#she's such a wonderful lady and I felt so bad when she cried

[marrow-bone]

Out of just random horrible happenstance, somewhere around the age of 35 my mother's brain just started. Dissolving. And it wasn't diagnosed until like 18 years later. She just died very young after going through years of tortuous dementia, that was just random fluke. Beforehand she had been a super active and fairly health-conscious, and was a literal genius.

Disability can happen to anyone. It will happen to everyone who lives long enough. Respect disabled people; which means respecting every random stranger, too, because you never know what someone is going through.

Some rando: You should think about stopping your prescription

Me: My pills make me not want to die tho

They: You shouldn’t want to die, that’s not normal

Me: Yeah that’s why I’m taking my pills

[pumpkinbxtch]

𓇼 the sun & the sea 𓇼 〰✷〰

— apollo / lester x daughter of poseidon!reader

part i | part ii | part iii | part iv

☆ radiostar is playin': forever always by the driver era…!

warnings: none taglist: @emidpsandia

He, apparently, was dead missing.

"He went alone on the mission with Python. He hasn't returned for three days now." A month later, Meg contacted you through an Iris message and explained everything that had happened. A month later and the days passed, nobody knew about him.

"We only know that he retrieved all the Oracles and the gifts of prophecy returned," Chiron told you, and Dionysus, for the first time, looked nervous and worried about his brother.

But if Apollo had succeeded in his mission, where was he? You hadn't dreamed of him either. Days went by and your anxiety grew.

"I didn't agree, but my brother insisted on pushing him to the limit," Poseidon said seriously, and Percy replied, "I think he took it too literally, don't you?" You suppressed a groan while your father scolded your brother with his gaze. Python was gone forever, but they knew nothing of Apollo.

"It's okay, it's only been five days," you thought, but you realized that every day you did it with a new number and without any news until almost two weeks had passed... Honestly, you didn't know how many times you had cried in all that time, you didn't even bother to hide it, and even your roommate requested a room change.

Lately, the time was bad in every sense. Thunder rumbled, and you hugged the pillow tighter, tears already rolling down your cheeks. The room was colder than usual; after all, you were alone in it. You accompanied yourself with the dim light of your desk lamp, and the flash of lightning illuminated the darkest corners. You realized you were crying over too many things, everything was very recent, you hadn't even finished processing Jason's death, and those lightning bolts... all they did was remind you of it.

"Wasn't it enough with him?" You wondered as you let out your sobs. Jason was his son just like Apollo, and if he led them both to death just to reaffirm his authority to everyone, you had no doubts that Zeus was a cruel father. The thunder shook the window, and you closed your eyes in anger, not retracting anything, even if Zeus annihilated you with one of his lightning bolts, you would never do so. Probably beyond, on Olympus, your own father struggled with annoyance with his brother, but even if Poseidon wasn't half the father that Paul was to you and Percy, he would never allow you to be harmed.

Your tennis sounded against the wet sand of the path leading to your favorite café. You walked in a ghost town with a hollow chest and the cold penetrating your bones, but it didn't matter because you already felt like those skeletons that Nico brought to the surface when he was in a bad mood; anyway, you moved forward to have a hot chocolate, it was Sunday, you had to have enough strength for classes the next day.

— Here it is — the lady said when you had just formed in line at the bar. You frowned and shook your head.

— Surely it's for someone else, I just got in line.

The girl smiled and looked at the label.

— Hot chocolate? —she asked in the waiting line, and no one recognized it, she returned to you and handed it to you again. — It was ordered in advance.

A joke from Frank? Frank didn't make jokes. But if it were, how did he know what you wanted?

You took it and looked at the label, it had a sun drawn on it that made you purse your lips. "Of course, it had to be," you thought bitterly and walked back taking the long way, the one that passed by the small Tiber.

The sunlight barely reflected on the water after all it was covered by the clouds, and you sighed as you looked at the huge body of water, your chest hurt. How did this happen? You would be better off if you hadn't entered that Grove, but you had to do your will, but you wouldn't have had those days with Apollo, which provoked mixed emotions in you again.

"this rhymes for him were different, but he hopes for put that ring and find what he's been missing."

— If you wanted to marry me so much, come back and do it — you murmured with your nose buried in your scarf and tears stinging your eyes. You cut your step and faced the river that continued to shine coldly, the small cup you held slipped from your hands with each sob, and when you let out the first whimper, you let it go. However, it didn't fall. You gasped, and when you looked beside you, your breath left you.

Of those brown curls, only a few remained mixed with the blond ones, of the freckles you counted that last time you had him too close, there were only about three hundred instead of a thousand. He was taller, and his body more athletic, but he wore the same Led Zeppelin t-shirt and ripped jeans from the knees. His smile was big and triumphant, the same blue eyes you had been waiting to see were just trying to memorize your fractions in the same way you were doing with him.

— And are you serious or are you just fooling me?— His voice. You threw yourself into his arms without considering if he could be hurt, but judging by how he looked... then you took him by the shoulders, he foolishly thought you would kiss him, but you just leaned back and kicked him in the chest with the skill that only you could have.

He groaned on the ground in a fetal position, and seconds later, he rose on his elbows with a confused look.

— Idiot — you shouted as you walked towards him and knelt to be at his height. Apollo couldn't help but smile like an idiot, and you couldn't help but hug him again. — Where the hell were you?

Your whimpering caused guilt in his chest, and he took care of your head as both lay back on the grass. He stroked your hair as you clung to his chest, wishing his scent would imprint on you to never forget it.

— Hey…— He called you, and you looked up, noticing tears in his eyes too. You cupped his cheek and, before he could say anything else, you kissed him. The first kiss. He closed his eyes, completely surrendered to you, feeling like he could finally breathe freely after months. When your soft lips left his, he held you tightly, burying his face in your neck. You couldn't see it, but Apolo had a flushed face and a knot in his stomach.

But you didn't need to see it, because as he hid in you, the sun broke through the clouds, shining brightly, almost lighting up the whole world with brighter colors than before. It was with that detail that you confirmed he had become a god again, and his feelings were showing to you in too many ways.

— I…— You spoke after several minutes of silence, causing him to sit properly on the grass with you, holding your hand. — I do want to be with you. I'm not just messing around, just so we're clear.

— Do you have an alternative? — He joked, and you gently pushed him while nervously looking at your hands.

— Fool.

— For you, of course — he cooed as he took your chin in his hand and forced you to look at him. His cheeks were still flushed, but you noticed that his skill to seduce without seeming like an inexperienced teenager had returned, and that's where your first jealousy arose because you wished only you could have that side of him.

— And only for me, I'm sure — you grumbled under your breath at having that thought, and he laughed.

— I was born to love only you, believe me.— Apollo said, getting up and offering his hand to help you. — And just like art, I'll be faithful to you.

— Wow, what a great poet — you took his hand, and he took you by the waist, bending down to touch his nose to yours. You never believed in the expression "like a Greek god" until he looked at you in that way.

— Are you going to marry me? — He stroked your nose with his while gently squeezing your waist. You nodded silently like a fool, and he gave you a peck on the lips with a smirk. — I just wanted to make sure, but actually, I don't need any of that to be devoted to you. You're everything to me.

He took your hand and led you along the edge of the small Tiber, which now shone fervently.

•

— Apollo! — You shouted from the reception of the mansion on Olympus, closing the big door forcefully and looking at your husband playfully peeking behind his throne.

— Yes, dear? — You pursed your lips and approached him.

— Where are my things?

— Which ones? — He played dumb, and you sighed.

— From my bedroom at the university, where are they?

—In your room...— you raised an eyebrow — here.

You growled and pulled him to come out from behind the throne.

— I told you it would be until I graduated.

Apollo pouted and slumped his shoulders.

—But I miss you.

You smiled and hugged him.

— I miss you too, but— you stepped back and showed the ring on your ring finger —I have this, darling, and that's enough to scare off my classmates. I don't need to come down from Olympus every day when I can be in the dorms.

Apollo nodded regretfully.

— Alright, alright...— he snapped his fingers and smiled at you — everything is already in your silly university dorm.

You smiled and gave him a kiss. As you started making your way to the exit, he sighed.

— I'll see you tonight — he shouted, and you turned around smiling.

The Sun illuminates the beauty of the sea but never tries to contain it, and the sea shows the sun that even in the stormiest moments or the darkest nights, its light never fades.

[nahoney22]

Gonna leave this here for I completely forget. I hope you’re doing great out there and giving your all! I had a thought recently.

Do you think you can give some headcanons on the bad batch/clones of your choice react to a civilian smiling at them? Could be one person, a child, elderly person, or multiple people.

From all that war and the things they saw. Seeing a friendly face smiling at them is a rare thing these days. And it’s nice to see hope become some of a good sign to them. :)

A Smile a Day Keeps… Clones Very Happy

How each of The Bad Batch react to a civilian smiling at them.

Authors Note: I love this idea! Enjoy 🤍

Warnings: none 😊

Echo

Standing amidst the debris of a town rescued from the Empire's clutches, he felt a mix of relief and frustration. Despite the devastation, he was glad to see the civilians unharmed but bitter at the unwarranted attack.

As he kicked at the debris, Wrecker's voice broke his thoughts. Looking towards Wrecker, he noticed a young boy peeking out from behind a cracked stone pillar, stealing glances at him. “That lil guy keeps staring at you Echo.”

Concern creased Echo's brow as he observed the boy's timid demeanor. Wrecker simply suggested, "Just wave at him, crack a smile. It won’t kill ya.” before sauntering off.

With a sigh, Echo gave a hesitant wave. Naturally Echo was uncomfortable, wondering if the boy was staring at his prosthetics but then, the boy smiled. Bright.

The action surprised him and even more so when the boy comes from behind the pillar and bounds toward the Clone, laughing and clearly just in awe of the man.

Echo blinks, unsure what to do but manages to smile back. It was rare to see such a friendly response from someone, especially recently. But, it made him feel good. Proud.

Hunter

Amidst the bustling streets of Coruscant teeming with people, accidents were inevitable—collisions, stumbling over obstacles, and more. Fortunately, Hunter found himself in the right place at the right time.

Accompanied by his squad, their duty was to uphold order among the civilians. Amidst their patrol, Hunter spotted an elderly lady struggling under the weight of numerous boxes, obstructing her view.

Despite the importance of their mission, Hunter's gut and sense of compassion propelled him into action. He silently slipped away from his group and approached the lady.

"Excuse me, ma'am?" His voice cut through the clamor, positioning himself to catch her attention. "Do you need help?"

The lady's face lit up with gratitude, momentarily surprising Hunter. Nevertheless, he quickly refocused, ready to lend a helping hand as she accepted his offer.

As the boxes were safely delivered, the lady turned to Hunter with a radiant smile, a rarity for some Clones to witness. "Thank you, sir. You're a good man," she beamed, reaching for her pocket to retrieve some credits as a token of her appreciation.

However, Hunter swiftly intervened, shaking his head. "Oh, that's okay. No payment needed.”

Perhaps her smile and gratitude were reward enough for the day.

Wrecker

Wrecker, typically exuded a menacing aura solely through his appearance to onlookers so a smile graced at him was quite rare. However, when chaos unfolded with the crash of speeders and vessels before him, he wasted no time in springing into action.

Amidst the wreckage, a man trapped beneath the debris cried out for help, but attempts to free him proved futile to passer-by’s.

Enter Wrecker.

"Step aside, everyone," his commanding voice cut through the chaos as he advanced. With remarkable swiftness and strength, he effortlessly lifted the wreckage off the trapped man as though it weighed nothing at all.

Initially met with shock and even a hint of disturbance from onlookers, their unease quickly transformed into applause—a collective expression of gratitude toward Wrecker for his heroic act. As the applause filled the air, Wrecker scanned the crowd, initially puzzled by the sudden acclaim. However, as realisation dawned upon him that the applause, cheers and smiles was directed at him, a swell of pride washed over him.

Rarely did anyone smile at him, let alone offer thanks, but in that moment, the gratitude of the crowd was enough to make his eyes glisten.

Tech

"Can we look at your armour, sir?"

Tech glanced up from his data pad, surprised by the small voice beside him. Two children stood there, their eyes wide with fascination.

"Why would you want to do that?" he asked, his tone tinged with skepticism as he observed their approach toward his comm.

"Because you look so cool!" one of the children exclaimed, their excitement palpable. Tech couldn't help but feel a hint of confusion, unaccustomed to such admiration for his armor or himself.

"It's not cool, it's practical," he replied matter-of-factly, before finding himself kneeling down to their eye level and reluctantly removing his armor. "You may look at my helmet, but I shall need it back soon."

The children exchanged gleeful glances before eagerly inspecting the helmet in their hands. Tech watched them with a mixture of curiosity and amusement, a small smile forming on his lips as they marveled at the technology.

Such admiration for clones was a rarity, but seeing the genuine excitement in the children's eyes filled Tech with an unexpected sense of pride. As he began to explain the functions of his armour, he couldn't help but feel a connection to these young admirers, appreciating their genuine interest in his expertise.

Crosshair

Talk about being in the right place at the right time.

Crosshair strolled down a bustling street, seeking respite from the chaos aboard the ship when his sharp eyes caught sight of a frail-looking lady who appeared lost.

Initially hesitant, he debated whether she could manage on her own. Yet, with no squad mates around to mock him, he decided to offer his assistance.

"Are you lost?" His voice startled the woman, eliciting a surprised yelp. She turned to him, explaining that she had taken a wrong turn.

"Do you want me to take you there?" he offered, looking down at her.

"Oh, that would be kind! Thank you," she replied gratefully.

Crosshair guided her in the right direction, feeling slightly uncomfortable as she gripped his arm for support. Despite his reservations, he allowed it.

Upon reaching her destination, Crosshair was taken aback as she affectionately pinched his cheek with a smile. "You are a nice man, thank you, sir."

The rare gesture caught Crosshair off guard, stirring something within him. As he watched the lady walk away, her smile lingering in his mind, he couldn't deny the warmth it brought to his otherwise stoic demeanor. It was a fleeting moment, yet it left an unexpected impression on him, reminding him that kindness could be found even in the most unlikely of places.

Masterlist

Requests Currently Open

Tags: @littlefeatherr @kaitou2417 @eyecandyeoz @captxin-rex @jesseeka @theroguesully @ladykatakuri @arctrooper69 @padawancat97 @staycalmandhugaclone e @ko-neko-san @echos-girlfriend @fiveshelmet @dangraccoon @plushymiku-blog @chrissywakingup @pb-jellybeans @nunanuggets @sleepycreativewriter @erellenora @zippingstars87 @ezras-left-thumb @the-rain-on-kamino @tech-aficionado @grizabellasolo @therealnekomari @tech-depression-inventory @brynhildrmimi @greaser-wolf @tinyreadersmur @kaminocasey @marvel-starwars-nerd @ladytano420 @ladyzirkonia @thesith @raevulsix @cw80831 @knightprincess @crosshairlovebot @imalovernotahater @whore4rex @imperialclaw801 @temple-elder @mysticalgalaxysalad @photogirl894 @id-rather-be-a-druid @the-bad-batch-baroness @lulalovez @green-alm0nd @thiswitchloves9904

[addsalwayssick]

James Potter hated himself. He hated himself because of how he felt about his best fucking friend.

See, behind in love was a little bit funny. You want to be around that person all the time. You could never get sick of them. Your heart hurts when they’re hurt and all you want to do is hug and kiss them.

You imagine yourself in another universe with them. One where you’re together, because there’s one out there like that. You think about everything you could’ve done differently to make them like you more. How you could become more attractive in the eyes of them.

Sirius Black was flawless. He was smart. He was tall. He was strong and sharp and he looked like a Greek God. James wanted nothing else except him.

He could imagine a thousand lifetimes they could’ve had and yet there wasn’t anything in this one. He wanted it. He yearned for it.

James and Sirius were loose with each other. They always had their arms around each other, always saying they loved each other, giving each other numerous compliments. There was a difference though. James was in love, and Sirius wasn’t.

Well Sirius was in love. Just not with him. Sirius was in love with a nice lady named Mary.

