#queen ramonda imagine

[writingintheshadowsforever]

Queen Romanda Enemies to Lovers sneak peek

You hated attending these pointless and stuffy meetings. They were boring from beginning to end, and nothing was ever accomplished. All the other countries sat around the room, bickering back and forth on multiple issues, and toyed around with the idea of a treaty here or a treaty there. In the end, though, everyone left empty-handed sulking because they believed it would be easy to manipulate the others into giving them what they wanted without sacrificing anything on their part.

You rested your chin in the palm of your hand, exhaling an exasperated breath. Looking more and more absent-minded by the second. Your two adopted kids and self-appointed guards for this particular event stood on either side of you. Swords strapped across their backs, and they shared your demeanor.

Ten more minutes went by, and just when you thought that boredom would be the death of you. The double doors to the meeting room opened, and six men dressed in fancy all black suits with masks covering the bottom half of their face. They split in two groups of three flanking either side of the room. All dropped to their knees, arms crossed, forming an X to show respect to the next person.

Queen Ramonda.

The Queen of Wakanda and if anybody asked you your long lost love. This very meeting was all about her and her country's supply of vibranium. It was the only reason you even bothered to show your face here. It'd been years since you laid eyes on the woman, and despite everything she's lost since then. She radiated beauty and power in a way no else could. The woman aged like a fine wine, and you swore she grew more gorgeous every single day.

You let out a hum, taking her in as she waltzed into the room, coming to a halt right in the center. The Dora Milaje is right at her heels in simple yet elegant black dresses.

It's crazy to think about how much has changed and happened since the first day. The two met each other back, and then you believed. It was only a matter of time before you called her yours, but now you knew better to heed your best friend's warning.

"The two of you are meant to be, but the path might not be easy nor swift."

[bestfriend491]

yesss!! im so excited for more okoye!!

I am too, love. And in honour of my excitement (and me being behind schedule for yet another work) here is something to keep my loves fed for the next couple of days until I'm confident enough to release the longer works.

Introducing... My Headcannons? My Drabbles? I'm not too sure right now. Who knows? All I know is that its something short.

Thank you to @jinnie10101 for the beautiful Nakia and Okoye icons. 🤍

“What's wrong?”

How Okoye, Nakia, and Ramonda would react to you being upset in some way. 

OKOYE

Okoye is whatever you need her to be at that moment. 

Need space? She’ll stay in the next room until you’re ready to talk. 

Need cuddles? She’s not leaving your side.

Granted this is mostly because she does carry a lot more guilt about her past choices when you're upset even if it's not her fault. 

It does take her a bit longer to realise that you're upset because of how busy she gets but when she notices she's quick to act.

“Sthandwa sam, I’m home!” Okoye called to you after a long day of patrolling around the Borderlands after a security breach threat- one of many in the past week. 

This time, it hadn't been a false alarm or a prank call, and the Dora needed their General to lead, which she did. And well, as a matter of fact. 

Now though, all she wanted to do was spend her night with you, doing absolutely anything. 

“Sthandwa sam?!” She called out again as she looked around for you. You weren’t anywhere out in the open, which let her know that something was off. 

Inspecting the entire house and not getting any closer to finding you, she landed herself in front of the door to your shared bedroom. 

‘Oh’. she thought to herself. You were probably asleep. It was still fairly early, but she knew that when sleep called, you never asked it what time it was. 

She let her hand gently graze the knob as she turned it, happy that it didn’t jam in place like usual this time and wake you up. As slowly as she could, Okoye walked into the room and closed the door, seeing you laying in bed, as expected. 

Strangely enough, you weren’t inside the sheets, only laying on top of them. Your back was turned away from her, and although she didn’t know it, you stared wide-eyed into the open. 

Still under the belief that you were asleep, Okoye tiptoed around the room getting her uniform off, then proceeding to take a blanket to cover you up until you awoke in a few hours.

As she stood to face you, and saw your clearly not asleep form below her, her expression dimmed down. 

“Y/n?” she asked.. 

“Hm?” was all you could make yourself say.

“My love, what’s wrong?” She caressed your cheek as she asked, going down to kiss your forehead as a form of comfort. 

You didn’t respond immediately, needing to muster up the energy to explain something that didn’t make sense. 

“Y/n, tell me what’s wrong.” 

Silence once again filled the room. Quick to access and act, Okoye realised that it was just going to be a cuddles and no talking kind of day. She got into bed, moving you to face her, and placed her arm around you, allowing you to come closer and assume your favourte spooning position. 

You stayed like that for the night. 

Ramonda

When you're upset, Ramonda knows that you prefer to keep quiet.

She usually lets you stay silent unless she’s really worried. 

You don't like being left alone without her when you’re upset, so she always accommodates that and makes sure to stay as close as possible. 

You need physical comfort when you’re having a bad day, especially when bad mental days come. 

She's quick to notice when you're upset, a shift in attitude telling her that she needs to get you alone to ask what’s wrong. 

You usually go to the river to calm down if it’s early and cuddle there.

“Y/n!” Ramonda called after you as you left the throne room after a brief meeting with the other tribe leaders. Your aura was off the entire meeting, both you and Ramonda knew that. A lazy hum had alerted Ramonda of this. 

You, knowing that Ramonda would pry for answers, tried to leave and dodge the questions early. This didn’t work at all, and you were quickly tracked down and located around the corner to your room in the palace. 

You still tried to avoid her, not wanting to have a moment like this right then. 

As soon as you closed the door on her and sat down on a chair in your bedroom, she had already reopened the door and entered. 

She approached you quickly, and knelt down in front of you. Taking your hands in hers, she looked at you, while you kept your eyes closed.

“My queen,” she said, leaning closer to you,”What’s wrong?” 

You shook your head; refusing to allow her to get her desired answers from you. 

“Y/n, my queen. I can’t let this one go. What’s wrong?” 

Tears developed in your eyes as you let out muffled sobs, holding her hands tightly. 

“I miss them, Ramonda.” you finally choked out. 

“I miss them everyday, but today I just can’t bear the pain of losing them over and over again in my head.” you spoke of the family member that you’d lost recently, struggling to cope while ruling a nation. 

You’d been trying your best to pretend that you weren’t in constant pain, but the facade could only last so long. 

“Oh- my love,” she moved in to let you hug her, and you did so gratefully. You clung to her like when you were younger, never wanting to leave her side.  

“Grief comes in life-long waves, my love. Some high waves last long, but then they crash when you least suspect it.

The only thing we can find solace in is remembering that the low waves can peacefully coexist with the high waves, only through the mutual understanding that they must each get their turn to shine through.”

You broke down completely at that, feeling relieved that at least you had her around for the harder times. 

Nakia

Nakia always wants to talk about it. She doesn’t like letting you avoid talking about your emotions.

Nakia senses energy quicker than anyone you've ever known. 

A slight shift in attitude will have her all over you.

Of course, she still likes to give you the platform to talk to her without her needing  to confront you.  

Because of this she likes to give you some time to tell her what's wrong so as to not annoy you. 

However, if you avoid the conversation for too long, she doesn’t have much of a choice. 

“Nakia, I told you that it’s nothing.” you told her reluctantly as you laid your head in your hands, sitting at the table in your home having yet another argument. 

“No, that’s the answer I keep getting from you, but it’s not the truth because everytime I see you, you look like you’re struggling.” 

She stood on the other side of the table, staring at you as you clearly lied to her for the umpteenth time.

Sighing, she tried to tone down her intense approach. 

“Look, baby. I just want you to be okay, and I can tell you’re not.”

You relented slightly, looking directly at her, and nodding in understanding. 

“I know.” you said.  

You groaned, frustrated at yourself for trying to keep secrets in your relationship when you knew that communication was something Nakia needed to feel secure. You stood up, and went to her, not hugging her, just laying your head on your shoulder. 

Though none of you embraced the other, engulfing the other in a hug, you were calmer. She dropped her head on your shoulder and the two of you swayed in that position for a while. 

After a good 30 minutes of this, she tried again, “What’s wrong.”

“I- I have depression.” you said. Nakia -although wanting to hug you- chose to stay in her position. She was finally getting something out of you, and she didn’t want to startle you. 

“I started seeing a psychiatrist for my PTSD 2 months ago and she diagnosed me last month. It’s only been getting worse lately.”

She immediately lifted her head, looking at you as you tried to hold in tears, 

“Sthandwa sam,” now she hugged you and you couldn’t hold it in anymore,”Why didn’t you want to tell me?” 

“I don't know… I was scared things would change, and you’d start treating me differently.” 

“Y/n, I’m not going to treat you like anyone except the woman that I love. Things are gonna change, but only because I need to make sure that you’re taking care of yourself,okay?”

You nodded in agreement, sniffing through your tears as you wiped them away.

“Hey,” she said after a while, ”I’m proud of you.”

Author's Note: Here's your snack before the meal, loves. I was going to add a Aneka/Ayo/Reader version but I'm tired and I know I would butcher it in my current state. Either way, hope you enjoyed.

I guess requests for more of these SHORT imagines are open

[nzia-writes]

•{Recover The Lost}•

Synopsis:

Can you fall at the ledge and watch your body gruesomely tear itself from its skin?

Once you lock eyes with your body of skin, can you dare to fall again?

Even if it is a fate you have prepared for?

Tag list: @shinsousliya @mbakuetshurisprincess @bestfriend491 @mysteryofthe90s @ctrl-liah @afriques @basket-baddie @wakanda-forever-andotherfandoms @alejandradrake14 @sharonrb @purpl3-menac3 @genderappropriation @post-woke @sweetsummerhaze @youre-where-i-wanna-go

Queen Ramonda (big ass gif incoming)

An ancient wakandan proverb states as so: ‘A soul can prepare for death but a soul cannot prepare for mourning.’

Wakanda knows of heartbreak and mourning. War. Division. Thievery. Anything which brings along the need for suffering.

They know nothing of this pain. This pain isn’t one the soul mourns. It is one the soul becomes.

Death.

Become death. Fall. Break. Die. Experience eternal damnation of these three and let someone ask you if you have mourned. You will smile with bloody teeth, and with one violently bursted vocal chord, you will declare, “Death is how I live.”

A balloon sized gasp bellows from Ramonda’s throat as she ascends from thick water, eyes burning bright. A waterfall works in concert behind her, pounding and splashing violently. It is where the waters from warrior falls coalesces with the Yodoon canal and spill over, plummeting over a sandy red cliff into an orchard pool.

Ramonda’s feet sink into the moistened indigo sand as she trudges onto the shore. She wears the skin she entered this world in, vulnerably bare and illuminated with pounds of grief. Heavy tears fall until her vision blurs over. Seeing is facing. She cannot face herself. She cannot face her truth.

“Yip!”

Ramonda looks up to the waterfall.

Up high on the wet stones stacked along the edge of a hidden cave, stands a woman. Ramonda squints from afar. It must be time. The woman’s body lunges off the rocks like a majestic sea creature, diving headfirst into the bristling waters.

Ramonda swipes away her tears and collects herself as the woman’s bodily outline in the water cruises to the shore. She transcends from the waters, standing chest to chest with the ruler of Wakanda. A scar runs along her eyebrow, telling many stories of sacrifice. And her tribal paint has washed away, leaving her majestic features to glow more than ever.

The two bow simultaneously.

“Queen Ramonda,” the woman humbly greets.

“Queen of Yodoon,” Ramonda returns.

Queen of Yodoon takes Ramonda’s soft hands and holds them to her chest. “I am deeply sorry for your loss.”

“Thank you,” Ramonda whispers, giving her palms a reassuring squeeze. She then lets them fall at her sides. “Did you find it?”

“No,” her accented voice hits like an iron hammer.

“I‘m kidding.” She laughs sweetly. Maybe it will do Ramonda some good to hear a laugh or two.

It doesn’t.

She looks on, pain so strong it is all she can feel. “Show me.”

“These are some of the last we have been able to grow. The soil is dying.” The Queen of Yodoon lowers and reaches for the hand-carved bowl that dips and bobs in the water until sliding onto the sand. “It is a delicate thing.” She pries one of the heart-shaped items from the bowl. It’s wrapped in banana leaf and fastened with an enchanted thread.

“Here you are,” she eases it in Ramonda’s cupped hands. “You may want to cover your body, unless you would like to be electrocuted by its essence.”

“I’m comfortable as I am.” Ramonda’s hope unfurls as she unwraps the herb. Sitting in her hands is the beautiful, the utter powerful…

“Painted rock?” She deadpans.

The woman bursts into giggles. “I kid again.”

“You have one more chance.” She has little patience for games.

“One is all I need and one is what you will receive.” The other item is placed into Ramonda’s needy hands. This time her hope prevails as she unwraps the herb. It glows a vibrant blue and small bolts of lightning surge in its core. The Yodoon lands harvests the last of its kind, so she had no choice but to seek it before the soil died out. She needs this.

“Very well,” Ramonda leads the Queen over to her campsite. She throws her shawl over her nude body before the both of them take a seat on their respective logs. The satchel she has kept dry for her time being is tossed to the Queen. It contains a year's worth of vibranium she snagged from her daughter’s lab.

The Queen of Yodoon checks the vibranium. It gleams in the pouch like a galactic rock. She looks up to Ramonda’s face, amused at how a noblewoman could steal such a precious item from her nation then hand it over to another without hesitance.

“You are burdened by grief. Terribly so,” she notes.

“This has surpassed grief long ago.” Ramonda reaches for her wooden mortar. She places the herb inside and mills away with the pestle. The sparks ignite then decrease in size the more she grinds.

“This wasn’t for your daughter’s consumption then?”

Ramona scoffs in disdain. “I’ll tell you something now…there is no despair greater than knowing you have outlived your own.” More than she can count, her anguished cries have echoed in the palace halls, begging for the gods to return her son at once. They hear her, but they have yet to answer her. “Despite me having the ‘power’ they say I do, I had to sit like some useless fraud and watch it happen.”

“Ah, you aren’t the only weak Queen, I promise you,” Queen of Yodoon laughs.

Ramonda doesn’t laugh. If she does, she will be betraying the reason she is here. “My entire life I’ve been pushed to the side embodying the role of a ruler, but never having the power of one.” She halts her grinding once the herb has liquified. The soft azure glow reflects off her chin.

“So you are doing what you believe will give you true power?” The Queen hums. “I support it.”

Ramonda’s lip lifts slightly. It vanishes just as quickly. She sits the mortar to the side then kneels in the sand, digging a pit large enough to store a body.

“So what do you think the world will say of this?”

Ramonda pauses. “What world? Mine has been destroyed.”

Grief and anguish paints a bridge between their faces. It is so intense and familiar that it pushes whispered words over the edge of their lips. “All I have left is death,” they murmur simultaneously. Both in the sense of shared loss and in the sense of the soul.

“Come.” Ramonda lays in the pit. Her short afro submerges into the sand. “Bury me and call upon the ancestors. I need to see my son.”

What harm could it do? The Queen picks up the mortar. She kneels beside Ramonda and raises it above her head. “Allow this heart shaped herb to give you the strength of the Black Panther and take you to the ancestral realm. T’challa…we beg of you, come to your mother.” She carefully pours the liquid into Ramonda’s mouth. The herb courses through her veins, igniting her with the power she desperately needs.

The Queen then buries her body until nothing is left but her shape. She eases into her meditative state, allowing her eyes to roll back and her head to do the same. Her tongue hisses with the chants of the ancestors' call, body swaying in steady flow to the waterfall and the hymn of the forest around them.

Suddenly, she finds herself parched. Severely parched. “Water,” she croaks, holding a hand to her throat. She needs water. Now. She bolts to the pool, scooping handfuls of the grape-colored liquid hungrily, downing with haste. But it isn’t enough. Her veins are set alight, as if plucked from her body and burned with the Yodoon flame. It burns so bad that she swallows heaps of wet sand to kill it off.

Now the burn outlines her stomach.

“Yumak ttuzani!” It is a language she has never spoken. She clicks it and ululates it, her mind spiraling in constant peril. “Help me!” Her veins bulge out of her forehead, pulsing in a blue pigment. She sends out an agonizing yell and her eyes shoot to the sky, gleaming a ravenous blue.

She blacks out.

~¥~

She awakens with the harsh cold of water stinging her skin. She’s in the water. Deep. Her legs kick and her arms make wide strokes until she is at the shallow end, crawling out of the water’s strong pull.

“I’ve told many lies but I swear to you ancestors I did not deserve this.” She dry heaves.

Ramonda.

She is still under the sand. The Queen stumbles as she makes it to Ramonda’s buried body. She hurriedly digs the sand away until her face is revealed. “Ramonda!” She gasps. Her eyes are wide as is her mouth. They glow a beautiful blue and her pupils are ghostly purple. She’s deadly still, as if listening to the frequencies of the world without notice. The Queen shakes and shakes her body, calling to her name until she blinks and bolts upright in a frenzy.

“Are you alright?!” The Queen searches her frantic eyes.

“I…I…” Ramonda’s gaze has this energy to it. She isn’t sure what to think of it. Her shaky hands reach up to cup the Queen’s cheeks. She has to say something but it takes her time to gather her frenzied thoughts. Silence stills their breathing. Something inside…it is growing.

“Queen Y/N, daughter of Yaa. I have an offer,” Ramonda says.

“Why don’t you say the offer then?”

Ramonda goes on. “There is a threat looming over us; an army of enhanced individuals who will stop at nothing to destroy Wakanda and every city within it if we do not do as they say. Y/N…I have seen your power as a leader in the past. You are excellent at slivering your way out of such battles.”

“What are you trying to say?”

“What would you say to ruling two kingdoms?”

“Absolutely not.” She scoots back. It is an absurd idea. One that will uproot tradition set in script since the birth of the Great Mound. It would never go with those of Wakanda and it’ll hardly go with her own people, regardless of the threat Ramonda speaks of.

“Please.” Ramonda swallows again. “If you return to Wakanda to share the throne, anyone who steps to us will not step far. My nation and your tribe. They will be at their strongest. We will be at our strongest.”

This will not happen. It is out of the question. Ramonda has overstepped her boundaries. “My tribe is lost for a reason. I can not have Wakanda knowing we exist. You have no idea of the loss we’ve endured—of the loss I endured at the hands of Wakanda.”

Oh but she knows very well. “I know of your past and I know of your present. Join me and I will provide you with twenty-five percent of the vibranium mined annually.”

Ramonda’s voice darkens. “Don’t and there will be trouble for everyone. Your tribe included.”

If she were to accept this offer, Ramonda wouldn’t be seen in such a noble light anymore. An exiled tribe leader stepping to the throne to rule Wakandan land? It would be a call for division and rebellion amongst the tribes.

“What exactly did you see on the other side?”

“That does not matter right now. What does is us regaining our power together.”

It is too much to ponder alone. “I need time to discuss this with my people. Stay here.” Y/N turns her back to Ramonda and heads toward the waterfall.

