#pride lands aqua

[yankaze]

showing you the best pieces! from my heart for sure

[glossdebut]

take a bite | MYG ★ 1

✧ PAIRING: yoongi x fem!reader

✧ SUMMARY: Your fledgling career as a music journalist is finally going in some kind of direction that must be on the path to success. Your coworkers like you enough to invite you out on Fridays, your boss is starting to think you’re competent enough to let you score a few bylines, and you're finally getting the hang of InDesign. All of your hard work, late nights, and complete lack of a social life are starting to pay off... Even if it all came at the expense of the longest relationship of your life. Fine. You've accepted the fact that romance isn't for you, under any circumstances. You won't risk your career for anybody. Not even Min Yoongi.

✧ TAGS: slow burn, eventual smut, eventual romance, producer yoongi, music journalist reader, neighbors to friends to lovers? you'll see, reader is bad at feelings, reader is post-break up

✧ WARNINGS: social drinking, mechanical bull-related injuries lol

✧ WORDCOUNT: 2.7k so far

✧ STATUS: complete

✧ AUTHOR'S NOTE: hi! i'm aqua and this is my first ever fic so please be nice!! i will be crossposting this work and all future works on my ao3 of the same name. i'm figuring out how this works as i go, so please be patient with me. tags are subject to change with every update. i won't have a posting schedule for this one, but i have the first few chapters pre-written, so expect an update sometime next week!

CH. 1: Lay Your Cards Down, Down, Down, Down

Although this is the furthest thing from your scene, you can’t help but think to yourself that you should invest in some cowboy boots. You could make them work, you’re sure of it.

Even if you know you would never pull the trigger on purchasing any, too far out of the comfort zone of your normal style, the thought is the only thing keeping you sane—that, and the sound of Cowboy Carter blasting through the speakers of the bar, a welcome reprieve from the drawling, boring country anthems you’d been suffering through for the past hour or so. 

You pride yourself on seeing the merit in all genres of music, you do. You were always the type of person who puffed up her chest when you told people ‘I listen to everything,’ uncaring of how pretentious it may sound. You mean it. It’s an asset in your line of work, and as far as you’re concerned, a little bit of pretentiousness is a small price to pay for the, quite frankly, baller route your fledgling career is heading in. 

But a Western bar? Not the kind of place you’d spend a precious Friday night willingly. Another hazard of the job.

After months of skillfully avoiding the weekly Friday nights out with the other rookie reporters at the magazine, you’d run out of excuses not to join them. If four years studying communications taught you anything, it was that connections are everything in the journalism business. Even more so where the music industry is concerned.

So here you are, at your fourth stop of your night of bar hopping with your extroverted and extremely drunk coworkers, nursing warm beer and observing from the least populated corner you managed to scout upon entry. All things considered, you had been a good sport at the three previous stops. You just draw the line at square dancing with the people you work with. College may have beaten your fear of impromptu phone calls and talking to strangers out of you, but your social battery can only take so much. 

Your phone battery, too, you think bitterly as you stare down at the low battery warning on your screen. Okay, so you’ll finish your shitty beer (because you’re not quite successful enough yet to afford wasting alcohol that you’re paying for) and then use your phone’s remaining juice to catch an Uber home. No biggie.

You’re in the middle of turning off your phone with full intent to work out the kinks of your exit strategy when you realize, with irritation, that your chosen corner is about to be invaded.

Your eyes land on a pair of black Jordans ( in a Western bar? your mind supplies, as if you have any room to judge in your Docs) and travel up, past torn black jeans and a black shirt, and just when you’re sensing a theme with this guy, your eyes reach a head of (regrettably, very nice) black hair and a pair of the darkest eyes you’ve ever seen. Anish Kapoor would wail at the sight of these eyes, you think.

As if sensing your apprehension, your corner-thief raises his free hand (the other clutching a plastic cup of his own) palm out, as if to say ‘I come in peace’ and stops in his tracks.

“I can find another spot,” corner-thief says, the low rumbling of his voice barely audible above Texas Hold ‘Em. “I’m just waiting for one of my friends to get bored or injured so I can leave.”

“Injured,” you repeat, despite your better judgment to take him up on his offer and let him be on his way. But your phone is dead and you’re a little bit drunk, bored, and even for an unwanted partner in social evasion, this guy is nicer to look at than the frat guys playing beer pong you’ve been observing for the better part of an hour.

Corner-thief grins a stupidly charming gummy smile, leaning just the slightest bit closer to be heard better but still keeping a respectful distance. As if he’s still wary that you’ll lunge at him if he encroaches on your space any further. Good man.

“There’s a mechanical bull upstairs,” he says, using his index finger on the hand holding his cup to point at the ceiling above you both.

Of course there is. With your luck, you’ll also have to peel someone off of the floor later after going head-to-head with the bull.

“Not your thing?” you guess, glancing pointedly at his Jordans, and he shakes his head, huffing through his nose in what you can only guess is a laugh.

“No, I wouldn’t say so.” 

He pauses, shifting from foot to foot for a moment before speaking again. “So, will you share your wall? I can look around again but this place is more packed than I would’ve pegged it for.”

You nod and he smiles again thankfully, taking the spot on the wall next to you. That should be it. Two strangers who don’t want to be here standing in companiable silence next to each other while they wait for their friends–or coworkers, in your case–to put them out of their misery and let them go home.

But… You consider your options, your phone taking its dying breath in your pocket, and you sigh, turning to him.

“Y/N,” you say, holding out your hand for him to shake. 

He takes it with his free hand, giving you an amused look. “Yoongi.”

“What’s that look for?”

He laughs again, a little bit more this time, and your heart does a stupid, funny thing. “I don’t think I’ve ever been greeted by a pretty girl in a bar with a handshake,” he says, causing you to flush and pull your hand away as if it’d been burned, your shoulders tensing as you take a sip of your beer. 

A western bar certainly isn’t your scene, but admittedly, neither are bars or clubs in general. You got all of that out of your system in college where everyone was awkward as fuck or too drunk to care that you were, and ever since you got your degree you have lived and breathed your work. Your social skills were never quite up to par, but you didn’t realize you were this fucking embarrassing.

“I came out with coworkers right after we got off, so I think I’m still kind of in work mode,” you lie, and as if sensing that you feel slightly made fun of, Yoongi shakes his head.

“I didn’t mean it as a bad thing, swear,” he says, tilting his head at you. Dark eyes considering you. “Honestly, I’m thankful you’re putting up with me at all. I don’t think I’d be so kind if the roles were reversed. I know firsthand how hard it is to find a spot to breathe in places like this.”

You feel your shoulder muscles relax just the slightest bit. “I thought about sending you away, but I couldn’t help it. My heart aches when I see an introvert in need of a hiding spot,” you attempt to joke. 

“At least I’m out with friends,” he says sympathetically. “I’ve done the coworker thing before. It’s a drag.”

“It’s weird ,” you correct. “I mean, I sit in meetings with these people. I avoid answering their emails all day. Why is it considered rude to not want to see them piss drunk?”

Yoongi hums in agreement, nodding his head. “What do you do, anyway?”

“I work for Look Here Magazine,” you reply, straightening up a bit in pride when Yoongi’s eyes flash with recognition, his body turning so his shoulder is against the wall now. You turn as well, facing him. “I write for the music section.”

“No shit? I’ve probably read your stuff, then,” Yoongi says, grinning. 

He’s cute. Hot. You can’t help but notice, no matter how hard you’re trying not to. The way that he seems to carry himself in particular, you think, might end up driving you crazy if you’re exposed to it for too long. Maybe you’ve been living under a rock, but you’ve never met a fellow wallflower that still exuded such confidence. He wears it insanely well.

“Look Here covers a lot of big artists,” you hear him continue. “I’m a little surprised you’re hugging the wall, honestly. This place is nothing compared to music industry parties.”

“Ah, I only started a few months ago,” you admit, looking down into your cup. “Not a lot of bylines yet. I haven’t made it into a room with an artist that big yet.”

“But you want to,” Yoongi guesses, and you nod, looking up to meet his eyes. He looks impressed, impressed by you , and that… does something to you. Huh. “Shit, that’s… That’s really cool.”

“Thanks,” you say. You can feel your cheeks heating up again, and you’re suddenly very eager to turn the attention away from yourself. “What about you? What do you do?”

“Ah,” Yoongi says, fixing his eyes to his cup just as you had a moment ago. “I’m a music producer, actually.”

You perk up at that. So that’s why he reads Look Here, why he seemed so interested when you told him what you do. 

“Anything I’ve heard?” you ask, leaning in like he’s about to tell you a secret. Networking never stops.

He watches as you lean, his mouth turning up at the corners in a smirk. “Probably.” 

You wait for more, but it doesn’t come. Shithead. So much for that.

“You’ve gotta give me more than that,” you say, and god, you can hear the pout in your own voice. Are you that drunk? Flirting for a lead in a story?

“I don’t,” Yoongi says simply, his smirk in full force now. Mean and annoying and hot. He hasn’t leaned away from you yet. “I want to know more about you, actually. Journalism is hard work. I’m surprised you have time to go out like this.”

“Like I said, I was forced.”

“Still. Spending time with your friends or family or partner or whatever must take priority when it comes to your free time.”

Why is he so interested? You scrunch your nose, trying to figure out what he could be fishing for here. You don’t make it a habit to divulge the details of your sad excuse for a personal life to strangers, but the alcohol has loosened your lips. Maybe you need to talk about it. It’s not like you’ll ever see him again, anyway.

“My family is back home. My best friend is this insanely talented playwright. She’s constantly traveling. I see her when she can get some time to fly out.” You take a quick sip of your drink, ignoring the pang in your chest. Sometimes it sneaks up on you, how lonely you are. “Other than her, it’s just me, really. The dating thing… Nobody really seems to get how demanding my job can be, and it always ends in hurt feelings.”

There’s a long pause, and you’re worried you’ve shared too much. You’re enjoying talking to Yoongi. You know it doesn’t matter, that you’ll likely never see him again, but it would really, really suck if his permanent mental image of you ends up being ‘lonely weird drunk girl,’ even if that’s what you are. You force yourself to look up at him. The look in his eyes makes your heart flip stupidly again.

“I get that,” he says, and his voice is soft, barely audible over the music filling the space. You’re reading his lips more than anything, honestly, and you don’t let yourself look at them for too long. He may be pretty—unbearably so, you’re realizing—but he’s a stranger. A mean, annoying, hot, pretty stranger, but a stranger nonetheless. Every guy says he gets it. This needs to stay what it is, you think. Momentary companionship between introverts who would rather die than square dance.

You don’t get much time to agonize over it. Whatever is going on between you and Yoongi is intercepted quickly by his phone buzzing in his pocket and his responding grimace when he pulls it out to check it.

“Namjoon fell off of the mechanical bull,” he says, like he’s completely unsurprised by that news. He downs the rest of his drink and pockets his phone again, pushing off of the wall. “I’ve gotta deal with that.”

You nod, pulling what you hope is a sympathetic face. “Good luck.”

His bottom lip catches between his teeth, and you hold your breath. He looks like he wants to say something, torn between rushing upstairs to save his friend and staying, just for a moment.

You think you know what he wants to say, think foolishly that maybe he wants to ask for your number, and you honestly don’t know if you’d give it to him if he did. You’re so used to saying no.

He runs his fingers through his hair, opens his mouth to speak, and then he looks down like his phone is buzzing again. When he looks back up, it seems like he’s thought better of it.

“Thanks for sharing your wall,” he settles on, smiling congenially. You smile back, and then he’s heading towards the stairs.

Good, you think. You know better. If he really gets it, he does too.

★ ★ ★

You’re dragged out to one more bar before you finally make it home, your interaction with Yoongi having knocked you off-kilter enough to agree to a few more drinks.

It does wonders for your social status at work, you’re sure, but by the time you’re dropped off you’re dizzy-drunk, fighting to stay upright in the elevator of your apartment building.

You’re fumbling and failing at getting your key into the lock of your front door, tongue poking out of the corner of your mouth in concentration, when a voice calling your name a few feet to your right almost makes you jump out of your skin.

You yell, clutching your chest, and when you turn to face the owner of the voice that almost made you lose the contents of your stomach on your doormat, you’re greeted by none other than corner-thief-mean-annoying-hot-pretty Yoongi himself, leaning against the door to the apartment two doors down.

“What the fuck,” you blurt out dumbly, and he laughs. At you! How dare he stand there, lean there, all hot and annoying and in your apartment building for some fucking reason and laugh at you.

“I was going to ask if you needed help,” he says, and oh, fuck. You were safe from just how deep his voice was under the thrum of the music at the bar, but in the quiet of your apartment building this late, you can hear it just fine. Feel it, even. Feel it in places you do not want to humor right now. “I’m going to take a wild guess and say you do.”

It’s obvious that Yoongi is faring much better than you are, although his night clearly didn’t end after the mechanical bull incident. Faster than you can react, he’s right in front of you, gently taking your key from your hands and turning it in the lock, like it’s easy.

“Gonna make it in okay?” he asks, looking down at you. You force your brain to make words.

“I’ll be okay,” you assure him, your tongue heavy in your mouth. “Are you stalking me?”

He huffs a laugh, shaking his head. “I think we’re neighbors.”

“Oh.” Oh. Okay. That’s fine. Just because he’s your neighbor doesn’t mean you have to do something stupid, like see him ever again.

“Give me your number,” he says softly. Oh.

You blink at him, and he grins. Gummy smile. You feel like you’re going to vomit all over his Jordans.

“In case you ever can’t use your keys again,” he clarifies. “I told you, those music industry parties are killer.”

And really, you’re powerless to resist. You give him your number, using all of your remaining brain power to remember the order of the digits. Seemingly satisfied, Yoongi pockets his phone and steps back, heading back to his front door.

“Goodnight, neighbor,” he says, unlocking his door with ease. “Sleep on your side.”

You swallow thickly and nod, slipping inside your own apartment as quickly as you can manage. 

Once you’re in, you sink onto the floor, your back pressed against the door behind you. Your cat, perched on your coffee pot, stares at you in your drunk, flustered state, unimpressed. Offended, even, judging by the way she licks her paw.

