#or waiting until next week for cure wing

[whorenerdking]

me omw to screenshot every still of tsubasa this episode

[vinnypotaoe]

The Wizard in his Tower

Part 1 of my Elanor x Gale Fanfiction

~

It didn't take long for Elanor to find out about the fall of the Wizard's Prodigy "Gale of Waterdeep", Mystra's chosen that she had exiled for his foolish attempts at dark magic consumption. It was the talk of the town for months!

The rumor had it, that he consumed an item that was one of the forbidden objects of dark magic, no one was allowed to use. The very magic Elanor had been casting all her life and was in the hunt of getting more knowledge about.

Naturally, she would try to find that Man called Gale of Waterdeep and squeeze every bit of information out of him, potentially whatever he consumed too. But... The Wizard somehow disappeared from the Earth's surface.

Elanor spent weeks trying to find even the slightest trace of the famous Wizard, but it seemed almost as if he vanished, maybe even died... No one knew where he went, or what he was doing.

The wizard had made sure he was impossible to be found. Elanor had gone as far as seeking out his relatives, only to be met with even more questions and no answers.

That was, until she found a strange cat in the woods. Or better said, a "Tressym" on the hunt for magical artifacts.

One evening Elanor was strolling through the woods, as a strange winged cat had come out of the bushes and circled the Elven woman curiously. Her tiny whiskers twitched, as her little nose followed the smell of Elanor's amulet around her neck.

"What do you want, weird cat?" Elanor scoffed at the creature, who hissed back in response, before making weird gestures, trying to... talk?

Elanor rolled her eyes annoyed and cast a speak of animals spell, before crossing her arms and looking down upon the cat.

"Ah finally dear, thank you, now then... First of all I AM NOT A CAT! I AM A TRESSYM!" The 'cat' scolded before sitting down and licking her right paw rather aroused.

"I have noticed, the smell of that amulet around your neck is quite.... extraordinary" she continued her talk and self cleaning.

"where did you get that from? And by any chance, does yours have a selling price? I am in dire need of... Such magic" the cat finished and looked up to the red haired elf.

"No way!" Elanor simply replied and turned her back, what a waste of time and magic, she thought. Just another creature hunting for rare artifacts.

"Wait dear!" The cat jumped after Elanor and tried to convince her. "It truly is a life or death situation! My friend could heal with that dark magic inside of it!"

Elanor stopped her tracks and looked at the cat that desperately circled around the woman wearing the amulet.

"What dark magic?" She asked, now curious about what the cat seemed to know. "The amulet dear, I can feel it's dark magic emitting from it. Do you not?" The cat sat down next to the woman's feet and looked up to her.

"My best friend is suffering under a certain... Condition let's call it... And he needs to consume magic in order to survive. That amulet of yours... It's from the same 'condition' my friend suffers from. I thought that maybe by giving him your amulet, he may feel better! Or at least study it to find a cure"

The cat explained and somewhere through the middle, Elanor became suspicious about who the cat was referring to. Could it be....

"Can I meet that friend of yours first?" She asked in response and the cat shook her head. "I'm afraid he won't allow that"

"So you're asking me to give up my amulet just like that? To a cat that pops out of nowhere and asks for it? For what?" Elanor snickered. She was not going to give it up that quickly, that cat may be the key to finding that lost Wizard.

"Dear... Firstly I have explained you, I am a Tressym...not A CAT. Secondly, I have been out for weeks, finding artifacts for my friend and I am fully aware of what I am asking of you... Could you not help a stranger in need out of pure kindness? I'm not asking for it for free, tell me your price!" The cat bargained, eyes locked on the amulet around the woman's neck.

"My price is meeting that friend of yours" Elanor replied and the cat hissed, before jumping backwards.

"I have told you that he won't approve of this!" She growled and met Elanor's fierce stare. "I am searching for a Wizard called Gale of Waterdeep, is that your friend by any chance? I have a few very important questions for him"

For just a moment the eyes of the cat widened, before she jumped back and shook her head. "No, no I have never heard of such a name! But I will ask my friend if he may want to...meet. I'll be back tomorrow by sundown dear, come back by then" the cat said and jumped away into the bushes quickly.

"Wait! Where are you going? And why would I listen to you?!" Elanor called after the cat, but she was already gone. It didn't matter to her either way, she would find the 'friend' on her own, following the poorly covered up tracks of the strangely winged cat. Elanor already knew all she needed to know, that friend of her can only be the Wizard she was trying to find.

It was hard to keep on the tracks, as the cat flew parts of the way, but a few hours later into the night, Elanor had finally found the tower far out into the woods.

A place so isolated and seemingly forgotten, the air itself felt strangely different. The brick walls that the towers was build of, were overgrown and the garden surrounding it was wild and untouched for decades.

If it weren't for the small light, that was lit behind one of the windows, Elanor would have judged this place a ghost tower, a place long forgotten in history.

But someone, or something, lived there, together with that weird cat.

Elanor made her way across the overgrown path to the entrance, which to her surprise was open. Whoever was resident here, was not expecting anyone to visit soon.

She slipped inside and cast an invisibility spell on herself, before sneaking the stairs up leading higher into the tower, towards where the light was coming from.

"But mister Dekarios! If you were to meet that woman, you could eventually find a cure to it all!" The same voice of the cat echoed through the almost shut closed door.

Elanor stopped and gently pushed the wood door to sneak a peak into the room behind it.

"No! Whoever that person is, I do not wish to meet them. Not a single living soul is supposed to find out where I am Tara! Especially not someone so keen to find out about me..."

The voice of a man spoke, but Elanor could not see him at first, he was somewhere out of the view angle from where she was standing behind the door. She could only see the winged cat sit on a carpet, looking towards the man who she spoke to.

"It is a glimpse of hope sir, much more worth taking instead of staying miserable inside of this tower. Do it Mister Dekarios, do it for your good old Tara at least... I can't keep seeing you this hopeless, giving up on everything. Isolated from the world and slowly dying from loneliness, that neither all of these books can fill, or I can"

Footsteps came closer and a brown haired man dressed in a purple Wizards robe appeared a few feet in front of the door. "Oh Tara..." He spoke while walking up to the cat sitting on the carpet, before getting into his knees and gently petting her tiny head.

"I know you are worried about me, but if one person finds me, another will too and soon all of Waterdeep knows where I am at... It's too risky. I am here so no one gets hurt, you know that" he spoke softly and the cat laid down, rolling on her back, enjoying the petting.

"I just wish for you to be cured sir" she replied, closing her eyes purring. "Now you are manipulating me with cuddles, that's not right at all"

The Wizard laughed and continued to gently pet the soft fur of his dear companion.

"We will work it out Tara, I promise you, but not by inviting strangers into this tower"

Elanor watched the whole scene before her and to her own surprise she almost felt bad for him?

She wasn't sure what she would find in this tower, or what type of person this chosen of Mystra would be. Seeing a normal looking human, or a rather depressed looking one, was not what she had expected.

"We have survived for almost a year already, I am sure I can survive another until we find a cure! What is another silly year in your company?" The wizard spoke and chuckled.

"If Mystra allows me, I will live to the day I can be cured"

~

I'm unsure how long you're supposed to make your posts... Some recommendations in the comments would be nice :D I'm new to this!

Anyways now... I hope you enjoyed part 1!

[theplanetofthesnapes]

Happy Accidents

Sorry it’s been such a long time since I posted anything. Life happened and then I struggled to find the motivation but I hope you like this one.

Summary: You find out you’re pregnant after a one night stand with Snape.

Warnings: talk about pregnancy, menstruation that kinda stuff, also references to sex and minor bad language.

I woke up and it felt like a normal day. I get in the shower and get dressed for another day of work as assistant in the greenhouses at Hogwarts. Today I have a great day ahead of me…not, repotting the mandrakes is my least favourite job and I always end up with a massive headache no matter how tightly I put on my earmuffs.

I go to the breakfast hall and sit at my normal seat at the end of the staff table and look out at all the students and smile because those Weasley twins seem to have put something in Lee Jordan’s pocket and I can guarantee it’s something that Lee Jordan probably wouldn’t want in his pocket. Soon enough I can hear a small chirping sound and Lee Jordan looking rather annoyed as he pulls a handful of crickets out of his pocket and attempts to dump them on the twin’s heads.

It’s all going great until he walks in, he walks passed where I’m sitting. “Morning Severus”. I say cheerily.

“Morning” he retorts not even glancing in my direction. My heart sinks, I mean it’s not like I expected him to be in love with me or suddenly be my best friend after what happened the other week after Slughorn’s party but did he really need to act like he didn’t even know me? Maybe I’m thinking too much into it, I mean so what we had sex and now I like him but he clearly doesn’t feel the same way. It’s not like I won’t get over it right? But he could at least smile when I say hi and not just treat me like anyone else, the same way he treats his students.

I shake my head determined not to let his not so warm greeting get to me and ruin my day and start chatting with Poppy who is sat next to me.

After breakfast I go down to the greenhouse where Pomona was taking her 3rd year Herbology class, I sit at the back and start preparing the pots for the mandrakes that I am going to repot after the students leave. “Okay now I need to pop to the greenhouse next door I will be back in 15 minutes until then carry on with your venomous tentacula dethorning and any problems talk to Miss Y/L/N at the back” Pamona said as she nods at me and walks out of the classroom.

Ten minutes later a nervous looking Ravenclaw approaches me. “Miss Y/L/N?” she says timidly.

“How can I help?” I reply smiling warmly to try and ease her anxiety of whatever she’s about to say.

“I kinda need to go to the toilet, it’s um girl problems” she replies not looking at me.

Now this I can sympathise with, I write her up a pass and allow her to leave without question and as soon as the professor gets back I let her know she’s out of class and carry on my business. The interaction though got me thinking, it’s been a while since I last had my period, I count back in my head and shit I’m about a week and a half late. Shit shit shit, okay don’t panic, I mean I’ve been stressed recently and I’ve literally only had sex once with one person in the last month and I was careful. Except I’ve never been this late in my life. Oh man “don’t freak out, don’t freak out” I tell myself.

Once the break after first lesson arrives I tell Pomona that I have to slip out for a minute and briskly walk down to the hospital wing. Poppy is talking to a student so I wait a second. “Hey Y/N can I help you with something?” Poppy says after the student leaves with what looks like the cure for the Weasley’s puking pastilles, poor kid.

“Um yeah I was wondering if you maybe had anything, I don’t know how it works in the wizarding world being muggle born but um something to test for pregnancy.” I say trying to sound calm, I don’t want any rumours to be spread and Poppy is known to be a bit of a gossip so if I act panicked she’ll expect it to be some big scandal. Which if I am pregnant it probably will be, oh god no I can’t think like that.

She doesn’t even look phased “Oh yes, well I do have the wizard methods but I’ve found the muggle pregnancy tests to actually be much more effective, here you go all you have to do is…”

“Thanks Poppy, yes I know what to do and um could we maybe keep this between us, I’m barely even late yet I don’t want it to get out, it might not even be…” You trail off.

“Oh of course my darling, I take an oath as a healer I would never tell anybody. But sweetie if it’s positive please let me know if I can help you out in any way.” She replies with a warm smile.

I run to my room where thankfully I have my own private bathroom and do the test. The next three minutes are torture as I pace back and forth not daring to glance at the stick that will soon predict my future better than Professor Trelawney ever could. Finally my timer goes off and I go quickly to pick up the stick not being able to bare waiting anymore and glance down.

My heart feels like it stops. Two lines. I’m pregnant… and Severus Snape is the father.

The next two days are fuelled with anxiety and indecision. I did three more tests to make sure and they were pretty conclusive. So I made up my mind I do need to tell Severus as soon as possible so then I know what page he’s on and I can then decide what to do but every time I build up the courage to walk to his office I chicken out. Finally I see him walk down the steps to the dungeon after classes have finished for the day so I follow him. I see him in his office through the frosty glass window and I’m about to knock the door when I chicken out again. I’m about to walk away when I hear “Is someone out there?” Shit Severus noticed I was there well I guess there’s no turning back now.

“Um yeah hi, it’s me I err I was hoping maybe we could talk.” I say and my heart is racing so much it can’t be good for the baby.

“Very well come in then.” He said sounding bored with the conversation before it’s even started.

“Hi” I say as I walk in slowly.

“Hello” he replies warily.

“God okay so umm you know that thing that happened the other week after Slughorn’s party that we haven’t really spoken about or even acknowledged or anything.” I say rambling because I really don’t know how I’m going to start what I’m going to say.

“Yes I’m aware of when we had intercourse after one too many firewhiskeys” he smirks.

“Ah yes well about that” I say still stalling.

“Look I’ll save you the trouble of you telling me how much you regret it, I understand that in a sober state no woman would want to be with me and that you must be repulsed by yourself right now and I was trying to save myself by avoiding you the last month in order to maintain at least some of my dignity.” He says seemingly getting annoyed now.

I’m shocked “What? Severus, oh my god no I don’t think that, I don’t regret it at all. In fact I was honestly kind of upset you were ignoring me, it felt like you had just used me and then treated me like everyone else like what we did that night meant nothing, less than nothing in fact.” I can feel my eyes start to well up as I speak. “Don’t cry, don’t cry” I tell myself internally cause that really won’t help the situation.

“Wait, are you telling me you really don’t regret that night?” He responds hopefully.

“No I don’t Severus and even if you never want to see me again I’m happy we did it, I feel like I saw a whole new side of you that night. One that was kind and caring compared to this hard shell I’ve seen since then.” I reply softly.

“You’d want to see me again?” He looks a lot less solemn now as he replies, maybe even happy I can’t tell.

“I mean yeah but I ugh that’s before I”

He cuts me off “Oh I see you found someone else” his face falls again.

“No damnit Severus please just let me talk, I’m trying to tell you I’m pregnant.” I say almost shouting it at him. He looks shocked, the tears that were threatening to leak out before now do and roll down my cheeks. “And it’s yours just in case there is any doubt” I say in almost a whisper at this point.

Severus stands up and walks over to me, he pulls me into his arms and lets me cry. After a minute he says softly “How long have you known?” There was no hint of anger in his voice anymore “I did notice the last few days something has been off”.

I pull back to look up at him “You noticed that? I found out two days ago, I’ve been building up the courage to tell you since then” I say weakly.

He chuckles. “Yes I did notice you skulking around the dungeons a lot, and I thought it must be because you wished to talk to me but I didn’t say anything since given how I thought this conversation was going to go. I wanted to avoid it at all costs. Have you thought at all about what you want to do? It’s okay if you haven’t there’s time and it must be a shock to you. If I’m honest I don’t know how to process it myself just yet but my priority is making sure you are okay.” He says surprisingly calmly.

“I don’t think I could live with myself if I.. well if I at least didn’t try. But I don’t expect you to be part of anything you don’t want to be, I’m strong I can do this by myself if I need to.” I say determined this time as I wipe my tears. It’s the first time I’ve let myself consider this but I know in my heart raising this baby is my only option, the amount of love I feel for it already is crazy . But I don’t say this part to Severus, I don’t know where he stands on this or even if he can think about that right now after the shock of hearing this.

“I have no doubt you can raise a child by yourself, you will be an excellent mother. I see you with the students, how kind and compassionate you are. Any child you would be mother to would be lucky to have you. However if you will let me, I would love to be part of the child’s life. I never believed for a second I may have children of my own and I have to admit that it’s not something I ever envisioned for my future but the idea of raising a child and even more so raising it with you, the women that I’m in love with fills me with a hope I don’t think I’ve ever had before in my thirty eight years of life.” He says with a kind tone that I’ve only ever heard him use once before, when he was asking me permission to kiss me before we did the thing that got us into this mess.

“Wait? What? You love me? I… Severus” I stutter really not knowing what to say except actually I do know what to say. “I think I love you too, What do we do now?”

“We figure it out together, but first are you free this evening? I think we might have skipped a few steps and it might be about time we have our first date” He smiles.

I smile back and pull him into another hug, he kisses my head and I smile into his shoulder. Maybe everything is going to be okay after all.

[echantedtoon]

Love Is Blind Ch5 It's Not Easy To Fall In Love

(These next few chapters spans over several weeks/months as I don't plan on making this story too long.)

An agreement like this one was not an easy thing to decide on.

Even as you pulled out folded clothes to place into the closet of your temporary home for the rest of the year. You supposed you should've felt excited or even honored to have a big opportunity. After all anyone else in their right mind would see this as nothing but beneficial to them. A chance to court their soulmate. The opportunity to work for a highly rich family and a chance to live in a beautiful area. Being paid so well. There really wasn't any real downsides to this but you still couldn't help but let your stomach twist in nervous knots. 

