#new moon alternate universe

[cullen-cannons]

🌑 It must be fate, my love

chapter III

Words: 479

Senior year for the class of 2006 draws to an anticlamctic close, at least for Isabella Swan.

The graduation celebrations feel pointless. Why celebrate when there are still four more years of school to go? She’d celebrate then, she decided . . . maybe. And why dos she have to learn trigonometry when she knows she wants to be an English teacher?

At school, she throws herself into her work, just to distract herself. She eats in the library and goes straight home from school every day to help her mother make dinner.

The highlights of her weeks are weekends. Gwen’s baby swim lessons on Saturday morning, boardgames, movies and homemade icecream in the backyard at night. Still two days of feeling something close to normal out of seven is far from ideal.

“Alright,” 

The tone in her mother’s voice makes Bella look up.

“We’re going to do something fun.”

Bella looks back to her work, some poster they had to make for some graduation photo, shrugging off the comment as her mother’s signature zeal.

“Go to the beach?”

“No, well maybe, but not here.”

“Maimi?” Bella asks, placing star stickers apathetcially.

Suddenly her mother is in front of her, blocking her work, “Bella- Isabella, look at me.”

She obeys, surprised by the command.

“Look, you’re, I don’t even know . . . limp. I hate seieng you like this and honestly I’m not sure how to help you, and I knwo what always works for me, so unless you have a better idea . . . Let’s go somewhere, just you and me. Hmm?”

Bella’s interest is piqued, “A roadtrip?”

“No too much time for ruminating in the car. We need to be up and moving, I’m thinking Europe.” The excitement is clear on Renee’s face, her bags are already mentally packed.

Bella thinks for a moment, “I have always wanted to see England.” she allows herself to admit

Renee frowns, “Eh, that's miserable weather, what about . . . oh, I know, Italy!”

“That’s far.”

“Not much farther than England and you need it.” Renne points out.

“But what about Gwen?” Bella counters. This is classic bahaviour of her mother, flighty, needing freedom, hating anything tying her down, the same reason Bella was never allowed a pet growing up.

Renne pauses as if she hadn’t thought of this. Bella saw her mother’s improvement. She was much more attentive with Gwen then she ever was with Bella, but it makes sense taht soem of her old traits still linger. 

“We can bring her. I already got her a passport.”

This surprises Isabella. Her mother planning in advance? Maybe she has changed more than she though.

Bella can’t deny, the idea is appealing, “When would we go?”

“As soon as summer vacation starts.”

7 days.

“Alright, I’ll run a load of our laundry.”

“And I’ll get the tickets!”

“And tell Phill.” Bella reminds.

“And tell Phill.” Renee agrees, then dashes off.

[thetiredartist101]

Please come check out the first part of BloodMoon Memes Monday Tomorrow!!! ON YOUTUBE

[vintagegirl01]

Rocking Around the Christmas Tree 🌲 (pt.2)

Jake Lockley x female reader

Summary: This takes place a year following the events of Rocking Around the Christmas Tree (pt.1).

Link for Part 1:

You and Jake are married and now have a baby boy, named Jonas, that’s now 3 months old. With it being his first Christmas, you two have been very excited to celebrate this year.

Currently, you’d been holding Jonas as he sleeps in your arms, standing next to Jake as he put the finishing touches on the tree. Despite Jake not being a super Christmasy person, he wanted your son to have a nice holiday.

“It’s not bad, huh..? At least we’re mostly done with the decorating now..” he spoke, straightening up as he looked at the tree with a critical eye.

You smile at him. “It looks great, baby! Though I feel bad I couldn’t be of much help other than telling you where to put some things.”

He chuckled a bit as you mentioned not being able to help much. He had assured you that you should prioritize Jonas, that he had the decorating covered.

“Don’t worry about that, hermosa” he spoke, walking over to you and giving you a soft pat on the shoulder.

“We made it work. Don’t worry about not being able to help much.” He looked down at Jonas again as he gently smiled down at him. “He was a lot more important.”

“You two are both important to me. My two special fellas.”

Jake moved to wrap his arm around you, pulling you and Jonas a bit closer against him. He let out a small huff before speaking again.

“You’re right. And you’re important to us.”

Jake gently moved a hand to rest on Jonas’ head, gently running it through his small tuft of black-brown hair. “He’s already so damn small… I can’t imagine how fast he’s going to grow up.”

He exhaled heavily, sounding slightly exasperated at the mention of your son growing up so quickly. He was already growing so fast… and he’d be walking and talking before they knew it.

“Yeah… I’m trying not to think about that right now. I want to enjoy this for as long as possible while he’s still so small” he mumbled, moving his other hand to gently run it over your hair.

You smile, totally getting his train of thought. “In the meantime, do you have Jonas’ first Christmas ornament?”

“Oh, yes.” he said as he suddenly remembered something and he reached into the small box of ornaments he had taken out earlier.

He pulled out a white ornament that was a small version of a manger, with ‘Baby’s First Christmas’ written in a small gold script in the corner. “This one, right?”

You nod. “This was too cute for us to pass up for him.”

He chuckled, seeing your excited smile at the ornament he was holding in his hand. He had to admit it was definitely a cute ornament, but he also knew it was appropriate for the son you share.

“Yes…” he said, taking the ornament and carefully holding onto it as he stood in front of the tree. “I think this is the perfect spot for it..”

He searched around for a moment before he found a good spot for it, hanging it in a perfect spot not far from the angel on the top of the tree.

”It’s beautiful.”

He hummed in agreement as he stepped back from the tree, giving it one final look to check for flaws. It seemed pretty good to him.

He walked back over to you and your son before wrapping his arms around your waist from the side, pulling you and Jonas closer to him again.

“Everything looks good. The kid’s gonna love it when he’s awake again…” he mumbled against your ear.

“ Too bad he’ll be too young to remember his first Christmas…”

“I know…” he sighed against your ear before nuzzling his face gently against the side of your head.

He was a bit upset that your son was too young to remember this Christmas, but was also glad. In a way, they could still recreate this Christmas if they wanted…

“But we will.” he said firmly. “We’ll remember for him… and we’ll make next Christmas just as great, if not better.”

You smile. “I would make us some hot chocolate right now but my hands are a bit occupied.”

He chuckled a bit, looking down at your son in your arms.

“Yes, they are a bit occupied..” he mumbled, before gently running a hand over his head again, his palm brushing against yours in the process.

“I’d offer to take him from you, so you can make it… but he seems rather comfortable in your arms, honestly..”

“You can take him if you like. You can spend time with him as I give my arms a break.”

He raised an eyebrow slightly as you mentioned him taking Jonas, seeming a little surprised that you were offering.

“Are you sure..?” he asked, taking a quick glance at your son before looking back at you, a mixture of surprise and hesitance in his voice.

“Baby, we’ve been through this. You’re not going to hurt him. You haven’t before and you won’t because it’s not in your nature.”

Jake huffed gently, knowing that you were right. He had never hurt your son before and he didn’t plan to, but he still didn’t want to accidentally do something wrong.

He took a short exhale to get himself mentally prepared before gently reaching forward to carefully take your Jonas from your arms, being extra careful as he made sure to support his head.

“I’ll be right back. Call me if you need anything. Okay, baby?” You kiss his cheek before heading to the kitchen.

He smiled softly as you placed a little kiss on him before going to the kitchen.

He held your son carefully in his arms, making sure to support his head, before he spoke gently to Jonas.

“Don’t worry… mama’s just going to the kitchen. We’re gonna hang out for a bit…” he muttered, looking down at his son’s sleeping face. As much as Jake knew you were right, he was still incredibly careful while holding Jonas.

A few minutes later, when you come back with the mugs of hot chocolate for you two, you find a cute scene between your two favorite boys. Jake talking to Jonas sweetly as he sleeps as if the boy is up and able to understand him.

You could feel your heart melt a bit as you caught sight of the adorable scene. Jonas was sound, sleeping quietly as your husband sat there, talking to him as if he was actually listening and understanding what he was saying.

You’d have to remember this moment for later, so you could tease him. For now, though, you decided to clear your throat gently to get his attention, holding the mugs of hot chocolate in both hands.

“The hot chocolate is ready. You can put Jonas in the bassinet next to the couch.”

Jake paused as you spoke, being pulled from his conversation and looking over at you as you held the mugs. He nodded and gently held your son for a moment longer, before carefully standing up and walking over to the bassinet.

He held your son closely as he placed him down in the bassinet, making sure to tuck him in and carefully lower his head onto the pillow.

“There we go…” he mumbled, giving him one last look over before turning and slowly walking back to you.

“He looked comfortable with you, you say as you pass him his mug of hot chocolate.”

He hummed a little in agreement as he took the mug of hot chocolate from you, a hand moving to rub the back of his own neck.

“Mhm.. seemed comfortable enough. He didn’t wake up, that’s good…” He glanced back at the bassinet again, making sure your son was still sleeping peacefully.

“He’ll probably sleep for a few more hours… we’re free until then.” he mumbled, before looking back at you again.

“You thinking what I’m thinking?”

He raised an eyebrow slightly, a small knowing smirk growing across his face as he knew *exactly* what you were thinking.

“And what exactly are you thinking..?” he said, taking a small sip from the hot chocolate.

You give him a smirk.

A few minutes later, you two are on the couch together. Cuddling and watching some Christmas movies as your baby boy sleeps in his bassinet next to you two.

There was a sense of calm and contentment in the air, with the two of you cuddled together on the couch while Jonas slept soundly in his bassinet next to you, his breaths slow and soft.

On the TV, a Christmas movie played, the volume low so it wouldn’t wake the Jonas. Jake had wrapped his arm around your shoulders, keeping you pulled close against him as you leaned against his chest.

The first of many wonderful Christmases. Jake thought to himself.