You’re so fucked.

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[hisdarlingabsurdity]

Aqua Regia

Jacaerys Velaryon x Fem!reader

Tw: HOTD content. MDNI

Taggies: @dracaryxzs

⊹ ࣪ ˖﹏𓊝﹏𓂁﹏⊹ ｡° ⚔︎｡°⊹ ࣪ ˖

Days passed in a blur of palpable regret. Princess Rhaenyra and her family had left Kings Landing for Dragonstone, just when you and Jacaerys had been getting along. You started to wish you'd become friends with him earlier. Now you did not even bother to deny in yourself that your days became brighter because of Jacaerys Velaryon's presence.

It was far more gratifying to just accept that you were soft for him and his brothers, come wrath and fury of your own. You'd had enough of sacrificing your happiness for Aegon's sadistic nature and Aemond's bitter resentment. You even took it upon yourself to have the Velaryon brother’s play with Helaena as well. And the baby, Joffrey was his name, was unbelievably adorable. There were times where you felt certain the baby felt irritated at your pestering.

You knew your mother, and your grandfather were not exactly happy with how close you were with princess Rhaenyra's family. But you didn't know the extent of their disapproval until now.

"The audacity, she had…to suggest a betrothal between my eldest daughter to her illegitimate son. I can almost hear cries of objection from Oldtown.” She shuddered.

“Not like I would let her taint my daughter's honour. I’m just glad they took a hint and left, since my own children can’t. What will the people think, seeing you associating with those," she paused, before lowering her voice. "With those bastards."

She raised her hand at you, keeping you from talking. "I know what you're about to say, it is treason, yes. But there's only us here. We can speak plainly about things that are glaringly undeniable."

She had been scolding all four of you, saying that Rhaenyra only had the nerve to suggest a betrothal between you and Jacaerys because of your leniency, befriending the Velaryon brothers instead of making it clear that you won't stand aside and let them take the throne. Unsurprisingly, and to your sibling's dismay, her anger was directed more to them than you.

“I don’t even know why you’re mad at us, it is her who enjoys their company.” Aegon spoke up, pointing at you. “Even dragged Helaena into it. Aemond too. I just…I mean they’re just there and I’m letting them be, leaving them alone just as my beloved sister asked me to.”

Alicent sighed. “Of course, she did. And every man at court, and maids, even knights and their squires wouldn’t bat an eyelash. They might have even expected this! It is fitting for your sister to be kind even to them. But it is unbecoming of you, the one whose birthright is being stolen.”

“I wasn’t being kind to them.” Aegon stuttered. Lies. You knew he was at least enjoying their company a little.

"There are already whispers about you— about us. That our family might be supporting Rhaenyra's claim."

"Her rightful claim, mother. If I may remind you." You added.

She turned to look at you, eyes sharp. Aegon sticks his tongue out mockingly at you as she turns her back to them.

"My dear, you are too much of a saint." She sighed.

Aegon, shaking his head in disbelief, mouthed 'What the fuck,' while Aemond only looked up as if in silent prayer.

"Sometimes, daughter. You should not take what men say, even Kings, as the one, true fact. Especially one as indecisive as your father. Your father he, how should I say this...we all love him, of course. But like most men, they have too much pride to admit when they made a mistake. Naming Rhaenyra heir just to spite his brother was a mistake. And it is our duty, to lead them to the righteous path."

You say nothing, clearly she wasn't interested in arguing further. You'd only risk losing what trust she has on you if you keep on pushing her.

"I know you feel bad for Rhaenyra's children. But daughter," she says your name, looking imploringly into your eyes. "She is only your half-sister. She might have affection for you but trust me when I say the love she holds for you is not as deep and pure as the love you hold for her."

Gently, she pushed a strand of your hair from your face. "I fear she is using you. Cleansing their reputation through you, by association. Let the people talk. Everyone knows about their sins. Everyone knows that your brother is the rightful heir.”

Aegon pushed himself off a chair, arms outstretched. “Since the people hold my sister in such a high regard, enough that her favour granted absolution to the bastards, perhaps we too, should listen to her. The Realm’s Favoured Daughter. Defender of the weak, the women and children, Protector of bastards. Listen to her and let the princess Rhaenyra sit on the throne. The Seven knows I’ve no desire for it.”

Alicent sighed, before shooting her son a blank stare. “We have already talked about this Aegon.” You knew what she meant. The things she hissed at Aegon, about how Rhaenyra will have you all killed to keep her claim unquestioned.

Aegon continued, eyes full of mirth. “The Maiden and The Mother in the flesh. Nurturing, loving even the sons of a whore.”

“Aegon!” Alicent hissed.

“See now, this is why nobody who knows you has any respect for you.” You answered.

“The Princess’ children, for such young boys, are more agreeable than you will ever be. You are a lascivious fool, foul-mouthed and vile. And I hate how you treat women. Let me remind you that every woman is an image of The Mother, to be respected, and revered. You look down upon those boys so much but they have more honour in their little finger than you have in your whole being.”

“Oh please.” Aegon scoffed, waving your words away. “Give it time, let them grow a little, puberty will do its job and show you their true colours. Seven Hells, I bet Jacaerys’s been wanking his tiny little cock to you at night,” he said, gesturing his closed fist back and forth.

Seething, you marched towards Aegon, intent on wiping the smirk off his face.

You stopped in your tracks, nails digging into the palm of your hands.

You redirected your gaze toward your mother. “Here is the rightful heir to the throne: Your eldest son whom you have been raising to be a wise, fair king.”

Aemond winced, and drew in a sharp breath while Aegon blinked at you, reeling at the absence of a blow he expected from you. Helaena sneezed. You sent your brother the most vicious glare you could muster. You will never forgive him for talking ill of Jacaerys that way. You stormed off, not waiting for your mother to gather her thoughts.

The next time you meet Jacaerys once again, was at a funeral. Laena Velaryon's to be exact. The entire royal court met with the grieving Velaryons at driftmark, forcing the two families of Alicent and Rhaenyra to have to interact with each other after Rhaenyra's departure from the Keep.

You could not look Jacaerys in the eyes.

You blamed yourself for falling short. Failing to keep the whispers back, and the disgusted stares off of him and his brothers. After the incident in the courtyard, when Ser Harwin Strong had snapped, the gossiping you worked hard to quell had resurfaced tenfold, giving Rhaenyra no choice but to leave.

You respected her for that decision. She could've stayed, hardened herself and kept her claim strong by holding her position in the small council. Instead, she prioritized the safety of her children, as any good mother would.

You still haven't gathered the courage to approach the lad during the gathering at the Cliffside of High Tide castle for the wake, choosing to observe instead.

You suspected that Jacaerys must've wanted nothing more to do with you, for he hadn't answered any of your letters. You knew it wasn't a direct consequence of your shortcoming, Jacaerys wasn't the kind of kid who would befriend someone because of their status, or what favours they could grant.

Beside you, Aegon was complaining about how he was about to end up being betrothed to either you or Helaena, while Aemond was claiming to be determined in fulfilling his duties, even if it means marrying either of

you two.

You watched from a distance as Jacaerys offered comfort to Laena Velaryon's daughters, holding one of their hands in his.

“Seriously,” Aegon said, glancing at you. “She should have just let you marry Jacaerys Velaryon.”

Looking at the sight before you, of Baela and Jacaerys’ hands, you considered the thought for the first time. You shook your head at the selfish thought. Their mother had just died.

Without a word, you left your three siblings, making your way towards the stairs leading down to the shore.

You looked around for a piece of wood, finally picking up a slightly damp one. Crouching, you felt around your boots for a dagger you've hidden there, having left your sword in your temporary quarters. You unsheathed the dagger and started whittling away. You were no artist by any means, but the act kept you from spiraling into your own sometimes irrational thinking.

Being engrossed in your work, you hadn't noticed someone approaching. You started when your name was uttered, causing your hand to slip.

You looked up, wincing at the brightness of the sky. Jacaerys stood beside you, fidgeting, unsure.

Then his eyes widened. “You're bleeding!” He exclaimed before falling to his knees. You didn't realize that you had cut yourself.

“Oh…ouch.” You sucked in a breath as he inhaled sharply, both simultaneously hissing at the wound. You caught his gaze before laughing. He snorted, failing to suppress his laughter. Then he shook his head.

“We shouldn't be laughing, we must tend to it immediately.”

“It's just a scratch, look, it already stopped bleeding.” You said before crawling towards the waves and thrusting your hand into the salty water.

He frowned, before grabbing your wrist and pulling it out of the water.

“Don't just dip your bleeding hand in there. Saltwater isn't kind to open wounds. We have to keep that cut clean and dry or else it'll fester.”

You tilted your head. “I thought seawater would clean wounds, not infect them.”

“Well, it isn't necessarily harmful, but I've heard stories about Sea Snake's voyage and about sailors whose wounds became worse when exposed to seawater.”

“Oh. Perhaps they were exposed too long. Anyways it should be fine, it's not that deep.”

“But it's my fault,” he said, his shoulders slumping.

You shook your head. “No it isn't.”

“I practically sneaked up on you.”

“No, my back was to you. Even if you'd announced your presence from way over there, I would've still made the same mistake. It was my fault for not being aware of my surroundings.”

He giggled. “We haven't seen each other in a while and the first thing we do is argue.”

“I read somewhere that lighthearted arguments are necessary for a healthy friendship.”

He gave you a sheepish smile to which you responded to with one of your own. You were glad that conversations came as easily as it did before.

“I'm glad that you are still talking to me, after everything.”

You raised an eyebrow. “I should be the one to say that to you.”

He shook his head, his soft hair bouncing at the act. “I understood what you meant, when you said you no longer wanted to associate yourself with me. I was hesitant to approach you because I knew my presence is unwelcome. It was my fault you've been endlessly berated by your mother, you have a right to be mad.”

You reeled back, scrunching up your face at what he had said. “First of all, when did I ever say that?”

“Why, in your letters.” He answered, and you couldn't stop yourself from making a noise of confusion.

“I sent letters to you. And you never responded, so I thought you were mad at me.” You said.

“What letters?” He asked. “You only sent one, wherein you told me that you've been enduring your mothers wrath to keep on being friends with me. Then you told me to stop sending you letters, which is reasonable. I should've thought about it before sending you ravens after ravens, anybody would've felt annoyed.”

“But I never wrote anything of the sort, and I received no letters from you, none at all.”

“Oh,” he said. Horrified at the thought of somebody else having read his endearments that were meant for your eyes only.

You scoffed, incredulous. Thinking about how someone had been deliberately keeping things from you, and that the maids and the knight assigned to you must've been in on it. A heavy feeling of dread settled in your chest at the thought that one of your family, if not multiple, have been intercepting letters meant for you.

Both of you were silent, only the crashing waves could be heard.

“Huh,” you said.

“Yeah…” he answered. “So you aren't mad at me at all?” He asked.

“No!” You answered. “Are you? Mad at me, I mean.”

“Why should I be?”

“I blame myself for…well now it sounds stupid but I felt partially at fault when Rhaenyra was forced to remove herself from the Keep. “

“It is not your fault, that should be obvious.”

You sighed. “I know. I was just disappointed I guess. It's not a secret that I prefer your companionship more than my own brothers. Sometimes I wish Helaena and I were….nevermind.”

He did not agree, and wasn't afraid to reject your idea.

“I'm glad that you aren't my sister, but not because I wouldn't want to be able to be with you always.” He said, quick to clarify what he meant.

“You are devoted to The Seven, and unlike Targaryens, it is a sin for pious people like you to marry brothers and sisters. Therefore if you and Helaena had been born in my family, as my sisters, you probably wouldn't even consider marrying me.”

You were surprised that he mentioned marriage. He must've noticed because he went on to explain. “Mother asked me if I wouldn't mind being married to you. She told me that it would help strengthen our claim.” He explained.

You were impressed that your half-sister discussed such matters with her young son. Most wouldn't have bothered, only thinking of what they could gain from marrying their sons and daughters off.

“Well, think about it. If I were born as your sister, perhaps I wouldn't even be as pious. Devotion to The Seven is my mother's influence on me.”

“Huh,” he said. Comically in the same manner you did earlier.

“Now that my mother rejected your mother’s suggestion, you will be marrying another. Perhaps one of Lady Laena's daughters.” You said, unintentionally probing.

He looked to the sky, pursing his lips in thought, before nodding solemnly. “Perhaps. Baela's my age.”

“Lady Laena is a good woman, I heard. A gentle, loving mother and a fierce dragonrider. No doubt her daughters are the same. She will make a fine wife, and queen in the future.”

He only stared at you for a moment, and you wondered if he heard jealousy in your voice that you weren't aware of.

“Would you like to meet her?” He asked.

When Jacaerys asked if you wished to meet Baela Targaryen, you expected him to be the one to approach first, and then actually introduce you to each other. You did not expect him to just pull you forward, in front of the kid without a word. He only gestured encouragingly, as the girl looked up at you from her place on the bench. You greeted Princess Rhaenys, who was standing to the side first.

You then refocused your gaze in Baela's teary eyes, then at Rhaena's. You told them your name and offered your condolences, to which they replied by expressing pleasure in meeting you.

“We've heard much about you, princess.” Rhaena said, but then said no more. It was her sister Baela who clarified things in her stead.

“Princess Rhaenyra often mentions you in her letters. Mother would sometimes read the letters to us, so that we may get to know the people that are part of our family, especially those closest to our age. We always hoped we may meet.”

“Not only that,” Rhaena said after swallowing thickly. This time her voice carried a little bit of cheer in it, as if eager to express congeniality. “We oft heard stories about your benevolence, how at such a young age you were told to be wise beyond your years, having virtues encouraged by The Seven. Your reputation precedes you.”

You politely, (savagely, in Jacaerys’ opinion) swatted their words away.

“Exaggerated praises. The hightower lords liked to praise me too much. I haven't done anything worthy of receiving such veneration. Although…” you paused, successfully gaining their full attention.