You still weren't sure if you really wanted this. Wanted Kagaya. You already said you didn't want it but then...Why were you here? Was it out of curiosity? Did you want to actually get to know Kagaya? Was it because of the promised pay? You had no idea at this point but it was only until the rest of this year. It wouldn't really put a hinder on your plans too much and you could earn a decent coin for your work. You just had to wing it and wait it out. Your first day here was uneventful. You just unpacked and a female servant showed you around the mansion before leading you back to your room to allow you to settle in for the day. You tried to mentally make a map of the entire place but it wasn't easy and you were sure you didn't get it down.  However you were surprised when you had gotten a knock on your door and you answered it to a woman a few inches smaller than you. 

"Um.." You blinked  at her. "Hello?"

"You must be the new healer here." Her voice was blunt but surprisingly polite as she offered you a smile. 

"I'm sorry. Who are you?"

You took a moment to look her over. She was a few inches Smaller than you about the size of a teenager although her demeanor obviously shown she was a grown woman. Her mostly black hair was pinned up by a strange hair clip shaped like a butterfly and ..Now that you thought about it. Her entire attire looked strangely similar to a butterfly including the very pretty haori coat over her shoulders. Otherwise the rest of her uniform was entirely black. You definitely didn't see her when being shown around.

"Shinobu." Her voice answered bluntly making you jump out of your stupor. Purple eyes blinked at you. "I've heard all about you from Oyakata-sama. You seem to have already made quite an impression on him."

You blinked yet again not entirely sure how to take this. "Oh..Thank you?" Her face did not change from that blunt smile. "It's um...Nice to meet you." You gave a quick bow of politeness. "I don't think I've seen you around here. Are you one of the maids?"

"I'm a doctor from town,"her blunt voice spoke again. "My sisters and I run a clinic. You share the practice yes?"

"No, I don't. That's a widely known misconception." Her head tilted at you as you held up a hand. "As an herbalist I know which plants are poisonous or which ones can cure fevers or even be made into tea, but I'm not even close to a doctor. I have literally no idea how to perform surgeries or stitch up wounds or diagnose a lot of things properly. A lot of people mix me up for a doctor all the time, but I won't lie and pretend to know medicine on your level."

Shinobu's tilted head stared at you silently and you got a shiver like she was calculating your whole being in her head before her smile got just slightly bigger. "You know your skill limit. I like that."

Again you weren't sure how to take that. Only giving a confused, "Thank you?" Deciding to change the subject you turned it back to her. "So what brings a doctor to my door? I don't think I'm ill."

"I'm here to run you through Oyakata-sama's routine. If you'll be taking care of him then you should at least know what to do."

Ah right. You'd forgotten about a big part of the agreement was to literally take care of the man you'd might be marrying. With a soft sigh you nodded. "Sure. I might as well get used to it if I'm going to be staying here."

Her eyes blinked. "You don't sound very enthusiastic."

"I guess I'm just nervous about this whole thing. I mean I'm entirely new to this process."

"Understandable but you'll be used to it in no time. Come. The Master's waiting for you."

You supposed you had no choice but to follow Shinobu back down through the halls and listen to her listing off the important parts of taking care of him.

"You won't have to be there as he baths or changes because that's already taken cared of early in the morning by someone else. However you need to make sure he eats enough and gets plenty of water. Nutrition and fluids are important for his own condition. Don't let him overexert himself. He needs lots of rest and sometimes he doesn't have enough energy for the things he forces himself to do. Do NOT let him stay up to ungodly hours of the night working-"

You were starting to get more and more anxious as Shinobu went and on and on. There was so much that it sounded like you were taking care of a whole room of people instead of just one person.

"He gets cold easily especially during the winter months so make sure to have extra blankets on hand when he needs it. The coughing is normal and you shouldn't worry about that too much but do be there in case he collapses from losing his breath."

"Collapses?!"

"Yes! But don't worry. He'll only need a few minutes to catch his breath again. What you should worry about is when he gets fevers! I'll leave you some fever medication. Make sure he takes it. He also needs his regular vitamins everyday. Just make sure he takes two of those with some water or tea. Oh! But I should warn you despite his condition he's incredibly stubborn and can talk you into letting him take on more work. Under no circumstances are you to let him take on anything more than he can handle no matter how convincing he might be."

"....Is..there anything else I should know about?"

"Oh yes! His eyes and the area around them are sensitive. Smoke can irritate them greatly so if you light any incense make sure to keep it far away and open a window...I also don't think I need to point it out to you but he obviously can't see. Please don't let him trip and fall."

With each word you felt more and more anxious and nervous about the entire situation. Kagaya sounded...very high maintenance and while that wasn't really his fault or necessarily a deal breaker, it was honestly a lot to take in especially on only your third day here. 

"Don't worry too much. My sister and I stop by once a month to do a full check up on him, so if there's anything you didn't remember we'll be sure to spot it!"

You supposed that was her was of trying to be reassuring but it only had you guys sinking lower and heavier. As if a sinking rock was inside you. Eventually you both had stopped in front of a door and before you knew it Shinobu was already opening it and walking inside with you timidly right behind her but paused when you saw who was already sitting there waiting on the both of you. Kind blind eyes stared in your direction from a cozy futon as Kagaya offered a comforting smile at you.

"Shinobu, I was wondering where you wondered off too. It's unlike you to suddenly leave in the middle of a session." His head tilted behind her towards you. "Miss L/n. I'm happy to see you today." How'd he know it was you? His head tilted at a window next. "...The birds are singing outside so it must be a beautiful day. Tell me what color is the sky?"

Your eyes followed his gaze quietly gazing out the window at the sky. "It's a beautiful blue like a bluebell's petals."

"Ah. Excellent then. That's certainly a good omen for a good day." He turned his smile back on you. "I think I want to visit the garden again and enjoy the beautiful sky."

"Are you sure that's a wise choice?" Despite Shinobu's words, a shaking hand of his was already removing the blanket off of himself. "You were coughing a lot yesterday."

"I feel much better after resting, and fresh air will do me good. You know I dislike sitting in my room all day when I can help it."

"Hm." She hummed watching him already slowly struggling to his knees. "Alright then. If you're sure you won't overexert yourself-"

She blinked as a figure quickly moved around her and before she even blink. Kagaya tilted his head upwards and a moment later soft hands gripped his arm. Shinobu watched silently as she wordlessly knelt down to throw one of the man's arms around her shoulders. Your arms then hugging him around his torso and bracing himself against her body. Practically hugging him she heaved him up to stand up on his own two feet. Both seemed surprised by her actions especially when she grabbed the arm still around her shoulders and looked at him. 

"You alright, Mr. Ubuyashiki?"

His surprised face regarded her words before his melted into a smile. "Yes. I'm feeling better than before. But please don't be so formal with me. Just Kagaya is fine, Miss L/n."

Big shiny f/c eyes blinked up at him. "Well...Then I guess you don't have to be formal either. Y/n is fine with me too. Do you want to go to your garden?"

"Yes. The day is surely too beautiful to be wasted by staying inside. There is a special place in the garden where I like to be by myself."

"Are you talking about the place you were sitting where we first met?" He nodded. "Then I'll take you there." 

Her hands moved him two steps forward before she suddenly stopped making him jostle to a stop and turn his head to her again in question. "You stopped walking all of a sudden. Is there something wrong?"

...Her eyes looked at him once again. "What do you usually do when you're outside by yourself?"

The question was certainly a surprise but not an uncommon one as he smiled. "I listen. To the soft breeze, my lovely pets, and anything more nature decides to gift me that day."

"What about a book? Do you want me to read to you?" Again a look of surprise passed over his features at the offer. "The garden is right near the library if I remember correctly. I can get you a book and we can read it together if you want."

There was a moment of silence that passed on between them both for a long moment. The surprise of the other woman was also present as she couldn't help but stare in shock at the couple in front of her. Gently without a word, she tugged the surprised man into walking again. 

"Have you eaten yet? It's still very early in the morning."

"..No. I have not."

"Then I'll get you something to eat too. You're going to need to eat something for strength. I'll get you some ohagi. It's perfect for a spring day. Is that ok?"

...A smile graced his features and he nodded. "Yes. I'm very fond of the idea."

Shinobu watched wide eyed as the two slowly just walked past her and into the hallway. Nearly bumping into Sanemi walking down the hall stuffing his face with many ohagies but paused mid chew staring wide eyed as the two slowly made their way out of the room and down the hall. The woman wished him a hello but otherwise continued walking past him and down the hall. A moment later Shinobu poked her own head out of the room to watch with him before they disappeared around the corner.

".... Did you just see what the hell I saw?" He almost immediately turned to the smaller woman next to him and Shinobu hesitantly nodded. "What the hell was that?"

"I'm not too sure... That's the same girl who was brought here a few weeks ago. She just helped him stand up on her own accord and offered to take him to the garden."

"Eh?... That's nice of her I guess." He went to eat another ohagi in his hands.

"She also offered to bring him food and read to him."

He paused in a comical position of about to eat..but slowly lowered the food and stared blankly at Shinobu. "She did what? Why?"

"...She went through the trouble of saving a butterfly I was told."

"What does that have to do with anything?"

"It has everything to prove about her."

"You're making no sense as usual."

"And that's why I'm the more intelligent one out of both of us."

"WATCH YOUR DAM MOUTH!!"

One month passed. The routine you set yourself in was hard to follow but at least it wasn't as difficult as math. Get up in the morning and go to Kagaya. By the time you got there he was usually already dressed and given food by help of a male servant or his grandfather. Mr. Kotoya was always very pleased to see you there and on a few times referred to you as Kagaya's 'wife' but it always made you uncomfortable not that your unease seemed to matter to the old man. Sometimes you would help Kagaya around and sometimes you found him handling important paperwork related to his businesses  to which his grandfather would have to read out loud to him in order for Kagaya to make a decision on them leaving you awkwardly to sit on the sidelines and listen to them conducting business for hours on end on things you absolutely did not understand. Other times Kagaya would be too weak to get up leaving you to also awkwardly sit next to his bed and either talk to him or read him stories which...was the only things you could really do.

He asked about your interest in herbalism and your studies and your family. You happily answered since ..Well this was all just a part of the deal right? The whole reason you agreed to this was to get to know each other better. And you did find out a lot about him. Aside from his grandfather the only family he had was a distant cousin. His favorite animal was the pet crows he kept in the garden which ironically he also used to deliver messages. His family had been heavily influenced and involved in the nearby town for at least ninety five generations. His favorite author was a man named Kyogai and the Library was full of his books. And quite a few other things.

But by the middle of the second month the repetitive and slightly tiring pattern was starting to make you a bit anxious doing nothing but care for him essentially and a lot of the time awkwardly sit in one place or room listening to him talk and cough and helping him around. ....This did not feel like courting at all. It was more of you taking care of him. 

"Do you maybe want to go somewhere today?", you asked him one day.

Shinobu had just left after checking him over for that month as promised and seemed very satisfied with how Kagaya was. Letting you know before she left how happy she was. "He's doing perfectly fine. You're doing great taking care of him. Keep up the good work but if I can make a suggestion. Add some more fruits and vegetables to his daily diet."

Right...You were doing a good job caring for him. That's what you were being paid to do and a part of the deal. It was what you agreed to but...

"The forest is so pretty with all the wysteria trees!" You gushed clasping your hands together. "We can go on a walk or have a picnic or both! We can also pick wild flowers to decorate your vase in the corner! We might even see some pretty wild animals-"  You paused taking a moment to glance back to his white eyes. "Oh...I guess maybe not that last one but you can listen to the birds singing!"

Despite his face crinkled up in a smile he slowly shook his head no where he laid making you slowly lose your smile. "I would love nothing more than to do so with you. Unfortunately I am not feeling well enough to go anywhere too far today. I am truly sorry."

"Oh." Despite him being blind you forced a smile back onto your face pushing the disappointed feelings in your chest. "No. Don't apologize about it. It's alright. We can go a different day...We can do something else! How about a game of shogi?"

"That would be more able but I am afraid I'd be a terrible person to play against. I would not be able to properly see the pieces to move them."

"Oh. Right." The smile fully went away as you looked down. ".... Would you like to finish the book we started? We're almost done with it anyways."

He smiled wider from his place on the bed- Before suddenly turning his head away to cough into his shoulder again. You offered him some polite comfort by patting his other arm until he was able to catch his breath again and nod to you.

"I would like that very much."

You again forced a smile despite him still being blind before reaching out to a thick book that was left near you. Fantastic Fairytales and Fables is what the book was called and you flipped through until you stopped where you both last left off. A new tale called The Spirit Of Fate. 

Down in the world unknown there laid a kingdom drab and dark. Where darkness and shadows collided and lived in fear and power. One would be mad to even think about stepping in a place like this. Where the dead are gone but still there, the shadows played and roamed and full of terror. A frightful place brace heros dare not venture unless they wish to meet a tragic fate. Yes. This one place was alone ruled by a power hungry spirit, spited by his love in life and now seeks vengeance on any mortal who dared be foolish enough to be beckoned into his awaiting claws.

The creature of vengeance was known as one of promises and dealings. Whether If one were to want something most dear to their heart and was determined and pure, or if their heart was filled with greed, envy, and lust he would grant your reply if you were brave or stupid enough to find him. It was when one day a child from a nearby village heard of this rumor that they were excited to find out if it was true or not. Against their parents and everyone else's wishes and warnings, the small child had snuck out to venture into the forbidden dark woods. The brambles scraped and left cuts on their body, the creatures chased after and threatened to eat them if they didn't turn back now, for darker and more sinister things slept in these woods, but bravely the child went on. On and on on their journey to really see this sinister ghost who granted wishes and promises that the mortal eye would repulse to believe. Until the sinister avenger had been found and the massive shadow beckoned the child closer with a boney rigged hand.

"You have traveled far and withstood the tests my forces forwarded. For that you have earned the right to one miracle granted to you. But a warning you have also earned. Be warned, with a pure and honest heart comes great rewards. With a heart who bleeds nothing but black with greed and jealousy, a foul end you shall meet. Think about the consequences greatly, for the repercussions shall be swift and tight. Think well, dear child."

The small child dared to smile at the creature and simply reply, "I have no need for any treasures or anything of preciousness near me. I solely only wished for to see myself if the avenger of shadows was a true sight. And now that I have seen you for what a true being you are, I will simply be leaving satisfied my wish was fulfilled."

The answer of the child amused the ancient spirit and he chuckled his hollow laugh at the very notion of it all.

"Wise answer to an otherwise difficult mortal choice. For that you shall still be granted a prize for your efforts. Name one and answer wisely."

The small child as said had no need for such items like treasure and fortune, but they knew that the child's hard working mother were in need of some fortune in her life. So with a kind heart, the child looked to the spirit and asked for their miracle. "My mother works oh so hard to take care of me. It would be so nice for her to have just a little more luck on her side. Oh spirit, let me repay her for all her kindness she has shown me."

"Your wish shall be granted. A selfless act is always it's own reward, but be wary of those who wish to use those fortunes to their own will."

The child was permitted a safe leave back to their home and as promised their selfless act of kindness was granted by the spirit of shadows. The child and their mother mysteriously found an old box in their pantry one day that they had never known of before and upon opening it discovered many, many priceless jewels. The likes of which they had never seen before. With this new found fortune, the mother and child were able to gain a plentiful farm with all the necessities they needed to have a plentiful life. Farther down in the years the mother even remarried one of the strongest most handsome men in the small village. But this man was nothing but green with want, and treated the mother and her child terribly.

He was lazy, rude, and had a heart full of greed. Seeping of those who had better and helping him in life. But one fateful day everything changed. For one day he asked the child's mother a question.

"My dear wife. You know I love you dearly, but I must ask you. Where did you receive such wealth and fortune."

"Why, from a old wooden box in the pantry," she replied happily, "And inside the little wooden chest was gems and riches beyond our wildest dreams."

"Yes, yes! But where did it come from?"

"I know not how it got there or where it came from, but my child and I are oh so happy to have received such a delightful fortune. How we may live happily for a long while."

Her husband was displeased with such an answer and once again asked but this time to the child. The child happily told the man his venture into the woods and his encounter with the spirit of shadows, filling the man's heart with more greed. That very night when the family slept, the man snuck out and made his own way into the deep woods of shadows and fears. Brambles cut his clothing, he cursed those who dare chase him and snap at his hinds as he ran, but the greed and lust in his heart was strong. So strong he persisted his heart green with envy. Alas finally he arrived and looking as though some creature had mangled him with their claws. The spirit was beckoning him closer with a bony rigged hand and spoke.

"Oh one who's heart is sewn with greed and plight. You have sought me through danger and fright. Your actions of greed are inexcusable but like many before you have made it through the path of darkness. For that you have earned the right to one miracle, but also a warning. Be warned, with a pure and honest heart comes great rewards. With a heart who bleeds nothing but black with greed and jealousy, a foul end you shall meet. Think about the consequences greatly, for the repercussions shall be swift and tight. Oh one who comes to me with a black heart for his own wishes. I offer this to you so you may choose your wish wisely."