Taglist:

@autismsupermusicalassassin

@juneknight

@missdictatorme

@my-secret-shame-but-fanfiction

@bit-dodgy-innit

@emma23

@juneknight

@bit-dodgy-innit

@jayke0

@ginoa45-5

@runa-falls

@lunalockley

@pimosworld

@melodygatesauthor

@writefightandflightclub

@clemdango04

@reallyrallyauthor

@official-mr-knight

@faretheeoscar

[wandering-panacea-artblog]

Mega Man X AU OC: Solfeggio (DCRN-α1)

Name: Solfeggio

Model: DCRN-α1(Doctor Cain Reploid Number-Alpha 1) Prototype Reploid; Formely NWN-001(New Wily Number-001) Robot Master

Alias: First Reploid, Alpha, Solfeggio, Ra-Thor

Nicknames: Sol, Jo

Birth: 25 June

Age: 18(Mentaly)/100+(Actual Age)

Gender: Male

Hair Colour: Blond with three dirty Gold streaks of hair

Eye Colour: Pale Gold

Height: 1,70 cm

Species: Hybrid(Reploid/Robot Master/Yellow Devil(Ra Devil) made from Alien technology)

Family:

Doctor Nicolas Cain/Doctor Cain(Adoptive Father/Creator)

X (Adoptive Brother/Donor)

Doctor Wily(Father/Creator)

Ra-Moon(Father/Tecnological template)

Ra-Devil(Sibling?)

Forte/Bass(Younger Brother/Succesor)

Zero(Younger Brother/Successor)

Wily's Numbers/Robot Masters(Older and Younger Siblings)

Story Summary:

Mega Man Series:

Originaly a thoughless Robot Master name Ra-Thor, he was created by Doctor Wily by using alien technology found from the ancient Temple of the Moon in the Amazon Rainforest to destroy Mega Man. Ra-Thorand Ra-Moon waken up two weeks after their defeat and destruction of the temple, his body was wrecked and busted and Ra-Moon was only a small brain module/processor, in order to survive he absorbed the remains of Ra Devil to stand up and ate of Ra-Moon's processor and got back to sleep.

Mega Man X Series:

100 years later he woke up a second time a month before the discovery of X by Doctor Cain and he was found two months later by said android and man in the rainforest, they brought him back to civilization and Doctor Cain made a new body and changed his name from Ra-Thor to Solfeggio and became the first know Reploid to ever be created.

Abilities:

His abilities are similar to Venom's after absorbing Ra Devil, he can shoot "webs", wall crawl, and sense danger(spider-sense), he has super strength(lift up to 70 tons), durabilty and stamina, he can regenerate parts of his body and shape swift, unlike Venom he is is mune to fire and sonic attacks.

He also developed a keen sense smell and hearing.

Weaknesses:

He has weakness to Electricity. In Super Adventure Rockman as Ra Thor he is weak to Spark Man's Spark Shock.

Biology:

After absorbing Ra Devil, he has developed the ability to eat organic stubstance(meat, vegetables, fruit etc) and drink. 

For uknown reason he can't drink E Tanks (which are used for Reploids) and they make him feel sick and puke, he can regain his energy by drinking human energy drinks. Humans and other reploids are unaware of this, only Doctor Cain, X and few close people(Sigma is unaware, Zero learns in later period of time).

He can cry black tears and he bleeds black "blood"(goob). This is also is hidden from the others(Also Sigma is Unaware and Zero learns in a later period of time).

Name Etymology:

Solfeggio is Italian for solfege derive from the names of two of the syllables used: sol and fa. 

The generic term "solmization", referring to any system of denoting pitches of a musical scale by syllables, including those used in India and Japan as well as solfège, comes from French solmisation, from the Latin solfège syllables sol and mi. 

The verb "to sol-fa" means to sing the solfège syllables of a passage (as opposed to singing the lyrics, humming, etc).

(I took it from wikipedia)

Trivia:

After Sigma becomes Maverick from Mega Man X2 to Mega Man X4 he becomes the new commander of the Maverick Hunters.

He and Zero don't know they are brothers.

He is a fusion of Ra-Thor and Alpha (the first reploid) from the novel Rockman X the Irregular Report

[narrators-journal]

Chapter 3

I admittedly rushed this a little bit because I love this story and I’m excited to post it. Very glad this is a self-indulgent AU lmao. Tho, I will assure you, I’m not pantsing this story lmao, I have an outline that I’ve been holding onto for a few weeks or months at this point. Trust me, we’re trying our best.

Previous part: Here

First part: Here

Masterlist: Here

At some point, Ryoji must have cried himself to sleep after Minato had left. Because, there was no other explanation for where he was except that it was a dream. After all, he’d barely made it four minutes away from the men’s dorm when he’d left that night, so there was no logical way that he could’ve gotten all the way to Gekkoukan’s front gate.

Though, why he dreamed of the private school didn’t dawn on him as he stood on the sidewalk and stared through the gate at the Frankenstein architecture of the precarious tower that replaced the school when the moon turned swollen and yellowed.

Tartarus. The tower was named Tartarus by the SEES. Though, how Ryoji knew the name of the slapped-together building that stretched into the cloud-dotted green sky like some beacon “Come.” A woman’s sleepy voice hummed from the tower, or, maybe the tower itself had beckoned the brunette forward.And, suddenly, Ryoji was no longer outside of the gate, but at the bottom of black spiraling stone stairs that curved out of view with tall, ceiling-to-floor windows that let the unearthly light of the moon shine across the steps. And, without much thought, he began to climb.

Had this been where he’d headed when he tried to leave the dormitory earlier that night? In that moment, he didn’t know. The only thing that was on his mind as his body automatically climbed the steps was the vague awareness that he was asleep, and the strong urge to get to the landing at the top of the endless stairs. So, he pushed on. Even though the stairs didn’t even seem to move beneath his feet. Even though Ryoji felt pain seep into his legs with each step. He pushed on.

However, before he reached the top of the stairs, reality crashed back into him so hard that it seemed to crush his ribs into his lungs. The breath squashed out of him as his eyes flew open to bring him back to the dormitory. Back to the reality of Aigis at the bottom of the river, and Minato unaware of the brunette’s identity.

Yet, even before his ability to breathe returned, Ryoji didn’t bother with panic. He simply lay beneath his comforter and watched the darkness on the ceiling while he waited until he remembered to breathe in again. Only for an abrupt knock to stop the tall man from lamenting or musing so early. “’yoji!~ Lover boy~” Kenji sang from the other side of the door, “Are you dead in there? If you are, I’m taking a photo of your bloated corpse.” “I wouldn’t be bloated…” The words felt like nails on the brunette’s vocal cords, and his bones felt as if they splintered beneath his body weight as he forced himself out of bed, but he did so regardless. “I wouldn’t be bloated in one night, Kenji. That takes at least five days. And maybe different conditions.”

With that, the shadow shuffled across his laundry-littered floor and opened his bedroom door to be face-to-face with the milf-obsessed brunette’s grin. However, his smile fell into a more concerned look as soon as his dark brown eyes saw the man leaned against the doorframe. “Holy shit, dude are you okay? I mean, I figured you were ill, and heard that Minato carried you inside last night, but jesus you’re pale as hell.” “You heard Minato carried me?” He asked, his cheeks heated at the same speed that he tried to recall if he’d seen anyone else when the wildcard had brought him back inside. Yet, that swiftly proved to be a fruitless mission the second that he remembered just how weak he’d been the night before.

While he thought, though, Ryoji could almost feel the way that Kenji’s dark eyes raked over him. He could hear the way the man’s heart dropped when he saw how the shadow’s button-up hung off of his usually pudgier, now thin body. “Um...I-I mean, yeah. Kaz saw Minato carry you inside.” Kenji said when he snapped out of his bewildered trance. “He said you looked like you were unconscious. Just how ill are you? Have you been ill this entire time?” The shorter man finally asked, and Ryoji pursed his lips and looked away from him for a brief moment. “No.” He lied, “No, I’ve just been…” He let his cheeks warm up more as he fished around for a lie. “For the first few days I was simply...recovering. Then, I got sick, but my fever broke last night, I think.” “Recovering?” Kenji asked, an eyebrow raised, the concern briefly masked by intrigue as he continued, “What the hell did you need to recover from? You’ve never had to recover from a...date?” with a more questioning tone that time. His eyes full of questions as Ryoji stamped down a spark of pain and pushed himself out of his room to follow the flow of the other boys out. “W-well, even I have my limits, dude.” Just on the emotions, though, not stamina. “And, it wasn’t exactly a date. It was, uh, just kinda a heat of the moment thing that took me out. The date part of that night was perfectly fine.” He chuckled, and Kenji was more than happy to trail after him. “You had a hook-up? After a date? Damn dude, no wonder the girls love you. At this point you’re like some modern marvel of libido.” the milf-lover laughed with him as they went, which Ryoji was happier with than the worried looks he’d get for how slowly he moved that particularly chilly morning. And, thankfully, Kenji seemed to prefer that topic as well as they stepped out into the gray, stagnantly cold morning hours.

So, Ryoji was spared further questions about his physical health and simply had to deal with jokes and questions about his sexual habits as he followed the other boys to the train station. The winter’s air unmoved by any form of breeze, the homes and businesses that bothered be near a high school dormitory were sluggish in the early hours of the day, and the zombie-esque people that wandered the streets were ignored by the throngs of boys that passed them by.

I do this to people. Ryoji mused as he walked by a business woman with glassy, lightless eyes and her hair an unkempt mess from the days and night’s she’d likely spent in the elements. I’m a shadow, I...have done this to multiple people. Countless people, really. And while he trudged after his classmates and Kenji in the stiff winter morning, the ‘exchange student’ felt the same way that the apathetic woman looked.

Yet, he continued to follow the herd. He followed the lively crowd of private school boys into the train station, waited for the train, and let the homicidal metal tube jostle and bounce him along across the water. All of it, with a heavy numbness dropped into his lungs. So, do I like the water so much because of all of the dead bodies in the ocean? Am I proud of that number? If I’m the god of death, why do I like living people so much? Is it a predatory thing? Is that why I like Minato so much? And, as soon as the thought formed in the pale man’s skull, it brought with it a flood of ice water down his spine.

