#the chapter where the prime minister is trying to watch the news so she keeps wandering into bars and tv shops and getting kicked out

[sparrowlucero]

this is the iconic dinosaur horror jurassic park wishes it was

[talesfromthesnogbox]

The Red Room

Summary: Alex finally gets Henry alone to talk in the Red Room. Henry's POV of Red, White & Royal Blue, Chapter Six, pages 129-134.

Rating: M

Word Count: 1,843

AO3 Link

Part 1 | Part 3

Emily Taylor [5:36 P.M.]

Good luck tonight Henry. Sending my love, you’ve got this

Henry smiled at his phone and sent Emily back a heart emoji as he left his room in the residence of the White House. He was invited to stay as a guest for the evening’s gala, and he’d luckily (maybe unluckily) not yet run into Alex.

He entered the ballroom and immediately, Alex was the first person to catch his eye. His breath stuttered as their eyes met, and he briefly considered making a run for it, but he had to stay. As Alex approaches, his heart rate jumps, he can feel the blood rushing to his face, but he’d promised he’d stay, he promised himself he’d talk to Alex.

“All right, photos.” Henry winces at Zahra’s curt introduction.

“Oh.” He forgot, he’d have to pose with Alex, who was mad at him, who looked absolutely delectable in his crisp black suit.

“Hey.” Henry could tell Alex’s smile was put on, and not well. It was the same smile and the same stiff handshake from their first weekend at Kensington Palace. “Cool to see you’re not dead or anything.”

Ouch. “Er.” He definitely deserved that.

“We need to talk.”

Henry was about to agree, when he was whisked away to mingle with the Prime Minister.

Dinner was uneventful, the conversations dull, the food was just fine, the ballroom just a degree too warm to be totally comfortable. But Henry could feel Alex’s eyes boring into him from across the room, which added a whole other level of interest to the night. His ears were heated, and he wasn’t sure if it was from the temperature of the ballroom (it wasn’t), or Alex watching him (it was). He tries not to get jealous when Alex turns to whisper something in Nora’s ear, but then she was heading his way and dear lord, he had not had enough wine for this conversation.

“Henry! So nice to see you again. You left in such a rush after New Years.”

“Ah, yes, sorry. Nice to see you too. I’m afraid I was feeling the alcohol a bit too much that night and decided to retire early. I hear Pez stayed for a pleasant evening though?”

She smiled. “Yeah he did. Hey, you like French pastries, right? The White House just hired this new pastry chef,” Nora grabbed Henry by the elbow and walked towards a table next to an exit. “Try these profiteroles, they’re to die for.”

Henry was about to protest when Alex appeared beside him suddenly. “Hi.”

He knew he was gaping like a fish out of water, but this wasn’t what he quite had in mind for their conversation. He pictured something a little… quieter? More private? He was possibly about to bare his soul to the man he’d been crushing on for years, he wasn’t about to do it in front of the British Parliament and American Congress attendees.

“Sorry to interrupt. Important, um. International. Relations. Stuff.” And suddenly, it was Alex grabbing him by the elbow.

This was not how he pictured this talk going. “Do you mind?”

“Shut your face.” 

Henry grumbles as he’s led by Alex to a room not far from the main ballroom. His security detail he’d come to know as Amy stood outside the door keeping watch, and his stomach sank. It was now or never, this talk was happening, and it wasn’t off to a good start.

“You’re not going to kill him, are you?” Amy asked Alex, giving Henry a pitying look.

“Probably not.” Alex was pissed.

There hadn’t been many moments where Henry was fearful for his life, but today was one of them. Well, okay, that’s a bit dramatic, but he felt two seconds away from throwing up at any given point, and that didn’t feel much better. Seeing how upset Alex was as he lead Henry through the doors into a red room really did make him feel like a complete dick; he was definitely losing a friend tonight, and despite having only really been friends a few months, he considered Alex a good friend. This month apart was really taken a toll on him, and he wishes he’d just been brave enough to extend the olive branch anytime before now.

“What on God’s earth are you doing?” He demands as soon as Alex lets him go.

“Shut up, shut all the way up, oh my God.”

Henry doesn’t even have time to close his mouth before Alex pushes him into the nearest wall and kisses him. 

Shock keeps Henry from moving at all, and for a moment, Alex starts to pull back. But after allowing his brain to reboot, Henry has a moment of realization. He kissed me. HE kissed ME. This was it, best case scenario, he almost felt like pinching himself to make sure he wasn’t dreaming, but even if he was, he better make it the best damn kiss he’d ever had. Henry moved his hands up Alex’s chest, tangling his fingers in his hair as he tried to pour everything he wanted to say to him into the kiss. If their first kiss felt life-altering, this kiss was shifting the entire universe on its axis. It felt good, it felt right, and maybe Emily had a point about Alex also wanting Henry. But no matter what they both wanted… they weren’t just Alex and Henry. They were FSOTUS and HRH Prince Henry Fox Mountchristen-Windsor.

“Wait.” He broke off reluctantly, and looked up at Alex. Alex looked like he was doing exactly what they were just doing, his hair undone, lips red, eyes wild, and Henry was sure he was in the same state. “Should we—” he didn’t even know how to finish that sentence.

“What?”

Fuck. “I mean, er, should we, I dunno, slow down?” He winced. They just kissed, it wasn’t like he was bare-arsed in the middle of the White House. “Go for dinner first, or—” But really, he’d never done any kind of dating outside of his approved suitresses. He’d never really had an adult relationship to be frank, everything at Eton and Oxford was just sex, and although he knew what he wanted from this arrangement with Alex, he was almost entirely sure he wouldn’t be able to get it.

“We just had dinner.”

Double fuck. “Right. I meant— I just thought—“

“Stop thinking.”

Alex was right. Henry was way overthinking this. Yeah, ideally he wanted to wine and dine Alex, share their hopes and dreams, tease him about his incorrect Star Wars opinions, then kiss him slowly. But he was still a young man in his early twenties who’d been pent up for far too long, and Alex looked like a wet dream. If he couldn’t have it all, well he could still have something. “Yes. Gladly.” 

This time when Alex pushed Henry up against the furniture, he went willingly, propping his bum on a table he knows shouldn’t be sat on. Regardless, he leans back, his head hitting the corner of a picture frame (shit, was that Alexander Hamilton?), and opens his legs for Alex to slot his hips between them. This kiss is still frantic, but so much deeper than the other two he’d shared with Alex; their hands were everywhere, tongues, teeth, it was delicious. Alex pulls away only to drop his lips to Henry’s neck, and a choked groan leaves his throat. His hips cant up into Alex’s, and he’s satisfied to feel Alex’s arousal is as prominent as His own. Alex’s hand cups under his thigh, and Henry is helping him hitch it up around his waist, the heat of Alex’s palm only egging him on further to slot their lips together again in a fervent kiss. 

Of all the ways Henry imagined this conversation going, this was not even on his list of possibilities. Alex was straight. He’d kissed Nora on New Years, he had a dating history that only included women, and yet he’d pulled Henry from a gala specifically to pin him to the wall and have his wicked way with him. Alex had more depth than Henry initially thought he did, or maybe he was doing it to fuck with him…

Henry had time to grind himself against Alex once more before Amy poked her head through the door and yelled “Time’s up!”

“Fuck.” Alex swore, pulling away.

“I’m going to die.” Henry was breathless.

“I’m going to kill you.” Luckily, Alex sounded just as winded.

“Yes, you are.” He gave Alex a once-over, focusing on the finer details from their romp. His buttons had become undone, and his shirt mussed, his eyes glazed over and lips swollen, something that made Henry swell with pride. His hair was a hopeless disaster, and as he scanned back down Alex’s body, he could see the prominent bulge in his pants. He gulped audibly… it didn’t look small. Maybe he wasn’t trying to fuck with Henry, but rather just… fuck him.

“People are going to be coming in here soon.” Henry watched Alex flit around the room, trying to fix it back up. Henry met his eyes as he turned around, and suddenly, he was the subject of Alex’s focus. His own shirt was half unbuttoned, and completely untucked, his hair tangled beyond belief, getting it back into his own signature coif would be nearly impossible. “Fuck, you look—fuck.” 

Alex sounded ruined. It did absolutely nothing to help Henry’s own situation.

God save our gracious Queen, long live our noble Queen, God save the Queen. He hummed.

“What are you doing?” 

Henry looked at him incredulously. “Christ, I’m trying to make it”, he waves his hands in front of his pelvis, “go away.” He watches Alex take a deep breath, and it looks like he’s using every ounce of self-control to not look down at the bulge in Henry’s pants that was not going away!

“Okay, so, yeah. So here’s what we’re gonna do. You are gonna go be, like, five hundred feet away from me for the rest of the night, or else I am going to do something that I will deeply regret in front of a lot of very important people.”

Sensible plan. “All right…” Henry tried to step back, but Alex only pulled him closer.

“And then… I’m not done yet” 

“Of course you’re not.” 

Henry’s breath hitches as Alex draws him in closer by the waist. He was so close once again, just a hair’s breath away, close enough to plant another life-altering kiss on his lips. “And then you are going to come to the East Bedroom on the second floor at eleven o’clock tonight, and I am going to do some very bad things to you, and if you fucking ghost me again, I’m going to get you put on a fucking no-fly list. Got it?”

Send her victorious, happy and glorious, long to reign over us, God save the Queen!

“Perfectly.” 

He was fucked.

[shreddedparchment]

A Wife for Thor Pt.23

A Royal Invitation

05/02/2021

Pairing: King!Thor x Reader          Word Count: 5,960

Warnings: fluff, slight angst, language

A/N: I hope you all enjoy this one. It took me forever to get out after several life events that just couldn’t be ignored or put on the back burner. I had a lot of fun in the second half of this chapter and I hope y’all find it as entertaining as I did. Let me know what your favorite parts are! I’d love to know. As always, thanks for reblogging if you happen to do so. xoxo

Please DO NOT repost my stories on any other sites or blogs.

REBLOGS are always welcome!

The city is in celebration for three nights after you come home.

They’re not necessarily celebrating your return although that is part of why they’re happy, but the baby. The baby is already so loved. The baby is the city’s hope and future.

You can feel their exuberance when you and Thor take a walk through the city, flanked by Valkyrie with Loki on your left walking just slightly behind you.

He’s busy but smug and keeps his fingers moving swiftly across the screen of a tablet provided by Tony Stark who’d left the city taking Bruce with him back to the United States on Avengers business.

What Loki is doing, what's got him so glued to his tablet, you don’t find out until the evening of the first day of celebrations.

As your people’s cheers, laughter, and music filter in through the long wall of windows that Thor’s had thrown open to let the joviality in, Loki crosses to the long couch across from the one where you sit with Thor.

Legs thrown across his lap, Thor’s hands gently massaging your calves and feet, you lean back against the cushions that Thor set up against the arm for you.

The sitting room is long, rectangular and faces the East side of the palace. You can’t see the entire city and have more of a mountain view than on the West side where your rooms are and you can see the expanse of the ocean.

Like the rest of the palace, it’s decorated in a mixture of wood and silver steel. The chandeliers above are carefully carved and wired, the lighting kept dim. The seats are also wood but covered with soft cushions for lounging and restful naps.

There’s a slightly simpler look to this sitting room. Relaxed.

Before you’d taken your break from being Queen, you hadn’t spent much time in this part of the palace. Nothing had called to you. The garden had been the only spot you’d sought out but this sitting room is quickly becoming your favorite.

“I like it in here,” you confess, smiling at Thor who’s still squeezing your foot gently.

He smiles and meets your gaze, “Why’s that?”

“Because Jane was never in here,” Loki supplies, swiping left on his tablet then turns it to face both of you. “We’ve got more energy signatures. New ones.”

You and Thor sit up a little straighter.

“What quadrant?”

Loki purses his lips and then turns the tablet back towards himself cutting off your look at a map of the night sky.

“All of them. Whatever it is, it’s jumping around. I think perhaps they know we’re watching.”

Swallowing hard, you scoot closer to Thor, pulling one of your legs down as you twist to face Loki a little better. Thor takes hold of your thigh instead as it rests over his and wraps his other arm around your waist, eager to have you close.

Both of you haven’t stopped touching each other since your return last night.

“What does that mean? If they’re trying to confuse us, then they’re headed for us, right?”

“I won’t let anything happen to you or our little one, cherub,” Thor’s reassurance comes softly, his smile confident but soft. “Whatever this is, we’ll be ready for it. Have you sent the data to the others?”

“Sif is coming in for a debrief and we’ll send her to relay the specifics in person. It will need some explanation and Fandral will probably only skim the information if we send it to him via email.”

“We must have all of our troops trained for whatever attack is to come. I’m not going to let someone jeopardize our place here on Earth. We will protect our people but we will show the humans that we will defend them too from any threats to come,” Thor declares, his voice deep and determined, even angry.

He doesn’t like someone threatening his new home. Not after what happened to Asgard. The stress is in his eyes and you lean against him which you’re glad does what you want.

It distracts him.

“I had Stark build you a safe room. He called it a panic room, I think? So, should something happen, you’re to go in there and lock yourself in while we deal with any threat.”

You nod but push yourself back again to rest against the arm of the sofa while stretching out your legs again. It feels good and you sigh heavily as you rub your belly. Sitting scrunched up like that had been annoying.

“I have been training though. Even pregnant. At home, Loki would spar with me and help me with my technique. The short swords aren’t heavy anymore.”

Thor looks at his brother who sits smiling proudly at you before he notices the edge in Thor’s electric blue eye.

“It was all done safely. She and the baby were never in danger. I thought it was foolish to have her out there without her swords and the training to go along with them. Just because she left didn’t mean that she could slack off. Don’t give me that look. You know as well as I do that she needs to know. Even carrying your child, it’s important for her to know. One might even say especially because she's carrying the heir."

Loki’s voice grows steadily more subdued. Sad. Like a bad memory is playing itself over in his mind.

“I was too late, Loki,” Thor interjects, drawing your gaze to him too. He also looks sad. “And if you hadn’t been in that cell you’d have been long gone. Neither of us could have saved her. And you’re right. I know how important it is.”

Thor looks at you and takes your feet back in his hands, “I’m glad you trained. Once our child is born you’ll have to show me those skills of yours.”

Despite the playful nature of his taunt, you can see that he and Loki are both still in the depths of their grief. They must be thinking of their mother.

"So, these energy signatures, you still have no idea who could be causing them?"

The question is pointless. You know they don't know but it's something to say when all you can do is worry silently.

“I have theories,” Loki admits, exchanging a careful look with Thor. “But nothing concrete. Nothing that would put you at ease.”

“I don’t need to be put at ease, Loki. I need to know if there’s something to worry about. This doesn’t just affect our family but our people. If we need to warn them, we can’t be hesitant. Earth deserves a heads up, too.”

This is your job right? The voice of both your new Asgardian family and the people of Earth? This is why you were required to marry Thor.

Thor’s hand increases in strength around your foot as he tries to calm you.