“Don't tell anyone I said this,” you said, although hardly making any effort to lower your voice. “They might have been doing so to make me a desirable wife as much as they can, to paint me as soft spoken, caring, motherly, and keen to obey her husband.” You leaned towards them, as did Jacaerys to be able to hear you still.

“And I played the role well. Even got a sword out of it. I'll show you later. Absolutely nobody can tell me to get rid of it. It's got my name on it and everything as proof that I had complete blessing to carry it.” You were pleased as they gasped, surreptitiously smiling at your almost rebellious words. Rhaenys herself chuckled. You figured she was pleased that you managed to distract the sisters even for a moment.

“But, if that is so, why would they let you have a sword. Isn't that a bit contradictory?” Baela asked. It was a sound question. If the Hightowers were so fooled, why would they give you something that was mostly used by men?

“Ah. Took me some time, of course. I argued that since women are encouraged to embody various virtues associated with The Seven, I also had the prerogative to embody The Warrior. Courage and strength in defending the faith and the family are valued. This applies to both men and women in defending their beliefs and loved ones. And I argued, quite incessantly. The thing about old men is that if you tire them enough with ferocious tenacity, they're much more likely to give you what you asked, so long as you asked politely while also letting them hear what they want to hear. Targaryens had no issue with their women carrying around swords but I didn't make the mistake of reminding them needlessly that I wasn't purely a Hightower. I focused on what they believed in.”

They listened attentively, looking up at you with wide eyes and nodding.

“The stories do not seem so exaggerated. Those are wise words coming from such a young lady.”

You felt conscious of Princess Rhaenys’ scrutinizing gaze. You hoped you did not cross any lines, telling your younger cousins about practically manipulating old people.

“Of course, I do not condone such dishonest behaviors and manipulative tactics.” You added.

“You know what,” you said. Thinking of distracting everyone from the things you've just said. You handed your dagger to Baela.

“I am giving this to you, because I believe that from this day forth, you need any protection you can get. Now you have a fine dagger to protect you and your loved ones and you gained it not through deception so be not afraid to keep it, to wield it. To protect your sister.”

The girl's eyes widened as you placed the dagger in her hands. She looked around before bending over to study it.

“It's so beautiful,” Rhaena exclaimed.

“But Princess, if this was a gift I cannot take it from you. Besides, it looks too expensive.”

You shrugged. “Eh, one can do as they like with the gifts they receive. My instructor gave that to me, along with other trinkets so you're fine.” You said, waving your hand once again, this time dismissively before abruptly pausing. “If it is alright of course, to Princess Rhaenys.”

The older Princess shrugged as well, her smile eased the tensions you were worried of being responsible for.

“Well then I'll leave you to it.” You clasped your hands behind your back and left them to their own devices. You prayed that they wouldn't cut themselves or else you'd feel even more guilty than you already do.

You heard his footsteps before he finally caught up to you.

“You ramble a lot.” He observed.

“I do not think I can help it. I rarely get to speak with girls my age let alone younger ones. Other than Helaena.” You answered.

“Do not worry too much. I think they like you.”

“I hope they do. And I hope the Princess does not take the things I said seriously. It was foolish of me to tell the truth, especially when the truth isn't pristine and as pure as how I am believed to be.” You halted, pivoting to face Jacaerys. “If you never hear from me again, know that I would never not send you ravens, and that the cause may be that Princess Rhaenys told my mother of the things I've done. I'll be languishing in the dungeons with only the memory of our friendship to console me.”

Jacaerys held up his hand against his lips to muffle his laughter, before looking around in guilt.

“Will you stop making me laugh? It is highly inappropriate…” He whispered.

“I am not trying to be funny.” You whispered.

“Alright, alright, I'm sorry.” Jacaerys took a deep breath, and assumed a gloomy air. You did as well, composing yourself now that you were walking past some people.

“I also wanted to apologize,” you said.

“About what?”

“I am sorry that you and your family cannot openly mourn the loss of Ser Harwin Strong. He was a good man. Fiercely loyal and devoted to protecting your family.”

He nodded, blinking rapidly as tears began to gather in his eyes.

“I feel…severely disappointed and angry. Angry that I should be expected to mourn someone I do not know instead of—of my…” his voice was shaking, and you watch as his face start to redden, his lips quivering.”

You pulled him aside, behind a tent where no one could see nor hear the two of you.

You engulfed him in a hug, steadying him as sobbed. His pale complexion shifted almost to purple as he struggled to keep quiet. You had to remind him to breathe, that it was alright to cry and so he did. His tears stained your dress, though you did not mind. You only wanted to make sure he let his feelings out instead of bottling them up inside. He sniffed, sobs racking his body for a few more seconds before he started to hiccup instead.

“Alright, now. Take a deep breath—inhale, my prince…good now hold your breath. And breathe out.”

You let him gather himself, waiting patiently until his hiccups began to subside.

“I'll go get you some water, stay here.” He shook his head and refused to let go of your wrist.

“I'm fine,” he said, sniffing.

You sighed, before sliding your hands around him to pat him in the back.

“Thank you. And sorry.” He said, pointing at a damp spot on your dress.

“It's nothing.”

“I feel a bit better now. Thank you for letting me…” he paused, looking for the right words.

“I understand, Jacaerys.” You held his gaze steadily. “I do.”

He nodded.

“Oh, wait. I forgot.” You felt around your dress, fishing out a neatly folded handkerchief.

He chuckled while you wiped his tears away.

“Could've been much more useful earlier.”

“Hey, at least it's being useful now.”

You felt his hands clasp at the fabric around your waist as you busied yourself with making him presentable again.

“There we go.” You said. You looked around to make sure no one was spying on you two. You see Aemond start to approach the grieving Baelia and Rhaena, before changing his mind and returning to his place beside Helaena.

Seeing that nobody had noticed you two were missing yet, your eyes settled back on the boy in front of you.

Jacaerys was already staring at you, quite unabashedly before catching himself. He looked down, his gaze landing on his hands that were holding on to your dress.

“Sorry, it’s just…You’re very pretty.” He muttered.

“Thank you, my prince. You’re handsome yourself.”

“Thank you,” he replied, blushing.

“Seven Hells, just kiss already.”

It was almost painful, the way you had to supress the overwhelming urge to deck the peeping idiot. You feel Jacaerys’ hold on you clothes shift to your waist instead and you almost rolled your eyes. Instead of backing off and pretending to be at least five feet apart just for show, he put you two in a more compromising position. Though you do not blame him. He was certainly more rattled than you were, judging by the way he nearly jumped, and the way his breathing picked up speed.

“Oh, it seems that you’ve already been.” Aegon continued. You pursed your lips in annoyance, while Jacaerys peeked over your shoulders to glare at the other boy.

“We’ve done no such thing,” he said.

“Right, you expect me to believe you when you look like that? Let’s see. Your cheeks are red as Caraxes, you’re panting, and teary-eyed, also not to mention you’re clinging desperately to my sister with your grubby little hands.”

Jacaerys huffed, before letting his hands fall slack at his sides.

You finally turned to face Aegon while he let out a long whistle.

“Don’t look at me like that sister. Before you go and plan my death, know that I have no desire at all to breathe another word about this…to other people at least.” He giggled. “Trust that I will be holding this over your head.” He waved goodbye at the two of you. “Now, then. I must go back to my cups. It’s getting darker and our grandfather will have a harder time looking for me in the dark.”

It was indeed getting dark, the evening slowly turning into night. Several of the courtiers were already making their way inside.

Not letting Aegon disrupt the moment, you held Jahaerys’ by the hand, gently leading him inside the castle.

That night, you woke to the sharp pain of someone's hand digging into your shoulders to rouse you.

“Wake up,” Aegon snarled.

“What do you want?” You groaned, waving away the stench of alcohol that came from him.

“Something's happened. Everyone is gathering at the main hall…a maid sent word of mother's summons. I could hear her crying all the way over here.

You sat up, hastily flinging your legs off the bed.

Aegon made a move towards Helaena.

“Do not wake her,” you said. “She's exhausted.” You pulled him away from her before practically sprinting down the hall.

You and Aegon arrived just as the Maester was finishing up with stitching Aemond's face back together. The sight of the large scar across the left side of his face made you gasp. Tears instantly filled your eyes. “Oh Aemond.” You cried, kneeling down to take a better look at the damage, almost knocking the Maester face down on the ground in your haste.

His eyebrows bunched together and his lips trembled, as you grabbed a hold of his hands, crying about how much pain he must be in.

Alicent asked about how bad the wound was and the Maester said it would heal, but the eye was lost. You wiped at your tears, whispering to Aemond that it will be alright.

You watched as Alicent stomped over to Aegon. “Where were you,” she asked, her eyes blazing.

“Me?” Aegon asked before his head jerked to the side as Alicent slapped him across the face.

You did not listen to whatever she said next. You turned to the Maester and asked if Aemond already had something for the pain.

“I'll prepare it right away, Princess.”

“I'm okay.” Aemond whispered to you, the apparent pain in his voice suggested otherwise.

Rhaenyra and Daemon arrived just moments after Princess Rhaenys and Corlys Velaryon.

When asked about what happened, all the children had started to raise their voice in their defense.

You stood up to the side right next to Aegon while Alicent took your place, screaming for justice while holding on to Aemond's hand.

“Sorry, I wasn't listening, what happened?”

Aegon leaned towards you, but wasn't able to speak at all when Aemond named him as the person who told him the “lies.”

“Me?” He whispered incredulously, horrified.

You stepped away without a word and let your father interrogate him.

You thought about going to Baela and Rhaena instead to ask them what had happened but decided against it since everyone else was speaking over each other, anyway. It was too noisy to have a proper conversation.

The mention of a blade caught your attention and your eyes flickered towards Baela, then at Jacaerys. Both were already looking at you. The former looked apologetic, the latter refused to meet your eye again.

You pursed your lips, almost sucking them in awkwardly as you try to suppress a laugh.

All feelings of irrational amusement vanished when your mother turned to Criston Mole, demanding for Luke's eye as payment.

“Now that's going too far.” You heard Aegon mutter as he sidestepped closer to you.

“How would you feel if your son lost an eye while the offender gets away without repercussions?” You ask, trying to defend your mother. But the desire to defend her vanished when she drew a dagger and resolved to mete out her justice with her own hands.

You tried to pass through men who'd drawn their own swords, but everything happened too fast and blood was already drawn.

Truthfully, you were glad it wasn't much worse. But if Alicent had accidentally slit Rhaenyra's throat, all Seven hells would break loose. You shook your head, disappointed with your mother, though you could not entirely blame her. You weren't a mother, you didn't know how it feels to see your son in such a state. Aemond was your brother, and it pained you to see him like that.

“Do not mourn for me, mother.” He said. He may have lost an eye, but he gained a dragon.

“Dragon? What?” You asked.

“He claimed Vhagar.” Aegon supplied the answer.

You were taken aback, pride filling your chest briefly before recalling the fact that Vhagar was the dragon and Laena Velaryon, therefore her daughter had the right to try and claim the dragon. Aemond must have beaten her to it. It was only natural that Rhaena hadn't claimed Vhagar, for she was still grieving.

Everyone was encouraged to retire to their beds as the matter was settled, though you knew it was not the case for your mother.

You pushed through a crowd and made your way to Rhaenyra. She nodded at you, then towards their chambers urging you to follow.

“Do not look so distressed, sister.” She said when she caught you worrying your lips while she was getting her wound stitched up. First light spilled through the curtains in the window, the sun already rising, everyone else would be getting ready to go back to the Keep.

“You will scar, but the wound will heal. Valyrian steel cuts clean.” The Maester said.

“Don't.” Rhaenyra said with a firm voice. You look up at her only to find her eyes fixed at you firmly. “You worry too much.” She gestured at your bouncing knees, a habit of yours when you are anxious. You swallowed thickly and shifted in your seat.

“I gave them the blade that was used to injure Aemond. If I hadn't, perhaps things wouldn't have escalated so much. You wouldn't have been hurt.”

“If you hadn't given them the blade, he could've seriously hurt my sons.” Rhaenyra answered. “I am sorry for what happened to your little brother. It was a tragic accident. Still, you have my gratitude.”

“He was going to hit Jacaerys with a rock.” Lucerys explained in a timid voice. He hadn't so much as looked at you when you arrived.

You tapped on the table, urging Lucerys to look at you.

“You did what you had to in order to protect your brother. You were very brave, Luke.”

The frown on his face vanished, then he nodded, offering you a hesitant smile that widened when you smiled back at him.

“I'm not sorry that what happened earlier caused Aemond to lose his eye.” Jacaerys said.

“Jace…” Rhaenyra softly admonished.

“But I am sorry for the distress it caused you,” he said, looking into your eyes.

Rhaenyra, with a raised eyebrow observed the two of you. She pursed her lips to hide her growing smile before clearing her throat to call for your attention, her gaze soft. “When I said that your brother should be questioned sharply, I did not mean it. I knew my father would never let it happen. I only wanted to…” she sighed, trailing off. You knew she only wanted to provoke Alicent, and you remember how she took it upon herself to get back at Lucerys, a child merely six years of age.

You shook your head. “We were all distressed, but my mother went too far when she drew a blade against your family and—”

“I will not have you apologizing, again, about offenses that you did not commit.” Rhaenyra cut you off.

“Time and time again, over and over even when you were younger than Luke you apologize for your mother, your brother, your grandfather. Sometimes I wish you weren't such a curious little thing, so adamant in learning about our past. Your knowledge of it has changed your opinions on the people you're supposed to trust the most. Now I ask you, never to apologize again for people who feel not a sliver of remorse for what they've done.” Her voice slightly wavered at the end, still her gaze lingered on you.

The years of harassment and intimidation her sons received for their questionable parentage, Alicent holding her higher status as queen above Rhaenyra's head, going as far as blatantly studying her son right after she gave birth, and Ser Harwin Strong's death.

You wanted to apologize for everything.

You knew the queen held resentment for Rhaenyra who gets to live her life the way she wants, love the person she wants to love, while your mother tried her best to fulfill her duties, ultimately causing her to become bitter when she does not get what she thinks she is owed for playing by the rules.

