#so she can go beat up a dragon and say goodbye to her mate

[captainsparklefingers]

I do NOT envy whoever is gonna have to tell Osysa about what happened to Kamaljiori.

[deathmetalunicorn1]

Part 17 Straw Hats and Eri!Reader go to the Sabaody Archipelago!! (You can write what you were planning with this, since I’m so excited and curious about your idea for this arc, but I’m wondering if you’ll add in these ideas that I have, if not then that’s fine with me!! Since this Arc has a LOT happening)

Reader was scared when she saw a man killed by a Celestial Dragon, and when they left she helped heal the man so that he can go back to his family (Not realizing she was seen by a few individuals)

They finally make it to Shakky’s Rip-Off Bar (After fighting off some Bounty Hunters), and meet Shakky who treats Chopper and Reader to some Cotton Candy while telling the Straw Hats about the ‘Worst Generation’ or ‘Supernovas’ with Reader being at the top since she has the highest bounty, with Kidd second and Luffy third)

When they went to look for Rayleigh, they end up at Sabaody Park and decide to play for a bit (Especially after learning this is Reader and Camie’s first time going to a place) trying all the rides, eating cotton candy and winning giant stuffed toys, Reader was sitting next to Camie when all of a sudden, everything went dark

Everyone is horrified when they learn Reader and Camie have been kidnapped! And immediately group up with the help of Duval and the Flying Fish Gang to search and rescue Camie and Readier

When Reader woke up, she’s terrified of the strange scary men smiling sinisterly at her, and started shaking from hearing screams and cries from others as they’re being dragged away (She’s trembling violently as she’s hugging Camie in fear) until they’re being forced next to be sold off

The Auction is giving Reader ‘Special Treatment’ since she’s the ‘Big Star’ of their show (They’re being gentle with her so they don’t bruise her skin as that would make her less ‘valuable’)

The Auctioneers start to coo and fawn over how adorable Reader is only to panic when they learn she’s ‘Devil Child Y/N’ the one who’s so highly wanted by the World Governemt (As they proceed to talk about the rumors that spawned around her being a ‘Monster’, an ‘Offspring of the Devil’ and that her being here will ‘Curse Them’, which just makes her family glare murderously because none of that is true)

However Reader was also bought, but by the Female Celestial Dragon (As she wants her because Reader looks like a ‘Doll’)

Reader was horrified when she saw Hachin shot by a Celestial Dragon (She wasn’t upset when Luffy punched the ‘Bad Man’ that shot Hachin through the room)

When Rayleigh appeared in front of Camie and Reader to help them get their collars off, Reader felt that she could trust him and didn’t even close her eyes when he was taking her collar off (This makes Rayleigh smile and tell Reader that despite her age, she’s incredibly brave)

They escapes with the help of Duval and the Flying Fish from the Marines (Not before they go to Peterman and beat the SNOT out of him)

They make it back to Shakky’s Bar along with Rayleigh and learn about Rayleigh’s past that he was the First Mate of Gol D. Roger, the King of the Pirates (And Reader is told who Shanks is, and she’s in awe as she wants to meet ‘Mr. Shanks’ too!)

Rayleigh becomes another one of Reader Grandpas! (And he tells her she can just call him ‘Grandpa Ray’ since it’s probably easier for her to say, which makes her smile as she repeats it and she’s overjoyed to have another Grandpa!)

They’re going to lay low until Rayleigh finishes coating the Sunny (They’ll be able to find Rayleigh with his Vivre Card) and say goodbye to their friends to look for a place to hide for 3 days (Nami beats Luffy black and blue for wanting to go back to the Amusement Park) until they run back into Kuma! And try to fight him off and run away from him, though they’re shocked when a new guy and another Kuma appears! Only for Luffy to say they need to split up and Reader joins Luffy’s Group (Only to face off against Sentomaru who is beating Luffy with ease) though Reader was horrified to see Zoro shot but was relieved to see Grandpa Ray save him

Everyone started to run again when Luffy ordered them to run away because they can’t win as they’re too weak (Reader is running with Luffy)

Reader felt terror when Kuma made Zoro disappear, and started to panic when Kuma started to make the rest of her family disappear one by one with Brook, Usopp, Sanji, Franky, Nami, Chopper and finally Robin (Reader screamed ‘Mama’) leaving Luffy and Reader the last ones left (Both are sobbing uncontrollably over their loss of their Friends and Family, with Reader tightly hugging Luffy when everything suddenly went dark)

I tried to not make this so long, but it’s very difficult with so much information happening in each arc (So I always write down the main events that happen, then I try to shorten it as much as I can)

-The mangroves were enormous- towering high in the sky above you, with large bubbles floating all around, it was almost like a fairy tale for you.

-You were with Luffy, going to a bar owned by someone named Shakky, because the ship coater Hachi recommended was usually found there.

-The bar was rather run down, but Shakky was really nice to you and Chopper, giving you both cotton candy while she told Brook the color of her panties, after he asked, before telling Luffy that Rayleigh wasn’t there and directed him towards the amusement park.

-She then told Luffy about the other Supernovas here on the island, those with bounties over one hundred thousand, with you being in the top seat and Kidd being in second, something Luffy did pout lightly over, but he wasn’t upset at you- as he knew that the government wanted you, and that’s why they were offering so much.

-Your eyes were sparkling as you sat next to Camie as she told you about the amusement park, as you had never been and you turned to Luffy, a shy look on your face, “Can we go big brother?”

-He immediately beamed and for the next two hours you had so much fun, riding rides, sitting with Chopper when neither one of you were tall enough for the big rides, and you got to try so many treats!

-You were with Camie before you saw a man coming over and Camie screamed out as she was grabbed, alongside you. Luffy turned, seeing bounty hunters holding you both and he immediately charged over, “Camie! Y/N!!”

-These were slavers, people who had intentions on selling you both to the auction house, “A mermaid and a brat will surely fetch a nice price!” Camie had tears in her eyes, but she quickly swung out, to at least rescue you, hitting the man who was holding you, knocking him back and you out of his arms and into Luffy’s arms before they ran off with Camie, “We’ll get you back Camie!!”

-You were sniffling, hugging Luffy tightly around his neck, terrified of what had just happened, crying for Camie, but Luffy held you close, giving you the same promise, that they were going to get Camie back.

-Your hat had been knocked off, revealing you to everyone around and Luffy took off running, forgetting the hat and soon the Archipelago was alight with the news that you were there, and the slavers who had attempted to kidnap you were besides themselves! They missed out on a massive payday!!

-The auction hall was no place for a child, but your crew all met there, and they had to keep you safe, as Chopper told them that the slavers knew who you were now, and they couldn’t leave you alone.

-There were other people in the auction house who had looked over, seeing you there, holding Sanji’s hand, knowing exactly who you were, but they weren’t going to make any move on you- not with your crew around you.

-You saw a polar bear and your eyes went sparkly, tugging on Sanji’s hand, “Look- it’s a polar bear! It’s so cute!” Bepo turned, seeing you, and he blushed, looking down, apologizing, to which his crew scolded him for being so weak willed.

-Law, who had ignored you for the most part, other than hearing you call Bepo cute, heard footsteps and turned to see Kidd entering, and he instantly smirked before flipping him off.

-You saw this and you looked down at your free hand, mimicking him, “What does this mean?”

-Kidd and Law turned to see you, a six year old little girl, flipping the bird and instantly Law turned white in shock as Sanji cupped your hand, stopping you as the others were quickly glaring at Law, yelling at him for being a bad influence for teaching you something so bad as Sanji explained it was a rude gesture, not wanting you to get upset.

-Kidd couldn’t help but snicker, smirking down at Law, “Yeah Trafalgar- you are a bad influence on the little shit.”

-You looked back up at Sanji, hearing the new word, “What’s a little shit?” it was Kidd’s turn to turn white in shock as all the anger shifted quickly to him as Law couldn’t help but chuckle as they were both getting yelled at.

-When you saw Camie in a large fishbowl on stage, going to be sold off as a slave, tears welled in your eyes and you saw a man, wearing a funny suit, laughing at Hachi who tried to save Camie, before shooting him.

-You ran to him, “Hachi!” he groaned, managing to shift his body, wrapping his arms around you to shield you.

-The Celestial Dragon’s eyes went wide, “You’re that Y/N that daddy is after!! I’m going to be praised so much when I get home!!” before he approached to snatch you up.

-Hachi held you close as your horn flared up, healing him just a bit, but Luffy charged by and everyone was stunned, seeing him punch out the Celestial Dragon.

-You weren’t sure why it was bad, but everyone else was quickly running out of the building, panicking.

-There was a lady, the sister of the man Luffy just punched, also wearing a bubble suit, who quickly set up a ladder next to Camie, going to shoot her, “I’m going to kill this mermaid since you attacked my dear brother!”

-You were running before you even knew it, easily getting out of Hachi’s arms, and she saw you running towards her and she smiled, seeing that she had a chance to take you, as she knew her father and the others were all looking for you, “Aww look at you- you’re so cute! Like a little doll~ I’ll ask father to keep you once he’s done with you.”

-You then shocked everyone, except for Luffy, as you made it to the stage and you ran for her, pushing the ladder with her on it, pushing it over, sending it to the ground, “You leave Camie alone!!”

-Camie was pressed up against the fishbowl, “Y/N!” you were in tears, looking angry as the Celestial Dragon struggled to her feet, “You little brat! I was going to give you the world because you’re cute! I guess I’ll treat you like every other human- like dirt beneath my feet!”

-As she screamed at you, she swung her hand back to hit you, before a wave of energy rushed through the room, knocking those who remained, out, except for those who were strong willed, the three pirate crews in attendance, Camie, and Hachi.

-You were confused when she suddenly collapsed, looking around before you heard a man speak, “My-my~ you are quite bold little one- and you as well, ‘big brother’.”

-An old man walked out, spinning his collar on his finger before he removed Camie’s with ease, without it exploding, and he grinned, seeing Hachi, injured but not as bad as you had healed him a little bit, before introducing himself as Rayleigh.

-Luffy could tell that this was no mere ship coater, his strength was way too impressive to just be that, but he didn’t have much time to think, as word got out that an admiral was coming, as two Celestial Dragons had been attacked, and you all needed to get off the island.

-Rayleigh picked you up. You weren’t afraid of him, he was comforting, as you held his jacket, “Grandpa what did you do to that lady?”

-Rayleigh beamed brightly at your words, “Grandpa? Ooh I like the sound of that! You can call me Grandpa Rayleigh or Grandpa Ray- and to answer your question, I used Haki, I forced my will out and those with weak wills won’t be able to withstand it, so they get knocked out.”

-It sounded a little confusing as he took you to Luffy while Hachi got Camie and Rayleigh told Luffy that he would coat the ship, and to meet him in another part of the Archipelago, while he escorted Camie and Hachi to the ocean, so they could escape.

-Franky held you in his arms, shielding you as they had to run, after Luffy fought the marines alongside Kidd and Law, proving their strength, but when they got word that Kuma and an admiral, Kizaru, were on the island, you all had to make a run for it.

-Franky had to put you down as Kuma intercepted the Straw Hats, and you hid, watching Kuma easily taking care of everyone and your eyes went wide as he did the same thing he did to that princess, Perona, hitting her and blasting her away.

-One by one they were all blown away, disappearing.

-You and Luffy were screaming out everyone’s name and Robin turned to rush at you as you ran out, “Y/N!” your hands were stretched out to her, tears in her eyes, “Mama!” before she disappeared like everyone else.

-You tripped from the shock, landing hard on your hands and knees, tears immediately welling in your eyes. Your family was gone- they were all gone!

-Your tears snapped Luffy, who was in anguish, hunched over on the ground, out of his shock and he ran for you, seeing that you were still there, “Y/N!” You lifted your head, seeing him running towards you through the tears.

-You sobbed, reaching out to him, “Big brother!” before a dark shadow loomed over you, you turned, your voice caught in your throat as Luffy shouted, “GET AWAY FROM HER!!”

-Kuma’s hand came down slowly, like he wasn’t going to hit you like he had done the others, and once his paw hit the top of your head, you vanished as well.

-Luffy felt his whole world crumble, seeing you were gone as he tried to attack Kuma, lunging at him- hatred being the only thing fueling him.

-The Warlord easily caught him, holding him up by his neck as Luffy was nearly feral, demanding for his crew brought back, trying to punch and break free.

-Kuma’s voice was low as he spoke to Luffy, “I sent her somewhere safe.” Luffy’s eyes went wide, shocking him, and before he could ask where, Luffy was blown away as well.

-The Straw Hats were separated, scattered all over the Grand Line.

[climbthemountain2020]

Hope of Spring - Chapter 23

Also on Ao3! Chapter 22 here :)

BRING ME BACK, he roared, swinging his fists blindly, the sobs tearing from his throat and the panic overtaking his senses as he fought against Rhys and Azriel.

He fell to his knees. “Rhys, please.” He sobbed. “He’s going to kill her!” Rhys only dropped his head.

“She made me promise, Tamlin. We cannot go back.” Rhys had placed a shield around Tamlin, holding it tightly in place to prevent him winnowing as he slammed his fists against it.

“I’ll never forgive you for this! How could you? How will you live with yourself when she’s dead?” Tamlin screamed, his fists bloodying against the walls of the shield.

“It was the only way, Tamlin. She knew it. You know it.” He joined him within the shield to put his hand on Tamlin’s shoulder as he heaved.

“I didn’t say goodbye. She didn’t–” He could barely get the words out. He tugged on the bond, finding it still there, flaring with power.

Suddenly, Tamlin shot up from the ground, knocking the shield and nearly Rhys. “We have to go back.” He shouted, turning, wide-eyed.

“Tamlin, I already told you we–”

“No! The carranam. You read about the carranam!” Rhys straightened. “She has his power, but he can’t die. They’re evenly matched while she has it, so she needs more, right?”

Rhys was following, Tamlin could see the realization dawn on his face. “I can do this for her. She and I are mates. Our magic is compatible. You have to bring me back.”

Rhys hesitated. One second. Two.

“Tamlin, she will never forgive me if I bring you back.”

“And I will never forgive you if you don’t.” Tamlin held firm. “Please, Rhys. What if it were Feyre?”

Rhys closed his eyes, sighing. He knew Tamlin was right. He would rip the entire continent in half if it meant Feyre’s life or death. He looked across the killing fields. They weren’t losing, but they weren’t winning either. He could see Helion in his beast form in the distance, ripping into the flanks of the Hybern castoffs. To the other side of the lake, Eris’ beast form of a large black dragon shimmered in the heat of the flames Tilly threw off across the shores. They were still swamped on all sides.

If Tamlin were right, this could be the thing to turn the tide in their favor.

He hated to break a promise to her. He’d sworn he would uphold his end. But he could face her ire if it meant she was still here to give it to him.

“Okay.” Tamlin’s red-rimmed eyes shot up, filled with heartbreaking hope. “Okay, let’s go. Do you have a knife left to make the cut?” Tamlin nodded, and Rhys reached out a hand.

“I will never forget this, Rhys. Never.” The world warped around them, bringing them slamming back to the ground where they’d left only moments before.

Penny, still drenched in now-drying blood, was fighting with everything she had. She was throwing great swaths of dark power over her shoulders at the Death God, who was holding each blow with shields of the same dark magic. She looked exhausted–sweat running lines through the blood on her face, her armor half-ripped off her shoulder, and a deep gouge through her thigh. In that moment, she caught sight of them, her face a look of absolute horror as they saw her mouth no.

All it took was the single moment of distraction for Koeschi to find an in. His power lashed at her, striking her straight in the chest and flipping her backwards to the ground, chest smoking with the hit. Fuck. Tamlin was running to her, and without thinking twice, Rhys launched in to draw his blade against Koeschi.

Tamlin raced to turn Penny over, holding her in his arms. She looked up at him, crushing fear and relief both present in her eyes.

“You weren’t supposed to be here.” She whispered, her voice cracking.

“I couldn’t leave. I can’t believe you thought I would leave.” He said. Penny laughed, tears squeezing out of her closed eyes.

“I can’t beat him. I can’t break the box.” She started to cry in earnest. “I thought I could win. I needed there to be a way for us to win.”

“There might still be.” She lifted her eyes to his. “Do you remember when Rhys found the passage about the carranam?” As with everything else, Penny knew what Tamlin intended immediately.

“Are you sure?” She asked him, tentatively.

“Yes, I am sure. Take my power and destroy the box. I know you can do it.” He pulled out the dagger from his side sheath and slid it across his palm, holding it out to her. She grabbed it and slid it through hers, immediately pressing their hands together. The power hit her with a force so unlike Koeschi’s that its softness startled her. It was a deep breath of rushing wind, a fast river of warm water, a deluge of rain over hot skin. Her power recognized this one, and it held it close. This power felt limitless, felt ancient, felt eternal.

She winnowed with Tamlin, grabbed at Koeschi while he fought mercilessly against Rhys, let his horrid power fill her again, and brought her focus to the box. They joined hands once more, and he stood behind her, holding her to him. She held tightly to the threads of Koeschi’s magic, amplified by the addition of Tamlin’s, and filtered every remaining part of herself into the box. She screamed as the strength of it barrelled through her, worried that she would give it everything and still, it would not be enough.

But then, a crack formed. Then another. Lit from within, the box began to shatter, like glass breaking. From behind her, she could hear Tamlin as he spoke into her ear.

“You’re almost there. I love you. I know you can do it. I’m so glad I met you, Penny. I’m so glad you fell into my manor. I love you.”

With a final dig into her power that left her staggering and breathless, she shoved the last bit of her magic into the box and collapsed as it exploded into a million fractals of light. That light, as though forced into a vacuum, disappeared as dark waves of black rushed from the box in violent waves.

RHYS NOW. She mentally pushed towards him, the words too difficult anywhere outside of her mind, and hoped to gods he’d heard.

The sword Rhys held arced through the air, cutting straight through Koeschi’s neck. Before his head even had a chance to hit the ground, the Death God’s body began to disintegrate into ash, floating on a cold breeze as if it had never existed at all. His head followed suit until he was nothing more than dust on the wind, leaving behind only a shattered box, now a broken, empty shell.

The rattle of power rippled over the battlefield, knocking some of the humans to the ground. In the distance, the castle on the lake began to collapse on itself. The humans began to surrender, and what remained of Hybern’s armies attempted to flee.

Rhys fell to his knees, exhaustion settling over him, horror overcoming his features as he looked towards Penny. She could barely make it off the ground. Since she’d fallen into Spring, she’d never felt so weak. Even after her last burnout, she could still feel the bond gently thrumming through her. Now, she felt so empty it was like her bones had hollowed out. She reached to Tamlin’s hand, made to pull them both up, then faltered.

She realized, then, why she felt so empty.

Tamlin’s eyes stared, unseeing, towards the gray skies.

Choking, she pulled at the bond to find nothing at all, not even something to grasp.

She couldn’t breathe. Couldn’t get the air in. She fell next to him, fingers shaking and running over his jaw, his face covered in dirt and blood. She blinked. Blinked again. Like her body and her mind couldn’t reconcile and connect what she was seeing and feeling and understanding.

Then she began screaming.

It was the worst sound Rhys had ever heard. He was distantly aware of people beginning to gather, drawn by the sound of Penny wailing.

No no no no.

Rhys knew she’d never forgive him. She might even kill him herself for allowing this. Even trying to block her out, her mental shields were so shattered in her grief that she was practically shrieking her anguish into his mind. He felt another kind of pain, this one through his own bond, and he knew Feyre had arrived. Of all people, his mate knew this pain, could recognize that horrid, feral screaming that accompanied only the emptiness that could come with the cleaving of a bond.

Perhaps they could resurrect him the way they had when he’d died reforging the cauldron. Perhaps they could find some way to bridge that immortal leap where his soul had already departed and yank him back. Feyre had had the same thought, already gathering the High Lords. He saw them gathering, and realized in that moment that Varian was stepping up, glowing faintly. Tarquin didn’t make it, Feyre whispered sadly into his mind. Cauldron save us all.

Then, in a moment of truly horrendous timing, Penny herself began to glow. The magic was choosing her as she gripped and shook the corpse of her mate. She had been chosen as the High Lady of Spring, proven worthy on the battlefield, no doubt. She panted, hyperventilating as the power coursed up her body.

“No.” She moaned. “No! I don’t want it,” she wailed, shaking her hands as though to dispel the magic elsewhere as she threw her head down on Tamlin’s motionless chest. “I don’t want it if you’re not here.” Her sobs broke something deep and fundamental within Rhys. He could hear Feyre gathering the High Lords still, pulling them all forward, explaining the intent. It didn’t take much. They wouldn’t even need to throw the spark this time, simply touching Penny’s shoulders should do. Rhys understood that if it didn’t work, if his soul was already too far gone, the damage would be irreparable. She would not be coming back from this. She had intended to die today, and if Tamlin were gone, well, all the more motivation for her.

Six High Lords gathered around a new High Lady, the picture of grief. I don’t know if this is going to work, Rhys. She can’t feel the bond anymore. Rhys sighed, his eyes burning, grasping for Feyre’s hand. “We will do everything we can.” They stepped forward, all ready to lend their power to Penny to save him. Tamlin had given all of himself to save them; he and Penny both had. The ultimate sacrifice.

The power flowed through Penny as the bridge of power built, her sobs still wracking her body as she pushed the light into his chest.

“Please, Tam. Please.” She gasped, gripping the tunic beneath his armor like it was her only remaining tether to this planet. “Please, I can’t do this without you,” she whispered. “Don’t leave me here.”

The light guttered out, and so did their hope.

The silence stretched across the battlefield, as Penny stared at some undefined spot in the distance, eyes glazed, breath shallow, swaying.

“Rhys.” Feyre said beside him. He couldn’t move. Couldn’t think.

It hadn’t worked.

“Rhys.” Feyre nudged again, and he saw what she did. Penny was shifting, unconsciously, flowing through various attributes. The wind began to kick up around her as her breaths became deep, heaving pants. “Rhys, she isn’t in control of her powers. She's going to hurt herself.” Penny’s armor cracked as she shifted into a great beast entirely, the new High Lady of Spring, but the roar from her chest was broken, anguished. She bellowed her grief, then collapsed, a low whine coming from her.

Rhys looked up to find Nesta sobbing into Cassian’s bandaged chest. Emerie, Mor, and Gwyn, though injured, were crying too. Rhys could feel the devastation ripping through his mate.

“You need to knock her out, Rhys. Now.” It was Azriel, limping to his side. “She’s going to hurt herself. We need to get her back to Spring. She can mourn him after she’s rested.” Rhys couldn’t swallow the knot in his throat. They had just begun to repair the rift, and now Tamlin was gone. Gone. How would he ever be able to look Penny in the eye again? He’d promised her. She started writhing on the ground, still rapidly blinking back and forth between forms.

“Rhys.” Azriel growled.

With a twist of his hand, the beast fell still, slowly morphing back into just Penny, draped over Tamlin one last time.

“She’s never going to forgive me.” Rhys realized he’d been crying.

“We can cast a preservation spell. We can give her time to properly say goodbye, but we need to get her back to Spring. We need to let her rest.”

Azriel went to grab Penny, having to slowly pry her fingers from where they were twisted in Tamlin’s shirt–one last desperate grab to bring him back to her. “Have someone bring him back to Spring and I will take care of it now. Do the debrief, and then bring everyone back to Spring that needs to be there. Gwyn and I will be waiting there with Penny.” He nodded to Gwyn and she joined him, her hand on his arm.

With a last nod to Rhys, they winnowed Penny back home.

[official-weasley]

Headcanon time (Part 5)

We all know how much Charlie Weasley loves dragons. Like it’s not how much I like ice cream or how I love to be cozy in Winter.

No, it’s much more and much deeper. He loves the beasts ever since he first saw one and I think that wasn’t him sitting on the sofa at the Burrow and reading a book. No, I think they were out – probably Diagon Alley – and they went shopping. Bill being a bit of a nerd already he wanted to go to Flourish and Blotts to look at books. Molly thought it was harmless to just look at the books as long as Bill and Charlie promise that they wouldn’t want to buy anything.

They nodded eagerly and went inside and Charlie immediately turned to the Nature Section to find a book or two with creature illustrations. What he stumbled upon, however, was much greater and much more beautiful.

Charlie heard of dragons before and was very disappointed when the family went to a Muggle zoo and they didn’t have one. They fascinated him because of their size and he made his goal to see one of them – even if just in a book.

That day in Diagon Alley, his wish came true. He saw an illustration of 5 different dragon species, the most beautiful to him being the Hebridean Black which immediately became his favorite breed. There was even a moving picture of a Chinese Fireball and a special edit from a Dragonologist about the fascinating feeding routine of Swedish-Short Snouts.

When Charlie heard his mother calling for him, he quickly went over the pictures one more time – his eyes lingering on each for a few seconds so he would never forget how they look like – and he promised himself that the second he can get his mother alone, he is going to ask her how can he get some money because he simply has to be educated on these fantastic beasts.

Charlie never questioned why the creatures fascinated him so much, why not any other, and why he was so drawn to them. He didn’t care – he just wanted to be around them.

Even though he was shy, he was brave enough to talk to all of his brothers (and one night to Ginny even though she was 3 at the time) about dragons and ask them if they had any more information about them.

After years of talking about nothing but dragons, Bill was the only one willing to listen to every new piece of information Charlie might’ve gathered either from library books or the old neighbor 3 houses away from theirs. Bill didn’t find dragons remotely as interesting as Charlie did but seeing the sparks in his little brother’s eyes, he couldn’t tell him that he already told him 17 times that week how fascinating it is that baby dragons only eat chicken blood and brandy.

The summer before Charlie started his first year at Hogwarts Molly and Arthur decided to start giving Charlie some money every time he does something at home. When they told him, Charlie was very grateful and even though his parents warned him that he should spare the money and perhaps wait until his third year to buy something nice for himself in Hogsmeade, Charlie already knew that he is going to spend every knut on books about dragons.

At this time, he knew that being a Dragonologist is a career and he was proud to announce to anyone who would listen that there are 4 big sanctuaries for dragons and 2 smaller ones. He also knew that the one having the biggest variety of dragons was the Romanian Sanctuary and Charlie was determined to make it his goal to study hard enough to get a job there.