“You’re right, cherub. Loki only means that there is no evidence to prove his theories so until we can find something to link these strange power surges to what he thinks it might be, then we should play this safe and hold off on raising any alarms. Isn’t that right, Loki?”

“Mm,” Loki agrees, nodding.

You frown, pulling your leg off of Thor’s lap to sit down properly and face both brothers. They sit up a little straighter in response to your own rigid back, your hands on your lap.

This isn’t right, whatever they might think.

“No,” you shake your head and watch as Loki puts his tablet down.

Thor scoots forward, reaching over to take your hand. You let him because he’s not trying to comfort you anymore. Instead, this reach is one of support and when you look at his singular eye, the patch on his empty socket gleaming softly in the dim light of the room, you can see he’s intent on listening and understanding.

If Jane has made any positive impact on you and Thor, it’s this. He’s really listening to you.

“Thor, you and the Asgardians are a unique people. You’ve all had it hard and I’m not trying to say that your struggles haven’t been difficult, but by nature, just by the very way that you all are made and born, you are stronger. It’s in your body’s makeup.

“For someone like me, if I were to jump from that open window, I would die. If you or any of the other Asgardians jumped from that window, you’d probably ache for a while, maybe a few would even get a few broken bones or cuts but they’d be superficial wounds.

“You know from experience how fragile humans are. Both of you,” the look you give Loki pulls his gaze down to his feet. “We’re unprepared for anything other than each other. We need more of a warning than you. We need time to prepare.”

It all falls into place in your head and with confidence you turn to look at Thor, turning your hand over to take his in your own hand.

With a quick squeeze, you scoot just a little closer to him, “Thor, I need to speak to the ambassadors. We need to schedule an official meeting to give them the rundown on what we’ve been doing here and what we’re keeping an eye on. Because, knowing Tony, I’m sure he hasn’t said anything to anyone outside of the compound?”

Loki sits back, crossing his legs as he shuts his tablet off, “No. Stark is as preoccupied about raising the alarm as we are. But now that you mention it, I suppose both we and he are not looking at this from a regular civilian of Earth’s point of view.”

“Y/N,” Thor calls your attention back to him, “This could backfire. We could be doing more harm than good by sharing with them the information we’ve gathered.”

You shake your head, “Maybe you’re right. Maybe I’m jumping the gun here. The last thing I want to do is cause a panic. But I don't think that’ll happen. It’s not like we’re going to leak it onto the internet. We’re going to meet with the ambassadors and provide this information to world leaders so that they can prepare the way they see fit. Trust me, these prime ministers and presidents and kings aren’t going to just announce to their people that some alien threat is on the way. They don’t want to look out of control or unprepared.

“We need to give Earth’s humans a chance to defend themselves. Even if they end up needing our help, they deserve to know.”

Loki and Thor are silent for what feels to you like a long time. In reality, you know it must only be seconds. However, this is the first time you’ve pushed back with them. This is the first time you’re speaking on behalf of the human race.

It makes you nervous and anxious. Will they let you be Queen in this sense? Or is it all just show?

They look at each other, staring and communicating silently before Loki gets to his feet and turns his tablet back on.

“Well, if I’m to set up a meeting with the ambassadors, NATO, and the UN I should probably get started.”

Your heart explodes with pride. They’re letting you really rule! You’re making a difference. True change. Your excitement mingles with a sudden terror as you realize that your choices are going to affect what will be millions if not billions of people.

Luckily, Loki’s words also serve to distract you from your trepidation.

“Wait, Loki,” you hurry to your feet and scurry to his side before ripping the tablet from his hands and hiding it behind your back.

“Hey,” he protests, reaching around you to try and grab it.

You hurry back to Thor and instead of sitting beside him you plop yourself onto his lap and sit as close as you can to trap the tablet between your bodies.

You can hear Thor’s heart begin to pound. Aside from those kisses yesterday, this is the closest you’ve put yourself to him since you got back. He’d slept with you in your shared bedroom, but he’d laid facing you and you him, a good six inches between your bodies.

He wraps his arms around you, placing his hands along the swell of your tummy. You can almost feel him glowing with happiness.

“As eager as I am to give Earth a heads up, I also think you need a break. The energy isn’t going anywhere and the Warriors Three and Sif are on the watch. Please do me a big favor and just take a day or two? You’ve been at it like crazy since I left the palace and it would make me so happy if my baby’s Uncle Loki would take a breather. He’s gotta be strong and in tip-top shape if he’s going to keep up with his future nephew.”

“Or niece,” Thor interjects. “She’s right, Loki. Rest. We’ll get back on this in two days and you can set everything up then. The city is roaring with celebration. Go out and enjoy it. You always loved a good party.”

Loki glares at the pair of you, “Using the future prince or princess is blackmail. And if I’m out there, what will you two do?”

Thor smiles at him, reaching between your bodies to grab the tablet from where it’s hidden. He sets it aside and his other hand trails over your side before wrapping around your waist to cup your bump again.

“I’m sure my queen and I will find something to keep us occupied. Making up for lost time, perhaps?”

Your neck burns but you grin up at Loki who fixes you with a knowing smile, “Of course. How silly of me. Well, let me not keep you from reacquainting yourselves with each other. If you have need of me, I will be around. Just call.”

“Have fun, Loki,” you call after him.

As he shuts the door, Thor tilts your head to the side, pulling you back against his chest fully so that he can kiss you without prompting.

“Sleeping beside you once more was dreamlike, cherub,” Thor tells you, low and full of want.

“And what would make it more real for you?”

“Shall I show you?”

And he waits, like the jerk that he is. He literally just dangles the carrot in front of you. His hard body pressed against your back, the heat of his legs seeping through your clothes to your skin.

His hands trace tantalizing circles around your stomach but make the slightest tickles to the fold of your pelvis. You hate him!

“Oh my god, hurry up, dummy.”

That’s all the invitation he needs. In an instant you’re in his arms as he settles you on the sofa, his hands already yanking and pulling at your clothes but when your tummy is exposed, he drops to his knees and worships your pregnant body with gentility and softness.

At least until you growl and yank him up to finish what he’s started.

~~~~~~~~~~

The sheets against your skin feel soft as silk. They’re slightly sticky but that’s more to do with your own body’s sweat.

“Why are you up?” Thor’s voice is heavy with sleep.

It’s thick and rough. It makes you smile and your ears burn because he sounds delicious and you missed mornings like this.

“I’m hungry,” you admit.

Thor tumbles from the bed, dragging with him the heavier faux fur blanket that sits at the foot of your bed for decoration usually. He wraps it around his waist and pulls the cord by the door.

“I already called them, puppy,” you assure him, and he smiles sleepily at you before moving towards you.

“I missed my term of endearment. Why a dog?”

As he reaches you, you open your sheet and his eyes roam the length of your naked body before he gets all handsy and dives into the sheet with you, eventually settling his hands on your bum. No groping, just resting. Then slowly he trails his fingers up along the sides of your back up to your shoulders and back down.

It leaves your skin full of goosebumps and you shiver. He misinterprets it and instead of stopping his stroking, he uses his flat hand to create friction instead.

“It’s not a dog, it’s a puppy. They’re cute and they’re kinda, I don’t know, like...clueless?” You laugh because that’s not the word you were looking for but it’s what comes out.

“Uh, excuse me, I have plenty of clues,” Thor argues, but he doesn’t seem offended.

“That’s not the right word,” you laugh again. “I don’t know how to describe it. I just want to squeeze you and cuddle you because you’re like this big blonde golden retriever only sexier.”

Thor makes his thinking face as he tries to pull up the picture of the dog breed you just compared him to, and he nods slowly.

“I think I can live with that,” Thor smiles down at you then leans to meet your lips.

You kiss him eagerly, your bodies both humming with anticipation even though you spent the last two days--practically--in bed.

Both of you know that there’s a time when this lust might not necessarily fade but dull a bit? Then again, it is Thor and he’s ravenous for you almost all the time.

You chuckle against his lips and he pulls back to look at you.

“What has you laughing so adorably?”

You let go of the sheet and before it can fall, Thor replaces your hands with his own to hold it up around you both. With free hands you’re able to trace the length of his arms, tracing the large curves. His skin is so damn soft.

You’re still not sure if that’s a Thor thing or an Asgardian God thing? What you know is that you love it and your fingers eat it up every time you touch him.

Whatever laugh or trace of humor you had falls away as you start to really look within yourself and examine why you’re so happy.

You shove your arms underneath his and wrap your arms around him, small whisper slaps of his skin as your hands are splayed out along his wide back. You press your ear against his chest. The thud of his heart is strong and slightly speedy, probably in response to your sudden shift in mood.

The swell between both of you, the little life kicking in response to your mood pulls both your attention for a few seconds before you find your voice.

“I missed you, Thor. More than I thought I would. Way more than I ever knew I could.”

The somber tone of your voice has him giving you a nice gentle squeeze. He likes having you right there right up against him just as much as you like being there.

“Well, you were very angry with me,” Thor reminds you. “I didn’t know your face could make those expressions. That day at your home?”

You hug him tighter, staring out at the small bloom of sunrise in the distance. It’s very slightly starting to glisten on the still ocean line.

“I was angry. But it was more than that.”

“I know,” Thor kisses the top of your head. “I hurt you. What I said, I-I didn’t mean it, cherub. I promise you. It was a temporary insanity. The moment you came into that room after I said what I did, I knew that I could never go through with it. And if you’d told me that we were expecting a child-”

“I couldn’t,” you sigh, leaning back to look up at him. “In my head, if I told you then after what you'd said that I was pregnant and you chose to stay with me, I would live the rest of my life wondering whether you chose me because you really loved me or because I was finally going to give New Asgard their heir.”

Thor’s face crumbles a little, brow scrunched, mouth pulled down at the corners as he shakes his head.

“I will always choose you. Not because you are the mother of my children, but because you are the love of my life. The one I did not expect. The one that I can never chance to lose again. I’m sorry that I ever made you doubt me.”

Staring into his eye, the intensity of his gaze, you know that he means what he says. He loves you.

Even though you can’t admit it to him because your reconciliation needs all of the positivity that you can both muster, in your heart, you can’t help but wonder if you can truly trust him.

~~~~~~~~~~

The days go by like routine after the Asgardians find that they have to go back to their jobs and lives.

As much as they all love a good party, Thor and Loki included if the last two days are any indication, they know they can't keep going and must get back to life as usual.

Thor at first makes an attempt to stay with you. The last few months of being without each other makes it difficult to be apart and for Thor especially, with the baby.

He hates leaving you. He wants to be there for every kick and every shift.

His largest grievance is that he can't listen to your laugh when the baby kicks and it feels weird. This you only find out because Loki, in his annoyance with the constant trips Thor makes him do to check on you when he's in his meetings.

Although you believe Loki, you take all of these little indicators of Thor’s love with ease but with the knowledge that it might very well be fleeting.

You try not to think about it and instead just allow yourself to enjoy the fact that Thor does indeed love you and you love him too. Even if it may not be forever. Even if it can change. Even if the future is now a little less certain.

Your meeting with the ambassadors approaches quickly. It takes a month to set it up. Longer than you'd thought and it doesn't take long to understand why.

"This is the third time they've pushed the meeting back," you gripe, moving over to Loki’s computer to look over his shoulder at the surprisingly very short email.

Please inform Her Majesty, the Queen of Asgard, that we are unable to meet with her as previously scheduled this week and will be in contact as to the next available day.

Should any true trouble arise, please tell Thor that we are more than happy to meet with him.

Sincerely,

Earth AMB Mark Coates

You're seething. You've never been this angry. Never this absolutely heated. Not even with Thor and what happened with Jane can compare to the absolute rage flowing through your veins.

"They don't seem to take you seriously," Loki realizes. "Because you're a woman?"

"Partially, probably," you growl as you move back around his desk to sit in the padded armchair by the window where you'd been watching Thor visit with the Valkyrie.

He's not there anymore though and you can see Hilde and her girls relaxing a little. Adjusting their armor, laughing, sitting and talking. Now that their inspection is over they can breathe.

Why they get so nervous you don't understand. Thor’s such a fanboy. He gushes about them constantly.

"What other reason might there be?" Loki asks, rising and moving around his desk to lean against it casually, hands shoved into the inky black pockets of his slacks.

His jade vest is unbuttoned and the sleeves of his dark gray button-up folded up to his elbow.

Summer is almost here and it's getting hotter.

You don't answer right away. Hands slowly stroking your belly, trying to calm down for the baby's sake. Feeling that upset can't be good for him.

You take a long deep inhale and with a heavy sigh release the stress.

"My Queen?" Loki urges, and you smile.

Realizing he's calling you by your title to reaffirm your place among them to make you feel better, you turn your smile on him.

"You've always been my biggest supporter. You and David," your smile falters. "I miss him."

"Is he still in Baghdad?"

"Yeah. He’s in deep so, no contact. I hope he's okay."

"You know, you do have a part time Avenger as a husband and the best magician for a brother-in-law. One word and we'd be happy to assist with your lawyer's extraction."

"Which is why I don't ask. If he needs help, David will let us know. He has his panic button."

The gift had been given to you by Tony who had made it for you to press when you and Thor had been estranged. An easy way to call for Thor if something should happen.

Your brother-in-law nods.

"I suppose it would be a little like nepotism. Fine. What should I do about the misogynistic email?" Loki wonders.

"He's not exactly a misogynist. Not completely anyway. The ambassador blowing me off has more to do with me specifically than it does with me being a woman."

This seems to set Loki off more than if the ambassador was doing this because you're a woman.

"What right does he have to snub the Queen of Asgard? Doesn't he know what that might do to relations between Earth and our people?"

You shake your head, smiling because his anger makes you feel better.

"No, he doesn't. Because to the world my marriage to Thor is show. It's a necessary political move. They don't care whether Thor and I love each other and Jane and Thor’s relationship was so publicized that it’s hard for them to accept that Thor might actually love me.

"Thor went to extreme lengths to protect Jane in the past. Public displays of affection like that aren't forgotten easily.

"To the ambassadors and probably most of the world, offending me doesn't mean an offense against Thor. To them, I'm a queen in name only. No real power here."

Loki huffs through his nose, standing straight with his hands at his waist before he turns to walk back behind his desk.

He stops for a moment, thinking hard you guess, then whips around and stomps towards you before shoving his finger towards the windows.

"I know it has been a while for me, but I can very easily open another tear in space over New York. Or wherever you need me to. I might need a bit of time to locate the power and forces to do it but I will show the people.of Earth what happens when they underestimate the love of the Asgardian people for their queen."

Leaning back in your chair, you keep your arms around your bump as you watch Loki make his threat.

"That's a bit much for a dude who just thinks that my political marriage is just that, isn't it?"

You keep your face clear of amusement, because it really is very sweet of him to be so upset for you. But you can't help the small smile that stretches your lips.

He deflates, moving to other armchair across from yours and sits but leans forward with his elbows on his knees.

"It's shameless disrespect, Y/N. We cannot let them get away with it. You are Asgardian now. A slight against you is a slight against this Kingdom."