James liked Mary, but God was he jealous of her. He hears Sirius talk about Mary, saying things about ‘She’s so funny, so smart. She’s gorgeous too. She cares, you know?’

And all James can think is, ‘Holy fuck. What about me?’ And his heart clenched every single time he had to hear him talk about Mary.

“Isn’t she lovely?” Sirius asked James as they sat in class looking at Mary.

“Yeah sure Pads.” James said, his stomach dropping.

“Look at her hair! It seems so soft,” Sirius thought aloud.

James immediately reached his hand up to feel his own hair. His hair was soft too.

“You haven’t ever told me about any birds. Besides Lily in first year,” Sirius prompted suspiciously. “Are you…you know.”

“Queer?” James snapped. “Yeah I am.”

Sirius put his hands up. “Just wondering, man. Let me know when you find a guy…unless you already have..?”

James didn’t answer right away and Sirius gasped. “You do! Who? Is it Remus? Pete?”

“God, just leave me be!” James hissed, pushing himself away from the table, walking out of the class. He walked himself into the bathrooms. He sat on the floor, and cried.

Sirius walked in a few minutes later. “Prongs? What’s going on?”

“I’m in love with you.” James told him sadly.

“What?”

“I’m in love with you.”

“James…I’m not…” Sirius said remorsefully.

“Yeah. I know.” James said, his voice rough and cracking. He put his head on the bathroom tiles as he heard Sirius leave.

Over the next few weeks, people became confused. Had there been a fight between Sirius and James? Why was James actively avoiding Sirius? What had Sirius done?

Sirius had kept trying to talk to James, to sit by him, anything, but James couldn’t deal with it. He couldn’t. Knowing that he was going to treat him differently.

“What?” James finally snapped as Sirius followed him in the halls.

Sirius flinched, and James instantly felt bad. “I just- I don’t want to lose you James.” Sirius said.

“You already have, I think.” James said as his heart plummeted. He knew it broke when it hit the floor.

“But James- I can’t- I can’t lose you!” Sirius cried, his voice rough.

James shook his head sadly. “I’m sorry, Sirius. But I can’t do it. I can’t.”

Sirius let out a sob. “James-“

And James made himself walk away.

Later on, Sirius and Remus started dating and James didn’t eat for a week. He wanted to hear about the other universes. He wanted Sirius to know how much he’d hurt him, just by not loving him the way he needed. The way that he loved him, but not like that.

James married Regulus Black when he was 25 years old. He loved Regulus, he did. Just not the way he once loved his older brother. Part of him always felt bad about it.

[yandere-fics]

♡ Abigail Dacryphilia ♡

You'd been with Abigail for a few months when you came to her in tears, crying about someone who had been mean to you at a ball, she dueled them obviously, but something about seeing you like that had stirred something within her, she wanted to see it just one more time. It wasn't that Abigail enjoyed seeing her lady in distress, she would do anything so prevent you from having a bad day or getting injured, it wasn't the sadness in your eyes that turned her one so much, just you looked so pretty and delicate when you cried, she wanted to see if she could make it happen again but this time from pleasure. So from that moment on anytime she had you physically it was her goal to see if she could make her lady feel so good that you would actually cry out for her, nothing set her heart on fire quite like seeing tears in your eyes like you needed your knight so badly, like you needed her even a quarter of how much she needed you, her lady clinging to her in desperation like one of her romance novels. It was just so cute, she hoped you'd cry on your wedding day too when she promised to take care of you forever. Really any excuse to get you crying in a positive manner would be taken by her, just like tonight where she had you riding her and struggling to take the strap she'd gotten, just a size too big, she just wanted to see you asking for your knights help, she really just couldn't resist it. Sure it was mean to pick on her lady like this but it made you feel good anyways plus it's not like you realized she was doing this on purpose so she could get away with it.

"Sweetheart, you can do it, just a bit further." If you looked at her face right now she was sure it would give it all away, but she really couldn't hide just how happy she was to see you whining as you took another inch, hands digging into her shoulders as you braced yourself to take more, despite how stretched you were though, she could tell it still felt good, too good which was exactly what she was going for, your lip trembled and your eyes watered sure, but your face was flushed with pleasure and all it would take to make you cum would be to rub your clit for just a second, you'd explode with just the smallest touch, but Abigail would make you wait a bit for that, she wanted to do it once you'd taken the full strap so she could enjoy the full effect of it.

"I can't, t-too much." You looked up at her and pouted when you saw just how much she seemed to be enjoying this. That pout really did wonders on her, made her want to tease you more even though that wasn't very knightly of her. "S-sadist." If the strap was her real cock she swore she would have burst inside you at that very moment. Luckily she maintained her composure and settled her hands on your hips to push you further down.

"I would never bully my lady, sweetheart." You both knew she was lying.

[333creolelady]

Lady Of The Blue Bakunawa Ch. 7

Black afab! OC X Captain Roman Reigns (Pirate au)

Warnings: Talking about death, Gore, angst, sexually suggestive dialogue.

Story playlist here <-

Alternative Playlist Link <-

Chapter 8 ->

<- Chapter 6

<- Back to Masterlist

Songs this chapter: Mermaids, Death is only a door *wink, wink*

Alternative Playlist Songs: Nothings gonna hurt you, Jigsaw, De selbey (2), I guess, Harry patch

Cover created by: @joannasteez

All reblogs receive snippets for the next chapter.

Jane

To be held is a precious thing. What had she learned about living in the past few months? She learned that it was about enjoyment and gratitude. She learned that it was about being present, taking in every detail—the good and the bad. She learned that outrunning her thoughts was the exact opposite of living. She learned that enjoying herself and taking her own pleasure was her right. And in those moments of enjoyment she found solitude in the sturdiness of his chest. Ease in the rhythm of his heart. Comfort in the sound of his breath and the heat of his skin, especially helpful during such cool evenings.

A hazy pleasurable night convinced her to move into his quarters. She’s been quite content ever since then. The biggest change was sleeping next to someone and being held by them. At first it felt slightly awkward, she’d lay there like stone. Thankfully he would not tease or reprimand her for it. He’d only pull her onto his chest, turn over and go to sleep. She’d stay up well past him, staring into the darkness of the room. Sometimes she’d talk to Pete and he’d squawk the words back at her. The colorful bird would often fall asleep before she did. Then it was just her and her thoughts all alone …in a pitch black room.

Her body could not yield to it’s own comfort. Then over the matter of days it unraveled something in her that left her breathless at night. He was none the wiser to her sniffles and cries, as she watched his slack sleepy face in utter confusion. How badly had her body needed to be embraced by another that it reduced her to weeping? How did being held feel like a release ? Yet the longer she laid there— night after night, her sleep would carry her away so abruptly and so quickly. Each time, sleep came sooner than the last. Ever since then, her body had become spoiled by the luxury of his embrace. She couldn’t fall asleep without him beside her.

…And she absolutely adored mornings. Sometimes he would wake her gently, kissing her fingers, her wrist, chest, shoulders, neck and every square inch of her face leaving her mouth for last. She’d open her eyes, giggling. Giggling. It had been many years since she woke up with wonder and delight—ready for the day.

Some mornings he would wake her up in the most wicked way possible. Her moans reached past her lips before she could tell day from night. Some mornings his fingers would be a welcome surprise, his other hand delicately tucked under her jaw and his mouth pressed against the side of her ear, taking in every whimper and groan. Other mornings she rose to a tongue in her cunt that was unyielding and relentless, making her find her release a concerning amount of times before she begged for reprieve. He was impish in the way he pursued her pleasure. Her feet could not touch the ground unless she was sighing in delight. Stopping at nothing to make every morning a good morning. No matter if she was annoyed with him the day before. He would take her to bed and smooth it all out. There was little room for conflict when she could barely make it out of bed without laughing or writhing in pleasure. Their bed had become her favorite place.

This morning was no different. Warm soft lips brushed against her shoulder, then the side of her cheek and neck. His kiss whispered across her skin until she opened one eye …then the other. She reached her hand beside her and felt warm and firm skin. She wrapped her hand around his waist and he wrapped his around hers. Without warning, he pulled her onto his chest by her ass, keeping his hand squeezed across her rear as he showered the side of her face with kisses. She groaned herself fully awake, turning her head from him only to wind up in a kiss. She chuckled against his mouth and he groaned. She pulled her mouth away, pressing her palm against his lips. He lightly struggled behind them.

“ So early in the morning and you’ve already started your antics. Have you no shame”, she grinned. He licked her hand making her retract it quickly.

He quirked a brow at her. “ I’ll have you know….it’s almost noon. And I’m immune to it if I do say so myself. Now if I may”, he abruptly flipped her onto her back with ease. She squeaked from the sudden movement, smacking his chest. He traps her with his arms and feasts on her neck, making breakfast of them.

“ We have things to do”, she sighed playfully trying to bite his bicep. He let her hands go and pulled her against him firmly.

“ Or…we could just stay in bed all day. I’m sure they won’t miss us.”

“Why, so you can torture me all day ?”, she snorted.

“I’m hurt”, said Roman with a hand on his chest.

She rolled her eye. “ oh really. Why is that ?”

“ You haven’t even seen my best work”, he grumbled into her hair before unleashing a whole new attack on her—tickling. She fought against him but she was no match to his strength. It didn’t help that he loved her laugh. Her defenseless cackles nearly drowned out the knock on her door. They both froze as if they were in trouble.

“ Jane… I need your help with lunch!”, Caden called out.

“Okay! 5 minutes !!”, she yelled back. She could hear him walk off as she threw a pillow at Roman’s face. She hopped out of bed before he could grab her and drag her under again.

She dressed quickly, giving her teeth a quick brush and pulling her hair back and away from her face. Roman was slow to get up, taking his sweet time to get his clothes on and freshen up. Before she could even get out the door his hands were on her waist, pulling her against his.

“ Roman. I have to go”, she whined, twisting against him. The smirk on her face only fueled his antics.

“ You’re not leaving until you give me another kiss”, he grumbled into her neck. She swatted at him but gave it up easily when he leaned in.

She slipped away and ran down to the kitchen. Lunch was fish and dinner was fish. They’d spent a month in the tropics after the whole key ordeal. During those days she tried fish in more ways than she could count. Pickled fish, fried fish, baked fish, stewed fish, raw fish (maybe once), curried fish, dehydrated fish, steamed fish, grilled fish and even salt baked fish. She was ready for something else but when you live by sea, you eat what you can. Their last supply stop was lasting well. They prepared well so nobody was starving. They jarred and preserved as many products as they could. There would be no more stops and they were traveling unknown waters now. There wasn’t any land for miles and miles and miles. It was already getting colder and an extra layer was needed from time to time.

Caden washed dishes while Jane helped the chefs with the jarred beans and salted fish. She served over 100 hungry and impatient pirates with the help of Caden. The clean up was quick and swift. Roman was busy doing a routine check on the health of the sails meaning He’d likely skip lunch.

Sword practice was in the evenings. Getting back into that playful banter with Adhar was difficult. They had a long talk about his life before. She could understand his longing for connection and she didn’t shame him for it. It was always easier to have an honest talk after a session when they were winded and tired.

“ Protect your side, it shouldn't be open! GOOD!”, Adhar barked as Jane pressed forward with her sword. He narrowly avoided the top of her sword. She had a habit of getting excited and dropping her guard.

“ Pull back. Both hands on the sword …cocky!”, Adhar teased. Jane smiled as she grabbed her sword firmly and played defense against his swings, stepping back to absorb the weight of his hits. Metal clinked and banged together across the deck for over an hour. Adhar stopped taking it easy on Jane as she improved. Their match ended with his hands up and her sword pointed to his chest.

“ You let me win,” Jane groaned, throwing her sword on the wooden deck with a clatter.

“ No, all you I swear it. You’re getting very good”, Adhar chuckled.

“ I want to go again”, said Jane.

“ Come on Jane, I'm sore. Tomorrow”, Adhar rubbed his arm.

“ Fine…”, Jane sighed and got ice from the ice box for his shoulder.

The quiet dates on the Black pearl carried over into this new ship. Things had changed because they shared a room but it was endearing how he still made requests for her. He still maintained the mysticism and the romance in their quiet evenings. It didn’t fall to the wayside just because they were together.

Tonight they shared dessert together, Wine and Dried fig cake. Her dress was a simple formal maroon dress with the lipstick to match.

“ These would be so much better with cream”.

“ Ah…we’re a long way from the delights of dairy—though I miss it.”

“ I miss ice cream.”

“ What was your favorite flavor?”

“ I liked raspberry but then again…all they ever had was raspberry. Vanilla was too expensive.”

“ Vanilla is the best “

“ Say’s the rich boy”, she teased.

“ I promise you I will convert you to a vanilla ice cream lover one day. And don’t count yourself out. You will be a rich girl very soon.”

She couldn’t imagine being rich. She’d crossed that bridge when she got there.

Jane looked out of the window in their cabin overlooking the water. The moon was big and bright tonight, illuminating the black water crashing onto itself.

“ Have you noticed the sheer amount of splintered wood and broken rogue ships we’ve passed by? It’s starting to feel a little eerie.”

“ I assume it’s because we’re getting closer to the entry point.”

“ The entry point ?”

“ Yes, apparently from what I’ve heard over the years, there is a cross between worlds into whatever holds the treasure.”

“ Well I just hope we survive it.”

Roman’s eyes gazed at her necklace then back at her. He wouldn’t entertain any doubt. “ You have that key. We’re meant to have that treasure.”

“ That doesn’t mean the journey won’t be dangerous.”

“ We know the weight of our choice and I will protect you with my life.”

“ Well I just hope that whatever comes next is something that we can handle.”

“ We’re close. I can feel it. We’ll make it”, he kissed her forehead reassuringly.

Jane turned back to the table and poured herself another glass. She crawled into his lap and took a few sips. Her smoked his clay pipe as he always did. This time whatever he smoked smelled sweet. She wasn’t a smoker and they’d established that already… but she wanted to taste it.

“ What flavor is that?it smells good”, she asks. He pulls the pipe from his mouth and looks down to inspect it.

“ They put dried blackberries in it.”

She didn’t respond and instead leaned in and kissed him. A swipe of her tongue on his and she tasted the black berry. She pulled away looking at his blushed mouth.

“ Blackberry . You definitely weren’t lying I taste it”, she smiled unassumingly. He pulled her mouth back down to his for more. She had every intention of sliding her hands into the waistband of his pants if not for a loud banging on the door.

“ Who is it ?!”, Roman yelled across the room while adjusting his pants. Roman pulled the door open, fully ready to give whoever was outside the business.

A cool breeze wafts through their cabin sending a chill down Jane’s spine. She stood up and walked to the door as Roman stared out into the dark. Nothing. Nobody.

“ Huh…someone playing at our door ? I didn’t realize I hired little boys instead of pirates”, Roman groaned in an annoyed tone and closed the door.

“ I don’t think we were being loud.”

“ Nobody can hear us up here. That’s why I moved you up into my room remember,” Roman smirked at her and closed the space in between them. After a nice bath the two went to bed but not without Roman fulfilling his morning promise and her returning the favor the best way she knew how.

Jane was up bright and early for breakfast since dinner was so light. She walked into the kitchen and got herself ready, pulling her hair up into the chefs hat and doing a quick wash of her hands.

“ What’s on the menu today ?”, she asks.

“ Porridge, biscuits, and canned oranges. Apparently some of the pirates have been feeling a little dull. Earl suggested we stay on top of it with fruit for the next few meals to prevent any scurvy”, Said Caden.

“ Oh no. Okay, let me see what’s it’s in the pantry”, Jane tied on her apron and went to the pantry on the floor of the kitchen, a nice change from last time. She lifted the hatch and walked down the steps. The pantry was cool with an icebox to store some fresh cuts of meat. It was stocked with flour, jarred items, dried meats, dried fruit, beans, oats and a small section for three chickens. They squawked at her intrusion letting their distaste be known.