It doesn't mean that Rhaenyra's family were the only ones who were tested. Though you feel as if every bad fortune that shrouds your family, was a direct consequence of their decisions, not by design of their rivals. You knew about the underhanded tactics your grandfather and mother committed in the past, their own kin told you about it back at Oldtown. You agreed with Rhaenyra. Perhaps if you hadn't been so curious, you'd stay blissfully ignorant and therefore still fiercely loyal to your mother. But then maybe you would treat Jacaerys and his brothers the same way your siblings do, without your affection for their mother to serve as a bridge to their lives. You probably would have been ignoring them for real, at worse, you would have been harassing them as well.

The doors were pushed opened by Laenor Velaryon, stopping in his hurried tracks as he scans the injuries accumulated while he was gone to who-knows-where.

“Gods.” He exclaimed, taking in Jacaerys cuts and bruises, Lucerys’ broken nose, and Rhaenyra's wounded arm.” “Is everyone alright?”

It was the Maester who answered. “A broken nose is the worse.”

Rhaenyra dismissed the Maester. You took this as you que to leave. She called your name and held your gaze. You knew what her look meant. ‘Do not forget what I said.’

You nodded to her and made your way to the door. She then turned towards her sons

“You as well. You've already found enough trouble today.”

“Yes mother.” The two boys said.

Jacaerys grabbed a hold of your wrist the moment the door closed.

“When will you be leaving?” He asked.

You looked around, seeing servants passing by, busy preparing for the king's departure.

“Sooner than I would like.” You said.

“Don't go,” Lucerys begged, wrapping his arms around your waist. He would've buried his face against your stomach if it weren't for his broken nose. Instead he looked up at you imploringly.

“I'll be back. Sooner than you think.” You said. “I won't let them stop me. I'll do as I have always done to get what I want.”

Jacaerys’ shoulders slumped in relief.

“You aren't mad at me? At us?” He asked.

You shook your head, chuckling.

“It takes a lot for me to be mad at someone. You forget how vile my elder brother is. I'd have tons of training already. Though it is useless when it comes to you. You are nothing like them. Nothing.”

“I care for you deeply.” You rubbed circles at Lucerys’ back, while keeping your gaze on Jacaerys’.

Jacaerys engulfed you in a hug, and at that moment, you felt your heart swell with warmth. Then the door opened.

You all jerked at the sound. Rhaenyra chuckled at the sight. “I am glad to see you three are getting along so well.”

Lucerys cheered, delighted at the fact that you weren't going to cut him off for what had happened. Jacaerys was a blushing mess as his mother gave him a knowing look. You stood with your back straight, hands clasped behind your back, seemingly composed, but speechless.

You ignored your less than pleased mother as she shook her head at you before climbing into the carriage after your father.

You were waiting for the entourage to head out, with Jacaerys by your side. Lucerys wanted to see you off too, but you decided against it as things were currently too tense between your families right now and you did not want to risk him losing his eye to some vengeful git. Rhaenyra on the other hand, said she was going to see you off by the cliffside.

Your brothers and sisters were already preparing for the flight home on top of the cliff.

You had already said your goodbyes with the promise of a swift return, but Jacaerys could not help but steal another embrace from you before you made your way back to your siblings.

A/N: Reader is so team black😭🙏 forgive me, readers who are team green. (I'm team Brackenwood...Blacken? Blackwren whatever ship name yall come up with for our favorite enemies to lovers ship.)

Btw, next chapter will be the longest, it will contain romantic tension since they will be of age there. So there's romance, angst, longing, war, death, smut, fluff.

[allykakamatsu]

Twisted Hearts Bios: Diasomnia

(Left, BBS + 0.2 look. Right, KH3 (post realm of darkness)+MelMem look)

Name: Lilia Vanrouge

Age: 700 (BBS->KH3 (no aging in the realm of darkness)), 701 (MelMem)

Starting World: Enchanted Dominion

Keyblade: Guardian Soul (gotten during 0.2)

Description: A seemingly mischievous and trouble making young man, in actuality he's a retired war general and father of two who does his best to look out for his kids while still having fun and making sure his kids don't see his struggles. After turning on Maleficent due to her putting a sleeping curse on Silver, one that won't be broken until the Keybearer is found, Lilia teams up with Aqua to find Malleus and Sebek, and in the process he gains another kid he'll go to hell and back for, figuratively and literally.

(Left, BBS, KH1, CoM+Days look. Right, KH2->MelMem look)

Name: Sebek Zigvolt

Age: 16 (BBS->Days (got trapped for 10 years in BBS so no aging)), 17 (KH2->KH3), 18 (MelMem)

Starting World: Enchanted Dominion (BBS), Hollow Bastion (KH1)

Keyblade: Hidden Dragon (gotten during KH3)

Description: A prideful and extremely loud half fae who's dedicated himself entirely to helping 'Waka-sama', but once you get past the interesting first impression he's the loyalist friend you could have and is always trying his hardest. While looking for Silver he ended up getting trapped by Maleficent as further fuel for her magic, a living hell that it took a good ten years to get out of. Once he is finally out though he has to juggle getting therapy for that mess while also helping Malleus who's also very much going through it, a situation that only doesn't end in disaster due to Silver (who's also going through it but to a slightly lesser degree) and the first years.

(Left, BBS, CoM+Days look (in KH1 and most of CoM he's in his Overblot form). Right, KH2->MelMem look)

Name: Malleus Draconia

Age: 108 (BBS), 118 (KH1->Days), 119 (KH2->KH3), 120 (MelMem)

Starting World: Enchanted Dominion (BBS), Hollow Bastion (KH1)

Keyblade: Pain of Solitude (technically gotten during KH1, doesn't use until KH2)

Description: A seemingly quiet and mysterious young man (young by fae standards anyway) with an intimidating aura, but is actually quite friendly and wants to make friends but doesn't know how, often leaving him feeling quite lonely. Gets taken in by his Great Aunt Maleficent, and after she lies to him about Lilia and Sebek being dead, Malleus Overblots and goes all in on the Princess of Heart plan to try save Silver as Maleficent told him that opening Kingdom Hearts is the only way to wake him up. Is eventually snapped out of it by Silver and the rest of the party and does his best to make up for his past actions, especially with Riku who he very much acted like an overprotective stalker around while Overblotted.

(Left, BBS->Days + DDD look. Right, KH2-> KH3 look)

Name: Silver/Silver Vanrouge

Age: 17 (BBS->Days (got hit with a sleeping curse again during BBS so no aging)), 18 (KH2->KH3), 19 (MelMem)

Starting World: Enchanted Dominion (BBS), Traverse Town (KH1)

Keyblade: Fairy Stars (gotten during KH1)

Description: Lilia's adoptive son, he's seemingly a stoic and no nonsense type of young man, but he is actually very kind and considerate, especially to his family, friends and animals, but just has a hard time expressing himself. Has some insecurities about feeling like he doesn't belong but he's working on it. After a good deed gone wrong lands him in another sleeping curse, he's eventually woken up by Sora gaining the Kingdom Key during Destiny Island's fall. While Silver is royally confused by all of this, not helped by him somehow having a Keyblade as well plus him apparently looking and sounding just like Riku, he and Sora team up to find their missing loved ones.

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[unabashednightmarepizza]

𝑀𝑦 𝑇𝑟𝑢𝑒 𝐻𝑜𝑚𝑒

A/N: Okay, I got inspired again and this piece is just me, pouring my absolute and eternal love to the favourite place of mine: Mondstadt! This could be read in sagau or just any other normal piece of work but I wrote it with Creator!Reader AU in mind.

Because let's be honest, they welcomed the Traveller albeit a bit hesitantly, with open arms even when they were really busy with Dvalin situation... And I might be sick of writing/reading Mondstadt as one of the nations who tortured Creator!Reader 👉👈

"Mondstadt."

One might be wondering why the Creator was telling the nation of freedom's name right in front of the said nation but the answer was pretty clear to you as you stood before the entrance of the city with Venti next to you, looking pretty surprised himself with his aqua eyes wide open.

And no, it wasn't to punish someone.

Why was it that everyone thought you enjoyed torturing people when all they ever did was... to make you drunk?

"I'm choosing Mondstadt."

Because, ever since your arrival to the Teyvat, though most didn't trust you and rather tried funny things on you... The people of Mondstadt welcomed you with open arms, even if they were facing a crisis at the time which was "magically" solved very soon.

That was also a test on them and their Archon Barbatos, who went by the name Venti to honor a friend he once did and was unaware how badly things could have turned out had they been...

Well, you got the idea.

Now, Barbatos often prided himself to be your favourite which often got on the nerves of other gods and Archons. But he didn't give much thought to it as he floated around you as a little spirit at the time. Besides you wouldn't have specifically asked him to accompany you to everywhere you went if you didn't feel safe and secure, if you didn't like him, right?

"I see..." Zhongli said somberly while standing right outside the Gates of the city, his amber eyes filled with jealousy and anger directed themselves onto the shorter Archon next to you looking both surprised and proud as he held your hand. He had to pull himself together, however much it affected him, as he thightened his hand into a fist and looked at you with unconditional love and undetering loyalty, no matter whose nation you chose to stay.

"May I ask why, Your Grace?" He softly asked you, with no hint of anger or malice directed to you as you shuffled on your feet anxiously but held your head high. You were obviously the Creator, come on!

Venti looked at you with a turn of his head, his usually pouty lips forming a thight line as his hand naturally found yours. He remembered the first time you arrived, all the Winds and waters were singing and there was a feast of falling star in the sky. He remembered how he rushed to where you landed, the Tree of Vennessa, and were trying to get your balance back on your wobbly legs. His heart thumped inside his ribcage violently at your etheral body, the fact that you chose his land, the three that meant the world to him to ascend down...

He could have fallen on his knees in gratitude eit tears flowing down his soft cheeks and round eyes right then and there.

But what stood out the most was... The fact that you were scared.

And that damned fact made him almost collapse beneath your feet and beg for forgiveness, for something he didn't even know he did.

Please don't hurt me, one simple sentence that he never knew that could cause so much pain to him even after all the battles he fought. How could someone dare to hurt you enough to think that your Archons would do the same, as if they couldn't sense and feel you and your warmth they all once basked in?

Mind you Venti, you awkwardly thought after he explained everything, standing there like a shy kid, that you were the Creator and you had golden blood and he felt you, and cried on his knees for you to believe him as you patted his back and let him hug you thightly. The amount of fanfics I read about this situation made me a little paranoid.

But... Was he grinning and nuzzling closer to your neck?

After that, you were more relaxed. By now, everyone in Teyvat knew of who you were and already started to plan for your arrival in their nations. So far, Liyue and Inazuma were the most eager ones to have you while Sumeru and Fontaine just let you decide when and how you wished to come to their nation and you were glad for them giving you this choice.

But... Well, you didn't really want to leave here.

Mondstadt always stood out to you the most, even after seeing every other nation. Of course they were all special, but Mondstadt was... Home.

Every time you would get hurt in the game, you would immediately seek out to go to one of the Statues of Seven in Mondstadt. Every time you just wanted to stroll around, you would go to Starsnitch Cliff or Windrise and just listen to the nature, absolutely beaming and glowing with you there. It was cozy and warm here...

Then you would always pay a quick visit to the Dawn Winery and Wolvendom to see Diluc, his staff and then Razor and his family. Every time you suddenly appeared in the Winery, or insisted on helping Adelinde out even though the woman begged you not to do that since she knew Diluc would have a heart attack, yet you still did it.

After all, you were the one who cleaned your own home in your world.

Which, by the way, he did just as Adelinde thought every time as you pampered him with a sweet ringing laughter and swiped his soft hair away from his flaming hot face, all the while fawning over how soft and amazing it was and wanted to learn his secret at keeping it so tame.

And may You forbid it if you tease him about the color of his face and even kiss his forehead affectionately?

Now, you would have a very shy and flustered young man clinging onto your touches and love, something he was mostly deprived off, and warmth that couldn't even compare the one his body had because of his vision.

And sweet Razor? The clueless boy would always tug on your sleeves and run around with you, showing every hidden place and then stop and make a makeshift camp for you, eating whatever you found or hunted together. Other Archons would have had a stroke at seeing you sitting down on mud, eating and cooking simple food as you exchanged stories with him from your world as he listened intensely with wide eyes and animated voices.

He was especially into the Supernatural creature stories for some reasons.

Scolding Jean because she never takes a day off, telling Lisa that she was exceptionally bright, assuring Kaeya that he was enough... And then getting yourself into trouble with them by pranking, some adventures and even more... These were all the reasons why you loved here.

Because often, a place feels like home because of the people you met there and those who had an Impact on your life.

With a soft sigh and looking back to the lively city that welcomed you, you spoke with a voice that held many memories. Both from your world, days spent with farming and wishing for them and from this time when you were... Their God.

"Because all of you always saw me as something I have never been for the entirity of my time... A God, the Creator, The Divine, Godslayer, The First Who Came... Which is fine, really, having a lot of cool titles are amazing but..." You rambled off without realizing, worried that your words might piss the Archon off. But why would it?

You were his Creator anyways, and even if you weren't, you didn't deserve to feel bad for thinking the way you did, right?

But they both were just looking at you with soft eyes, clear devotion and understanding crystal clear in them as they only basked in your etheral voice that could bring them to their knees just by itself. Though Zhongli was bitter that you didn't choose to stay in his nation, it didn't mean that you would never visit and have some tea with him, right?

But Venti? Oh the shorter Archon was grinning like a cheshire cat as pride, joy and love filled his entire being.

All for you and because of you.

But a part of him was also smug and all knowing. Because who else would you go to? He was the first one to get to you, help you and protect you. You arrived to his city first, you asked help from them first and you blessed his city, his people, he himself first.

If Zhongli, or other Archons didn't get it then, it was their problem.

Not his.

Besides, he needed to have someone to dedicate his love songs to, after all! And what a coincidence it was that all those songs were about you and you had to listen to them as... The muse itself.

Zhongli was able to read all of these, at least most of it, since he once spent a lot of time with the childish yet strong archon. Unaware of the silent battle between these two that was ready to tear mountains apart for you...You remembered all the times you got to spend with Venti under the tree he usually sat down whenever he needed to pick his thoughts and spend some time with himself.