"I know, Loki. But-"

Behind Loki his office door opens. It faintly creeks and through it pokes Thor’s searching gaze.

He looks confused as he scans the room until he spots the two of you and with a little skip in his step and a wide unfettered smile, he shuts the door and moves towards you.

"Hi," you smile at him widely in reaction to the loveable look on his face.

"Hello," Thor replies, his voice low and quiet as he leans down towards you.

"You finished early today," you observe, voice just as quiet.

"You know I hate being apart," Thor whispers and presses his lips to yours.

His kiss is so soft and slow.

He pulls away too quickly and as your heart stutters, you reach up to hook your hands into the sides of his chest plate and pull him back down for another kiss.

He'd worn his full uniform today for an early meeting and the inspection of the Valkyrie. He looks so good but with his hair growing in, now just past his shoulders.

He still has the two small braids you'd worked in on the left side of his head and he looks so good, you might jump him later. If you don't pass out for an afternoon nap.

He pulls away again, this time smiling brightly.

"Will I always get this welcome if I come home early? I might have to shorten my days."

You chuckle as he moves around you and stops by a side table where Loki keeps a few weapons on display on a stand. He starts to remove his harder pieces of armor and places them aside.

"What has you looking so stern, brother?" Thor asks, keeping his back to you both as he moves onto the leather pieces that keep his chain mail from shifting.

Loki sits back, sighing heavily as he considers how much to tell Thor.

"Something I should worry about? Come. Tell me and lessen your burden."

"He's upset for me. That's all."

You hear the clink of Thor's mail as it falls on the table then he's moving around your right to squat by your chair so that he's below your eye level.

"Upset for you? Why?" His look of concern is upsetting and pleasing at the same time.

You purse your lips and look at Loki.

"It might be easier if I showed you," he says then rises and moves to his desk to get his tablet.

Thor reaches out to place his hand on your belly and you place yours over his.

He smiles at you then leans down to kiss your tummy while you run your fingers through his hair and try to ignore the utterly breathtaking and heartaching butterflies that his sweet love on your baby gives you.

"I missed you," he whispers to you.

Again, your heart stutters. He’s so easy with his words. These declarations feel so good but that little voice in the back of your head also makes your heart ache.

You just smile at him. Unable to speak when you feel like you're glowing and grieving at the same time.

"Here," Loki holds out the tablet and Thor stands then takes it.

He moves to the loveseat across from your and Loki's armchairs and plops down before reading.

You watch him, admiring the out of armor look. His black leather pants are just as hugging as they always are. His top, a dark gray long sleeve made with breathable fabric leaves no room to wonder just how defined his muscles are.

He's Asgardian perfection.

He breathes in deeply then exhales loudly, a passing shadow of rage overcoming his Godly features before he tosses the tablet at Loki lightly who catches it easily.

Thor spreads his legs a little, tapping his heels as he throws his left arm along the back of the small sofa, his other hand resting on his thigh.

"Write the bastard and tell him I'm requesting the meeting then. Then my cherub and I will both be waiting to give him both the information he needs to warn Earth and a piece of my mind."

You look down at your feet, heart pounding and stomach tumbling with nerves.

You don't want to be the reason any rifts come between New Asgard and Earth. The whole purpose of the position you hold is to protect the citizens of this city.

"Thor," you warn, turning to meet his gaze only when you know you can handle it.

"He wants me to contact him, so I will. In fact, send a raven instead. Do the works. Scroll. Seal. And when they arrive, give them a royal welcome with trumpets and a guard."

"Thor…"

"They will not disrespect you and find warm welcomes in my home. You are my wife. My Queen! Even if all they assume is between us is political agreement, they should respect the title you hold. We may not be above them, but we do outrank them an they need to know that you are not to be messed with.

"The fact that I love you only makes my resolve stronger."

"Okay. I get it, puppy. And I'm grateful to both you and Loki for standing up for me. With your tempers, no one would believe you aren't blood related. Sheesh."

You gran hold of the arms of your chair and groan only a little as you push yourself up onto your feet.

"Oof," you reach back and place your hand on your waist.

Thor’s arm immediately extends out towards you. Beckoning you to his side.

It takes you a moment but you get your footing back and move for him. As soon as you're within reach his arm is around you, helping you sit down carefully.

He doesn't let you sit back all the way. He pushes you to your left so that you'll shift and sit angled while he sits up straighter and turns to face you.

With gentle but firm hands he starts to work out the kinks and knots in your back.

Unintentionally you moan with relief. Thor’s eyes are on Loki though.

"What was your idea?"

"I offered to open another tear in space above whatever city she deemed proper. With the allowance of time to find both the power to do so and the army to lead through it."

You can't see Thor expression but when he speaks, his disapproving sounds fake.

"I'm not sure even idly that threat is in good taste. But I understand the sentiment."

"Do you really want me to make all of that fuss to make the ambassador come and meet with you?"

"Yes. I think he needs to be humbled. He may be in a position of power and my Y/N may owe her marriage to their insistence and meddling, but she is Queen and they are speakers for Earth. They would not have jobs had we not come to live here. Their disrespect of our Queen is a slight on our people.

"The moment I took Y/N under my banner is the moment she became Asgardian from the tips of her cute toes to the top of her irresistible head. And with our child on the way, they should know better."

Loki gets to his feet and moves towards the door, "Very well. One royal invitation coming right up."

As he leaves, Thor’s focus is diverted completely to you.

"Does that feel good, love?"

You only moan in return.

Thor chuckles and keeps going for a few minutes longer before you push back towards him and he lets you rest your back against his chest.

You can't be scrunched forward too long before your stomach begins to feel squished.

You look straight up at his face and he smiles.

"Hi," you tell him.

"Hello."

You smile.

"Was the massage satisfactory?"

"Mmmm, it was great. Your hands are godly, puppy."

Thor chuckles at the pun but leans forward to kiss the tip of your nose.

"And you, my sweet cherub, are a Goddess. And I will make sure you are treated as such."

[dudeandduchess]

Yakuza!Kyōjurō x F!S/O: Sugar and Spice (Mafia!AU, Modern AU, NSFW Series)[Chapter 3]

Summary: Kyōjurō and (Y/n) meet at a party, only to find out that their lives would change forever— since they had been arranged to be married. To make matters even more difficult for them, they were from two different walks of life, with (Y/n) being the Prime Minister’s daughter, and Kyōjurō being the heir to his clan’s Yakuza group.

Note: Kyō’s second to the last line was from Biz; from one of our jam sessions. So, I can’t take credit for that. 😂

Warnings: Smut, Vaginal Fingering, Oral Sex, Teasing, Orgasm Denial

Chapter 1| Chapter 2 | Chapter 4

***

To say that the press had a field day— as soon as the news of (Y/n) and Kyōjurō being engaged— was an understatement. It was absolute pandemonium outside the Prime Minister’s residence, as well as the Rengoku estate in Setagaya; cameras everywhere, people shouting questions at anyone and everyone who would pass them by.

But all of it got even wilder when Kyōjurō made an appearance at the Prime Minister’s home; carrying a large bouquet of flowers, with a very obvious— and eye-catching— bag from one of the most expensive jewelry stores in the country.

If he was trying to bait the press into taking a keen interest on him and (Y/n), then he had done a foolproof plan. That much was obvious, from the charming smirk that graced his lips as the guards tried to keep the press back from the closing gates.

And, as if to bait them even further, he lifted a hand up— giving them a brief wave through the slats in the wrought iron gate, before turning around and walking up the steps that led to the front door of the estate.

Meanwhile, (Y/n) wasn’t one bit thrilled at the cacophony of people that had been camping outside since yesterday. She had her arms crossed over her chest, if only to make herself feel a little more grounded.

She was used to being in front of cameras and being the center of attention, but only when it came to charity work and the like; never when people were actually interested in her, per se.

But she couldn’t do anything about it; not even if she opposed the engagement. Because she didn’t want to be the cause of her father’s disappointment; that or her family’s downfall, as she was sure that the Rengokus would expose the deal that Yorihiko had made with them to get the Prime Minister position.

That wouldn’t bode well for her, nor her family.

“Hello, baby.” (Y/n) jumped in surprise at the feel of a warm pair of lips just against the skin below her ear. She had no doubt that had she worn one of her regular shirts— and not a turtleneck sweater, to hide the love bites that adorned her skin— then she would have felt those lips latching on to that one spot on her neck that made her moan.

She and Kyōjurō hadn’t even known each other very long, but it scared and thrilled her that he was coming to know her body so quickly. And why she was so against him getting to know her body even further… was all because he scared her.

Not in the sense that he would hurt her, but in the sense that she wanted him just as much as he wanted her. That much was obvious, as they had met under such… lustful circumstances.

The young woman then whirled around, with one hand lifting itself up and touching the tips of her fingers to the now warm spot— which Kyōjurō had just kissed. They were standing too close for her comfort, so she also found herself taking a tentative step back, before asking, “What are you doing here?”

“Can’t I see my future wife?” The blond teased with a bright grin, before stepping forward and closing the minute gap between them. That had their chests pressed together once more, which he enjoyed immensely; especially as he felt her nipples beginning to harden right beneath her clothes.

“No.”

At that, a hearty laugh escaped from the blond’s lips, just as he lifted the bouquet of flowers up to the side of his head; showing (Y/n) that he hadn’t gone to see her empty-handed. “Don’t be so mean, sweetheart. I might just… I don’t know, fuck you right against that wall as punishment.”

His words sent a warm tingle racing all the way down (Y/n)’s spine; making her suppress her visible shudder as much as possible, right as she finally took a couple of steps away from Kyōjurō.

However, before he could trap her against the wall and his body— like he had done the day before— the young woman quickly rounded him and traipsed over to the empty couch; where she then sat down. As a precaution, she crossed her legs at the ankles, and sat sideways; as if she were at a meeting with one of her father’s esteemed guests, instead of in one of the mansion’s reception areas with her future husband.

“Don’t be so cold to your husband, baby,” Kyōjurō teased once more, his grin widening as he followed the young woman’s movements. But, instead of sitting down next to her on the couch, he sat down right on the edge of the coffee table; laying the bouquet right next to him so fluidly that it all seemed choreographed.

(Y/n)’s heart began to pound at that, and even more so when Kyōjurō leaned forward; forearms on the tops of his legs, and their knees barely brushing against each other’s’. Then, slowly, she felt his hands begin to brush against her skin; light and gentle movements at first— as if he was teasing her— before they outright curled around her legs, and slid up so close to where her modest, knee-length skirt had ridden up.

“You’re not my husband. What are you doing?” (Y/n) hissed out in a whisper, not even bothering to hide the surprise and mild hostility in her tone. Especially when the blond only smirked up at her, before pushing the hem of her skirt up even further.

Wordlessly, Kyōjurō just shrugged, before sliding off the table and getting down on his knees in front of (Y/n). He then maneuvered his hands to push her legs apart, as he wedged himself in between them before she could close them back up.

“I’m asking you again, what the fuck do you think you’re doing?”

“Showing you some love. Anything wrong with that, baby?” The blond asked, right before leaning down and pressing a kiss to the top of the young woman’s left thigh.

Completely bewildered, (Y/n) tried to pry his hands off of her thighs— especially when Kyōjurō began to push her skirt up even more; exposing her panties to him, and having his fingers slide beneath the elastic at her hips.

“No shorts underneath? How bold, (Y/n)…” His tone was joking, but the lust in his eyes were clear as day as he looked right up at (Y/n).

The mere mention of her name rolling off of his tongue had her biting down on her tongue; if only to keep herself from feeding into what he wanted and moaning softly.

However, a gasp of surprise passed her lips when Kyōjurō pulled her hips right to the edge of the couch; right before he boldly pressed his lips to the crotch of (Y/n)’s panties. And before she could push his head away, he snaked his tongue out between his lips and began to lick her pussy right through the thin cloth.

“People are going to come in!” The young woman whisper-yelled, but made no move to stop him; especially as he pulled her underwear to the side, before gliding the flat of his tongue up her slit.

Her reaction pleased the Rengoku immensely though, as she made no mentions of wanting him to stop; only that people might see them. That gave him an inkling that she felt the same attraction towards him, as he did for her.

“I told them to give us some privacy,” He answered with a smirk, just as he pressed his mouth right against her cunt; licking up and down her slit, before taking her clit into his mouth and nipping at it with his teeth.

That had (Y/n)’s hips jerking in pleasure and surprise, especially as her fiancé paid more attention to her sensitive clit. Every pass of his tongue against the little nub had her gasping softly, and eventually throwing her head back against the back of the couch— succumbing to the pleasure coursing through her entire body, even though a part of her kept telling her that what they were doing wasn’t appropriate at all.

But that all took the back seat, as the blond’s left hand snaked its way down to cup her pussy; letting his fingers tease her entrance, while Kyōjurō pulled back a little to admire the way that he was spreading her wetness around her needy cunt.

“Fuck, baby, I can’t wait to fuck this pretty little cunt.” With those words hanging in the air, Kyōjurō spread (Y/n)’s lips with two fingers, before slowly sliding his middle finger inside her; watching her face, as her eyes closed in bliss— with her lips parting in a silent moan.

That had him feeling so hot and needy for her; even more than before. But he knew that he had to wait, at least until their wedding night— if only to tease her to the point where she was the one who initiated things between them.

Slowly, he began pumping his finger inside her; curling it up against her g-spot and watching her back arch up so beautifully in pleasure. He then leaned his head back down and wrapped his mouth around her clit once more, relishing in the soft gasps and moans escaping (Y/n)’s lips— even as she tried to muffle them by pressing the back of her hand against her lips.

And when he added another finger to the one inside her tight pussy, he felt her legs tense on either side of him; which he took as a sign to start fucking her even faster— to the point where she was subtly bucking her hips against his face. So shameless, and all because of him.

He loved making her so helplessly needy like that.

“You want my cock, baby?” Kyōjurō couldn’t help but ask; feeling a little bit of his pettiness— from her earlier quip about him not being her husband— bubble up within him. “You want me to fuck you hard right here?”

“…yes, please.”

Instead of giving in to her plea, however, he curled his fingers against her g-spot one more time, before pulling his fingers right out of her; then looked right into her eyes as he brought the digits to his mouth so he could suck them clean.

And, with a smug grin, he stated, “Sorry, baby, but my cock is wifey privileges.”

“What the…” (Y/n) hissed, sitting upright and glaring down at the grinning man right between her legs. She pursed her lips at first, wanting to tell him that that wasn’t what he would have said when they first met, but deciding that that would make her sound nothing more than a sore loser. So, she went with what she could do, curse him: “Fuck you.”

“Maybe on our honeymoon, sweetheart.” With that, Kyōjurō blew her a playful kiss, feeling her glare get even hotter as her eyes narrowed on him.

He was sure then, that if only looks could kill, he’d have been on the ground the moment he stopped fucking her with his fingers. But he had to admit, she looked so cute when she was mad.

