#sf9 fantasy au | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

beautifulchris · 2 years ago

Text

of darkness and rainbows

pairing: demigod!lee felix x fem demigod!reader

featuring: han jisung, hwang hyunjin, sf9's dawon, golden child's bomin, nct's doyoung

summary: a demigod au in which you enter the camp after losing your mom, and you swear to yourself you'll avenge her no matter what

genres: demigod!au, s2f2l!au, mutual pining, slowburn, action, fantasy, adventure, greek mythology, romance, mild fluff, angst

tw: monsters, parental abandonment, death of a mother and a brother, murder, blood, physical injuries, use of weapons (swords, knives, bow and arrow), VIOLENCE, nightmares, grief and loss depiction, battle scenes, monster and creature slaying, mild language, fainting, magic, ghost

rating: +16

wc: 12,7k

notes: wow. this is my longest work yet and i'm proud of it, please let me know what you think!!

networks: @kflixnet @k-labels @whipped-kpop-creators

permanent tag list: @badwithten send an ask/dm/comment to be added!

one.

It was the end of June, and your mom said a trip to Long Island —you’d never heard of that place before— would be the greatest gift she could offer you for your twelfth birthday. You didn’t believe her after she gifted you an agate necklace, your favorite stone.

Unfortunately, it had nothing to do with the trip you’d imagined.

After getting to Montauk, and spending a few hours on the beach, she drove north. You then walked up what you thought was a random hill. When you were almost on top, you turned towards your mom to tell her you wanted to go back, that you’d rather go home and watch a movie. She was sobbing. It took you aback and broke your heart to see her that way. You wanted to hug her so badly.

She grabbed the backpack she had over her shoulders and put the handle in your hands.

“You must go further north, alright? You’ll find someone who can help you,” she instructed as she kneeled in front of you, stroking your face affectionately.

“What are you talking about, mom? I don’t want to go anywhere without you.”

“It’s going to be alright, sweetheart. You have to trust me. You’re so special, you don’t realize how much. You must go on your own path now. It’s time.” Her voice cracked a little. “Go, you’ll be safe there.”

“This doesn’t make any sense…” you mumbled and stood your ground.

“Maybe because your mommy failed to mention why you’re here,” an icy voice said, making you flinch. Your mom quickly got up and put a protective hand on your shoulder, “and why you’re both going to die today.”

“You’re too late. My daughter will live.”

A light yet threatening laugh left the woman’s throat. She was extremely beautiful, but there was something wrong with her. Not physically, it was more of a feeling.

“We’ll see about that.”

As the woman charged, your mom pushed you out of the way.

“Run!” she yelled as she shielded you with her whole body, turning her back on the woman. You didn’t want to leave her but what could you do? You ran as fast as you could to the top of the hill, still being able to hear what was happening behind you.

“I’m Keahi,” the woman said as she grasped your mom’s arm and forced her to spin so that they faced each other. “Might as well know my name, since I’m the last person you’ll ever see, mortal. You’re going to die knowing it was for nothing.”

You only turned around when you heard a sharp gasp.

You watched helplessly as your mom’s limp body fell to the ground with a loud thud. The woman had blood dripping from her hand— no, her claws. It dawned on you that she had murdered your mom and you were next. You turned around and resumed your sprint. Due to your fear and teary eyes, you realized too late that now that you were at the top, you’ll be going down.

You braced yourself as you could for the fall. Your body got scratches from a few low branches and brambles. When you arrived at the bottom of the hill, you looked up to see if the woman had followed.

It wasn’t the beautiful woman you saw earlier anymore, she had flaming hair, white skin and glowing red eyes. You could only see her head, but it was enough to get nightmares. She bared her fangs and turned around, like she couldn’t get to you anymore.

You tried to breathe but it came out ragged, hands shaking and lips trembling. The sun was heating up your skin. The birds were chirping happily while the despair you were feeling was starting to become unbearable as you clutched at your sides. Tears were streaming down your face, blurring your vision. Not that you had much to look at, anyway, except trees.

You closed your eyes and before you could register what was going on, a paradise appeared before them. There was grass, trees, farm animals, a waterfall and sky in different rainbow colors, plus a rainbow in the background. It obviously wasn’t real, but for some reason the colors perfectly matched. It made you feel at ease. A drastic change from the state you were in mere seconds ago. It momentarily made you forget about it, the sight filling you up with warmth and peace. It only lasted a couple minutes, although by now you breathed normally again, tears dried up.

When you opened your eyes and turned around, you could see a huge amphitheater in the distance, a volleyball court and… were these strawberry fields? Off the corner of your eye, you caught sight of a boy smiling sheepishly, seated a few meters away from you. Blinking a few times, you let out a long sigh.

“Are you okay?” the boy asked in a raspy voice.

It doesn’t match his angelic face, you thought.

He had freckles, a fair and soft skin, short blond hair and brown eyes. He was wearing an orange t-shirt, shorts and sneakers.

You nodded, getting up painfully. Your limbs felt sore, the cuts on your face and arms started to ache.

“I can bring you to the infirmary if you want.”

Maybe you shouldn’t have trusted him right away. Maybe he was with the monster. But he didn’t look evil. He didn’t feel evil, either. So, you followed.

“I hope my illusion helped you feel a tad better.”

“What I saw when I closed my eyes, you did this?”

“Yeah. I’ve been practicing.”

He had a peaceful aura that calmed you down instantly. He was so sweet with you, but all you could think of was: what did you do to deserve this kindness? You had just abandoned your mom to her death.

“Why?” You were trembling, and your voice was just above a whisper.

“Why what?”

“Why did you create this illusion?”

“Oh. You looked like you needed a cheer up.”

A surge of gratefulness engulfed you and you smiled.

“Thank you.”

“I heard voices over the hill and when I came, I saw you falling down. There was a monster at the top.”

Your smile disappeared. “I— she killed my mom.”

Eyes widening, the blond boy internally slapped himself for making you sad all over again after all his efforts to make you feel better. “I’m sorry.”

You arrived at the infirmary after a few minutes of awkward silence, and quiet amazement on your part at the amphitheater you could see more clearly, the pavilion full of white tables, more than twenty houses differently decorated and a hearth in the center, even an arena, with kids and teens from different ages all around.

A brown haired guy was tending to a sleeping kid around your age, bruises, cuts and burns all around their face and arms. They were wearing jean overalls with an orange t-shirt, all covered in soot from head to toe.

“Jisung!” the boy next to you called as soon as he spotted him.

“One sec,” he replied without looking up. He brought the teen’s head up with one hand and poured some amber liquid down their throat with the other. He rested their head back delicately on the mattress, got up and turned around to greet the newcomers.

“Hi F— Wow, hey there! Sit here,” he motioned toward an empty bed, “I’ll be right back.” He left through a door made of white sheets.

“Do I really look that bad?”

The blond boy chuckled, slowly shaking his head. “By the way, I didn’t give you my name. I’m Felix.”

You looked up at him, managing a side smile. “I’m Y/N.”

“Nice to meet you, Y/N.”

You didn’t have time to answer that Jisung was back with medicine. He cautiously cleaned your wounds with the same yellowish liquid he used to treat the other kid. It felt like he was treating you like porcelain.

Then, he brought a golden cube up to your mouth.

“What is this?”

“A bit of ambrosia. It heals demigods, but too much can have bad side effects.”

Demigods??

“Eat it, you’ll feel better.”

Whatever.

With newfound trust in strangers, you chewed on the sweet food. It tasted like the mac’n’cheese your mom would make on rainy days. The memory comforted you, but also induced some pain within. Your wounds started to fade until they were completely healed.

“Thank you,” you murmured, in awe at the product. You definitely needed this stuff.

“Of course, it’s my job,” he beamed. “So, Felix,” he turned to his friend, “where did you find this stray kid? Tell me you didn’t go on a little quest on your own—”

“I found Y/N near the border, she’s new,” he interrupted him.

You were thankful he let out the details of your encounter.

“Oh, my bad! I guess you have to take her to the Big House, then.”

He nodded, extending his hand your way. You stared at it, then at the freckled boy, then back at it. Taking it slowly, he walked you to the Big House, which lived up to its name. You choked when you saw a centaur —an actual centaur?!— walking out of the front door.

“Greetings, Chiron!”

Chiron? From the legends??

“Felix. Welcome to the camp half-blood, young lady. I’m Chiron, activities director. Have you been claimed already?”

“Huh…”

“I didn’t see anything,” Felix answered. “I see. Perhaps we’ll know tonight at the campfire. Can you show our new recruit around? I’m off to archery class.”

“Sure.”

He thanked Felix, sent a smile your way and galloped away to the west. The realization you were still holding the boy’s hand made you blush, but before you could retract it, he pulled you with him to different places.

He explained the purpose of the strawberry fields and the society name —Delphi Strawberry Service— covering the camp. He showed you the climbing wall with lava, the dining pavilion, the forge full of Hephaestus kids, the armory —he tried to make you choose a weapon but you refused—, the Pegasus stables —with actual pegasi!—, the arena where demigods trained, the archery field where Chiron was teaching, the camp store —you could buy an orange t-shirt there later—, the arts & crafts center —you saw a beautiful black-haired boy painting there among other kids—, the canoe lake, the forest— you weren’t keen on entering after Felix told you what was in it. You finished the tour next to the hearth in the center of the houses you saw earlier. You could swear you saw a woman in the fire, but when you looked more closely, she was gone.

He explained everything except the reason why you were here in the first place. “This is all charming and interesting, but why am I here?”

“I was getting to that. These are the cabins of the major Greek gods and some of the minor ones. Here,” he gestured to the most colorful cabin out of the bunch, “is my mom’s, Iris, goddess of rainbows.”

It explained the illusion. The cabin looked like a huge trailer with a platform on the front and a little rainbow as antenna. It looked chill and welcoming.

Felix gave you the names of all the gods and goddesses’ cabins present on this camp, making hypotheses on who your dad might be.

“Do you like mechanics? Are you good at poetry or archery? Or swords? Do you enjoy grape juice? Maybe you’re a trickster? Do you enjoy sleeping? I mean, do you spend most of your time sleeping? Can you control light? If none of those… Maybe you’re a child of one of the Big Three.”

“Who are the Big Three?”

“Zeus —god of the sky—, Poseidon —god of the sea— and Hades —god of the dead and king of the Underworld.”

You pondered. “This is a dream. I’m gonna wake up.”

He chuckled —an endearing sound— and shook his head. “I think I’d know if it was one. No, you’re a demigod, Y/N. For real.”

When you didn’t respond, he glanced at you. You were lost in thought, wondering who your father could be, why you’ve never seen him before and why he never came to see you.

“Come on, there’s one more thing I’d like you to see.” He tugged at your hand and dragged you towards the beach.

The sun was setting. You sat on the sand, looking at the horizon. It was really pretty. But you couldn’t avoid reality for too long. A tear fell down your face thinking about how your mom would’ve loved coming here, looking at this scenery with an arm around your frame.

She was gone.

From this moment, you swore to yourself that, when you were ready, you would find the monster and avenge your mom, no matter what. Felix saw your determined eyes staring in the distance. It gave him an idea on who your father might be.

At the campfire, you realized a lot more campers than you initially thought were here. You’ve seen a bunch during the tour, but right now, when the whole camp was gathered around the fire, it felt like you were a couple hundred.

Some had musical instruments and were preparing for what you guessed was a concert. A dozen, more or less, were looking all dressed up and pretty, a few were playing with balls of energy —magic?—, others were dozing off wherever, from another kid’s shoulder to the floor. The rest looked somewhat normal, apart from the kids with hands partially tainted with soot. Might be tough to get rid of it when they spend so much time in the forges.

Some kids greeted Felix and welcomed you into the camp, which felt nice. Although you couldn’t remember every name, you were grateful for their kind words.

It seemed that the Apollo cabin was actually preparing for a singalong. Everyone sang, cheered and overall had a good time. Felix nudged you from time to time to check up on you and offer you bright smiles. So bright, in fact, that they were almost blinding. But you didn’t mind. His sole presence was enough to give you peace of mind. Maybe because looking at him reminded you of the illusion he created for you.

The campers were asking for an encore, when silence abruptly fell and every pair of eyes were on you. Or above you, to be precise, but it felt the same to you.

Exposed, vulnerable and embarrassed.

You glanced at Felix, who was looking up too. He lowered his gaze, locked eyes with you and motioned for you to look up as well. It was a glowing golden helm hologram suspended above your head.

“The bloodline is determined. Hades, king of the Underworld. Hail Y/N L/N, daughter of the dead and riches.”

Every camper kneeled, including Chiron and Felix, and you wanted to disappear from the Earth. Was it just because you ended up being a child of the Big Three? Or did every camper have the privilege of experiencing such a stressful moment?

At last, they all got up and resumed the singalong for a well-deserved encore.

An older guy walked to you from a corner. He was tall, had dark eyes and a harsh resting face. You recoiled in your seat, scared of what he might do. But then he showed a toothy smile with dimples and extended his hand for you to shake.

When you did, he said: “Welcome home, sis.”

Once alone in your bunk —you had slipped away before the end of the campfire— you sobbed, hugging the backpack your mom put in your hands earlier that day.

It smelled like her.

Calming down a bit, curiosity took over and you opened it. There was a pocket knife, pepper spray, a pack of matches, a flashlight, tissues, a sleeping bag, a water bottle and food.

It struck you. She knew what you were long before you did.

two.

Felix shouldn’t have laughed.

The whole scene was just so ridiculously funny, he had to.

You were training at the climbing wall like every other day, except today, someone had the good idea to change the mode from normal to full lava-and-earthquake while you were on it. Needless to say it took you by surprise. You fell to the bottom, earning smoking holes in your t-shirt and singed arms' hair.

Felix helped you get out of the lava floor, miserably trying to suppress his giggles. “Are you okay?”

“Who turned the climbing wall into a frenzy? I just wanna talk!”

Your eyes showed you were being serious, although a little smile appeared after looking at your best friend’s face.

Turns out it was a Hermes kid, obviously.

To get back at him, you created a hole under his feet. He screamed as he sank up to his ankles. He lost balance and fell on his butt. A few kids that fell off the climbing wall with you clapped their hands and laughed.

Oh yeah, my bad. I forgot to tell you you could do that, among other things.

Being at Camp Half-Blood year round was actually a great thing. Undeniably, between that and being with your mom, the choice was clear, but since she was gone… All you could do was train to be able to protect mortals like you should’ve protected your mom and avenge her as well.

I know what some may think. It wasn’t your fault (and it wasn’t. really.) but you couldn’t make peace with it just yet. Guilt still ate you up at night.

After understanding what it meant to be a kid of Hades, you tried to find and talk to your mom. A ghost appeared instead of her. It looked like a staff member, with greek armor and a formal look. He told you your mom was in Elysium, that ‘she wanted you to follow your own path’ and that ‘she didn’t want to see you until you were old and had a full life’. It felt so unfair. You tried to argue but the ghost didn’t stay to hear your complaints, leaving you in your grief.

You ended up entering the armory. Even if you were against violence, you came to terms with the fact that you couldn’t protect others by solely making holes on the ground. Felix showed you all the best pieces of celestial bronze weapons. He made you try on several, making you swing swords, throw knives, shoot arrows… It was unsure what would suit you best.

At last, your eyes caught sight of a dusty black metal in a corner, behind javelins. Dusting off the sword a bit, you felt like it belonged in your hand. It wasn’t too heavy, nor too light. It just felt right.

“It’s stygian iron,” Felix explained, “Hades’ own sword is made of it.”

Did you resent him? Probably… yeah. If he had been there, two years ago, he could’ve saved your mom. But you never saw him, ever. You often wondered if you were even worthy of his presence.

“Y/N?”

Your head shot up, “yeah?”

“You looked out of it. Are you okay? We can stop looking for weapons if you want.”

“No, I’m good. I’ll take this one.” It hasn’t left your side ever since.

Felix proposed to train together. It was fun, both of you ending up at the infirmary more often than not. Jisung was always there to treat your wounds while cracking jokes.

Dawon, the Hades’ cabin’s head counselor that scared you on your first night, was actually really cool. He showed you around the cabin, welcomed you like a true sibling. You enjoyed eating with your siblings at the dining pavilion, talking strategies and kicking ass during capture-the-flag and chariot races, chatting before bed and getting ready together in the mornings.

Other than that, you didn’t spend a lot of time with them. No, Felix was practically attached to your hip at this point. He has been a huge pillar to your recovery. If it wasn’t for him and his bright aura, you would’ve been morose and sad. He probably knew that too.