No. No, no, no. He corrected with a firm swiftness. His vibrant blue eyes pressed into the palm of his hand, No, Minato’s beautiful for multiple reasons, not just because he’s prey to me. He’s handsome, he’s got a wonderful heart, a great sense of humor, and...he’s very patient. None of that is related to hunting at all, right? I don’t just like him because he’s dinner. He told himself as he felt the train rumble along the tracks as if it wanted to shake his skeleton until it came apart. “-Yoji? You listening?” Kenji asked, his voice a small anchor to drag the brunette back out of his own thoughts. “Yeah…Yeah, I’m fine.” “I asked if you were listening, but, like, are you okay?” He asked while his dark-brown eyes studied the sickly pallor of Ryoji’s cheeks and the way that his shirt hung off of his body. “Oh yeah, yeah I’m listening. And I am okay.” He assured as the train slid to a stop at the station to let the children out. Which, the brunette got up to follow with Kenji at his side.

As Ryoji followed his fellow classmates into the train station’s crowds, he did his best to focus on Kenji’s chatter instead of the scent of baked goods and quick breakfasts that made his stomach churn. Even though the brunette hadn’t eaten anything...in days, at least, and, assumedly, felt no hunger to begin with.

Yet, even as the warm scent of offered breakfasts was replaced with the cold sharpness of winter, it didn’t become any easier to absorb the nonchalant drum of Kenji’s casual conversation against his pale skin. Until that drum of words pushed Ryoji into the seat of his desk. Kenji’s words were no longer the only one that drummed against him. “-What are you doing here?”

Ryoji jumped slightly at the thunder clap of Minato’s voice in his skull to draw a wince and make the brunette swallow the dumb ‘huh?’ that came up. “What do you mean? I need to come to class, Mina.” He pointed out instead as he smiled up at the midnight-haired man who stood with his hand on Ryoji’s desk. Had he been knocking on my desk? “Yeah, but you were barely conscious last night. Doesn’t this seem a bit quick to recover from that level of illness?” He asked, and Ryoji shrugged, “I felt fine when I woke up this morning, so I guess not? Maybe last night was like a last push before my illness broke?” his eyes turned back to his desk to avoid the unbelieving stare that he could feel from Minato. “You still look like shit though. I’m pretty sure Ms. Toriumi would’ve preferred you rest and fully recover rather than sit in front of her looking like a fucking corpse.” The wildcard said, but Ryoji simply shrugged his words off. “She’ll cope, I can’t afford to let my grades slip that badly.” “Didn’t you tell me you fuck or pay the teachers to pass you, though?”

Thankfully, Ms. Toriumi came in to begin the morning’s lesson and save Ryoji from having to respond to the wildcard. So, Minato simply held his distrustful look on Ryoji as he returned to his desk. And, as the lessons began for the day, the brunette could feel how the dark-haired emo continued to study him. To peel away the layers like Ryoji was some onion. Every lie and deception brought to the surface every time that the wildcard glanced at him.

Until, finally, the brunette raised his hand. “Yes, Mochizuki?” “Can I please go to the bathroom? Like, right now?” And, while Ms. Toriumi scowled slightly at the interruption, she took one look at Ryoji’s pale face and let him go.

Yet, no matter the distance he put between himself and Minato, he could still feel those stormy grey eyes on his skin. Even as he pressed his back against the door to the men’s bathroom to try and squish himself back together against the cold door.

God, what am I even doing? Why am I coming apart at the seams so easily? He asked himself, fingers tangled into his swept-back, dark hair with his breath quick. “I warned you not to deny your role, Thana.” His mother’s words whispered in his head while the brunette pushed himself away from the door to go over to the wall of mirrors and sink basins. As if the minimal extra distance would quiet his mother’s voice. “What you feel, my child, is guilt. You’ve gotten too close to that human.” “Well, I don’t like it. Shut it off. Can’t you do that?” He muttered into the silent bathroom, even though his only reply was the whir of the school’s air conditioning for a long moment. But, when his mother did reply, he instantly regretted the request. “I can, but you mustn’t fight me.” “No.” He said with a firm shake of his head, his blood cold in his veins as his widened blue eyes scanned over the smooth porcelain of the sink beneath his palms. The weight of his mother’s words rested heavily on his shoulders. “No, I...I don’t want that.”

With a deep breath, Ryoji lifted his eyes to meet his mother’s. Yet, all he was met with in that reflective surface was a changeling. A human-shaped creature who was built from the core out to lie, manipulate, and cheat. With hypnotically blue eyes that twinkled like gemstones in a face that had rounded out in the weeks he’d spent at Gekkoukan, but was now back to its thinner look. The face that he looked back at him was no longer his.

Was it even my face to begin with? He asked himself before he ripped his eyes from the mirror while the bell rang to end class and announced Minato's impending approach. It doesn’t matter right now, though. I need to chill out. I need to...to get this under control. A school bathroom is no place to have an existential crisis. He told himself as he turned away from the mirrors. This can wait until after school, at least. I’m not getting carried out of here by Minato, god damn it. “Pride now, Thana? You’d pick petty ego over the help of your own mother?” Ryoji ignored the woman’s whisper and forced himself out of the bathroom.

[jasperhaleobsessed]

Mending What's been Broken

Summary: Edward and Bella have a different conversation after New Moon than in canon.

Notes: Thank You to everyone who favorite and followed this story it makes me so so happy! Hope you enjoy it! Feel free to leave any suggestions and constructive criticism. It's greatly appreciated! Also in this chapter it is Edward’s POV I don’t say what the characters are specifically saying but convey the jist of it more like. 

Characters: Edward Cullen, Alice Cullen, Carlisle Cullen, Esme Cullen, Rosalie Hale, Jasper Hale, Emmett Cullen and Bella Swan (Mentioned)

Warnings: None does talk lightly about what happened at the Volturi.

…

Edward’s POV

I walked into the living room. She stood up abruptly, she pushed me back out of anger and frustration. I’m sure you can guess who. Alice. “You let her get away! What’s wrong with you?” She screeched. She was furious. I heard her raving thoughts the moment I stepped in the door. I’m surprised she didn’t call me and demand me to go back and talk to Bella. I desperately wanted to go back to her but I wouldn’t. I won’t break that promise to her. I want to regain her trust and to do that I need to give her time and prove that I am trustworthy. If she had a vision of us talking, why is she so angry? Wouldn’t she want us to work it out in the right way? Perhaps she only saw parts of our conversation? No, I don’t think that’s possible to see just one part or perhaps it is possible but I think it’s something else, I think she just misses her best friend. 

“I didn’t let her do anything, it was her choice! You should know by now…” I roared back. But then I paused trying to take a deep breath. She just misses her best friend. She’s hurt like I am. I continue to say, “I should know by now that’s how I got into this mess in the first place.” By the time I was done speaking the whole family was listening and watching us intently. I could hear their thoughts swirling. 

Emmett was thinking of ways of murdering me in my sleep. He was seething. Carlisle was choosing his thoughts carefully. He didn’t completely approve of us leaving but was trying to think of what was best for Bella and our family. But seemed pleased that I was changing my mind, that I was doing things differently than before, that I was being healthier. Esme was thinking apprehensive of the whole situation. She didn’t want anything bad to happen to me. I hope she forgives me for going to Volturi and leaving Bella. Jasper was uncertain of the whole situation. Still unsure what to think. But he did understand why I left but saw the affects of my departure and disagreed with my actions. Rosalie was furious as usual. She didn’t want her family to be torn apart. She hated that she and the rest of us had to leave. But she also regretted how she treated Bella. She understood now that we need her and vice versa. She, like the rest of the family, watched us attentively. 

I take a step forward and I wrap my arms around her tiny frame. I whispered to her, “Alice I’m sorry I know I’ve caused you pain by taking away your best friend, telling you to leave her and for that I am truly, truly sorry.” She didn’t hug me back immediately but after a minute she did. If she could cry I’m sure she would be sobbing. Jasper wanted to run up to her and comfort her and tell her “Everything’s going to be okay.” But he stayed back, he knew we needed to talk. He watched carefully. I believe he was ready and prepared to step in at any moment. He proved it again and again that he cared deeply about her. He was her world and vice versa. Some say he’s cold but at heart he cares deeply for his family and for Alice. And he would never let anything bad happen to her or any of us. 

Her thoughts were a jumbled mess. But she still managed to say, “I-i could’ve said no, I c-could’ve f-fought to stay but I didn’t none of did and n-now we have to m-make u-up for it. We have to h-help her. I-I c-can’t let her d-down again. I won’t.” She said, with determination in her trembling voice. “I know you won’t.” I tried to soothe. 

“And you better not do something like that again mister! I was so scared you were dead!” She hugged me tighter, she hugged me like she’d never let go and perhaps she wouldn’t. Knowing her she wouldn’t. She's a good sister and I am lucky to have her in my life. I was lucky to have them all. I shouldn’t have taken that for granted. I’ll never take it for granted again. And that’s a promise. I just need to fulfill that promise, I need to keep to it. It wasn’t just Bella who I needed to prove that she can trust me again, it was also my family too. But they also needed to prove to her they could trust them as well. I guess we all needed to prove something to one another. 

This is not going to be easy but I hope Bella’s right, I hope we can do this. I’m not as optimistic as her but I also trust her and I need her to trust me too. I never want her to be alone again. I can’t…I won’t do that to her. I want to fulfill that promise as well. No more heartbreak, just love and trust. We need to find Victoria and stop her. I hope Jacob won’t be a problem as well. But I am sure he will be another obstacle I’ll have to face. I’m not completely sure how Bella feels about him or what their whole story is but I do know he’s important to her and I need to be careful of him. Once again I can’t do anything rash or else I could lose her trust and break the treaty, causing my family trouble, and dying is not on my to-do list. But I do know none of this will be easy. It's going to take time and lots of it. As a vampire time goes by slowly but this is one of the slowest. This will be tedious but out of everything I’ve gone through in my existence and done this will be the most fulfilling. 