Since Bill was nothing but brilliant at school, Molly and Arthur were a bit scared about how Charlie will do – they possibly can’t have two kids who will love books and studying in the library more than anything, can they?

After Charlie came home with more Os than other grades on his report card in his first year, his parents were over the roof that their two eldest are so responsible. Bill also told his mum and dad that Charlie is in the library more than him, but he left out the detail that he has his nose deep in books about dragons.

Hogwarts having one of the biggest libraries of the magical world was like a dream come true for Charlie. When he first went to see Madam Pince and asked her to take him to books about dragons, he expected her to give him a book or two. He did not expect 3 whole shelves of books on different breeds, behavioral studies, eating habits, mating, taming, finding and rescuing them, and how to train to become a great dragon listener.

After his first 3 years at Hogwarts, Charlie finished a shelf and a half and was determined that by the end of his time at school he will go through all the books at least once. In his nightstand drawer, he kept a special piece of parchment, where he wrote down titles of the books he simply has to read again.

It didn’t come as a surprise to anyone that Charlie was on top of his class in Care of Magical Creatures. He stayed with Professor Kettleburn after every class and while helping him tidy up and prepare for the next class he always asked him about dragons. And every time he had a chance, he went down to Hagrid’s so they could dream about dragons together.

The closer Charlie was to finishing school the bigger his wish to work in a Reserve got. He was so close yet so far away. He had perfect grades and he already got some contacts for the Romanian Sanctuary from Professor Kettleburn.

Everybody assured him that he will get the job and become a Dragonologist – Bill, his parents, Kettleburn, Hagrid, even his Head of House Professor McGonagall. And even though Charlie wasn’t big on compliments and rarely believed any nice thing someone said to him, he knew that they were right about his dream job.

In his seventh year, Charlie couldn’t stop thinking about it. He wanted to send them a letter in his sixth year but decided to wait even though the eagerness and the burning desire to see those magnificent creatures up close and work with them made him want to explode out of happiness.

It was May when Charlie sent the letter to the Romanian Sanctuary with 3 recommendation letters attached. He has never been so sure about anything in his entire life and he knew that if there is something he is going to be great at is being a Dragonologist.

He received a letter with a more than positive answer not even a week later. He smiled when he read that they were impressed by him and that they couldn’t wait to include him in their team of Dragonologists.

He only had a week with his family upon finishing school until he had to pack and say goodbye to his crying mother and a very supportive father.

He received an encouraging letter from Bill a day before his departure saying that he is going to do great and shouldn’t be nervous because all his dreams are finally going to come true. Charlie couldn’t help but agree with him and he couldn’t help but get a bit nervous as he couldn’t believe it will finally happen.

Even though he knew as much as one can about dragons he didn’t know what to expect once he gets there. Sure, he hoped that the people are nice but he couldn’t deny that he didn’t care as much for the co-workers as he did about the dragons accepting him.

Charlie arrived at the gate, ready as he will ever be to become what he wanted to be since the first day he found out that being around dragons is a profession. The hand with which he carried his suitcase was shaking and not because it was too heavy but because Charlie was so nervous and excited at the same time.

His boss greeted him with a big smile on his face and seeing how eager Charlie was to start, he took him on the tour before Charlie even got accommodated.

“In one of the recommendation letters, your professor told us that you wanted to work with dragons ever since you stepped inside their school.” The boss smirked at him.

“Even before that,” Charlie admitted, his cheeks slightly scarlet.

“Well, are you ready then?”

“Ready as I’ll ever be.” Charlie clapped his hands together and hurried after the man that was about to open a whole new world for him.

The second Charlie laid his eyes on the first dragon – which, of course, was a Hebridean Black – he couldn’t help but shed a tear. Something moved inside of him and he couldn’t help but his heart beating fast against his rib cage.

This was it. His dream job. The creatures he adored and respected more than anything else in the world.

Everything around Charlie disappeared at that moment as he wiped his tears away, grinned as hard as he could, and took a step toward his favorite breed knowing his life has only just begun.

[qobiin]

to live for us

pairing: gratsu (gray x natsu)

genre: angst, fluff | established relationship, canon-compliant

warnings: mentioned suicide attempt, post-galuna island arc, hurt/comfort, gray needs therapy

word count: 1684

summary: Natsu and Gray finally sit down and talk about Gray's Iced Shell attempt on Galuna Island.

“We need to talk.”

Natsu looks up from the drink Mirajane set down on the table before him a few minutes ago. Gray is standing in front of him, arms crossed against his chest in an attempt to stop his hands from subconsciously removing his clothes.

It never works, but Gray is of the mind that it makes him appear more intimidating than he actually is. Of course, Natsu isn’t sure he could ever find someone who wears underwear with hearts on them intimidating.

“Finally!” Natsu cheers, forcing a smile onto his face even when it’s the last thing he wishes to do. “Back home then?”

Gray nods even as he scowls, but he turns on his heel and immediately makes his way towards Fairy Tail’s doors anyway. Natsu jumps up from his seat and waves goodbye to Lucy who is sitting at the bar with Erza.

Happy looks up at him as he stands, but Natsu only has to wave wordlessly at him before the blue cat returns to focusing on his food. Gray is already halfway across the room, not one to wait or beat around the bush for important conversations like the one they are going to have. Natsu follows after him with his signature smile stuck in place, making sure to not have anything appear out of the ordinary about this situation.

He catches a few Fairy Tail members giving them odd glances, probably due to his and Gray’s lack of fighting and loud taunting. Natsu only waves pointedly at them before they avert their gazes and return back to what they were doing beforehand.

Natsu does not try to be subtle as he sniffs the air, taking in the familiar mix of scents in the guild. Everyone in the guild has known him long enough to know about the extent of the abilities he gained through the Dragon Slayer Magic that Igneel taught him as a child. There’s no need to be secretive around his hoard anyway.

Out in the streets, trailing after Gray as he leads them home, Natsu tones down on his sniffing as best as he can. If he garners a few strange or confused looks though, he doesn’t beat himself up about it. Most of these people will write off his behavior as a weird wizard thing and continue on with their day as they give him a wide berth. There is no need to worry.

His attention is drawn back to the moment when the scents start to signal his proximity to their home. Gray reaches the front door first and unlocks it, leaving it open for Natsu behind him.

The smell of home almost knocks him off his feet as he crosses the threshold. It’s just his, Happy, and Gray’s scents here, with hints of Erza scattered all around. Albeit, Gray’s scent is a bit stale considering the fact this is his first time returning home since they came back from Galuna Island.

They escaped punishment for breaking guild rules because the master wasn’t there but Natsu would like to not switch bodies with anyone ever again. It has been a few days at this point and still, Gray has not returned home. Natsu has been waiting patiently for this moment when they will sit down and discuss what is wrong.

Gray is sitting on their bed, shoes off and hands gripping the bottom of his shirt. Natsu reaches out and stops him from stripping, eyes on Gray’s face as the man focuses back in on the moment at present.

“Thanks,” Gray mumbles sullenly, his gaze downcast.

Natsu doesn’t say anything. He merely waits.

“I know you’re mad at me, but if you could tell me why you’re mad at me, it would make my apologizing to you much easier,” Gray scrambles to say after a moment of silence has passed between them.

Natsu tilts his head to the side and inhales, tasting the nerves and fright swirling around the edges of Gray’s scent. He exhales heavily, sitting down slowly on the bed beside Gray.

He leans back and lies down, keeping his eyes on the ceiling and not the man who should have been home with him these past few days. “I’m not mad.”

Gray twists at the waist to stare at him, his shoulders a stiff line that Natsu isn’t sure he has permission to soothe just yet. “Lying won’t help.”

“I’m not mad,” Natsu repeats, relaxing as their scents begin to blend together. “I’m worried about you. You scared me back there when you were going to sacrifice yourself to restrain Lyon. You knew by doing it your way you were going to end your life and yet you tried anyway.”

The silence that befalls them then is deafening. It goes on long enough that Natsu wonders if he should be angry after all. After a few seconds of contemplation though, he decides that anger would not help him right now and waits patiently for Gray to say something.

However, the longer the silence continues, the less likely Natsu believes that to be. Gray isn’t known for talking about feelings. Not just his own, but discussing feelings in general always gives his face a pinched quality that Natsu can’t help but laugh at sometimes.

He isn’t laughing now.

“You remember what I said when I asked you if we could find a place together, right?” Natsu asks once he is certain Gray won’t say anything without more prompting.

Natsu sees Gray’s nod in the corner of his eye and grins up at the ceiling as he thinks of the memory. Gray’s eyes had gone wide with surprise, his scent expanding with the force of it and appealing to Natsu so much he barely realized how close he had been getting until Gray pushed him back with a hand on his bare chest. Natsu had leaned in again to bury his nose in Gray’s neck anyway and gulp down lungfuls of his scent, smiling as Gray threaded his fingers through his hair and asked him why.

“I told you that you were the first in the guild to be added to my hoard when we were children. That I would want you near almost always and would despise every moment that we were apart,” Natsu recalls, his smile softer at the edges now. “I told you I fell in love with you when we were teenagers and that I would like to make you my mate in the future and you accepted.”

Natsu waits again, just to see if Gray will say anything at all before he uses his last-ditch effort. “How am I going to make you my mate if you’re not there for the future?”

Gray makes a sound as if Natsu has just kicked all the air out of his chest. They have fought and sparred enough times for Natsu to know what that actually sounds like so when Gray wheezes, he sits up quickly. He reaches out and takes Gray’s hands, biting his lip as the man who is his opposite in almost everything finally begins to cry.

Natsu moves closer until he can wrap his arms around Gray, tucking his head under Natsu’s chin as he shakes. His breath hitches but Natsu only clutches him tighter, holding him securely in his arms even as Gray somehow migrates to his lap. Natsu doesn’t mind that, he just holds on and waits.

Eventually, Gray’s sobs begin to make sense. Most of what he is saying is a mantra of “I’m sorry”s and half-aborted “I didn’t mean to do that”s, but Natsu gets the gist. He shushes and rocks Gray in his arms, focusing on their scents instead of the urge to cry with his mate.

When the worst of Gray’s tears have dried up, Natsu kisses the side of his head and pulls back far enough for their gazes to meet. Gray’s eyes are red-rimmed and puffy but he isn’t avoiding Natsu’s gaze anymore and that’s definitely a start.

“I think what happened with Ur was only dragged back up at Galuna Island and you never really healed from it,” Natsu ponders aloud, tilting his head in silent question and continuing when Gray nods tiredly. “She raised you like Igneel raised me and we’ve never gotten over suddenly losing them. Have we?”

Gray has to clear his throat twice before he says, “I don’t think we’ll ever be over that.”

“No,” Natsu agrees. “We won’t.”

“I should talk to someone,” Gray murmurs, the corners of his mouth twitching with amusement when Natsu raises an unimpressed brow at him. “A professional. Mirajane has been saying I should talk to the Good Doctor who helped Elfman after…”

Natsu smiles bitterly in response. Elfman was not the only one who had to talk to the Good Doctor after Lisanna died after all. Gray knows about this, of course, but Natsu had never strived to convince him of talking to the Good Doctor until now.

“I can let them know at my next session to expect an inquiry from you?” Natsu suggests.

Gray nods, leaning in quickly to press a kiss to Natsu’s cheek. “I’m still sorry. I just didn’t know how to fix things back on Galuna Island.”

Natsu nods but knows without seeing that his smile is not as bright anymore. “I think you just have to remember that you’re not alone anymore. Neither of us is and I’ll always have your back. We’re Fairy Tail members and you’re the one who I want to spend the rest of my life with. I want us both to have long futures ahead of us.”

Gray’s cheeks flush a light pink, his scent curling with both embarrassment and quiet joy. “It will be hard, but I’ll try. If not for me or for you, then for Ur. For the life she gave me by giving up her own.”

“For Ur and Igneel,” Natsu agrees. “May they look upon us and see us happy. Together.”

“Together,” Gray assures him before he leans in and their lips meet in a soft kiss.

a/n: i forgot to post this when i first posted it on ao3, but i hope you all like this! this was written for icewhisper as part of the secret snipers exchange 2020!

[ashotofogdensoldfirewhiskey]

Lucky Galleon

“Vic, look at this!”

Victoire looked up from her task, which had been to collect large stones from the bottom of the creek. She was knee deep in the cool water as it rushed around her legs. It was an extraordinarily hot day, and she’d volunteered to be the one to find rocks in the creek for that very reason. Teddy, meanwhile, was searching for twigs in the copse of trees by the creek, but was now holding something in his hand and waving it at her with some air of excitement.

“What is it?” she called.

“Come have a look!”

She sighed and trudged her way back to the edge of the creek and walked over to where Teddy was standing, her knees dripping. “What?”

“D’you reckon this is a Galleon?” he asked, his turquoise hair glinting in the sunlight.

She took the round thing from his hand and examined it herself. It was certainly the same shape and size as a Galleon, but that was the extent she could discern, as the thing was positively caked with mud. “It could be…”

She turned on her heel and walked back over to the creek, Teddy hot on her heels. She kneeled and dipped it in the cool water, scraping the dirt off with her fingernails. The more she scraped, the more golden metal she revealed.

“It is!” she squealed. “It’s a Galleon!”

“Wicked,” Teddy grinned.

“Should we go and tell the others? Maybe we can convince Nana to buy us some ice cream with it or—“

“Hold on, there,” said Teddy, holding up his hands. “There are how many midgets back there who would want some ice cream too?”

Victoire folded her arms and glanced back down at the Galleon, which would amount to nothing if it was spent on her numerous cousins constructing a fort in the backyard of the Burrow. “That's true...”

“I’ve been saving up for that Fanged Frisbee, you know…” said Teddy, smiling slyly at her and holding out his hand.

She closed her fist around the dirtied coin. “Well, I’ve been saving for a Pygmy Puff, you know that!”

“Well, I did find it,” Teddy pointed out.

“I cleaned it off,” Victoire countered.

“Finders keepers.”

“Losers weepers.”

Teddy laughed. “What if we flipped it? Dragons you keep it, Goblins I do.”

Victoire considered this. “Well alright then. But I’m warning you, my dad says I’m dead lucky.”

“Alright, you’ve warned me. You flip it then, go on.”

She took the coin and tossed it in the air. It landed with a small thud, and they both peered at the coin through the layer of dirt still stubbornly clinging to the metal.

She could make out the faint outline of a dragon, face up.

She grinned widely while Teddy groaned. “Ha! I’ll have my Pygmy Puff before the summer’s out. I told you I was lucky.”

“Yeah, yeah…” sighed Teddy. “You did.”

***************

Teddy’s heart was beating rather quickly as his grandmother pulled him into her fifteenth hug of the morning and reminded him to behave, as though he’d professed a desire to blow up the train or something.

“Grandmum, I’m going to be fine,” he insisted. He wished he felt as confident as his tone suggested.

“I know you will,” she said, turning and wiping her eyes discreetly. Teddy’s stomach, which was already feeling rather queasy, dropped a bit further. He wondered what his grandmother would do when she returned to the now empty house they had shared for the last eleven years.

“I’ll write all the time, I promise,” he reminded her.

She shook her head, her grey eyes staring sadly. “Look at you, comforting me. We’ve gone and got this all wrong, I’m meant to be the one telling you that I’ll write.”

Teddy grinned. “Well, that goes without saying, doesn’t it?”

Andromeda clicked her tongue. “The cheek. Of course it does.” She looked up and smiled, speaking to someone behind Teddy. “There you are, I thought you’d forgotten.”

Teddy turned to see his godfather emerging from behind a large family saying their goodbyes. To his surprise, he was pulling along a miserable-looking Victoire Weasley. Teddy heard the familiar buzz of families around him as they recognized Harry, but Teddy, far too used to it, ignored them.

“I’d never forget today,” Harry said, smiling down at Teddy and pulling him in for a quick but firm hug. “How’re you feeling?”

“Great!” he lied. “Brilliant!”

Harry gave him one of those looks that made Teddy feel sure that he saw right through him, but Teddy deflected further inquiry by speaking to Victoire, instead, who had been trying her best to look pleased but was failing miserably. “I didn’t know you were coming, Vic!”

“I asked Uncle Harry yesterday if he wouldn’t mind bringing me. You don’t mind, do you?” she said, sounding suddenly worried.

If Teddy were being completely honest, he wasn’t exactly thrilled that she was there. Not that he wasn’t happy to see her, of course. But he didn’t want her to see him in this state, in which he was barely disguising his growing panic. He’d been excited for this, hadn’t he? He remembered counting down the days to this moment for months. But now, it all felt completely absurd. He was about to get on a train and leave his family until Christmas, to a school where he knew absolutely nobody? He was only eleven, for Merlin’s sake. Whose idea was this? But he couldn’t say any of that, so he opted for a not-entirely-truthful, but far simpler, “Of course I don’t mind! Thanks for seeing me off.”

Victoire gave him a small smile, though she still looked sad. “Are you excited to go?”

Teddy glanced up at Harry and his grandmother, who were now chatting and didn’t seem to be paying them too much attention. “Well…” he stared down at his shoes. “I was.”

He looked back up at her and she seemed to understand what he was getting at. She usually did. “I wish I was going with you.”

“Me too,” he said honestly.

He felt a hand on his shoulder and looked up to see Harry, staring down at him. “Can’t believe you’re already going, mate. I’m going to miss you.”

Teddy felt a lump in his throat and tried to pass it off, acutely aware that Victoire was still staring at him. “You’ve got the little squirts to keep you busy.”

Harry smiled, though his eyes looked sad. “Yes, I do. Doesn’t mean I won’t miss you coming round for dinner, though.”

Teddy tried to smile but didn’t quite manage it. He felt tears welling up behind his eyes.

Harry leaned down so that he was eye-level. “You’re going to have a great time, Teddy. Your family will still be here when you come back, alright?”

Teddy nodded, because it was all he could manage. Harry pulled him into another hug, and Teddy felt that Harry was trying to put a lot of unsaid things into it. Teddy gripped his godfather tightly, forgetting for a moment that he was trying to pretend he wasn’t worried about this departure at all. Harry looked close to tears himself when he finally let go. “Your mum and dad would be so proud of you.”

“They would?” he asked hopefully.

Harry nodded. “I know it.”

“You’d best get going,” Andromeda said, disguising her own tears rather badly as well. “Don’t want the train to leave without you.”

She gave him another hug, and whispered a fervent, “Be good,” in his ear.

Harry patted him on the shoulder and said, “You’d better write me right away to tell me where you get Sorted.”

Teddy nodded. He turned to Victoire to find that tears were streaming down her cheeks. “Vic…”

She sniffled. “Have… have fun.”

“I’ll try…” He wanted to say something comforting to her, but had no idea what to say. He’d never been good when she cried.

Quite suddenly, she threw her little arms around him and said, “We’ll still be friends when you come back, right?”

“Wha—of course we will!” Teddy cried, feeling quite alarmed and patting her awkwardly on the back. “Don’t be stupid, we’re always going to be friends.”

She released him, her bright blue eyes sparkling with tears. “You promise?”

“I promise,” he said.

She nodded and pulled something from her pocket. She pressed it into his hand and said, “Good luck,” with a watery smile. Teddy looked down and saw she had given him a dirty golden Galleon.

He smiled at her and slipped it into his pocket. “Think it’ll give me some of your luck, then?”

She laughed. “I thought you’d use it to buy some Chocolate Frogs.”

The train whistled behind him. Smiling a small, sad smile at Victoire, and waving to his grandmother and his godfather, he couldn’t help but feel that he was already pretty lucky himself.

But… the Galleon couldn’t hurt.

[the-last-cuddlebender]

The Jasmine Dragons

When Uncle Iroh said in TLOK that he chose to move on into the Spirit World, I think he did so by climbing onto the back of a lionturtle…

**************************************

A/N: This started as a little hc post a few days ago, but then I remembered how much I love dragons and Uncle Iroh (and Azula and Zuko). Plus, my selfcontrol for writing hurt/comfort is non-existent:)

Rating: G (D for dragons)

Words: 1,390

ArchiveOfOurOwn

**************************************

The sun is setting in the West when the lionturtle speaks to him. 

“I have heard your wish. I can help you face the next step of your journey. But only if you are ready.” 

Iroh shares a cup of jasmine tea with Zuko and beats his nephew’s butt at Pai Sho one last time. He doesn’t tell him that he’s going. Zuko doesn’t sense anything strange, either, because his uncle always exudes love like his very next minute of life will be taken from him. 

Azula finds Iroh before he finds her. Nothing happens in the Palace without her knowing. She looks at her Uncle like she knows more about what is to happen than he does. She hugs him and says nothing, and she holds him for a few seconds longer than Iroh thought her capable of. 

Then the moment is gone, Azula squares her shoulders, and Iroh’s niece strides away towards the company awaiting her in the gardens. 

Iroh gets on the lionturtle’s back (it’s the water one, by the way. The element of family and change, and the element that Iroh so closely studied after his son was killed). He glances back to see his mortal coil looking as if asleep and smiling. 

When Iroh turns around to face his new world, he is a little sad, though. In fact, his heart breaks and cries. 

An old friend is there to greet him—the lionturtle is gone, now, and Iroh is standing in a mountain’s valley. Little tears escape him as he pets the nose of the massive, purring blue dragon. 

But then the Firebending Master, now a spirit, touches a whisker to Iroh’s brow. 

He shows Iroh his red-scaled mate, also an old friend, curled up and at peace so deep in the secret passages of their cave that she practically sleeps on the heart of the earth. She purrs in her half-empty nest, and she keeps one eye open to watch her two hatchlings play and tussle about the other half of her nest. The young dragons roll in the imprint that their ancient father had left, and the smooth dip of stone smells like something familiar and safe even though they never met him. 

But then the mothering red dragon moves, showing Iroh something else. And Iroh cries a little harder and is so overcome with joy that it fills him to the brim, curls into a smile, and spills over into a laugh. 

The ancient blue dragon relishes his old friend’s happiness and shows him through his vision, again, the hoard of golden eggs clutched in an alcove behind his old nest. The alcove is covered walls and floor with bushes blooming small white flowers (that cradle the eggs like a bed), and crystals like those used in the Earth Kingdom—though these are gold teetering on white—line the alcove’s ceiling and bathe the bushes and eggs with light like the crystals were each a tiny sun. 

Iroh laughs so hard that he would have stopped breathing if he weren’t a spirit, now, when, in the vision, the ancient red dragon turns and puffs a small gust of cinders over the bushes. Her heated breath hardly disturbs a leaf, and she settles to sleep as the faint smell of burning jasmine fills the cave.

...Zuko, much like his Uncle had once done, goes to the masters as he grieves his loss. 

The Sun Warriors play the horn and drums, and Zuko doesn’t know what the hell to think when two dragons barely bigger than housecats emerge from the massive caves. 

The tiny dragons circle him like vultures (not quite old enough to fly) and trip over feet they have yet to grow into as they attempt to dance. 

The blue, keen and calculating for its young age, sits like the statues outside the Palace. She nods and blows a ring of smoke to voice her approval of him, and she puffs her chest and looks at Zuko like she expected him to grovel his thanks for her giving him a judgment at all. 

The red circles a second more, cocks his head, and then jumps and tries to spit a stream of fire. His form is terrible, and he would have landed flat on his back if Zuko didn’t drop to his knee and catch him. The dragon’s golden eyes narrow like he’s smiling, and Zuko swears he really is. (The blue huffs and growls like she is muttering her irritation.) 

The stone bridge shakes as the red Master, massive and looming and ancient, appears at the mouth of her cave. She gives Zuko a look, cocks her head, and puffs an approving ring of smoke just like the little blue dragon had. She growls something that sounds like a purr and shakes Zuko to the bone. The rolling bass of the sound is a landslide trembling his marrow, and the blue, her nose and tail high in the air, trots to her mother. 

But then the blue pauses, frozen for a second. 

She zooms like she is made of water up Zuko’s pants and tunic, and she throws herself over her brother. Zuko holds them both against his chest, and their weight reminds him of Bumi and baby Kya (who he had visited not even a week before). 

The blue nuzzles her brother like she was both saying hello after living a lifetime apart from him and saying goodbye forever.

The red flinches as though surprised, but he returns the gesture with twice as much urgency and just as loud of a purr. 

Then the moment is gone, the blue dragon nips the red’s ear as if to remind him of the chain of command, and she shakes off her fall of demeanor. She sticks her nose back in the air like royalty, and she trots to her mother awaiting her in the cave. 

The ancient red Master rolls her eyes as much as a dragon can, and she cuddles the little blue close. She gives Zuko a long look that sinks into the deepest parts of him and flips through the pages of his soul. 

The little red dragon, purring, clings to Zuko’s tunic. His mother looks sad but proud as she and the little blue disappear back into the cave. 

Ancient eyes that have witnessed a thousand lifetimes gleam through the black at Zuko. They glint like sunlight hitting gold coins and shuffle through a rainbow of different emotions as if to show him something. 

“...I understand.” 

The orbs of gold blink and disappear. 

Zuko smiles and holds his dragon like he was his inner fire made scaly flesh, and he tries not to trip or cry as he descends the stairs. 

(His dragon smells so much like jasmine tea that Zuko’s heart doesn’t know whether to jump for joy or stop beating altogether.) 

(Azula is there to greet him when Zuko steps off his ship. She doesn’t look surprised, and the little red dragon doesn’t shy away from her hand.) 

(Druk makes his nest in the bushes blooming small white flowers near the turtleduck pond.) 

(Ursa keeps him in the corner of her eye when she sits in the garden to read. She awaits the company soon to join her. Druk pads the space in the bush beside him like he is doing the same.) 

(Azula is nothing if not patient.) 

(“...I know.”) 

(And Azula, like her brother, struggles not to trip as she descends the stairs with the little blue curled and clinging to her chest.) 

(But Azula, unlike Zuko, lets herself cry.) 

(Her heart decides to beat like her next minute of life would be taken from her.) 

(Neither Azula nor Zuko—nor Ursa, especially—ever move the empty fourth seat at the table where they play Pai Sho.) 

(Druk and Riyu curl up, winding over each other like a metal cable braided together, in the imprint their Flame-Brother’s and Flame-Sister’s father—not their sire—had left, and the smooth dip of wood smells like something familiar and safe even though they had never met him.) 

(Ursa lights a gentle fire and brews their tea.)

