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k-nayee · 12 days ago

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A Fusion of Feelings STEVEN UNIVERSE

wc: 5.4k a/n: ngl I forgot what inspired me but just know I was on the bed eating Trolli crawlers !! Post-Steven Universe: The Movie (2019) !!

Traveler M.List

ˏ⸉ˋ‿̩͙‿̩̩̥͙̽‿̩͙ˏ⸉ˋ‿̩͙‿̩̩̥͙̽‿̩͙ˏ⸉ˋ‿̩͙‿̩̩̥͙̽‿̩͙.·͙*̩̩͙˚̩̥̩̥*̩̩̥͙　✩　*̩̩̥͙˚̩̥̩̥*̩̩͙‧͙ .‿̩̥̩‿̩̩̥͙̽‿̩͙ˊ⸊ˎ‿̩̥̩‿̩̩̥͙̽‿̩͙ˊ⸊ˎ‿̩̥̩‿̩̩̥͙̽‿̩͙ˊ⸊ˎ

The cool salt-laced air of Beach City clung to the evening as Steven got out the car, the golden glow of the setting sun stretching shadows across the familiar sands.

At twenty, he carried himself differently now, with a quiet confidence that spoke of growth.

The tailored pink jacket he wore paired with jeans that fit him snugly was a silent testament to how he'd changed over the four years he'd been away.

His aura was more grounded, less childish. Honestly it kinda unsettled Connie to see him this way—more a stranger and less the boy she once knew.

But beyond the new posture and the maturity in his eyes, the essence of Steven Universe—kind, earnest, ever-hopeful—remained.

Connie heart thudded as she watched him scan the area. When his eyes landed on her it was like a moment suspended in time.

The boyish face she remembered was now sculpted with sharper edges, framed by unruly curls that had grown out, and his posture spoke of someone who had wrestled with his own demons and won.

A smile broke across his face as she rushed forward, her dark hair a wild halo catching the breeze before pulling him into a hug.

It was warm, familiar...and yet there was a split second of hesitation. Something was different.

His hands were firm but no longer lingering, his eyes searched hers with affection but no not with the same intenseful adoration.

It stung more than she cared to admit.

They fell into old rhythms easily from jokes about childhood adventures to updates on the latest antics of the Crystal Gems.

Yet as they spoke, Connie caught herself watching for cracks in his expression, hoping to find a hint of longing for the past

Instead, she found something gentler—a quiet satisfaction that wasn't solely about her.

Steven began to tell stories from his travels. And amid these conversations, an invisible thread pulled at Connie's focus, a name woven seamlessly into Steven's stories—you.

He had met you during as visit to a local university in the South.

But that wasn't what bothered the human member of Crystal Gems. It was the way he spoke with a kind of unconscious reverence of you.

Pictures of shared laughter over late-night conversations were painted, of your fascination with reading or the way your eyes crinkled when you smiled.

"She's just...her," Steven's voice would soften, his eyes drifting as he spoke. "You'd love talking to her about books Connie! You both have that same spark when you get excited."

Connie's chest tightened at each mention and she struggled to maintain her indifference.

"She was so passionate about that one book. You know the one with the wizard school?" Steven says before his eyes light up with another thought. "Oh and [favorite beverage]! You should have seen her face when she talks about it—it's like she's describing the most magical thing in the world."

Connie forced a light laugh but the edges were brittle. "Sounds she's a good friend." The words felt sour on her tongue, each one an effort to keep in check.

"She is. I mean, I know everything a good friend should," Steven's eyes go unfocused as if tracing the memory of your smile.

Connie's stomach twisted. He didn't even realize. But she did.

Every time he spoke, she pieced together an image of you, so vivid that it felt like you were already there.

Every word, every gleam in Steven's eyes carved deeper into her. There it was again—that bitter thread of envy weaving through her.

She scolded herself internally. Steven deserved happiness, after all.

He had spent so long putting others before himself. Seeing him light up because of you should have been enough.

Shouldn't it?

Connie knew she shouldn't be this way. She had ended things years ago; they were too young and she hadn't been ready.

Still, why did this happiness have to come at the cost of her own peace? Seeing him like this—so openly fond of someone else—brought a feeling that was hard to shake.

She had let him go.

She should be happy for him.

Should.

════════════════*.·:·.☽✧ ✦ ✧☾.·:·.*═════════════════

It was early one morning when Steven burst into Connie's home.

The door swung open with such force that it thudded against the wall, and Connie mid-phone call with her mother, jumped up from the sofa.

"Steven?" Her voice was sharp with concern as he stood in the doorway, face flushed and eyes wide.

His curls were unruly, hands raking through them as he paced in frantic circles.

"She's here," his voice was pitched high with barely contained panic hadn't heard in years.

Connie's breath caught in her throat. A part of her wondered if her complexion had paled, if her surprise was as visible as she felt it must be.

She didn't need him to say more. The implication was clear: You were in Beach City.

"Hey Mom, I'm going to call you back. Something's come up."

The moment she hung up Steven continued his pacing. There was a wildness to his eyes—a desperate energy that sent a pang of something undefinable through Connie.

"I can't see her...I-I just can't!" He turns to Connie with desperation painted across every line of his face. "I'm not ready."

The Maheswaran teen stepped toward him. "Wait wh—"

"I know I know, I'm a mess!" He motioned to his jacket, tugging at the sleeves. "I'm too nervous. What if I say something stupid? What if she realizes that I'm just weird?!"

The half-Gem's anxiety radiated off of him in waves as and he starts to pace once more.

He was sweating as his skin and hair began to take on a pink hue showcasing his fraying nerves.

Connie instinctively grabs his shoulders to steady him. "Steven! Calm down! You need to breathe. You're overthinking it."

In her attempt to soothe him a light suddenly gleam in his eyes. His hands wraps around hers suddenly, startling her.

"I think we should fuse into Stevonnie." The words tumbled out so fast she almost missed them.

"...what?"

Steven's grin brightens, more sure now. "We can meet her as Stevonnie. With your help I won't mess everything up."

Connie yanks her hands away as if stung. Stevonnie. That version of them, so complete, so complicated.

"Steven...y-you can't be serious!"

"C'mon! Just think about it. You're a girl, so you'd know what to say and how to gauge things better. I can't face her alone. Not yet." He spoke like it made perfect sense, like it was the most logical solution in the world.

Connie's breath caught. A myriad of emotions surged—betrayal, the flicker of old pain, and the gnawing realization of Steven's obliviousness to her own turmoil.

Why should she help him meet someone who might replace her in his heart? To help him woo someone who wasn't her? Why would she want to?

She wanted to yell, to refuse him outright, to protect herself from this emotional minefield.

But then she saw the way he looked at her—not with love but with trust.

The kind of trust that spoke of years of shared battles, laughter, and the silent understanding that only they had.

It twisted something in her heart leaving her feeling vulnerable. She had ended things for a reason. Steven deserved to find happiness.

Even if it wasn't with her.

Connie couldn't deny him, not when he needed her like this. With a tightened jaw, she release a defeated sigh.

"Fine," her voice was barely a whisper. "But we do this my way."

Relief softened Steven's tense posture, and before she could steel herself, he pulled her into a big hug. "Thank you Connie. I knew you'd understand!"

He steps back and quickly pulls out his phone. Clicking on the screen a few times, he shifted on his feet as he shakily puts the phone to his ear.

"Hey! It's Steven. About our meet-up later today—yeah, I'm okay just feeling a bit under the weather." He rasps his voice a little and force a light cough to sell the act.

Your muffled reply was on the other end. Connie didn't even have to hear your exact words to know what you'd said.

The way Steven's shoulders relaxed as a soft smile that crept across his lips—it was enough. It was everything.

And it made her stomach churn with a mix of emotions she could barely name.

Steven closed his eyes as if savoring the sound of your voice, his cheeks flushing a gentle pink—each reaction was a dagger twisting deeper.

She bit back a grimace. A whisper of curiosity tugged at her, unwilling to be ignored.

'What was it about you that could make Steven act like that?'

"No, no, you don't need to take care of me. I wouldn't want you to get sick." The son of Greg Universe and ̶P̶̶i̶̶n̶̶k̶ ̶D̶̶i̶̶a̶̶m̶̶o̶̶n̶̶d̶ Rose Quartz insisted, his voice softening in a way that made Connie's stomach twist.

The way he cared about you was so painfully evident and she had to steel herself as she stood by watching.

"Actually...my cousin Stevonnie is visiting," Steven adds with a hint of awkwardness. "They'd love to meet you. Maybe you both could hang out at the beach and finally get introduced to the Crystal Gems while at it?"

There was a pause, then muffled laughter filtered through the receiver causing his entire demeanor to change.

Eyes brightened he turns to Connie and sends her a thumbs up. She reluctantly mirrors it, her lips set in a forced smile.

As Steven continued the conversation Connie was left with her thoughts.

She wasn't ready for this.

Not the idea of meeting you, not the way Steven lit up because of you, and definitely not the confusing flutter in her chest as she thought about seeing you up close.

She began to brace herself for what was to come. She couldn't predict how this day would unfold, but she knew one thing—she already didn't like you.

Not at all.

But somewhere, buried under the jealousy and apprehension, was the tiniest ember of curiosity.

*.·:·.☽✧✧☾.·:·.*

Now merged, the semi-Gem stands before the mirror in the living room. Stevonnie's fingers tremble as they fluffed out their thick wavy hair.

The anxious energy beneath their skin was palpable—an odd fusion of Steven's heart-racing excitement and Connie's tight-lipped simmering unease—as they waited.

For you.

Their hands paused, fingers lingering in their curls before dropping with an eye-roll and scoff, "Jeez...is it that serious?"

A flare of irritation filled their chest as they stepped back, exhaling through their nose to calm the internal storm.

Stevonnie's brows knit together in question of the sudden emotion.

It wasn't just Steven's giddy anticipation or Connie's jealousy. It was something more tangled—anxiety mixed with an unfamiliar warmth.

But there's no time to ponder further when the front door bursts open, the room filling with unrestrained laughter.

The boisterous sound bounces around the space as Pearl steps into view, her eyebrow twitching ever so slightly.

"Honestly Amethyst," Pearl chided, though there was a rare softness in her tone. Gaze finding the fusion, she offers a polite nod before gliding over to the nearby cushioned couch, hands folded neatly in her lap.

Garnet's silent presence filled the doorway next, her tall frame blocking the evening light momentarily as she stepped in.

The Gem's stoic expression softens just a touch when her gaze met Stevonnie's. Her lips subtly upturned as a way of unspoken reassurance.

Finally, Amethyst bounced in, her grin barely contained. She was cackling as she looked behind her yelling back, "Ya know, you're pretty funny for a meaty human!"

A familiar voice responds from beyond the door, "Why thank you my lil grape friend!"

Stevonnie's pulse quickened. It was you.

Their whole body seemed to pause, hands fidgeting nervously before forcing them to relax.

Steven's excitement surged, making their heart race, while Connie's wariness clawed at her mind.

But beneath it all there was a flicker of something different—a curiosity that wasn't entirely unwelcome.

'Okay' A short huff blew through their nose, eyes narrowing for just a moment in attempt to keep calm. 'Let's just get this over wi—'

"Hi! My name is _____. You must be Stevonnie right? Steven's cousin?"

The words hit Stevonnie like a surprise gust of wind.

Their eyes widen at the sight of you standing there. The warm glow of the sunlight that bathed you casted a golden halo around your figure.

In your hands you held a Tupperware bowl, the lid fogged from the warmth within.

Gaze was as warm as the Sun itself, smile soft and sweet—you were exactly Steven had described.

̶T̶̶h̶̶o̶̶u̶̶g̶̶h̶ ̶w̶̶h̶̶a̶̶t̶ ̶C̶̶o̶̶n̶̶n̶̶i̶̶e̶ ̶h̶̶a̶̶d̶̶n̶'̶t̶ ̶a̶̶n̶̶t̶̶i̶̶c̶̶i̶̶p̶̶a̶̶t̶̶e̶̶d̶ ̶w̶̶a̶̶s̶ ̶t̶̶h̶̶e̶ ̶w̶̶a̶̶y̶ ̶h̶̶e̶̶r̶ ̶s̶̶i̶̶d̶̶e̶ ̶o̶̶f̶ ̶t̶̶h̶̶e̶ ̶f̶̶u̶̶s̶̶i̶̶o̶̶n̶ ̶r̶̶e̶̶a̶̶c̶̶t̶̶e̶̶d̶.

The sharp sting of jealousy began to shift, replaced by a begrudging acknowledgment of your kind disposition.

Something in Stevonnie melted while the other side tensed. The tight pull of jealousy mingling with awestruck joy tangled into an emotion that left them breathless.

Connie’s unspoken thoughts whispered, echoing Steven’s sentiment, but with a dawning realization.

Your presence was more than she expected. It wasn’t the competition she’d imagined; it was...something softer.

“Y-yeah! That uh, that’s me,” they managed, voice steady enough to pass for normal.

Amethyst gave Stevonnie an exaggerated wink from behind your back, and Stevonnie shot her an unamused look.

“It’s great to officially meet you,” you said. “Though I'm a little peeved Steven never told me about you. We can make up for it as long as I'm here! Ah! Feels like I already know you.”

The casual sincerity in your voice made Stevonnie's heart squeeze with something they refused to name.

“Likewise,” Stevonnie said, but their voice wavered, betraying the fusion’s internal war.

*.·:·.☽✧✧☾.·:·.*

Time seemed to blur as the evening wore on. Stories were exchanged, laughter filled air, the sky outside slowly darkening with every passing hour.

Eventually it was time to go. You and Stevonnie walking along the shoreline toward Garnet's waiting silhouette in the distance.

The day's golden light fades, the sky deepening into hues of purple and blue as stars begin to reveal themselves.

The air was warm, the scent of salt carried on the breeze, and the rhythmic sound of the ocean created a comforting backdrop.

"I really had a good time today," you say, smile as genuine as ever. It sent a subtle ripple through Stevonnie, stirring emotions that were a blend of Steven’s joy and Connie’s reluctant acceptance.

Stevonnie's gaze lingers on you whenever you aren't looking, emotions wavering like a flame.

Steven's side of them basked in the warmth of your presence while Connie's shifted, unsettled by the pull she felt toward you.

The lingering envy that once felt sharp now dulled into a softer, almost wistful feeling.

Though even though the envy had dulled, replaced by an uninvited fascination, a faint sense jealousy remained.

̶C̶̶o̶̶n̶̶n̶̶i̶̶e̶'̶s̶ ̶s̶̶i̶̶d̶̶e̶ ̶c̶̶o̶̶u̶̶l̶̶d̶̶n̶’̶t̶ ̶d̶̶e̶̶n̶̶y̶ ̶t̶̶h̶̶a̶̶t̶ ̶t̶̶h̶̶e̶̶r̶̶e̶ ̶w̶̶a̶̶s̶ ̶s̶̶o̶̶m̶̶e̶̶t̶̶h̶̶i̶̶n̶̶g̶ ̶c̶̶a̶̶p̶̶t̶̶i̶̶v̶̶a̶̶t̶̶i̶̶n̶̶g̶ ̶a̶̶b̶̶o̶̶u̶̶t̶ ̶h̶̶o̶̶w̶ ̶e̶̶a̶̶s̶̶i̶̶l̶̶y̶ ̶y̶̶o̶̶u̶ ̶c̶̶o̶̶n̶̶n̶̶e̶̶c̶̶t̶̶e̶̶d̶ ̶w̶̶i̶̶t̶̶h̶ ̶p̶̶e̶̶o̶̶p̶̶l̶̶e̶, ̶h̶̶o̶̶w̶ ̶e̶̶f̶̶f̶̶o̶̶r̶̶t̶̶l̶̶e̶̶s̶̶s̶̶l̶̶y̶ ̶y̶̶o̶̶u̶ ̶b̶̶r̶̶o̶̶u̶̶g̶̶h̶̶t̶ ̶l̶̶i̶̶g̶̶h̶̶t̶ ̶t̶̶o̶ ̶t̶̶h̶̶e̶ ̶q̶̶u̶̶i̶̶e̶̶t̶ ̶s̶̶p̶̶a̶̶c̶̶e̶̶s̶.

Frustrated by the rush of warmth in their chest, they push back with a question

"So...what do you think of Steven?" Stevonnie asked, attempting to sound casual. Their eyes briefly dart towards you to gauge your reaction.

"He talks about you a lot—says you're a great friend. And I can see that, especially after you brought him that homemade veggie soup."

̶C̶̶o̶̶n̶̶n̶̶i̶̶e̶’̶s̶ ̶s̶̶i̶̶d̶̶e̶ ̶b̶̶r̶̶a̶̶c̶̶e̶̶d̶ ̶f̶̶o̶̶r̶ ̶t̶̶h̶̶e̶ ̶f̶̶a̶̶m̶̶i̶̶l̶̶i̶̶a̶̶r̶ ̶t̶̶w̶̶i̶̶n̶̶g̶̶e̶ ̶o̶̶f̶ ̶j̶̶e̶̶a̶̶l̶̶o̶̶u̶̶s̶̶y̶. ̶b̶̶u̶̶t̶ ̶i̶̶t̶ ̶n̶̶e̶̶v̶̶e̶̶r̶ ̶c̶̶a̶̶m̶̶e̶. ̶I̶̶n̶̶s̶̶t̶̶e̶̶a̶̶d̶ ̶t̶̶h̶̶e̶̶r̶̶e̶ ̶w̶̶a̶̶s̶ ̶a̶ ̶s̶̶u̶̶r̶̶p̶̶r̶̶i̶̶s̶̶i̶̶n̶̶g̶ ̶f̶̶l̶̶i̶̶c̶̶k̶̶e̶̶r̶ ̶o̶̶f̶ ̶c̶̶u̶̶r̶̶i̶̶o̶̶s̶̶i̶̶t̶̶y̶.

You look up at them. "Steven? He's great!" your voice rose as you began listing off his qualities. "Honestly, he's one of the most thoughtful people I know! Always listens even when it's something small. And he's so brave, even when scared. I've never met anyone who cares as much as he does."

Stevonnie felt a bittersweet pang. Your admiration mirrored everything Connie had once felt a̶̶n̶̶d̶ ̶s̶̶t̶̶i̶̶l̶̶l̶ ̶f̶̶e̶̶l̶̶t̶ ̶d̶̶e̶̶e̶̶p̶ ̶d̶̶o̶̶w̶̶n̶ for Steven.

Hearing you say it, seeing how deeply you understood him, brought a strange comfort.

But it was more than that. The candor in your voice spoke of someone who saw the best in others.

̶S̶̶o̶̶m̶̶e̶̶o̶̶n̶̶e̶ ̶w̶̶h̶̶o̶ ̶c̶̶o̶̶u̶̶l̶̶d̶ ̶s̶̶e̶̶e̶ ̶h̶̶e̶̶r̶ ̶t̶̶o̶̶o̶.

The realization struck Stevonnie quietly, an unwelcome but persistent warmth settling in their chest.

"Really?" Stevonnie replied in a controlled voice, though their heart felt so heavy that it might fall out their ribcage.

The question was innocent enough but the ache behind it was palpable; a tug-of-war between Steven's quiet yearning and Connie's deep-seated denial.

For it was no longer just about rivalry—it was the possibility that someone could understand her in the way you understood Steven.

A gentle laugh escapes you and you nod frantically. "Of course! He...he just got this way of making everyone feel important ya know? Like they matter. And his jokes—oh my gosh, he cheers me up even when I'm not having the best day. Not to mention when he gets excited about something he loves; you should see the way his eyes light up like the stars."

Stevonnie's heart skip a beat the admiration in your voice. Something within them stirs. Their stomach knots with butterflies, warmth creeping up to their cheeks.

'No!' A flicker of defiance twists their lips. 'This won't do.'

"Well speaking of boys in general. You got a boyfriend?" Forcing a mischievous grin they give you a playful nudge. "A pretty girl like you must have one waiting at home right?"

The second the words slipped out Stevonnie's stride faltered, feet coming to a halt as an unsettling pang bloomed in them, unexpected and sharp.

It was a strange sensation—something close to jealousy and possessiveness—an uncomfortable mix that made their chest feel tight.

The thought of you loving someone else stings in a way that makes their brow crease.

Before they could make sense of it your laugh broke the silence. "A boyfriend? Gosh no!"

The sound pulled Stevonnie out of their daze. They looked up just in time to notice you had slowed and stopped a few steps ahead, eyes fixed on the darkening horizon.

For the first time you've met your gaze avoided to meet theirs, instead lingering on the ocean with an unreadable expression softening your features.

"I've never really thought about dating or romance," you admit, voice tinged with a touch of melancholy. "I spent most of my time focused on getting good grades, get into college and make my family proud—doing everything I was supposed to do. And now that I've done that...I don't really know how to connect with people in that way." A small laugh escaped, quiet and self-conscious. "I'm just now getting better at making friends socially. Romance? That's a far-off dream for me."

Stevonnie's heart ached in an odd camaraderie. The weight of expectations, the search for belonging—it's all too familiar. They resonated with your vulnerability, recognizing theirself in your words.