~¥~

Ramonda lifts her gaze from the flames of her fire to Queen Y/N as she trudges out of murky water. It is with abundant hope that Ramonda stands and takes long strides to meet her at the shore. She silently awaits her verdict, for the woman has come with a clearer head.

“Vibranium. One half to my people and the rest to yours. That is my price.”

Ramonda keeps herself composed. “I can’t allow that.”

“You are asking for a significant part of me. Take it or don’t.”

As big a price it is, Ramonda can not let this power pass her by. Not after what she saw.

She curses inwardly and asks for the forgiveness of Bast and all powers that be. She hopes she won’t regret this.

“You have yourself a deal.”

Before Queen Y/N can respond she is interrupted by a tickle in her psyche. “Could you please give me one second.” The Queen channels her Nyanza, the spiritual bond that connects the Yodoon people. She hears the gravelly voice of her tribe’s Sangoma. He has news.

“Yes, Shaka?”

Ramonda perks as a feeling of intrusion seeps into her gut. At what? She does not know. “What? What is it?!” She searches Y/N’s weary face.

“Your army stands at my border. They demand we bring you out.”

End note: Y’all know who else is the daughter of Yaa? *evil face*

[iinkonde]

Sedilaka

Contains • Drama, Romance, Sexual content eventually

Pairing • Queen Ramonda x black!plussize!reader

Word count • 511

Translation• sedilaka = my sun~my light

Synopsis • "I know should've been there for you when you needed me-." She whispered, voice breaking as she stared into your eyes

Ngendazile uba nguwe lo ebendim’bonayo ebuthongweni" = I should’ve known it was you I was seeing in my visions

Ndiyakungcenga. I know. Ndiyazi ubana alundifanelanga uncedo lwakho kodwa ndizonikela kuwe. Abantu bami basemngciphekweni wokuphela nya." = Please. I know that I don’t deserve your help but please. I give myself to you, my people are in danger of extinction.

“Zozibini sana’ lwami. Vula umnyango,bangene aba’bantu ngaphandle!. Ndiyakcela” = Zozibini my baby, open the door so the people outside can enter. Please

"No, no Ramonda you don’t get to do that. You don’t get to come back here after all these years and sweet talk me" You said stepping away from her hold. Furiously wiping away at the tear that threatened to fall. You refused to cry in front of her.

Not after all these years. Years of worrying and waiting. You’d never thought you’d see her again.

Only for her to come back not even on her own terms but because her so called nation is in trouble and claims it’s only you who can help her.

It angers you much more than you thought it would. Frustrates you that she now comes to you seeking your services, wants you only for what you could do for her.

That leaves a bitter taste in your mouth.

"Did i ever mean anything to you?"

You’re close enough to hear her inhale a sharp breath.

"Ohh Y/N of course you meant something to me, you meant- mean the world to me. I’m sorry I left without so much as a word. I’m so- so sorry I didn’t come back, please know that I’ve regretted that every waking moment”. Ramonda takes a step forward her trembling hands reaching out for yours.

"Ngendazile uba nguwe lo ebendim’bonayo ebuthongweni" You let out a dry chuckle as you cross your arms.

"Y/N please. Ndiyakungcenga. I know. Ndiyazi ubana alundifanelanga uncedo lwakho kodwa ndizinikela kuwe... Abantu bami basemngciphekweni wokuphela nya."

You can see the bags under her eyes. You can feel the exhaustion in her soul, the weight on her shoulders is weighing you down too. You see the army of ancestors she’s carrying with her. The grief she carries around swirling above her like a dark cloud.

You shift your eyes towards the door. Three female soldiers you assume are anxiously waiting for their Queen. Confusion buzzes around them.

Your eyes travel back to Ramonda, whose standing in one place. Not breathing. You’re sure she doesn’t even realise how sorrowful she looks.

As much as you would love to leave her to her devices you know that one of the big reasons she was able to find you was because your ancestors have already found each other.

This was bound to happen, under any circumstances she was supposed to come back to you this way. It doesn’t make it any less painful but you know if you were to let them go back, without even a reading you’d be dishonouring yourself, the legacy you’ve built and every ancestor that’s been in your shoes. You’d be committing a great crime against your descendants.

You raise your head upwards. As if asking why it had to be you and today of all days. Like if you position your head that way long enough so that when you finally lower your gaze back to Ramonda somehow she and her squad would magically disappear.

Sighing you clench your wrists twice in effort to gather strength.

“Zozibini sana’ lwami. Vula umnyango,bangene aba’bantu ngaphandle!. Ndiyakcela”

Ramonda visibly relaxes…

[tallulahchanel]

Disintegration (AU) [Part 2]

Fandom: Black Panther; Wakanda Forver; Avengers Infinity War

Characters: Nakia, Sizwe (River Tribe Elder), Unathi (oc), Queen Naomi (oc), and Queen Ramonda

Warnings: Angst, mentions of character death, grief

Words: 3.2k

Tags: @thekrazykeke @marieewrites @masterofhounds @post-woke @loloalin @i-drink-and-i-write-fics @lady-olive-oil @griot-of-wakanda

~~~

The image of Kya disintegrating into ash right in front of her still plagued Nakia's mind as she willed her legs to get her home. She and Okoye settled for walking back, neither of them having the energy to call Shuri for a jet, if she was even there to accept the call. They also needed time to process what had just happened and how it was going to affect everything around them.

As soon as Nakia walked into her mansion, she was met with the concerned faces of her father, stepmother Babalo, and great-aunt Rhikya. Since the fight wasn't near the River Tribe borders, there was no need for them to evacuate, so they waited at the mansion for the two sisters to return.

Just as Nakia was about to tell them what happened out there, her voice caught in her throat, unable to say the words. Instead, she collapsed to her knees and allowed tears to fall from her cheek and onto her father's sandals. She soon felt his arms wrap around her and she buried her face into his shoulder and sobbed into it. She could sense that he was fighting back his own tears from the pain of losing his youngest daughter, but at that moment, she could only think about her grief and distress.

Time seemed to blur as Nakia eventually got up from the floor and went to wash off the blood, sweat, and dirt from the battle. She didn't bother looking towards Kya's suite, knowing her sister wouldn't be there to greet her with her bright and warm smile.

After showering and changing into her nightgown, Nakia climbed into bed and pulled the covers over her head, begging for sleep to come. Babalo had come in to check on her, insisting that food would be good for her, but she shook her head and promised her stepmother she would eat in the morning.

Babalo could only nod and leave her alone to sit in her grief.

~~~

Wakanda was in a state of mourning, and the dark cloud that loomed over the skies for the next few days didn't help. Even the market that usually buzzed with gossip and half-truths was quiet enough for one to hear their sandals walking against the grasslands.

To honor the lives that were lost from either the battle or becoming ash, Queen Naomi organized a mass grieving ceremony in which the citizens would release lanterns in the air as a celebration of the lives lived and the memories preserved.

Nakia stood in the middle of the River province with her family as they released a lantern in remembrance of Kya. "Goodbye, my omncinci," she said as tears fell down her cheek as she remembered Kya's bright smile, warm presence, and funny personality.

That night, as Nakia lay in bed, she felt her mother's presence. It was rare for Unathi to visit from the ancestral plane, claiming that they rarely need her, but tonight was an exception. More tears flowed as Unathi twisted Nakia's tight coils around her finger.

"She's not there," she told Nakia, adding to her disappointment.

It relieved the War Dog that her baby sister wasn't dead in a traditional sense, but it left her wondering where her spirit was and how much she would give to see her omncinci again.

Unathi's actions eventually lulled her to sleep and gave her much-needed rest for the night. However, Nakia was ready to return to work the next morning. She needed to do something besides sitting in that mansion all day, thinking about Kya.

Fortunately for her, great-aunt Rhikya had an assignment in Liberia and could use the extra hands. "The time away might do you some good," she told Nakia while pouring herself a glass of iced tea Babalo mixed with some lemonade. "But it's only a temporary fix. You still have to do the work of healing yourself."

Nakia didn't say anything, just shoved a fork full of eggah in her mouth and nodded.

The work in Liberia only lasted for two months, and she intended on returning to Oakland to continue her work at the Outreach Center. That was until she received notice that Queen Naomi will eventually switch her to another program.

"My Queen!" Nakia addressed her after barging into her office uninvited, Ayo on her tail.

"I tried to stop her," the second-in-command informed her queen, who just waved her off.

"It's alright, Ayo. Return to your post."

Ayo gave Nakia a warning scowl before leaving out, but the War Dog kept her gaze fixed on Naomi.

"Why would you move my work to Haiti without consulting me first?"

Naomi adjusted the glasses over her eyes. She would've usually worn her contact lenses, but maybe she didn't feel like putting them on that day. Truthfully, the queen hadn't been seen in the glamorous light everyone knew her for. She once walked the palace with confident strides, adorned in a fine gown or custom-made bodysuit as her cocoa-brown skin glistened with perfumed oils. A grieved soul that didn't have the energy to do those things for herself replaced that woman. Today, she wore a simple and clean t-shirt with gray sweatpants that still showed off her curves, and flip-flops, even though the chipped polish on her toenails showed that they hadn't been painted in a while. Her black silk-pressed hair scattered on her shoulders as her bangs hid her eyes, along with her cat-eye glasses. Since there wasn't a council meeting that day, Nakia figured she chose to dress down for the pile of paperwork on her desk.

"Nakia," Naomi addressed her, "I'm building an Outreach Center there, and when it opens, I want you to direct it. You're the best person for the job, and you'll be closer to home, which means you can make more frequent visits to your family. I think this assignment would be good for you."

"Who gave you the authority on what's good for me?"

With a heavy and exasperated sigh, Naomi got up from her desk and walked around to get eye level with Nakia. "I'm trying to be as empathetic as I can with everything that's going on, but I'm not gonna deal with your attitude right now."

Nakia tried to reprimand the queen for speaking to her in that manner, but Naomi continued.

"I'm sorry about Kya, and I miss her too, but you're not the only one here who has lost someone. Queen Mother lost both of her children. M'Baku lost his wife. And not only did I lose my king, I lost the father of my child, my best friend, and the love of my life." Naomi paused to wipe the tear that fell from her eye. "The point is, we're all doing what we can to keep Wakanda running smoothly. All I'm asking is for you to do the same."

Before Nakia could say anything in her defense, the office door opened to reveal N'Kusa, the Dora of Prince Javon, cradling the toddler in her arms.

"My queen. He's awake from his nap and wanted to see you."

"Come here, my baby." Naomi took her son from the Dora and hugged him close.

Prince Javon was a spitting image of his father. Deep-ebony skin, baby doe eyes, and tight, black coils. When he did smile, it was big and bright, just like T'Challa's. The smile that warmed the hearts of everyone that came in contact with him.

Nakia hung her head in shame. Seeing the two of them together only emphasized the queen's words. She did only lose her sister, but everyone in Wakanda has lost someone as well, especially their beloved king.

"Your people need you now more than ever," Naomi's voice grabbed her attention, but she didn't respond. Felt too ashamed to say anything.

Nakia just cleared her throat to rid it of the forming lump and left without a formal dismissal from her queen.

With that day's revelation, Nakia made a point to check on her father. She hadn't really asked him how he felt, but she assumed it would be like the time their family lost her brother, Isipho. A bouncing baby boy that died from SIDS a year prior to Kya's conception. The circumstances were different, but it was still a loss.

"I can't help thinking it's all my fault," she told him while looking out the window of his study, a tear streaking down her cheek. "If I hadn't-"

"Shhhh," Sizwe cut her off with a gentle pat on her shoulder. "Kya had her mother's stubborn determination. There was nothing you could do to stop her. Nor could you have stopped what happened to anyone else."

Nakia wiped her tears away, but more came. "I'm sorry baba. I came in here to check on you."

"I'm taking it one day at a time. It's all one can do."

She didn't say anything, not that there was much to say. Except something she had been thinking about for a while, but she wasn't sure how her father would accept it. After a few minutes of silence, she finally looked away from the window to lock eyes with him. "I saw umama a few weeks ago. Something she said had stuck with me, and I can't seem to let it go."

"What is it?"

Nakia released a sigh. "She said that Kya wasn't there."

That made Sizwe's eyes grow like saucers. "But she's gone. How is that possible?"

"I don't know," she answered with a shrug.

"Can you excuse me for a bit?"

With a nod, Nakia got up from the window cushion and left his office.

In the morning, she got word of an emergency council meeting to discuss what she shared with her father the night before, but she didn't bother to attend. She wasn't in the mood to sit in a semi-circle to talk about the possibility of bringing back their loved ones, not when the reality of everyone's disappearance was right in front of them. This wasn't the time for fantasies and false hopes, just the real world grounding them all with a sense of purpose. The only way Nakia would get that was in Oakland, where she will work until the Outreach Center in Haiti was complete.

~~~

Haiti, Outreach Center – 2025

Years passed, and things changed.

Looking in the mirror, Nakia's hands brushed the auburn locs off her shoulders to scoop them into a ponytail. She wasn't always one for commitment, but the decision to loc her hair came a couple of years prior when she learned that a mother of one of her students was a loctician. She had thought about it for years in Wakanda, but she took that as a sign from Bast to finally do it. Things were already different for her then, and the new hairstyle was her way of opening up to the change. Embracing it so to speak. And finally, it was something on her own terms.

Nakia secured the ponytail with a hair tie and sighed at what she was about to do. She hadn't contacted home in a while, not since her father called two years ago to tell her that Kya and the others returned by some miracle. Work that day had been stressful, so the only thing she was in the mood for was a cup of ramen and Abbot Elementary reruns. He relayed the news via a voice message she didn't hear till the next morning. He even put Kya on the message so she could hear her voice, but denial clouded her judgment, and she deleted the message, angry at her father for playing a cruel trick on her. That's why she hadn't returned either of the several calls from him or her sister over the years.

The last call Nakia received from her sister was a week after T'Challa's passing made the news. He had been sick for a while, meaning there would be no miraculous return from him. He was gone for good this time. After two days of locking herself in her home to mourn the loss of the man she never fell out of love with, she buried herself in work to keep a sense of normalcy in her life. She didn't even make an effort to attend his funeral.

As Nakia twirled a loc that strayed from her ponytail around her finger, she waited patiently for Shuri to answer the call, wanting to know how she was doing and how things were back home. However, she was asked to leave a message, much like the other calls to the young genius. She took the silence in stride and pressed on her beads again to contact her father. When he didn't answer, she figured he was busy in the office or pretending to like the Border Tribe Elder enough to play golf against him. The only person she could think to call was her sister, but she doubted there would be an answer, as she still didn't believe Kya would be on the other end. Closing her eyes, she said a quick prayer to Bast and took the plunge. Her call was immediately ignored and sent to voicemail, which made her sigh again, this time in defeat.

They were angry at her and there weren't enough apologies in the world to make up for not returning home, especially for T'Challa's funeral.

~~~

Nakia spent most of the next day completing paperwork in her office. She was a workaholic, a fact she knew all too well, but never got help for. If she had continued her regular therapy sessions, Dr. Idowu would say she needed a proper work-life balance, like a hobby or hanging out with friends. Problem is, Nakia hadn't developed much of either. There was her frenemy Juleka, but she was only useful for nights at the club or bar or the occasional movie or dinner if Nakia didn't want to go alone.

Nakia took a break from the paperwork for a few minutes to close her eyes and soak up the sounds of the children playing outside, her nerves instantly relaxing at their joy. She hadn't thought much about having children, especially since the accident that left her with scarred fallopian tubes, but she enjoyed the sounds of their laughter and playing.

"I bet I can do it and you'll owe me a snack cake when I do," a familiar voice caught Nakia's attention, and she sat up in her chair to look outside her window. Sure enough, eleven-year-old Juna Yves was swinging on the monkey bars, ready to climb them to impress her classmates.

Storming out of her office, Nakia made a beeline toward the playground to stop Juna from hurting herself. As soon as she walked outside, she found the eleven-year-old with her foot on the second bar, preparing to put it on the top bar. "Juna!" She scolded the young girl with her hands on her hips. "Get down from there, now!"

The little girl narrowed her eyes at Nakia, but backed down when the headmistress folded her arms. "You know, Miss Nakia, you should really learn to lighten up," she said while climbing off the monkey bars.

Nakia rolled her eyes, but a smile twitched at the corner of her lips. "I'll lighten up when you learn to stay out of trouble."

"I am no trouble at all." Juna stuck her nose in the air, her words and demeanor reminding Nakia of when Kya would do the same thing when she told her to stay out of trouble.

Nakia shook the thought out of her mind before smirking at the little girl. "Why don't you come with me to check on the plants?"

That got Juna to smile, meaning she wasn't thinking about climbing the monkey bars for now. "I don't mind. Besides, I have to teach you everything."

Nakia let Juna walk in front of her, so the child wouldn't see her rolling her eyes, then followed her to the area where they grow the indoor plants. "This is beautiful," she complimented the garden croton Juna had been growing for months. "I might let you keep it in your room."

Before Juna could answer, a voice Nakia hadn't heard in years, greeted her in Haitian Creole. "Bonjour."

She jumped in startlement and turned to lock eyes with the tall, chestnut-skinned woman, who smiled back at her.

Nakia turned back to Juna and patted her shoulder. "Ale lave. Li preske tan pou repa aswè (Go wash up. It's almost time for the evening meal)."

"Wi madam (yes ma'am)," Juna replied with a sweet smile, and walked off, making sure to greet the woman that just approached them.

As soon as Juna disappeared, Nakia gazed at the woman in front of her, keeping her tears at bay. "Queen Mother."

The pair walked the halls while she explained how she was able to use the resources to provide better education as well as food for the children. The conversation was going well until Ramonda abruptly changed it to a heavier topic.

"You were missed at T'Challa's funeral."

Nakia sighed, knowing that was coming. She walked over to the nearby railing and gripped it while hiding her incoming tears away from Ramonda.

"It's been six years since you left us. We thought you would at least come back for the ceremony. If not for him, for your sister. She misses you."

Nakia turned to her as her bottom lip trembled. "I miss her too."

That made Ramonda raise an eyebrow. "You speak as if she's still gone."

Nakia didn't say anything because in her heart, Kya was. Even if she has heard her sister's voice via the messages sent from her, it wasn't enough to make her go home. She wanted to believe that her omncinci was back there waiting for her to return, but she worried that she'd go there and find that Kya hadn't returned and her mind had been playing tricks on her. It didn't help that the voice messages have stopped.

"I was afraid," was all Nakia could say before returning her gaze to Ramonda. "I thought if I went back there and she wasn't there…I couldn't handle it. And now that T'Challa's gone…" her voice trailed off as more tears threatened to fall.

"Nakia," Ramonda affectionately addressed her, placing a hand on her cheek. "No matter where you go, you will always be Wakandan. You know death isn't the end. It wasn't for her, and it isn't for T'Challa."

