taste of blood fill his mouth as he staggered back a step from the blow. His father seemed to be spiraling. He had lashed out at stupid things before but this? To this extent? Eris felt the pit of his stomach give out. Could it be that something had slipped through the cracks?

“I will speak about my wife as I see fit. You do not get to insert yourself between us.” Beron spat and Eris wiped a hand at his mouth with a huff of disbelief. His father’s expression of disdain remained as he took a step closer to his son. “This is your problem. You are always inserting yourself in places you don’t need to be. You do it with your mother. You do it with your brothers. You did it in a meeting the other day with our council while I was in the room.” The High Lord glared and Eris had to fight with all the willpower he had to calm his shaking hands – to smother his flames. “You know why I called you here? To discuss how you intervened between me and your brothers the other day. An intervention I did not welcome.” His father’s gaze raked over his face. “I’ve tolerated your overstepping in the past because you followed orders – you get things done. However, I will not tolerate your overstepping tomorrow, especially in front of the many important guests that will be present. You will remember your place and watch how you behave.” 

The High Lord’s voice was nothing but a lethal threat as he said, “The next time you get between me and your brothers so carelessly like that, you will take the brunt of their discipline.” 

Eris tried to keep his expression from shifting at the promise filled with violence. This whole conversation was bringing all the stress he had been carrying and crashing it down on his head. It seemed that indeed, his command of his brothers had finally seemed to bother his father enough that he was finally saying something about it. What convenient fucken timing. 

Beron’s expression morphed into one of cruel amusement. “Your hair is only just starting to grow out. It’s too early for another new look, don’t you agree?”

And the warning was clear – a reminder of what the High Lord would be happy to do again in this very room. 

Eris pursed his lips, his heart thundering in his chest at his father’s gaze filled with violence as clear as the tone he used. He nearly choked as his magic surged up again, desperately wanting to answer it but instead, Eris forced himself to breathe slowly, the leash on his magic held tight as he said carefully, “I merely wished to help, Father. I didn’t realize it would bother this much.”

“I do not require your help to make your brothers fall in line. You should be falling in line with them.” the High Lord snapped. “Your help has become an insult.”

Eris’s jaw worked and again, he forced himself to bow his head graciously even though he wanted to do anything but – his father had already laid his hands on him twice; he couldn’t afford to keep giving him reasons to lash out. So Eris only said, “Duly noted.”

Silence stretched between them and Eris waited, knowing a threat was coming up. His father liked to play games and loved to waste his time. Minutes ticked away and Eris couldn’t help the flare of his nostrils when his father’s mouth curled up.

“Eris.”

“Father.”

“Tomorrow is a very big day,” Beron said slowly and took a step closer to him. “I’d hate for things to go wrong should any of you decide to do something foolish.” 

A chill skittered down his spine but Eris’s expression remained politely bored. The comment didn’t have to mean anything. His father didn’t know anything. The High Lord was only lashing out because Eris hadn’t said the right things to him, because he wasn’t being as careful as he could be. He would blame it on the stress and would not let himself believe anything else.

“Other than drinking excessively,” he said as nonchalantly as possible, “I don’t foresee any trouble.”

Beron hummed, watching Eris in a way that always made his skin crawl. “Your father-in-law will be in attendance. I expect you and your wife to behave accordingly.”

Annoyance flashed on Eris’s face before he could stop it. “I am aware. He’ll do well to steer clear of us completely, Father. That is my only request to you.”

“And if I refused?”

Eris forced his expression to blank pleasantness again, noting the movement of his father’s hands. “Then I cannot promise there won’t be trouble should his path cross ours.” 

“Is that a threat, son?”

“Never, Father,” he said with a small smile. “I am merely setting expectations.”  

Beron’s eyes narrowed and it was a deadly type of silence between them, the type of silence that Eris knew, had his father not needed him to be presentable tomorrow, Eris’s face would’ve met his fire rather than his fist. “You were my favorite son.” his father said quietly. “I do not like who you’ve become.” 

Eris could only slowly shrug his shoulders. “I’m sorry to be of constant disappointment, Father,” he replied and wished he could tell his father exactly how sorry he was – how much being the so-called favorite had cost him. 

Beron scowled and grabbed Eris’s face with a hand, tugging him closer. “Do not think I haven’t noticed how abysmal your attitude has been lately but I will warn you one last time,” his father said quietly, enough violence in his tone that Eris knew not to move. “Should you do anything that isn’t a direct order from me – anything that isn’t what I expect of you, I will make you pay in ways that’ll be worse than your nightmares.” Beron shoved him back and Eris couldn’t help his expression darkening at his father’s glare. “All this family has ever been is disappointing. Let’s hope you and your useless brothers don’t make matters worse for yourselves tomorrow.” 

The High Lord shoved past Eris but paused half a step away and Eris turned his head without a word, only raising a brow at the loaded silence between them. 

But then his father’s nostrils flared and Eris felt his blood run cold. He didn’t dare breathe and mentally checked his shields, knowing he had reinforced it around his scent before he came anywhere near his father, and yet…what exactly was the High Lord sensing?

His father merely gave him a once over then spat, “I’ll see you and your wife tomorrow. I hope you remember to make good choices.” 

And the High Lord’s goodbye felt like a promise full of death. Eris waited a few moments in tense silence, his blood thumping in his ears and when he was sure he was indeed alone, he closed his eyes to let out a deep shaky breath, feeling steam rise from his hands. His anxiety had returned in full force at his father’s departure. His father couldn’t have sensed anything, could he? Eris had glamoured his scent well; no one could note his mating bond, especially without Iris near him. If his father had scented his wife on him, that wouldn’t be unusual but Eris was too careful even for that. 

He ran a shaky hand through his hair and let himself linger for another moment, eyes flickering around the room, letting himself see it as it was for the last time. With a sigh, he turned on his heels and left the throne room. 

He needed to warn his brothers. 

–

Iris watched as Eris finally stepped into their suite and slammed the door behind him. He had taken longer than she had anticipated and the anxiety that had been squeezing around her chest immediately loosened when she saw that he was whole and unharmed. Her heart had stopped when Eris had told her about the High Lord’s meeting and the only reason Iris had survived waiting was because she distracted herself on the piano. 

Everything was supposed to be set. Everything was in place and yet, the tension that seeped into the room with him made her nervous. She hated that what could be their final night together was filled with such emotions. 

She rose from her place on the piano and walked over to him then stopped in her tracks, noting the slight bruise on his cheek, the cut on his lip. “What happened.” 

Her voice was more hushed than intended but if not for that, Iris knew she would start to panic. She moved closer until she stood before him and let her healing senses reach out, not wanting to touch him just yet – not until she was sure he wanted her touch at this moment. But she sensed nothing amiss aside from the evidence on his face and had to swallow when she met his blank stare. “What was this about?” she asked softly.

Eris had to calmly count to ten and let out a long breath before he could speak, “I seemed to have gotten under the High Lord’s skin when I supposedly overstepped and intervened between him and my brothers the other day.” he explained and Iris watched with a grimace as his fists tightened at his sides. “He wanted to remind me of my place and to watch my tone because apparently, my sarcasm doesn’t translate well.” 

“So he finally noticed and said something about it?”

“Funny how he’s always benefited from me doing all his work for him and now has the nerve to get annoyed by it,” Eris grumbled then shook his head. “He wanted to warn us – me to behave tomorrow.” 

Iris felt her heart stutter in her chest. “Warn how?” 

“He wanted to make sure I didn’t intervene in my brother’s whore parade so they could pick wives.” 

Iris brows furrowed. “Given that they’re all in committed relationships, I don’t think it’s going to go the way he wants.”

“Hopefully, by the end of the night tomorrow, he’ll be dead and we won’t have to worry about him at all,” Eris spat and rolled his head back, breathing deeply and Iris felt his frustration seep off him.

She frowned and stopped in front of him, assessing his expression then reached out a hand to gently touch him. She waited a heartbeat, giving him the chance to push her hand away if he wanted to but Eris couldn’t seem to help but shudder at the touch, and after a moment’s hesitation, he turned his face to kiss her hand softly. “You’re almost there. Tomorrow, you all will be free of him. You’ve prepared as best as you can.” she said softly, letting her magic wipe away his hurt.

“I know and yet, I don’t feel prepared at all,” he said quietly and Iris had never seen his eyes so tired. “I feel like it’s going to all go to hell and I’m going to drag you all down with me.” 

Iris cupped his face and forced him to meet her gaze. “Everyone is ready to go down swinging with you, Eris. This is not on your shoulders alone,” she said. “Please…unburden yourself.” 

He shook his head slowly and pulled her hands from his face to hold in his own. “My head isn’t wired to do that,” he said. “I’m thinking about all of the things that could go wrong.”

“But what about all the things that could go right?” Iris asked, squeezing his hands.

Eris’s chuckle was weak. “How I ended up with an optimistic wife really is a comical event. You truly did marry into the wrong family.” 

The corner of Iris’s mouth lifted. “Fate does work in mysterious ways.” 

“Indeed,” he agreed, then took a step back, his expression shifting. “Do you have all your items prepared for tomorrow? Aside from the bag we sent ahead to Lucien and Elain’s.”

She tried not to let her face fall and nodded. “I have a small satchel and daggers to hide beneath my dress.”

“You know where you’ll be meeting Oren?”

“Yes.”

“And the drop-off location where you’ll winnow to reach Lucien?” 

“Yes, Eris,” she said wearily. “We went over all this in the morning.”

“And we shall review it again tomorrow. I cannot take any risks when it comes to you.” he said and Iris gave him a knowing look.

“I know,” she said quietly. “Do you want to try and get some sleep? It’s going to be a long day tomorrow.”

Eris shook his head, his fists clenching at his sides. “I don’t know if I’ll be able to sleep. I’m too tense. Too nervous.” he said and licked his lips, glancing at her in a way that made her pause.

She waited a heartbeat then asked, “...Is there something else?”

He seemed to hesitate for a moment, his expression tight but with a sigh, Eris explained quietly, “When he was walking away from me, he paused a step away and…seemed to sense something in the air next to me.” 

Iris froze in his arms. “And you think that means…he knows something?”

“I don’t know,” he whispered. “Why else would he do that? You mentioned in the stables he seemed to sense something around you. What if he sensed something from me? What if he knows?”

“Eris –”

“Iris, I can’t – how can I —” he growled and his grip on her tightened. “If he knows and pulls some shit tomorrow that would harm you in any way I —”

“Eris.” Her tone was firm enough that it made him pause, his expression stricken in a way that made her chest ache for him. “It doesn’t necessarily mean anything.”

“How can you –”

“And what if he does? What does it matter?” Iris asked. “Tomorrow, things will change regardless. What does it matter if he finds out about our bond now?”

Eris’s expression fell and his whisper was hoarse, “Because this is the one thing – you are the one thing that is all mine. I don’t want his mark on it.” 

Iris felt her heart crack, the same way it always did when she thought of the way he’d lived his life constantly on edge, constantly thinking and planning and scheming. She didn’t want this particular night together to be this way. He needed some peace and Iris needed him just as badly as he needed peace.

“It doesn’t matter what or if he does anything,” she said quietly but not weakly. “I am yours and you are mine and whatever tomorrow brings, we will face it. He doesn’t get to win.” 

Eris struggled not to tremble at her determined gaze. That he had someone to worry about was one thing but to have someone — her — worry about him like this? He could truly never bring her peace and yet – she looked at him like this. Like she lov— loved him. 

As he loved her.

“What do you need?” Iris found herself whispering, reaching out a hand to gently touch his face again and a thrill always did go through her at how many times she could make him shudder with her touches. Iris waited, watching as he worked his jaw, swallowing before his eyes met hers. Without saying anything, she could feel his every emotion and concern. The thread at her ribcage was a path to his every thought and she gently tugged at it as for once, her husband let his emotions flicker across his face. The panic, the worry, the desperation, and Iris would do anything to bring him ease. 

After an eternity, his response was a broken rasp, “You. I only need you.”

Iris softened and stepped closer, Eris's arm immediately wrapping around her waist to pull her into him. “You have me,” she said softly and kissed the corner of his mouth. “I am here, with you. I am yours.”

He licked his lips, his chest rising and falling rapidly, without saying a word, the look they shared conveyed exactly what he needed – wanted, and always craved. He needed her in every way. He needed to only see her tonight. To only feel her. 

Her eyes didn’t waver from his as she slowly slid a hand down his chest. She knew exactly what he needed to be able to get through this night and Iris wanted nothing more than for them to feed into their feelings. Her hand continued down, past the waistband of his trousers until her hand wrapped around his impressive length and Eris hissed as she squeezed him, slowly pumping. His arm tightened around her, tension lining every inch of him even as their mouths were a breath apart.

“Tell me what you need,” she whispered but Eris couldn’t do anything but watch the blush across her cheeks, trying not to have his eyes roll back as she tightened her grip. His breath stuttered as she leaned in closer to him, pumping him leisurely as she spoke, “Do you want me on my knees? Should I take you in my mouth?” Eris groaned and closed his eyes, leaning into her slightly when Iris quickened her pace and then slowed down. “Tell me what I can do to make you feel good.”

“I want you everywhere.” he rasped and opened his eyes, his gaze filled with a desperate kind of heat that Iris felt seep into her bones. “Anything you want. Everything you’re willing to give me. I want this night to be just about you and me. For nothing else to matter.”

“Then nothing else has to matter right now,” she said softly. “It’s always just you and me.”

Eris licked his lips, his request for permission written all over his face, and every desperate thought and emotion he had spilled into his next word, “Please.” 

All it took was a nod from his wife and any restraint Eris had snapped. His kiss was as desperate as he felt, chasing her lips and Iris whimpered into his mouth, her hands digging into his back, quickly backing her into the table of their dining room.

“I — I can’t be gentle right now.” He said urgently in between his kisses, his hands moving as quickly as hers, both trying to undress the other. “If you don’t want that — please tell me now I don’t want to —“

But she held up her hand and Eris froze immediately, breathing heavily with her barricaded between his arms. Tonight, there would be nothing gentle about their coupling. With how high stakes everything would be tomorrow, all Iris wanted – needed was him. “I don’t want gentle," Iris said quietly. "I want whatever you'll give me.”

The demand in her tone had a noise he never thought he could make slip from his throat and Eris surged forward to claim her lips once more, searing himself into her.

His hands couldn’t move fast enough; he shoved her dress down her body, undergarments with it and Eris only got a second to admire her body before getting distracted by Iris’s own hands practically ripping off his clothing and in an instant, he helped her send them flying. He turned her around, pushing her body down and Iris hissed at the sensation of the cold table to her heated naked body. She couldn’t help but lean forward even further, presenting herself to him, and couldn’t stop the mewl that slipped from her lips when he smacked her ass. 

She looked over her shoulder and found Eris’s eyes on her, spreading her legs and Iris couldn’t stop the arch of her hips, biting her lip with a soft moan when his fingers slipped into her already wet folds.

“This is going to be hard and fast. I promise to be nice to you later but now…now I need to fuck you, wife.” He said and the low tenor of his voice made her hips arch back further, her breaths in time with his fingers teasing her entrance. “You understand?”

“Then you better fuck me hard, mate.” she said and Eris’s breath shuddered as she whispered, “I’m all yours.”

“Brace yourself,” was all he said before Eris thrust into her without preamble, and Iris let out a ragged moan, clutching onto the table as he had her. Eris fisted a hand in her hair and fucked her at a vicious pace and she could do nothing but bend over further for him, whimpering helplessly.

Her body took him and his brutal pace, Iris groaning as Eris grunted into her ear and Iris felt her impending release slowly start to build. The sensation of his tight grip on her hair, his other hand firmly on her back to keep her down was fueling a lust like never before in her.

It made her realize that she desperately liked it when he unleashed himself on her. That in fact, she loved that he was fucking her like this, especially as he thrust into her so hard again, he hit a spot she hadn’t thought existed until him. 

Looking over her shoulder, her breath quickened at the sight of the fire blazing in his eyes as he claimed her.

“Husband.” She gasped and Eris’s eyes snapped up to her, the hand on her back sliding to her ass and squeezing.

“Wife.”

“Harder.” She demanded and Eris’s eyes glazed over, the words driving him into a frenzy. He growled so deeply, goosebumps erupted all over her and the hand fisted in her hair pulled her head back so he could claim her lips, bruising her with a kiss.

“Gladly, mate.” he purred.

She shuddered and tried to meet his pace but Eris had unleashed himself completely and her husband was gone. Pushing her down fully on the table, the grip on her hips was deliciously painful as he thrust wildly.

There was no hope for her to catch up and Iris happily let him claim her, her release creeping closer – knowing how much they needed this with all that tomorrow would bring. The sound of his heavy breathing, the sound of their bodies meeting, and finally when he smacked her ass hard enough she knew there would be a mark, Iris shattered with a delicate cry.

Eris grunted and didn’t give her a moment to shudder through her climax as he pulled out, his length hard and wet with her release. He turned her over so fast and before she could realize what was happening, her husband had her flat on her back on the table.

Yanking her to the edge, he spread her legs for him and slapped her cunt, rubbing the slickness of her release in her folds. “I didn’t ask you to come.” He purred, his tone just a little mean and Iris arched her back off the table with a throaty groan as he slapped her sex again. “You like it when I slap your cunt, wife? Your cunt that belongs to me?”

But Iris was having a hard time getting her mouth to form words and could only breathe heavily, nodding. 

“I want to hear your answer, little gazelle.” he growled and slapped her cunt again, the sting a little harder and Iris cried out.

“Yes.” Iris wouldn’t bring herself to be embarrassed at the whimper that left her lips when he did it once more with a savage grin.

“That’s my good girl.”

Iris’s eyes rolled to the back of her head as his hips snapped into hers and held, the sensation so overwhelmingly good she could already feel another release building. 

The blaze in his eyes become more prominent, predatory as he pulled back only to pound into her again, his thrusts frantic and the pace merciless, watching her take his cock; a choked sob slipping from Iris’s lips when he pushed her legs further apart and held down, the angle deepening his reach. Her hand slid to her clit and his smirk was wild as he watched her play with herself, her pace trying to match his.

“You take me so fucken good, wife. I need to fuck you in front of a mirror so you can see the way my cock fills you up. So you can see how your swollen cunt drips with need for me.” His voice was guttural and Iris bit her lips, the words only igniting more fire in her – more want. “You like it like this? You like it when I lose control? When I fuck you like an animal?”

“Yes.” She breathed and Eris clenched his jaw, his thrusts now desperate. 

“My hand — your throat.” his words were barely understood as another choked whimper slipped from Iris and she begged, 

“Please.”