Alone, as only his winds companied him.

But, after you showed up with bright smiles and a promise to take his mind off of things with your stories or your flower crowns you made just for him because it would compliment him and his pretty face well to which he only accepted with a bashful smile and flushed cheeks, these lonely moments when he would think back to the past and all the mistakes he did turned out to be... A session where you both learnt to accept yourselves as the way you were.

Mistakes and all.

And that was why you were so sure of your reasoning as to why you chose them.

"They have seen me as Y/N..."

They stared at you shocked with wide eyes, perhaps even the other Archons who weren't present heard you and you were sure you heard some people falling behind you...

Must be your imagination.

You shrugged your shoulders and stared ahead of yourself with a small smile and slightly squeezed eyes, both a result of the bright sun that seemed like it felt your own happiness.

Though Zhongli seemed like he didn't understand what that sentence meant... Venti did, and his face visibly softened as a small oh left his lips. His hand silently sought yours to squeeze in assurance, to tell you that he knew what you meant and felt, your own eyes turned to look at him with your own shy smile as you accepted his slightly calloused hands.

Which made the Geo Archon seethe at him even more since... He wished to be the one in Venti's shoes, the one who had your love and affection, the one who you held dear to your heart and close to yourself, much like now.

"They know me as the one who always tripped on their own feet, the one who got so flustered because Kaeya was flirting with them but was being genuine and always made sure I was comfortable. And never once did he hold any malicious feeling as he showed the city to me, I really didn't have the heart to tell him that I already knew every nook and crevice..."

You mumbled shyly with a flush, remembering how it was the first time Kaeya had genuinely laughed and smiled wide as you both came to a stop under one of the trees near Springvale to catch your breath and then eat whatever you wished to do in the village, which was ecstatic to have the Creator in their humble village and served you the best they could.

You didn't have to know, but as Kaeya watched you play with children and then look around yourself as if you were searching for something-no, someone- his heart beated faster as his tan skin darkened in embarrasment when he understood that you were looking for him.

He was the one you wanted to have close to you, he was the one who brought that wide smile to your face... He was worthy enough to spend the whole day with you and you never for once judged him, his past or whatever weight that had been forced on his shoulders since he was a young boy.

But rather chose to drag him towards an opening to watch the night sky and point every star to him, telling him giddily that it all reminded you of him and his one visible eye sparkling at what you said

He made you swear to never tell a soul about the way he cried onto your shoulder and landed a kiss on your forehead affectionately while you patted his back, his almost whole body on top of yours as he resembled a cute koala to you. Because one, Venti would kill him. Two, Diluc would kill him. And three... He couldn't hug you anymore :(

The third one was obviously the biggest reason why, as he pouted at you when you laughed hard at his reasoning, all the while assuring him that you would protect him...

Which gave him yet another thing to think about before he went to sleep, a lovesick smile being glued on his face as he chuckled and giggled like a teenager girl all the while hugging his pillow thightly, hoping that perhaps one day... There would be someone, you, for example, to take over that empty spot.

"They saw me as the one who always made sure that those around them were comfortable, happy and well-taken care of even though they were struggling with their inner demons and in exchange, was equally taken care of and pampered by delicous food."

Because you knew all those young men, women and teens had one hell of a traumatic life and since you weren't able to erase that part or rewrite it... You wanted to at least let them know that you were there for them.

As a shoulder to cry on, a friend to listen, an ear for them to vent... Whatever they needed at that moment. And though they might have been skeptical about your true intentions at the beginning, they quickly found solace within your presence, hugs and love, slithering to your light like moths did to a flame.

Even Diluc, who usually wasn't one for " idle chit-chat" often found himself before you, drinking grape juice together as he told you about his frustrations... More specifically about Kaeya, his brother with whom he re-connected thanks to you.

"The one who was befriended the fastest by the little kids, because they obviously had immaculate sense in new games and story telling from other worlds an enjoyed making an adult suffer for their entertainment."

Indeed, you learnt it in the hard way while playing with Klee. Though you had an amused face as you said this out loud, you underestimated her energy and love to... bomb things, at that time. It was your fault really, Albedo and Jean warned you about it and how she got excited whenever she went fish-blastimg with someone she loved, but even when you met her... You just thought they were exaggerating it.

You were wrong.

They could only slap their foreheads in affectionate anger as you ran away from Klee who was holding yet another Dodoco bomb that was about to explode because she changed her mind from catching the fish to showing you how amazing it was.

And for a second, you indulged with her... That is, until you realized the bomb was about to set off.

"Klee, dear, I think we should really let go of that bomb!"

"But... Mr. Dodoco only wants to meet you! (⁠✷⁠‿⁠✷⁠)" you nervously sweated, thinking how to dodge her without hurting her feelings when the bright eyes of the bomb caught your attention.

"Maybe in better circumstan-WATCH OUT!"

*cue you and her covered in ashes, Klee holding onto your hand as she rambled about how amazing it was throughout the whole time back to Mondstadt while you were shaking from the adrenaline*

"Yeah... It was amazing, dear."

"The one who was always there to pick up the broken pieces of those who acted noncholant and cold, but held the warmest hearts ever." You pointedly looked at Diluc at this part, who came over as soon as he heard that the ex-Geo Archon was here to have a talk with you, watching as his pale cheeks were blossomed with an adorable pink. To be seen as such in your eyes, as a warm hearted man rather than the cold and uncaring one he showed himself to be...

It was an honor.

To hear such lovely words leave your lips was an honor.

Because you were all he had left, after he lost his father and cut all ties with his brother who came clean to him... The only constant thing he had was you.

You who came to him after days of being in Mondstadt, knowing that it was the same night of the same day when he had that fight with Kaeya and comforted him with soft words and your presence right before the fireplace as you both sat together, knees touching. Even though his breaths were laboured, chest contrasting painfully...

"I know it was hard for both of you... But you only have each other, is there really no way for you both to talk it out?"

He listened to you and his heart caved in. How couldn't he, when you were quite literally begging him with desperation and tears in your eyes for him to accept Kaeya back?

Besides, thanks to you... He had his family back now, and both Diluc and Kaeya couldn't be any more grateful for it.

"The one who knew what loosing a loved one meant, but never pushed too far into their comforting and instead let them come to you."

Diluc couldn't help but nod aimlessly as tears slightly dampened first his eyes and then cheek. It was true that you only left there with one question only, knowing how sensitive the topic around Kaeya and his father was for Diluc.

But you just... wanted to pay them back for all the good they did for you, every time they gifted you something heartfelt, made you your favourite food, indulged in your hobbies even though they might not be as interested as you were to them.

And all the time they spent to help you, with quite literally everything since everything was new to you.

You smiled at the fond memory of Albedo and Sucrose, who were trying to explain to you one of their experiments excitedly. Well... As excited as Albedo could be, of course.

But even as a scientist and an artist, there was one thing Albedo didn't realize at that time but much later when he thought back to it: Though you seemed like you understood what they were talking about... You were actually pretty clueless at whatever the hell they were telling you about.

You never were good at chemistry, okay? Not your fault that Albedo was so damn smart!

"The one who didn't always understand what was spoken to them, whether it was way to smart for them or the language barrier but had people to patiently teach them... And later forced to eat all together in the city with others."

Albedo smiled as the same memory replayed in his mind too. The way you often were distracted by the fresh snow in his lab or a colorful show of his newest experiments which made you grin widely with amazed eyes, always brought a smile to the usually stoic blonde man. He might not exactly understand the human nature, and even saw you as some kind of experiment to work on so that he could better understand you, he really liked... The idea of having you around.

He didn't even know when he started to seek for your praises, of your presence whenever you would touch his shoulder softly and urge him to take a break and come with you to either play with Klee or have some warm "sahlep", a warm winter drink from your world that you specifically made for him.

To which he would always agree, no matter what, under the shocked, jealous and impressed eyes of... Well, everyone in Mondstadt.

Because the Creator was offering him something They have done, specifically for him and was looking at him expectantly for his reaction as they swayed a sleepy Klee from side to side on their lap after she drunk the hot liquid.

Did he use Klee to have more of your attention? Maybe... Did he make even more experiments just to have you in Dragonspine? Yes... Yes, he did and he had absoultely zero shame for it.

You clasped your hands together after talking so much, your throat starting to hurt from using it so much since that irritating raspy feeling had made itself visible slowly.

The disappointed face Zhongli had broke you, he looked like a kid being rejected of something sweet. Just because you chose Mondstadt, it didn't mean you hated other nations.

They all had other reasons to love about!

Liyue had more of an enigmatic aura with all the rituals, temples and over all Divine Vibe in them but they also had a lot of rules, though you didn't have to apply them to yourself.

You already dealt with enough rules and strictness in your world, really, so though you liked the over all traditional vibe... It wasn't your first choice.

Inazuma was much like Liyue, though once the strictest one with rules and eternity in all over the Teyvat. Fontaine, though you liked hanging out with many people there, seemed... Cold, though Tsaritsa's land was the one considered to be cold because of the constant snow.

Maybe Sumeru could have been your next choice, but you were still pissy about those mages and scribes who treated your precious baby Nahida like that-

But Mondstadt... It had been the first your created, the first one you saw and stepped foot onto. The first to welcome you and teach you everything, the first to give you a family and a whole lot of friends, the first ones to allow you to be yourself...

They were the apple of your eyes.

"The one who is just... Y/N. That's why I'm choosing them... I'm choosing my home, but that doesn't mean I love any of you less." You patted Zhongli's back with a sorry look that said please understand my point as he did and smiled back. Your comfort and happiness was the most important one after all and if you were the happiest here, though he still sent daggers to a certain half-drunk-of-you bard who was looking at your back with literal heart eyes, he thought he could be... Fine with it.

At least, for you.

"I understand, Your Grace... I just hope that you will come to Liyue soon, which will be waiting for your arrival quite eagerly."

And as you reassured again and again that yes, of course you would... You were yet to know that Venti already carried your words to the certain people you talked about and the whole people of Mondstadt with his winds as the city cried out in joy from having your blessing and love.

And who knows... Maybe, they could have your blessings and love through one another way.

In a more... Romantic and free way.

Bonus Part!

"Oh, but I'll visit Liyue soon! Can you prepare Osmanthus-"

"Nooo~ Your Grace, Dandelion Wine is much much better!"

Zhongli: ಠ⁠_⁠ಠ 😒

You: (⁠ʘ⁠ᴗ⁠ʘ⁠✿⁠) 🤭

Venti: ಥ⁠╭⁠╮⁠ಥ 😭🥹

Also Zhongli: "As you wish, Your Grace..." 😎

[featheredclover]

September Rain

Chapter Six

Also on Wattpad

Read from the beginning

Chapter Five> <Chapter Seven

“Topsy World it is” NK said, swinging his legs in the air.

Khushi walked over to the bunch sitting across the rocky ledge.

“Isn’t there also a water park somewhere inside that park?”

“Yes! Aqua Land! So don’t forget to pack your swimsuits” 

Mona raised an eyebrow,” How excited are you for this picnic ,NK?”

He grinned,”The second last one day trip before we get to go on weekend long trips? Hell yeah! I am excited “

Khushi giggled, “I have heard good things about the place”

“Aman is upset class 9 is going to a different place”

“I am not!”

Khushi climbed up, sliding beside Aman.

“It’s okay to be upset a little Aman”

He smiled, “I guess,K”

“So after lunch is the water park?” Preetika noted in her tiny book.

“What are you doing Preeto? Scheduling the picnic?” Mona scoffed.

Khushi hid her smile, while Preetika glared.

“Aah here comes the supermodel” NK whistled.

They twisted their necks as Lavanya Kashyap walked towards them, a dainty smile on her face.

“Hello guys” her voice settled down like mist against a window pane.

“Hi” , Khushi joined the chorus in a small voice.

“Arnav asked me to wait for him with you guys”, she shrugged.

“How nice,” Aman said dryly.

“Aha! Time for us to get to know each other more Lavanya “ NK grinned

“You can sit with us, you know ? Climb up!”

“No thanks NK, I don’t feel like sitting”

Khushi found herself rolling her eyes as her friends kept on asking Lavanya mundane questions. She desperately wished for Arnav to come and occupy his girl’s attention.

“So Khushi ? Aman tells me you are leading the dance club with him”

Startled at the sudden spotlight on her, she fell quiet for an awkward moment.

“Um yes Lavanya. Are you interested?”

“I don’t know. I did Bharatanatyam like you for a couple of years. But I don’t know if I should take up this or polo”

“Oh, you should take up polo! I could help you “ Preetika clapped.

“Thank you Preetika “ Lavanya shot her a charming smile.

Khushi looked up as she heard footsteps. 

“Hi everyone “ Arnav huffed out, catching his breath.

“You were in a hurry to get here, hah?” NK raised a brow.

Arnav laughed, “I am just getting away from Bakshi sir! He has been paranoid ever since green won against yellow ”

Khushi looked away as the thoughts of the last game flooded her mind.

“Eviscerated yellow house, you mean? We crushed them!” Mona laughed.

“Isn’t someone a little too smug for a match she didn’t play?” Aman teased.

“Ask Khushi! We brought luck to the team simply with our presence!”

“Khushi? You watched the match?” , the incredulity evident in NK’s voice.

“Yes. So?”

“So?” Aman chuckled, “You have never been at anything except the-“

“Finals”, Arnav interrupted. 

She didn’t need to look around to know she was bearing the brunt of all eyes.

“Things change”, she shrugged. 

Her eyes unwillingly met his. The storm visible in his depths. 

——————

Her fingers skimmed over the thick bindings, searching for something. Something which will last her for a week. Khushi looked up, to see golden letters gleaming from the bind of a brown leather bound. 

‘Emma’

She rose on tiptoes, an arm stretching out,a frown marring her face as she tried to reach it.

A warm breath of air grazed her neck. A shiver ran down her spine as her book was grabbed.

“Here” Arnav said hoarsely, “Jane Austen again?”

