#ranked coin bags

[kusanagihaku]

the promises carved into our tears 

⭢ haku x mc, 3.6k

I will look for you in my next life, and the next, and the next. Now that I have tasted how sweet a happy ending with you can be, I will turn my back on fate over and over again, if only to meet you one last time.

or: a red string soulmate au where hotarubi works for yuelao, 如果可以-style. on ao3 here.

“Nightmares again?” 

Haku sinks into a chair, blinking blearily at Subaru as flames clear slowly from the edge of his vision. “Mm.” 

Subaru smiles sympathetically. He sets a warm teacup down on the table in front of Haku, and motions for him to take a sip. “Gyokuro blend, from Nakamura Tokichi. Zenji’s just stepped out to get this week’s list of clients from Yuelao.” 

Haku murmurs a thanks as he cradles the teacup in his hands. It is nearly too hot to hold, but the weight in his hands is grounding, and it doesn’t take more than a few sips before the fog behind his eyes clear. 

Good. He has a full day of work ahead of him. 

It started after The Incident back at Darkwick – after the smoke had cleared, all major and minor deities had descended on the island, eager to recruit a freshly dead ghoul into their ranks. 

Once most of them had gotten over the shock of also needing to work in the afterlife (Daikokuten had laughed, saying, “How else do you think the gods keep this world running, if not for the behind the scenes work of us supernatural beings?” before promptly offering Taiga a job) and the shock of there being another ghoul in their midst (Zenji’s non-apology was rather sheepish, and mostly directed at Jiro), Towa was the first to be recruited, enticed by Yuelao’s stories of soulmates tied together with red string and destined lovers with fates written in the stars. Haru had followed, of course – only for a while, until Towa gets settled, he said. I’ll worry about him. 

Naturally Zenji got pulled along too, claiming the red strings he’d tie would be brilliant source material for his next manuscript. After all, love sells, doesn’t it? 

Subaru didn’t have the heart to remind him there would be nobody around to publish his manuscript, now that none of them were corporeal, but had followed him anyway, despite an offer from Ame-no-Uzume to work as a kabuki talent scout. There was something repelling about going back to his old life, he said, and left it at that. 

Of course, they pulled the shell of their vice-captain along too. It was the least they could do, with what was left of Haku. 

Not that Haku minded – working for Yuelao isn’t particularly taxing. He sends them a list of soulmates meant to meet that week, each pair of serial numbers complete with the time and location; all they have to do is map out their routes each day, show up at the correct place and time with the red soulmate strings, then let the latent magic floating in the fabric of the universe do its work. 

It’s mostly paperwork anyway, with the biggest part of their job being signing off on each pair after the soulmate strings tie themselves. He can’t complain; it’s been easy work for the past twenty odd years, the days slipping by like water between his fingers. Not a bad way to spend eternity. 

And it’s fulfilling too  – like what Zenji says, there’s something special in seeing bonds form between two people that are two sides of the same coin. It reminds him of–

Haku sets his empty cup down. Shakes his head to clear it. 

Subaru looks up from the book he is reading, but does not say anything. He picks up the teapot, instead, and refills Haku’s cup. 

Haku nods in thanks. 

The comfortable silence stretches out again, drifting like dust motes in the late morning light. It is only interrupted when Zenji arrives back home, banging his way through the entrance of their shared home with a triumphant, “Guess who I met on the way home!”

Haku cracks a smile. There is always something infectious about Zenji’s enthusiasm, no matter how tired he is. “Who?” 

“Towa!” Zenji exclaims. He sets his messenger bag on the table. “Still as floaty as ever. He rejected my offer to let him listen to my latest plot idea, though. It seemed like he had somewhere to be.” 

Subaru laughs. “He must have been heading to a binding. He’s still on morning shift, after all.” 

Zenji hums as he unzips his messenger bag and pulls out their soulmate lists for the week. “I told him he and Haru were welcome over for dinner any time. Don’t think he heard me, though.” 

Subaru nudges a freshly-poured cup of tea away from Zenji’s stack of paper. “I’ll text Haru. It’s been a while since we last saw him.”

And it has been – the last time Haku remembers seeing the red-haired ghoul was sometime two or three months ago in April. All five of them were slated to work a freshman orientation at a university, easily one of the busiest times of the year for the entire Yuelao organisation. Instead of going to his allocated location and waiting, however, Towa had just tossed all the red strings he had in his box up in the air, waved a hand, and trusted that all the strings would go where they were meant to go. 

Haru had cried at the logistical nightmare, then promptly banned Towa from holding the box containing their soulmate strings ever again. Haku wonders idly if Haru ever recovered from the stress. 

Zenji shuffles the stack of paper into three smaller piles, then hands one pile each to Subaru and Haku. They descend into silence, the way they always do with a new list, quietly setting virtual push-pins on their Maps apps to plan out their individual routes for the week. 

Haku is at the end of his list before he sees it. Tucked under entry number 85, his last pair for the week, is a single serial number, slid in at 5.17pm at a park in Meguro. 

He blinks. That’s not supposed to happen. Don’t they usually come in a pair? 

He waits until Subaru looks up from his own list before carefully highlighting the problem. 

Subaru glances over the strange entry, brow furrowed. “Must have been an administrative error. Perhaps whoever was compiling the lists forgot to copy paste the second serial number in?” 

Haku looks doubtfully at the lone serial number sitting at the bottom of the page. Administration has never made a mistake before. “Perhaps.” 

Zenji leans over, peering over his glasses. “My last one for the week is there too,” he says. “At 5.09pm. We can go together to figure it out.” 

Subaru rests his chin on his hands. “My day ends at 4.28pm. Shall we head there together? I’m curious to see what happens.” 

A wave of gratefulness for their wiling companionship slides a smile onto Haku’s face. “Yeah. Yeah, why not?” 

-

The end of the week does not come soon enough. 

They meet at the corner near the Meguro River as the summer sun begins to dip lower in the sky. It is a short walk to the park they are meant to be at, and along the way Zenji regales them with how one of his bindings this morning looked like it was right out of a romance novel. 

“Was it better than the one last week?” Haku teases, and Zenji laughs, bright and loud. 

“The one at the cat cafe? No, nothing can beat that! I could tell right away those two were meant to be, I swear.” 

The park they stop in front of is small, more like a playground than anything else. There is a small child sitting on the swings, blue push-popsicle sweating in his little fist. His feet barely touch the floor as he swings gently back and forth, looking around the neighbourhood with wide, curious eyes. 

“That’ll be him, then,” Haku says. He leans over to check Zenji’s list, then flicks his wrist to check the time. “Any minute, now.” 

Subaru sighs, smiling. “I love it when they find their soulmates young. It’s the best kind of friendship, isn’t it?” 

“Exactly,” Zenji coos. He tugs open his messenger bag to retrieve his box of red strings. “It’s always adorable. Goodness, I want to pinch his little cheeks… he has no idea what’s in store for him.” 

Haku snorts fondly at the two of them. Thank goodness they weren’t visible to humans – three strange men standing in a playground staring at a child? Never mind they still looked like they were in their mid-twenties, they’d be reported for kidnapping straight away. 

Before he can say anything, though, a slightly older boy rounds the corner on his bicycle. It is evident he is new to cycling, shiny orange bicycle wobbling from side to side as he banks hard to the right, trying to make too sharp of a turn. 

Haku barely has time to blink before the boy’s bicycle screeches too far to the right, flinging the boy onto the soft, packed earth of the playground. 

There is a teary “ow,” as the boy sits up, cradling a scraped knee. His hands are bloody, too, roughness of the ground having rubbed abrasions onto the skin of his palm. 

The boy on the swing slips off his seat neatly. He barely comes up to Haku’s hip. “I saw that.”

The boy on the floor whips around at the sound, scowling through his tears. “No, you didn’t.” 

“I did,” he confirms. His tongue flashes blue as he speaks. “It’s okay, though. My brother says it’s normal to fall when you just start learning. Do you need help?”

The older boy hesitates. “Maybe.”

As he helps him up, Zenji slides his box open, and lifts a single red string out of it. He blows, gently, and they watch as the thin thread rolls off the tips of his fingers and drifts over to where the older boy has just regained his balance. It loops around their arms and knots around both their little fingers, giving off a gentle glow as both ends seal, before disappearing. 

The only evidence that anything ever happened is Zenji’s beam as he scribbles a quick signature beside their serial numbers. “Lovely!” 

He clicks his pen closed before tucking everything haphazardly back into his bag, and they watch as the boys pick up the bicycle and begin to walk away. Subaru turns to face Haku. “It’s going to be 5.17pm soon.”

Haku looks down at his watch. Two minutes. 

He has barely retrieved his own box of strings out from his bag when a voice sounds out behind them – “Excuse me. Coming through.”

Time stops. 

It is a voice he can recognise anywhere, a voice he hears in the moments between closing his eyes and falling asleep, one he hears echoing through the threads of his dreams and nightmares alike. It sinks into his skin, past the beat of his heart and the pulse of his nerves, and fills his veins with a feeling he does not quite dare to describe as hope. It sends tremors down the tips of his fingers; it calls open a rift in his memory he has never attempted to heal.  

He turns around, almost mechanically, and sees you. 

-

You swear to every deity there is that if the universe has a reason it’s making you late to your part-time job today, it better be a fucking good one. 

First the trains weren’t running as frequently as they were supposed to, then there was an issue with the gantries malfunctioning at the station exit, then you dropped your bottle and had to run after it for a bit to get it back and in the process missed the green light to cross the road… and now, finally on the home stretch to your employer’s place there are three fucking idiots standing in the middle of the sidewalk, blocking your way. 

You huff. Your employer better be flexing their omniscient powers to read your situation – what for work for a minor god if they make you relive every tiny inconvenience to explain why you’re fifteen minutes late to your job? 

(Never mind that they’re actually incredibly nice and don’t really care when you head in for work as long as you get their paperwork done.) 

“Excuse me,” you call out. “Coming through.” 

All three men whip around. On their faces are various states of astonishment, frozen almost comically in their surprise. 

You’re about to sigh and push forward, when you suddenly notice the colour of their eyes. 

Shit. 

They’re not human. 

Fuck. 

You send a quick prayer to your employer. Hopefully they’re listening – the last time you ran into another supernatural being he made you look for his glasses for two hours before receiving a call saying he left them at home. 

You don’t generally mind helping minor deities here and there, honestly, especially not since they bless you right after for your help. Most of them are really nice. In fact, you’d even say you’re used to doing little things for them, having grown up with the Sight and being able to see supernatural beings for most of your life. But these three don’t look like they need any help, and you’re going to be late to what you know is going to be a mountain of paperwork and— 

You think the tallest one might be crying. 

Ah.

Before you can ask if he’s okay and if they need any help, something bright and glowing rises from the box one of them is holding. 

It elongates, spinning itself slowly mid-air, one end gliding over to you like it has found its target. The other end floats up to the man with green hair. As you watch in bewilderment, it gently wraps around both your little fingers, then tightens with a flash of gold. 

It sends a searing pain through your arms, a shock that slams the air out of you and turns your vision an inky black. 

-

You are standing on a wooden porch, shade of dripping wisteria providing you a little shelter from the grey drizzle. The quiet patter of the rain is only interrupted when someone calls your name, a soft summoning that fills you with warmth. You turn your head to see the brown-haired man – Subaru whispers into your mind, like his name has been there all along – smiling at you. Tea is ready, he says. Come inside. 

You are looking down from the top of a long staircase, closely packed torii gates lining the path down. The stone steps beneath your feet are faded with age, but the red of the dates are vibrant, almost as if they were recently painted. The blue haired man in front of you turns, grinning brightly; his ruby eyes sparkle in the dim light as he extends his hand backwards. Zenji – the flash of his name brings along with it a swell of affection. Come, my dear, he says. They’re waiting for us. 

You are sitting on a cushion laid out on the porch of a traditional Japanese house, back resting against doors made of paper and wood. It overlooks a quiet garden that extends on all three sides; the peacefulness of the stone lanterns makes it feel like a secret you are bound to keep. Your legs are stretched out in front of you, covered by a black blazer with gold trim and pressed against the long legs of someone else. Your hands lay in your lap, fingers intertwined with his graceful ones. When you look up at the man with green hair, his eyes closed and dozing, something in you shifts like a sunbeam – Haku. His name is a cloud on your tongue, painting the inside of your lungs a new, different, golden sort of warmth. It tangles itself into the base of your throat, all tender and sweet; your heart aches with a fondness you’ve never thought possible. Haku. 

You are dangling your feet off the edge of a dock, watching diamonds of moonlight dance off the ripples in the water. Translucent fish float lazily around your feet, drifting in invisible eddies only they can see. An arm is curled behind you as you lean against someone’s shoulder; you don’t have to look up to know the giddy feeling running through your veins is because of the soft kisses Haku is dropping into your hair. He raises his hand to brush your cheek, to tilt your chin up to face him. You watch the monochrome of the moon wash his eyelashes a silvery grey as he dips towards you, before your eyes flutter closed at the gentle warmth of his lips on yours, languorous and insistent and exploring. How lucky you are, you remember, to be able to love him like this. How lucky you are, to have him love you. 

You are pressed up against the back of a door, your shirt half unbuttoned and blazer long discarded somewhere on the floor. Haku’s hands are everywhere, mouth hot on the hollow behind your ear as your fingers scrabble against the buttons of his vest. Princess, he groans, all teeth and tongue on your neck as he slips a leg between yours. Please. And you acquiesce, as you always do, melting into him under the deftness of his fingers and the heat of his breath. He hangs stars on the ladder of your spine and his name on the roof of your mouth; you dance in the fire he lights in the kiln of your hips. You think, as he pulls gasp after gasp from the scorch of your skin, that if it is for Haku you will burn yourself inside out, if only he asks. 

You are sitting - no, lying - in a pile of rubble. There are flames licking up the walls around you, ghastly bright and smokeless, unending despite the rain that seems to be pouring around everything else. You are dimly aware of how close the flames are to you, but the burning that flickers from under your skin is infinitely more unbearable.   

There are sobs above you from the figure who has pulled you into his lap, cradling you in his arms and shielding you from the rain; you barely need to open your eyes to hear the guilt leaking out each breath Haku takes.  

“Don’t cry,” you rasp. Some part of you recognises the irony, given the tears staining your own cheeks, but you raise a heavy hand anyway, thumb brushing the wetness away from his cheeks. It is hard to form words. You hope Haku understands. 

“I’m sorry,” he gasps. He are shaking uncontrollably, tsunamis rolling off the tense slope of his shoulders. “I should have tried harder—“

“No,” you say, again, this time a little more vehemently. The scratch of your throat worsens, but you no longer have the strength to cough out the petals that have lodged themselves in your lungs. 

You want to tell him that it wasn’t his fault, it was never his fault, that he has done nothing but try as hard as he could to break your curse the moment you stepped into Darkwick. He has spent so much of himself making your final months lovely, and even now with the walls crumbling around him he still has not let you go. 

I’m sorry, you want to say. For meeting you on the train that day, already like this, already cursed. For not meeting you earlier in this life, from the beginning already too late. For being filled with flower and fire, even though all I want to be is filled with my love for you. 

But it is getting hard to breathe, and it is getting dark, and you are so, so tired. 

“Wait for me,” you say, instead. You tilt your face into the palm of his hand, and inhale the last of his scent as best as you can. 

When you gather the strength to speak again, your voice is an oath made, fierce and low, carved into the ache of your tears. You look up at Haku, your love, your light, radiant even in his grief, even as your vision is blurry and fading. “We’ll meet again, I promise.” 

I will look for you in my next life, and the next, and the next, until we meet again. I will look for you in every lifetime. Now that I have tasted how sweet a happy ending with you can be, I will turn my back on fate over and over again, if only to meet you one last time. 

-

You blink, and suddenly you are back, gasping for air as an ache cracks open in your chest, gaping and yearning. 

You are vaguely aware of the wetness on your cheeks, and that the tallest man – Zenji – is openly bawling now, but the moment your eyes meet his the rest of the world blurs. 

Haku. 

He has not moved, you think, all hesitance and incredulity, frozen with the helplessness of a man who has wanted so much for so long but has only dared to hope for so little. His gaze shines with unshed tears, disbelief wrapping itself taut around the clench of his fists, like he is trying not to reach out for you, trying to keep the spark of his skin from setting your world ablaze again. 

But, oh, in this life you’ve been raised fireproof, heart forged into a glass-clear that sings for the sunset of his hands. In this life, you are not on a train, you are not too late, and you are not filled the potency of a curse but the promise of a happy ending. 

We’ll meet again, I promise. 

You take a small step forward. The red string wound around your finger ripples, flashes gold in the evening light. 

“Haku?” 

[toskarin]

THE WAY OF ALL FLESH 《万人の途》

You need not hurry, We've got all the time in the world.

My memory has failed sadly of late.

He is violently pessimistic.

It is wildly unlikely.

There is all the difference in the world between the two.

make an unholy fuss about very little.

Dear me! What a sorry mess everything is in!

The painting is a rank imitation.

a gross mistake.

a crushing bore.

with no earthly reason.

be crass ignorance.

every trick in the book.

They have all the advantages in the world.

go native. go bust.

The proposal came one vote short of unanimous approval.

I can't reach the buttons on the back. Will you do them for me?

So many movies have had this plot that it has been done to death.

Things don't go so well in real life.

It will go hard with him if he is found out.

It makes no difference no matter which way the election goes.

some people still can go without paying taxes.

look full in the face.

The sun shone in our faces.

One and one makes one.

These make a pair.

make the passing mark.

The seal is missing on the document.

The lace on one of my shoes had god undone.

I wouldn't want to be quoted on this.

I'm not much on putting those things into words.

be short on imagination.

It seems he got mixed up on his instructions.

Who is going to take you up on your offer!

He erred grossly on that problem.

a toy balloon on a string.

a dog on a chain.

be a black mark.

He is the sort of man whose personal charm grows on you on acquaintance.

Wherever did you put?

It was a good joke, but fell flat on him.

The mood grew on me.

My mind was not on it.

be borne in on one.

Shame on you!

an experiment on animals.

It is too late to perform an operation on him.

You ought to be harder on him.

Acids act upon metals.

It is unfair on you.

His voice grates upon my ear.

The drinks are on me.

Do you know you are taking a great deal on yourself?

Don't tell on me.

She seems to have something on him.

play a neat trick on a person.

get die on a person.

They have nothing on us.

Age has begun to tell on me.

No use trying to pull such a trick on me.

be on trial.

He is unable to hold anything on his stomach.

The scene was on.

I lay awake thinking over it all last night.

I had to rack my brains over that problem.

She hesitated over her answer.

ride roughshod over the objection.

Don't pull that line on me.

pull a sanctimonious face.

He never pulls his rank.

We are running short of gas.

Time is running short on me.

One's devil's luck runs out.

Finally she ran out of patience.

The watch has run down.

let one's imagination run riot.

run short of topics for conversation.

That is not the way the world is run.

run a machine at a high voltage.

run a person on a lie detector.

leave a motor running.

He stands small chance against you.

Kids run a high temperature over nothing in particular and snap out of it.

investigate a matter to the ground.

criticize severely.

You are worn to a shadow.

boring to distraction.

It has been done to death.

The bag was filled to bursting with sugar.

What are you seeing?

They were killed to a man.

It is done to a turn.

There is another side to the coin.

There's not enough depth to the story.

There is more to it than that.

There was no jerk to his motions.

That is about all there is to it.

The words had an ironical ring.

Have you any clue to work on?

The brakes refused to work.

The machine was still in fine working order.

The plan worked remarkably well.

It is very well in theory, but will it work?

His reason ceased to work.

Flattery will not work with him

It might work and again it might not work

I'm afraid it won't work so well.

Our plan worked successful.

The trick won't work with him.

The handle doesn't work.

The warning seemed to work most effectively.

Her face worked fiercely.

The screw had worked loose.

work a spear through one's hands.

They will work you to death.

He worked on a smile that didn't quite come off.

There is no knowing how that will work itself out.

This problem will not work out.

The safe opened to the key.

a ticket to a movie.

exit to applause.

The medicine worked into the wounded skin.

Oh! I'm inside out!

You are unzipped.

No stopover on this ticket.

try to enter a country on an expired passport.

I'll come again when you are free.

The question is who will bell the cat.

The fact that he was sick was not very impressive to her.

You asked for it.

untie a tight knot.

The girl couldn't word her feelings well.

Does he really mean it? I wonder.

Let him do his worst.

a would-be kindness.

Did she agree with you?

Turn your face toward me.

I don't think I can do it,but I'll try.

What is true of them is equally true of you.

They trumped up a charge to put him in jail.

Think it over carefully before you decide.

What are you talking about?

He bothered me with stupid questions.

Can it really be mine?

Don't calculate on me helping you.

No one called my attention to it.

Watch when you talk about religion.

You have the advantage of me.

They shouted to the utmost of their strength.

She never gave utterance to her personal feelings.

There were very few passengers in the train.

How much use did you get out of the machine?

It's not us that tried to upset their plans.

There was a chasm yawning in front of us.

Let me see,where was I?

Where did the plan go wrong?

work out one's idea of one's role.

To live is to suffer.

This is playing with words.

know what you mean.

What do you see?

You ought to have been more careful.

You need not have come.

Who do you think you are?

I have no idea what the word means.

ARRIVE ON THE EDGE

YOU RECAPTURED KARNEL OF THE LOST ARTICLE

AND THE ORDER IS TOTALLY OVER.