(They all welcome the lazy fuzz simmering just beneath their skin that threatens them with sleep as the smell of steaming jasmine fills the gardens.)

**************************************

Riyu = "reason"...because Azula found her drive/purpose/reason...

...Azula had to find the last (Master) firebender whose kind had been slaughtered by hers.

[thecleverdame]

This Is Not A Fairy Tale - Five

Alpha!Prince!Sam x Omega!Reader

Story Masterlist

Summary: You’re a suppressed Omega who is forced into servitude after the death of your father. Your stepmother Naomi is a heartless woman who forces you to do the cooking and cleaning, while she tries to marry off her own two daughters, Alex and Claire. But your life takes a wonderful and dangerous turn when you meet the charming Prince Sam who also happens to be an Alpha.

Warnings: ABO smut, abuse, death of parents, magic

Beta:  ilikaicalie  

*This story is complete and posted on Patreon. Become a patron for a monthly pledge of $2.50 and get access to all my Patreon content.

-

Your home, or what was your home, is a three-hour journey from the castle. You ride through fields and cross rivers, following your own innate sense of direction. Sam couldn’t find his way to you, but in contrast you always know your way. It’s a trait left from your father.

Rehearsing the plan in your head, you try to account for every possibility. Perhaps they will be sleeping. After a night of dancing and drinking, Naomi and your step-sisters must be exhausted. Maybe they haven’t even noticed you’re gone. And even if they have, you’re banking on the fact that they’ll be too worn out to put up a fuss, at least not this morning.

You won’t get into specifics. There’s no reason for them to know anything about what happened between you and Sam. The goal is to collect your father’s ashes and leave without a nasty confrontation.

There’s no sign of life as you approach the house. Tying the horse to the post you venture inside as quietly as possible. The house appears empty. Slipping your shoes off, you shuffle through the dining room and into the parlor. Your father's ashes sit atop the fireplace in an ornate gold jar that once belonged to your mother. You’ll have both of them with you now.

You carefully collect the urn and turn to find Naomi waiting silently in the doorway. You nearly drop the jar, pulling it back to your chest.

“You really are a slippery little thing, aren’t you.” Her eyes narrow. “How did you get out of the chains?”

“You didn’t fasten them tight enough.” You counter, standing tall. There’s no reason to be afraid of her now. You have the power whether she knows it or not.

“There she is!” Claire rattles, standing beside her mother with Alex right behind. “What are you wearing?”

“What’s different about you?” Alex tips her head. “She looks...less like walking death.”

“Yes, she does.” Naomi steps closer as you fight the urge to retreat. “What are you playing at with Robert’s ashes?”

“I’m taking them with me.” You feel emboldened, empowered for the first time in your adult life. “I won’t be living here anymore.”

“What?” Claire laughs, looking at you as if you’ve just said you saw a dragon. “Have you finally gone insane?”

“What is this?” Naomi throws up a hand to silence her daughter.

“I have decided it’s time for me to move on. I’m no longer a child and you are not my master. I’m not a servant. I’m your stepdaughter and I am free to go as I please.” You want to jump for joy as the words leave your mouth. You’ve wanted to say them for so long.

“This is rather sudden.” Naomi smiles a terrifying grin that sends fear into your very bones. “You are correct. You are not my property, but you forget you are an Omega. If you leave and try to make it on your own you’ll be snapped up by the first wealthy Alpha to cross your path. Omegas aren’t meant to be free, my dear.”

“I’ve already been claimed,” you snap back before you can stop yourself. The hatred you’ve been suppressing for years bubbling to the surface.

All three pairs of eyes snap to your neck. Your hair is covering half of Sam’s bite but it’s visible if one knows what to look for.

“Who would claim you?” Alex wonders aloud, turning to Claire. “Is she serious?”

Naomi is silent, you but you can see the wheels turning. She’s putting things together, staring at you in contempt as the pieces click into place.

“What have you done? You little whore!” She’s seething, jaw clenched as she thrusts an accusatory finger in your direction.

“He claimed me.” You poke your chest, tears springing to your eyes. “He wants to be with me, Naomi. We’re soulmates and there is nothing you can do to take that away from us.”

“What is she talking about?” Clair looks from you to her mother. “Who claimed her?”

“The Prince.” Naomi presses her lips together. “It was her at the ball. The mystery woman in blue. She’s an Omega, no one else ever stood a chance. He wouldn’t have been able to control himself even if you were a troll under a bridge! The king and queen will never allow such deception.”

“It wasn’t the first time we’ve met,” you volley back, watching the fact register as her face falls. “He threw the ball to find me. We’re going to be happy together and I hope my joy tortures you every day!”

“Is she serious?” Claire looks as if she might vomit. “She can’t be. You’re both having a laugh, aren’t you? Mother?”

“Shut up!” Naomi snaps. She can’t take her eyes off you. Alex and Claire are frozen in shock and all you want to do is leave this place and never come back. “You’re going to pay for this.”

“He wanted to know who hurt me.” Your eyes narrow as you inch toward her, wishing you could reach out and smack her right across the face. “He ordered me to tell him who left these scars on my body and I protected you. You should remember that I showed you mercy when you’ve shown me none.”

“You ungrateful slut!” She screams, hands fisted at her sides.

“Goodbye,” you offer your regards and skirt around the women.

You’re surprised that no one follows you but grateful that it’s over as you secure the ashes in your saddlebag. But when you turn to take one final look at the home your father built, Naomi is stalking toward you with two servants behind her. It’s two of the men who work in the fields and care for the cattle.

“Stop her!” Naomi instructs and you realize what’s happening.

“Don’t touch me!” you shout as both men grab your arms, pulling you away from the horse. “Let me go!”

“You are a foolish child.” Naomi watches stone faced as you struggle, fighting like a caged animal. “Carry her down to the basement and make sure she’s tied up properly, arms and legs. We can’t have her slipping out again.”

“What are you doing?!” you scream, staring at her in horror as you’re dragged toward the house. Your feet kick along the ground as freedom slips away. “You can’t keep me here. He’ll find me!”

Three Days Later

Dean winces as a chair hits the wall with tremendous force and splinters in a thousand pieces, sending wood shards in all directions.

“Who is in charge of the search?” Sam yells, grabbing the edge of a small side table and sending it flying. He’s taking his aggression out on whatever’s within arm’s reach.

“I am, my lord.” Byron, a middle-aged high ranking soldier, looks from Dean to Sam, shrinking back a step. “We’re doing all we can, but the search will take time. Perhaps if we had a starting point-”

“Don’t make excuses.” Sam points, stalking toward him. “Just find her. Do you need more men?” Sam looks from Byron to his father who’s watching from the corner of the room. “Tell him he can have as many men as he needs.”

“Of course,” John nods. “Whatever it takes.”

“It’s not a matter of manpower.” Bryon gulps, gathering his courage. “It’s simple logistics. We’ve searched every home in the city from top to bottom. We’ve started with the country homes but it will take days to ensure we’ve left no stone unturned. Perhaps a week.”

“A week?” Sam’s blood is boiling, his face bright red, unable to control the anger churning inside him. Just as quickly, his mood shifts, face falling, swallowing hard as he glances at the king. The fight has drained out of him. Sam’s been cycling between rage and desperation for seventy-two hours. “A week? I can’t-”

“We’ll find her.” John bows his head in confirmation. “Perhaps we need a better strategy.”

“May I make a suggestion?” Bryon raises a shaking finger.

“Please,” Dean nods.

“Perhaps we should make an announcement. If people knew what had happened we would have thousands more eyes looking for her. Men would volunteer to join the search.”

“That’s out of the question.” Mary speaks up for the first time.

“Why? It’s not a bad idea.” Dean offers. “Are you concerned about appearance? Claimed but unmarried…”

“Of course not. There is far more at stake than Sam’s reputation.” Mary scoffs, moving across the room to her youngest son and running a hand up his back. “What do you think the risks are for a prince’s mate out in the world without protection? There are plenty who would jump at the chance to use her against us. Not to mention she’s an Omega, claimed or not she’s a rare commodity.”

Sam makes a desperate breathy noise as his eyes flutter shut. He’s a newly mated Alpha without his mate. The balance of his body has been turned upside down. He can hardly think straight and when he manages to have a coherent thought it’s nothing more than a list of all the terrible fates that could befall you.

“I have to ask again, I’m sorry son.” John persists despite his wife shaking her head in silent warning. “You’re sure she didn’t leave of her own volition? It’s possible she was overwhelmed by how fast things moved-”

“She didn’t run away.” Sam snaps to attention, anger flooding back. He’s been over this a hundred times. “She had every intention of returning. She left a note. If she would have just waited, none of this would have happened.”

“So, either she was detained between the castle and her home or something happened on the journey back,” Dean surmises. “She didn’t tell you anything? Her father’s name? Any detail?”

“No, she didn't want me to know.” Sam explains. “They beat her. There were marks all over her, some from a lash, others I’ve never seen before. She didn’t want me to retaliate.”

“Well, it sounds as if time is of the essence.” Mary thinks on this news, going over all the details Sam has shared over the last three days. “She told you her father was dead and it was her stepmother that beat her?”

“Yes,” Sam confirms, jaw ticking as his nose scrunches in displeasure.

“Well, then we must narrow the search. Byron, compile a list of men who have passed away and left widows and children. I’m sure it’s a long list, but it’s better than scouring the countryside with no direction.”  

“Right away.”

The moment Byron leaves the room Sam turns to his father with tears in his eyes. “They’re hurting her. Whoever stopped her from returning, they’re hurting her.”

“You don’t know that.” Mary whispers, slipping her arm around his waist.

“I do. I can’t explain it, but I can feel it. I know how that sounds but I swear to you there are moments when I feel her so clearly. She’s in pain.”

“The bond between Alpha and Omega is something no one understands. You’re connected to her in more ways than we realize.” John places a hand on Sam’s shoulder. “We’re going to find her. It’s only a matter of time.”

-

Naomi is proving a point. She thought you were already broken, but now she’s on a mission to seal the deal.

You scream as the whip cuts across your back, feeling flesh open as the sting of the leather crosses over dozens of already open wounds. You’re strung up, arms above your head and stripped naked. There’s a warm trickle of blood down your back and over your buttocks. She’s taken the lash to every part of you she can reach, legs, backside and stomach. She’s refrained from marking your breasts and belly, because, as she’s been eager to explain a buyer wants something pretty to look at.

She announced this morning that she has in fact sold you to a wealthy statesman, an Alpha from a far away kingdom. He’ll come to collect you this evening so Naomi is making the most of her last hours with you.

At some point your mind leaves your body. You float upward toward the ceiling, a hazy, clouded feeling as you remember Sam’s scent and how warm it felt to be with him. You didn’t realize how cold you always were in your little basement bedroom until you felt his animal heat all around you. The sound of your voice crying out in agony echos far away.

If you died down here, at least you would have died knowing how wonderful it feels to be cared for by someone. To be held and kissed by a man who only wanted to show you pleasure and safety. But instead, you will suffer a fate much worse than death. You’re to be a mate for another Alpha, a man will no doubt try to claim you and make you his own...but no other mark will ever supersede Sam’s. Your soul and your body will always pine after your original mate. This will only be the beginning of the suffering.

You jerk back to reality when your knees hit the floor. Naomi has cut the ropes that held you. Now you’re a bloody puddle of a woman, nude and cowering on the soot covered stone.

“Why are you doing this?” You look up, knowing the question itself might incur her wrath but it doesn’t matter anymore. Your entire body is on fire, nauseating pain that makes your stomach heave. What’s more at this point?

“Because I hate you,” she replies simply. “You were a wretched child and grew into a wretched woman. If you think I’ll let you take away my daughters’ chance at an advantageous marriage, you’re mistaken. I should have sold you off long ago.”

“Please don’t do this.” You look up at her, arms wobbling as you summon your last ounce of strength. “If you let me go I won’t tell.”

“You won’t tell anyone as it is. I’ve told the Duke what a liar you are. I don’t want you to think you can talk your way out of this. I explained to him that you were claimed by a stable hand and will say or do whatever you can think of to be with him. I wouldn’t go telling tales of your prince. The duke said if you can’t stop your dishonesty he’ll cut out your tongue. You won’t need it to be of use to him.”

You close your eyes, gripping your knees to your chest and try to imagine a way out. There has to be something you can do. If only you’d told Sam where you came from, your father’s name. Anything. You never imagined your life would come to this, an Omega bought and sold and soon to be shipped off to a land far, far away.

[lexrius]

The Wolf

AN: This is the first fic in the Dragon’s Mate series. Series needs a new name though as I re-do the fic.

------

I sat in my office as I began writing my report for our last investigation. I played with my quill as I finished the report with a sigh. I looked back to the letters that were delivered to me days prior from me getting back to the office. One from my mom telling me about her and dad’s latest adventures; Chiara with her updates about her life and Talbott finally proposing and even one from Ben who has been very quiet these last few years. I looked at the photo from our sixth year. Everyone was happy, playing in the snow, and even some stolen kisses underneath the mistletoe. The memories flooded back to me like a stab in the heart. Penny and Bea’s falling out. Mine and Barnaby’s break up. Finding R and my brother. Rowan….. I sighed and thought back to my happier memories.

Charlie and I’s first date. Rowan and I getting excited for Quidditch. Winning the Quidditch Cup. I sighed as I look at those letters and looked back five years ago when we entered our last year at Hogwarts. The smiles and tears we all had. The heartfelt goodbyes. Everyone going their own ways. I had chosen to become an auror; getting a job in America. Separated from my home, my friends, and my love. I looked at the pile of letters and smiled at the most recent one. My Barn Owl, Athena, preened her feathers as she settled on my desk. My eyes scanned the letter with a light smile.

My dearest Viper,

I know that was pretty sappy, but you know I’m not very good at writing love letters. How have you been? It’s been a couple of months since any of us had heard from you. Here at the sanctuary we received a new little one! He’s a beautiful ridge-back we named Gary. We’re thinking of pairing him with Norberta. Anyway back to the point of this letter; Dad got tickets to the Quidditch World Cup! Ron and Ginny invited Harry and Hermione and I was wondering if you would like to join us?

Answer soon.

Love, Charlie

A slam next to me jolted me from my thoughts. I looked over to see my partner slouch down into her chair,”Girl you and I need a vacation! Ramsey has been working our tails off since late December.” Her golden brown eyes focused towards me. She gave me a hearty smile and pointed to the doors,”Let’s clock out early and head to the bar! Drinks on me tonight.” I laughed and nodded,”Alright let me grab my jacket.” I grabbed my letters and jacket and we clocked out. We said goodbye to the receptionist and out into the streets of New York. We made our way to the Thundering Brew; Queen’s Under Pressure playing through the speakers. Drew the goblin was cleaning glasses when he saw us walk in,”Well there’s my two favorite customers!” His Boston accent was thick as he greeted us,”Quetta Woods; you are looking as beautiful as ever.” He flirted. Quetta rolled her eyes and sat at the bar. He then looked at me,”And the Wolf is here as well. Tell me love; what can I get you today?”

“Pear Dazzle.” He then looked over to Quetta,”Fire Whiskey as usual.” He nodded and started making the drinks. Quetta leaned against the bar and looked at me,”Soooo how’s dragon boy doing?” I laughed at her nickname for Charlie,”He’s doing good…..” I stayed silent thinking about his letter. Quetta knew something was up and crossed her arms,”Alright. What did he do?”

“What? Nothing….It’s just…He invited me to go to the Quidditch World Cup with him and his family. I haven’t seen him in years-what if he doesn’t like me anymore or-” Quetta slapped me upside the head. She gave me her ‘Are you serious right now?’ look. I sunk back in my chair and pouted,”You really think he would think that? Girl; he kept a long distance relationship with you! Anyone who has eyes can see that that man loves you.” I smiled and grabbed my drink that Drew had placed in front of me. Quetta raised her glass to me,”A toast to young love and the best damn team in America!” I raised my glass in cheers and slammed down the drink.

After a few drinks I went home to rest for the night.

I sighed as the heat slipped into my living room. I had been stationed in Arizona upon my request to study the Thunderbirds on my downtime. I looked at Galeo who was setting up his nest with the new gold artifacts that Jacob found. I looked outside and watched the cars drive along the road.

I pop behind my door caught my attention. I pulled my wand out and was preparing to fight. A knock came to my door. I looked through the peep hole and saw that it was my boss,”Detective Rogers? It’s midnight; what are you doing here?!” I asked him after opening up the door. He took his fedora off and placed it on my coffee table,”I just heard Intel from the Ministry of Magic’s auror office. Winchester heard rumors going around that the Death Eaters are rallying up for something big.” He placed a case folder down which I looked over real fast,”We think there might be an appearance at the Quidditch World Cup. I’m sending you to get some Intel there since you requested a vacation for it.” He smiled at me. I rolled my eyes and scoffed,”My how generous of you to send me on vacation and make me work at the same time.” I said sarcastically. He pulled one more case file out,”There’s another reason we’re sending you there. A person of interest so to speak.”

I looked at the case file and saw the red haired woman who I had been tracking for years now. Rakepick’s picture looked at me and smirked. Fire boiled in the pits of my stomach as I read the case file. Rogers  handed me the full case file,”Are you in?” I looked at him with a smile,”Is that really a question?”

——

I nearly puked as the Portkey stopped. I regained my composure and made my way to the Leaky Cauldron. I signed in to a room and collapsed on the bed. I couldn’t sleep with the worry that my friends were in danger again. I tossed and turned in my sleep dreaming about everyone who has died. Dragging me down into the pits of Hell. There I see her face. Rakepick sitting in her chair twirling her wand in anticipation. She looked over to me with a snarky look,”Well look who the cat dragged in. Viper Akela; my old apprentice.” My breathe hitched as she turned her chair. At the bottom laid Rowan. I raised my wand but couldn’t say the words. She did the same and succeeded. I woke with a start from the nightmare.

I stared at the clock in the room.

4:30

I stretched and packed my bags to go to the Area where the Quidditch World cup was taking place. I apparated with no issue and showed the ticket man my ticket and tipped the man nicely. I stopped and turned towards him,”Excuse me sure. I’m supposed to meet with the Weasley’s; where exactly will I find them?” The no-mag looked at me confused before returning to his list. He pointed in the direction and told me what area they would be in. I thanked him and made my way to the tent grounds. I settled my tent on the ground and started setting it up. I sighed and relaxed inside the tent while looking over my case files. My thoughts interrupted when a few outside voices got closer.

“Did the others beat us here dad?” I heard what sounded like Fred outside the tent. I smiled and closed the files and made my way to the entrance,”No; someone took our spot! I will have a very nasty talk to about this nonsense!” I heard Mr. Weasley sounding furious. I laughed and walked out of the tent. Mr. Weasley had his arms crossed and was glaring at me,”May I ask why you are in-” HE stopped and looked at me in surprise,”Merlins beard. If it isn’t miss Viper Akela!” I laughed and hugged him,”It’s good to see you again Mr. Weasley! Sorry for the scare. If you don’t mind I’ll be staying next to you guys on the grounds.” He nodded and with a hearty laugh he pat my shoulder,”All swell my dear.”

I looked over to the group of excited red heads who then rushed up and gave me hugs. I looked at Fred and George in shock,”How the hell did you get that tall!?” Both Fred and George laughed and leaned on me,”We got the good genes!” I pushed them off and looked to Ginny and Ron who were very grown up,”Well now has it really been that long?” Ginny smiled brightly,”You have to tell us about your adventures in America! Charlie never tells us anything.” I laughed and shook my head,”Most of my job I can’t tell and you know that.” She shrugged and went to go help her dad with their tent. I finally turned to Ron and his friends. Ron looked at his friends then back at me,”Guys let me introduce you to one of Charlie’s coolest friends! Viper Akela. Viper these are my mates Hermione and Harry!”

I held out my hand to the two teens. Hermione beemed and took my hand with a huge grin,”It’s so nice to meet you! I’m Hermione Granger.” I felt a pang in my heart as she reminded me of Rowan. I then looked to Harry,”I’m guessing your the famous Harry Potter?” The dark haired boy nodded. I shook his hand,”From one cursed child to another; it’s nice to meet you.” HE smiled and gave me a firm handshake. We made our way into the tents waiting for the boys to arrive. It was nice getting to know Harry and Hermione and hearing all of their crazy tales. I looked at Harry and smiled,”Charlie told me your the new Griffindor seeker?” Harry nodded,”Yeah since my first year. Did you play quidditch too Viper?”

I raised my eyebrow at him and laughed,”Kid your looking at one of Hufflepuff’s best chaser. I ended up beating Griffindor my last year.” Harry leaned closer discussing about our quidditch games. It wasn’t until Charlie and Bill came stumbling in laughing with Percy close behind rolling his eyes. Bill and Percy froze when they saw me. Charlie stopped laughing and turned to see me. I smiled at him lightly,”Hi love.” He looked at me dumbfounded and then rushed over and embraced me. He smiled brightly as he kissed m cheek,”I thought you weren’t going to make it?!” I laughed as we pulled apart. I shrugged and looked at the other two Weasley brothers,”I convinced my boss to let me go.” I went over to Bill and gave him a hug then to Percy with a handshake,”It’s so good to see you all again.”

We had sat down and begun talking about life and how everything has been. Soon everyone was getting ready for the game. I dressed in green for Ireland and we made our way to the Colosseum. On the way I spotted John Winchester and his three kids heading to the arena as well. I placed my hand on Charlie’s soldier,”I’ll be back. Old mentor I want to go say hi to.” Charlie nodded and followed his family up the Colosseum. I made my way to the older man with a quick stride. I walked in front of him and held out my hand,”John Winchester! Nice to meet you!” I smiled. He looked at me strangely,”My name is Viper Akela. You are a legend in America!” He then realized that I was the American Auror he was going to meet.

“Ah Akela! Rogers told me all about you. Dean why don’t you find our seats; I’ll meet you guys there.” The oldest nodded and began walking with his siblings to the games. John glared at me,”I’ve been on the lookout. You could’ve blown my cover.”

I shook my head and glanced around,”Are the rumors true?” He sighed and shook his head,”I’ve been in touch with the others and there has been no talk of an attack.” I shifted on my feet. I looked back at the Colosseum,”Okay. I’ll keep in touch; if I see anything you’ll be the first to know.” He nodded and we went our separate ways. I found the Weasley’s seats and we watched the game with excitement and joy. Soon we were back at the tents. Most of us celebrated the victory of the Irish while everyone who was cheering for the Bulgarians laughed and made fun of us. Which we rallied back which made Ron the target for our teasing. We all stopped as we heard commotions outside. Mr. Weasley went outside to investigate while we went back to our celebrating. All of a sudden another sound of commotion was heard,”Well the Irish sure know how to get their party on eh?” George laughed. Our laughter died when Mr. Weasley came rushing back in,”How bad are the Irish partying and where can we join?” Fred asked with a chuckle.

“It’s not the Irish.” He sounded out of breath. My heart sunk. Were the rumors right? “We need to leave now.” We rushed out of the tents and heard the panicked screams. I looked over and in horror I witnessed death eaters levitating people in the air and over burning tents. I spotted John helping evacuate the area with other aurors. I looked back at the Weasleys with worry. Charlie clung to my arm as I started to drift towards the chaos. I looked at him with a loving look,”I’ll be fine love.” He nodded and let me go. I made my way towards John and started helping as many people as we could while getting closer to the death eaters.

WE started to run towards them as the crowds cleared. They noticed us and started to apparate out. One in particular saw me and uncovered her face. With red hair and lips Patricia Rakepick smugly looked at me and motioned towards me for a fight. I felt the blood in my body began to boil as I rushed after her.

“Stupify!” I casted. She blocked with ease. I shot more stun spells at her. She blocked each one with ease until I got her with a difindo spell. She glared at me before apparating away,”NO!” I cried out as she got away. I got to the spot she was standing at and noticed an address on the ground. I looked at it with a glare,”Is this where you’ve been hiding?” I asked myself. John whistled over to me,”We got some noise over in that direction. We’re going to apparate there on the count of 3.” He told me and the other aurors who showed up. We counted to three and landed around three people,”Now! Stupify!” I fired a stunning spell. I looked and saw that it was Harry, Ron and Hermione. I stopped and waved everyone to stop. It wasn’t until Charlie, Bill and Mr. Weasley ran in the middle screaming for us to stop,”That’s my son!” He embraced the kids. Crouch stepped forward and questioned the kids. I stepped back and sighed. Crouch then looked in my direction,”Did any of you at least catch someone?!” We all looked away; he already knew the answer,”Tch then what was the point of bringing help?”

Harry stepped forward and told Crouch that there was a man further east of their current position. I began walking with the rest of the aurors until Crouch pulled me aside,”I think we have had enough of your help Akela. I’ll be seeing you in my-” A hand on his shoulder stopped him mid sentence. John glared at Crouch,”Let the kid go Bartey.” Crouch sighed and followed John towards the area where Harry last saw the strange man. I felt the eyes at the back of my head. I turned and looked at the Weasleys. Charlie looked away in disbelief,”Charlie-”

“You only came for work.” He whispered. My voice caught my throat,”I wanted to come for a vacation and to hang out with all of you, but-” I swallowed the other words that would’ve come out of my mouth. Charlie just shrugged and shook his head,”Had to go catch the bad guy right?”

I snapped my head up and glared at him,”I’m after Rakepick you prat!” With that I saw his and Bill’s shocked face before I apparated back to the Leaky Cauldron. I checked into my room and locked the door behind me. I grabbed the address from my pocket and glared down at it. Grabbing my wand and auror gear; I left and apparated to the location.

———

I walked down the street and found the apartment. I let out a shaky breath as I made my way inside. I used the Disillusionment charm and made my way around the apartment. There I spotted a man sleeping on the couch and a ton of alcohol bottles. In the corner I spotted a creature scurrying on the table. An old looking niffler was polishing a gold watch. I couldn’t believe my eyes.

It was Rakepick’s niffler Sickleworth. His eyes landed on me and instantly he started to scurry away. I grabbed the little bugger not before he knocked over a pot. The man jolted awake and pointed his wand towards me,”Revelio!” My charm wore off and I pointed my wand at him Petrificus totalus!” His body froze and fell backwards. I cradled old Sickleworth in my arms,”Hey buddy. Don’t you remember me?” He sniffed me and started to get excited. I set him down and went around the apartment. Nothing out of the ordinary. I went back to our mystery guy and tied him up. Once my spell wore off he spat at me,”Who are you?!” He screamed. Luckily I put a silent charm on the apartment. I pointed my wand to his temple and glared at him,”Where is Rakepick?”