Nakia sniffled and sucked up her remaining tears. "How is she?"

"She is well, but that's not the reason I came."

Nakia wiped at her eyes, so Queen Mother would know that she was fully listening.

"Shuri has been taken."

This made Nakia furrow her brows. "What?"

"You have infiltrated different nations before."

Nakia immediately shook her head, knowing what Ramonda was asking her. "Oko kwakukudala (that was a long time ago). I was a different person then."

"I need someone who could find where she's being held and rescue her without being seen."

Nakia nodded in understanding, seeing the desperation in Ramonda's eyes. "Yes, Queen Mother. But who on earth would risk war with Wakanda?"

[byycassie]

Killmonger when Shuri accidentally chose to see him:

They say that after that day he never stopped bragging about the ancestral plan.

[not-so-rosyyy]

https://twitter.com/mazzypopstar/status/1630030428374532096?s=46&t=szagRlQX9aQD9mZiJE_IPQ

nasty behavior AND average acting (in that role) and she still got the SAG and has high chances of getting the golden statue. her, a white woman, for a movie inherently asian american, about asian american experiences, where a fantastic asian american young actress has delivered an amazing performance with range, going from comedy to horror to drama in seconds meanwhile she just spent two hours moving hot dog fingers...

oscars often piss me off but if she gets that one this will be the biggest bs they have ever pull i swear (literally every single actress in that category deserves it more than her)

outside of her personal politics and beliefs, I do think JLC deserves her flowers for the many iconic roles she's done. but for EEAAO? nah. she barely did anything in that film. like why give her her most-awaited recognition for something that's not even remotely her best work? it's so perplexing.

and that's why it was wild seeing her win the SAGs. I was so sure it would go to Angela, which would in turn make her the frontrunner for the Oscars, but now...I'm kinda scared we're gonna have to riot afterall 😭

[oneshotnewbie]

I love love love love your writing and I wanted to ask if you could do an imagine of one of Angela Bassett's characters, It could be Queen Ramonda or Athena Grant. ❤️🥰

Authors note: Today two stories in one day. Simply because I felt like it and I'm currently in 9-1-1 fever. Enjoy reading ♥

ᕚ---ᕘ

The wind whipped against the windshield of the black SUV as Athena Grant rounded a bend and drove down the narrow mountain road. The low hum of the engine and the occasional crackle of the car radio were the only sounds that broke the silence in the vehicle. You, her wife, sat next to her, your head leaning against the side window as you stared absently at the passing landscape. The dense coniferous forests, the mountains looming in the distance, and the endless sky provided a backdrop that was in stark contrast to her hectic life in Los Angeles.

Athena cast a quick sideways glance at you. Your usually lively eyes were surrounded by dark shadows, the tiredness clearly visible on your face. You looked like you had carried the weight of the world on your shoulders - and in many ways you had. The past few months had not only been stressful, they had been draining, harrowing, and emotionally devastating.

It had started with a particularly difficult case that had pushed Athena's police department to its limits. A series of brutal attacks, carried out with unpredictable violence, had terrified the city. Athena had, as always, been at the forefront when the perpetrators were finally caught. But the price she and her family paid for it was high. It wasn't just the endless nights and the emotional toll of constantly confronting death, it was the knowledge that her family - and especially you - had suffered from her absence and the constant feeling of threat.

You had also been going through a difficult time. You had been in the middle of a project that demanded all of your attention, but when one of your closest friends had died suddenly and unexpectedly, it had hit you hard. It was as if death had caught up with you both, no matter how hard you tried to distance yourself.

And then there was the accident.

Athena still had the sound of breaking glass and screeching tires in her ears as she took the corner too fast to follow a fleeing suspect. The shock of waking up in the hospital, the pain in her body, and most of all the horrified face of yours that she saw right after waking up was the image that was burned into her memory. Those eyes, full of worry and fear, had made it clear to her that you couldn't put yourself through this any longer.

"I'm glad we're doing this," Athena said quietly, giving you another look. Her voice was soft, but with a hint of worry as she looked at your pale face. "We need this. You need this."

You sat up a little and smiled wearily. "We both need this," you corrected gently. "After everything that happened... I thought I could just keep going, but I feel burned out."

Athena nodded and looked back at the road with concentration, the steering wheel firmly in her hands. "Me too. I've ignored it for too long. The work, the responsibility... but now we have to take care of ourselves. Our relationship."

The streets became narrower and the trees grew closer as you reached the last part of the route to the cabin. The cabin itself was secluded, as you had hoped - far from the noises of the city, from sirens, phones, the constant calls calling you back to reality. There was only silence here. Pure, uninterrupted silence.

When you reached the driveway, Athena stopped the car and looked over at the cabin. The small wooden building, hidden between the trees, seemed inviting and at the same time foreign. It had something of a refuge, a place that would give you the opportunity to find yourself again. The windows reflected the orange light of the setting sun and a light breeze made the trees dance in the wind.

You got out first and stretched extensively while Athena opened the trunk to get the luggage out. As you looked around, you couldn't deny the feeling of relief that spread in your chest. This was exactly what you both needed: no work, no constant interruptions, no threats. Just you and your wife, in the silent embrace of nature.

"It's even more beautiful than I imagined," you said as you stood next to Athena and looked at the wooden house. Your smile was a little more genuine now, not quite as heavy from the last few months. Athena put an arm around your shoulders and gently held you against her. "Yes, it's perfect. Just the two of us for a while."

You walked together to the porch and opened the door, which creaked quietly under the weight of their story. Inside, it smelled of wood, fresh air, and a little of the dust of isolation. The furnishings were simple but cozy. A fireplace, a small kitchen, a few bookshelves, and a wide sofa that looked inviting.

"I'll make us a fire," Athena said as she put the bags down. She longed for the warmth of the fireplace and your arms wrapped around her middle, mixed with the calming atmosphere that would surround you here. While you opened the windows to let in the fresh air, Athena leaned over the fireplace and began to stack the wood.

It didn't take long until the fire was crackling and the flames were reflected in the room. You were now standing at one of the windows and looking outside. Your eyes were fixed on the forest, but your thoughts seemed far away.

Athena stepped behind you, her arms wrapping around your body as she placed light kisses on your neck. "Hey," she said softly, briefly moving away from the thin skin of your neck to place another kiss on your shoulder. "What are you thinking about?"

You took a deep breath and placed your hands over hers, tilting your head to the side as your eyes closed for a moment. "About everything that happened. About us. I don't think I've fully processed it all yet."

Athena pulled you closer to her front. "We don't have to do this right now," she whispered in your ear, causing goosebumps to spread across your skin. "We're here to take our time. No rush, no expectations."

You snuggled up to her, and for a moment it seemed as if the silence of the forest was calming your inner turmoil as well. You stood there, just the two of you, while the sunset sent the last golden rays over the horizon.

"I love you," you finally said, almost whispering, as if you didn't want to break the silence. Athena held you even closer, a smile enchanting her lips. "And I love you. We can do this. Together.“

ᕚ---ᕘ

The night was deep and silent when Athena woke up. The fire in the fireplace had long since gone out, and only the cold ash and a few faintly glowing logs bore witness to the fact that it had once been warm and alive. She lay there, listening to the gentle breathing of you, wrapped tightly in a blanket in her arms, sleeping soundly.

It was the first time in a long time that she had woken up in such silence - no cell phone ringing at five in the morning because a new emergency had arisen. No gunshots or screams echoing in her mind, no nightmares of chases and injuries. Just the gentle whisper of the wind and the steady breathing of her wife.

Athena let her gaze wander around the room. The faint moonlight that fell through the window bathed everything in a silver light. It was a peaceful, almost unreal scene. And yet she felt a certain restlessness within herself. She had gotten so used to the chaos and constant movement of her life that the sudden silence was almost frightening.

She closed her eyes briefly and focused on the here and now. This was what she wanted, what you had both decided on. A time out. A break from the world outside to find yourselves again, and above all to find each other again.

She carefully pushed you off her and sat up. She was careful not to wake you, although she knew that you were hard to disturb in these deep phases of sleep. Athena got up quietly and crept to the patio door. The fresh night air hit her as she stepped outside.

The silence was overwhelming. The forest stretched around the cabin like a dark, calming blanket. No light from a nearby town, no traffic. Just the stars glittering above the trees and the whispering of the leaves. Athena took a deep breath and felt her shoulders slowly relax.

As she stood there looking into the darkness, she felt someone quietly open the door behind her. You stepped out onto the veranda and wrapped a blanket around your shoulders. "Can't you sleep either?" you asked gently and stood next to her. Your gaze also wandered over the forest, and for a moment you stood there in silence, next to each other, both lost in thought.

"It's... unusual to have so much peace and quiet," Athena finally admitted. "I think I've forgotten what it's like to just stand still. Not always being ready for the next thing that will tear me out of sleep."

You nodded slowly. "I know what you mean. The city, our life... it has kept us both so busy. But here... it almost feels foreign, doesn't it? But I think that's what we have to learn: to calm down again."

Athena sighed and leaned on the railing of the porch. "It was hard for both of us. I thought if I was strong enough, if I could control everything, it would help us. But it only pulled us further apart."

You stepped closer, put a hand on her arm and looked at her lovingly. "You always had to be strong, that's a part of you. And that's exactly why I love you. But... maybe it's time for you to allow yourself to be weak. That we both allow ourselves to just be. Without pressure, without expectations."

The words hit Athena deeply. It was exactly what she had avoided for so long: showing weakness. In her job, in your relationship - she always wanted to be the strong one, the one who supported everyone else. But now, here in the silence of the forest, that was what she needed. To let go.

"Maybe you're right," Athena murmured softly and pulled you into her arms. She laid her head on your shoulder, feeling the warmth and comfort she found in that simple moment. There was no grand gesture, no dramatic moment of realization - just the silence, the feeling of you in her arms, and the deep, unwavering love she felt for you.

"Would you like to take a walk with me?" you asked after a moment of absolute silence. "I think there's something calming about the forest. It might be good to just walk without a destination." Athena hesitated for a moment, but then nodded. "Yes, that sounds good. Let's go."

You both slipped on your shoes and pulled on your jackets. The forest welcomed you with open arms as you walked along the narrow path that led away from the cabin. The trees, dark and tall, seemed to be a silent guardian of your path, and the ground beneath your feet was soft and springy.

You were silent for a while, taking in the nature around you. Athena felt her thoughts gradually calming down. Out here, far from the city, the falls and the crowds, she found a peace she hadn't expected.

"Do you remember when we first met?" you finally broke the silence, your voice a quiet smile. "You were so serious. Always so controlled, so... aloof."

Athena snorted slightly, a wide grin on her face. "I remember. I thought I could have everything under control. But then you came and messed up my whole system."

You laughed softly and looped an arm under hers. "I think that was my plan."

Athena paused and pulled you gently to her side. "You gave me so much, you know that? You made me see things differently. You showed me that I don't always have to be in control."

You looked at her with those gentle, loving eyes that Athena had come to know so well over the years. "And you showed me what it means to be truly strong. Not just for others, but for yourself."

You stood in silence for a moment, only the gentle sound of the wind around you. It felt like you were alone in the world - no past, no pain, no fears. Just the two of you and nature holding you in its silent embrace.

"Let's start over from here," Athena said finally. "It won't be easy, and we won't suddenly solve all our problems. But here... here we can find ourselves again."

You smiled and placed a hand on Athena's chest, right above her heart, to hear it beating for you. "I think this is the best plan we've ever had."

You continued walking, hand in hand, along the path. The sun slowly began to appear over the treetops, bathing the forest in a warm light. Every step felt lighter, every movement less burdened by the weight of the past.

In this quiet, peaceful environment, you and Athena found not only the time to recover from the wounds of the past year, but also the opportunity to discover your love in a new way - far from the dangers of everyday life, in the simplicity of nature and in the silence of the forest, where your hearts beat in harmony again.

[saintwrld]

Lift me up

pairing: shuri x reader

summary: in which you discover your powers and help the mighty black panther in the war against Wakanda and Talokan

themes: angst

warnings: major character death (twice, idk what’s wrong with me)

translations: mntanasekhaya - sibling, sthandwa sam- my love, sisi omdala - older sister, usishiyile - she has passed (also meaning she has left us)

taglist: @pinkwright @zayswriting @vixentheplanet @inmyheadimobsessed @laurensmabel1 @ventingfanfics @quintessencewrites @ziayamikaelson @blackgirlfariy @shuriszn @6-noir @ogbells16 @cuddl3s4shur1 @n7cje @awolfcsworld @zhanylai @hetr0ph0bic @heejayy @heartsforjojo @locoforshuri @iloveekeiarah @khaleesi56 @thevenusianleo @verachii @axailslink @mbakuetshurisprincess @shinsousliya @letitias-fav @dejaonline (if i didn’t tag you, lemme know!)

a/n: i felt real angsty today 🤭 hope you enjoy

.°୭̥

Wakanda had fallen silent.

The nation had been struck down by the loss of its sovereign ruler, Queen Ramonda, due to the same beings who kidnapped the American scientist along with your best friend, Princess Shuri.

Oh, Shuri. How your heart poured out to her whilst dealing with the pain of losing a mother figure. You could not imagine what emotions have taken over her heart. It pained you to even think of that dreadful day. How you had been occupied with figuring out your new found powers and had declined giving the American scientist, Riri, the tour of the palace. Believing it would be best for the queen to handle instead of you.

How it pained you to realise that your last words to Queen Ramonda were that of giving goodbyes and hugging each other as if you knew she was leaving. How you were having conversations with the elders of Wakanda on your deity, Bast, without yet revealing your new identity to them and the blast of water floods entered your spiritual vision before your actual vision.

Feeling the pressure of water pushing you and many other people. Hearing screams from each direction you turned your head. Holding on to anyone in your path, not realising that you had parted the water, leading the people towards the fighter stations near Bashenga's hut.

Your heart pounding against your chest had been the only thing you heard as you ascended into the air. Your vision had again turned white however you felt your entire body move as if you were fighting. Energy surging through your skin as you lost contact with your body, seeing the familiar hues of blue and purple in the sky outside of your childhood home near the river.

in the ancestral realm

Opening your eyes, you heard a voice behind you as if it was coming from the tv.

"We've gotten reports from the third world country of Wakanda that their sovereign ruler, Que-"

"Y/n!" Another voice cheered happily, you noticed the shake in their voice as you felt their presence coming closer and closer to you.

Looking behind you, you saw your older sister, Wami, beaming at you with tears streaming down her face. She had grown taller since the last time you had seen her, granted it had been years.

"Wami?" You barely whispered as you started at her in shock. Your entire family had unfortunately left you all alone as they were blipped, leaving you to find refuge in your second home in the palace along with Queen Ramonda who had lost two of her own children in the blip.

When everyone had returned after 5 excruciatingly long years, you welcomed Shuri with your whole being, seeing how she grew taller. After being with T'Challa and Shuri and being tempted to tell them everything that happened in the past 5 years, you ran to find your family.

After searching through Wakanda for hours on end, you found Wami sitting with an elder, consoling her and telling her that she will find her family. The reunion was bittersweet, knowing that it was just you and your sister and that the rest of your family was not coming back.

Months after, on one peaceful morning, Wami didn't wake up. Frantically trying to revive her then ultimately deciding to take her to the hospital where it was announced that she was with the ancestors. The royal family had gotten the news and had buried her using royal traditions. They brought you into their home, making you feel as apart of them even though you spent majority of your time there.

Wami had tried visiting you through your dreams but you would always reject them, believing that none of it was real, eventually blaming Bast for everything.

"Hi, mntanasekhaya." She weakly smiled, rushing forward to give you a big hug. You immediately crumbled, sobbing into your older sister's arms. As your sobs became more quiet, you had grown confused. After Wami's death, you were quick to accept that she was gone. Even visits from her became frequent and you allowed her back into your life whilst thanking Bast and restoring your faith to Bast.

"Sisi omdala. Why are you crying? If anything, being at home should be your happy place." You looked up at her, seeing tears gloss over her eyes once again. She looked away from you to sniffle and look out the window.

"This always happens when we get new people. You know me, the family crybaby." She grabbed a tissue from the living room table and wiped her tears.

"New people? The ones attacked because of the water?" You questioned. She nodded. "Along with the q-" Wami's sentence was cut short as you heard a loud shriek from behind you.

Opening your eyes, you saw you were being lifted from underneath your arm, both your feet floating above the ground. You lifted your head and saw you were going towards the palace entrance with Nakia, Okoye and Shuri running ahead of you.

You gained your strength back and put your feet back on the ground and started running, following the three women. You felt the breeze hit you as you ran, feeling your dress stick on you and your braids slowly becoming loose from their ponytail.

With the throne room door already open from the impact of the water from inside, you all rushed in, the scene before you causing your heart to drop. The throne room had so much water and the floor to ceiling windows were cracked open with you seeing a man with winged ankles floating, holding a staff.

Queen Ramonda and Riri were laying on the glass floor, being revived by both Nakia and Okoye. You felt yourself being pulled back and held into the arms of a Dora. You saw Shuri being held back by Aneka and M'baku, crying her eyes out and screaming for her mother.

You too were crying, resisting the urge to let go of the screams surpressed within your chest. You noticed the man still floating and he pointed to Shuri, who could barely contain her cries, breaking your heart more and more.

"Bury your dead. Mourn your loss. You are Queen now." He shouted. He declared that either Wakanda becomes allies with his nation or that he will wash Wakanda off the face of the earth.

His words became reality as Riri had coughed up the large amount of water from her lungs but Queen Ramonda remained still. Seeing Nakia's tears stream down her face, "Usishiyile." She muttered.

You managed to get out of the Dora's hold and ran towards the windows to chase after the man. Nakia yelled after you but there you were, flying towards him, trying to land a punch but he caught your wrist. He held it tightly, most likely causing bruises to form.

"Treat your new Queen well. She will need it." He smirked, letting go of your wrist, expecting you to fall to your death but only to be surprised by you facing him.

"You will pay for everything you have caused. How dare you." Your voice had cracked as you said your second sentence, it finally sunk in that he killed Queen Ramonda.

You turned away from him and flew back into the palace, immediately going to be next to Shuri as she held you tightly, sobs violently coursing through her body as she could barely look over to her mother's body.

.°୭̥

With power surging through your hands and into the open field, you sighed out, feeling exhausted. A'awante chuckled at your exhaustion, uncrossing her arms and clapped her hands painfully slow.

"Congratulations, you've burnt the scarecrow of its stick. It took you how many tries?" She mocked, looking over at you as she appeared next to you in a flash.

"A'awante, we've been out here for hours. I promised Shuri that I would be back before sunset." You sighed out, holding your hands to your hips as you tilted your head back to face the sky.