“Yes” Khushi whispered, “That one was ‘Pride and Prejudice’”

“Aah! Both your signature qualities !”

He grinned slyly, as she gasped in outrage.

“What the hell Arnav!”

“Sshhh!” 

Mrs. Roy’s disapproving glare was enough to stop their bickering. 

Sticking a tongue out at him, she brushed past him and placed the book on the desk.

“Miss Khushi I admire your reading habits but whenever Mr Raizada accompanies you,you spoil the sanctity of this library “ 

“Sorry ma’am, I am to be blamed” Arnav intervened charmingly, “And oh! The sanctity of this place is too strongly maintained by you to be broken by us!”

“Shoo off boy!” A rare smile broke across Mrs. Roy’s face.

————

Khushi stared at their entwined hands. Arnav had not let her have a moment of respite since they got out of the library. Her hand was quickly grabbed. And now, she was being dragged across campus.

She knew where they were heading. She knew they had to talk. But fear gripped her heart as she felt this could end up being worse for them. What if he confirmed her suspicions? Her hand turned rigid as an unpleasant feeling flooded her body. She was distracted as she felt Arnav clutching her hand tighter. 

She sighed. He was going to make it happen. Come hell or high water!

————

The bricks were home, Khushi thought as she climbed up the stairs, took off her bag and settled down in her usual spot, leaning against the wall.

Arnav smiled at her woebegone expression. He reached into his bag. And then brandished two sodas before her.

He threw his bag aside and settled down beside her.

“Thanks”, she cracked it open against the wall and took a deep sip.

“How was Payal di’s party?”

“You wouldn’t have had to ask me, had you been there”

Arnav looked away.

“You missed me?”

Khushi paused. She didn’t want to be flippant with him anymore.

“Yes”

Hearing his breath hitch, she felt her heart go a mile a minute.

“I am sorry Khushi” , he held her hand, “I just couldn’t come and be- be normal. I knew we couldn’t talk the way I wanted us to, had I been there. I was just too angry to see things clearly”

“So you admit you were unreasonable that day?” She raised a brow.

He frowned, “No. I wasn’t “

“Khushi, let me explain, “ he said as she struggled to free her hand.

“You’ll explain?”, she gave him a dubious look.

“Yes, just let me speak”

“Okay” she grumbled.

“I don’t like Dhruv. And I hate that he has asked you to attend every match of his. But because you want to be there for him, I won’t say anything again. But…I just want us to be us. If you are going to the ground, I would want you to tell me and not scatter off without a word!”

Khushi smiled at his exasperation.

“Dhruv is just the sub captain of our house, Arnav. He wants to be the captain next year. And if he feels, having visible supporters will help him win,I have to go, as his friend. I didn’t mean to brush you off but…”

“Lavanya is not my girlfriend “

She froze. Clutching her skirt, she felt cold. Her stomach was not being her friend.

“Khushi, she is new here. And we talked while I was showing her around. Her parents…NK must have told you. They are having an ugly divorce. It’s all in the papers. And she is getting stuck in between their fights . It was actually her grandmother who felt she would feel better here, away from the mess.”

She sighed, “I understand “

“And she is so reserved that she doesn’t even want to talk to other girls in our house. Even with NK and Aman around, she will fall silent! I just wanted to get her out of her shell. I feel sorry for her Khushi. And yesterday, I told her to go wait for me with you guys, so that she could make some friends”, Arnav shrugged.

She bit her lip.

“I get it, Arnav. I had just never seen you so occupied. I felt…that everything was changing. We were changing. And I was- I was simply upset”

A breath of air huffed out of her as Arnav mauled her into a hug.

“Never! We are never going to change Khushi “ his furious whisper reached her ears and calmed her heart.

She clutched him tightly, ignoring the flutter of butterflies in her stomach.

Everything felt right again. 

Under the dome, against the evening sky, they held each other, waiting for the twilight to chase away the sun.

————

Next chapter>>

Tagging:

@hand-picked-star @phuljari @msbhagirathi @thenainitaldisaster @thedupattaknowswhatsup @jalebi-weds-bluetooth @barshifan @andli @shiyaravi @chutkiandchotte @laad-governess @minpdnim @bigfatreader @arshiradio @simplycurlz @scorpio-smiles @bengudill @exosexosekai @0218fm

[artirific234-blog]

Devoured World Idea.

i kinda wished that during Aqua's journey through the Realm of Darkness, we could have seen more of the worlds that fell to the darkness thanks to the Heartless, like Beast's Castle, Prankster's Paradise, The Grid (in a World Within-type of situation), Symphony of Sorcery, La Cite de Cloches, Country of the Musketeers, Pride Lands or Land of the Dragons; and see how the Darkness manage to twist these worlds due to the corruption it has inside too.

Like for example, having the entire of Beast's Castle world being twisted like how the Shadow Stalker/Dark Thorn did to the Ballroom

Like can someone imagine the same but not just the Ballroom, but the entire Castle AND the forest too?

Like the area would be like the Valley of the Dark, but much more frightening. Like the Dark Forest in Dwarf Woodlands, but much more organical and shadowy. Plus this would bring a new type of Pureblood Heartless based on the Wolves of the film too. It could even be like a parallel to what happened to Belle's world in Mirrorverse as well too:

Stellar Magic has transformed the Mirrorverse world of Beauty and the Beast into a place where the woods and wilderness are savage and dangerous, and where all manner of terrifying beasts claim the forests.

It would be like that, but theses beasts would be Purebleed Heartless themselves, in their hometurf too.

I feel that the Mirrorverse's desings of Gaston's pelt would make for good Wolf Heartless designs, since not only would they fit the Realm of Darkness aesthetic, but there can be much more dangerous like the dark hyde, only this time there won't be bosses, but just a wolfpack of Heartless too.

I feel that an area like that would be called: Castle of the Dark, or Where Beasts Dwell, or a name like that to fit with the Realm of Darkness's nature.

[targaryenluvs]

Hiii, congrats on your milestones! 100k, is something I can’t even imagine (number wise) but it’s all because of you hard work, you deserve this and so many more wonderful things ❤️ I’ve always wanted to do a matchup, so if you’re still accepting could I have a matchup from a male from House of The Dragon. 

Aqua 🌞, but a Scorpio rising. I love to read, especially books set in period times or romances, one of my favs is Pride and Prejudice. I also love music though, especially Lana Del Rey, I’m all for the dramatics and theatrics. I’m a bit of an overthinker, sarcastic and I tend to be a bit “deep”. I enjoy spending time in nature. I like being alone but hate being lonely, I tend to crave but also run away from relationships. Also a romantic, romanticizing makes everything easier. I love astrology and learning about it, but I tend to keep quiet about my thoughts and interests bc it feels like a way to know me, (to be loved is to be known) which also scares me ig. 

I’m around 5’5 (wish I was taller), but someone tall is a turn off for me. I’m quite slim, I’ve got big brown eyes, and like black long wavy/curly hair. I like wearing jewelry, esp with colourful stones and jewels, heart lockets, gold. I love wearing florals, pretty dresses and skirts, but I also love wearing dark academia themed clothes.

Again, thank you if you can do it, and I hope you have a wonderful day :)

a/n: hi thank you so much for submitting a match up and i am still accepting! i did see your other ask btw ❤️ i can’t imagine 100k likes either it’s insane to me!!

you’re literally me too! i love lana, reading, dresses and all and idk if you’ve seen tvd but you kind of remind me of elena gilbert ahaha

i personally see you with…

jacaerys velaryon!

(you’re a cousin of the strongs in this + both 18)

•

the stars

you’d been waiting for the night time to come, all day. throughout meeting the king and queen, getting reacquainted with aemond, who’d been a friend of yours which not many had expected.

when the two of you were kids you use to read together all the time, you were and still are one of helaena’s handmaidens and closest friends. but not many found themselves close to the young targaryen. even after he was disfigured. you were always hesitant about getting to know others so you kept to those you knew.

what you also didn’t expect was to become friends with jacaerys, much to aemonds dismay.

jacaerys was kind, in ways most people in kings landing weren’t. he found himself seeking you out, and it took you a while to let him in. but as you grew up he found himself in love, even if you saw him as a friend.

jacaerys loved giving you gifts, it was his way of trying to turn his affection literal, as something you could have and hold.

two years ago

the golden necklace shone in the velvet box as jacaerys smiled, “it’s almost at pretty as you.” you could feel the redness in your cheeks as your eyes watered, “you don’t have to buy things for me jacaerys.”

“of course i do.”

and over the years, you let him in.

rhaenyra was supportive of the two of you, and she actively encouraged your bond however she could. your mother and father were hesitant at first, scared of you getting hurt or thrown to the side if the prince became disinterested. but you knew jace would never do such a thing.

as you grew up, more responsibilities were placed on your shoulders along with jace’s, but as long as you had eachother and your nights with the stars.

you could handle anything.

[aki-bara]

Pokemon Trainer - Percy Jackson

Now, obviously there are a lot of water pokemon and pokemon in general that would have been a great fit for Percy. I think Percy has A LOT more pokemon than the ones I've listed here, but these are the ones he would generally choose to use in battle.

Walrein - Ice Break Pokemon 

To protect its herd, the leader battles anything that invades its territory, even at the cost of its life. Its tusks may snap off in battle. Spheal, its basic stage, is much faster rolling than walking to get around. When groups of this Pokémon eat, they all clap at once to show their pleasure. Because of this, their mealtimes are noisy.

Walrein is a pokemon that starts as a soft silly ball of fluff and becomes a badass. Which I think is actually very Percy-like! I wanted his go to pokemon to be one that could live on land and sea, and was tough, but kind of goofy at the same time. If you remember in Son of Neptune, there's a scene where he breaks a glacier in half. Which isn't why I picked Walrein, I just felt that Spheal was a fun water pokemon that could grow with Percy and be a powerful and trusted partner to him. I like to think he got this pokemon as a gift from his dad when he first left home to begin his pokemon journey, which is the reason for it's tougher/cooler sounding nickname.

Tauros (Aqua) - Wild Bull Pokemon 

They fight each other by locking horns. The herd’s protector takes pride in its battle-scarred horns. This Pokémon blasts water from holes on the tips of its horns—the high-pressure jets pierce right through Tauros’s enemies.

Another herd protector pokemon. This one chosen because of it's similarities to the ophiotaurus. You may not know, but all Tauros are male, so just like in PJO canon its nickname is a bit of a mismatch. The Paldean form was chosen because of its potential water typing, which I thought made it a better fit than the regular normal type version of Tauros.

Lycanroc (Dusk) - Wolf Pokemon

This Pokémon is very friendly when it’s young. Its disposition becomes vicious once it matures, but it never forgets the kindness of its master. When properly raised from a young age, it will become a trustworthy partner that will absolutely never betray its Trainer.

I wanted Percy to have a dog pokemon to represent Mrs. O'Leary. However, dog pokemon are also usually said to be loyal, and Rockruff, the first stage of this pokemon is considered to be one of the most loyal of all. People fall in love with Rockruff's friendliness when it's young, but as it grows and gets stronger it quickly becomes too difficult for most trainers to handle. A lot of the pokedex entries talk about how Rockruff are usually abandoned as they grow older because of this.

Maybe it's silly, but that sort of reminded me of Percy and how everyone sort of assumed the worst of him as he was growing up, blaming him for things that happened and saying he was too "difficult" to deal with. Dusk form Lycanroc's are the rarest and also supposedly the very hardest to raise. The one on Percy's team is also a shiny! I figured it was okay to give Percy the dusk form Lycanroc because of his main character energy. And since they are supposed to be the hardest to raise it made sense to me that even a shiny Rockruff might be abandoned.

I like to think Rocky was Percy's first pokemon. He found him as a scrappy Rockruff while coming home from school one day and started leaving him food. Eventually the Rockruff grew closer to Percy and followed him home where Sally reluctantly allowed Percy to keep him. Since Percy was still small when he adopted Rockruff, he ended up giving the pokemon a somewhat childish nickname. Since both Percy and Rocky were dismissed by society as being "too troublesome" they are very close and Rocky can usually be found hanging around Percy outside his pokeball.

Meowstic (Male) - Constraint Pokemon

The defensive instinct of the males is strong. It's when they're protecting themselves or their partners that they unleash their full power. Though it has enough psychic power to blast away any opponent, Meowstic prefers to support its allies rather than attack.

Meowstic evolves from Espurr, a pokemon that is known for having a rather humorous vacant expression, which is the reason for it's name. Percy has a habit of giving pokemon nicknames that are actually the names of other pokemon once he's older, mostly because he thinks it's funny, but it definitely makes conversations a little difficult sometimes!

Meowstic is one of those pokemon that can be very different depending on it's gender. Female Meowstic's actually have stronger attack moves, and a completely different moveset than the male ones. Originally I wasn't considering giving Percy a Meowstic at all, but when I read it's pokedex entries it felt like it was just too good of a fit. Plus, it's very blue!

Male meowstic have more of a support-based moveset and only unleash their power in defense of others, even though continued use of their abilities is said to cause them considerable damage. It's protective nature made it a really good fit for Percy and also its ability is "prankster," which I felt was a good fit too.

Dragalge - Mock Kelp Pokemon 

Tales are told of ships that wander into seas where Dragalge live, never to return. It’s not good at swimming, so it clings to the seaweed. In the Alola region, it’s often found near Dhelmise.

I wanted to give Percy a seahorse pokemon for rather obvious reasons. However, there really aren't that many seahorse inspired pokemon. Actually there aren't that many horse inspired pokemon either! The other obvious seahorse choice would have been Kingdra (evolved from Horsea), however I was really trying not to overload Percy's team with water-type pokemon. Obviously Percy has a ton of water and beach related pokemon, however as far as pokemon battles go it's actually really bad to have a lot of the same type on your team.

Dragalge is probably one of the few pokemon Percy sought out specifically for using in battle. Even though it's inspired by the Leafy Sea Dragon, it isn't actually a water type, so it wouldn't have the same weaknesses as the other pokemon on his team. It lives among and eats seaweed, which felt appropriate for our seaweed brain. Thanks to the camoflauge on it's head, Percy decided to name it Kelphead. This pokemon and Percy have a somewhat antagonistic relationship with each other. Dragalge probably definitely cares for Percy, but it also takes pleasure in Percy's misery, which Percy does not appreciate. But it's all in good fun! Probably!