He grew silent until I casted difindo on his leg. He screamed in pain. He glared at me,”Screw you bitch.” I casted the difindo spell again against his toes this time which caused him to wail in agony. I then placed my wand on his little friend causing him to go into panic mode,”Okay okay okay!” He gasped out,”Look I’m just her kneazle and niffler breeder. I take of Sickleworth when she is on important jobs.”

“I didn’t ask about you! I want to know where she is this second!” I pushed harder on his jewels.

“It’s a secret bar in Germany!” He cried out. I smiled and pulled a pen and paper out,”Name and address.”

He glanced over to his bag. I grabbed it and rummaged through it. I found a coin with a rose embroidered on it. I put it in my pocket. I went towards the window and pressed my wand against my neck. I gave the address of the apartment and casted my patronus out of the window,”I’m on a lead. Don’t come find me.” I casted the petrifying curse on the crook and apparated out. I transfigured my hair to look short and dark red and made my eyes a deeper blue. I even gave myself a mole and a scar.

I walked around Germany for hours trying to find the location until I stumbled upon a rose garden. I walked in and took the coin out. Two men came up behind me and pulled their wands out,”I’m a new member. Invited by a breeder of Kneezles and Nifflers.” Both looked at me then walked ahead of me before knocking on a hidden entrance. I walked in and the bar was loud and full of sketchy wizards and witches. I went up to the bar. I looked around and caught the attention of what I can assume is the leader. She sat next to me and ordered fire whiskey,”Can I get you a drink new comer?”

I smiled and handed her my money,”Surprise me.” She gave me an approved smile and ordered the dragon blood shot followed by a thing of water. I’ve done dragon blood shots before with my friends when Jae snuck it in. It was the worst drink of my entire life, but I was prepared for the taste. I grabbed the shot and took it as fast as I could. My throat burned as the slush went down. My eyes watered as I sucked in a breath of fresh air. I slammed the glass down and looked at her with a nod,”Now that was a bloody kick!” She looked at me with a surprise look.

“I like you. So it was Luke that sent you here?” It clicked in my mind that I had never learned the breeder’s name,”That’s his name? Never cared to learn it. My style is more like his partners. Oh what was her name again? Ahh Patricia Rocket? No that’s not it-”

“Rakepick.” The womans eyes grew weary. I snapped my finger and pointed to her,”That’s the one! Damn good woman she is.” I nearly threw up those words. The woman leans in and motions for the back,”Let’s talk in private. We have much to discuss.” I looked at her questionably, but followed her with my wand hidden in my jacket sleeve within my palm. Once we were behind closed doors she sat down on one of the red couches in the room. She motioned for me to sit in the couch in front of her. She placed her wand in the middle of the table,”So we can trust one another.” I hesitantly put my wand on the table.

She leaned back and crossed her legs,”Your an auror.” She spoke up. My attention flicked from her face to my wand. Before I could open my mouth she held her hand up,”My father is one and I could tell you were one by a mile away. However; I like you. You’re here for Rakepick?”

I nodded and looked up at her,”I’m only here for her. Apologies are in order however; I seemed to have gotten your breeder arrested.” She looked at me annoyed, but I held my finger up,”What do you do to those animals?” She looked up at me blatantly,”We use them for some of our schemes and that’s it. But we do take care of them highly.” She whistled and a brown and black niffler ran across her shoulders and curled into her lap. I leaned back with a sigh,”What can you tell me about Rakepick?”

She made a small noise and wagged her finger at me,”What can you give me in return for this information?”

I leaned forward,”What do you want?”

She thought for a moment then held up two of her fingers,”Two things. A new niffler breeder. A nicer one would be nice. Alec was not taking good care of the mothers. The other thing is; I want to know why you are after Rakepick.”

I looked at my hands and sighed,”If I can find you a nice breeder. You must pay what they say and dress nicely for pick up. Or they won’t give you any.” She nodded in compliance,”Of course. I will let my men know. Now about Rakepick?”

I glanced at her and asked her a simple question.”What are your rules as a bad guy?”

She snickered at the word bad guy,”No kids. I like kids too much no matter how annoying some can be. Too innocent. Animal cruelty is a no no as well. And take from the rich and give to the poor.” I laughed at that and shook my head,”Let me guess you’re Robin Hood?”

“Robin Mercier and you are?” I looked at her and shook my head. She sighed and looked up at me,”I will keep our meeting a secret. I don’t like Rakepick either and there are others that come that I will willingly give to you as well.” I sighed and looked at the door behind us,”Viper. That’s all I’m giving you.” She smiled and leaned back,”Why are you hunting Rakepick? She steal from you?”

I looked at her dead in the eye,”When I was in my sixth year at Hogwarts; she killed my best friend who was a sister to me.” She looked down and shook her head,”And the niffler breeder?”

“That would be me. I am a certified breeder for the auror office and curse breaker offices.” Robin laughed and held out her hand,”Well then, I just wanted to see how serious you were. Now that I see; I’m not interested in nifflers anymore. We got another breeder for us. Rakepick has been traveling around Europe. If she was in England then most likely she will be going to Scottland. Your best bet is that she will be near Hogsmede. I nodded and grabbed my wand,”Then I will take my leave. I like the drinks you have. I might be back for a drink or two.” I smiled at Robin who nodded and grabbed her own wand.

“Of course. I’ll be expecting you to come by when this is all over.” She spoke quietly. I nodded and apparated out.

———

I made my way to the Ministry's auror office. I looked around and spotted a flow of pink hair in the distance talking to another auror. Tonks turned and saw me. She instantly ended her conversation and ran up to me,”Watcher Viper!” She tackled me with a hug. The other auror walked up and I instantly noticed it was Talbott. I smiled wholeheartedly at my friends,”You both look so good! How have you all been?”

Tonks looked at me in shock,”Blimey Viper; five years in America and you have already lost your accent?!” I laughed and poked her shoulder,”You do realize that you made fun of this very same accent when we entered Hogwarts? This is my normal accent.” She laughed and slapped my arm,”I know that! I’ve been bloody good! Working under Madeye was the best! Cranky old man, but a good teacher.”

I then looked at Talbott,”And how are you and Chiara doing?” He blushed and then pulled a ring out. Both Tonks and I had wide smiles as we congratulated him,”I’ll be asking her tonight. Enough about us; how are you fairing?” He asked quietly. My smile grew forced as I thought of Rakepick and the events of the Quidditch games and Charlie.

“I’ve been better.” I spoke quietly. Just then the door swung open and John had walked in with Kingsly Shacklebolt next to him,”Akela, Tonks, Winger; office for briefing now.” I looked at them with confusion. We followed the aurors inside the briefing office. They closed the door and put up a silent charm on the room making sure no one could hear us.

“Akela; what have you found?” John looked to me. I shifted on my feet,”I found Rakepick. My Intel told me she is in Scottland. Most likely outside of Hogsmead village.” Both Tonks and Talbott looked at me in shock,”You finally tracked her down?” Tonks’s question rang in my ears. I nodded and looked at John and Kingsly. Kingsly sat forward,”Talbott. I want you to scout the area and find her. Follow her the best you can and figure out what she’s planning. We know she isn’t a death eater; so why was she at the Quidditch games?”

I stood up and glared at the man in front of me,”Let me. I’ve been tracking her for years and I’m going-”

“Sit down!” John ordered. I sat while biting my tongue,”Now; we need to find out what she is up to. Is R back? We don’t know. Akela I’m sending you to Hogwarts for extra protection. The Tri-Wizard Tournaments are going to be held there and you will serve under Madeye.” I sighed and nodded,”Understand sir.”

———

I walked into Hogwarts with Crouch and other law enforcement officers and others from the Department of Games and Sports. The Professors were waiting in the great hall. Crouch and Dumbledor went over the rules of the tournament and then explained how classes will go for the teachers. I sighed of boredom until Professor Flitwick accidentally stepped on my foot,”Oops my bad-” He stopped and adjusted his glasses,”Miss Akela? Is that really you?!” He held out his hand. I smiled and shook it,”It has been a while Professor. I hope the students have been treating you well.” He chuckled and patted my hand,”Always. Though those Weasley boys sure do get creative with those spells of theirs.”

I laughed and shook my head. Crouch introduced everyone who was working under him. He then made it to me,”And here we have Miss Viper Akela. She’ll be joining my law enforcement team for extra protection from the auror office from America.” I smiled at everyone and nodded,”It’s good to be back.” We were then briefed to guard the doors after the students got to the Great Hall. After the introduction of the two schools I walked out with Crouch and stood at his side as he explained the rules. After a small ruckus with the students dinner was served and we began leaving. Crouch turned to me and looked to Madeye,“I want you to remain here because of what happened at the games. Stay low and quiet.” I nodded and stayed behind. After the dinner feast I found Professor Sprout and let her know what happened.

She nodded and walked me to Dumbledor’s office. She talked about all of the quirks she missed from my friends and I. I laughed,”I still can’t believe you still made me Prefect and Head Girl.” Professor Sprout patted my back,”Even though you were troublesome; you did follow most of the rules and you were one of our best tutors.” I blushed and made our way up the stairs. We had good laughs and then we made it to Dumbledor’s office. I said my goodbye to her and made my way into the Headmaster’s office. Professor Dumbledor looked up and smiled at me,”Miss Akela. How has your work in America been?”

I smiled and sat down in the chair in front of his desk,”It has been great! Thank you for the reference Professor. I wanted to let you know that Crouch wants me to remain here low and quiet.” I explained. He nodded and gave me permission to do so. To which I walked out and used my animegus form to wander the halls at night. This went on for a couple of days. I had been pacing around the hall and noticed someone walking in the hall. I paced towards them until they turned and shot a petrifying spell at me. I collapsed and watched as he covered his already shadowed face and then proceeded to shove me in Snapes ingredients closet. With one kick to the face I blacked out.

———

I woke up to Snape shaking me. I noticed I was covered in blood and my face hurt like hell,”Wha-” I snapped my attention and stood up,”We need to stop the tournament. It was rigged!” Before I could step out Snape pulled me aside,”The names were already pulled. An extra came out. We’ve had no choice but to follow the rules. A little late on letting us know Akela.” I glared at him and pointed to my condition,”Tried to stop your rigger last night! If you haven’t noticed; I’m a bit on the beat up side.”

He sighed and then held out his wand at my face,”Episky.” My nose snapped back into place with me crying out in pain. I glared at him before regaining my posture,”What are we going to do?” He sighed and looked down the hall,”Just keep your head down and keep a lookout.” I nodded and left. I walked around the school and even spotted Fred and George taking money for what looked like bets for the tournament.

Over the next few weeks I did my rounds. I kept my guard up as I went around the hall. I spotted a small child getting bullied by some older students. I took some papers that I had and smacked the older students across the head. They ran off and I helped the younger student up and telling him to tell his head of house. I looked at the Black and Gold of his uniform and thought back to Merula and I’s constant fights. I snapped out of it when Madeye pulled me to the side. I eyed him as he looked around,”They’re escorting the dragons for the first task here tonight and we need extra hands with security.”

I looked at him with confusion,”I don’t think I’m needed Madeye.”

He grunted and shrugged,”Orders are orders.” I sighed and nodded,”Alright. Where and when?”

By night I made my way through the forbidden forest towards the destination where the dragons were being held. I noticed Hagrid in the distance and something caught my eyes. With being a wolf animegus I can see invisibility cloaks and spells. I noticed a shimmer behind Hagrid and moved forward. I noticed Hagrid was talking with Charlie and the minute he saw me he got nervous,”Viper! What are ye doing here?” I stretched as the chilled Scottish air caused my arms to stiffen,”Madeye sent me here for extra security.”

I glanced at Charlie who smiled over to me. I felt my heart race a little seeing his warm smile again. I watched as Charlie spoke about the dragons. I noticed a welsh green in the distance. Another next to it was a chinese fireball and then a swedish short snout. The one that caught my eye was the hungarian horntail,”Ain’t the horntail a beauty? Nasty dragon, but a beauty at that.”

I remembered back in my fifth year,”Yeah I remember. Still have that scar on my hip from the one we fought in our fifth year.” I heard shrubs rustle in the distance and looked back. I saw an eagle watching me in the distance.

Talbott.

I walked up to Charlie and gave him a small kiss,”I have to go.” He smiled at me and nodded. I made my way further into the forest. I watched him shift into himself and he fixed his clothes,”Been a while Viper; have you been well?”

I rolled my eyes,”I’m playing bodyguard in a school instead of going after the woman who killed my best friend and gave me hell for over three years!” I crossed my arms waiting for him to give me the news.

He sighed and slipped me a paper,”We found her. It’s time we go arrest her. Meet me here tomorrow and we’ll take a portkey to Italy. We’ll be meeting Winchester, Tonks and Kingsly there to make the arrest.” He smiled lightly. I felt the weight that had piled on to my chest lift. I walked up and hugged him as tears began to find their way down my face,”Thank you.”

We pulled away and he looked at me with a kind smile,”For Rowan.” He then shifted to his animegus form and flew off. I sighed and walked back to the castle.

On my way there I saw the shimmer of an invisibility cloak walk by me. I quickly hurried off and shifted. I slowly followed it until I blocked the entrance to the school. I growled deeply at the invisible person who staggered backwards. I rushed forward and tackled the person. I saw them raise heir wand. Before they could say a spell; I shifted and aimed my wand at them,”Expelliarmus!” I caught the wand and instantly recognized it as Harry’s wand.

I sighed and put my wand down,”Come on out Harry.” Harry took the invisibility cloak off and looked down at the ground knowing he was caught red handed,”You know you weren’t supposed to see those dragons.” I handed his wand back to him,”At least tell Cedric and the others so they also have a fighting chance.”

His eyes met mine and nodded,”Fluer already knows. And Karkaroff will probably tell Krum; I’ll tell Cedric.” I nodded and smiled at him. I had forgotten that Cedric was the one that had been chosen. I got a good look at Harry and noticed that he looked horrible,”Follow me Potter.”

He followed me to the courtyard and I motioned for him to sit down,”This challenge has been putting a strain on you hasn’t it?” He nodded and I leaned back against the fountain. I sighed and looked at Gryffindor tower,”Ron will get over it. Best Friends always do.” I placed my hand on his shoulder,”Trust me when I say that you need to let your friends help you. You can’t keep them away for long. They always find a way back into your life.” I chuckled. Harry smiled to and got up,”Thanks Viper.”

“Hey from one cursed kid to another.” I winked at him. I stood up and began making my way back to my room.

“Hey Viper.” I turned and saw Harry putting his cloak back on,”I think you should take your advise as well. Ron said Charlie was getting very worried about you.” My heart hurt as he disappeared from normal sight. I nodded and turned around,”Thanks Harry; I needed that reminder.”

———

I met Talbott in the forest. He stood by the Black Lake; observing the sunrise in the distance. I stood next to him observing the peaceful air,”Let me know when you and Kiara are free. I think it would be nice to go out for butterbeer with everyone again.” I told him. He smiled sweetly at me before nodding in agreement,”Set the date and we’ll be there.” I smiled as we held on to the portkey.

We stopped and I turned and up came my breakfast behind a bush. Talbott gave me an awkward pat on the back,”God I hate portkeys.” I said wiping my mouth.

I followed him to the safe house where I spotted John and Tonks playing poker. Tonks’ eyes lit up at the sight of me. She threw down her cards and jumped into my arms. I laughed and hugged her back. John smiled at me then took his money and set out a map,”We learned that she has a trade going on in a black market district that the Italian Ministry has been eyeing for a while. We will be working with them to take down Rakepick.” I looked over the map. Of course there was a secret entrance in the Colosseum.

“I think Tonks and I can corner her here.” I pointed to the spot,”Tonks and I can change our appearance and follow her.” Kingsly nodded and drew a circle near a cliff side,”Get her here. We’ll put barriers up so she can’t  apparate.”

We planned everything to the Tee and waited for nightfall.

Tonks and I made our hair darker and our clothes dark as well. We moved throughout the market with silence as we spotted her fire like hair. She spotted us and walked faster away from us. We caught up and got her to the cliff side. She went to apparate before realizing she was blocked. I changed my appearance back to normal and lifted my wand at her.

She chuckled and waved me off,”It’s been a long time Akela; how is my little prodigy doing?” I felt rage in my chest as I thought about what my next move would be. Tonks kept her wand raised as well,”You’re surrounded Rakepick; you are under arrest.”

Rakepick turned and saw John, Kingsly and three Italian ministry aurors. She looked around in anger and aimed a wandless spell towards the others. John used a shield spell but the others were knocked back. Everyone fired stun spells towards her which she deflected with ease. She fired a bombarda spell at the ground causing the cliff to crumble down.

We fell down with rocks and rubble tumbling with us. Tonks, John and I grabbed Rakepick before she apparated. We fell on to a grassy plain. I was dazed and noticed Rakepick aiming her wand at Tonks. I had horrible flashbacks to the green flash from my sixth year.

I charge forward as fast as I could and heard her start the spell. I shifted and plunged my fangs into her arm. She screamed in pain and looked at me in shock. Tonks shook her head and paled at the look of a three foot wolf clinging to the arm of a witch. She tried to pry my jaws open which gave John enough time to stun her in the back.

She fell to the ground. She took hold of my head and slammed me into a nearby rock. Tonks used the laceration spell and slammed the bitch away from me. I shifted back in pain as my head was bleeding bad. John helped me sit up against a wall while the other aurors were called.

Rakepick was now glaring daggers at me. To which I spat in her direction,”Get ready to rot in hell bitch.” Before she could say anything; Tonks did a hex or curse that made her mouth disappear,”That’ll shut her up.” She laughed and then sat next to me.

“Animegus huh?”

“Yep.” I answered.

She looked at me with curiosity,”Who else knows?”

“Charlie, Chiara, Talbott and Harry. Obviously now you and John as well.” I winced as she helped heal the wound.

I watched as she was escorted to Askaban.

After getting patched up; Tonks led me away and handed me some Italian Ice. I laughed and took it. The weight was finally gone and I felt very relaxed. I saw the thestrals pulling the jail cart. I sighed and closed my eyes letting the sun soak into my skin.

“So are you staying in Europe? Or are you going back to America?” I looked at Tonks with uncertainty. I shrugged,”I think I’m going to take a well deserved vacation.”

Tonks gave me an all knowing look,”I think its time you go on a long awaited date with Mr. Dragon Tamer! He has been-” I took her Italian ice and shoved it in her mouth. She laughed as she rubbed her teeth,”That was dirty!”

I laughed and looked into the distance.

She was right.

I think it was time to spend some quality time with Charlie.

———

The Romania air chilled me to the bone.

How was it colder than the UK?!

I went up to the front office to the sanctuary and was met by a friendly smile,”Buna dimineat doamna! Cum te pot ajuta azi?” I smiled as I had little to no idea what he just said. He saw my look and smiled sweetly,”American?”

“Irish American actually.” I laughed nervously. He held out his hand,”Ari David.”

“Viper Akela.” I took his hand and he instantly lit up at the sound of my name,”Charlie’s imaginary girl?! It’s about time we met you.” He laughed. I felt my face light up like a Christmas tree. He came around and called for someone in the back. A man poked his head out of the back office with his face stuffed,”I’m going to show our guest here around. Watch the desk while I’m gone?”

The man nodded and wheeled out of the office. Ari walked me through the gates and I could instantly here the dragons in the distance. Ari showed me the hatchery and even the smaller breeds of dragons. He laughed at my amazed look,”Ever been to a sanctuary before?” He asked. I nodded and looked at the fossil they had in their study center,”Thunderbird sanctuary in Arizona. I go there on my free time to spend time with the creatures.”

Ari was grinning ear to ear,”My grandfather helped Newt Schamander free one from Egypt. Said it was one of the most majestic creatures he had ever laid eyes on.” He then spoke in Hebrew which I roughly translated to ‘God bless that old man.’

Soon we made it to the village nearby the sanctuary,”Charlie’s home is the small house near the forest. Kind of rustic looking. Mailbox has his name on it.” I thanked the man and went into the village. I smiled at the children playing in the streets. Older couples who were tending to their gardens. My heart pounded when I saw the familiar red haired, freckle covered man I had come to see. His blue eyes landed on me.

The conversation he was having with the man standing in front of him suddenly stopped. The man looked over his shoulder and to me,”You lost miss?” I smiled and nodded eyeing Charlie,”Yeah. I’m looking for a stubborn red head covered in freckles and burn scars who I haven’t had a proper date with since Hogwarts.”

The man looked at Charlie with shock,”Asta este Viper?! Băiete, nu ai retinut descrierea.” I saw Charlie’s face turn into a near shade of his hair color. The man bid him farewell and walked to what I thought was his home. Charlie didn’t waist a second before pulling me into a hug.

For what seemed like centuries I hugged him back. Tears poured down my eyes as I apologized. He brought me into his house and made some tea,”What made you finally visit?” He asked me.

“Tonks convinced me. Charlie…we did it.” He looked at me confused,”We got Rakepick.” His eyes softened  and clasped his hand to mine. His eyes pleaded to me as he spoke the question on his mind since I showed up,”Does this mean I have my Viper back?”

I nodded and sobbed my heart out,”I’m so sorry.” He pulled me closer as just buried myself in his chest.

The remainder of the day was us talking and me cooking us some dinner.

By night, warmed by his body, I had the best sleep of my entire life.

———

The next few months of vacation were amazing. I helped around the sanctuary as an extra healer on hand or even security. I knew Crouch was going to order me back to Hogwarts once my vacation was over with, but at the moment I didn’t care.

Soon enough it was my last day in Romania. I woke to feel Charlie’s fingers tracing my thunderbird tattoo on my shoulder. I groaned as I stretched my stiff body. Charlie planted a kiss on my lips which lingered for a solid minute before he whispered a morning to me.

I sighed and got out of bed. I packed my items and made my way to the portkey with Charlie in tow. He pulled me into a kiss,”I’ll miss you.” He told me. His blue eyes begged me not to go,”I’ll be here for summer.” I kissed his cheek and then grabbed the portkey.

I arrived back at Hogwarts just in time for the second challenge.

———

Crouch gave me orders to be at the ready to dive after the champions who needed the help. After the champions jumped into the black lake I sat by waiting for anyone who needed to be saved. We noticed Fleur’s Vermillious charm shot up. Me and another person jumped in and swam towards the direction of the  charm cast.

I noticed her being pulled down from what looked to be grindylow dragging her down. I stunned the grindylow and me and the other person pulled her up. Fleur was panicking and gagging out water. The other person who I found out was a healer. He made sure there wasn’t any bad wounds before wrapping her up in a warm towel.

Her friends were warming her up and she was looking frantically around for someone,”Where eeze Gabrielle? Where eeze my sister!?” I looked around in panic, but Madeye motioned for me to walk over to him.

“Her sister was used as the prize. She will be safely pulled out of the lake by the end of the hour.” He whispered to me. I looked at him in shock then realised I hadn’t seen Hermione nor Ron at all today. Soon Cedric emerged from the water with a girl I didn’t recognize, then Krum with Hermione. We helped them up and I watched out for Harry and Ron. I was asked to help warm up Hermione when Harry, Ron and Gabrielle resurfaced. Fleur kissed Harry and Ron and thanked them.

Hermione tensed up when she saw that.

After helping the Champions and their rescued friends and family I made my way to Crouch who looked like he had seen a ghost. I placed my hand on his shoulder causing him to jump,”You alright Crouch?” He cleared his throat and nodded before walking away.

———

It was now near he end of the school year and the champions were getting ready for their final trial. I had been helping Snape try and find the culprit behind his missing ingredients which we later learned was to make polyjuice potion. I made my way down the hall where I ran into Cedric. I smiled and waved at him,”Diggory!” Cedric looked oer to me and a huge smile appeared on his face,”Viper!” I noticed he was had gotten taller. I laughed and hugged my old shadow,”How are you doing? I heard you made it as Hufflepuff’s new seeker.”

He laughed and continued walking with me,”Yeah I ended up getting the seeker position after you left.” I smiled and remembered when he started joining Charlie and I’s quidditch games with our friends. He was a good seeker.

“That’s great! I’m rooting for you. Hufflepuff for the win!” I bumped my fist against his. He laughed and was then waved down by a ravenclaw girl,”I gotta go. It was nice seeing you again!”

I made my way down towards the Hufflepuff entrance and placed my hand on the barrels. I remember teaching the first years the code to enter.

Sneaking my radio from home so all the hufflepuffs had something to listen. When it was time for bed we brought it to the rooms and jammed out to the rock stations.

Using my Walkman to listen to my music when I was out for walks or doing homework by myself.

Rowan scolding me for failing my History of Magic test…again.

Chiara and I sneaking out every full moon with Talbott in tow.

Sneaking Charlie in the room for some…alone time.

Winning the Quidditch cup my last year.

.

.

.

I hated myself now.

What had I become?

I became an enraged animal wanting revenge for all the wrong doings that had happened to my friends.

Helga Hufflepuff would be ashamed of me.

I felt a soft hand on my shoulder,”The hat never makes a mistake dear. You were a true hufflepuff and our founder would have loved you.” Sprout’s voice caused my heart to swell. I breathed in and let out a shaky breath.

“Didn’t mean for that to come out loud, but thank you.” She then took her wand and smacked the top of my head with it. I winced in pain and looked at her in disbelief,”Ow! What was that for?!”

“The past hurts. What will you do with it?” She then tried to hit me again but I moved to the side which caused her to miss. She laughed and I began to laugh with her,”Yeah yeah. Learn from it. Thank you Professor.” She pulled me into a hug and then got very excited,”The third challenge will begin soon! Will you be cheering Cedric and Harry on?”

I smiled and chuckled lightly,”I’ll try and make it, but I have to do the rounds tonight.” She nodded in understanding and wished me a goodnight.

I walked around the entirety of the Hogwarts school when I stumbled upon two of Harry’s friends sneaking around. I cleared my throat and both froze,”The last challenge is happening right now. I know Harry will want his friends there to support him.” I looked at both with a scolding stare. Then smiled,”I’ll let you guys off with a warning.” I winked at them and wandered away. The girl ran up to me,”Something isn’t right with Professor Moody!”