You wouldn't necessarily call A'awante Bast's avatar but that is essentially what she was. During one of your many visits to the Ancestral realm, Bast had wanted an avatar to help you understand and figure out your powers to which she introduced you to A'awante, who is essentially the voice of Bast towards you.

"I guess I have been working you a little too hard. I would like to believe that you're very much ready for anything that might come Wakanda's way. Until next time. Goodbye Bahati." She said, waving and disappearing right before your eyes.

Everything you had learnt these past few days would be beneficial to the war that Namor had wanted. Your powers are quite powerful and versatile in a sense. You could manipulate anything using your powers. Your ability to fly had been improved and your strength would only be enhanced whilst using your powers. Temperature control and mind control were two of your favourites however you knew you couldn't take advantage of these powers.

Oh and your suit. You could summon two different suits using a special ring that appeared on your finger during your first training session. It's uniqueness stood out with its charm that made it look like a simple gold band to others.

Using your teleportation power to transport yourself to Shuri's lab, you closed your eyes then opened them once again to see that you were in the lab with Shuri in front of a large dna molecule model, with it eventually turning green all over.

"Griot, what's the confidence rate?" Shuri asked with a shake to her voice. "98.7%,Princess. Would you like me to print it?" Griot responded, causing Shuri to look at the module with pride without really displaying it on her face.

"Molo sana. Shuri." Nakia's voice broke the silence in the lab and Shuri turned her head to look at Nakia then you, who was standing right behind her.

"I thought you would be back in Haiti by now," Shuri said to Nakia. "And Y/n, you're early. I thought you said sunset." She directed her response to you.

"What is Griot printing?" You asked, going down the steps to stand next to Shuri.

"Y/n, it may be the recreation of the heart shaped herb." Nakia answered as she walked to stand next to Shuri as well. "It would be the greatest..gift to Wakanda since Bashenga's discovery and now Y/n's new found identity." She said, sighing with relief and a big smile painting her face.

"Griot, print it." Shuri instructed and held her hand out to you. "Come." She simply said, walking towards the 4D printer. Nakia walked next to Shuri and held her other hand for support.

"How do you know if it will work?" Nakia asked, as the printer began to run. "If it glows." Shuri replied and seconds after, the herb glows, causing you and Nakia to celebrate while Shuri looked shocked.

"You did it!"

-

Shuri had called you to her room as she was getting ready to present herself to the elders. You left Riri in the lab as she was working on the last adjustments on her suit.

You found Shuri pacing up and down the room, her curls were braided back and her suit clung to her body as she clenched and unclenched her hands. Her mood shifted as she came out of the trance of being in the ancestral realm, not wanting to share anything about who she saw whilst she was there. Her anger clearly shown as she punched a mannequin into the lab wall, gaining a reaction from you, Nakia and Riri.

"Shuri?" You quietly said, closing the door behind you and standing by the door, watching her slow down and eventually face you.

"I want him dead." Shuri started, shocking you. This wasn't the Shuri you knew. This one had revenge written all over her, eyes filled with hurt and rage. Dead? That would never be Shuri's first thought.

"Shuri, I'm not so sure that-"

"And you're going to help me. I refuse to let the man who killed my mother to live." She said, returning back to her pacing. You hesitantly walked towards her, stopping in front of her.

"I am more than willing to help you, Shuri but please think of this before we go out there." You pleaded and she stopped to stare at you. Her eyes staring into yours so intensely.

"Y/n, do you remember how you reacted when I had been kidnapped?" She asked, in such a demanding tone. Seeing where this was going, you immediately responded. "Yes but listen-"

"Had you or had you not said that you would kill whoever were to kill me?" She asked once again. You looked away from her face to avoid answering.

"I did." You muttered. "Speak up." She commanded and you looked at your best friend with such shock. "I had said that but I need you to get of this headspace, Shuri." You warned.

You could physically see your best friend become dangerous. The anger had consumed her fully and you knew that getting your Shuri back would be long after this war.

"This headspace is what is going to keep Wakanda safe, Y/n. I've suffered too long and it's time for me to get my lick back." She smirked after saying the last four words that you taught her.

It was as if she was in your mind and convinced you to go along with her plan. "So will you help me bring Namor's head back, sthandwa sam?" She wickedly smiled at you and it sent shivers throughout your entire body.

Shaking yourself out of her words, you began. "Shuri, no. You know that this is not the answer. Stop-"

"What are you afraid of?" She asked, slightly bending her tall body to match your eye contact level.

Keeping the eye contact, you remained silent. "If you are going to stop me, y/n, it won't work." Shuri stated.

Holding your hand out for her to hold, she placed her covered hand in yours. "Let's go show the fish man who the Black Panther is." You said, making Shuri smirk and lean in to peck your lips.

"Lead the way, sthandwa."

-

Looking over your beautiful nation through the windows of the throne room, Shuri stood behind you, holding your waist tightly.

"Are you fine, sthandwa?" She asked you as she peppered soft kisses along your neckline.

"I'm okay, just thinking of my powers during the fight." You replied. Thinking back to it, you and Shuri were against Namor. Your powers nearly burnt the Demi god to a crisp whilst Shuri held his wings in her hand.

Quickly healing her stab wound, you flew her into the sky as the fighter jet blew up into flames. Signaling that you go back to the ship to help the others, you fly over and use your gravity manipulation power to lift up the Talokanil crawling onto the ship and blast them into the ocean, similar to what Riri did to Namora.

"Do you still have the wings?" You asked, turning around and pecking her lips once. She nodded while smiling. "They're framed and sitting on the lab tables in the Great Mound lab." She said and her Kimoyo beads began to vibrate against your skin as she still held onto your waist.

"Have to look over the city, my love. Will you join me?" She held out her hands to you and you graciously accepted them.

"Of course I will." You smiled and hugged her, thanking Bast for bringing Shuri into your life throughout all the hardships thrown to you.

not proof read! I just went off on this one lol

[quintessencewrites]

King

queen! Ramonda x king! reader

“Your Highness-”

“King. Do not be afraid to say it.”

Warnings: ANGST, explicit language, implied homophobia, mentions of misogyny and sexism, character death, gore, mentions of blood, violence, etc, ends in fluff

Word Count: 8.5k+

Tags:

@percsanej @k3nn3dyxo @doms-fav @sweetalittleselfish-honeyy @g4yforu @widowmakker @becauseimswagman11 @zayswriting @inmyheadimobsessed @malltake12 @msudaku @faeriah-thvv @mbakuetshurisprincess @honey-teaaaaaaaaa @pinkcorns @takeyakii @yamsthoughtss @thethickersidee @shurisbathwaterr @shurismainbxtch @justariellovee @blackgirlfariyy @chocoflagcutiii @taiiunknownn @zhanylai @ziayamikaelson  @beautybyfire @pinkwrightt @jenlouvre @letitiasleftfoot @6-noir @kya-rosee @saintwrld @ilikegecos @shurismainbxtch @motheroffae @marsolgy @verachiii @shuriszn @playgurlxoxo @ashleighshaw @te-23 @iminlovewithdomandtish @limbozqueen @letitiamyevangeline @youralphawolf72 @biganimeweeb246 @vampzxi

Requested by: @mysteryofthe90s

A/N: Takes place in an AU where Ramonda marries reader instead of T'Chaka. Reader is of a royal bloodline and Wakanda is far less progressive than we see in our movies.

The request was literally just "reader gets kidnapped and Ramonda goes to any lengths to get her back", but of course I had to take that and run with it, but yall, I'm sooo freaking proud of this one and of the work I've been putting out recently. I hope you guys enjoy!

No greater love story exists than that of Wakanda’s rulers. 

King and Queen.

Bound together since childhood, she didn’t make a move without your hand intertwined with hers. 

She had a calculating young mind, moving about life like a chess piece in a game she was never to lose. 

Truly, Wakanda had no greater ruler than your queen. All the kingdom’s operations, all its policies were in her hands. Behind the scenes, nothing moved unless she did, not even you.

Her bronze eyes fluttered back and forth with apparent boredom. What others thought was her simply blending into the background, you recognized as profound observation. She stood, soaking in the fast-paced words of the elders far quicker than you could have imagined. 

Game plans came to play right before her with everything they tried to throw at you. 

This meeting was truly pointless, and it only called for you, but today was special, and you weren’t about to leave her out of any of the day’s events.

The elders were strategic. One fuck up on your behalf, that’s all it would take for the unforgiving geriatrics. 

“What do you foresee you are to do if the country is unsatisfied with a female as their sole protector?”

She saw the way your brows furrowed at the question. The corners of your mouth barely moved south, just a millimeter or two. You were growing frustrated with the hypotheticals. They’d been throwing them at you for over an hour now and it was taking the patience of a God to keep you respectful. 

You hadn’t ingested the heart-shaped herb yet, and you were sure telepathy wasn’t a power it would bestow on you, though you would see no use for it. King and Queen have been together so long, you’d become one- mind, soul, and body. 

Your pitch-black irises sparkled with fury, settling on her much softer ones. Her brown beauties extinguished the fire within you, even if only for a moment.

Words didn’t even need to be exchanged. You could hear her voice in your head loud and clear, though her lips remained sealed. “Control.”

Control yourself. Walk with grace. Handle your shit. 

The mantra flowed so smoothly through your mind. It was comical, how tired you’d grown of hearing it. She’d been repeating the same words, over and over and over again since you were adolescents. She found no other way to control your temper than that statement, so simple, yet so effective. 

“I do not believe my father left his throne for his daughter to be disrespected on, hm?”

Your distinguished voice led the elders to drop theirs to a mumble. What should have been complete silence at their King speaking were whispers instead. 

“Should’ve been a son-”

You couldn’t pinpoint who had said it. A disadvantage of not yet having the panther-like hearing. 

“And yet, it wasn’t; perks of being an only child. My father was proud to have a daughter, Elder. He brought me up as an heir, so that I may one day take over the mantle, both as king and as Black Panther, so with all due respect, hold your tongue.”

The smile may not have played across her face, but it danced behind her eyes. Your queen was proud; you so often attempted to ignore her when she vocalized what you did not want to hear, but clearly, you’d been listening. You spoke in such a way, the older aged Wakandans winced as though they’d been burned. 

“Your majesty, tradition states that you were to marry and-”

You did marry. She was right there in the room with you with the title of ‘Queen’ having been bestowed upon her for quite some time now.

“I did marry.”

And that was her cue.

With her head held high, the queen made her way across the board, past the onlooking pawns, through the bishops and rooks, not a knight in sight, straight to her place beside her King. 

What a handsome couple the two of you were. Her white dress contrasted deeply with your dark suit, creating a beautiful eyesore. Night and day, black and white, a menacing pair.

Though her head was absent of its crown, she stood beside you poised perfectly as though a line of string ran from her spine to the ceiling, holding it in the straightest of lines. 

“We mean no disrespect to the queen, however-”

They always mean disrespect, regardless of what they said. 

“Then I suggest you quit talking before I get disrespectful.” These closed-minded seniors could get your blood boiling like no other. Your voice wavered with anger, though your Queen’s steady words rang in your ears. “Control, my King.”

A deep breath was all it took for you to continue. “Our country is far more advanced than the small-minded council that attempts to run it. They reacted with enthusiasm when I took the throne after my father’s passing. They welcomed my Queen with open arms. I do not foresee them having a problem with my taking of the Black Panther mantle, just as my father did before me, and his father before him.”

Her hand rested on your shoulder before you could continue. To outside eyes, it was an empty gesture; to you, a hidden “well done.”

“Your Highness-”

“King. Do not be afraid to say it.”

Their hesitation proved that they were indeed, afraid to say it. The council continued to speak, your title not daring to utter from their lips. 

“What are you to do if they are not as welcoming to a female protector as they were to a woman King?”

All heads swiveled when it was not you to answer, but instead your Queen. “Do you see any reason why they would have a problem with it?”

What a funny sight, the view before you. Five ancient leaders, all mouths gaping like fish out of water. 

“Ramonda, the question was directed to the throne holder-”

Rage fueled you to your feet. “You dare speak her name, yet refuse to utter mine?”

Their cowardly forms sat silenced. Ramonda stood behind you, unfazed by your outburst, still standing straight and proud. 

“We are through here. Meeting adjourned.”

Hands intertwined as they always were, you and your Queen made for the door. You were through with this damn council, with these damn elders. How your father put up with it for so long, you had no idea. No wonder he’d rather the ancestors than this-

“Your Majesty, uh, King-” The word was spit from their lips like it hurt. “What are you to do if someone were to challenge you for the title?”

Truth be told, this question sounded more like a threat than a hypothetical. Your steps froze in place, your Queen standing just before you. “I shall fight for my title, council.”

They could hear your footsteps retreating from the room with an echo that could surely be heard across the country.

The giggle she let escape as soon as the throne room doors were closed was far too loud. The queen’s lips were pinned to your cheeks, pecking at your nose, your lips, your forehead.

It broke your hardened exterior, planting a too-wide grin across your cheeks. “Did I handle my shit, my love?”

“Yes, ukumkani wam (my King), you handled your shit.”

The waters rushing your feet were a good distraction from the loud chanting that came from the crowd of onlookers surrounding you. 

She stood at the front of it, baring a corset far too tight and a face of armor, both of which she’d expressed her hatred for. 

“Will this be long, sithandwa sam? This corset is very uncomfortable, and I’d like to get it off-”

“So long as nobody has the sense to challenge me, my love, this won’t be long, no. Then I can peel that corset off of you myself.”

You hadn't needed to see her cheeks redden to know your words caused her to blush. Even now, though she stood quite a bit away, you knew they burned with the wideness of her smile. 

The rocks beneath you were slick and admittedly hard to walk on. You truly prayed that this would be an unnecessary occasion, one that would go by uneventfully. 

The chanting ceases, producing an eerie silence. Zuri’s voice was booming, his royal purple robes being soaked at the hem due to the rushing waters. You stood, tall and ready, spear in one hand, shield in the other, with lightweight clothing adorning your figure. 

“Victory, in ritual combat, comes by yield, or death! If any tribe wishes to put forth a warrior, I now offer a path to the throne.”

“Yuh!” It was loud and resounding, coming from your furthest left. The members of the tribe ingested the call and threw it back into the crowd. “The Merchant Tribe will not challenge today.”

“Haye! The Border Tribe will not challenge today.”

“Ibombe! The River Tribe will not challenge today!”

Three tribes refused to challenge. Perhaps this would be easy after all.

“Aye! The Mining Tribe will not challenge today!”

Four down- one to go. 

“Mayafa!” His tribe doesn’t take the liberty of repeating him as the other tribes did. A silence passes over all Wakandans present. Your Queen is doing what she does best- observing. 

You can feel the uneasiness present in her bones as your eyes never leave the Jabari warrior. 

“Zakar, what are you doing?” Zuri’s usually thunderous voice is brought down to a whisper. He can’t hide the shock that rings in his words. 

“It is Challenge Day; and I, Zakar of the Jabari Tribe, wish to challenge for the throne.”

Gasps and murmurs sprinkle across the crowd. Between your pulled-together brows are anger and surprise as well. Even your calculating Queen seems thrown off. 

Zakar was nothing more than a muscle man with an ape-like brain to match his ape-like proportions. 

If it was a challenge he wanted, a challenge he would get. 

All eyes were on you as you stepped toward the brute. Shoulders squared and chest out, you stood as your father taught you to. “I accept.”

“My King-”

Bast-bless Zuri. His worry for you was not very well hidden beneath his aging features. He’d surely watched your father through his own Challenge Day, standing amongst him as a friend more than a mentor and it would be your will that he stand beside your own son or daughter for theirs as well.

“It is okay, Zuri.” His hands squeezed yours with a passing gesture as you stepped toward your newfound enemy. 

Nose-to-nose and eye-to-eye; Zakar showed no signs of intimidation. His breath was hot, his nostrils flared, and a disgusting grin plastered across his face. “Well, Princess?”

“King,” you corrected. “I am your King. And I accept.”

Ramonda’s breath caught in her throat. 

His facial armor was replaced and a weapon identical to yours was thrown into his hands. 

Your eyes wandered to his primate-like shape. He and you would have surely trained in different weight classes. His reach was much larger than yours and it would take quite a few hits to get him down. You didn’t want to have to impale him to get him to yield. 

You were sure, though, that he would not show you the same mercy. That spear of his weapon would pierce your flesh with no mercy and you’d be damned if you were to die in front of your Queen in such a brutal way. 

Someone grabbed her hand, but she wasn’t sure who. Everything around her went blurry, fading into a mess of colors. Ramonda’s only focus was you. 

How dare you accept such a challenge? The two of you hadn’t spoken of you fighting today and for you to just go and accept it- You were going to die. Zakar wouldn’t hold back; the larger man’s strength was what yours wished to be. He was going to kill you, for sure. 

How dare you take the chance to drop dead in front of your Queen?

The Dora Milaje and Jabari Warriors barely had time to take their stances before the blunt end of Zakar’s spear came swinging toward you. 

The ugliest sound echoed through the waterfall as your shield just barely saved your fate. His quick actions confirmed what you already knew- He would not be playing fair. 

Ramonda could feel every muscle in her body tense. She so badly wanted to jump in, to help you, save you, fight with you. You more often than not trained together; she was just as skilled as you were. 

And had it not been for the strange hand squeezing hers, she probably would have. 

Every swing, every jab, she followed. She waited, breathing ceased, for you to take the upper hand. His spear swung hard to your left, so you dodged right. He came at you with his shield, so you retreated. You couldn’t even pick up your own weapon, too busy escaping his. 

The edge of the waterfall grew closer and closer. The rocks beneath you held no grip and exhaustion filled your lungs. 

Zakar’s patience was dwindling. “Stop running, Princess.” 

Princess. That’s all you would be to them. A princess beneath her father, the true king. A princess who was handed the title and did not earn it. You were still that little girl adorned with bows and lace, and not Wakanda’s king who would bear the crown proudly. 

The elders saw it, Zakar and the Jabari saw it, hell you wondered if your people saw it as well. You didn’t have time to meet your Queen’s gaze, though you could feel it stuck on you. She was watching; she was always watching. 

Ramonda was watching, counting on you, rooting for you. She saw you as Princess and now she sees you as King. 

The flesh on your arm burned as Zakar’s spear sliced it open. The ivory color of your bone peeked through. It was the arm that gripped your weapon and it nearly buckled out of your hand. The breath was knocked straight out of your lungs when he followed up with a fist to your gut. Your scream pierced the air, fueling Ramonda’s body forward as yours fell to its knees. Several hands attached to several invisible bodies held her back, though they could not hold her tongue. “Sithandwa sam! Sithandwa sam-”

“I will give you a moment before I finish you, princess. Address your wife.”

Your eyes fluttered upward, vision blurry and hazed as it rested upon your Queen. “M-Mondie-”

Her loose curls bounced to and fro. No nicknames, no affection. Maybe later, but not now. 