When you passed by the arts & crafts building, you often saw the pretty boy. The sun would often reflect on his face, making his skin glow. His stance was elegant, his features soft and flawless. He had sunlight in his shoulder-length black hair and his long fingers seemed to be working effortlessly against the canvas. In a way, watching him paint for a while was relaxing. Curiosity always got the best of you as you wanted to see his next art piece.

All you knew about him was that he was a child of Aphrodite and an amazing painter.

three.

“I did not sign up for this!” you grunted, slashing your sword across monsters left and right.

“You didn’t sign anything,” Jisung recalled, twirling to avoid a clawed hand and slaying the monster with an arrow in its chest.

“It feels like, no matter how much we kill, there’s always more,” Felix puffed.

Hopefully he was pretty good with a sword, because he couldn’t rely on his mom’s powers in the darkness. After what felt like an eternity, the last monster was slayed by your sword.

“Alright, enough practice. Let’s head back before more monsters arrive,” you offered. They didn’t protest.

You were all worn out, sweating and breathing hard. The trip in the forest left very few monsters left to slay. Whoever took care of that would have some work to do.

“We managed pretty well, didn’t we?” Jisung grinned, eyes half closed. You nodded while Felix agreed.

It was practically nightfall. At seventeen, you were more trained than ever and felt ready to face the world.

The next day, there was an emergency meeting with Chiron and the head counselors. Everyone saw them hastily leave the dining pavilion during breakfast after Argus came running to them.

A few dozen minutes later, you were summoned to the Big House. You entered the meeting room and sat next to Dawon around the ping-pong table. Chiron didn’t waste any time and recited the unprompted prophecy they had heard by the current Oracle.

Child of Underworld must retrieve their father’s accessory

Magnificent Mile holds a piece of the way back in its last breath

The King’s circle’s won by defeating an old vampire enemy

The last challenge in Yellowstone ends in half-blood death

Vampire. It was about an empousa. It was enough for you to want to come, even if the last sentence worried you a bit. You were about to speak up when Chiron raised his hand.

“The sole reason you’re here is because we think it’s about you.”

“Indeed, you’re the only one I know that has an empousa as an enemy,” added Dawon as he nudged you with a smile.

Yeah, the details of your arrival ended up being known around camp. It was apparently common to arrive while chased by a monster, but not every parent died at the same time.

“Oh.”

“If you need anything for the quest, we’re here to help,” proposed Bomin, head counselor of Poseidon’s cabin.

“To make sense of the prophecy, for example,” said Doyoung, the Athena cabin’s head.

“Do you know who you’re going to ask to join you?” Chiron asked.

The only thing you knew for sure was that you were going to get your revenge. And you only needed two friends for this.

“Yeah. All I need to know now is where to begin.”

Doyoung coughed and rearranged the glasses on his nose. “Well, my friend Johnny is from Chicago and last time we spoke about his hometown, he mentioned the Magnificent Mile. He said it was the most famous avenue. Now, I don’t know if the prophecy refers to the city globally or this place precisely… But, either way, I think you need to go there.”

“Thank you for your insight. Do I have a deadline?” you inquired, turning to Chiron.

“You have until the end of the month.”

It sounded like a lot of time, then you remembered the date. “We’re the 29th.”

“Indeed. You have three days, starting now.”

four.

And so began your journey. You had a backpack each, filled with medicine, spare clothes, food, water and money —drachmas and dollars.

Argus was driving you to New York on board the Delphi Strawberry Service van. Jisung kept fidgeting with the beads on his necklace.

“You’re thinking about them, aren’t you?” He squirmed uneasily. “You’ll get back alive, I promise you.”

A promise he knew you couldn’t keep, but it did reassure him a bit. He knew you were going to do everything you could so that you’ll all get back to camp alive.

Felix took your hand in his, squeezing it gently. The sudden contact brought warmth to both yours and Felix’s face and ears. Jisung chuckled at the exchange until he realized he was going to third wheel the whole trip. Then, his face dropped, a groan leaving his lips.

Before Felix could ask what was wrong, Argus pulled up in the train station’s parking. You thanked the camp’s chauffeur and entered the Pennsylvania station.

“I found a direct train,” you told them after talking with an employee, “it’ll take around nineteen hours and thirty minutes. Shall we?”

When you talked to them about the prophecy, they didn’t waste any time and said they’ll come with you. Trying to talk them out of it was useless.

As comfortably installed as possible, Felix and you in the direction of travel, Jisung in the opposite direction, the brown haired boy thought the prophecy over, again.

“Child of Underworld —that’s you, Y/N— must retrieve their father’s —Hades, obviously— accessory. What can it be? What are the known accessories he owns?”

You shrugged while the freckled boy answered his friend’s question.

“There is his bident, or staff, his sword, his helm of darkness, Cerberus, which we cannot call an accessory per say and his golden keys.”

“Is there anything more?”

“Yes, but those are the main attributes he possesses.”

“It can’t be Cerberus or the golden keys, because it’s specifically an accessory, singular,” you commented.

Felix nodded. Jisung continued, “so it’s either the staff, the sword or the helm. OK. Next line is ‘Magnificent Mile holds a piece of the way back in its last breath’. The only thing we know is that Magnificent Mile is an avenue in Chicago. I don’t like the sound of anyone’s last breath, honestly.”

“It’s probably a beast,” you proposed. “It says ‘its’.”

“That’s the most logical option we got,” Felix agreed.

“It better be. ‘The King’s circle’s won by defeating an old vampire enemy’.”

“‘Vampire’ means empousa. I guess we need whatever the King’s circle is for the rest of the quest,” you noted, “do you guys have any idea?”

They shook their heads in unison. “No, but we’ll get back to it. ‘The last challenge in Yellowstone ends in half-blood death’. Not gonna lie, I hate this one the most.”

“Yellowstone… If it’s a place, I don’t know it,” Felix said, thinking about it.

“There’s a Yellowstone national park in Wyoming, but I can’t tell for sure if it’s gonna be there,” you shared.

“It might be,” Jisung voiced and bit his lips, “but it’ll also be the last challenge, and, in case any of you forgot, it’ll end in death. Possibly one of ours.”

He was right. However, dwelling on it so soon would not help anyone.

“Let’s think about that part later, OK? Let’s focus on getting to Chicago safely.”

After four stops, the train passed over the Broadway bridge in Albany. The train weirdly shook.

“Of course,” you muttered, “this couldn’t be a nice, eventless trip.”

People started walking in our direction from the end of the train. They didn’t look particularly alarmed, like it was natural to change wagons while the train was in motion.

Felix looked up through the window and frowned. “I don’t see any—”

The train’s wheels shrieked against the rails, abruptly stopping it. Felix and you fell forward on Jisung, who grunted, obviously not enjoying the voyage so far. Then the sound of metal being crushed like a soda can filled the air. The brown haired boy looked at his friends and gulped loudly.

“Remind me why I was so eager to come?”

You tried to open the doors but they wouldn’t budge. You got closer to a window and unsheathed your sword.

“Get back.” The boys did as told, stepping back to the empty opposite seats.

You hit the glass with the pommel of your sword. It shattered, but before you could step over the wall, a glowing orange eye appeared, surrounded by glistening dark green flesh and a gigantic triangular red maw.

“What’s that smell?” Jisung gagged, closely followed by Felix.

You held your breath and stabbed the monster in the eye. It screeched in pain as it released the hold it had on the train, although not completely. Despite that, you all knew you had a few seconds before the beast would attack.

“I think I know what it is,” Felix said, “help me get on the train.”

“You already are,” Jisung retorted.

“I meant on the roof.”

“It’s too dangerous,” you cut in.

“Y/N, you were about to do it.”

“Yes, but—”

“Do you trust me?”

“Of course, b—”

“We don’t have time.”

True enough, the serpent’s mouth flew inside the wagon, missing Felix’s head by a centimeter. You used this opportunity to pierce its other eye. It flew out of the train’s window in a cry. If it wasn’t trying to kill everyone, you would’ve felt bad for it. Although now it was blind and very, very angry.

Felix finally got to the roof with Jisung’s help while you covered them. The snake was so long —around thirty six meters— it wrapped itself around the train at least four times. It had flatten it with its strong hold. Felix wondered how the bridge hadn’t fallen into the river by now.

He silently prayed to his mom and concentrated on creating a rainbow. The sunny afternoon and the river’s reverberation helped greatly. When the serpent’s head was in front of him, he generated multicolored flames from the rainbow to destroy the monster. He felt dumb when he realized it didn’t do anything, its skin extinguishing the flames on contact.

How could he expect to kill a sea snake with fire?

Scolding himself could wait. He rolled over when the monster tried to swallow him up. He unleashed blasts of multicolored energy, penetrating and burning the monster’s skin in the process. Jisung was shooting arrows from the open window, while you were slashing at the monster’s body everywhere you had access to it through the broken windows.

Finally, with one last blast of energy on the serpent’s head, it disintegrated, leaving a damaged train and exhausted demigods. Felix was wondering if the train could get powered up again and carry them all the way to Chicago, but before he could finish his thought, he collapsed on the roof.

five.

Obviously it wouldn’t be a dreamless sleep.

Felix was at a train station. A sign read “Chicago”. He felt relieved. It probably meant they’d make it there.

His consolation was short-lived, however, as he saw a huge lion a few meters away. It seemed to be patiently waiting for them, laying down on the nearest park. The worst part was the 2,50 meters tall giants behind him. They were playing rock paper scissors and one of them didn’t like to lose. He stamped his foot on the ground so hard it felt like an earthquake.

The dream changed. He was outside in the dark, perhaps on a mountain. He could tell by the chilling breeze and the glowing stars. Felix saw a woman not too far, chanting in a language he wasn’t familiar with in front of a large cauldron. He found her beautiful and delicate until he caught a glimpse of the rest of her body. From her waist down was a serpentine body, which oddly resembled the Carthaginian serpent he killed earlier.

He shuddered. When she finished chanting, she turned to Felix, boring her glowing green eyes into his.

“Oh dear, I didn’t mean for you to see me like this,” she said in a seductive way.

She snapped her fingers and the snake part of her body disappeared, replaced by a regular woman's body, wearing a thin black dress.

“There. Better, isn’t it?”

Mist, he thought.

“If you survive your little journey, I’ll be glad to feed on your flesh, even if you’re not quite a child anymore.”

If Felix wasn’t terrified before, he surely was now. He tried to speak, but no sound would come out.

She walked over to him, whispering in his ear, “I’ll drink the Apollo’s kid’s blood and eat his flesh. Once I’m done with him, I’ll deal with you. I’ll take my sweet time. And then, precious Y/N will finally feel my wrath, and eventually die.”

His blood boiled, anger and fear filling his body to the brim. He couldn’t let that happen. Before the woman could sink her crocodile teeth into his neck, Felix woke up in a cold sweat, a few minutes before the Cleveland stop.

It was night, Jisung and you were munching on homemade sandwiches. You had retrieved Felix from the roof together and laid him on two seats in an empty wagon with windows intact. Jisung had fed Felix some nectar and let him sleep for about eight hours.

No matter what the mortals saw, they succeeded in making the train move again and the passengers were seated at the front of the convoy. There was a constant shrill metallic sound coming from the bottom of the train. It was low, but definitely annoying.

“Felix,” you called, “how are you feeling?”

“Like I’ve drained myself to the point of collapsing,” he groaned, sitting up.

“Do you need more nectar?” Jisung asked.

“No, thanks. Besides, we should keep our supplies for as long as possible.”

“Take that sandwich, then.” The brown haired boy tossed him a sandwich and they ate in silence, until Felix told both of you about his dream.

“So, the good news is we’re gonna make it to Chicago,” you said.

Jisung continued, “the bad news is, we’re gonna die in Chicago.”

“I have a few hours to think about a plan while you two sleep.”

You tried to protest but Jisung’s loud yawn put an end to the debate before it even started.

Your dreams were filled with nightmares, like every demigod ever.

It started like every other night. Your mom smiling down at you, her hand stroking your hair, then her being stabbed to death by Keahi. This time the woman smirked and whispered, “I’ll enjoy killing you more than I did your mother.” You were about to curse her when the dream changed.

It was night and in the open space, although a bonfire brightened Felix’s liveless body lying on the ground and Jisung’s limp corpse against a rock a few meters away. You wanted to scream, tears running down your cheeks. A triumphant laugh came from everywhere around you, cutting through the dead of night.

The next dream was so different, it shocked you. You were back on Half Blood Hill, except there was no sign of your mom or the empousa. Instead, there was a tall, shoulder length black haired man with fairly white skin and intense black eyes standing around ten meters away from you. What surprised you the most was the black flowing robes he was wearing, filled with evil souls threaded into it.

Despite his morbid appearance, he was looking at you with unexpected tenderness. You were wondering who this man might be when he spoke up.

“Y/N,” he called, “I’m sorry it took me so long to appear.”

Then it clicked. Of course. This intimidating man was Hades, your dad. A surge of hatred ran through your body beyond your control.

“Where were you? All this time, when I got kicked out of school every other year, when I was made fun of, when mom died? Where were you? Did you even love her?”

His eyes flared with purple fire for a second, his face hardening, but you were too furious to be afraid of the consequences. Just as fast, he calmed himself.

“I did love her, yes. But I couldn’t do anything, to protect you and because I can’t meddle with my children’s lives. You had to forge your own path for it to mean anything. You still do.”

You scoffed. “Bet you say that to all your kids.” The uneasy look he gave you proved you were right. “Gods, you do have a healthy way with kids, huh?”

“I understand your rage. But right now, you must focus on your quest.”

“Easy for you to say,” you muttered.

“You must not fall into a blind rage when you see her. You must control your thirst for revenge.”

“You sure love to tell me what to do for someone I just met.”

“Y/N… If you don’t control your powers, bad things could happen. Your friends might pay the price.”

“Oh so now you’re threatening my friends!”

He sighed, visibly tired. His form began to fade. “I have to go. Remember my words when you face the empousa.”

Before you could make a snarky remark, he vanished. You woke up feeling so angry your friends could practically see it.

“Usually we wake up confused, terrified, or determined, but as angry as you are, I’m afraid to ask about what you saw,” Jisung started joking, but then recoiled in his seat in front of you.

Felix gave you a worried look.

“I’m okay.” You were still fuming but they knew better than to push it.

When you sat up, the blond boy sat next to you and took your hand in his. It calmed you down more efficiently than you’d care to admit.

“We’re almost there. And I have a plan.”

six.

The Great Hall was majestic, with columns all around and a barrel-vaulted skylight bathing the room in soft light. It was giving Greek revival vibes, which comforted you if only for a moment.

You were firmly holding the grip of your sword, mentally preparing for the fight ahead. The lion was waiting for you three outside the station, but there was no giant in sight.

The fact that Felix had a plan didn’t ease your nerves that much, because plans rarely unfolded as expected. But he knew stuff about monsters and Greek mythology as a whole, so it was helping.

“He’s not that big,” Jisung shrugged, “just the size of a pick-up truck. We can totally get him.”

He nocked his arrow as the Iris kid and you unsheathed your swords.

Not two minutes into the fight, you realized that Felix was right. The lion’s pelt was deflecting all your weapons. It was pointless to attack from behind and by surprise. You tried to keep him occupied until Felix could find an opening.

“Guys, I’m no Hercules, so don’t expect me to asphyxiate him with my bare hands!” Jisung shouted. He tried to shoot an arrow into the lion’s eye, but he somehow saw it coming and protected himself.

“It would’ve been easier with a cornucopia but…” Felix threw his backpack into the lion’s maw. As he bellowed in disgust, your friend shouted, “now!”

Jisung fired arrows into his open mouth. He dissolved except for his pelt. “Great. I’ve always wanted to resemble a caveman.” The Apollo kid’s wry comment made you smile.

He somehow succeeded in putting it away in his bag, at the same moment the three giants decided to show up. They were coming from the park, their iron clubs laying low.

“Where is the lion? There was a lion, right?” one of them asked.

“Already defeated, useless scamp! And guess what? You’re next!” Jisung raised his arms wide, like he was waiting for a group hug. Then, he gestured to the giants with one hand. “What kind of ogres are you, anyway?”

Felix nudged him. “They’re Laistrygonian giants, dude. Muscular tattooed man eaters.”

“You look awfully smug for our next lunch, half-blood,” the tallest of the giants said.

“In your dreams, you witless gollumpus!” He didn’t waste any more time and shot arrows at them. They deflected the projectiles with ease except for the smallest giant, who apparently wasn’t paying much attention. He crumbled into dust.

The other two roared in outrage and sprinted your way, brandishing their clubs high above their heads. Felix sidestepped when the giant swung his arm, rolled between his legs and stabbed him in the back.

Two down, one to go.

“You’ll pay for that, demigods!” the tallest giant bellowed before laying his arm down on Jisung.