“ Sorry ladies”, she said sheepishly. She found a considerable amount of jarred oranges and tangerines. She picked up some jars and hulled them up to the kitchen, setting them down on the counter. She collected her porridge mix, flour, eggs, and butter. She got to work on the biscuits first, cutting up the butter into pieces to knead into dough. Caden helped her with the porridge. As she was cooking she kept hearing a ruffling sound in the pantry. She patted her hands on her apron and walked down to see if maybe one of the crew members snuck in. The chickens were settled and sleeping.

“ Disgusting Wench!”

Jane jumped at the sound of a raspy voice in the darkness. “ Who's there ?!”, she panicked, looking around the room for a sign of life. Nothing.

“ Show yourself!”, she shouted. The same quiet stillness prevailed. She held up her lantern to the corner of the room. Nobody.

“ Are you alright ?!”, Caden yelled from up the steps.

“ Y-yes. I just thought I heard someone.”

“ Come on up, the crew is getting rowdy”, said Caden.

She stomped up the stairs in irritation, looking behind her one last time before stepping onto the main floor.

After breakfast was prepared, the food cart was filled. Caden and herself rolled out two carts. She set up in the front of the dining hall and Caden set up in the back. The pirates looked particularly irritated this morning.

Rory got his plate and so did Adhar, Thomas, William, Alexander, Marcus, Timothy, Samuel, Herman and Cortes.

Another group came to her cart for their breakfasts. Adam, a short and stocky crew member with gray eyes and tan skin looked upset. He snapped his head and turned to look at Jacob, a tall and lanky crew member with gray hair and and pale skin.

“ What did you just fucking say to me??!”, Adam snapped.

“ What—I didn’t say anything !”Jacob looked at Adam in utter confusion.

“ I heard you. Don’t say nuf’n else to me!”, Adam warned and turned to face Jane.

Jacob sent a swift and brutal punch to Adam. Jane screamed, jumping back in and stumbling into the wall. The two men started wrestling each other on the ground, faces red with fury. But then it seemed one by one, each of the pirates got into a heated argument. Some of them shouted warnings, other’s yelled profanities and some just started fighting. A few minutes later the entire room starts brawling.

Jane is frozen in the corner, unsure of what to do or where to go. John and Allen come out of the kitchen, faces slack with confusion at the sheer violence bestowed in front of them. Allen helped her up off the floor. Caden darted through the crowd joining Jane and the chef’s heading back to the kitchen.

Roman met them there, frazzled at the sound.

“ What’s going on ?!”

“ I don’t know, they just started fighting”, said Caden.

“ Are you hurt ?”Roman assessed Jane. She shook her head just as confused as he was.

He stalked heavily into the mess hall. Jane trailed behind him, only peeking her head behind the door.

“ QUIET DOWN YOU FILTHY, MANGY, MAGGOTS!!!”, he yelled, pounding his fist on one of the tables.

Jane could see some of the men running with bloody noses, others with black eyes and swollen lips. They continued fighting, only some of them stopping and then starting again.

“ QUIETT! Or you’re walking the PLANK!!!”, he roared, this time louder than the first. Roman’s entire face turned red, his chest heaving in fury. The men paused abruptly. A silence filled the room so heavy you could hear a pin drop.

Jane watched with wide eyes as the men traveled back to their seats.

“ The next person to throw a punch is getting dangled by their feet, are we clear ?!”

“ Aye…Captain.” they said in unison.

Jane stumbled back before Roman could walk through the kitchen door. He stood in the middle of the room, hands on his hips as he looked at the three with a perplexed expression on his face.

“ They’ve never acted like that before”, says Caden.

“ Long voyages can sometimes make people a little irritable”, Says Earl as he walks into the kitchen. He was always the last at breakfast.

“ They’re acting like idiots. Please go assess them for any injuries”, Roman rubbed his nose bridge in pure irritation. Earl got to work and everybody in the kitchen went back to their duties.

“ I can imagine what mess they left for us out there”, says Caden.

“ Jane, do you want to come eat with me? I don’t want you in the middle of all th—.”

Jane walks up to him and stands onto her tippy toes, kissing his cheek in hope it would drain the rest of his anger away. “I’m okay. Caden needs my help. We’ll eat breakfast together when I’m done okay.”

“ if they give you any problems you come to me”, Roman says on his way out.

The mess leftover from the fight wasn’t too bad. Afterward she had breakfast with Roman before returning to their bedroom to read while he did, “captain things” as she called it.

And while she usually was able to relax with a good book before lunch, she kept getting the feeling that she was being watched. A coolness casted over the room. She shouldn’t worry, she could see Roman from here but yet she was so anxious. She chewed the corners of her lip and decided to get ready for her sword session with Adhar. She found her sword in the trunk of her chest and removed a layer of dress so that she could move around better. Yelling pulls her out of her task.

Jane heard a booming voice “ No, I want you to repeat what you said out loud !”

Jane scrambled to the French doors and opened one of them to see Roman screaming at a subordinate. It was Timothy, not to be confused with Thomas. Timothy was slightly shorter with a bit more muscle. The two looked similar but their demeanors were entirely different.

“ What are you talking about ? I’ve been on sails all day. I didn’t say anything.”

“ I fucking heard you! Don’t play coy with me”, Roman snapped.

“ I didn’t say anything. You’re being paranoid !”, Timothy said defensively with his hands up.

“ Wind deck duty for the rest of this bloody fucking voyage. I don’t want to hear anything about it. And you eat last. Don’t you ever talk about my — .”

“ Woah woah woah !! “, Jane ran out to where the pair stood. Their eyes snapped to her.

�� Jane. Stay out of this.”, Roman said sternly.

“ You need to calm down Roman,” she grabbed his arm with a concerned look. She could already see Roman tensing up and become defensive, ready to shut her down.

“ Timothy, why don’t you take a ten minute break?”

Roman scoffed, “What??”

“ Thankyou M’lady”, Timothy nodded in agreement and left to the deck. Roman whipped his head at her.

“ If I remember correctly …I’m the captain.”

“ Well apparently people answer to me too”, Jane gave him a sly smirk. He just rolled his eyes and walked back into his cabin. She followed him, only stopping at the table.

“ What happened ?”

“ I swore I heard him whispering about the two of us to someone. I won’t even repeat what he said. It’s unlady like for you to even hear it”, Roman sighed, rearranging items anxiously on his desk. She found him cute when he was flustered.

“ That dirty ?”, she chuckled slowly making her way to his side .

“ It’s not fun—oh don’t start that”, Roman groaned. Before he could get away she was already sitting on his lap.

“ You’re so uptight. And here I thought that last night would have loosened you up”, she pressed her hand to the side of his face. He didn’t even try to resist the peck on the lips that she offered him. He took it greedily.

“ I don’t know if you know this Captain Roman but sometimes when people are together, other people do talk about them behind their back. It’s good entertainment for them. Unfortunately…we can’t really stop people from gossiping now can we ?”, she chuckled. Roman just rolled his eyes and shook his head.

“ It was strange and nothing you say will change my mind about it”, he grunted.

“ You're very moody today”, she teased, throwing her arms over his broad shoulder and pressing the side of her face against his.

“ Tell me what I can do to make it better ?”

“ Restart this day and choose to stay in bed with me like I offered before”, he scoffed.

Jane just laughed and pressed a soft kiss to the side of his face before tugging his beard gently.

“ I’ll make it up to you tonight, how about that ?”, she whispered quietly to him. His eyes darkened as he selfishly took a deeper and more intimate kiss from her, placing his hand gently across her neck.

“Have I ever told you how much I fancy your hands around my throat”, she whispered.

“ You be careful what you promise me”, he warned.

“ oh please, I’m a big girl. I can’t handle it”, she chuckled.

“ Are you even trying to make it through the day with me? I will cancel your plans,” he cautioned.

“Oh no no, I have sword practice and you know it.”

“Well you’d best make it fast”, he patted the meat of her thigh and she hopped up on her feet.

“ If you want your reward you’ll have to promise to let whatever you hear roll off your back today. I mean it Roman.”

“Fine.”

“Thankyou”, she kissed his forehead like he once did hers just a few short months ago. She headed for the door, grabbing her sword on the way out

“You’re making me a crazy man Jane Ramla”, Roman called after her.

As promised, this time Adhar took it a little further with her. It took her twice as long to get in a few shots but he ultimately won. He was good with a sword for a reason.

Jane was early for dinner prep because she had beans to soak. She went down into the pantry/cellar and picked some dried red beans and put them into a huge pot of water.

As she cleaned, that same coolness settled into the air of the kitchen. Ironically, the kitchen was always a bit muggy because of the little ventilation and the constant cooking of food.

She boiled all of the utensils in preparation for the meals. As she washed the dishes, she felt something cold press against the back of her neck. She jumped sideways, falling on the side of her hip. Her chest heaved in a panic and she touched her neck. Was something leaking between the floorboards? She looked up at the ceiling and it was perfectly dry. Carefully, got back up on her feet looking around the room cautiously, before going back to washing.

10 minutes pass, 20 minutes, 30 minutes pass and she feels like something is breathing down her neck. She stops washing and turns around, staring straight ahead of her

... And then it hit her, that cigar smell with Death & Ale. Before she could even scream, an invisible force smushed something against her mouth.

“ Don’t ……scream”, a heavy, crackly, gurgling voice filled her ears. It was Night, back from the dead and angrier than ever.

“ If you scream I’ll gut you like a fish. Not so much as a sound”, he hissed. She never knew ghosts smelled. Terror filled her eyes as she stared back at the emptiness of the kitchen.

“ You and I…have unfinished business. If you do not do exactly as I say, I will kill you. Don’t think I won’t”, he whispered softly against her ear. She felt the end of something sharp against her side..

Something snapped inside of her as she felt the blade. She immediately kicked her foot in front of her, causing a clatter from wherever he fell. Jane quickly grabbed the flour on the counter to her left and dumped it on the ghost.

“ You bitch!” He sneered.

His form was actualized, whitening and solidifying his features. It was Captain Night or at least it looked like Captain Night.

“ Don't come near me!”, she grabbed a knife from the sink.

“ ROMAN!!!!!!”, she screamed.

Night stood defensively, looking for an opening to attack her, hands sprawled out on each side of him.

Shoes clatter down the stairs and Caden bursts in.

“ Get Roman, Now!”, she yelled. Caden’s eyes widened at the side of Night and stormed out the room calling for Roman’s name.

“ Come here !”, Night yelled and jumped at her. She was light on her feet, dodgin his attack. Adhar taught how to premeditate a lunge and it finally came in handy.

Seconds later Roman came barreling through the door like a bull, pistol in hand. He immediately started shooting as soon as he saw Night. Surprisingly, Night ran up the steps instead of facing Roman head on.

Roman rushed up the steps after Night and Jane followed suit, knife still in her hand. Roman shot at Night, and he screamed in pain but he wouldn’t go down. It got to the point that the poor man was writhing in agony but still standing.

“ Why won’t he fucking die ?”, Roman looked at his crew in a rage full confusion.

“ He’s a Multo”, said Cortez.

“ What ?”

“ He’s a ghost. The disturbed unliving. You can only kill his soul with iron”, Cortez pulled a chair off his neck with a snap and handed it Roman. It was an iron necklace with some sort of emblem. Roman placed the necklace in between his lips on a mission to destroy this entity.

Roman grabbed the necklace and stalked towards Night. Night was now on his bottom, crawling backwards…begging and pleading.

“ No. Nonoplease. Please don’t !!”, Night cried.

Jane watched, disturbed by the tortured expression planted on his face. Roman ignores his pleas, wrestling night into a headlock, prying his jaw open with his fist and spitting the emblem down his throat. He pressed his hand against the night's mouth as he screamed against his fingers.

The features on Night's face, concave and Roman kicked him in the middle of his back. He stumbled forward, crawling towards Jane. “ Help me!!!”, he cried and suddenly his entire body was engulfed in flames. She covered her mouth in shock at the sight before her.

His engulfed form burned into the deck until his ashes disappeared into nothing. Almost as if he was never there in the first place.

Caden broke the silence. “ Well…I’m not sleeping tonight.”

“ Christ that was close. He almost cut me”, Jane sighed running her hands over her face. Roman was on her in an instant, checking her for cuts, bruises and wounds.

“ You’re all dismissed for the day. The crew can serve themselves dinner from whatever John and Allen made.

Jane I need to speak with you. Cortez you too ”, he grabbed her gently and hauled her back to the cabin. Corte. followed swiftly behind.

The three of them sat at the table, Roman pulled Jane onto his lap anxiously. She reassured him that she was fine but he kept checking her despite her reassurance.

“ What do you know about this thing?”, Roman asked Cortez.

“ Multo ? It’s the Filipino translation for Ghost.”

“ How did you know about it ?”

“ In the Philippines almost everyone has a ghost story. They can take many forms. My grandmother had the sight and she used to deal with them all the time. They can possess people. They don’t cross into the afterlife until their mission on earth here is complete. Unless of course you kick them out. Some people use salt but my grandmother used iron.”

“ He was trying to do something in the kitchen. He’s been following me around the ship”, said Jane.

“ He likely picked you to be his host. Who knows what he could have done. If he possessed you then he could have taken over the ship. With Roman none the wiser, he wouldn’t have stopped you.”

“ I like to think I have a backbone”, Roman scoffed. Cortez just smiled knowingly. Was their fondness of each other that loud ?

“ Wow…I can’t even imagine”, Jane shivered in disgust.

“ Thankyou Cortez. I don’t know what we would have done if you hadn’t had that iron. Take it easy for the day. All traveling is paused”, Roman nodded. Cortez dismissed himself.

While Jane was a little shaken up, the two of them spent the rest of the evening together. They ate dinner together as they always had and talked about nothing. There was an anxious backdrop to the conversation because of what transpired earlier. They got past it after a few laughs and exchanged kisses.

Jane took a bath and washed her hair. As she oiled herself after her bath, a dull hum filled her ears. It was a nostalgic melody, almost like she’d heard it when she was too young to speak.

“ The water is safe”, Jane sang quietly as she oiled her scalp.

She pulled her hair up and away from her face and tied it into a scarf. “ The water is free…”, she hummed.

She wiped her hands humming and swaying as Roman sat at the table reading. She turned to him and smiled.

“ Don’t you hear that song ?”, she chuckled at him. He looked at her quizzically.

“ What song ?”

“ The music, can’t you hear it? The water is safe, the water is free”, she sung quietly wiping the oil off her hands.

“ It once lived in you …my mom used to sing that song to me or… maybe it was my grandfather. Somebody who loved me sang it. It’s just so soothing”, she smiled warmly. She began to walk slowly towards the front of the room, stopping in front of his desk.

“ Listen…”, she smiled widely.

The water is safe

The water is free

It once you lived in you

It once lived in me

We all must return to the sea

The water is where we’ll truly be free ….

Suddenly Roman’s eyes widened. They were so wide they were nearly protruding out of his head. He abruptly sprung from his seat. He started tearing their bedroom apart. She stood there confused as to why he was acting so strangely.

“ Cover your ears Jane!”, Roman grabbed a pillow off the bed and draped it over the back of her head. She pulled it off in confusion.

“ what’s gotten into you ?”

Roman darted out the room when he heard somebody screaming. He leaned over the side of the boat and Jane walked behind. He grabbed her as if she was contemplating jumping. That’s when she saw it. Jane looked over at the edge and screamed. Iridescent black and gray scales, beady red eyes, fanged teeth and thin white hair. It was decrepit, skinny, greasy, not human.

“ What the fuck is that ?!”, she panicked.

“ That’s what they look like to women. Their beauty doesn’t work on you all. Men are supposed to see something different.”

She stared at him in horror. “ And what do you see?”

He stuttered. “ I see…I see you, Jane”, he looked at her strangely.

“ What?!”, she frowned.

“ I once heard that they appear as your heart's truest desire. For a man that’s usually a woman ”, he said solemnly.

Her chest fluttered at that but she would have time to swoon over that later. These sirens were vicious.

“ So…why aren’t you jumping off the boat?”

Roman grabbed a rope hanging near the sail and threw one end of it into the water.“ My desire has been granted. At least that’s what I think to be true.”

“ Well…I don’t feel the need to jump either.”

“ HELP ME!!!!”, Alexander roars from below.