“Zilawule, sithandwa sam!”

Control yourself, my love. 

Your gaze bore into her distressed features. Your lids were heavy and your arm hurt like hell, as did your ribs. 

“Hamba ngobabalo!”

Walk with grace.

Your head fell, eyes filling with tears that fell into the waters beneath you. 

“Ndijonge (Look at me) Y/n!”

“Ndijonge, sithandwa sam,” she begged, much softer. 

Your gaze was drawn away from the rushing waters and back onto your wife. 

“Phatha ikaka yakho.”

Handle your shit.

“I am your Queen, my love! That is an order.”

Every damn thing hurt when your injured arm moved to pierce the rocks under you. Your legs were shaky, barely able to hold your weight.

Zakar’s chuckle was booming. “You attempt to get up, girl? Fine, then. I’ll just knock you right back down.”

“Remind me to have you banished for the way you speak to your King, Zakar.”

“Banishment will not be possible when you are with the ancestors. Just ask your father-” 

Had he said it loud enough for everyone to hear, they’d surely react the same way you had. 

The roar that came from you was ugly, followed by the crumbling sound of Zakar’s mask as your spear came in contact with it. Your backhand swing had been too quick for him to foresee and the clay mask shielding his face broke into many pieces as it fell into the water. 

The headache that would plague him tonight would be one from hell. Your foot came in contact with his chest, barely knocking him back with the first kick, but succeeding on the second one. Thank Bast for the slippery rocks that you stood on; there was no way you’d have been able to get him down otherwise. 

His large body hit the ground hard and you could see the anger flickering behind his eyes. The blunt end of your spear almost broke with the force you used to shove it into his shoulder. You were prepared to pop the bone right out of its joint.

“Yield, Zakar.”

He stayed silent, stare never leaving you. Your weapon dug further into his aching body.

“Yield. I can not let you up unless you do, because I am certain you will not let me live, and if that is the case-”

Your spear flips, drawing the sharp end into his flesh instead. “If that is the case, Zakar, then I can not let you live.”

It feels as though the entire kingdom of Wakanda is holding its breath. Slowly, the sharp weapon sunk further and further, disappearing within his tissue. His face was contorted with pain, teeth-baring a grimace. “Yield, Zakar, before you bleed out!”

His eyes were animalistic, his voice low enough so only you could hear. “Is that not what you want?”

Zakar gave you no chance to answer. “I yield.”

In unison, everyone in the crowd breathed a sigh of relief. You felt a weight lift from your shoulders and nodded a ‘thank you’ to the warrior on the ground. “Take a deep breath.”

He did and in that same breath, remained silent as you pulled the spear from his shoulder. Zuri rushed over as the Jabari tribe picked their leader up from the ground. 

The pendant that your father wore on his challenge day, and his father before him was heavy, adorned with panther teeth as it hung around your neck. Your right hand was lifted into the air, fist up as Zuri’s deep voice declared “Y/N Y/L/N, King of Wakanda, and the Black Panther!”

Louder than any other screams and cheers was Ramonda, leading the chant, fist-pumping into the air. 

The chambers that held the heart-shaped herb were way too hot and way too dark. You wanted nothing more than to be in the presence of your Queen, your Mondie, promising that she’d be awaiting your return from the ancestral planes. 

You couldn’t ignore the impending feeling of doom as you lay down, arms crossed over your chest in a salute. The herbal drink had been prepared and it was your move as to what happened next. Zuri stood above you, placing the bowl to your lips as he spoke. 

“Allow the heart-shaped herb to bestow the powers of The Black Panther and take you to the ancestral plane.” The drink was bitter and burned like liquor as you swallowed. Convulsions wrecked your body as your system digested it.

“Azzuri, we call on you. Come here, to your daughter.”

The sand. That was the part you dreaded the most. It began to cover your body and you inhaled deep, thankful to breathe while you still could. Everything became muffled when the first grains hit your face. 

“Praise the ancestors,” Zuri’s voice was barely above a whisper. 

Everything was dark.

The gasp that came from you was desperate, as though you’d been drowning. Dirt surrounded you, and you willed your eyes to adjust to the low light. 

The garden you sat in was familiar. You hadn’t been in it in quite a while, but you’d never forgotten its layout. You stood, allowing the white garment you were clothed in to flow around you. 

It was instinctual, the way your feet led you to a bench in the far corner, concealed with desert roses and blue lilies. It wasn’t a surprise to see your usual place already occupied.

The gentleman wasn’t as old as he should have been to leave this life. He was dressed in white clothes of his own with a gentle smile greeting you as you approached.

“Baba-” You sat next to him, in disbelief that you could see him again, so alive, though he wasn’t.

“Uyenzile (You did it), intombazana yakho (my daughter).”

Your smile was bright, though your eyes were dull with the tears that threatened to spill. “I did it, Baba.”

“You are King.”

“I am King.” It hurt to get the words out. It was the only time you’d said it and truly fucking meant it. 

His shoulder pushed into yours, joy prevalent in his features. “Who did you have to fight, hmm? Who dared challenge the daughter of Azzuri?”

“Nobody at first. Then the Jabari made their entrance-”

Just as quickly as it came, his smile was gone. “The Jabari? Zakar?”

Your head bobbed. “Zakar.”

“Are you- were you hurt?”

You couldn’t look at him and tell him you’d gotten injured. You attempted to pivot the conversation instead. “I did it, baba.”

He wasn’t swayed. Your father was too smart a man. “Be careful, y/n/n.”

“Be careful? Of what? I won. I am King, I am The Black Panther; he can not challenge me again.”

His head hung, shaking slowly. “Tradition says he can not challenge you again.”

“As it says, then it shall be!”

“Ukususela nini, intomba (Since when, daughter)?”

Your silence failed to satisfy him. 

“Tradition says that when your mother and I had you, we were to conceive again, for a son, an heir.”

You didn’t want to hear him.

“Tradition says that when I died, you were to marry a man, and he was to be king.”

You didn’t want to listen.

“Tradition says that he- your husband- was to be the Black Panther.”

He knelt in front of you, grasping your hands in his own and squeezing tight. His hold on you caught you both off guard; neither of you could have fathomed a second chance at a moment like this. 

“You have broken tradition since you came out of the womb, y/n, my girl. And I am so proud of you for it. Wakanda needed to progress, and you-” His hand released yours, gently holding your cheek instead. “You are exactly what this country needs.”

Tears fall down your cheeks at your father’s hold. You embraced it, knowing that after this, you’d never feel it again. “Am I truly meant to be King, baba?”

“Have I not raised you so?”

Your bottom lip curled back into your mouth and your head nodded ever so slightly. “But heed my warning, my girl. Zakar will not take lightly being bested in front of the country, especially not by a woman. Especially not by my daughter.”

Your brows pulled together into a focused furrow. “I’ll be careful.”

His lips press to your forehead gently. “I know you will do wonderful things. You were born to do wonderful things.”

He stood and began to retreat. You panicked when his hand left yours, not ready to say goodbye again. “W-wait, Baba. Don’t go-”

“Eh? Y/n, what have I taught you?”

“Y-you said you’d never leave me, but-”

“And have I?”

Your hands outstretched to beckon the unfamiliar world around you. “What would you call this, Baba?”

His steps grew closer to you and his fingers lightly pierced your chest. “I have not left you. I am here.” His hands moved to your temple. “And here.” They moved once more to cup your face. “And here. You look just like me, you know.”

“Now go. Rule your kingdom.”

“Baba,” You hated the way your voice sounded, so whiny and helpless. “Ndiyakuthandana (I love you).”

He was fading away fast and you could feel yourself being pulled back to reality. His words were so faint, you thought you’d imagined hearing it. “Ndiyakuthandana, my girl.”

Zuri’s face was filled with worry when you shot up from beneath the sand, gasping in the dusty air that surrounded you. “Are you alright?”

You accepted the hand he was offering you, using it to stand. “Never bury me alive again.”

Night fall crept on the Wakandan horizon and Ramonda’s usually still mind was flooding with unease. The hem of her skirt swept the palace floors as she wandered aimlessly. 

It was such a large space for just the two of you and without you there, it was so quiet. Dora stood at every outbound door and while they shared her polite smiles, they didn’t speak. 

It had been hours since Zuri swept you away for the ancestral planes and while Ramonda was uncertain how long the private ceremony would take, something didn’t feel right about the seven hours you’d been gone. 

She was an hour into her mindless stroll down the same halls of the royal residence before it was abruptly interrupted. 

“My Queen, are you alright?”

Had they not spoken, Ramonda would have run them over. She blinked slowly, taking in the figure before her. She hated to admit she recognized neither the face nor the voice, yet she did recognize the armor; red and gold with beautiful neckplates and shoulder pads to match.

“General- I apologize, I didn’t see you there-” Her words are steady through the nerves that shake her being. 

“It’s alright. Are you?”

“Am I what?”

“Are you alright, your Majesty?”

Hesitation almost silenced the Queen. How would it appear that she be so disheveled and muddled?

But she needed help. There were many royal customs that were foreign to her and she had no way to navigate them. 

“General, has my wife returned from the ancestral planes yet?”

The worry Ramonda tried so hard to shove down resurfaced when the General’s face contorted to a look of confusion. “She left the planes hours ago. She was making her way back toward the palace last I saw of her.”

Ramonda’s legs almost gave out underneath her, but the composure she held was truly that of a Queen. “S-she left-”

“Has she not returned, your Majesty?”

Ramonda’s head just swayed back and forth.

The General was quick to turn on her heel with a brisk walk that the Queen struggled to keep up with.

“Qokelela (Gather)!” 

A sea of red poured into the halls, all heading toward the throne room. Dora Milaje, all with their spears drawn and their steps nimble. They were surprised to see the white crown among the swarm of bobbing bald heads. 

The throne room scarcely seemed large enough for the bodies that rapidly filled it. In the forefront stood the General and their Queen, heads held high through the dread that sank to the pit of their stomachs like cement. 

The Dora General was silent, awaiting Ramond’s orders. All eyes were on her and it was a feeling she was unsure she’d ever get used to. 

A deep breath steadied the rapid drumming of her heartbeat. Control yourself.

“General, around what time did you see my wife returning home?”

“1300 hours, your Majesty.”

“It’s going on 2200 hours now, ladies. I’m hoping this is just an overreaction, but really, I’m not sure. Go to the grounds, the tribes, the herbal garden, search even the castle. Bring my King home, please.” Walk with grace.

With a harsh tap of their spears on the stone floor, the room empties just as quickly as it filled. Only the General and the Queen remain and Ramonda feels the deep breath she was holding finally release. 

“Your Majesty-”

Many coily curls frame the young royal’s face and they bounce when her head shaked to and fro. “I will have to grow used to being called that as well, hm?”

“I believe so.”

“You won’t just call me Ramonda if I asked you to, will you?”

The smile that plays on the General’s face is sympathetic and she can see the idea form in the Queen’s mind before she even says it. 

“General, I am just Ramonda. Call me Ramonda.”

Pearly white teeth shine behind her dark smile. “Queen Ramonda, I am Esi. Call me Esi.”

“Esi, are you the first friend I have made here?”

“If so, then I am honored to be.” With a bow of her head, she begins to walk off, but not before Ramonda calls her back.

“Esi, bring me Zuri, please. And keep me updated. Once I have finished speaking with him, I will be joining you and your army in the search.”

“We’ve got the search covered-”

“I have no doubt that you do. However, I will be joining you regardless. I’m bringing my wife home.”

Zuri hadn’t expected to be awoken in the dead of the night, nor was he expecting the Queen of Wakanda to be awaiting his arrival.

“Your Majesty,” both of her hands fit in his like a glove and his tight squeeze is full of compassion. “What is the matter?”

Ramonda doesn't appear to be a spouse in distress. Every feeling of fear, or doubt or dread was unreadable on her features. “Zuri, my friend. Where is my wife?”

“Y/n? Is she not here?”

“She is not. She never returned from the herbal gardens-”

The older gentleman’s head shakes in disbelief. “She did. She had to have returned; where else could she be?”

“That is what I am trying to find out.”

A beat of silence passes between the two, unspoken thoughts swarming their minds. 

“Zuri-” The Queen hesitates, knowing that what she is about to ask is such a personal question. “Do you know who she saw? When she went to the ancestral planes?”

His nod is slow and sad. He can never hide how much he misses his old friend and Ramonda knows the answer before he even speaks it. “Baba?”

“Azzuri, yes.”

“Was it- Did she say anything about it? Did anything happen that would cause her to run away for any reason?”

“Not that she mentioned. You know how that girl was with her father; I can not foresee it having been a bad encounter.”

Ramonda is silent. It was a stretch that you would have willingly not return to her, but your genius Queen had to dot all her I’s and cross all her T’s.

“She did repeat something he told her-”

Ramonda was all ears, focused in on every word Zuri spoke. “What did she say?”

“He told her to watch her back. That Zakar wouldn’t take too lightly to having been defeated by her.”

An insincere chuckle left Ramonda’s lips. It was an ugly sound as anger flooded her body. The corner of her lips curled into a grisly pucker and Zuri scanned her face, interpreting her reaction.

“You suspected Zakar, didn’t you?”

“I did, however, as Queen, I can not go throwing around false accusations.”

“Is it a false accusation if you know it to be true?”

A sad smile looks so out of place on Ramonda’s mouth. 

“Zuri, you know how this works even better than I. I have no proof to accuse Zakar and I can not start a civil war with the Jabari that she will have to clean up when she returns.”

“If she stays in the hands of Zakar, that when will become an if.”

The cloak covering the Queen’s shoulders floats to the floor with a slight shrug. The crown atop her head is removed and underneath, her bountiful curls are braided tightly against her scalp. She’s stood aside long enough, talked long enough. Thoughts of bringing you home were all that played through her mind and the mountainside home of the Jabari tribe was her destination.

“I will not let that when become an if, old friend.”

Handle your shit.

She’d never stepped foot in the land of the Jabari before and was illprepared for the snow that coated the ground and the below zero temperatures. She realized it foolish to have come alone, and had she been in her right headspace, she would have realized it sooner. 

Eyes of the Jabari watched her from every direction and the entrance to a cave drew closer and closer. It was guarded well, by bulky men whose faces were concealed by gorilla masks. The opening of the cavern was blocked off as she approached.

“I need to see Zakar.” Though her body shivered from the cold temperatures, her voice remained steady and firm. The men didn’t budge. 

“Zakar is not taking any visitors. He is healing.”

Had smoke been able to come out of her ears in a cartoonish fashion, Ramonda was sure it would have. Her composure did not sway, nor did her expression change. “I need to see Zakar.”

One of the men bent to the Queen’s height, meeting her eye-to-eye. Her knees didn’t buckle and her gaze didn’t dare look away. “What did I just tell you?”

Ramonda’s set to respond, hell, she’s set to exile the whole damn tribe. A faceless voice breaks the tension between the two; the voice she’s there to see. 

“Let her in.”

It would have been a childish thing had she stuck her tongue out at the bruly warrior as he stepped aside to let her in, so she refrained. Instead, she walked through the wall of broad men, straight to the wide throne that held their awful leader. 

His thick brows were deep set on his eyes, weighing heavy on his face and his left arm and midsection sported a collection of white bandages. 

He didn’t look thrilled to see her and she mirrored the feeling. “My Queen,” 

How disgusting it sounded coming from his mouth. “To what do I owe the pleasure?”

Your calculating Queen stood silent for a moment, scanning the room around her. It was cold, so fucking cold, with icy stares to match. Every corner held a warrior, equipt with armor and weapons. She couldn’t help but wonder if that was the norm or if it was only due to her company.

“Zakar-” She hated how his name tasted, rolling across her tongue. “I think thanks are in order.”

“For what?”

“For giving us quite the eventful day. My wife couldn’t just take the throne that was rightfully hers and go about her way, hm? You had to step in and give us a challenge.”

“You are thanking me for getting my ass beat in front of the entire kingdom? And by a princess?”

Ramonda’s jaw was hardset and it took every ounce of control within her body to respond respectfully. “King. Your King.”

When Zakar stood, Ramonda couldn’t help the slight intimidation she felt at the way he towered over her. Her body took a step back without her permission and she cursed herself for it. 

“My king would have balls, your majesty-”

“It is common to want in a leader what we cannot have ourselves-”

Zakar laughed at her rebuttal and it angered the Queen. He continued as though she hadn’t even spoken. “You see me as the villain in your little happily ever after, but that is not the case. It is the other way around, honestly. You and your wife come in and shake up tradition, age old tradition. Excuse me for trying to put things back the way they should be.”

“Who is to say that is the right way and my way is wrong?”

Hmm, Zakar’s deep voice rumbles the entire cave. “Why have you come here, your Majesty?”

“I have reason to believe you have something that belongs to me.”

“Are you accusing me of thievery?” At his words, the Jabari soldiers in the room draw their weapons across their chests, armed and ready.

Your wife is quiet, choosing her next words carefully. Before she can get them off her tongue, Zakar speaks once more. “Let’s say I do have something of yours; I suggest you act tactically. You want this thing back in the same condition that I received it, do you not?”

That’s all she needed. That was enough proof, hell, it was a whole fucking confession. 

Ramonda stepped toward the gorilla-like man, not caring of the weapons that were pointed at her. 

“Unlike my wife, Zakar, I will not hesitate to kill you.”

Her words were so low, the brutish man barely even caught them. His eyes were dark and angry when the Queen pulled away and began to retreat further into the snow, toward the cave entrance once more. 

“Leaving so soon, your Majesty?”

Ramonda’s middle finger was pointed to the sky, directed straight to the Jabari leader as her back stayed turned to him.

“Ramonda!”

The sound of her name bouncing off the stone palace walls caught her off guard. She hadn’t heard it be called in such a way since childhood. 

Her entire body swiveled to see Esi running straight toward her, anger dancing across her features.

“You’ve finally referred to me by my name-”

“You went to the Jabari tribe, alone?”

Ramonda winced at the General’s tone of voice. Her scolding was loud enough for outside listeners to pick up. “I did-”

“What were you thinking? They could have killed you-”

“They have her, Esi.”

Esi’s sigh was annoyed, her eye roll expectant. “Yes, your Majesty, we know that.”

The Queen didn’t have time to focus on the formal terms she and the General seemed to be back on. “You know?”

“We know. We have dozens of Dora surrounding their borders as we speak. We’re trying to find an in without jeapordizing her safety. We still do not know where in the land they are keeping her, though we assume its close to Zakar so that he may keep tabs-”

“Let me take lead on this-”

It would not have been possible for Esi to control the surprise that overtook her at the Queen’s declaration. “Let you what? No! Absolutely not-”

“She’s my wife, Esi-”

“And she is our King-”

“She’s my wife! Damned with your king, she is my wife, and I need her home.”