“I promise I won’t.” I vowed. I was going to uphold this promise. I will not let her down not again. I can’t see my sister like this ever again. I can’t ever put myself or my family through anything like again either. I don’t think I could, I’m not strong enough for that. 

“You better.” She whispered softly. 

“Don’t worry Alice, I'll make sure he upholds that promise!” Emmett hollered and cackled like a maniac. 

She laughed, “Good.” 

“Don’t worry we’ll make sure of it.” Esme smiled warmly at Alice. Alice flashed a bright smile at her. I let go of her and she went to peck Esme’s cheek. Esme’s motherly and comforting thoughts filled the air. But I also heard Emmett’s and Jasper’s thoughts.

They were planning and strategizing what they’d do if I ever hurt Bella or took her away from them again. Emmett was like a big brother to her and if anything bad would happen to her it would break his heart. And he’d probably rip me from limb to limb. He certainly wasn’t going to ever leave her again and he, like the rest of my family, was determined to help Bella. To win back her trust. And to mend what has been broken. Jasper almost killed her on her birthday and he regrets it greatly. He wants to make it up to her in any way possible but she’s also a little sister to him. He felt all of our pain during the last few months and he knows she is part of this family, he doesn’t want to see any of his family in pain. And he certainly doesn’t want to be the cause of it. Not again. 

Surprisingly it was Rosalie who spoke up first, “We need to talk to her, we need to get her trust back…I need to gain her trust in the first place.” 

“That’s very wise of you but also kind.” I say. She gave me a small smile. I’d never gotten along with her but perhaps I could mend that relationship as well. 

Carlisle was rubbing his chin, he was in deep thought. He kept trying to think of the best way to phrase his thoughts.“Rosalie is right, we need to talk to her and fix what we’ve done. We’ve caused her too much pain.” 

“But how? I know we need to give her space and give her time. But how can we make her feel like she can trust us again?” Emmett questioned. 

Carlisle was ready to answer but Esme answered instead her motherly instincts were kicking in. “We need to be dependable, show that we can be trustworthy, be honest, be consistent, admit we were wrong, and help her.” Carlisle smiled lovingly at Esme. 

“When should we invite her over and talk to her?” 

“Tomorrow after school.” Alice answered in a monotone voice, her eyes were cloudy like when she was having a vision. She did have a vision. I was preoccupied by the conversation, I didn't notice. 

“We can all agree we’re never leaving her again right?” 

“Yes.” We all agreed. 

Emmett smiled, “Just making sure.” Always the jokester. 

I knew what was coming. I dreaded it. “Know before we have a chat with Bella tomorrow we need to have a chat with you about going to the Volturi.” Oh I was in so much trouble. His voice sounded very father-like. He crossed his arms looking me closely in the eye. He had authority to it but almost a hint of menace to it as well. You never want to make him mad. But I knew he was just worried about losing me. They all were. His eyes were still golden; he always had the best self control and self restraint. But I knew he wasn’t outraged, just worried.  All eyes turned to me and I knew that this would be a long discussion. 

To Be Continued…

[httpsgrace]

BABY WITCHES AND SPIRITUAL BBYS~

On jan 11 (aka 2day) we have a new moon that’s perfect for manifesting so listen to subliminals and write a note FROM your future self explaining how your future 2024 went. Create goals and new ways to get your desires!!

<3

MANIFEST MANIFEST MANIFEST

-Httpsgrace

[moonlightrift]

Heart of Ice

Artwork of an alternate universe Nightmare Moon I've been cooking. The scars are magical in nature, permanent reminders of the things she's done for power. Also my first artwork finished in Clip Studio Paint. ..I also forgot the ears in the initial sketch, and never added them afterwards.

[ask-mars-the-marionette]

"Keep my box wound up or else..." - mars

[the-cosmic-blogger]

Gah! I knew I forgot something. I forgot to post the latest New Moon Shade chapter here as well!

Here you go!! :3

Enjoy!

[cullen-cannons]

🌑 It must be fate, my love

chapter II

Words: 405

“Welcome home, sweetie!” Renee Dweyer does not know what exactly she should say. Ordinarily, she found communication with her eldest daughter easy, but now, and with such a fragile subject, she errs on the side of “less is more”, worrying a greeting too enthusiastic will come off as insensitive.

She does not wonder long, though, for soon her eldest arms are around her. “Hey, mom. Missed you.”

“Oh, I missed you too, baby, so much.”

They embrace for several minutes until the heat sends them inside.

“Okay, I just made lunch, but it’s sandwiches so if you want to clean up first that's fine.”

“No, I’m kind of starving, actually.”

“Oh . . . okay, well, there’s something I should tell you.” Renee looks sheepish.

“Yeah. Mom? Is something wrong?” Isabella is worried.

“No, great actually . . . her name is Gwen. She’s only a few months old. I’m so sorry, but with everything going on, I didn’t know if that would cheer you up or not.”

“Mom . . . Mom that’s awesome! Is she awake?”

“Yeah. You’re happy?”

“Of course, you always said I’d make a great older sister.”

The two hug again. Perhaps Jacksonville won’t be bad, Isabella ponders, if she can throw herself into school, helping with her sister, and possibly even working a part-time job.

—

The boy stares at himself in the large mirror. He finds himself paying more attention to the gilded sides rather than his own reflection, a black mass of cloak covering his body.

“Black suits you.” Aro’s voice is soft but the satisfied tone fills the cavernous space.

“Like it suits a chalkboard.”

“Jane, dear, be nice to your new brother.” Aro scolds

Jane doesn’t respond, but Edward has never needed the spoken word and she knows as much. 

‘You are no brother of mine. Alec is my brother.’

“For a hundred years, a will be loyal to you, for that much you must give me credit.” He is a proud boy, or he was. He’d never have begged before, not when his father, both his human and vampire one worked so hard to raise him with dignity, but now he only wants the next century to be bearable.

‘Prove yourself and I may consider it.’

“Shall we, children?” Aro asks, gesturing to the throne room.

“Yes, master.” Jane and Alec chorus.

The twins look expectantly at Edward, the girl preparing a dose of her gift.

“Be patient, children. He will learn soon enough.”

[thetiredartist101]

[~TSAMS BUT DANDY’S WORLD!~]

I MADE THIS FOR THE SOTW BUT UH- 

[babythegod]

https://parade.com/astrology/new-moon-sagittarius-2023

https://parade.com/astrology/12-12-portal-spiritual-meaning

[just-some-random-blogger]

Tormented Spirit | 11

Part 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

"Is it such a sin to stand up for yourself?" you mutter as tears blur your vision. The way he reacted was visceral, instinctive even. "You never have to stand up for yourself ever again," says Daemon, reaching a hand to you, "come."

Daemon Targaryen x Hightower!Reader | 5k+ | cw: fem!reader, reader has brown hair, wife!reader, twin!Gwayne, arranged/forced marriage, canon divergence, alternate universe, slow burn, DD:DNE, pregnancy, miscarriage, panic/anxiety attacks, suicidal ideation, attempted suicide, daddy issues/child abuse/family problems, mentions/depictions of mental/physical/psychosomatic illness, ye old misogyny, angst, typos, etc.

A/N: very brief daemon cameo here. but he'll be back next chapter. please leave comments/reblogs because they really help me with the fic. | cross posted on ao3

@arabellasleopardcoat @prettybiching @myllovellybones

Upon Daemon's abrupt leave, the king named Rhaenyra his heir and she has since then set out to look for a suitable match. Though the crown princess was loathe to leave, you envy the fact that she is permitted to leave King's Landing at all.

There is a knock on your door. "Princess?"

You open the door and smile at the knight, "Erryk."

Erryk nods and tries to smile back at you. It is hard, considering you look like you have been crying. He tries to lift your spirits by saying, "I am flattered to know I am now set apart."

You take his arm after closing your door, "you have always been set apart, good ser."

The two of you walk off and break fast together. It is silent, as it has been for two moons now. You have not told him any stories since your husband's leave. You barely speak at all, in fact. Most of the time you lock yourself in your room and he pretends he does not hear your sobs. To say he is concerned is an understatement.

And, of course, there was another matter.

Once more, in silence, you walk down the halls, this time with him trailing behind you. You are headed for your father's office. Once there, you knock on his door, and he answers.

Erryk hotly eyes Otto before nodding in regard, "Lord Hand."

"Has my daughter eaten?" is all Lord Hand ever says, to him or his brother.

"Yes," your ward replies each time.

Erryk watches as your father takes your hand and links it in his arms. He leans towards you and gentle speaks, as he has ever since you threw yourself into the sea. He even rubs your knuckles as you walk off to the maester's ward. Yet, through it all, Erryk finds no comfort in this new found gentleness your father offers. He is deeply suspicious, but for your sake, he tries to convince himself your father has changed.

Each day, without fail, you and your father visit your maester together, and each day, without fail, he worries for you more and more.

Erryk straightens up when the door to the maester's opens. He is quick to come to your side and offer his arm as you wave your father good bye. Otto does not regard you before walking off. He never does.

You smile at Erryk once it's just the two of you. The latter asks, "how are you feeling?"

You notice the lines on his forehead, and it makes your lips flatten. You tilt your head, "same as I felt yesterday," you place a hand on his cheek, "and the day before... so do not worry for me."

"Forgive me, princess," Erryk lowers his gaze and pulls your hand away, "but such a thought cannot comfort me for you have been nothing but sad since Daemon left."

You clasp your hands together, "that's hardly his fault."

"Is it not?" Erryk questions rather harshly.

"Not really..." you offer a soft smile, "none but my brother remembers the days prior to my sadness." You chuckle under your breath, "and even then, I am aware he feeds me honeyed words"

Erryk gulps when you take his arm. He wants so badly to caress your cheeks as you bring a beaming smile to your face.