Her plea had Eris’s hand slide to her throat and Iris’s mouth fell open at the sensation of his grip tightening slightly.

“You like that?” He ground out, snapping his hips into her hard enough, it caused her to shift back onto the table slightly.

But Iris could only gasp as he pulled her back to the edge of the table with a growl, his grip on her throat heightening all her other senses, her free hand clenching the hand on her throat desperately.

“I’m —“

“I’ll have you dripping all over this table momentarily, wife.” He snarled. “Patience.”

And Iris let him lose himself inside her as she lost herself in him. The feeling of being at his mercy like this would’ve had her breaking out in hives once upon a time but now she trusted him so thoroughly that giving him this type of control — control he needed – was so freeing. She was free falling and the sound of his rough grunts as he fucked her senseless sent her right over the edge once more with a tight moan.

“I said pati — fuck.” He growled and his thrusts became even more erratic as she clenched her walls around him, her body bowing off the table with a silent scream, her release coursing through her.

“Eris.” She whined and the sound of his name whispered from her lips undid him.

Eris cursed, pumping hard as he spilled himself inside her and Iris watched him through hooded eyes, relishing the way his eyes closed, the hand not on her throat gripping her thigh tight enough she knew it would bruise. He leaned over her, resting his head in the crook of her neck,  his breathing unsteady as his thrusts slowed and Iris could only moan softly when he pressed himself in her and held again, his cock still pulsing inside her. Her thumb caressed the hand still wrapped around her throat and Iris licked her lips, pleasure still coursing through her. 

When he finally opened his eyes and pulled back slightly, the sight of her underneath him, splayed beautifully, almost had him come again; he couldn’t bring himself to pull out of her, and judging by the way her walls still tightened around his shaft, Eris was sure she didn’t mind. He loved being inside her, loved it when she warmed his cock.

The fingers around her throat stroked her neck gently before he let go and peppered it with soft kisses that earned him a breathless sigh from his wife’s lips and he couldn’t help his small smile when he pulled back to meet her gaze.

And Eris felt his whole being crumble when she smiled softly at him and he couldn’t stop himself from leaning in and kissing her with such tenderness that Iris felt her heart break a little. This was the way it was between them – a little rough balanced in with a little soft; she was the only one who made him realize how much he needed that softness. 

She pulled him closer with a hand on the back of his neck, the other on his chest, and wrapped her legs around his waist, the movement pushing him deeper inside her, and Iris had to bite her lip to swallow the wanton sound she knew would come out of her mouth. But she wanted to wrap her very being around him and keep him close to her heart, where he would be safe and whole and hers. She wanted him forever like this, in her arms as he kissed her and touched her and looked at her like she was the only one who mattered.

Their kiss deepened and when he shifted slightly, she wasn’t sure who made the breathless noise between them as she tightened around his cock again.

He shifted slightly, brushing a hair out of her face. “You’re trying to torture me, aren’t you?” he gasped and Iris giggled. 

“I’m only giving you what you wanted.” 

His gaze was smoldering and Iris felt her whole body heat as they shared a breath but Eris forced himself to pause, his eyes roaming her face. “Are you okay?” He asked quietly and Iris felt his nervousness start to creep up. “Did I —“

“You didn’t hurt me.” She said immediately and leaned up to leave a quick kiss on his neck, running a hand down his chest. “I liked it. I liked it a lot. In fact –” Iris slid her hands up his toned arms then down his back slowly until they settled on his backside and she squeezed, digging her nails into his flesh. Her cheeks flushed as he groaned, rocking into her. “I think you and I are far from finished.”

Eris’s eyes flashed with desire as her words ignited a fire within him; she always knew what he needed without saying a word. His wife. His friend. His mate.

She was his and he was hers and Eris – who had never even dreamed of this, would hold on to this glowing thread between them like the lifeline it was.

“You’re right,” he said and his voice was a sensuous caress as he leaned closer. “I am far from done with you, little gazelle.” 

Little else was said as the two moved, and there was nothing soft about this claiming, nothing gentle about the need and desperation in their touches. Everything would change tomorrow and Eris couldn’t stop himself from letting himself be all wrapped up in her. For having this night of forgetting. 

And Eris promised himself he would do whatever it takes for their tomorrow to have a tomorrow. Whatever it takes to bring them peace. Regardless of how many pieces he had to break himself to do it. 

[superkooku]

Favorite character from Greek mythology + favorite myth from Greek mythology?

Favorite characters

I'll turn this into a tag game : @margaretkart @dootznbootz @sarafangirlart @aliciavance4228 @katerinaaqu @hermesmoly @go-rocksquadsfan @sanska @vint-knight .

And @anon (you can give your answer in another ask 😉).

So, I have a loooooooot of faves. This list is long.

Here are mine :

Nobody. Yeah, in reality, I hate mythology and just pretend I like it. Or I just love making puns about my favorite lying war criminal. Who didn't cheat btw.

Penelope. These two are soulmates, no ifs or buts. I always found her underrated and @dootznbootz 's ramblings on her confirm that. Cunning and sassy half-naiad queen.

"The delian twins", as I like to call them. Idk I really love their multifaceted natures of protectors and deadly huntress/inflictor of illnesses (with an affinity towards plague). And their familial bond is precious. And I like them both equally, even though I talk about Apollo a bit more ig.

Leto. She's precious. They're always ready to defend each other. Like when Apollo and Artemis killed Niobe's kids because she was disrespectful to Leto. Or when Leto came in to save her son from being thrown in Tartarus by Zeus. Or when baby Artemis helped her mother deliver her brother. She fought for her children and now they fight for her.

Hestia. Too bad there isn't more about her because I relate a lot to the concept of chilling at home and staying away from drama.

Ariadne. Because of her family's tragic history, her healing from it with Dionysus (in most versions) and overall, she's great. Also, it's funny how Theseus wanted to marry a child of Zeus but his ex girlfriend actually succeeded 😂. Speaking of her family tragedy...

Asterius. I bet most adaptation authors don't know who I am referring to 🤣. He's a man-eating monster, yes, but he grew up isolated, trapped and unloved. I feel so bad for him.

Perseus. The GOAT. Partly thanks to @sarafangirlart. I already liked him since I always knew he wanted to save his mother, but he genuinely grew on me since I read her posts. That and when I learned of his war against Dionysus. Extremely underrated story.

Athena. Idk I don't think I need to elaborate on why she's cool.

Hades. In retellings, I often hate him because he's either woobified or made into "Greek Satan" (at least in Disney he's fun), but he's genuinely cool in mythology. Morally gray Hades save me.

Hermes. From birth, he was always a little trickster. I love how many functions he has (messenger of the gods, god of merchants, thieves, communication, also a psychopomp btw). A very energetic and helpful god.

Asclepius. I think I should make a post explaining why he's great because, yeah, I don't talk much about him even though there are things to say (yeah it's because I did a lot of research on him).

And... finally... Dionysus 🤣. Of course he made it in this list. I dedicated a whole essay series about this god, come on !

Honorable mentions : Hector, Andromache, Menelaus, Demeter, Telemachus, Hephaestus, Hippolytus, Danae, Ares and many others.

Favorite myths/plays/poems

I already answered that but can't find the post. So I'll do it again, with some new answers in mind. Basically "the myths with the characters on the list".

It's either because they're that compelling or just hilarious.

The homeric cycle. Ok, an easy one.

The Bacchae by Euripides (mandatory reading if you want to understand Dionysus imo. No excuses).

The frogs by Aristophanes. Because it's funny.

Asclepius' story. Seriously I'll elaborate on it one day.

Hermes' birth story. Him stealing Apollo's cows and Apollo getting mad at his scallywag of a brother 🤣🤣. And then just him winning Apollo over with the lyre.

Pirithous and Theseus getting their asses stuck on a chair (yes this is my title for this story). I love to mock these two, especially Pirithous because... give this man a Darwin award please. No thoughts and no survival instincts in his brain 😂.

Orpheus and Eurydice. Simple but powerful.

The Argonautica. Aka a huge crossover. Seeing more interactions between all these heroes would be awesome (especially if we take every version into account 👀. So many faces...). It's funny how I love the Argonautica but never talk about Jason himself 🤣🤣. The embodiment of the protagonist who's less interesting than the other characters.

Perseus' war against Dionysus. A potential retelling about this myth would go so hard !! Especially since we could get a scary Dionysus. Hopefully it doesn't get ruined :(

Edit : some English mistakes I had to correct.

[yourwitchybrother]

On Worshipping Lord Apollo;

I've decided to start a little series about the deities I worship, have worshipped, and will worship in the future. I've always found posts like these to be more helpful and, if I can help anyone, I think this is an amazing way to to so. In this post, I'm going to cover a lot, so buckle up! And I will make a master post for all of the posts I make in this series.

First up! Lord Apollo.

Hands down, he is the deity with whom I have the most experience and personal anecdotes. Apollo has been in my life since the very beginning. I go into a little bit more detail in this post, in which I detail how I view him as a worshipper, my patron, and a godspouse. For information's sake, however, I will try to keep this post a little bit more factual than UPG. UPG stands for "Unverified personal gnosis", which refers to a spiritual belief that stems from intuition or personal spiritual experience. So, while UPG may seem to line up with mythos or just "make sense" for the deity, it varies from practitioner to practitioner and from relationship to relationship. With that being said, I'll focus mostly on the facts with some little bit of advice thrown in from your older brother :)

Correspondences!

First, let's talk correspondences. Consider this a little cheat sheet if you will.

☀︎ You can refer to him by Apollo / Apollon, typically he will clarify which. Many regard him as "Lord Apollo/n", though it is fully dependent on your relationship with him. I drop the Lord unless I'm praying or invoking him, such is the nature of our relationship. For the sake of this post, I shall be referring to him formally as Lord Apollo.

☀︎ He has... a lot of epithets. You can view them here (theoi.com) if you'd like to see a full list.

☀︎ Apollo is typically associated with Sunday, and such is associated with the Sun.

☀︎ He has many sacred animals - The raven, dolphin, swan, mouse, and wolves.

☀︎ Tarot-wise, he is associated primarily, and most commonly, with The Sun. He has also been associated with The Star, though I do not see this one in many sources.

☀︎ He is the God of a plethora of things. The Sun (he is responsible for pulling it across the sky), Light, Poetry, Music, the arts, plague, prophecy, logic and reason, truth, beauty, agriculture, and archery. I am sure I'm missing things. And if you know other deities to be associated similarly, that is okay. Many Gods can share domains and rule over certain things.

☀︎ He is associated with the colors red, white, orange, yellow, and gold!

☀︎ Symbolically, he is related to the Sun, the Lyre, the Bow and Arrow, and the Laurel Wreath.

☀︎ For incense, he is linked to frankincense, myrrh, cypress, clove, cinnamon, and bay.

But that is a lot of correspondence. What can we do with these? Why, I'm glad you asked! With this list of correspondences, we can start to worship Apollo by the book. These would be some more traditional things that would assist you in learning what you want to offer him, what to associate with him, and what you should keep an eye out for. In a later section, I go over some familial ties that can prove useful as well.

Apollo, as an individual

Lord Apollo has typically been regarded as a "beginner deity." He is very easy to work with, incredibly receptive, and is universally known as being a little more laid back with things such as offerings, prayer, and worship. Though I've found all deities to be understanding of circumstance, there is no strict schedule unless you decide to adhere to one.

At the start of our relationship, I found Lord Apollo's energy to be rather bright. I was very new to picking up on spiritual energy and the metaphysical, so his energy felt very overbearing, and we did not spend much in-person time together because of this. He was understanding of my limitations, but he did not hesitate to push these limitations as much as he could for my personal development. This is something he continues to do to this day.

While he does tend to carry himself rather relaxed and carefree, he has no issue being serious and stern whenever needed. If there were signs he was sending me and I would intentionally ignore them because they pointed in directions I did not like, he would respond sternly and ferociously, forcing me to face the negative sooner or figuratively shoving my nose in the signs so I couldn't avoid it. If I needed to face a brutally honest truth, he had no issue being brutally honest. This makes sense, considering he is the God of Truth and Knowledge.

Lord Apollo is also very playful. He's easily excitable. He loves seeing the people he works with make good progress. And if you take a few steps back, depending on your relationship, he is absolutely there to catch you. He is reliable and present. Additionally, he likes attention. He absolutely adores being talked about, thought about, referenced, and thanked. He adores being said good morning to, or even just getting a wave. Some people regard such deities as "high maintenance", but I really just consider it part of his character.

You have every right to decline to work with a deity, by the way. Don't feel as though there's any obligation to work with every deity that is considered "of your skill level", as there is no such thing, and you should only work with a deity once you are ready. The Old Gods do not come with stats above their head and white text that says "PREFERRED LEVEL." They are Gods. You should not get involved with them if you do not feel ready. And even if you feel ready, there is no pressure to invite them into your life.

Worshipping Tips!

This one is a bit lengthy. Apollo, being one of the twelve Olympians, has a lot of lore surrounding him. But this gives us a lot to work with! You can devote time to him in a lot of ways. This involves worshipping or leaving offerings to his family!

His mother is Leto, his father is Zeus, and his twin sibling is Artemis. Familially, he is not married to anyone, but he has had a series of lovers. One account says he was, at one point, a lover to Hekate and together they had Skylla, a sea monster. Though this is unusual. He was said to be a lover to each of the Nine Muses but married none. He fell in love with a myriad of nymphs; Aethusa who birthed Eleuther, Akakallis who birthed him twins Philanderos and Philakides, Daphne who was turned into a laurel tree, and more. There's famously Hyacinthous, a prince, who was accidentally killed. Hymenaeus, another prince, and Cyparisus, another prince, who died of grief and was transformed into the cypress tree.

This gives us a whole lot to work with. Especially for offerings! You can leave him a lot of things:

☀︎ Cypress tree leaves or seeds. ☀︎ Bay leaves ☀︎ Laurel leaves ☀︎ Sun imagery - charms, pictures, drawings, anything. ☀︎ Crystals - Sunstone, citrine, tiger's eye, amber, bumblebee jasper, orange selenite, carnelian, and other yellow, red, or orange stones. ☀︎ Coffee, energy drinks, or anything with caffeine in it. ☀︎ Citrus! Oranges and lemons! Grapefruit! ☀︎ Flowers - Hyacinths, sunflowers, orange roses, larkspur/delphinium, palm, aloe, or any plant that reminds you of him. ☀︎ Instruments - String instruments are the main thing people offer, however you can offer him any instrument. ☀︎ Art - Things you made. Drawings, sculptures, compositions, poetry, paintings, song lyrics, photography, literally anything you made with your two hands.

In terms of what you can do to worship him, there are a few things you can do.

☀︎ Maintain your physical and mental health. Go to the gym, take your medicine, and positively affirm yourself. ☀︎ Sing for or with him. Play an instrument. Learn an instrument! ☀︎ Write short stories or poetry. ☀︎ Go outside and bask in the sun for a little while. ☀︎ Say Good Morning and Goodnight; Thank him for pulling the sun across the sky. ☀︎ Write about him. ☀︎ Draw him offerings, or draw in his honor. Create in his honor. ☀︎ Do a paint-and-sip class, or follow a Bob Ross tutorial. ☀︎ Pick up a new creative hobby. ☀︎ Volunteer at a local hospital or nursing home. ☀︎ Grow some of the plants that are sacred to him! ☀︎ Go to your local museum or art gallery. ☀︎ Support small artists! Support local artists! ☀︎ Create a hymn in his name and honor. ☀︎ Wear jewelry with his symbols on it. I wear a sun necklace! ☀︎ Wear perfumes or colognes that are citrus-scented or scented like any of his preferred incense.

At the end of the day, you can really do whatever you want for Lord Apollo if it reminds you of him. And you can give him whatever you want, so long as it reminds you of him. If you think that it may not mean anything to him, let me give you a bit of brotherly insight. Offerings were left for The Old Gods as a thank you. A form of appreciation for the divine from the physical, mortal plane. People left whatever they had. And if they had nothing, they would pray and hope to be heard. While offerings are not optional, remember that your words count, as well. Even if it seems small.

And if you have any questions, as usual, please ask!! I love talking about Apollo. Not only am I godspoused to him but he's one of my biggest hyperfixations and I absolutely love talking about him and spreading his teachings and information on him. So this is me begging you to ask me questions, ask me anything, literally anything in the comments or in my inbox I will eat it up. Maybe I'll open up a brotherly advice box or something. Non lo so, ma vedremo!

Blessed be, and may the sun be your guide! A domani!

[faeriichaii]

hey I've read several of your fics and I really love your writing and I was wondering of you'd be in a mood for one thorin x reader request where thorin comes to visit bilbo in the shire some time after botfa and goes to the green dragon with him where he gets absolutely mesmerised with the reader who is a singer there?? it's heavily inspired by the song "killing me softly with her song" by Perry Como. could be any genre really. I've had this idea for so long but am absolutely terrible at writing

Symphony of Your Life ~ Thorin x Human!Reader

A/N: Thank you so much!! I am happy to hear that you have enjoyed my stories so far :) I am so sorry that it took me so long to write it rip but now it is here and I hope you like it!! <33

⇢ ˗ˏˋ Warnings: fluff (I think??) not proof read!!! ࿐ྂ ⇢ ˗ˏˋ Words: 1.4k ࿐ྂ ⇢ ˗ˏˋ Request: Yes (thank you <33) ࿐ྂ

Summary: Thorin went to visit his old friend Bilbo in the Shire once more, without expecting to be enchanted by a melodic voice that fills not just his ears but also his heart.

“I am grateful for your visit old friend.” Bilbo said, giving Thorins shoulder a pat before entering the Green Dragon Inn. “Well, it has been quite a while since we parted ways and you went back home to the shire.” The dwarven king followed after the hobbit into the filled place. People were drinking away, while telling the ones closest by about stories of their past. Others were eating away the food that was served on their plates. The inn was filled with a lively atmosphere, making Thorin relax slightly, the stress of the past months leaving his body.

Bilbo pulled out one of the wooden chairs and made himself comfortable, before looking around in search of the waitress. “So Thorin, tell me, what has been happening in Erebor after I left?” “Well, we began to slowly regain back the power Erebor once had.” Thorin sat opposite of the hobbit, before continuing with his story. “We are also making sure to not keep too much gold in the mine. Also, the trading between Mirkwood and Erebor is livelier than ever.” “Excuse me for the lil wait, but what can I get ya two fellows for the night?” A woman asked them, her eyes moving between the two men.

“I would just like to get a pint of meat for now.” The dwarven king said, his eyes moving from the waitress to the performer behind her. Soft tunes filled his ears, followed by a gentle voice telling an old tale from the past. Your mind was focused on the song you were playing and he could feel the emotions that you put into every syllable that passed your lips. Fingers gently tugging on the strings of your Lyre, making him wish to walk closer to hear even more of this beautiful melody.