Ramonda was becoming emotional. The day’s events were catching up with her, as was the reality that you were laying cold somewhere in his midst, hurt or worse.

“Ramonda,” Esi’s voice was soft, her gentle hands grazing the Queen’s forearms. “We are trained for this; willing to die for this. We can not let you-”

“Esi, I hope you can still consider us friends after this.”

“After what-?”

“I am stripping you of your title as General. Step down. That is a direct order-”

“Ramonda-!”

“I am appointing myself General and-”

Tears swam behind Esi’s lids. “Your Majesty-”

Ramonda grabbed Esi’s hands and held them. She needed a deep breath to continue, fighting back tears of her own. “I will reinstate you, my friend. I am sorry, but I-” Her voice broke, and with the grace of a true Queen, she continued. “I must bring my wife home.”

The Dora Milaje stood in salute, awaiting instructions from their new General. Ramonda stood before them, silent with Esi on her right, face set hard with an emotion impossible to read. 

“The Jabari have Y/n.” This wasn’t new information to anyone in the room; they didn’t stir. Ramonda continued.

“We’re bringing her home, by any means necessary. We have suspicions she is being kept either in or just outside Zakar’s throne room. It is a cave covered in snow and ice and flooded with Jabari warriors who are just as willing to die for this as we are.”

Her eyes searched through the crowd. Staring back at her were various hues of brown, all armed, all ready. 

“We’ve already got the border surrounded; they know we’re coming and what we’re coming for. Get her out, alive.” The stress she put on that last word didn’t do justice for how much she meant it. Alive was the only option.

“Get me as close to Zakar as you can. I do not care if he gets out of this alive or dead; I will distract the ape man while you locate and retrieve the king. Understood?”

“My Queen,” Esi’s voice is quiet and still holds the authority it did before her title was stripped from her. “Aren’t we to get you out alive as well?”

The words were hard to get out, but Ramonda knew she meant them. “Get her out, alive,” she repeated. “If the King has been located and retrieved, then retreat.”

“Your Majesty-”

Ramonda’s clenched teeth were bared, displaying the force it took for her to echo herself. “Retreat.”

Nobody dared question her again and with a quick nod and cross of her arms, the Queen was satisfied. “Masihambe (Let’s go).”

It seemed as though the mountainside had grown colder since Ramonda was last there just hours ago. The Dora Milaje marched in step behind her, Esi at her side. The cave entrance was just before them, and it was blocked off completely. Jabari men and women stood, shutting off the cavern to the outside world and they didn’t budge when Ramonda approached. 

Nobody spoke, not a single word uttered. Their curved staff mirrored that of their leaders and they seemed angsty, ready for a good fight. 

“Shukuma (Move).” Ramonda’s voice was loud and declarative and still, they stayed. 

A voice even louder boomed over the brigade of bodies. “Let the woman through.”

Zakar’s men move at his command, but not before one of them tries to be ballsy. His staff swings for Ramonda’s head, just missing clipping her scalp before his weapon falls to the ground with a clank. The Queen turns just in time to see the spear of a young Dora fly through his thigh.

She can’t hold back her gasp when the large body drops to the ground, crying out in pain. Everyone is frozen, awaiting the move of another. The Jabari warriors let the weight of what just happened sit on their shoulders for a moment before preparing to attack. Another readies his staff to swing, preparing to rip the girl’s head straight off her body, but Zakar’s words keep him in place.

“Yibambe simile (Hold off).”

His men recollect themselves, reestablishing their blockage of entry to the cave. 

“Yiza,” His command is directed at Ramonda now, and she continues her trek to his throne. 

“Your Majesty, I was trying very hard to be nice. But you align your army at my borders, push your way into my home, and injur one of my men.” He rises from the wooden seat, staff ready in his uninjured hand. “I do not take very kindly to that.”

Ramonda doesn’t speak. Her eyes are on his movements, his actions. He’s slower to move on his injured side, which makes sense. It’s the side you impaled and he hadn’t allowed himself enough time to heal before starting shit with your kingdom. 

His right side, however, is much stronger; she has to guess it’s his dominant side. And though he may be damaged on the left, he had a room full of people to make up for his handicap. 

Realistically, it’s too many people. She’s unsure if the large army is due to the impending threat looming over everyone present, but it still wouldn’t make sense. They’re all huddled around his throne, not spread about where they could be more useful.

She takes a closer look at the large seat that Zakar refused to leave unattended. It was wide and tall, which wasn’t unusual, because of his size and stature. But why leave a wooden chair guarded?

Your Queen truly was a genius. It didn’t take her long to figure it out and when she did, it took everything she had to remain expressionless. 

“I do not take very kindly to kidnapping, Zakar.”

“There you go, making empty accusations again-”

The spear in Ramonda’s hand is itching to take out the gorilla man’s other shoulder. “I am not willing to play mind games with you, indoda embi (ugly man). Is this really something you wish to do? Cut the Jabari off from Wakandan resources and protection? Risk the greatest country in the world turning against you?”

“What good is the greatest country in the world if it is run by imbecils whom are incapable of-”

“What makes me incapable? What makes my wife incapable?”

The brute man is silenced.

“You and the elders of this country are so focused on what we have between our legs, more so than the minds we have. We have shown you no reason to doubt us, and yet you do because we are women? I thought we were supposed to be more progressive as a nation than that.”

Zakar is flustered, unable to find the right words and vocalize them.

“Tradition states-”

“To hell with tradition!”

“That is your problem, your Majesty-”

“Thula (Be quiet), Zakar.”

Silence once again. Zakar is frozen in place as Ramonda takes timid steps toward him and his throne. 

“To hell with your misogynistic, sexist, homophobic traditions. This is my kingdom now.”

She gets closer, ignoring the staffs drawn and pointing at her from every direction. 

“This is our kingdom now.”

The sharp end of her spear is pointed to the wooden throne. Ramonda has no doubt that the thick wood will give way with a stab or two of her vibranium weapon, but she’s worried. She doesn’t know how far underneath the piece you are and she doesn’t want to risk stabbing you. 

It’s a chance she’s going to have to take.

“This is our kingdom now!”

The first hit cracks the wood and debris fly back at her. The Jabari warriors surrounding the piece prepare themselves to swing at the Queen, but their hesitation is their downfall. The Dora outnumber them by hundreds and it only takes a second for their staffs to be pressed against their windpipes, holding them in place and out of Ramonda’s way. 

“This is our kingdom now, and we shall make new traditions!”

The second swing of the sharp object shatters the wood and splinters take the air. Zakar wasn’t expecting the throne to breakaway. His thick staff coming in contact with your Queen’s thigh release the gut-wrenching sound of bones crunching. 

Just as quick as he was able to get his hands on her, they hit the flood with a disgusting squelch. The bright crimson of his blood shines on the fresh white snow and his scream causes the entire cave to shake on its foundation. 

Where his hands once were are gorey blood and flesh. Esi’s spear is covered in the same blood that spurts from his body. 

You’re curled up in a hole underneath the space where Zakar’s throne once sat. Ramonda’s heart breaks to see you in the fetal position, unconscious and unresponsive. 

Her breath catches in her chest as she watches, waiting for yours to rise and fall. It does, but it’s so slow, that she worries it won’t continue for long.

It’s an agonizing pain, one that travels through her very being, trying to stand on her now broken leg. Her spear is used more as a crutch as she hobbled over to the giant, brought to his knees. 

“W-What did you do to her?”

He doesn’t respond. 

“Answer me, Zakar!”

Silence.

Esi’s still-bloody spear digs into the side of his neck, just enough to draw a fresh cut. “Unless you want your head to roll with your hands, I suggest you answer your Queen.”

His voice is strained when it finally speaks. “I did nothi-”

“Lies! She is lying here, unconscious! What did you do?” Esi’s anger mirrors Ramonda’s.

She turns back to your body, lying so still and quiet and the hole full of ice that you lay in. Her calculating mind goes to work once more. “Wait, Esi. Zakar, did she take the heart-shaped herb before you took her?”

“Took sounds so harsh-”

Esi’s spear presses deeper, drawing a steady flow of blood, causing the big man to change his words. “Y-yes, she had already taken it.”

“So she already had the powers of the Black Panther?”

“Yes.”

Ramonda nods, a sigh of relief escaping her. “She’s in hibernation.”

“Hibernation? Your Majesty, you’re telling me that if our protector experienced too-cold temperatures, then she’s down for the count?”

“No, Esi, not usually, but she’s been buried in a box full of ice.”

“Is she okay?”

“She will be,” Ramonda’s head points to you, her beloved, still curled into yourself. “Yiza,” she commands. 

While your army come and retrieve you from your frozen slumber, Ramonda hops over to a still-kneeling Zakar. She drops until they’re face-to-face, thankful to relieve some of the pain radiating through her leg. 

“I should have had them kill you.”

“Then why don’t you?”

Ramonda is hushed. Why doesn’t she? He shattered her leg, took you prisoner-

“I don’t know, to be honest.”

Zakar’s eyes are filled with surprise as he drags them upward to gaze at the Queen sitting before him. He’s even more surprised to see hers full of empathy. 

“Come back to the palace with us. We have a lab, filled with doctors who can fix you and your injured men-”

“Why should I accept your help?”

“What other choice do you have?”

The sound of your voice is truly melodious to Ramonda. Her head spins and if her leg weren’t shattered, she would have run right to you. 

Your words were shaky as your body tried to regulate its temperatures. Dora surrounded you, wrapping you in the garments of their winter wear and as you stood on unsteady legs, they moved with you, every step. 

“You ought to be thankful of my wife, for showing you mercy. Had it been the other way around, I would have let Esi behead you.”

Her snicker could be heard from her place behind the Jabari leader. Ramonda’s eyes were on you and they refused to leave, too afraid you’d leave her presence again. 

“If you do not accept her offer to be patched up, you’ll surely bleed out here, will you not?”

He didn’t respond and you bent beside your Queen, lowering yourself to his level.

“Zakar, as beautiful as this red looks, contrasting with the white snow, I believe it best you accept.”

Silence.

“Well, unlucky for you, to have a stubborn King. Aye,” You called out to your army, awaiting their attention. “Mthathe (Take him), and his injured men too. Esi, notify the lab that we’re on our way.”

Ramonda was all too grateful when you scooped her into your arms, bridal style. Her arms fell into place wrapped around your neck and you held her close, tight, too afraid to let her go. 

“My Queen,” you greeted softly, rubbing the tip of your nose to hers. 

“My love,” the tears she’d been holding back for far too long finally spilled over and her hands moved to cup your face, pulling you close. 

“I see you handled your shit, sithandwa.”

Ramonda’s chuckle was full of relief and my god, it was such a beautiful sound to hear. 

“Yes, my love. I handled my shit.”

[writingintheshadowsforever]

Queen Ramonda x Reader Let's Tell The World Part 2

Summary: You and Queen Ramonda have accepted that you can't be together but that doesn't mean everyone has

You grunted in pain when your body made contact with the hard ground. It was the fifth time Shuri had put you down this morning. After officially becoming the Black Panther it was decided that the Princess needed combat lessons. While Shuri did have some knowledge and skill in fighting. It was never her strong suit and that wasn't a problem when T'Challa carried the mantle of Black Panther, and was on the throne. But now it was her responsibility and she knew her fighting skills would need to improve immensely. Which is why Okoye and Ayo were the ones put in charge of training her, but last week Shuri requested a change.

Well it wasn't so much a request as a demand, because you really had no choice in the matter. When Ayo announced that your early morning duties would be exchanged for sparring with Shuri. You didn't see them as training sessions, considering just how much she had learned from Okoye and Ayo in such a short time period. The two of them were the greatest warriors of the Dora Milaje. You were arguably not that far from behind them, but still you knew it was more personal for Shuri than anything.

"Come on get up we're not done" Shuri demanded, holding out a hand.

You looked past the helping hand to see the subtle traces of anger in her face. She thought she was doing a good job on hiding her emotions, but for a trained warrior who had to be proficient in picking up on every little thing. You could see right through her attempts. "No, we're not doing this today."

Shuri frowned. "Doing our daily training sessions."

"You mean our daily y/n beatdowns because that's what this is, and we both know it. Alright Princess I mean no disrespect but can we stop acting like. This doesn't have anything to do with what happened between me and your mother." You said pulling yourself up into a sitting position. if you took her hand no doubt you would be back where you started in under ten seconds.

"I have no idea what you're talking about, this is all professional" Shuri lied.

"Then why switch Okoye and Ayo out for me?" You pushed her.

"It's simple really both Ayo and Okoye are Generals for Wakanda's Army, and already have a number of responsibilities. They have made me more than a capable warrior in the month they were in charge of my training. But I do still need to keep up with it so you, one of the best warriors in Wakanda, was the perfect choice to fill in for them." Shuri explained with a quick shrug coupled with a hint of boredom.

You had to give her the fabricated lie that she just came up with that actually made sense. You wondered if she had practiced that speech, and gave it to someone else. Like Okoye, Ayo, or even the Queen herself.

The Queen. Ramonda. Your former beloved.

Not a day went by where you didn't think about her. Not a night passed where you didn't dream of having her in your arms again. It had been two weeks since you ended your secret relationship with her, and still you wondered if your decision had been too hasty. You hadn't been in charge of personally guarding her since, nor had you been on guard detail for travel. Three days after breaking things off Queen Ramonda had to attend a United Nations council meeting. You assumed you would be going until Ayo revealed that your presence wasn't needed or wanted.

It hurt to know she was shutting you out of her life now, but you understood why. If Ramonda was truly going to heal and move on then the less contact she had with you the better.

"Shuri, stop lying, you know, if you wanted to punch me in the face for breaking your mom's heart. All you had to do was ask I would've gladly let you as long as you agreed to show some res-" Your voice cut off into a cry of pain as her fist connected with your nose. Your upper body flew back to the ground from the force of it. But it didn't feel like your nose was broken but there was blood pouring out of your nostrils from the hit."

"Shuri what the hell?" You exclaimed covering your nose with both hands in an attempt to control the bleeding.

Shuri held up her hands. "You said I could punch you if I showed some restraint."

"You didn't even let me finish talking."

"Well that's obviously what you were going to say" She pointed out with a head tilt. "I showed restraint stop being a baby."

"You also forgot to ask" You muttered under your breath. Somehow forgetting about her super hearing.

"Y/N would it be okay if I punch you in the face for ripping my dear mother's heart out of her chest?" She asked in a low and dangerous voice, but a look of mischief in her eyes.

You scrambled to your feet and backed away from her. "No way Shuri one punch was good enough. I'm sorry about your mom, okay."

"Why did you do it?" Shuri asked not trying to mask the hurt in her voice. While you and her weren't nearly as close as she was with Okoye. She was still pretty familiar with you, and had you as her personal bodyguard more than a few times in the past.

"I didn't want to be Princess but our relationship was inappropriate" You told her looking away in shame.

Shuri scoffed at your answer. "Who?"

"Your mother wanted to go public with our relationship, and you know the elders wouldn't have improved."

"So you're telling me their approval means more to you than your love for my mother" Shuri countered.

"For Bast's sake of course not but they would do everything in their power to tear us apart. Your mother is Queen but I'm just a simple guard Shuri. If they can't twist her arm they will twist mine, and I'm expendable." You explained turning back to look her in the eyes. So she could see the inner turmoil inside of you.

Shuri wanted to argue but didn't have one because everything you had said was true. If your relationship with her mother went public the decision would definitely be met with backlash. It wasn't fair Queen Ramonda had given everything for her country, and when she finally did get the chance to get a little happiness back. She couldn't truly have it because of people being stuck in the old ways of the world.

"I still love her Shuri and I always will nothing in the world will ever change that" You said, pausing to take a breath of exasperation. "But I just don't think we can really be together unless some changes are made."

Shuri's gaze shifted to the sky with a faraway look in them. The Princess was thinking, and you just hoped it wasn't about hurting you.

"I don't like y/n but I must admit you are right. Training session is over. I have other business to attend to." She told you after a few minutes of silence. Shuri turned around to head back into the palace with your eyes boring into her back.

The training session being brought to such an abrupt end confused you. Usually the session would last for at least two hours, but maybe she finally got all the pent up anger for you out.

The Next Day

Your theory was confirmed because when morning came today Shuri was nowhere to be found for the daily combat lessons. You waited for thirty minutes just in case, but it was unnecessary the Princess was hardly ever late. Even if she was, it would only be by a couple of minutes at the most.

You were on your way to take your usual guarding position at the entrance to the palace. When Ayo caught up with you right as you were turning the last corner.

"Go gear up you are needed for traveling duty we leave in an hour" Ayo ordered.

You blinked at her trying to figure out rather or not she was actually serious. "Is this a mission?"

"No, the Queen's presence has been requested at a meeting with the Americans." Ayo said turning to walk away afterwards but your hand reached out catching her by the wrist. Her head snapped back towards you with her eyebrows raised in warning.

Most Doras wouldn't dare to question the General let alone prevent her from walking away after giving out orders.

"I'm sorry General I'm just a little confused as all considering I've been demoted to simple guarding duty for the past couple of weeks. This change is very sudden and out of-"

"The Queen requested for you to be on this trip personally y/n. Now stop questioning me and get prepared to leave" Ayo said, cutting you off.

You don't know how you managed to turn around and began walking back to your stationed room. At that very moment after hearing it was Ramonda who asked for you, but your legs were moving. Maybe it was the fear of how Ayo would react if you just continued to stand there dumbfounded. Did your beloved finally forgive you?

The team was taking two hovercrafts to the U.S. one will be Ayo, Queen Ramonda, Okoye and surprisingly Shuri. The Princess usually sat these meetings out as she still preferred to avoid the actual political side of things. For the time being while she still could. The second one was for the rest of the Doras which you were piloting. You were slightly disappointed that you weren't with the Queen, but maybe this was all just professional with nothing personal going on. The Queen needed one more guard and you were the best option for her to go with. Ayo wouldn't dare bring some inexperienced new trainee along for something this important.

It was a two-hour trip to the country, and you guys landed in Washington D.C. the meeting would be held. At the Department of Justice with some government officials. The hotel the country had put the Queen in wasn't far from the building. Of course Ayo sent you and others ahead to scout not just the hotel itself, but the entire street. All of you knew this was another attempt to negotiate a deal for Wakanda to share. Its source of vibranium these types of meetings would be held at least three times a month by various other countries as well. Queen Ramonda wouldn't give them anything, but she figured it was better to at least show her face. Rather than outright turn them down if she at least heard them out. It would keep them from growing even more hostile than they already were.

The meeting wouldn't take place until tomorrow afternoon. Queen Ramonda decided to just retire to her room where she would reside till then. If she needed anything the Doras would be the only ones permitted to bring it to her. Heck you guys were the only ones allowed on the floor where her room was located.

"Go to the Queen, you are to be by her side for the entirety of this trip." Ayo told you as she was assigning each guard a position.