The man paid no attention to the wise words of the ghost nor did he think about any real consequences for his actions as he spoke what he oh so desired.

"Give me more riches than any man shall have!! Make my fortune one who will make me a fortunate man!! A bright castle and beautiful jewels is what I seek and most desire!!"

"A answer I foresaw and one your shall have for not heeding my warnings. Oh man of greed and selfishness, you shall indeed have your wish awaiting you home. But do not be surprised when your unfortunate fate you shall unevitably meet. Now be gone creature of greed. My domain is not fit for one of you."

The man left for his home and once his got there his had his miracle in the form of the purest black horse with a magnificent couch of ebony, inside the couch was boxes and jewels of every imagining. The man cared not for his wife or the young child that he had left behind, away in this marvelous new couch he received and off that horrid man went into the night with his shouts of greedy glee and pleasure as his family long forgotten. The mother and child awoken to no greedy man plaguing their lives and while the mother was quite saddened, she still had the child to watch after. As luck and fortune does benefit those with kind hearts, another man the mother sought and a kinder gentler man she got. With as much kindness to her and her child this man gave to combat the sorrows left behind by the other greed filled one. One day a message they did receive, about a much bigger estate of land and riches. The greedy man who had once left them behind without a second thought, was now no more as the spirits warnings he did not heed. As fate had decided he would be no more, a swift and tight end he did get. Leaving everything he valued behind of jewels and gold, to no man but a woman he did not care for. His wife and next of kin did receive, fame and fortune for kindness indeed. With kindness in their hearts the family did grow, and with it came all luck and fortune soon to glow.

For those with kind hearts and bright minds, often find themselves on the favorite end of fate's hands.

Month two had passed. Month three much the same as the first two with very little changes. Month four looked also to be no  different than the first three other than being hotter as spring transitioned into her sister summer.

"Spring is a season that radiates warmth, new beginnings, and positive energy. It denotes a calm and peaceful atmosphere with a clear blue sky. The days are radiant, lovely, and peaceful with a golden sun. When the land wakes up it becomes a good mother to all, delivering food and giving life to the darkness."

Kagaya sat beside you on the bench. A tranquil look on his gentle features as a gentle hand held up the shining ebony feathers of a crow. The elegant bird cooed and ruffled it's feathers happily as his other hand gently stroked it's head. You sat just beside him focusing your energy into the current poem you were reading out loud to him.

"The days of long cold winters sleep has risen to make way to other corners of the lands for his sisters Spring and Summer to come take his place, and embrace us all in the treasures they bring. The strength. Mental, physical, emotional, and raw. Strength keeps you going when you feel you can go on no more. If you're wondering if you're strong, the answer is always yes. Don't underestimate the silent strength that you don't even know you possess."

"That's a very truthful poem." He brought the crow a little closer to him as he turned his head back to you. "Are you feeling alright?"

"Hm?" You looked at him blinking as his previously smiling face turned to one of slight concern. 

"Are you alright, Y/n?," he inquired, "I've noticed you've been a bit down for a while now. Have you been exhausting yourself?"

"I-..What?"

"I understand that having to be constantly caring for me must be overwhelming and after a while it would take a toll on anyone." You froze in shock at his words. "Perhaps you should take a break for a while. Let yourself take a rest before you continue on."

"Oh. N-No it's alright." You again forced yourself to smile. "I did agree to help take care of you as a part of this arrangement. Besides it's not taking care of you that's been on my mind."

"So something has been on your mind lately." You paused mouth wide open and you wanted to snack yourself. "Would you mind telling me what's bothering you?"

There was a silence as the both of you sat there. Nothing but the stream through the garden gurgling and the crow giving her owner confused little noises as to why he stopped petting her. ... Eventually you only silently looked down before sighing through your nose and closing the book before standing up.

"It's very warm out here." The book was slowly placed down before you just turned. "I'm going to get you some water. Wait here for me."

Kagaya didn't say anything but his brows furrowed in worry and his head followed the sounds of your footsteps as you walked away from him and back into the mansion. Caring for Kagaya wasn't what was weighing on you. You knew what you agreed to when agreeing to this deal. Even if it was tiring, repetitive, and not easy you can manage. After all you helped to plow your parents' fields and do other labor at home. You weren't shy to hard work. It was the ever growing realization of Kagaya's life that had you starting to question everything. 

It was clear as you fell into routine that this was Kagaya's life long before you came here and it would be even after you leave. Constant care. Which you were already feeling anxiety over. If you were married to him would this be your new every day life?  Most likely. And this wasn't what you had planned for yourself at all. But it wasn't just that. 

Mostly it was just why.

Why?

Why weren't you feeling anything? Yes. Kagaya was handsome you supposed in his own way, and on the surface he checked the boxes of everything you prayed to the gods for. He WAS kind. He WAS caring. He WAS responsible and caring and patient and so much more. So...Why didn't it feel like you were attracted to him? At least on a crush level. You're heart had been excited before you first met him face to face and was smacked by everything at once. You had tried hard to try and feel anything! Literally just once! Just one small sign. Your heart fluttering. Your face blushing. That happy feeling you're supposed to get whenever you get flustered. Any urges to hug him or kiss him or at the very least hold his hand. But you felt..

Nothing.

At most all you managed to muster up was admiration for him being able to do so much despite his conditions but other than that nothing. Admiration wasn't live. Admiration didn't mean love. You could admire someone. Anyone. But that didn't mean you loved them in the least. If anything he seemed more of a friend than anything else if you could even call him that. Weren't you supposed to be falling for him? He was your soulmate wasn't he? So why?

Why would the gods assign him as your soulmate if you weren't feeling even a little attraction towards him? Was it possible that they made a mistake? Was it possible that they assigned Kagaya to you with only your surface qualities and your profession in mind? You could see how they might've thought it was the perfect match but.... It's like they didn't even take your other wants into account! You couldn't help but feel disappointed every time you suggested something only for him to politely decline or be unable to do so because of his conditions. You felt disappointed every time it happened! You knew you shouldn't since Kagaya couldn't help it..but it was hard to ignore the obvious lack of attraction you were feeling towards him. 

No one else was helping either. They all complimented you on how well you were taking care of him but was that all they could compliment you on? Was that all there was to say about you? You sighed rubbing your temples. This wasn't getting you anywhere. Your scrambled thoughts would only get you worked up- ?! You blinked bumping fully into someone's back.

"Oh! S-Sorry!" You immediately backpedaled and looked up at the man you bumped into. "I didn't see you there."

A head of wavy black hair and piercing red eyes turned to you. The taller man wore a half scowl half confused face as he stared down at you. "Just who are you?"

You blinked taken aback by his strong annoyed demeanor but decided to not make him more angry than he already was. "My name is Y/n." His face went from annoyed to surprised realization as you shuffled around him awkwardly. "A-Anyways I have to go get something for someone. E-Excuse me." You went to go around him but was shocked when he suddenly grabbed you by the hand stopping you from leaving.

"Well then...You must accept my apologies." You looked on in shock as the man smiled at you. But it was a smile that sent shivers down your spine and not in the good way. He effortlessly pulled you back closer by the hand he still held onto. "If I had known who you were sooner I hadn't been so rude."

"U-Um..." You looked between your hand and his piercing red eyes. "I'm sorry. I think you have the wrong person."

"Oh on the contrary." He mumbled making a point to lift your hand directly to his face. Your face suddenly lit up a pink as he stared half lidded at you. "I do know and may I say you're a very radiant woman.~"

Your eyes went wide as he brought your hand to his mo- You jumped as a third hand quickly slapped down over the first two. You jumped and both of you looked up at a strained smile and white orbs. 

"I'm sorry. I thought we were taking turns. I suppose I win as my hand's on top."

You blinked. "....Kagaya?"

The blind man continued his closed eyed strained smile as he directed it at the first man. "I didn't know you were coming. If I had known I would've prepared you a room by the garden. The compost smell is strong but I think the view matches you perfectly." With surprising strength he pulled your hand out of the stranger's grip in one go.

The man strained on his own face and leaned back up. "Kagaya. Considerate as always." Kagaya's smile twitched. "How did you know I was here? I didn't know you saw me. I would've said hello."

"Oh it was easy. I suddenly had the nauseam feeling that I usually get right before I vomit, so I just knew you were somewhere close by."

Your eyes glanced silently back and forth between the two of the men as they took obvious jabs at one another with strained smiles. "Um...I think I'm missing something. Do you two know each other?"

"Oh. Of course. You both hadn't met yet." Kagaya spoke with another twitch to his brow. "Y/n, this man is none other than Muzan Kibutsuji...My cousin."

"Oh no need to be so formal, Kagaya."

"One of us has to be. That's actually a very nice coat you're wearing."

"Oh. You would know as you can OBVIOUSLY see the well craftsmanship," this 'Muzan' took another jab at his blindness.

"Oh yes. You spoil Rei so much. Do they come in men's sizes? Maybe then you wouldn't have to borrow her coat all the time."

Muzan inhaled deeply straining his smile more but looking as if he'd snap any moment.

"Now you both cut that nonsense out." All three of you turned around and found none other than Mr. Kotoya there frowning. "You both are acting like immature children. Muzan, you know you're supposed to send us a notice before you visit."

Muzan immediately turned his smile onto him. "Well I guess Kagaya just didn't read it."

"Well then next time send it to me! *Sigh* But while you're here, you might as well join us for lunch. Just stop acting like a brat!"

"Who? M-"

"Yes. YOU, Muzan. I'm too old for your childish tantrums."

[vintagegirl01]

Witches Brew

Hunt Athalar x female witch reader

Summary: Hunt has been at wits end trying to get Shahar to notice him. When his efforts don’t work, he seeks out a witch in hopes of finding a way to win her over. Never did he think that you would be the key to what he was missing in life.

A/N: This story is based off the lyrics from Witches Brew by David Casper. Always looked forward to hearing this song during and at the end of Halloweentown. Hope I did the song justice with this fic.

Hunt crept out of bed. For he had a goal in mind.

To win over the love of his life, Shahar.

Since joining her ranks, he’s been trying anything and everything he could think off to try getting to talk to her outside of the battlefield. Though, she pays little attention to him unless she needs something from him.

Therefore, he decided to seek the help of a witch to help him.

So here he was in the dark waiting for the witch. Hunt could only hope that she would take what he had in exchange for some help.

As his mind delves more into thought, Hunt feels a presence behind him. He turns around and looks down to see a figure in a cloak of black.

Though the sight beneath the cloak caught his breath. For it revealed a face that made a chill run down Hunt’s spine

Your beauty hypnotized him. Though, what stood out about you the most, was the gentle smile you wore. Not one that he often associated with powerful witches.

You then smile and take his hand, leading him into your lair.

The lair was not what he expected. Instead of it being creepy, it has more cozy vibes that gave off warmth. The warmth that was within you he assumed.

You then walk up to the cauldron and begins stirring up in the concoction.

You then look up at Hunt and says these words.

“All I need is eye of newt, wing of bat, a long black whisker from a big black cat, spider legs and wolf hound fur, poison ivy and a hemlock root.”

Hunt looks at the beautiful witch surprised. “Really? For a love potion?”

You shake your head at him. “I’m kidding. I’m not giving you a love spell. Though, here is some tea. ”

Hunt looks at you in confusion before taking the cup of tea. “Why? I’m willing to pay you whatever you charge.”

He takes a sip of the tea and is amazed by the taste. It was mint tea with a hint of sugar and lemon.

You smile at him. “I only wanna help you, dear. You want somebody and you wish she wanted you. Though this way isn’t the way. Love potions are temporary. They dont inflict real feelings like everyone believes.”

The male frowns. Seeing him this way makes you sad. Therefore, you get an idea.

“I've got the perfect cure. Just take my advice and she’ll fall in love with you for sure.”

____________________________________________

For the next few weeks, you and Hunt spend time together as you help him work on his romance skills to charm and win Shahar.

Within that time, you and Hunt have gotten to know each other to the point that you two have developed a close bond. In fact, you started to feel yourself falling for him.

Though, you refuse to say anything as he has feelings for another. Plus, you don’t want the relationship you have with him to become awkward. So you keep these feelings to yourself. Besides, you’re happy just being his friend and are willing to help him achieve happiness in anyway possible.

Even if that happiness doesn’t include you.

____________________________________________

Hunt is waiting for her in the park, a few minutes after dark.

He’s hoping that she got his message.

It isn’t before long until his thoughts are answered as he sees you smile and wave at him before walking up to him.

“Hunt, how did your meet up with Shahar go?”

Hunt smiles at you. “I didn’t meet with her.”

You smile instantly turns into a frown. “Hunt, I’m so sorry. I…”

The tall, gray winged angel puts a finger to your lips. “You are what I have I been missing, (y/n).”He then moves a piece of hair behind your ear. “Here I was pining for a woman that didn’t care for me when the woman of my dreams was in front of me all along.”

The two of you closed their eyes and shared the first of many kisses that you’d both share with each other.

[sirthisisa-wendys]

Woven Serpents (Part 4): Namor x Mutant!Reader

synopsis: eyes are opened to the comforts of Talokan. Comforts you take pleasure in giving and receiving.

wc: 1k

tw: smut

previous part 🌊 next part

"Namor, please..."

The sound of your hips connecting with the diety's hips echoes endlessly in the near-empty cave, save the two of you in his hut.

"Ask," Namor pants above you, his deep eyes searching yours. "Ask, and I'll give it to you." He nuzzles your neck and kisses your skin as you climax around his cock, feeling every inch of him sink deeper into you.

And for the moment you're hanging in bliss, you recall exactly how you got here.

You'd worked for a few weeks as the healer - Sanadora - curing diseases, healing injuries, and even saving someone from death. And though the work had been draining, you did it with gladness, seeing the faces of those you had come to know light up with joy or relief. It brought you comfort to see them comforted, just like the K'ul'ulkan had told you it would.

"You seem to be happy here," the feathered god had mentioned one night as you disrobed from the suit, his hands busy with painting the small walls inside his hut. "Are you happy?" The answer that comes to your mind isn't fully realized until you set aside the suit and sigh, frowning. "In my eyes, they needed you," Namor adds, returning to his painting with a shrug. "It seems life is more... complete."

"Complete," you hum, taking a piece of fruit from a bowl perpetually filled with the items. "That's a good word for it."

"Does it fit how you feel?" You don't answer, choosing instead to stare at the portrait of the feather-heeled god on the wall. Namor rises from his crouched position and stands before you, watching you watch him. "You are thinking about something but do not want to say."

"Is life really this simple?" you wonder aloud, and Namor frowns, tilting his head at you.

"Not always," he admits, nodding. "Sometimes it's on me to protect Talokan, and things can get difficult." You look up at him, worry certainly etched all over your face. Namor chuckles and reaches a hand out, squeezing your shoulder. "Don't worry, táankelem," he murmurs. "You're safe here."

"I worry about you sometimes," you reply, quirking your lips. "The first time I saw you, it looked like someone had ripped off your wing."

"Ah." Namor nods, raising his brows. "An... unfortunate incident." Your eyes follow him as he takes his place at the small table in the middle of the hut, resting his hand on his head. "Should not happen again." You approach another panel of paintings, touching the dried ink with tender fingers. The smears portray Namor seemingly in battle with an animal, a black one you've never seen before.

"What is this?"

"A very long story," Namor chuckles. "But it ends well."

"I meant the animal."

"A black panther," he answers simply.

"You fought an animal and won?" Before Namor can answer, you hear someone emerge from the water.

Namora walks into the hut without greeting you, speaking in quick words to Namor, who lets out a sigh and stands. "Y/n, I must go. I will see you later." Without waiting for your response, he leaves, sweeping out of the room regally.

He disappears into the water, and you look for a few seconds after him, the words in your head echoing long after he's gone.

Be safe.

Talokan has good people... and even better wine.

At least, that's what think as you down another glass of the drink brought to you along with your dinner. You're not sure how - or why - a citizen of Talokan would make such a wonderful drink (since they all lived in water), but you're not complaining at all.

The hut feels empty without Namor's presence to annoy and entertain you, but as you stand to your feet, you wander around, touching the walls. Your gentle fingers caress the paintings as you stand in silence, taking in the majesty of the art in awe.

You don't even say a word when you stumble toward the place Namor calls his bed and wrap yourself in the sheets, inhaling his salty scent deeply. And that's how you found yourself falling asleep in Namor's cave. The wine muddles your mind, and for a moment, you swear you hear female voices talking close to the hut's opening. But when your head finally turns to see if someone lingers, you find the space is empty.