“Thorin, are you alright?” Bilbo asked him, taking a sip of his drink. The king didn’t even notice that the waitress already served them their order. “Yes of course. I just am enjoying the song.” And with that he turned his attention back to you. You were walking off of the makeshift stage and danced through the small passage of people. A bright smile graced your lips as you heard a group of men hollering along with you, almost drowning your own voice with theirs. Continuing your way to every single corner and crevice of the inn, you made sure that everyone was enjoying themselves.

You loved performing. It was what made you happy, even when you were younger. Your older brother even taught you how to play the Lyre and you remember constantly joining him for his small performances in various different inns around your hometown. He was the sole reason for you now standing in the middle of a packed room, surrounded by various different people who were dancing and singing together with you. Strumming the last tune on your lyre you finished the song with a bow. Applause as well as praise was washing over you, as you looked around the crowd.

The bright faces of the people around you filling you with warmth. That was until you caught onto a pair of stale blue ones. His gentle smile was almost unnoticeable in the dark room, as you studied him a little more. You recognize him from one of the many tales that bards have sung in inns you have visited with your brother. Thorin Oakenshield. So, you rushed back onto the makeshift stage and strummed your Lyre.

“My dear guests, I really hope you enjoyed today’s performance as much as I did. This right now might sound like a farewell already, but I have one last performance before I will leave you for the night. It is a special song, most of you know.” People around you began to mumble, trying to guess which song you will play next. “As most of you already know, many songs played are retellings of famous stories of middle earth. And as you might know, me and my brother began to rewrite some of them as well. And as some of you might know, I am especially proud of the one song we wrote about the one and only Thorin Oakenshield.”

The crowd began to cheer, as you looked at the man in question. His eyes darkened at the mention of him and his life story being turned into a song. He would have expected anything, even the song of how the company and him got Erebor out of the clutches of the dragon. But his life story? How could a mere mortal even know half of his story?

You strung the first few melodies of the song. Your melancholy voice once more entrancing the people occupying the inn. Their eyes intently focused on you. But your own mind was only focused on the dwarven king right in front of him. You wanted to touch his soul with the words and retelling you once wrote together with your brother. You needed him to see that you knew his pain, even if you weren’t around him. You wanted him to know that his pain was shared and that he was not the only one who had to pass through tough times. You wanted him to know that you understood him.

Thorins heart warmed at the words that were dedicated to him. He didn’t expect you to completely put him under your spell and enchant him by the way you were telling his story. He expected things to be painful, but you made sure to put warmth and love, as well as care into every word. From the moment you mentioned the tragic death of his father, followed by the definition of his name, you thought about every little detail in his story. And it warmed his heart. You even mentioned how he conquered Erebor back for the dwarves and how he got rid of the dragon Smaug. Even the battle of the five armies was mentioned in your song. It almost felt like you have been around him since day one, watching every step he took on his journey. Almost as if you were a part of the company yourself.

After the last note passed from the Lyre and you sung the last melody of the song, you heard the applause of the people around you. Smiling brightly, you bowed once more, however your mind was still stuck onto the king who you just sung about. Letting your eyes travel across the people, you notice that the seat he had occupied during his stay in the inn was now empty. Slight pain squeezed your heart. You hated when people just left during your performances. Especially the ones the story is all about.

Descending from the small makeshift stage, you began to put away your Lyre into its case. Getting ready, to leave for the night you were stopped by a person in front of you. He was slightly shorter than you and you immediately recognized his blue eyes. “I hope I am not interrupting.” “Not at all my king.” You quickly said, straightening your posture. “I hope you liked the song. I wrote it together with my brother, as a small tribute to all the heroic things you have accomplished over the time.”

A smile graced the kings’ lips, which made you feel a little bit more at ease. “I was a little surprised, I didn’t expect to hear any song about me. Especially one that was so detailed.” You intently listened to every word that passed his lips, fingers tightly holding onto the case of your Lyre. “I did enjoy it though. It was very touching and it did make me think about some… things.” He cleared his throat before continuing. “Would you perhaps consider writing more songs? I mean about the dwarven kings and maybe Erebor?”

Your eyes widened at this proposition, never expecting these words to pass Thorins lips. “My king I-“ “Just call me Thorin.” “Thorin I… don’t know what to say. This is a big honour for me and I would love to accept this offer, but why would you ask me of all the wonderful and talented people of middle earth to work on such an important project?” You asked him, still flabbergasted at the words of the king.

“Well, I do enjoy the sound of your voice and your song about my story touched my heart like none before. I also think that Erebor deserves a song of it’s own, so it would only be fitting, to ask you for this important job.” A bright smile graced your lips. “In that case, I would happily take up your offer and write the most beautiful symphony for Erebor.” Erebor, the city that once belonged to the beast called Smaug. Erebor, the city of hope and chances.

[divine0rdainment]

Adamsapple Week 

Day 2: After the Fall And Jealousy

(Pt. 2 of Taking What's Forbidden)

A/N: Hey! He's part two, again I didn't have time to edit but I don't plan to write anything tomorrow so maybe I can casually edit in my break time. Please do tell me what you think!

Tw: there is mention of Lucifers fall which contains suffering, burning, bleeding, and loosing teeth, there is also mention of Sex but I don't really show any of it! But it that bothers you please skip this part!

Falling From High

Lucifer truly did care for Adam. More then he physically understood. He would look at Adam and see Hope for a future. All that humanity could be and achieve if given the right tools and proper care. Adam was smart. He was good at learning and memorizing things he liked. 

He memorized every animal with ease and would copy their mannerisms and habits to help improve his own experience in Eden, such as swimming like the frog and climbing like a monkey, and even using rocks to break things like Otters. He was so clever! And Lucifer loved that about him. He loved when he could take breaks to watch Adam run around Eden at random with the glowing spheres that could show what is happening in other areas. It was his favorite pastime. 

Well, actually his second favorite. His first favorite were the moments he could sneak away to go to Eden and speak with Adam he's even layed next to him some tights to keep the human warm, held his hand, washed his hair, and showed him how to play the Lyre. Adam was so eager to learn anything Lucifer could teach and it filled the angel with more joy then he could muster to express without just exploding into stardust. 

But after Lilith, he had been busy. Very busy. Deep down he thinks Michael knows what he's been doing and that's why his twin has been bringing him more paperwork and tasks to complete. He had no proof of it being the case, but it was such a Michael thing to do to try and prevent Lucifer from doing anything ‘unnecessary’  or, god forbid, against the rules! Ugh! He adored his brother but his passive aggressive attempts to keep Lucifer in line were obnoxious. 

So the day he was free to visit, without Michael knowing, he teleported down to Eden faster then a blink, shooting out and looking for Adam in his usual places. The willow trees? No. The grove? Nope, the lake? No Adam. The valley of flowers? Nah. The forest? No- oh…

He was distracted from his search for Adam by the sound of crying. Lucifer frowned and flys his way through the trees until he sees not Adam, but Lilith, sitting curled up on a bed of wild flowers  in a clearing, looking up at the moon with sad beautiful eyes. And she was beautiful, Lucifer knew that. He had helped design her of course. Suggested the hair and eye color as well as how tall she was, assuming Adam would appreciate the difference in their looks. 

He soon lands by her and kneels down. “Be not afraid Lilith, I am an angel of the- AH?" Lilith yelped at the sudden voice and throws a tick at Lucifer, knocking the angels hat off and making the angel look at her in shock. 

After a moment of her green eyes watching his own she stuttered out. “An…an angel?” She asked " I'm…I'm sorry Angel, I did not mean to offend or…or harm you, you simply surprised me.” She smiled softly, rubbing her eyes of tears. Lucifer takes his hat and dusts it off. “It's alright, I should have made my presence known sooner…” he assured her. Then slowly gets closer and sits beside her. 

“Now please, what upsets you so sweet Lilith and why are you not with you husband?" 

She frowned and the tears returned as she looks away. “He doesn't like me. From the moment I was created I noticed his lack of interest in speaking to me…I thought perhaps he needed space to get used to me, but every time i try to come to him after giving him time, he avoids me…” she brings her knees to her chedt and lays her head on them, looking sadly at the flowers. 

Lucifer frowned and then gently reached to her, offering her comfort.  

“It's ok Lilith. I'm sure if you just try and bond with him, he will come to like you.” He pulls her in to a hug and sighs as the woman snuggled in closer. 

" You are his wife." He insisted.“I know Adam. He is kind and sweet and a bit silly, but underneith it all, he's GOOD. Just like you." And he takes a flower, and placed it in Lilith's hair.  The blue almost glowing in the moonlight as she looked up at him and smiles. 

“You are very nice Angel…do you really think he can come to like me…if I try harder.” 

" I do. You are beautiful and sweet. He will learn he's Mostlikly just not used to sharing Eden yet. He is young. He is learning. And you are too, so sometimes, it will lead to fights, but of you try and understand each other, to talk it out, you both will figure it out. Soon I know he will offer some kindness to you. Please take it. He is doing his best as you are…” 

She smiles and nodded "Yes Angel!" 

“Lucifer…uh, my name is Lucifer.”

She frowned thinking about it. " L-lucifer…the name is longer then mine and Adams…are all angels like that?” 

He chuckled " a few but not all…" 

The two sat quietly, enjoying the night sky together, watching as fireflies glow in the trees and grass. Magical and peaceful. For a second, Lucifer thought he heard something moving in the grass, but when he looked over he saw nothing. So he pretends to have heard nothing. 

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It was only a few weeks later that Lucifer was interrupted in his work by the sound of a scream. And every angel heard it. No angel has ever heard such a sound come from any of them before. Never heard anything like it, but they knew it was bad. And Lucifer knew it had to have come from Eden. So he teleported there, then flashes around quickly looking for the source until he comes to the river and sees Lilith going over the side. He instantly flew the fastest he ever has to reach her, grabbing her arm and then pulling her in to himself to help her hold on to him. 

“Lilith! Lilith are you harmed?! “ He asked looking her over. But she was far too upset, clinging to him and sobbing in to his kneck as she tried to calm herself. He heard sera speak up next. “How did this happen!?" Sera said “They were to stay away from the river!" 

Lucifer shushed the woman as he slowly flies down to the nearest land and settled Lilith down on the grass. . "She is upset. Let's help heal her and calm her down and we can ask. She has been through enough…” 

Sera and a few others follow. Michael, his twin with longer hair than himself, was the first to speak up after. “Where is Adam. He should have told her to be carful near the river. It was part of his knowledge. That it was dangerous…”

" H-he…" Lilith started pulling away and looking at Michael. “He p-pushed me!" She declared “A-and watched the river take me! He SMILED!" she said as she held herself, letting sera use her angelic power to heal her as she spoke. 

Lucifer looked horrified. No…no Adam would never. Adam was adorable and sweet. He's never hurt any animal in the garden, never even tried, so why would he hurt Lilith? She has done nothing!

He looked at the angels. “I'm sure there is a misunderstanding…I'll find him and inquire as to the events…perhaps it was an accident…” he said before flying high and looking around. Where did he go…where was his human?

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Lucifer spent hours flying around the garden. The place was big after all, and all the angels helping him try to find Adam had also had no luck. It was driving Lucifer in to a Field of worry. His human was missing, his sweet Adam was being accused of something so horrible! He couldn't even imagine it. He soon went twords the Apple orchard, where many many apple trees sat, he landed and looked around. “A-Adam!" He called, he could see the trees of Knowledge and Life not far from him.  Towering magesticly over the rest of the trees here. One with glowing red apples and the other with pure golden. Both beautiful and foreboding sites. 

Lucifer wandered the trees, calling out to Adam loudly with every step. “Adam please! You aren't in trouble! I'm just worried! Please come out! It's me! It's Lucif-”

" Lucifer…" 

Lucifer stops and turns to see Adam leaning against a tree, casually eating an apple, a regular red one, and looking at Lucifer with…a different kind of look in his eye. They almost seemed red in this light. But that didn't matter. Lucifer smiles and runs forward. “Adam! Oh Adam you are ok!" He runs and hugged the human, his head resting on Adams chest as he hugged him. Adam didn't hesitate to hug him back with the arm that didn't hold the apple. 

“" Never better honestly…" he said with a smile, his hand rubbing up Lucifers back and through his wings, making Lucifer shutter for a second…weird, Adams never messed with his wings without permission. Eh, it was probebly an accident. He looked up at Adam and spoke. “Adam! Lilith said you pushed her in the river! Now all the other angels are very upset, but I want to help you! Tell me what really happened and I'll explain it to them! I know you would never-" 

 “I did push her." He said simply with a shrug. “But she deserved it. Like, actually deserved it. She wasn't a good wife so I had no use for her…” his eyes looked to the ground as he spoke. Talking casually, as if what he said was the most basic knowledge in the universe. Like clouds are white and fire is hot. 

Lucifer froze and slowly lets go of him. “Oh…oh Adam you can't do that! She could have been badly hurt!” 

"I don't really care…" he said simply and suddenly dropped the apple and gripped Lucifers sides. “You know, you are so cute…” he said softly. " So utterly cute and sweet…" he leans down, distracting Lucifer as the angel blushed at the sudden complements. “I…that's not important right now! Adam I'm being serious-” 

Adams nose touched Lucifers and his Red eyes looked into Lucifers. "I don't need Lilith…" he pushed Lucifer into a tree, making the angel squeek in surprise, Lucifer looked up confused. “Adam…Adam your acting different…why…why are your eyes red…” 

"Who cares about that…" he kneels down In Front of Lucifer and tilts his head down. “I don't wanna talk about Lilith anymore. I want…well, why don't I just show you?” He leans up and warmth covers Lucifer's lips.

The angel squeeks and pulled back, but Adam followed him, holding him against the tree so he wouldn't run. Lucifer didn't understand what the Adam was doing. Yes he had seen some angels kiss, but him and Adam kissing? He wasn't supposed to kiss Lucifer. He was supposed to kiss Lilith! Be with Lilith! Why…why did he like it so much that Adam wanted him instead tho? 

His hands move to Adams kneck suddenly and wrap around his hair and shoulder, kissing back before he could even try to stop himself. This was wrong. This was against God's rules! This was bad!!! And yet, the second Adam deepened the kiss and pushed something warm inside his mouth, Lucifer was unable to resist even if he wanted to. He clung to Adam like a koala clung to a tree. Desperate to not lose Adam’s heat and touch. He even followed Adam as the human pulled away this time. Whining at the loss of contact only to blush when he realizes the noise he made. 

It only caused a chuckle from Adam who nuzzles his nose against the angels kneck. “Shhh it's ok, we aren't done…” he soon wrapped his arms around Lucifer and picked him up so it was easier to kiss him with the height difference. Lucifer Squeaks and looks at the other, blushing at being so easily manhandled by the human, his eyes lingered on Adams, still mesmerized by the Amber eyes turning a deep garnet. Almost seeming to turn more red the longer he looked at them. 

“Not done? What…what do you-” then he feels Adam kiss his neck, and the noise Licifer makes causes him to bring a hand to his mouth in horror. Oh by his father what is Adam doing?!

“Adam! W-wait! You can't do that! We are already in enough trouble!" He said struggling a bit despite how he longed for what Adam was giving him. A part of him wanting to save what they had before and bother desperately craving the new and foreign feelings. He feels the other touch him more and more and after a bit, he stopped fighting, and gave in to Adams touch. He never really could resist Adam…could he? 

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Lucifer layed against the grass, eyes dazed. What has he done…by his father what had he DONE? Well, he knew what it was, but he could not believe he gave in so easily to Adam. He felt like he had taken advantage in a way, Adam was naive! Young and didn't understand why it was bad! He should have resisted. Lucifer was the angel, and now they were both in deeper trouble than they knew. Beside him laying Adam, quiet and watching Lucifer with a smirk, one that Lucifer avoided looking at for fear of a repeat of the last hour of events. Yes. An hour. They had committed such a crime together for AN HOUR! And realizing that sent Lucifer in to a blushing mess. He soon reached for his robe and covered himself, wanting to hide the bites and scratches and bruises he had sustained from their activities. But Adam gripped his waist. “Stay…” he ordered, making Lucifer shiver. 

“We…we have to find the other angels Adam…we have to tell them what happened…” he said softly, but Adam just turned lucifer to look at him, the smirk gone and replaced with pleading eyes. "Lucifer…please don't go again…" he sits up and pulled LUCIFERS back into his chest. 

“I don't care if what we did was wrong. Or if god and all of heaven wants me to vanish for this…I need you. I wanted you from the moment I met you.” He nuzzles him. "And I know pushing Lilith in the river was…was bad. Or at least I know it was bad now, but…but I dont care!” He nuzzles his head in to Lucifers hair. " You hugged her! You called her beautiful! You treated her like you treated me! It wasn't fair! You are MY angel! Not hers! She can have any other angel in heaven but…but not you. I didn't like it! I wanted her GONE!!!!” he declared aggressively, holding Lucifer so much tighter than before.

If Lucifer wasn't an angel, the grip would have hurt. And it did leave the angel feeling a bit uncomfortable. He looked up at Adam as best he could from the backwards hug and sighed. “I'm not yours to have. I am god's angel…heavens angel. And I'm not an object either. I have my own thoughts and feelings-”

" I know…I know that while your an angel, I can't have you …” his hands move down to Lucifers stomach. "So…I had to make you do something that would make you no longer an angel. Angels are pure.. “ Adam leans down and whispers in his ear. "and now…now you are anything but…" 

Lucifer is quiet, looking more and more worried as he tries to understand what Adam just said, but was soon interrupted by the sound of wings. He gasped and tried to get free of Adams grip to get the robe but it was far too late. 

Standing Infront of him was Michael, looking absolutely infuriated. “Lucifer….” His voice was low and crisp, riddled with barely contained rage. 

" Lucifer, what did you do…." 

Lucifer stuttered and looked at Michael, tears coming to his beautiful blue eyes. “I…Michael I'm sorry I didn't ..I'm not….it was!” He struggled for words and soon pushed Adam away and got on to his knees. " Michael please! Please dont be mad at Adam! I- it was my my fault, he didn't understand what he'd done! I did! Please-” 

"YOU GAVE HIM THE APPLE?!” 

Lucifer goes quiet. " W-what? No..I..I didn't…ah!!" 

Michael slapped Lucifer, hard, sending the angel to the ground hard enough to cause golden blood to leak to the ground from the angels mouth. 

“YOU LYING PIECE OF WASTED SPACE! I trusted you! I gave you time and space! I let you be close with him thinking it would cause no damage! And then you do this?! You give him an apple and then you FORNICATED with him?! Do you understand the gravity of what you have done?! Do you even care?!” he raised his hand to slap Lucifer again till Adam pulled Lucifer to his chest. Growling at the Arch angel in warning. 