̶I̶̶t̶ ̶c̶̶h̶̶i̶̶p̶̶p̶̶e̶̶d̶ ̶a̶̶w̶̶a̶̶y̶ ̶a̶̶t̶ ̶C̶̶o̶̶n̶̶n̶̶i̶̶e̶'̶s̶ ̶g̶̶u̶̶a̶̶r̶̶d̶̶e̶̶d̶ ̶h̶̶e̶̶a̶̶r̶̶t̶ ̶p̶̶i̶̶e̶̶c̶̶e̶ ̶b̶̶y̶ ̶p̶̶i̶̶e̶̶c̶̶e̶.

Before they could respond you speak again, gentler this time, like a secret being shared under moonlight.

"But Steven...?" you began, your voice taking on a wistful tone. They watch as the forlorn shadow in your eyes melt away, replaced by something softer, more reverent.

Your eyes became dazed as your lips curled into a tender smile. "He's different. He makes everything feel easy...one of the best I've ever met—Gem or human. It's really not hard for people to fall for someone like him."

You let out a gentle sigh, the stars above seeming to mirror the flicker of emotion in your eyes as you looked up at the twinkling dotted sky.

"I sure know I have."

Stevonnie.exe has stopped working.

A mixture of relief and longing that they hadn’t expected flushed through their veins.

You...like like Steven? ̶A̶̶n̶̶d̶ ̶f̶̶o̶̶r̶ ̶a̶ ̶m̶̶o̶̶m̶̶e̶̶n̶̶t̶, ̶C̶̶o̶̶n̶̶n̶̶i̶̶e̶ ̶w̶̶o̶̶n̶̶d̶̶e̶̶r̶̶e̶̶d̶ ̶w̶̶h̶̶a̶̶t̶ ̶i̶̶t̶ ̶w̶̶o̶̶u̶̶l̶̶d̶ ̶b̶̶e̶ ̶l̶̶i̶̶k̶̶e̶ ̶i̶̶f̶ ̶y̶̶o̶̶u̶ ̶s̶̶a̶̶w̶ ̶h̶̶e̶̶r̶ ̶t̶̶h̶̶a̶̶t̶ ̶w̶̶a̶̶y̶ ̶t̶̶o̶̶o̶.

You blink rapidly as if to shake off the rush of emotion that had swept over you and let out an embarrassed chuckle.

"Sorry that sounded super cheesy," you rub the back of your neck. "I'm sure you don't want to hear that, with him being your cousin and all."

You turn back to Stevonnie, only to find them standing perfectly still, staring at you with wide eyes and a faint flush coloring their cheeks.

"Stevonnie?" you called their name, snapping them out of it. They jolted slightly as if waking from a dream and sport a wobbly smile.

"Cool," is all they managed to choke out, awkwardly lifting both hands in an stiff thumbs-up gesture. "That's...really cool."

The response was clumsy but it pulled a genuine laugh from you.

Despite the confusion, you played along, giving your own thumbs-up before gesturing to where Garnet stood a respectful distance away. "Well it's getting late. We shouldn't keep her waiting."

Stevonnie could only nod as they swallowed hard.

̶T̶̶h̶̶e̶ ̶o̶̶n̶̶c̶̶e̶ ̶r̶̶e̶̶l̶̶u̶̶c̶̶t̶̶a̶̶n̶̶t̶ ̶e̶̶m̶̶o̶̶t̶̶i̶̶o̶̶n̶ ̶C̶̶o̶̶n̶̶n̶̶i̶̶e̶ ̶f̶̶e̶̶l̶̶t̶ ̶c̶̶o̶̶n̶̶f̶̶u̶̶s̶̶i̶̶n̶̶g̶, ̶u̶̶n̶̶w̶̶e̶̶l̶̶c̶̶o̶̶m̶̶e̶ ̶e̶̶v̶̶e̶̶n̶, ̶b̶̶u̶̶t̶ ̶i̶̶t̶ ̶w̶̶o̶̶u̶̶l̶̶d̶̶n̶’̶t̶ ̶b̶̶e̶ ̶i̶̶g̶̶n̶̶o̶̶r̶̶e̶̶d̶.

Their steps were almost mechanical as they follow you down the beach, the soft crunch of sand beneath mirroring the dissonance in their mind and heart.

You filled the silence with a stream of light-hearted talk, a cheerful ramble that danced across topics as if trying to chase away any lingering awkwardness.

Stevonnie's responses were sparse—a series of hums, muttered agreements, and distracted nods.

Each step toward Garnet and the waiting car felt like a countdown, every word you spoke being another beat in the symphony of confusion humming in their mind.

It wasn't until Garnet was a few feet away did Stevonnie manage to gather themselves enough to say a proper goodbye. "Um...bye ____...I...I had fun."

You flash a smile as bright as the moon hanging in the dark sky. "I had a great time too. We should definitely do this again. Oh! And hopefully Connie can join us next time. I've been meaning to finally meet her, especially since I just finished a new novel series. You think she'd like if I brought them for her? It's a historical romance with strong female leads—the Bridgerton series, if you've heard of it. And if not, I have other books she might enjoy. I'm hoping we could maybe start a book club or have some discussions!"

The mention of the teen's interests sent a rush of warmth through Stevonnie. It was a small gesture, but it spoke volumes about how deeply you cared.

Their posture stiffened ever so slightly as your words washed over them, smile faltering for just a heartbeat before forcing it to stay in place—a little too bright, a touch too tight.

For a moment the spark of Steven's enthusiasm fought with Connie's nervousness, creating a subtle conflict that flickered between excitement and something harder to define.

Though the mention of historical romance and strong female leads did spark an immediate interest on Connie's side briefly.

But as quickly as it came, the heaviness of more complex emotions settled in, making Stevonnie's heart thump with a sensation that felt uncomfortably like longing.

Fingers twitching, they tuck a loose strand of hair behind their ear—a move pure Connie.

"Y-yeah..." Their voice slipped on the first word before steading it. "Yeah...I think Connie would like that very much. She loves stories with strong characters."

You give a playful eyeroll as teasing grin spread across your face. "Well duh that's why I'm recommending it to her!" The fondness in your tone was unmistakable, and it seeped into Stevonnie's skin. "Steven says she's never without a book, usually something epic or full of history. Oh and her journaling! Always writing in it—filling it with thoughts and stories."

Leaning in a bit your eyes sparkled as you continued with enthusiasm. "Did you know she's into sword fighting? She trains with Pearl. And gosh her curiosity! He told me how fearless she is when it comes to going on new adventures. Always ready to explore even when things get wild."

Each word was like a tiny invisible thread that pulled at the fusion. Connie's pride in her achievements hummed under the surface, swirling with Steven's growing admiration for how deeply you appreciated someone he cared about.

You paused, a soft laugh escaping that caught Stevonnie off guard with its ease. "She's so smart too. Steven once mentioned how she'll share the most random but fascinating historical facts like it's second nature. And music—I don't know if she still plays, but he said she's got a real talent for it. I think it was the violin? I bet she could play classical pieces flawlessly."

Stevonnie's throat tightened, and for a moment, their composure wavered. Your words painted Connie in such vivid colors, filled with genuine admiration that was so tender—so pure.

̶F̶̶o̶̶r̶ ̶t̶̶h̶̶e̶ ̶f̶̶i̶̶r̶̶s̶̶t̶ ̶t̶̶i̶̶m̶̶e̶, ̶C̶̶o̶̶n̶̶n̶̶i̶̶e̶ ̶f̶̶e̶̶l̶̶t̶ ̶t̶̶h̶̶a̶̶t̶ ̶s̶̶o̶̶m̶̶e̶̶o̶̶n̶̶e̶ ̶m̶̶i̶̶g̶̶h̶̶t̶ ̶t̶̶r̶̶u̶̶l̶̶y̶ ̶u̶̶n̶̶d̶̶e̶̶r̶̶s̶̶t̶̶a̶̶n̶̶d̶ ̶h̶̶e̶̶r̶, ̶a̶̶n̶̶d̶ ̶i̶̶t̶ ̶l̶̶e̶̶f̶̶t̶ ̶h̶̶e̶̶r̶ ̶f̶̶e̶̶e̶̶l̶̶i̶̶n̶̶g̶ ̶e̶̶x̶̶p̶̶o̶̶s̶̶e̶̶d̶.

It was then a softer expression crossed your face as you looked down, shifting your foot in the sand did Stevonnie feel something give.

"I don't know," your voice dipped with shy honesty. "I guess...I'm just really excited to meet her. She seems so incredible, even though I haven't even met her yet."

A small smile—hopeful and sweet—crossed your lips. "I hope she'll want to be my friend."

Stevonnie's emotions reached a breaking point.

A part of them, Steven's part, felt a surge of joy at how deeply you cared. But Connie's part—rooted in insecurity and longing—felt exposed and vulnerable.

̶S̶̶h̶̶e̶ ̶c̶̶o̶̶u̶̶l̶̶d̶̶n̶'̶t̶ ̶d̶̶e̶̶n̶̶y̶ ̶t̶̶h̶̶a̶̶t̶ ̶s̶̶h̶̶e̶ ̶f̶̶e̶̶l̶̶t̶ ̶s̶̶o̶̶m̶̶e̶̶t̶̶h̶̶i̶̶n̶̶g̶ ̶m̶̶o̶̶r̶̶e̶ ̶t̶̶h̶̶a̶̶n̶ ̶e̶̶n̶̶v̶̶y̶ ̶o̶̶r̶ ̶j̶̶e̶̶a̶̶l̶̶o̶̶u̶̶s̶̶y̶; ̶s̶̶o̶̶m̶̶e̶̶t̶̶h̶̶i̶̶n̶̶g̶ ̶w̶̶a̶̶s̶ ̶s̶̶h̶̶i̶̶f̶̶t̶̶i̶̶n̶̶g̶ ̶i̶̶n̶ ̶h̶̶e̶̶r̶ ̶t̶̶h̶̶a̶̶t̶ ̶m̶̶a̶̶d̶̶e̶ ̶h̶̶e̶̶r̶ ̶h̶̶e̶̶a̶̶r̶̶t̶ ̶f̶̶l̶̶u̶̶t̶̶t̶̶e̶̶r̶ ̶i̶̶n̶ ̶a̶ ̶w̶̶a̶̶y̶ ̶s̶̶h̶̶e̶ ̶c̶̶o̶̶u̶̶l̶̶d̶̶n̶'̶t̶ ̶i̶̶g̶̶n̶̶o̶̶r̶̶e̶.

"You...really know a lot about her...huh?" There was a mix of surprise and appreciation in their voice. "That means a lot—to both of us. She's always looking for people who see her, not just what she does but who she is.""

A soft breathy laugh escaped them, almost involuntary, tinged with something bittersweet.

"I think she'd really like to be your friend too..." Stevonnie whispered, the sincerity catching even them by surprise.

̶A̶̶t̶ ̶t̶̶h̶̶i̶̶s̶ ̶p̶̶o̶̶i̶̶n̶̶t̶ ̶C̶̶o̶̶n̶̶n̶̶i̶̶e̶'̶s̶ ̶g̶̶u̶̶a̶̶r̶̶d̶ ̶d̶̶r̶̶o̶̶p̶̶p̶̶e̶̶d̶ ̶c̶̶o̶̶m̶̶p̶̶l̶̶e̶̶t̶̶e̶̶l̶̶y̶, ̶r̶̶e̶̶v̶̶e̶̶a̶̶l̶̶i̶̶n̶̶g̶ ̶a̶ ̶q̶̶u̶̶i̶̶e̶̶t̶, ̶t̶̶e̶̶n̶̶d̶̶e̶̶r̶ ̶h̶̶o̶̶p̶̶e̶.

You look up at Stevonnie with wide eyes as a look of disbelief flash across your face before melting into a heart-shattering smile. "Really? You think so?!"

You seemed to catch yourself, quickly clearing your throat, though it didn't quite hide the excitement still glimmering in your eyes.

"Yeah that's cool or whatever," your attempt at nonchalance was betrayed by the slight bounce on your heels.

Stevonnie couldn't help but laugh at the sight as Garnet joined in, her laughter low and warm.

̶F̶̶o̶̶r̶ ̶C̶̶o̶̶n̶̶n̶̶i̶̶e̶ ̶i̶̶t̶ ̶w̶̶a̶̶s̶̶n̶’̶t̶ ̶e̶̶v̶̶e̶̶n̶ ̶j̶̶u̶̶s̶̶t̶ ̶a̶̶d̶̶m̶̶i̶̶r̶̶a̶̶t̶̶i̶̶o̶̶n̶ ̶a̶̶n̶̶y̶̶m̶̶o̶̶r̶̶e̶, i̶̶t̶ ̶w̶̶a̶̶s̶ ̶s̶̶o̶̶m̶̶e̶̶t̶̶h̶̶i̶̶n̶̶g̶ ̶t̶̶h̶̶a̶̶t̶ ̶m̶̶a̶̶d̶̶e̶ ̶h̶̶e̶̶r̶ ̶w̶̶o̶̶n̶̶d̶̶e̶̶r̶ ̶i̶̶f̶ ̶s̶̶h̶̶e̶ ̶c̶̶o̶̶u̶̶l̶̶d̶ ̶a̶̶l̶̶l̶̶o̶̶w̶ ̶h̶̶e̶̶r̶̶s̶̶e̶̶l̶̶f̶ ̶t̶̶o̶ ̶f̶̶e̶̶e̶̶l̶ ̶i̶̶t̶.

And that's when you brought it up.

Almost as if the sudden thought appeared, you let out a casual laugh. "Oh and I just realized—Stevonnie huh? You now your name kinda sounds like a mix between Steven and Connie. Isn't that funny?"

The smile froze on Stevonnie's face. A jolt of panic shot through them and they balked. "W-what?!"

Stammering with wide eyes, they struggled to find their footing. "Wha? What do you mean? No it's not like that at all." Their voice tripped over itself, each word tangling into the next. "I mean I'm older than both of them—Steven and Connie. I don't even look like them if they were merged together hahaha!"

They gave an awkward laugh, though it sounded forced, the tension clear in their voice.

You blinked, your brows furrowing as confusion crossed your features. Before you could voice the questions forming on your lips Garnet's voice cut through the moment.

"____. You're going to miss the RoboDog movie marathon if you stay any longer," she called, her voice voice cool and even, yet somehow managing to carry a knowing lilt.

Your eyes lit up at the mention of the movie series, all confusion momentarily replaced by excitement.

"Oh! Right! Thanks for reminding me Garnet." You shot a quick glance back at Stevonnie, your expression brightening. "It was really nice meeting you Stevonnie! And tell Steven I'll call him later!"

You paused a beat as if considering your next words. Head lowering from fluster, the words tumbled out before you could stop them, "And...do you think maybe you don't mention what I said earlier? I think I'd die if he knew."

Garnet, standing beside you, puts a gentle hand on your shoulder with a knowing expression. "No worries. Steven won't know of your confession about your budding romantic feelings for him."

The tension from your body disappears at her reassurance making you release a breath of relief. "Thank yo—"

You freeze mid-gratitude. Your eyes widened as your head whips towards her, the question slipping out in a rush. "Wait—how did you know?!"

Stevonnie felt a rush of heat climb their neck at the full confirmation. The tension inside them strained, pressing against the fragile seams of their shared being.

Steven’s excitement warred with Connie’s panic, and under it all, a trembling awareness pulsed with each heartbeat.

Their nails dug into their palms as they struggled to hold steady. It was taking every ounce of self-control to keep from separating then and there.

̶C̶̶o̶̶n̶̶n̶̶i̶̶e̶’̶s̶ ̶s̶̶i̶̶d̶̶e̶ ̶f̶̶i̶̶g̶̶h̶̶t̶̶i̶̶n̶̶g̶ ̶t̶̶h̶̶e̶ ̶u̶̶r̶̶g̶̶e̶ ̶t̶̶o̶ ̶b̶̶r̶̶e̶̶a̶̶k̶ ̶a̶̶w̶̶a̶̶y̶ ̶a̶̶n̶̶d̶ ̶h̶̶i̶̶d̶̶e̶.

Garnet's chuckled softly, voice tinged with a poetic clarity. "Love is felt even when it's hidden. It shines brightly even to those who cannot see."

She gives Stevonnie one last look—a look that conveyed understanding, as if urging them to accept what was brewing inside.

You blinked, caught between embarrassment and wonder as Garnet gently urged you toward the nearby car.

"W-wait! Hold on now! I can explai—"

Your stuttering attempts at saving face were met with another quiet laugh as she guided you inside, shutting the door with a quiet finality.

Stevonnie stood unmoving as the car rolled away, the sound of tires on sand growing fainter until all that remained was the soft whisper of the waves and the steady thump of their heartbeat.

The air was thick with unsaid truths that everything was changing.

It was quiet for a long moment, the silence stretched thin as the fusion watched the taillights disappear over the horizon.

Finally, with a shuddering breath, the tension in Stevonnie's frame snapped—collapsing into two separate forms.

Steven stumbled slightly, catching himself with wide eyes that remained fixed after where the car last was in a mix of awe and confusion. His cheeks were pink, emotions an open book.

Connie stood beside him with a downcast gaze; her fingers curling into the fabric of the skirt she wore as her heart ached with a bittersweet awareness.

The soft press of the fabric in her hands grounded her, kept her from spiraling further into what-ifs and whys.

Cool breeze bit at her skin, but she didn't flinch, heavy heart thudding in her chest with a realization she couldn't yet voice.

It was as if a door had opened, letting in the rush of emotions she’d created and kept locked away all in one day, mixing with the echoes of your admiration and her own conflicted feelings.

Steven's eyes stayed fixed on the empty stretch of road—a soft, wistful ache in his gaze.

"So," he whispered after a beat, breaking the stillness. His voice quivered low and uncertain. "What did you think of ____?"

Connie's heart thudded painfully as she turned to look at him, the moonlight casting long shadows across his face.

Her eyes softened as she saw the flush in his cheeks and the hint of hope in his expression. It mirrored a feeling she recognized all too well.

Words were caught in her throat all tangled up in emotions she hadn't even begun to sort through.

Both confessions—having feelings for Steven, dare say even admiring Connie—it reverberated in her mind.

So much it came with the stinging realization that tinge of jealousy she'd ignored was more than she wanted to admit.

That now, mingled with that envy was something new—something she wasn’t sure she could deny any longer.

"What I think...?" she started, the words trailing off as she searched for something true to say.

Steven's hopeful, expectant eyes met hers, and for the first time she felt the truth settle heavily in her chest.

There was no escaping it now—the feelings she thought she’d buried were surfacing, mingling with the unexpected warmth she now feels when she hearing your voice or seeing your smile.

A soft rueful smile tugged at her lips, and she let out a breath that sounded almost like a laugh.

"I'm thinking how bad is it to say I see why you're smitten."

#knayee traveler #x reader #reader insert #steven universe #steven universe x reader #connie maheswaran #su au #su pearl #su garnet #su amethyst #stevonnie #connie x steven #steven quartz universe #su steven #su connie x reader #connie mahaswaren x reader #angst with a happy ending #light angst #su x reader

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chubbyreaderchan · 2 years ago

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Crawfish boil with the Sinclair boys.

Lester pulls up to the house early one morning with all that's needed, it's one of those hot humid days though. Everyone is trying to beat the heat while helping Lester with dinner.

Lester is the best at cooking between the three brothers. Bo is good but not as good as Lester and I just think Vincent doesn't remember to eat but he knows how to make things. Basics.

You would be helping in any way they'd ask. Doesn't matter who you are involved with, crawfish boil has all the Sinclairs which includes you doing something. Lester also probably has some other meats that Bo would take over the grilling of because he likes to play with the fire a bit.

If you aren't familiar with a crawfish boil Lester will excitedly tell you everything he knows and even lets you help him with it. If you are from the north he's trying to "help a Yankee/(or where ever you are from) fit in the South". He doesn't mean anything by it. Just likes to tease you, like families do.

It's like a holiday marathon of cooking for all of you. If you had a recipe you wanted to share they'd encourage you. Vincent might hover around you. Helping in any way that you ask. If he's enamoured with you, he's watching you so closely like he's trying to memorize what you look like in such a normal setting.

Vincent's also a fan of decorating the desserts but he finds frosting is more fiddly than wax is. It's still beautiful but he's never happy with it.

If Bo is going to have you help set up a white picnic table so you can eat outside. He knows you're strong but he still won't let you lift the tables alone. He knows he could easily do it himself but he wants a turn spending time with you and especially if he's with you romantically. He ends up setting it up himself and just talks to you about some bullshit that's on his mind.

It all ends with Bo and Lester putting the food out the classic way. You would be shocked, all three of the Sinclairs can eat. A lot. Even Vincent. They are southern boys who all do hard labor all day, they burn so many calories and they love a good feast.

If you've never had them Bo'll teach you how to eat them. If you are allergic or grossed out of course I think they would make sure you ate and were somewhere far from the food while doing their best to make you feel a part of it.

They'd tell happy stories of their childhood, all of which were when they were far from their parents for the most part. They like your weird stories too and laugh when you do. If you've known them a while Vincent would have his mask off and his hair mostly up.

The night would end with Lester goating you into catching lightning bugs with him. Bo would be chain smoking and Vincent would be watching the antics of his family.