You cut off his arm with a swirl of your sword. He yelled, turned and tried to crush your throat with his remaining hand. He was circling your neck with his huge fingers, but Felix thrusted his celestial bronze sword into his side. He disintegrated.

“Thank you,” you breathed with difficulty, locking eyes with Felix.

He dropped his blade and enveloped you in a comforting hug that lasted more than the average.

“Are you okay?” he inquired, cupping your face with his hands. He searched your face for any sign of hurt, sadness, fear… But there was only relief and tiredness. You nodded.

“You fought bravely.”

You turned, raising an eyebrow at the sight of a beautiful woman with black eyes and blond hair. She was wearing a black gown and carrying two old-fashioned reed torches. She was surrounded by green light and Mist was everywhere around her.

Felix let go of your face and unconsciously grabbed your hand instead. He studied the goddess, picking up on the details that showed who she might be. Unfortunately, he wasn’t sure you could trust her.

“Why, thank you mysterious woman! So, which one are you?” Jisung questioned, a bit wary.

“Hecate,” Felix murmured.

“Well done, Iris kid. Before you ask, I’m here to offer guidance. You’re about to—”

“Sorry, but, um… You’re the goddess of magic, you created empousai. Why would you help us?” you asked. It didn’t make sense to you, knowing the prophecy, which you were sure she knew about too.

“As I was saying, daughter of Hades,” she continued with a neutral voice, “you’re about to face great danger.”

“What, more than the usual death threats? What a bummer,” Jisung snorted, crossing his arms.

“Your insolence isn’t helping your case, Apollo kid. My children —or creations, whatever— don’t always follow my orders. We’re not obliged to share the same faith. They’re free. Like my children back at camp half-blood.” You waited for her to continue.

“Jisung, joking around helps you hide your scars, but you need to embrace them to properly move forward. Sharing your burden might do the trick. You’re also worth more than you think.”

She then turned to your freckled friend. “Felix, you need to stop putting everyone before yourself. You cannot control everyone’s happiness. You’ll soon have to prove you can keep your distance, for your own sake.”

Finally, she set her eyes on you. “Y/N, I know you think you’re not worth being here, going on this journey. You feel helpless, because you haven’t slayed any monster yet. But do not worry, your time will come soon enough, and with that, your greatest challenge. You have so much more power within than you might believe. This power needs to be used wisely.”

A wave of uneasiness washed over the three of you, Hecate’s words touching some nerves. Her words echoed your father’s. You regretted your outburst in your latest dream because you could have used this opportunity to ask which one of his attributes was missing. That would have made one less question unanswered.

“Well.” She clapped her hands. “I should probably tell you, now that there’s no more ground means of transport to Wyoming —I mean, you’re not going to steal a car, are you?— you’ll need to use aerial transportation.”

“But how—” Felix started, but got cut off.

“Off I go. Remember, you have two days left to get back to camp safely. Good luck on your quest, demigods. I hope Tyche can lend you some.”

She disappeared in a cloud of Mist.

“If I didn’t feel good then, I definitely do now!” Jisung sarcastically smiled.

For the first time since you’ve known him, you realized Hecate was right about the guy. Behind all the jokes and smiles, he had a sadness in him that was hard to decipher. But you were aware now. Felix was visibly concentrating, eyes closed and face facing the sky.

“Do you want to talk about what Hecate said?” you suggested. “About sharing your—”

“Well, I’d love to, trust me, but I’m fine. But hey, it seems you were right. Yellowstone is a national park.”

Deciding prying wasn’t gonna help, you nodded and turned your head towards the sky. You noticed a faint dark form in the horizon. Squinting your eyes in an attempt to identify what was coming for you this time, Felix left out a relieved sigh, then a chuckle. You spotted the sweat on his forehead. A few seconds later, you recognized winged horses.

Three of them.

“Did you summon them?” you questioned Felix, who was grinning.

“One of my mom’s powers. I’m glad it worked.”

Two of them were white and one was brown. They came to a stop in front of you, the brown pegasus neighing, gently nuzzling Felix.

“Thank you for coming, guys,” he said as he scratched the horse’s head. He turned to Jisung and you. “Are you ready for a ride?”

After a few hours flying high in the sky, you could finally make out the mountain you had to go to. You were about fifty kilometers away from the destination when you heard screeching from behind.

Jisung whined. “Come on!”

“Dozens of Gryphons! We’ll have to fight!” Felix yelled.

He brandished his sword, turned around and lashed out at them. You followed, while Jisung kept his distance, shooting arrows at the dozens of enemies. Dusk was only a few minutes away. The sky’s colors —blue, purple, red, orange, yellow— looked peaceful and pretty compared to the fight that was breaking out under it.

Four monsters succumbed to your blade before another one planted its talons in your pegasus’ thigh as you slashed its right wing. You cursed under your breath when the winged horse squealed, pitching up while flapping his wings frantically. He was bleeding.

You almost fell, but managed to hang on his mane and kill the gryphon. Unfortunately, another one immediately took its place and pecked your mounting’s neck with its sharp beak. He was losing too much blood, the liquid staining his beautiful white coat.

As he was dropping altitude, you were slowly and painfully losing your grip on his mane. You were falling to your death together. But not without taking the monster with you.

You squeezed the pegasus’ flanks to keep balance and brought down your sword on the gryphon’s neck. It disintegrated. You thanked and apologized to your companion for a few hours, hugging his neck in an attempt to stop the bleeding and preparing yourself for the impact. However, he crumbled into dust a few hundred meters above the ground, leaving you free falling on your own.

Felix swooped your way on his brown pegasus and caught your waist. Your arms immediately wrapped around his torso. Jisung took down the last gryphon in your peripheral view. You started to smile, but the brown haired boy’s eyes widened. He shouted: “Look out!”

The actual last monster seized the pegasus’ gaskins with its claws and pulled them, making him go upside down. Felix and you fell face first off the winged horse, holding each other tightly. You couldn’t even see the gryphon butchering its prey. Jisung slayed the monster with a well-aimed arrow and sped up to catch you both.

He wasn’t quick enough. You were swallowed by the shadows, leaving the Apollo kid behind with a pegasus as confused and worried as he was.

seven.

Felix woke up in a cave with low light coming from torches dispersed on the walls. You were passed out on the floor but didn’t look injured, which was good.

He scanned his surroundings. It was a rectangular room with a door on the far left. It seemed like there was no one else with you. He sat on his legs, put down his sword and brought your head on his lap. He poured a little amount of nectar into your parted lips.

He felt a presence behind him, but was too late to act. The invisible form dragged him away from you, your head hitting the ground with a soft thud. He tried to fight back but got tossed head first in the dirt. With a grunt, he got on his knees and looked around, but there was no one. As he got up, he felt claws scratch his chest, ripping his orange shirt in the process. He yelped, took a knife out of his belt and aimlessly sliced through the air all around him.

He saw your body move. Thinking you were waking up, he let down his guard and ran to you. He tripped on something metallic and fell down. Looking behind him, there was just the muddy floor.

“Get on your knees,” a feminine voice ordered, her words resonating dangerously across the room. “Don’t move.”

He was now on his knees, facing you with a blank expression as if he wasn’t in control of his body anymore.

The first punch he received in the gut hurt like hell, but his face and body remained motionless like a doll. Then, he received blows on his ribs, his cheeks, his jawline. It was enough for him to faint. The pain was blinding him but he kept his eyes open. He watched, helpless, as you slowly stood up, glaring his way. No, you were looking somewhere above him.

“Show yourself, blood sucker, so I can make you pay,” your voice was calm yet threatening.

Keahi laughed, moving Felix’s face so you could see all the bruises she gave him. It was a bad idea on her part because you were now fully pissed. Seeing him like this… After what she did to your mom, you wanted to end her life so badly.

The ground blackened around you and the air dropped to freezing. A black flood of anger, pain, guilt and grief poured out of you in waves, hitting the monster and Felix. The latter experienced your worst memories. The pain, guilt and grief from the death of your mom, your hardships, the anger —no, hatred— you felt towards the empousa that made your life miserable.

“Stop this!” she taunted.

It seemed to get Felix out of his trance.

“Y/N…” he murmured and hit the floor.

All the pain he received in the last minutes knocked him out. This scene made you more furious, if that was even possible at this point. The waves became thicker and stronger, making Keahi loudly hit the nearest wall.

“You’re just a kid! You might be powerful, but not powerful enough to destroy me and my sister.” Desperation was evident in her voice. “If you keep going, you’ll kill the boy too.”

You went at it for several more seconds. It was hard to stop, you wanted her dead and your emotions took over your judgment. Although, one look at Felix’s limp body was enough for you to snap out of it.

You reached for your sword and threw it in her direction like a javelin. It planted itself in the wall. The empousa disintegrated and a golden ring fell on the floor. The waves stopped and the flood slowly dissipated. Before you could take a step towards Felix, you passed out again.

Jisung was patrolling from the air, alert for any movement on the mountain, without being certain you were even there. Several minutes later, he saw black smoke coming from a strange rectangle on the ground. Getting closer, he realized it was a hatch.

The pegasus landed on the floor next to it. Jisung dismounted and opened the hatch to a dark corridor. He waited for the dark Underworld stuff —meaning you were probably there— to disappear completely before venturing inside, his bow ready.

At the end of the damp corridor was a single door. He entered and found his friends’ bodies on the floor, a hand extended to each other’s direction. He flew to Felix’s side, poured nectar into his mouth, winced when he caught sight of his bruises and chest, then gave you the same treatment, relieved to see there weren't many physical injuries.

He didn’t want to leave any of you alone and he couldn’t move both of you at the same time. He was about to sit down when he spotted your sword in the wall. He grabbed the hilt and pulled it out with much effort. Something golden was on the floor so he picked it up. It was a golden ring.

Spoil of War? It didn’t seem like it, but how could he know? He wasn’t there. He put it in his pocket anyway. Felix opened his eyes and immediately went to your side. He reached for his backpack.

“I already gave her nectar.”

Felix’s head turned so fast his neck cracked. “You scared me!”

“Sorry.” Jisung walked over. “Let’s go, this place is creepy.”

The Iris kid was sending worried looks your way the whole time they spent carrying you outside. He related his version of the facts. How he was manipulated and hit by an invisible woman, experienced your pain, and passed out once the charmspeak wore off.

“It’s been a hell of a couple days, huh?”

“Tell me about it.” Fresh air and sunlight did Felix some good.

“Let’s sleep a bit before facing death again, shall we?” Jisung offered.

They took sleeping bags out of their backpack, Jisung with a bit more difficulty due to the lion’s pelt taking up most space. Both enveloped you in yours, then they argued on who should take first watch.

The brown haired boy won. He wasn’t injured and Felix visibly needed rest. He changed into a new t-shirt and insisted on being woken up a few hours later, though.

He dreamed he was in the same dark place again. The fire was cackling, lightening up the monster’s face and body. He was definitely terrified of her.

It felt like she was waiting for him. “Tomorrow we meet, demigod. Tomorrow, you die.”

He wanted to yell: “We’ll defeat you, like we did all our enemies until now.” but no sound could leave his lips.

“Oh, but they’re nothing compared to me,” she exclaimed like she heard his thoughts somehow. “Fighting me will make everything you endured so far feel like a walk in the park.”

That didn’t make him feel any better about the whole quest and their chance of survival. He was scared for his friends, for himself.

Hecate’s words replayed in his mind. “You’ll soon have to prove you can keep your distance, for your own sake.” Even if he thought his encounter with the empousa was a proof in itself, he felt dread. Something even worse was about to happen, he could feel it.

Felix woke up alert, but it was night.

“Jisung!” he complained, but he found him fast asleep next to him.

You, on the other hand, were awake, preparing a snack and humming an old song. You were so pretty with the sun lighting your hair and skin.

“Hello, Rainbow Boy. Here, eat this.”

You handed him toasts of cheese and an apple cut into quarters, but he just stared at you instead of taking them.

“Y/N,” he murmured like a whisper, a relieved sigh.

He engulfed you in a bone crushing hug, his nose buried in your neck. You hugged him back like you could, the food still in your hands.

“Are you okay? I was so scared.”

“I would be better if I could breathe,” you joked.

He apologized and let you go but stayed close, thanking you for the food.

“What happened back there? Do you know what monster it was?”

Your smile turned into a hard look. “None other than my mom’s murderer, Keahi.”

He reached for your hand, drawing smoothing circles on the knuckles with his thumb.

“I wonder how she made herself invisible. It’s not an empousa power,” he wondered.

“There was a ring.”

“A ring that makes its wearer invisible… Sounds familiar.”

“I have no clue where it is, though. Perhaps still in that cave.”

“Wait. King’s circle? Gyges was a king who found a golden ring in a cave. ‘Circle’ could mean the ring. Was it golden?” You nodded. “Then we need to get it back. It could help us on our next step.”

“No need,” Jisung yawned as he stretched, “I have it right here. Call me Bilbo Baggins.” He took the ring out of his pocket and gave it to you.

“You’re a lifesaver, I hope you know that,” you thanked him.

He smirked, “I do know, but being acknowledged is always appreciated.”

“So… If, hypothetically, I put this on…” you said, doing so. “I’ll become invisible.”

“You literally are, right now.” Felix tried to touch your shoulder but you weren’t there anymore.

You sneaked behind them and pressed a finger on their sides, watching them squirm and whine.

“OK, OK, sorry.” You took out the ring and threw it in Felix’s direction. “You should keep it.”

He had great reflexes, so he caught it easily. “Why me?”

“I already got the lion’s pelt and it’s taking way too much space, so a ring would be too much,” Jisung answered, shrugging innocently.

Rolling your eyes, you elbowed him. “You’re the best choice. You’re the most selfless out of us. I trust you.”

He wanted to argue but decided against it.

He trusted you too.

eight.

Jisung took a few minutes to say goodbye to his pegasus. He thanked him, stroked his mane and gave him a treat. Felix apologized for his companions, for which the winged horse nudged him and bowed before flying away.

“Before we go, I think I need to tell you guys something,” the brown haired boy mumbled.

Felix and you exchanged glances and offered him sympathetic smiles.

“Let’s sit,” he continued. Once you were, he took a deep breath and got into it right away.

He talked about his past. How, when he was seven, he lost his half brother in a car accident. How he ran away to the park near his house after an argument with his step dad, how his little brother went to look for him then. How he was busy pitying himself when he heard the crash. How he blamed himself for the whole thing. How he swore to never run off again because he didn’t want his mom to end up this way too. How he decided to bury his feelings and never speak of this, ever.

“Jisung… None of it was your fault,” you assured. “You were so young… I’m so sorry.”

“Ji, thank you for sharing this with us. We’re here for you. It wasn’t your fault.”

“Thanks guys… I had to tell someone before we went to our ultimate death.”

“No way you’re dying today, I won’t allow it. You’ll get back to your crush.”

“OK, chill Y/N, I don’t have a crush.”

“The redness on your face says otherwise, buddy,” Felix laughed softly.

Jisung had lessened his burden like Hecate had suggested, and it worked. He felt better, ready to move forward.

The sun was rising. You had to get to the mountain next to the one you were currently on. The only way now was by foot. And you had to be back by the end of the day.

Easy enough. No, it was definitely not easy.

But you had to try.

On your way to the monster, you explained the plan you fashioned to the boys while they were asleep. After a lot of complaining and no’s, they finally accepted it (mostly because they didn’t have better ideas). Although Felix refused to use the ring.

Three hours later, the boys and you finally set foot in the clearing. All around were old trees and, in the center, was a large cauldron on top of a bonfire. Next to it was a block of stone with a bronze helmet on top of it. So it was the helm. The monster was there, chanting in a language that resembled latin.

“Lamia,” Felix whispered, swallowing loudly.

“Ah! Children, at last,” Lamia exclaimed with a charming yet dark smile.

“We came for my father’s helm.”

“The same dad that abandoned you?”

It was true, you still resented him, but bringing everyone back safely was a priority.

“Yeah, I guess. It’s that one I presume?” you asked as you pointed to it.

“Busted,” Lamia laughed falsely before putting it on her head.

She became invisible and the fear emanating from the helm paralyzed the three of you.

It was unsure what exactly happened. Was it your survival instinct or were you more powerful than the helm itself? Whatever it was, you were able to parry the attack with your sword. There was no time wondering how you could manage that.

Without being able to see or hear where she was, you warded off every attack she threw. You were about to get the upper hand when she grabbed Felix’s mortified body. You could see it in his eyes.

“Your sister tried that and regretted it,” you spat.

Lamia reappeared when she took off the helmet, keeping it under her unused arm.

“She’s weak. I’ll make sure to let her know when she’s back.”

Of course monsters will always be back, no matter how much we slay them.