" DON'T YOU TOUCH HIM!!!" 

Lucifer coward as Michael faltered in his strike. He clenched he hand in to a fist and punched a tree, knocking it a few miles away from the deer impact. “Lucifer! You are to be punished immediately! And then a trial will be given to decide your fate! You will answer for this transgression!” 

Lucifer shakes, confused and scared for the first time in his life truly scared. He knows he did wrong, he does, but this…this was too much. What did Michael mean about giving him an apple…then slowly he looked up at Adam, and then behind him to see the tree of knowledge. The red apples glowing bright. Oh no…no did Adam…he couldn't have. He wouldn't! And yet …Adams eyes changed ging color. The change in his misdemeanor. The things he did with him that he shouldn't know how to do…

He looked at Adam in horror for a few seconds till suddenly lifer feels a hand on his arm, yanking him roughly from Adams hold and on to his feet. Then a snap is heard and golden chains wrap around Lucifers arms and knock, keeping him attacked to Michael. The taller angel glairing at Adam. “And you will be having a trial as well, for eating the apple and for trying to harm your fellow human…” he growled, but adam looked at him woth no fear. Just pure determination. " And you will be punished along with Lucifer for your actions…” 

Adam slowly smiles. " Can't wait…" he said, challenging Michael in some way.  Lucifer is stuck there, confused and in shock. He had no idea what would happen next. 

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The trial took multiple days to complete, Lucifer explaining everything from the begining. Telling the truth. But the truth sadly did not gain him much favor, even if he was not the one to give Adam the apple. He still committed a great sin with Adam. He defiled himself and Adam, and the ways they described it made Lucifer feel gross. Like his body was a disgusting tool used to harm Adam. He hated every second of the angels judging and yelling at him. Demanding answers, to know if Lucifer planned it. He hadn't…but it was clear Adam had, somehow. The way he spoke about it with facts and no emotion. Not even giving any explanations as why, just that “he wanted to" and " Lilith deserved it.” 

The trial ended predictably. Both were found guilty. And this both would be punished. Sera sat on a pedestal looking down at the chained angel and human with contempt, Michael beside her. 

“As punishment for your Sins, you will both be banished from Heaven, Eden, and Earth, to wander the desolate lands of hell!" She declared. “God has shown me this is the only place you can be sent where the evil you have released will not spread farther than it already has. And Becuse of the actions you have taken, all humans who dare to commit to sin as you have will be dropped to there after their death instead of being graced with the holy light of heaven! 

Lucifer looked horrified and shook his head, but Adam only smiled as he looked at his prize before him. His sweet angel and him being stuck together in a land without anyone else? Sounded like heaven to him. 

Then suddenly, the chains where gone, but just as quickly, he felt himself falling. Through the floor and clouds, Adam beside him yelpingin insuprise at the loss of footing. They see the clouds of heaven fade from veiw and darkness surrounds them both. Adam reached out as Lucifer tried to use his wings only to scream on utter pain as they started to catch fire. His eyes widening and tears flowing. How felt his teeth loosen in his mouth and be pushed out, causing golden blood to leak, 

The angel was in pain as his hands and legs started to feel as on fire as his wings. Even as Adam gripped on to him, red blood dripping from his forehead as he felt so ethi g push past his skull, somthing he was too busy to care about as he held on to his angel. His poor screaming angel as his nails are pushed out by claws, as his feet morphed into hooves slowly, the bones in his knees breaking before reforming into the right shape. And the wings burned up, all the feathers seemed to practically melt under the heat, leaving bone in their place as Lucifer screams filled the air. Adam knew that he could hear what they were doing to them. And all Adam could do was cling to him, hold him close and whisper that it was ok, and they were going to be ok. He felt LUCIFER'S hands on his back and felt the sharp claws digging into his body, trying to grip onto anything, Adam bleeds out more, but doesn't care. All he cared about was his Lucifer. His sweet Lucifer. 

“I'm sorry…” he whispers " I'm so sorry Lucifer this is all my fault…” he whispered " i'm so sorry my sweet sweet angel…" he started to cry himself as he continued to hear how much pain Lucifer was in. 

And then, he looked down over Lucifers shoulder and saw red ground. They were going to crash it and there wasn't a damn thing he could do to stop it. So he closed his eyes and whispers “I love you…” and then the pain crashed through both of them as they created an explosive mushroom cloud of red dust in the area. The impact took out anything nearby and blew it far away. 

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When Lucifer awoke, he felt like death, or the closest thing to it. Everything ached. His head, his back, his teeth and hands, he felt like something was poking out of his spine that was never there before and it felt damaged…

He looked around to see he was laying on a crater like the ones on the moon. For a moment, he didn't know where he was, or why he was here. He didn't know why it all hurt to just breath. Then he managed to move his head enough to see…a pair of large horns? Like a goat…brown hair was under the horns and under that…a face? Was…was that…red blood? Adam? Oh no, ADAM!

He reached up despite his bodies protests and gently gripped the others cheek “a-ad-ad-dam…” he choked out, his throat hurt from screaming so much, he'd never felt pain like this. But he pushed through it as he tried to wake Adam up and make sure he was ok. His sweet human needed to be ok…

After a few seconds, Adam groaned and curled in on himself, clearly in pain too. Lucifer sighed in relief but the good feeling was gone as he looked at the sky and saw…heaven…

The white and cloud covered orb in the sky. His home. His and Adams. They were never allowed to go back…tears fell down Lucifer's dust covered face, his hands shaking as he still struggled to breath. “...no…oh father why…why did this happen…” he called out in a scratchy voice. " Was…was this your plan? From the start? Why…why did this happen? What was the p-point!!!” He demanded only to start coughing up dust from his lungs that he breathed in while passed out. If he was a human he would have died from the amount of dust in the air. 

Adam groaned and slowly sat up, his eyes blinking and he coughed some as well, dust inside his lungs now too as he looked over at Lucifer, seeing his angel and gasped “l…Lucifer…your…head…” 

Lucifer didn't know what he meant, his hand moved up and he felt pain as he touched something hard…horns. He had horns like Adam that had pushed their way past his skin. He moved down to touch the sides of them, sensitive as they were. His helo was gone as well, Adam had noticed. And his teeth…sharp like lions. Or a shark even. When Lucifer licked his lips, he cut his tongue on his teeth and cursed as his sticks his tongue out and let Adam see it was longer than before and replaced it with a cut in the center of it, dividing it into two parts. Like a snake tongue. Oh no…what has happened to them. 

Lucifer touched his face more and noticed his hands were black and covered in claws instead of regular nails, and they looked black and sharp, dangerous. He looked at Adam and guled as his wings shifted. The feathers are still badly burnt and slowly regrowing new ones. But they were red…not the pure white they once were. 

Adam examined every part of him and sighed, touching the man's cheek. “My angel, you…you are hurt…we should find some water and clean up…then…then find a place to rest…” he whispered. "We can go from there…then decide what we should do.” 

After a bit, Lucifer agreed and slowly went to move, his legs hurt the worst as he looked down and saw…hooves. Red and black hooves like a sheep…fuck he hated this. Is this part of the punishment? Was this to Nick him by taking away his angelic beauty? Why?!

He is helped up by Adam who looked mostly human except the horns and now golden and red eyes. Red sclera and golden pupils. Lucifer's eyes were the opposite color. Not that Adam minded…it was still his angel. And they were still together. And they would figure out where to go from here…even if it took some time. 

He glanced up at heaven, and smiled. One day…one day they would pay for the pain they caused. But for now, he'd let them be, and focus on his beloved. 

“Come Lucifer…I will take care of you…” 

[curious-trickster]

Do you have a topic you can give a speech about with no research? Would you like to share the speech?

*Asks are sent for fun, no pressure to answer

Everyone who knows me could immediately answer the question with: "Hermes".

He is my favourite god. The best greek god there is in my opinion.

He's a son of Zeus, but he acts nothing like his father. Most people think him not as important as the other gods of the greek pantheon, but they are wrong. He was special right from the start. Hermes was born and immediately started proofing how intelligent he was, by inventing the lyre and several other things, stealing his older brother Apollo's holy cows, making them walk backwards to cause confusion, acted as though he was completely innocent and got himself a place on Olympus, all within the first three days of being born!

He showed how calculating he could be even after only being born, for the only reason he stole Apollo's cows was to ensure he would catch the attention of Olympus and therefore his father, who is king of the gods, and that he would get himself recognised as important for Olympus.

And he did it all so charmingly, that even Apollo, as angry as he was about the theft of his cows, had to laugh because Hermes was acting way too cute.

Hermes is not only a glorified mailman, no, he is Zeus herald and acts in his will, which is obviously a very important position.

He is able to travel very fast, over the land and the sea, due to his winged sandals. Some even give him the ability to become invisible, as he might have gotten the cap of invisibility from Hades himself as a gift!

But even more important for the humans was his position as psychopompos, which literally translates to 'guide of souls'. Yes, Thanatos is the god associated with death, but Hermes is the one who guides the souls down to Hades and gives them over to Charon, who takes them the rest of the way.

Hermes has another connection to the underworld though, as he is the only Olympian god who is also able to travel through the underworld, proofing yet again, how special he is.

Hermes literally get called the god that likes to interact with humanity the most in the Iliad. He does not only guide the dead, no, he frequently appears in myths and stories as the guide or companion of human heroes. Not only in the Iliad, where he accompanied Priamos to Achilles, so the king kf Troy was able to get thr body of Hektor back, but also stories like Orpheus and Eurydice, and several more.

I know of only one story where Hermes killed some with extreme prejudice, which is an pretty good status for a olympian god.

Hermes was also associated with change, borders, travel, trickery and theft, diplomacy, the gymnasion, transition, luck and several more things. He's a versatile god!

In case of children, Hermes also proofs to be interesting. Odysseus, who is frequently called the most intelligent greek is a descendant of Hermes. The Hermaphrodite, is the child of Hermes and Aphrodite, which is very interesting if one remembers the fact about Hermes being a god of transition.

Hermes is everything. He is a god who interacts with humanity but without malice, he's helpful and mischievous, a trickster but no bully.

Hermes is simply the best, in my opinion.

[a-french-coconut]

Protector of Youth

Chapter 3 : Asclepius

He should have known it would end like this, standing over a dead body.

He is famous for his terrible love affairs.

Daphne, Hyacinthus and now Coronis.

He softly caresses her white, cold face, eyes open and wide of terror.

He chuckles, her sister certainly was a terrifying sight when she was furious.

And how furious you made her little princess, how furious you made me.

"Foolish girl," he scowls, "thinking you could hide your disloyalty from us."

"She got what she deserved," Artemis says coldly, her silver arrow embedded in Coronis' throat, "she's lucky to have suffered such a quick death."

"Now, now sister," he warns her, "that woman once hold my heart in her hands, she is worthy of what you graciously offered her."

"If you say so brother, now what will you do with the boy you gave her ?"

"Save him, he is mine after all."

Carefully, he pries open the woman's stomach and takes the small baby in his arms.

As soon as the cold air hits him, the little boy begins to cry, his wails piercing even Apollo's ears.

"See ?" He says with satisfaction to Artemis, "he holds divine within him, no mortal boy could scream that loud or even survive being taken out of their mother's womb like this."

"Indeed, he is your son, how will you name him ?"

"Asclepius," he whispers, "he is to be named Asclepius."

He cradles the small infant in his arms, half scared of crushing him when he feels the fragility of his bones.

"A wonder isn't it ?" He marvels at his son, "so many dangers in our world and yet, despite their frail constitution, the mortal children grow into men."

"I'm afraid yours won't go far now that his mother is dead." Artemis says from over his shoulder, with an edge to her voice, "and you cannot raise him brother, it is against our rules."

"I am aware of those rules and that is why Chiron will take of the child." He stands up, "you may leave me, I will go to Mount Pelion and I understand if that matter does not concern you."

"Don't be ridiculous," she scoffs, hitting him lightly with her bow, "that boy is my nephew and he will be treated as such."

Apollo smiles gratefully at his sister and both of them vanish in shows of light.

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

"Father !" A young blond boy yells happily, tackling Apollo into a hug.

"Asclepius !" He spins his son in the air, smiling broadly at him, "you have grown since the last time I saw you !"

His son laughs, looking at him with wide blue eyes filled with innocence and glee.

"Indeed, and into a fine young boy may I add." An amused voice says from behind Apollo.

"Chiron, old friend," he greets the centaur with a nod, still holding Asclepius in his arms, "I am glad to see you."

"As do I Lord Apollo," Chiron bows his head in respect.

"Father," his son squeals excitedly in his hold, "I have learnt to play the lyre, could I show you my progress ?"

"Of course ! Go, fetch your lyre and come back."

Asclepius runs in the cave, leaving Apollo and Chiron alone.

"He is a wonderful child of yours, gifted in healing particularly."

"Yes, he will be praised by the mortals of Epidaurus when he is of age." He beams proudly, thinking of the marvels his son will accomplish.

"Have the Fates grace you with any insights ?" The centaur requires.

"No, they aren't keen of doing that when it comes to my blood," he says bitterly, "but Asclepius will not be of the likes of Heracles or Theseus. He will be known for his kindness, not by killing monsters."

"Apollo," Chiron looks at him with wise eyes, "you are very fond of the boy, more than others you sent my way. When his time comes-"

"There's no need to discuss this further Chiron," Apollo cuts him off curtly, "he has only lived through eleven winters, he is far from joining Hades' realm."

"When his time comes, as it will inevitably do," Chiron continues calmly, "I must ask of you not to act harshly. You are known for your untempered wrath and it has never ended well for you."

Apollo cannot answer for his son reappears, holding proudly a lyre and beckoning him to seat next to him.

He obliges and they spend the afternoon together, eating sweet figs and honey, Apollo sometimes helping his son with hands placement or how to string a chord to make a specific sound.

Chiron leave them, letting him enjoy his cherished time with his son, but his words linger in his mind, echoing and tarnishing his smile.

"Father ?" His son looks at him, head tilted, "what is wrong ?"

"Something Chiron told me, but do not worry and resume your playing, it is of the most charming to hear."

Asclepius shrugs and soon, a melodious harmony echoes in the air.

As he plays, Apollo watches him.

Blue eyes, golden hair, tanned skin.

He is undeniably his son, a demigod under the care of Chiron, trainer of Heroes.

And yet, he knows Asclepius won't be a monster slayer or a mighty warrior.

Even if the Fates tamper with his vision, he is certain his son will be the most gifted healer in Greece, a man liked by everyone as he will save countless.

His son is safe, he's sure.

Nobody would kill a healer.

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

Time flies and Asclepius is now a young man, fresh into adulthood.

As Apollo foresighted, he is known in all of Greece, praised for being able to heal all injuries and illnesses.

And to his even greater pride, Artemis often visits her nephew, bringing him gifts from her hunts.

She isn't the only goddess to offer him presents.

"It's not like you to meddle with demigods like my son, you usually favour war heroes."

"I have no need of this gorgon blood," Athena says as they walk through Olympus' gardens, "might as well put it in good hands."

"How wise of you sister," he smiles at her only to find her troubled, "still upset about Athens, are you ?"

"Of course I am !" She scoffs, "A son of our uncle on my city's throne ? It's pure and blatant disrespect, he's still bitter of losing !"

"Theseus might not be the best, but his son Hippolytus often hunts with Artemis, he seems like a respectable man."

"He must be if your sister welcomes him in her hunts," Athena admits, "I suppose he is fitted to rule once Theseus dies."

"I'm sure Dionysus would be thrilled to hear of his death," Apollo says, amused, "he hasn't forgiven him for abandoning Ariadne on Naxos."

"And now he is marrying her sister, Phaedra. Good political move, joining Athens and Crete so that Minos' debacle doesn't happen again."

"Careful Athena, someone might hear a hint of praise in your voice." he whispers, making a show of making sure they're alone.

She rolls her eyes but indulges him a smile nonetheless.

"Hermes has been spending a lot of time in your company, has he not ?"

"Are you implying I am humourless without him ?"

"I merely imply that your tales used to be of good taste."

"Careful he doesn't hear you," Apollo laughs, "he is quite spiteful when it comes to his beloved tricks and jokes."

"I'll survive him," she says drily, "now don't you artists to inspire ? It's been a while since I heard the Muses sing on Olympus."

"I may have spend more time than I thought with Asclepius," he shrugs sheepishly, "but now that he is a man, he can be on his own."

"You will not protect him ?"

"Of course I will ! He may not be a young child now but he is still mine." He snaps, offended by her implication, "I will always protect my children, wether they are young or old."

"Be careful of your emotions Apollo" she warns him, "do not let them control you when it comes to mortals, you will regret it."

"Don't fear Athena, I have no reason to succumb to them," he reassure his sister, "no one will harm my son for he hasn't done anything to deserve such treatment."

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

Aphrodite watches a young man with a bow strapped on his back making his way to King Theseus' palace.

She sees him greeting his father as a prince should to his king, bowing his head in respect, and grant one too to his new queen.

Phaedra is, like her sister Ariadne, a woman of great beauty. Nothing surprising there, as she is of divine lineage.

Standing there, draped with the finest silk in Greece and shining gold jewels, she is magnificent.

She expects to feel in the young man some kind of desire, arousal like any other men would at the sight of the daughter of Minos.

But he stays cold, indifferent and soon depart from the throne room, not a single thought about the beauty he just met.

With seething rage, she sees him kneeling in front of an altar dedicated to Artemis, the young man thanking the maiden for letting him join her hunts, for allowing him to run besides her in the forest.

A sneer disfigures her gracious face when she hears him reject love and physical attraction, talking about her domains with disgust.

"Eros !" She calls upon her cherished son who, loyal as ever, appears next to her, "my dear son, I need you to hit someone with one of your arrows."

"Of course, mother. Who is the arrogant mortal ?" He inquires, already notching an arrow.

"The son of Theseus, but he is not your target." She looks back on earth, where Phaedra is in her chambers, looking outside by the window, "she is."

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

He is in Atlantis when he hears his son's vengeful demands.

Theseus is Poseidon's pride and joy, not only for being a hero but also for seating on the throne of Athens, the loss of the city to Athena still a bitter subject for him.

But what he is asking...

There is no worse crime than shedding your own blood, than killing your family.

As divine beings, they are exempt of the rule because they cannot kill each other, despite their best's attempts to do so.

But Theseus is mortal and he is asking of Poseidon to kill Hippolytus, his own son.

The god of the sea frowns, swaying his trident in deep thought.

His son is his pride and joy, clearly fit to rule and he has proven himself a wise man.