“ Grab it!”, Roman threw the rope down to Alexander. Jane tried to help, holding the rope just underneath his fists. Alexander grabs the rope but is ripped away from the sheer force of the Sirens. He’s pulled under in seconds. One of them pulled the rope from Roman’s hands giving him rope burn. These beings were strong and quick, only letting their victims struggle to bait more people out. Jane felt helpless as she tried to look for another rope or something to get the men out.

“ Use these ! Save who you can !”, Earl rounded the corner in a frantic shuffle, handing each of them pebbles of brown wax.

“ Stick it as deep as you can in your ear. I’ll be able to get it out later”, he urged.

Roman and Jane frantically ran around the ship pushing wax into the ears of the few men who had escaped from the lower decks. Their trances were broken the minute the wax blocked the sound. Adhar nearly jumped but was caught by his feet thanks to Roman. Jane got to Caden before he jumped.

There were casualties, at least over two dozen. Earl locked most of the pirates in the mess hall so that they couldn’t escape. Thankfully the mess hall was windowless, otherwise they would have crashed through the glass.

The loss was felt. Jane tried to catch Thomas before he fell over and couldn’t hold his body weight. She broke into tears knowing that it was his biggest fear. He yelled for her and she yelled for him. The young boy was dragged down by his feet, only bubbles left in his trail. She stared at her reflection in the water, perplexed at just how quickly all of this had transpired. Glowing red eyes replace her own. A creature rose from the water and hissed up at her, eyeing the key around her throat. She returned to Roman’s side.

The few men that were left outside guarded the perimeters of the ship the best they could—Roman and Jane included. The singing was getting so loud her ears were ringing. The key around her neck was buzzing. She knew then that these sirens wouldn’t be leaving until they got that key.

“ Everyone secure ?”, she asks Roman.

“ Yes.”

“ Any survivors ?”

Roman had a solemn look on his face “ No…”

And suddenly this overwhelming sense of dread came over her. This boat was surrounded by murderous creatures. They had already picked off over 20 pirates and were thirsty for more. How were they getting out of this ? Would they ride the rest of the way like this ? With wax in their ears and their rifles loaded ? She looked around at the 10 crew members on the wind deck. The fear etched on their faces made her heart sink. Some of them tried to shoot but the bullets did nothing, only embedding into the surface of the siren's skin like splinters.

And then warmth came over her. It started slow at the tips of her feet, calves, knees, thighs, tummy, chest and face. The key on her chest was buzzing and glowing. She reached for it as it lifted itself from her body, floating at her eye level. The singing from the mermaids turned to snarling hisses. Jane stared at the key in wonder, careful to make sure that it didn’t float off her neck. Roman touched it with the tips of his fingers, marveled by its strangeness.

Screaming jerked her attention from the key and out in the distance, she saw a blue light flickering from deep within the ocean. It was so bright, it lit up the water the way the sun would, showing the iridescent long tails of the sirens that seemed to travel on for miles. Something resembling a flame lit up beneath the creatures and they screeched in agony before disappearing into the darkest part of the water, trying to escape the pure force of the light.

Then she saw it. Scales filled with every shade of blue. A body so long she couldn’t see where it ended. Claws, whiskers, teeth. It breached out of the water jumping across the boat. She screamed in terror.

“ What is that !?”, Jane yelled clinging to Roman’s side in fear.

“ Bakunawa”, Cortez calls out in wonder.

“ What?”, said Jane.

“ The sea serpent. He is the god of earthquakes, rain, eclipses and the wind”, Cortez explained. He was smiling like it was a good thing. Jane wasn’t so sure.

When it breached the water, the impact was so forceful that it pushed the boat violently, knocking water onto the wind deck and soaking all their clothes.

The dragon chased after rouge sirens, tossing some of them in the air before swallowing them whole. He played with them like food. Eventually he retreated deeper into the water and then it was quiet and dark again. She could feel the slightest tremble in Roman’s hand behind her. This might not have been over….

“ Are we…food?”, she whispered to him quietly. Where had the moon gone ? Had the dragon swallowed that too? Why was it so dark? She could barely make out his features.

“ Whatever happens…till my dying breath”, he whispered back to her. He didn’t have to finish that statement. No matter what happened he would try his hardest to keep her alive. She smiled solemnly at the outline of his face. Truthfully, if this was their fate then this would be so much bigger than them. There was no gun or sword that could stop any of this. Her brain tried desperately to grasp that. How long had she seen him as her savior? This invincible protector that could bench twice, thrice, four times his size? Why was it crumbling before her eyes now? He was just as open as her—as human as her. Just as fragile as her and everyone else on this ship. If this was the end, there would be nothing anyone could do. And the possibility of what could be death washed over her as she traced the side of his shaking palm.

Let her final moments be the smell of him, his firmness, the feel of his mouth. All these things that had built up the broken woman that appeared before him months ago. Let these last moments be in his arms.

“ Hold me ”, she whispered to him. His arms wrapped around her like a life raft, his chin tucked into the crook of her shoulder. She held the side of the boat bracing herself. Flickers of light flashes in the distance. The water dragon was still there. Toying with them..

The serpent circled the boat. Its eyes were the size of the hull. The side of its face breached to look up at them, an intelligence in its eyes that unnerved her. Almost as if it was about to open its mouth and speak. It stared directly at the two of them. Her legs were shaking beneath her like a leaf. Without a word it sank back into the ocean, circling again.

There were so many moments until now where she believed that the world would be better without her. That she herself would be better without the world. Now, she couldn’t have felt more different. In a moment like this she regrets the years of her life she threw away before the ship.

“ Drowning is a painful death Roman. I don’t know if this is the way I want it to be”, she heaved, looking down as the dragon’s blue scales sparkled and scraped along the boat.

“ You feel it, I feel it ”, he said quietly. She looked around the boat to see that she wasn’t the only one who needed comfort. Earl held onto Caden like he was his own kin. Adhar held onto William. Jonathan and Allen held each other like lovers.

Suddenly the dragon swam in front of the boat once more, it’s head raised in an assessing manner. Then it slowly unhinged its jaw, showing long sharp teeth the size of city buildings. It’s bottom row of teeth slightly jutted out of the water, with the top creating a cave like opening. Water fell from the top of its mouth like a waterfall. She could not see into the abyss of its gaping maw. And as if it beckoned the ship to come to its awaiting mouth, the ship began for the entrance with quick haste.

Oh, they were food…. Without a shadow of a doubt they were food. They wouldn’t survive this. Whether they accepted it or not the story would end here. Jane turned around wrapping her arms tightly around Roman and burying the side of her head in chest. He cradled it preciously in the palm of his hands.

She heard prayers. Prayers from the Quran, Christian proverbs, Catholic proverbs, Hinduism. Men called for their mothers, their wives, their daughters, their fathers. In these moments they were children again, needing only the comfort of another to make it alright.

They are getting closer now. She could hear the sounds of the ocean water splashing against the flesh of the dragon like fresh rain.

There was so much she needed to tell him. So much she kept inside. How could she say that the last few months with him were the happiest moments of her life? How could she tell him that she wanted nothing to do with living until his kindness and generosity was bestowed upon her ? That sitting in the same room with him soothed that gnawing emptiness and darkness that she’d always carried with her? That he restored her idea of what a man is and should be ? That she would do anything to watch him sleep one more time…just to watch the light enter his eyes as he roused from his slumber ? To see the smoke roll past his lips and feel it kiss her skin. To watch him study a map the way a scholar studied a book. To hear him speak in all the tongues he knew from a life he escaped. To see him laugh. To feel his gaze from across the room and not falter when she met it. To know that gaze was for her and her only. To watch him dress in the morning. Witness him in deep thought when nobody was looking. One more time. Just one more time. She needed to see him one more time. Her life didn’t flash before her eyes…his did.

She took her key and held it up to his face. It still had a dim glow, bright enough to make out his eyes, mouth and nose. They were bright and fearful but unflinching as always—they softened when they saw her. She cried out a laugh as if he’d disappeared for a moment. He smiled back at her and suddenly that was all that mattered.

“ You have the most beautiful eyes. You really are gorgeous…I don’t know if I’ve ever told you”, she sniffles back tears, tracing her fingers along the side of his jaw.

“ No, but I appreciate the sentiment especially at a time like this. The both of us will look smashing wherever we’re going at least”, he chuckled. She actually laughed too. At a time like this…joy was present. And it was because of him. Only he could make her laugh in the middle of her fear.

It would happen in his arms, she knew that at least. And as if the words had flooded out of her in the most unstoppable manner she uttered—they both uttered…

“ I love you”, he says

“ I love you”, she says.

Knowing smiles shine back at one another as they admit it in unison. Echoes of splashing water reverberated around them. They were inside of its mouth now. It didn’t matter. Roman takes his finger and lifts her chin, bringing her soft mouth to his.

And they surrender.

—————————-

P.s. no they aren’t dead dude.

I’m so excited for the next chapter! The moment we’ve all been waiting for—treasure! But I’m even MORE excited about what happens after that. Get your ballgowns ready! And don’t forget, Roman owes her an icecream after all ❤️

[bonbonchocolates]

Revenge

Yandere Jungkook x Reader ft. Namjoon

Summary: When he decides to avenge his brother.........

Warnings: yandere jungkook, kidnapping, mentions of s**cide, torturing, non-con, smut (not descriptive), mentions of bullying, death of major characters

A/N: Again originally from my Wattpad account. I hope you like it and if you do please leave a like.

Masterlist

____________________________________________

Y/N POV:

I was walking back home from school with my friends when I heard someone calling my name. I turned around to find my neighbour, Namjoon standing there.

"Can I talk to you?"

I looked at him in confusion. Why does wants to talk to me? Did I do something wrong?

"I-I p-romise I w-wont waste your time."

He shuttered and looked everywhere except at me. Maybe he thought I was thinking something else.

"You can."

As the words left my mouth, a beautiful smile made its way to Namjoon's. This is my first time seeing him smile. He should smile like this more often.

"Y/N I wanted to let you know that I like you very much. The first time I saw you I fell in love with you. You are perfect in every aspect. I wanted to confess my feelings a long time ago but didn't have that courage. Will you be my girlfriend? I understand if you don't feel the same."

As soon as the words left his mouth my heartbeat increased. I have had a small crush on him for months. I didn't think he would like me as I am a lot younger than him.

"Namjoon I-"

Before I could say anything I heard my friends laughing. Whats so funny that made them laugh?

"What a nice joke?"

Lia said and continued laughing. I looked at my friends with confusion written all over my face.

"How can you expect her to be your girlfriend?"

Yubin said mocking Namjoon. I got an idea about what they are trying to do to him. I need to stop them.

"Y/N has everything, looks, money and most importantly brains and look at you, good for nothing. How can you think Y/N will be the girlfriend of someone so ugly and poor? There are many boys who have a crush on Y/N and are better than you. So you better get lost, you already wasted so much of our time."

I silently watched Hyejin insulting Namjoon and I could do nothing. If I take Namjoon's side they will turn against me and bully me in the school and I don't want that. But I need to protect Namjoon from them.

"Guys let's go."

I said so that they leave Namjoon alone and luckily it worked. With a last glance at him I started to walk towards home with my friends following me. I felt bad for Namjoon. He didn't deserve that, I better apologise to him tomorrow when my friends are not lingering around.

____________________________________________

Namjoon's POV:

I cried silently while looking at the disappearing figure of Y/N. This is the first time in love when I fell in love with someone. I regretted my decision to confess my feelings.

I really felt humiliated. If she doesn't like me then she could politely say it. What was the need of all this? I was hurt at her friends insults. They were right how can I girl like Y/N like me?

But the thing that hurt me the most was Y/N watching her friends humiliating me while doing nothing. I thought she was different from others but guess what she is the same.

____________________________________________

Author's POV:

You went to Namjoon's house the next day and didn't find him there so you returned back home. You were getting impatient to apologise to him. You everyday visited his house but he was never at home.

A month passed this way and like everyday you visited Namjoon's home today. You found the door locked from outside. Where is Namjoon? Just then you saw the old lady who was the owner of the house Namjoon stayed in coming downstairs.

"Ajumma"

You called her grabbing attention. She looked towards you with a smile on her face.

"Yes my daughter."

"Can I ask you where Namjoon is?"

As soon as she heard his name her smile disappeared. There was a sad expression on her face. You wonder why?

"Poor child committed suicide almost three three weeks ago. He-"

The ground beneath you slipped from your feet as soon as you heard her words. Namjoon committed suicide but why?

"You are lying right? NAMJOON IS NOT DEAD."

You yelled at her, not caring about anything. She is lying, Namjoon is not dead, he can't be. As much as you know him he'll never do something like that.

"Calm down, calm down my daughter."

(A/N: Grandma Hobi 😂)

____________________________________________

4 Years Later:

You were walking to the nearby convenience store as you ran out of food supplies. It was late night so you decided it would be better if you just grab a packet of ramen for dinner.

These four years have been really tough for you. Moving over Namjoon was hard. You felt like it was all because of you, Namjoon died. After losing him you realised that you didn't have a crush on him but you loved him. You left your friends when you heard that they bullied him at your absence. You even left your family because-

Just then you felt footsteps behind you. You turned back and found no one there. You continued walking when you felt someone pressing a cloth over your face. You stared to feel dizzy and soon unconsciousness greeted you.

____________________________________________

When you woke up you found yourself in a dark room. Your hands were tied to the headboard of the bed, you laid in. You tried to free yourself but it was of no luck. Soon you heard the sound of the door opening.

A handsome and well built man entered in. He was glaring at you like he'll kill you anytime. His entire presence screamed danger. You were literally shivering just from his mere presence. You had no idea what he is about to do to you.

"You're awake, good. Now the fun will begin."

What fun is he talking about? What is he going to do to you? You saw him going towards the cupboard. He soon grabbed something and came towards you. The thing which he had looked like a whip. You were completely terrified after seeing that.

"What are you doing?"

"Nothing much just getting my Hyung's revenge."

Revenge- what?

"Plea-"

Before you could say anything he whipped you. You cried out in pain. You didn't get the time to even breath properly when he whipped you again. You wanted to run from there but couldn't because both your hands and legs were tied.

This way he whipped you many times. You are now a crying mess. You sreamed at him to let you go but he didn't listen and enjoyed seeing you in pain.

"I want to kill you right now but first I should put your hot body to a better use."

After two hours of continuous rape, you were tired. He was too rough on you, he showed no mercy. You whole body was covered with bruises and cuts. You lower region was bleeding. You had no idea what you did for him to treat you this way.

"It's time for you to say goodbye to the world."

He said with a sickening smile. He put a wire around your neck and started chocking you. You started struggling against his hold. Soon he found you stopped breathing. He smiled in victory. He was finally happy to take his Hyung's revenge. Now his Hyung's soul can rest in peace.

____________________________________________

Jungkook's POV:

After killing Y/N, I got rid of her dead body. I made sure that no one will have any idea about her disappearance. This was even more easy as I know Y/N lives alone and has no friends. So the chances of people looking for her is negligible.

I bought a bouquet of white rose which was Hyung's favourite. I smiled at the memory of him, now he can finally rest in peace as I got rid of the girl because of whom he died. I decided to pay his grave a visit.

As soon as I arrived at the graveyard, I went towards Hyung's grave and placed the bouquet of flowers and sat down right there.

"How are you Hyung? I hope you are good there. I finally got your revenge. I am sure you will be proud of your little brother."

After that I headed to Y/N's home. I have no idea why I want to go there. As soon I arrived there, I felt a ting of pain in my heart. I don't know why I regret killing her. I feel like I have done something wrong.

The house was totally empty like I expected. There was a sense of loneliness in the house. I explored the house in search of something valuable. I know she is from a rich family. My financial situation is not good these days so if I find something here I can sell and earn some money.

Although this was not my intention to come here, but if I came here I should put this opportunity to a good use. Even if I don't find anything valuable I can stay here. So that I will not have to live in that old warehouse anymore.

I went to her bedroom and went towards the cupboard. I'm sure I may find something valuable there. I opened the cupboard and found a locker inside. It had a password system to unlock it. How am I supposed to open it?