"Must be my head," you breathe into the sheets, curling up on your side and closing your eyes.

You suppose that's also how Namor found you - in his hut, alone, sheets pressed against your face - and possibly even why he didn't awaken you upon his arrival. But you find his body crowded against yours in the morning, his back to you.

Your mind - still addled by the wine - registers the presence, but not that you had no reason to turn around and curl into the half-god, half-man before closing your eyes.

And perhaps it was also the wine - though you're not entirely sure - that encouraged you to kiss the still-wet skin of his back and roam your fingers over his muscled skin.

Namor stiffens in more places than one, then turns to face you with his endless eyes.

"Ask," he whispers in the semi-darkness. "And it will be given to you."

"I do not know what to ask for," you respond, fingers twitching on his warm skin.

"Shall I teach you, then?" Namor wonders, his hands coming around your waist. You nod, and he moves forward, inching ever so closer to you, his breath fanning your face. "Close your eyes," he murmurs, and you obey. When you feel his lips on yours, however, it takes no effort not to be startled and pull away as if you were a woman who had never been kissed. (Which is your reality.)

Namor moves against you, his mouth and body beckoning you closer as he turns, so you're underneath him. "Will you let me show you more?" Thick fingers easily run underneath your skirt and course down your parted legs. You nod, but Namor huffs softly. "Ask, Táankelem."

"Please," you beg, eagerly lacing your fingers through his hair. "Show me more, K'ul'ulkan."

And without hesitation, he does.

taglist: @simpingfor-wakasa @lumenseal @lucifers-silhouette @asarcasticcaffeinatedslytherin @batfam-sitcom @weaponb33 @bonnapple @violet-19999 @skyekestis @artaxerxesthegreat @give-me-a-million-dollars-pls

[muthaz-rapapa]

Hirogaru Sky Final Impressions (5/5)

Honestly, what were they going to do with those two weeks after 48 episodes? Have us wait until WonPre's broadcast? Yea right, lol

So the 20th installment of Precure is now officially finished and it feels both great and a little bit sad to say that since the bar has been readjusted quite high, we will probably need the 25th anniversary to get another season as awesome and well-written as HiroPre. [/harsh]

But that will be for something to worry about in the next five years.

So first, that finale!

Pretty much 5(ish) of the 6 last episodes was a whole arc dedicated to the most engaging lore Precure has ever given us to date.

Cure Noble is definitely entering the league of legacy Cures and perhaps as the one with the best story as well. How she went from princess-sovereign to becoming the very first Precure (in this universe, anyways) to helping pave a way for peace with her nemesis to laying out the foundation for the Cures who will succeed her in the future.

Yeap, Ellee-chan may have gotten a nice age-up bonus so that we can see her embrace her destiny and actually converse in something other than baby talk.

But it's more accurate to say that Ellee-chan/Cure Majesty's character arc is really Princess Elleelain/Cure Noble's instead.

Which is totally fine with me. Not only was Elleelain super interesting as a hero/protagonist in her own era but Kaiserin was...dear god.

Dear god, when have we gotten a twist that was this good and this dark by the series' standards? I felt we haven't touched this level of grim writing since Heartcatch and that was my first Precure season ever.

But seriously, it's impossible not to sympathize with Kaiserin and appreciate how much she contributed to the plot as well as this season's message that power is not what makes a hero, but the strength of one's heart that does.

Even her traitorous tutor, Skearhead, said she had what it took to become a hero (and maybe even Precure? oooh~), which just makes her fall into darkness more tragic.

But thankfully, she never lost her kindness and compassion, which was what ultimately allowed her to not only be saved but her wounds to finally heal after hundreds of years of suffering from the pain of betrayal Skearhead had inflicted on her.

And that her generals, who all turned over a new leaf, came back to the Undergu Empire to loyally serve her and make sure she isn't alone...

Good! This is so satisfying, I couldn't have asked for anything better! Kaiserin deserves her happiness after all she's been through!

But of course, that's not all because no Precure finale is complete without the last episodes dishing out the best combat scenes of the entire season and did it deliver, alright.

Uh-huh, uh-huh, uh-HUH!

The animation was absolutely stellar and not so overdone that it'd look more gaudy than cool. coughDeliPaPrecough

Moreover, the teamwork is what really sold the animation. As it should because Precure is all about that team effort brought on by personal growth, not a one-man show.

I loved how Wing, representing wisdom, was the one everyone trusted to get that barrier back up because it is a mechanism that he researched and developed to help everyone. It proves that boys don't need to fit into a specific mold of masculinity or genius to be a hero because in the end, those things don't matter. It's being true to yourself, your beliefs and your dreams and what you choose to do with those abilities that counts.

I loved how Butterfly, who is physically the strongest in the group, always takes on the tougher tasks such as facing the army of tedious mooks to let those younger than her forge a path ahead. She never forgets her responsibility as an adult to protect the kids but she also encourages them to move forward because she fully believes in them like a good adult would.

I loved how Majesty comes to understand that though she's meant to inherit Cure Noble's will and power and position as Skyland's princess, it's not her destiny to inherit Elleelain's loneliness. And the whole reason that she started out as a baby but was able to grow and become Precure was because she was surrounded by the right people who brought out that potential in her. For Ellee-chan, being with her friends and fighting alongside them was the bigger, more important destiny than her duty was.

Finally, the star duo of the show.

Sky was given stronger MC vibes than the other cast members but you can't deny that she wouldn't have gotten this far without Prism by her side.

Sora's idea of what it means to be hero expanded a lot because she became friends with Mashiro.

She has come to treasure Mashiro so much that when she was on the brink of losing her best friend, she let Skearhead corrupt her in order to have enough power to save that best friend. She was willing to sacrifice herself for someone important to her, which in a way, can be seen as an act of heroism (but only as a last resort, plz do not attempt).

And even then, Sky kept resisting from being taken over. Prism didn't even flinch when Sky aimed a punch at her. That's how much Mashiro believes in Sora, in the hero that Sora is. That even if Sora accepted darkness into herself to do the right thing, she won't ever let that darkness consume her into doing the wrong thing.

And the fact that it was Prism who had the ability to not only purify Sky but also heal Kaiserin's centuries-old wound. She's come a long way herself from the girl who used to think she was talentless, who didn't believe she had anything special going for her.

"You are good as you are now, Mashiro-san."

What Sora said was true until the very end. Mashiro didn't ever need to change. She was already good enough and she was always going to become even better than how she started out because she was always being inspired and supported by those around her and challenging herself to do things she initially hesitated on doing.

Now she's continually drawing new stories, even winning an award for one. Even her Prism Shot evolved and multiplied as an attack and it's all because she learned to believe in herself because all her friends believed in her.

This is essentially what sets Precure apart from the others, what makes it the major name it is in modern day mahou shoujo.

I cannot begin to describe how glad I am that the staff at Toei reinforced those aspects of friendship as well as the celebration of individualism in a milestone year. But I can definitely say with confidence that we can expect to see more well into the franchise's 30th anniversary as long they don't forget these two very crucial things.

As for me, I think this will be the last time I blog Precure on a "regular" basis.

I'll still continue to watch cuz hey, there's no reason for me to stop yet.

(and all the more reason to not stop if Satoru and Daifuku become the next two male Cures in WonPre OMGI'MSOGONNAJINXTHISAREN'TIBWUAHAHAHAHA!!!)

But my priorities have shifted so I gotta tend to those foremost. And as much as I enjoy the show, I feel like I'm always saying the same stuff over and over again anyway, just in different variations of it.

(also, something about WonPre tells me the next four years will be filled with hit-or-miss seasons so meh, I'd rather just follow it leisurely than get too invested and then disappointed)

On another note, I do have some personal rankings that I'd like to post some day. I was going to do it for the 20th anniversary but didn't have time to cuz life got way too hectic and busy but yea, eventually I'll have them up.

Just for fun, y'know.

Ok, that is all.

Thank you, my hero girls and boy! You made this season so wonderful hahahaha, good luck, WonPre for me and I can't be grateful enough for it.

Thank you for a beautiful anniversary! Let's aim for the next!

25th year with 100+ Precure!

Let's gooooooooooooo!!!

[tergwearrow]

The Solar Saga

So….. This post has been a long time coming.

NO, IT'S NOT BAD, I SWEAR!

This is the final post of the Solar Panel Saga, a grueling process which took far longer than it should.

SO.

Let us.

BEGIN!

For those of you that do not know, I'm homeless, living in a van. Not by choice, but hey, what can you do?

As a normal adult in the 21st century, I need power.

As a normal adult in a van from 1998, I can't rely on the engine to do it. So I had been thinking of something like this even since I first ended up homeless. but I believed all the solutions for this were impossibly expensive.

then, in February 2024, I found the BOX!

for just ten dollars plus shipping, I could control a solar panel. it seemed like magic! like a Sign! so I purchased it. Along with what proved to me a dramatically inadaquate solar panel, although I didn't know that at the time.

this led eventually to the search for a batter system that would work, and I already had the perfect idea in mind.

in my local (unnamed for legal reasons) big box store, in the marine section, was a battery box with a built-in system of outlets. TWO 12v DC automotive ports! TWO USB Connections! one USB-C and one USB-A! a BREAKER! and a HIGH-POWER EXTERNAL WING NUT CONNECTION DIRECTLY TO THE BATTERY!!!

It was perfect. and only 30ish bucks. the problem, was the battery.

Batteries are expensive. the battery I needed was a Deep Cycle battery, a type of lead-acid battery designed for long charge and discharge cycles. such a battery is a fairly niche item. I didn't and in fact couldn't find one in my big box store. so. I waited for my next paycheck, and went in search of a battery.

turns out ten seconds of googling found a battery store, like, a half mile from my usual parking spot. lol.

with much consternation and a great deal of money ($160is all told) I had my battery. Extensive testing would confirm its functioning in the box.

Now, a PANEL!

In days of Old, when Men were Bold, and whiskey was far, FAR cheaper: solar panels sucked. and were really expensive. when last I had looked into the idea a decade or more before, the best panels were hundreds to thousands of dollars and, while they generated useful power, were finicky about light conditions. then I discovered Mono-Crystal panels, and was amazed. 50 watts for 64 dollars. just over a dollar a watt. larger panels were even cheaper: 1000w of panels came to barely $800! incredible! said I, this would be no problem at all! Until i membered. I'm homeless.

Fuck.

While technically I have a mailing address, that address is at a homeless support place (where you can shower, and do laundry, and get meals, rather than sleep), which is infamous for questionable support staff, long wait times, and not the best service in the world. so.

Shipping a large, expensive, fragile piece of equipment there was a no-go.

then I saw the hardware store I was buying it from had ship to store.

YAY, COVID! (bout the only good thing to come from the Plague. or maybe before? idk.)

So I shipped it there, picked it up, and now was the time to Mount it to the roof!

And this, is where my troubles Truly Began.

At first, I thought to magnet the thing to the roof, so I bought some magnets.

NOPE!

Fiberglass

Then I thought to screw it in.

NOPE!

Couldn't get a drill in the panel

Suction cup?

NOPE!

not strong enough

Glue?

NOPE!

Wasteful, infective, and long cure time

fuck the whole business?

NOPE!

Still need power!

So. after weeks of waiting for money and days off to try shit, I decided on a plan:

Get some Plywood Glue it to the roof get some metal glue it to the board magnet panel to metal.

easy, simple, I need a stepladder, but I can just go to the hardware store, buy then return one. so I got to work.

the glue didn't hold the metal. or the wood very well, for that mater.

so, I relented, bought some screws, a drill, and some drill bits, and on the evening of May 28, 2024, finally saw my dream of solar power through.

it's the end of June now, and my little panel has done well. the metal is rusted orange, the wood is curved and warped, the magnets hold steady, and duct tape keeps the wires out of the doors.

But.

I'm typing this on a laptop powered by solar. and that's Damn Good.

The Panel, Herself.

I’m poor, Homeless, and jobless, please give me money, so I don't starve!

[ecargmura]

Hirogaru Sky! Precure Episode 49 Review - The Sky Turns Dark

Saying that this episode was intense is an understatement in itself. If there is a word that can describe something beyond intense, that is what this episode is. I was seriously glued to my chair and my eyes were glued to the screen to see what would happen next.

Skearhead really was the true villain all along. His true identity is Darkhead, the incarnation of Underg Energy. I didn’t expect the energy to be sentient! Apparently, he was the one who killed the Emperor and altered the Empress’s memories so that she’d be the perfect vessel that could easily be corrupted by the energy. Also, remember when he said he loved the Empress? That was the biggest lie of them all. Yikes. The Empress was the biggest victim in all of this mess. I’m glad that she was able to be reasoned with and accepted Sky’s friendship. However, I was right in that Skearhead was this show’s most dangerous villain. Since his debut, I could tell there was something sinister about him with how he reacted very little to situations and how he behaved around others. Him being the twist villain was not in my bingo card but it felt like it was to be expected. Do I like the twist? Honestly, yes. However, I disliked the fact that it made Empress Underg’s importance diminish as she was just manipulated and misguided the entire time. Her beef with Ellee? All because of lies. I pity her the most, honestly.

You know SHIT is going down when an anime starts using the “go on without me” scenario where companions stay behind to let the MC move ahead with an important mission. Wing and Butterfly stay behind the first stage and then Majesty in the second stage. They all do this so that Sky and Prism can rescue the Empress. I liked how Wing and Butterfly were the other main duo aside from Sky and Prism, so it’d make sense that they’d stay together. Titanic Rainbow has to happen after all. I was surprised with Majesty staying behind. Given how significant Majesty is to the story, I thought she’d have a role in defeating Skearhead, but the plot favors Prism as she and Sky are the duo. However, it’s also nice to see that the writers didn’t make it so that she’d be the spotlight hog and was faithful to making Sky the MC.

Oh boy, the Dark Cure Sky segment was crazy. I didn’t think someone would try to corrupt her. Her design is sick, though. The sole right black wing reminds me a lot of Sephiroth from Final Fantasy VII. I think that despite her being infused with Underg Energy, she’s still sane and conscious and is using the power to fight back against Darkhead until it gets too much for her to handle. Despite my amazement with how it went out, it really did come out of left field. Where was the foreshadowing? It would’ve been cooler if Skearhead wanting to use Sky as a vessel was hinted throughout the third act of the series, but alas, I shouldn’t expect too much.

I do like that Prism’s role as Sky’s light plays importance here. Ever since they met, Mashiro has been Sora’s light in a way. She’s her first friend. She’s the reason why Sky is able to fight with others. When Sora faltered and was at her lowest, it was Mashiro’s encouragement that pulled her out of that funk once and for all. She’s Sora’s gentle light and plays that role significantly. Prism Shine even plays a role in ridding of the Underg Energy within Sky.

Anyways, it seems that Darkhead’s true form is of a giant snake and all five Precures have reunited to take down the big bad once and for all. I get the feeling next week’s episode is going to feel like a grand finale. I can’t wait to see what’s going to happen during and after the last battle. What are your thoughts on this episode?

[mrs-sharp]

The eyes of Graphorns

I've finished a new part of my fanfic, and we finally reach the part where the title is explained. Hope you enjoy it!

Pairing: Aesop Sharp x mc

Summary: After their confrontation, Elaine and Sharp avoid each other. But after a short while, they both realize that they have difficulties being apart. Elaine takes the first step and invites Sharp to meet her in the corridor of the seventh floor.

Read part 1-4 here

Chapter 5 - Elaine's Laughter

Aesop Sharp sat in his classroom, turning a piece of parchment in his hands. In recent days, he had often sat here, lost in thought, although he really hadn't had the time for it. Every day, he would review the events in Elaine's office, and her words would echo in his mind. She had tried to find a cure for him. She had been injured in the attempt to confront his attacker. She had become a damn Auror and went to that cursed place named Scarborough. It wasn't that he hadn't believed she was capable, but the fact that she now had to endure the same pain that had haunted him for years because of him — he should have warned her before it was too late. But what troubled him most was what she had said to him: "You mean too much to me."

In the past week, he hadn't seen her often. They mostly met in the Great Hall, but she hadn't given him a chance to speak with her. Usually, she was already there before him, leaving the teachers' table before he had even started eating. Now he sat there, the empty parchment in hand, unable to find the right words. He had thought about sending her an owl. He wanted to apologize to her. For his behaviour and for not having control of the situation. But most of all, for accusing her of not wanting to help him. He wanted to say so much, and...

"Professor, we've finished brewing our Focus Potions," a voice interrupted his thoughts. He looked up, and there stood a student holding a vial.

"Yes, yes, write your names on a piece of parchment and then place the potions on my desk. We'll discuss the results in the next class. Class dismissed..."

The students looked at each other questioningly and then began to leave the room one by one.