[bluegalaxygirl]

Amnesia (KidKiller X Reader) P1

Plot: After an explosion reader wakes up in a hospital with no memory of the past few years, her parents want to take her home so she can recover and get back to a normal life while the Kid pirates want her back on the ship where she belongs.

Warning: Bad language, Violence, Death and Blood.

Reader is Female, Poly Relationship, established relationship, Kid X Reader X Killer, Reader is a member of the Kid pirates and is in charge of the money, Budgeting and negotiating the best price.

< Previous part ..... Next Part >

Gunfire, cannon fire, yelling and screams fills the air as the Kid pirates take on the many marine ships in search of the treasure they were carrying. There's never a real plan when your with the Kid pirates since Captain Kid usually charges in head first destroying anything and everything in his way but Killer made sure to give the crew an idea of what to expect and how to go about things. The crew split up into groups taking on different ships in search of the treasure while others stayed on the Victoria firing cannonballs at the marine ships that were coming as backup. If they found the treasure then they would load it onto a smaller ship to send it back to the Victoria Punk before sinking the ship or calling out to their Captain, so he could continue his destruction. Several ships had already sunk thanks to Kid going a little crazy on the violence, it seemed random but the pirate Captain has been doing this long enough to know just by looks which ships won't carry any kind of treasure. It didn't matter if his crew were on those ships since they knew well enough to stay out of their captains away and get off any ship he was going to attack. Killer went straight for the biggest ship knowing thats where their leader is, The marine was only ranked a captain, he honestly expected a higher rank with how many ships there were and how much treasure and weapons their supposedly carrying, but he couldn't complain. While the few crew members he was with searched the ship and took out the low ranked marines Killer fought against their leader slashing and kicking at the man who could hardly keep up with the first mates movements and speed.

Heat used a rope to swing from one marine ship to another, he rolled before pulling out his sword and slashing a marine that ran at him before standing up right. He has no chose but to switch groups since the ship you were on had explosives, his fire would make things worse, but he had confidence that you can handle it and get the ship away from the fight so it doesn't hurt the crew. Heat scans the deck seeing marine body's scattered all over, but he couldn't see any of his crew until a girl with short blonde hair runs out of one of the rooms carrying two large bags of what sounded like gold coins. "Heat, what are you doing here?" Hip yells seeing her crew mate and running up to him before coming to a stop "That ship has explosives on them, be careful in case the others do too" Heat reply's earning a frustrated sigh from the woman "Great that's just what we need, The Boss is still going mental, Killer is fighting a Captain a few ships over and now some of the ships might have explosives" She groans as other members of the crew start running over holding wooden crates and bags of gold. "Get the treasure back to the Victoria and tell the others to be on the look out, I'll inform Killer and Kid" Heat order the group who all nod before running off to the boat that will take them back to their ship. With Killer a few ships away and Kid further than that he knew he would have to swing his way over using the ropes while also fighting any marines that got in his way.

The marine Captain pants while holding his stomach after being slashed by Killers blade, other marines came in to help only to be quickly taken out by the first mate. Using the last of his strength the marine yells while running at the masked man bringing his sword down to slash at the masked man but Killer easily doges it while spinning his blades and cutting the marine captain in half. Two thunks hit the decks floor but after that it was silent, no more yelling, screaming or gunfire from the ship he's currently on until someone lands on the deck. Killer turns ready to fight only to see Heat, his friend letting go of the rope before stepping closer, anxiety wells up inside the masked man since head is supposed to be with you "Some ships have explosives but Hips group found some of the treasure" Heat explains as quickly as he can while looking out at the other ships seeing his Captain bringing a big mental hand down on one braking it in half and making it sink. Killer sighs before turning to look over at Kid "HAY KID" The first mate yells managing to get the captain's attention who jumps over to the ship their on, landing hard on the deck his boots cracking the wood bellow until he releases some of the metal on his arm making him much lighter "You found the treasure yet?" Kid asks walking over to the two, Heat nods but looks back to the ship you were on, his eyes widening when noticing it was heading towards the Victoria Punk "What the fuck is she doing?" He didn't mean to yell it out loud, but he didn't think you would bring the ship closer, unless it wasn't you doing it.

Killer and Kid jump at the sudden yell of their friend since its highly unlike him to yell, turning their attention to the ship he's looking at Killer places a hand on Heats shoulder turning his crew mate to face him "What is going on?" The masked man's voice was calm but there was a bit of worry in his voice "That ship has explosives on it, Y/n was supposed to steer it out to sea not towards the Victoria" Heat panics but soon hears Kid let out a laugh "Don't worry, look its turning away, our feisty girl's got this" The captain smiles watching as the marine ship heads further and further out to sea before starting to turn going to head to the marine ships that are coming as backup, the three relax knowing you now have the ship under your control "Alight lets get ba-" Kid goes to order when a cannon goes off soon followed by an explosion, his eyes widen as the ship you were on burst into flames and rips apart, a wave of hot hair rushes across the sea causing the water to ripples and bounces forcing the marine ships to crash into each other. The sound of creaking, cracking and yelling rings through the air as the marines and the Kid pirates all try to get to safety, marine ships thats crash into each other start to break apart making masts fall either hitting another ship or crashing into the water. The three covers their faces with their arms as the hot air reaches them almost forcing them back a bit while the marine ship their on sways a little, once the burning wave of heat passes the three look up from their arms seeing the burning mast of the ship you were on cracks apart and fall into the water as the ship starts to sink.

Kid curses out loud his heart pounding in his chest at the thought of losing you and the members of his crew that were on that ship, His legs move before he can tell them too starting to run off jumping from ship to ship, the explosion made all the ships move loser together so it was easy for the captain to jump from one to the next. Killer felt his heart stop for a second, but he hoped you had gotten off the ship before it went up in flames, The masked man was quick to follow his captain "Heat, get the rest of the crew back to the Victoria" Killer yells back stopping Heat from following. The first mate knew that with the marine ships still crashing into each other and falling apart that the rest of the crew is in danger. The two only stop when they make it to the last none sinking marine ship, but they were still not close enough. The burning ship is too far out to sea, the only things they could make out were pieces of wood floating and black shadow's under the water although they were too far away to know if it was a part of the ship or a person. "Kid, we should get the crew back to the Victoria, take out the other marine ships, and then we can look for Y/n and the others" The first mate finally speaks snapping the captain out of his spiraling thoughts of how they might find you, he didn't like the idea of backing off but on the other hand Killer was good at planning and it would be easier to find you and the other crew members without all the fighting and other marine ships around. "Shit, fine." Kid growls at Killer who nods letting his finger loop over one of his captains.

It didn't take too long for everyone to gather what they could and make it back to the Victoria, Kid sank a few ships on the way back and once all the crew other than your group was accounted for the Victoria unloaded Cannon fire ripping apart the marine ships along with some of the back up ones. Seeing they were out matched by the pirate crew the other marine ships fled out to sea, with the air around the sea now silent and night falling, Kid orders his crew to head over to the slightly burning marine ship and look for the rest of the crew. In groups the crew put small boats in the water and headed out as the Victoria sat in the water close by, their lantern's helped in the fading light while Killer and Kid stood in the dinosaurs skull looking out at the almost fully submerged ship. The wait was long making the already worried and tense atmosphere worse, when ever a lantern lingered too long hope and relief ran through the two but when it moved on with no call outs that feeling quickly vanished. Killer slowly moves his hand closer to Kids linking a finger with one of his captains who quickly grabs his hand holding it tight "We'll fine them all" Kid whispers mainly to himself but Killer nods stepping a little closer while squeezing his captains hand "They'll be fine" The first mate whispers back knowing Kid is worried about the crew but mainly you, the two don't like to show favorites but your their partner, their lover, it breaks their heart thinking of you hurt or gods forbid dead in the water.

Heat stands by the railing near the ladder waiting for the crew to find someone, anyone, guilt runs through him since he should have been on that ship with them. Wire tried to comfort his friend, but he knows until they found you and the others that guilt wouldn't be going away. A few boats soon head back bring them some hope but as they get closer its clear mainly by House's face that something was very wrong. House is your best friend on the ship and the doctor so for her normally cheerful face to be lifeless made them think the worst. Heat and Wire help them up onto the ship as Kid and Killer make their way over stopping as House looks down at the deck with a sigh "I'm sorry captain we didn't find anyone" Her hands clench into fists at her side as Hip walks over placing her hand on the doctors shoulder in comfort. "A few of us managed to check some of the inside but there are only dead marines" Hip continues for House who starting to shake a little trying not to cry in front of everyone. Killer grits his teeth feeling a crushing weight press against his chest, he didn't want his mind to wonder but it did, were you further inside the now sunken ship where they couldn't get too? Or where you at the bottom of the ocean? Kid looks down at the two girls unsure of how to react to the news, he was beyond angry but not at them, his crew did a good job, but he's also upset and frustrated the feeling of wanting to scream and break something consumed him. After a while of silence and Kid's glare out at sea getting more and more angry Wire ushers the crew who are still on the deck away from the situation.

Heat refuses to go though instead he walks up to his two longest and oldest friends "I-I'm sorry… I should have been on that ship with them. She told me to leave but i should have forced them all to come with me… I'm so sorry" Heat pants a little while gripping his arm tight, he's never felt this way before, guilt is something a pirate shouldn't feel but at the moment thats all he could feel. Kid sighs knowing his friend isn't at fault for this, no one thought that the marines would fire at their own ship knowing their men were still on it "I don't blame you" Kid suddenly states before turning and storming off, his boots heavy and loud on the deck as he tries to control his anger and hurt. Killer lets out a breath trying to clam himself down, he places a hand on Heats shoulder giving him a simple nod that tells him that its not his fault before running after his captain. Kid kicks open any door in his way as he heads to the bedroom, his mind fixed on one thing as Killer catches up to him trying to calm the red head down, hoping he wouldn't put holes in anymore walls or doors. "Kid, i know your angry, i am too but i'm sure she's out there" Killer tries to calm Kid but the captain ignores him while kicking open the door to their bedroom, luckily the hinges didn't break this time so Killer closes the door behind them knowing it will give them both the privacy they need at the moment. Heading straight for a chest of draws Kid looks over the small wooden box sitting on top of it, but he couldn't bring himself to open it.

The box contains three Vivre cards, Yours, Kid's and Killers, but he was scared that when he opened it there would only be two along with a pile of ash where yours should be. Killer sighs taking off his mask and placing it on the bed before walking over and placing a hand on his lovers shoulder "She's alive, i know it, we'll find her" The first mate moves his hand down to hold Kid's hand. The captain turns his head now seeing the face of the man he loves, it helps calm him a bit, but he still can't bring himself to open the box. Killer knows the man too well some times, so he squeezes Kids hand while the other moved to the box, unlatching it he can't help but hold his breath before opening the box. Relief flowed through the two as their eyes landed on your card, it was slightly burned at the edges but it was there which means your alive. They knew your hurt but the corners have stopped burning away which means you or someone has managed to patch you up as much as possible. The two let out a breath as Kid goes to picks up your card only for it to move slightly to the side, raising an eyebrow the captain looks to the window that the card was moving towards, it was just open sea. Killer picks up the card lightly feeling it with his fingers as it twitches in his hand trying to move in the direction you are "Either she's drifting out to sea or the marines have her" Killer sighs either way it was bad but at least now they have a way of finding you "If the marines have her then they most likely have the others too" Kid sighs while pinching the bridge of his nose while letting go of Killer and heading to the door, he places his hand on the handle but doesn't open it instead waiting for his partner to put his mask back on and join him "We'll set sail and follow the Vivre card" Kid states as Killer nods walking over to the door while fixing his mask into place.

----- You, Bubblegum, Boogie, Gig and Emma -----

Boogie breaks the surface of the water taking in a deep breath for air as he lifts you up out of the water, Gig reaches out helping to drag your uncontuse and bleeding body into the large slab of wood that was once part of the marine ship. Unfortunately for the group it was currently floating out to sea, the Victoria punk hardly visible from how far out they all are, the rippling waves forcing them further and further out to sea. "Shit, what do we do?" Emma asks as she leans over your body unsure of where to put her hands, Your head was bleeding badly but the gash on your shoulder was also oozing blood. "Stop sitting around and put pressure on something" Boogie yells as he gets onto the board of wood before crawling over and placing his large hands on your shoulder. Emma nods and places her hands on the top of your head trying to feel where the blood is coming from with slightly shaking hands. Gig nods at the orders starting to look over your burned legs, he may not be a doctor, but he knows better than to touch the burns in case they get infected, so he looks over your torso seeing blood and pieces of glass and wood sticking into your skin. "We need to get her to House" Gig gulps unsure how to help since the only doctor is on the Victoria Punk which is getting further and further away. Before anyone can answer or do anything a cannon ball lands next to them in the water the three shielding themselves while also trying not to fall off the slab of wood as the water ripples on one side almost toppling over.

A small marine ship glides through the water behind them soon coming to a halt as the cannons are aimed at them along with guns that several marines are holding "Your under arrest, put your hands up, and we won't kill you" A marine in a white coat steps closer yelling at the group bellow him, Gig growls while gripping his fists but the three are way out numbered and hurt with hardly any weapons so Boogie clears his throat while keeping pressure on your shoulder "Fine, we surrender" Emma and Gig turn to look at him in shock but the man sighs and looks down knowing they have no chose, Their Captain was too far away, you were injured and the three were just floating out to sea, they had no where to go. It was their best option, at least they would all get medical treatment and a place to rest, Their crew will come after them so there was no need to worry, Kid will set them all free soon. The Marines cuffed everyone before dragging you all onto the ship, forcing everyone who's awake onto their knees. The white coated marine looks the group over before sighing and turning his back "Take them to the cells" He waves his hand while walking away, Emma's eyes widen at his words "Hay wait aren't we going to get medical treatment… Our friends hurt" She calls out while struggling against the marine who's holding her cuffed hands behind her back, the white coated marine stops in his tracks and laughs throwing his head back while holding his stomach "Why would i help a bunch of pirates?" He asks before walking again some of the other marines laughing along with him.

Boogie growls kicking at one of the marines trying to force them to let him got, but they punch him in the face as the others are dragged off bellow deck to where the cells are. The four are thrown into a dark cell only lite by a single candle hung up high on the metal wall, the cell door closes and locks before the marines give them a smile and walk away. "Bastards get back here" Gig yells after them struggling to get to his feet with his injured leg and hands behind his back. "Guys?" A familiar voice calls out in happiness, Bubblegum steps out from the darkness his hands cuffed in front of him unlike the others, he was hurt a bit but has a reveled smile on his face. "Bubblegum, your ok" The three yell as the tall blue haired man runs over to them only for his smile to drop at seeing your body still bleeding on the floor "Oh shit" He states as the others sigh letting him over to you and kneel down to inspect your wounds. "Their refusing to treat any of our wounds.. what do we do?" Gig asks as he sits with his back to you his hands trying to hold pressure on your shoulder, but he couldn't tell if they were in the right place or not. Bubblegum adjusted his hands for him helping Gig put pressure on the right place before looking around the room trying to think of what they can use to help you out. "The blanket and candle, we can use the blanket to stuff the wound and then the wax over the top to hopefully seal it… Boogie hoist me up" The blue haired man walks over to the metal wall with his crew mate who kneels down letting the blue haired man sit on his shoulders.

It was a struggle to get the candle Bubblegum trying to balance as the ship slight sways but with their combined heights it wasn't long until Bubblegum grabbed the candle and pulled it out of its holder. The flame would be a better idea to use on your wound but the wick was short and it was their only sauce of light, if your blood got on the wick it would put the flame out, and they would be screwed. Emma runs over and grabs the blanket in the corner, it was thin and short, it would be batter as a pillow cover than a blanket but it'll have to do. Rushing over to you, Bubblegum gets to work, stuffing the blanket into your shoulder wound that Gig lets go of once he's told too. It hurt seeing you not move in any way, normally people would flinch or groan in pain but you were silent and unmoving while the blanket is stuffed into your shoulder, just like they though the blanket didn't do much to stop the bleeding which is why the candle came in handy. The others watch as Bubblegum lets the melted wax land on your shoulder wound coating the blanket and stopping the blood from seeping through, it will hopefully cause enough pressure to build stopping the bleeding all together but it'll take a bit of time. "What about her head?" Gig asks as he watches your shoulder stop leaking blood but your head was still bleeding, Bubblegum puts what's left of the candle down and starts looking through your blood soaked hair seeing a thick cut going from your forehead to the middle of your head, what ever hit you split the skin and may have busted your skull.

He thinks for a second before pulling his shirt off and ripping it to wrap around your head hoping it will stop the bleeding, he didn't want to put wax on the wound if there was a chance it might touch your brain. "I-i don't know, this will have to do for now" He sighs but Boogie leans over bumping the mans shoulder with a small smile "You did great for not being a doctor" The two let out a small laugh trying to cheer themselves up in this awful situation. "I'll take a look at the rest of you now, ok?" Bubblegum asks looking over his bruised and cut up friends who nod at him letting him do what he needs to, Boogie and Gig end up having to take their shirts off ripping them apart to help stop some bleeding, once done the four take a breather and relax for a bit, there was worry in the air but all of them had faith that their crew would come for them. "Where do you think their taking us?" Emma asks as she looks out the bars of the cell and into the dark hallway trying to make out what's around them, Gig shrugs as Boogie sighs "I don't know but i don't think it matters" The three raise an eyebrow at their crew mate wondering what thats supposed to mean, Boogie lets out a small laugh while leaning his head back against the wall "The captain as Y/N Vivre card, so they'll find us" The others relax knowing he's right, their captain will find them and get them out of here.

[reallypleasanttree]

Demon Slayer spoilers- Obanai's reaction following Mugen Train Arc and obviously Obamitsu content. 🩷🖤🤍💚

Several of the Hashira were in residence in the corps headquarters including Shinobu, Gyomei, Sanemi, and himself. In the last letter he received from Kanroji, she was coming back today after visiting her family. It was possible she was already back and unpacking her bags. They had plans to go out with the rest of the Hashira tonight. He sighed. It had been a month since he last saw her. They regularly exchanged letters, but it was a poor substitute for speaking in person. He missed seeing her wide smile and cheerful voice. Even the way she met his gaze out of the corners of her eyes during Hashira meetings.

Tomorrow, Master Ubuyashiki was sending him out on a patrol further north around Fukushima. There were accounts of several lower level demons ambushing travelers. Two demon slayers came back severely injured when they went to investigate. Weaklings. 

From his perch on the roof, Obanai glowered as he thought of the younger demon slayers. With every Final Selection, the corps grew weaker. It was one of the reasons they had not been able to kill an Upper Moon in the past 100 years. 

To his knowledge, the last person to have contact with an Upper Moon was Kanae Kocho. It had been four years since she was killed. He only met her a few times in passing. Sanemi spoke highly of her though he was biased. Sanemi had planned to confess his love when the Flower Hashira returned from the mission that ultimately killed her. 

An ill omen for any Hashira that loved someone. He closed his eyes and saw Mitsuri’s face in the afternoon light. Obanai was never going to tell her, not when it was his fate to die. She would be disgusted if she ever knew. A filthy, pathetic man pining after her. Mitsuri could never love a person like him. They were friends. Besides, she was in love with someone else. His mouth twisted and let his thoughts drift back to his original train of thought. 

Since Kocho’s death there had only been rumors of the higher ranked demons. His blood boiled. Every year that passed, the demons grew stronger while the corps grew smaller. He gritted his teeth. Mitsuri asked him to give the new slayers a chance to prove themselves. It was difficult when one was a nervous wreck, a boy raised by boars, a girl who could not make a decision without tossing a coin, Sanemi’s brother who had no swordsmanship skills, and the last one. Kaburamaru hissed, recognizing the shift in Obanai’s mood. 

The last one was the Kamado boy who carried the box that contained a demon. He claimed the demon was his sister. She may have been his sister, but she was long dead. The creature that replaced her was a cruel, sadistic demon. It was only a matter of time before the girl went on a rampage and murdered innocents. A muzzle would do nothing if she was enraged, not even her brother would be able to stop her. At the trial, Master Ubuyashiki ordered him and Sanemi to stand down and not to harm the boy or demon. He clenched his fist. He respected the leader of the corps, but he was making a mistake in trusting Kamado and the box demon. 

Three of the new slayers were sent out to assist Rengoku with a mission along with that demon. Rengoku was one of the strongest Hashira and would have no issue killing the girl if she acted out of line.

Obanai tapped his thumb to each of his fingers. Out of the corner of his good eye, he saw a lone crow soaring towards him. Great. Let’s see how this crow can make my day worse. The bird landed and stared inquisitively at the Serpent Hashira. 

“Get on with it,” he ordered gruffly. Kaburamaru turned to stare at the bird, flicking out his tongue in displeasure. He reached his hand up to stroke the white scales as a means to calm himself. 

“Cawww! Kyojuro Rengoku is dead. Upper Moon Three killed the Flame Hashira,” a crow called out. His eyes narrowed on the crow as his heart froze.  

“I won’t believe it,” he said as he frowned at the bird. He stood on the roof of his house, staring at the clouds. There was no way Rengoku was dead. It was not possible. Kyojuro was one of the strongest Hashira. An ache built in his chest, one he was unfamiliar with. 

“Kyojuro Rengoku is dead,” the crow said again as if Obanai had not heard it the first time. The bird flapped its wings and flew off the roof. It kept announcing to the world that the Flame Hashira was dead. The crow would not lie. This creature did not have the capability to lie or be malicious. What purpose would it serve? 