I stopped and looked at her with all seriousness,”What do you mean?” The boy and girl looked at each other then back to me,”We think he’s been stealing ingredients to make a potion. And he’s been very shifty lately.”

Suddenly it clicked into place.

Polyjuice potion.

“Get to the arena and stay with your friends. I’ll inform the teachers.” I got up and apparated the kids and I to the maze. They made it to Hermione and Ron who were watching and waiting in excitement. I found the teachers and explained the situation. Snape who was now furious apparated back to get a truth potion.

Just then a loud pop was heard and Harry was now on the ground with Cedric. Cheers were heard as Hogwarts had won the Tri-Wizard-

My heart dropped when I spotted it.

Cedric’s unblinking eyes.

Cold and gone.

I heard Fleur scream as she was the first to notice. Tears welled in my eyes as everyone stoped and stared in shock. Professor Sprout broke down and burrowed her head into my shoulder. I looked up and saw Madeye dragging Harry away,”He’s got Harry.” I whispered. The teachers heard and prepared for a fight. Snape had arrived back and we made our way to the Defense Against the Dark Arts room. After barging in Snape and I held down Madeye while Harry stood near McGonagall.

After revealing Barty Crouch Jr. and him telling us that he murdered his father; we helped the real Madeye out of the enchanted chest. The old auror patted my back with a pained nod. I smiled and took it as a thank you.

———

The funeral was tough.

It was another friend gone.

I felt a hand clasp my shoulder and saw a glove hand me a note.

Meet me in my office. We have much to discuss.

-Dumbledor

I looked around and spotted the two kids from before. I walked over to them. The fourth year boy looked at me with worry,”You both helped us a lot. Thank you…uhh”

“Rey Winchester.”

“Neville Longbottom.”

I smiled at them before nodding,”Thank you Rey and Neville. You both were brave in following that man. I’ll inform McGonagall and ask her to give you both points for this.” Both smiled but sadness was in those eyes. I made my way to the Headmaster’s office and was joined by both McGonagall and Sprout. Once we were up there I spotted not only all the teachers, but Talbott, Tonks, Bill, Merula and Madeye.

I looked to Dumbledor for an explanation.

“What I am about to ask all of you is to be kept secret. And I must know that you will all do any task that I give you. Do you understand.” I nodded and so did the others.

“Years ago when the first war was going on; I had created a secret organization called the Order of the Phoenix. I plan to rebirth that Order again.” He then looked at everyone in the room,”All who were apart of it before step aside. All who have never heard of it or were apart of it line up in front of me.” The Professors moved to the side along with Madeye and it was just Talbott, Tonks, Bill and Merula standing in front of him.

“Talbott Winger; you are a great auror and a hidden animegus. I’ll need you to keep your eyes and ears open all over the United Kingdoms.” Talbott nodded in understanding. Next he turned to Tonks,”Nymphadora Tonks; like Mr. Winger you are an exceptional auror. You will be positioned with Kingsly, Madeye and Winchester. Keep an eye out for spies amongst the ministry.”

Tonks beamed at Dumbledor,”Of course, but for future references. Don’t call me Nymphadora. Tonks will do just fine.” Dumbledor chuckled and nodded. He then turned to Bill,”I have already talked to your brother who will be keeping communications and recruiting for the Order in Romania. However; I need you here. Curse breakers may come in handy especially now. I have already informed Gringotts about you and they are happy to have you.”

Bill nodded but stayed silent. Dumbledor then turned to Merula,”Miss Snyde; I want you recruiting in Egypt.” She smiled and crossed her arms,”As long as I don’t get a desk job that is fine by me.”

And finally he turned to me,”I need one more person here at Hogwarts. However; the Ministry is appointing one of their own as Defense Against the Dark Arts Professor. If I remember correctly you were one of the top of your class in Care for Magical Creatures correct?”

“Yes Professor, but didn’t Kettleburn retire and Hagrid took his post?” I asked him.

“Hagrid will be leaving his post for another mission. I’m asking you to join our staff Miss Akela. It would mean a lot.” I looked over to the staff of Professors. Then to my friends,”Well…Professor Akela does have a nice ring to it.” Dumbledor smiled,”Then its settled. You are all dismissed; Allister; perhaps you can get Akela situated with the auror’s office in America since she won’t be working there anymore.” We nodded and left the office.

Madeye and I took a portkey to America. It was nice to be back in New York and I will miss my home in Arizona. Quetta was doing paperwork when I approached my desk. She stopped and ran up to hug me,”I heard you were leaving us?!” She asked in disbelief.

“Yes I am, but I’ll give you my address so we can still talk. Who knows; I may appear for a drink every now and then.” I laughed. She teared up with a smile and hugged me tighter,”You are the best damn partner I have ever had! I’ll miss you!” I smiled and hugged her closer,”I’ll miss you too.”

After packing up my office and all my personal files and objects I turned my badge over to Ramsey who stamped Retired to it,”Keep it. So you can be reminded of your times with us.” I smiled warmhearted by his words. Soon the entire auror office came by and wished me well.

After that we traveled to the school where I had begun to organize my office then care for the animals. Madeye left me to that work and he went back to the auror offices.

I had an unexpected visitor who taught me how to charm a briefcase to store magical creatures in. I thanked Mr. Scammander and left for my parents home in Dublin. I stayed with them until I found a home in Hogsmead village. I brought my niffler Galleo, my Irish Wolfhound Artair and my Granian Storm with me to the new house.

I found the door wide open and saw Charlie waiting inside with a smile on his face. I placed down the suitcase and closed the door before crashing into him. I looked at him with a smirk,”You are mine all summer.” He laughed and kissed the crook of my neck,”Funny. Because I’m here to kidnap you.” He whispered.

Soon summer started and also began a new adventure for me starting with the love of my life.

---------

AN: I’m so happy this fic is done. It took me so long to do this fic.

[5am-the-foxing-hour]

... 20 as Aven or Deceit angst, he's being taken over by the mind control of some baddy.

Oooooooooooooooh

“I can’t say goodbye to you, I can’t live without you, so please fight it…!”

- - -

  “Release him!” Roman shouted, pointing his sword at the Dragon witch, Remus and Virgil at his sides, both having weapons and shields in their hands. 

  “I don’t see any shackles on him, little prince.” she chuckled sitting down on the throne, making a gesture with her clawed hand, red magic swirling at her fingertips. Deceit appeared from the shadows of the throne room and moved over to stand by her side. Eyes dull and covered by a sheen of the red magic. “He can do whatever he wants, and go wherever he pleases~” she said gently caressing Deceit’s scaled cheek “Isn’t that right, lovely?”

  “Yes, my queen…” Deceit said in a hushed tone.

  “DON’T TOUCH HIM!” Remus roared slamming his morning star into the floor, making the thick stones crack as he glared at the Dragon witch, and if looks could kill, she would have long since been turned to a pulp of dead dragon goo.

  “Oho? Did I strike a cord?” she grinned as he pulled Deceit closer and moved to kiss him when a throwing knife swished between them, making her yelp and let go of Deceit as she pulled back to send a pissed glare at whoever threw the knife, her eyes meeting Virgil’s mismatched ones as the anxious side glared right back. holding another knife ready.

  “I won’t miss next time.” he threatened. The dragon witch clicked her tongue and scowled before she clapped her hands and rose up.

  “Such brutes.” she took hold of Deceit’s shoulders and pulled him close, and smirked at the sides when she noticed how Remus and Virgil both bristled at how close she held him. “Destroy them for me, darling~” She said and backed away.

At the same time Deceit summoned his cane and unsheathed it, revealing the thin but strong blade of his sword.

  “As you wish, my queen.” Deceit said as he walked down the steps. sword at the ready and eyes just as blank as before.

The dragon witch giggled before he turned around and made a dramatic cape swirl before she walked further into her castle. snapping her fingers to make the dagger Virgil threw at her back freeze mid air and clatter to the floor. she looked over her shoulder and smirked all teeth at him.

  “Attacking a lady from behind? How Villainous.” and with that she disappeared into the darkness.

  “DRAGON WITCH!” Roman shouted, moving to chase after her, only to grunt when he suddenly had to parry an attack from Deceit.

   “You shall not pass, queens orders.” Deceit said as he in fast succession made several strikes at Roman, who had to move back to be able to parry and block them.

  “Deceit- Stop this!” he grunted out, when they ended up in a stale mate. the swords trembling from the strain. “You know us.”

Under different circumstances Roman would congratulate his foot work and technique, as it were now, he hoped they could both get out without getting wounded.

The sound of the katana clattering to the floor made everyone freeze, even more so when they saw the red drops of blood that struck the stone floor.

  “ROMAN!”

Deceit raised his sword, looking down at Roman who had crashed to his knees hugging around his middle where his white tunic were slowly growing as red as his sash.

  “Only I get to hurt my brother!” Remus called as he body slammed into Deceit with his shield, sending the side sprawling across the floor, sword clattering as it landed further away. The others hurried over to Roman’s side to see how he was cursing under his breath before he removed one hand and let his magic swirl around his fingers, red, as the dragon witch’s, but compared to hers, his has golden glitter swirling around with it, and slowly the wound healed. Roman looked up to meet Remus’s eyes and the two shared a look and both nodded. Roman struggled to his feet before he grabbed his sword.

  “You sure you can handle this?” Roman asked, looking at Remus with worry.

  “Well, no. But I still got Virgil here, go and teach that bitch who’s boss of this place.” Remus said with a sharp grin. “but let me get the finishing blow.”

Roman couldn’t help but shiver at the murder he saw in his brothers eyes, but then again, who was he to judge. Deceit did mean more to his brother and Virgil than the other sides. He was trying hard not to feel jealous.

-

Virgil was panting, his arms and legs hurt and trembled from the strain, but it was nothing compared to Remus, Virgil was still not sure how the chaotic side was still standing.Probably pure stubbornness. 

Deceit didn’t show any sign of getting tired, despite the gashes and scrapes and wounds that littered his body, he rose up each time he was knocked over and grabbed his sword. 

Remus grunted as he was throw away and landed in a heap on the floor before he got up onto all four. Virgil struggled to keep up with Deceit’s attacks.

Remus then suddenly gave away a roar as he jumped and clambered on top of Deceit grabbing hold of the sides of his face, green and silvery magic swirling around his hands.

  “Come on Snakey! wake up! fight it! I know you’re still in there!” Remus called before he was throw off and slammed into the wall with a grunt, getting knocked out.

  “Remus?!” Virgil cried as he looked at the unconscious side. the magic that swirled around his fingers died down, but the green magic that had gotten hold of Deceit’s head stayed and Virgil stared as Deceit gave away a scream, stumbling back, sword dropping to the floor as he clawed at his head gripping hold of fistfuls of hair as he doubled over. the red and green magics swirled around each other, and Virgil wasn’t sure if he heard it hissing.

Deceit turned to Virgil with wild eyes, but the red was still glowing before them. Virgil cursed when Deceit suddenly lunged at him.

And they struggled and rolled around on the floor before Virgil managed to get the upper hand, but not before getting scratched on the cheek by Deceit’s claws that had pierced through the gloves. Virgil grunted as Deceit tried to pry him off by showing his hand under Virgil’s jaw and pushing.

  “I’m not letting you go, you ass hole.” Virgil growled before he grabbed hold of Deceit’s face and bore his eyes into Deceit’s ones. “You’re Stronger than this! I can’t say goodbye to you, like this! I can’t live without you, so please fight it!” Virgil roared in his tempest tongue.

It was enough to make Remus winch and regain conscious. and enough to make Deceit’s attempts to get free to halt.

Virgil glared, not noticing how his own magic was starting to swirl around them like a angry thunder cloud.

  “FIGHT IT! SHE’S JUST A FIGMENT OF THE IMAGINATION! YOU’RE STRONGER THAN HER!”

Deceit just stared back, eyes wide.

The red magic started to dim before it exploded back and Deceit threw Virgil off him with a roar before he threw himself over the taller side. But Virgil grabbed his wrists and held him still.

Virgil growled and lighting suddenly shot from the storm cloud, striking the Dragon witch’s magic.

Deceit froze, before his eyes rolled back and his whole body went lax. Virgil grunted and wheezed as he suddenly got Deceit’s full weight on top of him. Virgil hugged around him and just breathed.

slowly the thunder cloud scattered and. Virgil looked up when Remus stumbled over before sitting down at his shoulder.

  “I’m beat. Wake me up when Roman and the others get’s back.” and with that he fell over, slamming his head into Virgil’s shoulder. making Virgil grimace. before he sighed.

All was fine.

It took a while before Deceit gave away a groan, and slowly moved, blinking groggily at Virgil.

  “I would ask what happened, but i’m in to much pain to think.” Virgil couldn’t help the laughter that was startled out of him at that. and soon he was laughing loudly.

Making the other sides give him confused looks when they returned.

General Fanfic Tag list: @ebony-wolf​, @nashiraneko​,  @secretlyanxiouspersona, @i-sold-my-soul-to-thefandom​, @rabbitsartcorner​,@punsterterry​,  @sleepyssnail​,  @nightmaresides​, @virgilswritings​, @ninja-girl2846​, @ninjago2020, @starryfirefliesbloggo​, @garecc​,  @sympatheticdeceit​, @cookiethedevil​, @askthesnake​,  @all-bridges-will-burn​, @tacohippy56900,

[creator-zee]

45

     I pulled the hood of my cloak up as I walked through the camp. Shame filled me. I couldn’t believe that I had lost controlled and almost killed Jasper. The angry shouts of his soulmate, Kyra, bounced through my head, playing on repeat. 

      “Fix him, you monster!”

      “Couldn’t you see he was defeated?”

      “What the hell is wrong with you?”

      “Get the fuck away!”

      I had mostly healed him by the time she had arrived, using most of my magic in the process, but he hadn’t woken up yet despite me using my last reserves to finish healing him. After Kyra had eaten me out and taken Jasper to the medic I had stayed in the forest, and fixed myself up as I beat I could with bandages, before donning my armor cloak and weapons and making my way back to camp.

       As I walked past groups of friends laughing and talking around campfires it felt so surreal. None of them knew anything was wrong. None of them knew I had almost killed Jasper in a duel. They probably hadn’t even recognized the sounds of two dragons dueling. And even if they had, they probably didn’t care. Laughter, joy, even the cheery light of the fires contrasted the raging turmoil of self-hate that filled me. 

        I opened the flap to the tent I was sharing with my roommate, who also happened to be my soulmate, expecting silence and solitude, or at least a refuge from the joy of the rest of the camp. Instead, I found a guy on top of my mate in the middle of a very intense make out session. 

       Something inside me broke as I turned away. And immense wave of sadness, hopelessness, and dread rose inside of me. Tears fell freely down my cheeks as I ran past the laughter, the light, and the joy to plunge into the dark forest. Shaking breathes, filled with tears, accompanied the thudding of my boots and the snapping of branches as I crashed through the forest. I paused only to strip myself of my clothes, armor, and weapons. Once free of my human restraints, I let my inner beast out. Soft skin turned to hardened scales as fingers turned to claws. I pushed off the ground spreading my dark wings as I sped through the night a mournful howl of pain ripping itself from my chest and escaping through a row of deadly sharp teeth. 

45.1

       I landed in the cleaning as the early morning rays of the rising sun illuminated the dark blue of my scales. I was exhausted. I had flown all night in a fit of sadness and rage. My mate’s betrayal had cut my very core. The blade she had driven through my heart didn’t compare to my numerous injuries that had yet to heal from the duel. It was much worse. As I pulled on my clothes drearily, I had to fight off tears that threatened to spill again. I had shredded all my bandages in my shift last night, and I couldn’t go back to my tent to get more, so I found myself trudging through the trees to the medical tent. I skirted the outskirts of the still sleeping camp. A few early risers were lounging outside their tents, but most were still fast asleep. I finally entered the camp as I approached the white tent with a red cross. I slipped inside the tent, hoping to just sneak in grab some bandages and leave. I wasn’t sure if I could face anyone. 

        “Ray!” My hopes were dashed at the cheery tone of Jasper.

       I turned slowly to face him. He was the last person I wanted to see since the last time I saw him I was fixing bloody wounds that I had caused. 

        “Are you okay?” His voice had dropped to a more somber tone as he saw my face, and my miserable expression.

       I just shook my head. My throat tightening and preventing words from forming.

       The medic on duty, a skimpy guy who’s clothes hung from his lean figure stood from his chair. “How can I help you?”

       “I need some bandages.” I managed to choke out, my voice breaking as tears threatened to spill again. 

       Concern filled his voice, as he asked. “Is that all?” I nodded and he sighed. “Alright. How did you get hurt?”

        I wasn’t sure I would be able to form words, but luckily Jasper answered for me. “In a duel with me.”

         The doctor tilted his head in confusion. “But you were completely healed, except for being unconscious, when Kyra brought you in. I doubt the fight was completely one-sided.”

         Jasper shrugged, looking to me.

        I sighed as I accepted the bandages from the doctor. “I healed Jasper, but didn’t have enough magic left to heal myself.” My voice managed only to shake slightly.

       “You shouldn’t have done that Ray.” Jasper protested.

        I turned away from him, shame building again to join the hurt. “Goodbye Jasper. See you later.” My voice broke at the end as tears slid down my cheeks. 

        I left the tent retreating to the forest to bandage my injuries, having no safe place left at the camp. I had about one hour to collect myself before the teachers expected us to attend a training session. This trip was mostly a vacation away from school and the academy, an excuse to give the students a much needed break, but they could only justify it as a “school trip” if they did some teaching. Thus, the obligatory daily training session that was an hour after sunrise.

45.2

       I stood amongst the crowd of chattering bodies with my hood pulled up to hide my tear stained face and red puffy eyes. The chattering fell silent as two of our teachers, skilled warriors donned in iron armor climbed wooden stairs to a small raised platform. 

       “For today’s training session you will be learning to fight against different types of opponents. Shifters will be pairing up with non-shifter, and elves with humans or orcs, and so on to accomplish this. Whether shifters choose to shift or not is there choice. Each fighter is different and adaptation is key, so after each round you will find a new partner. A round is ten minutes. There will be ten minutes. Find a partner.” The head combat teacher’s voice boomed across the crowd of students. I turned scanning the faces of strangers. I hated training exercises like these since I knew a total of two people in this entire school. Although, I wasn’t ready to face either. 

      Someone tapped my shoulder and I turned to face a tall, pretty, elf girl who was wearing traditional elven armor that resembled gold armor but was much lighter and stronger. “You’re not an elf right?” She asked.

       I nodded. “Shifter.” My voice was flat lacking an emotion, not great, but preferable to the shaking mess of earlier.

      She tried to peer under my hood but I self-consciously tugged it forwards. She gave up, moving into a ready stance, preparing to fight. “What type of shifter?”

        I lowered myself into a similar stance a cross from her. “Wouldn’t you like to know?” I answered cynically, although my voice was still flat. 

       She raised an eyebrow. “That’s why I asked?” She seemed genuinely confused.

       I relented feeling slightly bad. “Dragon.” I reached for a dagger that was strapped to my leg. “Though a real opponent wouldn’t tell you.”

        She pulled out double short sword from where they were strapped to her back. “You can turn into a massive fire-breathing dragon converted in nearly impenetrable scales that can fly and your choosing to fight with, what, a dagger?” She asked incredulously.

        I only tightened my grip on my dagger, a sharp breath escaping through my mouth as the whistle blew, signaling the start of the round. 

       The elf girl lunged at me and I mainly stepped back dodging her blades. She swung her sword back around stepping towards me again. I danced to the sides avoiding the flashing points. I was grateful for the elf’s ferocity. It meant I had to be completely focused on avoiding the deadly blades she wielded. It meant no stay thoughts of Jasper, his mate, or my mate entered my mind. I continued to only doge the elf’s strikes, using minimal energy as her breaths were reduced to pants mine remained leveled. After a particularly sloppy slash, instead of stepping back I stepped forwards. Right up against the elf’s chest. Too close for her swords to be of much use. My hand holding my dagger was at her throat, barely digging into the flesh, drawing no blood.

        I watched as defeat filled her frame and she stepped back. “Well done, dragon.” She congratulated, sourly. 

      “Don’t put so much energy into each attack.” I advised. “Force your enemy to use as much energy as you, otherwise you end up on uneven ground.”

      She smiled, sorrowfully. “Thanks. Uh, what’s your name?”

      “Ray.” I said, shortly, a trace of fear present. Most people who knew it were my bullies, I wasn’t ready to have another.

      “Phaedra.” She returned in kind. She sheathed her swords extending a sweaty hand. “Nice meeting you.”

      I shook her hand. “Likewise.”

       She laughed as the whistle blew. “I’ll remember to never underestimate a dagger.”

       I nodded as I found another stranger to duel. An orc boy this time. Despite his tall stature, large axe, and brutish form, he was a terrible fighter. He admitted as much when only two minutes into the fight my dagger was at his throat. Eight more fights of varying difficulty found me with several more bruises, a lot of sweat, and a few cuts. I had lost a couple of my fights and some had no victor. 

      Exhaustion clung to every fiber of my being as I picked myself off the ground from my last fight, one with a human. I longed to return to my tent and collapse on my bed roll, but fear kept me away. Instead I trudged to one of the tents where they wear serving food. I sat down at a rough wooden table by myself, munching on bread while steaming hot stew cooled in front of me. 

       The bench squeaked in protest as it was forced to support someone else’s weight. I glanced over in surprise, who the hell would willingly sit next to me in the almost empty mess hall tent. 

       “Hi Ray.” The light voice of the elf, Pheadra, surprised me.

       “Hi?” Why did she come sit with me? Surely someone like her had a lot of friends. 

        She laughed, lightly. “Why do you sound so confused? Have you never had anyone say hi to you before?”

        I shook my head. “No. Just not anyone like you.”

       “Like me?”

       “Someone who isn’t my roommate or sparring partner.”

        “Sounds lonely.” She said.

       “Why come sit with me?” I asked, curiosity to great and too tired to filter my words. 

        “Because I’m not blind.” She answered, kindly. “I saw the tears staining your face.” She paused. “I thought you might want a friend.”

       I took a bite, chewing in silence. “It’s nothing anyone can help with.” I told her after I finished. 

        “I doubt that.” She said, but didn’t push it. She turned to her own food and ate in silence. The minutes passed in comfortable silence as we both ate. 

       As I finished the last of my stew, I finally broke the silence. “My mate cheated on me.” I admitted quietly. 

       I heard her gasp next to me. “Did she know?” Phaedra asked quietly.

       “She must have, she was a shifter.” Irritation and desperation disguising the hurt that I wasn’t sure would ever leave me. 

       “I’m sorry.”

       “Don’t be you didn’t do anything.” I sighed. “We never even talked about being mates although we both must’ve known.” My hands clenched into fists. “I’m so stupid.” I growled.

         “How are you stupid?” Her calm tone contrasted mind that was a shifting wave of emotions.

        “To believe anyone would ever choose me.” I sighed. “Even my own damn mate chose someone else.”

        She didn’t respond just wrapping an arm around my shoulder and pulling me in. I leaned into her grateful just for the comfort of someone else. 

       “I choose to be your friend.” She whispered, but the words carried to my ears. 

      “Thank you.” I muttered.

[mdelpin]

In Living Memory - Chapter 2

Gratsu Bingo 2019 Prompt: Scream

AO3 | FF.Net | Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Porlyusica had visited early the next morning, determined to see if she could make Natsu’s last hours more comfortable. Despite how much they bickered, and her natural dislike of humans Natsu was someone she’d always been grudgingly fond of.

She’d been treating Natsu since he was a young child and with his penchant for getting in trouble, she saw him more than just about any other mage in the guild. Many of the members of the guild were surprised at the genuine sorrow on Porlyusica’s face when she looked down at the boy sleeping on the infirmary bed. Not Gray.

He was well acquainted with how the little bastard could sneak under all your defenses and make himself a permanent home in your heart. After all, wasn’t that exactly what had happened to him? No matter how much Gray had fought at first, Natsu had been unrelenting until Gray’d had no choice but to surrender to the feelings he’d suppressed for so long. And now, now all he wanted to do was beat himself up for all the time he’d wasted being stubborn.

Porlyuisica shooed Gray out of bed long before he was ready, pointedly looking away when he kissed the unconscious mage good morning. She was mildly surprised at Natsu’s slight improvement, but she didn’t seem to think it would make any difference to the eventual outcome.

Gray bit his lip at her diagnosis, wondering if Nergal was playing him for a fool, but the fact remained, there had been an improvement. Even Porlyusica had admitted it. He had no choice but to continue with his plan to get Natsu back.

"Happy, I need your help," Gray had finally managed to get the Exceed away from the others, and it hadn't been an easy task. There was a line of people waiting to see the Fire Dragon Slayer that reached all the way to the guild’s entrance and beyond as word got out of what had happened. Hell even Totomaru had shown up.

Everyone was so ready to say goodbye, and on their way out they'd offer Gray their condolences like Natsu wasn't still alive on that bed. It made Gray furious, he would not become a widow before they even had a chance to get married. Natsu had never given up once in his life, and it was insulting for them to do so so quickly.

"Aye, sir," Happy replied, but it was only a shadow of his usual response.

Gray looked around the guild and decided it was much safer to have this conversation elsewhere. There were too many dragon slayer ears around, and he was pretty sure they would try to stop him or even worse tell Erza what he was up to. They walked outside, both heading to the river where he and Natsu had spent so many hours fighting with Happy cheering them on. Once he was sure they were alone, Gray sat down and gestured for Happy to do the same.

“I found a way to help Natsu,” Gray explained and told Happy everything he’d done.

Happy looked at him, eyes wide with alarm. “Gray, you know he wouldn’t want this.”

“I don’t care what he wants!” Gray snapped before gazing at Happy pleadingly, “I can’t just let him go, not like this.”

“But your memories,” Happy sighed not liking anything about this situation.

“We can make new ones,” Gray assured him, “It’s not such a big thing.”

He tried not to see the pity in Happy’s eyes at the blatant lie.

“What can I do?”

“I just need you to watch Natsu, make sure Nergal doesn’t try to pull a fast one,” Gray explained, “You’re the only one I can trust with this, I don’t know what he’s going to take from me, I need someone there who knows what’s happening and won’t try to stop it.”