It's a night that makes you forget the horrors these boys can be. They just seem so normal and that's why you'd stay with them. The good times were extremely good.

#someone mentioned that the boys would be good cooks and ive been watching food content all week #and i feel like this is a thing they do in the summer #reader insert #slasher imagines #slashers x reader #sinclair brothers x reader #vincent sinclair x reader #bo Sinclair x reader #x reader #crawfish #i know the allergies thing is sus #but i didnt think about it until the end #thanksgiving would be fun for them too but i think they wouldnt do it until y/n came along

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drama--universe · 9 months ago

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Food mishap

Requested by anonymous: Hi! Can I request a Hwarang Soo ho imagine?!! It's his wife's birthday and to make the day special, Soo-ho decides to make his wife's favorite dishes. But sadly it ends up in a mess, with the food being burnt and a panicky Soo ho. However his wife finds it to be extremely adorable and helps him in making the dishes. Thanks!

Pairing: Soo-Ho x fem!reader

Word Count: 0.8k words

He had been looking forward to your birthday for months now, having wanted to do something special for you this year. Not that he hadn't done things for you before, hell he always made sure that every day in your relationship was an unique adventure, but birthdays were different. He had made sure that he got you out of the house that day, convincing your friends to whisk you away while he prepared the surprise. He was going to prepare your favorite food and dishes that you loved, things you haven't eaten in a while. Now he had asked for help from the actual cooks in the household. Ingredients and recipe, but that was about it. He wanted to do it himself, ignoring the protests of the staff and starting his... journey?

Now the cutting of the ingredients should go fine, Soo-Ho was after all a man with fine sword skills. One problem, a knife was nothing like a sword... Soo-Ho ended up having more cuts in his fingers than greens that he had to cut in the first place, wounds covered by bandages to keep it from the food.

Second step, actually cooking everything. Sounds easy, right? Soo-Ho believed it to be, he had definitely underestimated it. Not even halfway the food caught fire. He tried again, this time successfully not letting it catch fire. It was a bit burned on the side, maybe a bit too crispy compared to what it was supposed to be but it would be fine. Hopefully... It took about an hour more for everything to be finished, all slightly burned around the edges but fine nonetheless. So he plated everything, setting the table with utmost care and then he waited.

You arrived home not much later, smiling brightly as you bid your friend goodbye before seeing the present in front of you. The smile on Soo-Ho's face made your heart melt, the food before made it skip a beat. You took a seat across from him, looking at all of the food before you.

"Did... Did you make this?" You asked, tone wavering slightly as you took a good look at the food. Unlike what Soo-Ho thought, the food was actually burned. Nonetheless, you picked up your utensils and took the first bite. Soo-Ho waited patiently for your approval, but the truth was that you could hardly control your expressions. Placing your utensils back down, you could only sigh as you folded your hands in your lap. Soo-Ho's face fell and you felt your heart break as you tried to find a way to break the news to him nicely.

"It's edible..." You started, watching your husband's reaction before continuing. "And I really appreciate the thought behind it, but maybe we should leave the cooking to the cooks?" You questioned and this time Soo-Ho's smile completely disappeared.

"Darling?" You waited for him to look up from the food and at you instead, which he did after a couple of seconds with a big pout on his face while he poked at the food. He then took a bite himself, his face immediately changing to a look of confusion followed by slight disgust. Lifting a cloth to his mouth, he quickly spit it out again before looking at you.

"How can you even swallow that?" He asked and you chuckled at him before rising from your seat and making your way to him, sitting beside him.

"Happy birthday, even though the food sucks." He then said and you leaned your head on his shoulder, wrapping your arms around him in a way of comfort. Just then you noticed the little makeshift bandages, immediately letting go of him and taking ahold of his hands instead. Lifting them high enough, you inspected them carefully after lifting the bandages slightly.

"Did you cut yourself while cooking?" You asked, to which your husband shyly nodded as he tried to hide the blush that started forming on his face. You raised his hands and gently kissed the wounds before taking ahold of his face and placing a kiss on his lips.

"I am so glad I married you." You smiled at him and he was quick to smile back, kissing you again before looking back at the food.

"How about we cook something else together?" You asked, to which Soo-Ho agreed quickly, and you moved to gather all the bad dishes. Bringing it to the kitchen, you quickly cleaned everything before starting on the cooking. Soo-Ho stayed back this time, just watching you with care as you prepared the food. Halfway through the cooking, he moved to watch over your shoulder while back hugging you and whining every few seconds that he could've done it on his own. You just ignored the whining, instead focusing on the food before you as to not burn it again.

'Happy birthday, darling."

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mdzsfan · 1 year ago

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Lan Wangji

Alone again (implied wangxian, angst, and male reader) Punishments and alcohol (Drunk, jealous Lan Wangj, Lan Gender Netural Reader) A cruel symphony of love and suffering (female reader, Hanahaki au) Unspoken Bonds (Female, maid reader au) Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 *NSFW

#mdzs x reader #mdzs #mdzs oneshots #the untamed #mo dao zu shi reader insert #mo dao zu shi headcanons #mo dao zu shi x reader #mo dao su zhi #the untamed reader insert #the untamed oneshots #the untamed #the untamed x reader #lan wangji #lan zhan #lan wangji x reader #lan wangji x female reader #lan zhan x reader #lan zhan x female reader

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iamdarkness · 7 months ago

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Nexus

Lif x Summoner, Lif x reader / Implied platonic Alfonse x Summoner, Alfonse x reader.

NSFW from first sentence.

Lif and the summoner find each other thanks to an unlikely person and Lif's questionable decisions.

Also a look into Embla's hidden night life and secrets. Set before and after the siege to Veronica's castle in book 5.

May do a second part. I know I should be working on the other ones but I swear I had this one sitting there for like a year and I was debating whether to post it of not. Hope you like it.

Nexus

-Say my name! Say it!- The husky voice says on the woman’s ears. He is taking her from behind. It comes muffled by the white and gold embroidered hood that covers all of her head and most of the face. She can hardly hear it over her own moans too. His trusts are relentless and rhythmic, his length reaching deeper than anyone she had ever been with. Between moans she manages to breath and utter the name he desperately wanted to hear.

-Alfonse! Alfonse! Ahh!!

-NO! Not Alfonse! Say it!

Not confused by the request, the woman remembers the other times he had done this to her. She switches to his other name.

-Lif! Oh God Lif! I… please!!- She pleads even though there is no god she believes in. This is what he wants and so she will deliver.

A few more rough trusts on his part and she reaches her limit. When he feels her release, he takes his final trust then she feels him withdraw. After a short moment he kisses the top of her hooded head. She stays unmoving and knowing full well why he does not kiss her instead.

- _______….My ______. My dear summoner.- She hears him come in his hand like all the other times he has done this. She does not dare to look back at his ruby red eyes. She feels drained of all energy after such a energetic session, but she stays put. A moment later she feels him lean on her back and rest his head on hers. She hears him whisper something and can make out some words he repeats like a prayer.

-Soon my love….I will return you to me. Soon…- He sighs, a sigh she knows he does not need and remembering it, makes her shiver. This must have brought him back to reality, because he raises himself from the bed and she hears him start to dress up.

-Take it off.- His monotone voice reach her still hazy mind. She knows what he meant and she complies. She starts taking off the hooded coat and turning a little so she can do it faster and catches a glimpse of him standing near the door.

-Turn around. I don’t want to see your face. -He says in a rough voice. Such a different tone that some moments ago. She takes the garment off. She was wearing a night gown underneath without underwear.

-I…You can come inside me…I am ready for this…I assure y…

-Do I not pay you enough for your silence?

-Yes… I just wanted to serve you better.

-Then keep quiet. I will be back next month…here.- He lets some gold coins fall on her bed. She does not turn around but takes the coins. It is much more than she would do in a month by herself. He takes the coat and folds it neatly to place it inside a travel bag. Done this, he opens the door and leaves without a further word.

The woman starts crying. She is not sure why her heart feels so heavy. The first time he had come to her, he had scared her, but she needed the money. He had made requests and offered a lot of money for it. The following times he had learned a lot about him even if he did not talked to her. He was dead and had been brought back to life it was obvious, but he looked like he had been a very handsome man in life. He was a great lover too. Sometimes he was gentle and loving and sometimes he was rough but not in a bad way.

He loved that woman and she knew who that woman was. She was the summoner of the Askran Kingdom. She wondered then if this warrior was one of the fallen heroes the Summoner used in the war. Her lover perhaps. If that was so, then…it meant he loved her when he was alive and his love endured after death.

And then she understood her feelings. She was sad. Not only for him, who had died loving someone and was probably afraid to bee seen the way he was, but for his summoner as well. Did she even know he still walked the living world? Does she love him back? Did she grieve his death?….Then there was Her… She was here in the Emblian South city of Renar ; a whore not by choice, living this sad life. If only someone would love her the way this man did his Summoner…even if he was dead…

=NO!….Do not even think about this…this is just a job…Soon we will be able to leave the city and my sister will never have to suffer what I have. We will have a house of our own and some cows…And this will be in the past and forgotten… I will forget him…just like he will forget me….but…what about the Summoner?…=

[line break]

It was almost dawn when she heard the silent footfalls of Lif’s booted feet. Her scarlet eyes did not move from her target. The Emblian Castle so much like her own home stood right in front of her. She stood on the roof of the tallest building in the South City. He was late, but she would not say anything. It was not that she feared his anger. He seldom was cross at her. She knew it was all a facade to keep others at bay and enemies afraid anyway. Besides, he new she disapproved of his monthly escapades. They not only were risky and a waste of time but she considered them … how would she word it? Oh yeah…cheating.

For all the indifference he voiced so loudly against the Summoner, she knew how he felt. He could deny it all he wanted, but he had stolen that jacket from the castle the last time he had entered it to spy on that Summoner…. err The Order of Heroes or so he had said. So if he loved that Summoner so much why visit not only other women but a common whore, only because she had the same height and constitution of the Summoner. Thrasir had never fallen in love, but she knew that if her lover where to do this kind of action she would surely dismember them…and then brake up with them.

- Any news from Zacharias? - He asks avoiding her eyes. She looks sideways at him and does not answer.-Let it go Veronica. - He says tiredly. He had enough with his own disgust and self hatred to be judged by her as well.

-He has not returned yet, but…Loki was telling Veronica there are rumors of war from another realm. The target may be Askr, but she said to be ready just in case. It is just as we were told. We should ask Thorr for more information. - She said as neither of them trusted Loki. Not that they trusted Thorr to begin with but at least the Goddess did not lie for fun.

-Mmm. It may be wise. It also may be a good chance to find out more about the Alfather and his plan. Come, let us go to the base. - Their base being an abandoned country home the Askran Royal Family did not use any more. It was too close to the border and had been partly destroyed. They used the hidden bunker in the basement.

[line break]

- Please help my sister.- Had been Bruno’s plea and it would be answered.

[line break]

-Reginn! Take the left side and let Dagr take the right! Takumi shoot the sniper in the clock tower please! It’s attacking the Emblian front lines! Take Claude with you and scan the other tall buildings! BE CAREFUL! Guinevere back Zelgius up! Micaiah tell the wyvern riders to take each an archer not mounted, to the roofs, when the ninjas give the go ahead. Naesala and Henry… you know what to do.

Naesala looked down to his best friend Henry and lifted him off the ground. Henry gave one of his little laughs. They were in charge of the aerial attack.

Bruno watched you give orders to the heroes behind his golden mask with a small smile, but you knew that deep down; he was very anxious for his sister. He knew she could handle herself, but against Nidavellir, she was untested and so he was afraid. Now that he had his friends by his side; it was an easier burden to carry, and he wished he could count on you to help him on his quest, but the war started by the bad blood of Embla and his fear of harming you all was enough to dispelled those wishes from his mind. Now he was waiting for your instruction on when to strike.

-King Dimitri, Ike lead the front lines. Savior Dimitri, Alm And King Marth will be following with their squads. Bruno Sharena and Alfonse, be ready to go when they make way. Kaze and Saizo will be waiting for you to make your way into the palace unseen.

-You will stay? -Asks Bruno.

-It is better I stay and lead the heroes with Commander Anna.

- I would feel better if you were to come with us. I do not belittle your heroes’ abilities to guard you but… You have been kidnapped before.- Said Bruno with furrowed brows.

-It was all Alfonse’s idea. Besides (M) Byleth, F Dimitri and Grima are here to protect me…just…take care of each others.- Bruno looked at Alfonse and the younger man averted his eyes, blushing a little.

-Alfonse… a word if I may.- Says Bruno. They both retreat a little way away and even though you can’t hear what they are saying you knew what Alfonse was telling him. He was afraid of getting you hurt after being kidnapped and then sent by Commander Anna on a solo mission to fight for days without his consent. Of course you preferred to go with him, but you also did not want to worry him. You knew who would win the argument. Alfonse was stubborn once he made up his mind. Alfonse had also expressed his mistrust of Bruno’s sanity. He was not afraid for himself or Sharena but he could not trust him with you and did not want you to be near him for longer than necessary. He held his friend dearly, but what was happening to him was of great concern to him and he need to take action just in case of him being overpowered by his blood.

-I still do not agree. -Says Bruno looking sideways at his friend, while coming back after a while. - But I trust your judgment. It has been right previous times. - Alfonse’s little scowl dissipated at this remark. Bruno did not know you would be their back up.

- Be careful Summoner. - Was all Bruno said and turned to get ready to leave. Alfonse turned to you and gave you a small smile you returned and winked at him, which made him blush.

- You too guys. Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do!

-Well now I am concerned.- Says Fjorm smiling, with a pink tint to her pale cheeks.

- Wow thanks. Any way, it’s great you are here. Fjorm I am a little concerned for Reginn. She looks…not her usual and well, I don’t blame her for it; but I am afraid she may have an accident or something. I don’t think she is focused.

-I will keep an eye on her if you wish.

- Eir can take you and if Reginn asks just tell her you are back up.- Fjorm nodded and turned to search for Eir.- And Fjorm…have I mentioned how great you are and how grateful I am you are with us? Because You are and I am.- She turns beet red at that.

-Umm…I could hear it more often.- She says bashfully. That woman loves you and ever since Alfonse had had to accept the arranged marriage to his third cousin, she has not left your side. Alfonse does not like it but he can not say much about it.

Kagero lands soundlessly behind you from Beruka’s wyvern and as usual she scares you a bit when she starts talking.

-Summoner. The others give it a “clear”. Kaze and Saizo are waiting for the Prince’s group. - Says Kagero. You thank her and signal Alfonse for them to leave.- Kaze wanted to stay with you and is a bit annoyed he had to stay.

-We’ll see him in a bit anyway.- You tell her while seeing Alfonse retreating back, his white cape being swallowed by the darkness of the night. You offer her a smile after his image is lost. -Come. Let us check how things are going.- You take your spyglass from your coat and take a look at the front lines. They are approaching the castle and while the Order attack the invading army on all fronts and surround them, Prince Alfonse and his team reach the inside by a “secret” entrance, Bruno had told you about. It was actually an old supply entrance no longer used that Bruno used to come and go whenever he came in secret to keep an eye on his sister. It had been sealed and he was the only one who could open it.

-Look at Norne go. She is always so reliable and enthusiastic. Ike is falling behind…I wonder what’s the hold up.- Kagero takes the offered spyglass.

It took you less than half an hour to follow Alfonse. You left the heroes to Anna who was aided by Micaiah and Robin’s capable hands. Soren would have been there too but he had joined Ike in the front lines when he noticed Ike had fallen into a standstill. The advance had flowed as expected after that.

You were half way to rendezvous with Alfonse, making your way to the secret entrance when you hear a a woman half shouting angrily and half crying.

-NO! Don’t you dare touch my sister! She’s just a child! Take my money but leave her alone!!

There were shouting of men as well. Most of them were curses.

You look around a nearby corner despite Fallen Dimitri’s warning of not getting involved and see a woman of about twenty years of age fighting off five Nidavellirian soldiers intent on taking a small girl of about 6 years of age. This enraged you to no end and turning to tell F Dimitri the number of enemies; he nodded that it was not a problem and Kagero takes to the roof of the building to take them from behind or warn you about others. You look around the corner and aim your shot at the nearest soldier. He falls in a flash of light. Confused the rest of the soldiers look around only to be met with a shadow so fast and strong they never even made a sound of alarm.

When you get there you find the woman kicking one of the soldiers even though he’s already out cold…or dead…most probably dead given the wide gaping hole you could now see in his stomach, done by Dimitri’s lance. The rest of the men were in the same shape, even the one you had stunned. Dimitri was looking at the young woman with an arched eyebrow.

-Hey hey! Calm down you are safe now. Did they hurt you?- You ask the woman and her angry face turn towards you about to respond and her eyes widen in surprise. She looks you over and says in a whisper. -_______….- You were surprised by her recognition, since you had really never been to Embla, so this meant she was a member of the army or something.

-You know me? Have we met in battle?- You ask.

-No…I mean…I have just heard about you.- Her red face is still visible even with the low light of the fires set to some buildings or the random torch or lamp on the ransacked street. This place looked like the bad side of town to be honest. -Thank you so much for saving us!

-We need to keep moving.- Says Kagero landing soundlessly behind the woman and child.

-Wait! You are going to enter the castle?- Ask the woman.

-Yes but we came to help, so don’t worry. We are not trying to invade or anything.- You say.

- We should invade them now that they are weak. It would end this stupid war.- Says F Dimitri gruffly.

The woman gave a small smile at that but did not comment.

- Are you taking the back alleys to get to the secret entrance?- She asks again and you nod surprised at her knowledge. She bites her lower lip nervously weighting her next move.

-I guess it is not so secret if you know about it.- Says Dimitri with a searching look on his eyes.Then asks. -Do you work at the palace?

-I have gone and I know things. I know of a faster and safer way to get there. I owe you my life and most importantly, I owe you Vera’s life. She is my dear sister. I need to repay you. Would you trust me to take you to that entrance?

Confident that the your guard were with you and your skills were not too shabby either, You turn to them and agree to follow her. Grima and M Byleth already waiting for you.

The woman who introduced herself as Zorine and asked you to call her Zoe, took you to a building down the street, apparently she had been working there when the attack started and had come to her small rented room to look for her sister as soon as she could go outside. They had waited for the people to flee and were going to a safe spot by the time they were spotted by the enemy soldiers.

The building was a three story tavern that looked like it was a bit rundown on purpose, because when Zoe opened the door you were met with quite a different building. It looked too fancy to be a regular tavern for this side of town. Zoe looked uncomfortable and red.

- Are you a bar maid?- Asks Byleth blankly but polite.

-I thought I smelled something. It stinks of coupling… and vice…- Said Grima in a low voice and wrinkling his nose. Zoe’s face was scarlet eyeing her little sister.

- My sister is a healer for the people who gets hurt in the tavern! Not a maid!- Said the little girl.- Zoe! You said I should never come here!

==Oh Fiddlesticks! Is she a sex worker?==

- Hey Miss Vera. How would you like for my friend Prince Dimitri to carry you while we are inside the tavern and that way you will be safe. Maybe hide your face in his furry cape and that way you will not be scared.- You turn to Dimitri and he is a little stiff but understood your reasons. The girl looks at Dimitri and widens her eyes. You do not blame her, Dimitri is very tall and intimidating. Not a moment later her eyes shine with wonder and she smiles and agrees to it. When he has her safely in his arms she giggles at the fluffiness of the fur cloak. Dimitri reddens. Zoe now sure of her sister’s safety proceeds to show you to the basement of the establishment. While explaining in a low voice so as to hear if there is someone hiding that should not be here.

- This place is a “tavern” for high ranking members of the empire and so they made a tunnel from the castle to the establishment. It is said the late King had a lover here that he wanted no one to know about, but the truth is that the tunnel is very old and has been here probably for centuries. The tunnel connects some other places like the High Temple of Embla and it goes all the way to the mountains and others to the South.

- Ironic but not unexpected.- She looks puzzled at your comment and little laugh. - The temple…Well it connects the most important places right? If the rich people are at any of these places there is always a way to escape safely…but it being a church and a bro…a tavern is a little ironic, but we know rich people’s priorities…at least in my world it is that way. No offence to anyone.

-We don’t have those in Faergus. At least no tunnels from the castle to a tavern that I know of…but we do not need them. There are enough…healers in the castle…- Dimitri says gruffly

- Let us check if it is unlocked. The patrons of the tavern and the owner left through it, but I do not know if they locked it. There is another key in the Owner’s rooms.- The trapdoor to the tunnel was blocked as if someone had hastily piled the most rubbish they could find on top of it. It took you all less than three minutes to unblock and the trapdoor was luckily unlocked. When you get into the tunnel you think the woman and child will get away but she does not.

-You do not know the city like I do and even less the tunnel. I had to come down here to lead costumers away safely or to serve in the castle and since the tunnel forks out you may get lost. I will lead you. The tunnel goes all the way to the entrance prince Bruno may be using to get to the castle. His is the old servant entrance on the East side. I heard they closed it when the war started. Currently only one of the servant entrances remain open… and the tunnel. There is of course another way that leads directly into the castle if you need me to lead you there as well.