“I won’t believe it,” he whispered to Kaburamaru, repeating the phrase. I don’t want to believe it. Obanai was raised with Kyojuro and Senjuro following his family’s deaths. Kyojuro always wore a smile and spoke with unmatched enthusiasm. He was one of the only Hashira that even matched Obanai’s logic and intelligence when it came to battle strategy. He would never get to talk to his friend again. 

Obanai stepped to the edge of the roof and stared at the ground before jumping off. The ache in his chest was building and he could feel the corners of his eyes stinging. The other Hashira would be hearing the news as the crow flew from estate to estate. 

He needed to check on Mitsuri. She had been Rengoku’s tsugoku and they shared a close bond. She would be devastated when she heard. He turned and ran in the direction of the Love Hashira’s estate, ignoring the looks from the people he passed. 

Before long, he stood in front of Mitsuri’s estate. It was bright and inviting, much like its master. The wood stain was a warm tawny shade with an open concept. He could hear the crow still announcing the news. If she were here, she would know. Mitsuri, please, be okay. 

Obanai knocked on the sliding door and waited. It was not long until the door slid open and he saw Mitsuri’s attendant. The woman’s dark eyes widened seeing the Serpent Hashira, but bowed deeply as she moved to the side to allow him entry. 

“Miss Kanroji is in the kitchen, Sir,” the elderly woman said. Obanai barely glanced at her as he swept her and sped towards the kitchen. He smelled a mixture of vanilla, matcha, and ginger. His nose wrinkled at the contradictory scents. He stepped over the threshold to see Mitsuri sitting in the middle of the floor. Her eyes were red, cheeks puffy from crying. She held a bowl in her hands as tears fell. 

“Miss Kanroji,” Obanai greeted her in a concerned tone. Her head turned towards him, green eyes haunted. 

“Iguro-san,” she hiccupped. She set the bowl aside and moved to sit up, but he raised his hand to stop her. He put away his usual restraints. The Serpent Hashira sat down beside her and brought her into his embrace. Grief made her shiver against him. “He’s gone,” she buried her face into his chest. 

“I know,” he murmured calmly. He hardly ever let himself touch her unless she initiated it. His hands were stained with the sins of his family. He covered his hands with his haori often to avoid tainting anyone, especially her. Except she sought out his touch whether it was to hold hands or hug him. It was during times of distress he let himself hold her, like now. Kyojuro had been her mentor and friend. They were similar. Kind, generous, empathetic. Better people than him. A snake slithering in the dark seeking to steal their warmth. He glowered at himself. There was no room for his self loathing when the love of his life needed support. Miss Kanroji was his priority. 

“Rengoku was one of the best people I ever knew,” he began. He felt her inhale sharply as she tried to control her breathing. Tears stained his haori. “He was easy to talk to, made friends easily, and never let people down.” 

“He looked out for me and-” she hiccupped. “He always gave me the last dumpling when we went out. He was like my brother,” she sniffed and tightened her hold around him. Her strength pushed the air out of his lungs and he coughed. Mitsuri loosened her grip and gave him an apologetic look. 

“It’s okay,” he murmured. He bent his head and held her gaze steady. How and what he felt did not matter, only Mitsuri mattered. Seeing her this sad and defeated was not something he ever wished for her. He touched her cheek, wiping away a tear with the sleeve of his haori. “We’re all going to miss him,” he added, his voice cracking. 

“When- When we were younger, Kyojuro liked to act out some of the plays he read. He forced me and Senjuro to join him and threw Shinjuro’s old clothes over us as costumes. It was comical, really. Three young boys in clothes too large and tripping over themselves. It was one of the few times I felt normal-” Obanai paused, studying Mitsuri’s face. Her mouth opened slightly and waited for him to continue. 

“Kyojuro always knew how to make others feel better. It’s who he was. His last action was to protect his juniors. It would have been his honor to do so,” Obanai swallowed. Kyojuro’s mother, Ruka, instilled a strong sense of justice and the need to protect others into the Flame Hashira. The strong were meant to protect the weak. Mitsuri grasped the back of his striped haori and he brought her head into his chest again. 

“You know wherever he is now, he’s not alone. He made friends wherever he went. People were drawn to his charisma and outgoing nature. Not even death will keep him down,” Obanai said.

[idolbound]

The way that I approach Meredith in either of her redemptive AUs (e.g. Inquisition or Veilguard), is that, after her red lyrium idol sword, Certainty, blows up in her face (and ergo seen as a rejection from the Maker after she called on Him), being exiled serves as an important purpose to helping Meredith realize she was wrong, and understanding that she went too far.

After being exiled out of Kirkwall (think a bloodier, more injured and rushed version of Cersei being walked through King's Landing), for the Inquisition verse, she ventures amidst the outbreak of the mage-templar rebellion, trying to not only heal and recover, but to survive without a direct supply of lyrium. In some ways, she'd have access to supplies here and there for the right amount of coin but as the conflict continues, it becomes harder to get. As the Inquisition forms and moves to Skyhold, and word spreads, she makes the perilous journey there (scarred up, far weaker, and gaunt looking than she once was), and begs the Inquisitor to allow her to join; she is basically a sellsword at this point looking for lyrium supply to stave off the awful effects of withdrawal, but also as a way to try and at least redeem herself and to give herself purpose again. Of course, Culllen and Varric won't be happy she's there, but if accepted, she tends to keep to herself, finding quarters in basically a storage closet, sleeping on bags of feed for the horses and keeps her head down, going where she is demanded to go. She's like a ghost in Skyhold, knowing she failed Kirkwall and failed herself. Over time, with the completion of her personal quest (retrieving personal items from the Gallows/Kirkwall), she finds a new resolve and will survive for about 7-10 years after the Inquisition is over before lyrium dementia will finally set in. (If her personal quest is not completed, she will die serving the Inquisition).

For Veilguard, the tale is spun a little differently. In those 3 years, she still spends time reflecting on herself, but as access to lyrium becomes more difficult, she becomes more desperate and instead, after slowly, horrifically going through withdrawal and looking far worse for wear, she ends up travelling west to enlist with the Wardens as a last resort to save herself from an inevitable end (by, well, choosing another inevitable end). While she has years of experience as a templar, she ends up re-training to serve on the front lines against darkspawn, and eventually, some believe her ability to successfully suppress magic can be useful against certain types of darkspawn, so they secure a supply of lyrium which reinvigorates her strength and capability. But in this time, she is also much of a loner among the Wardens. While they accept nefarious types and criminals, those who know what she did let her know as such, even if it risks having solidarity in the ranks. But in this time, of course, she spends it fighting and giving herself to another cause (all she knows how to do is to serve an institution and something greater). Only after Weisshaupt, can she surface as a possible companion for the Veilguard, should they require her services.

For both verses, though, I think the act of redemption does not necessarily mean that Meredith is suddenly a good person. She's not. But! what it does mean is that she has been removed from the social institution that shaped her personal beliefs and allowed her to oppress mages; it is hard to see the evil when you are inside of it, but once exiled from the Order and Kirkwall more broadly, and spending time alone, she comes to realize that using the idol to gain more power and control was too much, and in a way, it's almost like how mages use blood magic to achieve similar purposes, and that is the very thing she hates the most.

Ultimately, she knows what life she has left to live is an early death sentence; she saw how her adoptive father slowly faded away from lyrium-related dementia, and knows that fate will likely be hers, too. So, Meredith believes that achieving redemption for herself is not to make up for the lives she has hurt and harmed, but to serve and protect others until her dying breath; it is the least she can do because it is all she has ever known.

She still holds prejudice towards mages (and that will always be ingrained in her), but she lacks the power to do anything about their existence now. She cannot let go of her early childhood trauma and general fear of what magic can do, but she has been removed from her station and the means to persecute mages. If the Inquisitor or Rook has mages in their ranks, she accepts it without argument (but she will be avoidant or weary around them, always keeping a watchful eye, just in case).

Also, in this sense, living in exile (despite living under rather unprecedented or... interesting times), is the first time Meredith has ever lived a normal life outside of the Gallows and the Order, and the demands of the Chantry. So this also plays into her redemptive arc by allowing her to experience things she's never gotten to do before, understanding life from a vastly different perspective (even if it is during a time when the world may be ending, and for a very short time compared to her old life).

In the end, redemption for Meredith is not a full 180 degree turn around for her character, but regret weighs heavily upon her; regret for what she did, regret for failing Kirkwall, and regret for never having a life outside of it.

She is haunted by ghosts; she is haunted by herself.

[velvet-paradox]

Heartstrings (Part Two)

Heartstrings (Part Two) Fandom: Sleep Token (band) Pairing: Eventual Vessel x Female reader, (brief) IV x Female reader Length: Short Warnings: Eventual NSFW, 18 + ONLY, reader discretion advised, strong language, alcohol consumption, tobacco use, supernatural elements, smitten Vessel, a quick smooch, a dash of angst at the end. This part is a bit shorter but there’s more to come so... yeah! Tagging: @synnersaint @megangovier20 @thesoundresoundsecho

ENJOY!!!

True to your word, he'd smile at a welcomed call of HELLLOOOO HANDSOME! or LOOKING GOOD BOY! something affirming that had Vessel walking a little taller that day, confident through your eyes, carrying himself with a higher weight.

That is, until you presented him with a necklace made of coins and tiny metal beads one evening at the coffee shop, sitting outside with a drink of your own during his break. Louie had taken an instant shine to you, even the bag under his eyes lit up when you hooked your arm through Vessel's, allowing you to snag a chocolate éclair; ion the house of course.

"Where the hell did you find that ratty old thing anyway?"

"In the dirt. Where else?" You scrunched up your nose, looking it over.

"The dirt?! Why-- wait. Why are you digging around in dirt?"

You shrugged. "Because you find things in dirt, why else? See, I'm thinking this thing has some sort of power to it, right? So what if it controls our destiny, our fate. You have it for... oh say three days tops, then it's my turn and we have to do whatever the other one says or we'll be cursed." You made a spooky sound that just might frighten a small child into sleeping with a night light for the foreseeable future.

"What are you nine?"

You mocked his suggestion and took a sip of your coffee, holding out the rank and blackened necklace across from him, he was quick to cover his croissant from any rusty or tetanus laden crumbs in your palm.

"Come on. It'll be fun."

"It'll be a disaster." Vessel grumbled but enjoyed the amusement on your face as you admired the thing. ....

"I'm not doing that!"

"You have to. It's my turn!" you seethed behind the dumpster of the basketball court at the college. "A dare is a dare, remember?"

Oh did he! You two had been at this twisted little game for years now. Egging each other on, upping the other to the most dramatic of ideas and pranks. Most of the time it was harmless little dares, mainly played to embarrass one another, to see the other fail in the most creative of ways but sometimes, oh God, sometimes either one of your would get downright nasty and force the hand of the other to do something diabolical. Not illegal, but it could sometimes feels that way.

Vessel had also began to express himself more so through masks than his attire. Always in black, head to toe, painting his nails and experimenting with body paint. He wished t blend in to the background of the world around him than participate in the grind. Thankfully Louie was understanding and let him try out new looks, as long as he didn't spook off the customers of course.

It was your turn, wearing the gaudy thing as you pointed out the biggest, broadest man on the court. Daring Vessel to slink around the benches, unnoticed obviously and creep under, tie his laces together so that when he stood up from his water break, he'd trip and fall in front of the whole court. What a riot, you exclaimed, waggling your fingers in his face.

You danced your eyebrows with a grin. "Are you game?" ....

"I told you that was a bad idea!"

"Oh calm down, it's not that bad."

Vessel pinched the bridge of his nose, scared that it might be broken and he'd only be making it worse, wincing as you held the underside of your shirt to his it. The skin of your belly, the purple underwire of your bra just within view.

"He could've taken your eye out."

"I wish he would've!" Vessel complained but the way you'd tended to him, more than once was a relief for a number of reasons. He'd never been this cared for, catered to, cherished like some dainty thing. He was too tall and gangly in middle school which transferred easily to high school and well after. Only after his mid-twenties did he feel like he'd grown into his features. Even with your constant approval that he was attractive, he was still on the bottom shelf of disbelief.

The praise was welcomed though. Cozy. You felt like home.

You moved your legs, standing closer over him on the bench, your legs shadowing over his own. You could easily just straddle his lap if you wanted. Not that he'd mind. It would be awkward as shit at first and with how you lived life, you might as well.

His mother, like Louie, was welcoming in your budding friendship in high school, happy to have a girl in the house, a daughter she didn't have. You were invited to family events, Christmases, birthday's and the like. Your pictures on their fridge. You were a part of the family.

Nothing sexual had been shared between you, though on one occasion you did plant lingering kiss on his lips when a girl that was after him and apparently wasn't hearing the word NO, gave chase at a party. He was panicked, looking for an escape, hot on Vessel's heels he finally ran into you and frantically begged for help.

He was giddy about it. Not even caring that his eyes were still closed when you pulled away and embraced him. He thought about that a lot.

He did feel a pang of jealousy when you'd come over to the house Vessel shared with his three best counterparts. You'd share a bottle of booze, if you were truly feeling frisky that night you'd drink it straight and pass it directly to III who'd either saunter over to you, while you danced or would pretend to lasso you to him. You never asked him to dance.

He'd watch though.

He was always watching.

Observing the night, logging things away in another fucked up notebook, scribbled down lyrics or events to remember later. A memory he might've otherwise forgotten. 

Vessel wrote poems, sonnets, haikus, little blurbs of life, clinging to them as if they'd save him one day, a token of appreciation maybe. A trade. An IOU for an unforeseen date.

Like the time he caught you wrapped up in the arms of IV, another night of dancing and drinking and laughing too loudly and not giving a fuck. You'd run off to the bathroom and hadn't come back. Vessel, drunk on his own had sought you out, toying with the necklace around his neck only to find the bathroom empty. 

The door to IV's room was cracked, red light screaming out into the hall.

He didn't know what he'd find behind that door but it certainly was not you, on IV's lap, grinding and kissing him in a way Vessel had only seen in softcore porn. All tongue and teeth, smiling and writhing against one of his best friends. Too lost in each other, neither one of you had noticed or had been bothered. Vessel ground his teeth and left the door the way he'd found it.

He meant to write it down but instead polished off back to back shots in order to forget it all together.

When you two rejoined them that night, Vessel didn't say a word.

If it wasn't him you were to be kissing and laughing with, maybe he should play into the advances of the women around him.

Maybe if he blacked out, he could blackout what he'd seen. Block you out.

....

The mug in his hands was scalding hot, coils of steam made his eyes water as he sat alone at the coffee table holding on to the necklace. The game, the chase. What once was.

"Soooo what are you going to do then?" Sleep crept around the table with his little red paws, leaving behind puffs of dust. Those inky black eyes fluttered up at Vessel.

"I don't know. I don't know what I should do." Vessel shrugged, thumbing over one of the coins.

The moonlight got brighter as passing clouds exposed its bone white surface through the kitchen window. 

"Play that little game, says I. See what she wants this time. It's been how long, my dear Ves?" Sleep questioned, floating up to rest on top of the refrigerator, tapping his tail on the ledge.

He had to squint in thought for a moment, images like passing train cars flashed behind his eyes. Stacks of journals, moving boxes, burnt plates of roast, pop-overs that popped too much over, Sleep slinking into his bed to sleep at his feet, a broken mirror and hell of a lot of tears. The accident. The bandages. The stares.

"Three years."

"Ah yes," Sleep hummed as he slid down the fridge and flopped himself over Vessel's shoulder. "That was when I came to you. A friend. A match to light your way. You just didn't know I was the headlight on the train of your deep dark tunnel you'd found yourself in," that admittance, even though positively true made him sick, Vessel didn't like to think about that. That was a whole other version of him he didn't want to introduce to anyone. "You are a different person now though, maybe your friend is too. What harm would it do, really?"

It took Vessel two days of wracking his brain around the necklace, stitched at one end making it whole once again. He touched it and whether he was just dog tired or Sleep had anything to do with it, he was now back transported to that awful place.

And he hated it.

Part Three

[noah-moth-cursed-chaos]

Y'all want Arewennar content? Of course you want Arewennar content. Here's some Wenny content, plus a brief moment including the dragonborn for their au

It had been a long time coming, really.

If their parents knew they'd call the decision brash, childish.

It was quite possibly the most mature and thought out thing Arewennar had ever done.

And the death sentence they had been written became their saving grace, not a single person had questioned why they'd been packing.

They bit their tongue and played nice while they waited for their chance, had dinners with their 'future wife', went to training as usual, did everything their parents said without a word of dissent. They were on the ledge of salvation, they just needed a chance to climb the barricades and jump.

They had to.

Their parents had no regard for them, their 'fiance' wanted them as a pawn, they no longer believed in a war they had no other way to leave.

They knew the fate that waited if they didn't run.

A steady climb through the ranks of the Thalmor military, a name stained in blood, children they would not want who they could not save.

They sacrificed themself or everything they knew, those were the choices laid out.

They had been sacrificing themself for long enough.

Liarumferna had taken Arewennar's parents to some Thalmor party, Wen had hung back at training, hoping to be left behind.

It paid off. They came home to an empty house. They changed out of their armor, considered putting up their bow...

It was only glass. Strong and sure, but glass nonetheless. It reminded them of themself in a way, fragile, yet created to draw blood.

It would never draw blood for the Thalmor again, and neither would Wen.

Their helmet was probably sturdy enough...

It took shockingly little effort to leave the thing in pieces on the living room floor, and then they gathered the bag of essentials they'd prepared, and left.

Arewennar used to sneak out before they graduated basic training, spend summer nights finding trouble with friends, the usual dumb kid shit.

Now they left the house on an all too similar summer night, to find a new life.

The trek from Solitude all the way to the Windhelm docks was long, and the cloak they wore did less than they'd hoped to hide their face.

The Northern Maiden was a fine looking ship, and would take Arewennar well away from everything they were running from.

However when they approached the captain-

"If you're looking for passage to Solstheim, too bad. I'm not going back there anymore."

"What-then how am I meant to get there?" Arewennar was taken aback, so what? The only ship to Solstheim just... Wasn't going to Solstheim anymore?

"None of my concern, if I never see that rock again it'll still be too soon."

Arewennar paused, before, "What's your usual rate? I'll pay you double."

The man looked at them, and hesitated before, "Alright, money has to be made... My usual rate is 250, 500 septims and we're off." At this moment Arewennar was really wishing they had more than 900 septims to their name at the moment.

Fantastic.

Nonetheless they counted out and handed over the coin, and the captain shouted to his crew to prepare for departure.

Right before they left port Wen saw a women, a bosmer in some steel armor, running towards the docks, "Hey wait! You're going to Solstheim, right?" She shouted, almost tripping when she scrambled onboard.

The captain sighed, "Yes, passage is 250 septims."

"No 'sorry I almost got you killed' discount? Really?" ... What was she talking about?

"I've never seen you before, I haven't done a thing to you."

"But you did transport cultists here who wanted my head on a pike." She fixed the man with a steely glare, and he looked as if she'd just informed him of a ghost and not a couple old passengers.

"... I swear it wasn't intentional-I can't recall a thing about my last trip out, I almost wasn't willing to do it again because of that."

She just stared at him for a moment, he sort of shrunk into himself.

"... 150."

"Deal." And with an exchange of coin, the journey to a new life began.

Arewennar had never taken the time to just watch the ocean before.

It was beautiful.

And for once they couldn't wait to see what was in store for them next.

[tokyosiren]

It Was Always You

Omegaverse! Rengoku x Omega OC

She was on Omega and told she'd never amount to much. Then it all changed when she joined the demon slayer corps. She was free of the stigma of her class, finally feeling like she more than just an Omega. Then the dry heats hit. They happened again and again. She was desperate to find the cause of these spells, to track down the owner of that irresistible scent.

“You’ll never amount to much.”

She heard the words often, her father slurring them as he spoke. He raised the bottle of sake to his lips and ignored her presence beside him. His words didn’t hurt. She’d heard them her entire life now. What’s more, society echoed those words: an Omega will never amount to much. As the secondary class you were meant to serve and obey, to be subservient and find a strong Alpha to take care of you. Your purpose was not your own, no. You lived to be bred and produce pups for your Alpha. That was the purpose of an Omega and to expect anything more was ludicrous.

She stood up and bowed.”I’ll be going now, father. Take care of yourself.” She tossed a bag of coins on the floor and walked out of the room. She slid the door shut and sighed. She really hadn’t expected to hear anything groundbreaking or new from her visits to her father. He still looked at her the same now as he always had. Even over the years after she became a demon slayer and gradually worked her way up the ranks, that look in his eyes never changed. “You’ll never amount to much.”

“No. That’s not possible. Not my daughter…”

It was her father’s words the day the doctor told him. She was young, on the verge of womanhood in the physical sense. She was barely thirteen when the sickness first hit her. She crumpled to the floor and cried out, whimpering and trembling. She felt hot, her skin burning up. She trembled and felt nauseous as well as having a killer headache. She didn’t know whether to lie down or get up to puke. Her father sent for a doctor immediately, afraid he’d lose her to a mysterious sickness like he had her mother. She wondered if knowing what he did now if he preferred he would have lost her.

“She’s an Omega. She’s just developed her scent.”