I touched the locker and it opened itself. That means it was unlocked. How can this girl be so stupid? I opened it in hope to find something expensive but all my hope went to vain when I saw nothing except a small diary kept there. I took it out and opened it.

June 21

A new neighbour moved in the house right opposite to ours yesterday. I never write about new neighbours in my diary but guess what he is special. He is so handsome. I think I have a crush on him.

June 30

Kim Namjoon, yes that's the name of the hot neighbour. I now really want to be Mrs. Kim Y/N. Oh God what am I even writing? If my parents or brother sees this they are surely gonna kill me.

July 13

Namjoon Oppa looked at me. I'm so happy this is the first time he looked at me. I can't express my happiness in words.

September 1

I really want to confess my feelings to Namjoon but I'm not confident enough. I'm sure he'll not feel the same.

October 13

Today Namjoon Oppa confessed to me and asked me to become his girlfriend. I was on cloud nine when he said that. I never expected him to feel the same for me. I wanted to say yes. But guess what I was not able to say anything. My friends insulted him and I just stood there and watched it. I'm such a bad person. I'll try to apologise him on my friends behalf tomorrow.

October 19

For so many days I'm am trying to apologise to Namjoon Oppa but he is never at home. It's been almost a week since I didn't see him. I just hope he is okay.

December 4

I went in search of Namjoon Oppa but got to know that he committed suicide. I can't believe that he is no longer with us. So badly I want it to be a nightmare but sadly it's not. I have no idea why he took such a big step. Is it because of me? If it's because of me I'll never be able to forgive myself.

December 30

Today I got to know that my so called friends bullied Namjoon behind my back and I had no idea. So I broke our friendship. I also got to know that Namjoon didn't committe suicide but he was murdered. Yes, he was murdered and the killer is none other than my own elder brother. I trusted him with my life and he killed the person I loved. I hate my brother and I want Namjoon to get his revenge. But I can't do anything because I don't have any proof against him and even if I had he would easily get out of prison. Even my parents supported him. How helpless I am?

I broke down after reading the diary. The diary fell from my hand. What did I do? I killed my love.

_________________________________________

Flashback:

There is a girl whom I have a crush on. Her name is Y/N but I'm afraid to confess to her because I fear she will reject me. So I watched her from afar.

I transferred to a high school in another city and lost connections with her. I then got to know that Namjoon Hyung likes a girl and it was none other than Y/N. After hearing that I was a bit sad because she was my crush first but was happy for my Hyung.

Then I got to know about Namjoon Hyung's death and got the letter where he wrote about Y/N and her friends humiliating him when he confessed to her. So I assumed that she was the reason why my Hyung committed suicide and decided to take revenge from her.

End of Flashback

_________________________________________

It took years to find her out. I was so happy to find her so that I can finally take Hyung's revenge. I didn't want to kill her because I still loved her but was blinded by revenge.

I wanted to take Hyung's revenge so badly that I killed Y/N. When she was innocent. It was actually her brother who killed my Hyung not her.

I don't deserve to live after killing an innocent person. I wiped my tears and went towards the window which was wide open. Without wasting time I jumped from there.

The last thing I saw was people gathering around me before I closed my eyes forever.

____________________________________________

[emmanuellececchi]

For your drabble challenge, how about Gimli as the character (😉) and “mother” for the word? Only if that interests you!

So here is my first drabble. I had a GREAT time writing it. Thanks for the prompt.

Warning! This is a drabble. No one did a verification of my language or my english. So : many errors/mistakes and grammar wrongness can be found. So: all advices and corrections welcome, as I intend to post it on AO3.

You've been warned.

A gift in the night

It was in the middle of the night. A cool breeze was ruffling the leaves in the garden. Ithilien was a beautiful place, he couldn’t deny it. Legolas and his people had found a good place to live. And he, Gimli, wasn’t unhappy with his lot either. The Glittering Caves were a wonder in themselves among the wonder of Rohan.

Gimli was walking, lost in his rumination, in the corridor of the guest house that had been build for their arrival. For here they had come, from many places, to celebrate a birth, to bring gifts to the new born child of the Princess and Prince, Lady Eowyn and Lord Faramir.

Strangely, he wasn’t satisfied with his gift. True, the toy had been flawless, made for a child of royal blood by his best artisans. Then why was he feeling… restless? Something was amiss in this gift. But Gimli couldn’t find out what and it sent him walking into the night.

Seeing the lass, well Lady Eowyn, so tired had strummed the string of his dwarven heart. But he couldn’t understand why. She was happy but her eyes had held sadness.

He walked until he arrived to the opening leading to the garden. The smell of flowers and herbs were still strong but a chill could be felt in the air. Fall was coming. Even if Ithilien’s weather was mild.

Somewhat, the smell in the fresh air reminded him of his mother. And it struck him. They had this same look. Was it a look all mothers had?

Gimli stroked his beard, deep in thoughts. And then something got his attention. Steps. Someone light was walking very slowly. Gimli hid behind a column, so that the light of the moon wouldn’t show his shadow.

Of course it was an old, and odd, reflex here in Ithilien. The risk of someone coming to do some evil was… almost inexistent. But almost wasn’t enough. Not with a new born babe and young parents around. Gimli would not let anything happened to them.

But soon, his worries evaporated as he recognized the long blond hair, the tired voice singing.

“Lady Eowyn?”

“Gimli!”

For a moment, the young woman seemed startled, as if she had been walking without noticing. Gimli understood why as he heard a sniffling, and small cries coming from her arms. Still, Eowyn looked at him with a crooked smile.

“Honorific title from you, Master dwarf?”

He gave her a small smile and an apologetic shrug. She was a princess now. Eowyn smiled, a bit sadly and Gimli felt bad about it. Then, he gestured towards the baby.

“Is the wee lad giving you trouble?”

Eowyn sighed but the smile came back, wavering.

“I’m sure all mothers have passed through this.”

“It does not make it any less difficult.”

Something passed on her face. Surprise, or maybe relief? Gimli remembered again his own mother.

“I heard my mum said once, how each child is different and how it is no less difficult, from the first to the last.”

For a moment Eowyn was silent, trying to calm the fussing baby.

“You have siblings?”

“I do not. But dwarves help each other when it comes to family. And as there are very few women dwarves, it’s all the most important that we help each other out.”

She nodded, half listening. Gimli frowned. He began slowly walking at her side.

“Lady…” he caught himself. “Lass, why are you outside? It’s beginning to be cold.”

She looks at him, her eyes shining in the light of the moon, or was it a tear?

“The baby. He was crying and I couldn’t calm him down. Faramir tried to help, hoping I could rest, but that didn’t do much.” She kept cradling the child but Gimli could see the distress in her eyes.

“Now I am trying to let Faramir rest, he hasn’t slept for a while. I was hoping the fresh air would do some good…” the last words were strangled.

Lack of sleep thought Gimli, she must be exhausted. Gently, he kept walking at her side, but slowly steering her back to the corridor. Back where it was warmer. Eowyn was too tired to notice anyway.

As it was, his own room wasn’t that far. And so, he kept silent, walking in long stride at her side. Eowyn seemed half-awake, holding still the mewling child in her arms. Finally, Gimli touched her arm.

“Lass, this is my room, come on in.”

Eowyn nodded, not really registering his words and just followed. It was only when he helped her sat in a very comfortable, but too large for him, chair, that she realized where she was.

“Gimli! I cannot bother you anymore! I….”

She went to stand but he stopped her by putting his hand gently on her shoulder. He shushed softly.

“It’s warmer here. And I am far from any other rooms… Let the wee lad scream all he wants, he won’t bother anyone.” The words were meant to make her smile but there were only tears welling in her eyes now.

“I wish I knew how to calm him…”

There was defeat in her voice, a sense of failure. Gimli was reminded once again of his own mother, when she was particularly upset by something he had said or done.

He patted her arm.

“There, there. Those small ones, their tummy is difficult the first few days. Nuthing to wurry about as my mum would say.”

Eowyn’s eyes widened and he laughed softly, blushing. That he could remember so much was surprising him as well. Then he noticed the young woman shivering. This brought him another memory.

Gimli walked towards the back of his room and opened his travel trunk. For a moment, he caressed something in it, luxuriating in the warm smoothness of it all. Her smell was still there.

Eowyn was startled a bit as she found herself surrounded in a wool shawl, intricately knitted with complicated pattern. A golden clasp with dwarven runes helped keeping it closed. Even made for a dwarf, it was more than enough to cover her shoulders and arms. Soon her shivers died and she began relaxing in its warmth.

“Thank you, it is beautiful.”

“Aye. It was my mum’s. Always wearing it when she was taking care of the wee ones.”

He was a bit wistful but he felt good, seeing Eowyn’s smile. The baby was still sniffing and crying. Without hesitation, Gimli held out his sturdy hands.

“Gimme that little goblin, lass, I’ll held him while you rest.”

“Gimli, I cannot ask that of you!”

“You don’t. I offer. And keep the shawl as a favor to me, aye?”

“I can’t…”

“Now now. There is no chance for me to ever marry. So, to whom would it go?”

“You cannot know that…”

Gimli shook his head, a bit sadly, as his hand went to the small pocket with three golden threads hidden in it.

“No. My one…” he sighed and smiled to the young woman. “I had the chance of meeting her but now she is where I cannot follow.” He gestured to the shawl. “It is a good shawl, it fits you. From a fierce mother to another, as it should, lass.”

Eowyn’s eyes were teary again and Gimli felt foolish. But the smile she gave him was warmer than the light of the sun and he knew he had done good. Then he took the small bundle from Eowyn’s arms, if a bit gingerly.

At first, the young woman tensed as the babe was agitated even as Gimli was taking him close to his chest. But soon, the deep voice of the dwarf could be heard. Soft and strange words, sung with kindness and love, filled the room. As Gimli sung this lullaby he had almost forgotten, he looked at Eowyn, whose eyes were closing as well.

While he was singing and pacing, Gimli remembered his mum’s words. He began slowly rubbing in circle the little tummy. Soon, even the child began yawning and fell asleep in the dwarf’s steady embrace.

This was how, in the middle of the night, Gimli, son of Gloin, Lord of the Glittering Caves, found himself with a babe in his arms and a princess in his room. And how he felt that, finally, he had found the perfect gift for a loving mother.

[sleepyqweeb189]

Trigger warning: Drugging, blood, drowning, body horror(both in writing and picture).

Alexa body acke so much her right . Saint Vanilla magic was really powerful, but whatever magic he was using... it's not the same as Pure Vanilla she knew from the game...

Alexa has been walking for a while, not knowing where to go. Her feet hurt, she's hungry, only eating one bite of poptart she had, she didn't have much to sense of direction and only kept going. She wanted to cry. Tears fell down her face as she cried. Alexa got tired of walking and decided to take a small nap... she hopes that this is all just a dream...

The next morning...

Alexa felt the sun on her face. She weakly got up and noticed that she was still in the forest. Alexa sighed and got back to wandering somewhere... After a while, Alexa stumbled across a pink fabric near a river. She wonders where the fabric came from, but it might help with her burn on get right wrist. Alexa tied the ribbon around her wrist in hopes it would help. Alexa got back on her journey, and she didn't notice her clothes slowly changed on its own. By the time Alexa got to a boat, she slowly got in before noticing that her clothes changed into a dress or what locals wear in the hollyberry kingdom. Then, she remembered that she might be near the Hollybarry kingdom! Maybe Hollybarry will help! Alexa remembered how to paddle a boat and strear it, but she was scared of falling in as she doesnt know how to swim. Alexa slowly paddles her way to the Kingdom and feels so happy. But when she got close and was busy trying to get out without messing or ripping the dress, she felt herself being grabbed and thrown onto the deck. She didn't have time to process what was happening before she was picked up by the shoulder and forced to stand up.

"STATE NAME AND YOUR BUSINESS IN THE HOLLYBERRY KINGDOM?!" The guard holding her yelled and demanded.

"U-um im... Blue Cherry...? A-and I'm just visiting a f-friend..?" Alexa was scared and tried to lie about her name.

The guards put her down and allowed her in. Alexa eyes widen in shock from how beautiful the kingdom looks from the game. She looked around and talked to some nice ladies and men. Alexa can feel her bisexuality showing a bit whenever she sees a beautiful lady and man. Alexa explores a bit more, but she is hungry... she was surviving on a poptart with a small bite each day. Alexa saw a really good treat through a window and couldn't help but stare at it. Alexa kept staring at the window and didn't notice someone coming behind her.

"I can buy for you if you want. Hollybarry wouldn't want to see anyone to starve." A male voice spoke.

Alexa turned around and saw Wildberry! Alexa wanted to decline, but she nodded. She was too hungry. Wildberry and Alexa ate together, well, mostly Alexa. Alexa had 3 slices of cake, more than Alexa ate in her life when it comes to cake. Alexa didn't notice Wildberry holding his gomlet like he was ready to use it. Alexa ate with glee and finished her plate.

"Thank you so much, sir. I should be going soon." Alexa got up and continued walking.

Alexa was able to find an inn for a day free. Alexa was super happy when she lay down in bed and fell asleep almost instantly. Alexa woke up in the middle of the night to loud banging. Alexa was scared and ran to open the door, thinking it was an emergency. But Alexa was pushed back and picked up by the neck.

"H-help! Someone help!" Alexa screamed in fear as she begged for help.

"Quiet. Her majesty will be here soon..." Wildberry said.

Alexa has kept struggling and was able to see Wildberry. His look changed... to her, Wildberry looks like a bad guy. I saw what looks like Hollybarry, but... different. She looked scary, and Alexa wondered if that's a real dragon skull. Hollybarry walks towards alexa and Wildberry.

"Ah~ you're the girl Saint Vanilla was talking about. You do look rather odd for a cookie. I suggest you calm with us calmly..." Dragonberry suggested calmy.

Alexa didn't want to listen. Why should she listen? Her room was barged in. Wildberry is close to choking her. But... what choice does she have? She is not very athletic or strong... she is just average. Alexa nodded at Dragonberry command.

"Oh good! What a good child you are! But just to make sure... Guard, inject her." Dragonberry command.

Alexa saw the needle and started to freak out. Alexa started beg and beg to be good, beg to not run. But they guard holding the needle didn't listen. Alexa doesn't like needles but hates needles that have a substance that she doesn't know about...

Wildberry holds Alexa still while the other guard injects the needle in her thoat. Alexa screamed and cried in pain. Alexa tried to calm down cause she knew her freaking out wouldn't help. The needle existed her neck. Alexa slowly felt her body grow tired. The last thing she saw was Dragonberry smiling.

Alexa groaned. Alexa slowly picked herself up but immediately stumbled and fell back down. Alexa probably thinks that she just disoriented.

"Welcome dearie, nice to see you awake! Her majesty asked me for some blood samples! Now i may ask for you to come with me?" A nice cookie lady asked.

Alexa did her best to stand up and follow the nice cookie lady. Alexa had to sit down as the lady cookie took some of her blood. The lady cookie looked surprised that Alexa's blood wasn't Jam. The cookie lady walked Alexa back into her cell. Alexa was scared. She wants to go home... why can't this just be a dream-

"Being all sssssad won't help." A rough voice spoke.