[suspiciouslypinkrosegarden]

The Passed Out Princess Chapters 1-2

Pairing: My CMC (Uyu, Dan Byeol) x Suit Saeran

Description: On days 7-9 of Ray’s route, the player is denied food as “Saeran” makes his presence first known. But, what if MC fell very ill under this method of torture due to a medical condition? Sadly, my custom MC, Uyu (full name Dan Byeol), would deal with exactly this dilemma.

Content warning: Descriptions of throwing up, passing out, and meal skipping. Every food related issue mentioned is strictly medical, and based on my own condition.

This was written under the assumption that you have played Ray’s route in full, so route spoilers ahead! This takes place during the very beginning of day 8, and according to the timings and contents of the chat rooms, it would take place before Saeran cuts contact with the RFA and before he installs a camera to monitor MC in her room. It is timed to match closely around to when I’d get sick myself.

My CMC’s condition deals chronic with low blood sugar, meaning she has to eat to keep it up or suffer the consequences as seen here. It is not diabetes related, it is something she is born with as am I and is linked to more complicated matters I left out to keep it simple. Some symptoms include: growing light headed, severe dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and passing out. See all chapters

I wrote this with flexibility for whichever HC for Saeran you follow (DID or BPD), because whether or not he has one of the following, Rika has drilled it in his head that Ray and Saeran are separate entities, and Saeran views it this way. Consider it written the way Cheritz writes him, with nothing exactly too set.

To make things easier for myself, I’m uploading multiple chapters on each post, chapters only separated by lines. Here is 1 and 2

Ping!

The sound of Dan’s phone alerted her to rise and greet the day with a new chat room open.

As the morning sun took its place in the clear blue sky, the little woman sat up in her big bed, bangs sticking out in all directions as her head thumped with a dull pain. Hunger induced pain, she noted, as her stomach felt empty.

Despite the beauty of this early morning, the light pouring through the windows creating a rosy glow which engulfed the princess room; there was no beautiful light shining on the brunette’s new situation, seeming so dreary and dim.

Uyu still found herself wrapped up in this place, whisked away to a castle tucked deep within mountains known as Magenta. Every corner of the building was constructed brick by brick with a beautifully ornate architectural design, but the bright exterior was only a façade. If she was left caged like this for long, what would become of her? Driven to insanity, perhaps she’d attack and claw at the walls which confined her, unable to turn her anger to Saeran, the real victim in all this. The “savior” made it clear she was the true ruling figure who lurked about as the moon rose, the mastermind behind this place’s pain and suffering.

The night before, after being so kindly introduced to “Saeran”, this golden-haired angel confirmed herself to be quite the wicked witch of the west indeed, and it took everything out of Uyu to not call her harsher names to her face.

Mint Eye was hell redecorated to wear the guise of heaven, but pretty gardens and saccharine words could not fool her. Because Dan wore no wool over her eyes, the savior had no intention of allowing her to live long enough to become the new narrator of “The Yellow Wallpaper”; and she had no shoes to click together at the heel to wish her way home with who she came here for originally.

Just as Ray’s suit did, he changed, flipping like a light switch.

Saeran, the name V previously called him by, did succeed in giving her a good fright, his attitude being the least thing she expected to see after Ray’s earlier sobs over the phone.

Uyu was mainly focused on one solid question after their encounter, though. Just what did that “cleansing” entail in full detail? What did this place do to him, to make him weep and beg for a warm hand to hold one minute, only to push back and try to scare her the next?

It was as if he was caught, dragged by the feet somewhere inescapable, a pit damp and dark down under; rising from a shivering grave cold to the touch.

If it weren’t for her position, she wouldn’t have allowed it.

Now more than ever, this room built on the foundation of fantasy and delight felt like a birdcage which barely allowed her to wiggle an arm through its bars. She relied on her song, her sweet words which Ray claimed to tickle at his heart and hold a power over him like no other before. Her goal, of course, was to use this for good, influencing him to learn to appreciate and care for himself like he should. But now, she felt unable to do even that much, not that she’d give up trying.

Saeran wished to dismiss her and her actions entirely, evident from his need to spew the fact that he bestowed upon her the label of being less than a person, his toy. His play thing.

That sick twisting she felt pooling in her gut upon first hearing the term “cleansing” seemed all too in place.

Ray, as sweet as her prince charming was, had a knack for leaving out important details about this museum of wonder. To her best guess, it was done to avoid panic as none of what went on here could be viewed as normal, or ok. He only briefly mentioned things like the “elixir”, such as on the night V arrived to spiral this place’s plans into chaos.

That was the night she could officially mark a great importance in staying, despite the vast network of lies.

Uyu wasn’t entirely stupid, she had an idea of what the elixir might be a while back, but it was still hard to process regardless.

Saeran threatened to give her one of these cleansing ceremonies...and said he could “draw out the maximum pain in the process”, telling her whatever happened to him hurt. A “no duh” moment indeed, but it was confirmation.

Ray suffered, for no reason other than he was too enwrapped in his blooming feelings for her, something that shouldn’t be taken as a negative but was. It displeased the savior that his chains which bound him by the ankles began to jingle with his new yearning to take flight.

She couldn’t allow herself to lie down and give the savior the satisfaction of breaking her, not when she still had so much to do, and not when Saeran and the RFA were at risk.

As the cool night-time air blew around them, feeling its whisper through her long locks of hair, Ray opened up about Mint Eye’s beliefs as a sanctuary for the “weak”, who had no choice but to lock themselves away to avoid further hurt.

He clearly viewed himself as someone in this category. Weak. But Saeran? Saeran shoved and shouted, which felt like a complete opposite to Ray’s whimpers and pleading. He even went as far as to accuse her of manipulation, of treating Ray like a puppet as she watched him dance to the harp she plucked.

Looking past his outburst and itch to watch her squirm, there stood a man seething with hate sparked entirely by twisted lies and his own fears. He gave himself away rather quickly as he attempted to say she messed with “hisna vefeelings” for some “big plan”.

She had to trust that there were boundaries he wouldn’t cross, being so close to her and forceful...and that was where her panic truly lied. But for now, she’d bank on the idea that he just wanted to scare her, staying alert in case he went too far. There were vases around from Ray’s various gifts that could be used as a weapon during the extreme. Unlike her, Saeran had no fighting skills either, but currently she was a bit too ill for those measures.

For once, a room so pink made her feel neither cozy nor at home.

Uyu’s fuzzy morning vision was then attracted to a black blob hanging on the doorknob. With a little eye rub, she made it out to be a dress, and a rather pretty one at that. In the way it was cut, it would expose much of her shoulders and upper back, the top front of it connected to a bow tied around the back of a neck piece with strings of fabric; like an attached choker. She could only assume it was a “gracious gift” bestowed upon her from the man she saw take Ray’s place. Apparently, he has a thing for black.

Her little device chimed again, and then once more, third time giving her the last push of annoyance she needed to reach over and respond to the opened chatroom.

She sighed with relief seeing Seven was the person active online, as she could now pester him with questions about what he was seeing on his end of the fight. They typed away, Uyu expressing concern for both of the hackers as they discussed Ra-Saeran’s new careless and aggressive tactics to snag him a victory.

As time passed, Jumin joined to ask questions as well, mainly circling around the governmental commendation from the Prime Minister to recognize the RFA for their charity work. Uyu stuck to her gut and pushed against the idea of it being a complete positive.

While both V and Seven acted oddly around the idea of the commendation, the RFA was also just a small organization which had only held two parties previous to Rika’s “passing”. The award was too fishy to trust in her judgment, especially now that she understood things going on around here weren’t at all what they had seemed to be.

Mint Eye wasn’t the only organization she was caught in that held its secrets.

After a bit of talking, Jumin agreed that the prime minister’s reasoning had to be figured out before any final decisions could be made. Everyone logged off, Seven returning to the battlefield and Jumin to stitching in his car.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The need for food grew worse.

Uyu showered and changed into the outfit provided…not having much of a choice to do otherwise unless she wanted to rewear old clothing. She felt down and sluggish as she dressed the way her toy maker willed, the dark frills of her attire tickling against her thighs as her step dragged. She was still ok enough to make herself look presentable, even if done at such a pace.

Her hair changed to a solid dark brown color as it took in the shower water, the gold ombré reaching her tips returning upon giving it a blow dry, making sure Saeran would have less to scoff next he saw her. She wasn’t aiming to avoid his crude comments, but instead trying to make herself feel good. Call her smelly all he wants, she knows she isn’t.

Saeran was aiming to play into her insecurities, maybe full well knowing she had so very many of them as he tried to wind her up. The least she could do was confirm his lies to be lies in the ways she knew how, if not for him then for her. She couldn’t allow him to figure out what made her gears stop, whether his words were true or not. This was no game of knife throwing, and she was no target.

11:00 AM crept up on her as she moped around quietly in her dollhouse, waiting for Saeran to come and try to take a good yanking on her marionette strings.

Dan sat upon the bed as the empty-headed feeling and banging in her temple raged, shifting to lay down fully and make herself more comfortable. If she stood for too long, she’d sway and wobble as her vision turned to black, purple and green swirls, momentarily clouding both her sight and mind.

Despite her numerous texts and occasional calls, she still heard nothing from Saeran. Not a peep.

She was growing restless as well as worried for him, and what would become of her as she continued to go unfed.

Her phone buzzed, shifting her attention over to it groggily, eyes half lidded as she wanted to sleep off this sinking feeling. Soon, she’d start to go down like the Titanic as lunch time acted as her iceberg.

Uyu hoped it was her self-proclaimed master, only to let out a grumble seeing that it wasn’t. Instead, it was Zen who had logged on.

She chatted with him, trying her best not to voice her ever-growing discomfort from skipping last night’s dinner as well as that morning’s breakfast, lunch time now creeping just around the corner.

After a quick talk, she’d call Saeran again...as uncomfortable as that conversation would be, it was her only viable option to kill the onslaught of nausea.

As they talked for a while, Yoosung joined the conversation as well….with talk of food; stew he was in the middle of making to be precise. She felt her stomach churn and rumble as the need for rest fell over her like a weighted blanket, being the only escape from the inevitable vomit now building up inside.

She logged off within another couple of seconds as the hot sweat began.

Dan swallowed thickly as her stomach went haywire, guts twisting, coaxing her to run to the toilet and empty out the water she could at least keep herself going on from the bathroom tap.

Leaving her phone on the bed, she rose to her feet best she could, stumbling till she reached the cold tiles of the bathroom floor. There, she fell to her knees, pulling her long hair back and away from her damp face, lifting up the toilet seat before her.

Within a mere moment, she felt the contents claw at the inside of her throat with a burning sensation, attempting to break free. She shuddered as her body suddenly fell in temperature, before allowing whatever her tummy could offer up to slip past her lips, color in her face all too faded away, displaying her illness. Gagging and choking noises echoed throughout the small room as the rather clearish liquid flowed from her mouth, tears from the discomfort blurring her vision as she blinked them away.

She stayed like that by the toilet for a while, throwing up a couple more times before making certain that event was over for the time being. Uyu considered herself extremely lucky that none was able to touch her or end up in her hair, but not nice to say vomiting wasn’t new to her. She knew the tricks.

Oddly, when something like this would happen, it gave her a tiny amount of strength back. It was strangely relieving, although emptying her stomach further. Her tummy was able to untense a tad.

She blew her nose and wiped her eyes before giving it all a flush down.

A fast teeth brush followed before she stumbled over to bed where she had left her phone. She fiddled with the RFA app until she could reach Saeran’s contact profile. Trying not to let the dread of being ignored again wash over her, she dialed up his number, both nervous and praying this time for a response.

After that last fit was over, her condition would move her into another stage, passing out being the only thing to come next without the blood sugar spike she needed.

The ringing went on for what felt like an eternity as she groaned and pressed her face into the pillow.

“Pick up...pick up damn it please pick up…”.

Uyu wished that she had made a bigger fuss over this earlier rather than attempting to swallow it and wait it out. Being distracted by “the savior” and Saeran’s screaming was something she shouldn’t have allowed herself to do in the midst of endangering her own health. What was she thinking? She knew it would reach this point, it always does if left unchecked. She internally cursed herself for not speaking up more assertively.

After another moment, his angry voice finally came through the speaker and she sighed softly with relief. The last she had heard from him was at four in the morning.

“Feeling this lonely and desperate already, hmm? Tch...what makes you think you have the right to contact me over and over again when I’m doing important work unlike you?”

She huffed on the other end, which he paid no mind.

“All you do is fiddle around like a good for nothing. You didn’t seem so happy to chat with me last time we spoke, but now you’re all eager and ready? You’re just itching for another visit aren’t you? Impatient little princess~.”

He let out an airy chuckle, finding her repeated acts of calling him rather amusing.

“Don’t worry. I have play time all planned out for you soon, you pest. I’ll bother you ten times more than you ever bothered me-”

She cut off his angry rambling, mumbling quietly as she spoke.

“Saeran...can you please come here? I’m not well right now and I don’t know how much longer I can keep myself functioning...I already threw up-”

“Speak up, you complainer! Seriously? You want to see me so badly that you’d put on an elaborate show? Princess...you can’t win any sort of sympathy from me by acting like a brat. Ugg, I’m going to hang up now. I’ll be imagining the million ways I can punish you for this later, stupid toy. I’m busy! Too busy for a bug like you to understand! You waste my time-”

“Wait please...please come here...it’s harder for me to explain over the phone. I...mentioned this problem earlier..please…”

And she had, briefly attempting to bring it up as he invaded a chat room between her and Jaehee.

“Begging now?”

He took on a sad tone of childish mockery as he continued.

“Please please please...please come see me... AHAHA! You airhead. I know what your medical records look like, and therefore I know you’re spinning a lie. You’re not to be trusted just as my savior says. There’s nothing there pertaining to some sort of eating issue other than the fact that your weak little body can’t handle milk…‘Uyu’~.”

He teased at her chosen nickname, and while the irony was why it was picked, this was less than fun.

“Now quit whining over an empty stomach when it hasn’t even been a full day! It’s no fun to see you give up so fast!”

Dan tried her best not to slur her speech, the task assigned to speak up being too hard of one to follow.

“Fine...fine don’t believe me. But…..it doesn’t hurt to come anyways. Since you want to see me suffer….or whatever….”

“Or whatever??? Toy, if I come see you right now...you won’t like what you’re going to get. I haven’t an ounce of pity in me to give you if that’s what you’re searching for. I'm not the type to let you rest in my lap as I stroke your hair and tell you it will be alright, and I won’t give in and feed you. Instead, I’ll make sure you never wish to call me again.”

“...ok…”

“Ok? Ok?? Haha! ...ok then. Let’s see how pathetic you’ve become as you beg and plead to me in person, little actor. Playtime is happening earlier today than I had planned. Congratulations! I’m extra pissed.”

Call ended.

She let out a puff of air, dropping her phone down next to her before closing her eyes, not bothering to stand in preparation for his arrival.

Next chapters All chapters

[just2bubbly]

The Dinner!

Masterlist

Rumors and Affairs: Chapter List

// This is an update of Breaking the News..