"What's wrong with Professor Sharp?" he heard a student whisper, and another replied, "I don't know, he's behaving strangely, maybe..."

The rest of the sentence left the room with the students. Aesop Sharp leaned back in his chair and sighed as an owl entered the room through an open window, dropping a piece of parchment onto his desk and disappearing without landing. He recognized the handwriting immediately:

"Please meet me after lunch on the seventh floor of the Astronomy Wing."

There was nothing more on the piece of parchment, but he knew who it was from. The whole week, he had caught himself waiting for a message that he had believed would never arrive. He had thought about a possible meeting with Elaine Hopkins much more often than he wanted to admit, and it unsettled him. Until now, he had never found it difficult to stay focused on his work, but since the confrontation with Elaine, he had noticed behaviors in himself that he didn't recognize.

Lost in thought, he imagined seeing her again outside the Great Hall while simultaneously trying to push the thought away. He knew he was behaving highly unprofessionally, even though she was now his colleague.

The morning dragged on like an eternity. When Sharp arrived in the corridor of the seventh floor, Elaine was already waiting for him. She didn't look at him as he approached and stood beside her. She sensed his presence, though, as he stopped next to her. He too looked at the wall she was staring at, perhaps hoping to discover something there, but all he saw was sand-colored stone.

"How was your first week at Hogwarts, Professor?"

He said her title as if it brought him joy to treat her as an equal. He glanced at her from the side and caught himself admiring her. He noticed again and again that he compared her to the student she had been when she left Hogwarts. Even then, he had appreciated her talent and courage, but he felt how much she had grown. She radiated sincerity and sharpness. She tempered her confidence with restraint and humility. He noticed that he had been staring at her for a bit too long, quickly looked away, and condemned himself for his inappropriate behaviour.

"I'm still getting used to standing on the other side of the classroom," she replied, "but it's going well."

Elaine was glad that Sharp was actually there. She hadn't been sure if he would come. He hadn't responded to her owl, but she hadn't expected him to. Even during her school days, he hadn't revealed more than necessary about himself. For the first time since she returned to Hogwarts, she felt something familiar. So much had happened in the last few years, and everything had changed, but now, with the professor standing next to her, who had fought side by side with her long ago, she felt that the shadows of the past were at least loosening a bit. She valued the Potions Master greatly — his knowledge and experience, but also his honesty.

"I want to show you something."

Elaine looked around to see if they were alone, closed her eyes, and after a few seconds of silence, a door formed on the bare wall.

"Is that..." Sharp began, and Elaine couldn't help but notice the wonder in his voice.

"The Room of Requirement," she nodded, finishing his sentence.

Elaine opened the door and invited him in. Sharp walked through slowly and felt like he had entered another world. The walls were filled with books, plants, and potion ingredients up to the high ceilings. Here and there were alcoves with seating, plant tables and potion stations. He spotted cauldrons and shelves full of vials filled with various potions. Diptam, river grass, shrivelfigs, and knotgrass grew in the room, along with mandrakes, Chinese chomping cabbage, and even a venomous tentacula. Sharp looked around with his mouth slightly agape.

"Professor Weasley led me here. This way, I was able to catch up on all the material I had missed in my first year," Elaine explained.

"Matilda, huh? I always thought of the room as a legend until now. She never told me about it," Sharp said, still marvelling at the sight. Elaine walked through the room.

"Oh, the shrivelfigs could use some fertilizer, and the venomous tentacula needs pruning."

"Miss Hopkins, is that you?" a voice suddenly squeaked from the other end of the room, and a house-elf appeared from behind one of the huge planters. "Oh, what a pleasant surprise!"

"Deek, nice to see you. I'm sorry I couldn't come earlier. Did you take care of everything with Professor Weasley while I was away?" Elaine asked, and Deek's face lit up.

"Yes, Deek did everything he could to take care of everything. You're accompanied today, I see?"

Elaine turned around. "This is Professor Sharp, the Potions teacher at Hogwarts."

"Pleased to meet you," he replied curtly, nodding to the house-elf.

"Deek, would you excuse us for a moment? I want to show Professor Sharp something," Elaine said.

"Of course," Deek replied and disapparated.

Elaine turned to her colleague, suddenly looking serious.

"I know it may sound inappropriate, but when we enter the next room, it's very important that you do what I tell you. Do you understand?"

Sharp's face became pensive, puzzled by the authoritative tone in her voice.

"I mean it. Please, you have to trust me."

It was hard for him to relinquish control, but he was also curious about what else this room held.

"All right," he answered and nodded.

"Follow me," Elaine replied, sounding suddenly very mysterious.

Aesop Sharp followed closely behind her, and they entered another room, although the word "room" hardly did it justice. Suddenly, he found himself in a vast hilly landscape. In the distance, he could see ruins. It felt as if they had landed in the farthest corner of the Scottish Highlands, although they were still inside the castle. Hogwarts never ceased to surprise him.

Elaine's whistle cut through the cool air. Sharp had been so busy marveling at the landscape that he hadn't noticed the magical creatures. Suddenly, Nifflers popped out of the tall grass bushes, starting to squeak excitedly when they saw Elaine, then bustling around her feet. Mooncalves danced around her, and from afar, Thestrals came flying. They galloped around Elaine, sniffing her. One lay on its back, rolling excitedly in the grass and making joyful noises. The smallest of them was snow-white and nudged Elaine's hand, urging her to scratch its head. Sharp had never seen anything like it.

The way the creatures approached Elaine so trustingly fascinated him. He had previously thought it was dangerous to get so close to magical creatures, but Elaine's interaction with them exuded a calmness that soothed him.

Sharp looked around. Diricawls darted through tall grass on one of the hills, next to them Kneazles dozed in the sunlight, and in the sky, he spotted a flock of Fwoopers in all the colors of the rainbow. In the distance, he even thought he saw unicorns.

"This is... wonderful," he remarked reverently. Elaine smiled. She couldn't remember ever hearing the former Auror speechless.

"I started this because I wanted to provide them with a safe environment. Almost all the magical creatures here fell victim to poachers. At first, I had no idea how much I would learn from them."

Sharp remembered hearing stories during Elaine's school days that she had taken down entire poacher camps with Poppy Sweeting, but he had dismissed it as gossip, embellishing the story of the dragon attack on Elaine's first day.

"So, the rumours about you and Miss Sweeting are true?"

"I don't know what rumours you've heard, but when I think about what Poppy and I experienced together in my first year, it's likely that they are true."

"You don't have dragons here, do you?" Sharp asked with a touch of irony, but also visibly concerned.

"Not in this room," Elaine replied. Sharp recognized from her expression that her response wasn't serious and smiled then. For a moment, Elaine paused. Her former teacher's smile flowed through her body, leaving behind a warm feeling of security. Over the years, she had realized how much she had missed him, but only now did she realize how much.

Suddenly, the ground began to shake. At first, it was just a faint vibration under their feet, but Sharp noticed it immediately. He looked around hastily, trying to locate the source of the tremors, which had now intensified into a full-fledged quake. Suddenly, he felt Elaine's hand on his own. A warm shiver ran through his body like rain after a summer day.

"Don't," she said gently, looking at him. Without realizing what he was doing, he had stepped in front of Elaine and drawn his wand to defend them both.

"But..." he stammered.

A Graphorn came running towards them menacingly. It looked angry, and for a split second, Sharp hesitated, but then he followed Elaine's instruction and put away his wand. He closed his eyes and braced himself for the worst. When the impact he expected didn't come, he blinked cautiously. The magical creature had stopped just a few inches in front of them.

He had heard stories about Graphorns. About how powerful wizards were heavily injured or died in battle against them. The Ministry had even put bounties on the creatures. But up close, it didn't look so angry anymore. It reached out its tendrils, which swirled around its mouth and strongly resembled tentacles, and touched Elaine with them. The Graphorn snorted and wrapped its tendrils around Elaine's neck.

"It's okay, it's okay," she reassured the magical creature, "Yes, it's me."

When the creature turned towards Sharp and critically eyed him, Elaine spoke to it in a gentle voice, "This is Professor Sharp. He won't hurt you; you can trust him."

Sharp was touched; on the one hand, to hear his colleague say that he could be trusted, and on the other hand, by how gently the Graphorn treated her. The calmness Elaine radiated seemed to affect both him and the Graphorn. He felt himself relax and be overwhelmed by the beauty he observed.

Elaine looked at Sharp over her shoulder, "Most people are afraid of them, but they're actually quite gentle."

Sharp felt a bit caught off guard and lowered his gaze as another Graphorn appeared behind the first one followed by a second, smaller one.

"My goodness, this is unbelievable!" Elaine exclaimed. "You've had offspring!"

When the young one appeared behind its mother, Sharp was speechless. For some reason, the sight of the young one, about a head smaller than him, now purposefully approaching him, deeply moved him. It touched him with its tendrils. The touch tickled a bit, but it was gentle and friendly. Suddenly, Sharp felt a peace within himself that he had never known before, almost bringing tears to his eyes. The little Graphorn purred contentedly.

"It likes you," Elaine explained, now standing next to him and petting the head of the first Graphorn. "Graphorns use their tendrils to sense emotions. I studied them for a while when I was travelling. In the Pyrenees, there are village communities where wizards and Graphorns live peacefully together."

Elaine turned to Sharp, "Because the Ministry keeps hunting down these creatures, they are almost extinct here. That's why they usually attack immediately when they encounter a human in the wild. It might even be that these are the last ones in Britain."

With his mouth slightly open, Sharp looked at the huge Graphorn in front of Elaine. Upon closer inspection, he noticed how gentle the magical creatures looked up close.

"Their eyes..." he began, "they remind me of -"

"Pain?" Elaine tried to finish his sentence. "Graphorns seem to seek the presence of those who have experienced great suffering." They stood silent for a few moments. Sharp alternately looked at the small Graphorn and at his feet. It unsettled him that Elaine seemed to know his greatest vulnerabilities so naturally. But what unsettled him even more was the fact that he felt comfortable in her presence nonetheless. He wasn't used to trusting anyone.

Before he replied, Sharp examined the melancholic look in Elaine's eyes since she had returned here and nodded, "I wanted to say they remind me of you."

Elaine looked at him surprised. Graphorns' eyes were gentle, sad, perhaps even desperate, but above all, they had a fragile, vulnerable expression. Elaine had studied the creatures for a long time; they were intimidating and proud, but also strong, gentle, loyal, and intelligent. They fascinated Elaine, but she hadn't expected to be compared to Graphorns one day.

Suddenly, she started laughing because it sounded like a compliment from Sharp. It was an infectious and heartfelt laughter. Sharp hadn't heard her laugh since she had left school. Since she had been back at Hogwarts, he hadn't seen her smile even once. And he immediately knew that it wasn't a mocking laugh, but a liberating one that drove away the darkness of the past few years for a few seconds. It filled him with joy to see her like this. When she regained her composure, Sharp smiled at her.

There it was again, that feeling that Sharp's smile triggered in her. It touched Elaine and wrapped around her shoulders warm and soft as if it could protect her. For a moment, it felt like Elaine's laughter had dissolved everything that had stood between them, as if there was a particularly strong connection between them. They looked deep into each other's eyes, and for a moment, they both forgot the pain and Scarborough and all those they had lost. For this moment, everything inside them was free.

"I... I need to apologize to you, I shouldn't have..." she began, but Sharp shook his head.

"No," he replied in his deep voice, which sounded unusually calm and gentle, "I should have trusted you. The accusations I made against you... that was unfair. I'm sorry."

Elaine fell silent. Never in her life had she expected him to apologize to her. He looked at her. He looked at her with that penetrating gaze that seemed to look directly into her soul. He looked at her with his dark eyes and all the sadness that lay in them. He took a step towards her. He was so close to her now that she had to look up at him. A trembling tension ran through the silence between them, which slowly transformed into intimacy.

And then Sharp heard something that moved him so deeply as if he had been enchanted. It was the purest and truest thing he had ever heard. At first, he thought he was imagining it, but then a scarlet bird flew overhead, its song filling the vastness of the sky above them.

"Is that... a phoenix?"

Elaine nodded, also moved by the sound that seemed to fill everything around them and inside her. She swallowed and answered in a soft voice, "I've never heard him sing."

-> This way to Chapter 6 - Elaine's Secret

[jazzthatonewriterchick]

Lovers & Friends (18+ Fic)

Pairing: Keigo Takami x Black!Fem!Reader (Friends to Lovers)

Synopsis: In which you and Keigo have begun to realize the strange new feelings you both have for each other after one drunken night at a close friend’s wedding that ends with you in his bed, but because of your longtime friendship and committed relationships with other people, you’re more than happy to forget that night even happened and keep your mutual feelings in the dark…for now, at least. 

Story Warnings: Smutty smut; 18+ (MINORS GET AWAY); Cheating/Infidelity; Mating; Light Degradation; Spanking; Exhibitionism; Multiple Positions; Creampie; Unprotected PIV Sex; Facial; Scent Play; Marking; Spitting; Deepthroating; Cunnilingus; Begging; Edgeplay; Power Play; Wing-Stroking; Daddy Kink; Some Angst; Hurt/Comfort; Mild Violence

Disclaimer: I own none of the characters mentioned in this fic. However, as this is my writing, I do not give permission for my work to be reposted on any other sites that are not from my own accounts. Thank you!

Writer's Note: Life is lifeing right now, BABY, but I thank everyone for your constant love & support for my writing. Y'all are why I love writing. -Jazz

Chapters: One. Two. Three. Four. Five. Six. Seven. Eight. Nine. Ten. Eleven. Twelve. Thirteen. Fourteen. Fifteen. Sixteen. Seventeen. Eighteen. Nineteen. Twenty. Bonus Chapter.

Read on AO3 here!

***********

Chapter Fifteen: She's Coming Out.

A week later, on a beautiful Saturday morning and hours before the Heroes’ Gala, Rei is busy dressing himself for work after spending the night with you on Saturday. 

You sit up in your bed in your PJs––just a Bleach shirt and some panties with your hair wrapped up in your bonnet. You watch your boyfriend as he pulls his pants up over his boxers, his polo shirt already on.

“You sure you’ll have time tonight before the event?” you ask, watching him from the bed as he zips his fly. “I wouldn’t want you to be late.” 

He smiles at you once he finishes straightening his clothes out. He packed them in his overnight bag when he visited last night and then ironed them after the very nice sex you two had before passing out on your bed. He leans over to meet you, pressing a kiss to your lips.

“Don’t worry about me,” he coos, stroking your chin. “I’m just stepping into the office for a few hours. Besides, I want you to see my suit in person since you won’t be coming.” His eyes grow sad. “I really wish you were.” 

He was crushed when you told him you weren’t coming to the Gala. You gave him a lousy excuse that your period was due and you had body aches that no Tylenol could cure. Of course, he said he understood, but you could tell he was disappointed.

You give him an apologetic smile, stroking his face. “There’s always next time. Just let me know if I win or not.” You press a longer, passionate kiss to his lips before pulling away. “You can hand-deliver me my award,” you playfully whisper. 

A spark shines in Rei’s violet eyes, catching onto your words. “I certainly will,” he chuckles. He presses a kiss to your forehead before gathering his shoes and socks from your bedroom floor. “Take it easy today, alright? And if you ever decide you’ve changed your mind, call me and I’ll hire a stylist on the spot for you.”

You nod, giggling as he shoots out the door, his footsteps pounding down the stairs. “Have a good day!” you call after him. 

“I will!” he calls back before you hear the sound of your door shutting and automatically locking behind him. As soon as he is gone, you peel the sheets back and proceed to get dressed. 

You pick out one of those buttery-soft, white bodysuits, cut-off denim shorts, and black kicks for your journey. Nothing too special for where you’re going. Then you wait at least fifteen minutes until you’re sure Rei is gone to take your scarf off and spray your braids so your scalp is moisturized and your hair smells like tropical fruit. After slathering on some lotion and brushing your teeth, you venture downstairs, leave Rumi a note that you went out for the day, and grab your keys from the kitchen before heading out the door to the parking lot where your car lies in wait for you. 

When you hop inside and start your car, your GPS system flickers on. There, on the screen, your destination in mind is already up and ready with the directions. Not your workplace or Keigo’s apartment or the facility Dabi is housed in. Your hometown. You smile wistfully as you click the “start” button to begin your route and pull out of the lot, the windows down and Beyoncé’s “Break My Soul” on full blast. 

You were born in Kazatoro (A/N: NOT A REAL PLACE), a little seaside town about thirty minutes outside of Musutafu, populated by only a couple hundred people, including your parents. Your mother, a teacher, and your father, a firefighter, built a great middle-class life in Kazatoro where they provided you with the best life they could offer you until you left for Musutafu to attend UA High. When you’re not busy with work, you try to visit them during your days off and call as much as you can. 