Alexa looked over and saw Pitaya cookie. Alexa was surprised to see him there. Alexa looked over and tried to talk to him, but he didn't say anything else. Alexa gave up after a bit. A couple of days went by. Alexa would be taken to a room, her blood would be taken, then back into her cell. Alexa was given twice as much food as Pitaya cookie. Alexa probably thought that since Wildberry did report how much she ate. Alexa saves her food and makes sure to hide it. Late at night, Alexa does give her leftovers to Pitaya. He doesn't take it, but he takes it when Alexa is sleeping. Alexa was slowly planning an escape. She has to get to her own home. Alexa would do this late at nignt whem they took Pitaya for questioning. Alexa sucked in her gut and squeezed out of the bars. Once Alexa got out, Alexa took a second to stop feeling dizzy. Getting her head out the bars were the hardest and hurt the most. Once alexa felt better, she got up and started to look her way out. Alexa looked through some empty room to find anything useful. All that Alexa could find was some band-aid and a scalpel. Alexa was able to find the main room to see Pitaya and Dragonberry talking, well mostly Dragonberry talking and Pitaya ignoring her. Alexa stayed in the shadows. Alexa stays quiet and slowly walks towards Dragonberry. Alexa took a second before sprinting toward Dragonberry and attempted to take her Soul Jam. If Alexa noticed anything from the Beast Yeast play through of Cookie run, then she knew that the Soul Jam might stop or delay the destruction. But... Alexa only heard Dragonberry laugh. Dragonberry grabbed Alexa from her back and threw her hard against some table where they had some harsh and some unknown chemicals. Alexa screamed and cried loudly in pain. Alexa head hit harshly against the wall. It will make others wonder why Alexa hasn't fainted instantly. The broken glass that holds some of the chemicals has stabbed through one of her hands, parts of her back, some in her feet, and the biggest ones were in her both her arm. Alexa felt the effects of being thrown to the wall. Alexa attempted to get up, but it was hard.

(WARNING: BLOOD, BIT OF BODY HORROR)

Alexa can feel her head bleeding and felt her tears start streaming down. Alexa could taste some of the unknown chemicals that entered her mouth but only a little bit.

"Geez... you ruined our stuff. You know that took a very long time, you little brat." Dragonberry spoke with such venom.

Alexa kept trying to get up, but she was in too much pain. Alexa can see Dragonberry get closer. Suddenly, Dragonberry was pushed to the wall. Dragonberry looks over to see steam coming out of Pitaya mouth. Alexa noticed Pitaya nodding at Alexa. Alexa didn't waste time when Dragonberry was distracted. The guards only focused on Dragonberry and Pitaya. When Dragonberry quickly got up and turned to face Alexa, she found her gone. Dragonberry looked up and saw the door opened.

"Oh... she wants to play Cat and Mouse..? That adorable... After her..." Dragonberry command.

A lot of guards ran out of the room and chacing after Alexa. Alexa hid in a small spot. She hears them run past her. Alexa sighed and waited a bit after they left. Alexa got up after the cost was clear. Alexa whines in pain as her feet are still in pain, if not more. The glass dug itself deeper into her feet. Alexa was able to get outside in the back. Not noticing someone watching her... following her bloodly steps... Alexa was able to get to a boat and climb in, but before she even grabbed the paddle, she was suddenly lifted up by the back of her outfit.

"Well, well, looks like this Cat and Mouse Chase has to come to an end-" Dragonberry didn't finish her sentence when she felt sudden pain in her head.

Alexa started pulling on Dragonberry hair.

Alexa wasn't athletic, but she did have a good grip. Dragonberry groaned in pain when she felt Alexa's tight grip on her hair. After a bit of Dragonberry trying to pull Alexa off, Alexa suddenly let go and kicked Dragonberry under the chin, hoping she would be let go. Dragonberry only laughed at Alexa. Dragonberry didn't need Alexa anymore since she had enough blood from Alexa. Alexa was thrown far and deep into the water.

Alexa tried to swim to the surface but couldn't. Alexa didn't want to die. She tried to gasp for air but the water... tasted like soda. Alexa unknowingly started to try and drink the water, not noticing she was drowning herself. The chemicals. Alexa didn't feel herself slowly sinking into the water. Until something grabbed her and made her sink deeper...

"Coooo..."

Creator of this au: @cuppajj

[klausinamarink]

Hi Klaus! Ah, the birthday special is such a fun idea! If it's still available, I'll request:

You should have raised a baby girl, I should have been a better son

for Platonic Stobin

Happy early birthday! <3 Hope it's a wonderful year ahead -Jules

“Ok, I got another. If you were born a boy, would your parents still name you Robin?”

Robin snorted as she threw another almond in her mouth, “Oh, you should have seen their lists of names before I was born.” She shifted her seat on the couch and started counting off her fingers, “For their nonexistent son, there was Sebastian, Rocky, Thorn, Jay, Harry, Claude, Ethan, Todd, Luka-”

Steve already felt overwhelmed by the list. He almost interrupted but Robin was still going. 

“-Aloysius, Odysseus, and a couple more really obscure names. But the other ones they almost named me were Athena, Roberta, Viola or Violet, Crystal-”

Steve kicked at Robin’s shin, laughing, “You’re answering the wrong question!”

Robin kicked back before she too fell into laughter. Once she recovered, she wiped at her eyes and said, “Well, Robin wasn’t on the little boy’s list, so I guess that’s a no.”

“Oh god,” Steve moaned as he covered his face with his hands, “now that I know all of those other names, I’m afraid I can’t call you Robin anymore.”

An almond pecked him on the forehead. “Sure. Like you didn’t just already forgot all of them, dingus. Not that I’ll blame you.”

Steve peeked through his fingers, then took his hands off as he stretched up discreetly. “Yeah, you’re right. By the way, Viola, why didn’t you tell me your name was spelled Violet?”

Instead of taking his bait, Robin scowled at Steve and chomped on a few more almonds. Then she swiftly stole the pillow under his head so it bumped rather hard against the couch’s arm he was laying on. It didn’t hurt but he winced anyway.

“Robin!”

“I’m running out of ideas so I’m stealing your last question and making it my own. If you were a girl instead, what would your parents name you?

Steve answered immediately, “Stephanie.”

Robin blinked at him with surprise, “Wait, really?”

“I guess creativity is a Harrington weakness so,” he shrugged, “Steve for a boy or Stephanie for a girl.”

“Don’t tell me they did the same with your middle name.”

“Yep. Otis after my grandpa, Dorothy after my grandma.” He paused before adding, “They’re my dad’s parents. Not that my mom’s are bad, but I haven't seen them since I was, like, three.”

“Huh,” Robin said. Then they both fell into silence.

It didn’t take long for Steve’s thoughts to steer their way back to an old subject he hadn’t touched in ages.

The night after the fateful fight with Jonathan and the monster in his house, his parents had came home and his mother gasped at the state of his face. Steve had latched on the careful warmth she exhibited while she tended him in the bathroom. 

Steve had almost cried then. He had missed when his mother had dropped everything to take care of him whenever he was hurt. That was how she expressed the words ‘I love you’ to him without even saying it.

But his eyes had immediately went dry when his mother had looked at him and sighed like Steve was a stain on the kitchen napkins. 

Then she’d said, “If you were a proper lady instead, neither of us would be here.”

He had gone to bed, hollow and confused. Replayed her words over and over, thinking what did she mean?

And then it was like some floodgate was open. 

It didn’t matter if it was over the sparse phone calls or face to face, Shirley Harrington had found a new mission in making mournful quips towards her son of how much she had desired a daughter and how much better the never-born Stephanie would be.  

“More low grade this semester? A girl studies much harder than a classroom of boys anyway.”

“No more girlfriends? Oh, but a daughter of mine would keep a boyfriend for far longer than you had with that Nancy girl.”

“Why are you being more difficult these days, Steve? If you were a woman, you would know exactly how to keep quiet.”

And then came that fateful day when Steve had admitted to his dad that none of the prestigious colleges had accepted him. 

After his father’s fury continued to ring in Steve’s ears long after his departure, his mother had shook her head in tired disappointment and hovered to her reading room.

Steve had called out to her, trying to reach out and grab on the edges of her old warmth he desperately needed. He wanted to beg her for something. Anything simple like a hug.

But he’d asked her, “What if I was your daughter who got herself pregnant before graduation?”

It was such a ridiculous question. But Steve had been getting sick of his mother’s ‘what-if’ comments and wanted to retaliate anyways.

His mother had paused but answered so quickly as if she was waiting for the opportunity.

“Then I would marry her off to a bachelor and wish for a son instead.”

“But I am your son.”

“Your father wanted a son anyways.”

She had left him in the kitchen as if her words were a snide compliment at an art gallery. Like she hadn’t just dove her hands inside Steve’s hollow chest, found the remains of his heart, splattered the walls bloody-red with it so he would be surrounded by the proof of his mother’s love, and wiped her hands clean.

That was three months ago. But fuck, it felt like it had happened three hours ago. 

A poke on his knee brought Steve out of the churning void he was about to fall back into. Robin was looking at him with a furrowed expression that yelled ‘I am very worried about you right now, should we talk?’

“I’m okay,” Steve said automatically. He pinched the bridge of his nose and sat up.

“No, you’re not.” Robin said, mirroring him so they were now sitting side by side. She bumped her arm against his.

“No, I’m not.” Steve echoed wearily.

Robin dropped her head on his shoulder. A comforting weight. She didn’t ask anything which Steve found grateful. But he couldn’t bear to hide the new aching in his chest from her. It would make him a hypocrite after the Russian torture.

“I guess it’s kind of funny that my mom wanted a daughter but she still would be disappointed in me.”

Robin made a small sad noise in her throat but said nothing. Instead, she grabbed his hand and squeezed it.

“As much as I would fear the tyranny of Stephanie Harrington, I wouldn’t regret being her platonic soulmate.”

“With a capital P.” Steve finished automatically, a tiny smile forming on his face. 

“With a capital P.” Robin echoed with a warm smile.

They sat together like this for several minutes. Then, Steve turned to her and asked, “So would that mean you would get a crush on me for having boobies?”

The bowl of almonds immediately exploded in his face. Steve fell back to the couch, clutching his stomach as he howled with laughter and Robin yelled, “Way to ruin an emotional moment, Steve Dingus Harrington!”

[rorywritesjunk]

Buggy the Ultimate Dad

Here's more on my headcanons about Buggy being a dad. I had fun writing this a few weeks ago. I have no definitive idea where any of these kids fit into canon at this point. In some way you could look at it that Buggy and his lady started having kids real young so that would put Lil Buggy about 16ish during Orangetown, but like, that takes the fun out of the one shot I have for her that I'm going to post next.

Enjoy!

Lil Buggy is a literal copy of her dad. Hair, nose, facial expressions, and even attitude made you wonder how you birthed his clone. Once Lil learned to talk she would mimic whatever Buggy said when he ordered the crew around. Yes, even swearing, though it was cuter when an 18 month old swore than when Buggy did.

Mae was just as feisty as her sister but didn’t start talking until she was almost three. You, Lil, and Buggy had to rely on her facial expressions and made up sign language to know what she wanted. There were days as she got older when she wouldn’t talk and would fall back on using the sign language you all created, and at that point the whole family knew it.

Cherry was more like Lil than Apple. She enjoyed being at her father’s side whenever he was working with the crew, and he had no problem having her on his shoulders while ordering the crew to fire cannons at any unsuspecting ships. (Mae and Lil were always by his side and you worried for their hearing so you insisted on at least the three girls wearing ear plugs when this happened, Buggy didn’t care too much for himself)

Apple was the opposite of her three sisters. She would rather have a book in her hands than a sword, and before she could read she would bring a book to you or Buggy when she wanted to be read to. Every time she went to Buggy he was in the middle of something, but he couldn’t say no to her asking so he would stop whatever it was to sit somewhere and read to her. 

Heck, Buggy couldn’t really say no to any of the girls. Three of them were his little Mini-Mes, and when they looked up at him with big, pleading eyes he would cave. (Mae actually felt left out not looking like her sisters and often put a red dot on her nose so she could fit in. (Buggy may have cried to you about that))

Rain’s favorite thing to do was organize things. Toys lined up in a row, books organized by their height on the shelf, and she even got into Buggy’s makeup and organized it all by colors. He was absolutely horrified when he found out because he had his own system to how it was all organized! You managed to keep Buggy from having a meltdown and he decided to look into some kind of playset for her that would let her organize and reorganize things to her little heart’s content. 

Bow always initiated the tea parties. All the girls liked having them with their dad (you were included at times as well! You weren’t left out of these events), but Bow loved having them. She wanted everyone to dress up and drink the pretend tea while she served them, pretending to be a little host while walking around their makeshift tables and chairs, offering more tea or cookies.

After six daughters, Buggy proposed to you, and while you wanted something small and intimate, this was Buggy the Clown. It was flashy, loud, with fireworks going off and all kinds of excitement. He cried, you cried, and the girls had fun. 

Pumpkin likes to be involved in everyone’s business. Even if she’s not asked she somehow worms her way into whatever her parents or sister’s are doing. She becomes good at reading people because there are times they don’t want her involved so she picks up on when she needs to leave them alone, but sometimes when her sisters or parents are upset and they insist they are fine, she won’t leave them alone because she wants to make sure they’re okay.

Crash is the human embodiment of a chaotic child. Buggy thought his oldest was bad, Crash was born during a damn storm on the ship. She had no fear of anything and countless times had to be stopped from eating gunpowder, Buggy’s makeup, your jewelry, and her sisters’ things. Her favorite thing to do was pull on Richie’s tail. She grows up to be rather fearless, has no problem telling someone they’re stupid or wrong, and will stand up for what she believes in. 

Nine months after Crash’s first raid, she is probably the most excited about having a baby brother join the crew. Despite being the Chaos Child (the nickname her sisters gave her), Crash is incredibly gentle with Baby Bear. He grows up under her watchful eye, which her parents are a little grateful for because after those eight daughters, they are tired. (Though they are very much the parents and never expect or ask Crash to do anything, for him, she just does it because she loves her baby bro)

Bear looks just like you. No traces of his father are seen until gets into an argument with his dad at the age of five over naptime, then you both saw Buggy’s angry face crossover his cute little face and well, he was Buggy’s son. 

Bear learns to Respect Women. He drinks the juice from the moment he was born until he’s 14 and on his first raid with his dad and sisters (you really didn’t do the piracy thing anymore, you just helped with the daily tasks on the ship at that point). Some asshole made a comment about his sisters, all eight of them, and he had no problem headbutting the jerk in the face and kicking him in the crotch. 

You were absolutely done having kids. No more after Bear, and Buggy was fine with that. He was happy that his kids survived life on a ship up until adulthood. 

[aemysbabyofficial]

Sweet Heart; Aemond Targaryen x Targaryen!OC

The sweet innocence that Baela and Saela called their sister would soon be back in their arms. But could time and colors finally divide the Targaryen Three?

Warnings: canon divergence; anxiety; tense situations; swearing; no mention of Aemond in this fic btw

The brick of the Red Keep looked down on the sisters. Even if they were greeted in open arms, nothing felt pleasing nor warming about walking into what felt like the lion’s den. Rhaena Targaryen kept up a gracious smile when her cloak was taken off while on the other hand, her older twin sister Baela kept a stern gaze around them. The woman’s cold glare would have frozen all that stood around her if it wasn’t for the beam of sun that melted the ice around her.

It was cold. The courtyard was void of its former rowdiness. Lord Caswell’s greeting was gracious among the grey sky and soundless space, but it did little to stir their hearts. Baela and Rhaena were escorted through the halls.

"Where is our sister?" The eldest inquired.

Caswell's head dropped before a rushed excuse past his lips. "The lady has personal affairs to attend."

"And when will she be...done?"

Baela's voice trailed off when the group were split up. Her arm latched onto Rhaena's while the rest of their family were escorted down separate halls. In place of Lord Caswell was a handmaid. By the freshness of her face, she wasn't that older than them--maybe just two and one.

"My Lady apologizes profusely for not greeting you today." The corner of the handmaid's mouth curved upwards. "Personal affairs of the household occupied more time than she would have liked in her schedule. Plans for future meetings will be further sent to you by letter."

Walking back through the Keep’s halls disturbed them—it felt like they were disturbing something, even if nothing rattled or shook in their presence. The handmaid stood before two doors across from each other, motioned to them with her hands, and left the sisters with a bow of the head.

Once they got settled into their rooms, Rhaena moved to her twin's room where the fire heated them and trays of food and wine were served.

“She is something, that girl. I wonder how life is treating her.”

All around them, moving past dusty linens and lighting candles, were handmaidens preparing for their travels back to King’s Landing. Evening had crept up so fast the sisters hadn't realized their cups of tea were changed for wine.

Since the beginning, Baela and Rhaena knew their youngest sister was something. Was that something good or bad they would never question, but their sweet Saela was something they weren’t for sure. Whereas Baela, the fearsome girl who’d rather fly than sit in a boy’s presence, Saela blossomed around in the attention of the male sex. But just as Rhaena, who was ever graceful with her gentle tongue, Saela had the tooth of a viper if talked to the wrong way.