“You know,” she resumed, “your dad thinks he’s all mighty and powerful because he rules the Underworld. Yet his precious helm was too easy to steal. And he sends his beloved daughter to death for this?”

Her claws enveloping Felix’s neck and Jisung’s shattered breath gave you a hard time thinking about your next move. You couldn’t be reckless again.

You had to save them.

“Leave them alone. Let’s do this one on one.”

“Why would I accept your proposition when I have the upperhand, sweetie?”

You scoffed. “Come on now. Are you scared to face a kid? You’re acting all-powerful and invincible, but fighting me is too much?”

Her expression hardened. Pride touched.

Bingo.

Lamia shoved Felix on the floor, a vicious glare throwing daggers at you. You had to restrain yourself from jumping her right this instant.

Distancing her from your friends was vital. She put the helmet back on as you were moving around to cause her back to face them. Not wasting any time attacking, you slashed your sword here and there, not letting her ripost. However, you were getting tired. She took advantage and ripped your arm with her claws. You stumbled and closed your eyes, groaning.

“Already down? You’re making this too easy,” she mused after taking the helm off again.

Felix and Jisung regained their senses away from her. They were ready to fight. Jisung was bow ready and Felix was summoning light.

When you opened your eyes and got to your feet, you realized they were waiting for a sign. From you.

The pressure of leading was growing but you tried to bury it inside. You couldn’t deal with more anxiety at the moment. You focused on Lamia, who was grinning from a false feeling of victory, and shouted, “NOW!”

The three of you gave your all and hit her at the same time. As Felix struck her with blinding light, Jisung shot her in the back and you pierced her heart. You enjoyed her look of surprise when she disintegrated in a shrill scream. All that was left was the helm of darkness falling to the ground with a clang.

Clenching your arm, you fell on your knees. Felix engulfed you into a tight hug.

“This is gonna sound controversial, but I think that went well,” Jisung said as he picked up the helm.

“You must all be fools if you think you can take me down that easily,” a feminine voice taunted.

She was at the other side of the open space, Mist slowly dispersing around her. How did she do that? The marks on your arm were real, so when did she create the Mist? How could you not have seen it coming?

Realizing he actually didn’t have anything in his hands, Jisung quickly shot arrows her way but she managed to dodge them and put on the helmet. Felix couldn’t get up, fear keeping him grounded.

You witnessed, helpless, Jisung’s body being thrown across the clearing. Anger building up inside you, you got to your feet and charged.

Certainly you couldn’t hear or see her, but you could feel her. Probably due to your connection to the underground. But despite your best efforts, you couldn’t seem to have enough to wound her. It was almost as if she didn’t need the helm at all, like she could end you all with or without it. Like she only used it for extra fun.

Your limbs started to ache. Panting, you planted your sword on the ground. You could feel Lamia laugh triumphally.

Concentrating, you opened a crevasse that allowed skeletons to rise and surround the monster. They closed in on her, and eventually started attacking all at once. She effortlessly took them down one by one in an elegant dance.

There was only one thing left to do but your friends were here and the least thing you wanted was to hurt them.

“I have a question. Does your mom know what you’re doing? Aren’t you scared of retaliation?”

It was interesting enough for her to take the helmet off. “What are you talking about, mortal? Hecate does not care about whether you live or die today.”

Felix joined Jisung at the far end of the open space. It was now or never.

“I wouldn’t be so sure. She came to see us yesterday, you know. She might punish you later when I’m done with you.”

“I do not care about Hecate!” Her voice was trembling, though. “You’re irritating. I’ll deal with you first.”

“I wouldn’t have it any other way,” you whispered to yourself.

As she put the helmet back on for the nth time, the floor blackened. You let the flood of black smoke leave your body while the temperature dropped. It wasn’t as strong as when you faced Keahi, but anger and pain were still present. It affected her, but not enough to end her.

Felix analyzed the situation and summoned light, except he didn’t know where to hit. You tried your best to show him by sinking Lamia into the floor to her calves. The movement caught his eye. Rainbow sparks shot from the sky into her skin. You felt her scream in pain.

It still wasn’t sufficient. She was getting restless and you were getting desperate. What more could you do? It seemed to have worked the first time but it wasn’t real, how could you be sure it would work this time?

The flood was getting thicker, your hand tightening around the tilt of your sword. Of course, you could just try it again and if it didn’t work… then you would have tried until the end.

Breathing heavily, you walked up to her. Raising your sword, you whispered a “good bye” before slowly but surely pressing the blade into her heart.

Lamia didn’t just sit back. She yelled, sinking her claws into your chest and arms at the same time. You endured the pain but gasped when an arrow pierced through her neck and passed you by a few centimeters to finish its course in the nearest tree. Multicolored flames burned her too, until the helm of darkness fell to the ground in front of you.

“Y/N!” Felix ran to you. “No, no, no…”

Blood was dripping from the multiple claw marks. He caught you when your knees gave out, helping you down and maintaining your head on his hand.

“Jisung,” he desperately called, “you need to do something.”

“Already on it…”

Felix pressured on your shoulder wound with his free hand while the brown haired boy roamed through his backpack. Blood ran through his fingers.

“Stay with me, Y/N, please.”

You smiled faintly. “We won this time, right? That’s— that’s good.”

He brought you closer to him. “Yeah, thanks to you.”

“Move, loverboy,” Jisung ordered.

The Iris kid did as told but kept pressuring your wound. “You’re gonna be okay, I promise.”

These were the last words you heard before fainting.

nine.

You woke up to a moving vehicle, your chest and arms tingling with every bump it rolled over. Jisung was talking to someone you couldn’t see, and Felix’s hand was intertwined with yours. More than that, you were seated next to each other, your head comfortably laid on his shoulder.

Jisung looked behind him and gave you a gummy smile. “Sleeping beauty’s awake at last!”

“Are you okay?” the boy next to you asked as you sat up straight.

You nodded and realized you were in a minibus. Unless you were mistaken, there was no vehicle whatsoever on the mountain last time you checked.

“Indeed! You needed a drive home. That’s where I came in,” a man said joyfully.

You blinked when you saw Apollo driving and waving you hello through the rear-view mirror.

“I had the brilliant idea to offer the lion’s pelt and the ring of Gyges to my dad and hoped he would grant us a little help to get back to Olympus safely and quickly,” he explained with a satisfied face.

It was exceptionally brilliant that he accepted.

During the rest of the road trip, Apollo was relating some of his adventures to whoever listened. The return was smoother than the outward, allowing you to rest a bit. The blonde boy had a worried face whenever he laid his eyes on you.

On Mount Olympus, Hades was here with the Olympian Gods, on his seldom used throne. His proud stare was weird to witness, especially when it was directed towards you. You gave him back his helm under Apollo’s loud praise for his ‘son and his companions’ bravery on this perilous odyssey’. The Gods thanked the three of you and got on with their immortal lives.

Iris winked at her kid, mouthing “I’m proud of you.” and they all left the palace.

You did the same, the boys walking to the elevator while Hades, who was following you, asked for a chat. You agreed, staying back to hear what he had to say.

“I know that blessing you with this much power made you a target. Honestly, I can’t take them back. But I know you’ll use them well. You proved during your journey that you were mature and strong enough. You’ve made me proud.”

Hearing these words filled you with a warm feeling, which you despised. It was too soon for you to warm up to him.

“I didn’t do it for you. I did it for mom.”

He nodded in understanding. “She’s in Elysium you know? She wants you to live a long, fulfilled life before seeing her again.''

You were about to tell him you’ve known for years, but he turned around and left.

You thought about your mom, and how at peace she was right now. At that moment, you decided to let go of the negative thoughts obscuring your judgment and decisions. Your mom was waiting for you, and you intended to make her proud of you.

Jogging to your friends, you smiled, happy that was finally over. Obviously you knew more danger was coming, but you’d be okay as long as your friends were there with you.

ten.

Back at camp, the three of you were acclaimed, the respective head counselors of your cabins personally greeting each of you. They looked particularly proud. The fervor of the return having dissipated, you sat in the Big House with Chiron before dinner time, to relate your journey.

“So yeah, it turned out we had to get the helm of darkness back from Lamia,” you said.

“The piece of the way back was the lion’s pelt and the last challenge was in the Yellowstone national park in Wyoming,” added Jisung.

“The King’s circle was Gyges’ invisible ring,” Felix divulged.

“I’m glad you’re all back safely,” Chiron smiled.

“I have a question, though,” Jisung raised his hand. “Half-blood death. Did it not come through?”

“It did. Lamia was a demigod, daughter of Hecate and Queen of Libya,” Chiron explained, “she was turned into a monster by Hera.”

“Explains a lot,” you muttered.

Jisung returned to his crush friend from the Hephaestus cabin while Felix and you walked together to your cabins. During your little walk, the Aphrodite kid, AKA the pretty painter, came to see you. It shocked you to see him in front of you, and it shocked you even further to see the two greet each other like old friends.

“I’m glad you’re back, Felix,” he said, a genuine smile on his face.

“Thanks Hyunjin. I’m happy to be back.”

“Hello Y/N.”

He knows my name!! How does he know my name??

“Huh, hi…”

“Felix talks about you a—”

“That’s great,” the blond boy cut him off, ears reddening, “but we have stuff to do before dinner. Bye Hyunjin, see you around!”

“Lix,” you called as he rushed you to the cabins, “how do you know him?”

“We came to camp together. Why?”

Realizing he was ‘just’ a pretty painter for you and that you were more interested in Felix than him, you smiled sheepishly.

“Nothing, I never asked how or when you came to camp.”

“Oh, well, we were seven kids on the run after monsters attacked our school, and satyrs finally found us and brought us here. We were between six and ten.”

He stopped in his tracks when he realized you weren’t following anymore. When he turned around to face you, you hugged him, burying your face in his neck. He stroked your back affectionately.

“It must’ve been hard. I’m sorry.”

“Hey, it’s okay, we made it without too many problems.”

After a good dinner and a wholehearted singalong, you ended up on the beach, eyes fixed on the stars. Hearing footsteps approaching, you only looked over when he sat next to you.

“Pretty cloudless sky, huh?”

“Yeah,” you agreed, “but the stars are prettier on your face.”

It was unknown which one of you was blushing more.

“Sorry—”

“Y/N—”

“You first,” you offered, hiding your face into your cold hands. Or was it your face that was hot?

“I came to a conclusion while on that awful quest,” Felix announced, folding his arms on top of his knees. He looked at the horizon. “I can’t bear the thought of losing you. Seeing you hurting tears me apart, and I think what Hecate meant by ‘my own sake’ wasn’t my safety, but rather my heart after seeing you suffer.” He sighed. “I guess what I’m trying to say is that… I love you, Y/N,” he finished, daring to turn your way.

He was met with you facing him and staring at him intently, tears forming in your eyes. “Felix… There are not enough words to express how much you mean to me. I literally cannot live without you. I love you so much.”

The embrace you two shared was worth a thousand words.

As you let go of each other, his eyes trailed on your collarbone, where a mark was visible above your orange t-shirt. You followed his gaze and touched your bruised skin. You locked eyes with him and smiled softly.

“These will make badass scars.”

thank you for reading! if you enjoyed, please let me know and here's the masterlist<3

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ambivartence · 11 months ago

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january 2024 receiptify :)

tagged by @xiaojuun ty eri <3

WOULD U RAIN ON ME ??? BIBOORAAAAAAAA !!!!!!!! obsessed so obsessed it's crazy how much i like that song sf9 literally does not miss ever anyways i finally became a fantasy also the cix comeback was delicious ALSO bnd fadeaway is so good do not sleep on their ost if u like summer teen anime rock sounding kpop songs (does that make sense) also did i mention how much i love kim taehyung january was really full of gifts from him to us <3

tagging (no obligation ofc !): @dkbtho @flaredpantsagenda @lee-minhoe @llunapastell @lovely-bubble @neonun-au @peachjaem00 @senor-hoberto @sunminshine @we-survive-endlessly @woodziecup

#tag game #song recs #next month i feel like my receiptify will have a lot of girlies w all the comebacks hehe #especially w how much nmixx and gidle i've been listening to this week #I WANNA DASHHHH I WANNA DASH I WANNA RUN IT RUN IT DASH OOO RUN IT #okay but also UGLY BY EVNNE IS SO GOOD CONGRATS ON THEIR FIRST WIN YDAY!!!!!

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cultofdionysusnet · 1 year ago

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𝐌𝐨𝐜𝐡𝐚 𝐌𝐚𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐏𝐚𝐢𝐫~ 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭

A cup of Mocha is a marriage of two flavors: the sweetness of the chocolate mixed with the bitterness of coffee. This season, where the weather gets a bit cooler and you're in need of something to warm you up, the fates implore you to write a story that will warm our readers up. Be it something sharp, leaving a bad taste in their mouth after an angsty ending, something sugary that makes them squeal with a full heart, or a pairing of the two, much like a good cup of Mocha.

ˏˋ°•*⁀➷Offeringsˏˋ°•*⁀➷

☕Submission by Liz: Coffee Shop Au Moodboard (Stray Kids Minho)

☕Submission by Smalls: Cafe Eternal Sunshine Halloween bullet point fic (Ateez ot8) ˏˋ°•*⁀➷Summary: what halloween is like at café eternal sunshine plus you get new glasses. ☕️Submission by Jay: Bittersweet Memories (Sf9 Zuho) ˏˋ°•*⁀➷Summary: Sometimes, you have to go back to the place it all began, to relive what once was.

☕️Submission by Anya: Chasing Fate (Txt Soobin) ˏˋ°•*⁀➷Summary: When you find yourself running behind, fate draws you into a random coffee shop where a dark figure takes an otherworldly interest in you.

☕️Submission by Rie: The Perfect Pair Angst au (Ateez Hongjoong) ˏˋ°•*⁀➷Summary: There’s always worse things you could take.

☕Submission by Topaz: Arch Nemesis (Ateez San) ˏˋ°•*⁀➷Summary: you're a hero, one who has struggled to remain good, but what happens when you're most guilty fantasy with your arch nemesis of all people, comes to light?

☕Submission by Sar: A Boyfriend For Christmas (Stray Kids Han) ˏˋ°•*⁀➷Summary: Telling your parents you had a boyfriend always kept them off your back about settling down. Now that they're coming up for Christmas your lie is about to be exposed. Luckily, Fate takes pity on you and has you running into a cute barista who captures your heart.

☕2nd Submission by Smalls: Holly-Day (Ateez Wooyoung) ˏˋ°•*⁀➷Summary: you and wooyoung spend the early morning hours making cakes and as it gets closer to the holidays you realize that this will be your first time spending the holidays together.

☕Submission by Jasper: When Strangers Kiss (Ateez Jongho) ˏˋ°•*⁀➷Summary: Just as you get back on your feet after a nasty breakup, you see your ex out in public with his new girlfriend. What will you do to avoid an awkward encounter?

Thank you for all the members that participated and submitted such deliciously sweet and bitter pairings~ The Fates

#cultofdionysusnet #CoDN Fall #MochaMadness:ThePerfectPair #mm:tpp23 #CoDN Events

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restlessmaknae · 1 year ago

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restlessmaknae's request event [guide]

Celebrating 6 years on Tumblr and a number of followers I thought I would never reach, I would like to repay you for your love and support in the form of a request event. Writing is a hobby of mine that allows me to escape, to push my boundaries, and to leave an impact on readers. Even if you crack a smile, laugh at the words or feel understood by them, I'm truly honoured that you've joined me on this journey. 💞

Now, onto the good stuff.

As voted by you, readers, in a previous poll of mine, you can request stories based on genres, settings, but you can also throw a prompt into the mix.

HOW DOES THAT WORK?