Kai’s Persective: 

“Your Majesty, are you okay?” the American President Vargas asked.

“Yeah, just Emperor Kaito would do.” he said as he had learned the hard way that the President liked to use his title of ‘Emperor’ wherever possible.

“Okay. As I was saying it’s time for dinner so we both can walk together to the dining chambers”

Kai nodded his head. President Vargas had interrupted on his comm with Cinder and he did not look ashamed about it as well. He was angry after realizing why Cinder seemed so dejected, but could he really shout at the President of the USA because of Cinder’s mistake, a big fat NO.

Cinder.

 What was she thinking today? He was excited to go home now that he would finally be seeing Cinder after like 9 days 21 hours and 58 seconds-now it becomes 59 seconds. He was definitely not counting. Now he was looking forward to going home back for an entirely different reason. He had to solve this mess that was already looming on his head before he had come to England. He was trying to postpone addressing the rumors for his own sake and sanity. He was happy in his own bubble- where everyone was happy as the royal couple was expecting a child. Alas! Fantasies were not made for Emperors especially not for Kai. His life with Cinder felt like a dream but the press ruined it all the time. The first thing he would do after going to Eastern Commonwealth was put restrictions on the press.

“Emperor Kaito, are you listening?”

Kai zoned out. He should pay attention to avoid saying something wrong like Cinder.

“My apologies President, I got distracted. Could you repeat what you were saying?” he asked with a polite smile.

“Nothing much actually, I was just asking how you feel about the meeting that took place in the morning?”

“Oh, About that! I must say I agree with Queen Camilla for once. The prospect of abolition of cyborg needs of guardians is very much acceptable to the Eastern Commonwealth. It is actually done in the Commonwealth thanks to Cin-my wife you see. It would be good if the Earthen Union follows lead. ”

“I agree as well, Emperor. It seems your mind is in the Commonwealth where your dearest wife Selene is.”

“No President, I am wholly involved this conversation.” Kai replied, his ears becoming pink. Why did he have to blush and get flustered so easily, he could read Cinder cliché love letters and she would not show a sign of blushing and here he was getting all flustered at the mention of his wife.

“I was just kidding, Emperor. Remind me how far along the Empress is?”

“She is 7 months along” he said, feeling quite happy now that they had reached the dining chambers. He would be able to avoid talks with President Vargas, never his favorite one.

“Here you are Emperor Kaito and President Vargas. I would request you to take a seat so that we can commence with dinner. We were expecting your arrival.” addressed the Queen.

He and the President took their seats. His seat was adjacent to Princess Sophie, Queen Camilla’s daughter.

Feeling a bit out of his element, he avoided talking with any of the world leaders. ‘Out of his element really huh, Kai!’ he said to himself. He had been raised to be presentable at such meetings and political dinners, how could Kai be out of his element, then again when did he ever feel out of character at Rampion even when he had not been raised to have friends who were criminals for a time- being.

He could not really avoid any talk for Princess Sophie was sitting next to him, she was rather known for her talkative nature. Not only this but the sitting arrangement was awkward for Kai who had recently learned that the princess had some royalty-crush upon him. He really had no idea how to sit beside a person who might have a crush on you. Besides he was a married man, expecting his first born child.

Someone coughed a bit too loudly to seek his attention.

“Emperor Kaito, are you enjoying yourself?���

“Well, Queen Camilla I certainly am, why would you ask that?” he said evidently lying.

“No, Emperor you seemed a bit too lost in thoughts.” Kai wanted to shout at her if a man could not maintain a calm face through an idiotic and might he add unnecessary delay of dinner, but he would not to that because he was THE Emperor.

“Don’t disturb the Emperor, Camilla.” President Vargas said with a hint of mischief in his tone.

“And why would that be Vargas?” talking as if they were friends since college, they seemed to forget that a few hours earlier Camilla wanted to chop down his head.

“He was distracted with me as well. His mind is somewhere else.”

“And where would that be?” asked Africa’s Prime Minister Kamin.

“Don’t you get it Kamin, the Commonwealth.” The Governor-General Williams from Australia replied.

“Obviously, Empress Selene has stayed behind.” President Vargas said in a way of confirmation.

At this remark of the President, both Princess Sophie and Queen Camilla looked crestfallen. After the Lunar Revolution, Torin had told him about how Camilla wanted her daughter to be married to Kai, in order to form an alliance but his father never acceded and Kai had already fallen for the Queen of Luna later. He was watching the conversation going around him, royally failing to keep a straight face. Kai had become uncomfortable and it was evident that he was trying his hardest to not blush. With the ongoing talks around him and in an effort to change the topic he said, “May I know why the diplomatic dinner is used to discuss my marital life?”

“Oh! Emperor we don’t do diplomatic talks at the dinner table here in Europe but I guess it’s a common practice in the Commonwealth.” The Queen replied.

Why couldn’t she understand that he did not want to talk about his life at this dinner. Could he ask her about her plans to marry her daughter at the dinner hosted by him? NO RIGHT! The old queen could not evidently think this through.

“It appears that the Emperor is feeling uncomfortable, we should really not talk about his feelings for the Empress in such a teasing manner”, Princess Sophie came to his rescue.

“Yes, it is not diplomatic of us to make fun of the Emperor. Besides, tell me Kaito, how far along is your wife?”

If Kai would have not been used to the gossip attempts made by the Queen he would have taught her a lesson. Did she not hear what her daughter just said? Maybe he should gift her some hearing-aids for Christmas.

”She is seven months along, could not ride a plane so far in pregnancy. Hence, she could not come otherwise she would have definitely loved to attend the meets on cyborg rights”

“Cyborgs that she is.” European Prime Minister Bromstad said. He always had some sort of prejudice with Cinder and her cyborg-ness. It got on Kai’s nerves every damn time.

“Yeah, she would be better able to give suggestions regarding the changes after being a first hand victim of cyborg prejudices you see.”

The Prime Minister nodded. Kai must have been a little too outspoken and protective of Cinder against cyborg prejudice recently.

“Besides that, how are you and Empress Selene taking the news of the baby? “The Queen asked.

She was really getting on his nerves now. Was it so hard to understand that she was testing his patience and already crossed all boundaries of professionalism?

“We are very much excited to receive the child. I personally was delighted with the news.” He replied, a new sort of emotion feeling his heart and warming his soul at the mention of his child.

“Parenthood is a demanding role, Emperor”

“I know that and I am ready to accept it wholeheartedly, Queen Camilla”. He said, putting much authority in his voice. If not for his royalty status he would have told her ’Shut up, I already know that.’

“And what did the Empress think about carrying the royal heir?” she snubbed her way into his train of thoughts again.

“As I already said, she was very delighted and protective of the baby.” Why were all the world leaders suddenly so interested in their baby, as far as he could remember Queen Camilla had not even congratulated them upon the news.

“Have you revealed the gender of the baby?”  Princess Sophie asked curiously.

“It’s our decision to keep it confidential till the birth of the baby.”

“And? ” asked Prime Minister Bromstad.

“And what?”

That’s when it hit him like a train. These people are world leaders and they know the world happenings. Obviously, they know about the rumors regarding Cinder and Thorne and that’s the very reason everyone especially Queen Camilla is so interested in the discussion of his baby. He felt like an idiot to not have realized this beforehand. It seems they wanted to add salt to the injury. Were they really so foolish to fall prey for such rumors? Like hell they have seen him and Cinder doing the lovey-dovey stuff from up close, he was much convinced that they were blind.

Before any of them could ask him anything, he decided to leave the dinner.

“Excuse me, but I have some important business to attend to.”

“It appears that the Emperor would enjoy the company of someone else other than us.” Well a good time without them, he certainly would.

 “Very well emperor Kaito, it was an honor to receive you as our guest.” If looks could kill, everyone at the dinner would already be dead.

Nodding his head, he headed towards his room. He needed to talk with Torin at the earliest.

__

A/N: Needless to say, There is more!

( I also have an another Kaider fic named ‘ Nightmares’, if you like Kaider fluff you can check it out!!  🖤 )

Likes, Reblogs and Comments will be much loved!  🖤

P.S Can you suggest some baby names for Kaider child, both the gender please.  

[levi-llama]

Fighting for Purpose

(Bad Batch x Fem!OC)

Series Rating: Mature

Chapter Rating: Teen

Chapter Warnings: Mentions of Death, Fat shaming, (DM me if I missed any)

Word Count: 1,033

<< Chapter One>>

It was early into the day and I was watching Omega. She’s been obsessing over this group of experimental clones - the Bad Batch, they call themselves - and she was finally allowed to accompany me to meet them.

On our way over, the child sped up as she saw Hunter, the leader of the group, in the distance.

“Omega! Slow down!” I huff as I chase the little rascal through the pristine white halls of the facility.

“Hurry up, Keeper! I want to meet them!” The kid glances back at me while maintaining her sprint.

“Watch where yo-!” I was interrupted by a loud ‘mmphf’ as she hit the ground. I catch up to her and look her over.

“You okay there kid?” A hand stretched out to her. Her big, brown eyes glanced between me and the hand before finally taking it. The clone helped her up and I stood up with her.

“Sorry about her, Sergeant Hunter. She was actually just heading here to meet all of you.” I gave a soft smile as his face turned to confusion.

“Meet us?”

“Yea, she’s been nagging me about it all week.” I sighed then turned my attention to the child, “Alright, Omega. Lama Se needed to speak with me, will you be okay to stay with Sarg for a bit? I’ll be back before you know it.”

She nodded with a closed-mouth smile in response.

“Good luck.” I whispered in Hunter’s ear as I walked by them.

__

I walked through the sliding doors of Lama Su’s office, and saluted him as a greeting. “You wanted to see me sir?”

“Ahh, yes, CT-83-3939, I have some news for you.” Lama Su addressed me, then turned to the door, “Come in, Nala Se.”

I watched as the other Kaminoan stepped in. She nodded to the Prime Minister and then to me.

“You are to be decommissioned.” He cut right to the chase, and my eyes widened.

“But-But, why? I don’t understand?” I gaped.

“There’s simply no use for you anymore. The experiments we created you with, caused our metabolism to decline. You’re grossly overweight; 255 lbs is unacceptable. Especially for a female Clone.”

“What about Omega? I’m her guardian!”

“Nala Se is to take on that role.”

“You’ll be decommissioned tomorrow afternoon, be ready. Dismissed.”

I weakly saluted and proceeded out the door.

I stopped at the end of the hallway to check the time on my vambrace. ��Lunch time.She should be at the mess hall.” And, thus, I proceeded in that direction.

__

I saw her sitting with Hunter and the rest of Clone Force 99. I walked my way over, trying not to look so glum.

“Thanks for watching her, Sergeant, I hope she wasn’t too much trouble for you.” I spoke with a faux cheery voice. I switched my focus to Omega, “Hey, kid! Did you have fun making some new friends?”

“Yea! We talked about so much! We even talked about you!” Her body radiated joy.

‘I’m going to miss her…’ My mind grew depressed. “Oh yea? Good things I hope.”

“I didn’t know you knew the batch! Why didn’t you ever tell me, Keeper?” she jokingly pouted.

“Well, I don’t know them that well, but we outcasts should at least be friendly towards each other, right?” I didn’t get into more detail than that. “Anyway,” I sighed, “Omega, Nala Se needs to see you. Will you be okay going to her office on your own? I need to sit down for a bit.” ‘I’m mentally exhausted’ I kept that last part to myself.

She hesitantly nodded and went on her way.

“Excuse me boys.” I nodded and took a seat at an empty table across the cafeteria. I moved my head to my hands and rested it there.

After a few minutes I heard shuffling next to me. I assumed it was somebody dumping their tray in the trash can next to me so I paid it no mind.

“Decommissioned huh?” I mumbled to myself as I let out a heavy sigh; probably the tenth one within the hour. I could feel my jaw clench to keep the stinging tears at bay. “I’ll be gone tomorrow, I really hope Omega will be okay..” I then heard large, clanking feet stop behind me, followed by a strong hand on my back. “Who?” I tilted my head to catch a glimpse of who it was. “Wrecker?”

“Uh-Uh, Keeper? Are you alright?” The gentle giant sounded concerned as he talked.

“Yea. Yea, I’m fine.” I was speaking to myself more than him, but he seemed to have bought it since his voice grew louder.

“Ah, well, okay! Bye, Keeper!” He turned on his heel, and I watched as he, and his fellow squad members, left the room.

I soon went back to my quarters to prepare myself for tomorrow.

__

The Batch were lounging in their shared bedroom when they heard a knock at the door.

“I’ll get it!” Echo spoke up as he approached the panel next to the door. With a hiss it opened.

“ Hi.” Omega let herself into the private living space. “Have any of you seen, Keeper?”

“She’s not with you?” Tech inquired. The kid shook her head.

“No. I haven’t seen her since lunch. I’m starting to get worried.”

“She’s probably still stuffing her face in the mess hall. She’s such a pig.” Crosshair spat.

“Cross!” The sarg scolded his teammate.

“Now that you mention it, she was acting pretty weird.” Wrecker contributed.

“Weird, how?” Omega hesitantly responded, missing her friend more and more by the second.

“Well.” Wrecker paused to collect his thoughts, then continued, “She Was saying that she’s bein’ decommissioned.”

“WHAT?! Wrecker! This is serious! Why didn’t you speak up sooner?!” Hunter just about screamed. “This is important Wreck, did she say when?”

“Uhh? Tomorrow?” He spoke like he still didn’t understand the weight of the situation.

“NO!” Omega cried out.

“Don’t worry kid, we have a mission tonight, but we'll figure everything out when we get back, I promise.” Hunter tried to reassure the kid, but in response she just nodded and ran out of the room.

__

[zelenacat]

When We Were Young- Chapter 28- An Obitine Story (almost content warning?)

Satine was overjoyed and terrified when she heard the news. She was sitting in a meeting with the Ruling Council when Obi-Wan called.

“Satine?”

The Duchess stood and excused herself.

“Mara and Tristan are safe,” Obi-Wan began calmly, “and-”

“Korkie?”

“They were holding him on a different planet, a Separatist World.”

Satine dropped the comm.

“Your Grace?”

“Parna,” Satine turned, “tell the Ruling Council that Tristan Wren and Mara Supreis have been saved.”

There were tears of joy from Ursa Wren, and congratulations for the safety of Parna’s niece.

“And the Duke of Sundari?”

Satine hadn’t realized she’d been staring at the wall, so she picked up her broken comm and returned to the council chamber.

“My apologies, Your Grace.” Count Awuad offered.

It was evident on her face then, Korkie had not been rescued.

“My,” Satine swallowed, “my Korkie, they’re holding him on a Seperatist world.”

“Where?” The Duchess let her eyes fall to the comm in her hand.

“Oh, Satine,” Ursa stood, “I’m so sorry.” 

“If Mandalore’s heir is not returned alive-”

“Silence,” Satine bellowed, “he will be.”

“Your Grace,” Countess Bralor continued, “you will likely need to produce an heir.”

Satine would’ve told them then and there, if Parna had not interjected and offered to fix her comm.