The twins were four when they first saw their sister swaddled in her cradle. It had come to surprise Lady Laena Velaryon was expecting another child; the early signs hid themselves until late, she had never fallen sick in the months leading up to the birthing bed. Laena had both lamented and rejoiced her birth was the easier but happened so quick she was faced with shock when she held her third daughter. The pressure of bearing a son crushed the lady’s shoulders but the cries of the girl she named Saela eased off her worries. The same dawned on Daemon. Baela remembers more than Rhaena the mix of emotions their father wore. A son would have continued his legacy, but a third daughter…would complete the nest his family created. The prince could not stop his racing heart every time Saela opened her lilac eyes to look into his.

“Jaelan naejot ūndegon Saela, kepa!”

Baela reached to grab the bundle in Daemon’s arms. I want to see Saela, father! Even at the young age, the young lady roared her flames of protectiveness over the innocent. Rhaena hummed behind her sister, peeking her head around to get the best glance.

The bundle called the Targaryen Three were inseparable in their shared qualities and uniqueness.

The girls shared beds until the last moment possible (their sworn protectors had to rip their hands from the sheets that evening); shared gowns until one of their growths spirts ripped too much fabric; would disguise as each other until one of them cut their hair too short and another grew her hair out too long for the rouse to continue.

The Targaryen Three were each others best friends when the days looked to cloudy, and nightmares pricked the skin. They held each other tight until thick blankets and wooden tables, grounding the other in times of need and violent currents. No matter the time, day or night, if either sister needed a cheer up, talk down, or help from afar, Baela, Rhaena, and Saela would burn the world down for their sister.

No secret would leave their mouths from their ears. They were the only ones they could trust—sworn by blood with flames of fire, they whispered at night. No man, no power, no riches could strike their bond.

"You would think she would show her face to at least greet us in this cold." Baela shrugged her shoulders while burrowing herself further into the couch's cushions. The night sky was dark, the halls were quiet, and not a peep from their favorite person. It tickled the lady's mind that Saela hadn't shown her face--at all gatherings she made sure everyone knew her name.

“But she must be busy if her own handmaid was sent down."

Rhaena could feel Baela's ire and much like their father, its flames would grow if untamed.

"You remember how she opens the thread on her sleeves? A tell for whenever she did anything naughty. Mother always scolded her for having ruined her dresses.”

A child Saela was and a child she will always be. Tenderness burned Baela’s eyes come the last drop of her drink. Her hands reached for the decanter before her mind could stop her. A night drinking with her sister to reminisce washed them in a waters of melancholy. With the times they talked about their Saela recently, their hearts truly believed she was with them. But when the wind blows past their open windows and when gowns should go flowing, their minds break not seeing Saela’s open hair fly in the wind.

“And how breathless she becomes when she panics. A trait from the gods, I guess.” Rhaena shrugged her shoulders. Between them both, she could always find their sister’s tells.

“You always acted like mother to her, finding her tells and all. No wonder she went to you after she caused trouble.” Baela hid her smile behind her goblet.

“She needs a mother in her life. After mother…after mother left, that young girl needed a shield from the storm this family went through. She was a blessing we all needed, even if some deny her powers.”

The night was long, and memories were brimming the Targaryen twins minds. Even if their eyes watered and chests ached with the loss of their sister by their side, that gap would soon closely come the new day. Their Heart would be back and safe in her sisters arms.

“Your presence is requested for tea.” A knight stood at attention at large doors. A different handmaid stood at Baela's door with the letter requesting their attendance to tea.

An unspoken pressure settled on the sisters shoulders as their handmaids dressed and prepared them. The messenger stood at attention and made no move to leave or even turn around. The sisters exchanged glances before soundlessly following the woman. When the doors to a dining room was opened, Baela was surprised to see Rhaenyra, Daemon, and their children standing and seated around the room. The youngest children sat next to a lit fire with Rhaenyra on a couch while the boys and Daemon looked around the table.

“Was it for tea, as well?” Rhaena asked the room. Rhaenyra nodded. “Wasn’t told from whom.”

Daemon’s cold glare around the room mirrored Baela’s from earlier. It was calculating all he could see and could not: any secret passageways, a hidden guard, a trapped knife. With the Greens in control of their former home, one couldn’t become too comfortable.

A rattling against the door confused the twins behind them. All that could stand were silent when it was finally pushed open. When the heavy barrier connected the family back to the Keep opened, sun shone bright on them. No longer did the cold chill their bones or unsettle them in their gowns but comforted them in this time of uncertainty. Saela’s smile grew hundredfold when she saw her family.

“Sisters!”

Saela sprung into her sister's open arms. Tension in the room eased; shoulders relaxed, and breaths were no longer bated. The sisters danced in each others’ arms, warmed against the Keep's cold walls. Two handmaids stood behind Saela’s shoulders, their heads down and hands clasped to their fronts. Rhaena's brow twitched when she recognized the one on the right as the lady that showed them to their room the previous day.

“How was the journey?” Saela rubbed her hands over her sisters arms as she led them to the table. “Long and boring, I assume.”

“All that boredom was worth it,” Rhaena smiled. Her gaze jerked to Daemon standing tall above their heads. His eyes looked past her to find Saela’s. They greeted each other in muffled High Valyrian—the leather of his jacket muting some of her words. The way he spun his youngest daughter made the younger twin happy, but it pinched her heart. Rhaena instead focused her sights to the teacups and spread of desserts.

“Princess.”

Saela finally curtsied to Rhaenyra. It was prim, perfect, and controlled. The gown she wore covered her whole body and her hair was pinned away from her face. Saela’s back was straight, and her head was bowed.

The Queen skilled her too well. What else could she say? Saela picked up things fast.

“The moment I heard you would all return, I knew having tea would start everything on the right foot. It’s been so, so long since the days I hosted my childish tea parties, I just couldn’t wait to have one for real.”

Saela spoke once she sat at the table. Her sisters sat on either side, caged by Jacaerys and Lucerys on either end, while Daemon, Rhaenyra and Joffrey were on the other side. Memories and longings spanning six years were shared throughout the afternoon.

As they dined, both sisters mentally picked at Saela. The glow of the youngest shone from her, yet under the gold dress it felt shadowed. May be it court life, Rhaena told herself. Saela's face had slimmed, yet her gentle smile remained, even at Aegon's snotty face. She never pointed but the handmaids knew what she wanted--be it more tea, a rub on the back, or more sunlight--they were an extension of her mind.

"Before I forget, gifts." Saela clapped her hands. "Palina, Arah, the gifts!"

The two handmaids far behind Saela's shoulders dashed to dark corners of the room to retrieve small baskets addressed to each person. Inside were various treats from all around Westeros--lemon cakes, honey cakes, vibrant fruits, and Dornish Red. The smile on Saela's face was one of hostess--like a highborn lady to her guests.

The sisters clung onto every passing second, wishing it would not pass them by. Daemon and Rhaenyra excused themselves to put the young Aegon and Viserys to nap, kissing the girls heads before leaving the heavy doors.

“Does she want to sit down?”

Rhaena muttered under her breath. From the corner of her eyes, she caught a figure in gold ducking behind hanging tapestries, peeking its head of silver out. In. Out. In. Out. It was like the girl was playing a hiding game. Helaena peeked her head out the moment the sisters looked in the direction. Her eyes widened before she tucked herself back into the shadows. One of her sister’s handmaids whispered something into the princess’ ears.

“Hmm, who?” Saela followed her sister’s line of sight to the corner opposite of them. Rhaena turned to see her sister freeze—her cup stuck between the table and her mouth. It was like her body steeled.

“Sister—”

The handmaid speed-walked back to the table and whispered into Saela’s ears. The chatter between Lucerys and Baela drowned the little Rhaena could hear. But by the way her sister’s brows furrowed and how hard she swallowed, she knew something was wrong. Saela whispered back with dark eyes.

The air in the tea room dampened drastically. No one besides Rhaena could feel and see it. It was choking, heavy, and scary. The Lady had no idea where the air could have turned sour. The sun Saela brought with her vanished behind dark clouds and stones.

“Is there anything I can help with?”

The handmaid from before whispered into Saela's ear. The girl's fingers rimmed her sleeves. She whispered back before shooting Helaena a look.

"Sister?"

"No!" Saela whispered loudly. Luke, who passed by to sit, shot them a glance before adding his point to Baela's comment.

“No, no.” Saela's breath hitched even though she was seated. Her eyes warned her handmaid a message. “No, um, Helaena was--"

The flames of the dragon were heated in Saela's eyes. Urgency burned through her bones and threatned to burn all around her. Rhaena rested a hand on her sister's shoulder to feel her tremble.

"Is something the matter, Saela?" Rhaena's voice was hushed. Yes, the younger lady loved attention, but her sister's shadows was where she found comfort. Fear was stared back at Rhaena. Unspoken fear. Rhaena felt her gut drop. Her mouth opened, but her eyes watched Saela turn to her handmaids.

Whatever Helaena was saying through her waving hands forced Saela from her seat. Rushed apologies fell from her lips before her gold gown trailed behind her running figure. Neither Targaryen nor Velaryon had a chance to stop or thank Saela for hosting them tea when the door slammed behind her, but in the wide space, the cousins continued their talk about anything.

Through all the drinking and dining, a thought tugged at Rhaena's mind. Baela would chide her for bringing it up, but her mind screamed at her heart.

Gold thread from Saela's sleeve were scattered on the table and seat.

Saela wasn't seen for the rest of the day. Whenever Baela or Rhaena asked for her whereabouts, knights would shake their heads and handmaids would bow their heads deeper.

Baela skipped the path she memorized led to her sister's bedchambers. Her daydress was already changed to riding gear and in-hand were matching gloves Rhaenys saved for her granddaughters. It was a surprising hot day at the Keep. The moment heat passed through the red walls, the castle was deserted and those afforded the luxury of not only returning to their homelands, but also those who could sit out the impending succession hearings, vacated the Red Keep.

"I hate the cold." Saela told her sister as they prepared for flight. A hot sun shone down on them without clouds to block its rays. The hot weather was the reason she went without a leather coat or gloves.

"Laevon loves the sun as much as you do." Baela smiled at the silver pair.

"It is how we connect, dear sister. Skin-to-skin. Heat-to-heat."

When Baela reached the hall of her sister's chamber, a knight stepped from the shadows with a lifted hand. Baela didn't miss the other hand on the hilt of his sword.

"Where is my--"

"Tending to business," was the only excuse she and anyone else was given. Baela wasn't given another chance to ask or even open her mouth when the knight physically turned her around and pushed her away. Where she was, she couldn't care less. The problem lay with the fact no one could say where her sister was--almost like it was a sin, or a crime.

Saela was absent for Driftmark's succession hearing--the penultimate reason they were at the Keep.

It was finally at the dinner two days later she reappeared, this time quieter than ever and her eyes dancing all around the table. Fortunate to sit next to her sister again, Rhaena felt her attention was somewhere else. Daemon must have noticed, she thought, because the quiet lady watched her father bore holes into her younger sister's soul.

"You know I love you two, right?"

Saela's drawled under her sheets, muffled from burying her head in her oldest sister's shoulder. It had been over a decade since the Targaryen Three had shared a bed and after a day like today, they needed it. In tangling their limbs and talking until past the Hour of the Owl, the three ladies could be young children again.

"You only have us to love," Rhaena chided with a smile. Saela's body sunk further into the blankets.

"I love you so much, I would do anything for you."

In the dark of the room with the candles blown out, Baela and Rhaena looked over Saela's head. Her head was lolling to the side and her eyes were hooded--sleep threatened to take her under even though she fought hard to stay awake.

"There is nothing I would do to hurt you. Do you understand?" A silent beat past. "Rhaena? Baela?"

"Are you awake, sister?" The latter poked her sister's cheek with raised brows.

"I am always awake...waiting."

Sleep captured the sisters without a word, knocking them into unique worlds of dreams. As the hours slowly passed, their bodies rolled side-to-side and gentle snores past their lips. The scarfs around their heads shifted high and low. A low scoff broke the tranquility in the room.

Baela rolled her eyes as she sat up to re-wrap her hair and readjust her robe. She was about to lay head back down again when she noticed the empty space. Saela was gone. To not disturb her soundless twin, she peeled herself from the bed to peer around the room. She couldn't have gone far, Baela told herself. Light from the moon illuminated enough for Baela not to bump into anything. In the dim state, the lady noticed nothing out of order. The table next to a vanity was higher and as she grazed her hands over the furniture, she was surprised everything was taller and softer. Nothing was out of order.

The hallways were quiet, lit by lamps and littered with few knights and servants going to and fro. In spite the fact it had been years since she walked these halls at night, Baela's feet guided her throughout the Keep until she made a new turn. A hallway to her left was darker than the whole castle. A cool wind blew at the lady's nightgown, both driving and inviting her in. The moment Baela took a step into the hall, laughter filled the air.

It was light, weightless.

A child. No, children.

Light peeked from a single door in the hallway. The more Baela approached the door, the louder the children's laughter became. Then voices intermingled with the supposed children. Her fingers glided across the cold walls before the cool metal of the hinges stung her skin. A voice inside asked for the windows to be shut. No, just "a voice. The tone was familiar, smooth with its warning yet sharp in its urgency. That voice carried a light laugh at the end as it shushed a loud yell, telling the child they shouldn't yell at night. The cold touch of the metal hinges froze Baela in her place.

The door suddenly creaked open. Saela caressed her breasts with a low groan. Her robes hung loose around her and fatigue dripped from her long breaths.

“Where were you?”

“Fuck!” Saela screamed. Her hands flew to her chest and her eyes, wide with fright, stared at the long figure in front of her.

A pregnant pause passed around the sisters; confusion in the dead of night swam through the air, unravelling thoughts and perceptions of their space and time. The door Saela clung to closed to allow the little most pass through the crack. Given her taller height, Baela could just the collection of silver-haired children sitting in a circle.

"W-what are you doing here?" Saela asked breathlessly. She still held a hand to her chest while the other let the door shut fully.

"I believe we share the same question." Baela raised a curious brow. "You leave your sisters sleeping in your bedchambers without a word, Saela. You can't--"

Saela shook her head while she focused her gaze onto her older sister. It was more controlled before and her voice came out clearer, like she hadn't been running through the halls, "I mean, what are you doing here?"

"Saela."

The air around the girl's mouth must have tasted salty because she smacked her mouth and licked her lips. An uncharacteristic show of expression. Baela frowned at the expression.

"I-I was--" The door whipped open again.

"Jaehaera was asking if--" the moment Helaena noticed Baela, she disappeared back into the room. Before the door shut, her flashing eyes tuned to Saela's back before it locked.

"This is nursery, if you had to ask, for whenever a child gets sick. I was helping Helaena with her daughter. The poor girl felt horrible and I couldn't let my friend suffer in silence."

A twinkle returned to Saela's eye after she looked at the closed door. Her chest fell down with a soft sigh and the fingers rubbing circles on her chest soon fell to her sides.

"It is late and those children had me running around. You need to stop asking me questions before my head explodes. Let me tell Helaena goodnight, first."

Baela had yet to say a word in what felt like ten minutes. Saela had ducked back into the room and said all the goodbyes she needed to before trekking down the Keep's quiet halls back to her bedchambers. The walk was quiet and no questions were asked. Even as they slid under the sheets of the softest cotton, velvet, and fur, it was quiet.

Not a word passed through the room until the morning. Unlike the previous mornings where handmaids would dress them before their minds could snap into focus, the Targaryen Three were left to their own devices. Morning light from a drawn curtain forced Rhaena from her sleep. When she turned to poke her sister's awake, she gasped an early morning breath.

Baela stared at her with a near-hollow gaze. Her eyes were awake and alert, darting over them like she expected something to happen. On the contrary, eyebags hung under Saela's closed eyes. Her breathing was deep and slow.

"She won't wake any time soon," Baela spoke, though her voice descended to a whisper.

“Do you think she is hiding something from us?”