“Gray…” Happy pleaded with him, “Maybe it’s best to just let him go.”

“NO! Natsu would never give up on me, I’m sure as hell not going to give up on him. Not now that I know there’s a way to get him back. Besides, I’m counting on his regeneration kicking in before Nergal can take it all.”

“I don’t like it, but I’ll do whatever you need,” Happy sighed, knowing it was pointless to argue once Gray had made up his mind about something. “He’d do something just as stupid for you.”

“Thanks, Happy.”

Xxx

Gray spent the rest of the day sitting by Natsu's bedside, holding his hand and continuing to watch the seemingly endless parade of people visit his love, wanting to say their goodbyes. He tried to hide his rage, but from the concerned looks he was getting from Cana and Erza knew he was mostly failing.

As evening neared, Gray left Natsu with Happy and went downstairs for a quick dinner before anyone could get on his case. He could feel the weight of many stares on his back as he ate, but thankfully, no one approached him with empty words.

He asked Erza to please send visitors away as he wanted to spend some time alone with Natsu and thankfully she agreed without too much fuss.

Gray made his way outside, sitting on the steps of the guild’s back entrance staring blankly at the vibrant colors of the sunset. He was scared, no sense in lying to himself about that, he could see the way his fingers trembled as he tried to light a cigarette.

He smoked cigarette after cigarette in a futile attempt to calm his nerves. He thought about his memories, immersing himself in them one last time before they were wrested from his brain. He laughed as he remembered some of their fights when they were little, they'd been so childish and full of passion even back then. There were so many memories he wanted to keep to himself, but he had a feeling that those were the ones the devil was the most hungry for.

Gray stood up once it was fully dark. He took a deep breath before making his way upstairs. In a few hours, Natsu would be back in his arms, and everything would go back to the way it was supposed to be. He pictured the smile Natsu gave him in their most private moments and let it give him all the strength he needed to get through this night.

Xxx

Natsu could hear a voice trying to talk to him urgently. He thought it might be Happy, but it was too far away for him to be sure. It felt like his entire being was swimming through a viscous liquid. It dulled his senses, and he didn't like it.

He tried to focus all of his energy on making out the words as best he could.

-- know if you can hear me

--you need to fight...

--Gray…stupid... again

-- before it’s too late

What had happened? He remembered getting off the train and sensing that strange magic directed at Lucy and without any other thought he’d taken off leaving Gray behind.

Everything after that was hazy, he knew there had been a fight. Had they won? What had happened to him?

He thought harder, his head pounding from the effort. The magic had pierced his block, and it had hurt like hell, making his body feel like it was burning from the inside. Then, nothing…

Was Gray, okay? He'd never forgive himself if his actions had caused his mate harm. Just as he finished that thought, he felt a gentle pressure on his lips. It was cold, but it heated his body, a response both familiar and full of promise.

Gray, he’d know those lips anywhere.

Hold on...longer... together soon

... love you

What the hell was going on?

He could feel his magic fighting against something inside his body, but it seemed to only be keeping it at bay. Everything was so dark, and he couldn't move a muscle, but the pain was indescribable. It felt like his body was attempting to deconstruct itself.

Natsu was not the type of person to admit he was scared, but there was no other word for the panic he was feeling. He was helpless and if felt like he needed to wake up right the hell now. Something in both Happy and Gray's voices made that clear.

He felt another presence enter the room, it reeked of sulfur and bubble gum? Who was that?

Are you... Devil Slayer?

...the crap..do this

...worry...no one… hear…. spell

Natsu wanted to scream in frustration, what was happening. Why did everything sound so far away, no matter how hard he focused?

More words were exchanged, but he couldn't make them out, the more agitated he became, the louder the sound of his own body became. His heartbeat thrummed in his ears, and he swore he could feel the blood moving through his veins.

He needed to calm down, to regulate his body as much as possible so that he could hear what was happening in the room.

He felt hands on his body, and they were not Gray's, it angered him. Why would Gray let some stranger touch him, especially one that smelled so foul? They seemed to be drawing something on his chest, and it felt viscous, just like whatever was already inside him. Once the pressure was removed, the pain in Natsu's body increased tenfold.

He could sense his magic instinctively fighting against whatever was trying to fuse with it. He felt bitterly cold as the two different types of magic battled for dominance of his body. His body shut down, and once again, he was trapped in the darkness.

Natsu didn’t know how long he’d been out or what had finally woken him. He extended his senses, feeling stronger than he had before.

Stopped…Galuna... Iced Shell… first time

Don’t...shy….only strongest….

There were those voices again. One was clearly Gray, but he had no idea who the other was.

..tsu...have...fight….

Natsu felt something wet on his face and was confused. Why was Happy crying? He tried to move and felt some give in his hands, but his legs remained motionless. Ugh, this was so frustrating.

The first thing he heard clearly was a blood-curdling scream, followed by sobs.

Who was crying? Was it just Happy, or was it Gray too? That scream! He recoiled when he recognized it. That was Gray!

Someone was hurting Gray, and he was lying on a bed like a fucking rag doll! He could feel the fury build within him, fueling his magic further. Natsu could feel it lashing out at whatever the hell was keeping him from his mate. It felt different though, and he began to thrash on the bed, desperately fighting to move.

Shh...look…him... better....keep going

Natsu still couldn't see, but his ears finally cleared up. With dismay, he could hear Gray telling someone all their most secret moments. Each time followed by that awful scream. And every time without fail his magic would make more headway against whatever was holding him prisoner in his body.

He remembered the first words he'd heard Happy utter and with a sinking heart understood their meaning. Gray had gone and done something stupid again. He might not be the smartest mage in the guild, but there were some things he could understand instinctively. Gray's willingness to sacrifice himself for those he loved was one of them.

Someway, somehow by telling this man their most intimate secrets Gray was helping him fight. This was dark magic, and Natsu knew that magic of this type always came with a steep price. He couldn't wait to break free so he could show his foolish fiance precisely what he thought of his shitty plan.

Natsu didn’t know how much more of this he could take, he willed his magic to work ever faster as Gray’s voice had become hoarse. How long had he been at it now, hours?

He continued to engage the enemy within so he could free himself from its chains, once that happened there would be no place on this Earth this man could hide from him. He was going to pay for making Gray scream like that.

When Natsu heard Gray begin to tell about how he’d proposed, the joy he’d felt when Natsu said yes and how they’d made love in the moonlight for hours, he panicked, immediately sensing they were running out of time. He could hear the tears in Gray’s voice, the tiredness, and the love and he’d had enough.

The fear and fury inside him built up into a crescendo until it could no longer be contained within his body. He felt something snap inside of him, and he was already moving, flames covering his body, burning away at the sigil that had been drawn on his chest. Natsu moved with single-minded purpose, his gaze fixed on the man that dared put his hand on Gray's forehead.

He ran towards them, already readying his first spell when Gray screamed one last time and even though he barely had any voice left to give it form, it rang loudly in Natsu's ears. Gray's eyes rolled to the back of his head, and he collapsed into the chair he'd been sitting on.

Happy had already flown to Gray's side, calling out his name. When he nodded at Natsu that the ice mage was okay, Natsu turned his attention to the one responsible.

"YOU! What did you do to him?" " Natsu grabbed the man by the collar of his jacket, slamming him against the nearest wall, unable to contain the rage that was itching for release.

“ANSWER ME!” Natsu roared already having grabbed the man from where he landed.

"Don't hurt him!" Happy screamed, and there was no mistaking the urgency of the Exceed's voice.

"What are you talking about?" Natsu exploded at Happy, his gaze never faltering from the man he'd now pinned against the wall. His eyes burned with an intensity that should have been capable of incinerating this contemptible dark wizard. Except, on closer observation, he could sense it wasn't a man at all. That stink, it was definitely otherworldly.

“He means, Natsu Dragneel,” The creature released himself from Natsu’s grasp gracefully, dusting his clothes off without concern.

“If you harm me in any way, Gray’s contract will be null and void. Your Death Curse will return, killing you instantly, and your lover will have sacrificed his precious memories for nothing.” The creature smirked maliciously, its dull eyes still managing to convey amusement at Natsu’s plight.

“What do you mean, sacrificed his memories?”

Natsu heard a groan coming from the chair Gray occupied, and he instantly glanced over, wanting to make sure his love was alright.

“I’ll let the cat explain.” The man disappeared without a sound, leaving Natsu to try to comprehend what had happened and leaving him with a growing sense of unease.

He took a deep breath, he could deal with that later. Right now, he had one concern, and that was to make sure that Gray was fine. He looked awful, dark circles around his eyes made them seem hollow, and Natsu rushed to him, wanting nothing more than to assure himself that his partner was safe.

Natsu wrapped his arms around Gray and held him tightly relieved to see him awake once more. He pushed his face into the crook of Gray’s neck, wanting to immerse himself in the scent that for the last few years had meant home. He was surprised when he felt resistance. Gray pushed him away, and he wasn't very gentle about it.

Natsu was confused, but he stood patiently, ready to bear the long lecture that was clearly in his future. For Gray to tell him how he always got himself into these situations by not thinking first.

He would gladly hear that lecture and many more. Natsu still had no idea what the hell had happened, but he knew that somehow they had cheated death once again. They were alive, everything else could be worked out.

That is what he was expecting. What he couldn't possibly have anticipated were the words that actually came out of Gray's mouth, nor the hostility with which they were spoken.

“What the hell do you think you’re doing?”

To be Continued...

A/N: It's been a while! I always liked this story. Unfortunately, I just got busy with other projects. It should have one more chapter which will hopefully be posted before the end of August since I'm planning to use another Gratsu Bingo prompt to finish it off. I hope you enjoy!

[dazzlingphoenix]

Dragons of Lockra: Shards of Dawn Light

Chapter 3:  Family Problems Upon Family Problems

   Veneasha had left the siblings and flew outside to better see what was happening. Rain Flier guardsdragons were pointing sharp spears at Fergjin and the other Dawn Feather guardsdragons as Oyster writhed in his restraints.

   "What is the meaning of this?!" A large battle worn rain dragon demanded as he ran over.

   "It's fine Cyclone," Fogbank tried to tell him. "It's not the dawn tribe's fault!"

   "Then what in Brine's name happened to Oyster?" Cyclone asked.

  "I do not know," Veneasha said loudly to get their attention. "But he suddenly started yelling at the queen, threatening her, and trying to get our tribe to break the Honor Law by killing the Thorn Runner Tribe." She trotted over to Fergjin and stood strongly by him. "And Fogbank can attest to this." She added.

  "It's true," The she-dragon told Cyclone. "He just went.. mad! He must be sick or something!" Cyclone looked at Fogbank with a defensive kind of care, muttering words under his breath.

  "Uncle Oyster!" A shrill giggle cut through the air. Veneasha looked up to see Zarshaul flying Angelfin down to the ground. The dragonet hopped off of her brother and raced towards the mad dragon, but was swiftly swept away by Cyclone's ragged webbed tail.

  “Oyster’s sick right now little shrimp.” Cyclone grumbled.

  “Dad, my name is Angelfin.” The dragonet said with a sour face, crossing her arms. While the family spoke, Veneasha kept facing forwards and tapped Fergjin on his foot. He looked over at her then back forwards.

  “What is it princess?” He asked softly.

  “It’s your mate,” She replied in a quiet voice. “She needs you right now. It’s why I went to the barracks in the first place.”

  “What’s so wrong with Gamehna that she needs me and not you?”

  “Your egg disappeared.” She could feel the guardsdragon tense up and freeze. “Gamehna needs you.” After a minute he raced off, beating his wings faster and faster until he was a speck on the horizon. The other guards glanced at Veneasha then turned their attention back to the rain dragons.

  Cyclone was the biggest and most intimidating dragon, bearing deep sapphire scales with lighter blue markings and dark cyan-green wings. He wore simple metal cuffs on his arms, and a wing blade clamped to the talons on his wings. He ordered the other Rain Flier guardsdragons to haul Oyster away.

  "If that is all, my dragons and I will be on our way." Veneasha said curtly to the large dragon.

  "Not so fast lil princess," Cyclone said lowly, narrowing his eyes on her. "The queen will want to talk to you."

  "She gets to talk to AURORA?" Angelfin asked loudly while flapping her wings, her cough kicking back up. Fogbank rubbed her back, trying to soothe the dragonet.

  "With all due respect sir," Veneasha started, her snappiness edging into her voice. "I think it would be better if my mother talked to your queen. I'm not even next in line for the throne."

  “Not with that attitude." The guardsdragon said quietly, thinking the princess wouldn't hear. "Come with me your majesty." Cyclone grumbled, trotting back into the castle. Veneasha glanced at the two Dawn Feather guards, who shrugged and walked with her.

  Instead of turning to the long corridors where Angelfin and Zarshaul's room was, the rain dragon lead Veneasha straight forward to a grand double doorway. The dark wood had pearls, gold and silver embedded into the intricate carvings and crevices, creating a large mosaic of the Rain Flier Tribe symbol: A royal rain tail with pearls on the ends.

  Two guards with large spears stood by the door, looking straight ahead with an unmoving posture. If the princess hadn't looked directly at them and saw one blink, she probably would've thought they were statues. Their scales were pristine and their armour was polished. Sapphires and pearls were embedded in the silver metals, swirling along their bodies like extra scales.

  Cyclone opened one of the doors and gestured for her to enter. Veneasha gave a curt bow and slowly trotted inside with her wings held tightly to her body. The two dawn guards followed her curiously, gazing at the decorated interior of the antechamber. Cyclone walked briskly ahead after closing the door behind them, heading towards the equally large doors to the throne room.

  Two other guards opened the doors for them, sitting in the same stiff position the other guards were in. Finally, the group made it to the queen.

  Queen Aurora was sitting lazily on her throne, but her attention peaked when she saw the Dawn Feather princess walk inside. The other grande chair next to her was empty, just like Ruby's. Though, instead of three seats for heirs, there was only one where a young male dragon sat.

  Prince Storm. Veneasha realized. He wasn't Aurora's son, but was actually her nephew. Veneasha remembered him and the queen visiting Sunpeak Castle when she was younger. The sky blue and grey prince kept to himself, but not in a shy way. Now he was bigger and looked more like his aunt with his unamused expression.

  "Good evening your majesty," Veneasha bowed to her, spreading her wings and dipping her head. “I am sorry for intruding like this, but one of your dragons had alarmed us this morning.”

  “How so?” The old dragon asked. Her voice was much more raspy than Veneasha had thought. The seafoam eyes of the queen were focussed completely onto the princess. She’d never felt this much pressure before.

  “Well, to start, his name is Oyster.” The princess started to explain. “According to eyewitnesses, such as his partner Fogbank, Oyster began to shout. They were talking about the issue with your tribe’s border with the Thorn Runners, and he argued that we should kill them all, which is clearly against the Honor Law.”

  “Yes yes,” Aurora grumbled. “I know what the Honor Law is. No need to preach to a dragon nearly four times your age.”

  “Anyways,” Veneasha continued. “Fogbank tried to calm him down but it didn’t work. The guardsdragons had to pin him down and restrain him in the end. We think he might have gotten some kind of illness that makes him go.. Mad.”

  The queen sat there, a calculating glint over her eyes. Veneasha stood there while her gaze pierced her scales and flesh, looking right into her soul.

  "Well I guess I appreciate Ruby sending him to me instead of locking him up in your dingy prisons." Aurora finally spoke, blinking away her sharp stare and sitting again lazily in the gold and sapphire throne. "I'll have him checked out by the doctors. You may leave, princess."

  "Thank you, your majesty." Veneasha bowed again and turned around, trotting quickly back to the outside of the castle. She passed by the guards and doors, and when she finally made it to the palace entrance she heaved a sigh of relief. The Dawn Feather guards hurried after her, probably because they didn't want to stay with the queen either.

  "Hooooo-wee," One of the guards exclaimed. "I never wanna see her again!"

  "You can say that again!" Remarked the other. "It felt like she could see right through us!"

  "Let us not talk rudely about our allies," Veneasha said sarcastically in her "royal" voice. "They could cut off our pearl supply like that!" All three of them started to laugh, throwing their heads back and unfurling their wings for lift off. They started to beat their wings, rising off the ground and over to their home.

  After another less fun half hour later, Veneasha and the guards made it back to their tribelands lands. The guards said their goodbyes and landed back at the barracks while the princess kept flying inland. The familiar and comforting rocky landscape of her tribe soothed her after the intense meeting with the Rain Flier queen.

  I should probably check up on Gamehna. The princess remembered. She swerved slightly and landed back to where the frantic mother had found her. Other guardsdragons were hovering about, but including Fergjin only two were present.

  "How's the situation?" She asked the father.

  "Not that well," Fergjin sighed. "Whoever stole the egg left no trace. Or at least, no trace we could find." He looked down, his wings loosely hanging from his sides.

  "I'm so sorry Fergjin," Veneasha said softly, placing a talon on his shoulder. "I'm sure we'll find it soon." She perked her head up and smiled. "And I think I know who can help!" The princess took off without explanation, flying to some of the buildings on the lower mountain side. Soon the ragged sign came into view, barely hanging on by the rusty metal chains.

  The Juvenile Dawn Feather Detention Center.

  Broken glass and sharp rocks dotted the outside, making some unsuspecting dragons think it might be a dump. That and the horrible reeking smell from inside. The center didn’t have a waste deposit, and so they kept it in a cave in the far back; but clearly it didn’t work.

  Veneasha flew into the entrance, startling some of the guards. They relaxed once they realized who she was.

  "Hello boys," She smiled. "I've come to pick up the usual two dragons."

  "Right this way Veneasha." One guard opened a door and lead the princess through the detention center. It was more of a prison to be honest, but none of the nobles funding the place liked the way that sounded. She walked by young dragons in cells, who were either pacing, shouting, or slumped in a corner. Luckily she knew where she was heading.

  "Is that tha princess I hear?" An accented voice called from the end of the hall. Veneasha chuckled and flew over the guard and to the cell. A young male dragon, around Veneasha's age, was pressing his light pink muzzle through the bars of the cell. Although his face was riddled with scars, he always managed to have a kind expression.

  "Hello Vroih," She smiled, poking the dragon's snout back inside. "I've got another job for you and Jiernaq."

  "Sounds lovely!" Vroih hopped around. The delinquent was one of Veneasha’s close friends. But considering the way they had met, anyone would’ve guessed they’d hate one another.

  Veneasha had woken up from a dream. Well, a nightmare to be more precise, but she didn’t like to tell that to anyone. She looked around her room to see Vroih, wearing black cloth, looking through her treasure box. She watched for a while until he had noticed her.

  “Hi there.” She said calmly to him. Vroih froze. Quite literally too. He had stopped what he was doing and held the position for as long as he could before falling onto his snout and into the jewelry. Veneasha stared at him and then laughed like she had never laughed before. Vroih scrambled to his feet and looked at the princess with confusion.

  “Yer.. Not angry with me..?” He asked her. “I’m trying to take yer treasure! Aren’t ya gonna stop me..?” His face had a lot less scars back then, but had the same soft expressions..

  “PFFT,” The princess laughed. “You can have it! I hate that stuff, take as much as you want!” Vroih narrowed his eyes on her and back on the treasure. He slowly started to put it back into the chest.

  “What, do you think that I, a normal princess, could’ve cursed the jewels somehow?” Veneasha asked with an unamused look. “You managed to get in here without alerting the guards. You deserve that stuff! Plus Ruby can just make more insufferable jewelry for me.”

  Talonsteps thundered up from the tower, nearing the princess's room. Veneasha looked worryingly at Vroih.

  "The guards are coming," She told him, getting out of bed and pushing him towards the tower window. "Take what you have and fly!"

  "But I don't know how ta fly!" The dragon argued in a panic. "I climbed!"

  "WHAT KIND OF DRAGON DOESN'T KNOW HOW TO FLY?!" Veneasha asked in a roar. The guards were right outside her door. She could hear the clinking of metal and annoyed shouts as they fumbled with the keys.

  "What's your name?" She asked him, staring at the door to her room.

  "Vroih." He answered.

  "Well Vroih," Veneasha said, turning her head to him. "Time to learn how to fly!" She pushed him all the way out of the window and dove after him. Vroih was screaming, flailing his wings with no idea how to actually use them. The princess wrapped her arms and legs around his body and unfurled her wings, catching the mountain wind and soaring away from the tower.

  "YOU ARE CRAZY!" Vroih had screamed at her.

  "Thanks!" She simply responded, flying the criminal away from the palace. While she flew she could feel her talons digging into Vroih's underbelly and winced. Veneasha set him down by a clump of dens on the flats, and when the dragon made contact with the ground, he fell onto his belly.

  "I never want ta do that again." Vroih said softly, his talons clutching the earth below him. "Nope. Nuh-uh. That's scary."

  "Hey, would you rather have some cuts on your stomach and a new mild fear of flying, or be dead?" The princess asked. "I know I'd prefer the former."

  The two had parted soon after, Veneasha flying back to the castle to get scolded and grounded by her mother for helping a criminal escape. Vroih had told her that when he got home, his dad had swiped him over the snout for getting caught, but congratulated him on getting the treasure. He had mentioned they were able to finally trade the jewelry for better meals for a week.

  That incident was ten years ago, and they had many more run ins with each other. Like the one time he had crashed into her while running from guards for stealing a piece of fruit. Or the other time Veneasha was punished and tasked to clean up the detention center, meeting Vroih while he was serving his time. At least he finally learned how to fly.

  The guard finally caught up to the princess and the delinquent in the tunnel. He unlocked the cell, letting the blue dragon out. Chirping was already coming from the cell next to it, the entire green and pink face of Jiernaq poking out from the cell. When the princess neared, the thin and bony dragon squeezed his way through the bars and over to Veneasha, smiling happily at her.

  “Ven!" He chirped. "Ven! Ven Ven Ven!"

  "Hi Jiernaq," She giggled. "Happy to see you too."

  The thin dragon was ten years younger than the princess and Vroih, and was very malnourished. The way Veneasha had met him was very different than Vroih.

  Veneasha was walking through the tribe, saying hi to dragons and glancing at the little shops they so desperately tried to sell her stuff from. A flash of green had caught her eye. It darted between two stalls, an angry dragon trying to follow it and failing. She watched as he stomped away, then slowly approached where she had seen the green had gone.

  Turning the corner she saw Jiernaq, much smaller and thinner, munching hastily on a pineapple, a very rare and expensive fruit.

  "Hi..!" She said softly to him. The dragonet looked up at her, his purple eyes wide with panic while fruit juice dripped off his snout. "What's your name?" She asked. He slowly reached a talon out and scrawled out the letters spelling "Jiernaq".

  "Hello Jiernaq," Veneasha started. "My name is Veneasha. Do you know where your parents are?" Jiernaq shook his head slowly.

  "Are you lost?" He shook his head again.

  "Are you.. alone?" He nodded, looking down at the loose dirt beneath his talons. Veneasha felt her throat close up, fighting back the urge to cry. This was her first experience with a motherless dragonet. Sadly, her first of many.

  What kind of parent would leave their dragonet? She asked herself. Unless… They died..

  Veneasha told Jiernaq to finish the fruit then to follow her. He, instead of following, curled onto her back in between her shoulder and wing blades. His breathing was fast and shallow, a sign of sickness. She walked slowly, then started a trot towards the doctor's den.

  "Toxixo?" Veneasha called out. "I have a sick and underfed dragonet here, he needs help." A male purple and black dragon briskly emerged from a room within the den.

  Toxixo was an anomaly to most dawn dragons in the tribe. He had a dark teal underbelly and bright lime wings. The thing that made him different were the triangular patterns on his limbs. Some think they're tattoos, others think they're actually his scales and that he has distant Thorn Runner blood.

  "Where?" Toxixo asked in his gravelly voice. "I don't see any dragon." Veneasha turned around to show Jiernaq to the doctor. 

  "Oh my Disyun," He muttered. "This poor dragonet!" With nimble and gentle talons, Toxixo slowly picked Jiernaq up. "Where did you find him?"

  "He was hiding in the market," Veneasha explained. "Because he stole a fruit. Can you please help him? I can pay you if you want, I have-"

  "No need princess," The doctor said in a hushed tone. "This one's without charge."

  Toxixo had then taken care of Jiernaq, but still the little dragonet wouldn't regain fat onto his bones. Eventually Jiernaq got into trouble for stealing food and was sent here, the detention center.

  "So, what're we doin today lass?" Vroih asked, stretching his legs in the stone tunnel.

  "It's Gamehna," Veneasha said, turning to him. "She lost her egg, and I need your eyesight and Jiernaq's sense of smell to help find it."

  "Will do!" The delinquent smiled, fluttering his wings slightly. Veneasha turned to the guard, who was wearing a small smile.

  "I'll bring them back by sundown." She promised.

  "It's fine princess," The guard told her with the wave of a hand. "Just make sure Ruby doesn't see ya!" Veneasha chuckled and nodded, trotting off to the entrance. Jiernaq coiled himself on her back as Vroih and Veneasha took off back towards Gamehna's den.

[official-weasley]

The Battle - (The Irreplaceable Charlie Weasley AU)

Warnings: mentions of death, losing a loved one

Word count: 3,327

Characters: Charlie Weasley and my OC Nova from TICW which you can find here

Charlie

“And then I looked him in the eyes and he just backed down.” Dominik slammed his beer bottle at the table, laughing so hard, finishing his story.

Andrei almost fell from his seat and I brushed a tear away, laughing so much.

“Dom, there is no way the Ukranian Ironbelly just gave up when you didn't give him food,” I said, still laughing.

His story was ridiculous and unbelievable but the way he was telling it was too funny not to listen.

“If that was true mate, you wouldn't be sitting here in front of us.” Andrei followed.

“You bastards, never believing me.” Dom rolled his eyes, knowing full well he was full of it. “You'll see when...”

But he didn't finish the sentence. His eyes widened as he looked at something behind Andrei and me. We both turned around and my heart skipped a beat when I saw Bill's Patronus, moving towards us.

“Charlie. Gather everyone you can. There is a battle at Hogwarts.” Bill's voice said and we all stood up at once.

“Alright!” I clapped my hands together. “For all we know they can be fighting for hours already. Get everyone and send out as many messages as you can, we need to go now!”

“There won't be time to set a Portkey, Charlie,” Andrei said.