Dhelmise - Sea Creeper Pokemon

The soul of seaweed adrift in the waves became reborn as this Pokémon. It maintains itself with new infusions of seabed detritus and seaweed. It wraps its prey in green seaweed and sucks away their vitality. It only likes to go after big prey like Wailord.

When he was looking for a Dragalge to catch Percy ended up catching this Dhelmise as well. Sort of like a buy one get one free! Despite it's clear boat association, Dhelmise also isn't a water type, which is great for battle purposes. Dhelmise also has the same seaweed associations as Dragalge so it fits for those reasons as well!

Personally I don't like this pokemon, but it made sense for Percy and I thought he might actually feel somewhat connected to the spirit of a sunk ship, so it seemed stupid not to give it to him because of my personal distaste for it.

I like to think Percy and Nico were hanging out together when Percy was looking for Dragalge when they both got an uneasy feeling. Nico was thinking it was the spirit of a vindictive ghost, but Percy was concerned it might be something that needed their help, so with Nico backing him up he dove into the water to check it out. The Dhelmise was intrigued by this, so it decided to follow Percy back home, much to his surprise. Dhelmise and Percy have a strange relationship. Most pokemon are really smart pets. You take care of them and they reward you with companionship. Dhelmise isn't like that. It has a large presence that demands respect. Percy sort of treats it more like a person than a pokemon, which is great because Dhelmise wouldn't tolerate being treated as though it was less. It's not a negative relationship, but it's definitely unusual. Since Percy's Dragalge (Kelphead) grew up in this Dhelmise's (Boaty's) seaweed bed, it will listen to Dhelmise even when it won't listen to Percy. Percy does not think this is funny, but everyone else does.

[kakiastro]

Astrology of Kurt Cobain

Using Placidus system

Rising/Chart Ruler

Virgo rising 23°(Aquarius degree)with ruler Mercury in Pisces 6h.

Now this is very interesting! Virgo and Pisces are sister (opposite) signs of each other. This tells me he may have been feeling conflicted within himself. His Virgo rising is telling him to go one way but his mercury is telling him another. At the same time he used this energy to create amazing music.

He was shy and reserved. People didn’t understand him or his thinking process. Pisces Mercuries can appear to be in La La land or you explain things in a way that confuse people similar to Aqua mercuries. Him having an aqua degree and Uranus on his rising made him sort of an outcast. It’s funny he’s known to be one of the voices for outcast in his generation. People who don’t fit in understood where he was coming from especially the teenagers at that time. Pluto 1h, mysterious aura, magnetic energy. I know he had a rough upbringing or some difficulties.

Pisces Stellium 6h/7h

(Sun, Mercury, Venus, Saturn)

Sun 6h-sun is how we shine in the world, soul mission, our pride. Pisces rules over spirituality and creativity. I would say his music was healing for him and clearly for others as well. He put his thoughts in his music. 6h rules over health. His music was his medicine in a way. Pisces rules over addictions so unfortunately substance abuse was also his medicine. FYI if you have this placement, this doesn’t mean you’ll get on drugs; this is how it played out for Kurt specifically

Mercury 6h- read the chart ruler section; I will add, he may had a problem with overthinking or his thoughts may have been all over the place. I will say, this is a good placement to have for writing and drawing.

Venus 7h conj Saturn- seen as beautiful or ethereal to the public. This makes me sad because he probably self doubted or people around him doubted him a lot especially romantic partners🥺 Venus Pisces will literally sacrifice themselves for there partners because they tend to wear rose colored classes and ignore red flags.

Saturn Pisces- he was 27 when he passed which means he was in the shadow period of his return. He never actually got the chance to go through his Saturn return. I noticed if he was still here; he would be going through his 2nd one. But just because a person isn’t here anymore doesn’t mean there energy is gone. I expect him to be in the news media, maybe his music making a huge resurgence, younger generation getting introduced to him. Conversation about his pass relationships, death or drug usage may pop up.

Moon and Jupiter 10h

Cancer - people related to him on an emotional level, he was relatable. He didn’t like being in the public. Cancer rules over private life so having that in a public house was difficult for him. This was also during the era where the media and paparazzi was ruthless when it came to celebrities. He has Gemini Mc which rules over media and paparazzi) . This may have also contributed to his substance abuse🥺

Jupiter 10h is always an indication of being popular, well known to the public.

I hope you all enjoyed this post, check out my other celebrity post in the pin on my page

[trans-girl-sora]

I've introduced a friend of mine to KH for the first real time and they're fucking *adoring* it. Like they absorbed some through osmosis, leading to funny moments ("Oh, this is Roxas? I thought he'd be an organization guy cuz of the X") but it's been a genuine fucking blast so far

I'm 100%ing the games as she plays through them on Steam, and for the first time I've gotten the Ultima Weapon in KH1 and beat all the superbosses (Sephiroth and the Unknown are tough but like, at level 90 with Ultima they really aren't THAT hard). I've got a few more achievements before I've fully 100%'d KH1, and then I'm going to probably move on to CoM

Also, below the cut are some of the really funny things she's said/done in no particular order so far (she's halfway through her first round of BbS at the moment)

She DID cry during KH1's ending, and did get weepy at the end of KH2, but DIDN'T cry during Xion's death??? Insane to me

She has taken to calling DiZ "Delicious in Zungeon", and also calls him DiZ more than Ansem, which honestly? Fair, fuck that guy

Didn't know Pride Lands was a world and was SOOOO EXCITED for "Warrior Cats Sora". Less excited for Lion Pete

Also hates that I keep calling KH2 Pete "Pussy Zipper Pete" and said it was brave that BbS Pete didn't have his "pussy zipper" in the Captain Justice outfit

HATES 100 Acre Wood, but can't say it in chat because my partner is usually there and my partner fucking loves Pooh

Also hates Disney Town lmfao, which, warranted

They beat Kh1 Sephiroth about 6 times in a row after the first win as "a victory lap" because it was so empowering

Eventually learned to cheese CoM with Firaga/Blizzaga and plowed through Sora's side before getting to Riku's and giving up, watching the cutscenes

ALMOST 100%'d KH2, the only things she didn't do were Data Xemnas, Data Demyx, and Mushroom VIII. FUCK Mushroom 8, all my homies hate Mushroom 8

Says that BbS is her favorite game so far mostly due to Aqua, but also just all the insane lore drops.

When Aqua meets Kairi, kept going "why is that baby so kairi coded" until she said she was kairi and had to pause the game for a while

Saw the KH2 secret ending and insisted that the bald guy was "Bald Xehanort", which I gaslit her into thinking wasn't true until he reveals he's Xehanort in BbS and she yelled at me

I gaslight her a lot with these games by telling her she's 50% right with half of her predictions, and then usually telling her she's wrong when she's actually right

There was a moment in the 358 movie where she was like "Oh my god. Xion is just Namine, she's Namine trying to infiltra-" and then the scene cut to one of the only cutscenes with DiZ and Nami and was like "...oh. Well."

DID actually call that Xion was a replica about halfway through, she kept saying that they "transed Repliku's gender", though

We keep saying she's a god gamer because she clutches a lot of fights that are BIZARRE for her to clutch right away, like, she beat KH1 Ansem!Riku first try??? And keeps insisting he's not hard and I wanna beat her with hammers

Anyway she's very funny and I'll keep this post updated with achievement progress and her stupid antics as well. She hasn't clocked Vani's voice yet, so I'm REALLY excited for that drop, she's been pausing a lot in BbS to freak out

[yankaze]

it's finally done!! it's been a long time since my last full rendered artwork so party time i guess?

pride lands Aqua skin from Aqua Ally mod for KH II by Kiteki which i absolutely love. what about Ven? Isn't he pretty? just thinking about how much Aqua would adore him

[crazycatfics]

The last meteor one shot has been posted.

Now it’s time for the rewrite.

This chapter is a part of the 2023 NHH Promptober.

Prompt 6: Birds

Flapping his wings Grian coasts down until he can clearly see the inside of the building.

Ren wanted to talk to him, the season’s starting to wrap up and there’s a lot of little get-togethers to plan on how to get things settled.

Tucking in his wings Grian prepares to land in the tall building in aqua town.

Grian Experienced Kinetic Energy

RenDog: rip

RenDog: did you not see the glass?

Grian: there was glass??!??

RenDog: I put it in the other day.

Xisuma: Can you see the glass now?

Grian: hang on. Let me find some

Grian: yeah I can see it.

Grian: maybe if I’m not expecting it it just poofs out of me head

Xisuma: hmm. Let us know if it happens again

————

Rain slowly starts falling from the sky. Drop by drop.

Looking up Grian decides that he should probably land before it starts to pour.

Doc’s goat head is nearby, so he coasts over landing neatly on the cracked stones. Talons grip into the cobbled surface just in time as the clouds give out and in moments soaks Grian to the bone.

Shuffling Grian slowly picks his way down. The side of the mountain.

Not noticing the subtle change in gravity.

Eyes closed Grian sighs. He’ll be stuck in this crevice until it stops raining. The. It’s an uncomfortable and difficult walk back to his base though the nether.

A startled hisss echoes from below.

Grian looks up. And in his surprise drops from the underside of the Goat.

“What were you doing?”

“Hiding from the rain.” He groans. Rubbing his arm.

“By hanging upside down? And almost falling on me.”

Grian shrugs, “If you hadn’t startled me I wouldn't have fallen.”

————

Wings beat as rockets wizz past his head.

It’s a fairly common competition, who can fly the highest, who can get up the fastest.

He’s about halfway through the time when Mumbo passes him. Wings faltering Grian pushes himself to keep going. Out of breath, Grian struggles to flap his wings.

Sulfur and gunpowder from Mumbo’s rocket drifts into his face and he falters.

Dropping as he desperately tries to fall into a glide. He can see the ground now. Wings flared wide he-

Grian Fell From A High Place

Grian: Ow.

————

Cleo stretches, It’s been a long day, they had been working on the zoo’s armor stands. It should only be a few more days of completing armor stands.

As she stands stretching out her arm a flurry of wings draws her attention.

Grian swoops down and clips his wing on a tree.

Bursting into laughter Cleo walks over. “You alright?”

Groaning, he nods, “I’m fine… just my pride.”

“What were you trying to do?”

“Land.” he says as he shakes his wings out. “The wings are not as durable as elytra…”

“You need to take breaks.” Cleo nods.

“Yeahh.”

————

“Come on Grian” Stress calls. “I can take it.”

Flapping his wings Grian nods, as he slowly circles above his neighbor.

Stress holds her arm out and Grian drops. Landing neatly on her outstretched arm.

“Woo!” He grins.

Stress laughs, “You just needed someone stronger.”

“Yeah, I keep knocking everyone over.” Grian says as he flutters to the ground. “Thanks.”

“Of course love.”

[ultraericthered]

KH Divergence: World Order!

Chronological order of worlds to be visited in the stories of the main saga titles (Door To Light, Key Of Destiny, and Hearts In Chaos).

KH1: Dive To The Heart, Destiny Islands, Traverse Town, Wonderland, Olympus Coliseum, Deep Jungle, Traverse Town (2) / 100 Acre Wood, Agrabah, Monstro, Atlantica, Halloween Town, Neverland, Traverse Town (3), Hollow Bastion, Traverse Town (4), Hollow Bastion (2), Olympus Coliseum, and End Of The World.

CoM: Only Traverse Town (Sora), Hollow Bastion (Riku), Twilight Town, Destiny Islands, and Castle Oblivion are mandatory. KH2: Twilight Town (Prologue), Twilight Town/Mysterious Tower, Hollow Bastion, Land of Dragons, Beast's Castle, Hollow Bastion (2) / 100 Acre Wood, Olympus Coliseum, Disney Castle / Timeless River, Atlantica, Port Royal, Agrabah, Twilight Town (Kairi intervals), Halloween Town / Christmas Town, Pride Lands, Twilight Town (2), Hollow Bastion (3) / Space Paranoids, Land of Dragons (2), Beast's Castle (2), Olympus Coliseum (2), Port Royal (2), Agrabah (2), Halloween Town / Christmas Town (2), Pride Lands (2), Hollow Bastion (4)/Space Paranoids (2), Twilight Town (3) / Betwixt & Between, and The World That Never Was. KH0.1 (BBS): Land of Departure, Enchanted Dominion (Terra), Dwarf Woodlands (Terra), Dwarf Woodlands (Ven), Castle of Dreams (Ven), Castle of Dreams (Terra), Castle of Dreams (Aqua), Dwarf Woodlands (Aqua), Enchanted Dominion (Ven), Enchanted Dominion (Aqua), Mysterious Tower (Terra), Badlands (Ven), Badlands (Terra), Radiant Garden, Disney Town, Olympus Coliseum (Ven), Olympus Coliseum (Terra), Wild Terrain (Ven), Deep Space (Terra), Olympus Coliseum (Aqua), Wild Terrain (Terra), Deep Space (Aqua), Deep Space (Ven), Wild Terrain (Aqua), Neverland (Ven and Terra), Destiny Islands (Terra), Mysterious Tower (Ven), Neverland (Aqua), Badlands (Ven and Terra), Land of Departure (Ven and Terra), Destiny Islands (Ven), Mysterious Tower (Aqua), The Keyblade Graveyard, Mysterious Tower (Aqua), Land of Departure (Aqua) and Radiant Garden (Aqua). KH3D: Twilight Town / Mysterious Tower, Pleasure Island (Sora), Olympus Underworld (Riku), Pleasure Island (Riku), Olympus Underworld (Sora), Twilight Town (Kairi), The Grid (Sora), Deep Space (Riku), The Grid (Riku), Deep Space (Sora), Disney Town / Disney Castle (Kairi), La Citie des Lumieres (Sora and Riku), Symphony of Sorcery (Sora and Riku), and The Castle That Never Was / Nightmare Dark World (Sora, Riku, and Kairi). KH3: Dive To The Heart, Olympus, Twilight Town / Mysterious Tower, Glimmering Bayou, Dark World, Toy Box, Kingdom of Corona, Destiny Islands, Monstropolis, Arendelle, Twilight Town (2) + 100 Acre Wood, The Caribbean, Castle Oblivion, San Fransokyo, The Keyblade Graveyard, Dark World (2), Castle Oblivion / Land of Departure (2), Twilight Town / Mysterious Tower (3), The Keyblade Graveyard (2), and The Final World / Scala Ad Caelum. DLC Exclusive: Radiant Garden. KH4: Dive To The Heart, Daybreak Town (past), Destiny Islands, Daybreak Town (present), Sherwood Forest (Ephemer w/Huey & Max), Kingdom of the Sun (Sora w/ Kairi), Sherwood Forest (Sora w/ Donald & Goofy), Kingdom of the Sun (Ephemer w/ Dewey & Max), Daybreak Town (2)/Downtown Danville (Ephemer), Twilight Town / Mysterious Tower (Sora & Ephemer), Zootopia (Ephemer w/ Louie & Max), Mata-nui (Sora w/ Riku), Zootopia (Sora w/ Donald & Goofy), Mata-nui (Ephemer w/ Dewey & Max), Radiant Garden/100 Acre Wood (Sora and Ephemer), Disney Town/Disney Castle (Sora and Ephemer), Metropolitan Marvel (Sora w/ Kairi), Game Central Station / Candy Kingdom (Ephemer w/ Dewey & Max), Metropolitan Marvel (Ephemer w/ Huey & Max), Game Central Station / Candy Kingdom (Sora w/ Donald & Goofy), Great Barrier Reef (Ephemer w/ Huey & Max), Toy Box (Sora w/ Riku), Great Barrier Reef (Sora w/ Donald & Goofy), Toy Box (Ephemer w/ Louie & Max), Palace of Penance (Sora & Ephemer), and Ye Olde World (Sora & Ephemer). TML: Setsun City, Traverse Town, and Downtown Danville. High Route: Dunbroch, Paradise Falls, Tierra de los Muertos, Kumandra, Encanto, St. Canard, and Palace of Penance. Low Route: Olympus Underworld, Pride Lands, Toy Box, The Living Seas, Game Central Station, Arendelle, and Dark World.