Rhaena frowned. It was too early to think about hidden antics or double meanings. But she couldn't deny her own thoughts. She looked over to her sister.

“Do you think she could?”

Saela Targaryen was many things if not something, her sisters could not deny that fact. A liar? They would never wish, not even imagine, that name to be spoken in the same sentence as their sister’s name. Hiding something? We all had our secrets and private wants.

After the sisters rose from their bed and the twins left the bedchambers, Saela vanished again.

What Saela was hiding made them curious, urging them to discover the truth their sister hid behind the Keep’s walls. Maybe it was the long time that separated them—over half a decade apart could change a person. How much that time could mattered on the power of pigment and the fealty to one’s union. Whether Saela’s blood shed for Black or Green was a question they would never ask. Not yet, they hoped, or not ever.

[peonygray]

So You'll Never Meet Death

An Elucien Fanfic

Elain felt her whole world crumble as soon as she was thrown into that cauldron, and turned into a high fae. It was as if she lost everything she cherished, especially the man she loved with her whole heart.

Even if she was granted with a gift to see visions, or more like prophecies, Elain wanted nothing to do with them. She cannot even call it a gift, as it acts more like a curse for she could see numerous visions of sweetness, brightness that will suddenly turn into pain and agony. These visions continued to haunt her even in her sleep.

And then learning that she was mated to another male fae, Elain wished nothing but to end her life in an instant.

Lucien Vanserra, as she heard them addressed him, was a High Lord’s son as well as a friend of her younger sister. Despite all of those, she had no idea who she was. He was a complete stranger to her.

However, her dreams continued to show her something different. That in the future, everything is going to be alright with the both of them. Elain once saw herself with Lucien in a vast flower meadow, running happily and showering each other with love. It was indeed perfect, not until the day she met him for them to get to know each other.

“No lady, I cannot.”

After hearing those words from him after declaring that she could hear his heart, her power gave her another vision, far different from what she saw in her sleep. 

“Lucien, no! Get up! Get up!”

Elain was sitting by his side, where Lucien’s body lay down on the ground and bathing in his own blood. 

“Please, love. Open your eyes. I am sorry. I am sorry!”

But he wouldn’t. It seemed he was really gone from her grasp. She felt her breath shortened, and screamed in agony upon realizing the death of her mate. All because of her. Because Lucien agreed to fight for her.

She looked at his opponent, which was none other than Azriel, one of Rhysand’s brothers who was the Shadowsinger of the Night Court. They engaged in a blasted blood duel, where the Illyrian won. 

Ever since that moment, Elain always cried in her room, berating herself for something that will happen in the future all because of her. Even if Lucien is still a stranger to her, she knew that he didn’t deserve to die. No fight should occur. She’s already tired from everything related to war.

“That’s it. Maybe I will distance myself from him, so that the vision won’t happen.”

A foolish decision, she thought, but she had no other choice. Elain couldn’t speak out about what she saw, for it will only bring chaos between the Inner Circle and Lucien himself. She already witnessed how harsh they treated him, even if it’s through words only. Including her sister Feyre was like that to him. She started to wonder if her sister really saw him as a friend.

She successfully did it, though. Her plan worked. Whenever her family asked her about giving Lucien a chance, she always dismissed them. But in her heart, Elain really wanted to get to know him. 

When he’s around and not looking, Elain always finds herself observing Lucien. She couldn't help but be mesmerized by his beauty, and she did not care about the scar in his face. Elain actually felt bad for him and wanted to ask what happened. He was also kind and respectful, and intelligent as she observed. 

She continued to be angry at herself behind closed doors, where no one could see her feelings. In order for the duel to not happen, Elain chose to get closer to Azriel. Although he was kind to her, he actually reminded her of Graysen before when she was still a beautiful maiden. 

Elain continued this until one time at Winter Solstice. “This is a mistake,” Azriel said when both of them almost kissed. Elain realized it, too, but relief washed over her a bit.

“You’re right. It is,” she murmured, and as soon as he left, Elain removed the rose necklace and returned it to where it was. Elain left the room, and there, tears started to come out from her eyes.

“What have I done?!” she sobbed, and Elain suddenly stopped when she realized that Lucien was just outside of the room, and seemed to have heard everything. His face was blank, and his eyes were looking down on the floor.

“You know I won’t do anything to stop you. I won’t force myself on you, even if we’re mates, lady,” Lucien said softly.

“L-Lucien…I–”

Lucien smiled as he now looked at her, where she could see the pain painted on his face. He was clearly not okay with it, yet he’s willingly prepared to give up their bond, “Just so you know, you can break the bond. You have the right to not accept the thing between us. At least, you can be free. I can be free.”

He was about to leave, yet Elain couldn’t contain it anymore. She ran to him and wrapped her arms on his body. Lucien was surprised at this, and listened to Elain and became concerned when he heard her sobbing on his back, “L-Lady? Elain? Are you alright?!”

“I’m sorry…I’m sorry…” was all she could utter, because deep inside, she had already fallen for Lucien, but she didn’t want for him to meet Death because of what the vision had shown her. 

The End.

[swallowtail-lotus]

🌾Blooming Tears of a Mother🌾

My version of the hymn of Demeter. Not too accurate, and I tried. It is told in the form of a short story.

Told mostly through Demeter's pov

This is kinda bad, but I tried to do Demeter justice. I really did.

I never wanted any of this.

My trust in Zeus dwindled the moment he forced himself on me. I never asked for it, yet he persisted. Soon after, I bore him a daughter, who I named Kore. She was the greatest gift given to me. Precious to me.

As any loving mother, I cared for her. Loved her. I let Kore grow up with me in the fields. Her joyous laughter filled my ears every day, filling me with joy. Such a wonderful sight to see her smiles, to engage in fun activities with her.

Until... That day.

I was tending to the wheat I had planted, and... It all fell silent. No sound of her voice, no sound of her running around, enjoying the nature. I looked around, no sign of her anywhere. I felt my heart drop into my stomach.

"Kore?" My voice was but a mere whisper of disbelief. I searched more for my sweet daughter, but still no sign of her anywhere.

"Kore!" I shouted, hoping for a sign of my daughter but still none. I searched endlessly for nine days, with no Nectar or Ambrosia and with no bathing. Even when I caused snow to fall, the breeze to blow unbearably cold, I still searched for Kore.

I was slowly losing hope when on the tenth day, I had met a child of Asteria and Perse, Hekate. She had told me she had heard the cries of my daughter, but did not know who carried her off. She advised we should find Helios, and so we did. Helios informed us that my brother, Hades, god of the dead, had taken Kore with the permission of Zeus.

No words could describe how angry I felt from the news. How dare they take my pride and joy away from me?!

I avoided Olympus and dwelt upon Earth with mortals. I conferred gifts and blessing when any gave me kindness, and severely punished those who repulsed me so or if they didn't receive my gifts with proper reverence. I came to Celeus at Eleusis. But still in anger, I brought famine from not allowing anything to grow.

I was met with Iris, goddess of the rainbow and attendant of my brother, who tried to induce me to return Olympus.

"Lady Demeter, please return to Olympus. The crops of the Earth will not grow without your hand." She spoke to me. I told her I will not do such and sent her on her way. Soon, I was met with others who tried to conciliate with me by gifting me with entreaties and presents, but I still refused.

"Do not persuade me with useless things. I will not restore the fertility of the earth, nor will I return to Olympus, less I see my daughter again!" I proclaimed to each and every god that approach me in my anger.

Third person (short)~

Zeus rubbed the sides of his face with my fingers as he listen to the many he sent to try convince his sister Demeter to come back that she refuses to not do anything unless her daughter is returned.

"Hermes!" Zeus called out to his son, who was in front of him in an instant and waited for his word.

"Demeter is still not convinced. I need you to fetch Kore from Erebus for Demeter." Zeus instructed. Hermes had hurried off to do his task.

Hermes had arrived to Erebus, telling Hades that Kore has to return to her mother. Hades consented, sending them on their way and gave Hermes permission to use his chariot to do so. The young goddess, who has been missing her mother, gladly followed him and told him that she ate a part of a pomegranate, which she now won't always remain with her mother. Hermes guided the goddess to the chariot and went off.

Back to Demeter~

Hekate consoled me as best as she can as I cried profusely for my daughter's return. My tears fell on my clothing, but I cared less for I wanted to see my beautiful daughter again.

"Mother!" I heard a familiar voice. I could never forget the voice of Kore. The sound of a chariot also caught my attention and I looked to where I had heard it, seeing Hermes riding Hades' chariot with Kore.

My heart fluttered with absolute joy and I couldn't wait any longer. I raced over to the chariot, where I felt the arms of my daughter bring me in for a hug, a hug I craved for. I heard the chariot leave, but I could care less.

"Thank goodness! I thought I'd never see you again!" Kore said to me. Her voice was what I wanted to hear again. I left a kiss on her forehead, giving her a sign that I missed her as well.

"I missed you too." That was all I could muster out, despite having thousands of words to tell how much I missed her. I felt a hand on my shoulder, seeing Hekate still by our side.

"I am glad to see the two of you reunited. I shall remain as Kore's attendant." Hekate told us and strolled back to the underworld. I looked back at Kore.

"Let's return home." I said to her, seeing her joyful faces always brought happiness to me and we went back to our home. My sweet Kore told me she had consumed some food down there by accident so she was bound to the underworld. I was rightfully angry at Hades for doing such a deceiving thing to Kore, but I couldn't do anything about it.

Some time later, while I was tending to my crops, I saw my mother Rhea approach me with her two lions at her sides.

"My dearest daughter. I received word of what had happened. I am so sorry." She said to me and gave me a hug.

"Do not fret, mother. I am glad Kore has returned." I spoke to my mother. Mother slowly pulled away, giving me one of her smiles.

"Come, my daughter. Your brother Zeus calls for you to join the families of the gods, and promises to give you which rights you prefer amongst deathless gods. He has agreed to let Kore spend a third of each year down in the Underworld, and to stay with you for the remainder of each year. So come, my child, and be not too angry at the dark clouded brother of yours, but rather increase forthwith for mankind the fruit that gives them life." Mother spoke to me with her gentle tone. I did not speak any further and simply nodded. I did not want to disappoint mother. I watched as she seemed relieved of my answer and left me be, her two lions following after her.

I had brought back the fruit and vegetation after my mother's words, all while thinking of Kore. The lands are laden with leaves and flowers once again.

I am not satisfied with the outcome, but as long as I get to see my beloved daughter again, I am fine. If anyone dares to harm Kore, I will not hold myself back.

She is my daughter, and it is my duty as her mother to love her and protect her when necessary.

[leggerefiore]

Need more body swap goofyness. What about Ingo and Lady? Can imagine that despite Ladys sass that she'd be the opposite of Chandelure and try and make Reader and Ingo take the next step, either marriage or mates depending on how well you think she understands human relationships.

The Warden running up eagerly to you and dropping medicinal leeks into your hands was certainly unexpected. Had you seemed ill? There had been a bit of tiredness that lingered with you, but you did not think it was that bad. When he moved to look him in the eyes, you felt stunned by his expression. His eyes were lidded, and his lips were nearly tugged up into a smug smirk. You tilted your head.

“Ingo…?” you asked, wondering what was on his mind. He suddenly wrapped his arms around you and stared back into your eyes. Before slowly blinking a few times. You pushed him away lightly and put your hands onto his shoulders. His expression remained the same, but he mimicked your head tilting.

“I love you,” he said simply, and tried to pull you in closer again. A strange rumbling noise came from his throat. His cheek rubbed against yours. More confusion racked your brain. Was he feeling alright? Before you could dare to ask the question, a sudden yowl rang out and Lady Sneasler came running from a higher up cliff. Her fur was all puffed up as she rushed to you.

The Noble's posture grew rigid and straight, and her face was stuck in a frown. You gazed between Ingo and her. It was almost funny how much their expressions resembled their normal ones. Lady Sneasler glared at her Warden deeply. You snickered. What was this? “... Ingo, what did you do to her?” you asked the man playfully. Sneasler's mouth opened, and meows and cries poured from her. You laughed. Ingo must have really upset her somehow.

“She's… feeling distressed,” Ingo explained with a tone that was not common from him, “Don't worry about it. How about we become married?” His phrasing of that sentence caught your attention more than his suggestion. The sudden cries from Sneasler turned into her pulling on your arm as she desperately tried to separate you from Ingo. You backed away to give them a one over once more. Snealser remained firmly close to you, while Ingo just gazed at you with the out of character facial expression.

“... Ingo,” you turned to the Noble pokemon, “Can you purr if that's you?” The poison type look mortified before hesitantly doing it. The light vibrations coming from the Sneasler's throat made you giggle. 'Ingo' put his hands on his hips and shook his head.

“He's too afraid to ask you to marry him,” it was explained, “So! I'm being a good friend and doing it for him. I'd love to see his kits, too.” You felt your cheeks burn by the pokemon's explanation. Even Ingo managed to make the normally playful expression on the cat's face twist into terror. A nervous laugh came from you as you sighed.

“Well… I promise you I'll discuss that with him when he's back in his body,” you told her, “Do you have any clue as to how to fix this?” She shook her head.

Well, you thought, at least Laventon might a field day with this.

[orionchildofhades]

steddie swapping soulmate au part 14

part 1 |[...]| part 13 | part 14 | part 15 | Ao3

---

Time passes.

Steve and Robin unexpectently grow closer, some mutual understanding and rather uncomfortable first meetings (mainly due to their switches happening far more often than Eddie's and Steve's) leading them to a profound friendship.

Steve is glad for it.

After his initial hurt, he found that Robin's friendship was far more valuable than the others he had been nurturing throughout his life, far more consitent and honest than the whispered rumours and mean laughs thrown at the expense of others.

Steve, for a while, kind of forgets about Eddie. The only reminder of his being his soulmate are Robin, usually holding a dangerous glare through the cafeteria when she sees him doing his theatrics and spitting on the jocks -and honestly everyone else that is not part of his little Dungeon game.

The year ends without flourish expet the rumours of Robin and Steve dating.

That happened in a rather catastrophic mess of events when Robin was being violently picked on by some guy who had tried to ask her out and were calling her names, and making some horrendous promises to help her 'turn back'. Steve had rushed there, he had previously been foaming with anger near his locker, and stepped in before Robin to tell them to back off. Things had escalated until Steve felt forced to say that they were dating. The bastards had soon left after that, apologising to him of all things.

Robin had cried that day, so tiny in his arms and had admitted that maybe, only maybe, people thinking they were romantic soulmates was not that bad because she honestly couldn't deal with it sometimes.

Steve had wondered how it felt. Because he was a year older and was part of the cool kids and even if some people liked to joke about being bent or queer or fags or God knew what, nothing had ever felt quite as scary as watching Robin stuck between them.

So now people were sure than Robin and Steve were a thing, and girls kept sending him looks before whispering how far beneath him Robin was, or how they couldn't understand what he saw in her, but at the very least summer was coming and they'd both be free from all the heavy glare.

Robin had actually met Steve's parents, both when they had switched and later been asked to come for dinner and even if she was not part of the 'proper society' his parents were so keen on having close, they could admit that she had some potential. The fake couple had not shared with them the fact that Robin played soccer and played the French Horn out of all things because honestly Steve did not want to bother with it. His father believed that only men should play sports and his mother was a fervant believer than the piano was the only good instrument there was for a young lady, or perhaps the harp if one really wanted to get out of their way to be extra.

Out of everything, life was pretty peaceful. Robin had helped Steve study during their so called 'dated', and she had also got Steve playing soccer with her. He still hang out with Tommy and Carole but he didn't really bother trying to stay with the rest of the rising popular gang. They had promised each other to leave Hawkins, for college first, but then to find a nice place, open minded and accepting, for Robin to officially go on the dating market because "Steve, I can't do anything here, you don't understand how the girls are here. Even if some are pretty, they are so...Hugh". Her last point had not been exactly clear as she had thrown her arms in the air before collaping back on the table. Nonetheless, Steve was ready to follow.

It all crashes down when Steve and Eddie swap for the third time when Will Byers goes missing.