You send me an ask with a genre and/or setting and a certain idol in mind, but you can add a prompt from these lists as well (they might help with certain settings):

Prompt list #1: Enemies to lovers but one is injured

Prompt list #2: Prompts for ex-lovers

Prompt list #3: Sacred romantic moments

Prompt list #4: Hurt comfort starters

Prompt list #5: "I HATE YOU, BUT I JUST DID SOMETHING TO HELP YOU AND NOW I NEED TO EXPLAIN MYSELF" prompts

Here are some examples:

best friends to lovers with Jake (Enhypen)

prince!Intak (P1Harmony) in a fantasy kingdom

zombie apocalypse au with Serim (Cravity) + enemies to lovers

[prompt] with Hyunsuk (CIX)

[prompt] with Hyunsuk (CIX) + exes to lovers

[prompt] with Hyunsuk (CIX) + exes to lovers + murder mystery

RULES

Smaus, bulleted stories and reaction stories can't be requested

I don't write smut, and if I feel uncomfortable by your request, I have the right to reject it and not write it

Only member x reader/OC, no member x member stories can be requested (you can specify if you want a gender-neutral reader insert story, otherwise I write female!reader stories)

I decide on how long the story will be, but I plan on writing stories less than 5k for this event (so expect drabbles and one-shots)

There's no deadline by which I plan on posting your story, it depends on how much time I have beside my full-time job and how much inspiration I have for your requested story - so please, bear with me, I'll get around to it as soon as I can 🥰

One user can request up to 2 stories - for tagging reasons, I kindly ask you to let me know about the blog you want me to tag in case you would write the ask on anon (for instance, if your main blog isn't kpop-related, you can write on anon and tell me your kpop sideblog's URL/username)

I close the requests after receiving 12 requests or by 30th September - whichever comes first

I will combine all the requests into a masterlist as soon as they start coming in, so you know that I've received your message

BANDS/ARTISTS YOU CAN MAKE REQUESTS FOR:

A.C.E

ATEEZ

CIX

CRAVITY

ENHYPEN

EPEX

GOLDEN CHILD

NCT (Mark, Johnny, Jaehyun, Doyoung, all of WayV)

ONEUS

P1HARMONY

PENTAGON

SF9

THE BOYZ

TXT

VERIVERY

VICTON

WEI

Soloists: Kang Daniel, Woodz, Demian, Ong Seungwoo, Park Jihoon

If you have more questions, don't hesitate to ask me!

Otherwise, enjoy the event and request to your heart's content! 🥰

Tagging everyone on my taglist in case you would be interested in requesting (some I couldn't tag, unfortunately): @dat-town, @stories-inbetween-the-stars, @koishua, @tranquilpetrichor, @americanokisses, @effulgentfireflies, @kuleo26, @wccycc, @littlestartonightsposts, @squiishymeow, @sunooslover, @heyditseeey, @syrxiee2, @tsunchani, @hyunjinswife, @sweetjaemss, @laaylaaz, @fvrteez, @chaeryeongs-wife, @hyu-won, @bamboongi, @kyusqult, @chang-ryul, @winterbeartaehyungbestboy, @i2kittenz, @miafox117, @hannieyooon, @soobin-chois, @ishuayou

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hanniiesuckle17 · 4 years ago

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The Fae and The Seraphim

CHAPTER ONE

A/n: so this gif is not mine! credit to the owner and creator! look at his hair thoughhhh. So this series is going to be loosely based off of Amazon’s Carnival Row bc we all love Orlando Bloom especially Amber stans (you know what I’m talking about) yes definitely making this a series but no set post schedule (probably wont ever have a post schedule for this cause.....im me...)

Word Count: 4k

Warnings: cussing, 18+themes, mentions of violence (all of this eventually)

Tag List: @poeticallyspaghetti @hanstagrams @hoes4hoseok @yangomangos @geminirules @jisungsjheekies @cotccotc @ph0ebevix @mini-meanhoe @desertofdessert @distrikt9 @multi-net(Tag List is Open)

Summary: Crea were never meant to interact with humans. They were mythical creatures that came from fairytales, but they had been around longer than humans had. The love between one Fae and one soldier seem to turn the world upside down. Their story is not one for the light of heart, but the light of heart would never turn away a love story such as theirs.

Genre: fantasy!au, victorian!au, steampunk-ish?!au, romance, angst, non-idol!jaeyoon, soldier!jaeyoon, faerie!reader

❧

A cool breeze blew across the gulch. It whispered through the branches weaving through the leaves bound to fall from their tight grasp on the thin boughs of the trees. A somber gray seemed to hang over the land as far as the eye could see. It had been that way for as long as I could remember.

Despite this, Cothia still had a beauty to it unlike anywhere else I had read about. There was always a light snow in the air or on the mountain ground, the flakes dusted the trees and roofs of our monastery I could see in the distance. The Fae had inhabited Cothia since the beginning of time. We were tasked with keeping the records of the world’s history. We were a species of great mystery and wisdom.

The thundering sound of the monastery's horn burst through the silence of the nature around me. My ears pricked up listening for a second blast. After that, another came. Three blasts. Three blasts meant newcomers up the mountainside.

My wings fluttered behind my back blowing a cool breeze over my neck, pushing the hair aside as my feet lifted off the ground. The familiar hum of my beating wings filled my ears as I flew over the vast land below me. As I floated closer to the monastery which I called my home, my eyes looked for any sign of life along the steep mountain roads.

A winding stream of dark battered navy coats and hats lined up outside the wooden abbey doors. Easily forty faeries flew above the open abbey walls, surveying two men on horses from the air. Our leader, a Mima of the highest order, addressed them from the ground, wings spread wide.

The hum of beating wings turned into a roaring buzz filling the quiet mountain air. The wind stilled, sensing the tension between the two humans and the hundred or so faeries surrounding them, waiting to see what they would do.

“We come peacefully.” One of the men said, pushing up the brim of his cap. He had sloping features and a pronounced chin. Features that suited his soft downturned eyes. “My name is Kim Youngbin. I am Colonel of the Third Hallow Fusiliers. We have been sent to guard a telegraph line a few miles east of here.”

Mima Egeria showed no sign of acceptance, but she didn’t turn them away either. My stare fell to the second man. I watched as he removed his cap, long fingers holding onto the brim as he shook out his dark slightly curly hair, bangs falling in front of his eyes. He carried himself with power, but let the man beside him speak. By my observation, he must be a commanding officer.

Unlike his captain, his features were sharp, except for some roundness in his cheeks, which were slightly pink from the cold. Puffs of air expelled from his plump lips with every breath in the mountain air. Had I not known he was human or seen the Hallows emblem on his coat shoulder, I would think his face almost impish; Pix like. The shaggy onyx snow dusted locks fell in front of his eyes as he stared up at the faeries watching him.

“We ask for the use of this Abbey as a base for our soldiers. We wish to make an alliance with you in the name of The Hallows.” The voice of Colonel Kim was calm and steady, carrying through the walls of the monastery and up to our ears above him. I watched Mima Egeria carefully, awaiting her message.

“This is a holy place. Conduct yourselves accordingly.” Her sonorous voice echoed in the thin air.

Her wings closed behind her back, and slowly I sunk down to the ground with the rest of the Fae and Pix around me. The two watched with an interested gaze as we floated down to the surface feet gently falling on the gravel. A few went to welcome the soldiers, I followed Mima as she left the courtyard.

“Mima!” My feet followed her deep purple robes, lifting off the ground occasionally to catch up with her. How a woman her age still moved with such speed was beyond my knowledge.

“Yes, my child.” She sung, turning back.

“Should we really trust them? It is hard enough defending ourselves against the Pact. What if-”

“Y/n...have faith, my child. You are strong willed. You have never been one to float with the current. They need us, little one. when asked we will give, when one pleads we give mercy. This is our way.”

Her frail but steady hands rested on my shoulders. “Yes, Mima.” Egeria’s long slender fingers wrapped around one of the three long beaded braids in my hair. She glanced over it smiling at the clear glass bead at the end.

“Your moon cycle is almost upon us, Y/n. I’m so happy to have watched you grow up in the Abbey.” I smiled at her mention of my age bead. When a Fae was born, a braid was started with a single glass bead signifying their birth. On their first birthday, another braid was added this time with two dark red beads. They were meant to be given away when the Fae gave their heart to someone. The third was a bead made of a type of crystal which was given when a Fae earned their assignment.

“It is, Mima Egeria. I’m happy to spend another year serving Fasora Abbey.” She nodded, looking towards the now open wooden doors. Following her gaze, I saw the man from before, white flurries clinging onto the curly black strands of his hair. He ushered in soldiers from atop his horse, a rifle slung across his back. His gaze flicked towards us, his eyes seemingly darker than his hair, yet holding a warmth to them. “Do you sense something about the soldier, Mima?”

Her shoulders lifted and a smile tugged at her lips. “A Mima can only ask the spirits to guide her. The spirits tell me he is a special soul; known to our kind. Best to watch him, little one.” Through the light snow, he watched us with a focused gaze. The observant stare of a fighter. A stare that observed, but did not see. The stare of a human. “Y/n, I think it best if you return to your post. The Archives should not be abandoned.”

“Yes, Mima.” My wings fluttered to life, lifting me into the sky. A pair of eyes watched me fly away from the Monastery towards the Archives hidden in the walls of the mountain.

❧

The air smelled of parchment and wax. Soft flecks of dust hung around the shelves. The shelves. Thousands of them. Each holding books and manuscripts on every subject dating all the way back to the beginning of time. My legs hung off either side of one of the many cornices in the Archive. The shelves lifted so high that soon they turned into a vast black abyss.

The pads of my fingers pressed against the yellowing page of a book resting between my legs. It was one of the many books I had yet to finish in the never ending library. The book told the story of a Pix explorer and his findings after sailing to the Hallows before they were formed.

The click-clack of boots against stone sent me up into attention. Crouching on the cornice, I watched in the low dim torchlight as a navy coat walked into the room. Making myself one with the shadows, I watched as the soldier looked up into the infinite shelves of the Archives. The Archives that no one but a few faeries were subject to the knowledge of.

His black hair fell from his eyes revealing the rest of his face. Handsome- for a soldier. Most of the soldiers in the abbey were dedicated to their line of work so much that what happened to their bodies was considered a small price to the pay for the safety of our kind. There were no use for pretty faces among protectors.

With narrowed eyes, I watched his hands ghost over the pages of an open book on the table. A tome easily hundreds of thousands of years old. His slender fingers gripped the page, turning it over.

Silently, I pulled the small dagger from my boot and floated down behind him. The man stood unsuspecting reading the ancient text, or what he could of it. He stood almost perfectly six feet tall a tower over the desk. My feet ghosted over the ground, wings beating softly.

My hands moved at lighting speed wrapping around him and pressing the blade against the skin of his neck. “Oh fuck!” He gasped backing into me in surprise. His hands moved up in surrender, but I kept my hold on him tight.

“You aren’t supposed to be here, Hallow.” I spat. No human had ever set foot in the Archives. This was a sacred place. “Who are you?”

His hands remained steady, but from my grip on his neck I could feel his pulse rapidly beating. His tongue swiped over his lips. My firm grip kept him from turning and looking at me. “Lee Jaeyoon. I’m a Commander for the Hallows. Who are you?” He made a pathetic attempt at a smile, but I pressed the knife further into his skin threatening to draw blood.

“Well, Jaeyoon,” I said twirling the blade in my fingers before rejoining it with his neck. “I suggest you turn around and leave this place or I may just have to kill you. I wouldn’t really like to mop your blood off this floor, but I will if I have to.”

His adam’s apple bobbed with a strangled laugh that left his lips. “I didn’t know Pix were so violent.” Loosening my hold on him, my wings beat a little faster moving before him. His eyes widened seeing me as his attacker.

“It is obvious you know something about Crea, so says Mima. So, you should know ‘Pix’ is the term for male faeries.”

“You’re a Fae...”

Jaeyoon kept a wary eye on the blade in my hand, arms still raised and open. “And you, Commander, are still in my Archives.”

“I thought you were still deciding whether to kill me or not?” He asked with a cheeky smile, his brow quirking upwards.

“How do I know that if I let you leave here you won’t tell any of the soldiers about this place?”

He shrugged looking around the library before back to me. “Guess you’ll just have to trust me.” There was no way I could trust a human soldier to keep the secret of the Archives. How had he even found this place anyway? “Or...” He said putting his hands down by his sides. “You could kill me, and the rest of my regiment will find this place anyway looking for my body.”

I hated that he was right. “Fine.” Jaeyoon let out a sigh as I pulled the blade away.

“What’s your name?”

“I’m the Watcher of the Archives. That’s all you need to know.”

He nodded looking me up and down. His focus noticeably shifted towards my wings as they stopped beating and lowered me to the ground and my normal height. “I’ll be going then,” Jaeyoon said, his words echoing off the cavernous walls.

I watched the worn navy coat turn and exit the way it had come. The onyx hair of its owner blew as he passed through the open passage of the rock. Mima Egeria was right...Lee Jaeyoon was best to be watched. Why... I did not know yet.

❧

Like every other magical day in Cothia, gentle snow floated down on the mountainside coating every tree, roof, and head it touched. My legs swung over the edge of the patched roof. The abbey was filled with busy bodies moving in little winding paths through the flurries.

A chilling breeze blew through the abbey. A fae carrying straw struggled to keep stray pieces from flying away. Four days. Four days had past since the soldiers entered the safety of our walls.

The smooth skin of an apple rubbed against my palm. My lips tasted the sweet juices as my teeth sunk into the fruit. Falling back into new habit, my eyes found the tall head of dark hair. The curls blew gently in the wind, white frozen flakes sticking to the locks.

His ears were turning pink from the cold joining the color on his cheeks. The officer stood next to his superior and another soldier. The three men spoke to Mima. Even from far away I could see the spark in her lilac eyes. Her silver hair hung in wild spirals around her face. The beads in her hair glinted in the sunlight, casting a partial colorful glow over her tan aged skin.

Her wings were folded behind her, acting like an intricate delicate shield against the weather. She held her hands in front of her, fingers gently intertwined. They seemed to be speaking fervently.

Listing my head, I peered down into the abbey watching them closely. The higher officer seemed to be posing Mima Egeria a question. She listened intensely, smiling kindly at the men.

Jaeyoon spoke up and Mima’s brow rose as she looked the commander over. Taking another bite from the apple, my eyes focused in on the lips of the nearest soldier. Despite my efforts I could not decipher the movement. My curiosity was quenched when all four heads looked up to my spot on the roof.

Mima gracefully motioned me down from my perch. Pushing off the roof I floated down and landed next to my mentor. A gentle hand rested on my shoulder. All three pairs of human eyes stared at me. “Little one, you have been requested personally to help these brave soldiers with a mission.”

I scowled knowing exactly who asked for me. Despite not knowing my name he managed to drag me into this mess. “Should I call you little one, as well?” Jaeyoon asked, a smirk playing at his lips.

“If you have an urgent desire to eat your own eyes.”

A quick jab to my side had me shutting my mouth before Mima decided to make me clean the commissary. “We just need someone of your talents to assist us.” The captain, Youngbin, stated.

“My talents?”

“Mainly your wings and your ability to keep a secret.”

❧

The snow had ceased its unrelently fall. A chilling wind blew across the mountain path as we ventured up to the check point. Several of the men rode on horses and split from our original group to move towards the other end of our mission. My eyes trailed the man with dark curly hair as he rode off with three other men.

“Not so fond of Jaeyoon?”

Turning, I saw the leading officer ride up next to me on his steed. After racking my brain, I recalled the soldier’s name. Youngbin. His dark hair blew in the wind slightly. The man had a kind face. His jaw was set and he held the features of a leader.

“Well he did not make the best first impression.”

Youngbin laughed and slowed down his horse to match my stride. “Jaeyoon means well. He’s a good man.” Rolling my eyes was completely involuntary. “I can see you think less of us.” Despite the connotation of his words, the Colonel looked down at me with a knowing smile.

“It is not that I think less of you. Humans have not been in Cothia for tens of thousands of years. We are simply wary of your impact on not only our culture but the spiritual nature of our land.” We fell into silence, moving along the incline of the mountain. “How much father are we going?”

The colonel looked back to see some of his men on foot struggling to adjust to the thin alpine air. “Not far. We should be reaching the line any moment now.” Sure enough the trees cleared and we came upon an open gorge. A large wooden pole was stake into the ground and a severed metal wire lay blowing and bouncing off the rock face.

“Commander Lee and his group should arrive at the opposite side soon. Rest then get ready to replace the wire once we receive the signal from the other team.” The soldiers collapsed on every surface they could find. Some watched with still wide eyes as my wings carried me to a nearby tree branch. The other side of the gorge was unseen through a heavy lingering fog.

A quarter of an hour had passed and the men had only just reattached the end of the new telegraph line. I watched them mill about from my vantage point in the trees. However the view of the forested mountaintops was far more enchanting in my eyes. The peaks towered through the mist. The sight reminded me of a painting form one of the many ancient texts I had read in the Archives.

The sharp sticotto sound of a gun shot echoed across the ravine. Youngbin pushed himself up onto his feet and beckoned me down from my perch. “That’s the signal. They’re ready.”

“You really need my help?”

“Do you see any other being that can fly a mile over an open chasm?”

“Fair enough.”

With cold trembling fingers the Colonel handed me the wire. It was heavier than I expected. It was a wound cable and the smooth thick metal felt foreign in my hands. “Remember, should something go wrong while you’re crossing-”

“Yes, I know. Call out.”

Not wasting a second more, I unfolded my wings and let them open. Several murmurs were heard behind me as the soldiers gazed at the delicate, intricate patterns and natural designs of my wings. The near transparent parts of the appendages glinted with shifting colors of blue, green, and lavender as the light bounced off of them.