As Hippolytus' char races on the stony path of the steep cliffs, Poseidon sends two sea serpents near the coast of Attica.

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

He is chilling on a tree, plucking lazily his lyre, when he feels the pull of soul in need of guidance.

He adjusts his helmet and sandals, there's no need to repeat last century's debacle, and speeds toward the source.

"Hello, young man," Hermes says cheerfully to the soul awaiting him, "I would ask you how your way was going but-" He grins sheepishly, "I think I know the answer."

"I- I'm dead."

"Yes, rather unfortunately."

The soul doesn't move, staring at the ground.

"Always a shock for you mortals." Hermes sighs, taking gently but firmly the young man's arm, "Come along, you are no longer a part of the living world."

He could rush them to the Underworld, dropping the soul on the Styx's bank but the man seems so lost, Hermes figures he can waste some time keeping him company.

"Do you have payment ?" He asks him as they walk, invisible to livings things.

"No !" says the soul with panic, "I didn't expect to die !"

"Take this, I'm feeling gracious today." He hands him two golden drachmas, "didn't expect to die you say ? Where were you going ?"

"My father, King Theseus, exiled me for a crime I did not commit."

Theseus' son... He's sure that he's already heard of him.... Aphrodite ? yes, yes, she was ranting about how disrespectful the boy was ! Or was it Artemis ? He's sure Artemis already mentioned him...

"You're Hippolytus !" Hermes snaps his fingers when he remembers, "the mortal man hunting alongside Artemis' group."

"Oh ! Lady Artemis !" Hippolytus laments, "please Lord Hermes, please tell her that I was falsely accused !"

"Of what ?" He inquires, rather curious about the whole thing.

"My father's new woman, Phaedra, tried to sleep with and when I refused, she told my father I had abused her !" He snarls, "Apparently, my father believed her more than me and exiled me."

"That's- quite the story." Hermes says.

And one with divine intervention at that too ! He's sure of it.

Aphrodite was too furious about the boy not to do anything about it.

"And then, two sea serpents attacked me !" The young man rants one, gesturing wildly, "the horses got frightened and- I fell off and hit my head against a sharp rock." He finishes glumly.

And it seems Poseidon played a hand in this too.

"I will deliver the news to Artemis," he reassures the son of Theseus, "but I am sure she doesn't believe Phaedra. If she let you join her hunt, she'll know you didn't do it."

"Thank you Lord Hermes."

"Always happy to deliver !" He grins, "but this is where we part ways, I wish you best of luck for your trial."

They have reached the Underworld's entrance and while he should accompany him until the Styx, he wants to warn Artemis before she hears it from someone else. She had truly befriended the mortal and there is no doubt his death will sadden her.

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

Artemis is waiting, patience reaching its limit.

Her huntresses are getting restless, itching for the hunt to begin and so is she.

"My Lady," her lieutenant asks, "how much time must we wait for the boy ?"

"He has never been late before and as such, I will allow him this misstep. When he arrives, I'll make clear that this situation must never happen again. But as for now Zoe, we wait until he is here."

Zoe nods and goes spread her orders, eliciting groans and scoffs from her sisters.

Artemis does not blame them for she is herself surprised wit her leniency.

A boy hunting with her, something she had thought impossible, except for Apollo of course.

However, Hippolytus has shown his devotion to her and has proven himself good company.

While he is still boastful and pride like any young man is, he knows when to bow and show respect to her huntresses and her, the goddess he worships.

"Something's coming !" Phoebe alerts and indeed, horses are running wildly towards them in a cloud of dust.

A sharp edge of uneasiness pierces her mind but Artemis ignores it, watching the horses getting nearer and nearer.

They are dragging a chariot, she realises.

One without driver.

When the animals stop panting in front of her, she is proven wrong.

There once had been a driver but he lays now dead and covered in dust from all the way the horses dragged him.

It's with horror that she recognises Hippolytus' face, his eyes devoid of like and staring blankly at the blue sky.

She softly cleans his face, dusting off the dirt and caked blood, while silver tears fall on the ground.

Her, the maiden goddess, crying over a dead man.

"My Lady," Zoe rests her hand on her shoulder, "we should give him a proper funeral, let his soul rest at last."

"No."

"No ?" The huntress staggers back surprised, "I thought he was worthy of your friendship !"

"He is, and that is why he will not die today." Artemis says with resolution, scooping the dead body in her arms, "Go to Athens and warn Theseus of this... event."

"Artemis", Zoe whispers, "forgive me the disrespect but nobody can bring back the dead from Lord Hades' realm."

"I believe you are wrong my dear Zoe, there is someone capable of this feat. When your task is done, come find me at Epidaurus."

With a bright flash, the goddess vanishes with Hippolytus' corpse.

Zoe is Artemis' most loyal sister, she is devoted to the goddess and will be until the Fates deem to cut her string.

"Sisters, come !" She orders at other girls, "Our Lady wishes us to come to Athens and warn King Theseus of this tragedy, then we will join her at Epidaurus."

"All of this for a man ?" Phoebe scoffs.

"It is not our place to question her Phoebe, if he is has gained her sympathy then he must be a good man." Zoe defends the goddess.

The daughter of Apollo scowls but stays silent.

As they journey towards Athens, Zoe thinks of a man in a garden.

Would that one come to die, she would sooner dance and celebrate than try to bring him back.

She hears the wind blowing fast and suddenly, Hermes is in front of her, the usually bright face of the trickster now grim.

"Lord Hermes," she bows, the rest of her sisters following her gesture, "what brings you here ?"

"The young man Artemis has befriended is dead." Hermes says sadly before frowning, "you don't seem very surprised."

"We stumbled on his body, we were on our way to tell King Theseus."

"Oh that won't be necessary since he is the one who asked the Earthshaker to kill Hippolytus." Hermes says brightly, "no message to deliver then !"

As fast as he appeared, the god of thieves disappears.

For one minute, Zoe tries to understand the new information she has before giving up.

"Well then," she turns to the huntresses, "we go to Epidaurus."

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

"Asclepius !" A voice startles him.

"Asclepius, I need your help !" He knows that voice.

"Lady Artemis," he greets cheerfully his aunt, "how can I help you ?"

When she presents him the dead body, his bright demeanour vanishes.

"My Lady... he is dead. I cannot bring him back."

"You are the most gifted child of my brother," she refutes, "so versed in the healing arts that you surpass him. Please, find a way. I know you can."

"I-" he wavers, looking at the tear-eyed goddess, "I can't guarantee it would work but maybe... gorgon blood is most wonderful.... and mixed with snake's poison... a flower for healing..." he hesitates, "I suppose it could work."

He hastily makes his way into his chamber to grab all the ingredients.

"Let's see," he mumbles, "poison of an earth creature, breaking the bind with the Underworld... a sun-touched flower from Delos to greet the soul into the living realm and-" he pauses, the open vial floating upside the cauldron, "and gorgon's blood, form the left side, to bring back the soul."

He stirs the mixture until it is clear and scoops some of it.

Carefully, he pours it into Hippolytus' mouth.

The man's eyes open instantly, the body jolting back to life as its soul is back.

"What- I was waiting for Charon by the river- and then..." He sees Artemis and falls on his knees," My Lady ! Please, I did not do it, I have stayed true to you and your values."

"Hippolytus," the goddess smiles, "there is no need to panic. I do not know of what you have been accused of and it doesn't matter for I believe you."

"Thank you" she looks at Asclepius, "for bringing him back. You are truly a prodigy, my brother couldn't be more proud."

"Thank you, My Lady." He answers softly, pride warming his body at Apollo's mention.

It's the last thing he feels before white hot searing pain set his body aflame.

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

When Apollo discover his son's death, the whole word endure his grief.

His screams, ethereal sounds of discord and strife, echo on all Olympus, deafening all its population.

"Who ?" He growls, eyes a pure gold, "who did this ?"

It's Hermes who gives him an answer, his brother looking warily at the heat waves he is emitting.

"Asclepius brought someone back from the dead, Hades didn't like it and ask our father justice."

"The only justice he found was killing my son !" He roars and the ground beneath him cracks.

"Well," Hermes sweats nervously, looking ready to dash off, "a soul for a soul ?"

"A soul for a soul, you say ?" He snarls, conjuring his bow, "very well then."

"Wait, Apollo-" Hermes screams with worry at his brother, "Apollo, don't do anything rash !"

But Apollo doesn't listen, doesn't care.

All he knows is that his father killed his son.

His bright, kind, wonderful son.

Distantly, he hears Chiron and Athena in his mind, their words of advice resonating.

They are drowned by a wave of grief and lust for vengeance, blinding him and all he can thing about is hurting Zeus.

How ?

How can he inflict such pain on his father ?

Killing his children ? No, he will not step that low.

Then who ?

He looks at his bow, masterfully crafted by cyclops when his father still loved him.

Cyclops.

The ones who forged the lightning bolt.

He takes three arrows from his quiver and his bow.

Zeus will be furious, a small voice hisses at him, absolutely livid !

He falters, his skin prickling as he remembers the lightning's touch on him.

Is he worth it ? the voice persists, is he worth the pain ?

Asclepius and his wide, blue, innocent eyes.

Asclepius and his kindness, healing whoever came to him for help.

His Asclepius, his son.

His young boy that he failed to protect.

Apollo disappears in a show of harsh, blinding golden light.

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

They greet him with open arms, surprised of his visit but pleased.

"Not much company," one groans, "except Hephaestus sometimes."

They go down quickly, too slow for his arrows, too shocked by his attack.

As he stands covered in their dust, he wonders avidly if his father knows.

He wants him to.

He wants to Zeus to bellow in rage when he sees that Apollo slaughtered his cyclops.

He wants him to suffer.

He knows he'll pay the price, painfully so, but he thinks of Asclepius and doesn't regret his actions.

Not even when thunder rumbles, when white lightning scars the sky.

Not even when he is summoned to Olympus and Zeus beats him to the ground, leaving him bloody and scorched.

His father brutally grabs his throat and holds against one of the white columns of the throne room.

"Tell me foolish boy," the king snarls, "what were you trying to accomplish ?"

"You kill my son and expect me to do nothing ?" He roars back, trashing against his father's painful grip.

"SILENCE !" Zeus bellows, sending sparks of electricity burn Apollo's throat, "your son was a filthy mortal full of hubris" he hisses," thinking himself above the mortal's nature."

Fury fills Apollo and he sends a beam of burning light right into Zeus' flank.

"DO NOT SPEAK OF MY SON LIKE THAT !" He wails, still trapped against the column.

Zeus' eyes whiten out completely and waves of electricity roll into Apollo's body, setting all his nerves ablaze.

"I will speak of your son like I see I fit," Zeus snarls, tightening his grip to the point where Apollo can hardly breath, "and don't you dare attack your king again. Are we clear ?"

Apollo tries to speak but no words come out.

His father loosens ever so slightly his grip and air floods his lungs.

"Yes" He rasps.

"Yes my King." His father stresses on the last word.

"Yes my King." He repeats, his whole body burning with shame.

"Good, good." Zeus says and he lets him fall on the ground while he sits on his throne.

"For killing the cyclops, for attacking your King and doubting my justice, I condemn you to hang over Tartarus for fifty years," Zeus smiles cruelly, "that should teach you to know your place."

"Father-" He tries to plea, the thought of dangling over that place with no sun, no music terrifying him.

"No, Apollo, my judgement is final." Zeus says with a cold voice, not even looking at him, "now go, I have a meeting with minor gods and you wouldn't want them to see the disgrace you are, the pathetic excuse of a son you have become."

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

Zeus finds again in the gardens, fiddling with his harp.

"Son."

Apollo jolts, scrambling back on his feet and putting as much as distance possible between himself and Zeus.

"Father," his voice trembles, "is it time to send me to Tartarus ?"

"No," his father says with a soft voice, "your mother pleaded your cause, begged me to lighten your punishment."

A new wave of shame burns his stomach when he thinks of his mother kneeling in front of Zeus, begging him to be king to their son...

"Instead," he continues, "you will serve a king of Greece as mortal for one year."

"Father, I-" He wants to thank him for his mercy but Zeus isn't done.

"Hades has also agreed to let me bring back the Cyclops and I have decided to make Asclepius the new god of medicine."

"You," his breath hitches, "I will see my son again ?"

"As long as he refrains from bringing mortals back from the dead, yes."

Tears of joy flood his eyes.

His son, a god !

"Father, I cannot thank you enough !"

"I have realised that I was too harsh on you," Zeus sighs, "let us put all of this behind us."

His father smiles at him and offer him a hand.

Apollo looks at that hand, the one who just a little while ago almost choked him to death.

But Zeus had seen that he was mistaken, that he had been in the wrong and there he was, willing to make amends.

"Of course, Father, thank you for your kindness." Apollo smiles back, taking Zeus' hand.

"You are welcome, son." Almost imperceptibly, his hold tightens and his blue eyes flash. "as long as you control your emotions, we won't face another situation like this."

"Yes, Father, I will try my best."

Zeus nods, happy with Apollo's promise, and promptly leaves him again.

He hears a gush of wind behind him and there stands Hermes.

"He's waiting for you in your palace."

Apollo doesn't need him to clarify who is waiting for him, he whispers a quick "thank you" before rushing to the golden palace a little further on the mountain.

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

"Father !"

Asclepius lungs himself at Apollo, who hugs him as fiercely as he did when his son was only a young boy.

"My son, my beautiful son !" He cries, burying his head into his son's golden curls.

"Father, it's okay," his son whispers softly, "I'm alive now."

"But you died !" Apollo says between sobs, "you died and I failed to protect you."

"I'm god now, I'm here, with you, for forever." His son says smiling, looking at him with those wide, blue, innocent eyes.

The reminder is enough for the tears to stop falling, for him to laugh wildly and pick up Asclepius, making him turn in the air like he did when he was eleven.

see ? he tells the little voice as Asclepius laughs, it was worth it.

This became way longer than I thought !

It was time Apollo got a happy ending, even though I made him suffer a lot....

If you think Zeus is little too nice, don't be fooled. He's just trying to gaslight Apollo into making him think that he is the problem here, by being the one with wild reactions while he is merciful, fair, blababla.

[m1d-45]

stella fortuna

summary: ventis entry for my previous (formal) post, aka a minor character study. this was meant to be up 3 days ago :)

word count: 1k

-> warnings: massive spoilers for mondstat archon quest

-> gn reader (no pronouns)

taglist: @samarill || @thenyxsky || @valeriele3 || @shizunxie || @boba-is-a-soup || @yuus3n || @esthelily || @turningfrogsgay || @cupandtea24

< original post || < masterlist >

if you asked venti how he felt, seeing everybody in mondstat be chosen as a vessel but him, you’d get the same answer every time, no matter where or when. even drunk, flopped over the bar with an empty glass in hand, he recites the exact same response as if it’s been committed to memory.

“what need does a bard have for divine strength? i’m glad my friends get to go on adventures, but my place has always been to tell stories, not to write them.”

if you were to listen closely, past the sheen of charisma that coated all of his words, past the mask of a bard and into the heart of the wind, you’d hear the lie.

the memorized words, a paper-thin front over his true feelings, only hide the truth from those who don’t care to find it. the drip of wine only makes this clearer; put a bottle in his hand and watch how quickly his eyes turn blank, how the smile pulling at his features feels forced. the same words, the same lie, the same turmoil that surrounds his every action. confusion is hidden in the downturn of his eyes and something akin to desperation hides in the tilt of the bottle, yet his words come out as sugar-sweet as his drink.

“it doesn’t bother me. why should it?”

it shouldn’t.

he shouldn’t be jealous. he shouldn’t be surprised that mortals were blessed first over a god, he shouldn’t be examining his own skill set for faults. he’s an archon. one without his gnosis, sure, one with the least power from his people, sure, but an archon nonetheless. he still wields anemo with more strength than anybody in mondstat could dream of, the winds still bend to his will, he still challenges amber to an archery contest if the day is slow and he still wins, even with her extra star on her side.

venti doesn’t need acknowledgment from his god, not when there are so many mortals that deserve it. not when hilichurls still fall before his bow, not when his windcurrents still carry pets and children and kites from trees, when the whisper of a breeze alerts knights to a threat at his bidding.

(but he wants it)

none of the other archons have received divine blessings, he’s not even an outlier in that sense. he’s not an exception to the rule, he is the rule, and yet he finds himself wishing it would bend anyway. he should count himself lucky, in truth, that a vessel of his element is always at his gods side. he should be happy that the creator found joy in his domain, that some of the highest favored bore his winged seal. he should take pride in the fact that the head of mondstat’s church was given 6 stars, share diluc’s joy in having his vision burn brighter. he should put a bottle on his step for the darknight hero to enjoy, in celebration of his crimson flames searing hotter than ever.

so why can’t he?

venti couldn’t hide the way his fingers faltered at the wash of divine power coming from the door to the angel’s share, nor the haste with which he looked over. his hand still strummed his lyre, but he let the reprise go on for a bit longer than it should have, letting himself take in the uncharacteristic nod diluc sent his brother before moving to the back room.

kaeya’s eye caught his the moment before he looked away, something knowing in the ice. with a slight lift of his hand, he downed the rest of the wine in his glass.

venti looked away, the finale of his tale finally falling from his lips.

it was late, most of the patrons far past sober, their minds too soaked in alcohol to register the flatness to his voice. when he ended his story with a flourish, skipping the last few bars of the melody, all but one cheered.

the exception joined the outlier, tucking his lyre into his inventory. venti flagged the bartender, kaeya kindly waiting until he had wine in his hand to speak.

“why the long face?”

he looked over, glass half-raised to his lips. the captain seemed… genuine, almost, something knowing in his eyes. whether it was his usual charisma or not didn’t matter, not really—gods saw easily through mortal lies—but he knew it wasn’t anyway.

venti set down his cup. “what do you mean? after a long night of playing, i’m reaping my rewards. what reason do i have to be sad?”

kaeya tipped out his glass for charles to refill, sending him a nod of thanks before turning back to him. his eye skipped over his features, never landing on one for too long: the flower in his cap, the dimness of his eyes, the grip on his glass, all picked up and turned over and assessed.

he drew a conclusion, taking a soft sip of wine. “i don’t know, venti. you tell me.”

what reason did he have to be sad?

by all accounts, tonight was a good night. he’d made quite a bit of mora, he was having a nice drink, he’d turn in a bit earlier than usual and wake up with the sun, feeling the air warm around him as he roamed the city’s dawn. nothing large, or awful, or tragic. nothing… nothing.

ventis eyes slipped, falling to the ice on the captain’s hip, to the peacock he couldn’t see, but the glitter he could feel. the sheen of heaven that dusted the calvary captain’s presence, lending him that much more credibility.

he found kaeya’s eye again, catching himself, but it didn’t matter. the humor had already dulled, understanding flashing back at him.

in the city of wine and song, mondstat’s archon indulged in both.