“Yes, thank you, Parna.”

“It would benefit Dooku if the Duke dies,” Countess Saxon ventured, “you have-”

“I could never marry the Count after this.” Satine countered.

“We should think about possible suitors,” Countess Eldar advised, “and the engagement should be officially broken off.”

“I agree.” Prime Minister Djarin added, as if Satine would disagree with the notion.

“We’ll set up a press conference, when the Duke of Sundari has been returned,” Satine decided, “in the meantime, I think we should all keep an eye on the news.”

“The-”

“Breaking,” Count Awuad’s comm beeped, “the mystery Sith Lord has been found!”

Countess Bralor raised an eyebrow. So did Satine.

“If the Jedi have their hands full,” Count Mudhorn frowned, “then what do we do about the Duke?”

“Perhaps if we help Death Watch, they will help us.” Satine suggested.

After the meeting, Satine was on her way to find Parna when Countess Bralor and Countess Saxon stopped her.

“A word, please, Your Grace?”

“Of course.”

A Countess walked on either side of the Duchess, looping their arms through hers.

“We have heard a rumor that may interest you,” Countess Bralor began, “it is about the line of succession.”

“Oh?”

“The Vizsla Clan and many in the underworld believe,” Countess Saxon interjected, “that you have children, and that they were the four teenagers taken by Darth Maul.”

Satine opened her mouth to defend herself.

“We are neither agreeing nor denying this rumor,” Countess Bralor continued, “but it is very dangerous.”

“I agree,” Satine nodded, “are there any other pieces to this rumor?”

“Some say,” Countess Saxon added, “that their father is none other than Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi.”

The Duchess gasped at that.

“This rumor has much credence to it,” Countess Bralor frowned, “there are no adoption records for Tristan Wren, Mara Supreis doesn’t have her adoptive father’s coloring, and the Duke-”

“Ridiculous.” Satine growled.

“We are only warning you, Duchess,” Countess Saxon held up her hands, “times have changed since Queen Mara’s time.”

Satine nodded, “Thank you.”

Parna had fixed her comm, and the first call Satine made on it was to her sister.

“How can I help?” Bo-Katan asked.

“It’s you I’m worried about,” Satine frowned, “and these rumors.”

“You need evidence,” the warrior advised, “and I need a win.”

“What kind of a win?” the Duchess asked.

“You could always try to find out where Korkie is being hidden,” Satine offered, “prove your an opponent to worry about.”

“That’s a you problem-”

“Bo-”

“No,” the Lady shook her head, “I could never win that.”

“The Vizslas have criminal connections in the underworld, they’ve been spreading this rumor,” Satine suggested, “you could kill the contacts and stage the bodies.”

Bo-Katan looked pleased, “I like how you’ve changed sister.”

Satine squirmed, “Being a mother has made me so.”

“Ah, yes, how many was it?”

“Six.”

Bo-Katan’s eyebrows shot up.

“Bo-”

“Who would’ve thought?”

“Bo?”

“What?”

Satine opened and closed her mouth, “If I die-”

“You won’t.”

“My children, Bo,” Satine swallowed, “they’ll need help.”

Lady Bo-Katan Kryze was silent for a long time.

“Alright.”

Satine sobbed.

“Oh, ew.”

“Sorry, sorry,” the Duchess wiped her eyes, “good luck with your endeavors.”

Parna returned with Ursa Wren soon after Satine had finished her call.

“Your Grace.” the countess curtsied.

“The false DNA tests and birth certificate-” “I have them, and copies.” Ursa replied.

“Send me the copies,” Satine ordered, “we’ll release them when the rumors are written down.”

Within two days, those rumors gained footing and appeared in every Mandalorian gossip column. Fortunately for the Duchess, she was ready, two hours after Satine read the morning paper, Tristan Wren’s DNA test and birth certificate were released, as well as that of Mara Supreis. Tyra was quoted as saying the Jedi were her only family, and a statement from the Duchess herself reminded everyone that she raised her nephew out of familial love and duty.

“Such drama this will cause if it ever gets out.” Parna observed.

“It won’t,” Khaami stated, “the Duchess has done well thus far.”

Satine apprepricated that, but now she wasn’t so sure.

“Your Grace?”

Satine turned, Gorg was in his civilian clothes.

“Would you do me the honor of a final walk?” asked the foreigner guard.

The Duchess smiled, “Of course.”

They walked through the gardens, Khaami and Parna trailing at a distance.

“The said I should be the one to tell you-”

“Tell me what?” Satine wondered aloud.

Gorg smiled, “The Jedi Council commed just this morning, Korkie has been saved.”

“Oh,” Satine shook, beginning to bawl, “that is the most wonderful news.”

The former guard caught Satine as she slipped towards the floor. Her ladies ran up to her.

“Korkie is safe,” the Duchess breathed, “Korkie is safe!”

“He’s on Coruscant,” Gorg continued, “the Jedi are seeing to him.”

Parna helped Satine stand and the Duchess began to cry on her shoulder.

“Thank you, Gorg,” Khaami nodded, “we are most joyous at this news.”

“Thank you,” Gorg replied, “for all your kindness in my departure.”

The former guard kissed Satine’s hand one last time and left, then the Duchess made her way to her rooms.

“Isn’t this wonderful?” Parna smiled.

“Yes,” Satine nodded, “Khaami, please tell the Ruling Council.”

“Of course.”

Later that day, the Duchess held a short press conference to announce that the Duke of Sundari was safe.

“We don’t have all the details,” she stated, grinning, “but he is alive and healing among the safety of friends.”

Applause broke out from the reporters.

“Moreover,” Satine continued, “I would like to officially announce the dissolution of my engagement to Count Dooku.”

Cheers went up from a couple of attendants, which pleased the Duchess very much.

Satine stood, “Thank you for your time.”

That evening, the Duchess personally flew to Coruscant with Tyra to see her secret sons and daughter.

“It’s going to be okay, Lady Mother.” Tyra whispered, reaching for Satine’s hand.

“I just,” the Duchess sighed, “I can’t wait to see them.”

Inside the Jedi Temple, a line of masters were waiting to greet them. Master Secura embraced Satine and Tyra, saying they had both been so courageous.

“But so have you,” the Duchess smiled, “thank you for helping save my children.”

Master Mundi was next, and he gave a similar reception.

“Although,” he smiled, “next time you realize our children are courting, do let me know.”

Satine laughed, “Naturally.”

Master Yoda was the kindest of all, praising Tyra in his personal way and congratulating the Duchess with sincere happiness.

“Thank you, Master Jedi,” Satine curtsied, “my family is pleased to be reunited.”

“Follow me, you must,” the Jedi grinned, “to see your children and their father.”

“I would very much appreciate that.”

Mara and Tristan were sitting up in bed, each holding a bundle in their arms.

“Oh, oh, my children!”

Satine kissed each of the twins on the head, even Jynn and Lyra.

“Look how big you’ve gotten,” Satine cooed to the little ones, “do you know how brave your big brothers and sisters are?”

“Very brave indeed,” Obi-Wan walked in, “and there’s much to talk about.”

“Oh, Ben,” Satine huffed, “let them rest.”

Korkie had his arm in a sling and his face was bruised, “Mama-”

“Shh, darling,” Satine rushed over to her heir, “you must rest.”

“Mother-”

Satine grasped her son’s hand, “Yes?”

“He wants to tell you he’s happy to see you,” Tyra translated, “I can feel it in his mind.”

Satine kissed her son’s hand.

“Tell us what happened, can you?” Master Yoda asked.

“We all have different stories.” Tyra blushed.

Jynn gurgled and Satine moved to pick her up.

“Children,” the Duchess goaded, “I think you should tell Master Yoda your stories, however different they may be.”

Tyra began, telling about how she was left on Count Dooku’s ship.

“I was quite surprised when Je’er came,” Tyra swallowed, “I was surprised he cared.”

“Young Master Palpatine has been helpful,” Obi-Wan stated, “we have his father in custody, he’s quite the public speaker.”

The Duchess’ eldest daughter’s head snapped towards Tristan, “That’s not funny.”

Mara giggled, and Lyra harrumphed, Satine picked up the other twin in her arms, wondering what the children were on about. 

Obi-Wan burst forward to help, “Darling-”

Jynn raised her hands up to her father and squealed.

“Oh, look, Ben, she wants you to hold her.”

“Alright then, Jynn.”

“Tristan and I were held on Mustafar,” Mara jumped into the silence, “they wanted to study us as scientific specimens.”

“But why split you up?” Satine asked.

“To test us?” Tristan hesitated.

Tyra walked about and took Korkie’s good hand, nodding.

“They were surprised at Korkie’s ability,” her eyes watered, “they tried to get into his mind.”

The Duchess was filled with rage, her children were bruised and battered by this Sith Lord, she hated him.

“-and he thinks they were also testing Je’er.”  Tyra concluded.

Satine clenched her jaw, she would like some words with this Sith Lord.

“Tired, you must be,” Master Yoda observed, “show you to your rooms, Master Kenobi shall.”

“Thank you, Master Jedi,” Satine asked, “and will my daughters be able to stay with me?”

“Put in cribs, Senator Amidala has.”

The Duchess smiled, “I shall have to thank her.”

Her room was in the Senate rooms building, but close to the Jedi Temple. There were twin cribs, a warm bed, and a nice smelling fresher.

“Satine!”

“Oh, Padme,” the Duchess kissed both of the Senator’s cheeks, “you’ve been so kind.”

“I helped!” Anakin added, setting down a stack of towels.

Obi-Wan snorted, “I’m sure you did.”

Lyra squealed when she saw Padme and the Senator was thrilled.

“Oh, Anakin, look at her tiny fingers!” she cooed.

“Um-”

“And her little eyeses, aren’t you cute, Lyra?”

Lyra giggled.

“We’ll let you sleep,” Anakini decided, half-dragging Padme out, “the twins must be tired.”

Padme waved, “Bye-bye, babies.”

Satine made Lyra wave.

“Uh,” she sniffed, “change time.”

The Duchess made towards the fresher.

“Satine, I can do that.”

“No no,” Satine scolded, “I’m their mother, I should do this.”

It was messy, and Obi-Wan actually had to help her.

“You know,” Satine stated, “I generally left Korkie to his nanny when this happened.”

“That was my guess.” Obi-Wan agreed, setting Lyra down in her crib and picking up Jynn.

Satine was suddenly sad, “Did Tyra have a good childhood? I know Tristan had a nanny and Mara had a step-father.”

“I’m sure she did,” Obi-Wan assured, handing Satine a clean diaper, “I had a great childhood here.”

“That’s good to know,” the Duchess smiled, going misty-eyed, “I love them all so much.”

“I love them too.” Obi-Wan agreed.

Jynn went in her crib too, and Satine washed her hands.

“Ben,” Satine sensed with her back turned, “you have a question.”

“Am I staying,” Obi-Wan asked quietly, “because if you’re not-”

“Why wouldn't I be,” Satine shrugged, “Obi, we have six children.”

The Jedi gave a sheepish smile, “We do.”

“You’re staying with me for the rest of our lives.”

Obi-Wan kissed Satine, “I’m glad to hear it.”

The Duchess fell asleep very quickly cuddling with her Jedi, Obi-Wan didn’t, he listened to her breathing and thought about how lucky he was. When Satine woke up, her Jedi was meditating and the twins were resting, having woken up only once in the night.

“Morning, love.”

“Good morning, Obi,” Satine sat up, “where did Anakin leave the extra towels?”

“In a messy pile on the floor,” Obi-Wan answered, “are you interested in showering?”

“I am.”

The Jedi grinned, opening his eyes, “I’ll join you.”

Satine raised an eyebrow, “Will you?”

Obi-Wan bounced up, searching for kisses like a little puppy.

The Duchess sighed, “As long as we don’t wake the twins.”

The shower water was nice and warm, and Obi-Wan was very happy to have a moment alone with his Duchess.

“Is this,” he asked, his hands trailing her hips, “from the children?”

“Yes,” Satine nodded, hands on her stomach, “and I’m afraid so is this.”

Obi-Wan kissed his Duchess, “You’re beautiful, Satine, so beautiful.”

“Ben, please,-”

“You are,” the Jedi insisted, kissing Satine’s neck, “and we’re going to be together forever.”

Satine smiled, “Of course we are.”

One of the twins cried then, and the couple both dried off to tend to the little ones. Ben was out first, so Satine had time to dry her hair fully before dressing.

“Where’s your lady?” Obi-Wan asked, opening Satine’s bags.

“Helping stabilize Mandalore,” the Duchess answered, “I don’t know if you’ve heard, but there’s a rumor going round that the children taken belonged to us.”

Obi-Wan sighed.

“What?”

“I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be,” Satine scoffed, “we can handle it.”

“But your people will be upset.” Obi-Wan protested.

“Not as upset as I would be if we couldn’t be together.” Satine countered.

Obi-Wan gave a wholeful smile to his Duchess.

“What?”

“I’m so glad I’m leaving the Order when the war ends.”

“Well,” Satine teased, “make sure you finish it quickly then.”

Obi-Wan was actually very helpful with Satine’s corset, which she couldn’t do up on her own. 

“Why-”

“To hide the fact that I gave birth five months ago,” Satine explained, “also, I’m not as thin as I once was.”

Obi-Wan clicked his tongue, “Oh, Satine.”

“Six children, Ben,” the Duchess wagged her finger, “I know who’s responsible.”

The Jedi laughed, “Glad to know you care, darling.”

Obi-Wan was also kind enough to help Satine into her dress and button the back.

“You do this every day?” he asked, bewildered.

“Today is a nicer dress,” Satine smiled down at her green and gold ensemble, “because I’m visiting a planet.”

“Ah.”

Obi-Wan got dressed while Satine fixed her hair, and soon enough, the day began.

“What’s happening for you today?” she asked, picking up Jynn.

“Lots of explaining to the public about what happened over the last couple days,” the Jedi answered, “and then protecting the senate from these new Seperatist attacks.”

Satine groaned, “Sounds full.”

“You?”

“I have to bring Korkie, Mara, and Tristan home,” Satine frowned, “but I have the morning to speak to senators about Mandalore’s new position.”

“Just as droll, honestly.” Obi-Wan stated, picking up Lyra.

“See you for lunch?” Satine asked hopefully.

“I’ll meet you here,” the Jedi agreed, “with food.”

Obi-Wan took the twins back to the other Jedi younglings while Satine went in search of Padme.

“Hi, Momdalore!”

“Ahsoka,” Satine smiled, “good to see you.”

“I’m supposed to accompany you around,” the Padawan clapped, “I’m so excited.”

The Duchess gave Ahsoka the side eye, “I hope you don’t mind schmoozing senators.” 

“Actually,” the Padawan winked, “I smooch Padme all the time.”

Satine laughed, “Not quite, Ahsoka.”

“So,” Ahsoka goaded in a sing-song voice, “do you have any new news, Satine?”

“No, Ahsoka,” the Duchess scolded, “no more for me.”