"Do not torture yourself trying to make me happy," you raise your brows at him as you lead him off, "you did not meet me happy, Erryk, and it is not your job to make the impossible happen."

You examine his expression as you make your way back to your chambers. You had hoped he could find some sort of comfort in this truth, but he looks only more worried. You sigh, "would you like to know why it is I visit the maester everyday?"

Erryk knits his brows, "I only like what you want."

"..."

"And if my lady wanted it, she would have already told me why her father brings her to the maesters daily."

You carefully mutter his name.

He stares at you for a moment, hand itching to clutch your cheeks. He holds himself back but mutters your name with such a softness, it makes your skin prick with goosebumps.

Your breath hitches and you have to look away. You huff and lick your lips, "I am with child."

He stops in his tracks.

You pull away to stand before him. You feel incredibly self-conscious as his face contorts.

"My-" he starts by then bows his head, "Seven bless you for the fortunate news," he slowly looks up at you, "congratulations."

You slowly raise your brows, "you congratulate me yet appear so frightened."

"No," he shakes his head, "I am not frightened... merely... shocked."

You aimlessly look off.

"... and perhaps... worried."

You chuckle, soft and dry, "worry will do none of us any good."

"Does the prince know?"

You look back at him. You shake your head, "no one knows."

He clenches his jaw.

"I plan to tell Arryk next," you rub your belly, "soon, I will be showing... and I do not want you to be frightened."

There is much Erryk wishes to say, much he wishes to promise you. I promise to sever any hand that rises harm you or your child. I promise, so long as I breathe, to do all I am able to assure your safety. But he says nothing because he knows you will cry. He says nothing because he can sense that you are frightened.

You begin to walk off again and Erryk wordlessly follows. You look back at him, finding him in deep thought with his gaze lowered. You turn to your fingers and fidget with them, "I did not want to announce it in case it does not last."

You can feel him looking at you.

"Even now, we do not know what the future holds."

He clenches his fists tightly, "princess-"

You turn.

"-I know it means nothing, but I believe you are stronger than you think. I have seen it, your strength... and your happiness, however small and fleeting you may think it."

Your eyes water. You reach out for him and squeeze his hand, "do not hold yourself in such low regard. Your words mean everything to me, Erryk."

You walk back to your chambers and invite Erryk inside. He remains stood by the door as you get quill and parchment. You have been writing daily two letters— one, which comes easy:

𝔐𝔶 𝔡𝔢𝔞𝔯𝔢𝔰𝔱 𝔟𝔯𝔬𝔱𝔥𝔢𝔯, ℑ 𝔪𝔦𝔰𝔰 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔢𝔳𝔢𝔯𝔶𝔡𝔞𝔶. ℑ 𝔭𝔯𝔞𝔶 𝔣𝔬𝔯 𝔶𝔬𝔲𝔯 𝔥𝔢𝔞𝔩𝔱𝔥 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔣𝔬𝔯𝔱𝔲𝔫𝔢 𝔞𝔰 𝔪𝔲𝔠𝔥 𝔞𝔰 ℑ 𝔭𝔯𝔞𝔶 𝔴𝔢'𝔩𝔩 𝔰𝔢𝔢 𝔢𝔞𝔠𝔥 𝔬𝔱𝔥𝔢𝔯 𝔞𝔤𝔞𝔦𝔫 𝔰𝔬𝔬𝔫. ℑ 𝔞𝔪 𝔩𝔬𝔫𝔢𝔩𝔶 𝔴𝔦𝔱𝔥𝔬𝔲𝔱 𝔶𝔬𝔲. ℑ 𝔩𝔬𝔫𝔤 𝔱𝔬 𝔳𝔦𝔰𝔦𝔱 𝔒𝔩𝔡𝔱𝔬𝔴𝔫 𝔣𝔬𝔯 𝔱𝔥𝔢𝔯𝔢 𝔦𝔰 𝔫𝔬𝔱𝔥𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔦𝔫 𝔎𝔦𝔫𝔤'𝔰 𝔏𝔞𝔫𝔡𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔣𝔬𝔯 𝔪𝔢, 𝔟𝔲𝔱 𝔣𝔞𝔱𝔥𝔢𝔯 𝔴𝔬𝔲𝔩𝔡 𝔫𝔢𝔳𝔢𝔯 𝔞𝔩𝔩𝔬𝔴 𝔦𝔱. ℑ 𝔞𝔪 𝔤𝔯𝔞𝔱𝔢𝔣𝔲𝔩 𝔣𝔬𝔯 𝔱𝔥𝔢 𝔰𝔴𝔢𝔢𝔱𝔦𝔢𝔰 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔰𝔢𝔫𝔱 𝔪𝔢. ℑ 𝔯𝔢𝔠𝔢𝔦𝔳𝔢𝔡 𝔱𝔥𝔢𝔪 𝔧𝔲𝔰𝔱 𝔶𝔢𝔰𝔱𝔢𝔯𝔡𝔞𝔶 𝔫𝔬𝔬𝔫. 𝔗𝔥𝔢𝔶 𝔞𝔯𝔢 𝔶𝔬𝔲𝔯 𝔣𝔞𝔳𝔬𝔯𝔦𝔱𝔢 𝔣𝔩𝔞𝔳𝔬𝔯 𝔥𝔬𝔴𝔢𝔳𝔢𝔯, 𝔫𝔬𝔱 𝔪𝔦𝔫𝔢. ℑ 𝔡𝔬 𝔫𝔬𝔱 𝔪𝔦𝔫𝔡. ℑ𝔱 𝔪𝔞𝔨𝔢𝔰 𝔪𝔢 𝔱𝔥𝔦𝔫𝔨 𝔬𝔣 𝔶𝔬𝔲. ℑ 𝔩𝔬𝔳𝔢 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔳𝔢𝔯𝔶 𝔪𝔲𝔠𝔥. 𝔚𝔯𝔦𝔱𝔢 𝔱𝔬 𝔪𝔢 𝔴𝔥𝔢𝔫 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔠𝔞𝔫. 𝔏𝔬𝔳𝔢, 𝔜𝔬𝔲𝔯 𝔱𝔴𝔦𝔫 𝔰𝔦𝔰𝔱𝔢𝔯.

... and another which takes far greater effort and attempts to complete:

𝔗𝔬 𝔓𝔯𝔦𝔫𝔠𝔢 𝔇𝔞𝔢𝔪𝔬𝔫, 𝔇𝔞𝔢𝔯 𝔇𝔢𝔞𝔯 𝔇𝔞𝔢𝔪𝔬𝔫, 𝔗𝔬 𝔪𝔶 𝔥𝔲𝔰𝔟𝔞𝔫𝔡, 𝔇𝔞𝔢𝔪𝔬𝔫, 𝔇𝔢𝔞𝔯𝔢𝔰𝔱 𝔥𝔲𝔰𝔟𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔇𝔞𝔢𝔪𝔬𝔫, ℑ 𝔥𝔬𝔭𝔢 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔭𝔯𝔞𝔶 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔞𝔯𝔢 𝔴𝔢𝔩𝔩. ℑ 𝔠𝔬𝔫𝔰𝔱𝔞𝔫𝔱𝔩𝔶 𝔴𝔬𝔯𝔯𝔶 𝔣𝔬𝔯 𝔶𝔬𝔲𝔯 𝔥𝔢𝔞𝔩𝔱𝔥 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔴𝔢𝔩𝔩-𝔟𝔢𝔦𝔫𝔤. ℑ 𝔣𝔢𝔞𝔯 𝔣𝔬𝔯 𝔶𝔬𝔲𝔯 𝔰𝔞𝔣𝔢𝔱𝔶 𝔣𝔬𝔯 𝔴𝔞𝔯 𝔦𝔰 𝔱𝔯𝔢𝔞𝔠𝔥𝔢𝔯𝔬𝔲𝔰 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔴𝔢 𝔞𝔯𝔢 𝔞𝔩𝔩 𝔣𝔩𝔢𝔰𝔥 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔟𝔩𝔬𝔬𝔡. 𝔇𝔬 𝔫𝔬𝔱 𝔪𝔦𝔰𝔲𝔫𝔡𝔢𝔯𝔰𝔱𝔞𝔫𝔡, ℑ 𝔡𝔬 𝔫𝔬𝔱 𝔡𝔬𝔲𝔟𝔱 𝔶𝔬𝔲𝔯 𝔠𝔞𝔭𝔞𝔟𝔦𝔩𝔦𝔱𝔦𝔢𝔰. ℑ 𝔰𝔦𝔪𝔭𝔩𝔶 𝔠𝔞𝔫𝔫𝔬𝔱 𝔟𝔲𝔱 𝔥𝔢𝔩𝔭 𝔣𝔢𝔞𝔯 𝔱𝔥𝔢 𝔴𝔬𝔯𝔰𝔱. ℑ 𝔪𝔦𝔰𝔰 𝔶𝔬𝔲. ℑ 𝔪𝔦𝔰𝔰 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔦𝔫 𝔞 𝔴𝔞𝔶 ℑ 𝔥𝔞𝔳𝔢 𝔫𝔬𝔱 𝔪𝔦𝔰𝔰𝔢𝔡 𝔪𝔶 𝔟𝔯𝔬𝔱𝔥𝔢𝔯, 𝔪𝔶 𝔰𝔦𝔰𝔱𝔢𝔯, 𝔪𝔶 𝔣𝔞𝔱𝔥𝔢𝔯, 𝔬𝔯 𝔪𝔶 𝔪𝔬𝔱𝔥𝔢𝔯. ℑ 𝔪𝔦𝔰𝔰 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔦𝔫 𝔞 𝔴𝔞𝔶 𝔱𝔥𝔞𝔱 𝔪𝔞𝔨𝔢𝔰 𝔪𝔶 𝔣𝔬𝔬𝔡 𝔱𝔞𝔰𝔱𝔢 𝔟𝔦𝔱𝔱𝔢𝔯. ℑ 𝔪𝔦𝔰𝔰 ℭ𝔞𝔯𝔞𝔵𝔢𝔰. ℑ 𝔪𝔦𝔰𝔰 𝔥𝔬𝔴 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔟𝔯𝔬𝔲𝔤𝔥𝔱 𝔪𝔢 𝔬𝔫 𝔡𝔯𝔞𝔤𝔬𝔫 𝔟𝔞𝔠𝔨, 𝔢𝔳𝔢𝔫 𝔦𝔣 𝔱𝔬 𝔥𝔲𝔯𝔱 𝔪𝔢. ℑ 𝔪𝔲𝔠𝔥 𝔭𝔯𝔢𝔣𝔢𝔯 𝔟𝔢𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔥𝔲𝔯𝔱 𝔟𝔶 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔱𝔥𝔞𝔫 𝔫𝔬𝔱 𝔥𝔢𝔞𝔯𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔣𝔯𝔬𝔪 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔞𝔱 𝔞𝔩𝔩. 𝔇𝔬 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔪𝔦𝔰𝔰 𝔪𝔢? 𝔉𝔬𝔯𝔤𝔦𝔳𝔢 𝔪𝔢 𝔦𝔣 ℑ 𝔲𝔭𝔰𝔢𝔱 𝔶𝔬𝔲. 𝔉𝔬𝔯𝔤𝔦𝔳𝔢 𝔪𝔢 𝔣𝔬𝔯 𝔫𝔬𝔱 𝔰𝔢𝔢𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔬𝔣𝔣. ℑ 𝔴𝔞𝔰 𝔡𝔬𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔴𝔥𝔞𝔱 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔞𝔰𝔨𝔢𝔡. ℑ 𝔴𝔞𝔱𝔠𝔥𝔢𝔡 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔣𝔩𝔶 𝔬𝔣𝔣 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔴𝔢𝔭𝔱 𝔞𝔰 ℑ 𝔡𝔦𝔡. ℑ 𝔨𝔫𝔬𝔴 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔡𝔬 𝔫𝔬𝔱 𝔠𝔞𝔯𝔢, 𝔟𝔲𝔱 𝔭𝔢𝔯𝔥𝔞𝔭𝔰 𝔱𝔥𝔦𝔰 𝔴𝔦𝔩𝔩 𝔪𝔞𝔨𝔢 𝔶𝔬𝔲 ��𝔭𝔦𝔱𝔢 𝔪𝔢 𝔩𝔢𝔰𝔰. ℑ 𝔩𝔬𝔳𝔢 𝔶𝔬𝔲. ℑ 𝔩𝔬𝔫𝔤 𝔣𝔬𝔯 𝔶𝔬𝔲. 𝔉𝔯𝔬𝔪, 𝔖𝔦𝔫𝔠𝔢𝔯𝔢𝔩𝔶, 𝔜𝔬𝔲𝔯 𝔴𝔦𝔣𝔢 𝔏𝔞𝔡𝔶 ℌ𝔦𝔤𝔥 𝔓𝔯𝔦𝔫𝔠𝔢𝔰𝔰