-I think that the entrance would be better. We already have a plan on where we will meet. Also I would not like you to be in danger because of us. - You look at her and she is looking at her sister. The girl apparently was so exhausted by what the situation that had fallen asleep on Dimitri’s arms.

- We still need to remain in the city. I need to repay someone, the money I owe them…I can not leave without paying the debt.

-Is that why you are working as a….healer?-

-I do not do it for fun!- She retorts a little too loud and it is amplified by the tunnel’s acoustics. She turns to her sister again, but the girls is soundly asleep.- …I… I apologize…

-No no! Don’t apologize. Also I understood your position from the beginning but I was curious about the reason. You are very young. I’m sorry if I offended you. I have to say I truly respect the workers. Not many people understand the real weight they bear and the extent of the service they provide to society in general but mostly to other women and children.

-What do you mean?- Asks Dimitri.

-You see at court they may do it for free to gain power and other selfish reasons but it is not the same with workers like her who are not here by choice. Some like her are extortioned and others kidnapped. Whatever the reason and situations, they keep people’s lowest of instincts in check. Many of them die because of them and…well…it is in a way a protection for many… it is … a complicated situation.

- You understand! All the people I know look down on us, like we are the vilest and dirtiest of beings.

-I bet you the first ones to judge are the clients.- You comment.

- Yes!… Not all of them, but most of them. There is one client…- She pauses unsure of what to say next.- He is…a little rough around the edges, but he is…he seeks companionship…

-He is in love with you? -you ask.

-No! He is is in love with someone else, but I think he thinks it is a lost cause or a forbidden love…he loves her so much…and I understand why…-She says quietly.-It is thanks to him I have the money to pay off our debt.

-Is that the money you were offering the soldiers? - Asks Byleth.

-Yes.

-Well if he is such a great person he could have just given you the money…You know what…never mind… I am not going to judge any one here…Why do you even have a debt to pay?- You ask.

-My father owned a lot of land close to the border, but when the fire giant came, he burned the villages and lands. We lost all the cattle and the other animals. He had already asked a Lord friend of his for a loan and hoped to sell the cattle to pay him.- She takes a moment to point to the right direction when you come to a fork in the tunnel. The light from your crystal lanterns give off a ghostly blue light that makes her look sick.- When he learned we had lost everything in the fire but the lands, his friend came to seize the lands in payment and wanted even more, so he tried to make my father give him my hand. After some talks, the friend gave him more time, but then the war and the drought prevented us from paying up the debt. Finally last year my father’s friend came and demanded his money and my hand. He took everything we owned and ran us off of our lands and house. My father was not only heartbroken, but also furious. He tried to duel him like a good gentleman does, but his friend killed him before the duel was to take place. He kidnapped me and my sister and when we managed to escape…he sold us to the owner of the tavern. I had until the end of this year to pay off my debt or my sister would join me as a ….healer.

-Son of a bitch! Seriously? Can you tell me the names of those ass…er…really horrible men…-You end the tirade when you see her blinking face starting at you like you had suddenly sprout horns.- They kind of deserve it don’t they though?I mean, I only do it when I am really angry…sorry…- You hear Grima snicker at the back.

-The Prince is not going to like it. - Grima chimes is.

-He is not going to know is he? I got candy! Oh here have some for you and your sister when she wakes up and please forget I cursed. It is very natural do do it where I come from, but being part of the Order, it is a big “No”.

The Woman takes the candy with a surprised face and then gave you a look that you could not interpret, but it looked between bewilderment and endearment.

- I have never met anyone like you Summoner. Thank you. Umm why do you carry candy around to a battlefield?

- For energy bursts and….the truth is because I like to treat the kids in the Order and some of the heroes who like them a lot. Some like cheese or fish but I can’t carry those around.- You hear Byleth and Dimitri laugh silently.- But seriously, tell me more about those creeps. You think we can do something, without repercussions to you?

The talk lasted until you arrived at the tunnel’s exit. Zoe gave you instructions on where to go. She was going to stay inside the tunnel by the entrance to wait out the battle. Dimitri left them his cloak to keep Vera warm and Kagero was instructed to stay with the two. She wholeheartedly agreed to it. Before you took off you noticed Zoe was trying to say something and looked nervous.

- Summoner…there is something you should know…no, don’t worry it is nothing to do with this battle…it is something very important you need to know, but I can’t tell you around them. I know I am not important enough for you to take the time to hear me out, but please it is not about me. It is about you and someone you may know. It is the reason I know who you are. Can you meet me after this?

-Can you not tell me now though?

-I am afraid it would be too long of an explanation and you need to hear all of it.

-Ok. We will return because Dimitri can’t live without his cloak anyway.

-Please be careful Summoner! And thank you!

-We will!

When you leave and before she closes the trapdoor to the tunnel Kagero can hear her whisper and it intrigues her.

-There is someone who would suffer a lot if harm came to you…I do not think he could take loosing you…again.

You joined Alfonse and Bruno even before the time marked and you told Alfonse how helping out the two girls had ended with you finding a safer and faster way. Alfonse was worried at first but seemed to be very happy you were safe. He was very conflicted by the past situations. He did not want you to participate in battles anymore than necessary, but could not function well if he could not keep an eye on you or was far from you. Your kidnapping had left a scar unwilling to heal and he wondered what would happen if something more final would befall you…would he be able to get past it? Would he end up turning into someone like Lif? Of course it would not be entirely that way. It had taken the trauma of losing every loved one Alfonse had held dear, but also his entire Kingdom dying as well; to turn him into Lif. Nothing could compare to that pain when you had abandonment issues in the first place and Alfonse had more than enough of those.

The plans went better than expected. Your group came inside first and you were able to get to where Princess Veronica and her ward were keeping the rest of the court safe. She was seemingly not as happy to see you all as much as she was to see her brother alive and well, but it was understandable, even a little funny. Soon enough Reginn, her group and Fjorm came to your side to fight as well. As in per the plan Ike and Marth had opened a way for her to get inside.

When the battle was over it was almost dawn. It had taken almost ten hours to run them off the palace and the battle had gone well into midday for them to leave the city in a call of retreat.

When everything was done Reginn collapsed. She had a high fever caused by the stress and how hard she had driven her mental and physical limits. Princess Veronica had begrudgingly allowed you all to stay in the palace until Reginn got better with a sour expression, until you reminded her of how she got to spend more time with her brother. She had indeed proceeded to go talk to her brother and try to take him away from your group. You felt a little bad for Alfonse, who would have wanted to spend time with his old friend, but it was understandable that the time he had should be spend with his sister. Who knows how long he had been away from home this time.

Finally after resting a bit and eating a hasty breakfast; F Dimitri had come to let you know he was going back for his cloak and wanted to know if you were going to meet up with the woman. You took some food with you and followed Dimitri.

Alfonse not wanting to let you out of his sight on enemy territory followed behind with Savior King Dimitri Byleth and Grima. Together you all had explained to him how everything had taken place in all detail, since last night you had only told him the basics and did not want Bruno to know you had knowledge of the secret tunnel. He had been a little worried when you told him about how you all had gone to help the two girls, but agreed that it had been a blessing as well. He was more than angry when you explained her situation and and reasons for them. He had already planed on giving the woman something for helping you out, but listening to your story he backtracked and decided to give the two girls a bag of gold, so that when they left the city they could have a place to stay. He also came with the idea that they should come with them to Askr in case someone found out they had lead them through the secret tunnel and incarcerated them for treason.

-I wonder what she wants to talk to you about. She said it was about you and someone you know?- Asked Alfonse pensively.

-Yes and I thought right away about Bruno. I mean who else can she know that I know except him and Princess Veronica…or Loki…

-Loki…That is troublesome. I was surprised she was not at Veronica’s side.

-Yeah! I mean, I don’t understand why Veronica still lets her be around in the first place! I would never trust her after all the crap she has done…but I guess that if I don’t trust her and she wants to hang around; I would probably want to keep her on close watch as well…

-Keep your friends close and your enemies closer.

-By that logic, she should give us our own room at the palace…oh wait…- You say laughing. Alfonse laughs quietly as well. He has gotten used to your silly jokes and strange sense of humor.

Finally you get to the place where Kagero is waiting for you. The battle had been close to the place but no one had found the tunnel.

As soon as Vera saw you; she ran to meet you hugging Dimitri’s fury cloak. She hugged you and thanked you for the candy and then went to give Dimitri his cloak, except she ran into S K Dimitri first. He looked down to her a little startled.

-That’s the wrong Dimitri!- You called out to her smiling- We have four of them!- You tell Zoe who came to stand by your side.- All of them different age, but just as wonderful in every way.- Vera looked around the man and spotted F Dimitri behind and ran to him.

-That is my Prince! Here I took great care of your cape your highness! -And after he took his cloak she hugged him. This made both Dimitri blush.

-Hey Alfonse. This is Lady Zorine who so graciously helped us last night. Zoe this is Prince Alfonse of Askr.- Zoe bristled at the name. Her face blanched and looked like she had seen a ghost when his smiling face turned to you and then to her. His bright deep blue eyes looked at you warmly and when he looked at Zoe; she felt like the ground would come to meet her at any moment. She felt sick. It was HIS face. but different. And that name…how could she forget that name. She knew the prince of Askr was named Alfonse but she had never seen him or even knew how he looked like. What did all of this mean? She was so confused.

-Whoa there. Are you all right? You look like you have seen a ghost!- You ask Zoe. She lowered her face and avoided looking at Alfonse. - I know he looks a little stern but he is a great guy! Alfonse I think you scared her!- You say jokingly but holding Zoe’s arm in case she needed support. You figured it may be because she had not eaten well and the excitement of the day had exhausted her. Alfonse blushed.

-Summoner!- He said flustered, but Zoe could still feel those intelligent eyes watching her. It was like he was trying to find something inside her.

-Oh here, I got you some food and drinks. I bet you are hungry. You may feel better after you eat something.- Byleth then took a satchel he was holding in his back and started taking out food from it.- It may be better if you eat something. I am no healer but I can see what I can do if you are not feeling well.- Said Byleth standing by Zoe’s side with an apple in his hand.

-I…thank you Professor I think I will have a drink and the apple. I am just a little tired…and I have just been hiding. How thoughtless of me. You must be exhausted after such a long fight and here you are worrying about me and my sister.- She can’t help but cry about that.- You really are and angel Summoner ______…and your heroes..

- Prince Alfonse can attest to it being the other way around when it comes to me.

-She does get in trouble quite a lot.-Alfonse says jokingly because he understands you are trying to cheer her up. He smiles warmly but keen eyes analyse the woman.

-I got kidnapped two weeks ago. Gave them all a scare.- You say laughing and Alfonse pulls a face.- It was not my fault tho. I swear!

-What? Who kidnapped you?- She panicked. Had it been HIM? Had she been helping some sick kidnapper’s fantasy?

-Prince Ótr. The brother of the guy that came to attack you and a creepy lady that looks like a possessed doll.-You giggle. Alfonse gives you another look.- Sorry. I am sleep deprived and I find everything funny right now; but I almost crapped my pants at the time.- Zoe can’t help but smile at the statement and she can see the effect you have on Alfonse when you turn to his furrowed face and mouth “Sorry” while taking his hand. His face changes to one of deep fondness and devotion. He loves you, just as much as HIM. And by the look on your face, she knew you loved him just as much…she was having second thoughts about telling you about Lif.

==…What if it is important? What if something happens to her and you could have saved her? I need to tell her.==

You let her eat something and after that Alfonse who is very intrigued by what she has said she knows speaks first.

-Miss Zorine. I thank you for keeping my Summoner and my men safe.- She listened to his words, that sounded in that instant so much like HIS. The way HE said “My Summoner” like there was nothing more precious in the world.- I have heard of your plight and I want to contribute to your cause. Here. I hope this is enough for you to get a place to stay while you journey out of the city.-He hands her the bag of gold. Zoe looks at it and you motion for her to take it.

- I could not…I did not do it for money.

-I know, still I would like you to have it. Do it for your sister. I am sure _____ wants you two to be safe. In fact. We are journeying back to Askr in some days and some of our people will be leaving every day. If for some reason you feel you are not safe in Embla, you can come with us to Askr and take one of the houses that have been vacated by our losses of war. There are many of those throughout the land.

-That is a lot of money. ..-She looks to her sister. She is ashamed to accept it, but she knows she would do whatever it takes for her sister to be safe. She looks at you.- I need to talk to you and if after that, you still feel like I deserve the money. I will take it and maybe the offer too…

== …but not alongside you… I will not be able to look you in the eyes after that…==

With furrowed brows and worry painting his face, Alfonse watched as you made your way to a place far enough not to be heard but close enough to still be safe. He felt dread pool in the pit of his stomach and waited with trepidation for whatever sign of distress you may give. He felt that whatever that woman was about to tell you, was not exactly good and it involved him as well. The way she had looked at him with recognition and fear. He wondered if it was just that the people of Embla generally thought him some horrible person. After all they were enemies. Still he had not met with that show of fear from other people in Embla, and this woman looked like they had met and was afraid of him in particular. He would understand if the woman was a soldier and they had come close in battle, but she was a prostitute. There was no way for them to know each other. Another point was that she also was way too familiar with you. Also like she knew you personally. So what did this mean?

==If only I had thought of bringing Beruka.==

Now that you were away from the rest Zoe looked restlessly around as if trying hard for a way to start. She looked at Alfonse and then asked.

-Summoner. It is not my place, but it is relevant to what I am about to tell you. Are you and the Prince…sweethearts?

You sigh a little asking yourself why this was relevant and remembering the reason why you two could not be together answered.

-No. He is dear to me and…but we can not…

-I see…I do not know yet why this may matter but…I must thank you for coming back to talk to me Summoner. I thought about what I was going to tell you and how to do so, for a long time last night and I do not see an easy way to do it. So I will ask you a question instead. Do you know…is one of your heroes called Lif? - As expected, your eyes full of emotion widen at the name. Your relaxed posture changes and with this change comes the prince’s as well. With a quick side glance to where the Prince is standing near the other heroes she sees his posture now even more tense than when you had left. She noticed he was waiting for bad news but now he looked like he was worried about you.

-Lif? Yes…how? How do you know about him? Have you seen him? Is he well?

-Please my Lady. Listen to me. I will explain how I know of him, but you need to listen to all of it before asking questions or leaving. I swear I will tell you everything and in…detail if you wish it. It all started almost nine months ago. I was very new to the tavern and I was tasked to accompany one of the other women to the entrance to the palace. By now I was familiar with the destination of the tunnel. I was told to leave her and then go get her in the morning…she…was new to this as well and had never gone to the palace. When I was coming back by myself I noticed a light coming from the distant South side of the tunnel. It was the main branch that passes by the tavern and I had to go that same way. The light looked blue and as soon as I got near it, it disappeared, but not the glowing red ones. The red lights were smaller but I saw them perfectly when I covered my lamp. The tunnel is relatively safe since it was made for the upper class , no thieves or ruffians know about it so I thought it had been a client. I had never met a client in the tunnel but I had no idea other people may use it for other reasons, so I called out to him and told him if he needed help getting to the tavern. In no way did I wanted to have a client, but if the owner knew I did not help a client I would be fined and I did not need to pile more debt on my back. He got closer and he was covered from head to toe with a black traveling cloak and the only thing visible were his eyes. He…put a mean looking sword on my throat and asked me who I was and what I was doing in the tunnel. His voice was deep and chilly and I got so scared I thought I was going to faint. I managed to tell him who I was and where I was working. It never crossed my mind that it may be a spy or or something.

- “There is an entrance to a brothel here? I don’t believe you. It is not on the map.”- his eyes narrowed while he spat that at me.

-”It is a little way up from here . I passed it trying to help you to it…You…you did not come for the…service?”- And now I was scared.

-”NO!”- He said almost offended and taking a step back.

-”Oh…please do not kill me. I do not have money on me. I was only told to take a worker to the palace secret entrance!”

-”I don’t want your money.”- He said angrily- “You said you know where this tunnel leads? I will let you go if you help me get around. This map is incomplete and I need it to be accurate.”

-”I yes of course! I will…I can tell the matron I have a client and I will be back. Otherwise they will punish me and fine me…I don’t mind the punishment but…I just …I can’t owe her more…

-”You are a …you work in the brothel then?” I nodded at him. I was so ashamed for some reason after he had the care not to call me a whore…it may seem like a small blessing but it means the world to me you see.” I will pay you what you make in a night for you to help me.When we are done, I will be sure your matron will not punish you.”

-I agreed to this and we took off without reporting back. You see, they don’t care if we do not come back. They will not look for us, but when we do come back, it meas we were not killed and then we need to be punished for loosing them money. I showed him the way to the palace and on the way where the tunnel branched I told him where the different ways led. I asked him if he had no need to write it down but he shock his head.

-”I will remember it.” He said very confident of his memory. It took a long time to walk all the way to the palace and to some of the branches he was interested in. Like the Scholar’s Library. That one was a strange one. I was surprised when he actually asked me if I had ever gone inside it. I replied that I was was not allowed to go inside. I felt like a fool when he said I could enter through the tunnel’s entrance…He stayed there looking at the entrance for a long while. Who knows what he was thinking.. although now that I know you, I understand him a little and he was probably thinking of you.- She paused for a bit then sighted.

-Do you like reading Summoner? Did you spend a lot of time with him reading?-Zoe asks you and you nod yes. Because now you too are remembering the time spent together reading and drinking tea in the library. His favorite place in the palace. She keeps going.

-I was so distracted by this I slipped on a small slimy puddle of water when I shifted my feet and almost broke my head on a stone. He was very fast and held me by the arm.

“Careful ______. Don’t hurt yourself…” It was the first time he called me by that name…by your name. His tone was… so different as well as his voice and when I looked at him questioning myself what was happening I saw him. I had noticed his crimson eyes were not like those some Emblan families have. His were …so bright they seemed to glow, but now that he was close to me and he had let go of his cloak that was covering him entirely, I could see his body. That is when I learned he was not of this world. His eyes widened when he saw my face and saw me looking at him. He let go of me and almost shoved me away…but he took his sword out again and pointed it at me.

”You will tell no one or you die!”

”I will tell no one I swear to you! Please I have a small sister I need to protect!”-I told him. Pleading for my safety. This seemed to do the trick. He lowered his weapon and told me still angry not to look at him again. So I avoided looking at him from then on. -Summoner I do not know how he looked like when you knew him but he…he

-Lif is dead. He was one of the army of the dead . I know how he looks.

-So you knew he was dead…

-It is complicated. I know him from when he was alive and then I saw him dead, I did not recognized him…I lost my memories of him…he disappeared after and I have been looking for him for a long time…wondering if he was still around or if he was lost to me for ever.- You tell her. She nodded and kept going.

-When we entered the establishment he came in with me and gave me my money. He then asked me to tell him where the matron was so he would be sure I was not to be punished. I did what he told me and went home. I suppose he did talk to the matron. She did not punish me and she looked like she had been threatened. She looked at me strangely after that. Then a week after, the matron came to me and told me that I needed to be ready that night. I was going to have a special guest…- Zoe lowered her face in shame.-Summoner…did you two love each other?- Zoe asks.

-Yes…once, long ago…in another life…we were…we made a promise. We had a ceremony with one of the priests of the Divine Dragon Askr in one of the villages we were visiting…but it was never made official.

-Summoner…. I did not know …I was scared and not even scared of him…just scared to have my sister pulled into the work and she merely a child of six! I was told to bathe and be prepared. They gave me the best room and was told that one night every month I would have this guest. No one else was to touch me. He paid enough for the month… The whole month.-She takes a pause when she hears you crying. - Please I am so sorry! Please do not go, you need to hear the rest. I swear on my sister…she is my only treasure …that you…please do not think badly of him…You…you have nothing to fear. I swear!- You nod for her to go on and turn around to motion for the others to stay back. They had rushed to you when they heard you crying. Alfonse looked livid and even more worried than before, but he held back. She sighs and goes on.- When I enter the room he is already there. I was scared but he told me that I can say no to him if I want to. He says he will pay a lot and I just needed to do what he asks of me. One of those things is…he does not wish to see my face, nor hear my voice. He said I was the right height and skin color…I did not know what he meant. He gave me something from a satchel he had and it was a white coat embellished with gold trimmings. He said to wear it, with the hood on and to not speak at all. I found out later he had stolen it from your castle.- She pause while you weep. Her face is downcast, unable to meet yours.

-He did not want me Summoner. He wanted you…from the first time. He never saw my face after. I wore the coat he lent me every time. I talked when he wanted and said what he wanted..the way he wanted…and what he wanted was for you to tell him that you loved him… He loves you so deeply…He loves you still…after death. I am nothing to him, he comes because I barely look like you in the dark…

You start crying harder and hold on to her. It was not her fault and you can’t be angry at him for seeking companionship. She is surprised by this and for a second does not know what to do. She had gotten used to people being repulsed by her, that she had forgotten how it felt to be treated like a human being by other people besides her sister. Zoe started crying too. She had her own reason and seeing you like this had made her let go of the negative feelings that she had been holding back for so long.

-Summoner…He is…not …he is not like the other clients. They only look for pleasure and to fulfil their sick fantasies. They mistreat us and harm us. He only looks for your love and this saved me and my sister. It is thanks to him I have enough money to pay off my debt…but Summoner. There is something else.- You look up to her face.- He also goes by Alfonse…-She looks at the Prince and then back to you. -I know he looks different but his voice when he talks to you is so much like…

-Alfonse…- You look back at him and motion for him to come.