You frowned in confusion. "You already sent guards to be outside her room, and Okoye is in charge of the floor itself. Where will I be."

"I told you with the Queen," she repeated. A bit annoyed at you once again questioning her.

"But where with th-" You started.

Ayo shot your repetitive question down with a glare. She closed the distance between the two of you and placed her mouth to your ear. "We have reason to believe the Americans might attempt to assassinate Queen Ramonda. For that reason we don't want her to be alone for even a second. You are the only one here who has ever been allowed in her personal space without restriction. So it makes sense we want her relaxed and not worrying herself to death tonight."

Confusion was replaced with fury at the news of a maybe assassin wandering around trying to get to the Queen. You prayed the Americans wouldn't dare to be so bold. Because whoever they did send wouldn't be returned to them alive. Not this time.

"I won't let her out of my sight" You promised.

Ayo stepped back and nodded for you to go.

Your hand hovered over the doorknob in hesitation. Doubt filled your heart making you want to do nothing more than turn around and beg for another position. It was crazy how you had wished for this opportunity so many times. In the past two weeks after not being able to even see her, but now that it was here. You were scared of what the outcome would be.

Was she even alerted that you would be the one guarding her?

"Earth to y/n are you going to go in or not? You've been standing there for two minutes." Aneka called out to you waving a hand in your face.

You blinked a few times still trying to gather your thoughts, but you managed to answer. "Um yes."

Aneka shook her head pulling the door open herself before you could even think much of it. She gave you a gentle push and your feet were moving carrying you into the room. The door closed.

Of course they gave her the best room the hotel could offer. A grand suite no doubt but it still didn't compare to her room back in Wakanda not in size or beauty. The floor was covered in a deep red carpet. The king size bed was positioned in the center of the room topped with way too many pillows. The color scheme for the sheets and pillows were a brown mixed with red matching the carpet. The room only had two windows, one on the side of the bed. It was long and rectangular with the curtains still closed, and the other window was big enough it took up the whole left side of the room. Where there would've been a wall there was a window covered as well. A brown cushioned futon sat in front of the window.

There was a door off to the right side and it must have led to the bathroom. You could hear water running on the other side of it. Ramonda did always prefer getting settled in early in the day rather than late at night. Nearly two months ago you would be the one to run the bath water.

You figured for the time being she was perfectly safe in the bathroom, and didn't need you in there with her. So you stood awkwardly by the bed facing away from the bathroom door with a spear in hand. A few minutes of awkward and deafening silence passed or maybe it was longer. You couldn't really tell every second that went by right now was the longest in your life.

The silence was broken with a loud crash that ended with the sound of glass shattering, and a small scream mixed in. Panic seized your body as you realized that. You failed to check the bathroom for any possible entry points. The other Doras would've checked but they would assume you would as well. You were on your feet throwing your shoulder into the door with such force. The hinges were broken as the door flew open upon impact slamming into the wall behind.

You stepped into the bathroom in a fighting stance with your spear armed to jab an enemy through the throat. "My love" You addressed her unable to help the slip of the tongue.

"Y/N what are-" Queen Ramonda started but paused as she took in how your body quivered with fear.

"Are you hurt?" You asked her eyes scanning the room in a frantic search for the intruder.

"If you would take the time to look at me you would see that I am fine" Ramonda replied in a soft voice.

"It wouldn't be appropriate your Highness" You shot back nervously.

"Neither was calling me your love but you did it anyway."

"It was a slip of tongue. I won't do it again" You whispered.

"I'm decent y/n you can look" she reassured you.

Slowly you turned around to take in the scene behind. The Queen was half on the floor, and the edge of the giant round bathtub. In front of her small pieces of red glass shined on the white tiled floor.

"I simply slipped and reached to catch myself accidentally knocking the red vase down. I don't know what genius thought it would be a good idea to put it so close to the tub." Queen Ramonda explained pulling her towel tighter around her body.

It was hard for you to not stare as her beautiful brown skin glistened with water. But you were more focused on the red glass before her. "Did any of it get in your feet?" You asked in a hurried tone.

"No I'm fine" she insisted attempting to stand but you were in front of her in a matter of seconds. Your arms reached to pick her up but she placed a firm hand on your forearm. "What are you doing?" she demanded. A hint of anger in your voice as you were finally about to cross a boundary.

"I'm just going to carry you to the door, your Highness," You told her.

"There is no need I'm perfectly capable of walking," she argued.

"There is glass you have no shoes on, and could get some embedded in your foot. I can't let that happen." You argued back.

"I have eyes I can see the glass and therefore avoid it" Queen Ramonda pointed out.

"There could be tiny pieces naked to your eye just allowing me to carry you. What if it is poisoned glass or something? It would be a unique way to get to you."

"No one would possibly-"

"I'm your royal guard. It's my job to think of all possibilities and act accordingly." You said in a tone that was final.

Queen Ramonda regarded with a surprised look at your boldness. She knew bringing you on this trip would result in some personal feelings, but never did she think the two of you would end up here. "Fine but just to the door."

You nodded and then you were lifting her into your arms bridal style to carry her a short distance. She didn't wrap her arms around your neck instead. She kept the grip on the towel not wanting to risk it falling off or slipping even a little.

You set her down on the outside of the bathroom on the carpet floor. "Go get settled on the bed. I want to make sure none of it gets in your feet, or arms.

"It didn't" she sighed in annoyance.

"I could ask Shuri to come and check if you don't want me to" You reasoned with a shrug. Having to fight off the urge to grin as she glared at you now. You went back to clean up the mess and collect a few samples to pass off to Aneka. Ayo would have the glass tested to be a hundred percent sure it was clean.

Queen Ramonda was lounging on the bed with her feet laid out in front of her crossed over each other. She had switched out the towel for a black robe that was brought along with her from her wardrobe.

You took a seat at the bottom of bed and lifted her feet to place them in your lap. So you could begin the inspection for any glass. She didn't argue as you worked flicking at any fluff on her feet, but they would twitch at the ticklish feeling.

"I'm almost done" You told her after about two minutes.

"I told you nothing was there," she remarked.

You let your nail graze her foot from top to bottom with a smirk. She jumped at the feeling pulling her foot away, well she tried anyway. Your grip tightened keeping it right where it was in the line of fire. "You don't laugh much these days do you?"

Queen Ramonda raised an eyebrow at you daring you to do it. "Not much I don't have a lot of reasons too, especially nursing a broken heart."

Your grip faltered and she pulled both of her feet safely. "You know I still love you right." You told her to lift your head up to face her.

She nodded at your confession.

"It's not that I don't want to fight for us Queen Ramonda, but it wouldn't even be a fight for me at least. I hardly have any power or influence. I'm just a guard not even General."

"I could change that" she murmured barely loud enough for you to hear.

You let out a humorless chuckle at that. "But you won't and I wouldn't accept it when I don't deserve it."

"Well how about this instead." Queen Ramonda moved to crawl towards you. "I do think we deserve one more night together. I hated how the last one ended."

When you glanced down, having a clear sight of her marvelous cleavage. You gulped and quickly brought your gaze back to her face that was only inches away from yours. Before you knew it her lips were on yours, and even though there was a voice in your head telling you not to do it. What your body and heart wanted won over all rationality as your lips moved against hers in a slow and passionate kiss. She brought her hand up to cup your right cheek as this kiss went on and on. Until finally you pulled away slowly breathing hard and your eyes stayed close.

Ramonda pressed her forehead to yours as she got her breath back as well. "One more night" she pleaded breathlessly.

"I want to do more than anything but I have to stay focused, and I can't do it if we do that. I have to keep you safe" You whispered with disappointment. With a groan you captured her lips in another desperate kiss thinking it would be the last.

This time when the kiss ended she pulled away and settled back against the pillows. "Will you at least hold me then sthandwa? I have a long day ahead of me tomorrow, and would like a peaceful night of sleep."

"Is that an order entle?" You replied with a tiny smirk.

"No," Queen Ramonda answered.

You removed your shoes and some of your armor so she would be more comfortable laying against you. Then made your way to the other side of the bed to lay back on the mountain of pillows. You opened your arms and Ramonda wasted no time laying back into them. She hummed in satisfaction when you closed them around her, placing a kiss on top of her head. You wished her a goodnight and kept your eyes trained on the door.

Queen Ramonda slept for the whole night nuzzling herself deeper into your arms. It made you wonder if she was unconsciously making sure you were still there. You didn't sleep at all knowing the job was more important than rest. Early morning came and you managed to shift out from under her. At the sound of knocking on the door you took your spear in hand before walking over to open it.

Shuri was on the other side balancing two trays of various foods in both of her hands. You moved aside without question to let her in, and was going to step out to give them some privacy.

"Y/N you can stay, I actually need to talk to both of you," Shuri said. You came to a halt too, so look back at her a bit cautiously.

"It's nothing bad, come on" she encouraged you.

After the Princess annoyed her mother till she was fully awake and prepared to eat. The two of them sat on the bed enjoying the food with sunlight basking into the room. As the curtains were pulled back to let it in and you stayed on the couch in guard mode.

"So did you two enjoy your night together? Shuri asked out of nowhere

Queen Ramonda nearly choked on the juice she was drinking at the abrupt question. You thanked Bast the blushing on your face wasn't visible right now as you tried to keep a stoic face.

"There is no need to be so awkward. I know about you two already," Shuri continued, throwing a piece of fruit in her mouth. As if she was just trying to make casual conservation.

"Um Shuri I don't know what you think happened between us last night but nothing it did" Queen Ramonda told her.

"Oh trust me I know with my panther senses I hear everything doesn't matter where we are." Shuri replied, shooting both of you with a knowing look.

"Okay wow um I'm going to stand outside" You exclaimed once you realized what she was implying.

"Shuri" Her mother scolded her in disbelief

The Princess pretended to gag before bursting into laughter. "I should be the one offended. Do you know I couldn't stand to sleep in my own room for a month. The lab truly was my safe space with considerable loud music."

You were getting up to leave and demand Aneka replace you. Ready to not back down no matter what. If Ayo punished you then you got punished.

"Okay okay I'm sorry come back y/n please" Shuri chuckled. You turned back a bit unsure so you kept standing.

"But for real mother, did you not enjoy y/n's company?"

Queen Ramonda tried to figure out a way to answer the question without giving her feelings away completely. It would seem she took too long to conjure up a believable lie.

"Mother, stop trying to fool me. I know I'm young but I hope you don't see me as foolish. I see your love for her clear as day. There is a need to hide it. I mean who do you think ordered y/n to be on this mission and placed in your room last night" Shuri revealed with a shrug.

Both you and the Queen looked at her in shock. "Wait so Ayo was in on this?" You asked

"Of course she was, I mean it was her and Aneka who helped me conjure up the plan. Okoye didn't think we were right to be doing such a thing. She was worried the two of you wouldn't reconcile with each other as planned."

"And what if we didn't?" You pushed.

"Ha so the two of you did it worked" Shuri yelled pointing a finger at both of you.

"Shuri, it hardly matters what happened last night. I'm afraid that y/n is right and you know it as well. I already have to deal with these countries coming at us from all sides, and it's tiresome. I don't wish to fight the Council anymore than she does." Queen Ramonda said, catching your eyes with a saddened expression.

It broke your heart to finally hear her agree with you, but it was something that needed to be said. You gave her a tiny nod.

"You won't have to deal with the countries after today dear mother. Nor will the elders be able to hold the throne and your position over your head anymore. I will make sure of it" Shuri told her.

"How exactly do you plan on doing that?" She questioned her daughter.

"By taking the throne of course" Shuri answered. As if it should've been obvious.

Your eyes widened in surprise at her words. Could it really be so simple? And when did she make this decision? No was more shocked than Queen Ramonda herself who scooted over so she was sitting right beside the Princess.

She took her hands into her own and placed them in her lap. "Shuri, my beautiful and brave daughter. You are already the Black Panther and the protector of Wakanda." She said, bringing a hand to caress her cheek as tears swelled up in her eyes. "There is no need for you to take the throne now. You are too young and have had too much thrust upon you so soon already. I do love y/n and want to be with her but not at your ex-"

Shuri wrestled a hand away from her grip making sure to be gentle, so she could raise it to make her mother pause. "Mother, I know I'm half the age T'Challa was when he became king, and father held the position in order to give him more time to grow. But brother's ascension to the throne was still forced. I should've taken the throne when Namor came but I stood back and you nearly died because of it."

Ramonda opened her mouth to argue, but Shuri wasn't having it. "I want to take the throne and I will. Mother, it's time for you to rest and be happy for a while. You need it and you deserve it." She gave her hand a light squeeze as the tears started falling down her cheek.

Princess Shuri leaned forward to kiss her mother on the forehead. Then stood up to leave, grasping your hand on the way out. "I will make you her personal guard when I have the throne. No one will question me."

Both you and the Queen were in shock from what just transpired. Shuri paused at the door to say one more thing. "You can attend the meeting in a few hours if you wish to, but I will make my announcement there. I will handle any challenges once we return home." With that Shuri was gone leaving the two you of alone.

The room was quiet for a few minutes as you and the Queen just stared at each other. Wondering just how long Shuri had been planning this? Was it when you first broke up with her on the faithful night after the Christmas banquet. Was it after you told her the truth during the training session? It finally struck you that none of it mattered. Unable to hold back your need for her any longer you surged forward letting your spear fall to the floor with a loud clang.

You cupped her face between both of her hands and pressed your lips up against hers. There was nothing gentle or soft in the way your lips moved against hers, but she responded with just as much ferocity wrapping her arms around your waist. She brought you down on top of her rolling over so you were now under her. All without breaking the kiss, and you let out a moan having forgotten she possessed such strength.

"I only ask one more thing of you if we're really going to do this," Ramonda said, pulling away for a second.

You leaned forward to chase her lips but she pushed you back down denying you. "Yes sthandwa" You gave in.

"Marry me" she whispered in your ear.

"Is that an order?"

Tag List: @thankyoualexkingston-blog @bestfriend491 @starrknessblog @youre-where-i-wanna-go @kofforever @awolfcsworld @galagadog8 @kya-rose @letitias-fav

[bestfriend491]

Your shield of protection

- A drabble 🤍 (Imagine she's in a suit, though. I didn't mention it, but just do it. 🤭)

Ramonda

There's no doubt that Ramomda protects the people she loves, but it's always different depending on who it is she's protecting.

For her kids, she'd move heaven and earth to save them.

For her people, she'd defend the entire nation by herself if she had to.

For you, though, she'd never let a threat even approach you without interfering in some way.

From when you were younger, paving your way into your desired career even as you held the weight of the crown, she supported you greatly.

Years later, she's still as protective.

It's subtle, but a detail in your relationship that you never take for granted.

She'd never even let you trip and stumble without reaching out to save you.

She supports you unconditionally, no questions asked.

“Sthandwa sam…” Ramonda put out her hand for you to take as you got off of your hoverbike, smiling at her often overdramatic, but always appreciated way of greeting you.

“Ewe? (Yes?) ” you replied, smiling.

She helped you shuffle your way next to her, the royal drivers going off with the bike and making his way around the corner. Then, she got a good look at you.

“You look absolutely ravishing tonight. Who picked that outfit?”

You laughed, “Oh, my wife did. You might know her, I think she's got to be around here somewhere.”

“Mh, well, wherever she is, she's got incredible taste.” She pulled you closer, holding your waist, before kissing you.

She always knew how to compliment someone, you found. Even as she twirled you around slowly to give her final decree of amazement, you could feel yourself getting flushed at her gaze.

“Are you ready for tonight?” She asked, leading you to the entrance of the long awaited ceremony that you'd been invited to receive an award at.

You'd never been more excited for something. You'd worked hard to gain even a small amount of recognition at what you did. But Ramonda also knew your nerves were probably shot, driving your anxiety to a higher level than usual. That's why she'd offered to escort you herself. In any other case, she wouldn't want to risk bringing too much attention to you both. You were already queen, having her come to your work events would only exacerbate the amount of people who came to disturb your peace, or worse, threaten your safety.

In many ways, you wanted to be in and out as fast as possible, but hearing her words made you less wary. You knew she had your back.

“Probably not. But, it's happening now. And I've got you, so I'm sure I'll be alright.”

She hummed at that, content with you knowing that whatever happened, she'd be right by your side.

You walked towards the entrance, seeing a flash directed at you once or twice as you proceeded. You assumed the first few were accidents, merely the photographers getting their mandatory pictures of whoever entered. It was only when your names were called that the flashes felt more intentional. An onslaught of white blinded you as the clicking sound filled your ears in an overwhelming sense. You felt yourself moving only slightly, trying to adjust to the new environment.

“Ramon-”

“I've got you, Sthandwa.” She reassured, her arm already around your waist, leading you to the less intense side of the building.

Her grip on you was firm, not one that any accidental pushing or nudging could lead you to separate. It was just what you needed; a message.

I'm never letting go, my love.

Your nerves settled, willing your vision to grow clearer even at the sight of farther away flashes. It led you to letting yourself smile for the first time since before you'd entered. There had to be at least some photos of you not looking horrified or on the verge of running away.

With Ramonda still wrapped around you, you found your way to your seats. With her on your left, her hand found the it's way to your knee, another act of reassurance. You let out a quiet sigh, breathing more regularly now.

The night went smoothly, with Ramonda never resisting the urge to share a quick glance with you. Her gaze was so mesmerising, so captivating, that you found yourself getting lost in it throughout the whole ceremony. You'd let yourself forget what you came here for if you could. Fortunately, your wife was less enchanted when it was important.

“Y/n, baby, they called your name.”

“What?” You asked, still in a daze.

“Your name, darling. They called it. It's time to go up.” Ramonda whispered tenderly.

The words finally registered, and you stood up with her support. Leading you towards the stage, she was sure to stay more vigilant of where you were stepping than you were.

Extending her arm to help you up the steps, but not going up them herself, you found yourself reaching for her instinctively. Plainly speaking, you were gonna get her on the stage with you.

“Come up.” You mouthed to her, keeping a smile on your face for the probing eyes.

She shook her head, not trying to make this a moment about the two of you. She wanted you to have your moment.

“Please?” You pleaded, holding her hand with all the poised firmness that you could manage. You knew that with enough force, she could easily get out of your grip, but you hoped that the former description would help your case. It was your grip. That always changed her level of resistance..

Unsurprisingly, but still bringing you much relief, she relented, stepping up and next to you. She left some distance just in case pictures of you needed to be taken, but you couldn't help but notice her stepping a pace in front of you, angling herself as a discreet shield.

The fact helped you through your speech, and back to your chairs. All through the night you felt her protective presence make you feel more at ease.

An ease that only she could bring.