[crazylittlejester]

Hiya again! i got good news and i got slightly unhinged news, good news is we got power back! so i will be able to look more stuff up! the unhinged news is that i remembered the album i have for Hadestown is the original original live version and the broadway/final version has changed songs!

Even so I am very much sticking to my guns of making it a Legend as Orpheus and Marin as Eurydice musical, i know other roles can be very wobbly such as: would it fit more for Kafei and Anju to be Hades and Persephone or Time and Malon? cause both of them do have the love part but there is the couple quest in MM while Time has the Hero's Shade!

Meanwhile for Hermes with the whole "Hound dogs howling 'round the gate. Those dogs'll lay down and play dead. If you got the bones, if you got the bread." it makes me think of Twilight especially with how he's more of the big brother type (especially especially if you go with Time for Hades). The problem with using Sky is he would fit more with Zeus due to the thunder and such but i can see him being an option if you would rather not use Twilight.

If You stick with Twilight the lyre Legend uses (iirc it's a guitar in the broadway production and a banjo on the live version's album cover but going with loz stuff) could be the goddess harp as a nod to sky, but if you use the toons as the muses he can use the harp of ages. Although despite both being harps (and the shows using other instruments) it specifically calls for lyres in the songs "I also play the lyre " "Oh, a liar, and a player too! I've met too many men like you.​" so really it's a matter of whatever fits best y'know?

As for the fates they can either be the Toons, Wind, Four, and Spirit, or the Oracles, Din, Farore, and Nayru.

Also i do remember typing out an ask for Wicked but I don't remember if it ever sent ^^' sorry if all these musical asks bother you too much and thank you for reading!

OH YAY IM SO GLAD YOU GOT POWER BACK!! and the wicked ask DID send i have just been dealin with a lot of funky stuff so i’m real behind of answering asks, especially the longer ones, just cos I wanna make sure I can actually take the time to read the whole thing :) but i saw it dw!!

INTERESTING interesting, I’ve talked about the LU Links and musicals for them before and I’ve had Sky as Orpheus and Sun as Eurydice every time the topic of Hadestown rolls around, so it’s cool to see that from a different perspective

I think for the fates the goddesses and oracles would be cool >:)

and they’re not bothering me at all dw about it alkddkd :)

[theflowerofhumanity]

Castaways

Five years in space was a long time. It could, on occasion, feel like a lifetime even on a starship as big and bustling as the Enterprise. Between their often death-defying missions and encounters with new alien civilizations, daily routines sometimes began to feel tired, stale, even suffocating. Tempers flared and attention wandered. Even the most dedicated Starfleet personnel were, after all, only human—well, most of them. After a while, they all wanted to stretch their legs, enjoy some sunshine (or at least some shopping), and see some unfamiliar faces off-duty. The captain of the Enterprise, arguably the most dedicated of all the ship’s officers, had sometimes been reluctant to take shore leave in the past. But he felt sorely in need of it now. His brother and sister-in-law were dead, his first officer had nearly been permanently disabled, and the remaining years of their mission stretched out before his eyes like a deep well full of endless, invisible possibilities, not all of them good. He loved his ship and his crew and was still looking forward to the rest of their journey...after a brief holiday.

Starfleet Command approved four days of general shore leave for the entire Enterprise crew on Beta Regulus II. During that time, outside technicians and engineers would crawl all over the ship evaluating its condition and making potential repairs and updates, much to the chagrin of Chief Engineer Scott.  The planet was dominated by a pleasantly subtropical climate and warm seas as well as several large, bustling commercial centers in its chief cities. It was an ideal place to take shore leave by just about anyone’s standards and could comfortably accommodate all four hundred of them.

Kirk had instructed his officer corps carefully regarding his expectations: he wanted the entire crew on their best behavior. “This is a pretty cosmopolitan planet, and we might cross paths with some people we wouldn’t consider friends. If I hear about any of our people making trouble, I won’t hesitate to cancel general shore leave for everyone.” Then he dropped the stern commander facade and smiled at them. With only the best serving on the Enterprise, he wasn’t really concerned about having to make good on his threat. Besides, there were no signs of any Klingons or other similarly unsavory characters in the area as far as he was aware and therefore little cause for real concern.

After procuring some appropriate civilian clothes from the replicator—since he rarely had any reason to be out of uniform and also had the most varied regulation wardrobe of anyone else aboard the Enterprise, he kept almost none in his quarters—Kirk beamed down to the surface with Dr. McCoy and Spock. The former was already fully decked out for a vacation in an old-fashioned polo shirt, sandals, and sunglasses, while the latter, still in uniform, had his Vulcan harp tucked beneath one arm. The three friends materialized in a small, sunny plaza from which they could just catch the roar of the sea in the distance. Numerous other crew members were milling about nearby.

“Planning to serenade the doctor while he sunbathes, Spock?” Kirk asked with a chuckle

Spock raised a brow. “Since Beta Regulus is, as you say, cosmopolitan, I intend to see if any shops carry a set of strings for my lyre, captain,” he replied.

McCoy rolled his eyes as he slid his sunglasses down over them. “Just don’t forget to relax a little too, Spock. That is the general idea of shore leave! Well, Jim, you comin’?”

Kirk smiled. “I’ll catch up, Bones.”

He headed towards the dispersing crowd of crewmen to say hello to people with whom he usually didn’t mingle. A few of the women who rarely got to see their captain in person blushed and smiled like shy schoolgirls as he passed through, shaking a hand here and grasping a shoulder there in the warm, congenial way that inspired so much personal loyalty. His sleeveless royal blue v-neck certainly did nothing to discourage them from glancing over their shoulders to steal a second look or from smothering giggles with their palms. As usual, Kirk paid no mind to the attention.

@multirptrash

[smallraindrops-blog]

I am once again going insane over Wake Me From This Dreaming. The little bits we get of Y/N childhood and then stories of his and Hypnos children get me so happy (and sometimes incredibly sad for Y/N considering his youth before his Father and Pa).

Also, I loved the little short Ponyo AU you wrote! Big slumbering God hypnos and his overly concerned husband got me giggling.

Love that in certain chapters, Y/N tells Hypnos stories from his youth cause I can see it so perfectly in my mind. (Him having to run and do math due to disrespecting Chiron is a prime example!)

Rambling aside, I hope you are doing well and I can't wait for the next chapter! (Or anything you write really, all of it is a wonderful treat!)

You are so sweet omg. 😭 😭 Thank you so much! <3

I love writing the family moments and they are often my most favorite parts. I am so so so happy you enjoy them too! <3<3

The Ponyo Au might be one my unexpected favorites, i just love the idea of a giant Hypnos napping away with his many children running around and Y/N chasing after them, lol.

And aww yeah, I need to write more Y/N's childhood stuff especially his time with Chrion.

I am actually planning on posting something for Father’s Day with the kiddos so keep an eye out for that. :D

ALSO! I don’t know if you would be interested but If you are, I went ahead and posted my updated character sheets for the Kiddos under the read more if you want to see them. :)

Morpheus

Role:God of Dreams and Visions

Gender: he/him

Family Role: The Firstborn. Take over the ‘family business’

Physical appearance: Takes after Hypnos. Same white curls ( he wears his hair much shorter) and golden eyes. However he has a skin tone that is closer to his Father. He is lean, but not slender like his dad. He also had a deeper voice and is the second tallest of the siblings

Info: 

Morpheus takes his place as the oldest brother seriously and often tries to be a role model for his siblings. Something which his siblings lovingly mock him for. 

He is curious, loves some juicy gossip and regularly gets into mischief. Sometimes gets too involved in mortal affairs (Don’t ask him what happened in Athena’s temple in Athens, he is still banned from there. He had sent lady Athena a long apology letter along with treats for her owl for an apology.)

Morpheus tries to act serious and in charge, especially since he was unofficially taking over Hypnos’ job among mortals. Especially so many gods expect him to act like his dad. 

He may or may not have tried to act like his Father, serious and brooding, but it didn't really work out for him. 

During his down time, he can be found playing on his lyre, coming up with new songs. He often reads as well, a habit he got from his dad. 

When he is around family or close friends, he is more easy going, and not afraid to crack a bad joke or two. He is more affectionate too, physical touch - hugs and noogies- is his love language.

Morpheus is a little more closer to his dad then his Father due working together however he still wants his Father’s approval. He hadn’t said anything but he just really wanted his Father to be proud of him. 

While his powers over dreams and visions are not to be denied - he might be the strongest of the siblings but that would depend on Phobetor who is still growing- he isn’t the best physical fighter. His reflex is slower than most gods, he also tends to freeze up during conflicts before acting. He also second guesses himself often.

This had been a source of conflict between him and his Father. With Y/N being fearful something could happen to his son and Morpheus feeling like he isn’t good enough. They will eventually resolve it but for now, it remains a sore spot between them.

When Morpheus fully grows into his powers and into his role, he will have visions and prophecies as part of his domain which makes him a popular god among mortals and even other gods, giving him a bit of an ego. 

Eventually on a hot summer night, he will meet a mortal who can sing like a siren and who isn’t very impressed by Morpheus and tell him exactly where he can shove his visions. 

Morpheus falls in love immediately.

Random facts:

He doesn’t like sweets much and would rather have a meat stick.

Poems are his most favorite things to read

Refuses to wear red because he feels like he looks too much like his dad. Favors blue or purple.

~~

Icelos

Role: Goddess of animals and their dreams.  

Gender: She/They

Family Role: Second oldest, she is her Father’s daughter

Physical appearance: Takes after Hypnos and Nyx. She has those trademark white curls, however she usually style it in a braid of some kind when out and about. Has big amber eyes, high cheekbones and has fox-like fangs when she smiles, considered to be very beautiful.

Info:

Twin to Phantasos, born just before him. 

Icelos takes pride in her job and she is serious when on the job and doesn’t like to play around. She can be blunt and isn’t afraid to use her resting bitch face. She can glare just like Y/N. 

She deeply loves and respects all animals, from the grossest maggot to the graceful swan. Icelos also understands the natural order and loathes those who dare disturb it. This had led to a close friendship with Lady Artemis and her followers.

Outside of work, Icelos is much more relaxed and likes to spend more of her time with her twin or one of her family members. She is very protective of her twin and often speaks for him.

She has a good relationship with everyone in the family, bonding with her parents and playing around her brothers. She does worry a little more about Phobetor since he is the youngest and has a heavy title to bear.

She is the one who drags the family out of the house to go watch plays or to go to parties.

Icelos is clever and has a talent for many art forms, leading her to picking up and dropping many hobby stuff as she moves on. At the moment, she is taken with spinning and weaving. She has a lyre collecting dust in her bedroom. And knitting needles. Paint brushes buried in the depth of her closet…

Y/N was somewhat more involved with her training, due to his own fear of his daughter being alone out in the world ( he had been in war, he knew the horrors inflicted upon women.) and her own skills. She fights like a feral creature and is skilled at using a bow and arrow. 

She hasn't met anyone yet. She is actually a huge romantic and is a sucker for a good love story. She is hoping that she will fall in love like her parents and grandparents.

However, she caught the eyes of quite a few gods and mortals. She regularly received courting gifts, sometimes in huge piles in front of the house.

Random Facts:

Struggles to eat meat. It is hard to eat something that once could communicate back. 

Thinks biting is a valid way to communicate but doesn’t do it anymore often.

Has a hidden drawer filled with romance novels and plays.

~~

Phantasos

Role:God of objects and their dreams. 

Gender: he/him when in normal form or It/Its when inside an object/working

Family Role: the middle child, the peacemaker

Physical appearance: a healthy mix of Y/N and Hypnos. He has Y/N’s coloring but with Hypnos’ facial features and hair type. He has lavender eyes, lighter than Charons’. He is stronger than he appears. He is also the shortest family member. 

Info:

The third born, the twin to Icelos. 

Phantasos, or Phan as he is known among loved ones. Phan enjoys his work, taking the time to learn each Object that comes under his care. He enjoys the stories they whispered to him.

Many underestimate him, much like they did to his dad. Anything can be an object, a hairbrush that sees the affairs in the bedrooms, a blade buried in someone’s back to a small rock used to create fire to burn down a city. 

They all fall under his care and he knows all of their secrets.

Sometimes he takes them back to their rightful owners or gives them to Uncle Charon. Some he takes home with him. He hates seeing things break, especially if it is beyond repair.

When he is spending time with family, he is usually quiet with a book in his hands or working on a puzzle. His family don’t mind however and just try to make sure he doesn’t feel left out. He is often the tiebreaker or the one breaking up fights when their parents aren’t around.

He has a good relationship with both parents, with Y/n and him just sitting quietly together to bond or him and his dad chatting about books. 

Phan is an okay fighter, with an innate understanding of weapons. He doesn’t have the talent for it like Icelos or Phobetor however. He and Y/n had to work together one on one to get him caught up. He didn’t mind, it was just more time with Father.

He is just as protective of his twin sister, however he is much more quiet about it. There may be a few pushy mortals who he had a private little chat with. 

Phan actually enjoys working with Charon and can be found manning one of his shops for his uncle. He is more of a workaholic than his sister but tries to make time for his family. 

Like his twin, he hasn't met anyone. Unlike her, he isn’t totally sure if he wants to. However, there is one among his Dad’s attendants that he might have a soft spot for. 

Random facts:

Uses dream space to store most of the objects that want to stay with him, due to the limited space in his bedroom.

His beloved stuffed animal had a special spot on his bed, the spot where Father had carefully repaired it still visible.

Knows a certain attendants’ favorite treat - fresh bread with a drizzle of honey.

~~

Phobetor 

Role: God of Nightmares and Fear

Gender: He/they

Family Role: The youngest one, Dearly beloved by all of his family.

Physical Appearance: Copy and Paste of Y/N. Or near to it. He will grow to be the largest one in the family, both in height and bulk. He will have the exact same shade of gold irises as his dad. His hair will also have a bit of a wave to it, kept somewhat short. Sometimes the shadows twist and change shape when near him, following his every footsteps.

His other forms are horrible eldritch abominations beyond mortal understanding and best not discussed.

Info:

Sometimes, he doesn’t know the difference between himself and his duty. He doesn’t hate it or love it, it just is. Just like his dad and Sleep. 

However he likes to be useful so he takes the mindset that the only way to move forward is to face your fears and tries to make the nightmares useful in some way.

As the god of nightmares and fear, he spends most of his time in the deep depths of the subconscious. He is able to know a person’s greatest fear just by being near, seeing pictures of them or even just overhearing their name from someone else.

Once he is fully grown, many will not go near or interact with Phobetor, with some feeling some form of existential dread being in his presence. However, he is able to interact normally with his family due their mutual powers in the sleep domain.

When Phobetor does deal with other people, he is usually cool and distant when spoken to. Not because he wants to be mysterious, he is just like Hypnos in that he can’t read social cues. Like completely clueless.

When spending time with his family, he is usually by Dad’s side, playfully arguing with one of his siblings ( usually Icelos or Morpheus since Phan never takes the bait), reading, or listening to Morpheus’ playing on the lyre

Icelos had gotten him to take up embroidery, he actually quite likes it. He is close to both parents, but he is definitely still Hypnos’ baby due to close bonding when he was an infant and Hypnos’ powers keeping away any nightmares that came to him.

Phobetor adores training and takes to fighting like a fish to water. His skills and powerness is comparable to Achilles and his father, something he is proud of. He trains often by himself and regularly with his Father and grandfather, delighted that he has someone to play fight with. He had fought against uncle Zagreus occasionally as well. 

Due to his standoffish nature and awareness that people are fearful of him, he keeps to himself and is fairly sure he will be single forever. Oddly enough, he is fine with it even if he would like to have a warm, loving relationship like his parents.

However he had been one of the lucky few to spend a night with some of Aphrodite’ attendants, he never told anyone this, partly because he still doesn’t know how he ended up in that situation. Also he doesn’t kiss and tell.

He is completely unaware that there are people who have a crush on him, calling him tall, dark and handsome. He would not know what to do with this information since he thought people are supposed to be scared of him.

Random Facts: 

Knows about Icelos’ secret romance books and definitely stole a book or two before. 

Tends to wear black since Icelos told him black goes with everything, wearing an outfit much like his father’s, he doesn’t know how else to dress.

Enjoys sweets, can eat endless honeycombs.

[lucienarcheron]

Spirit Meets the Bones XXVIII

Genre: Angst/Romance/Drama Warnings: Mentions of physical abuse. Author's Note: here’s a moodboard of the Vanserra brothers you’ll meet here HEHE.

shoutout to @abruisedmuse for being part of this journey with me!!

Tagging: @climb-the-mountian / @vanserrass / @zenkindoflove / @animezinglife / @readthelastpaage / @teddyhoneybear / @positivewitch / @clockwork-ashes / @carnythian / @secret-third-thing / @runningwiththeoceans / @readychilledwine / @goldenmagnolias / @that-golden-lyre / @thedarkinmansfield / @mali22 / @maidr-00 / @electromagnetic-waves / @eastofatlanta / @moobell55 / @bibliophiliaxvignette / @devilsfoodcake22 / @weesablackbeak / @ladywhilemia / @alohaangels / @feysandfeels / @corcracrow / @dawneternal / @gracie-rosee / @mage-neve / @queenoftheworld1998 / @wolvesnravens / @illyrianvalkyrie / @rainbowsnowflake

Find it all here.

If the room had been bathed in tension before this, they were downright drowning in it now. The door to the seating room had been shut and reinforced with a shield from each brother; there was no chance for this meeting to be discovered. 

Eris hadn’t been sure Lucien would actually show. The moment he had found out about Izak, he had reached out and asked him to join this meeting. Lucien’s letter had only said ‘We’ll see.’

So Eris was relieved to have him here even though the tension in the room was wrapped a little too tightly around their throats.

The last time they had all been in the same room was after they found out who Lucien’s father was. And the same way Eris had had it out with Lucien and cleared their history, his brothers had attempted to do the same. It hadn’t gotten the same results; Lucien still tread carefully with their three brothers but it wasn’t as hostile as before. 

Or so Eris hoped. 

Lucien stood by the door across from his older brothers, hands in his pockets as they all observed each other. Emil watched with curiosity, Finn with barely contained excitement, and Izak caught between anger and disbelief. 

“Are you this upset to see me standing in your home, Izak?” Lucien asked carefully.

“No.” Izak replied curtly. “I am upset because I would’ve preferred for Eris to have gotten permission from me first.”