-Are you going to tell him?

-It is …important to him as well.

Alfonse comes walking fast and his confused face looks to you and Zoe questioningly. He can’t figure out why Zoe would know something about you that would make you cry except that Zoe may know someone important to you from the World of steel and… There was a knot in his stomach…

==Did she tell _____ something that may want to make her go back home? What if she wants to leave…Oh Askr no…I could not live without her please!==

- Alfonse…Zoe met Lif in the tunnel.- Alfonse who was looking almost green, widened his eyes at the name. If Zoe had been looking at him she would have noticed the change. It was as if a great weight had been lifted off of him. He still looked worried but it was not the same. Lif…Lif he could deal with…even if it meant…

-Lif! What was he doing? Is he spying on Embla now?

-She doesn’t know. She says he had an old map and he paid her to show him around the tunnel and where it all led. If Thrasir had been with him I would suspect they were maybe spying on Veronica.- Zoe noticed Alfonse was thinking about it. Trying to

figure things out.

-He has been here with another woman he calls Veronica.- Zoe says and is surprised by the both of you turning to look at her so fast.- she is like him, but she does not glow….she …she calls him Alfonse too.- Alfonse stiffens and you look worriedly at him.

-When was this?- He asks when he recovers.

-Three months after the first visit. I wanted to know what he was doing. I followed him after… you know…He met up with her.- Alfonse widens his eyes. This tells him all he needs to hear to understand why you ere crying, the way she would not look at him in the eyes. He reddens and pinches the bridge of his nose.

==First visit?…Great…he’s been consorting with a prostitute of Embla…how low can he get? Although, this may be a blessing in disguise…No. Do not lose focus. I can not make her stay by my side…not the way I need her to be…I can’t deny her happiness just because it is not I making her happy…Even if it kills me inside…The Kingdom is above everything…even me.==

-Alfonse?

- It was probably Veronica who told him about the tunnel…Although…I wonder if Zacharias know about it? Maybe he does not trust us with the knowledge.- Alfonse brows furrow even harder. It pains him to learn his friend do not fully trust him.

-Maybe he doesn’t know about it. Remember he was exiled and well…he spend a lot of time with you in the Order. Even Princess Veronica may not know about it yet.

-You may be right. I may be reading too much into it. Still…if he…they are spying on Embla then they may be spying on us.

- They are.- You say.- He even got into the castle unseen. He has one of my coats.

-What? Why?- He turns to Zoe not wanting to meet her eyes but finding her looking down in shame.- How do you know about it?

-Memento. He uses it on her Alfonse.- He gave you a questioning look. As intelligent as this man was he was sometimes too innocent for his own good.

-Why would he dress her up as a Summoner? It’s not like she can use the sacred weapon.

-Sex Alfonse. He uses it for sex.- You say quietly in his ear.There really was no other way to say it. - He pretends she is…me.- Zoe glances up at him incredulously. Alfonse covers his red face with his hands and turns around. He just wants to go home and lay down to sleep for a week strait and forget about Lif and whatever he has been doing since he disappeared. And why did he not stay dead? He knew what would follow… and he did not like the prospect.

- Great. Just when I thought this could not get more embarrassing. Do you know anything of what they do here?- He asks with a pinched expression.- Besides…

- No. The day I followed them I stopped because I was scared they would notice me and I was very cold. I had only my nightgown on and…but I heard them saying something about her brother. I think she wants to see him. She was scolding him for wasting her time she could spend looking for her brother and he answered that she could just go by herself and let him do what he wanted. He said “ Veronica you are not a baby. You can go by your self without me holding your hand.” -Zoe shifted uneasy.

-Whoa! I’m surprised he still had his…erm… Still ballsy as ever…-You giggle. Alfonse rubs at his face.

- Well she told him “ Who wants to touch your hand? Who knows what you touched with it. If I was the Summoner I would never let you touch me. ”

-Oh…that was worst than a blow to the groin for sure.

-Can we focus on what is important here?- Asks Alfonse impatiently.- Is there something else we need to know?

-Only that he comes tomorrow night and I will not be here anymore if I can help it. I promised him I would not talk and …I am afraid he may retaliate if he knows I told you. I would have took this to my grave but you saved me and my sister and he …you needed to know. I owe you everything. I was concerned your safety Summoner___.- Alfonse is looking at you pleadingly almost asking you to let it go, but he knows he can’t ask this of you and he turns his face away, anger and pain visible in his eyes. Zoe feels conflicted, seeing the pain in both of you and the way Alfonse was behaving it reminded her of Lif once again.

-Are they related?- Zoe asks to no one in articular. Alfonse looks at her alarmed and then to you. You held his gaze a moment and said.

- It is up to you.

-No…you do not owe me an explanation. I was just wondering aloud. It’s just…he is called Alfonse as well and you …pardon my boldness Your Highness, but you look alike and the way you reacted just now and your voice…Also the way you are talking about that woman Veronica as if she was related to Princess Veronica.

Alfonse sighs.-This time no matter what happens and for your own good…You must keep your silence and your thoughts to your self. This situation may get you and your sister killed. Remember that by helping us you are already in trouble. If someone knows about it, they may charge you with treason. This is why we are going to help you get away before someone knows about this. Also for this reason. We will tell you the truth. You too deserve to know. I will tell you sou you know who you are dealing with. Lif…may not show you mercy if if he thinks you are a danger to his plans or desires.- Says Alfonse sternly.Alfonse did not say this lightly. He knew that as much as he wanted to deny it, he was not much unlike Lif. In fact. The thought had flashed in his head that, had he met Zoe first, this situation would not be happening and HIS Summoner would not be thinking of….- Three years ago the Goddess of death Hel came to invade the world of the living. Do you remember?

-Yes. Her army attacked close to the border and we were very scared.

-Lif was one of the the two generals. The other is Thrasir as she wants to be called. They chose the names of the first king and first Queen of Askr and Embla.

-Wait…you are saying this is the same person? I have heard so many tales about him!They say he was ruthless in battle and that he was not afraid of anyone! They say he could kill a whole battalion by himself! At first people thought they were on our side because it was said he wanted to kill …well…you two.The Prince and the Summoner of Askr…but then they attacked us and…It can not be the same man…They say he was a demon.- Zoe says. Her voice trembles as she shakes visibly with fear.

-Perhaps that is what he became for a time…- Said Alfonse.- His real name is Alfonse. Prince Alfonse of Askr.- Zoe gasped.-Thrasir is Princess Veronica of Embla. They both hail from another world that would have been our future. In his world Hel came and attacked and… every person…every living thing died. His world is empty. To bring his people back, Hel told him to bring her the lives of another world like his, so he went back in time to a world in the past where he was still human, to help her kill us. We were able to convince him to help us destroy Hel instead. He did.

-He is the reason we are standing here alive and still talking. He sacrificed himself and his world…- You tell her so that she does not think so horribly of him.

-So…there are two of Your Highness and two Princess Veronicas?- Asks Zoe and then she looks at you.- Are there two of you too?

-No. I died in his world and I was summoned by the sacred weapon to Askr again or…It is complicated. You can say I returned to the body of my earlier self. He does not know this because I lost my memory and I did not know it at the time either. I wanted to tell him the truth but I did not know if he had gone back to the world of the dead this time for real or…he may be looking for a way to bring back our people. It is difficult to explain…it gives me a headache every time I think about it.

-You died for him and for his people…that is why he keeps on saying he will come for you soon. He is looking for a way to save you them? But he does not know you are alive! And he tried to kill you.

-Good times…No. If he had wanted to kill me he would have. He had like three chances and did not do it.

-He…would not have been able to. No matter how twisted he may have become by his pain…He would not hurt you or Sharena.

-How about you, Your Highness? Would he harm you?

-He hates me…- Alfonse said turning his face away. That is all Zoe need to hear to understand.- We need to leave. We have been here in the open too long. It may be dangerous to you and your sister.

After that Zoe took the gold offered and took her sister with her. About to say her farewells. You on the other hand had another idea. Alfonse knew this and although he said nothing about this he left the site followed by S K Dimitri with a sour expression. Kagero offered to guard Zoe and Vera. It was a lot of money she was carrying and you told Zoe your plan.

Preparations were made and Zoe was going to leave the city the morning after with a group of Askr soldiers and other people. F Dimitri had asked to leave with her and the child he wanted to protect. You let him go and sent other heroes home so that it would not look suspicious for the two of them to be around the two girls.

~*~

A barn owl cried in the night and perched on the rail of the balcony of a dark and half ruined manor house. Moments later a hand reaches for the owl and takes a note it bears on its leg. Blue light floods the owl’s vision and irritated by it, it turns its face away into the night, but waits patiently for sign of another mission.

Lif looks at the note and without turning his head say.

- Nidavellir is at Veronica’s South City Castle. Alfonse has come to help Veronica. Bruno is with them.

-We were told not to intervene.

-Will you pass up the chance then? I have business in the city any way. With all the chaos no one will notice us.

There was no answer from Thrasir, only her retreating footsteps echoing in the empty room.

==Business...You only want to see her don’t you?== The voice in his head chimed in in a very good imitation of Thrasir’s own voice and tone. He growled, but inside he knew and hope twisted his stomach in knots.

==She will be there…she will be there! ….and so will Alfonse…==

The pair of red eyes glow brighter and the ghostly breath comes out in venomous vapors. The Owl takes flight scared.

~*~

After a long nap,(well as long as a Summoner of Askr is permitted to nap with everything going on in a war that is)you get up not wanting to wake up Sharena who had fallen asleep in the same bed as you. You think Alfonse is afraid of your safety and had asked Sharena to stay with you. If he did not trusted his friend, he trusted Princess Veronica even less. You go look out of the window. It looks down to the imperial city. It looked somber and dark after such an invasion.

Night had just fallen and the dying light of the sun bathed in purple and reds the sky in the west, but your eyes were set to the South where home lay. You were thinking of everything Zoe had told you and trying to make the best plan to get to talk to Lif and may be convince him to accept your help.

Wise people say that sometimes the best proof of love you can give someone is to leave and never come back and you were willing to do that if he told you to, but he did not know all the truth. If after knowing the truth he still wanted you to leave, it would break your heart, but you were willing to do so.

On the Eastern side of the protruding balcony where the shadows are deeper a figure hides from your view. It waits for the perfect moment and as you lean on balcony’s railing; your face between your hands. The assassin moves to strike and a hand comes to his mouth from over his head where a wide ledge is located. The assassin tries to fight off the attack but another strong hand comes to grab his throat and start squeezing until he starts feeling lightheaded and his vision blurs. It felt to him like an eternity but it has taken seconds for his vision to turn to black and his limbs to loosen and drop the knife he was about to throw. It falls among the hydrangeas and camellias under the balcony. The shadow above the ledge carries the unconscious man up to the the ledge to better get a grip. He will extract information from him and that is the only reason the assassin is still alive. Skillfully a pair of gauntleted hands tie the assassin up and gag him with his own clothes. He is about to be carried off when the shadow hears you humming a melody you would often hum when working. He scans his surroundings with his intelligent red eyes and then after making sure the assassin is not going anywhere and there is no one to spy on him, he moves down to the spot the assassin has vacated.

You were so close to him, just like the times he has gotten inside the Askran castle and yet just like those times he was unable to touch you.

- My Alfonse…where are you? When will I see you again?- You emit a sigh and his heart breaks a little more at that. He feels the sting of jealousy crawl up his chest and anger at himself for seeking you out and…

==Wait…Is Alfonse not here with her? Why?==

Your humming stops again as the sound of footsteps grow louder.

- Oh hey Alfonse. Sharena is still sleeping. I did not want to wake her up.

- I was told the servants will be bringing you food in a while. Let her sleep meanwhile.- He says as he joins you outside.- You were thinking about him.- It is not a question. You hum in response and change the subject.

-Have you been able to talk to Zacharias?- Alfonse stares at you and gives a sigh.

-...No. Princess Veronica is not too keen on letting him out of her sight…_______ he is not going to listen to you and he is dangerous.

Lif is surprised by the conversation. Who was the person you were thinking about? Who were you talking about ?

== Could it be Zacharias. Is she trying to help him in his quest? Why? Could she be…No…it can not be…=

Unconsciously he got closer as he tried to process and make out the pieces of information.

- Alfonse we talked about this. I have been wanting to help him for years and you agreed at some point. What changed?

== I got engaged to a woman I despise and I am afraid to loose you for ever…== Thought Alfonse.

-I…I am afraid. I thought I was over this when I got engaged. It has been a year and …it feels the same as it felt the day I signed the treaty.

==What?! He..== Lif’s mind was reeling.

- It only got worse when Ótr kidnapped you.

==WHAT!? That bastard will pay for this! I stay away for a while and this happens?! What are you doing Alfonse?==

- I am worried all the time and angry and you are not making this easy ________. I know I should not be telling you this, I know it is not my place to ask you to stay…but I can’t…

- Alfonse I will try to be more careful. I swear I do not want to burden you. I know you got enough problems. That is why I am here, to help you, not to add to them, but do not ask me not to seek him out at least once. I swore I would help you until the end of the war and I will. I will not leave. I swear it still… I need to make things right with him. I have tried to help you but we both tried to undo the engagement and we couldn’t. That woman really wants to be queen and unless we find a treasure bigger than her fortune we can’t do much about it…and then there is the other matter. Let me do this please. He deserves it.

-And so do you. He is your husband after all.- The word made his mouth taste bitter.- I apologize for being so selfish…You have sacrificed everything for us and to help us and I only want more out of you…-Alfonse sighs.- Do it. I will instruct the men to do what you need and keep you safe. But rem…- His words were cut off by the sound of someone coming inside the room.

-______. I got your food and Sharena’s.- Came Fjorm’s sweet voice. You get inside to greet her and Lif is left looking at Alfonse’s sour expression. He did not miss the whispered “Sometimes I hate that woman.”

==Husband…just when I thought Alfonse was not a threat…Grrr…Alfonse ! Who did you let her marry!?…”He is dangerous”…could it be Zacharias? Dimitri… NO!…Let her do what she wants…What do I care…she is not my ______. She never was…== He thought this as if he did not care, but inside the remainder of his heart was breaking. Who was he fooling?

He looked to the assassin. He was angry and someone would pay for it.

That night the matron of the “tavern” disappeared when she was coming back into the city. A low ranking Nobleman was found dead after he ran into a couple of shadows while coming back into the city as well. They blamed robbers at first, but he still had his money on him and he had bleed to death while trying to escape whoever was chasing him. The wound was on his lower abdomen. His penis and testicles were cut off.

~*~

The next morning, Zoe was not able to leave the city. She could not find neither the brothel’s matron not the nobleman she owed money to. The other workers who had been with her when she had left the city, had said she had just gone to pee and never came back. Then when she went to pay her debt, she learned the man had been assassinated and was told how he had died. Kagero was with her and was able to communicate, what had happened, to you.

You leave the castle to visit the soldiers and heroes who did not want to stay at the castle. Some of them were gathering info all around the city while they were here. You took F Dimitri, Marth, Beruka, M Byleth to where Kagero had left Zoe and Vera. When you find her she is a little afraid about what had happened, but offered to help you with your plan.

You take off to the part of the city where the brothel is located, but it is sealed off. With a small distraction you all were able to sneak in unseen. When you get there the place is obviously deserted. Zoe went to prepare the room you will stay in and meanwhile you tell your heroes the truth. Who you were and who Lif was to you. It was difficult but you manage to explain.

- Is this why it was so easy for Alfonse to accept the engagement with that horrible…with Lady Braam?-Asks Marth.

-No. We tried everything, to get him off of it without upsetting the treaty, before he told you about it. It wasn’t easy at all. Even without me in the picture, it is not easy to sign your life away to a loveless marriage.- Marth nodded to this.

- I don’t see why his mother would want her as a queen.-F Dimitri mutters.- She is clearly filth.- He finishes with disgust. Even in the bad mental state Dimitri had never said anything offending to any lady that was not his worst enemy so hearing talking this way about Lady Braam spoke volumes of the type of person she was.

-We will come up with something to help him out. You’ll see. If not just for him…for the good of Askr.

-If a marriage is “Until death do us part”. Does this not mean you are not married any more?- Leave it to Byleth to be direct and a little tactless but practical.

-I suppose in a way, but I still feel as if I am still married to him, and he needs to know the whole truth.

-That is so romantic…and sad…- Says Marth with his left hand on his heart.

-How do you know he will be here? In this place?- Asks Dimitri looking around angrily and a little jealous.

-Zoe met him in the tunnel when he was sneaking inside the city and she helped him map it out. She told him her story and he wanted to help her and her sister. She has seen him sneak in other nights too. Every month actually.

-So he was the one who assassinated the matron and that nobleman last night?

-We believe so.

-Mmm…- was all F Dimitri said. You got the feeling he did not entirely believe you.

-Does she know what he comes to do besides…visit?- Asks Byleth. You know he does not buy the whole story. Marth looks embarrassed.

-Not really. We believe Thrasir just wants to know about her brother. She is going to be really happy to see him tonight.

-Oh so Thrasir comes as well?- Says Marth sending the others a look that was a little chastising.

After a while Zoe walks you up to the room after you have given the heroes their instructions. Some of them would stay in the first floor guarding the two entrances and trying to be out of sight but giving you plenty of privacy. They will take turns as guards while the rest go to rest with Zoe and Vera. Beruka would be guarding the tunnel entrance, just to be sure no one else but him enters.

- Thank you for not telling them about me… -You smile at her.- I readied the room and cleaned it. It has not been used in a while so do not worry about…um… things. The room is sound proof for privacy. The sheets and blankets are new. I got them from the matron’s stores. Er…just in case… I…I apologize for being so forward but…he is your husband after all. I hope everything turns out right.

-God I wish it too. I miss him.

-How long has it been, since you were together?

- Last time I saw him was more than three years ago, when I still didn’t remember anything about him… More than six years for me since we were together…for him…who knows how long he has been alone with only Thrasir to keep him company. I always wondered if they were…together. I have been so jealous all this time.

-I do not think so Summoner. If they had been together I do not think he would have…come here and she would have reacted differently as well. Well I better get going. I bet Lady Kagero must be tired of dealing with us by now. I will bring the heroes some food and then hide in one of the other houses just in case. Good luck Summoner!

She leaves and you walk around the room looking at things. There are perfumed oils that smell very strong and kind of cheap, and bottles that look like wine. There are some things in the drawers that look like massage oils and ==Ugh! Are those toys???!!…Ugh I better not touch anything just in case…==

You sit on the bed, back to the door and ponder if you should have worn something better. The dark brown cloak you are wearing hides your garments. You are wearing only what other may call body armor and boots. A belt that houses a sword and a satchel with some items inside. You take off the belt and sword, then the satchel and open it to take out a small notebook where you have written some notes and ideas of what to do about different problems the heroes are facing. Time passes until you hear footsteps coming up the stairs and then approaching the door.

~*~

Lif went up the tunnel to the castle. He needed to see you again, at least one more time, before he stopped hurting himself this way. He needed to know who his precious Summoner had married.

==No! She is not my Summoner…she is just…Then why are you going to see her then…why do you want to know who it was she married and see how easy you can get rid of him… To see how it feels to break every bone in his body.==.

At the angry thought his hands made a fist, his eyes shone a bright red and he imagined all the ways he could get rid of a body without you ever finding out it had been him. He was also making a list of the probable heroes and friends that could be the offending recipient of…who was he fooling. If it was Zacharias, he was unsure if he could ever hurt his friend and he would never hurt Thrasir this way. Besides, Zacharias was a good man at the core.

When he came to where the entrance to the brothel was he stopped. There was a candle burning at the entrance. He had assumed the woman had left the city, but by this sigh he thought she must be there thinking he would be coming. He thought for a minute whether he should go inside. He spied a note by the candle. It read “ Please come up.”He thought he should go and tell that woman she was free to go now and so he entered the brothel thinking that even if it was empty, he knew full well where the woman lived down the street.

He opened the door to find candles lit in a kind of pathway. Why was that woman here still waiting for him? Maybe she was afraid he would go out to seek her out at her house. He sighted. Sometimes being scary was very useful, but sometimes it was just annoying. He followed the path upstairs until he finally was outside the room. He opened the door to find candles burning. The room did not smell of perfume as much as other times. He took a small bag of coins from his belt and let it fall on the top of the drawer by the door. The figure in the bed did not move. She looked scared stiff. He sighted again. It was not like he ever hurt her and he had asked for her permission too. He closed the door behind him. Thinking she may need an explanation. She might have come to the conclusion that it had been him who had gotten rid of her two captors. He gave a step forward.

-The people that own you are gone. You are free to go. You don’t have to be scared any…- There was something odd about the situation. The figure moved her head to the side a little at his faltering. For all the gold he had given her for her silence, that woman would have said something by now,she always had something to say and that smell. The smell was not one of those awful perfumes the woman always had to use…it felt familiar…it was… he found himself unsheathing his sword, but oddly enough it felt like he was warding off a demon out to get his soul, instead of trying to attack it. - Who are you?! What are you doing here?