She’ll never forget the look on her father’s face as he heard those words. Anger and confusion. Fear and doubt. He grabbed the doctor by his robe and shook him. They exchanged words, very heated words on his end. He was a Beta, her mother was a Beta. The doctor assured him the diagnosis was correct and that if he still had his doubts he could get a second opinion.

She heard them go back and forth before it all fell into silence. She was alone and scared, never having experienced such a thing and not knowing what to do. Her mother had passed away when she was young and her father was all she had. She kept waiting for him to come back and give her answers, to comfort her. But he never did. He didn’t talk to her for five days. When her sickness subsidized and she left her room her father looked up at her, the look in his eyes different. He tossed her a bottle of pills and went back to drinking.

And that’s how things were. They didn’t talk about it. Her father gave her a steady supply of scent blockers since she was too young to go into heat, but that was as far as their acknowledgement went. Sometimes at night he’d get drunk and ramble though, letting his true feelings spill.

“Omegas will always be the secondary class. They’re needy and whine, clinging to others to survive. So dependent on an Alpha. You’re one of them, do you know that?” He slurred. “I won’t let you turn out like all them others. No. I’m not letting some Alpha take you away from me. You’ll stay on the pills and be safe, right here. But you’re still an Omega. You’ll never amount to much.”

She listened silently to his rants and never once responded. Society told her he was right. She resigned herself to a life as a second-class citizen and never longed for anything.

Then the demon came.

It happened overnight. People were slaughtered in the dead of night, visceral scenes left behind. The whispers started and the scent of fear hung heavy in the air. Every night came with more bloodshed, more people slaughtered like livestock. People were truly scared now. The town fell quiet as people stayed indoors and boarded up their homes. Unease settled upon the town, its residents fearful of what another night would bring and who would be next. No one knew what was happening and there were no suspects, not a single person to arouse suspicion. So they slept in fear and waited.

Half the town was gone now. Those that could afford to flee fled to somewhere free of monsters that stalked the night. There was an eerie silence to a once bustling village. Two strangers came in one day sporting odd clothing and carrying swords. Her father watched them from the windows as they walked through the village. She sat quietly beside him, terrified yet curious of just what kind of person would willingly come to a place like this. The strangers asked a few people questions and roamed the village until nightfall.

Her father had not left his spot by the window. She slowly crept closer to him, peering through the open gap. He gestured for her to be quiet and she nodded. They watched the two strangers as they stood in an alleyway. Her eyes grew wide as a shadow appeared behind them. She covered her mouth to prevent any noise as the figure took the shape of a horned monster. The strangers leapt back, swords drawn. The monster lashed at them as they dodged. They slashed at the monster. It let out a growl, cornered by them. It suddenly disappeared in the shadows, reappearing inches from their window. She screamed and fell back in terror. There was a flash of white and she swore she saw snowfall despite it being July. The monster slumped to the ground, its head rolling on the ground. The two strangers sheathed their swords.

Her father stood there, shaking. He grabbed her by the back of her robe and drug her outside as the strangers started to leave. “Wait! Please, let me say thank you!”

The two stopped to look at him. It was a tall man and a woman.

The woman smiled and bowed.”The demon dwelling in your village is no more. You’ll all be safe now.”

Her father shook his head.”Y-Yes, I can’t thank you enough. I’ve heard stories of a group that slays demons…I-I thought it was a myth.” He bowed, kneeling on the ground.”We owe you our lives. I am forever in your debt.”

The man and woman looked at him. The man waved his hand.”Sir, it isn’t a big deal. We have taken an oath to slay demons. It is our duty.”

Her father shook his head.”But there must be a way to repay you…Here!” He shoved her forward, her feet stumbling as she fell to the ground.”Take my daughter into your ranks. I’m too old to join myself. This way I can feel my debt to you is settled.”

She looked at him with wide eyes, in disbelief.”Father?! What are you saying?”

He glared at her.”Silence, girl! Can’t you see we owe these people our lives?! The least you can do is become one of them and repay that debt.”

She teared up, shaking her head.”No…No I don’t want to! I-I can’t, I…”

He slapped her. She held her cheek, feeling the sharp sting.

The woman took her by the shoulders and helped her stand. She looked at the man, an unspoken conversation between them. She turned back to Mitsuki’s father.”We’ll take care of her.”

Her father nodded.”...Good. She’s an Omega…But maybe you can make something out of her.”

She cried as they began walking away, her turning back to look at her father. He didn’t so much as glance back at her. She sniffled and took the woman’s hand, following them as they left the village.

She never looked back.

She learned the two strangers were a married couple, both demon slayers. She called them by their last names respectfully, Mr. and Mrs.Tosho. They took her in and treated her well. They had a daughter a few years older than her who was an Omega as well yet showed great fighting skill. None of them ever thought less of her for her class…No. For the first time she was seen as an equal. She still took scent blockers but for the most part the fact she was an Omega was an afterthought.

Her training was brutal. Mr. Tosho was brutal. His daughter Yuki didn’t show her any mercy when they sparred, either. She swung her sword until her fingers bled and palms split. She acclimated to the cold of the mountain they lived on and learned to become one with ice. He taught her a form of fighting he referred to as ice breathing and was insistent she mastered it. At times she was sure she’d get frostbite from being out in the snow so long. The high altitude made her chest hurt and the snow burned her skin. But she didn’t stop. For once people had expectations of her and she intended to live up to them. She watched Yuki become a demon slayer and was on track to take the test herself.

And she did. Mr. Tosho ensured she was ready before he sent her off. He had extended her training and watched patiently as she improved. When the day came where she had at last mastered her fighting form, he simply nodded. She grinned and knew that though he was silent he was proud.

She was still scared when she went into Final Selection. But she impressed even herself as she slayed every enemy she came across. The seven days passed in a blur and she was officially a demon slayer. She teared up and picked the ore for her nichirin sword. Her crow landed on her shoulder and she scratched its chin, learning it was a she. She named her Asahi and picked up her uniform.

She enjoyed being a demon slayer. She remembers the first time she laid eyes on her sword, the blade turning snow white and pale blue. She saw Yuki often and watched her quickly climb the ranks. She wasn’t surprised, the girl being groomed as her father’s Tsuguko. She settled into her new normal and felt at peace. No one here thought less of her being an Omega. Her heart swelled as she felt she had truly proved her father’s words wrong. She had amounted to a lot, and she was happy.

She was sixteen now. She had just gotten back from a mission, sustaining a light injury on her calf. She winced at the pain and knew she needed to have it checked out, possibly needing stitches. She sighed and limped back to the Butterfly mansion. She walked through the gate and into the garden. She admired the flowers, taking out a journal and beginning to sketch.

“Hello there. I don’t believe we’ve met.”

She looked up to see a young man standing before her. He wore a warm smile and a flame cloak around his shoulders. His hair fell just above his shoulders, its appearance like a wild flame. He looked at her with bright eyes and tilted his head. She felt the breath get knocked out of her. His scent was overpowering, masculine and with a hint of the smell of a burning fire. She blushed and fell back on her bottom.

“H-Hello,”She muttered out. Her head felt fuzzy and she couldn’t describe why she felt so drawn to him.

He laughed softly.”I’m sorry, it appears I caught you off guard. Here, allow me to help.” He offered her his hand.

She took it and felt a spark of electricity shoot through her. Her heart skipped a beat. She squeaked and looked away.”T-Thank you…”

He laughed then and the noise was like music to her ears. “No problem! My name is Kyojuro Rengoku. I’m the new Flame Hashira.” He beamed, proud of that fact.

She smiled.”I’m Mitsuki Saito. I’m new to the corp so I’m only a Kanoe. But it is nice to meet you.”

He nodded.”Ah! When did you join? I knew I hadn’t seen you before. I don’t think I’d forget your face easily.”

She blushed, unsure what he meant by that.”Nine months now. They’ve been sending me on plenty of missions, so I keep busy.”

“Four ranks in nine months? Impressive!” He nodded. His cheerful smile never once faded.”You’re rising through the ranks at a great pace! You will be a Kinoe in no time! I look forward to seeing you grow stronger, Ms. Saito.”

She smiled.”Thank you…I look forward to getting to see you again. Maybe we can sparr some time when you get the chance.”

He laughed heartily.”Yes! I’d like that!” He tilted his head and leaned in close to her. She blushed wildly.”Are you hungry? I also noticed you limping. Come, let’s eat and get you checked out.”

She nodded. They ate together and talked a bit more. He was loud but she didn’t mind. His cheerfulness was contagious and made her smile. He made a mess while eating eagerly. She laughed softly and before she could think grabbed a napkin and dabbed at the corners of his mouth. His eyes widened and he blushed as she cleaned the crumbs off his mouth. They both looked away. They finished eating and he helped her to the infirmary.

He helped her to a bed and sat back, hands on his hips.”The fine ladies of this establishment should be with you soon to take care of that leg of yours. Rest easy.” He turned to leave. “It was nice to meet you, Ms. Saito.”

She smiled.”The same to you, Rengoku-san.”

Her heart didn’t stop racing as he left. She fell back against the bed, mind full of thoughts of him. She covered her face and was a blushing mess. She didn’t forget about him as the girls cleaned her wound and stitched her up. They led her to a room and she lay there, clutching her journal. She sketched his face in her book lest she forget it. She drew the curve of his face and his striking eyes. She smiled and clutched the journal to her chest, giggling and falling back against the bed. “Rengoku-san, huh?” She smiled and shut her eyes.

The years passed quickly. She watched her comrades pass and new ones join the corp in their stead. She rose through the ranks, quickly making a name for herself. She was a Kinoto now, having long since proved herself. She nearly forgot about being an Omega altogether, pills taking away the burden of her class. Things changed when she turned nineteen.

She was on her way to the Butterfly Mansion. She was nearing the gate when a cramp in her gut hit her hard. She stumbled, gripping her stomach and wincing. One of the girls was outside tending to the garden. They took one look at her pale complexion and dropped what they were doing. They rushed over to her. Her scent made their eyes go wide and they led her to a small shed out back, far away from the main house. Inside was a small room with a bed and nightstand. She helped her lay down, a worried expression on her face. She held her hand to Mitsuki’s forehead and felt her burning up.

“It’ll be okay, you just need to rest,” the girl, Yumi, said.

Mitsuki groaned. She felt nauseous and her head throbbed.”W-What is wrong with me?”

Yumi frowned.”You’re going through a dry heat from the looks of it.”

Mitsuki’s eyebrows furrowed.”...What? But I’m on strong heat suppressants…”

Yumi pat her shoulder. She looked just as puzzled.”...This is strange. Ms.Shinobu is away at the moment…I’ll talk to Ms. Kanzaki.”

The girl left, leaving Mitsuki alone. She whimpered and clutched the sheets. She got up, gathering the blankets off the bed and laying it out in a circle. She nestled the pillows against it and rubbed her face against the bedding of her makeshift nest, trying to find some form of comfort. There was a scent hanging in the air that made her heart flutter and mouth water. It felt familiar in a way that she couldn’t put a finger on, like she could almost recognize who it belonged to.  Yet there was something distinctly different about it, something that made her feel things she had never felt. She whined and nestled into the blankets, craving more of this distant scent that made her head fuzzy.

A few minutes passed before Kanzaki came in with a few other girls. One girl had armfuls of blankets while the other had a glass of water. They placed the blankets on the bed and handed the glass to Mitsuki. She took it, gulping it down.

Kanzaki kneeled before her and felt her forehead.”...You’re definitely burning up. Do you have any other symptoms?”

“My head is killing me and I feel like I’m going to throw up. I also have horrible cramps.”

Kanzaki nodded and sighed. She stood up and brushed herself off.”Well, it definitely seems like a dry heat. You need to stay here until it passes. Me and the other Kakushi will take care of you in the meantime. Take these blankets and nest. It will make you feel better. I’ll be back to check on you in a little while.”

Mitsuki nodded. She grabbed the blankets and went about building a proper nest. The girls left her alone and she was left to work on what would become her sanctuary for the next few days. She collapsed on the bed once she was satisfied with the nest. She whimpered, body aching and head throbbing. That lovely scent that caught her attention was quickly fading and it made her whine. She shut her eyes and curled into a ball, trying to sleep off the pain and discomfort.

The dry heat lasted for four days but it felt like an eternity. When she awoke on the fifth day, free of nausea and a headache, she simply sighed in relief. Kanzaki cleared her and sent her off with a full stomach and stronger heat suppressants.

She was fine for a while. But every so often she’d catch wind of that scent, picking up on it from a mile away. Then like clockwork she’d crumple, limping back to the Butterfly Mansion. She was never far from the mansion when the dry heats hit her. She could always taste that heavenly scent fading as she entered the gates. Her head was always too foggy, too clouded by pain to put two and two together. Her dry heats started lasting longer and the strength of her heat suppressants gradually went up as well. The timing of her dry heats were inconsistent. Sometimes she’d go months without them, other times it would hit every few weeks. Each heat was followed by that scent that made her drool, it faint and fading quickly. She’d whimper in her nest, so desperately craving more of it yet always left wanting.

She was twenty now. She’d gone through a hellish year of dry heats with no answers. She’d gone from barely thinking about being an Omega to having that fact brought up like a slap in the face. That scent that drove her crazy remained mysterious. She visited the Butterfly Mansion often, desperate to discover who it was. She left yellow roses in the rooms, hoping to give one to this mystery person who’d become the object of her obsession. She always seemed too late, arriving at the mansion to a fading scent. Still, the scent never failed to send her into heat. She would recover from her dry heats and dive into her work, taking mission after mission. She focused on killing demons and the distraction it brought, a distraction she so desperately needed. She got careless one day. A demon got the jump on her and slammed her against a brick wall. She coughed up blood and kept fighting but knew she’d broken a few ribs. She still managed to kill the demon with relative ease, cursing herself for being so reckless.

She grimaced at the thought of where she knew she needed to go. She was closest to the Butterfly Mansion to the point she would be going way out of her way to go to a Wisteria Inn instead. She was painfully aware of her broken ribs, each breath a painful one. She sighed and gripped her sword. There was no point in putting it off. She frowned and headed off into the night.

The night air was cool despite the heat of the day. The stars sparkled overhead. She saw the gated walls of the mansion in the distance and sighed in relief. She kept walking until the scent hit her. Her eyes widened. The scent was strong, stronger than it had ever been. It wasn’t hanging in the air and fading like all the times before. No, this time it was clear, tangible. Her mouth watered. Slick fell down her thighs and she grew flustered, incredibly embarrassed but too aroused by the scent to truly care. Before she knew it she was walking faster, and faster.

She stopped in front of the gates, trembling. She was filled with excitement at getting to finally meet the source of the scent, yet also hesitant. The remnants of her rational mind were quickly fading, her heat taking over by the second. Yet still, the fear: what if they don’t want me? She shook her head, heat taking over. She didn’t care. She wanted, no, needed to see them. She opened the gate and…was met with Shinobu and the Kakushi. She whined and tried to push past them but they tackled her, picking her up and dragging her off. She kicked and cried out but her body was too weak. All she could do was yell at them as they dragged her off helplessly. As they carried her she caught sight of a figure in the distance. They were quickly approaching her. The shadows of the night clouded their figure but she knew that scent. She fought harder, breaking free. She scrambled towards them before Shinobu wrapped her arms around her and slammed her hand against the back of her head. She fell to her knees and everything faded to black.

When she awoke she was in that familiar shed behind the mansion. Two Kakushi stood by the door, blocking her in. Outside she could hear Shinobu talking. The other voice echoed, loud and full of life. Her eyes widened. She knew that voice.

“...Rengoku-san?” She scurried off the bed and peered out the window. In the yard she saw Shinobu talking to someone. The man’s wild hair was visible even in the dark of night and the moonlight made her certain of his identity. It was indeed Rengoku. But…But that scent. She sniffed the air and licked her lips. It was him. But…

She was confused. She knew Rengoku. She had sparred with him, shared lunch with him. They’d spent time together training in the past. She had a crush on him, sure, but he had never had such a strong effect on her. Her mind raced as to what could have possibly changed between them and it hit her. She hadn’t seen Rengoku since they turned eighteen. He’d become busy with his Hashira responsibilities and she had her own work to do. They’d only seen each other in passing, and it occurred to her that each of those passings lead to a dry heat. It all clicked in her subconscious mind, but in her current state…No, nothing was getting through the haze of her heat.

She whimpered, pressing her face against the glass.”Rengoku-san…” She whined, slick dripping down her thighs at being so close to his scent.

She whined and looked at the door. The two girls standing guard stood there defensively. She lunged for them, scrambling to get to the door. The girls fought back, keeping her at bay.

She cried and reached for the door, her side throbbing from her aching ribs but her body not caring.

She whimpered, eyes full of tears as the girls held her back.”Alpha…I need my Alpha…Please…”

Her vision was blurry with tears. All she could focus on was his scent and how badly she wanted him. She’d never needed anything so much in her life. The girls held her down, struggling as she fought with all she had.

“Ms. Mitsuki, you aren’t in a right state of mind right now!” One of them said as they struggled to hold her down.

“Yes! You aren’t yourself right now, you’re in heat! You aren’t thinking clearly!”

She growled and kicked at them.”Shut up! You’re keeping me from him! Let go!”

Shinobu heard the commotion and entered the shed. She took one look at Mitsuki struggling and sighed. She held in her hand Rengoku’s cloak. Mitsuki stilled as the strong scent of him filled her nostrils. She sat up and stared. Shinobu handed it to her and she clutched in her arms, nuzzling against it. She inhaled the scent of him, drooling and smiling ear to ear. She fell back against the bed as she snuggled the cloak, rubbing her face against it. She almost purred.

Shinobu sat on the edge of the bed, watching her sympathetically.”You’re on heat suppressants, and the strongest on the market at that. This shouldn’t be happening, and for that I am deeply sorry. I looked at your record and you’ve been experiencing painful dry heats. I checked the dates with the guest log and they all occur hours to days after Rengoku stayed with us. I’m sorry I wasn’t here to put two and two together sooner.”

Her head perked up at his name.”Rengoku?” She pouted.”Where is he? I need to see him.”

Shinobu shook her head.”No. Absolutely not. You’re in heat and can’t consent right now. Rengoku is in a similar situation himself. You two are not permitted to see each other until your heat ends as well as his rut. Rengoku has agreed to this.”

Mitsuki cried.”...No…I need him. I need him so bad…” The cramp in her gut was unbearable and her head was throbbing. The thought of not getting to be with him broke her heart.

Shinobu sighed.”I know, dear. I know. It will be okay. You can see him after your heat and you have his cloak for your nest. We’ll all be here to take care of you. Okay?”

She whimpered, still crying. She cuddled his cloak and buried her face against the cloth.

Shinobu sat back and patted her back soothingly.”It will be okay. It will all be over soon enough. Now, you came here for a reason. Are you hurt?”

She questioned her for a moment before finally being able to get the answer out of her. Her brain was mush, head too hazy from her dry heat. She whimpered and pouted while Shinobu checked her out and confirmed she had nearly broken three ribs clean through. She didn’t care in the moment. She simply clung to his cloak and let them tend to her while she cried. Two new girls came to stand watch for the night. Shinobu finished up and left her to rest. She made a nest, finding only a sliver of comfort in it. She sniffled as she held his cloak and shut her eyes. She longed to be by his side, to get to see him for herself. To hear his voice, feel his touch. His scent…She whimpered. God, did she need him. In her heat clouded mind she found Shinobu and the Kakushi incredibly cruel for keeping them apart.

The days passed and she waited, longing for him to break down the door and carry her away. She was in pain and felt uncomfortable at the slick between her thighs. She had never produced any before and was now drenched in it. The girls stood guard outside to give her her privacy. She’d wiggle her hips and slip her fingers past her folds but it wasn’t enough. She’d caress her swollen clit and tremble with pleasure yet still, it wasn’t enough. She drooled at the thought of her fingers being replaced by his. Of him picking her up and filling her…She moaned against her hand.Of him filling her with his knot…Her pussy ached for him. She whimpered and fell back against the bed. She was miserable.

Her dry heat lasted seven days. On the eighth day she awoke, body sore and head slowly clearing.

Shinobu sat on her bed, smiling down at her.”Would you like to see Rengoku?”

She sat up quickly and nodded.

Shinobu nodded.”Get dressed. We’re having breakfast in the dining room. He is waiting for you.”

She got up and swiftly put on her uniform. She pulled on her leg warmers, socks and sandals. She stood in front of the mirror, smoothing out her skirt. She adjusted her hair and breathed out. She wore his cloak and smiled as it fell behind her form. She then left, shutting the door of that dreaded shed. She began walking towards the mansion and saw Rengoku standing on the porch. Her heart fluttered, his scent growing stronger as she approached him. He stepped down onto the grass, watching her with wide eyes. He smiled, that familiar, warm smile. She wrapped her arms around him and he hugged her back. They breathed in each other’s scent, basking in the presence of one another.

She nuzzled against his neck while he nuzzled against hers. They held each other like that for a moment before breaking apart.

She looked up at him shyly, blush across her cheeks.”It’s you. It’s always been you…”

He smiled.”I’ve been following your scent for a while now. I was always too late. I frequented the Butterfly Mansion in hopes of encountering you.” He caressed her face.”I’ve caused you many painful dry heats. I apologize, Ms. Mitsuki. That must have been difficult for you to go through on your own.”

Her heart fluttered at his touch on her cheek. She squeaked at him calling her by her by first name.She nuzzled against his hand and sighed.”It’s okay. I was always too late to find you too. We’ve been running in circles it seems.” She laughed softly.