Kazatoro is known for its fishermen, seaside restaurants, trinket stores, middle-class neighborhoods, and boat tours that always attract tourists during the summertime. It is also known for having the kindest and most hospitable citizens and the mayor being all for his people. Kazatoro has the lowest rates of homelessness and crime due to the laws the mayor was adamant about passing, such as lowering inflation, bettering healthcare, and creating jobs with good salaries that don’t require education. The man is a certified saint. 

When you finally get to Kazatoro thirty minutes later, the town is alive with activity: the fishermen are beginning their morning shifts by readying their boats and fishnets; shopkeepers and business owners are opening their businesses for the day; stray cats are wandering about by the shore for their breakfast. You wave at the fishermen and those walking along the shore when you finally make it to the seaside. You park your car farther away from the docks and people, opting to sit by the rocks. 

It is a beautiful day. The sky is pure blue with no clouds in the sky. The water below sparkles like diamonds from the sun’s rays, its glittering waves splashing beneath the rocks and sand below you on the cliff. You sit on a large rock to overlook the sea that seems to stretch forever. It is serene and peaceful. There is no one but the sea, the sun, and you.

It is exactly what you need to reflect on your life right now. Especially with Rei. 

You could sense the change in him ever since he showed back up at your and Rumi’s place. He is more attentive and considerate than before, out and in the bedroom. Speaking of which, the sex has gotten better. He is way more in tune with you, paying attention to your body and asking you what it is you want. It feels good. He’s obviously taken advice from your criticisms at Fatgum’s wedding. You appreciate it and you adore him for it… 

But it isn’t enough to make you truly happy. You know that, and deep down, you always have. Though Rei makes you smile and you enjoy being with him, you can’t see yourself with him in the long term. You don’t feel right with him, like you could spend eternity in his arms. You just don’t fit, like a puzzle piece that is just too small for the large empty space it’s trying to fill. 

Not the way you do with Keigo though. The night you slept with him, you’ve never felt so free. You felt like you could scream and cry in pleasure and make all the ugly O-faces you wanted without being judged. He fed every single devious, kinky part of you with every smack on your ass; every nibble on your neck; every squeeze of his hand around your throat.

And when he snuggled up against you after everything was said and done, you felt for a moment that that night was real and you were his. You’ve never felt like that with Rei. With all of the things you did with Keigo that night, you would’ve never thought asking of Rei in fear of judgment or just not enjoying yourself. 

And it isn’t just the sex. Keigo makes you feel safe like everything you tell him will never see the light of day. He doesn't constantly look for validation from you like Rei does because he knows he is a great friend to you. He is protective but he also knows you’re a damn strong woman and can handle yourself; however, he’s always going to be in the background waiting to charge if someone tries you. He makes you holler with laughter. He makes you beam when he calls. He never ever judges you, even at your ugliest. He is kind and considerate; protective and sensitive; open to you, always. 

And you love him. 

You stop short, your eyes widening as you stare out into the water. “Shit,” you whisper as the realization hits you.

Surrounded by nothing but the blue sky and the frothy sea shore, you realize something that you should have realized a month ago: you’re in love with Keigo. You can never be with Rei because you don’t love him the way you should. This love is with Keigo and has always been with him. He has always been the man you’ve wanted from the start. The night you slept together just clarified that for you. 

Suddenly, the smoke of ignorance clears and you see the world around you so much clearer. You need to do something. Quickly, you pull out your phone and dial Rumi’s number, your knee jumping in anticipation for her answer. Three rings go by before she picks up. “Hello?” she groggily answers. 

“Yeah, babe,” you quickly reply. “Listen, I’m sorry for what happened at brunch. I don’t wanna fight with you and I don’t wanna act like you aren’t right.” A seagull caws overhead, swooping around your head to dive into the ocean for a snack. 

“S’okay,” Rumi yawns. “I knew you’d come around. Where the fuck you at anyway? Why do I hear seagulls?” You giggle at her question, speaking as loudly as you can over the wind that has picked up. “That’s not important. Listen, how much time do you have before you get ready for tonight?” 

Rumi pauses for a moment, obviously trying to process your question. “Uh…well, the Gala ain’t until 8 PM tomorrow, so probably 4 or 5. Why?” You pause, building anticipation. “You have any time to shop for a dress with me?” you ask, a giddy smile curling on your face. 

Rumi gasps before an excited screech leaves her lips and nearly takes your ear off. “You’re going?!” she squeals. “Hold up, lemme call Nemuri! And you’d better be serious, bitch, or I’ll strangle you when you come back here.” 

Happiness fills you, her overwhelming joy rubbing off on you. “I’m serious,” you giggle. “I’ll be home in about twenty minutes.” 

“You’d better,” Rumi growls, a happy grin in her voice. “I’ll be dressed as soon as you get back here.” After saying your goodbyes, you hang up and immediately call Rei. As the phone rings, you stare out into the blue horizon where the sky meets the sparkling water and absolutely feel like this is the right choice. 

“Hello?” Rei finally answers. 

“Hey, babe,” you sweetly say. “I was just wondering if it’s possible for you to still hire a stylist on short notice.” 

***********

That night, you feel like an old Hollywood movie star with the way Rei’s stylist completely transforms you. 

As soon as you told Rei you’d be attending tonight’s Gala, he was over the moon excited and immediately hit up his backup stylist to work on you. After having a champagne-filled day trying on gowns with the girls, you came home and took a nap before the stylist came over to do your makeup and hair. It took about two hours of prepping and sitting in a chair, but you know that it was all worth it in the end. 

You’re facing away from your bedroom mirror, sitting in a chair with your back straight to avoid slumping and fucking up your posture. Kikiyo, the stylist, stands in front of you with one last bobby pin in her hand that she uses to keep your braids in place. She is all tattoos and piercings, and has a love for anime that you spent the entire time chatting about. It made the process less grueling.

“Aaand…finished!” she happily exclaims. “Take a look and see if you like it.” 

She steps away from you, allowing you room to stand up and take off your robe which you used to avoid getting anything on your gown underneath. When you turn around to face the mirror, you barely recognize the woman standing in front of you.

She is poised and classy yet sexy and sensual in her slim red gown that makes her skin vibrant and her brown eyes pop. The bodice of the dress pushes her breasts up so they bounce and jiggle enticingly whenever she walks. Her makeup choice is a soft glam with faux lashes, sharp eyeliner, a glittery, peach-colored eyeshadow dusting across her eyelids, and a bold red gloss that makes her lips look juicy and oh-so kissable. A 24k gold chain sits on her neck that goes with the dangling earrings on her ears and the bracelet on her wrist engrained in topaz gems.

But it's really her hair that draws you in. Kikiyo tied the woman’s braids up and back and applied each braid in a particular place with bobby pins so not one is out of place and the hairstyle insinuates her face. 

You blink a few times at the woman who blinks right back. You can’t believe this is you. A shocked hand with a fresh, glossy manicure hovers over your red lips, your eyes wide with shock. “Oh, my God,” you gasp in awe. “I look absolutely gorgeous!” Kikiyo giddily laughs, happy with your reaction. 

The sound of applause turns your attention to your bedroom door where Rei stands in his Armani suit and red-bottom shoes. “Yes, you do,” he says from the doorway. “Thanks for leaving the door unlocked for me. Seeing your reaction was absolutely adorable.” He walks up to you, smiling fondly at you and your outfit. “You look perfect, babe.” 

He places his hands on your waist, pulling you forward. “Thank you,” you giggle bashfully. “Kikiyo knows her shit.” You nod back at the stylist who is now gathering her things and placing them all in a suitcase.

“Well, you were already beautiful, honey,” she chuckles. “I just enhanced it a bit more.” Rei hums in agreement, his hands sliding up your back and his lips pressing against your cheek. You swat him away, telling him that he’ll ruin your makeup. 

After a few minutes, Kikiyo finally heads out with her suitcase in tow. “See you two later!” she calls, strutting out of the bedroom in her boots. You wave her goodbye, telling her thank you for her work. “I Cashapped you the money,” Rei calls after her, his eyes still set on you. “Where’s Rumi?” 

“Already at the Gala,” you explain, giggling as his hands begin to wander more. “She met at her stylist’s workplace instead of gettin’ done up here.” As much as she didn't want to leave and miss out on helping you get ready, you told Rumi that she’d see you at the Gala and to get going. Though you’re still nervous about tonight, you feel better knowing that your friends will be there to calm your nerves. 

Even with Rei, you feel your uncertainty and anticipation ease when you see the utter adoration in his eyes. “You’re gonna be the envy of everyone at the Gala tonight, babe,” he sighs dreamily. “I hope you know that.” He presses a soft kiss to your lips, luckily not ruining your lipstick.

“Thank you,” you reply, “but tonight isn’t about my looks, Rei. It’s about me snaggin’ my first award…while also lookin’ gag-worthy.” 

You turn to look in the mirror once more, taken aback by how beautiful you look. It actually makes you feel better about being around your peers and a bunch of money-hungry reporters and paparazzi. Rei comes up behind you, wrapping his arms around your waist. “I’m so happy you decided to join me tonight, babe,” he joyfully says. “We’re gonna be the hottest couple on the red carpet tonight, you’ll see!” 

You want to tell him that you don’t care about that, but the beep of a vehicle steals your words. “Oh, that’s the limo!” he excitedly announces. “C’mon, there’s snacks in there if you’re hungry. Don’t need you falling out on the red carpet.” 

After putting on your Saint Laurent gold heels and grabbing your clutch, Rei walks you outside to the beautiful, sleek, black limo where the chauffeur opens the door for you both. Once inside, he puts up the partition and leaves you two to your business which is just sipping champagne and chomping on the packaged pretzels, cookies, and chips left for consumption.

During the entire right, Rei has his hand on your leg or his lips on yours, touching you always. Though his touch feels good, it isn't easing your nerves like it did back at the condo. Now that you’re in the limo and quickly approaching the event, anticipation grows inside of you. 

When you finally reach the Gala, you feel like you have to take the biggest nervous shit of your life. Your stomach flips and churns, threatening to make you sick. But when the chauffeur opens the door for you with an expectant look, you have no choice but to venture out into the unknown. 

And the unknown is a vast sea of people with flashing cameras and cell phones that sparkle like a night sky. A crowd that is separated by velcro rope, security guards, and a red carpet that leads all the way to the main entrance to the Gala venue. You blink in the flashing lights multiple times, overwhelmed by the blinking shutters and roar of the crowd. “H/N!” a reporter yells from the red carpet. “Tempo, over here!” 

You suddenly realize that you’re here with Rei, not alone, and turn to face him. You hope that he is already looking at you, paying close attention to your body and ensuring that you’re alright.

But instead, he is waving at the crowd and grinning for the camera. When he finally looks at you, he seems so happy. So upbeat. So overjoyed to be in front of the cameras and adoring fans. He loops an arm around your waist, hugging you to him. “You look absolutely beautiful,” he murmurs into your ear. “You’re going to be the envy of every man here tonight.” 

And as he leads you over to the red carpet to pose for pictures and talk to the news reporters, all you can do is bear it and smile. It’s the least you can do to atone for your sins. But as you stand in front of a backdrop with Rei’s arm around your waist and your hand on his shoulder, your sins catch up with you when your eyes inch to the far left near the venue doors where more news reporters are posted. 

Keigo stands there talking to a reporter, putting on the Hawks charm. He looks incredibly dashing in his black tux and red-bottom shoes, his blonde locks cut shorter than you’re used to. It looks different on him, but a good different. A sexy different. Even the burn star engraved into his skin heightens his appeal. With his hand in his pocket where a Rolex watch sits on his wrist, he is laid back and suave, yet not overdoing it to the point where he comes off as careless. He watches the news reporter and her camera crew laugh at his jokes and quips. He always knew how to work people. 

You know you should look away. You know you shouldn’t stare at him so longingly. To anyone else, it would appear just as it is: you’re checking him out. Standing right next to your boyfriend. 

Suddenly, without warning, Keigo turns his head just slightly and his eyes meet yours from across the carpet. Even as the reporter talks, he isn't really listening. His attention is completely on you and you alone. In his eyes like sunken treasure, you see the same kind of longing in his intense gaze that you feel for him.

Unspoken words hang in the air as the world falls away from you, leaving only you two standing there. Neither of you smile or wave, because what for? It wouldn’t do any good. The damage has already been done and you two can never go back to what you had before. 

‘Stop,’ you tell yourself in your head. ‘You can’t do this. Not now. For all you know, he’s still with Sakura.’ 

And so you turn away from Keigo, avoiding his gaze for the rest of the photoshoot, even though you still feel his eyes burning a hole into your head. You grip onto Rei a little tighter and smile a little harder. 

[maikry]

Exodus- Understanding

It was all too much. How could they expect Exodus to be able to carry on as if his world isn't teetering off the edge of oblivion? The king's appointments flash in a blur as he only has one thing in mind- Illeana.

Staying on the other side of the palace, Exodus wishes he were there now. The doctors had said she was in good health today, though that gave little comfort. He had left her sleeping and had yet to visit her since. 

Illeana has been sick for over a year, but recently her body had nothing more to give. She was put on bed rest a week ago and has lacked the strength to leave their room since. There was no understanding of her illness. No response to the various treatments they had tried. No medicine nor magic had unlocked the cure for his love. They were all at a loss. 

Exodus has tried being strong, leading his family and the kingdom in wake of this tragedy. But he has never felt so weak. So broken. So scared. 

"I believe this agreement will do nicely, councillors."

Remembering he isn't alone, Exodus looks up, giving a nod to the group in front of him.

"Is there any remaining topics to discuss?" He asks, keeping his tone formal. There isn't a response, but a murmuring of no's spread across the table. "Then I will adjourn this meeting. Thank you all for your time."

Not wasting any time, Exodus rises from his seat and exits the large hall and into the complex maze of hallways in the wing. The council room was too far away from her. What if something happened and he had to come. Surely they could use an area closer to her for the time being.

His mind buzzes until he reaches their chamber doors. Taking a shaking breath, he opens the door. His heart spikes seeing no one on the bed, but it soon subsides as he hears the subtle giggling beyond. Rounding the edge of the bed, Exodus lays his eyes on his world. His wife and their daughter, laying in a pile of covers and pillows. Illeana had a children's book in her hands, closing the pages before their eyes meet.

"Exodus, my love. You've come just in time. We've finished reading The Magic Cabinet for the third time." She gives a smile and Exodus can feel his stresses of the day ease. 

"It's my favorite, daddy! I wanna hear it again." Iarath chimes in, sticking her head out of the covers she was once hiding in. 

His smile mirrors his wife's as Exodus kneels down in front of them. "Is it? What happened to Butterfly House?"

Instantly, Iarath gasped, eyes wide and alert. She darts up and begins running past the two and towards the door. Exodus chuckles as he watches her struggle to get the door open.

"You know she'll have me read that one at least six times." Illeana says softly with a laugh before breaking into a coughing fit. Exodus' attention instantly turns to his wife, fetching her glass of water from the nightstand. He waits patiently for her to catch her breath, his hand stroking her back softly.

"I pushed myself too much today... I thought I could handle it." He could hear the defeated tone in her voice and Exodus clenches his teeth. 

"It's alright, my dear. Let's get you back into bed."

After placing the cup back, he lifts her up and leads her back into her bed. Exodus covers her back up and lays down next to her. Illeana quickly repositions herself, resting on his chest. 

"How are you doing?" He asks her.

"I'm tired. But I'm alright." She lies. 

He could tell. It wasn't hard to see the exhaustion seeping into her soul. This ailment has eaten away at her life until she has barely anything left of it. Exodus wraps his arm around her, realizing just how thin she had gotten. Tears begin to form in his eyes.

"I'm sorry." Exodus whispers. 

She shakes her head. "You don't need to be sorry."

"I'm sorry I can't save you." 

The silence is deafening. But Exodus can't hold the tears any longer. Short sobs begin to form as he holds her in his arms. "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry."

She doesn't respond, but her soft shaking speaks where words fail. Exodus clutches onto her, trying to give her his own life force. He would give anything to save her, had he the power. What good was being a king if he was powerless to protect the lives of those he held most dear. 

"Promise me you'll take care of her. If I don't make it, she'll need you more than ever." 

Her tone had shifted into something serious, almost as if she were reading off a list. The thought scared Exodus. Of continuing without her. He refuses to think of that possibility, but with it right in front of him, Exodus still can't bring himself to peer into that reality. 

"You'll make it." He responds with a quivering lip. 

"Ex, promise me. I'm not giving up, I'm going to fight this with all that I have. But I need to know that whatever happens, she has you. I can't bare the thought of her being alone through this."

"Whatever happens, she'll always have me. I won't let anything happen to her."

There were no more words spoken. There was nothing to be said. They just held onto one another as if their life depended on it. 