“I have to get to my family first, Andrei. I have to tell Nova what is going on. We’ll apparate there and hope for the best.” He nodded and started gathering people around.

All across the village people started apparating, nodding at me or looking taken aback by the sudden change of atmosphere. I was just hoping we weren't too late and the people we have been getting to join us in all these years will be of help during the battle, no matter how many we will be able to inform on such short notice.

I helped Andrei gather and inform as many people as I could before running with him toward the Sanctuary gates.

“Good luck, mate.” Andrei pulled me into a hug before apparating.

I gave him a simple nod, not wanting to say anything that might sound like a goodbye. I watched him disappear, before taking a deep breath and apparating myself.

Nova

“Yummy.” Aoede clapped her hands together.

“Good, huh? You’re going to grow so big and strong eating this broccoli.” I scooped up more food off her plate and airplane it toward her mouth.

“I can’t believe she loves veggies so much.” My mum giggled, watching me feed Aoede.

“Yeah, she never hated them and Andrei made up this story about Veggieland and how their purpose is to make Aoede strong like her dad. Charlie tried involving dragons but Aoede wasn’t having it.” I chuckled.

“I bet he was disappointed.” Mum pressed her lips trying not to laugh as she knew how into dragons Charlie was.

“He said he wasn’t but I know he wants Aoede to like his favorite beasts.”

“Speaking of things you like. You never liked veggies much. Always questioned why they have to be so green and then just pushed them away.” Mum reminisced.

“Shh, don’t tell that to Aoede, she’ll start questioning the Veggieland.”

Before my mum could reply we heard a loud pop outside.

“Did someone just apparate in front of your house?” Mum whispered.

“Nobody knows we live here.” My heart was drumming against my chest.

I carefully stood up, motioning with my head for my mum to take Aoede away. I slowly walked to the front door, my wand at the ready. Before I could walk to the door it flew open and Charlie rushed inside.

“Bloody hell, Charlie. You scared us. Why did you apparate home?” I pulled him into a hug to steady my heartbeat.

“Bill just sent me a Patronus. It’s happening, Nova. He attacked Hogwarts!”

I gasped at his words, following him to the bedroom.

“Everybody from the Sanctuary already apparated. I have to go as soon as possible.” Charlie opened our closet and searched for something more practical to wear.

“You have to go? You mean we have to go?”

“Oh, no. You’re not going anywhere. You are staying here.” Charlie turned around to find me frowning at him, my arms crossed on my chest.

“The hell I am letting you go out there alone.” I tried keeping my voice steady.

“You’re a mother, Nova. You are not going into battle.” Charlie took a step closer, raising his voice at me.

“And you’re a father. Should I make you stay behind then too?”

“Nova, you don’t understand. If Bill is there, so is the rest of the Order and my entire family. I have to go and help them.” He tried putting his hands on my shoulders but I backed away.

“They are my family too! Aoede’s aunt and uncles and grandparents!”

“That’s exactly why you have to stay here! Nova, we almost died when the Sanctuary was attacked if something happens…” Charlie’s voice broke and he bowed his head. “Aoede needs at least one parent and she needs her mum more.”

Silence filled the room after he said those words. My chest was rising and falling fast and my jaw was shaking.

“We are both going and we are both coming back,” I said firmly, taking a cautious step toward him and cupping his face. “We promised in our vows that we’ll stand by each other’s side when facing a dark wizard. This is it. I am not letting you go by yourself. Aoede will be safe here with my mum. She is our Secret Keeper – nobody can get to them.”

“Nova, if something goes…”

“It won’t go wrong. We have each other’s backs. We are in this together. I promise.” I kissed him hard on the mouth and wrapped my arms tightly around him.

“Charlie, Nova is right. You’re stronger together.” We turned around to see my mum standing in the doorway, holding Aoede.

“Daddy!” Aoede started clapping her hands together and extending her arms seeing Charlie, wanting him to hold her.

Mum gave Aoede to him and I gestured for her to give us a moment alone. She gave me a gentle nod and closed the door after her.

“Pumpkin, mummy and daddy have to go somewhere, so you’ll stay here with nana Olie,” Charlie said in a whisper, trying to hide from our daughter how hard this was for him.

“Whele ale you going?” Aoede questioned.

“On a secret mission to bring something really valuable to you, sweetheart.” I ran my fingers through her red locks.

“Ooh,” Aoede gasped, “what is it? What is it?”

Charlie and I exchanged looks, not sure what to tell her. Once Aoede started talking and asking us questions, we made a decision to be as real with her as we possibly can for her age. My parents never hid anything from me and always told me the truth no matter how hard it was to handle and we wanted to do the same with our children.

“Peace, Pumpkin,” Charlie replied. “A piece of cake?” Aoede’s eyes shown and I couldn’t help but get teary-eyed.

“Yes!” Charlie and I said in unison, both nodding.

“We will be back before you know it and in the meantime, you and your nana will go on one of your little…adventures.” My voice broke at the last word and I quickly leaned in to kiss Aoede’s forehead so she wouldn’t see me cry.

“Oh, the flying adventule and veggie adventule and cololing adventule!” Aoede got excited.

“Any adventure you want, sweetheart.” I squeezed her between myself and Charlie, never wanting to let go of our embrace.

“Nova, Charlie you have to go.” My mum opened the door and walked inside.

“I…” Charlie pulled away, looking at my mum and then at Aoede, tears running down his cheeks.

We went downstairs in complete silence. Mum extended her hands for Charlie to give her our daughter.

“No, I can’t.” He turned to me, pleading me to do something. “I can’t leave her.”

“I know,” I swallowed thickly, “I…I know it’s hard. But we’re doing this for her, Charles. For her to have a better future. For her not to worry and have a peaceful childhood. For her to be safe and grow up in an environment where we don’t have to have a Secret Keeper to stay out of danger.”

My voice was shaking and tears were running down my face. I said those things for both of us – to convince both of us to go because we knew that our friends and family need us. I felt awful and every muscle in my body was telling me to let others fight and just stay hidden and I knew that Charlie felt the same way. It broke my heart the way he was looking at our little girl – as if this was the last time he will ever be able to look into her big blue eyes.

“Mummy,” I sniffed as Aoede called me.

“Yes, sweetheart?”

I wanted to step closer to her. I wanted to take her in my arms and tell her everything is going to be alright but I knew that if Charlie gives her to me, I won’t be able to let go of her.

“Why ale you clying?” She was 2 years and 3 months old now but she was as clever as if she was an adult.

“I,” I didn’t know what to say, “mummy will just miss you so much, sweetheart.”

“I will miss you too!” She extended her arms, wanting me to hold her.

“Mummy and daddy have to go.” I nodded to Charlie to give Aoede to my mum.

“Watch each other’s backs, help each other and stay safe,” mum said to us as I hugged her.

“Mummy?”

I didn’t say anything back, it was too painful. We hurried to the door and as Charlie turned the doorknob we both turned around to look at our daughter one more time. I wish we didn’t.

Aoede was pinching her fingers and biting her lip as she did whenever she was about to cry.

“Mummy!” She extended her arms again and released her tears. “Daddy, come back!” She tried desperately to get out of her grandma’s grip, but she held her tight against her body, whispering something to her.

I knew we shouldn’t have cried in front of her – we shouldn’t have appeared weak. I knew that she was going to sense something is wrong and that she will try to make us stay.

“Open the door, Charles! I can’t stand this!” I nudged Charlie to snap him from his thoughts.

He shook his head a little, his eyes finally looking from Aoede to me.

“Let’s go, before she makes us both stay,” I said, my whole body shaking.

“We love you, Pumpkin!” Charlie shouted looking at the door, finally opening it.

“No! Mummy! Daddy, stay!” We heard Aoede cry as we closed the door behind us.

We started running away from the house. We knew that if we lingered around we won’t be strong enough and will go back inside.

“We have…to do…this,” I said between my sobs.

“We can’t…Nova…we can’t leave her like this.” Charlie wrapped his arms around me.

“We have to. We have to. We are doing this for her. She is safe here. Our family and friends need us.” I tried convincing both of us.

“No. You have to stay. She has to have one of us here.” Charlie tried convincing me one last time.

“We’ve been through this, Charles. We are both going.” I locked our eyes.

“Okay,” Charlie bowed his head, “just please be careful.”

“You too.”

“I’m serious, Nova. I almost lost you that day when the Sanctuary was attacked.” He pressed his forehead to mine.

“I know and I almost lost you because you would rather we both die than lose me,” I whispered.

“Okay, fair enough.” Charlie took a deep breath. “But if something happens to both of us…” His voice broke.

I knew exactly what was going through his mind. This wasn’t just about losing me anymore. This was about him as well, about Aoede staying behind, about her being without parents if something ought to go wrong.

“Mum will take care of her. Bill and Fleur will take care of her. Just as if something happened to Tonks and Remus, Harry and I would keep Teddy safe. We trust them the most that’s why they are her godparents, remember?” I tried calming his thoughts.

“Yeah,” Charlie nodded, “she would be safe with Bill and Fleur.”

He gently pulled away and looked at me as he did that night when the Sanctuary was attacked – with fear and barely keeping it together.

“I love you.”

“I love you too, Charles.” I kissed him tenderly before locking our arms and apparating away.

Charlie

When we got to Hogsmeade, everything was quiet. Here and there we saw someone peeking through the window.

“I think everybody went to the school already,” I whispered to Nova.

“We should hurry. We can’t lose any more time.” Nova grabbed my hand and we started running toward the castle.

We’ve met a few older villagers on the way, telling people where to go through the barrier.

Once we got to the Courtyard, I didn't have time to look for any familiar faces or my family. Everything was in pure chaos. I needed a moment to focus and distinguish between our fighters and the enemy.

Before I knew it, I was throwing spells and jinxes in every direction. It was much worse and much more intense than the battle at the Sanctuary but I didn't lose focus. Nova was right, this was for our daughter – for the children to have a better future, for them not to worry about what is going to happen like we had to.

It felt good to fight again and the pure adrenaline in my veins didn't allow me to get tired even though I felt as if I was fighting for hours. I saw Bill fight for a split second with the corner of my eye. And mum and dad as I turned around. There was a moment when I thought I saw Ginny but mum wouldn't allow her to fight, would she?

Before I could think twice about it, I already had two new Death Eaters standing before me, missing one's green light coming from his wand by millimeters. I was able to stun one and disarm the other and there was a new one making his way to me.

Before he could raise his wand at me, someone that I didn't know, hit him with a jinx from behind, and as his eyes widened, he hit the ground. I nodded to the person who saved me from the enemy and looked around to see where I should go next and who should I help to fight.

Nova tried her hardest to not get lost in the crowd and stay as close to me as possible. I felt calmer knowing that and seeing her safe every time I turned around.

“Charlie, watch out!” I heard her shout all of a sudden and I don’t know what made me do it but I ducked down.

With my hands over my head, I turned around and saw Nova slam a Death Eater into a wall, knocking him unconscious.

“Are you alright?” She kneeled next to me.

“I’m fine. Thank you, love. I didn’t see that one at all.” I took the hand she offered me to help me stand up.

“I told you we have each other’s back.” She winked at me and then turned her back to mine ready to fight some more.

I have no idea how long we have fought for. I felt so tired as if we have been there for days. I was proud of myself and of Nova for fighting so bravely but nothing could beat the fact how Harry defeated Voldemort.

I was squeezing Nova’s hand the entire time, watching the events before us unfold. It’s over. I still can’t believe it. It’s over.

Once we snapped out of it, realizing we can put our wands down – the need to defend ourselves no longer present – we started walking around to find my family. I had to know that they are alright.

“Charlie…” I turned to Nova as she called my name.

She looked horrified, her eyes glistening with tears, looking at something on our left. I followed her gaze and felt my heart break when I saw Percy and George crying, leaning over a body.

I have no idea how I had the strength to walk there or dared to see who it was.

I fell to my knees when I saw Fred lying motionless on the ground. I felt Nova’s arms around me, trying to keep me from falling apart even though I knew she was crying herself.

Nobody said anything. Nobody dared to look each other in the eyes. We were all sitting on the floor around my brother. Some were crying, others let their tears fall silently. I was looking at Fred. My eyes switching from his closed ones to his chest desperately trying to find any sort of indication that we might’ve been wrong and that he is okay but to no avail.

I was leaning on Nova’s shoulder her gently stroking my hair. While Ginny leaned on her other side, her hands wrapped tightly around Nova’s arm.

We knew this might happen. We were mentally preparing ourselves to lose someone we love, someone we know. I was selfish to hope that our family will be spared. That we won’t have to go through this. For my mum and dad not to lose a son, for me not to lose a brother, for George not to lose his twin, for Aoede not to lose her uncle.

I didn’t know what to do, I didn’t know how to feel. I felt a part of me missing – a hollow feeling in my chest. I didn’t know if I wanted to cry or shout more. I just wanted to get rid of this pain, of the sorrow. Of the questions that were bombarding my brain – when was the last time you talked to him, what were the last words you said to each other, will Aoede remember her brave uncle?

A voice that made Nova turn around snapped me out of my thoughts.

“Nova, Charlie! You’re okay!” We both jumped to our feet and pulled Penny and Andre into a hug.

I felt relief knowing they were alright. It was hard for us to leave our daughter at home but they had to leave their daughter and their baby boy who celebrated his first birthday just a month ago.

“Oh, Merlin.” Penny gasped when she saw what we were all doing. “Charlie, I am so sorry.” She hugged me again.

“Where are Tulip and Jae?” I decided to change the topic.

I wasn’t strong enough to talk about losing my brother.

“And Tonks and Remus?” Nova questioned.

“Tulip has a few broken ribs and Jae was hit in the head but they will be alright,” Penny said, her voice shaking.

“And Tonks and Remus?” Nova repeated her question.

Penny and Andre looked at each other and Penny shed a tear, trying to keep it together.

“Andre, where are Tonks and Remus?” I looked at him now, waiting for either of them to say something.

“It would be better if you come with us.” Andre’s voice was rasp, barely a whisper, as he gestured for us to follow him.

Nova’s hand found mine and we exchanged a look. Nova bit her lip, keeping her jaw from shaking as from the looks Penny and Andre were giving us, we weren’t sure what we are about to find out is going to be good news.

[asianpower5]

Ok so its been 24 hours since I saw the movie and I wanted to write down my thoughts, most of it is for me so I can go back and read how I felt about it years from now, its going to be very long and wordy but im just writing as the thoughts come and now worrying about grammar or anything, that includes timeline, so my thoughts may come to me out of order . I’m going to put it all under read more so i dont spoil it for any of you lovely people

So I got to the theater like 40 minutes early because I just couldnt contain myself and I wanted to get my perfect seat. Wore my new HTTYD shirt and brought my toothless plushie from build a bear (another little girl had the same idea she was so cute)

but now onto the movie

they threw me for a loop I was totally expecting a “this is berk’” speech as the very opening, not the raid, but honestly this movie is about change so I liked the change. But I still got my fix, because as they flew back to Berk my only thought was “this is berk”, AND THEN HE SAID THE THING YES.

Loved the scene in the great forge, it just really showed how big Berk is and how many vikings there are, and seeing them all happy and enjoying a meal together just warmed my heart, plus Gobber teasing Astrid and Hiccup about marriage and Valka beating Spitelout at arm wrestling haha.

Tuffnut was comedic gold, talking about his “beard” and giving hiccup bro pep talks. And when he said the earth was round? and the stars? I almost died laughing. 

Grimmel  being a complete jerk and drugging those poor dragons with their own venom.

Fetch with Hiccup’s leg?? and him dropping it in Astrid’s lap and then being over protective of the leg when Stormfly came near it? Then Hiccup tickling Astrid, what did we do to deserve such a cute Hiccstrid scene?

Toothless meeting the light fury was even better than I thought, he was such a dork and had no idea what to do, then looking to Hiccup for advice about how to flirt oh gosh silly boy.

Im calling Hiccup out on his saying Astrid isnt a romantic, I mean Hiccup is totally the hopeless romantic, but Astrid in my mind is totally a secret romantic, at least when it comes to her own relationship.

Also Toothless practicing his mating dancing by watching his shadow and studying the naddars as they danced was so adorable.

Ok ngl I actually thought Grimmel had shot Toothless in the house, and I was so happy to see that is was part of their plan and that he had back up (sorry Fishlegs I love you and you took one for the team so good on you!). Why I was surprised by this idk, I know these characters enough to know that they would pull something like that. BUT HICCUP TELLING GRIMMEL OFF AND CALLING HE OUT FOR SITTING IN STOICKS CHAIR, YES BOY. That just made the feeling of Berk being attacked and flames burning everywhere hurt so much more.

The meeting with all of Berk? Just wow, I mean first off I love that Hiccup had his whole gang up there with him, just goes to show that he really trusts them and values them as being part of the team. Astrid sticking up for my boy and Tuff just going “IM WITH HIM WHO ELSE” A plus team work, I loved the support. Not to mention the fact that Hiccup was able to convince them all to pack up what little they could carry and leave. I mean we know from the first movie that vikings are stubborn, but they are also capable of change. The fact that they left their home of 7 generations and probably left some import things they couldnt carry with them was such an amazing gesture. And Berk really is where ever the vikings are, it is not just a single island. It really hurt to see them leave the island, the place where it all started, but the fact that they all stuck together really shows how strong of a bond they have as a people. 

Light fury knocking Hiccup off Toothless, such a sassy girl I love her. I mean come on Toothless was obviously gunna save him. Also the sheeps wanting to be dragons is something I never new I needed, especially after seeing how afraid of dragons they used to be (I mean the dragons did hunt them, but im all here for them cosplaying as their favorite dragons) 

I JUST REMEMBERED I NEVER TALKED ABOUT FLASHBACKS SO LETS DO THAT NOW. First of little toddler Hiccup??? THE FRICKIN CUTEST THING EVER OK. I know there was a line in the trailer that wasnt in the movie the one where Stoick says something like “I believe its your destiny to find the hidden world so dragons and vikings no longer need to fight” but I wasnt sad that they didnt keep this line. I think it makes more sense to have what they did, Stoick talking about finding the hidden world so they could protect Berk from it. I mean this took place when they were still fighting dragons, so yea the line about destiny could mean he thinks Hiccup would destroy the hidden world, but the tone of the scene was so calm and relaxing that to me it gave off the vibe that Stock was implying that Hiccup would unite their worlds, which doenst make sense since again they were still at war with the dragons at this point. So I liked what they had in the movie, I think what they kept fit the tone and it still showed how Berk was at war with the dragons.

NEXT FLASHBACK. Little Hiccup just sneaking down the stairs and then his little face like “oh shit” when he saw his dad was up and trying to sneak back up. The way he said he wanted water, I JUST IT WAS SO CUTE, whoever voiced tiny hiccup good job because omg it was so cute. How happy he was to go over to his dad and sit on his lap.  When he asked Stoick if he would get them a new mom, my heart just broke I mean Hiccup was so young that he didn’t fully grasp the situation, and I mean before Hiccup got caught sneaking downstairs we saw Stoick crying. That was so important to me I mean Stoick the Vast, he is massive, and remember the first movie the fact about him ripping a dragons head off as a baby? Yea this character who basically screams masculinity has yet another vulnerable scene, showing yet again that crying is ok (I mean back in the first movie when he told Hiccup he wasnt his son, and when he met Valka again?? yes please keeping showing people that being masculine doenst mean you cant cry!). Stoick teaching Hiccup about love, yes dad points for you, I adore the scenes like these, that show how much Stock loves his family, he would be so proud of Hiccup and who he has become. OH YEA SIDE NOTE HOW I FORGET HICCUPS STUFFED DRAGON? THROWBACK TO THE TV SERIES THANK YOU.

New Berk, cuz thats the best I got to call it right now, love how everyone basically immediately goes to claiming their areas ahha.

Ok Snotlout my boy did you really just say “who died and made yout Chief” because too soon, I still love you

Low key thought they were gunna make Snotlout and Eret a thing, despite the weird flirting Snotlout had with Valka. I mean he was trying to be taller than Eret, and Eret was like hah no, yall id ship it ngl eret and snotlout 

Toothless meeting up with the light fury again, but this time trusting his instincts is another reminder that toothless is in fact an animal, a very intelligent animal, but an animal who has instincts and a desire to be with his own kind, I mean can you blame him? Its been at least 6 years since hes seen another dragon that was like him, maybe even longer depending on how long he was alone before he met hiccup. 

The throw back to the forbidden friendship scene? With toothless drawing in the sand, and oh God I never thought I would get so emotional about sand but dang that sand animation just was so realistic that I wanted to touch it. Hiccup being like “wow now you can draw”, Toothless growling at the light fury like he did to Hiccup back in the first for stepping on his art, come on guys Toothless worked hard on his art! The light fury flying away but toothless not being able to follow her, another throwback to when he couldnt fly with the dragons during the snoggletog special.

Hiccup making toothless a tail to fly alone, and Im glad they added the part when Astrid said they tried it before, again throwback to snoggletog, and that he didnt want the tail, and Hiccup clarifying that it was because he had no need to fly alone before. Now my only worry here is that the casual fan will just think that the exchange is a copout, I mean unless you remember the special you wouldnt know that they tired making him a tail fin and he didnt want it, so to the casual fan it might seem like they only added the comment to answer the question “If hiccup could make a tail fin why did he never do it before?”. Seeing the special where toothless destroys the tail really adds a layer of depth to the scene, because those of us who saw it remember that it was a statement that even though Hiccup had the ability to create a tail so toothless could fly alone, toothless wanted to fly with his best friend and didnt care for the tail. 

now the actual scene with toothless flying alone finding the light fury, first off it was so cute how he showed her his new tail! He was so proud of it, and no doubt proud of his best friend for making it. The scene itself though reminded me so much of the romantic flight, the way they flew together above the clouds and how it gave a sense of flight because we couldnt see the ground, ugg it was so beautiful. I was honestly blown away by the animation, the clouds and the color, they were all so beautiful. Toothless and the light fury flying together and really bonding, similar to Astrid and Hiccup on their first flight together, ugg all the throwbacks to the first movie really killed me. Also Toothless trying to copy the light fury and how she goes invisible was so cute, he was like “ah yes I got this, wait no shit again, no shit again again!” then he basically summons thors power of lighting and finds his new power, so proud of my baby. 

Now I fully believe that Toothless was going to go back to Hiccup after he spent time with the light fury in the hidden world, no way my boy would leave my other boy without a goodbye. But the other started to freak Hiccup out, I mean Hiccup knew his best friend would come back, but the others made him doubt it and seeing him freak out was heart breaking.

Astrid being like boy hop on we gonna get yo dragon, yes girl. Honestly them going into the hidden world on Stormfly? I mean need i say anything about the animation in this scene? The visuals were just breath taking, I cannot put it into words. Tootheless being the alpha is always a win, also Astrid calling him a king and Hiccup realizing that this beautiful place of dragons, is not place for humans, because Valka said it best, greedy humans ruin everything.

Hiccup and Astrid getting caught by a dragon and then going on a fun slide ride, and of course toothless comes through as the alpha to protect his humans, ALSO STORMFLY DONT THINK I FORGOT ABOUT HER, CUZ YES. I mean just like toothless Stormyfly will protect her human best friend, and I love her. 

How did I forget the next raid scene? I mean dang again the visuals and the lighting were just so spot on. Them all getting trapped? Valka being a badass and working with Cloudjumper to save them? Hiccup jumping and just escaping the clutches of Grimmels dragon? RUFFNUT

Ruffnut my girl dont think I forgot about you, I just I dont even know what to do with you. She was amazing, I mean shes just does not care, not scared that shes a prisoner, she fricking just talks about how ‘hot’ she is and just other random stuff about her life, like girl give me that confidence. But when she talked about the island i was like girl no dont do that, but her flying back and saying she doenst look back in response to being asked about being followed was pretty darn funny.

Bro the scene of the light fury and toothless getting captured? Toothless protecting her and telling the other dragons to stand down, at least until they can escape. Just heart breaking, help is so close, but I guess thats the downside of being the alpha, having that power can be used against you.

Astrid my girl, pep talking my boy Hiccup JUST LIKE THE FIRST MOVIE. And yes parallels again, just like in the first one Astrid said things to hiccup, she was very honest with him pointing out the things that had done wrong, the first pointing out how messy the situation got because of the lies, and in this movie pointing out how he constantly doubts himself, and in both Hiccup has a sassy comment regarding her pep talks, but Astrid always follows up with the good, like how he was the first viking to ride a dragon or how he was always brave, even without toothless, showing how she would always be by his side to support him and help him, especially when hes about to do something stupid. I just ugg they are couple goals, they dont even need to say I love you because they SHOW IT in their actions, in their support for eachother, their cute banters, and I am here for it. ALSO I MEAN HE KISSED HER HAIR EARLY AND THEN HER FOREHEAD THOSE ARE SO CUTE TO ME AND JUST SO NATURAL FOR THEM AHHH. Also “so what are you gunna do about it” “probably something stupid” YES YES YES I AM HERE FOR THAT SHIT

Everyone jumping off the island so they can ‘fly’ on their own, just first off so visually amazing, and second off so symbolic to me of each of them spreading their own wings and growing up into amazing people. 

Fishlegs and his baby dragon, I mean come on lets be real that shit is adorable, and baby dragon had his big dragon (does that dragon have a class name? because I dont remember it) friend and Fishlegs be like dont mess with baby dragon. 

Yooo I knew it, from the trailer I was like “Tuffnut is probs pissed that this dude cut off his hair beard” and boom it happned, but rip hair beard (until the end of the movie that is when it comes back)

Yall that unspoken scene where Hiccup and Astrid are just frickin shit up WHILE THEY JUST LOOK AT EACHOTHER, I MEAN HICCUP JUST CASUALLY THROWS SHIT TO START A FIRE AND THE ENTIRE TIME THEY ARE STARING AT EACHOTHER HAVE A CONVERSATION COMPLETELY WITH THEIR EYES LIKE THAT IS SOME NEXT LEVEL SHIT AND COUPLE GOALS.

I got such satisfaction out of Toothless destroying grimmels arrow shoter thing and watching as Grimmel started to get afraid, I mean this dude was so confident in his abilites, and up until now he has had the upper hand, but then you can see the “oh shit moment” as he realizes he is starting to lose and heck yea im here for it. Speaking of oh shit moments, when hiccup was riding toothless and they wer getting attacked? and then toothless is like “I SUMMON YOU THOR AND YOUR LIGHTING” and hiccup was like WTH?!!??!?!?