-Is this how you greet me now Alfonse?- You say to him and take off the hood of the cloak. You turn around to see him widen his eyes.

He takes a step back and comes into contact with the door he had closed. He is still holding his sword up to you but his other hand is searching for the doorknob.

-Summoner…What are you doing here? ==Of all the people who could find out I come here, it had to be you? I really am cursed!==

-I came looking for you. I need to tell you something important…are you going to hold that sword up at me all night?

-There is nothing to talk about Summoner.- He says, sheaths his sword and turns to leave.- You are a married woman Summoner. You shouldn’t go around looking for men in brothels, people may talk.- He says suddenly angry and jealous of this unknown husband of yours.

==The nerve!==

-Well a woman just might have to go into brothels if their husband is the one visiting it! I am looking for my husband Alfonse… I heard he comes here every month.

Lif turns around faster than he intended and looks angrily at you.-So you really married Zacharias? and he comes here every month? Do you not keep him satisfied enough Summoner? I took you for a more passionate woman, if not borderline perverted ==Marrying my best friend!==… but your marital problems are of no consequence to me. And don’t call me Alfonse.- He says angrily and steps closer to you.

==It has to be Zacharias! Who else would come here often…and to think he was my friend! How could they?==

-What?! First of all…What the FUCK!? …The Hell you mean Bruno? What does he have to do with this? I am looking for you Alfonse! If you let me talk then I would…

- I heard you talking to Alfonse last night. You were talking about his engagement and then about your wedding. He said Princess Veronica was not going to let him out of her sight and then he said he was dangerous and you said he was your husband…and stop calling me Alfonse.

- You were spying on me?…Alfonse...Lif.We were talking about you. Yes I started out talking about Bruno to change the subject, but he switched to you because he knew I was coming here to tell you the truth. Lif I am in no way married to Bruno. Next time you listen to someone else’s conversation get all the facts and stop assuming things.

-Why were you talking about me and what truth are you talking about?

-Lif. You disappeared after our fight with Hel and I thought you were gone… after a time I stated having these memories coming back to me and after talking to Alfonse we came to the conclusion that I had been summoned twice to Askr. Once for him but the first time for you. I have been looking for traces of you to tell you, but I could not find any traces of you until I found Zoe by mere luck. Umm…Lif? Are you listening?

Lif could not move. He was rooted to the spot. He stopped listening when you said you had been summoned to his Askr first.

==Is she? Why didn’t she tell me?…how?==

-You…You are my summoner…and you didn’t tell me…

-Umm, I just said I tried to find you to tell you but…

- Why? I have been looking for a way to save you! How could you leave me alone all this time? You promised! You promised you would never leave me!- He steps back again as if he is trying to leave.

- I know. This is why I came to see you as soon as I found out where you would be.

- It is because I look hideous isn’t it? You rather stay with him? It that it? You love him more don’t you? He is perfect! Your perfect prince!- He is pacing around the room now, his agitated breath coming out like poisonous miasma around him.

-Lif you were gone! How was I suppose to tell you who I was, if I didn’t even know you survived? Are you even listening to me? I love you I wanted to find you as soon as I knew you were here!

-You love me? You love me now that he is out of your reach? Now that he left you and is getting married?

-There has not been anything between us since I told him we were married!- You reach out to him and he pulls away.

-Don’t touch me!- His hand hits you on the chest when he turns around to leave and you stumble and hit yourself on the drawer by the door then fall to the floor.

-Ofhh.- He looks sideways at you and watches as you fall down. He tries to take your arm but misses it as you flail your arms in an effort to find something to hold on to. In an instant he is by your side kneeling on the floor.

-_______! Are you hurt? I did not mean for this to happen!- He says eyes wide in shock.

-Ow it hurts…I just landed on my butt…

-Your arm is bleeding. Really Summoner, getting hurt in a place like this! You will catch an infection! Or something worse…

-If I can manage to talk to you; it will be worth it.- He looks into your eyes as he helps you up and sits you on the bed. He sighs again and sits next to you.

-You really did tell Alfonse we were married?- He ask looking sideways at you while rummaging inside your satchel for something to cure you. He knows you always bring a first aid kit.

-Were? I told him we ARE still married…unless you don’t want me anymore.- He looks away at that.

-The cut isn’t deep. You should head out to the castle now. I am sure he will find a way to undo that engagement if you tell him you love him.- His ruby red eyes are avoiding looking at you.

- No. I am not going back until we talk.

-What is there to talk about? You are Askr’s summoner. You will only go back to him.

-Not to him. I am going back for the whole Kingdom. I made a promise , like I did you. I served you and our Kingdom until I died. I failed you and our people…I will not do so again.

-You didn’t fail anyone…It was all my fault. I should have done more research…I was so desperate…

- We were all desperate…but at the end you did the right thing. She is gone…we paid a high price but she is gone for good. Imagine how many worlds she would have ended before someone else stopped her… if any one ever did.

-My people should not have to pay the price for my mistakes.

- We all lost and you were really not wrong…it is the payment…and that type of payment is the kind that is hidden until the deal is done…Like a contract with the devil. I have been doing some research during my free time. I still can’t find the payment as a result of the rite. I also have been researching for ways to help you…- He looks you in the eyes now.

-Leave it to you to be working on your free time.

-Well. I don’t go to picnics or long walks in the garden anymore so I go to the library. Every day we have new heroes, many of them we never met before and they contribute to our knowledge. The library keeps on growing. I managed to summon some heroes back from the dead Lif. Including Lord Freyr, the god of dreams and fertility.

-You summoned Lord Freyr?… dead heroes…

- I do not want to raise our hopes but maybe one of these times …and I can try it on our pedestal, back in our Askr, to see if it works.

-Ours - He murmurs closing his eyes.-…But you need to save this Askr first.

-Yes and this war just stretches on like it is just pilling one on top of another. But we will try won’t we?

- Perhaps. ..You need to leave. Do not get yourself into so much trouble and much less for me. I can’t be there to save you all the time.

-Lif…You really don’t love me any more?- You ask him and he lowers his eyes.

==Is it Thrasir Alfonse? Have you left me for Thrasir?==

-Does it matter?

-Have you not been listening? I love you! Of course it matters to me.

- You don’t love me. I am not the man you loved once. He died the day you died…You have no idea what I have done for her…just look at what she turned me into…- He takes off his mask then and closes his eyes. He does not want to see the disgust in your face.- And if it were just my appearance…

- I can understand you do not like the way you look and have negative feeling about it, but you have to know I do not mind at all what you look like. - he opens his eyes then and you can see his feelings bared for a second.- Please my Alfonse, Do not shut me out because of this. Why do you always have to be so difficult? Sometimes I feel like I am always running around trying to get to you and you always run away from your feelings and from me.Just like when we met.- You caress his face. You feel the lips you can not see and touch the line that unites his flesh and his glowing body with your thumb and see him get closer to you. You meet him halfway.

The kiss was tentative and slow, like he was still waiting for you to shun him and push him away and when you tried to get closer and placed your arms around his neck, the noise he made was almost a whine of need. He deepens the kiss and circle your waist with one hand and cradle your head with his other.The need to be close to you is overwhelming and he wants to be as close to you as possible. You feel his tongue exploring inside you; drinking you up like lost man in a desert. Meanwhile you feel the same way, but with the added feeling of exploring this different body. You are fascinated by the smooth and soft feel of his skin. You though he would feel cold but there is a warmth to his body just like a regular body would feel. It was very inviting. You did not want to let go and yet you feel him retreat a little and bury his face in the crock of your neck and take a beep breath.

-I missed you. I have been so lost without you… no one to ground me…or guide me.

-I missed you too love…- You caress his head and card your fingers through his hair the way you used to when you spend the night together. His hair looked darker and almost colorless. His vibrant blue and gold faded to dark blue and silver, but the feel was the same. All of him was this way. He looked different but he felt the same. He raises his head and before he tries to leave, you take his lips and kiss him. He seems surprised, but complies and soon you are breathless against him again. You feel yourself being lowered to the bed, but all of a sudden he stops and let go.

- Not here. I will not let this place stain you and this moment.

- All is clean love. I made sure of this. No one has used the sheets and blankets. They are a gift.

-She told you…

- She felt she owed me her life and her sister’s. I am glad she did tell me. Do not be angry at her. She is also grateful to you and wants to see you happy. -He makes a face and turns away blushing.

- She did not have to tell you any details…

- She didn’t. …Well only about the coat…and my name.

- I am sorry I was….. unfaithful…would you ever forgive me?

-For all you knew I was dead. That wasn’t being unfaithful. You did not know who I was and you were thinking of me. Weren’t you?

- All the time.- He closes his eyes then ads.-I don’t deserve you or your kindness.

-You can still make it up to me.- You say and wink at him.

-You…are sure about this?

-Yes. Unless you do not want me…I suppose..

-I do…Gods I do. - He says and kisses you again.- I…missed….you…so …much…- He says between kisses. He lays you down and he half lays on top of you and watches you for a minute intensely.- I can not believe you are here with me.- He says quietly. He lowers himself and kisses you again while you circle him to reach his back.

His armor is full of cutting edges and pointy horns. He worries about it and so he raises himself to stand and take it all off. He starts with his fur cloak and gloves.All the while watching your reaction. You have seen his face and torso, but he was worried you would not find him attractive after seeing all of his body. He took off his armor, which surprisingly he could do by himself as if it was just placed on his body without fastening. He was left with only his boots, which he was taking off and pants. You get up to start taking off your clothes, while you hear his voice. You could only take off the boots.

-No. Let me. I want to do it.- He had dream of this for so long. Being with you again and fantasizing about it had been one of the things that had helped him keep the little sanity he had. He sighs out of nervousness. He used to be a very self conscious man when he was alive and his new form was so repulsive to him. How he wished he could have his old body back. He stands before you a second, unsure of what to do. He wanted to see your face but at the same time he did not. He stood looking down until he growled a little and berated himself for being a coward. He looked up to your face and caught you staring at him in fascination. Your lips parted in anticipation. It was enough for Lif to feel a heat inside him flare.

==She…likes me…Doesn’t she find me disgusting?=

-Sir…MY clothes will not be taking themselves off. -You say flirting, because knowing him; that pause he had taken, meant he is insecure and having second thoughts.

He gets closer to you and kisses you again. You can feel his hands working on your top clothes. You feel them being lifted and help him, by raising your arms for him to take them off. The brief pause in the kiss to get the top off ends with his mouth once again taking your lips. His arms reach behind you to undo the fastenings on your bra and then caress your back, before laying you down.

He let go of your lips to kiss your neck while his hand reached your breast. He hummed in pleasure at the softness of your skin and when you moaned and reached for his hair, he lowered his head to lick at your nipple. The gasp you emitted makes him smile and he looks up at you when he feels you kiss the top of his head. He meets your eyes and the ruby irises darken with desire. Holding your stare he plays with your nipple with his tongue while his hand reaches down to your pants. He unfastens them and reaches inside. Nimble fingers searching for the price he so desires.

At this point you have melted in his arms. There are no coherent words coming from your mouth but his name. His fingers play you like the strings of a guitar and your music is more precious to him than the any notes he could conjure with his violin.

-Does he touch you the way I do? Tell me. Has he made love to you?

-No…we have never…Lif …please! My Alfonse…My Lif!

How he had missed your voice calling his name. He thought he would have hated that you call him by his name, but now he knew, the Alfonse of this world had not touched you the way he has and he does not want you to call him Lif.

-Alfonse…Call me Alfonse.- He says in your ear.

-Alfonse! My Alfonse! My love!…I…I need …I Need…-He also could not wait any longer. He had waited for so long and the knowledge that it was you this time, not a mirage or a fantasy…it drove him insane to wait any longer. He rose to pull your pants and underwear off and once done, he opened your legs to position himself. He stayed there admiring your body a moment. The intensity of his stare made you blush. You were so vulnerable right now and he felt a wave or warmth to know that you still trusted him enough to let him see you this way. He took your left leg with his hand, to hold it up but he wanted so much to taste you as well.

He made up his mind and he lowered himself to plant a kiss on the inside of your thigh.He moved to your womanhood. Your smell had always turned him on, but your taste…he had never thought he would enjoy something so much. You tasted just as sweet as ever and he closed his eyes as he twirled his tongue over your clitoris. His eyes opened when he hears you moan loudly. It had been so long since he had done this, but the sweet sounds you were making told him he was doing things right.

It did not take long for his tongue to bring your release, It had been so long and the desire to have him was so strong. He smiled to himself as he saw you tremble with ecstasy by his hand and tongue alone. He climbed the bed and over your body until he was level with your face and buried his face in the crock of your neck to take a soft bite of the tender skin. He could not hold on for much longer but he wanted you to enjoy your self first. You turn your face to kiss his head and he gives you a grumble of satisfaction then he takes your lips and kisses you. It was a tender kiss that soon changed into a heated kiss. By this time you were ready to take him in.

He takes a second to look at your face as he slides himself inside you. When you move and moan with pleasure he smiles for a second and then closes his eyes in pleasure as well. You felt so right around him, so soft and warm. He moves slowly at first, taking in the feel and making it last. He opens his eyes to watch you in the same situation.

Your hands were holding on to his back and arched in ways that made him want to touch deeper inside you. He kisses you deeply to be closer to you. He can hear you moans partly silenced by his tongue and he grunts in return. It is slowly driving him insane and he wants more, much more. He moves faster and you adjust to his rhythm. You feel one of his hands cupping one of your breasts. Caressing the perked up nipple with his thumb. All the while he is not kissing you he is telling you sweet nothings in your ears.

You wrap you legs around him when you feel that sweet spot being bombarded with waves of pleasure once again. You hear him grunt in that sexy low voice of his.

-I love you Alfonse!

He lets go and shares that moment with you. Your words brought him the final push he needed to reach ecstasy.

Moments later he holds you in his arms.

-How I love you my _______ . How I have missed you and these moments…I feel like we are one soul that have been apart for too long and finally has come together again.

You hear him sigh deeply and his hold tightens. There is a slight tremor in his chest and after a moment you hear a strangled sob. You try to see what is wrong but his hand on your head keeps you from moving.

-I…I don’t want to leave. I don’t want to return to that loneliness…I …I can not take it! Not when I know you are here, near him and…

-Don’t leave. Stay with me.

-I can’t…

-Why?

-I made a deal…with the gods…with Thorr specifically.

-Why?

-She…came to us and said they could return our people if we helped them.

-Help them? With what?…wait…Alfonse?...Love how could you?

-I was not thinking strait… I have been so lost in the shadows…I thought it was a good option…and…I…I want to destroy the gods too. I need time and information on how to do it…

-That is a very dangerous game Alfonse.

-I know. I had nothing to lose at the time…or at least I did not know I had something to lose at the time. Come with me! Together we can do this!

-You are going to help them destroy my Askr and want me to help you? I gave them my word. To this people…including Sharena.

-No. Of course not…I… I don’t want him to die anymore…I have been so jealous of him, I was willing to do anything…

- I have been jealous of Thrasir.- You say. Lif looks at you and makes a face.

-Why? She is like a sister to me…a more exasperating sister.- He says under his breath. He sighs and hides his face in your hair and the crock of your neck.

-It would not work and the power of summoning is the least the gods need…I would never help them destroy another Askr.

-I know. I would never let them use your power either. I… just want you near me.

-Oh…You have been spying on me…you can still do it and well they don’t need to know what you do when you spy on me. I can give pieces of useless information that may sound interesting to them.

-And I can give you what I find out…

-Alfonse…I don’t like it…I don’t want to lose you again.

-Nor I you _______…Marry me again ______.

- Marry you…bejond death… Is there a way to marry souls without the Gods knowing?

-Marry our souls?- You feel him take your face in his hands and turn it upward for him to look at you.-Bind our souls …for all eternity…so we will be together even in death.Is that what you want?- He asks hopefully. His eyes shine like they have not shined since he was alive. His lips part and his breathing deepens.

-Yes. Do you?

-It is what I most desire…for you and I to be together always…no matter what…to belong to you and for you to belong to me.

- Then let’s find a way to do it.- You say smiling. You know he will find a way.

-I…I know how to do it…I never told you because…I never thought you wanted to bind yourself to me in such an intimate and final way.

- Why didn’t you say this before? It would have saved us a lot of time and problems and…God I love you Alfonse!- You give him a peck on the nose and then look at him again.- Let’s do it then.

-Let me just prepare the ritual.- This surprises you because you thought the ritual may require items not available to you at the moment; but you say nothing because you know Lif would take this as hesitation on your part.

He gets up and rummages for something inside his clothes that are scattered on the floor, while you sit on the bed looking at his magnificent body. He takes a deep breath and reaches for the dagger he carries in his belt and returns to sit by your side. He is unsure if the spell will work if he uses his hand so he cuts his cheek instead , where he still have regular skin. Blood comes out of the small cut. He takes your hand and cuts your palm until a little blood comes out. He puts your hand over his cheek and covers it with his own. He closes his eyes to relish in the warmth of your hand on his human flesh.

Slowly he starts to speak.There are some words in the beloved ancient tongue of his people that you can not make out. Then his eyes open. Lif’s eyes shine brighter than you have ever seen them shine before, when he next speaks.

- By the power given to me and you by Lord Askr, I give myself entirely to you. I give myself to you so my soul can bind to yours for all eternity. Do you give yourself to me completely so your soul can bind to mine?

-By the power given to me and you by Lord Askr, I give myself entirely to you as you are giving yourself entirely to me so that my soul can bind to yours.

-Let our souls bind to each other for eternity.- He says and kisses you.

There is a feeling of something being pulled away from your body and a sense of togetherness you have never felt even when at the height of ecstasy while making love to him. The pleasure was beyond carnal pleasure and so clean it felt holy. For a moment it was as if you did not know where you ended and he began and the feeling of closeness was so compelling you wanted to stay this way for ever.

The strength of the spell drained you both and you open your eyes to see his eyes shining a bright blue. You were not even aware of the moment you had closed you eyes since you could still see him. His eyes widen when he sees the same blue light shining in yours. The light fades and he knows the spell worked and Lord Askr has blessed the union. Perhaps it was foolish of him to still have faith in Askr, but his blessing had never left him and even if his Lord had not come to his aid in his darkest of times he understood every god had a different power and different use. Askr was the only God so far that had been good to his people and so he still held respect for him.

- I feels so happy Alfonse!- You say and it was true. You may even cry of happiness at this moment.

-So do I.- He gives a sigh of contentment and buries his face in the crock of your neck again and embraces you tightly. This man who is almost seven feet tall manages to make himself smaller by almost wrapping himself around you protectively. - Mmm…Mine…

There is almost a purr to his voice that makes you giggle a little. He is like a big cat that just wants to be petted and be given love. It is such a contrast to when you had first met. You think back to that time. Of course the hunger for touch had always been there but he had been hurt and so he was cautious and he was also shy so it had taken moths for his trust in you to grow enough to let you into his heart. Touching had not been his love language until he had learned from you and that is when he discovered he craved it. And now you were finally here with him; he was drinking in every touch and every word like the sands of the desert; taking them all inside himself and hiding them like a treasure.

Lif did not need to sleep but could do it if he so wanted. He did it when he felt his mind needed the rest but sleep would bring nightmares so he slept seldom. He did not sleep while he held you into sleep. It had taken you with a smile on your face and his name on your lips.

For some moments he would be afraid this happiness would have been only a dream and worse yet that this happiness would end in tragedy somehow and he would bury his face again in your hair until that fear would die down and he willed himself to not think those dark thoughts. Your warmth and your smell would reassure him and he would be content again.

-Who is Alfonse engaged to?- He asks suddenly out of the blue, a while after he felt you wake up.

-Your third cousin Elanor Braam.

-What would possessed him to agree to an arranged marriage with her? Of all my family…Unless we count cousin Damian…Still she is the worst kind of person.

-She knows about Sharena…and how you…handled the situation.- He knew the situation right away. Sharena being the friendly girls she was, had made friends with many nobles. Among them was a Baron’s third son, called Ambrose Von Becker, whom she came to idolize for his musical abilities. In his efforts to gain social status he had befriended the friendly girl. Knowing he had no chance in courting her, because of his status, he planned to lure her into running away with him. The plan was to make her think she was going to go on a trip with him and his sister as chaperone but planned on going the two of them by themselves. Luckily Sharena had confided her plans to Alfonse and Zacharias who was at the time still training Sharena. Together they both had made her see the truth. Zacharias told her he knew Almbrose’s sister was away on a trip to the far South as she had insisted on him accompanying her.

However the damage was already done since she had sent him letters making plans and alluding to secret meetings that although were innocent in nature, could be viewed as something entirely different. Ambrose had told no one yet but tried to blackmail Alfonse into making him help accept an arranged marriage or he would tell everyone that it had been her idea to run away and that their meetings were more than innocent. Alfonse who was still young and did not want his parents to know took matters into his owns hands. Together with the help of his best friend Zacharias and his retainer Erland, they arranged a hunt where Ambrose suffered a disastrous accident that killed him. Sharena was but 13 years of age and Ambrose 25. And now the most greedy and hateful of the courtesans had gotten hold of the few reminding letters to blackmail Alfonse herself.

-How?- You hear anger in his voice.