He looked at her fondly.”It’s all alright now. I found you.” The warmth to his smile made her feel warm and fuzzy inside.”I’d like to court you, become your mate properly.”

She nodded eagerly, breathless at the thought.”...Yes, I’d like that. I’d like that very much, Rengoku.”

He laughed softly.”We are to be mates, my dear. Call me Kyojuro.”

She blushed at the idea of addressing him so casually.”...Yes…Kyojuro…”

He purred at hearing her say his name. He nuzzled against her neck once more, savoring her scent filling his nose. He gently ran his hand through her hair and she shivered.

She nestled against his chest and shut her eyes. Her heart was racing but his scent was like ambrosia, so intoxicating. She didn’t want to leave his side ever again. She’d never felt so strongly for someone before.

He pulled back and looked at her, chuckling softly.”You look lovely in my cloak.”

She blushed.”Oh! Yes.” She pulled it off her shoulders and offered it to him, sad to part with it.”It smells just like you. It really helped comfort me.”

He took it and breathed in deeply as he smelled it.”And now it smells of you. Thank you.”

He placed it over his shoulders. He grabbed something off the floor behind him and offered it to her. “Here are some of my clothes. You can keep them for your nest. If you’d like anything more of mine I’ll gladly oblige. I want my Omega to be happy and feel safe. You will suffer no more dry heats. I’ll take care of you from here on out.”

Her heart skipped a beat.”Y-Yes, Alpha.” She grew flustered, her Omega slipping out and making the words fall out.”I-I mean Kyojuro.”

He growled as he called her Alpha and had to shut his eyes to compose himself.”...Yes. I’ll be sure to take care of you. Now, you must be starving. I know during a dry heat one rarely wants to eat. Come, eat with me.”

She followed, eager to please him. He led her into the dining room and sat across from her. There was hot miso soup and onigiri before them. He smiled as he sat across from her. Her head felt fuzzy in his presence, like she was high off his scent. She began eating her miso soup before realizing how hungry she was. Her stomach rumbled and she ate faster, quickly drinking down the broth. He smiled as he watched her eat and began to eat his own meal. They ate together, sharing a pleasant conversation here and there. When they were done he fell quiet, a thoughtful look on his face.

He spoke up after a while.”I want you to stay with me at my own estate. We will stay in separate bedrooms until we are bonded, but it will be easier to court you. There I can take care of you and we can be prepared before your first heat.”

She blushed and nodded. Her heart fluttered at the thought of getting to live with him.”...Yes,that sounds wonderful.”

He beamed at her.”Good! Then you can move in right away! I’ll aid you in making arrangements.” He stood up and offered her his hand.”Come, let’s head home. I have what I came here for. I’ll aid in your recovery at home.”

Home. Their home. Her heart skipped a beat and she could only nod. She took his hand and rose to her feet. He helped her gather her things and they waved goodbye to the Kakushi and Shinobu.

“Thank you for taking care of me. I appreciate it more than you know. I’ll be sure to rest up until my bones heal.”

Shinobu and the girls waved goodbye.”Take care of her, Rengoku,” Shinobu called.”She almost became one of my girls, she is dear to me.”

He bowed.”I assure you, Mitsuki will be well taken care of. She will never want for anything again.”

He took her hand and began walking. She blushed and smiled ear to ear.

Once they were past the gates he turned to her.”Shinobu told me you have broken ribs. Does it hurt to walk?”

She hummed.”A little, but-”

She squeaked as he lifted her and carried her bridal style.”Well that just won’t do! I won’t have my dear Omega in any pain. I’ll carry you home.”

She blushed and held onto him tight.”B-But it is a long walk! You’ll get tired. And I’m heavy…”

“Nonsense! I feel fine. I can carry you all the way home for sure. Do not worry. Just rest, little one.”

She nodded. She rested her head on his shoulder and relaxed in his arms. They walked until it was nearly sunset. They came to a gated yard and he stopped before the gate.”This is my estate.” She nodded.

He opened the gate and led her through the front door. Once inside he set her down gently on the floor. She smoothed down her skirt and looked around in awe. The whole place smelled of him. It made it feel cozy and warm. She basked in it and breathed it in.

He chuckled at her reaction.”Come, little one. I will show you where you will be staying.”

He led her down a hall and slid a door open. Inside was a bed and lantern. She walked in and took off her shoes while he left to go off somewhere.

He came back with an armful of blankets and clothing. He handed it to her.”Nest, my dear Omega. I want you to feel at home here.”

She nodded. She took the armful of things from him and set about the task. She spread out the blankets before making a border of blankets and clothes. She tucked the items neatly in, laying them out as felt right. She then lay in the middle of it, basking in his scent and rubbing her cheek against it. Being so surrounded by his scent made her feel warm and safe. It made her head fuzzy and she purred happily.

He smiled as he watched her. He kneeled before her, in her nest. He rubbed her back as she rubbed her cheek against his clothes. She sat up and nuzzled into his neck. He held her to him and rubbed her back.

“You look so cute, my dear Mitsuki…Are you pleased with your nest?” He asked.

She looked up at him and nodded.”Yes, my sweet Alpha.” He growled at the name, a low rumble in his chest.

He leaned forward and placed a chaste kiss to her lips. She melted against him, heart soaring. Her eyes fluttered shut and he lingered there. Her eyes fluttered open as he pulled away.

“I’ll make you dinner, little one. Tomorrow we can look into moving you in.” He got up and headed into the kitchen.

She looked after him, blushing. She smiled and giggled happily as she rolled around in her nest. It felt like a piece of her had been missing for so long, and she’d craved him for a year now. Now she felt complete, whole. She pulled one of his robes over her shoulders, feeling like he was hugging her as she wore it. She got up and wandered into the kitchen. He was busy boiling rice and preparing spices. She watched him patiently, licking her lips at the smell in the air.

“So you’re handsome and can cook? You really have it all, don’t you my love?” She cooed affectionately.

He placed the rice on a plate and covered it in curry. He laughed.”Ha! You really think so? Well, I don’t get called handsome often but I’ll gladly accept it.”

He placed the plates down on the table and waved her over.

She sat beside him.”Well, you should hear it everyday. You’re beautiful. I’ve always thought so.”

He tilted his head.”Oh, so you’ve had eyes on me since we were young then.”

She blushed and nodded. She tucked her hair behind her ear.”...Yes. I’ve always been drawn to you, and now I know why.”

He grinned.”And why is that?”

She smiled.”...Because you were always meant to be my mate.”

He smiled back.”Yes, I agree. Now eat, little one.”

She nodded and dug in. She moaned at the flavors dancing on her tongue.”Mm~ This is delightful, Kyojuro.”

He beamed proudly.”Thank you! I’ve been cooking since I was young, always helping my mother out in the kitchen.”

She nodded.”Well I’m sure she is proud, because if this is any tell then you’re an excellent chef.”

He smiled fondly.”...Yes. I’d like to think so.”

They talked as they ate. He asked her about her previous mission while he talked of his own battles. He spoke so loudly but she liked it. He was cheerful and optimistic and his bright personality was contagious. She laughed and she smiled, thoroughly enjoying spending time with him. She smiled to herself. She’d always liked him, and now she would get to spend forever with him. She almost squealed like a schoolgirl at the idea. They finished dinner and she helped him clean the dishes.

He wrapped his arms around her waist when they were done and swayed them back and forth.”You’re mine now. You have my word, I will be a good mate. I’ll take good care of you, I promise.”

She shivered at his words. You’re mine. She blushed and shut her eyes.”...I know you will, Kyojuro. Thank you for everything. I know you’ll be an excellent mate.”

He turned her around. He tilted her chin up and kissed her, more passionate than before. They lingered like that until they had to break for air.

He stood there, breathing heavily and grinning. He caressed her face.”Goodnight, little one. Sleep well.”

She smiled. She went to her room, crawling into her nest. He threw a blanket over her and tucked her in. He kneeled down, kissing her forehead lovingly. He then turned off the lantern and slid the door closed behind him. She smiled happily, safe and comfortable in her new nest. She snuggled against the blanket and quickly fell asleep.

In the morning they ate together and he inquired where she lived. She said her crow could guide him there. He carried her once more, insistent he did so. They followed her crow and walked until they entered a large village. The crow landed on a fence post and fluttered its wings, squaking as indication they had arrived. He gently placed her down and she unlocked the door for him. She led him inside and turned on the lights. He looked around, taking in the strong scent of her. He smiled and turned back to her. She blushed suddenly, realizing she’d never been alone with a man in her house before.

“So where shall we begin?” He asked, hands on his hips.

She gestured towards the bedroom.”I need to pack my clothes and some blankets. I don’t own much besides the essentials so I can sell the rest.

He nodded. He followed her into her bedroom. She blushed an even deeper shade of pink at having the Flame Hashira with her in her bedroom.

“I-I’ll grab some boxes. I think I have some left over from when I moved in.”

She left to grab the boxes. She’d never fully settled into her place, so intent on keeping busy with work to avoid her dry heats. She only bothered to furnish the place in the essentials, too.

She grabbed the boxes and brought them into the bedroom.”Here. You can start with helping me pack.”

He smiled. She went to her closet while he unpacked her dresser. He held up a pair of panties, eyes wide.

She looked over and squeaked.”Oh! N-Not that drawer!”

He chuckled.”It is fine, little one. We are to be mates. Though I might just have to keep a pair for myself.” He grinned mischievously at her.

She blushed and went back to packing the clothes out of her closet. She didn’t have much else aside from her pairs of uniforms. She had a few kimonos and robes. Her eyes widened when she laid eyes on the wedding kimono. She had forgotten she had bought it. She had been out shopping with Yuki and her friend had insisted she get it to put back for such a grand occasion. She quickly packed it and the ornate robe that went with it as well as the sash that went with it. She finished clearing out her closet and while he finished with her dresser.

He pulled a lavender journal from the drawer and tilted his head.”Ah, I recall seeing you with this. You draw a lot, right?” He began flicking through the pages.

She grew flustered and waved her hands.”Oh! Please don’t go through that! I-It’s private!”

He stopped and looked up at her.”Hmm?”

Unfortunately, he stopped on the worst page possible. She looked at it, horrified. He looked at her curiously before turning to the page. On either side of the page were sketches of him. He was younger in some of them, his face chubbier and hair shorter. In others he was as he was now, smiling brightly and looking ahead. His eyes widened. She snatched the journal from him and held it close to her chest. Her face was bright red.

He looked at her, grin not faltering. “You’re head over heels in love with me, aren’t you?”

She hid her face behind her hands.”Y-You weren’t supposed to see that! I’m so embarrassed…”

He laughed softly. He walked over to her and wrapped his arms around her, resting his chin on her head.”There, there, little one. It is alright. I am flattered! Besides, we are to be mates. And I find myself falling for you everyday. You have talent, by the way! Quite the eye for art! I’ve never looked better!” He grinned broadly.

She hid her face against his chest. I find myself falling for you everyday. Her heart skipped a beat. She smiled to herself and leaned against him.

He pulled away and kissed her cheek.”Now let’s get you packed up.”

They finished packing her bedroom. She was right when she said she didn’t have much. They had three full boxes in total yet still couldn’t carry them. He insisted she not carry any due to her injury and she offered to use the wheelbarrow out front. She led him to the little garden she kept out front.

He eyed the yellow rose bush and smiled.”So the roses were you…I could faintly smell your scent on them but wasn’t sure.”

She looked up at him.”You got my roses?”

He nodded.”Yes. Everytime I came to the mansion there would be a yellow rose waiting for me. They had the loveliest scent, so faint yet irresistible. I now know why.”

She smiled.”I always hoped my mystery person would find them…I’m glad.Oh,” She looked up at him.”Can I take some clippings and plant a new bush at your home?”

He nodded and smiled.”Of course, little one. It is now your home as well.”

She smiled. She picked up her shears from the porch and carefully cut off a few stems. She placed them carefully between the stacked boxes in the wheelbarrow. “There. We can go now.”

He nodded.”I still would rather carry you, but alas, I have to tote this wheelbarrow back home. Forgive me, my lady.”

She laughed softly.”It is fine, my love. Let’s get back before dark.”

They headed back home. He brought the boxes inside while she quickly went to planting the rose stems. She picked out a lovely spot out back and dug a hole for them. She planted them, hoping they’d soon take root. He’d come out to stand on the porch and watch her. He offered her his hand to help her up.

“I can’t wait to see them grow and thrive. You’ll bring life to this home.” He said with a smile.

She smiled warmly up at him.”I hope so. I can start a whole garden if you’d like.”

He nodded.”Yes! That would be lovely! Plant whatever you’d like.”

He led her back inside. He’d placed her boxes in her room. She went to unpacking her things and was done in no time. She placed the empty boxes by the door and carried the blankets to her bed. She added them to her nest. She purred, the scent of her combined with him divine. It made her head fuzzy and her insides warm and she rolled around her new nest.

He watched her from the doorway.”My dear Omega…I’m glad to see you so happy.”

She sat up and smiled at him.”Yes. I feel very at home. Thank you.”

He kneeled before her. Him being in her nest with her made her heart flutter.”I’m glad. Remember, this is your home now too. If you need anything let me know.” He kissed her cheek and turned to leave.

He made her heart soar. She smiled and cuddled up in her nest. A week passed and she was settling in quickly to her new home. Rengoku showered her in affection and made her feel safe and loved. She found herself falling for him, hard. The way he looked at her told her he felt the same. He approached her one day with a box. He held it out to her and she took it, curious. She opened it to find a lavender collar with a silver and gold sun and moon pendant. She blushed as she held it up.

“It is a symbol of our promise to be bonded mates. It will cover your scent glands. I noticed you like the color purple and saw the symbols on your leg warmers and scribbled in your journal. I hope you like it.”

Her heart fluttered. She had heard of collars as gifts between mates, but never thought she’d receive one. She held it up and he helped her put it on. He swept her hair out of the way and buckled it closed.

“It looks good on you,” he whispered in her ear. His warm breath on her neck made her shiver.

Her blush deepened. She stood before him, the collar snugly around her neck. She smiled up at him sheepishly. He nuzzled against her neck, growling softly. She felt the hum of it as he kissed her neck. Her eyes fluttered shut and she held him as he trailed kisses from the collar up her jawline.

He pulled back, smiling at her.”You look divine tonight.”

She smiled softly up at him.”T-Thank you.”

He brushed her hair behind her ear. He wore that warm smile of his that made her feel safe and warm. He tilted her head up and kissed her. He nipped at her bottom lip, causing her to whimper. He slipped his tongue past her lips and into her mouth. She moaned and tangled her fingers in his hair. He growled against her lips, his tongue dancing with hers. The taste of him on her tongue was like sweet ambrosia and she felt her heart flutter. They stayed like that until they had to break apart for air.

He rested his forehead against hers. “In a few months you will be ready for your next heat. I’ll be sure to mark you before then. You won’t spend another heat alone, little one.”

She smiled and shut her eyes.”I know you’ll take care of me, Kyojuro. Thank you. You are an amazing Alpha.”

He grinned.”Thank you, my dear Omega.” He kissed her lips once more. “Now, let’s get started on dinner.”

The days passed by. They spent their time together, growing closer and getting to better know one another. Weeks passed and her ribs healed at last. He gifted her a perfume of his scent before having to leave her for a mission. She sprayed herself with the perfume and nearly purred, thrilled by being surrounded by his scent. She carried the bottle with her whenever she had to go away on her own missions. The time they spent not killing demons was spent together. He dressed her up well and took her into the city, dining her and dancing into the night. She laughed happily as they danced together, the hours passing like they were the only two people in the world. They settled into a new normal and enjoyed every bit of it.

Rengoku had insisted he court her and he did so well. He was a gentleman, giving her privacy in their shared home and ensuring they spent the night in their own respective rooms. He showered her in gifts and took her on plenty of dates. They went to wine tastings and plays, ate at the finest restaurants and walked through parks as the sun set. They still had to spend time apart but he had even begun letting her tag along with him on missions. She fought by his side and her heart beat faster at getting to see him fight firsthand. He was graceful yet powerful, his swordsmanship beautiful. She was breathless the first time she watched him in battle. They settled into the life of being mates though they were yet to make it official. Each day felt like a dream.

Eventually four months had passed. She’d been spending more time in her room than usual,  not wanting to leave her nest. She’d recently remade it, craving fresh trails of his scent as the old articles of clothing had grown faint. She was in her nest, nestled against the lining of it and cuddled up in her blanket. She was sketching in her journal when he knocked on her door.

She sat up and smiled. He was always so polite, such a gentleman. “Come in.”

He slid the door open. He walked into the room, kneeling before her in her nest.”You’ve been spending more and more time in your nest. The past couple of nights you insisted we eat in here together. I believe it is safe to say you’ll go into heat soon.”

She blushed and shut her journal.”...Yes, it is about time for it. I haven’t gone so long without a heat since I first smelled your scent.”

He nodded.”…If you are ready, I think it is time we mark each other.”

Her eyes widened.”R-Really?”

He nodded. He reached out and took her hand in his, gently holding it. He smiled at her.”Yes. I want it to happen while you are lucid and can fully consent. So if you are up to it, I’d like to spend the night with you.”

Her blush deepened.”T-Together?” She swallowed. Her heart raced at the thought.

He nodded once more.”Yes, that is correct. We can spend the night in your nest or in my room. After tonight you can move in with me in my room.”

Her heart skipped a beat. All she could do was nod.”...Yes, I’d like that.”

He smiled. He squeezed her hand softly.”Are you ready for me to mark you? It may hurt, but for a moment.”

She nodded. She slowly unbuckled her collar and placed it to the side. She tilted her neck, exposing her skin. She blushed and looked up at him.”I’m ready…”

He never once stopped smiling. He slowly crawled over to her. He nuzzled her hair out of the way, growling at how she so eagerly presented her neck for him. She could feel his breath on her skin and it made her shiver. In one swift motion he curled his lips back and bit into her soft skin. She cried out, eyes widening. Her vision was tinted white as he sunk his teeth into her neck. Pain shot through her and she teared up. He removed his teeth and lifted his head, licking at the mark he’d left to soothe it. She shivered, and suddenly felt pleasure course through her. She rolled her eyes back and whined. He smiled, placing a kiss to the mark forming on her skin. He sat back and looked at her. Her head was fuzzy. She shook her head as if to shake free the cobwebs.

He licked his lips, the taste of her blood filling his mouth.”Are you alright, little one?”

She hummed.”...Y-Yes, Alpha.” It slipped out, him marking her making her instinctively refer to him as his class title.

He growled in approval. When he spoke next his voice was deeper, husky.”Are you prepared to mark me, little one? Complete the bond?”

She nodded. She crawled over to him. He pulled his hair back and tilted his head, exposing his neck to her. She licked her lips and bit down, her teeth sinking into his flesh. He groaned and the noise made her blush. Blood filled her mouth and she removed her mouth from his neck. She licked her lips, the taste of him in her mouth like nectar. She watched the mark quickly form on his neck. The aching in her own neck faded then, replaced by immense satisfaction. She shivered and shut her eyes as it washed over her. She felt whole, like she’d been missing a part of her this whole time and had finally found it. She felt complete, like she had in her palms all she could ever want or need. She slowly opened her eyes. She smiled, nuzzling against his neck. His scent filling her nose made her head fuzzy and she purred in pleasure.

“My darling mate,” she cooed.

He smiled and held her close.”My beloved mate.”

They held each other like that for a moment. He picked her up, cradling her in his arms as he carried her bridal style. He carried her down the hall and to his bedroom. He slid the door open and placed her down on the bed. Beside it were stacks of folded blankets and articles of his clothing.

“Nest, my Omega,”he asked as he looked down at her.”This will be your new permanent nest. From now on you will sleep with me.”

She nodded. He’d clearly been preparing for her to nest in here. She grabbed the blankets and clothing, laying them out as she pleased. She formed the boundary of her nest, tucking in clothing and laying out blankets. She rearranged the pillows as she saw fit and hummed, content with her work. She nuzzled against her nest and smiled up at him.

She sat up and looked at him expectantly.”What do you want next of me, Alpha?”

He shut his eyes, having to compose himself after the primal feeling that came over him when she called him that. He licked his lips and kneeled, crawling into their shared nest.

He tilted her head up to look at him and smiled.”Now, my dear, I’d like to ravish you.”

She blushed a bright pink.”Y-You would? Right now? With me?”

He chuckled, amused at seeing her get so flustered for him.”Yes, Mitsuki. I want to be with you, to make love together.”

Her heart fluttered. She looked up at him with eyes full of desire.”Make love together…”She was breathless.”Yes, I’d like that.”

He smiled.”Good.”

He placed his hand on her thigh, slowly moving it up and under her skirt. Her heart was racing, skin lighting up beneath his touch. He abruptly removed his hand and sat back. She whined, missing his touch.

He laughed softly.”All in good time, little one. Would you like for me to remove your blouse?”

She nodded quickly.”...Yes.”

He nodded. His large hands hovered before her chest. Delicately he began unbuttoning her blouse, being careful with the soft fabric. Her breathing grew heavier as her blouse fell open and revealed her lilac bra underneath. He slid her shirt off her shoulders and let it fall to the side of the bed. He then grabbed the waist of her skirt and swiftly pulled it down. She yelped, the cold air hitting her bottom. She was left in only her underwear before him. She blushed and covered herself, embarrassed at her own nakedness.