In the end, this is what you sent:

𝔇𝔞𝔢𝔪𝔬𝔫, ℑ 𝔥𝔬𝔭𝔢 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔭𝔯𝔞𝔶 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔞𝔯𝔢 𝔴𝔢𝔩𝔩. 𝔐𝔞𝔶 𝔱𝔥𝔢 𝔖𝔢𝔳𝔢𝔫 𝔟𝔩𝔢𝔰𝔰 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔶𝔬𝔲𝔯 𝔪𝔢𝔫 𝔴𝔦𝔱𝔥 𝔶𝔬𝔲𝔯 𝔢𝔫𝔡𝔢𝔞𝔳𝔬𝔯𝔰 𝔦𝔫 𝔱𝔥𝔢 𝔖𝔱𝔢𝔭𝔰𝔱𝔬𝔫𝔢𝔰. ℑ 𝔭𝔯𝔞𝔶 𝔶𝔬𝔲, ℭ𝔞𝔯𝔞𝔵𝔢𝔰, 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔶𝔬𝔲𝔯 𝔠𝔬𝔪𝔭𝔞𝔫𝔶 𝔞𝔯𝔢 𝔥𝔢𝔞𝔩𝔱𝔥𝔶 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔰𝔞𝔣𝔢. ℑ 𝔪𝔦𝔰𝔰 𝔶𝔬𝔲. ℑ 𝔭𝔯𝔞𝔶 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔣𝔦𝔫𝔡 𝔦𝔱 𝔦𝔫 𝔶𝔬𝔲 𝔱𝔬 𝔣𝔬𝔯𝔤𝔦𝔳𝔢 𝔪𝔢 𝔢𝔫𝔬𝔲𝔤𝔥 𝔱𝔬 𝔯𝔢𝔭𝔩𝔶. 𝔏𝔬𝔳𝔦𝔫𝔤𝔩𝔶, 𝔜𝔬𝔲𝔯 𝔴𝔦𝔣𝔢.

—of course, after reading it aloud to Erryk, just to be sure it was appropriate.

Erryk has only ever assured you that whatever it is you mean to tell your husband is more than appropraite, but for once, he offers that you add something. "Perhaps you should tell him that you're... you know."

You spare him a glance as you seal your letters with wax and shake your head, "why? Do you think he would return if I did?"

No. Erryk does not hold him in such a high regard.

"If he wanted to respond, he would. No matter what I have to say, I cannot change his mind if he's already set it," you stand, "and again... we don't know what the future holds."

You were right.

Woe is you who understood the inner workings of your husband. Daemon was in the middle of chewing tough, flavorless meat when he received your latest letter. You were right about not being able to change his mind about writing to you, but you were wrong in thinking your words wouldn't bring him to write back.

It would have, that is, if he ever read them.

The prince goes to Caraxes and feeds him what remained of his food. He then goes to his tent and chucks your letter along with the rest of it. He lies down in his cot and wonders what you write to him about. He wonders if you miss his touch, then touches himself to the thought of you.

A moon passes. Though you knew neither your maester nor your father would ever trick you into believing you were with child when you were not, the truth of it all only set in upon catching a glimpse of your bare body in the mirror. You had taken a warm bath in the evening because you felt sore, and upon seeing how big your breasts had become and how your belly protruded in a way it has not, you realize why you were so sore and just how real it was that you were carrying a child.

It was terrible that upon your awareness of the changes in your body, so much started to change. You found it harder to fit into your clothes as your breasts and arms required much more space than normal. Your face began to change as well, and you could scarcely recognize your own reflection with how swollen you looked. What's worse, is that your skin began to break out with painfully deep pimples.

You knew that you shouldn't be picking at them, but you couldn't help yourself, so you did, and soon your face, your neck, and even your back was littered with red blotches. You were so horrified with the way you looked, you barely left your room.

It was then Alicent began to worry.

"Just place it there," Viserys points haphazardly from where he sat.

"Here?" Alicent places the figure near some tiny stone trees.

The king looks, "no-" then comes behind her, guiding her hand from behind. Alicent tenses when his other hand comes to her waist. Viserys moves her hand and Alicent finally places the figure. The former smiles, "there."

Alicent catches her breath as the king pulls away.

Viserys sits and continues carving out the piece he had at hand. After a few moments, he notices Alicent staring at him. He quirks a brow, "something wrong, my dear?"

"Have you heard from your brother?"

He releases his block and leans back on his chair, "no."

Alicent nods, lowering her gaze.

"Why?"

She shakes her head.

"Come now," Viserys stands, "you can tell me."

Alicent looks at him when he takes her hand. She presses her lips as she feels her heart race. Her voice trembles, "m-my sister."

He hums, "has something happened to her?"

She rapidly shakes her head, "I barely see her anymore. She stays in her room days on end."

"I see," he nods, "did she and Daemon argue before he left?"

"I-" she shrugs as the king pulls away, going back to his chair, "I don't know."

Viserys spares her a look before picking up his block.

"I do know that she feels abandoned. First, Gwayne, now the prince," Alicent sighs, "she has no one."

"She has you."

She shakes her head, "she and my brother have always been close, close in a way twins are, close in a way I can never understand. She does not regard me as dearly, I don't think."

This makes his brows furrow. He tilts his head, "that is not true. Many a man would regard you dearly, Alicent."

Her throat tightens.

"And your sister is not a man," Viserys raises a hand, "does she not like to pray?"

Alicent nods slowly.

"You might want to invite her to the temple. It might cheer her up."

The girl rubs her hands together and nods. She then curtsies and heads for the door, that is, until Viserys stops her.

The king rises and takes her hand, "eager to leave, are you?"

"N- I-"

"I don't bore you, do I?"

Alicent shakes her head, "n-no! Not at all, I simply--"

"I jest," Viserys chuckles, pressing a kiss at the back of her hand, "go to her." He rubs her knuckles, "she is most fortunate to have your affections."

Alicent curtsies again and leaves.

As she makes her way to your chambers, she sees one of your servants and calls for her. The servant girl is quick to greet the lady and Alicent notices the letters in her hands.

"Have you gone to my sister?" she asks.

The servant girl nods, "yes."

"How is she?" the red haired girl sighs.

"She... is her normal self," she nods slowly.

Alicent shakes her head, "... sad?"

"Yes," she agrees.

"Who are those for?" Alicent motions to the letters she was holding.

"These?" the girl raises, "ah... your brother and good-brother, milady."

"Oh," she tilts her head slightly, "does she write to them often?"

She nods, "everyday, milady."

"Oh," she blinks. There is something about this comforts her and... hurts her. She thinks about what she confessed to the king, how she was aware you did not regard her so dearly, and yet, there was an ache in her heart to know her sister would not seek solace in her during this time.

Alicent dismisses the servant then comes to your chambers.

The Cargyll stood outside your door greets her, "my lady."

"Ser..." she nods, "Erryk?"

"Arryk, my lady."

"Ah, yes," she lowers her head, "forgive me."

"An honest mistake," he smiles, "you are here for your sister, yes?"

Alicent nods.

He turns and knocks on your door, "princess. Your sister, Lady Alicent, is here."