Soon Iarath returns and the three of them read her favorite book eight times. They talk and laugh and smile as if nothing had happened. But they know. They aren't the same. For all the power and sway Exodus has, he lacks the strength to restore something as fragile as a life. And for the first time, he understands that Illeana is losing the fight, and there is nothing to be done about it. 

And what else could Exodus do but curse the Goddess for making life so easily destroyed. 

[one-piece-aus]

La Seine

Law x Skypiean!Reader | Music 100 Milestone Event

Law + Classical Music + Slow Burn + Love Connection | Requested by: @chocolate-n-cheese

2 weeks have passed since Law had escaped White Town. The boy had visited every hospital he could find, not one had a cure for his amber lead disease, and what made it worse had been the very fact he was treated like a monster. Cast out, chased down by authorities, and terrified everyone that crossed his path. Law couldn't even find a decent place for shelter, he didn't have cash but even if did it's not as if any inns would welcome him.

So there he sat in an alley, wrapping himself in rags that were scattered around near the trash. The place he rested was damp from the specks of snow that managed to fall in the narrow area, and the temperature was low enough for him to be able to see his breath. Shaking like a leaf, he pulled the fabric closer to his body when laughter and music began to play from inside one of the buildings.

The sound almost made Law cry, it had been a long time since he listened to music and it reminded him of the festivals that White Town once held. He missed his home, his family-

"[Y/n] where do you think you're going?"

"I'm just taking out the trash."

A door to the back alley opened, a soft light shade poured into the outside and you stepped out, tugging a black trash bag behind you. Law sucked in a breath and slowly back-crawled, not wanting to be discovered. The boy was already out of energy from escaping the marines that hunted him earlier that day, he didn't want to run again. However, it's as if the world hated him because of a bag of bottles that chined against each other when he back into them.

You heard the noise and glanced over to where it came from. You were met with wide eyes staring into your, Law flinched and ducked down. Concerned, you placed a stone in front of the door so it wouldn't close, you cautiously crept towards the boy.

"Are you okay?" You asked, your voice softer than a pillow as to show you meant no harm.

"Go... go away." Law barked, burying his face into his arms so you wouldn't see the white spots on his face.

"Why?" You innocently inquired.

"Because... because I'm a monster, people like you are scared of me! You'll just scream and call for help."

Small giggles were heard, causing Law to look up with an irritated expression. Was this girl laughing at him? Before he could ask what was amusing, you spoke.

"If you're a monster then what does that make me?"

Law lifted his head to see what you were talking about when he thought an angel was standing in front of him. Easy mistake because you had white feathery wings on your back, at first Law concluded they might have been a fake prop but he scraped that when he witnessed the wings shake off the snow that collected on them. You smiled at him and one of your wings gave him a wave. Law stared at you in awe, having not seen anything like this before.

You held out a hand for Law, he glanced at it and back at you nervously. Hesitantly, he reached out and grabbed your hand. Quickly, he wiped his head to the side, not wanting to see the scared expression you'd give once you saw the little white spots on his hand.

Seconds passed and he didn't hear any gasp or horrified cry. Puzzled, Law looked at you wondering why you didn't say anything. He frowned his brows and pointed at one of the small white spots, he thought you might've not seen it because they were so small. Was it stupid to do that? Probably but he didn't want you to realize later and be given false hope.

"Don't worry, I have marks too," you reassured him and lifted the side of your shirt to show a bruised spot on your ribs. Law winced, seeing the discoloured spot on your skin. "Rocks hit hard, I think it's better when they're tomatoes." You looked back at Law, unfazed by what you showed him and kept your smile. "Come on, let's get out of the snow."

The boy took your hand a propped himself onto his feet. Carefully, you glanced around to make sure no one was around before taking Law under your small wing and leading him inside.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Law, psst, Law!"

The said boy blinked his eyes opened to see a little girl waving a hand in front of his face. Rubbing his eye to wake up, Law recollected what happened earlier in the night. You had snuck him inside to the attic where you stayed, a nice gesture though he was still worried he'd be found. Fortunately, you, and only you, discovered there had been a little hidden room in the attic behind a small door. That's was your secret hideout and now it's being used as Law's home.

"I managed to grab some food for you," you exclaimed in a hushed tone and held up a pouch. "I don't know about you, but I know I was hungry back when I was sleeping in alleys, so I figured you might be too."

"Yeah-uh... yeah, thank- thank you, [Y/n]-ya." Law didn't want to admit it but he was starving. A smile grew on his face when he opened it to see cheese and grapes.

It had become a routine the next few days; you left during the day and came back later in the evening with food you managed to snag for Law. Neither of you had to worry about water because you had a stash of bottled water in the attic. The evening would then be small talk between the two of you until one yawned and call it a night, you'd go back to your part of the attic and he'd snuggled in the makeshift fort of blankets & pillows. However, almost every night Law would wake up from a nightmare of his old town, he never told you about it... then one night-

Law jolted up, breath racing and tears falling from his eyes. He pulled his hat over his eyes and hugged his knees, sniffling and cursing the marines under his breath. The night slowly grew still as Law calmed down, yet he could catch the faint sound of something when he did.

Curious, Law crawled over and pressed an ear against the small door. He concentrated on the sound he had heard, but it wasn't a sound. It was a voice...

"She's resplendent, so confident~"

A voice of an angel.

"La Seine, La Seine, La Seine~"

The singing was soft and soothing.

"I realize, I'm hypnotized~"

The voice intrigued Law, and slowly he opened the door.

"La Seine, La Seine, La Seine~"

He peaked out, searching for the source.

"I hear the moon singing a tune~"

That's when his eyes landed on you, engulfed in the moon as she sat on the ledge of the attic window.

"La Seine, La Seine, La Seine~"

Your gaze rested on the view outside the window, unaware of Law.

"Is she divine, Is it the wine~"

A small warmth filled in Law's chest and his cheeks became dusted with red.

"La Seine, La Seine, La Seine~"

He watches in awe as he listened to the most beautiful thing he ever heard.

"I don't know, don't know, so don't ask me why

That's how we are~ La Seine and I

I don't know, don't know, so don't ask me why

That's how we are~ La Seine and I..."

The stinging memories of the past were now no longer on Law's mind, replaced by the angel he saw before him.

"Wow..." Law muttered unconsciously out loud, which caught your attention. You turned your head towards him, a blush erupted on Law's cheeks and he glanced away. "Sorry, sorry-"

"Uh- no I'm sorry," you apologized waving your hands in front of you. "I just sing when I... when I can't sleep. I didn't mean to wake you."

"Don't worry, you didn't wake me. I just... couldn't sleep."

"Oh..."

The room grew quiet, silence walking by the two who both averted their eyes from each other. Once it passed, you spoke up.

"Would you like to sing with me?"

"I don't know if I'll be as good as you," Law said and rubbed the back of his neck.

"Heh, singing isn't about being good, it's about what you feel in your heart."