He chuckled softly.”Darling, there is no need to be embarrassed. We are mates now. Besides, you look stunning.” She blushed and looked away. He tilted his head.”Hmm. Would it make you feel better if I undressed as well?”

She nodded slowly. He laughed to himself and sat back. He took his cloak off his shoulders and let it fall to the floor. His hands unbuckled his belt and went to unbutton his shirt. She watched him closely, eyes trained on his hands as he undid his shirt. The top of his uniform slid off his shoulders and she whined at seeing the button up beneath it.

He laughed, amused at her whining.”Patience, little one.”

He quickly undid his button up. He removed it, bare chest exposed. Her eyes fell across his body. She could see the faint outline of scars from previous battles. He was lightly bruised from his latest mission. She frowned, reaching out to trace her hand over it.

He smiled as she touched him, noting the concern in her eyes.”I’m fine, my dear. It doesn’t even hurt. It was hardly hard enough to be called a blow.”

She nodded, frown still tugging at her lips. She sat back as he grabbed the waistband of his pants. Her eyes widened. She swallowed, watching intently as he pulled down his pants. Her blush deepened at seeing the obvious bulge in his underwear. She felt intimidated at the girth of it despite only seeing the outline. She gulped and fell back on her butt as he pulled off his pants.

He caught her wide eyes and tilted his head, curious.”What is it, little one?”

She hid her face behind her hands. He chuckled softly, gently grabbing her wrists and pulling her hands away to look at her.”My dear, there is nothing to be ashamed of. We are both adults and now mates, this is all completely natural. Are you having second thoughts…?”

She shook her head quickly.”N-No, it’s not that. I want this, I do. It’s just…” She looked away sheepishly.”...It looks like it will hurt.”

He smiled reassuringly and stroked her hair.”Is that so? I promise you, my dear, I’ll take good care of you. It may hurt, but for only a moment. Then it will feel wonderful, I promise. You’ll be fine.”

She nodded slowly. She nuzzled against his neck, his strong scent calming her. She snuggled against him and crawled in his lap.”I-I trust you, my darling Alpha.”

He smiled and kissed her forehead, wrapping his arms around her.”And I promise to take good care of you, my sweet Omega.”

She looked up at him and smiled. She took his hand and gave it a soft squeeze.”I’m ready now. I feel a lot better.”

He smiled.”Not as good as I’m about to make you feel, my Omega.” His voice was deep, husky.

She shivered at his tone. She blushed and nodded.”Y-Yes, Alpha.”

She lay there for him, spreading her legs. She felt a distinct wetness to her panties and it made her blush.

He crawled over her, placing his hands by her sides. “Sit up.”

She nodded and quickly did as he asked. She sat up. He hummed in approval. His hands went to undo her bra. He struggled for a moment, not used to the garment. She patiently sat up and at last his eyes lit up as he unclasped it. He slid the bra off her shoulders, holding it up triumphantly.

“Ah, your underwear put up a fight, my dear. But no worries! I remain triumphant!” He tossed it to the side, eliciting a small laugh from her.

He then lowered himself between her thighs. She blushed, his breath fanning across her clothed mound. He grinned mischievously up at her. He grabbed her panties with his teeth, tugging them down. She blushed and bit her lip and he completely undressed her. She pressed her thighs together and he gently pushed them back apart. She was a blushing mess as he lowered his face before her pussy. She was embarrassed to be on display before him but the hungry look in his eyes lit a fire in her gut. He licked his lips and buried his nose in her crotch, inhaling deeply. She watched him, trying to hide the embarrassment that mixed with pleasure.

He basked in her scent and licked his lips as he sat up.”Oh, my dear, you smell divine…I absolutely must taste you.”

He lowered his head once more and lapped at her slick entrance. She moaned, shivering at the feeling. Her soft little noises made him growl and the taste of her on his tongue drove him wild. He stuck his tongue out past her folds and began licking her up, swirling his tongue as he drank her down.

Her eyes fell shut and her mouth fell open as she moaned.”Mm~ K-Kyojuro~”

She gasped as he continued eating her out greedily. His tongue lapped at her juices and her noises only spurred him on. Hearing his name fall from her lips made his growl and he kept up a vicious pace. He gripped her thighs, holding her steady as he swirled his tongue inside of her. She began bucking her hips against his mouth, his tongue making her feel a level of pleasure she never thought was possible. Her fingers tangled in his hair, making him groan. He grinned to himself as he moved his hand and rubbed at her clit while continuing to drink her in.

Her eyes shot open. She shivered violently, moaning loudly at the pleasure.”O-Oh God, Kyojuro…So good…”

His grin broadened at her praise. He gently rubbed her clit while his tongue moved inside of her. She wouldn’t be able to handle much more of this.

She could feel her orgasm building fast.”K-Kyojuro…” She felt a primal urge to refer to him as his title and dropped his name.”Alpha…I’m going to come…”

He licked his lips and looked up at her with hungry eyes.”Do it, Omega. Come for me.” His tone was deep, gravelly. It made her shiver.

He began licking her clit, suckling on the little nub. She bucked her hips against his mouth and moaned loudly. Her fingers tugged at his hair and he growled. He didn’t once stop licking and sucking on her clit. Her eyes rolled back and she trembled as she came. An intense wave of pleasure blossomed through her and left her moaning as she gripped his hair. He grinned, licking her clean as her juices coated his tongue. He drank her in like sweet nectar and licked his lips when he was done. She watched him through hazy, half lidded eyes.

He smiled and sat up, crawling on top of her.”You taste wonderful, my sweet little Omega.”

She whimpered at him addressing her. She was happy she could please him like this.

He nuzzled against her neck.”...Are you ready for me, my love?”

She nodded quickly.”Y-Yes, Kyojuro. I need you…”

He smiled and brushed her hair to the side, tucking it behind her ear. “My dear Omega needs me? Well then, I’ll be happy to oblige~ I’ll take good care of you, Mitsuki. Relax.”

He sat back, thumbs hooking under the band of his underwear. She blushed as she watched him, curious yet embarrassed by her own inexperience. He tugged down his underwear, pulling it off. His erect member sprung free and her eyes grew wide. It was thick and a decent length to the point she whimpered, scared it would hurt. All she could imagine was it tearing into her tight walls and stretching her painfully wide. He saw the concern in her eyes and nestled between her thighs. He caressed her face lovingly and she met his gaze.

“Are you alright, my love?” He asked, his thumb caressing her cheek.”You look like something is bothering you.”

She whimpered.”...I don’t want it to hurt. It doesn’t even look like it will fit…” She was lost as to how she could possibly take all of that.

He smiled reassuringly.”Shh, little one. It will be alright. You can handle it, and it won’t hurt. I made sure you’re already nice and wet for me beforehand. Any pain will be minimal, I assure you. And I’ll take it slow.”

She looked up at him, his bright gaze honest and kind. Her heart fluttered and she slowly smiled.”...Okay. I trust you.” She took a deep breath and met his gaze.”I’m ready.”

He caressed her thighs, smiling warmly at her.”Are you sure?” He asked one final time.

She smiled and nodded, certain.”Yes.”

He smiled and nodded as well.”Alright then, good.” He kissed her forehead.

He positioned himself between her thighs. He spread her legs, the tip of his member brushing against her entrance. She gasped at the feeling. She bit her lip, eager yet nervous. He slowly pushed his hips forward, the tip of his cock sliding into her tight pussy. She whimpered, feeling her walls stretch to accommodate him. He stilled, letting her adjust and carefully studying her face for any signs of pain. When he saw she was fine he slowly slid in further. She threw her head back, moaning softly. It didn’t really hurt, necessarily, but she could feel how tight she was in comparison to his thick member. He was halfway into her and she already felt so full. She wrapped her hips around his waist and he smiled.

He kissed her shoulder as he slid in fully, her pussy eagerly stretching around him. He groaned at the feeling and shuddered, it taking all he had to show self restraint.

He stilled and allowed her time to adjust to all of him.

She whimpered softly.”You can move now, I’m ready.”

He nodded. He began moving, grinding his hips against hers as he thrust. Her mouth fell open, sweet moans falling past her lips. He grinned and began moving faster. She moaned loudly, his cock rubbing up against her sensitive spot as he thrust. He kept his pace, sensing that she liked what he was doing and making sure to continue doing that. The sound of skin slapping skin filled the room and made her blush at the lewdness of it. She focused on the feeling of him inside her, feeling every inch of his member and enjoying every second of it. His tip kissed her G-spot repeatedly and drove her wild, making her feel a kind of pleasure she’d never felt before. Him rocking his hips steadily against her made her head fuzzy, and she whimpered when she felt his knot brush against her. She bit her lip, mind wandering to how it would feel inside of her. The Omega in her craved it while the rational part of her screamed it was too big to possibly fit. Still, she felt it brush against her entrance with each thrust and the Omega in her whimpered, pulling him closer by her legs around his waist.

He caught the lustful look in her eye and it only spurred him on. He thrust into her, lifting her legs up higher as he slammed into her.

She felt his cock hit her cervix and her eyes rolled back.”K-Kyojuro, I won’t last long…Mm~”

He hummed.”Then I’ll milk you for all you’re worth, Omega.” His voice was low and there was a growl to it.

She shivered and whimpered at him referring to her by her class. The look in his eyes was primal and it made her feel something she wasn’t used to, something animalistic that pleased her greatly. She moaned as he kept thrusting and her legs trembled. The pleasure was intense and bloomed through her entire being. He kept rubbing against her G-spot and slamming into her cervix. It felt good, no, amazing. She purred and dug her nails into his back. He groaned in response.

“Alpha,”she purred out like a song of praise.”I-I’m going to come soon.”

He growled, the sound rumbling through his chest. “Come for me, Omega. Show who owns your body, I want you to keep making those sweet little noises for me.”

He slammed into her harder, lifting her legs over his shoulders and pinning her in a mating press. Pleasure coursed through her at just how deep he was now. Her toes curled and she moaned loudly. Her climax was quickly building in her gut. He pounded away at her mercilessly. He thrust, hard, making her body shake. Her eyes rolled back and she nearly drooled with pleasure.

“Ooh~ Kyojuro!” She screamed his name as her climax hit.

Her vision dotted white and she came, the hardest she’d ever come in her life. She trembled, the orgasm shaking through her. Her pussy spasmed and clenched around his cock. He groaned, shutting his eyes at the feeling.

“I-I want your knot,” she asked, almost desperate.

He looked down at her.”Little one…Are you sure? You’re not in heat right now so you aren’t producing any slick to make it easier. It may hurt quite a bit.”

She licked her lips and nodded. The primal Omega in her was hungry, craving it.”Yes…I need it, Alpha. Please.”

He scanned her features and saw her resolve. He nodded.”Very well, my love. I shall give you what you desire.”

He kept ramming into her, pounding away at her tight cunt. When he got close he was panting and gripped the sheets beside her. He knew he was close. He pressed deeper, his knot pressed against her entrance. He tried his best to ease her into it. She was so wet from recently coming that it helped a bit. Slowly his knot eased into her, finally sliding in fully with a ‘pop.’ She whimpered, feeling full and stretched wide by it. She teared up at the slight, throbbing pain. The Omega in her was pleased, however. She smiled dopily, high on the pleasure. He kissed her forehead and resumed thrusting. He thrust a few more times before his own pleasure spilled over. He trembled and tensed up, shooting hot, thick cum into her womb. He shot a few loads, more than she had anticipated, and she could feel it fill her up completely. His knot ensured not a single drop would leak out.

Her eyes rolled back with pleasure as he filled her up and she shivered. The Omega in her was satisfied and she let out a soft whimper. He pulled them onto their sides, his knot ensuring they stayed connected.

He wrapped his arms around her and kissed her shoulder.”How do you feel, my love?”

She smiled.”I’ve never felt pleasure like that. It was amazing.”

He smiled.”I’m glad you enjoyed yourself. It was amazing for me as well.”

She hummed happily and snuggled close in his arms. She could feel his seed in her womb, her womb keeping it nice and safe. The thought of him filling her with his pups made her heart soar. She could tell her heat would start soon for the primal urges and thoughts were hard to resist. She’d gladly keep his cum warm in her tight little cunt and give him as many pups as he desired. He placed soft kisses along her neck that made her shiver. She shut her eyes and relished in just being with him like this. His knot stretched her wide and throbbed within her, causing a dull ache in her groin but it was bearable. It was worth it for the immense satisfaction it made her feel.

She snuggled against him, her eyes shut. She knew it would be at least an hour before his knot went down. She wanted to rest in the meantime, feeling exhausted from such an eventful day. His scent surrounding her made her dizzy and happy. She smiled to herself and relaxed in his arms.

He squeezed her gently.”Are you tired, my love?” He whispered.

She nodded.”Yes…It is so cozy in your arms. So safe.”

He smiled and kissed the top of her head.”Then rest, little one. I’ll be here to take care of you.”

He pulled a blanket over them, warmth surrounding them both. She nestled into her nest and against him. She yawned softly. She fell asleep like that, with his arms around her and his knot still inside her. He watched her sleep for a while. He smiled softly to himself and nuzzled against her neck. He fell asleep too, loving the feeling of his treasured mate within his arms.

They were both correct in that her heat would start soon. She awoke three days later in a cold sweat. Her body felt hot and her head fuzzy. Slick coated her thighs. She whimpered, tossing and turning uncomfortably.

He awoke from her stirring.”What is it, my love?” He sat up and looked at her with concern. The smell of her heat hit his nostrils and his pupils dilated. He growled and shut his eyes.”...Your heat, it has begun.”

She whimpered.”Alphaaa,” she whined.”I need you…” Her womb felt barren and she couldn’t stand the feeling. She buried her face in her nest and wiggled her hips, grinding against the comforter.

He sat up, nuzzling against her. Her scent was stronger than ever, irresistible. He groaned, mouth watering. He knew her heat would throw him into a rut.”I’ll take care of you, my dear Omega. Shh,I’m here…”

He kissed her neck softly. She whined and turned over. She spread her legs, her wet pussy on display. She slid her fingers over her wet folds.

“I need you, Alpha. My womb is so empty…Give me your pups, please…” Her mind was completely taken over by her heat. All she knew was the desire to be bred and give him pups. She needed it, needed it more than anything she’d ever wanted.

He growled.”I know, Omega, I know. I’ll give you all you want and more.”

He caressed her thighs as he crawled between her legs. She eagerly spread herself wide for him. He was already hard, the scent of her heat driving him crazy and giving him a stiff erection quickly. She looked down at his cock and whined, desperate for it. She wiggled her hips, hungrily wanting him to hurry up and fuck her silly. He leaned over her, hands on either side of her head. He licked his lips. He trailed kisses from her collar bone down to her breasts. He took her nipple into his mouth, his hand teasing her other one. She mewled as he teased her nipple with his teeth. He suckled her breast while squeezing and fondling her other one.

She moaned and felt slick drip down her thighs.”S-Stop teasing me…I need you inside of me. Need your knot.”

He pulled his head off her breast, a string of saliva connected to her. He licked his lips and smiled.”My apologies, my love. I wanted so badly to enjoy your body.”

He ran his hands down her thighs. He pressed the tip of his cock against her entrance and she shivered. She wrapped her legs around his waist and watched him, eager for him to move. He didn’t make her wait long. He slid his cock into her tight cunt, stretching her around him. Her eyes rolled back and she practically drooled. He began thrusting, giving her exactly what she so desperately craved. He lifted her thighs up higher, granting him deeper access to her. She moaned and mewled, filled with pleasure at every thrust. His cock slammed against her cervix and milked the pleasure from her G-spot. She could feel the pleasure mounting fast, already close to coming. He slammed into her repeatedly and she cried out, toes curling. She came, trembling with pleasure as her juices coated his cock. He groaned at the feeling of her pussy tightening and spasming around him.

He kept thrusting and it drove her wild.

“G-Give me your knot, Alpha. I need your pups. Please, fill me with your pups…”

He kissed her forehead.”Yes, my beloved Omega, I will give you all you desire. Your Alpha will take good care of you.”

He kept pounding away at her, the wet sound of their bodies slapping together filling the room. It was lewd but she found it like music to her ears. She moaned loudly and clung to him, nails marking up his back. He groaned and kept slamming into her. She was still sensitive from her previous orgasm and wouldn’t last much longer. His ragged breathing told her he was close as well. His knot pressed against her tight hole and she shoved him into her with a tug of her legs around his hips. He groaned as his knot popped into her and she shivered with pleasure. She grinned, eyes rolling back at the feeling of his thick knot within her. Now all she needed was for him to cum in her fertile womb. Oh, how she needed it.

He panted and groaned, slamming his hips into her. He began to shake and his thrusts became more erratic, desperate. Finally he slammed into her one final time, thrusting deep. He shot load after load of hot cum into her wanting womb. She shivered with pleasure, crying out and coming, hard. Her vision went white and she swore she saw stars. She grinned happily, content. She’d keep his pups nice and warm in her womb where they belonged. He collapsed on top of her, breathing heavily and spent. He knew it wouldn’t be long before she needed more, but his own rut imminent meant he could more than keep up to her demands.

He brushed her damp hair out of her face and kissed her forehead.”How are you feeling, my love? Is my beloved Omega happy?”

She only grinned and nodded.”Yes…So full…”She licked her lips, savoring how full she felt. She swore she could feel her stomach bulge from the huge amount of cum he had filled her with.

He smiled.”Good. Let me know if you need anything. I know you don’t want to eat but you’ll need your strength. When my knot goes down I’ll prepare you a hearty meal, okay my Omega?”

She nodded.”Yes, Alpha…Anything for you.”

He nuzzled against her neck.”Good. Rest easy, little one. I’ll take care of all your needs.”

And take care of her needs he did. For the next six days they fucked like rabbits. His thick cock filled her tight cunt over and over, making her come again and again. He knotted her each time, ensuring not a drop of his essence would leak out. He bred her until she couldn’t walk anymore and the Omega in her loved every second of it. Her slick coated her thighs and he’d kiss her neck as he pounded away at her relentlessly, determined to breed her for all she was worth. They never left the nest save for when he would cook for them. The nest was a mess from their intimate and constant lovemaking. He had her in every way possible. He’d fuck her on top of her, he’d bend her over and press her face to the sheets as he ravished her, Hell, he even let her ride him and milk his cock. She was desperate for his knot and determined to give him pups, and he was eager to please her. The six days of pleasure went on until her fever broke on the seventh day and she was once free of slick between her thighs.

He took good care of her the following days. He showered her in affection and let her catch up on the rest she had lost during her heat, the constant need to breed providing her with little time to sleep. It was a week after her heat that he picked up on the first change in her. She no longer smelled exclusively of roses and honey. No, her scent had mingled with his and become something new entirely. He smiled, overjoyed as he knew the heat had been successful. He took her in his arms and nuzzled against her as she cried happily, her womb now carrying his pup.

And oh how he took care of her. He went on as few missions as he could, desperate to remain by her side. He was insistent she rarely need to lift a finger. He doted on her and showered her in affection. He remained by her side as often as possible. He grew immensely protective as well. He rarely allowed anyone to come near her and would glare at strangers in the street, pulling her to him and into his arms. He let Yuki stay with her in his absence, comforted in the fact she wasn’t alone.

Her belly grew gradually and soon it was swollen and round. He’d shower her in kisses and constantly touch it, heart swelling at knowing their little pup was safe inside her belly. At night he’d talk to it and caress her belly gently, eyes full of love as he rambled on to the child inside. She was heavily pregnant when he hesitantly had to leave her once more. Yuki promised to watch her in his absence and it was his only solace.

“I’ll be back soon, little one,” he said with a smile as he caressed her face.

She pouted.”But I don’t want you to go…”

He kissed her forehead.”I know, my love. I know. But a demon is terrorizing a train and they need a Hashira to investigate. Forty passengers went missing without a trace. This mission can’t be trusted by a low ranking demon slayer.”

She hugged him close, crying softly at the fact he had to go at all.”I’ll miss you…Be safe out there, my love.”

He smiled.”Of course. I’ll be back before you know it.”

[andromedism]

top 5 macden moments?

Thank you for allowing me to think about this even more than usual. ❤️

1. It will always be the RPG handoff in “Tends Bar.” That look on Dennis’ face when he realizes Mac got him a gift, that rare moment of openness and vulnerability. Watched this as it aired back in 2017, and during this part, I jumped out a window and was killed instantly and I’m actually a ghost telling this to you now.

2. Their blowout fight in “Mac Bangs Dennis’ Mom.” Imagine me sitting on my couch tenting my hands together like Mr. Burns from The Simpsons and saying “mm yesss yesss good good” when I watch this scene.

3. I am a sucker for Hugh Honey and Vic Vinager. If I’m reading a fic where they come up, I yell and rip my shirt off like the hulk. I have no shirts anymore. I’ve had to cut holes in reusable grocery bags and wear them. I just got a corner office at work, and immediately bought this art print of them to put up because it’s a canon event in my life to do this.

4. We do have an American hero in the house tonight. A strong man, a brave man. He's the kind of man who knows exactly who he is. He doesn't hide under a toupee. He faces his challenges, instead of just retreating to the sewers...nude to forage for rings and coins. Or to the toilets. Or to a life filled with rats. He's the kind of man who gives me the courage to do an amazing double jackknife twist, which I did. Most of you people wouldn't even attempt that. I did it. And to go down on Chrissy Orlando on the trampoline later, on the very same night, which I also did. And I licked her assh*le a little bit. It was pretty good. It was all right. It wasn't great. But it was fine. And I knew that it was gonna be fine because this guy would be here to catch me if I faltered. Yeah. The world is a safer place when he's around. ♪ Did you ever know that you're my hero? Cause you are the wind Beneath my wings. ♪ Thank you. Thanks.