The soft familiar hum filled my ears and my feet lifted from the ground. The fog consumed me only moments after leaving the ledge. A chill ran down my spine. Light droplets of water from the mist gatherd on my cheeks. The wind howled and whistled. My grip tightened on the cable. By now I must be crossing over the midpoint of the gorge.

It wasn’t what lay below that let the tiniest bit of fear creep into my chest. It was what I could not see behind the shadows of the fog. Not much scared me. I had learned that there was little to fear when fear was embraced.

Breathing in the fresh clear mountain air I pushed forwards and flew through the dense mist. Just when it felt as if the fog was never ending, I broke through the veil. I was met with a vision of four soldiers waiting for me. The head of shaggy waved black hair that was slowly becoming familiar stood waiting with his arms crossed and navy coat blowing gently in the breeze.

“Hallow,”

“Fae,”

My feet descended to the ground and my reflexs kicked in feeling a hand on my arm. Looking down I saw long slender fingers wrapped around my sleeve keeping me steady. Suprisingly they were attached to the Commander. Seeing the cold look in my eyes, he quickly detached from my arm and scratched the back of his neck.

“Is this all I’m needed for?”

The tall brunette nodded, looking around and taking the cable from my hands. “We may need you if something goes wrong while we are rewiring the line.” Shrugging, I pulled my coat tighter around me and sat against a rock returning, as before, to the breathtaking view of the mountains.

“Do you like to read?” The deep voice asked about ten minutes later. Turning I found Jaeyoon standing above me, his cap covering his dark hair. To my displeasure he sat next to me. His dark almond eyes glanced back at his platoonmates.

“Pardon?”

The charming man shrugged and pouted his lips looking out at the view. “Well I assumed guarding a library like that you must love to read.”

I rolled my eyes and adjusted my position, my wings getting cramped behind me. “Well, Jaeyoon, if you must know, I do love to read. And it is not a library. It is an archive.” The soldier chuckled removing his hat and shaking out his shaggy hair.

“It is not fair that you know my name yet I am still hopelessly lacking of yours.”

“The world is cruel and unfair, Commander.”

A silence fell between us. Though I was used to the chilling air, I felt a warmth radiating off the soldier beside me. Bothered by the awkward silence and the fact that he simply did not get up and leave, I looked over at the man. Something in his long fingers caught my eye. A book, one like I had never seen before lay in his grasp. It was just barely smaller than the size of his hand, the perfect size to put in a pocket. It wasn’t bound in leather like the volumes in the Archives. Its cover was made of some sort of paper or thick parchment.

“I assume you read.” He nodded and only glanced at me before returning to the expanse of the mountains before us. The fog was beginning to clear and I could make out the lines of the opposing rockface. “What’s that?”

Jaeyoon looked from me to the book in his hands. “This? It’s my favorite novel.” Without hesitation he handed me the book. There were drawings on the cover of the moon and some strange contraption.

“Novel?”

“Yes, it’s called Journey to the Seraphim.” The familiar smell of worn parchment filled the air as I flipped through the pages. “Seraphim means angel. It’s about this inventor who travels to the moon.”

I scoffed. “The moon?” I turned to fully face the soldier who wore a timid smile on his face. “That’s impossible. How would one even get there?” Jaeyoon reached over taking the book from my hands, brushing his fingers against my skin in the process.

“Well you see, the inventor, he makes this vessel and he propels himself into the atmosphere.” I rested my chin on my palm, listening intently as Jaeyoon vividly described the book, his hands moving as he spoke. The pages fluttered in his grip. “He gets to the moon and he falls in love with this princess. She rules this tribe of people who live there.”

Leaning against the rock, I listened to Jaeyoon tell me about his favorite novel. He talked about how the author was quite well known back in the Hallows and he had almost met him once. He described the characters in great detail, a spark igniting behind his eyes.

All of a sudden he stopped speaking, looking at me with a fond gaze. With a smile he passed the book to me. “Here.” I found myself smiling as I gazed into his dark eyes. “You can have it.”

“You’re giving this to me?”

The man nodded, dark threads of hair falling in front of his eyes. “Keep it. I have another copy back in the Hallows.” He started to say something else but another soldier called out his name.

With a sigh he got up dusting off his coat and turning towards the man in need of assistance. “Y/n,” I called, making him turn around at the sound of my voice. “My name is Y/n L/n.” Jaeyoon smiled, his eyes turning to crescents. The soldier once again called his name, but he looked back at me fondly before going towards the officer.

❧

Next Chapter

Fae Masterlist

Masterlist

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sanghyukstattoos · 3 years ago

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SF9's reaction: cockwarming

Genre: fluff-fluff-fluff; smut-smut-smut

Characters: SF9!

A/N: None of the images in the collage are mine, refer to here for more; For more SF9, read here, for iKON, read here and for optional bias writings, read here!

Youngbin:

Plays in pairs

When you first present the idea to him, given that the circumstances are of a light atmosphere, you'll fluster him, impeccably. His cheeks will turn pink and he'll maybe giggle a little and cover his mouth out of shyness but he won't be averted to the idea. He loves it but you just caught him off guard ahaha. When it's under a serious circumstance, like you are describing what you would like to try out, he would seriously contemplate your idea. He won't seal the deal if he doesn't like it the first time around. He'll try for a second to give it a chance. During your first time trying this out, it'll be spontaneous. Like you are watching a movie or a documentary and you or him decide that you want to give it a try. He'll firmly hold your waist as you settle onto him. If you are horny, you wait for a few minutes before you think, 'Enough of this' and rock him out of this world. What could he say? If you aren't, it'll be peaceful. But there's a dilemma. If you are sitting on the sofa, you can't see the screen. But you want to watch (sad). He'll say, ''It's okay'' and switch off the tv and it will resume in the bedroom. Just a beautiful atmosphere where you have deep conversations. He'll listen to your insight and internally marvel at how your perspective and compliment them with some of his own. It's like turn-taking, an essential part of a relationship where you go back and forth, speaking about one topic to the end of it where you have nothing to say anymore and then you'll move onto the next. It'll go on for ages, till the two of you are hungry. When the two of you go the kitchen to make something, he'll do what he couldn't do when the two of you were cock warming. The same thing may happen when the two of you are about to fall asleep, the lack of lights appeal to his other side, love-making.

Inseong:

This one is a funny bunny

It's a routine for you to cock warm after sex just like when he's on the laptop, surfing the net at the dinner table and you are sat on his cock, back to his chest, keeping him warm. After sex, it's a gateway to another round, on the bed or in the shower or to sleep in that position but not cock warm. He would love cock warming in the morning if it's cold then, probably in your balcony or in the kitchen, hugging you from behind and trailing his hands to your tummy and chest every now and then. He would love when you capture when you capture his lips in a sweet embrace, beginning a long make-out session when he's in you. If he's horny, you can bet that he's going to tell you about it. ''Babe'', he places a delicate kiss on your neck, ''tell me'' you moan out. His hands have already found your tummy and trailed downward, rubbing your clit but not to just merely stimulate you, to see if you are wet as he imagines you to be. He loves you. He's going to make love to you, to see those expressions on your face and feel you around him, holding you in his arms till the two of you have exhausted yourselves out which could one round or more than one. I can imagine you and him in the kitchen, he's got you pressed against the counter and that's how the cock warming while horny scene may play out. Another one is when abroad, maybe in a hotel or airbnb, he'll have you in his arms but that's not how it starts. He'll be playful about it, surprising you with a hug from behind, kissing the spot near to your ear, whispering some *interesting* innuendo into your ear, it makes you laugh anyway. A couple of seconds later, he's turning you around, kissing your tummy and inner thighs all the way till he's on his knees, he'll make sure to nuzzle his nose against your panties and lick a stripe at the material, slowly pulling them down. Arousal buzzes through you because he's telling you, ''fuck, baby you taste so good, stay still for me'' or something like that, it's a little muffled because he is preoccupied in drawing you to pleasure and pleasure and then release. He'll eat you out multiple times or till your knees buckle, depending on whether you had sex previously and then just maybe, in a moment driven by passion, he'll carry you to the sofa and that's where you'll cock warm, giggling to one another of what just happened, what you want to do afterwards. Wrap your legs around his waist, press him against the sofa and lift your hips again, he'll start the process again, all while laughing. It's just light-hearted.

Jaeyoon:

Absolute sweetheart/ dream husband

In this scenario, let's say that he is your husband. When you suggest cock warming, he's a little uncertain (by his little frown) but also inquisitive (by his questions), *Frowning* ''What is it about?'' would be the situation, he would look very cute when he asks. Presumably the two of you would be cuddling and you happened to stumble onto this conversation, he would not be shy, just like, 'You have an idea, let's hear it then!', also like an explorer, he's willing to try new things even if it means pushing his boundaries a little bit. But, this does not fall into that category of pushing boundaries. Maybe pushing his patience if he's horny. The latter scenario is guaranteed to occur at multiple points of time. You'll be lying on your side with his cock in your ass, it's a little jerk that alerts you or his hands that begin to wander everywhere like kissing your neck, then your lips and his hands have already begin to stimulate your clitoris. You moan into the kiss and then he knows and he smiles into the kiss while rocking his hips against yours. Everything is forgotten in the background. Unless it's life-threatening. Like food can burn or you could watch three episodes on netflix that you aren't truly watching, he's not stopping till the both of you are tired to the bone and have released multiple times. Quite the sweetheart though, he'll get up and shake himself if he's about to fall asleep the next minute and he'll grab a cloth for you like you protest but he says as he's already getting up, ''no, stay there, I've got it!''. You smile and slump and he cleans you, tosses it away and then climbs on top of you, pulling you into his arms. If he can, he'll try the idea of cock warming and spoon you throughout the night but if he can not, he'll definitely do it the next day. He's committed to the plans he makes or what's going on at that moment. Let's say you have an argument, you are trying to smooth things out, ruffle out misunderstandings and you won't talk it out with sex but communicate to him about it. The night will end in cock warming, to bring you closer and then it's all jokes from there, especially about the argument, it's either you teasing him or the other way around and that's how you fall asleep: content.

Dawon I Lee Sanghyuk:

He has his days.

On a day when he's tired, to the bone maybe, he's come back from work and you want to cuddle, using the idea of cock warming to propose the intimacy you want to feel during the night that you couldn't during the day, I'm sure that he'll do it for you. If he does not fall asleep immediately, he'll caress your backside, admiring the way the flesh conforms to his grasp. He loves all of you. He will pepper kisses along your neck, down your collarbone and to your breasts, sucking your erect buds but he won't touch your centre. He likes to go slow, never stopping these moments with you or he'll take you in the morning. At times like these, he loves when you touch him, just your touch on his skin, turning heated. When you are making out, it would be your tug on his hair, like urgency for more or roaming your hands all over him or tracing his hair from his navel to the band of his underwear would be his favourite save for the best of all, when you direct how everything goes. If he does fall asleep immediately, it'll be after he kisses you. During this time, regardless of whether you were cock warming or not, he would love for you to tangle your fingers in his hair, it lulls him to sleep and even to sleep in your chest, being the small spoon, he would absolutely love it. He has trouble sleeping alone but when he's with you, it's not the case. When he stretches you out after days of not having sex, he tries to hold himself back from releasing, the wait and foreplay was enough to spiral his mind, gasping in your ear. But if you are too tired, he'll take it into consideration, seriously and hold back from lifting his hips off yours and filling you up. When he cock warms just to end the day comfortably, it will turn it into sex if the two of you contain some semblance of energy and are away from that playful and teasing mood, with hours on end before you sleep. It will be just the feeling of his cock filling you up, holding you to the bed with your legs wrapped around his waist, whispering how much he loves and that you are doing well, growling and stilling, your release triggering his, holding you when you are tired or in between rounds decorates the night. He holds your hand when you have sex, always, if your hands aren't roaming his body, feeling it. Otherwise, he'll hold you, preferably with all of your clothes off, no material between the two of you, you two speak about your day, the present and the future. It could even be a tickle session that ensues. The atmosphere will be lively, especially with his jokes and teasing and all the loves he has to offer.

Rowoon I Kim Seokwoo:

Prince of visuals, no?

Since he has such visuals, let's imagine that he takes you on a yacht (ya-ch-ht; hard time spelling that folks 🥵 + why do people go on a yacht? I'm struggling to think of a reason?). Seokwoo's marvelling over your amazement at the beauty of the ocean, the clear blue waters and occasional shade of the fish passing by. He even jokes that he hopes ''no shark gets the two of you'' and then laughs at your expression. Please, he's trying, don't throw him overboard :/. You enjoy the heat some more before he's by your side again, the yacht is paused, it gives you ideas. As soon as he's sat by your side, you take to straddle him, therefore effectively cutting him off. The surprise is evident on his face but his hands are resting on your backside, getting comfortable there. He groans out when your lips touch his neck, nipping the flesh to give him love bites which earns those husky groans of his. They send vibrations down your spine, tingling your core with wetness. With such a beautiful scenery surrounding the two of you, it's easy to fix your eyes on two places and think about how beautiful either are. He intimately hugs you, sucking an area on your breast, removing it from your top and placing the perk bud into his mouth, the act itself is hot and you grind down on him, not holding back your moans because of the silence of the ocean, save for the splashing of waves. You ride him, letting out sweet fucking moans, whimpering in his ears for him that it's so good, you can't get enough. When you are all sweaty, you cock warm in the shade, making out. It's a very soft moment, like sealing the deal? He wants to make you happy and he'll do stuff for you to achieve it. Cock warming is bonding for the two of you, to spoon and gossip about the other rich couples that you saw or speak about your day or just lay there, in each other's arms, enjoying the moment. When it's cooler, he would be okay to cock warming in a public space such as underneath a tree on a beach. You may be a bit far from the sea but you can smell it which makes you happy. It's a very calming day when you are tucked in his arm, leaning on his chest with his cock buried deep inside of you, feeling a little chilly but you are covered by a blanket. All in all, it's private for the two of you.

Zuho I Baek Juho

Cat man 🦸‍♂️

He would love to cock warm indoors, when his cats are sleeping, safely tucked in their beds as you are in each other's arms. It'll be quiet, you can only hear what's outside, maybe the train passing by or vehicles or pure silence which is hard to come but not impossible. If something's disturbing you like traffic, heavy honking, he's not for it and he'll move you two to somewhere else like the bed or on his studio chair. If you are tired and want to cock warm while he is producing, he'll hold you close to him and ignore the cramp in his legs. When he sees you sleep, he'll go soft and admire your prettiness, not forgetting to wrap a blanket around you. When it's silent, a relaxing atmosphere in which you can fall asleep easily, it's where cock warming will occur the most. An example could be in a space by the windows in a high-rise building or if the place was in a non-busy area like the countryside. There are occasional noises, some make you perk up while other's make you laugh, all while intimately spooning with him. You tell him: it's an indescribable feeling but you will try explaining. Don't be scared, he'll love your words. Relating cock warming to something and being subtle instead of explaining outright would prompt his chest to blossom with love from you, it's the feeling you've brought out from him and to in expressing his feelings, he may cry a little and kiss you like 'Can you feel this love I feel for you? I love you'- is what he is trying to say through the kiss. It's a very wholesome moment, your confessions to each other, spoken beautifully. He would also love to cock warm bare, without any clothes so that the two of you can be purely intimate and he loves your body. If you don't or lack appreciation for your fine self, he'll initiate cock warming if you aren't already and kiss your body and squeeze the parts he can't reach like his appreciation for your butt/ breasts/ stomach or whichever one it is that you are conscious of/ don't love as much as possible. And the opposite too! If he's not feeling okay or feels conscious of himself (pressure from people telling him how artists should look?), cock warming would be a way for you two speak about it whilst loving one another at the same time.

Yoo Taeyang:

What a precious guy

May be confused about the concept at first, even awkward the first time you attempt this, it takes him a little while to get used to this scenario: laying on the bed in each other's arms after carefully navigating your limbs around, his cock in you, completely. But he warms up, he'll make sure that you are comfortable and will also love to take this concept elsewhere, like the living room when you watch tv. When he's tired, he may not be able to carry it out simply because he has no energy or he may be horny (head) but not (body), it happens~ When that happens, he wakes you up with kisses, all over your body and he'd do this, regardless of what happened the previous night, it's automatic for him. Another scenario would be when he is bored, laying around doing nothing and fumbling for something to do, he'd initiate cock warming, that little sigh when he slips into you, relief. From there, he may definitely not hold himself back, the two of you would end up having sex. If it's you and he's doing something and you want to sit on his cock, he'll set down what he is doing and let you. As you hold onto him, he'll notice your whimpers, softly decorating his ear, letting him know how much you want him. He'll tease you till you are hiding away in the crook of his neck or playfully hitting him but he'll satisfy your desires all night. It's for you. However, when he does want to cock warm, he'll snuggle into you, nestling his head over yours. Little touches, lingering over your waist will be presented to you, as well as his admiration for your body. He'll cock warm in your sex or ass. When it's in your ass, he'll take his time admiring your ass, your breasts, any place he can place a kiss on really but he's not really kissing, he's looking and telling you how much he loves you.