When Law look back at you, you were now in front of him, a gentle smile on your face. Delicately, you grabbed his hands and lead him to sit by the window sill. From there you taught him the song you were singing moments ago. Law fell asleep on your shoulder that night, and for the first time in a while, Law was able to rest easy.

~~~~~~~ 11 Years Later ~~~~~~~

Arriving at Saboody, the Heart pirates had decided to visit a restaurant for something to eat. Entering the place, Law couldn't help but notice the stage and currents in the dining area. He turned to the waiter escorting him and his crew to their table.

"What kind of performances does this place have?" Law inquired as he sat down at the table.

"Mostly travelling singers," the waiter answered, handing out the menus. "Though we do have a few who perform regularly. Our most popular attraction is the infamous Angel [Y/n]."

Wait a minute, could it be? The same- no, it was impossible after what happened. Yet as Law became distracted by his thoughts and tuned the waiter out, his eyes drifted to a familiar set of white feathered wings going behind an employee-only door.

"I'll be right back," Law stated to his crew, abruptly getting up from the table and made his way to the door. Glancing around, he stealthy slipped in and found himself in a hallway. He didn't know what he was doing but, he felt as if a red string of fate tied around his hand and pulled him towards the direction of where the winged figure went off to.

Searching for the needle in the haystack, Law began to lose hope that you were actually here, though just as he passed by a door he heard a faint voice. Retracing his steps, Law pressed his ear to the door, listening carefully.

"She's resplendent, so confident~"

There it was, the singing angel he had been searching for.

"La Seine, La Seine, La Seine~"

No other person could ever hold a candle to your soothing melody.

"I realize, I'm hypnotized~"

Law leaned back on the door, not ready to face you just yet.

"La Seine, La Seine, La Seine~"

But his lips tugged up as he remembered the song.

"I hear the moon singing a tune~"

And he couldn't help but try to sing with her.

"La Seine, La Seine, La Seine~"

He carefully wrapped his hand around the doorknob.

"Is she divine, Is it the wine~"

Mentally he braced himself.

"La Seine, La Seine, La Seine~"

Slowly opening the door, he noticed you stopped singing to see who it was but that didn't stop him from continuing.

"I don't know, don't know, so don't ask me why

That's how we are~ La Seine and I

I don't know, don't know, so don't ask me why

That's how we are~ La Seine and I..."

"Law..?" you breathe, feeling as if this was a dream.

"It's been a while [Y/n]-ya," he replies, gazing into your beautiful eyes that stared at him in awe.

"This is real, right?"

"I was about to ask you the same thing," Law chuckles.

"I see you have tattoos instead of spots now," you comment, gently taking his hand and peering carefully at the ink design.

Law's cheeks become coloured with red as your delicate hands held his. Even after all this time away, the feelings he had for you still stir in his winter heart. You were one of the few people left in this world he was able to connect with and love, however, with you, the love he felt had been more than what he felt with family.

"But you're still someone with few words," you tease, glancing back into his silver eyes.

"And I still mistake you for an angel with those wings."

You giggle but a blush dusts your cheeks, feeling flattered by the tall man in front of you. He has certainly grown into a handsome fellow. You both smile, feeling content with the presence of each other, but that goes when he frowns.

"You don't have your marks, do you?" His voice was cautious, not wishing to remind you of any unpleasant memories.

"Um... there's still one left but I can't really do anything about it..." You subconsciously rub the back of your neck where the celestial symbol was burned into your back just below.

"Unless it gets cover..." Law tells you and takes your hand in his. "By a tattoo... or another mark."

"What would I even get?" You smile at him, wanting his opinion.

"My jolly roger," Law answers. "Join my crew [Y/n]."

This took way longer than I thought it would to make this, and most of the time it was spent on finding the song xD

Anyway, that side, I hope you enjoyed and thank you for your request and follow

[ramblesanddragons]

Under The Moonlight

(For @lemonfodrizzleart based on her wonderful Mystery Farm AU mixed with Monster Falls. I really like Jackie as an OC and I hope I did her justice. A little treat for the spooky season. Normally I believe Gargrunk Stan can’t fly but maybe in this dimension he can!) 

Words: 1967

Warnings: None! Just some fluff with a little bit of feels.

As the sun set low in the October sky Stan was trying his best to put on something nice. The wings were making it a little difficult. Maybe it would be easier to go shirtless than mess up a good flannel, but he wanted to look nice. Jackie was looking forward to this, he wasn’t going to let her down.  

With a little fashion help from Kelvin, Stan was able to get his wings through some neatly cut holes. His tail wiggled into the hole in his jeans after a few tries. Shoes were a no go but at least his hat could rest in-between the horns on his head.  

Getting ready for a date had never been so frustrating.  

It was worth it though when he saw the smile on Jackie’s face. She was floating down the stairs, well more like fluttering. Even with all the draw backs of being a monster Jackie was enjoying being able to fly. The past few days she’d practically flown all over the farm.

Her dress was an off the shoulder affair in a deep black. A bit too fancy for a moonrise picnic but it was probably easier to deal with than anything else because of her own wings. He thin tail poked out of the bottom of the dress. Stan didn’t really care if it was too fancy. She looked incredible.  

“Ready?” She asked.  

Stan motioned to the blanket and basket in his hands and Jackie looped her arm around his stony one. Ford looked up from his notes. He was currently measuring the size of Kevin’s ears. It was only due to the golden fur covering his face that his twin wasn’t blushing up a storm being that close to his crush.  

“You two be careful. I’m not sure how well any of the town folk would react to seeing you.”  

“Look I’ve been planning this date for a week, Ford. No little monster curse is going ta stop us. You shouldn’t let it stop you either.”  

Ford gave Stan a look that said, “Shut the hell up!” while Kelvin was distracted with the bone left over from his steak. Out of all of them he was rolling with this monster thing the best and seemed to embrace his wolfish side. Ford was indulging in riddles more but most of his focus was trying to find a cure. His twin needed to take a break before he burnt himself out. The occasional accidentally catnap wasn’t enough.  

Stan could bother Ford to relax later. For now, he’d let him study Kelvin in peace. Maybe it would get him to finally ask him out. The official couple squeezed out the door with a wave and began to walk out into the orchard.  

If this curse wasn’t lifted by next week, the fall apple festival they held each year would be turning into a costume festival as well. Sure, folks around town were used to the weird but even they had their limits. That was something for next week Stan to worry about. Right now Stan wanted to put all his attention on Jackie.  

Jackie, who was also barefoot, would hop every few feet trying to catch a breeze. When she did, she’d flutter around the tops of the trees for a bit and return with a handful of apples.  

“Honey, tonight’s ‘posed to be about relaxing.”  

“Oh, I know. It’s just annoying to do it in the daytime. Sun hurts my eyes,” she explained. The picked apples were placed in bags and left by the trees. They could pick them up on the walk back.  

“At least you can go out in the sun,” Stan grumbled.  

Jackie gave him a sympathetic peck on the cheek and his grumbling morphed into a happy purring noise.  

“It’s so cute when you do that.”

“Yeah, yeah just don’t tell Ford.”  

She laughed and fluttered around the trees some more before they reached their picnic spot. The hill at the end of the orchard was silhouetted by the harvest moon. Maybe he needed to take Jackie on night dates more often. It was beautiful.  

The two of them settled their blanket down and began to eat. Stan wasn’t as good of a cook as Jackie, but he had made the fanciest sandwiches he could with homemade sides. Every item had a somewhat ridiculous amount of meat in it to satisfy his new carnivore diet, but Jackie didn’t mind.  

The two of them ate and talked and laughed. Stan offered her a blanket when the wind blew but Jackie declined.  

“Apparently demons don’t get cold. It’s nice.”  

“You know you might look like a demon, but I think of you as an angel baby.” Stan said with a smile. The smile faltered as Jackie laughed.

“How long have you been wanting to use that one? Very smooth lover boy,” she teased.  

“Hey, I just wanted to let you know that I love you no matter what you look like! Yeesh. I try to be sweet.” He rolled his eyes playfully before remembering that no one could tell when he was rolling his eyes anymore. His eyes were currently glowing orange orbs.  

Jackie’s eyes had a reddish cat in the dark like gleam to them. They were staring deeply at him. “I appreciate. At first, I was a bit weirded out by being turned into a succubus of all things, but you haven’t made me feel weird or different. I appreciate it.”  

“Of course. You’re amazing no matter what you look like.” Stan wrapped a stony arm around Jackie, and they sat and watched the stars for a few minutes.  

“Hey. I just got a great idea. We should take advantage of this who demon and gargoyle thing while we can,” Jackie said playfully.  

Stan gulped. “Well, I haven’t really pushed any ideas since I didn’t want you thinking that you being a succubus would effect anything. I love you for more than that and-”

“Let’s go flying!”  

“That...that is not what I thought you meant.”

“Oh, that can happen later. I know you’ve had a hard time keeping your hands off me.” Jackie winked and hopped-up leaving Stan slack jawed in the dirt. She laughed and stretched her wings wide.  

“I think we could get some good air from here but maybe we should head up on the cliffs.”

“I don’t think I can fly. Too heavy,” Stan said.  

“I bet you can. If your furball and feathers of a twin can, so can you. Although just in case we probably shouldn’t start with the cliffs. Let's try from here.  

The hill wasn’t high enough to set off Stan’s heights fear, but it was one of the best places to sled on the farm. With the right wind it could be enough for a decent take off as Jackie was proving. She ran a few feet and stretched her wings, diving down to catch speed then turning up. She whooped happily as she climbed higher and higher. It almost looked like she could touch the large moon.

“Come on baby you can do it!” She shouted from the sky.  

Stan gulped. He took a deep breath and went down the hill at a run. He jumped like he saw Jackie do but then tumbled head over tail down the rest of the hill. As he finally rolled to a stop Jackie landed beside him.

“Are you alright?”

“Yeah. Hard head remember.” For emphasis Stan tapped his head and it made stony thumping noise.  

“How about I do it with you? That might help.”  

“Jackie I... there’s something I haven’t told you.” Stan frowned, he hated admitting it. “I’m afraid of heights.”

Jackie tilted her head in confusion and then something clicked. “That’s why you get Ford to do anything that involves a ladder! That’s why you like to use the apple picking tool instead of climbing!”  

“Yeah. Pretty pathetic huh.”

“Of course not! Being afraid of heights makes sense! It’s not like humans can fly...normally that is. I just can’t believe we’ve been together this whole time and I didn’t realize it.”

“I did my best to try and hide it.”  

Jackie petted his head causing him to purr again. Her claw like nails made a scratching noise against his stone skin. “Don’t be afraid to tell me you’re afraid Stan. I know you got it in your head you’re supposed to be this tough, sturdy guy-”

“What gave you that idea?” Stan asked in faux offense. Jackie shot him a look and gestured to his gargoyle body. He chuckled and let Jackie finish her thought.

“What I was trying to say is that it’s okay to be afraid and all those other human things. You don’t have to put on an act for me.”  

Stan’s smile faltered and he took Jackie’s hand in his. “...I know.” Logically he knew that but there were times he could still hear his pa’s voice in his head telling him to be a man. Men weren’t afraid of things. Men didn’t have feelings. Men were tough as stone. That wasn’t the kind of man he was though, deep down, despite his current appearance. Sure, he was tough, but he felt all these other feelings too and he didn’t want to deny them. It was just hard sometimes. He was thankful to whatever above that Jackie was patient with him about it.  

They sat at the bottom of the hill until Stan’s head finished spinning. Then he hauled himself up.

“Let’s try again.”

“Stan, you got nothing to prove.”

“I know that but when am I ever going to have a chance like this again. With luck these wings are gone within the week.”

He trudged back up the hill and watched how Jackie took off running and caught the fall breeze in her wings. She swooped up and flapped her wings hard to get higher and higher. Waiting until the wind picked up again Stan charged down the hill on all fours. As dumb as he felt it worked and he was able to feel a lift on his body. He beat his wings as hard as he could and the ground under him disappeared. The sudden disappearance of the ground spooked him, and he stopped flapping. His stone body went tumbling again.

“Stan!”

“I’m okay. I almost got this. Stay there!”

Determined he tried one more time. This time the wind was with him as a strong gust rolled across the orchard sending leaves and some apples flying. He flapped with all his might and didn’t panic this time when he took flight. His body was heavy. He could feel the strain in his back from the effort, but it was worth it to see Jackie’s delighted face.  

“How are you doing?” She lowered herself down a few feet to meet him where he was steady.  

“Alright if I don’t look down or think about being 20 feet in the air.”  

“Come on! Just keep your eyes on me.” She took Stan’s hand and together they started to soar through the starlit sky around the farm. As terrifying as it was it was also beautiful. The two of them danced in the sky for as long as Stan’s wings could hold him.  

Landing was tricky but when they made it back to their picnic spot Stan managed to stay on both feet despite tripping. He was even able to catch Jackie in his hands as she landed.  

“That was amazing,” she said breathlessly.

“You’re amazing,” Stan responded.  

“You might not agree with that after this. Tag you’re it!” She yelled pushing him slightly. She took off into the air again.  

“Hey now hold on!” Stan laughed and shouted after her, taking off into the sky again.  

[nestasgalpal]

Your precious High Lord [Nessian fic]

Masterlist | AO3

Sinopsis: So this is a fix-it fic where I give my version of the scene where Nesta calls Rhysand an asshole and Cassian defends him and tells Nesta that everyone hates her 🤡🤡 The idea is to just fix the scene, so everything else (aka Cassian telling her that and Nesta leaving the room etc) stil happens. I just want Nesta to verbalize why she doesn’t like Rhysand, since nobody seems to understand her reasons.

Tagging: @gwynriel @rhaenystargaryn @clolikescloquetas @amelievrstr  @t8astr8ng @wanderlustlastsforever @saltydreamcollector @lordlorcan​ @esrahiba @queenestarcheron @ko0mbayamylord @poisonous-bloom  @jemstan300 

I might fix the Amren confrontation scene too, so let me know if you want to be removed or added to the tag list ^^

Azriel was having lunch with them, giving Cassian the details for the mission he was going into. Nesta maintained her silence as she slid into her chair, picked up her fork, and dug into the fillet of beef and roasted asparagus.

Cassian cleared his throat and said to Azriel, “How long will you be gone?”

“I’m not sure.” The shadowsinger’s eyes bore into her before he added, “Vassa was right to suspect something deadly amiss. Things are dangerous enough over there that it would be wiser for me to keep my base here at the House and winnow back and forth.”

Curiosity bit deep, but Nesta said nothing. Vassa—she hadn’t seen the enchanted human queen since the war had ended. Since the young woman had tried to speak to her about how wonderful Nesta’s father had been, how he had been a true father to her, helped her and won her this temporary freedom, and on and on until Nesta’s bones were screaming to get away, her blood boiling to think that her father had found his courage for someone other than her and her sisters. That he’d been the father she had needed—but for someone else. He had let their mother die in his refusal to send his merchant fleet hunting for a cure for her, had fallen into poverty and let them starve, but had decided to fight for this stranger? This nobody queen peddling a sad tale of betrayal and loss?

That thing deep in Nesta stirred, but she ignored it, pushed it down as best she could without the distraction of music or sex or wine. She took a sip of her water, letting it cool her throat, her belly, and supposed that would have to be enough.

“What’d Rhys say about it?” Cassian asked around a mouthful of food. 

“Who do you think insisted I not risk a base over there?”

“Protective bastard.” A note of affection rang in Cassian’s words, though.

Silence fell again. Azriel nodded at her. “What happened to you?”

She knew what he meant: the black eye that was finally fading. Her hands and chin had healed, along with the bruising on her body, but the black eye had turned greenish. By tomorrow morning, it’d be gone entirely. “Nothing,” she said without looking at Cassian.

“She fell down the stairs,” Cassian said, not looking at her, either.

Azriel’s silence was pointed before he asked, “Did someone … push you?” 

“Asshole,” Cassian growled.

Nesta lifted her eyes from her plate enough to note the amusement in Azriel’s gaze, even though no smile graced his sensuous mouth. Cassian went on, “I told her earlier today: if she’d bother to train, she’d at least have bragging rights for the bruises.”

Azriel took a calm sip of his water. “Why aren’t you training, Nesta?”

“I don’t want to.”

“Why not?”

Cassian muttered, “Don’t waste your breath, Az.”

She glared at him. “I’m not training in that miserable village.”

Cassian glared right back. “You’ve been given an order . You know the consequences. If you don’t get off that fucking rock by the end of this week, what happens next is out of my hands.”

“So you’ll tattle to your precious High Lord?” she crooned. “Big, tough warrior needs oh-so-powerful Rhysand to fight his battles?”

“Don’t you fucking talk about Rhys with that tone” Cassian snarled.

“Or what?” Nesta snapped. “Rhys is an asshole. He is an arrogant, preening asshole.”

 Azriel sat back in his seat, eyes simmering with anger, but said nothing.

“That’s bullshit,” Cassian spat, the Siphons on the backs of his hands burning like ruby flames. “You know that is bullshit, Nesta."

“I hate him,” she seethed.

“Good. He hates you, too,” Cassian shot back. “Everyone fucking hates you. Is that what you want? Because congratulations, it’s happened.”

Azriel let out a long, long breath.

Cassian’s words pelted her, one after another. Hit her somewhere low and soft, and hit hard. Her fingers curled into claws, scraping along the table. Rage emerged, boiling in her veins. She tried to contain herself, but after months of drinking herself into oblivion, using alcohol to chain her feelings, her emotions, her nightmares, she was having trouble containing all the thoughts that were coming up her throat now that only water filled her cup. Nesta sensed her own anger rise to match Cassian’s.

“I’m done with you and your problems.” he finished.

The words rumbled between them. Nesta blinked. Azriel tensed, as if surprised.

Cassian aimed for the door, his pounding steps fading down the hall.

Nesta had never in her life tried to use her issues as an excuse. There was not one flaw in her character she didn’t know about. She was terrible to be around, and she was aware of it, but she had never expected people to try to understand where it all came from. On the contrary, she used it against every person that crossed her path, so they couldn’t get to see her aching heart. She wore her issues as an armour, so people never wanted to come closer and see why she was the way she was. Nesta had used her anger against almost every person she knew, but not once had she tried to use the cause of that rage, that infinite void in her chest, as an excuse.

But she was so sick of them, their patronizing, them projecting their own issues into her, that the seal that contained her darkest thoughts broke, and the words came out. Because if after everything she had given to them she still hadn’t made it up to Feyre, then there was absolutely nothing else for her to do. She had nothing left to give.

She wanted them to know what their victory cost her. If Cassian didn’t want to see on his own, she would make him.

“I gave my life for you. For all of you” Cassian halted in the archway of the door. Azriel’s eyes were fixed on her, even if her own stare had followed Cassian. “Even before the war, I tried to make it up to my sister for the four years she hunted for us.” Cassian’s body was almost lost in the shadows coming out of the hallway, but still close enough to the door that she could see his back, his wings, the tension in his muscles under his shirt.

“Your High Lord likes to pretend I’m nothing but a burden, but I’m only what you’ve made of me” When none of the illyrians interrupted her, Nesta felt seen for a moment.

Then, she realized the temperature in the room had dropped, her nails had left marks on the table, and Azriel’s shadows were ready to strike if needed.

Cassian was also still, ready to move.

They were not listening to her, they were waiting for her to attack. Like a wild animal. Like Rhysand in his studio, using his power on her to make her sit.

They expected nothing better from her than that. They expected her to unleash her wrath on them, and that’s what she was going to do. She didn’t care.

“To have any kind of contact with fae is a crime in the Mortal Lands. Did you know that?“

She wanted himto know she was talking about a time prior to their last day in the battlefield, because her sacrifice had not been only physical. No, she was talking about the things she did before, favours to help her sister’s cause. Their cause.

“I did everything you lot asked me to do. I sent the letters putting my neck on the line, and risking Elain’s future. I held the meeting at my house and let you come and go as you pleased.”

“Her future with Greysen would have made her miserable” Azriel’s icy tone surprised her. She merely blinked in his direction. His graceful face was covered in shadows of anger, too.

“That was the future she wanted. The one she chose”.

Azriel fought back “He came from a family of fae hunters”. Nesta wasn’t sure why he had gotten caught up on that detail, but she insisted. Now that she was a fae, she wanted to stay away from people like Greysen, but back then, his family and her money combined offered a safety she had desperately wanted.

“Which we both thought was a good thing. We thought Feyre had been killed by fae. We gave her a funeral” Cassian shuddered, his wings reacting to her words, tucking in a little more.

Nesta felt the cold of the room on her bones.

“I still let you into my house. Have you even considered how scared I was to let you in? Do you have any idea of the stories I grew up with about faeries and their tricks, their bloodthirst? I’ve met people who were taken by your kind… my kind, now, I guess. And I still helped you.” She didn’t tell them Rhysand was the one murdering her friend Clare and her family.

“Those stories are about faes like the ones in Hybern, of wild creatures near the Wall. Not Prythian’s folk” Cassian answered. His tone was dark and low, angry, insulted. But he was not screaming now.

“And how was I supposed to know?” She shouted. How was she supposed to know? His words almost made her doubt, thought. In the middle of her rage, his words almost made her doubt herself, like she might be overreacting, like she had gone crazy, maybe, paranoid. But she didn’t fall for it. She hadn’t been careful enough with them, their promises, their requests. “The only explanation I received when my sister came back after months with a new male in her arm -a male she had warned me about before her departure- was that the mortal realm was about to be destroyed by war, and she needed my help. So I helped her.”

It was not only anger or rage, but pure wrath what tinted her words. She could take the blame for all the things she did wrong -she would. She wanted to. But she was tired of them using her mistakes as an excuse to never acknowledge that fact that she had tried. Nesta had given them everything they had asked from her.

Azriel’s shadows were dangerously still. Nesta wasn’t sure if she had ever seen them like that. Cassian hadn’t moved either.

They were listening now.

”I know Feyre risked her life for us. So for her, I risked mine too. And Elain’s. The difference is that I actually died and became this,” she pointed at her own body, everyday stronger, gaining back the absurd beauty that belonged only to creatures from that side of the Wall. She hated it ”while Feyre found happiness. My sister chose to come back to this awful land full of monsters, I was dragged out of my bed and taken.”

“Nesta-” The shadowsinger didn’t move, but his tone had a cautious note to it. She knew her eyes were now quicksilver, flames dancing in them. She had seen herself in the mirror when that happened. She would be cautious too.

Nesta didn’t let Azriel finish. She wanted Cassian to hear the rest. Cassian, who had promised her a future and then vanished. Cassian, who would still defend his High Lord even when he physically threatened her. Nesta wanted him to hear her words until the end.

She wanted him to be as hurt as she was.

Something tucked in her stomach, warning her that both of them would regret it later if she went on, but her blood was boiling, so she did it anyway.

“Your High Lord of friend or brother or whatever he is to you, promised we would be guarded.”

Nesta let the words resonate. She didn’t need to remind any of them what had happened next. They knew. They had suffered from Hybern too that night.

She wanted them to remember. It wasn’t fair that they got to live their happy ever after, but she had to be consumed by it and left alone because she didn’t warm up the room with a smile like Elain did. It wasn’t fair that after everything she went through so they could live this perfect life, they still got to lock her up in a tower and make her the villain.

Nesta didn’t need to look into Cassian’s eyes to know he was remembering the same moment she went over and over in her nightmares every night. The moment she was dragged into the Cauldron. His body in the ground, covered in blood. His shredded wings. Her screams echoing in the hall.

“So the next time I call him an asshole -and I promise it will happen again- don’t you dare using that tone with me.”

There was a long silence. Silver fire remained in her eyes, but Cassian didn’t turn to meet her gaze. He only said “I won’t”, and stalked out.

Alone with Azriel, Nesta bared her teeth at him.

Azriel watched her with that cool quiet, keeping utterly still. Like he saw everything in her head. Her bruised heart.

She couldn’t bear it. So she stood, only two bites taken from her food, and left the room as well.

She returned to the library. The lights blazed as brightly as they had during the day, and a few lingering priestesses wandered the levels. She found her cart, filled again with books needing to be shelved.

No one spoke to her, and she spoke to no one as she began to work, with only the roaring silence in her head for company.

[prepare4trouble]

9 and 25 for Ivar, Hvitserk and Ubbe please?

9) What calms them when they are upset.

Ubbe likes to talk it out. He’s the most level-headed of the group, and he can usually reason his way out of feeling upset. Sometimes he will talk to himself, (in his head) other times he used to talk to Hvitserk, (before Hvitserk chose Ivar’s side, of course) or Torvi. When all else fails, he likes to sleep, and hope that he feels better in the morning

Hvitserk will talk to Ubbe sometimes, but he also keeps a lot to himself. He’s a very tactile person, and he finds a lot of comfort in touch. That doesn’t just mean sex, though he will turn to that for comfort sometimes, other times all he wants is a good long, tight, hug, or to lay next to somebody in bed and feel their skin against his.

Very little comforts Ivar. When he gets upset, it can last for days or weeks. When he was little, his mother wold help, but often the only thing that will calm him down is his own sense of justice. If somebody upsets him, he will be happy as long as he can exact some kind of revenge on them. Usually with violence. If he is denied that opportunity, the only other think he can do it wait it out, until the feeling eventually subsides

25) What other people wish they could change about them

Ubbe is too level headed sometimes, too much the diplomat. It probably comes from years of being the big brother, and refereeing insult slinging and fist fights between Ivar and Sigurd. Most people will see it as a positive thing, but there are times when some people wish that he would get angry.

Hvitserk is too much a follower. He needs somebody to look up to, and when he doesn’t have that, he finds himself lost. First, he had Ubbe, and then Ivar, and then Ivar went… a bit crazy… and then fled the city, but he never managed to rebuild his relationship with Ubbe, and he went off the deep end with drink and drugs. He didn’t come back to himself until it was too late, Lagertha was dead, and he had been exiled, at which point Ivar found him in the woods and took him back under his wing. So I suppose what people would want to change about Hvitserk is to give him a bit more faith in himself, rather than always deferring to somebody else.

Ivar… um, where to begin. I mean, the guy has problems. Deep, deep problems. The kind of problems that lead him to be convinced that he is a god, and to murder an entire family, including the woman his brother loved, because they didn’t believe. But I think he was cured of a lot of that in Rus, I think he became a much better person as a result of everything he went through there, so I think most likely what people wish they could change about him is to make him happy and to know that he is loved and accepted, because I’m not sure any of that mess in Kattegat would have happened if Ivar got more hugs...

Headcanon ask meme