5. Thought about the “Dennis Gets Divorced” boy toy scene for too long and now mascara is dripping down my face (I’m not wearing mascara).

Honorable Mentions:

The little shrug and smile they exchange at the end of MADBU gets me every time. It’s like a scene from a Nora Ephron film. Why would they do that to me, personally?

This should probably be in the top five, and it’s still fresh so I haven’t figured out where to rank it yet, but they shared a bed in “Inflates.” They did that. Them. Woof.

DDL’s “Um...there's really no easy way to say this, but, um, Mac and I aren't just friends. He's actually my, uh...” “Lover.” “Partner” still goes hard. That’s ao3 dialogue right there.

[ladytitanium]

Silly Bands were hot when I was in school. I did not have any because my family was very poor, but the rich and popular kids (always seemed to be a lot of overlap, for some reason) had so many slung around their forearms that they looked like multicolored archery bracers. Inches of animal-shaped rubber bands meant you'd made it in the social hierarchy. I begged my dad for a quarter at the Walmart after he'd been fighting quietly with my mother over finances in the checkout line. There was a vending machine with plastic capsules full of Silly Bands. I could finally enter the hallowed ranks of Cool Kids, if I could just get one capsule, but he just shook his head and held my hand tighter as we headed for the parking lot.

I'd devised a scheme on my way home, tuning out the argument that had erupted into a full shouting match as soon as the trunk closed behind the paltry Walmart haul. I would find a way to get my hands on some Silly Bands-- intact ones, not the snapped single-thread corpses of neon creatures that littered the middle school hallways. I was going to perform a great heist.

It turned out to be so much easier than I expected. Stealing at home was a waiting game. Dad at work, mom sleeping off a migraine or medication side effects-- that was prime time for stealing into the grimy kitchen and shaking out precise amounts of candy from last Halloween's bucket in a precise and (I thought) untraceable pattern. The couch cushions or discarded work pants left on the floor could sometimes contain coins, which I usually saved for soft-serve cones from McDonalds when the weather was unbearable in an un-air-conditioned Midwest July. But, I figured, if I left a quarter in the place of the Silly Bands I stole, I was basically surreptitiously paying for what I'd taken, which made it morally justifiable.

The heist went off without a hitch. An unattended and unzipped pencil bag, a sweaty quarter dropped into it, a set of three Silly Bands tucked away in my bag. I waited days to display them so that the crime could be discovered and forgotten without suspicion falling on me. Finally, I displayed my new social-status-raising accessory.

A boy pinned me to the locker and snapped all three off of my wrist the next day after school. His friend would have helped, but was too disgusted by my existence to touch me even violently, he claimed. The red lines faded from my skin by the time I got home. Nothing could gain me the status I hoped for. I was simply too strange to gain entry into those coveted upper echelons.

I'm not going to say stealing is wrong categorically. I am not even claiming that it's never done me any good. It's a helpful skill sometimes, to be able to move undetected and take what you need. I am, however, certain that some lessons must be learned the hard way. No amount of lecturing can dampen the thrill of Getting Away With Something, until natural consequences do the work for you.

[dilucsrevenge]

NEW PRODUCT LOADING;

TITLE; CONVICTION OF THE CURSED

CHAPTER; ONE

CONTENT WARNINGS; NONE FOR THIS CHAPTER. HOWEVER THIS SERIES WILL HAVE NSFW CONTENT AND EACH CHAPTER WILL BE MARKED WITH THE CONTENTS IN THE CHAPTER. wc: 1,942

minors do not interact.

PAYMENT PLANS

ENJOY.

The Fatui Harbingers were the most illustrious members of society within Snezhnaya, their presence commanded the attention of those within their reach. It was next to impossible to be graced with the higher ranking members' appearance, but those of lower ranking could be spotted at the various restaurants and shops across the city conducting business that was surely tainted by blood. Every citizen ceased breathing in their wake, whispers falling to a hushed murmur until the Harbinger had passed. It was a rare occasion for them to strike up conversation outside of business and any time they did, it was a dull conversation filled with the overwhelming pleasantries from the merchants. It wasn’t entirely the merchants fault that the Harbingers refused to make idle conversation with them, their status and power practically engraved the people with fear of stepping on their toes.

All the people knew the higher ranks of the Fatui were nearly untouchable on an average day. They tended to stay busy with much more sensitive transactions powered by Mora that was nearly outweighed by the bloodshed that was spilled behind closed doors. Some could say that the higher ranks of the Fatui could possibly not exist, their power controlled fully by the whispers and rumors of all their accomplishments. Though the unlucky few that had landed on the wrong side of contracts and deals with the Fatui knew all too well that the stories of their power were devastatingly underwhelming compared to the things they were truly capable of.

The streets of Snezhnaya’s marketplace were bustling with activity, a typical occurrence on a day like today as everyone’s pay for the week had been recently distributed. Your stall at the marketplace was always a popular one these days, selling handcrafted trinkets and oddities that you specialized in and people loved to splurge on when they had a little extra Mora to spare. The women browsing your items always favored the hairpieces and handheld mirrors inlaid with various gems and delicate hand painted flowers over the other things you had available, the men choosing the velvet coin bags clasped shut with embroidered dragons gracing the fabric. Your family was well trained in the work of tailoring and forging, you being the first to tie these two together despite your families disapproval at first. Mora spoke to them quickly, accepting your change in family lineage the second you were able to move them out of the well-worn childhood home many generations had lived and loved in.

Through the harsh cold of the Snezhnayan winter, there were still so many customers that spent more time making conversation with you over picking out the wares they wanted and moving on. You were a fan of these customers the most, as a merchant you would spend hours upon hours in the blistering cold until your handcrafted items were completely gone. You were blessed that your income had allowed you to afford a much better table at the marketplace, allowing you to be closer to the everlasting fire that burned in the area. You always wondered if the customers stayed longer for the heat over the conversation, but the thought was buried deeper in your mind with every transaction that passed.

Everyone in the city was accustomed to the bitter cold that ate at your bones even through the thickest of winter clothing, but no one could ignore the wave of frost that formed in the air in seconds. Many travelers of the marketplace searched the skies for a possible storm that could be incoming, or a possible attack on the city that would need immediate retreat. Confusion was written on the peoples faces; no seeming storm or attack was in the distance. However, a quick clear of a throat someway down the path of the marketplace and hushed whispers brought attention to the source of the chill rushing through the air. The gaze of the crowd took quick glances at the oncoming figure, all eyes quickly staring at the ground or something other than the person that was gracefully gliding down the stairs towards the marketplace.

If the figure approaching had been anyone else, perhaps there would be a slight whisper of the people in the air; but in the presence of none other than the Second Harbinger, Il Dottore, the drop of a needle could shatter the atmosphere. As Dottore passed stalls, those left behind him rushed out of the marketplace. Not a single person wanted to know what it meant for Dottore to be visiting, and not a single person in his path wanted to be the one that caught his attention for more than a passing glance. It was well known that Dottore had an affinity for many things that could be tinkered with, so every merchant that sold any little thing similar to technologies Dottore was known to enjoy held their breath until he passed without a glance at their wares. It was until the Doctor turned his gaze towards your stall that the chill finally hit your bones, making your spine go rigid while everyone that had been deep in conversation with you previously scattered from the possibility of being in his path.

A few vendors that you had nearly considered family fled as Dottore walked up to your measly little booth, none of them wanted to know what it could mean if the Second Harbinger had anything to do with you. Your hands were perched behind your back, fingernails digging into the palm of your hand to calm the nerves that still seemed to linger in the back of your mind. Dottore stood there, chin held high and mighty to match the air of regency that he carried. He eyed over the last of your items for sale, his gloved hand eventually tracing one of the brooches you had for sale that vaguely resembled the design of ruin guards you had seen in some travels. The brooch was a new item to your table, something you knew was possible to not sell given its less elegant design than the rest of your glamorous items. 

“You are a very talented designer,” Dottore’s voice boomed over the silent market, causing you to jump and in return get a dark chuckle from the blue haired man, “do not fret. I am merely here to see the wares of the people.”

Seconds turned to minutes and quickly turned to hours as you meticulously captured the movements of Dottore’s fingers and engraved them into your mind; there wasn’t a whisper in the background that could bring you out of this trance, his fingers put your mind in a smoky haze with the way they traced every edge and curve of the items you had crafted merely weeks before. Eyes carved intricate patterns with their gaze upon your back from the leftovers of the crowd of the marketplace, increasing the amount of panic that was building up within the back of your mind. Surely, he’d say something by now if he meant no harm to you. But, in the fashion that was typical of the few encounters with the Second Harbinger, Dottore was as quiet as a mouse.

“Such a bore…” Dottore spoke out with a bite similar to spider venom, the mask upon his face making the smirk that followed after you jumped from his words seem even more venomous. 

Dottore was known for shooting daggers with his gaze alone, so you feared making eye contact with him, which clearly angered him even more as he cleared his throat to scare you into looking up at him. There was no possibility for you to see his eyes through the mask he wore, but clearly he could see you through the intricately designed accessory cutting you off from allowing yourself to think he could possibly be human. You were certain this man was about to be the cause of your demise in such a public space; all your thoughts were on the last words you had said to your family, the last meal you had shared with them, the last time you laughed as your friends gathered around the table of the local tavern for rounds upon rounds of drinks late at night.

“Now, you are the one who crafted these, correct?” Even an innocent question from Dottore had your skin crawling,proving that it may have just been impossible for him to not carve wounds on someone's soul with just his words.

“Yes! I – uh, yes, this is my work,” your words were rushed and stuttered, shame flooding your senses as you spoke so gracelessly in the presence of someone so prestigious. 

Dottore’s fingers curved around the edges of the piece you suspected he would be most interested in, the brooch crafted to resemble ruin guards. Although Dottore was frightening, when you were watching him examine your work closely, you couldn’t help but let your mind wander to thoughts of those same fingers tracing against your skin in places that a Harbinger should never be allowed to get close to. If Dottore could get a glimpse in your mind, you doubt he’d hesitate to have you killed on the spot. 

“I’m speaking to you.” Dottore’s voice not only made you jump out of the daze you had put yourself in, but scattered the last of the remaining customers of the marketplace, “your inability to listen when spoken to has me reconsidering the offer of hiring you to personally work for the Fatui.”

The words shocked you as soon as they processed in your brain. The chance to work for the Fatui? An illustrious job that was rumored to include many secretive practices all for very compensative pay? A job offer you could end up throwing away all because you were too enamored with the hands of a Harbinger? You had made a lot of mistakes in your life, but nothing would ever be able to compare to this one if you truly did let the chance slip through your fingertips.

“Ah, Il Dottore, I’m terribly sorry.” A quick clear of your throat had him grinning once again, derailing your ability to ground yourself once more, “if the offer is still available, I would be honored to work with you. No matter what the subject is.”

“No matter the subject, hm?” Dottore gracefully placed the brooch down on the table, his free hand now bracing his weight on the table to close the gap between the two of you. “I do hope you’ll be able to keep some confidentiality of the work we will have you doing.”

Before you could even process the suggestive tone to his voice, Dottore was standing up straight once again, the same air of regality flowing from him with his nearly perfect posture. You had been told that meetings with the Second Harbinger were more than likely to end with death, but here you were still standing on your own two feet somehow. Of course, spending so much time focusing on your breathing and reminding yourself how to act around someone with such a high status as Dottore, you had completely missed his hungry eyes devouring you.

“You are lucky I am very drawn to the work you have done,” the previous suggestive tone had melted into one of venom again, “tomorrow an escort will be sent to your home to bring you Zapolyarny Palace to discuss the details of your contract. If you know what is best for you, do learn how to use your words when speaking. I’m sure both of us would be devastated if something were to happen with those pretty little hands of yours.”

[spicykaraage]

Tenipuri Complete Character Profile - Houou Byoudouin

[PROFILE]

Birthday: July 4th (Cancer)

Blood Type: A

Birthplace: Hyogo

Relatives: Great-Grandmother, Grandmother, Father, Mother, Younger Sister

Middle School: Makinofuji Academy Junior High School (graduate)

High School: Makinofuji Academy High School

Grade: Third Year

Committee: None

Strong Subjects: Philosophy

U-17 Training Camp Position & Rank: First String | No.1

World Cup Team: U-17 World Cup Japanese Representatives (Youth Captain)

Favorite Motto: “All things perish; do not be negligent, but diligent.”

Hobbies: Copying sutras

Favorite Color: Gold

Favorite Book: The Heart Sutra

Favorite Food: Green tea

Favorite Anniversary: The day Japan wins the World Cup, which will be very soon

Preferred Type: A person with a cause

Ideal Date Spot: A temple where you can do zazen

His Gift for a Special Person: “I will eliminate anyone who opposes you.”

What He Wants Most Right Now: Shinai ➜ For Japan to win the World Cup [23.5]

Dislikes: None

Skills Outside of Tennis: None

Routine During the World Cup: Misogi

[DATA]

Height: 189cm

Weight: 74kg

Dominant Arm: Right

Vision: 2.0 Left & Right

Play Style: All-Rounder

Signature Moves: Destruction, Pirates of the American, भारतम उचारण.साँप (The Snake Charmer of India), El toreo de español, مصر من طائر الفينيق (The Phoenix of Egypt), Pirates of the World

Favorite Brands:

Racket: HEAD YouTek Graphene Speed Pro 18/20

Shoes: adidas adizero ACE II AC M

Overall Rating: Immeasurable

Kurobe Memo: “Is it truly okay to have this kind of talent as a high schooler? His abilities are excellent, but he’s rather rude. He needs to be taught some manners, otherwise he’ll be an embarassment as a representative of Japan.”

[POSSESSIONS]

What’s in His Locker at the U-17 Training Camp [10.5 II]:

Foreign novel // A Sherlock Holmes novel. He reads books from various countries and has recently gotten into mysteries

Beard trimmer (unused) // Duke had bought it for him to replace his razor that he had dropped into the river, but he’s never used it

Sweatband // He has several of the same ones. They are washed everyday and are always clean when he uses them

A sticker with Sanskrit on it // He has secretly gotten very interested in them, and also wants Sanskrit accessories

What’s in His Travel Bag [23.5]:

A wallet full of 10-yen coins // He collects them for some reason

[TRIVIA]

The Prince of Tennis II 10.5 Fanbook | Publication Date: 09/04/2013

He is on bad terms with Tokugawa

He is good friends with Duke

He has wandered around the entire world playing tennis

He is surprisingly a clean freak

When he lost to Oni and was sent to the training on the cliffs, he was chosen for the special mission to retrieve the sake. During it, he had a scuffle with the bats and dropped his razor into the river. He then grew out his hair and beard and kept it ever since

Since middle school, he’s had his sights set on the world and has traveled to various places to hone his skills. Therefore, the names of his techniques are in different languages

There is a scene of Byoudouin in Duke’s room in Golden Age 69. It is revealed he climbed the balcony to enter Duke’s room

The Prince of Tennis II 23.5 Fanbook | Publication Date: 05/02/2018

Right before the World Cup, he returned to the cliffs to settle the score with the bats. When he retrieved his razor, it was rusted, so he bought a new one

He attends Makinofuji Academy located in the Hyogo Prefecture, the location of Shitenhoji and Maikozaka as well. It is said to be a strong and prestigious school

The Prince of Tennis 20th Anniversary Book: Tenipuri Party | Publication Date: 08/02/2019

His ideal relationship is one where he and his partner share a great cause despite all else. A relationship where they are two sides of the same coin

His younger sister is a middle school third year attending Makinofuji Academy. She has been described as a “Madonna” and Kadowaki is infatuated with her

He can speak 29 different languages

[daitranscripts]

Of Somewhat Fallen Fortune Pt. 4

Any News on The House of Repose?

Josephine Masterpost First: About the Montilyets Previous: A Plan

The PC speaks to Josephine.

Josephine: Any news on the House of Repose, Inquisitor?

1 - Dialogue options:

Investigate: Can the contract be annulled? [2]

Investigate: How do peasants become nobles? [3]

Investigate: Tell me of the Du Paraquettes. [4]

General: What’s our next move? [5]

General: Goodbye. [6]

2 - Investigate: Can the contract be annulled? PC: Are you sure the House of Repose will forget this assassin contract on a farmer’s signature? Josephine: It’s perfectly legal. In Val Royeaux’s noble circles, a written word is a bond. Besides, the guild would never risk being so unspeakably crass.

Dialogue options:

Special: Are you serious? [7]

[Back to 1]

7 - Special: Are you serious? PC: These assassins are afraid of being seen as impolite? Josephine: Breaking one’s public oath or bond implies a certain… poverty in Orlais. A common merchant may lack the resources or manners to fulfill a debt, but among the guilds? It would be shameful. [back to 1]

3 - Investigate: How do peasants become nobles? PC: How exactly does one turn farmers into members of the upper classes? Josephine: There are procedures for granting honored citizens of the empire the title of “lord” or “lady.” Very long procedures. And so much paperwork! I’ve called in a substantial number of favors to cut through half of it. [back to 1]

4 - Investigate: Tell me of the Du Paraquettes. PC: Why did the Du Paraquettes hate the Montilyets so much, they set up a permanent assassination watch? Josephine: A Montilyet and a Du Paraquette fell in love. A young couple, pledged elsewhere, attempted to elope. The whole thing ended so violently, it’s a wonder any survived. It’s fortunate the Du Paraquettes’ descendants hold no grudges.

Dialogue options:

Special: How do you know that? [8]

[Back to 1]

8 - Special: How do you know that? PC: What if the Du Paraquettes refuse to aid you? Josephine: I’ve already contacted the Du Paraquettes, Inquisitor. They’re ready to help us. It will be a long road, but a lordship is a chance to restore a proud lineage to their heirs. Besides, I’ve promised them a heavy bag of coin once this is over. [back to 1]

5 - General: What’s our next move? PC: You said I’d have to do some favors in Val Royeaux if we want to make the Du Paraquettes lords. PC: What’s the next favor we need to get these Du Paraquettes a lordship?

Josephine: The Countess Dionne is our first step. Her lover, a mage from the White Spire, is missing. Bring her news of him, and she’ll be very amenable to sponsoring the Du Paraquettes as lords. Unlocks war table mission “Find a Sponsor for the Du Paraquettes” Scene ends.

Josephine: We need a judge of the royal court to procure documents acknowledging them as nobility again. Unlocks war table mission “Getting a Judge's Favor” Scene ends.

Josephine: We must persuade Minister Bellise to ratify the papers. She’s in charge of these matters of rank. The minister will be at a small fete thrown by the Marquis Wiscotte. I’ll get you an invitation. Unlocks war table mission “Speak with Minister Bellise at Party” Scene ends.

6 - General: Goodbye. PC: Let’s speak later.

Next: Countess Dionne

[jackoshadows]

“Harma and the Bag of Bones don’t come raiding for fish and apples. They steal swords and axes. Spices, silks, and furs. They grab every coin and ring and jeweled cup they can find, casks of wine in summer and casks of beef in winter, and they take women in any season and carry them off beyond the Wall.”

“And what if they do? I’d sooner be stolen by a strong man than be given t’some weakling by my father.”

“You say that, but how can you know? What if you were stolen by someone you hated?”

“He’d have t’ be quick and cunning and brave t’ steal me. So his sons would be strong and smart as well. Why would I hate such a man as that?”

“Maybe he never washes, so he smells as rank as a bear.”

 “Then I’d push him in a stream or throw a bucket o’ water on him. Anyhow, men shouldn’t smell sweet like flowers.”

“What’s wrong with flowers?” - Jon, ASoS

I like how Jon’s first argument against stealing someone vs arranged marriages is ‘But what if they smell bad?’ Love a man who gives importance to good hygiene!!

More importantly apart from the issues of consent at the start, rereading Jon’s ASoS chapters is making me like Jon and Ygritte together. I feel like they make a good parallel to Arya and Gendry (more adult though) in terms of being like a little romcom with their banter. They are also the definition of bittersweet.

“Let’s not go back t’ Styr and Jarl. Let’s go down inside, and join up with Gendel’s children. I don’t ever want t’ leave this cave, Jon Snow. Not ever.” - Jon, ASoS

The poignancy of these chapters are mainly because of Jon’s love for her and his conflict about helping the Watch. Their back and forth arguments and the clash of cultures is interesting to read.

I know one thing. I know that you are wildling to the bone. It was easy to forget that sometimes, when they were laughing together, or kissing. But then one of them would say something, or do something, and he would suddenly be reminded of the wall between their worlds. - Jon, ASoS

I love how GRRM associates ‘You Know Nothing’ with their relationship - this is where Jon starts to understand the Freefolk as people, as human beings instead of seeing them as the enemy. This is where he starts to see both sides

We look up at the same stars, and see such different things. - Jon, ASoS

For example, when they argue about the women being stolen vs given into marriage by their fathers. Ygritte has a point, what’s the difference with Cersei being given into marriage to an abusive rapist like Robert Baratheon and a girl being stolen by the Freefolk? Or Lysa Tully and Jon Arryn? Or Ramsay Bolton and his bride?  Marital rape is a still a thing in Westeros.

“And what if they do? I’d sooner be stolen by a strong man than be given t’some weakling by my father.”