“And I would’ve preferred you not knock up your wife and then elope without giving me a heads up first,” Eris said. “So we’re even.”

“I’m so sorry, your highness. I’ll make sure to get written permission the next time I want to fuck my wife.” 

“The damage is already done now. I’d like to pretend you don’t exist after this ends.” 

“Fuck you.” 

“Likewise.” 

Lucien chuckled. “Well. This is certainly an unexpected family reunion.” 

“I’m surprised you came.” Emil said and the room fell silent as Lucien’s expression shifted.

Eris watched and hated that he was nervous as he watched Lucien’s jaw work. He…cared about his brothers. Not that he’d mention this, of course. No sense in giving them ammunition to make fun of him but…he didn’t know how they’d handle being in the same room after so long of avoidance and it was essential for them to get along for them to move forward. 

Eris hated being unsure about anything and this was a territory he didn’t like to wade into. Familial relationships were not the strongest suit of his brothers, especially when it came to Lucien and their history. He supposed he could always force them all to get along. He needed their cooperation and the chance of him not getting that exasperated the tension in his body; his back truly did not appreciate it and he wondered how much Iris was going to yell at him for his wrecked bandaids.

“When Eris invited me, I debated if I should come,” Lucien finally said. “I have no desire to be here. I do not like being here. But what we are here to discuss isn’t about me. So here I am.”

The room fell silent again as Izak and Lucien watched one another and Eris knew it was a huge gamble to reunite them again like this. They may have buried part of the hatchet long ago but a bad taste will always linger and Eris couldn’t blame Lucien if it did. But Eris also knew Lucien’s heart; somehow, his youngest brother had a vast capacity for goodness even when the people around him didn’t deserve it. 

“I told you I have someone who could help get Helene out and keep her safe until further notice,” Eris said carefully and gestured to Lucien. “This is who.”

Izak’s expression became stricken and again, Eris understood. He understood the kind of risk this was. He could see Izak’s mind working out all the angles of this, wondering how big of a hazard it would be to put Helene in the hands of the person he had held down to watch his former lover get murdered.

“So…you got married.” Lucien asked, his eyes flickering around the room once more. 

“Yes.” Izak said carefully. 

“You’re going to be a father.”

“I - I am.”

And the stumble was so unlike Izak, they all couldn’t help but glance at him, his words of confirmation seeming to shock him. 

The corner of Lucien’s mouth lifted. “How exciting. Congratulations.” 

Eris couldn’t help but watch the two of them stand across the room from each other, the discomfort on Izak’s face mixed with the deep sense of shame that never seemed to leave him when it came to Lucien. They all shared the guilt but Izak…he was the one that came between Lucien and their two deceased brothers. Izak held the guilt deeply. 

“How can you stand to look at me?” Izak asked quietly and Lucien quirked a brow.

“I am used to seeing unpleasant things. Your face isn’t new.”

Izak’s expression shifted, surprising Eris to see how easily he let the deep remorse show. 

“I know we talked things through a few years ago but…I don’t know what to say now that you’re here.” he whispered and Lucien’s expression tightened. “I’m sorry. Again.”

The room fell into that pregnant silence once more, and Eris wasn’t sure what the right move was other than to let them get it out between them. It took Lucien a few minutes to respond, his expression troubled. 

“Your wife must be some kind of a miracle worker.” Lucien muttered and Eris’s lips twitched. 

“I don’t deserve her.” Izak said softly. 

Lucien blinked. “And you admit that so easily.”

“Because it’s true and I’m secure about myself.” 

“Right.” Lucien said lightly and Eris could tell he was disturbed by the unexpected confessions. His brows furrowed as he glanced around the room at his other brothers then settled his gaze back on Izak. “Are you high or something?”

“Gods, I wish I was,” Izak muttered, glaring at the floor and then looking back at Lucien. “But listen. You’re here and I know you’ve actively avoided us before. So. I just wanted to say that.”

Lucien’s gaze flickered to Eris and he couldn’t help but shrug at his youngest brother. He could tell Lucien was confused and if there was one thing about his brothers, it was that there would be a lot of unknowns as they navigated this.

“You have to admit this is strange,” Lucien said and jerked his chin at Eris. “I know you’re the worst with your emotional constipation but we’ve never been so open about anything in this…family. Ever. What is wrong with you all?”

“Oy, don’t bring me into this. I’ve always been an open book.” Finn quipped and Eris rolled his eyes.

“That’s because you never know when to shut the fuck up.” he replied and held up a hand before Finn could say anything else and turned to Lucien. “We’re trying to avoid having history repeat itself. The stakes are too high and the High Lord has a lot coming for him that will put too many others at risk if we don’t prepare now. So. As disgusting as they are, feelings have to be on the table.”

“What do you know?” Emil asked quietly but Eris shook his head. 

“I need this sorted out first.” Eris said, stepping in and pointing between Izak and Lucien. “You need an out for Helene. Lucien is your out. Are you willing to let Helene go there?”

Izak glanced between Eris and Lucien. “You have to understand why I would hesitate,” he said slowly and ran his hand through his hair. “Can I ask an offensive question?”

Lucien lifted a brow. “As long as I can give an offensive answer.”

Finn raised his hand. “Is this about Elain?”

“Don’t mention my wife.” Lucien snapped immediately and Finn rolled his eyes.

“Why are you all so sensitive about your wives?” he muttered. “I’m not even that big of a threat.”

“You’re an absolute menace.” Emil said, the corner of his mouth lifting and Eris couldn’t help his snort.

“Does that mean I won’t meet her anytime soon?” Finn said and wiggled his brows at Emil whose expression immediately darkened. 

“Shut the fuck up, Finn.”

“You all realize that I’m the second oldest of this group, right? Show some respect.”

“Stop being an idiot and maybe you’ll earn it,” Eris said, pointedly. Finn only made a noise of offense and sat back in his seat. As Eris met Finn’s gaze, he had to give Finn credit where it was due; his brother knew how to lighten the mood in any room and this was as awkward as it could get. 

“What’s your offensive question, Izak?” Lucien asked, bringing the room back to attention and Izak was silent as if debating his question. 

“We all know where we stand with each other, despite the things that have happened in the past but…,” he started carefully and licked his lips before adding very softly, “How do I know sending Helene with you isn’t when you would get revenge on me? How do I know she’ll truly be safe?”

Finn’s wince at Izak’s question mirrored Eris’s own face, especially when Lucien’s expression flattened and Emil straightened in his seat. 

“Well. I’m not a murderer or the soulless monster your father is. I have nothing to gain from this.” he said curtly. “I’m putting myself at risk just by being here. We all know how he’d react if he knew I paid a visit.” 

Izak glanced down at his feet. “I know.” 

“That being said…” Lucien continued and pursed his lips before answering. “I also know your part in that day was against your will and it’s something you’ve struggled with. We all know how your father is and the kind of things he’s forced us to do.” Lucien shifted and took a moment before continuing, “I don’t know that I can truly ever forgive you all and I certainly will never forget but I do acknowledge where you’re coming from. I understand why you would be concerned given how we’ve all been raised.” 

Lucien slipped his hands out of his pockets and rested them at his sides as he straightened and met Izak’s gaze. “Your wife will never have anything to worry about with me. I am happy to provide her a place of safety in the Day Court until this is all settled.” he said and had to swallow before continuing. “I know what it’s like to lose a loved one. I would never do that to someone else.”

Izak swallowed hard. “Even if it would bring you a sense of justice?”

Lucien’s brows furrowed. “Innocents paying the price for someone else’s cruelty is not justice. It’s nothing but violence and I am not a violent male,” he replied. “Hurting you won’t bring her back and you are not the one that should be paying the price for Beron’s actions. He is the only one who should pay for anything.”

“I’m sorry I asked.” Izak could only say but Lucien shrugged.

“Given the circumstances, I know why you did.” 

It fell silent once more and Eris glanced around the room, sensing the uncomfortable energy. The five of them hadn’t been in the same place since who knows when and it seemed the brothers didn’t know what to do with themselves. 

“Anyone else feel like they want to throw up?” Finn asked suddenly.

“I think that’s a genetic issue at this point.” Emil said and even Lucien couldn’t help but chuckle. 

“Before we move on to the bigger topic, is this settled? Are we on the same page?” Eris asked Izak and his brother glanced at Lucien once more.

“I’ll need to talk to Helene about this but…yes, I will take you up on your offer.” Izak said. “Anything to keep her safe.” 

Lucien nodded. “I will see what I can have set up as soon as I return.” 

Relief seemed to course through the room at the agreement and Eris felt his shoulders drop. Though the nervous energy remained, it wasn’t as tense between them; there was a cautious understanding. 

“Now to the bigger subject.” he broached carefully.

“Are you going to be a daddy?” Finn asked and Eris shot him a withering look.

“Do you ever think before you open your mouth?”

“No.” Finn replied with a smile. 

“Why would he announce something like that when he just chewed me out for that very reason?” Izak snapped.

“He’s the big brother. He can do what you can’t.” Finn said with a shrug and Izak flipped him off to which Finn returned the gesture. Emil chuckled and Eris sighed as Lucien shot him a look of amusement.

“Am I allowed to move on now or will you keep wasting my time?” Eris said, giving Finn another pointed look. His younger brother only smiled and held his hands up in surrender, leaning back in his chair. 

Taking a quiet breath, Eris finally rolled his shoulders back and brought everyone up to speed over the last few days. He kept his recap of his father’s recent abuse short, to the point, and avoided looking at any of them directly as he explained; he wasn’t interested in sympathy. The angry energy that surged through the room fueled him and Eris hated to admit how seen he felt in it. He wondered how much less alone he would’ve felt had he shared with his brothers more often; gods, he didn’t want to burden them. He barely wanted to burden Iris with the history of it all, much less his emotions. But change was coming whether they liked it or not and maybe...maybe this feeling here could remain after the dust settles. If they survived. 

“I met with Mother this morning and she let me know…” Eris began and took a breath before continuing. “She’s ready.”

The energy in the air shifted and every brother froze where they stood.

“Ready?” Emil echoed.

“Yes.” 

“How ready?” Lucien asked.

“To fuck it all and finally get out,” Eris replied. “This set her healing back a few days but she’s been fully in touch with her abilities and comfortable using them.” 

“When?” Izak demanded. 

“The Autumn Equinox.”

“In three weeks time.” Finn said quietly and Eris nodded.  

“Hence the timeline you provided us.” Emil said and Eris nodded again.

“We don’t have much time but we’ve been ready for so long, it’s a matter of moving things along,” he said. “We have to be prepared for the worst. We should expect it, no matter how positive we want to think it might go.” 

His words were met with silence but he could almost feel the blood pumping from each of them, like a drum beating, announcing the war to come. 

“The ball gives us a good cover.” Emil mused. “The rumor of me trying to kill you will have Father’s focus elsewhere.”

“We’ll have to get our people stationed in the lineup and shift our sentries as needed to protect the perimeter,” Finn added. “Once we get the expected numbers and guest list, we can plan accordingly.”

“We have to assume there will be a mole of some sort and prepare for that,” Izak said. “Mother handled the guest list?”

“Yes, and I already have a copy.” Eris said with a nod. “Slowly, we’ll have each of our own take out Father’s men one by one and replace them as stealthily as possible so by the time she is ready to slip away, our own are covering the tracks.” 

“And once Lucien sends us the signal that she’s safe…” Emil began and the corner of his mouth curled up. “The true party begins.”

The room went silent again, the meaning of the words clear to all. This would be the night everything would change for good. Either they survived their Father or he survived them.  

“And people are ready to side with you?” Lucien asked quietly. “You all have strong armies but he is still the High Lord. A coup is not easy. I can’t imagine killing him would be any easier.” 

Eris glanced at each brother for a moment before he spoke. “We’ve been preparing for this for a very long time,” he said. “We’re stronger and smarter than we were before. We’ve built an entire system meant to withstand a fight like this and we have won people over by faith, not fear.” He shifted as his younger brothers watched him and gods, Eris didn’t know how to process this moment properly. “He may be the High Lord but his reign was over long ago. We’ve had to suffer his wrath day in and day out for years, waiting, holding on for this moment and we will make it count.”

“Everyone is fed up. They have been.” Izak added quietly, glancing around his home. “Each of our territories has had people impacted by him one way or another. They don’t forgive and they sure as fuck don’t forget.”

“While Father has always had control, it’s loosened because he’s so used to us following him blindly. He’s let things slide.” Emil said. “He may have his spies…but so do we and ours are much sneakier.”

Eris’s fist clenched as he took a breath. “Our Father’s biggest mistake was trying to pit us against each other and not realizing that while he’s breaking us all down, we would end up rising together.” He glanced at Lucien with a thin smile. “This has been in the works for years. We’re near the end now and Mother’s departure is the catalyst of it all.”

Finn’s expression had that maniacal delight as he added, “The Autumn Court has been primed for change. It’s about fucken time we did something about it.” 

“Or die trying.” Lucien mused carefully as he eyed each of his older brothers.

“That is a possibility, yes.” Eris confirmed, a little too casually. He didn’t need to think too deeply about it. “And that is why we’re getting who we need to out of this court. In case it happens.”

Lucien quirked a brow. “Beron doesn’t know about Helene or the others but he sure as fuck is going to notice if your wife is suddenly missing.”

Eris worked his jaw for a moment. He hadn’t told Iris this yet but the more he and his brothers discussed, the more it made sense to send her away. He dreaded the conversation; she wasn’t going to like leaving and neither would he. But her safety had to be the priority. He wouldn’t let his mate fall into his father’s hands if he wasn’t alive to defend her. 

He finally said, “I’m going to send her with Mother. I can’t risk keeping her there in case – in case something happens to me.” He met Lucien’s gaze. “I know we didn’t originally plan for that but he will take everything out on her and then some. She cannot come back until this is over.”

Lucien slowly nodded his understanding then asked, “Does she know that?”

Eris shook his head.“But she will. By tonight, everyone who needs to be removed has to be notified.”

“We didn’t factor this in the original plan either,” Emil said, his brow furrowed. “It was always about getting Mother out and dealing with the fallout after.”

“It was always about getting Mother out and snapping your Father’s neck right afterward,” Finn said. “We may have not planned for our – others to leave until it’s safe but I for one, am not leaving it up to chance.” He licked his lips. “Father has asked me about him again and I did not like that tone he used.” 

“Him?” Lucien asked with a raised brow.

“Yes, him.” Finn said and rolled his eyes, though no one missed the light flush of his cheeks. “Females aren’t the only ones I have fun with.”

“It’s a hotshot blacksmith.” Emil added, the corner of his mouth lifting when Finn narrowed his eyes at him.

“Ah, so he’s good with his hands.” Lucien said with a nod. “Makes sense.” 

“What the hell is that supposed to mean?” Finn asked, offended.

“It means he knows how to shut you up.” Izak said with a snort. “Not just with his hands though, ay?”

“If you don’t shut the fuck up, I will walk through that door and flirt so obnoxiously with your wife she’ll forget about why she ever looked at your disgusting face.”

“Go right ahead, she needs the laugh.”  Izak said. “Just be prepared for her to throw up on you.”

“Why is it, that whenever you open your mouth or the conversation happens to revolve around you, it goes off the rails?” Eris asked though it was without any real heat. He hated to admit it, but he didn’t hate what was happening here. He didn’t hate seeing what could’ve been had things been different in their family. That stupid sense of longing panged in his chest yet again. 

If they survived, Eris decided he was going to force it. They all needed it.

“They’re the ones making fun of my private life!”

“I’ve walked in on you fucking way too many times for you to pretend you’re private in any capacity.” Emil said and Finn rolled his eyes.

“Well, things have changed. I’m private now and only fuck behind locked doors.” Finn replied with a sneer. “Keep talking and I’ll bring her up again.”

Emil’s expression immediately shut down. “Finn.” he warned. 

“I thought it was cards on the table.” 

“It’s enough you all know she exists. I won’t say anything more.” 

“Emil.” Eris coaxed and raised a brow at his brother. “Is there anything we need to know?” Anything important that would impact her departure?”

“No.”

“You answered that too quickly,” Eris argued. “Do not lie to me.”

Emil sat quietly for a moment, working his jaw as he glanced down at his hands. It took a few minutes before he finally spoke, “I’m afraid I don’t feel comfortable sharing more than this.”

“Why?” Eris asked with narrowed eyes. 

“Because we’re here to yell at Izak and his decisions, not mine.” 

Finn’s delighted expression had Eris immediately close his eyes and take a deep breath, preparing himself.

“You better tell me right this instant or so help me —” Eris started but Emil held up a hand and then slowly lowered it, his fists clenching in his lap. 

“Don’t – don’t –” Emil swallowed and the nerves were so unlike his brother, they all tensed. “She stays out of everything. Nothing will harm her.” 

“Oh gods, who is she?” Finn asked.  

“Promise me, Eris.” Emil snapped. “Promise me.”

Eris narrowed his eyes, his mind going a mile a minute at the possibilities of who his brother’s lover could be and why he was so worried. He knew it was a female but that was the extent that Emil had ever shared with him.

“There’s always a risk.” He said quietly and Emil shook his head.

“Then I can’t say.”

“That’s the answer I’d give about Iris and she’s my m –” Eris snapped then cut himself off before growling, “There’s always a risk. It’s a risk for her to sleep in The Forest House. A risk for her to breathe in the same room as him. It’s a risk for me to leave her at home while I am here. There is always a risk.” He took a quick breath as Emil swallowed again and tried for a calmer tone. “It’s a bigger risk if we don’t know who she is and can’t protect her.”

Emil licked his lips, resting his elbows on his knees, and interlacing his fingers as he braced himself before very, very quietly confessing, “She’s Henry Adler’s daughter.”

Shocked silence filled the room and then –

“Henry Adler? The resistant group’s leader?” Finn asked.

“Yes.” Emil answered.

“Isn’t he dead?” Izak added. 

“Supposedly.”

Eris’s mind whirled as he stared at Emil with narrowed eyes. He knew his brother kept his lover a secret and while he didn’t blame him, this…this was not a secret to be kept from him.

“You’re in a relationship with the daughter of the head of the biggest resistance group against your father and you somehow failed to think we needed to know this?” Eris asked incredulously, his younger brothers mirroring his expression.

“Wait –” Lucien interrupted with furrowed brows. “Resistant group? I thought Beron wiped them out ages ago.” 

“Theoretically,” Eris said tightly. “We had a small rebellion that rose up again a few years ago that had Henry Adler at the forefront of it all. Father set his house on fire and the family was presumed dead. Anyone associated with the rebellion was met with the same fate. Though they suffered casualties, the Adlers were prepared. They had a tunnel beneath their house that led them to another location, closer to the border between us and the Winter Court, which is Emil’s territory.” He took a breath and ran a hand through his hair. “When Emil found out they were still alive, we made contact and have worked together since. He’s one of the few people outside of this room who knows Emil isn’t who he seems to be.” 