Hwiyoung I Kim Youngkyun:

Resident cutie

He's got you in the palm of his hand especially because of that cute face, cute expressions, cute mannerisms, overall a very lovable guy. Can be awkward sometimes but it's okay because his loving personality makes up for it. Is also a shy little bean at first which makes you want to shower him with lots of love and praise. Glady accepts your kisses and hugs, gets shy when you first do them but eventually reciprocates them. To the point where it's comfort, safety and that you can be vulnerable with each other. *This is quickly turning into a boyfriend! Hwiyoung*. It's something that he suggests, the idea of cock warming. Really your jaw should drop when you hear it from your boyfriend. After a sex session, when the both of you are all sweaty and won't go for another round, he wouldn't mind if you were on your knees, keeping his cock warm with your mouth. He could be leaning back on the seat, going through his favourite sites while you sit in between his legs, ignoring the ache in your thighs. He would have you cock warming naked, bare for him and only him to see while he himself is fully clothed. That session could have potentially included bdsm, in a separate room that you have specially for it and this time, you could have been flogged, denied your release or being used, whatever your fantasies may be. It could also be the opposite way where you are the dom. In that case, it would be a command or a form of bonding where he will be punished if he moves when he is in your sex or you cuddle and speak to one another about the session, respectively. If bdsm is not included, then he would love to cock warm! To him, he gets to be with you and speak to you- whatever it may be about. For example, it could be deep, philosophical conversations or you both cuddle and sleep. Either way, he likes spending time with you especially in such a quality manner.

Chani:

*insert a gulp and a surprised face*

Remember that SF9 was discussing about mature concepts as a part of planning for their Kingdom stages and the editors used a fish filter to emphasise Chani's round eyes or rather, his innocence. ''HUh!??!'' is his brain, whirring away like an air conditioner at an office, rolling round and round when you propose this concept. He goes blank and you just sit back, waiting patiently. It has come to this moment. But his smile grows and it keeps on growing till he's unexpectedly pulling you onto his lap and connecting your lips. He knows that you should discuss it first but first, he wants to have you as close as possible when you discuss this. At first, he's peppering kisses on your face with you giggling, telling him that you want to continue and then he says, ''one moment baby'' before he swoops in for your lips. You reciprocate the passion, the moment is neither heated nor too soft, just in between and you have a make-out session for a couple of minutes. He doesn't know why, it's random but the both of you are loving it, like an initiation ceremony into a new stage of your relationship. And here were all along, navigating blind (👀🚫). It's planned with enough space for creativity. You are on the bed and you squeeze his shoulders when he presses at your entrance and fills you up. You wait to adjust to him. At first he's like, ''This it?'' and you have to laugh at that, quite true that you also though the same thing. Soon he's kissing you all over, sucking your nipple and the area around it, turning it a shade darker: he's teasing you, taking his time till he's done cock warming. He tells you that he would love to try out cock warming in your ass sometime and then it's all giggles from there. You ask, ''did you search-'', cut off by his fingers that circle your clit and press, drawing a gasp or a hitch of the breath from you. Then he starts to rock his hips and you know that cock warming is over, at least for now. He's hovering on top of you and losing control over his thrusts and spilling into you later on. A common scenario would be when he's playing games and you are sitting on his cock, maybe sleeping or doing something else, unbeknownst to his friends that he's speaking with on his headset.

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mo-notmoe · 2 years ago

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IM SEEING SF9 TOMORROW!!

and its gonna be my 9th concert this year...

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maessseongs · 1 year ago

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♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪

SF9

Racer AU / no title yet

Member x Member / Member x OC

THE BOYZ

Fantasy AU / no title yet

→ sangyeon x jacob

→ changmin

→ sunwoo

Good Villain ; Bad Hero

Ju Haknyeon x Reader

Violette // James Bond Collab

Choi Chanhee x Reader

♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪

#wip sneak peek #my wips #wip snippet #wip stuff #story ideas #writing ideas #fic ideas #fic in progress #au idea #tbz #sf9

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twisted-tales-of-all · 3 years ago

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Rushed Ruling

In this 6k word tale from the SF9 universe and Collaborative Chronicles of the “Learn Your Kingdom” Collab, we enter the world of a Royal!Hwiyoung, who becomes the new heir to the Scroy kingdom after his brother’s untimely death. However, unfit to rule, his parents send him into the capital city of Cyemes to learn of commoner life. During this, he meets a Vigilante!Hybrid!Eunjae and sticks to their side for the remainder of his time outside of the palace. Although there isn’t a romantic/sexual arc to this story, the elements of a Fantasy!AU remain, as well as consistent use of alcohol, threats of force, slight violence, use of an alias/hiding one’s identity, miscommunications, and slight betrayal. Also, there is a similar tale from the ATEEZ universe that uses this kingdom, so let me know if you’d like to hear that story in the future.

A/N: Let me know if this introduction works well, as I’m trying to tie more aspects into the blog lore, but only if it works. Also, Eunjae is agender, but it isn’t mentioned in the fic. That’s why you only see them referred to using they/them pronouns.

"What are we going to do? We don't have much longer before he inherits the kingdom, but he's clearly not ready!" The king screams to the group as he paces in front of his seat in the meeting room.

"This is why I told you Youngsu needed exemption from the military service! Youngkyun isn't fit to rule!" His wife shifts blame onto him while everyone waits for the couple to calm down, too afraid to lose their job if they speak.

The king takes a deep breath before reminding the queen that the kingdom of Scroy holds every adult - even royalty - accountable for at least a year of military service. In fact, the king did all he could to keep his eldest son out of harm's way by assigning him a defensive position along the southern border - one that borders their allied neighbors of the Cyunth country. Nobody could foresee the volcanic eruption on that border, and nobody expected the kingdom's heir to lose his life while saving those living in the area.

As the queen settles again, she asks the teachers what the situation calls for, "How is Youngkyun doing? Has anything been able to stick?"

"His royal highness seems to grasp only Cyemesan basics. Other than typical etiquette, he cannot fully grasp any issues of the capital. Due to this, we have yet to touch on issues outside the great city. He has yet to learn of Scroyer trade or production specialties, nor of the military protocols other than what he learned from his military activities." The lead instructor describes the poor situation but adds a possible solution, "We've found that prince Youngkyun learns best through first-hand exposure and experience, which is probably the reason he understood etiquette without issue. As such, we believe it would be more effective to send him into Cyemes to learn the issues directly."

The royal couple exchange glances, trying to discern one another's reactions to the idea. In truth, the options run slim, and time ticks by each day. They need their second son to learn at least a portion of what his brother knew, or they risk throwing their humble country into turmoil under a useless king. The kingdom is already known to have high crime rates, so they need a proper ruler to control those issues.

"Thank you, professors. I believe we will try that plan, as we have no time left to waste. The queen and I will be forever grateful for the effort you all have put into assisting Youngkyun. As he has finished his mandatory service, there shouldn't be any risk to his life, so we hope this event doesn't repeat. You are free to leave. Speak to Jinseok for your remaining payments before heading home."

With the king's dismissal, the royal couple is left alone in the meeting hall. The king finally returns to his seat as the queen lowers her head onto the table. They sit in silence for a minute before the queen admits to having concerns about the plan.

"He's never been outside of the castle. How will he figure anything out? What about payment? Do we supply him with Rinn to start? Or do we throw him into the world without so much as a copper bit?" She questions, partially muffled as she speaks into the table.

"Of course, we'll give him Rinn. I say we give him 50 gold pieces. If he's smart with it, it could last a couple of months. Or it'll be more than enough to buy his own small house and live without a job for a month or so. But we can't help him any more than that."

After a short discussion, they ask an assistant to bring Youngkyun to the meeting room. In the short time before his son arrives, the king gathers some essentials to give him. Once he joins them, they alert him of the dire circumstances that lead to this tough decision. The king slides the small sack that he arranged across the table, the coins jingling. Confused, Youngkyun opens it to find 50 gold pieces of Rinn, a change of clothes, and a minimalistic map of Cyemes.

"Father, what is this for? Are you kicking me out for not learning quick enough? Youngsu had a decade's worth of classes, so why are you treating me this way?!"

Trying to calm her son, the queen answers before her husband has a chance to, "Youngkyun, honey, we aren't kicking you out. Your instructors noticed that you learn better through experience, so we'd like you to spend some time in Cyemes. We'll send someone to bring you home after long enough, but we want you to experience the issues of a typical citizen so that you might have a better idea of what needs to be focused on when you ascend to the throne."

Understanding that his parents have no other options, Youngkyun stands and holds the ransack over his shoulder. He asks if he should leave immediately and listens to his father as he explains the guidelines to this "experiment." After the instructions, his parents walk with him to the gates, giving hugs and affirmations before watching Youngkyun walk alone into the city.

As he roams, Youngkyun finds an empty cottage. A note on the door indicates that the owner will be selling the home for 20 gold pieces at the nearby market. Youngkyun consults the map before heading en route to the market, hoping to find himself a temporary home before the sun sets. However, he only knows the general direction to head in due to the map's simplicity. As the sun lowers and the sky turns a lovely pink, the temperature reaches freezing. Thinking he might be a street of two too low, Youngkyun turns up the nearest alley to cut through quickly.

With his luck, the alley eventually reaches a dead end. As he turns to find a way out, he discovers four people standing in his way.

"Excuse me. I need to get by. I'm looking for the Ryorgin market, but I don't quite know my way around."

After a short silence, Youngkyun continues, "Could you please make space for me to get by? Or maybe direct me towards the market? It'd be extremely helpful and-"

"Do you really not understand the situation you're in? We're robbing you, you nitwit! Hand over your bag!"

After the leader speaks up, the other three move slowly toward the trapped boy. Knowing that he needs the items he has to survive, Youngkyun debates revealing his royal lineage. Before he decides, a loud crash catches everyone's attention. The crate behind the group of robbers falls to the ground as the piece of plywood that smashed it lands softly onto the shoulder of a short, ambiguous humanoid creature. Youngkyun takes a few seconds to scan them as the stranger analyzes the situation, finding a medium-toned feline-hybrid with curly violet hair and a matching tail.

"This seems unfair, don't you think? Four experienced robbers against a helpless young boy. Tsk, tsk, tsk. You're even a hybrid." They point the large piece of wood at the leader effortlessly while continuing blandly, "As an act of good faith for a fellow hybrid, I'll give all four of you a chance to leave now, completely unharmed."

With an angry huff, the leader runs past them and turns down the nearest street to leave everyone's view quickly. His lackeys follow shortly behind, so the helpful soul drops their weapon and turns to depart as well. Thankful for their help, Youngkyun catches up to his savior.

"Thank you so much for your help. Can I repay you for your kindness? What's your name? What shall I call you?" Youngkyun questions as his savior coldly continues walking without acknowledging him.

Despite the cold response, the naive boy continues to follow this person into a nearby bar. The bustling energy of the pub overwhelms the poor boy, so he sticks to his savior like glue, sitting next to them at the counter, where the bartender gives him a weird look before passing a chilled salmon-colored drink to her regular beside him.

"Eunjae, who's the kid? Here's your glass of Jetorih. From the sawdust on your shirt, you look like you might need a couple more."

"Thanks, Min. I saved him from a group of robbers on my way here. The sawdust must be from the box I smashed to scare 'em off." Eunjae takes a swig of the drink after explaining the situation as if it's a weekly or even daily occurrence.

With a chuckle, the bartender turns to Youngkyun, "So, what's your name, kid? How'd you get into that situation anyway? It'll sound more interesting coming from you than my single-toned regular." She leans onto the counter, smirking as she waits for an answer from Youngkyun or a comeback from Eunjae.

"Oh, I'm Young-" Suddenly remembering that he needs a false name while in the city, he catches himself and chooses an alias on the spot, "Hwiyoung. My name's Hwiyoung, and I'm new here. I was trying to find my way to Ryorgin market, but I took a wrong turn and ended up trapped in a dead-end alleyway. Eunjae saved me, so I hoped I found someone kind to help me adjust, but it felt like talking to a brick wall. It was as if I didn't exist."

"Yeah, that sounds about right. Eunjae doesn't talk much because people question the dull tone they use a lot. But Eunjae has a kind heart, so they can't let injustice slide. It's like we Cyemeans have our own little vigilante for when the good-for-nothing law enforcement refuse to do the work."

At the mention of being a vigilante, Eunjae's tail flicks hard, hitting against the barstool. To block out the title, they finish their drink in one swift swallow and slam the glass back on the table. The sound gains Youngkyun's attention, who quickly turns to see Eunjae undoing their tightly-braided hair. As the gorgeous violet waves fall freely down to the middle of their back, the soft lighting of the pub makes it appear to glow. The sight momentarily enthralls Hwiyoung, but Min captures his attention again by asking if he'd like a drink.

"What is it that Eunjae's having? I've never heard of Jetorih before. Is it sweet? I can't stand the taste of harder drinks."

It feels as if the pub freezes around him once he shows his innocent unfamiliarity with the beverage.

"You've never heard of Jetorih before? I know you said you ain't from here, but you're still Scroyer, right? Have you been living under a rock? Jetorih is the most popular drink in the kingdom. It's easy to make, so it's cheap to buy. Plus, it still tastes good and gives a good buzz." Min begins, bewildered that she even has to explain something so commonly known.

"It's made by fermenting berries and then freezing the result over a honey-water mixture. The resulting slush is served with more honey on top to nullify the foam as it melts." Eunjae follows with the production process, and it feels like Youngkyun started an audiobook for making alcohol.

He quickly explains that he usually drinks wine, which makes Min burst out laughing. As she insinuates that wine is far too expensive for anyone but the royal family due to the cost of importing it, she appreciates Hwiyoung's "joke." As such, she pours him a drink of Jetorih on the house before refilling Eunjae's glass. They both watch as Hwiyoung tries the drink. The nearly frozen drink instantly melts on his tongue, leaving behind the striking sweetness from the honey with a slight tang from the choice of berries. He quickly understands why the drink is popular. In fact, he makes a mental note to have this made in the castle, as it tastes better and costs less than the imported wines.

As the hours pass, Eunjae and Hwiyoung drink more Jetorih and become more talkative. As the normally-timid boy gains liquid courage from the drink, he confronts Eunjae with the same topics as before, hoping that they'll open up more from the alcohol. Min enjoys the scene in front of her while serving alcohol to the guests and shining glasses when business slows.

"So, Eunjae, there must be a way to repay you for saving me earlier. If you need a travel buddy, that'll benefit both of us. Even if you don't need one, can I tag along?" The boy begs, unsure of another way to safely travel and learn more about the capital.

With a sigh, Eunjae caves, "If I agree to let you follow me, will you hold your own ground?"

"Yes, yes. I finished my mandatory service already, so I can hold my own. It just wasn't expected earlier; I wasn't prepared."

"I don't need an explanation. Just know that I'll leave you behind if you drag me down."

As Min pours Hwiyoung his final glass of the foaming pinkish-orange liquid, she confronts his desperately-conceived plan, "Hwiyoung, are you sure you want to travel with Eunjae? They really are Cyemes's vigilante, so it'll be a very fast-paced and chaotic adventure."

With an enthusiastic nod and bright smile, Hwiyoung confirms, "I think it'll be a good change of pace for me. I'm way too comfortable with a slow and steady life. I need some change."

Min shrugs, accepting his decision despite her protective instinct over the young, impulsive boy. After all the bar patrons leave, the trio walks to the nearby inn. Hwiyoung and Eunjae pay for their rooms, then Min says her goodbyes and heads home for the night.

In the morning, Eunjae wakes with the rising sun. She leaves her room quickly and pounds on Hwiyoung's door to wake him. Before heading downstairs to the lobby, they scream at the door, telling Hwiyoung that he'll be left behind if he doesn't come down within the next 30 minutes. Despite still feeling groggy and feeling the nasty effects of last night's alcohol, he drags himself out of bed, rinses off, and meets Eunjae downstairs.

"Morning, Eunjae. Where are we headed this early in the morning?"

As stern and deadpan as ever, Eunjae warns, "If you're going to stick with me, you'll need to be prepared to wake up early. This is usual. Today is the first day of the festival, so we'll be helping to set up for it. Be ready for a lot of manual labor."