[nzia-writes]

T a l e s of B l a c k P a n t h e r

S e t i n :

F e a t u r i n g :

Ayo/Aneka

Okoye

Okoye + Ayo/Aneka

RiRi Williams

Shuri Udaku

Queen Ramonda

Nakia Shauku

[iinkonde]

Sedilaka

Translations • Makube chosi, makudede ubumnyama kuvele ukukhanya. = Every said on the shrine, let it manifest into everything we say and ask for. May Light prevail and darkness be abolished.

Camagu = Ancestral greetings equivalent to amen

Amathongo = Ancestors

Endumbeni = Rondavel house for the ancestors

Words • 2113

Taglist • @ziayamikaelson @sweetsummerhaze @nzia-writes @greek-freak101 @iinkonde

0.01

Trudging across the forest in attempt to get to the group of tiny figures playing around a small fire. Nearing the children, they start to sidle away or melt into the air. Only one figure remains, a child facing the fire .Slowling circling around the child, who continues to stare on at the bristling fire. Hands busy grinding something onto a big rock near their feet. Peering under the hood it’s eyes are blank,a far away look etched onto their features; features that are familiar… it’s the face… those eye-

Ramonda woke up with a startle. Laboured breathing as she gripped the bed sheets to level herself in reality.

Filled with adrenaline she makes work of getting out of her king size bed. Stumbling to the bathroom, her fingers find the switch as soon as she enters the room. The light is blinding but she doesn’t care.

Quickly making her way to the sink, flicking the tap open she falls over the basin immediately splashing the cold water on her face.

Absentmindedly reaching for a towel, dragging it down painfully slow. Wanting to delay having to look up into the big mirror in front of her. Afraid she’ll be transported back into the dream, transported back to those eyes. Ones she hadn’t seen in over two decades.

Raising her eyes to the mirror, she takes note of the bags under her eyes. The gray in her eyebrows. Exhaustion written all over her face. Her silk headwrap probably well on its way out of the palace now. Those things never seem to stay wrapped around her head. Her frizzy braids starring back at her. Pointing out of their original place.

She lets out a huff and shuffles out of the en-suite. Grabbing the gown laying on the ottoman.

Patting her bed for her scarf right on the edge of the bed the purple fabric lay. Snatching it she hastily wrapped it around her head, didn’t matter the presentation.

“Griot, the door.” Ramonda spoke to the AI

The door clicked open, she straightened her posture and stepped out. A few royal guards patrolling the hallway stopped to greet her. Yoliswa in particular quickly walked to her side.

“Queen Mother, are you in need of assistance?.” She hurried out.

“Take me to Ramatla. Alert the General tell her we have a long journey ahead” The Queen responded in a hushed tone.

She didn’t want for this to reach the ears of Shuri or anybody else before she understands what exactly this is, whatever these dream that’ve plagued her for a few weeks now mean

This one though, it left chills along her spine. The hairs on her neck were left sticking out she was nervous. Anxious for what awaits her.

Yoliswa quickly presses one kimoyo bead sending a signal to Okoye.

Ramonda turned and made her way to the exit of the palace. Yoliswa made a quick sign for the rest of the gaurds to stay behind.

"My Queen, are we walking there?"

Ramonda just turned and looked her in the eyes. That was a answer enough. Yoliswa nods at that and takes strides alongside her majesty.

¥

Venturing out at midnight was a repeating occurrence for the queen. For the year and half the palace has felt suffocating for her. She felt like the walls would close in on her. It felt so different and cold being here.

The two people she came into this kingdom for were both gone. She hadn’t had enough time to process the loss of her husband and she was losing her son a few years later too.

And she so quickly had to be strong for her daughter and her nation.

She doesn’t remember having a moment to just settle in her loss and feel the magnitude of the pain that she felt. The gaping hole in her heart too much to bear. So she’d explore Wakanda and all she had to offer all over again.

Just to keep her mind occupied because she was sure if she left it slip, she’d fall and never get back up.

The second set of footsteps behind her broke her out of her reverie. Okoye had joined them as soon as she received the message. Ramonda could sense the perplexity in the way the walk.

She was grateful both of them had followed her without question. Ramonda wasn’t sure she even had the answer. All she knew was she had to relay this to Ramatla. Hoping he could talk with the answer, beg them for clarity if need be.

Because for the life of her, Ramonda couldn’t wrap what she saw around her head. So many scenarios ran rampant in her head and none of them made much sense.

The journey to the seer didn’t take long. In the short distance they could see a figure by the rondavel.

Yoliswa quickly stepped in front of her to open the gate for them to enter. Okoye silently closed the gate behind her.

“Daughter of Lumumba, we were awaiting your arrival”. Ramatla stepped into the light.

Ramonda’s body went rigid for a minute. Blood drained from her head. This changed things. If they were waiting for her it means this was bound to happen. It was no coincidence.

All the of them work to remove their shoes. You can’t enter the ancestral house with shoes on.

Ramatla moves aside to let them enter eNdumbeni. He watched Ramonda sit near the mirror. Shaking his head chuckling as he noticed the anomaly of her action.

“Kawutsho Mntwan’ezinyanya uboneni?” Slight humour in his voice.

The two Dora’s couldn’t be more confused. They truly didn’t know what to make of this. Although there was a whimsical attitude in the way the great seer spoke to them, the atmosphere was tense. Seriousness filled the air.

As soon as those words left Ramatla’s mouth, Ramonda was transported back to her dream. And all the other visions she’d seen were all flowing and ebbing around her like picture’s swirling in the wind.

Okoye could see that her queen was in a trance, she crawled towards her. Sitting behind to support her neck. Ramonda’s body limp in her hold.

Ramatla motioned for Yoliswa to turn the mirror toward Ramonda.

He kneeled near them, incense burning slowly in his hold. He swayed it around himself first before doing the same to Ramonda.

Breathing it in harshly she let out a series of coughs. Her eyes opened slightly. A tear accompanying her focusing vision. Ramatla’s hand tilted her head slightly upwards. That triggered something.

Suddenly there was water coming out of Ramonda’s mouth.

To say Okoye and Yoliswa were horrified would be an understatement. Okoye was petrified, she couldn’t lose the queen. Not over something like this, this was unexplainable. Nobody would believe her. Ramonda couldn’t die, not in her arms. Certainly not so soon after they lost their Black Panther.

“Do something! Why are you just sitting here, can’t you see she’s choking?” Okoye cried out.

Ramatla just raised his hand to silence her. And motioned to a semi conscious Ramonda

Her eyes snap open., She’s covered in a cold sweat and water, salt water, shaking, heart pounding, looking around the room suspicious and paranoid that the water may have followed her.

"The water. It’s coming. I can smell it, it enveloped me and all of you-" Ramonda let out, frantically trying to sit up. She turned to Ramatla, the hint of humour from before long gone. Panic swirled in his eyes.

"The screams, people being swallowed by the ocean. My people”. Ramonda settles into whoever’s behind. She’s so tired, so exhausted.

“My Queen, the only thing that was shown to me was your pending visit. I was told to point you to that mirror. Our ancestors didn’t want any messages to come through me. Only that I provide you with means to an answer that’s been waiting for you for weeks now”. Ramatla provided sounding just as down as he felt.

Yoliswa who had been kneeling near the mirror throughout the episode, looked at Ramatla for an instruction. He blinked in response. Yoliswa shuffled closer to Ramonda.

“Queen Mother, are you comfortable with your soldiers being here. They also might be able to see what you see in this mirror?”.

Ramonda nodded quickly.

She didn’t have a choice and waiting for the counsel to decide whether or not her visions are things to consider emergent was not something she wanted to pursue.

Ramatla sings a few chants. He lights his incense again. They can’t necessarily hear the words he saying. His hushed tone and the way his words tumble out his mouth proves it difficult to follow his line of sentences.

“-ingathi ningam’mpendula. Makube chosi, makudede ubumnyama kuvele ukukhanya.”

He stands up and makes his way to the Djembe. On his way back he scopes a white powder substance. Wearing the drum diagonally around his body he starts to thump it slowly at first.

Walking circles around him, the rhythm picks up and the volume increases.He stops… only to blow the powder into the mirror.

The strange powder and increase danced in front of their eyes. The frequencies were high. When the smoke cleared, Ramonda’s eyes caught movement in the mirror.

The reflection of her environment slowly morphed into a motion image of free fields. Like a movie was projected on the mirror.

¥

The field’s started to seem familiar. It was like she was walking through them. A hut came into view. A very familiar hut. One she remembers playing in as a kid. One she remembers having sleepovers at as a teenager. One she remembers sneaking into as a young adult.

Remembers running up that hill to inform you she’d cracked the code. That she’d heard the elders whispering about a powerful hidden nation. One that she knew she’d be able to penetrate, because she’d said she was smart enough to do that one time.

She was. She did get into the nation. Had met a young boy in the woods. The woods that she’d later find out are some sort of hologram.

The hut was right in front of her now. It was like Mama Noziza would walk right out, with a glass of water ready for Ramonda to drink because somehow she always knew that she ran and never walked when she came up there.

Noziza would just tilt her head back and Ranonda would barrage past her to get to you. It was almost always the case. Ramonda’s mother had mentioned it was the same story with you too. They’d laugh about it over a cold glass of sugar water.

The wooden door opened. Nostalgia punched her right in the gut. She can’t remember the last time she’d seen this scenery. More than 20 years the voice in the back of her head whispers. Ramonda could cry, she wants to scream really.

The broken window on the left brings in the most light. She remembers it breaking. A bunch of your friends were playing with a DIY dodgeball made with plastic and filled with wet newspapers. Your cousin had tied it so tight you had to develop skills to dodge it because it was painful. The stinging sensation forever etched into her brain.

You, tired of losing threw it so hard it went just a little higher than you wanted it and it pierced through your window. Everyone scattered. Including Ramonda, who just as she rounded the Rondavel to try and slide down the small hill, was snatched from behind by Noziza.

Tears gather at the memories, they cloud her vision. Snuffling she wipes them away to carry on the journey her ancestors are taking her on.

As she fixes her gaze back into the vision. She notices the room is empty. Void of the small pieces of furniture it once held. It zones in again. She can now make out a small figure in the middle of the hut.

Kneeled down facing forward. It feels like déjà vu. The same instance as her dream earlier.

This time the figure turns around, still on the floor. One knee tucked into their chest. Hands still grinding into a big rock. This time though Ramonda sees a pile of leaves and branches surrounding the small figure.

It looks up… and Ramonda let’s out a chocked sob.

“No”. She lets out. “No”.

The mirror clears instantly. No sign of it ever being a projector or whatever the heck that was. Ramonda wants to get up and leave. But she knows she can’t. Her body’s too weak to carry her all the way back to the palace.

“Kumkanikazi, ngobani ababantu?”

¥

[mbakuxblackpanther]

Meeting the Jabari leader

Requested❌

Warnings or triggers: none

Characters: Shuri, Tchalla, Queen Ramonda, Mbaku, nakia, okoye, kuba(m'baku's helper)

Story type: MbakuxReader

This is my first imagine on this page so it may be a little bad but it'll get better as I write more of them😂

Excuse any errors and Enjoy the story!

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Y/n pov:

I was in shuri's lab helping her make parts for T'challa's new suit when she called me over to her. "Y/n come here please" she said. "Yes princess" I said laughing. She hated when I called her that considering I was her bestfriend. "Bast y/n please stop with the formalities I beg of you" she said sighing playfully. We both laughed and sat down. "Your help is needed in jabariland. They are having trouble with their trading system and are in need of a Trade manager." Shuri said. "What will the job consist of?" I asked nervously. I didn't like talking in front of people or presenting things. I was very shy and quiet. "Nothing much all you have to do is help the Jabari tribe manage their trading business with the merchant tribe" shuri said. "Oh ok. That doesn't seem too hard" I said taking a breath of relief. "Very well your flight leaves tomorrow. Here are your communication devices in case you need me for anything." Shuri said handing me a kimoyo bead bracelet. "Thank you so much shuri." I said pulling her into a hug. We parted ways and prepared for my departure. The next morning I packed my suit cases and waited outside with shuri. Today was also the day T'challa returned home from his mission with Nakia. Suddenly, I felt a big blast of air wash over me. I looked up and noticed the royal talon fighter landing. The king-to-be and nakia stepped out of the aircraft. Shortly after, the dora Milagé came to take nakia and prepare her for the upcoming ceremony. "So suprised my sisters both came to see me before our big day" tchalla said smiling at us. I wasn't his real sister but tchalla always treated me like family. Every since me and shuri became besties at 7 years old he's always referred to me as his sister. "You wish, Im here for the emp beads I've developed an update. I'm also here to see y/n off for her departure" shuri said smartly. "Update? But it works perfectly" tchalla replied. "How many times do i have to teach you, just because something works doesn't mean that it cannot be improved." Shuri said to tchalla. "You are teaching me? What do you know?" Tchalla said as he handed the kimoyo beads to shuri. "More than you." She said while walking off to the royal talon. "I can't wait to see what kind of update you make to your ceremonial outfit" tchalla said. shuri flipped him off as she walked away to take me to the royal talon. "Shuri!" Queen Ramonda said. "Sorry mother" shuri said quickly putting her middle finger down. Shuri walked with me to the royal talon. Okoye was going to be taking me to Jabariland. "If you need anything use your kimoyo beads to contact me" shuri said pulling me into a hug. "I will. See you later shuri" I said getting into the aircraft. Shuri waved to me as the royal talon took off into the air.

*timeskip*

"Y/n we are here." Okoye said. As we landed in Jabariland, I grabbed my suitcases and prepared to go to my chamber where I'd be staying (imagine a big room but with fur couches/ furniture and big windows). "Y/n Mbaku wishes to speak with you" Kuba said leading me to him. *what could he possibly want? it is 12:00am* I thought. Kuba led me to M'baku's room. I was greeted by two female guards with both of them standing at each side of the door. "Ulapha ukuza kubona inkokeli yesizwe" (she's here to see the tribe leader) Kuba spoke in Xhosa. The two guards nodded and motioned for me to walk into the room. "Welcome to Jabariland" Mbaku said with a deep,raspy voice. He was very sleepy considering it was now 12:15am. "Thanks for the welcome" I said smiling. "I have some things I wanted to give you" Mbaku replied reaching into his closet. As he looked through the items, my eyes scanned his body. He was very tall with curly black hair, had strong muscles, and thick thighs. I find him very attractive. I was knocked out of my daydreaming by a hand waving in my face. "Hellooo y/n you there?" Mbaku asked. "Yes I'm sorry I was daydreaming." Mbaku chuckled at my slightly embarrassed face. "Here are some of the things you may need for your stay here." He said. I was given a warm blanket, documents for managing the trading business, and also a brand new wooden spear. "What's the spear for?" I asked. *i thought only warriors get those* "you are new to jabariland. It would be rude if I didn't give you anything to protect yourself now wouldn't I?" Mbaku replied. *he does have a point.* I thought. "Thank you for the gifts" I said smiling happily. "No problem nkosazana ." Mbaku said smiling happily at me.

*time skip*

As I prepared for bed, the events of the day flooded my mind and a particular word came to me. *Nkosazana I wonder what that means* I thought. I tried to go to sleep but the word kept ringing in my brain. I thought of an idea and quickly grabbed my kimoyo beads that shuri gave me. *it has an automated ai voice system that can answer any question I have. Almost like the internet but better* "Griot" I spoke into the bracelet. "Yes y/n. What May I help you with?" Griot the ai voice said. "Transalate the word Nkosazana into English and tell me the language." I replied. "The word Nkosazana means "princess" in English and comes from the Xhosa language." Griot spoke. "Thank you Griot" I said.

*princess. He called me princess* i thought.

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Thank you for reading! This is my first imagine so it may be a lil cringe but I promise it gets better 😂let me know if y'all want a part two. I also take requests.

[blacksapphhicmaddonna]

DAY 3: SHURIBBLE - SHURIRI WEEK 2024

she'll say yes

prompts: "a ring", mother word count: 499 xhosa (did my best but if you see something wrong pls lmk!): - andiqondi ukuba ndingayenza ngokwam le nto = "i don't think i can do this myself" - udade omncinci = "little sister" - kubonakala ngathi lixesha lokucwangcisa umtshato = looks like it's time to plan a wedding divider: @firefly-graphics a/n: i know i'm a bit late for day 3 lol. anyway, heavy shuri & okoye dynamic! riri's only mentioned but the focus is still shuriri. i stand by them being wives. hope you enjoy! small taglist cause tumblrs acting up: @mybonafidefeelings @just4shyt3z @s0lam33y @neptoons1998 @lppriceisright @shuririweek

"Please come in with me." Shuri said, breaking the silence from the past 5 minutes. Okoye looked up at the new queen, seeing for a moment only the girl she had watched grow up in the same palace walls. Lifting her head and turning to face the former Dora, Shuri whispered. "Andiqondi ukuba ndingayenza ngokwam le nto." Without question, Okoye reaches out a hand. Grabbing it, Shuri lets herself be softly brought into the room as Okoye opens the big doors. Walking in, Shuri is surrounded by the essence of her mother. Ramonda lives here still, even if only in memory. Entering the bedroom, Shuri swallows as she runs a hand over her parent's bed. The only time she's seen it not perfectly made. Her father's pillow still where he left it, only now her mother's matches it. A moment caught in time. Ramonda had left T'Chaka's belongings the way she remembered them being - used, loved, alive. And now Shuri would do the same. The new queen hadn't noticed Okoye standing in the door frame, fighting back her own tears until now. "Please, come in. I insist." Shuri says, sitting down on the edge of the bed, facing towards a window just slightly cracked. "I had only been in this room once, my entire time as a Dora. The night King T'Chaka… Your father, was killed. Your brother had yet to return and in the night, the Queen called me in. We didn't speak much, but many things were said that night. The Queen… Ramonda" Okoye breathed out the name of her friend, "Asked me to sit with her. She didn't order me to. She asked me. And I sat with her." The warrior explained, glancing around the room before finally taking a step in. Walking over to the young queen, Okoye places a hand on her shoulder. "I can only imagine the challenge this is for you. Even for me, it is strange and… painful, to return after all this time. But I am with you… udade omncinci." Shuri let the warmth of Okoye's hand ground her to the warmth in the room. She was blessed to have had her family, and to have them still. After a few moments and a few silent prayers, Shuri stands up. Offering a quick hug that ends in a tearful, but relieving laugh, Shuri is ready. Walking towards her mother's vanity, Shuri opens drawer after drawer full of jewelry, laughing with Okoye as they remember together. Finally, she finds the small jewelry box she's been looking for. A beautiful, simple but elegant ring with a purple gem. Her mother's engagement ring. Shuri looks up at Okoye with a question in her eyes. Okoye answers knowingly. "Kubonakala ngathi lixesha lokucwangcisa umtshato." Shuri smiles. "Griot." "Yes, Panther?" "Where is Miss Williams?" "On her way to your dinner date for the evening." "Please let her know I'm on my way." Shuri says, closing the box and putting it in her pocket with a smile.