Lucien couldn’t help but laugh in disbelief, glancing at Emil’s scowling face. “That is bold.” he said. “And a very dangerous line to walk.”

“I am well aware.” Emil replied and shifted in his seat. 

“It’s messy, is what it is.” Eris snapped and narrowed his gaze at Emil. “How many times have I told you all this is not the kind of shit you keep from me?”

“There has been no need to mention her.” Emil replied. “She has nothing to do with any of this.”

“Her home crumbled into dust because of that fire. Her mother died because of that damn fire. Her father lost his arm! That fire exasperated her disability. She could very well be the reason for your downfall.” Eris snapped again and Emil bristled. 

“Eris.” he began calmly. “I know everything about the comings and goings of this group. I’m one of the few people who even knows they’re alive. They are putting themselves at a huge risk by trusting me. If anything, I’d be their downfall.”

“But instead you’re trying to be their son-in-law.” Finn said with a snort and Emil flipped him off.

“Besides, they don’t blame me for the fire.” Emil continued. “They know where we stand with Father. They’re supporting our every move.” 

“If you don’t mind me asking, what does she struggle with that the attack made worse?” Lucien asked and all eyes turned to Emil who shifted uncomfortably. He scowled and then worked his jaw before he answered. 

“She was in an accident as a child and it impacted her hearing abilities. She has aids to assist her hearing and often uses sign language to speak as verbal communication can be a little difficult for her at times.” Emil rubbed a finger to his forehead. “The fire added to the trauma and after we…once she started to trust me, I’ve been helping her try different devices to assist with her day-to-day functions that have made things easier.”

“So you two communicate through sign language?” Izak asked curiously and Emil worked his jaw before answering.

“Mostly. She can speak but it’s a little heavy at times. Sign language is simpler for her.”

“Mm. Good for you.” Izak said, clearly impressed and Emil flipped him off.

“She’s hot. It’s fantastic for him considering how hideous he is.”  Finn added and snickered when Emil shot him a glare. 

“One of these days, I’m going to cut your tongue out.” he snarled and Finn promptly stuck his tongue out like a child. “You didn’t even know about her until this moment. How do you even know what she looks like?” 

“I know who survived the Adler fire.” Finn said with an eye roll. “You’re not the only one with eyes and ears everywhere.”

“Finn, I swear to all the gods,” Eris said and rubbed his forehead then looked back at Emil. “Now you’ll have to get Adler on board to let her go to Dawn and move whoever else is left with her. Without anyone else finding out.” 

“Don’t worry about that. She’ll be ready to go.” 

Lucien cleared his throat and glanced at Emil. “I don’t mean to overstep but I have a friend in Dawn who could help her find a device that works for her while she’s there.”

“Nuan?”

“Yes.” Lucien replied and tapped beneath his mechanical eye. “She did craft this for me.”

Emil fidgeted before clearing his throat. “I’d…appreciate that. I don’t think she’d be inclined to do me any favors,” he said. “I’ll pay whatever she wants.”

“I’ll pass it along.” Lucien said with a nod then added in a quieter tone, “What’s her name?”

They watched Emil’s fists clench and pursed his lips before he reluctantly and very quietly answered, “Cosette.” 

It was quiet for a moment before Izak rubbed a hand over his beard and said, “I feel like Emil is getting away with this too easily. I got punched twice. In front of my wife.”

“Agreed,” Finn said immediately. “He deserves a punch.”

“I say at least two.”

“You know what, let’s start by giving him a good fist to the gut. I’ll go first.”

“Enough.” Eris snapped and sent a small spark of his magic to swat each of his brothers.

“I didn’t even do anything.” Lucien grumbled, running a hand over his hair.

“Didn’t want you to feel left out.” Eris replied with a smile that had no kindness in it. Lucien gave him the finger. 

“Before we move on, can I just say,” Finn started again.

“I wish you wouldn’t,” Emil mumbled and Finn flipped him off, continuing.

“The biggest fuck you to our father is that we all somehow ended up choosing people from the working class.” he said with a grin, making air quotation marks with his fingers. “Except for you, Eris. Considering Father dearest picked Iris out for you.”

“Her father is a criminal so I don’t think he can be too high and mighty about it,” Izak said with a smirk and Eris rolled his eyes for what felt like the millionth time that day.

“I can’t stand any of you.” Eris grumbled. 

“I’d be inclined to believe you had I not witnessed this meeting.” Lucien said, deeply amused and Eris squinted at him.

“Specifically can’t stand you.” he muttered childishly and Lucien snorted. 

“Thank god for that. If we keep being polite to each other, I wasn’t sure what to do with myself.” 

“How is any of this polite?” Izak said in outrage. “These fuckers ambushed me in my home.”

“True. I would’ve knifed you for fun by now if we were in our usual setting but I’m being respectful of your very beautiful wife in the other room.” Finn said with a grin.

“Don’t mention my wife, asshole.” 

“If you died, I’d absolutely step up and marry her, you know. Raise that child like it was my own.” Finn continued and Eris could already see a vein about to explode in Izak’s forehead. “I’d be a fantastic father.”

“I’m going to fucken –” 

Sighing deeply, Eris closed his eyes and counted to ten, turning away to ignore the ruckus happening between his two brothers. He wasn’t sure how he had expected this session to go but this…this was best case scenario. It was awkward but they made it work and moving forward, they could be okay. 

This would be fine. Things would work out. They would be fine and make it out alive. His father would be dead. His mother would be out of this hellhole. His brothers wouldn’t be forced to be so far away. They would all be fine and Eris wouldn’t give himself ulcers in the meantime. He would leave here and all would go according to plan. He would go home to Iris and she’d be safe and waiting for him. Wearing something indecent that maybe he would be brave enough to slide his hands under today. 

But until then, Eris would have to keep it together. For all of their sakes. 

“This isn’t as bad as I imagined.” Lucien said quietly, and Eris turned to face him. 

“I know it was difficult for you to come. Thank you.”

Lucien shrugged, glancing towards Izak and Finn still arguing, Emil watching in amusement. “It’s not so bad.” he said. “It’s always nice to remember they never really wanted to kill me.”

Eris followed his gaze and hated how he felt that longing again. He wondered if Lucien felt it too, watching his brothers behave in a way that could only be done like this, behind closed doors, sealed tight away from the world. 

“We could’ve been normal.” Eris muttered, trying not to choke on his bitterness.

Lucien’s expression was all too knowing. “Now where’s the fun in that?” he said with a chuckle. “If we’re not traumatized, who would we be?”

Eris grunted then turned back to his brothers and cleared his throat.  

He took a quiet breath and straightened, meeting each of his brother’s gaze. “On a more serious note,” he began. “I’ve been tittering a bit on the edge trying to save all my magic and have reserved it deep for this day. I have a few tricks up my sleeve with my magic and I am prepared to do whatever it takes to take him out but I suggest you do the same. Sort whatever affairs you need to. Prepare whoever you need to. I cannot guarantee anyone’s safety but I will do everything I can to make sure we will be alright.” Eris swallowed. “But until he is gone…until he is truly dead, we fight until the end because we do not have another choice. It’s either we survive or he does and he cannot survive this. We cannot allow it. His days as High Lord are numbered.”

He glanced around the room once more before speaking the words that had only been an assumption until this point, “We are all well aware of who will be the next High Lord, correct?” 

Finn offered Eris a smirk, standing before he wrapped his hands around the hilts of his twin daggers, unsheathing them halfway then sheathing them again with a click – and Eris knew what that meant, he understood the depth of that promise. “It’s been a long time coming, brother. You have my word and my swords.”  

“The moment he falls, that crown is yours.” Izak said, nodding at him. 

“There is no one else we trust to bring back the light.” Emil added with a small smile.

And Eris had to swallow again, working his throat. This…this was too much. The tips of ears had heated and yet – and yet, relief seemed to course through the room. He always knew he’d be High Lord but to know and be sure they supported him, meant less bloodshed. It meant that maybe their Father hadn’t ruined them after all. 

It meant that indeed, the sun would shine down on the Autumn Court and they wouldn’t be bathed in a sea of blood. The only red they’d see would be in the fading autumn leaves.

“Well. Now, I’m going to throw up.” Lucien quipped and soft chuckles sounded in the room.

“It would be a real shame if you were all planning to collectively plant knives in my back after this.” Eris asked with a smirk. 

“Don’t ruin our surprise. Your reaction won’t be genuine.” Izak tsked. 

“I don’t think I can handle any more surprises at this point.” Eris said with a snort. 

“Is this a bad time to tell you about my other love affair with a different person that Father hates?” 

“Shut it, Finn.”

“You have to be careful with your magic, Eris.” Emil reminded him. “You don’t want it to backfire on you.”

Eris shook his head. “I let loose a few days ago. I’ll be fine until then.”

His brothers nodded collectively and when Lucien took a step back from the group, they all turned to him.

“In an official capacity, the Day Court will support your claim as High Lord.” Lucien stated. “And that in turn, will encourage the Solar Courts to do the same. Do you anticipate anyone else giving you trouble?”  

Eris shook his head. “I risked my neck for Spring and Summer after the war when we opened our borders under Father’s nose. They owe me regardless of their opinions and Kallias isn’t one for trouble when there isn’t a reason for it.” 

Lucien nodded. “Good.” He glanced at Izak. “On my end, I can secure passage for Helene in the next few days. You can send me notice when she’s ready to travel and we’ll be as discreet as possible.”

Izak swallowed and ran a hand through his hair. “Will I – I don’t want her to be alone. I’m thinking of sending her mother with her,” he said quietly. “I understand that draws more attention but she’s pregnant and it’s still early and I won’t be able to be there. Is that an option?”

Lucien gave him a small smile. “I was thinking of having her in a small cottage near Elain and me anyway. We can manage one more person.”

And Eris had to look away from Izak’s expression and the embarrassed gratitude that came off him in waves. 

“Thank you.” his General whispered and Lucien nodded again before turning to Finn.

“Dawn is working on new mechanics for blades that I think a blacksmith would love to get more information on,” he said and gave his older brother a pointed look. “They’re having a showing in a few weeks. It wouldn’t hurt to show up early.” 

Finn nodded, his expression serious for once, and Lucien finally turned to Emil.

“You let me know when she’s there and I will have Nuan connect with her as soon as she arrives.”  

“Thank you.” Emil said quietly. 

Lucien swallowed, glancing at Eris once more. “I know my role in this is to facilitate everyone’s safety outside of this court and I take no small amount of pride in that but if you all need me for anything else, my blade is yours.” he said. “It’s aching to be buried in his flesh.” 

“Noted.” Eris said and hoped Lucien could feel just how deeply his appreciation for his brother was at the moment. None of this was easy and it would only get harder from here but as Eris looked around the room again at his younger brothers, he couldn’t help the way his expression fell.

“We’re almost there. We’re almost at the finish line and I want us all to cross it.” he continued quietly. “So be careful and mindful of every move you make until this is over. And once it is over…” Eris swallowed. “I will be everything he wasn’t and more, I promise you all that.” 

They all nodded back at him and the room fell into a comfortable silence as they all processed what was to come. Eris didn’t know when the next time they’d be able to all be in the same room calmly like this, without the need for fake hostility. Where they were all somewhat whole. 

Maybe they could come out of this drought in one piece. Bloody, but clean of it all. 

They spent the afternoon into the evening finalizing all their plans, including every contingency plan they could think of. They would take no chances. Helene had rejoined them for a brief time bringing them the drinks and food fuel they hadn’t realized they needed and introductions to Lucien had been made. Eris could see she was wary of it all but he couldn’t help but think he might’ve underestimated his sister-in-law; she was the daughter of an army commander and now married to that army’s General…he knew a tactician’s face when he saw one. She’d even given them opinions on certain preparations and it made Eris realize…he’d need to make up for his first impression with a really expensive gift at some point. 

Towards the end, as the brothers began to depart one by one, Eris watched them all leave, feeling like a boulder was sitting on his chest until it was only he and Izak remained. He wanted to remind them to be careful, to watch themselves, and to behave wisely for the next three weeks but held his tongue; they’d shared enough emotions for the day. They were smart. They would manage. 

Eris shifted by the doorway, his eyes flickering once more to the life in his brother’s home.

“I understand why you wanted to protect all this. I only wish you told me.” he said. “You know I would’ve protected it with you.”

Izak’s mouth twitched but he nodded gravely. “I know but…” he glanced behind him and Eris followed his gaze to the noise of Helene moving about, out of their view. “Can you blame me for wanting to keep this secret to myself? Something that is just for me?”

And gods, did Eris understand all too well. He had a little secret of his own that he was itching to get back to. A secret he was hoping, dying to keep safely tucked away. A secret he would need to protect at all costs.

“No, I don’t.” 

Shifting his stance, Eris met Izak’s gaze. “Apologize to Helene for me. I wanted this to go better than it did.” he said and Izak snorted but nodded nonetheless. “We are all happy for you, you know. Mother especially.”

Izak flushed lightly. “She knows now?”

“I told her before I came to you,” Eris said, smirking. “Thank you for taking the pressure off me to have children anytime soon.” 

Izak rolled his eyes. “You’re welcome, asshole. You’ll have to buy my kid an obnoxiously expensive gift to make up for this.”

“Let’s survive this next month and your demon child can have whatever they want.” 

“Ah, fuck you.”

“Likewise, brother.”  

As he turned to leave, Eris couldn’t help but hesitate once more and face his brother. “Izak.” he said and his brother immediately straightened.

“What.”

“Something you said earlier stuck with me.” he continued quietly and Izak’s brows furrowed. “You asked if you were worth this kind of fear that she has to live in now.”

Izak flushed and fidgeted slightly, his eyes flickering toward the location of his wife again. “Right.”

Eris licked his lips, his hands fisting at his sides. “I ask myself that same question all the time.” he paused and met his brother’s gaze. “And I don’t know if the answer will ever be yes but… When you meet someone who makes you want to fight the fear…I think it means we’re heading in the right direction.” 

Izak’s expression fell and he nervously ran a hand through his hair. “I just don’t want her to get hurt because of me.” he whispered and Eris gave him a thin smile. 

“I know,” he said. “But we can make it worth their while until we have nothing to fear. I wanted you to know. I understand.”

The corner of Izak’s mouth curled up before dropping again. “Your wife has you by the balls, huh?”

Eris rolled his eyes good naturally. “Like yours does apparently.” 

He chuckled softly and gave his brother a knowing look. “Good. You need it. Probably even more than I do.” Izak replied and gave Eris’s scowl a pointed look. “Now get the hell out of my house. I’ve had enough of you for one day.”  

[lav-and-roses-answeringquestions]

The Mousai

After doing a lot of research, divining, and asking questions to everyone, I finally felt ready enough to reach forward to the Mousai!

Z20.2 PORTRAITS OF THE NINE MUSES The nine circles of this mosaic contain portraits of the nine Muses. The goddesses and their attributes from the top left to the bottom right are Calliope with a scroll, Euterpe with a flute, Thalia with a comic mask, Melpomene with a tragic mask, Terpsichore with a lyre, Erato with a cithara, Clio with a writing block, Urania with a globe, and Polyhymnia without an attribute.

I was definitely afraid that this was blaspheming God with this doing this. That this was the final nail in the coffin. I was agonizing forever on this one, even with reassurance from Lady Sophia and Our Holy Mother.

It wasn't until I cried out for a sign in my room that Big J himself said in my ear that no matter what he'd still love me. I actually cried then, scrunching up my covers and sobbing. My tears seemed to wash away my worries- or rather his words did. I told you all before how much of a Big Brother Lord Jesus is, but I never cried like that before him and felt his arms just circle me in an embrace like that.

It was such an amazing feeling! Which is why I'm feeling a lot more confident to put this down!

Now onto the Mousai below the cut!

The Mousai, more readily known as the Muses are the goddesses of music, poetry and inspiration in Hellenism. Led by Calliope, their role was expanded to encompass a variety of arts including rhetoric, philosophy, mathematics, geography, history and astronomy. They were also goddesses of knowledge, who remembered all things that had come to pass as daughters of Mnemosyne, who is the Titan Goddess of Memory and creator of language.

Numbered among them are:

Calliope: Goddess of Epic poetry and eloquence. The mother of the poet Orpheus and the leader of the Mousai. Her name means "Beautiful voiced" from the Greek words kallos and ops.

Clio: Goddess of History. Her name means "To make famous" or "celebrate." from the Greek verb kleô. As a history nerd, I thank her greatly.

Erato: Goddess of erotic poetry. Her name means "lovely" or "beloved" from the Greek word eratos.

Euterpe: Goddess of Lyric poetry. Her name was derived from the Greek words eu- and terpô, meaning "giver of much delight." She might explain where I get all my sudden bursts of inspiration for song lyrics throughout the day!

Polyhymnia: Goddess of Hymns. Her name was derived from the Greek words poly- "many" and hymnos "praise" or "hymn." Invoking her with my hymns and prayers helps me a lot! Same thing with making devotional playlists!

Urania: The Goddess of astronomy and astrology... and mathematics. Definitely mathematics! Praying to her and Lady Sophia for discernment has helped my Pre-Calc grade more than anything else! Her name means: ”Heavenly" or "of heaven".

Thalia: Goddess of Comedy. Her name was derived from the Greek word thaleia meaning "rich festivity" or "blooming." I see myself as a (hopefully) funny person so, I can thank her and My Heavenly Mother for that!

Melpomene: Goddess of Tragedy. Her name was derived from the Greek verb melpô or melpomai meaning "to celebrate with dance and song." She's also the mother of the Sirens! Definitely have been getting inspired by her with my track record for putting my darling ocs through the wringer. Suffering builds character I'm afraid.

Terpsichore: The Goddess of choral song and dance. Her name means "Delighting in Dance" from the Greek words terpsis "to delight" and khoros "dance". While I haven't sung in a choir in a while, I still appreciate how so many people coming together for a common goal can sound heavenly.

If I could describe what I think these Inspirers of Poetic Thought are in a few simple words, I would say that they are, like My Holy Mother and Lady Sophia and Jesus and the Archangels, are Emanations of a large deity- God, that is everything, everywhere all at once. They mix and intersect into each other's domains sometimes while still being their own individuals, but all come from the same source above all. The one that created and is the universe and all living things. The one who slumbers as creation. Our Heaven Father. Khaos. God. It's all the same at the end of the day to me at least. Divine offshoots created from a single unifying source.

I'll send more stuff in the future and try to update more often so don't be spooked if I pop up from time to time! Promise!