Hwiyoung stands there, blinking and unsure of what to say in response. He mumbles out an acceptance before following his companion out of the inn and towards the town's center. As everyone greets Eunjae warmly, Hwiyoung catches the first glimpse of them smiling. Despite their monotonous voice, their face actually reveals emotion. He chuckles to himself as he notices, causing the townspeople to ask Eunjae about him.

Despite their attempt to cruise past the topic by simply claiming Hwiyoung as a travel buddy, the man in question speaks up, "My name is Hwiyoung, and I'm not from the area. Eunjae helped me when bandits tried to steal from me, and they're being kind enough to let me join them on their daily adventures."

With his innocent glee, he makes the group swoon over Eunjae's good deed, complimenting them on finding such a sweet partner. Clearly, some people mistake the situation as a romantic partnership, but neither party care enough to correct the mistake. They both know the truth of the situation, so they pay no mind to how others see it. In fact, Eunjae refuses to continue acknowledging the conversation at all, asking where to help out. Suddenly, the group disperses, as if remembering why they're all here, to finish preparing for the festival.

When night comes, the festival lights flicker on in a glowing brilliance. Those who set up take a moment to admire their work before returning to the festival. Eunjae and Hwiyoung admire the bright, lively scene from the top of a building a couple blocks away. This way, Hwiyoung can get a glimpse of the festival while Eunjae can relax in peace.

The remainder of the week follows a similar pattern - the duo helping around the area and then finding a cheap inn nearby for the night. After being warned by Min that Eunjae's adventures can get crazy, Hwiyoung begins to feel as if he received the short end of the stick, so he questions his companion.

"Eunjae, is this what you do every day? Just finding odd jobs in the area? Why would Min warn me about going with you if this is it?"

Unfazed, Eunjae responds, "Oh, have you gotten bored? We can move on from this then."

Walking towards the river on the city's edge, Eunjae leads Hwiyoung away from the immediate area. Due to the increased heat, Eunjae replaced their black long-sleeved shirt with a loose tank of the same color. As he walks behind them, he admires the tattoos on their arms. A black-ink tattoo adorns their right forearm, covered only slightly by their signature silver cuff bracelet. On the left shoulder, Hwiyoung finds a gorgeous watercolor piece depicting a pair of hummingbirds feeding on the same flower.

As the duo boards a boat heading south, Hwiyoung's curiosity manifests into words, "Those tattoos look amazing. Is there any meaning behind them, or are they aesthetic choices?"

Running their hand over the art on their right arm, Eunjae softly smiles as they explain, "This is a familial tattoo. It's a combination of the panther clan's seal and my mother's family crest. I got it just before moving to the capital, as if to constantly remind myself where I came from."

Stunned by the deep meaning, Hwiyoung takes a closer look. Eunjae traces the tattoo to explain which parts represent their maternal or paternal side. After, they both turn their attention to the light and colorful art contrasting the black ink on the other arm.

"It might not look as meaningful since it's a common creature to get tattooed, but the hummingbirds represent this powerful and positive energy that can be hidden in small packages. Since I'm only about 160cm tall, this smaller one is me." They point to the bird on the left of the flower as they continue, "But this bigger one on the right represents a powerful friend I'm supposed to gain. I've been to four fortunetellers who all foretold that I'll meet someone important who will help me change the kingdom for the better. That's why the flower is there - it represents the kingdom that will blossom under our help."

As Hwiyoung remains baffled by Eunjae's deep symbolism, the boat reaches the kingdom's southernmost port, bringing the ride to an end. As they step onto the dock, ready to experience adventure, they're immediately greeted by blades.

"Who are you, and why have you come?" The most colorfully-adorned man - clearly the leader - asks at the front of the group.

Hwiyoung's eyes go wide, unsure how to respond, but Eunjae simply sighs. "Do you guys still do this to everyone? You know it's me, and he's clearly with me. Stop scaring everyone who comes to the port."

As soon as Eunjae speaks, the blades drop to everyone's sides. The leader apologizes to them by name, insisting that they look different from last time. With a chuckle, Eunjae forgives the man and agrees that their hairstyle has changed since the previous visit. After the short conversation, Hwiyoung's frightened heartbeat returns to normal, just in time for the duo to take their leave.

"Sorry about them. They always believe spies are sent to them. The group is slightly inane, but they're still very kind once they trust you."

"Clearly, they trust you already, so that's good. If I ended up here alone, I wouldn't have the slightest idea what to do. Why are we here, though? Is there something you need to do along the border? We're fairly close to Cyunth." As Hwiyoung follows his companion down a dirt trail clearly made by repeated pedestrian travel, his curiosity grows.

"You'll see soon enough. Just don't be too shocked by what you find in the middle of nowhere."

After a few minutes of walking, Hwiyoung sees a small village in the valley below. Even from his distance, he can see panthers and hybrids alike going about their daily life. He stops to admire the view, falling behind as Eunjae continues walking towards their friends and family. Jogging to catch up, he asks whether they simply wanted to come home for a bit.

"There's someone I need you to meet. I have questions for them about you - they'll give me all the answers I need."

At first, he thinks they mean their parents, but he quickly remembers the four fortunetellers mentioned in the tattoo story, so he alters his assumption. He can't understand why they'd head there, though, unless to answer questions about himself that he'd answer without hesitation if they asked.

As Eunjae leads him through the village to a small house slightly further away, he wonders if the panthers disapprove of magicks or fortunetelling. However, as he enters the door, the immense energy that greets him leaves him wondering if it's simply too dangerous to be a regular neighbor.

Uneasy, Hwiyoung greets the older hybrid who introduces herself by the moniker Jewel. She places her hands on his shoulders, sending a raging heat through his body from the level of mystic energies. As quickly as she touches him, she removes her hands in shock.

"Eunjae, who have you brought here?" She asks, her worry apparent through her tone as she rubs her hands of the shock.

"I was hoping you'd help me figure that out. I saved this one from a robbery, and, since then, he's insisted on sticking with me to learn the area. Says his name is Hwiyoung."

"Hwiyoung, huh?" The fortuneteller circles him as she talks, "That isn't sparking anything. Maybe he normally uses a different name, but I don't expect to find that out. He has a very distinct energy to him, one strong enough to fight my own when we touched."

Impatient, Eunjae interrupts their elder's long-winded explanation, "Is he that important person you told me about?"

"Is that why you brought him here? You sweet, single-minded fool. Every person you meet has the ability to meet the criteria I spoke of. It fully depends on your goals to determine who ends up as that partner for you. While his energy leads me to believe he is or will be a man of great power and influence, he can only be your partner if your hopes align with his. You must choose who of the people fate delivers you will be represented by that second bird on your arm. Remember, Eunjae, that this is still your life to control, even if your fortune has been read a certain way."

Without a word of response, Eunjae turns on their heel and leaves the cabin. Hwiyoung moves forward to follow before Jewel grabs his wrist to stop him.

"Let them be alone for a bit. It's better to wait until they're ready. You can stay here while you wait. I'll get you something to drink. I'm sure Eunjae went for some Jetorih at the pub, but this drink is better - and non-alcoholic, for one. Feel free to ask me anything while you're here."

Jewel and Hwiyoung sit down at the small, circular table in the dining room. The pitcher sitting in between them fills their cups with a deep purple liquid - a color that matches Eunjae's hair. As Jewel attempts to hide her knowing smile by taking the first drink, Hwiyoung asks about Eunjae's fortune before even looking at the cup in front of him.

"Ah, yes. You must be slightly confused by the claims they made about you. They've been informed of their fate to improve this kingdom greatly with the help of a powerful friend. That's basically all they were told, but they've made it a point to find that person to begin those positive changes as soon as possible."

"Can you tell anyone's fortune?" The curious boy asks, suddenly concerned that she can already see through his alias.

"Only if they allow me to. Energy follows very basic but necessary rules, and the first is respecting boundaries. I can only read as far into someone as they let me, so they will only be told that which their subconscious already knows. All I do is search that subconscious space for those answers."

"Then," He hesitates before asking, but Jewel reads him like an open book.

"Would you like an insight into your fortune? The best way is to learn your name. I'll be able to search your energy better with your name as he guide." She notices Hwiyoung's fidgeting, so she offers another option, "While that's the best option, it isn't the only one."

As the intrigued boy perks up, Jewel explains how palm lines can tell small bits of one's fortune, as well as simple energy reading, as Hwiyoung's energy is unusually strong. He asks to learn what he can without revealing his name, so Jewel prepares for a quick, surface-level energy dive. She requests that Hwiyoung place his palms face-up on the table. As he complies, Eunjae strolls back into the cabin, in a much happier mood than they left it.

"Oh, is Hwiyoung's fortune being told? I'd like to hear it, too." Despite the alcohol-affected actions, their monotone voice remains.

"Yes, I'm doing simple readings. Without the proper guiding name, I have to do palm reading and a surface-level dive."

With no more interruptions, Jewel begins tracing the lines in Hwiyoung's palms. Trying to read the overwhelming energy proves to be a struggle, but she tells them everything she can, including the fact that his life will change majorly by the end of the year. While only scratching the surface of his energy, she learns that he was under intense watch until recently, but this unwatched portion of life will be vital in his progress towards the future he desires.

Finding no connection to their reading, Eunjae excuses themselves and waits outside. A smile creeps onto the fortuneteller's face, knowing that the frustration is for naught. Although she revealed everything she found in the reading, she worded it in a way to not allow Eunjae to make any clear, immediate connections. Hwiyoung definitely radiates enough energy to be that powerful friend, and Eunjae can feel it too. That's why they brought him here to begin with; they wanted Jewel's confirmation on the matter. However, Jewel wants Eunjae to push their own destiny rather than simply confirm gut feelings relating to a years-old reading.

After the reading, Hwiyoung thanks Jewel before heading outside to meet with Eunjae again. As he leaves, Jewel whispers something about royalty, correctly gauging his lineage from the energy readings.

"Okay, so now that that's over with, let's rest here and continue the adventure tomorrow. You can stay in my guest room." Eunjae guides Hwiyoung back towards the village center and into their cozy home.

"I didn't realize you actually owned a residence. Since you're always traveling around and sleeping in inns, I assumed we'd do the same here." Hwiyoung takes in the delicately decorated interior as he speaks.

"Well, it's a family home. I technically don't own it, but my siblings and I never find ourselves home at the same time." As they turn down the hall, they point out each room as they explain, "This is the guest room. The bath is across the hall, and I'll be over here at the end of the hall."

The duo parts for the night and sleeps with the new knowledge from the fortuneteller.

The next week involves seemingly-endless foot travel until finally reaching the southwestern corner of the kingdom. This section was known to be one of the most dangerous areas within Scroy borders. With the volcanoes lining the southern border, this corner also homes an elaborate system of caves that haven't been successfully explored. Those who have managed to make it back quit while they were ahead due to seeing scattered bones and belongings.

As Eunjae approaches the entrance to this maze of caves, Hwiyoung stops, "Why do you want to go in there? It's dangerous, and we don't have proper armor or weaponry. The kingdom has sent humans and hybrids alike, but very few have returned safely."

Before turning to face him, Eunjae removes the sly smile from their face. They shoot a confused look in Hwiyoung's direction, questioning, "How do you even know that? You barely know anything about our capital, about the clans in the south, or even culturally-famous drinks, pastimes, or festivals. Did you live near here? As far as I know, People refuse to settle around here due to the dangers."

"Ah... Well, no. I just... it was something that interested me, so I did some research on it." Trying to cover his mistake, he scrambles for an excuse.

"Research? How so? None of the libraries have access to books about this cave system except the king's royal library. Did you go around asking people or something?"

With a sigh, Hwiyoung gives in to Eunjae's probing, "No. I know about it from the king. I did extra research in the royal library to see what we've learned, but there isn't much information there either."

Intrigued by this information, Eunjae takes a seat cross-legged in the grass to listen. Understanding the long story ahead of them, they ask the question that they feel will unlock their partner's hidden truth, "How'd you talk to the king or have access to the royal library?"

As Hwiyoung joins them in the grass, he takes a couple breaths to prepare himself for whatever reaction comes from the exchange. However, as he tries to tell them of his identity, two soldier-like men approach.

"Sir, you've been requested to return. Please stand up so we can guide you back." One robotically recites his orders while locking eyes with Hwiyoung, "We are ready and able to use force if necessary. Please, do not resist."

Protective of their partner, Eunjae stands in between the soldiers and Hwiyoung. After explaining that they were in the middle of an important conversation and that Hwiyoung doesn't have to go anywhere with strangers, the soldiers double down by revealing that the orders were given directly by the king and queen of Scroy and that he was to return to the palace as soon as physically possible. With this news, Eunjae tries to hide the whiplash coming from the shock by standing their ground and declaring that he can go after they finish their conversation.

Turning back around to face Hwiyoung, the confused hybrid asks the loaded question, "So, who are you?"

"Next in line for the throne. My name is actually Youngkyun, and I'm the second eldest child of the royal family. My brother died last year, so my parents have been rushing me through training to rule properly. It wasn't sticking in my head, so I was forced into the capital to learn firsthand. Hence why I don't know how to survive as a normal citizen in Cyemes. I'm sorry I didn't tell you. My dad told me I had to create an alias."

"You're... the prince? Really? That can't be right." Astonished, this is the first time Eunjae's voice betrays any sign of emotion. The break in monotonality proves to Hwiyoung the level of surprise this news gains.

"Yes. I didn't really care to be. And, frankly, I still would rather not become king. Could you come with me to the palace to help explain to my parents what I want to do? Even if you're just there for moral support, having you with me will help a lot. You're my first and only real friend, after all."

Hesitant, Eunjae remains silent and avoids his eyes for a minute to contemplate before uttering a simple agreement, "Ah... I guess there's no reason not to."

It takes a week and a half's worth of travel to reach the castle, so Youngkyun uses the time to answer any and all questions Eunjae has about him, the palace, or anything in general. He makes sure to buy enough Jetorih at each stop to last them until the next, knowing that the liquor often helps his friend's head settle after receiving major news. As he learns, they don't have many questions to ask outside of the basic ones involving his royal status. For about half of the trip, they travel in near silence, only hearing their footsteps with the occasional event while they pass through cities.

Reaching the palace, Eunjae's jaw slowly drops as they look around more and more. Even Youngkyun, who's often oblivious to others' thoughts, can read their mind from their face.

"Yeah, it's massive in comparison to all the normal Cyemean buildings. Even living here, I never really adjusted to the size. It just amplifies feelings of loneliness."

As they approach the doors to the meeting room, the guards who escorted them knock and announce Youngkyun's presence before leaving. Youngkyun opens the doors, holding them open for Eunjae before closing them again. Eunjae refuses to look up in case they'll offend the royal couple by merely existing.

"Hello, mother. Hello, father. This is Eunjae. They've been helping me since I left, starting by saving me from being robbed before spending a full day in the capital."

At the mention of their name, Eunjae looks up momentarily to smile at the king and queen before bowing and keeping their head lowered once again.

"Welcome home, son. Thank you, Eunjae, for protecting our son and helping him experience life from a commoner's perspective. I'm sure he was a hassle, especially while taking up an alter ego. He's not great with keeping his own secrets. We'll be sure to compensate you however you wish."

Although Eunjae thanks the king, their tail flicks hard, betraying their irritation at his implication of being a "commoner" pawn in their charade. Despite this, they explain that Hwiyoung was interesting and fun to have around. Then, the queen reveals why her son needed to make his speedy return.

"Youngkyun, your father is sick. We would've loved for you to stay out longer and learn more about our kingdom, but we need you here in case you need to step up sooner than expected."

"Why can't you remain in charge? There's no rule here about the ruler needing to be king."

His sudden question shocks everyone in the room. Eunjae stops themselves mid-step to refrain from hitting Hwiyoung upside the head. The queen's eyes widen, not expecting her usually-obedient son to respond in such a manner. The king hunches over, clenching his hand over his chest as if the slight defiance in his son's voice caused a heart attack. To Youngkyun, the air in the room tenses, but he's decided his path, and he's sticking to it.

"I understood that it's probably not your favorite choice considering all you did to prepare me for proper rule, but I do not want to become ruler. Scroy has so much to experience, and I feel like I'll be much more help in person. There are countless issues I witnessed - especially within law enforcement - from my short experience outside of the palace, and we'd never even know while holed up in our castle. If I need to live as Hwiyoung forever, that's fine. Either way, I'll be far more helpful if I remain with Eunjae and travel Scroy."

As Hwiyoung turns to Eunjae towards the end, it feels like a spark ignites in their brain as they recognize that their travel partner is the powerful friend the fortune foretold. In fact, he not only accepts his position but fights for what he believes will be best for the kingdom. They return the smile to their partner, fully ready to take on whatever challenges the world will throw at them.

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