- One of the servants told her husband. The husband sold the information. Elanor went to your…to the Queen and blackmailed her into arranging the marriage or she would make the whole situation known.

-Does she have proof?

-The servant and her husband…they helped her get some of the letters Sharena sent Ambrose. In one of them she mentions…the meetings and…they found the woodsman who helped you set the trap that got Ambrose killed. She has him hidden somewhere…until they get married. Sharena doesn’t know. She thinks…her mother is doing it for her money.

-Do not worry about ti. I am sure there will be a way to help him.

-How can I not worry…- You start but he moves to hug you closer.

-Come here.- He says and kisses you.

Dawn came and with it the voice of one Prince Marth of Altea.

-Summoner. Dawn comes. We need to leave before sentinels come and we are wanted in the castle. Remember we leave at midday.

-Thank you your Highness. I will be down in…(sigh) ten minutes.

-You have to go…

-Mmm…five more minutes…

-I wish we had that luxury…Love…-He was so tempted to kidnap you away and keep you for himself and away from all dangers that awaited you. But he knew not only that you would not fall for such temptation, but that it was counterproductive to both your missions. So he settles for your accord on stolen moments every once in a while. It was a huge leap from being alone…well with Thrasir.

==Oh FUCK! Veronica!! She is going to kill …Well…Whatever...==

He gets up faster than he wanted to and started to dress up. You followed halfheartedly and grumbling a little.

It took you less than five minutes to dress and it took him even less time. Lif spent the rest of the time waiting for you to dress, looking out of the window. He made a point of not looking at you or he would lose his composure and pull you down on the bed once again. Once he heard you were making the bed and tiding up the place, he turned around and pulled you into a final kiss that lasted more than he thought he could without undressing you again.

Strangely enough he felt content and hopeful when he finally left and not the endless emptiness and hopelessness that always followed him. By the time he reached the door to the tunnel he even felt like smiling at a bewildered Dimitri. Not like the man could see his smile under the mask and light but he did so non the less.

Still he knew he could not say anything about his plans even to Thrasir so he tried to fake shame when he met with her.

-Do we have another ally in our plans to take down the gods?- Thrasir asked as soon as he got near and not even looking at him. Silence met her inquiry while taken aback by the question Lif had stayed silent.- I talked to Bruno. Alfonse helped me have a moment with him. I told him about the assassin. He told me about your meeting. Strange how he trusts me more than you.

-I just got here…

-Hmmp… You forgot to tell her about the assassination tempt I assume.

-Err…

-Of course…How she forgave you I don’t understand… You can tell her when we go back to Askr to “spy’ on them. And erase that stupid smile off your face. We don’t want Thorr to suspect anything.

-Yes…of course…how?…

- You even walk different. Also you stayed all night.

-Oh…

- Do us a favor.Do try to give off that miasma of doom and hopelessness you always carry with you.- There was a strange sound coming from her that Lif had never heard before. It sounded like a giggle but instead of making him smile he felt awkwardly creeped out.Talking to her brother for so long had done wonders for her. She felt so happy.- Come before we give our entire mission away.

-Veronica…Thank you…

-Shut up.- Veronica never took a compliment or a thanks right and an apology much less.

-Veronica…

-What do you want.

-Don’t giggle while I am present again…

-Umm….Now I know how to get your attention…

-Fuck…

[line break ]

It took time but eventually you could summon Bruno, Thrasir’s brother. The next time they came and found out Thrasir had smiled. The good part was that death had freed him from the curse too.

It was strange to see her smile. But it was also regarding. The more you talked to her the more you liked her.

[Line break]

The news came two weeks before the Winter festival. A tragedy for the royal family had occurred. The Crowned Prince’s fiance had died in a fire in which her Winter residence had burned down along with many of her servants.

There was no need for an investigation. A servant confessed to have killed and then burned down the Villa with her mistress, her husband and a couple of the servants inside. Her motives were never knows as she seemed to have lost her mind after and was never able to talk again.

She had been sentenced to death but Alfonse was merciful and decided to let her live the rest of her life in prison since she had been a servant in his own household when he was younger.

On the day of the Winter Festival Alfonse found a parcel with a bow waiting for him when he woke up. It contained the missing letters that almost cost him his freedom. A single note written in his own fancy script read:

“Watch them burn.”

And Alfonse did. Smiling at the dark joke Lif had written in the note; he threw the bundle of incriminating letters immediately into the fire in the chimney. At last they were free.

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void-thevoid · 1 month ago

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i am very good at timing i swear lmao-

anyways

(work in progress)

#spinel x reader #spinel x self insert #selfshipping #self shipping #oc x canon #spinel #spinel su #su spinel #void can draw!

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quennyquinn · 1 year ago

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T/N va a estados unidos a la semana de la moda de new york…y si sobra tiempo a sacar a baki de la cárcel. Parte 7

T/N: baki, me voy a la semana de la moda, ¿crees que estarás bien solo en la cárcel?

Baki: claro, ¿qué es lo peor que puede suceder?

-3 dias despues-

T/N esta llegando a la cárcel con varias bolsas de compras, algunas son de regalo para baki, oliva y jun.

T/N: ¿volví…que paso?

Baki: bueno, jun se fugó, pelie con oliva, conocí a maría, y ahora me echaron de estados unidos… casi lo olvido jun te dejo un sobre.

T/N: ¿porque eres asi?, bueno al menos, tuviste tiempo de leer el libro que dieron para la clase apenas lleguemos tenemos su examen.

Baki: oh No. No, No, No, no lo leí, si repruebo perderé el año -trata de volver a entrar a la carcel-…por piedad déjenme quedarme una semana al menos por favor, por piedad.

#baki the grappler x reader #reader insert #x reader #baki son of ogre #baki the grappler #baki headcanons #baki hanma #baki x reader #fem reader #female reader #baki dou #jun guevaru #jun guevara #oliva biscuit #baki es un mal estudiante #baki no hizo su tarea #T/N #reader imagine #t/n x baki

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ema0rsully · 9 months ago

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TMNT 2012 x Gem!Reader

(You are a lapis lazuli. Your main purpose is to terraform earth and its inhabitants. But you are quite different than other lapides. Despite being created to terraform planets, you've come to realise the Diamonds weren't worthy of your devotion or your sacrifices. After all the things they've done to you.)

"So you don't eat?"

"Nor do you sleep?"

"Do you ever need to go to the bathroom?"

"Of course you would ask that."

"Hey! I can ask whatever I want!"

You stared awkwardly at the four creatures. You did not know what they were but Earth seemed to inhabit the strangest mortal creatures from all planets you had ever encountered. The only reason you have managed to differentiate between the four creatures was because of their coloured headbands. You find them quite entertaining, which is why you abandoned your duties to speak with them.

"Please, I apologise on behalf of my brothers. They lack mannerisms as you can see." The purple one says with an annoyed tone, still glancing at the red and orange. You only chuckle,

"That is fine, it is wonderful to finally talk to someone!".

Which is true, you never really get to talk to anybody on Homeworld. You do your job, accomplish your goal, return, get assigned to a new one and repeat.

"What's your planet like?" The blue one asked with an excited smile, ignoring the red and orange one's bickering.

"Ah, busy." You replied with no further information which only made the blue one tilt his head.

"Busy?" He raised a brow in confusion.

"Yes, busy. Y'know, colonising planets and turning them into resources for Homeworld." You explained which only made the red one turn his focus to you.

"Colonise? You're gonna colonise Earth?!" He accused in an intimidating tone.

You tilt your head. "Hmmm no. I find this planet enjoyable! The Diamonds can find other planets to colonise but I like this one." you say as you look at the night sky above them.

The four creatures gave a confused and sceptical look at you.

"Diamonds? Who are they?" The blue one asked you again.

"Our commanders. They're the ones who created us from the resources of planets they've colonised. We were made to serve them and devote our energy to them to help expand their colony and kingdom" you say with such passion, you won't lie, you sound a little deranged. But you won't lie about this as well, you still have a little admiration for the Diamonds. Especially your Diamond, Blue Diamond.

"Yeah.. totally not creepy. So, that's why you don't eat or sleep?" The red one crossed his arms and stared at you sceptically.

"Yes! I mean, what use would I be to my Diamonds if I were to slack off and take time for myself? I would be completely useless!" You chuckled at your joke but the other four did not laugh along.

"Huh, it's almost like you see them as your God." The purple one says which makes you tilt your head.

"Of course I do, they're the only purpose I'm alive." You cringed after the words left your lips.

It's almost like the words coming out of your mouth weren't yours. It's like it was programmed into you. To always praise the Diamonds. Love the Diamonds. Sacrifice for the Diamonds. It makes your throat itch. Your words earned a disgusted look from the red one.

"That's... fucked up."

"Raph!" The blue one glared at the red one.

"He is right. It is quite the mindset to have. But, it is accustomed to me that I don't know what to do without it." You said, giving a sad smile.

"Hey! Don't overthink it dudette! We got you covered! We'll help you through this." The orange one said reassuringly as gave you a side hug.

It was an odd feeling you felt in your stomach and chest. It felt, warm.

"Look, even tho we just met a couple of hours ago. You seem cool. Pathetic, but cool." The red one said with a smirk.

The blue one glanced at the red one and smiled at you, "Raph is right. You're cool and we liked talking with you. We should hang out more!" he said excitedly.

You looked confused. "Why would we hang? Shouldn't we enjoy the company of each other instead?" You asked which only earned you confused stares.

"That's what I-"

"That is it! You're coming with us." The red one swung a hand around you and led you somewhere.

"Was it something I said?" You asked nervously

"Nonono, we're just gonna 'enjoy each other's company' while we teach you common slang. You're part of the gang now. Welcome, the name is Raphael." The red one says with slight sarcasm in his voice.

The purple one catches up next to the both of you, "I'm Donatello-and Raph please be careful her gem- (Your gem is on your chest. He is worried Raphael's strong grasp around you might shatter your gem even tho it won't.). She did mention moments ago that their gems are practically their hearts and you should-"

"I know what I'm doing, Donnie," Raphael grumbled to Donatello.

A hand gently pats your shoulder.

"Leonardo. Don't worry, they mean well." Leonardo reassures you of his other two brother's behaviour.

"And if you ever get bored of these three losers, you can hang out with me! Michelangelo!" The orange one spoke with a wide smile.

Your blank expression turned to one of fondness and you smiled. This is exactly the interaction you wish to perceive back on Homeworld.

You just chuckled as the five of you walked out of the alleyway and onto the dimly lit streets to enjoy a nice group 'hang out' together with your new company.

#tmnt #tmnt 2012 #tmnt oneshot #oneshot #reader insert #steven universe #gem oc #su gemsona #crossover #crossover au #writing #fanfiction #fanfic #tmnt leonardo #tmnt donatello #tmnt raphael #tmnt michelangelo

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ka1yo · 2 years ago

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i miss you.

xiao xingchen x gn!reader. angst. not proofread.

! CW

angst, mdzs + the untamed spoilers.

maybe a bit cringey idk this came from the top of my head

"a'qing! slow down!"

your voice echoed down the empty street of yi city, accompanied by the light patter of footsteps and giggles. panting, a low chuckle can be heard behind you.

"tsk, tsk, such low stamina!" the man in black sang, eyes dancing. you secretly nicknamed him 'bitchass scoundral,' but he won't ever have to know! you shot him a glare, elbowing him roughly.

"shut the fuck up," you snap, which earns a quiet ahem from your lover, xiao xingchen. you mumble a quiet apology, before shooting another glare at the man in black's taunting face. he sticks his tongue out, clearly enjoying the hatred emitting from your body.

tightening your hold on your lovers hand, you start running after a'qing, grumbling insults under your breath. xiao xingchen let out a airy chuckle as the scoundral let out a yelp of indignation, before dashing after you.

"xingchen.." a sob ripped through your throat as you cradled the corpse of your lover, unknotting his hair. tears stained his white robes, and you let out another sob as the coarse skin of his fatal blow could be felt under your fingers.

the once warm skin was now ice cold after resting in such a foggy place, which you and your lover once roamed. those lips that blindly kissed you were now cracked and dry, and you leaned down, just one more time to deliver your final kiss.

"i miss you."

#angst #fluff #lgbt #reader insert #mdzs #mdzs xiao xingchen #xiao xingchen #mxtx mdzs #the untamed #a qing #xue yang #mo dao su zhi #what am i supposed to tag this as

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brokenloverr24 · 1 year ago

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“You’re not even on the baseball team so why are you so hell-bent on hitting home runs with your sassy remarks today, huh?” Su-Hyeok slaps him upside the head.

PLSSSS I WHEEZED BWAHAHHAHSHS

“You didn’t tell him? Wow, I’ll remember that the next time I have a secret I need you to keep,” Gyeong-Su says, fascinated.

Gyeong-Su is literally so precious 💕

“Also a yes to that question.” Su-Hyeok’s eyes widen and when Nam-Ra finally thinks he’s pieced it together, he hits her with the entire force of collective obliviousness in the world. “Oh no! Do you think she’s come down with something? Is she sick?”

PLSSSS THEY'RE SO CLUELESS I LOVE THEM 😭😭

Neways was such a fun read! I love the witty jokes here

𝑭.𝑹.𝑰.𝑬.𝑵.𝑫.𝑺.‧₊˚✧ . ˚

𝐒𝐮-𝐇𝐲𝐞𝐨𝐤 𝐱 𝐅𝐞𝐦!𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫 | 𝟓.𝟑𝐤 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐬 | 𝐅𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐮-𝐇𝐲𝐞𝐨𝐤 𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐛𝐨𝐭𝐡 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐩𝐭 𝐢𝐭.

𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫’𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞: 𝐀𝐔 𝐟𝐢𝐜 𝐬𝐞𝐭 𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐳𝐨𝐦𝐛𝐢𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐮-𝐇𝐲𝐞𝐨𝐤 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 (𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐨 𝐧𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐬!) 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐩𝐥𝐞.𝐈 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟓 + 𝟏 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐦𝐲𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟. 𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐈’𝐥𝐥 𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐎𝐔𝐀𝐃 𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐬𝐨𝐨𝐧,𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐮-𝐇𝐲𝐞𝐨𝐤 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫, 𝐬𝐨 𝐈’𝐦 𝐩𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐲 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐰𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐞 ♡

˚ ༘✶ ⋆｡˚ ⁀➷1. Ms. Park

“Su-Hyeok, what do you think of Nam-Ra’s interpretation?”

Class 2-5 all turn their heads to the back, trying—but failing—to suppress their laughter, awaiting what kind of nonsense would spew from Su-Hyeok’s mouth this time around.

“I agree. She’s 100% correct.”

Some giggles slip through before Ms. Park silences them by holding her hand up. “Great,” Ms. Park says sarcastically, with an air of teasing. “Now…just what do you agree with again?”

Su-Hyeok doesn’t even falter, replying with, “If she could be kind enough to repeat her response so that I can gather my thoughts more coherently….” The whole class loses it right then and there.

His seat-mate further rubs salt into the wound by whispering between bouts of laughter, “Yah, did you even have any thoughts to begin with?” This earns him a glare, but he was too far gone to care.

Su-Hyeok grimaces, seeing the disappointment on Ms. Park’s face mixed with amusement as she gestures for Nam-Ra to recite her previous statement again. With the amount of times he acts up in the same manner on a regular basis, he’s surprised and grateful that she still allows him to step foot into class for lessons.

Nam-Ra rises once more, her chair creaking slightly, though that doesn’t wake you up from your nap next to her. Currently, you were turned away from the window, left elbow flat on the desk surface as a makeshift pillow. “All of us have some sort of prejudice. We all have preconceptions about other people.”

“Precisely,” Ms. Park compliments. “Thank you, Nam-Ra, for saying that twice.” With her emphasis on the word, she fixes her stern gaze on Su-Hyeok, but her next words are the exact opposite. “Bare-Su, please pay more attention to my lesson during class time and less on staring at your girlfriend, Y/N.” She raises her eyebrows teasingly.

Su-Hyeok is quick to correct her, trying to suppress the heat he feels slowly making its way up to his face. “Ms. Park,” he says incredulously. “We’re not together.”

“Eyyy,” Dae-Su’s booming voice reverberates in the classroom. “Now you’re just making up lies.” You stir at the loud sound, but it’s still not enough to make you open your eyes.

“I’m serious, Dae-Su,” Su-Hyeok splutters.

“Yet you’re not denying having stared at Y/N~,” Wu-Jin drawls, giving Dae-Su’s awaiting hand a high-five with a resounding smack.

“You guys, cut it out already!” Su-Hyeok says exasperatedly to deaf ears. “Ms. Park, how come Y/N is taking a sound nap in class, but I’m the one being ganged up on?”

“This is the first time it has happened, and she’s still ranked 3rd in the class. I can afford to let it slide,” Ms. Park crosses her arms and smiles, entertained by Su-Hyeok’s excuses.

“Isn’t this blatant favoritism?” Su-Hyeok mumbles under his breath.

“You also favor Y/N, so you can’t be one to talk,” his seat-mate teases him for the second time that day.

“You’re not even on the baseball team so why are you so hell-bent on hitting home runs with your sassy remarks today, huh?” Su-Hyeok slaps him upside the head.

“Alright, alright, settle down class. I think that’s enough punishment for our Bare-Su today.” When Ms. Park turns back to the blackboard, she says loud enough for the class to hear, “No worries. We can just ask Y/N for confirmation when she’s up.” By how much the students were cracking up, it suddenly seems like a free period.

“Seonsaengnim!”

At Su-Hyeok’s outburst, you wake up, trying to settle back into reality. Of course, Ms. Park notices your state of rousing. She’s not one to miss any little detail.

“Ah, good morning to you, Y/N. So glad you can finally join us.” Her words hold no malice at all, but you’re still sheepish.

Shyly scratching you head, you voice out, “I apologize for dozing off. Did I miss anything important?” You finally notice all eyes on you. Well, save for Su-Hyeok’s. “Guys….? Why are you all looking at me like that?”

“Well—" Dae-Su begins but is cut off by Ms. Park.

“Please refrain from sleeping again in my class as it’s a distraction…to some more than others.”

Laughter rings loud and clear again, all directed towards Su-Hyeok as you turn to Nam-Ra for answers in bewilderment.

“Banjang, you’re the smartest one here. What’s going on?”

Nam-Ra spares a glance at you with a slight smirk, an expression you’ve never seen on her before, despite how much she’s warmed up to you as her seat-mate and friend, though she’s hesitant to admit to the latter.

“Oh, it’s nothing,” Nam-Ra says dismissively, but lightly. “Ms. Park was just teaching Su-Hyeok about preconceptions.”

˚ ༘✶ ⋆｡˚ ⁀➷2. On-Jo

Linking your arm through Nam-Ra’s while balancing your tray with your other hand, you pull her in the direction of where On-Jo and I-Sak were already seated with their own lunches piled high with food.

“Save some for the rest of us, On-Jo,” you joke as you and Nam-Ra sit down on the opposite bench, pointing to your friend’s tray.

“Ha ha, very funny,” On-Jo pouts. “I don’t eat a lot; I just eat well.”

“A little too well,” Nam-Ra chimes in, causing you to choke on your banana milk in laughter and surprise. Since Nam-Ra started opening up to your friend group, you can already see the influence it’s had on her. Her conversations may still be minimal, but boy do they pack a punch.

While you all wait for the rowdy boys to join, I-Sak mimes pulling you, Nam-Ra, and On-Jo into a huddle and whispers, “So, have you guys thought about who’s asking who to the spring formal in a few months?” Here, she raises her eyebrows and adds, “Better yet, who are you hoping will ask you?”

“Aish,” you rebuke. “I thought you were about to spill your biggest secret or something!”

“Hey, I’m just curious! Not all of us are set and ready like you are, Y/N!” I-Sak winks at you as you’re in the middle of chewing.

You finish your bite before replying, “Huh?”

“Well, you and Su-Hyeok are already dating, so isn’t it obvious you’ll be attending together?” On-Jo answers.

Flabbergasted, you retort, “But we’re not in a relationship. I thought that was what’s obvious.” Your eyebrows scrunch together in confusion.

“Tsk, since when did you become so good at lying, our sweet and innocent Y/N?” I-Sak pokes you with the clean end of her chopstick.

“There’s nothing going on between us,” you emphasize. “I’ve known him since we were babies, and he definitely doesn’t like me in that way. I know that for a fact!” You point from Nam-Ra, to On-Jo, and finally to I-Sak. “Not one more word from you guys, alright?”

Nam-Ra slurps a spoonful of her seaweed soup loudly.

You turn to her and narrow your eyes. “Now, what’s that supposed to mean?”

“Well, you said not one more word,” Nam-Ra says without missing a beat. “That was a sound.”

You could never win against Nam-Ra verbally. “Don’t tell me you agree with On-Jo and I-Sak,” you say while facepalming. “Look guys, he’s really sweet, kind, caring, brave…” Realizing you’re rambling when the girls give you a look, you blush and backpedal. “What I mean,” you say as you fix them all with a gaze of finality, “is that it’d be weird. We grew up together, and we fight all the time.”

“I like to call that lover’s quarrel,” On-Jo states.

You roll your eyes and throw a clean crumpled napkin at her, which she manages to dodge.