"I-" she steps forward and raises her voice, "wish to invite to pray at the temple."

Arryk turns to her and smiles. Alicent smiles back and they both wait for you to respond. Only, it seems you are really taking your time.

She begins to pick at her nails and the minutes pass. She sighs, turning to ser Arryk, "maybe she is asleep."

He shakes his head, "she does not sleep at this time. She is probably changing."

"How do you now? Do you go inside to check on her?"

"I only come inside when she needs help with something," he nods curtly, "or, if perhaps, I feel sense danger in the air."

Alicent tilts her head, "but how do you know?"

"The princess is a creature of habit. Though she is good at concealing her emotions, you can only hide so much from someone who watches you closely."

"How close do you watch her, ser?"

Arryk is taken aback by the question. It was in all accounts innocent; Alicent meant nothing more that what she said, but it did not feel such to the knight. It feels as though he was caught staring longingly at you right this moment. "W-What?"

He is thankful Alicent does not get to clarify herself because you finally emerge.

Alicent perks and deflates all at once upon seeing you. You smile at her through the lacy, black veil you have covering your face. She returns your embrace as you hug her, but she cannot help but knit her brows at you, or rather, that veil on you.

"You look well, sister," you smile, taking her hands.

She takes a moment before replying, "and you...'re wearing a veil."

Your smile flattens.

Alicent is quick to shake her head, "it looks good. Very stylish."

You contain your frown and take her arm, "I am most pleased to have you here."

The both of you begin to walk off and Arryk follows after. Alicent asks, "you are?"

"Of course!" you give her a look, "why, you are normally with the princess-" you raise a finger, "-which I do not have any qualms with. Most people dream to have a friendship that you both have. But I am glad you have a moment to spare for me."

Alicent's brows raise.

"Rhaenyra is doing better now, I hope?"

"Yes," she nods slowly, "she can now talk about the queen without weeping."

"Better than I ever was," you squeeze her arm.

Alicent offers you a soft smile.

The sight of her face brings you comfort, "I have missed your company, and your pretty face, my pretty girl."

She chuckles.

"You inherited our mother's beauty and left none for me—"

"That's not-"

"—especially none for Gwayne."

Alicent chortles and you giggle in response.

Arryk smiles, feels his heart clench at the tender display before him. Thank the Seven for Alicent Hightower.

"You should join us, sister," Alicent squeeze your hand, "Rhaenyra enjoys your company as much as I do."

You shake your head, offering her a kind smile, "I would not want to infect you with my bitterness."

For a moment, Alicent wants to ask if that was why you were wearing a veil, but she decides against it.

Arryk stood a few paces away from you as you prayed in the temple. Both you and your sister were on your knees with your hands clasped and eyes closed as you recited your prayers.

"Lastly," Alicent mutters, "we pray for Daemon's safety-"

You open your eyes and turn to your sister.

"-that he, as well as the Velaryons and their fleet, may find swift victory so that they may all return to their families."

You unveil yourself, "seven hear us."

"Seven hear us," Alicent ends, bowing her head for the final time.

You try not to think of the acne staring back at Alicent when she turns to you, but her initial reaction to seeing your face makes it quite hard. She does you a favor of not saying anything regarding it however.

You squeeze her hand and whisper, "there is something I must tell you."

She gives you a solemn expression.

"I am with child."

Her eyes widen and her lips part.

"Of course, father knows, but I have not told anyone, save my wards," you shake your head, "it is why my skin is littered with blemishes, and why I do not wish to come out of my room."

She frowns, calling out your name softly.

"Not even my husband knows, Alicent," you shake your head, "and I did not tell him because-" you eyes begin to water, "because the chances of a miscarriage is still high."

Alicent can feel your fear, your worry.

"But gods, I feel like I will go mad if I keep this in any longer," you break down into a sob.

She immediately seals you into an embrace. Arryk is immediately alerted by the sound of your cries. He observes for a moment but does not act, knowing you need this moment with your sister.

Alicent feels her chest tighten, not because of how tightly you embrace her, but because of how evidently you needed this hug.

"I want to go home," you mumble.

She nods, "I'll take you back to you-"

"To Oldtown," you sniffle, taking in her scent. She smelled like your mother and it made you wonder if your presence ever felt comforting for anyone, or if you just inspired distress, "this is not my home."

"Sister," she tries to look at you, "you are married to the prin-"

"And where is he?" you blurt, pulling away.

Alicent frowns at the redness of your eyes and the wobbling of your lips.

"I feel nothing but emptiness here," you place your hand on your belly, "I do not want that emptiness to manifest within me-" you shake your head, "I do not want my bitterness to kill my unborn child."

Alicent's cheeks instantly become wet.

You wipe her tears away and frown, "will you try and help me convince father to send me home?"

She stares at you, "sister..."

It is an impossible ask, and you both know it.

"Please," you brush her red locks, "he has always favored you."

Alicent does not know if that was true. She lowers her gaze and shakes her head, "I... I will try."

Your lips wobble as you watch worry manifest on her features. Guilt begins to choke you, "forgive me for asking much of you, my baby sister."

Alicent shakes her head quicker then steels herself away, "no. I-" she nods, "I want to help."

You squeeze her hands, "do not force it if it is too hard."

Later that evening, Alicent builds her nerve and visits the Lord Hand's office. The moment she enters the room, she knows she's made a mistake, for he was in a sour mood.

"What?" he snaps, head in his hand.

It was too late, however. He will be cross if she says she's changed her mind, he will be cross if she lies and presents him with something unimportant, and he will be cross if she tells him what she actually came here for. She takes a breath, might as do it, "it's regarding my sister."

Otto immediately perks, eyes squinting, "what of her?"

"She... asked me to ask you if she could... continue the rest of her term in Oldtown."

The man tilts his head, eyes widening in disbelief, "I beg your pardon?"

"She sai-"

"She told you she's carrying?" he points a finger.

Alicent tenses. She gulps, "yes."

"When?" he snaps, coming to a stand.

"J-" she watches her father walk over, "just today."

Otto's face is hard as he recalls how you begged him not to make a spectacle of your childbearing, lest your body fails you. He thinks there is something to be said about how you were now willing to divulge this information with Alicent. He raises his brows, "who else knows?"

Alicent feels cornered. It does not feel right to divulge this information.

"Did she tell Daemon?" he places his hands on her shoulder.

She stammers, "I-... I do not know."

Otto examines her daughter. He thinks she knows more than she lets on but does not pursue it further. He sighs, caressing her cheek before pulling away, "you know, you both know, I will not allow such a thing."

He walks back to his desk and Alicent takes in a deep breath.

"If she is here, then I can see to her needs."

"She needs the warmth of home," she says.

Otto sighs as he sits down. He motions vaguely to his child, "this is her home. She's married to Daemon Targaryen."

"But the prince is not here," she steps forward, "she can return when he does."

He tilts his head. He knows her boldness comes stems from her love from you. That is why he says, "and do you really think she can return if she leaves?"

Alicent's face falls. It is incredibly subtle, but Otto catches it nonetheless.

"If your sister were to go to your brother in Oldtown, what do you think the Rogue Prince will say?" her father leans on the desk, "you bore witness to how he acted when your sister came to Gwayne when he was knocked off his horse at the tourney. Do you think he will enjoy the fact she retreated to him in this time? Do you think he will care enough to retrieve her once he returns from the Stepstones? Or will he squander in brothels and sire a thousand bastards?"

She begins to pick at her nails.

"And what of your sister's child?" Otto raises a brow, "what if she loses the babe during the journey to Oldtown? What if she loses the babe once she's there? Who then is to be blamed?"

"I-"

"And what if the baby does not inherit a single Valyrian trait?" he leans back on his chair, "what if the babe looks like a Hightower and Daemon decided to accuse her of infidelity?"

"But she would never-"

"I know that," Otto raises a finger, "you know that. Does her husband share in this knowledge?"

"..."

"It would look like she left to hide her sins."

Alicent's heart begins to pound.

"Do you understand the risk, child?"

She opens her mouth but nothing comes out.

Otto sighs and stands again, "I understand you mean well."

Alicent is at the brink of tears as her father approaches her again.

"But there is no way for your sister to go to Oldtown," he ushers her to the door, "without risking much." Lord Hand opens the door and gives his daughter one last, "not unless the king allows such a thing."

Alicent takes in her father's features. He smiles softly at her. Her stomach feels uneasy.

"Go to bed, Alicent," he strokes her hair, "your sister is mine to worry about, not yours."

The door closes.

It was a shock that Alicent came to you the next day, telling you that you were set to leave for Oldtown at noon. You were overjoyed and sealed your sister into the tightest hugs, "I can't believe you convinced father!"

Alicent rubs your back, softly muttering, "...I really didn't."

"Oh but you did," you chuckled in between sobs, "I owe you my first born's life."

She pulls away and shakes her head, "d-don't- don't say that."

You frown at the worry that over her face. You shake your head, "very well. Forgive me for burdening you with such a thought."

So it was that you left that day for Oldtown. You were grateful the king graciously allowed you to bring both your wards along with you. You would would have been less so, had you known Alicent requested it specifically, even less had known it was not actually your father that she had convinced but the king himself, and less than that to know she was able to do so because she had been visiting him oft since the queen's passing. You would outright abhor it had you known Alicent's relationship with Viserys was borne from your father's encouragement.

Your unawareness of this made you deeply cherish the moment you saw your twin brother's face. You were exhausted from the travel, much more than usual, and yet an energy burned within you when you saw Oldtown's heir.

Gwayne outright laughed and pointed at you as you sobbed on your way over to him, "what in god's name is on your face, twin?"

You felt nothing but affection from his blatant mockery.

He coos as he pulls you into a hug once you are close enough, "now, now. I cannot have a princess weeping in my arms." He is relieved by the warmth of your being. He has not been embraced so tenderly you've been separated. "Not an ugly one at least."

"I am with child, you miscreant," you mutter against his chest.