“Aw, but you make the cutest babies with-”

“Ahsoka!”

The Padawan burst into laughter. Satine sighed.

“You and Anakin think you’re so funny.”

“We are,” Ahsoka assured, “have you heard the story about the time my Master covered the temple in balloons for Master Yoda’s birthday?”

Satine found herself mildly amused, “Did something terrible happen?”

“Yes, terribly hilarious!”

“Then that’s all I need to know, however,” Satine grinned, “if you ever need a funny story, ask your grandmaster about the time we hid in a house of ill repute while on the run.”

Ahsoka’s eyes went wide, “No?”

“Yes.”

“Wow,” the Padawan shook her head, “you must tell the best drunk stories, Momdalore.”

“I don’t get drunk, Ahsoka.” Satine replied.

Ahsoka frowned.

“But if I did,” the Duchess winked, “someone better warn Master Kenobi.”

Ahsoka giggled.

“If I may ask,” Bail Organa approached, Padme on his arm, “what’s so funny?”

“Nothing.” the Duchess and Padawan agreed simultaneously.

“Well then,” Padme smiled, “why don’t we round up some Senators and discuss politics.”

“Why don’t we?” Satine agreed.

The Duchess was very much looking forward to lunch after hours of pleasant conversation and polite nodding, and apparently, so was Obi-Wan.

“Darling,” he opened the door for her, “do come in.”

Satine gasped. A beautiful table was set up with candles and napkins and Satine’s favorite juice which was a terribly expensive import. The curtains were drawn to give them privacy, but the Duchess had to laugh at the food.

“Dex’s Diner.” she shook her head.

“Gotta love ‘em.” Obi-Wan agreed, pulling Satine inside.

The food was actually delicious, the Duchess could not lie.

“Is this where you go after late nights of saving the galaxy?” Satine questioned.

“Uh huh,” Obi-Wan nodded, mouth full, “where do you go?”

Satine raised an eyebrow, “The palace kitchens.”

“Oh.”

The Duchess snorted.

“Careful, darling,” Obi-Wan teased, “soon you’ll lose all your manners and end up like us Jedi.”

“Oh, I could never,” Satine gestured, “I don’t have an uncivilized luminescent wand.”

The Jedi rolled his eyes, the Duchess stuffed herself with more breakfast food.

“You know,” Obi-Wan began, “our children might have uncivilized luminescent wands.”

“They will not,” Satine crossed her arms, “you’ll make sure of that.”

“Will I?”

“Yes,” the Duchess sighed, “because I have had enough of this force nonsense and I’m delegating you to oversee our children’s education in that field.”

Obi-Wan glowed, “Really?”

Satine smiled, “Yes, Ben.” 

“Uncivilized luminescent wands it is,” Obi-Wan clapped, “can I get you some more juice?”

“Please.”

They ate in happy silence before Satine burst out.

“They delayed our ship,” she grinned, “we’re not leaving till four.”

“More time together,” Obi-Wan’s eyes sparkled, “I wonder what we’ll do?”

“Obi!”

“Just saying,” the Jedi shrugged, “uncivilized wands and all.”

Satine acted horrified, “Obi-Wan Kenobi!”

“Not sorry.” the Jedi winked.

The Duchess played along, “Where do you have to be?” 

“A defense detail, but Anakin can cover for me.”

Satine raised an eyebrow, “He’ll want a reason.”

Obi-Wan clicked his tongue, “I wonder what I’ll say.”

Finishing her meal, the Duchess stood and knelt before Obi-Wan.

“Well, shall we get on with it, then?”

“Certainly,” Obi-Wan undid his robes, “but I won’t be kind.”

Satine sighed, “How chivalrous.”

[accioecho]

Tkem novel 11

Chapter 14 - “Calling out your name”

Gon had asked Yeong to let Tae-Eul go for the day so she could have a few hours of freedom.

Seated inside the spacious helicopter, Gon looked out the window as the aircraft gradually gained altitude. Tae-Eul would be probably strolling through the streets of the capital by now. She would be discovering how different the Kingdom’s version of Busan was from the Republic’s version of the same city.

Turning his head away from the window, Gon fished through his pockets and pulled out his phone. As soon as he opened the browser, the recent search history popped up on the screen. He was happy to have this little piece of Tae-Eul with him, wondering what went through her mind while looking through the list of searched terms.

“Lee Gon”

“Lee Gon martial arts”

“Queen”

“Lee Gon’s ex”

Gon burst out laughing. Secretary Mo who was busy looking at reports— looked up, startled at the sudden sound. Not wanting to bring any more attention to him, Gon cleared his throat, his eyes focusing back on the screen. What he saw next made his jaw clench.

“Koo Seo-Ryeong.”

The internet was crawling with rumors about them, it likely led Tae-Eul to look up the current prime minister.

The last encounter he had with Seo-Ryeong left a sour taste in his mouth. Slightly worried, he hoped Tae-Eul didn’t get any wrong idea. He kept on scrolling, new search items coming up.

“Spicy fried chicken”

“Police officer wage”

“Kingdom of Corea map”

“Busan to Seoul KTX train”

It looked like she had been curious about a lot of things. Then again, he himself had spent days in a library during his stay in the Republic, reading dozens of books and immersing himself in the nation’s recent history.

Gon tilted his head at the word “KTX”, foreign to him. His face froze at what came up next.

“King Lee Ho”

“Prince Lee Lim”

These were words with heavy meaning, bringing to the surface painful memories. A grief so intimate yet shared by every single citizen of the Kingdom that Tae-Eul was now privy to.

Gon sat still and let the cold, artificial air gently blow through his hair.

——

Lost in her thoughts, Tae-Eul mindlessly walked toward her final destination, one of the main reasons she travelled the long way from Busan to Seoul. She could recognize the familiar streets of her neighborhood. If this was the Republic of Korea, there should be a convenient store somewhere near, but she didn’t see any.

There was one thing she was curious about ever since she set foot in Gon’s world. If this was truly a parallel universe, with people sharing the same face albeit with different personalities… then perhaps, maybe, her mom existed in this world somewhere. Perhaps this universe was a bit more lucky and had sparred her life.

If she was alive, Tae-Eul wished to see her, just once.

Instead of seeing the easily recognizable facade of the Taekwondo center, what looked like to be a traditional medicine clinic stood in place of her house. It was a whole other building altogether, with different colors and a different front door. The courtyard where Maximus had once taken shelter was gone too.

It was now dark out, the sun long gone and the chilly November air setting in. Tae-Eul was reluctant to leave. Refusing to give up, she finally rang the doorbell. 

A woman she had never met before opened the front gate.

“Jeong Do-In. He’s a Taekwondo instructor at a Taekwondo center, do you happen to know him by chance?” Tae-Eul asked.

“I don’t know anyone by that name.” The lady replied, confused.

“Then… How about a woman named Ahn Bong-Hui? Do you know her? Her face looks really similar to mine… Have you ever seen her?” She tried again, voice wavering.

“Ahn Bong-Hui? No I haven’t. We’ve lived here for 30 years. Why? Did they say they lived here?”

Tae-Eul’s shoulders dropped in disappointment. A tiny, irrational voice in her head had hoped to meet her. She tried to reason herself. It wouldn’t have mattered anyway. Even if she had met her mom and dad, they would have been completely different people. They would only have the same face, but would be complete strangers to her.  

Overwhelmed by the longing to see her mom once more, she hadn’t thought this all the way through.

A flashback of that fateful night came up to her mind. The complete stranger that was once Gon, crossing Gwanghwamun square in determined strides and taking her in his arms, eyes never leaving her face.

“… No never mind, thank you.” Tae-Eul said goodbye. She turned on her heels and walked away wearily.

——

Yeong swallowed a sigh and ushered Tae-Eul to KU building’s rooftop. Gon’s helicopter awaited them on the helipad, its propellers still in motion. Tae-Eul looked at the man who stood across from her, his coat flapping in the wind. His tall figure stood out in the dark, open surroundings of the city behind. Tae-Eul bit her lower lip. She didn’t expect to be so happy to see him, she almost called out his name. She really wanted to wave at him.

This. This moment.

Seeing him again almost made her forget about the vain search for her mom.

Gon joined her in a few short strides and looked at her in concern, his eyes roaming over her and making sure she was okay, worry evident. His expression eased once when he saw she was fine.

“I heard you were looking for me.”

“Yes.”

“Seventeen times.”

“Yes.”

Gon let out a small chuckle at Tae-Eul’s obvious embarrassment. He had no idea how she managed to find a way to reach him. He only knew that if it weren’t for his security team notifying him about the calls, he would have gone straight to Busan.

He had asked Yeong to keep a close eye on her so he knew she was safe. Still, as soon as he  was told that Tae-Eul was looking for him, he turned the helicopter around. He was glad she called. It meant he got to see her sooner.

“I thought you were going to stay in Busan. Why did you come so far? Did you get to find Ahn Bong-Hui?” Gon asked.

How did he know that? Tae-Eul threw a sharp, sideway glance at Yeong.

“How long were you following me? You should have lent me more money if you were there all along.”

“Who is she? The person you came all the way to this world to look for.”

“My mom.” Her voice trembled. “If this is a parallel world… and since Na-Ri and Eun-Sup are both here, although I might not exist, my mother could still be alive. I know she is someone else, but I didn’t want her to be sick in this world… I only have memories of her from when she was five. So I just wanted to watch her from afar. Just for a few minutes. That’s why I came here.”

“You should have told me.”

“I was just curious. But she wasn’t there.”

There was no other person who could understand better the sadness left by an absent parent than Gon. He shared her grief. Even if he didn’t understand what she went through, he would still feel her pain.

“Anyway. I had fun today because of you.” Tae-Eul said brightly, changing the topic. She didn’t want Gon to look at her like that, with eyes full of sorrow. And she certainly didn’t want to bring down the mood with talks about her mom. She managed just fine on her own so far. She just wanted to make the best of her trip here and ease her curiosity.

“Is that why you searched for KTX? I was wondering what it was.”

“Search…?”

“The auto-save function told me. You were curious about a lot of things. Why were you curious about Lee Gon ex-girlfriend? Didn’t you think that I never had a girlfriend?”

“Why would you read that?”

“You looked up Prime Minister Koo as well.”

“That was because… because I heard she was the youngest female Prime Minister. I only looked up her name because I was amazed by that. Why? Do you feel guilty? Looks like you see her often.”

“I meet her every Friday.” Granted, it was only to talk about state affairs.

Tae-Eul swallowed the lump in her throat. It was her turn to say something back.

The wind blew sharply around them and the sound of an approaching helicopter could be heard, growing louder and louder. Sure enough, another helicopter landed next to Gon’s.

“Why two helicopters? Are we leaving separately?” Tae-Eul asked.

Gon threw a hard glance at the unexpected new aircraft and glanced back at Yeong in confirmation. Yeong was rapidly talking to his walkie talkie and nodded at Gon.

“Yes, it’s Prime Minister Koo. She probably got a report your helicopter landed in Seoul.”

It was exactly that. As soon as Seo-Ryung heard the news that the royal helicopter had landed on KU Building, she had menacingly ordered her staff to prepare her own flight.

Why would the King come to Seoul in the middle of the night when he should have been in Busan? Seo-Ryung’s gut feeling made her want to find out the reason.

The door of the helicopter opened, and Seo-Ryung came out wearing an elegant white suit. There was no hesitancy in her stride as she confidently came up to them.

“Did you have an appointment with her?” Tae-Eul asked, eyes focused on the charismatic Head of  State.

“No way. I came to pick you up.”

“But I have to keep a low profile.”

Tae-Eul was right. Still, her words pierced through him painfully.

“If they see you, just who will they think you are?” He asked.

“Don’t worry. I’ll try not to look too suspicious.”

“You are a fool. The situation is already quite suspicious.” Gon was cut short by Seo-Ryung who stopped next to them and bowed down in greeting.

“I’m seeing you in an unexpected hour, in an unexpected place, with an unexpected person, Your Majesty.”

“You’re right. And you’ve put me in an awkward situation. This is a very personal occasion. I should’ve given you a heads-up since you would be notified of this. I’m sorry I kept you at work.” Gon didn’t try to hide his annoyance. She was clearly unwelcome here.

Completely disregarding Gon, Seo-Ryung let out a bright laugh.

“When it comes to the country’s affairs, personal occasions are business too, and you are my country Pyeha.”

It was a bit exaggerated. Gon wore a patient expression while Seo-Ryeong kept on smiling brightly.

Tae-Eul looked back and forth between the two of them. She could easily recognize the delicate gaze she saw on the pictures gracing the many news articles that came up during her brief internet search session.

This flawless, elegant woman that coveted Gon could not be compared to her.

“Nice to meet you. I’m Koo Seo-Ryung, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Corea.” Seo-Ryong turned towards Tae-Eul, meeting her gaze and extending her hand.

“It’s nice to meet you. I’m a big fan.” Tae-Eul grabbed her hand.

“I’m flattered to have such a young and beautiful fan. May I ask your name?”

“I’m just… I’m a traveler. I’m honored just to be able to see you like this. I’m leaving soon.”

Gon winced upon hearing that she would leave soon. Too focused on the conversation with Seo-Ryung, Tae-Eul didn’t notice Gon flinching.

“This is my first time in the Kingdom of Corea, I feel like I’m in a storybook.” Tae-Eul went on.

“It’s your first time here, but you speak our language very well.”

“Well… I studied liberal arts.”

Gon burst out laughing at Tae-Eul’s reply. This was unlike him. Seo-Ryung carefully appraised the situation. Gon kept staring down at Tae-Eul, looking like a very smitten man. Seo-Ryung’s instincts were right. This was no ordinary situation.

On the other hand, Gon was still trying to stifle down a laugh. He had made fun quips before, teasing Tae-Eul about being a liberal arts major, and this was how she made use of it.

“Let’s call it a day, Prime Minister Koo. I don’t have much time today.” Gon put an end to the night’s impromptu meeting.

“You have a long journey ahead. After you, Your Majesty. I will send you off.”

“Okay then, see you on Friday.” Gon said with a short nod.

Gon turned and walked toward the helicopter. Tae-Eul bowed down to Seo-Ryung and followed him. Under the full moon’s luminous glow, Seo-Ryeong glared furiously at Gon and Tae-Eul’s departing forms.

— —

Fully dressed in his Navy uniform, Yeong came into the dressing room with Tae-Eul in tow. She also looked like she was ready to leave. She had picked up her belongings and wore the same clothes she was wearing the night she came to his world.  

Fully clothed in his Navy suit, Tae-Eul stared at Gon with trembling eyes. Keenly aware of her stunned gaze, Gon gave her the badge he had been carefully keeping for the past 25 years.

“I will give this one to you. It seems it was supposed to be passed on to you. I hope this doesn’t put you in trouble.”

Tae-Eul shook her head.

“So you were in the Navy?”

“I left the military as a Navy Lieutenant. I’m not sure if you’ll believe this, but I’m the Commander-in-Chief of the Kingdom of Corea.”

“I believe you.”

“Finally.”