KH5: Dive To The Heart / Fairy Realm, Setsun City, The Lost Empire, Treasure Planet, Challenge Dome, Mysterious Tower, Kumandra, Encanto, Setsun City (2), Metropolitan Marvel, Moon of Endor, Rosas, Setsun City (3), Radiant Garden / 100 Acre Wood, Land of Departure / Dark World / Badlands, Scala Ad Caelum / The Final World, and Entry To The Heart.

[novelistash]

Slateport isn't far from Mauville, but the trip on Tyrantrum is going to be a hassle. Long ago some civic planners thought it would be an amazing idea to carve the inlet into a triathlete's paradise. Of course that's what Route 110 had looked like some ten years ago, but I'm not about to test the difference now. Connie is happy to be out of her quickball and doesn't give me any trouble when she climbs onto the litter, but I wonder how much her behavior is forced into compliance. She acted up while in front of Spiral and maybe that was because Pokémon actually like her. She was so unbelievably gentle with that shiny Trapinch, not at all like the determined monster I fought in Unova.

Flying over trainers battling out for dominance on Route 110, I'm not thinking about Team Aqua or modernization or the ever expanding reach of the League. I'm caught up in the problems Spiral faces. She said that her shiny Trapinch appeared in her garden, but that there wasn't any box system close to her. Her idea about Pokemon manifesting is absurd, but maybe it comes from a place of truth. There's some part of her that suspects the Pokemon came to her and maybe her response isn't a logical one, but it could be a spiritual one.

I've never asked her about her abilities as a psychic. She clearly doesn't have telekinesis, but maybe she has abilities connected to the Channelers and Hex Maniacs -- some ability to sense the spirit of Pokémon. Beyond that, I'm getting ideas on how to solve her Porygon problem and it isn't exactly legal. I wish I had my old contacts. I wish I hadn't spent the last five years isolating myself.

I enter "the port where people and Pokémon cross paths with nature." Slateport looks as busy as it ever has. Floating rotom-tech directs me to a landing pad on the top of a Pokecenter and I obey the ordinance. Whatever plans I have for disobedience, I'm not ready to go full criminal. Retrieving Connie, I get to work putting my flight litter away and stop.

The sunset is beautiful.

I realize with shame that I was lying to Spiral. I didn't guess that Pokemon existed outside known physical space, I calculated it. My self-destructing Metagross couldn't reform without some exterior force to will that mass back into existence, and while a Metagross could possess the telekinetic ability to reconstitute its mass, a Voltorb could not. Self-destruction is proof of a pokemon existing beyond the limitations of mass and I didn't even mention it. I was too ashamed of Dr. Tetsu's disappointment. I didn't want another beautiful woman to hate me.

My own selfish impulses are getting in the way of doing a net good. I need to swallow my damn pride and tell Spiral that I think I can help her, but there's no point of doing that when I don't have anything in my hand.

Another flier is coming down for a landing. With a knot in my gut, I turn towards the Tropius, but it isn't Spiral.

Shaking my head, I go down into the Pokecenter. There's a report on the television screen, something about time travel dumbed down for the general public. There's no topographical maps or formulas to follow, it's all the kind of talk that any grifter could come up with. I look around for a Poketech X connection port and find it out of service.

"Excuse me," I say to a Joy behind the counter. I can tell she's a clone by the sagging where her wrinkles should be. "I need to send a message to another region. Do you know where I can find a connection port?"

"I'm sorry, Hoenn is going to be discontinuing that technology as part of the shift to full IE support as the League integrates Paldea."

"What? How am I supposed to send a message?!"

"You could send continent to continent messages with ease if you had a Rotom-phone. They're safe, efficient-"

"Yeah, alright. Alright!" I snap. "I got the pitch."

Furious, I walk out into the busy streets. I shouldn't have snapped at the Joy, but I'm getting real sick of the direction the League is headed. It took me months to learn how to do all the dancing connected to Z-moves, and now they're banned.

It doesn't take long for me to find a Rotom-phone retailer, but I don't cross paths with any nature. Slateport has changed and so has the League. The retailer explains that all of my Poketech X contact info will be transferred, but that it doesn't support most of the features on my trusty Poketech X. I'll lose my outbreak sensor, my RNG tester, my notepad, and on and on, but at least I'll be connected to the League's new wireless IE network full of propaganda.

"Listen, can you just point me in the direction to a Poketech X port? I'd like to make a call to someone in Sinnoh."

They point to a cluttered corner of the store surrounded by signs for cheap upgrades to state-of-the-art Rotom-Phone Mark III. It takes me minutes to connect, but my signal goes through.

A fellow blonde trainer answers the trainer and he still looks like a total tool in his early twenties. "Hey, A****. It's been a long time. Are you okay?"

"Yeah, Barry. I'm fine. How's life as an Elite Four?"

"I wouldn't know. I've been running the Battle Tower circuit."

"Taking after you're dad, huh? Congrats. Listen, I'm calling about something specific. You got a moment?"

"Yeah, I'm between matches. We've had a lot of action here in Sinnoh lately. We've seen a lot of fairy trainers. It reminded me of when that Sylveon- Oh, jeez! Maybe I shouldn't have brought that up."

I'm gritting my teeth, but the audio connection is fuzzy anyway. "Don't worry about it, Barry. Do you know what happened to Team Galactic? Have you been keeping track of the remnants of their cell?"

"Huh? No one has asked about Team Galactic in a long time. I think Cynthia was keeping an eye on them."

I cringe all over again. "No, I don't want to bother the Champion."

"Oh, she's not the Champion anymore. She didn't even compete this year. I think she's been searching for Legendary Pokémon or something. You should call her. If anyone's gonna know anything about Team Galactic, it would be her."

"Okay. Thanks, Barry."

"Yeah, no problemo my friendo. I'm glad you're still training Pokémon. After your Garchomp was killed I thought you'd give up professional training for sure! What are you doing now?"

"Um, helping with a research project. I have given up on professional Pokémon battles."

"Oh. Um..."

"It's fine, Barry. I'll talk to you later." I disconnect and let out a long sigh.

Getting in touch with Cynthia is intimidating. What's worse is that I know she's not gonna be interested in helping me. The retailer wanders over to talk upgrades and I walk off. I'm gonna resist using a Rotom-phone for as long as I can.

I find a quiet place and I send Spiral a message: I'm trying to find this coordinator named Esther Flowne, do you know any coordinators in Slateport?

A response takes long than ten minutes and so I miss her call while I'm eating a bowl of curry. In my absence, she's given me the name and number to her friend, Rosette. She's a local, but not a coordinator herself. Point of fact, she's connected to organizing events for the Pokemon League. Time was, the sight of the League's logo filled me with confidence. I had a certain level of ownership over the League as one of its most important representatives in the region, now I'm kind of starting to hate them.

Rosette is busy but she can squeeze me in for breakfast tomorrow. I hope Spiral is gonna be there and I'm afraid about what that means.

@trainerspiral

[ultimate-blorbo-bracket]

Here will be all of the returning characters from the previous tournaments!

Here's the link to the character submissions if you'd like to add more!

The First Tournament

Vash the Stampede - Trigun

Miles “Tails” Prower - Sonic the Hedgehog

Percy Jackson - Percy Jackson series

Oz - Monster Prom

Max - Sam and Max

Happy Chaos - Guilty Gear

Wheatly - Portal 2

Amity Blight - The Owl House

Agent 3 - Splatoon

Riku - Kingdom Hearts

Will Graham - Hannibal

Jigglypuff - Pokemon

Rosencrantz - Rosencrantz And Gildenstern Are Dead

Terra - Kingdom Hearts

Diamond - Pokemon Diamond & Pearl

Kairi - Kingdom Hearts

Wise Elder Vex - Yonderland

MK - Lego Monkie Kid

Vector the Crocodile - Sonic the Hedgehog

Link - Legend of Zelda

Nicelander Gene - Wreck-It Ralph

Gretchen Wieners - Mean Girls

Wes - One Last Stop

N - Pokemon Black & White

Big Man - Splatoon

(the rest are under the cut!)

Aziraphale - Good Omens

Spock - Star Trek

Hawkeye Pierce - MASH

Isabelle - Animal Crossing

Plagg - Miraculous Ladybug

Glory - Wings of Fire

Darcy - Pride and Prejudice

Snatch - A Hat In Time

Virgil - Sanders Sides

Makoto Yuki - Persona 3

Aled Last - Radio Silence

Sho Minamimoto - The World Ends With You

Rose Quartz - Steven Universe

Pico - Pico’s School

Bandana Waddle Dee - Kirby series

Sora - Kingdom Hearts

Alfred - Fire Emblem Engage

Kagami Tsurugi - Miraculous Ladybug

Morpheus - The Sandman

Odo - Star Trek: Deep Space Nine

Alfur Aldric - Hilda

Tintin - Adventures of Tintin

Humphrey Bone - Ghosts

Unikitty - The Lego Movie

Wu Zetian - Iron Widow

Adrien Agreste - Miraculous Ladybug

Razputin Aquato - Psychonauts

Callie - Splatoon

Volo - Pokemon: Legends Arceus

Shadow the Hedgehog- Sonic the Hedgehog

Riolu - Pokemon

Data - Star Trek: The Next Generation

Albedo - Genshin Impact

Celeste - Animal Crossing

Gyro Gearloose - Ducktales

Elfilin - Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Raichu - Pokemon

Carden Greenbrier - The Cruel Prince

Yu Narukami - Persona 4

Van Fanel - Escaflowne

Fenton Cabrera - Ducktales

Horatio - Hamlet

Meta Knight - Kirby series

Pit - Kid Icarus

Peridot - Steven Universe

Anne - Anne With An E

Yusuke Kitagawa - Persona 5

Edric Blight - The Owl House

Zenitsu Agatsuma - Demon Slayer

Josuke Higashikata - Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure

Graystripe - Warrior Cats

Cheng Xiaoshi - Link Click

Hilda - Hilda

Roxas - Kingdom Hearts

Luz Noceda - The Owl House

Koraidon - Pokemon

Leiland - Dimension 20

The Second Tournament

Arven - Pokemon Scarlet & Violet

Revali - Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Tinkaton - Pokemon

Ravio - Legend of Zelda: Link Between Worlds

K_K - Deltarune

Bambi - Disney’s Bambi 

Luxu - Kingdom Hearts

Umbreon - Pokemon 

Aqua - Kingdom Hearts

Asriel Dreemur - Undertale

Launchpad McQuack - Ducktales

Midna - Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess

Nikol - Xenoblade Chronicles 3

Sprig Plantar - Amphibia 

Blaze the Cat - Sonic the Hedgehog

Ballister Boldhearts - Nimona

Peppermint Vandelay - Hi-Fi RUSH

Oshawott - Pokemon 

Luke Sullivan - Street Fighter 5

Killua Zoldyck - Hunter X Hunter

Axel - Kingdom Hearts

Bede - Pokemon Sword & Shield 

Chandelure - Pokemon

Scaramouche - Genshin Impact

Simon Snow - Carry On 

Canti - FLCL

Anya Forger - Spy X Family 

Cloud Strife - Final Fantasy 7

Azymondias - The Dragon Prince

Swellow - Pokemon

Jibanyan - Yo-kai Watch

Marluxia - Kingdom Hearts

Iruma Suzuki - Welcome To Demon School Iruma-kun

Basil - Omori

Sypha Belnades - Castlevania

Surge the Tenrec - IDW Sonic

Ai - Puyo Puyo

Dillon - Dillon’s Rolling Western

Mew - Pokemon

Yoshi - Super Mario Bros

Rasmus - Omega Strikers

Daroach - Kirby series

Silvally - Pokemon

Silver - Pokemon Gold & Silver

Undyne - Undertale

Aerith Gainsborough - Final Fantasy 7

Bowser Jr - Super Mario Bros

The Professor - Puppet History