Gwayne's rubs your back as his face hardens with worry, "I know. Father wrote to me."

You sniffle and pull away. You glare at him, "yet you still dare to be mean to your beloved sister?"

"Spare me your tears," he says rather genuinely as takes in your wet face, "your cry baby attitude will get nowhere with me."

Your lips wobble at the sentiment.

Gwayne actually starts feeling bad, but then you release a soft laugh.

"You fucking rat," you scratch your eyes as you break into a giggle.

Your twin gasps, turning to your wards who were approaching. Lord Hightower raises a brow at them, "are you aware your lady has a vulgar mouth on her?"

"Please, Gwayne," you shake your head, "I'm a fucking princess."

The laugh that leaves your brother is ugly, loud, and real.

Yes, your unawareness made you cherish every moment you spend in Oldtown. It was still hard to be with child; there were the food aversions and cravings, soreness, sickness, and mood swings that haunted you, but the spirit of emptiness remained in King's Landing. Now that you were free from the scrutiny of court, from the politicking of your father, there was a lightness within you that you had not felt in a long time.

You recounted the things you and Gwayne used to do when you were younger, then caught yourself imagining your child doing the same. Suddenly, you didn't feel so terrified by the thought of bringing a child into this world. The Cargyll twins can attest to the shift in your demeanor.

It was a shame that a moon's worth of happiness disappeared in an instant all because of a single letter.

Gwayne comes to a stand from his spot upon seeing you react so physically to whatever it was you were reading. The Cargyll twins who were breaking fast with both of you, stand to attention as well.

You clutch your chest as your other hand crushes the letter you just read.

"What is it?" your brother asks, "what has happened?"

"It's Alicent," you feel your chest tighten.

Gwayne comes to your side, placing a hand on your shoulder. He is alarmed by your tension, "sister, sister. Breathe."

You clutch your belly. It's much pronounced now, and you know it adds to your struggle to breathe.

"Breathe," your twin repeats, "that's it."

You manage to calm yourself, but soon tears begin to fall from your eyes, "Gwayne."

"Yes, I'm Gwayne," he squeezes your shoulder, "what's happened to Alicent?"

You shake your head and look up at him, "she's getting married."

The man pulls his head back. His brows knit, "married? To whom?"

Your breath hitches as you push yourself up to a stand, "to the king."

Whatever confusion he had regarding your reaction instantly dissipates. This match reeked of politicking, politicking from the Hand of the King. Gwayne clenches his jaw as helps you up. He feels the same emotions he did upon learning of your own betrothal. History was repeating itself, yet now, your brother's chest is tighter. He had always believed your father wouldn't be so cruel to willingly give you to the Rogue Prince, but now... he realizes this was something he wanted to believe.

Gwayne calls your name out as you begin to walk off, "where are you going?"

"Where do you think?" you snap.

You despise every second spent on the way back to King's Landing. You are exhausted when you return and you are loathe to see your father waiting for you.

Otto calls your name and greets you with a smile. His glee is genuine. He is wholeheartedly pleased to see how much better you look from your visit to Oldtown, "I am glad to see time with your twin has livened you, my girl."

As true as that may be, it was your anger that livened you in this moment. You despise him as he takes your cheeks and kisses your forehead. You destest him as he grins.

"I have missed you."

You wish you hated him more as not to be so affected by this. Your nostrils flare, "where is my sister?"

His face falls slightly at your complete ignorance to his greeting. He pulls away, "getting ready for her nuptials."

You stare at him. The burst of affection he had for your wanes enough for him to recognize your look, your glare. It was written all over. Anger. Defiance. Hurt. It could not be contained.

"Am I not enough for you, father?" you quip under your breath as your eyes begin to water.

Otto looks around then takes your hand, "let us speak insi-"

"Is it not enough?!" you break free from his hold. You seethe, "—that I am about to deliver you a royal grandchild and you should require my baby sister to do the sa-"

"She is not a baby," he quips.

You clench your jaw, "she just turned ten and-"

"She is in ripe marrying age."

You turn away from him. You are about to walk away, and he knows it. He cannot stand it.

"She did this so you could go to Oldtown," he snaps, pointing an accusing finger at you.

You give the Hand one last look before going to your sister.

Alicent is equally overjoyed and worried by your appearance. Just as she assures you that you didn't have to come all this way, you silence her by telling her, "it is not too late."

Your sister is frozen in her spot as you explain the plans you have for her to escape her marriage with the king. She can tell that you have thought about it greatly, considering the speed and detail in which you speak it. The only thing that manages to quiet you is the way she says, "it is done."

"W-what?"

"I am decided," Alicent shakes her head as her eyes begin to water, "do you not notice how your plans to save me demand your suffering?"

Your brows knit, "I will suffer no more than I already do."

She sniffles as she speaks your name, "when mother died... I watched you writhe in pain. None but Gwayne ever offered you true comfort."

"And you!" you clutch your cheeks, "you foolish girl! Do you not understand, I wish to free you from-"

"We are all of us destined to be a prisoner," Alicent mutters as tears fall from her eyes, "us, more than most. If not the king, I will be married off to another man I do not want."

You clench your jaw, "Ali-"

"At least if I am queen, I can save you from Daemon."

Your heart stops. You rest your forehead on hers, "you stupid little girl."

Your words burn her. She watches as you pull away, finding the tears staining your cheeks.

"If you are doing this for me, and you marry him... I will never speak to you again."

Her face drops.

"Did I not tell you that I should be the one to do such things for you?"

"Sister," she takes your hand, "... I am stronger than you."

"... oh."

"I can help."

You lower your gaze and nod. You pull away from her and walk away.

Less than a fortnight later, your sister marries the king and is proclaimed the new Queen of the Seven Realms.

[narrators-journal]

The new moon rises TOC

A delve into a Ryomina-focused persona 3 au. Whether or not it will be finished is uncertain so far, but it's for my own fun.

Created: 11/18/24

Updated: 12/15/24

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Sneak peeks

I'm fine

[jasperhaleobsessed]

Mending What's been Broken

Summary: Edward and Bella have a different conversation after New Moon than in canon.

Notes: May not be exactly accurate to what was being said or done during this chapter. Like when I talk about Edward’s golden eyes his eyes I believe were coal black later in their discussion. But hey I tried.

Characters: Bella Swan and Edward Cullen

Warnings: A bit angsty but nothing serious

“I wanted to believe him. But this was my life without him that he was describing, not the other way around.”

(Stephanie Meyer, New Moon Page 535)

...

I looked up to meet his gaze, “I want to believe you, I want to believe that you’ll never leave me again but you gotta understand that…you put me through a lot. You put me through a world wind of pain.” Edward looked guilty and ashamed. This was exactly what I didn’t want to happen. Yes I am upset he left but that doesn’t mean I want him to continue to brood, there are far more important things to worry about.

I sighed, I didn’t want this. It just wasn’t how I wanted or imagined how this talk would go. But I also know Edward. He’s like Angel, he broods too much. He hurt me, yes but I don’t want him to do this alone. “I’m not saying this to make you feel guilty or because I don’t want you back.”

I paused, trying to think of the right way to say this. “I need time for us to rebuild that trust because if we’re gonna go from here then I need to know that I can trust you and that you won’t leave me again.”

My voice cracked, this wasn’t an easy conversation. I wanted to welcome him back with open arms, I wanted to kiss him and hug him, and say of course I forgive you. But I just couldn’t yet. I need to rebuild what was broken. Even if he had good reasons why he left it didn’t make it hurt any less. I can’t forget all the pain, I can’t push it away, I need to face it and mend it.

I then continued with, “But I also need some space to let everything sink in and process all of this.”

He still looked guilt ridden. “I understand Bella.” He says softly. He looks down at the ground unable to meet my gaze. He looked as if he was in pensive thought. And he still looked like he was gonna brood…again. I stepped towards him and tilted his chin to meet mine. He cringed. But I was determined. “Bella don’t—” He started to say. “Edward, look at me.” “You messed up but we’re gonna try to fix this.”

“And what if we can’t.”

“Then we’ll cross that bridge when it happens.”

He met my gaze, “I don’t want to lose you.” He sounded so vulnerable. I knew at that moment that it wasn’t just that he needed to rebuild trust with me, it was also the fact I needed to build more trust with him. He left me to protect me but it broke his heart too. He shouldn’t be making these decisions for me, we should make them together. And that’s exactly what we need to do.

I said, “We can get through this.” A tear escapes my eyes and he brushes them away.

“You're right, we will.” This could work, we can do this. We can mend our broken hearts. But it won’t be easy, that’s what I am most sure about.

“We have a long journey of recovery but I think we can do it.” I linked my hand into his cold one. It felt good even after all this time. He gave me his famous crooked smile that I love and adore. And all I can feel is pure love and hope. Something that hasn’t been easy for a long time.

I’m trying to be careful, trying not to get too attached, but I think right now I need a little hope things will work out. But I also know he’s gonna have to prove a lot before things go back to the way they used to be. Plus I’m pretty sure if he pulls a stunt like this again Emmett and Jasper will kick his butt. At least I can count on my older brothers to save the day.

At least I think so.

He turned towards the window, “Do you still need some space?’ I nod. “Before you go I want you to know I’m not doing this out of anger but because this time around I want us to do better.” He nods in understanding. He opens the window. “And Edward?”

He turns his head around with a confused look in his eyes “Yes Bella?”

“I’ll call you when I’m ready.”

He gives me a small smile, “I know.” He ducks under my window and leaps to the grass. I move to watch him leave, he gives me one last look and I close my window.

I moved to lay back down and tried to get comfortable. I snuggled into my soft blankets and rested my eyes. Yes I’m going back to sleep despite the fact I’ve been asleep for like 14 hours. I let darkness overtake me once again, hoping I’d continue to have peaceful dreams.

I have a feeling tomorrow is going to be a long day. Well, at least I’ll have more than enough sleep. Darkness then finally overtook me.

To Be Continued…

...

Thank You so much for the help @miss-morgans-lover