Ok yall that scene when toothless got shot, and hiccup is hanging from the light fury with grimmel on his leg? I mean Grimmel really thought that he had won, he underestimated the love Hiccup has for Toothless, and the moment that Hiccup told the light fury to save Toothless and he let go? the hesitation she had trying to pick who to save? her new mate, or his best friend that she now seems to understand has a great important meaning to toothless? The image of Hiccup falling, and the camera angle? I mean seeing him fall from above, seeing it in his face that he was content, content knowing that his best friend would be alive and safe and that Grimmel would no longer be able to hurt the dragons or his people? Such a self sacrifice, a true Chief just like his father. 

Then the light fury to the rescue! Hiccup being like LOL BYE GRIMMLE YOU DEAD. Also reminded me of when he started to ride toothless back in the first movie and they fell and hiccup got back on his back and in control just in time, because dang she saved him his butt just before he hit the water. But seriously I loved this scene, she went back for hiccup, she saw the interactions Toothless had with him, how Toothless protected him and Astrid in the hidden world, how Toothless CHOSE HICCUP when he saw him in danger in the hidden world, she came to realize that this boy is important to Toothless, and she saw that Hiccup was willing to die for Toothless, and she went back and saved him, and God I got emotional.

Also Hiccup leaning on Astrid because he has lost his prostectic leg, yessss im here for it

NOW TO THE REAL TEAR JERKER I mean gosh you could just see the realization again in Hiccup that the dragons didnt belong with them on Berk, that even though they love the dragons and the dragons love them, even though they have worked together for years and they want to live together in peace they just cant do it safely.There are too many people out in the world who would attack berk, and we have seen that both in the movies and the show, and that puts both the people and the dragons at risk. 

It was safest for everyone if the dragons went to the hidden world, where no one could find them, well expect Hiccup and Astrid who have been there once. I just cant though, that scene was just so amazing and heart crushing. I mean you can see it that Toothless doesnt want to leave his best friend, and Hiccup doenst want him to leave, but he reassures him that its ok that its best for everyone and that its time to say good bye for now, not forever though. Then oh God how Astrid follows him, because she knows hes right too, she knows that they can no longer live with their dragons safely, and she takes off Stormflys saddle and says good bye to her best friend. THEN VALKA who has lived with the dragons for 20 years, she knows too and she doenst hesitate to let Cloudjumper go free, and it made so much sense to me that she was so willing to do so even after being together for 20 years, she has protected them for 20 years so there is no doubt in my mind that Valka would do this without a second though if it meant that was the best thing for her friend. THEN OMG EVERYONE ELSE FOLLOWS THAT JUST HURT SO MUCH. I mean ever single Berkian seens what Hiccup did, and everyone knows they have a special bond, I mean they all have a special bond with their dragons, but Hiccup and Toothless are different, they were the only pair that we know of that needed each other to fly, I mean sure the other vikings needed their dragons to fly but their dragons didnt need them to fly, toothless relied on hiccup to control his tail and that bond is so special. Anyway, I just thought that all the others saw Hiccup doing this, and hes their Chief the man who started the whole riding dragons for them, so I have no doubt in my mind that they would follow his lead, and again to me they see Hiccup and Toothless doing this letting go, so they must think “If these two can do it so can I”. I just really think it shows how much the vikings truly care for their dragon friends, when you love someone you want the best for them, you want them to be happy, even if that means you need to say goodbye. And thats what happened here the vikings loved their dragons so much that they were willing to say goodbye to their friends if it meant that they would be save, and the same goes in the other direction, the dragons are not dumb and I believe they knew that leaving is what was best too, that leaving meant that their viking friends would be safer. The love they all have for each other is so amazing. I only wish that the goodbye was long, I am so bad at goodbyes and omg I just wish they had a longer time to say goodbye, not only to their dragons but to the others as well, I mean toothless saying goodbye to Astrid and Stormfly too Hiccup? uG I SUCK AT GOOD BYWS OK I JUST WANT EVERYONE TO BE ABLE TO SAY GOOD BYE TO ALL THE DRAGONS.

But man i said to myself ‘you can do it dont cry’ didnt work, I sobbed, legit sobbed, and it wasnt my normal movie cry were its just tears, it was the kind where you can feel the pain in your chest from your heart beating to hard, from trying to hold back the chocked sobs so no one else would  get annoyed, although lets be real they are did the same thing so we all cried.  Seeing them all fly off, AND THE REVERSE HAND TOUCH I CANNOT, THAT REALLY HURT I JUST COULDNT TAKE IT THE PARALLELS REALLY KILLED ME THE ENTIR MOVIE. Then Toothlesses look back at Hiccup, and then the long shot and seeing the massive wave of dragons, and then seening toothless following from the back as he is the last to leave, the vikings looking on with sadness and fondness for their dragons, really did come for my heart.

NOW ONTO HAPPY TIMES. the Wedding, oh my god, how lucky can a girl be? I got to see the mother of all my OTPs get married, and dang they were beautiful, and they looked so happy, it just warmed my heart to know that these two dorks who truly have a special relationship finally got married. Then Gobber called them Chief and Chiefstriss and wow really hit me hard that these two were going to lead Berk together, because they are always there to support each other. THEN that kiss so cute, and how Hiccup goes to gently cup her face with his hands, just wow my otp is the best.

Then we again have love master Tuffnut who will take Snotlout as his new student, and FISHLEGS HAS A LITTLE BABY GRUNKLE STUFFED ANIMAL IN HIS BAG. aND RUFF being like “you win i love sensitive guys” Then we have Hiccup and Astrid looking out to the sea as their friends and family come together with them, and Astrid lays her head on his shoulder so great.

Now dang my boy HICCUP WITH A BEARD??? BEARDCUP IS REAL, and he is wearing his fur cap, and Astrid looking like a frickin QUEEN, and AGAIN HOW LUCKY CAN A GIRL BE I SEE A WEDDING AND I GET CHILDREN????? MY OTP HAS TWO CHILDREN???? AND THEY ARE GORGEOUS.

buT DANG when they saw Toothless through the fog and then the light fury and then the little baby heads pop up, and you can see how happy Hiccup is. But Toothless doenst immediatly recognize him, which makes sense because I mean 10 year for humans can change the looks drastically, and hiccup has a beard now so he doenst look like what toothless remembered, plus hes the alpha and must protect his family. Astrid protecting her children like a frickin badass mom, and Zephry hidding behind her mom and Nuffink going into her chest? Ug love it, they trust their mom to protec them, and I love this to because it really shows that they are children, I mean I have no doubt that Astrid and Hiccup are going to raise them to be brave, I mean its Hiccup and Astrid, but they are still children and well they have grown in a world without dragons, different than their parents, we know at that age Astrid was fearless, I mean she wanted to fight a flightmare, but now the world has changed and they arent at war and they can raise their kids as kids, and I love that they showed that fear in the children it just gave a sense of realism to me. 

Then HIccup DID THE THING with the hand and Toothless finally was like “WAIT THIS IS MY HUMAN” and his eyes went big and omg how he attacked him with kisses and licks. Then Astrids laugh to see them reunite, and them urging their kids that it was ok, and remember before when I said they would raise brave kids? Well this little cuties were afraid, but they still listened and trusted their parents, and omg Zephry was so stiff from fear and her face, and Nuffink was hiding his face, but Hiccup came and showed them how to approach Toothless, and wow here we go again with the hand touch and HIccup telling them to let him come to them, and Toothless did the thing AND OMG THEIR REACTION WAS SO CUTE. The way Zephry cocked her head and smiled, and how Nuffink dropped his hand from his face and his mouth widened in awe of his dragon. 

THEN I GET TO SEE HICCUP WITH HIS SON RIDING TOOHTLESS? AND HIS SOON IS JUST MAKING THE CUTEST LITTLE WAVING MOTIONS WITH HIS HANDS. And hiccup throwing his kid in the air as he giggles in delight, and I swear I heard him say “Dada” and it killed me. Then Astrid being Astrid flys right passed them ON STORMFLY, like thank you for not forgetting about my girl, because she loves Stormfly and Stormfly loves her and seeing Astrid ride her with her daughter just made the scene even better. They could have easily forgotten about my girl, but they didnt, they didnt do her dirty, I may not have gotten to see the moment when she and Stormfly met again, BUT I SAW THEY RIDING TOGETHER AND THATS GOOD ENOUGH FOR ME.

Oh yea bonus points for seeing the light fury and the babies flying with them. Then Hiccup just flys upside down dropping Nuffink on Astrids head, and ug the way he just casually clings to his mother, then I was like wow I hope Zephry gets to ride Toothless with he father, AND THEN HE PULLED UP NEXT TO THEM AND HELD OUT HIS HAND TO DO JUST THAT, dreamworks you really came through for me, thank you so much for allowing Dead and all the other hard workers of this franchise make this amazing world for us. It tore my heart apart, but I loved every second of it, and I have no regrets, it was honestly a great ending,no matter how badly it hurt and how badly I wanted them to live together forever, it was just the perfect ending with a great lesson about letting go and moving on, becoming your own person, and being happy with the memories you had, because being able to say you loved something or someone and letting them go is better than never loving them at all, thats what happend to the vikings and dragons, and thats what happened to me personally at the end of it all. I cant wait to relive the magic and watch all the movies again. 

oh how could I forget? The end credits, you thought the pain ended with the end of the movie nope the credits are going to give you every major scene from each movie, reminding us where we started and where we have come to, and that was just the cherry on top of it all. 

Also side note a girl sat behind me and she goes “is that a toothless plushie?” and yes it was so she asked to see it so i handed him to her and we started talking about the movie, she was able to see it during an early release boo i had work. Anyway she asks me how old i was when the first came out, and I said 16, she seemed shook and i asked her the same, she said she was 5, so if math does me right she would be about 14/15. I was older than she is currently is when the first movie came out, thats wild. Then i laughed off the age difference saying “you would never know ill be 25 in a week”, and her (i assume) mom said I looked young haha. But because of the age difference I gave her some good life advice, I told her not to care about what others think of you, Im almost 25 crying over a dragon movie that means the world to me as i sit with my dragon plushie, and her mom just agreed with me and told her to listen to me because I knew what I was saying haha. Shout out to this girl too because shes the one who told me that Hiccup and Astrids’s kids had cannon names, I had been avoiding everything I could about this movie so I was glad to be up to date on that.

Wow this took me like 2 hours to write i think? I mean yea it was mostly for me to read later in life so I can remember this day, all the photos i took before hand, and all the excitement I had, wow Hi future me! Sorry about all the grammar mistakes but Im just typing as the thoughts come, hope I didnt break your heart again as you read all this. Until next time

[mrneighbourlove]

Red Typhoon: Ch 3. Crusaders Sail Onward

"It's been a while since we got the old crew together, hasn't it, Cap'n?" Rat was loading some cargo onto the Sea Witch with Corsaire. "Been so many a-years. We were all on the sea a long time together, but now, we's got families and responsibilities. It's hard to get the whole gang in one place."

"Well, I for one, am glad."

"Eh?"                                    

"You all have your own lives now. That's what I always wanted for all of you."

"Heh, I know, cap'n. Doesn't mean we don't miss you."

"I miss all of you too, though, I'm just glad all of you have found your place in this world."

"Hard to believe you're a father of three now."

"I can't believe you married a bear."

"HA!" Rat laughed at that comment. "Well, she's quite the woman, as is Missy Orana. I mean, Princess Orana. It's hard to stop calling her that."

Liz ran to the ship, excited the with the news she brought, it meant one more nail to place into their departure. "Captain Corsaire! They’re coming into shore!"

"What are you waiting for then? Go greet them!" Corsaire waved her off. "And for the sea's sake, make sure your Uncle Acrobat doesn't slip in this snow. Metal and ice don't mix!"

"Sure thing! Revy's really excited to see them Uncle Rat. Might want to reign her in."

Down at the shore, Revy was shooting colourful flares to signal to her band of Uncle's coming into land. How she loved every single one of them, and it had been far too long seeing some of them.

"I-I-I really don't like th-this." Pockets' teeth chattered horribly as he clung to the saddle for dear live. "W-Why did we have... have to t-take dragons?!"

"Cause cap'n told us ta hurry." Acrobat told his long time friend. "And if cap'n says to hurry it up, we's hurrying it up."

"We really need ta git on these lizards more often!!!" Mojo was having the time of his life with the wind in his face. "Where do I buys one?"

"You don't buy one, they's choosing you." Juju told his brother while hanging onto his bandanna. "You's has to ask the Lorleidians 'bout it."

"Do the loop de loop again!" Bomba was literally bouncing up and down on his saddle in excitement. "Again!"

"No."

"Please?"

"No."

"Aw, you's no fun."

They saw different colour flares being shot from the shore line for the dragons to land safely. Revy was like a firefly in the distance, buzzing around excitedly.

"Hey, dere's Reveka!" Mojo pointed out the flares.

"Woohoo! Revy!!! Hey!!!" Juju waved to his niece.

"She likes me best, I'm the coolest uncle." Bomba declared with a flick of his wrist.

"Pfft, you wish, we's all know that I's the favorite" Acrobat argued. "Who convinced Rat ta get her da puppy?"

"I-I-I did." Pockets tried to hold back a snicker.

"Hey!"

Once they all landed, it quickly dawned on the how big she had grown. She stomped like a giant at them as soon as they got on their feet, and scooped as many of the men she could in a bear hug. "It's so good to see you all in one place again!"

"Ooof! Easy on dis old rigger, Reveka!" Acrobat grunted when she picked him up so easily. "He's not as young as he used ta be."

"Y-You've gotten so b-b-big!" Pockets was still taller than Revy and gave her a gentle pat on the head, ruffling her hair. "Grow so f-fast!"

"Heeey, dis ain't cool, why's the shrimp taller than me now?" Bomba crossed his arms in a fake pout. "Ah well, some ladies prefer der men fun size anyways."

"Bork!" Boof made his presence known and demanded pets from every man. "Woof!"

"Ah, good ta see you, Boof-Boof." Mojo scratched the dog behind his ears. "Revy taking good care of ya?"

"Bork!"

"Aye, she always does, doesn't she?" Juju laughed and then asked. "Revy, how's your wee brother?"

"He's doing really good Uncle Juju. I've been making sure that he's got a lot of meat on his bones. Ooh! Check out this out!" Revy took a step back and drew her sword. Concentrating her magic, she thrust her sword upwards, and a lightning bolt from deep up in the sky struck down, and her blade sparked in a cone of dancing electricity. "I'm an electric warrior!"

"Whoa, whoa, whoa!"

There were multiple exclamations as the men made sure to keep Acrobat out of the way.

"Dat's really cool, Rev, but could ya do it when I'm not... in proximity?" The old rigger asked his niece. "I's much like a lightning pole now with these new legs."

Revy noticed his legs sparking. Shit. Metal. Metal very, very bad. She quickly stabbed her sword into the ice next her to dispel the lightning. "Sorry, sorry, sorry. That would have been bad. But pretty cool overall right?"

"Aye, pretty damn cool."

"Bomba, don't curse around the lassie!"

"What?! She's an adult now, I'm pretty sure she's heard damn before, as well as shit---"

"Bomba!"

"Ass---"

"Bomba, shut up!"

"And fuck, but who knows?"

"Well, I consider myself a pretty hardcore mother fucker if I do say so myself. Bring all the bitches in~" Revy snickered, happy to fuel her Uncle Bomba's antics.

"Oh, good water spirit, ya rubbed off on her ta much, Rat's gonna have ye head." Mojo nudged Bomba in the shoulder.

"Rat's gotta catch me first, and I'm quite younger than him." Bomba snickered.

"Ye's still a brat, and ye know it." Juju nudged the other shoulder, causing Bomba to laugh.

"Wh-Where's your mother?" Pockets asked Revy. "W-We wanna make s-s-sure she knows we'll take... take care of you!"

"Aye, she knows, Borghild trusts us with her little cub." Acrobat wrapped one arm around Revy's shoulders. "Though, I believe we's all going to need a little of dat famous Uskarian mead before we---"

"Don't even think about it," Rat's voice interjected, chuckling as he saw all his former crew mates. "That stuff knocked your ass out for three days last time."

"Well, I think I used up two of my three swears for the year anyways. If you want change you should see how Liz and Lex have changed." Revy turned and waved to her dad. "Hey Dad! They all made it!"

"By the water spirit, you weren't joking when you said you got new legs!" Rat bent down to look at the metal working on Acrobat's hips, thighs, knees, and ankles. "Dat Lady Asakonigei made 'em for you?"

"Aye! I take 'em off at night, but beats the crutches any day. I can finally run again!"

"N-Not fast."

"Not fast, but still."

"Cap'n is glad you's all here, I's glad you's all here."

"Seer's our brother, Rat, we'd brave maelstroms and sirens for him."

Liz took her time walking with Rat, but when she saw her other Uncle's she felt a bit of hope. Seeing her dad again felt like it was fated and set in stone with them all gathering here. "Hello everyone. I'm happy to see you arrived safe and sound."

"Sheesh, time passes too quickly nowadays, you's all gone." Bomba sighed deeply with a sulk. "And you're taller than me too."

"Cap'n finishing the ship preparations?"

"He is. Once that's complete, we're hitting the ocean. In the meantime, we should gather the others and say our goodbyes."

Revy followed Liz back to town. Lex was having her 'friends' carry all their luggage to the ship for her. Least they could do after the going away gift she gave them all. "Ok boys, careful with the luggage. Some breakable glass in those bags you know."

"Lassie, dis is a rescue mission, not a... a slumber party." Bomba watched as piece after piece of luggage went on the ship. "I mean, I's understanding of a lady's need for... uh... personal products, but... isn't dat a bit much?"

"It's potions, maps, weapons, and gold for gambling. We might need to do all sorts of negotiating." She bent down to kiss Bomba on the cheek. "It's good to see you Uncle Bomba. All the rest of you too Uncles."

"You lassies need ta practice shooting?" Mojo asked the girls. "Brought my training guns 'case you's out of touch."

"We can set up targets." Juju offered. "Someone steal Cap'n's hat."

"I heard that!" Corsaire said from the ship, looking over the ledge at his old crew. He grinned from ear to ear. "Good to see you all again, mates. Missed you much, that's for sure."

"Never thought we'd be on ta Sea Witch ta hunt other pirates, cap'n." Acrobat had to chuckle at the irony. "So much for thief's honor."

"Well Uncle Acrobat, thieves don't have honour. They steal. And by stealing, they ruin lives. Dad was stolen from us afterall." Liz bitterly said. With a deep breath, she dropped her shoulders.

"Tis an old pirate saying, lassie." Acrobat patted one of her shoulders. "We's gonna get him back."

"D-Don't be sad," Pockets told Liz with a smile. "We's gonna find S-S-Seer, we p-promise."

"I'm not sad. I'm angry." Liz turned at the sound of people gathering. Borghild and little Trygve arrived with Scarlet, and Halvar came with his bag and his family behind him to see him off.

"We'll be awaiting your return, son." Torbjorn told Halvar as he handed the young prince his bow and sack of arrows. "Be careful."

"I'll be fine, Father." Halvar assured his sire. "I'll have the whole crew with me, and besides," He looked over his shoulder to Elizabeth. "I have to support Liz. I love her and want to be with her."

"We understand." Brigritta then wrapped an extra cloak of fur around Halvar's shoulders. "Keep warm and be alert. The seas are just as dangerous as our lands."

"I will, Mother."

Borghild had Trygve on her hip, carrying him to the docks.

"Scarlet? Are you sure about this?" Borghild asked the Iron Knuckle.

"I'm sure. I have to make sure Rat and Revy don't get themselves killed. I'll see they return in one piece." Scarlet had enjoyed how close she had gotten with Borghild over the years, and gave her a close hug.

Revy bent down to Boof and patted his head. "I need you to look after Trygve until I return Boof. You understand boy?"

"I know you will, Scarlet." Borghild returned the hug and then added. "You make sure you come home in one piece too. You're our family, you know. Revy might be full grown, but there's nothing wrong with her having two mama bears."

"Wwwwwwhhhinnne." Boof pawed at Revy, not liking the fact that his human was going away without him. The two had hardly been separated ever since she was little.

"I won't be long boy. I promise." Revy hugged her dog close. He was getting old, and she wouldn't risk his life on such a dangerous journey.

Bakura finished bowing to Vidar, having finished a sparring match to make sure he was in shape for the journey. Walking to the group, he gave a bow to Corsaire's crew. "I assume you are the many uncles my daughters tell me about. It's a pleasure to meet you all."

The crew was a little surprised by the bow. The men certainly were not used to such respect. So, the crew showed their acceptance the only way they knew, with a good, old-fashioned punch to the shoulder.

"Aye, we's his old crew and the self-proclaimed uncles." Mojo slung one arm around Bakura's shoulder. "Been with Cap'n for years now."

"We helped changed the wee ones diapers when they's were babes." Juju slung one arm around Bakura's other shoulder. "And rocked 'em to sleep when Seer needed a break."

"Sang jaunty after jaunty," Acrobat added. "After jaunty."

"L-L-Liked 'Tipsy Toe Tease' the b-b-best." Pockets thought back to those years ago.

"Tipppppsy toe, tipsy toe, tease! What a bar wrench you are for me!" Bomba belted out with a dramatic flare of his arm, then jumped up on a barrel. "You sneak into bed, leave me dead, face all rrrrrreeeeddd!!! Sneak out in the morn, I'm so forlorn, things go to norm! I'm pleasing, wheezing, dreaming, of my tipsy toe tease!"

Revy and Lex gave a giggle, remembering the song well. Liz bit her lip to not snicker at her poor father being slung around by the crew. Bakura simply gave a smile to the bizarre crew. "Well, thank you."

Scarlet hoped things wouldn't be too awkward with her coming along. "Hello gentlemen."

"I can sing 'Whale Farts' too."

"No, no, just... no, Bomba."

"What? That one always made Revy giggle."

"Whaaale fart make tsunamis and fish make great suuushi---"

Rat clamped his hand over Bomba's mouth so Scarlet could greet the crew.

"Ah, so... no breaking noses dis time, right?" Mojo asked in good humor.

"We's glad you's coming with us, we need da extra muscle." Juju told Scarlet.

"I got muscle!" Bomba had removed Rat's hand from his mouth and flexed in front of Scarlet. "See? Not bad for a shortie."

"Well I'm glad to help." Scarlet raised an eyebrow at Bomba, and leaned her head down to him. "Your energy sure hasn't changed little man."

"I'm fun-sized, all over baby." Bomba winked at Scarlet. "Wanna check just in case?"

Rat promptly smacked a hand to his face and sighed deeply while the rest of the crew laughed.

Unknowns to Bomba, he might have just struck gold with that. "Well, I guess we'll have to see you prove it on this journey, won't we."

Before the men could process if that was genuine interest being sent back to Bomba, Scarlet turned to the girls. "Get on board. We're heading out ladies."

"Yes mom!" Revy went over to Borghild and her little brother, giving them one more hug. "I will return. I love you both so much."

"I love me a giant woman." Bomba whistled as Scarlet walked on board.

"Bomba, she could crush ya like an egg." Mojo shook his head.

"What's wrong with ya?" Juju asked.

"There's nothing wrong with wanting her to walk on me."

"BOMBA."

"I wonder if they carry heels in her size---"

"BOMBA!!!"

"Okay, okay, I'll hush now, you's just jealous cause I got me an older woman."

"Will you shut up?! That's Reveka's mom!"

"Yeah, and? I can't think a mom is hot? You know what a MILF is, right?"

"Oh, for fuck's sake, if you don't shush right a-now, I'm throwing you into the water!"

"Aye, aye, me's a hushing."

Scarlet gave a light smile as she walked aboard. Liz walked up with Halvar, and Lex joined them right after. Revy dried some tears forming from Boof pulling on her pants. "Mom, can you take him? If he gets pulling, I just might stay."

Boof insistently pulled on Revy's pant leg, trying to keep her from going on the ship without him. When Revy removed his mouth, he wrapped his forepaws around her ankle. The snow dog did not want his human to go without him. Borghild gently took Boof's collar, setting little Trygve down so he could say goodbye to his sister.

"Boof, be a good boy. Reveka will be back soon, you just have to wait." Borghild assured the dog. "Be careful, my sweetie. Remember, a mama bear only charges...?"

"Only charges after using our heads first." Revy gave them all one last hug. "I'll be back. I promise."

With that, Revy ran onto the ship before she had any more second thoughts. "I'm... I'm ready to go dad."

"We'll bring them back soon!" Corsaire called to the families waiting on the docks. "Anchors up, Pockets! Unfurl all sails, Acrobat! Bomba, check cannons!" He started barking orders as the Sea Witch pulled away from the port. "Mojo, Juju, check engines! Rat, keep us on course! Elizabeth, overhaul the ropes for Acrobat! Scarlet, furl the extra sails! Reveka, stock gunpowder! Alexandria!" He paused and then looked at his niece for a moment and then said, "Make sure Pockets has the nipper to bind the anchor."

"Does that include Scarlet, cause she's a bombshell too."

"BOMBA.

"Okay, okay, I'm a git'n."

Lex knew very little about going about a boat, but she made sure to help best she could. "Yes Uncle!"

Liz got right to work. "How fast do you think we'll go with these sails?"

"Fast enough, I hope." Corsaire took the wheel and watched as the glistening sails unfurled. "She's an old girl, but she's never let me down once. I know she'll get us there."

"Well, I hope magic sails turn out to be real!"

Bakura looked around, wondering what the journey ahead would bring them now they had finally departed. "Is there anything I can do Captain?"

"You're a fancy, high-jumping assassin, right?" Corsaire pointed up to the jolly roger, where Acrobat was working the ropes. "Think you're up to help him work the ropes?"

"I believe I can." Bakura took a few steps forward, and climbed his way up to Acrobat, making sure to help. Liz watched, hopeful that the ship would pick up speed. "Gods, give me this..."

As all the sails were unfurled, the magic started to work. The usual white sails turned into a golden color and shimmered. It was then, the speed increased, and kept increasing. This was no time to be slow, so Corsaire braced himself and held onto the wheel tightly.

"Everyone, hold on!!!" The captain told his crew. "We're going to get our brother!!!"