“I also forgot nice smile, athletic, handsome—" I-Sak mimics your voice. You know it’s bad how spot-on it is when even Nam-Ra laughs.

“Yah! Do you want to die?”

On-Jo protects I-Sak from your slaps to her arm. “Just admit that you like—" On-Jo is interrupted by a voice you know all too well.

“Like what?” Su-Hyeok asks, oblivious, as he plops down next to you, nudging your shoulder with his out of habit as the boys fill in the rest of the bench, focused on their own conversations.

“Yeah, Y/N, what were you going to say?” I-Sak prods, smiling wider than you thought humanly possible.

You plead with your eyes to Nam-Ra for help, but she’s just the same as the other two, fixing you with a mischievous grin. Su-Hyeok looks at you expectantly, waiting for an answer.

“Uh…I was just saying that I like,” you stall as you look around for a way out. Your gaze lands on a drink everyone has on their tray. “The banana milk!” You cringe as the words leave your mouth.

“Oh, in that case,” Su-Hyeok hands over his bottle to you. “Here, you can have mine.”

As he turns to his right to talk to Cheong-San, I-Sak flashes you a heart with her fingers discreetly, Nam-Ra elbows you in the arm playfully, and On-Jo—you’re going to get her big time for this.

Before Su-Hyeok is finished with his conversation and turns back to you, she mouths, “I love oo yoo.”

˚ ༘✶ ⋆｡˚ ⁀➷3. Cheong-San

You have no idea why your friends decided to play soccer during lunch when it was scorching hot out, especially a day before exams, but followed nonetheless. On-Jo and I-Sak opted out and were currently benched, acting as cheerleaders. You, however, got dragged into the game as Nam-Ra was the referee and she didn’t want to be the lone girl on the field.

The sun was starting to make you sweat, and you chalked it up to the heat beating down on your head for the sudden dizziness you were feeling. You shook your head and tried to focus on the game that was about to start.

Cheong-San was right next to you, and on the far end of the field you could see Su-Hyeok playing goalie. As Dae-Su kicked off signaling the first half, you began to stagger as your vision becomes unfocused. Just when Cheong-San is about to sprint off in the direction of the ball Dae-Su had kicked, you grab onto his arm, stopping him.

“Cheong-San, I don’t feel too good,” you say.

He steadies you by the shoulder and peers at your face. “Y/N, you’re looking a little more than just pale. Do you think you’ll be okay? Want to sit down for a minute with On-Jo and I-Sak?” You close your eyes as your head spins but manage to give a weak nod when he checks your forehead temperature with his hand.

“Hey! What’s going on over there?” Someone screams across the field, questioning.

As Cheong-San takes your wrist to lead you back to the girls, your vision goes black and the last thing you remember is someone catching you to break your fall.

***

On-Jo and I-Sak were the first ones to reach you as Cheong-San tries to sit you up. He gets you to somewhat lean on his chest, an arm around your shoulder as the girls crowd around to see what they could do to help.

“Is Y/N alright?” Not getting a response, Nam-Ra checks your pulse and breathing. “Her heartbeat is a little fast, one of the tell-tale signs of heat exhaustion. Perhaps that's the case?”

“I think we should take her to the nurse either way,” On-Jo says, I-Sak nodding in agreement.

“On-Jo, come with me,” Cheong-San directs, as he maneuvers you for a proper piggyback.

“Move,” Su-Hyeok says, seriously.

“It’s okay, I got her,” Cheong-San replies as On-Jo helps to stabilize you on his back.

“I wasn’t asking.” Su-Hyeok slightly pushes Cheong-San.

“Guys, this isn’t the time to fight,” Nam-Ra admonishes, pointing at your unconscious form.

Without another word, Su-Hyeok picks you up easily and carries you away, with Cheong-San and On-Jo in tow all the way to the infirmary.

Once there, On-Jo decided to go get some snacks since everyone skipped lunch, leaving the two boys behind with you after the nurse assessed your condition.

Cheong-San starts chuckling quietly as Su-Hyeok glares at him.

“Why are you laughing?”

“I don’t find the situation funny, if that’s what you’re asking. I’m worried for Y/N as well.”

Su-Hyeok narrows his eyes at Cheong-San. “Why?”

Dumbfounded, Cheong-San replies, “Why would you ask that? She’s a good friend. We grew up together too you know.”

When Su-Hyeok doesn’t respond, Cheong-San nudges him with his foot under the bed to which the former just makes an incoherent noise. “You’re jealous, aren’t you?”

“I’m not jealous at all that you caught Y/N before she fainted.”

“I never mentioned that,” Cheong-San says between laughs, dimple on full display. “Would you rather I had dropped her to the ground? I don’t know why you would be mad when I was just lending a hand, and considering that you guys are dating and all…” he trails off.

“We’re not dating,” Su-Hyeok says flatly.

“Stop messing around with me Bare-Su,” Cheong-San teases, tilting his head in the direction of your small hands that Su-Hyeok was currently enveloping in his large ones.

“You idiot, I’m not kidding. We’re just friends; that’s all.” He doesn’t let go of your hands. If anything, he cradles them even tighter.

Cheong-San pauses, thinking whether to believe him or not. “Okay, hypothetically let’s say you guys aren’t together—"

“—Because we’re not,” Su-Hyeok interrupts.

“Hypothetically,” Cheong-San stresses. “Then, do you like Y/N?”

“Then, do you like On-Jo?”

“I asked first!”

“I—"

When you open your eyes, you’re met with a white ceiling and curtains, the sound of the machine displaying your vitals beeping away. Recognizing that you were in the school’s infirmary due to the IV drip and the strong smell of antiseptic, the only thing you remembered was fainting. Everything after is a blur.

You hear hushed whispers and realize it was Su-Hyeok and Cheong-San in the room with you. “What are you two idiots arguing about this time?” You rasp. Their heads whip towards you, shocked and simultaneously relieved.

“How much of our conversation did you hear?”

“That’s the first thing you ask me? I don’t even get a ‘how are you’?” You fake mock hurt at Su-Hyeok’s question.

“Are you okay?” Cheong-San asks.

“I like Cheong-San better,” you joke and stick your tongue out at Su-Hyeok as Cheong-San does the same.

“We were worried sick but I guess you’re fine now that you’re back to bullying me,” Su-Hyeok complains. “So feisty for such a tiny human.”

“Easy for you to carry,” Cheong-San mutters, earning a kick from Su-Hyeok. “OUCH!” He exclaims as he begins to rub his shin from the impact.

You look between the two of them, more confused than ever but decide to let it go. “Why am I here again? I only know I passed out.”

Su-Hyeok flicks you on the forehead. “The nurse said you were dehydrated and it seemed like you didn’t eat or sleep well enough. Coupled with the heat exhaustion, your already tired body couldn’t handle it and you went down.”

“Oh.”

“Oh? Is that all you can say? You scared me to death. You stayed up late studying again huh?”

“Maybe…” You reply guiltily. The boys shake their heads at your predictable nature. You always study like crazy but this has never happened before, so you were going to make sure to not accidentally neglect self-care for good grades again. “How did I get here from the field?”

“Cheong-San caught you and—"

“Awww, you did?” You sit up and spread your arms for a hug, having to let go of Su-Hyeok’s hands to do so. Cheong-San was going to return it until he turned to Su-Hyeok for permission.

“Why do you need to ask whether he’d allow it?” You roll your eyes. “My arms are getting tired.” You pull Cheong-San in for a hug and he returns the friendly gesture.

Just then, the door opens and On-Jo comes in with a plastic bag full of goodies. “Y/N, you’re awake!” She rushes over to squeeze the life out of you.

“On-Jo…can’t breathe,” you say in between pauses.

She lets you go and elbows Cheong-San. When he doesn’t get the hint, she takes him by the hand and drags him out, leaving the bag behind on the table for you. Just before the door closes, Cheong-San pops his head in again. “Su-Hyeok carried you in his arms all the way here!”

“AISH!” Su-Hyeok throws his backpack at the door, but the two had already left.

You turn to Su-Hyeok who won’t meet your gaze. Poking his arm, you tease him. “So, you do care.” If you had been awake at the time, surely you would be a living tomato with the stares you know for a fact you would be getting from being transported that way across school grounds.

Su-Hyeok just breathes out exasperatedly. “More than you know.” He said the line so quietly, you would’ve missed it if you weren’t paying attention.

Not knowing what came over you, you lean over and kiss him on the cheek. “Thank you,” you say. Both of you were surprised with matching blushes as proof.

Too embarrassed now for having been so bold, you make the excuse of feeling tired and lay down, turning your head to the other side to hide your smile. Su-Hyeok grabs your hand again even as you close your eyes.

His phone dings with a text and you hear him curse under his breath. “That little—“

Which could only mean one thing: Cheong-San.

[ Text: Are you sure you’re not dating? I saw everything through the window ]

˚ ༘✶ ⋆｡˚ ⁀➷4. Gyeong-Su

You’re walking along the school’s skybridge when you hear someone calling.

“Y/N! Wait up!”

You stop and turn around, smiling when you see it’s Gyeong-Su. He’s such a sweetheart that your friend group always has a soft spot reserved for him.

He pants as he comes to a stop next to you, falling into pace by your side. “Geez, for someone with such short legs, you walk incredibly fast.”

“Is that all you wanted to say to me?” You push him.

Gyeong-Su laughs. “No, no. I’m just kidding. I have a favor to ask.”

“Glad to know you start asking for favors by first insulting the person.”

“I’m sorry okay!” He didn’t look sorry at all. “I need help with English. If I fail this next exam, I’d have to retake the class and the teacher and I already don’t get along,” he frowns.

“I’m not saying that I decline, but wouldn’t Nam-Ra be a better choice?”

“Sure, but she hasn’t studied abroad. You lived in New York for a year before high school.”

“Alright, but if your English has the accent of a New Yorker, don’t say I didn’t warn you.”

“Better an accent than the Konglish I’m speaking with in class. Everyone always laughs when I have to read something.”

You giggle. “I can meet you in the library after our last class period. It’s a Friday anyway so we don’t have school tomorrow, which means we can stay a little later than usual. Does that work for you?”

“Yes! Thank you so much, Y/N.” Gyeong-Su looked so happy it was contagious. His smile suddenly falters as he leans in to tell you, “Although, I hope that you won’t let Su-Hyeok know.”

“What? What does he have to do anything?”

Gyeong-Su looks at you like you had two heads growing from your neck, gazing pointedly. “Well, I certainly wouldn’t want him to be mad that I’m spending time with you. He’d beat me up. It’s clear which of us would win in a fight, come on now.”

“Why would he be mad?” You inquire, baffled.

“You know, for ranking third place in class, you’re not as bright as I thought.”

“Watch it,” you warn, playfully angry.

“You’re supposed to be tutoring me for language skills but here I am, having to spell everything out for you.” Gyeong-Su gives you a moment to see if you would figure it out but when he sees the gears turning in your head, he sighs. “Su-Hyeok might get jealous and I don’t want that. You know, protective boyfriend and all. The what-have-you’s from all those dramas.”

“He’s not my boyfriend,” you say as if it was the most obvious thing in the world, which to you it certainly was.

“Whatever you say. If you see me one day with a black eye and a broken leg, you’re going to be held responsible for my hospital bills.”

You roll your eyes as Gyeong-Su waves and goes on his way, promising to meet up later.

***

A few hours pass and you find a seat in the corner of the library where it’s more silent and there’s a window nook in between two bookshelves against the wall; it was your favorite study spot aside from your bedroom.

Gyeong-Su is more punctual than you imagined, showing up barely a few minutes after you with all his study materials. At the moment, his backpack could be used as a weapon with everything he packed inside.

“Are you sure you’re here to study, or are you preparing for war?” You stare in amazement as he pulls endless amounts of materials from his bag.

“I wasn’t kidding about not wanting to repeat class.” An English textbook comes slamming onto the table and you shush him hurriedly. Thankfully, the other students are too busy studying with their headphones in to mind the noise.

“We can work on spelling first,” you guide as you flip through his workbook.

You’re surprised at how fast Gyeong-Su learns after just a few units, and even more proud at the effort he puts into grasping the subject. Perhaps you could finally understand why teachers always glow when their students succeed.

“Wow, would you look at that. I’m a great tutor,” you boast.

“Your ego is pretty great too.”

You hit him on the head with a pencil but he just laughs it off. Your phone keeps vibrating with messages, so not wanting it to be a distraction, you put it on ‘do not disturb’ mode without checking the notifications on screen and proceed to place it upside down on the table.

Both you and Gyeong-Su are too focused on your studies to notice Su-Hyeok coming into the library.

“Y/N, did you lose your phone?”

You look up, even more surprised than Gyeong-Su at his presence. “How did you know we were here?”

“You didn’t tell him? Wow, I’ll remember that the next time I have a secret I need you to keep,” Gyeong-Su says, fascinated.

“I waited an hour for you at the school gates to walk home together, but you never showed up so I texted Cheong-San and he said you were tutoring Gyeong-Su in the library.”

“Oh my god, I totally forgot.” You put your hand on your head. Su-Hyeok would always walk you home as you two live in the same area, neighbors to be exact. “I’m so sorry you had to wait that long. It totally slipped my mind!” He didn’t look mad, just tired. “You can go home without me you know. I wouldn’t want you to wait even longer. I still have a few chapters left to help Gyeong-Su with.”

“Are you kidding? I’m not letting you go by yourself in the dark. A few more hours is nothing.” Before you can refuse, he dumps his backpack on the floor and scoots the adjacent chair closer to yours, sits down, and leans his head on your shoulder. “Wake me up when you’re done.”

He’s out cold in a few minutes, and you can only blame it on sleep deprivation; the badge every high school student wears proudly.

“Now that the boyfriend is sleeping and won’t fight me—“

“How many times do I have to tell you, Gyeong-Su? We’re not dating.”

“Sure, because that’s totally what friends do,” he says sarcastically.

As he goes back to his notes, you look down at Su-Hyeok leaning on you, moving his hair out of his eyes carefully so as not to wake him. Were his eyelashes always that long? His nose bridge so high? His skin so clear? His lips—

“Earth to Y/N,” Gyeong-Su waves his hand in your face. “You guys sure have a thing for staring at the other when they’re asleep. You know, it’s the same look on your faces too.”

“What? We don’t do that.”

“First, he gets caught by the whole class and now you get caught by me. You’re lucky it’s just one person who’s seeing this.”

You brush aside the first thing Gyeong-Su says, because Su-Hyeok having feelings for you? Impossible.

“I wasn’t staring!” That draws the attention of a few students nearby.

“Fine, admiring tastefully then.”

You look down at Su-Hyeok again. “You have to admit, it’s pretty endearing seeing someone sleep.”

Gyeong-Su snorts. “You’re just saying that because it’s Su-Hyeok. If it was me, you would’ve already sent me flying clear across the room with a kick.”

Not really being able to argue with that, you ignore it and turn back to give Gyeong-Su another exercise when Su-Hyeok stirs. “Next, can you describe us all with one word and spell it correctly?”

He ponders for a moment before pointing to himself: “Amazing.” A-M-A-Z-I-N-G is the first line on his notebook.

Next, he points to Su-Hyeok: “Barefoot.” You laugh at the accuracy while Su-Hyeok curses Gyeong-Su. It’s even funnier seeing him write it down in all seriousness. B-A-R-E-F-O-O-T is the next line.

A pencil aims at your face as Gyeong-Su mocks: “Gnome.”

“You’re getting awfully comfortable with the short jokes there.” G-N-O-M-E goes down in the third line.

“She’s just petite,” Su-Hyeok tries to defend you, doing a horrible job at it.

“Great, she thinks you’re lovable and he thinks you’re cute.”

“You do?!” You and Su-Hyeok say to one another at the same time.

“The two of you aren’t fooling anyone with this ‘We’re not together’ thing. Here’s a word to describe both of you. Gyeong-Su scribbles something quickly down on the notepad in perfect English and holds it up sideways for you as he reads it out loud, gesturing with his pointer finger between you and Su-Hyeok:

┌──────────┐

ᑕOᑌᑭᒪE ♡

└──────────┘

˚ ༘✶ ⋆｡˚ ⁀➷5. Nam-Ra

No one ever comes to class early like she does, and so Nam-Ra is more than surprised to see Su-Hyeok of all people stepping foot into the room, the slide of the wooden door announcing his entrance. He jumps when he sees her already there.

“What is it?” Nam-Ra cuts to the chase.

“Uh…nothing,” Su-Hyeok stammers.

“Whatever’s in your hands doesn’t seem like nothing.”

He quickly hides the note behind his back.

Nam-Ra raises an eyebrow at this and taps your still-empty desk. “Go ahead and put it here. I’ll let Y/N know.”

“It’s not for her.”

“Su-Hyeok, you’re talking to me, not Dae-Su. I don’t believe that statement in the slightest.”

Su-Hyeok sighs as he walks over to your seat and sits down. “Prez, I need advice.”

“Hmm, what did On-Jo call it? Lover’s quarrel, was it? I’m not that experienced to be a love guru.”

“We’re not—"

“Cut it out. No matter how many times you guys deny it, it won’t make it true.”

“But—"

“Nope.” Seeing as he wasn’t going to say anything else, Nam-Ra smiles to herself. If she can keep this up, maybe they’ll actually stop dancing around one another. “Now, why are you here and not with Y/N like you usually are?”

“She’s mad at me.”

“I find that hard to believe, but explain.”

“Y/N has been avoiding me and I don’t know why. We were fine still during the study session with Gyeong-Su, but after that day she’s been keeping her distance. She flinches when I so much as sit near her, when I talk to her, she can’t look me in the eyes, and when we walk home together, she’s always speeding ahead. I think I might’ve done something wrong, but I also don’t think I have? That’s why I was planning to put this apology letter on her desk.”

Nam-Ra brushes her hand down her face at the absurdity of the situation. “You guys are hopeless.”

“Excuse me?”

“Are you telling me or asking me about whether you messed up?”

“Uh��both?”

“Gosh, you’re clueless.”

“I didn’t know advice came with being bashed.”

“Just answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to my following questions.” Nam-Ra receives a nod in response.

“Look, you haven’t done anything wrong right?”

“No, I haven’t.”

“Does Y/N turn red when you’re near?”

“Yes, now that you mention it.”

“Is she becoming more flustered now when she never was before?”

“Aigoo!” She smacks him on the head with her workbook.

“Hey! What was that for?”

“Focus!”

“I was until you gave me a concussion!”

“That’s not how that works—oh never mind! Just, think! I know it’s not something you usually tend to do, but try!”

“As long as you don’t hit me again.”

Nam-Ra ignores his previous words and continues. “Since you said you guys aren’t together I’ll believe it just for today.”

“There’s nothing to believe or not, we really don’t have that kind of a relationship.”

“But do you want to?”

“I don’t think she likes me like that—"

“Yes or no only.”

“Fine, yes. I can’t believe I’m telling you before I tell Y/N.” Su-Hyeok slumps in his seat.

“So, you like her.” Nam-Ra states it as is, no longer questioning.

“I can’t say no now after what I said earlier, so yes. I really do.”

“Then just go tell her. It’s not that hard. You’re making a simple thing more difficult than quantum mechanics.”

“Does Y/N even like me back for me to confess?”

“Yes. You’re a fool for not noticing it: the avoidance, the distance, the shyness. Any of that ring a bell?” She can pinpoint exactly when the realization hits him. “Everyone can see it except for the two of you. I’m shocked that it took me to smack some sense into you; literally and metaphorically.”

“I always thought that all friends were like us.”

“In what world? Friends don’t look at each other like that.”

Su-Hyeok springs up from his chair with a hasty thank you, promising to think it through before confessing, and rushes off to who knows where.

When he leaves, Nam-Ra sits alone pondering whether she should just change her last name to Cupid.

Cheong-San and On-Jo clearly need some arrows as well.

˚ ༘✶ ⋆｡˚ ⁀➷ +1

When Cheong-San’s mom invites the friend group to their chicken restaurant for a free meal, no one could decline.

You and Su-Hyeok come in a bit later after everyone had already started eating, hand-in-hand.

“There’s the cute couple!” Cheong-San’s mom exclaims, handing over the largest platter of fried chicken you’ve seen in your life.

“Mrs. Lee, they’re not—” everyone at the table choruses in unison, except for Nam-Ra.

“We are!” You say, holding up your clasped hands.

Dae-Su drops his chicken on the floor in shock and everyone’s mouths hang open comically in silence.

“Mwoya? Have you been fooling us all this time?” Your friends talk over one another, but the sentence is somehow comprehensible.

“Just ourselves,” Su-Hyeok admits, looking down at you fondly, only to see you already gazing up at him.

┈┈┈┈┈𖥸┈┈┈┈┈

© 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐭 𝐠𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐍𝐞𝐭𝐟𝐥𝐢𝐱’𝐬 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐔𝐬 𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐞𝐛𝐭𝐨𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐭’𝐬 𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐟𝐟 𝐨𝐟 𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞. 𝐈 𝐝𝐨 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨, 𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐮𝐞, 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫-𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐭. 𝐀𝐥𝐬𝐨, 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐨 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐳𝐞, 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞, 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐞, 𝐨𝐫 𝐮𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐦𝐲 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐞𝐥𝐬𝐞𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐦 𝐢𝐭 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐚 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞.

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