Jon caught her wrist. “What if the man who stole you drank too much?” he insisted. - Robert Baratheon

“What if he was brutal or cruel?” He tightened his grip to make a point. - Robert Baratheon

“What if he was stronger than you, and liked to beat you bloody?”

“I’d cut his throat while he slept. You know nothing, Jon Snow.” Ygritte twisted like an eel and wrenched away from him. - Jon, ASoS

And here is Cersei

The queen's face was hard and angry. "Would that I could take a sword to their necks myself." Her voice was starting to slur. "When we were little, Jaime and I were so much alike that even our lord father could not tell us apart. Sometimes as a lark we would dress in each other's clothes and spend a whole day each as the other. Yet even so, when Jaime was given his first sword, there was none for me. 'What do I get?' I remember asking. We were so much alike, I could never understand why they treated us so differently. Jaime learned to fight with sword and lance and mace, while I was taught to smile and sing and please. He was heir to Casterly Rock, while I was to be sold to some stranger like a horse, to be ridden whenever my new owner liked, beaten whenever he liked, and cast aside in time for a younger filly. Jaime's lot was to be glory and power, while mine was birth and moonblood."  - Cersei, AFfC

What Cersei describes here is no different to Jon’s argument against the Freefolk stealing away girls from the North. The one is no better than the other. Of course there’s always Ned and Catelyn as a positive for arranged marriages. But then there’s also Alys Karstark and Sigorn, the Magnar of Thenns.

Whichever way you look at it, the women are on the loosing end.

[mythrae]

Ain't No Sunshine (When She's Gone)

Chapter 1: Prelude

Summary: When the Fairest Bard in Baldur’s Gate is forced into giving her hand in marriage to a member of the Baldurian Elite, Anastasia Goldenrod told herself she would do just about anything to get herself out of it.

Word Count: 3.9k

Warnings: 18+ (minors do not interact), minor character death

Author’s Notes:

this fic is half the reason why I’ve been absent from writing this past month so if u wanna blame someone blame Stassie

big shoutout to @swanfey and @have-a-treato for beta reading :)

fic is set immediately before Act 1 of

click here to read on aO3 :)

“Mama? Papa? I’m home!”

Anastasia Goldenrod opened the door of her parent’s home in Rivington, her violin case in one hand and a bag full of coins in the other. She had just finished performing in front of Sorcerous Sundries on the western side of the Lower City of Baldur’s Gate, a spot she would frequent often as the days were slowly getting warmer.

Ever since Anastasia was a young girl, she had always dreamed of becoming a bard. She was born with a gift for music, so learning how to sing and play her violin came as naturally to her as a babe learning to crawl. Once she began playing her instrument in the streets outside of her home, always drawing in an adoring crowd of fans wanting to get a glimpse of her golden hair and freckled cheeks in the sunlight as she played and sang her heart out.

As she got older, she began to perform almost daily, her talents requested by people of higher ranking. She was even asked to perform at Grand Duke Ravengard’s coronation, an offer she would be a fool to refuse. With her high-profile appearances, she began to build quite the reputation throughout the city.

The Fairest Bard in Baldur’s Gate , they called her. 

Or, as she was known by those who watched her perform nightly at the Elfsong Tavern, the Silver Tongued Bard, for her quick jabs at the men who pined after her.

She didn’t really care for titles, no, that wasn’t what was important to her. She was more than happy making a living doing what she loved.

And she always wanted to make her parents proud. That’s why, even after she had finished her schooling, she stayed at home to help support her family. Nearly every single piece of gold she made went back to them. She helped her mother in the kitchen, aided her father with tailoring the garments sent to the family’s shop, even repairing some of the pieces herself. They had given their life to her for so long, she wanted to pay them back in any way she could.

Her parents were very happy to have their only child still helping them around the home and with the family business. They were proud to see how far their daughter had come in such a short amount of time.

And even so, they still had different plans for her.

“Ah, perfect timing! Hurry, come in, dear!” She heard her father shouting for her from the parlor.

She made haste, her feet moving quickly at her father’s call. But as she entered the room, setting down her violin case, she found herself taking a step back.

Three people stood up from their place on the sofas, all looking to her expectantly.

Her parents, of course, were no shock to her whatsoever. But the tall, dark haired man towering over them was an unexpected guest.

“Anastasia,” her mother said, grinning from ear to ear, “there’s someone we would like you to meet.”

The man gave her a smile, extending his hand to her as a greeting. 

“Ah, if it isn’t the Fairest Bard in all of Baldur’s Gate! I have been looking forward to making your acquaintance, dear.”

She caught a glimpse of the golden steel gauntlet adorning his fingers, a purple stone that almost seemed to glow set right in the middle of the ornate item. The metal matched the accents of his belt and cloak, resembling the face of some sort of devil-like figure. Her eyes flickered to his face, and while he was quite the sight for sore eyes, there was something a bit… off , about him. As if there was another side of him he didn’t want anyone else to see.

When she reached out her hand to shake his, he grabbed hold of her tightly, almost unforgivingly, the metal of the gauntlet cold against her delicate skin. Unable to break from his clutch, she watched as he pulled the back of her hand to his lips for a soft, uncomfortably tender kiss. She felt her face flush, feeling his surprisingly soft lips pressed against her. But as his darkened eyes stared into hers, she felt the warmth leave her body entirely.

She took her hand back, shaking off his unwelcome gesture. “A bit forward for a stranger to greet me like this in my home, hmm?”

“ Ana !” Her mother raised her voice, “That’s no way to treat your future husband!”

“Future… what ?” 

Anastasia spun her head to look at her mother, then back at the man standing in front of her.

She was going to marry him?

“Ah, my apologies, darling.” The man finally spoke. “I have yet to introduce myself.” 

He placed his hand over his chest and bowed to her deeply, refusing to break his gaze. Her whole body felt like it was under a spell, as if she was frozen and couldn’t move.

“I am Lord Enver Gortash. A pleasure to meet you, my dear.”

Hells, not a politician…

Usually, she’d be able to come up with a witty one-liner that would lower his ego. Make a comment on how he looks as if he hasn’t bathed in a tenday, or how he could use a haircut to look more like a member of the elite and not a lowly pauper. After all, she couldn’t become as well known amongst the city as she was without a little bit of vicious mockery.

But despite her strong distaste for him, and how her parents had introduced him as her future husband, she found herself stunned into silence.

“I see that this must be a lot to take in, hm?” He stood upright, his shadow looming over her once more.

All she could do was nod.

“You see, Anastasia, I have heard of your renown throughout the city,” Lord Gortash continued, “There are only so many ladies who can be given your title, after all. So I’ve taken it upon myself to visit the Elfsong every now and again. And you, my dear, are a true work of art.”

Something clicked in the back of her mind.

Yes , she thought, I’ve seen him there before…

The vision comes back briefly, her playing one of the tunes she wrote for Duke Ulder Ravengard on the tavern stage. He was sitting in the back of the room, drinking whatever ale they had that evening, glaring at her from across the way.

She remembered how frightening he looked. It made her feel unsafe that night. 

And here he was, giving her that same devious glare, making her feel vulnerable all over again. Almost like he was staring right through her clothes, taking in her naked form.

She wanted to run. She wanted to get away. She wanted to scream and claw at the smug look at his face and hit him over the head with her violin case.

But, she stayed frozen, unable to move.

“And what a coincidence, he continued, “your father just so happens to be my tailor! When I had knocked on his door earlier today, he thought I had personally come by to drop off my cloaks!

“What can I say?” Her father chuckled, “It’s not every day that the Military Advisor for the Baldurian Elite comes to our humble shop!”

“Well, you will most certainly need to get used to it, Mister Goldenrod.”

Lord Gortash reached into his cloak pocket, pulling out a small box while he knelt down on one knee. He opened the box, revealing a golden ring, an impressively large diamond set perfectly in the middle.

“Anastasia Goldenrod, I would be remiss to not make you my bride. Will you accept?”

Oh, so they’re being serious.

She didn’t want to do this, not yet. Her life had barely begun, and she didn’t want to get tied down just yet. She wanted to perform, travel alongside the Sword Coast, meet all sorts of friends and foes. She wanted a chance to live her life, fall in love on her own terms, before settling down and starting a family.

This would take it all away from her.

She was going to say no, until she turned her focus away from Gortast to look at her parents.

She knew they had gone through hardship, long before she was even born. Her father was once a renown tailor in the Lower City of Baldur’s Gate, servicing any and all who stopped at his doorstep. But an accident unknown to her had ruined his reputation, forcing his family to move to the outskirts of the city he loved. Since then, they have struggled, barely making enough money for the three of them. It wasn’t until she started getting paid for playing that they were finally able to live comfortably. And even then, it wasn’t always enough.

She knew that if she were to get married to a Baldurian Elite like Lord Gortash, her father’s business would be up and running again. She could see the hope and excitement in their eyes as they envisioned their future. 

She couldn’t find it in herself to crush their dreams.

With her eyes squeezed shut and her face turned away, she begrudgingly gave him her answer:

“Yes.”

She heard her parents gasp, elated that their daughter had accepted his proposal. When she opened her eyes, she saw Lord Gortash beaming, a twinkle in his eye as he plucked the ring from its box and slid it onto Anastasia’s ring finger.

“Excellent.”

“Oh, isn’t this so exciting, Ana?” Her father said, nearly shaking in excitement, “he wants to marry you! YOU!”

No, it was not exciting whatsoever , she thought.

Lord Gortash stood up, giving Anastasia’s hand one final squeeze before he left. “It was a delight to make your acquaintance, dearest Anastasia.” 

She gave him a curt nod in his direction, discreetly wiping her hand on her trousers.

He gave a shallow bow to her parents. “I must go make the arrangements for our upcoming nuptials. We will be married in a tenday! Get your guest list to me as soon as you can!”

As he opened the door to their home, he turned his head to say one last remark:

“It will surely be an unforgettable night!

Anastasia felt her stomach drop.

She did not like the way he said that.

-----

Unable to face her parents with her concerns for her upcoming nuptials, Anastasia spent the next hour quietly sobbing into the pile of pillows resting on her bed. 

Usually, when she thought her parents were making a poor decision, she would be able to dissuade them into making a choice that was more reasonable. Things like if they wanted to irresponsibly use their money, or if they wanted to use a different thread supplier because the one they have become loyal to was getting pricier.

But this? If she said anything at all, it could ruin everything. There was no way she could express how she was feeling to them right now. 

In fact, how was she feeling?

Blindsided, confused, hurt, betrayed. As if she was being sold off like a pig in a market, destined for a grim death it would never see coming.

All of these and more came to mind.

But instead of seeking out the comfort she once had from her parents, she let the pillowcases absorb her tears, her eye makeup staining them black.

She was so distraught by what they had allowed to happen to her, she didn’t even notice the graying-haired stranger relaxing in the chair in the corner of her bedroom.

As she lifted her head from her pillow to take a shaky breath, the overwhelming smell of sulfur filled her nostrils. And was that a hint of… 

Cherry ?

Turning her head over her shoulder, she locked eyes with a man dressed rather regally watching her intently, one leg crossed over the other as he held a chalice delicately in his fingers.

“My, my, my.” The man tutted, shaking his head. “I was worried I’d be here until sunrise, little mouse.”

Anastasia sat up in her bed, silently conjuring one of her cantrips in between her fingers. The heat started to build up in the palm of her hand as she narrowed her eyes, zeroing in the most unwelcome guest.

“How the hells did you get in here?”

The strange man chuckled, twirling his chalice, “Seems your door has a faulty lock, hm?”

Her eyes flickered over to the door, which was left slightly ajar.

“Fair point.” She replied, palms glowing a bright orange as she hopped from her bed as she held out her hands in his direction, “ Why are you here?”

“Oh, where are my manners?” He smiled to himself, standing to his feet while placing the chalice on the desk next to him.

Anastasia fought the urge to roll her eyes to the back of her head. She’d already met one odd man in her home, and now here she was, dealing with another one.

“I am Raphael, at your humble service.”

Another shallow bow, much like the one Gortash gave her parents mere hours ago, down to resting his hand on top of his chest.

“That doesn’t answer my question,” Anastasia spat, the magic practically burning at her skin, “Tell me why you’re here, or I’ll incincerate you where you stand.”

“Well, aren’t you feisty?” He nearly purred, “I assure you, I am here to help you. With your… upcoming arrangement.”

Anastasia felt her eyes go wide. How does he know?

She dismissed her cantrip away, allowing her hands to slowly fall to her sides.

“Explain yourself.”

“You see,” Raphael began, “I know of this man who wants to have your hand in marriage. This ‘Lord Gortash,’ he calls himself. We have… a bit of history, to say the least. And I would stop at nothing to ruin his pathetic self over and over again.”

She watched him tightly squeeze his fist together, as if he was squishing the life out of Lord Gortash in his bare hands.

“I would very much like to help you get out of this arrangement…”

“Oh, you would?!” Anastasia blurted,

“... for a price, that is.”

This didn’t bother her in the slightest.

“At this point, I’d do anything.” She pleaded.

Well, almost anything.

“Calm down, little mouse.” Raphael waved his hand in the air, “Let’s discuss this matter in a less… intimate setting. Besides, the town of Rivington always felt too ‘middle-of-nowhere’ for my tastes.”

Before she could even process what he said, Raphael snapped his fingers, and Anastasia felt the room spinning away from her.

Even when she closed her eyes, the vertigo still took hold, feeling as if her body had been caught up in a twister she could not escape. All she could do was squeeze her eyes shut and pray that it would be over.

But as the thought crossed her mind, she felt the air around her still.

When she opened her eyes, she was no longer in her bedroom. Quite the opposite, in fact.

The stranger had teleported her into a grand dining hall, lavished with the highest quality food and the strongest smelling alcohol her senses had ever experienced. Plush chairs surrounded the large table, a rather creepy skeleton placed in each seat, paired with its own plate and goblet at their table setting. The walls were decorated rather luxuriously, paintings hung carefully alongside many emblems of a golden devilish face, each one with its tongue sticking out.

Wait a minute, she thought, those are the same devil’s on Gortash’s cloak…

“There,” Raphael said, interrupting Anastasia’s thoughts, “‘middle-of-somewhere.’ Welcome to my House of Hope, dear.”

He stood in front of the fireplace, the warm glow of the flickering flames making him look as if he was a sort of hero, or a savior of sorts.

But the way he stood in front of her was nearly identical to the portrait of the devil that hung behind him.

“Who… who are you, really?” Anastasia questioned him, taking a small step back.

He tutted, a slight smile tugging at the corner of his lips. “Oh, dear. It took you this long to figure it out? Not very insightful, are you?”

Raphael was surrounded by a blazing inferno, seeming as if they were rising up from the Hells themselves. As the flames dimmed, his true form was revealed: deep red skin, glowing eyes, strong horns, and bat-like wings.

A devil .

“What’s better than a devil you don’t know?”

“A devil you… do?” She replied, nearly trembling in fear.

“Precisely.”

She watched as the devil snapped his fingers once more.

Anastasia felt herself being pushed back into a chair, her wrists being restrained by a metal claw on the arms as soon as she had taken a seat. 

“Can’t let you run off during negotiations, dearest.” He explained, “I do hope you understand.”

It took everything in herself not to thrash about, to scream at him to let her go, that she wanted no part in this any longer.

Instead, she took a breath, in through her nose, out through her mouth.

Stay calm, she told herself, he wants to help you. He’s going to help you, whether he truly wants to or not.

“Pray tell, Anastasia,” he said, “have you ever heard of a warlock?”

She had heard their praises sung by other bards a few times before. Fierce, strong spellcasters, bound by contract to an all-powerful patron who gives the warlock power in exchange for their loyalty and completing various duties assigned to them. Though she didn’t know any warlocks personally, she could definitely see the appeal in becoming one.

“I have,” She nodded. 

“So this next part won’t come as a surprise, then.”

The devil snapped his fingers. Fearing the worst, Anastasia braced for impact.

Instead of her body being moved against her will once more, a scroll unfurled in front of her, magically floating in midair. The infernal inscription of the scroll glowed crimson. This was definitely unlike any sort of contract she had seen before.

Well, of course it isn’t, she thought to herself, this is a deal with a devil .

“The moment I have your signature,” he gestured as a quill appeared next to the scroll, “you will become my loyal warlock. Serving me for all your mortal days, and perhaps into the afterlife… if you’re lucky.” 

“If I’m lucky?” Anastasia arched her brow.

“If I like you enough, that is,” he replied with a sickening grin. “Then, not only will I help you escape this marriage…”

He leaned in close, their noses nearly touching as she saw his eyes burning with the hellish infernal flame.

“Your power will be greater than you could ever imagine.”

Was she flushing from the proposal or from his proximity?

Regardless, Anastasia knew what she had to do.

“It’s a deal,” She answered.

The restraint from her wrists were lifted, allowing her to quickly pick up the quill. With her grip holding it tightly, she signed her name at the bottom of the parchment, her name glowing red once she lifted the quill from the scroll.

“Good girl.” He smiles as the contract rolled itself up, disappearing in a puff of smoke.

As soon as the scroll vanished, Anastasia felt a new magic coursing through her veins. This was nothing like the cantrips she had learned to harness, most definitely not. This magic was more powerful, darker in nature, as it traveled to the crown of her head to the ends of her fingers and toes. 

For the first time in her life, she felt strong. She felt powerful.

She felt like she could do anything.

“Well? How does it feel?”

“It feels… amazing.” She replied, looking down at the deep green aura surrounding her hands. “It’s unlike anything I’ve felt before.”

“Excellent,” Raphael smiled. "But you're not done, yet."

She looked up from her hands to find him towering over her, moving his hands to rest them on her shoulders, his claws nearly breaking the fabric of her clothing.

“Now, listen to me carefully, dear.” He said, “If you mess this plan up, it could ruin everything.”

-----

“Oh, gods! My baby!”

As the sun crept over the town of Rivington, she could hear her mother’s agonizing screams ripping through the morning air.

Anastasia saw a replica of her body, beaten and bruised, limply laying in front of the steps of her home. She looked on as her mother’s arms wrapped around the body, weeping uncontrollably as she mourned the loss of her daughter. 

“My baby… they took my baby…” she repeated again and again, her body rocking back and forth as she cradled her child.

To her pleasant surprise, Raphael had kept his end of the deal. Before she had left the House of Hope, he had instructed her to tell her parents the night before that she was going to play at the Elfsong Tavern, like she normally did. This time, she was not to come home.

Her father, who usually stayed up late for her on these nights, stood over the two of them. Even as the sun shone on his face, his features were dark.

She swore he never cried once in his life. But as she watched from the trees behind their house, she almost swore she saw him shed a tear.

Anastasia never wanted to hurt her parents, not like this. It hurt her even more, seeing how heartbroken they were to have lost their only child, their sunshine in the darkness of their lives.

But deep down, she knew this was the best decision she could make for herself.

She took a deep breath before taking a step back, holding her hands in prayer.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered to herself. She hoped that through some strange miracle, her parents could hear her.

She quickly turned on her heel to make her way to the forest, replaying Raphael’s message in her head:

“When you know that they found your body, head to the middle of the forest. There will be a clearing with a boulder in the middle. That is where you will find me, and I will give you your first mission as my warlock.”

How he was able to replicate her body perfectly and have it look as if it was beaten to death, she would never fully know. But she did know one thing:

She could never go back home.

Anastasia Goldenrod was no more. The Fairest Bard in Baldur’s Gate had been brutally murdered. And to this life, she could never return. 

She was going to start anew. She had to find a new purpose. Change her name.

Oh hells, what would she call herself…

Various names rotated through her head as she trudged forward, her violin case strapped to her back, next to her newly gifted sword.

There will be people who will recognize me if I am called Ana , she thought to herself, but I don’t want to make up something completely different and brand new. I always thought my name suited me, after all.

Finally, after walking for what felt like forever, there was a name that popped in her head that was so perfect, it stopped her right in her tracks.

Stassie.

The nickname her grandmother used to call her.

She said it aloud, under her breath, one that she hadn’t heard in many years. Then again, a bit louder this time.

It was perfect.

Though she didn’t have much time to think about anything else as she felt a foreign shadow looming over her. 

As she looked over her shoulder, she spotted a mysterious alien ship with flailing tentacles flying through the sky. 

[enteringdullsville]

Monty Sauterdae, the Mint Green Drewman

Be Frugal

Rank: B+ (Season Two Major Character)

Visual Inspiration

Other Character Base

Here Comes the Money

Master of the get rich quick scheme, Monty has his eyes on the prize at all times. It’s Color Theory is only the latest of the many careers and business ventures he’s held over the years in his master plan to claw his way to the top of the social scale. He has absolutely zero qualms about doing potentially humiliating things for cash; the only thing holding him back is his millimeter-long fuse.

Fun Facts

Monty’s surname is doubly a play on “sundae” and Saturday.

Monty was originally far more squat and lacked his irises, lashes, and highly stylized eye bags. Given that most of the characters were initially conceived as teens, one could read this as his actual appearance at this age.

Monty is one of VERY few characters without a defined neck.

Monty was initially envisioned as one of the smallest characters. While he still only stands at eye level with Ivan (navy blue), he was significantly scaled up with a longer torso and limbs.

Monty’s color code is a play on how a “mint” is a place where money is coined or simply a large amount of it.

Monty is the only main or major character with a watch as part of their regular wardrobe.

Monty’s cent sign pupils aren’t a stylistic choice. He’s just really goal focused.