They both smiled, ignoring the heavy atmosphere surrounding them.

“You said your country was about to go to war with Japan. So this is what was happening in the Kingdom of Corea.”

“The Royal Family puts on military uniforms at the most honorable time. It means we will certainly win. I will come back to you with honor. It won’t take long.”

Tae-Eul longed to grab Gon’s perfectly white sleeve. If he didn’t leave in the first place, there would be no reason to wait for him to come back. But she didn’t become a courageous police officer for nothing. She had to get rid of these kind of thoughts, it didn’t suit her. Tae-Eul swallowed nervously.

“… come back?”

“Will you wait for me?”

“See you again, Lee Gon.”

It felt strange and entrancing to hear his name aloud. 

Tae-Eul, calling his name. 

He would engrave this moment deep in his heart.

“I thought my name was not supposed to be spoken, but I guess it was only meant to be spoken by you.”

— —

Misc.

In the helicopter on their way back to Busan, Secretary Mo quietly observes the couple seated across from her and realizes the huge implications of Tae-Eul’s presence. This is the first time she sees Gon acting like this. When Gon grabs Tae-Eul’s hand and starts to write in her palm, Secretary Mo feels like she’s intruding a very private moment, and can’t help but look away.

[petri808]

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30-Epilogue

*Trigger warning- panic attack. The next 4 chapters will stay completely angsty as well, but I swear the ride will get us to a happy ending. Due to feedback, I agree that I need to show the trauma and progression to heal.

Thank you to @mcornilliac​ for your invaluable input, it’s really gonna help bring the story fully to life :) 

“Lucy, baby,” Natsu’s hand squeezed harder. “You gotta calm down.”

“Ma’am... ma’am,” the EMT snapped his fingers in front of Lucy’s face. “Ma’am, I need you to focus on me. Can you focus on me?”

Their words were just muffled static, barely any tone and definitely not comprehensible to Lucy for there was too much competition vying for attention flowing through her mind. It felt like standing in a rapid wave break of constant ebb and flow but pounding against her prone body flattened into the shoreline. The thoughts raced so quickly, screaming, with only the harshest words coming through like a foghorn in the blackest night. Death. Pain. Blood. Anger, along with the emotional turmoil that came with them. Each rushing wave of anxiety fueled irrational thought after thought. ‘Stupid, stupid girl! Such a selfish fool! This was your fault for stealing away someone else’s love, a fantasy home wrecker! Fuck that! Natsu was mine fair and square, damn it! I deserved Natsu just as much and he loved me! Not Touka! Me!!!’ Lucy’s mind screamed, but the stares ate away... All those eyes judging her as they took that walk of shame. The authorities, the neighbors, heaven help her the talk that’s bound to get around. Will there be whispered, and hushed tones muttered around her, bearing down with all the weight of a thousand gravitational forces?! It was too much! Too mu—

“Oww!!” Lucy screamed and yanked her hand back, as she felt a sharp stab on the back of her hand. “What the fuck did you do that for?!” She glared at the EMT while rubbing and nursing the angry red spot. Whatever the man had done had hurt, but aside from the pain, nothing broke through the skin.

Without missing a beat, the EMT merely retook Lucy’s hand and placed two fingers over the pulse point in her wrist. “Can you tell me your name?” He questioned, speaking in a soft tone.

“Of course, I can! It’s Lucy Heartfilia!”

“Mmhmm,” he uttered in response. His eyes stayed trained on his own watch. “Do you know where you are?”

“In a fucking ambulance!”

“And who’s the current prime minister?”

“Huh? Um,” she paused with her head slightly tilted, “it was Abe, but I don’t remember the new guys name.”

“Close enough. Your pulse is still high, but it’s coming down now.” The EMT let go of Lucy’s hand, talking as he continued working on things. “I’m sorry to use such a technique, but when a person is in a panic attack, we need to snap them out of it as quickly as possible to keep it from escalating. Basically, during an attack your mind goes on overload, but physical stimulation can halt it. Shocks, if you will, to snap your focus away from cognitive thoughts back to the physical reality. The questions were to check if your cognitive focus had returned.”

“Oh...” was all Lucy could respond with to all the jargon. She hadn’t even realized she was having a panic attack. “T-Thank you...” But she wondered for a moment, just some physical pain could stop all those bad thoughts? It was something she’d never known before.

“You’re welcome. There are other methods including those you can administer to yourself at the immediate onset, so I suggest you look into them in case of another attack.”

“You think she’ll have more?” Natsu questioned with an obvious mix of concern and curiosity. The whole thing happened so quickly, that by the time he’d registered how bad it was, he couldn’t even react to a stranger stabbing a pen into his girlfriend’s hand. He was annoyed but glad this EMT was able to stay completely focused and calm.

“Traumatic events can cause a lot of emotional reactions including panic attacks. So, it’s a good idea to be prepared just in case.” The EMT now injected her arm, explaining as he went. “This is a mild sedative just to help you relax.”

By the time they’d reached the hospital, the sedative was taking effect and Lucy struggled to keep her eyes open. The level of exhaustion blindsided them both. Physically exhausted as if she’d run a marathon and emotionally drained. The closest she could rationalize it to was studying for the college entrance exam and how tired she’d been once it was over. So, she sat quietly as the medical personnel double checked her wounds, but too dazed to pay attention when they were giving her aftercare instructions. Thank goodness for Levy who’d been waiting as soon as they’d arrived. The woman handled a lot of the talking for Lucy and Natsu, but Natsu himself was being worked on next to Lucy. His wounds were cleaned up better so they could get a closer look.

The doctors inform Lucy she’s free to go but Natsu would have to stay so they could run X-rays. She wanted to fight to stay because right now he was the closest thing to security she had but could barely focus. With some gentle coaxing from both Natsu and Levy, and reminders that Touka wasn’t getting out of jail, Lucy eventually relents. A police officer would be escorting the women back to their apartment.

“Just try to get some sleep, please,” Natsu kissed his girlfriend. “I promise to call you as soon as I can, but I might pass out as soon as I hit my bed.” He wanted to be honest with her but assuring at the same time.

“O-Okay,” she nodded slowly, glassy eyed from exhaustion and sadness. “I understand.”

He leaned his head to her forehead while cupping the back of her neck. “We’re gonna be okay, Lucy. We’re gonna get through this, and I’ll be there for you no matter how long it takes.”

That pulls a few sniffles out of the woman who closes her eyes. “I love you, Natsu.”

“I love you too, Lucy.” He sits back up. “Now promise me you’ll get some sleep?” She nodded. Natsu smiled. “That’s my girl.”

Gray arrived shortly after the two women left for the night to keep his friend company and help him get home. Natsu wasn’t keeping track of time, but it sure felt like this was taking forever. The police had taken both he and Lucy’s phones for evidence, so he had nothing to pass the time with. Luckily, there wasn’t a lot of downtime between treatments. After the X-ray, the doctors sedated him and sewed up the wounds on his cheek and abdomen. It took both internal and external sutures, but luckily the side wound didn’t hit anything major. According to the doctor, the knife had missed the large intestine by a centimeter. He’ll be left with nasty scars for life, but a life is one he’ll at least have.

“You okay, man?” Gray questioned.

“Just tired and sore,” Natsu sighed. Now that Lucy wasn’t there, he let his body and mind fully register all the physical pain he was going through. “I just wanna fall into my bed.”

The doctors told Natsu, he should fully heal in about six to eight weeks, pending he keep the wound clean, keep his health up, and above all did nothing to aggravate it. So much for working, but he was sure that Makarov will make an exception. Maybe put him on register, light stocking, and inventory with no heavy lifting. As for how bad the scars will be, only time will tell. Plastic surgery might help, but that costs money. In a fleeting thought, Natsu worried that Lucy would leave him over it. ‘No way, she’s not vain like that... although the reminder it gives might be the problem...’ he quickly dismissed the notion from conscious thought, even though it lingered in the background. It would certainly hurt if she did, but could he really blame her? To be reminded of the night she almost died every time she looked at him? Natsu wanted to believe that Lucy was strong enough to get through this, and regardless if things eventually didn’t work out between them, he’d never stop trying to help her. He owed her that much for putting her in this situation. Well... that wasn’t fair, he couldn’t have foreseen Touka’s behavior, but it didn’t make him feel any less guilty for it.

“We’re here.”

Grays voice snapped Natsu out of his thoughts. He looked out of the taxi window to see the front of their apartment building. “Oh, right.” He was so ready to clean up and sleep.

Inside their apartment, Natsu took a shower, and Gray helped him to re-bandage his wounds. The warm water and sensation of being clean helped him to feel a little better, at least physically, even though the emotional turmoil still churned. But as he laid in bed, the exhaustion was swiftly taking over. There was so much to do. Replace their phones, the official police interview, notifying their jobs and schools to make sure they wouldn’t fall behind. Even the EMT’s comment was nagging at him, so note to self, call the shrink in the morning... well, as soon as he woke up anyways. By the time his eyes were shuttering closed, the early breach of dawn had made its calling. It was a new day and all Natsu could hope was to start anew.

[imagineclaireandjamie]

Shielded. Chapter One

ANON: Courage is being scared to death but saddling up anyway. [John Wayne]

Since the beginning of lockdown here in the UK, I’ve been making little notes here and there and I’ve finally put something together that is hopefully interesting. It’s set from the start of our isolation back on Friday 20th March and will work its way forwards in time <3 enjoy! Mod MBD.

-- --- --

The Daily Briefing:

She left under the cover of darkness, the atmospheric sheet rain appearing out of nowhere to conceal her as she hid the doorway of a boarded up shop. The ‘closed’ signs that littered the windows of each and every shop on the highstreet illuminated as the lights flickered on, the daylight fading as night enveloped the south of England. It should have been a regular Friday evening, but it wasn’t. And despite the shock of the rest of the nation, she was more than happy for the lockdown to take immediate effect.

A couple of the pubs were still open, the last of their punters being ushered out by groups of policemen and women as the 9pm curfew approached, and though there was still some footfall through the small village, it wasn’t enough to worry her greatly.

She remembered reading YA fiction that started in a similar way and the idea that the whole population might be reduced to some dystopian teen nightmare seemed more than plausible. But at least she’d be far away from society by the time it did. Wondering whether Suzanne Collins and Veronica Roth were somewhere together, raising a glass to their literary insight into such things, she pulled her jacket tighter around her neck to stop the droplets of water running down her chest.

The honk of a horn brought her out of her thoughts as she grabbed her meagre belongings and hid her face from the rain. Getting herself settled in the back of the blacked out van, there was a part of her that scoffed at the idea of danger lurking within as the plain-clothed officers escorting her smiled softly, passing her a towel to wipe the stray drips of moisture from her face. As a child she had, of course, been warned about strangers in vehicles. Now though there were more monsters lurking in her own home than there were anywhere else in the country.

“You might want to get some sleep, if you can, miss.” One of the younger officers said, breaking the silence even with his moderately quiet statement. “It’s a long drive, we’re aiming for eight hours if we can, but it will all depend on the roads.”

Nodding, she pulled a woolen blanket from one of her bags, removed her coat and curled herself against the window. Though she thought sleep impossible, she did manage to doze a little as the car made its way towards the motorway. Her mind went blank as they sped up, she’d spent weeks agonising over this choice, the solid notion of it taking root in her subconscious as the country seemed to spin towards chaos and confusion.

The virus, however, had not been her primary concern. Only her mental and physical survival had taken precedent. It was the prime minister's announcement yesterday that schools and pubs would close the following week that spurred her onwards, and she’d (rather rapidly) responded to the offer she had been levelled with.

If she wanted to disappear, now was her chance.

“John wants you to know that he’s processed the documents you’re going to need and included a shielding letter with that. This should take you until the end of June as well as the furlough payments. He also says you did the right thing.”

Making incomplete thumps against her chest, her heart stopped for a moment as the police officer spoke. She’d been warring with herself for weeks, uncertain of the best course of action. She had, of course, lived with the increasing threat for years before it had finally erupted. John had seen the outcome and had begged her to reconsider his previous offer of assistance having watched her descend into a less than perfect relationship. But she had been convinced that she’d be able to manage.

She hadn’t. An obvious change had taken hold of her husband. He wasn’t the man she married, not by a long shot, and as 2019 came to a close, so did any of his positive attributes. He was a professor, a professional man with many books to his name and he refused to believe his actions had become that of a less than ideal partner.

The first stay in hospital, however, stated otherwise.

“Will I be able to speak to him?”

The officer shook his head sadly. “No, if this is to work, you have to sever all contact with anyone you previously knew, even John. Anything that puts you at risk or could enlighten the wrong people into knowing your whereabouts would jeopardize all of the work we’ve all put in to assure your safety.”

Having had the mood suitably dulled, she lay her head against the window and let several hundred miles pass her by.  

As they crossed the border around midnight, the rain finally began to ease and she smiled at the irony. She hadn’t spent much time in Scotland, but she knew it wasn’t famous for its notoriously glorious weather. Part of her was desperate for some coffee but the further they travelled up the country, the less likely it was that the service stations were 24 hours - nor did she think her drivers would be willing to stop until they’d reached their destination.

Once off the motorway and onto the single track roads that led them further into the highlands, she started to guess at where their final destination might be. When the proposition had first been offered to her, John had given her a number of options of a safe haven - one being a flight away (by that point he had started to take her safety quite seriously). As the grey scenery passed them by, a slight pinking of the sky signalling that dawn was close, she was trying to recall the names of the places he’d suggested though her mind was as much of a blur as the greenery whooshing by the back window.

“I don’t suppose you have anything caffeinated to drink?” She asked. 

Reaching forward, she took the unopened bottle of coke from one of her escorts and relaxed back into her seat.

“Not far away now. There aren't any toilets, though.”

Fatigue was running deep, she could tell by the tiredness in his voice as he spoke and she nodded as she took a sip. The warning was clear; drink it all quickly and there would be no stopping for a break. But she was too thirsty to worry too much.

“Can I ask where we’re going?”

“Just north-west of Inverness. It’s a farm so it’s as remote as they come. It’s single occupancy, the guy who lives there runs his family business. He’s an old contact of John’s, so although there is to be no contact between you, he trusts you’re in safe hands. All shopping is pre organised and will be delivered once every two weeks to ensure neither of you are put at risk leaving the property for supplies.”

“Should I leave the house at all?” At this point she couldn’t tell whether she was being sarcastic or not but there was an honesty to her question that made the officers answer her quickly.

“No. You have your letter, not that there is anyone around to ask for it, but for the next 12 weeks you should remain inside at all times. No matter how far we take you away from civilization there is always the risk - even during a national pandemic and lockdown - of someone being around, seeing you and passing it on. Where we’re taking you, the owner hasn’t had another friend or family on the property for a number of years. Small communities talk so you should stay inside and out of the view of any members of the local village.”

“Noted.” Replying sadly, she replaced the cap on the half finished bottle of cola and ran her fingers along the inside of her leg. The scar there was still fresh, the heat of it making the hairs on her arms stand on end. She knew that if she wanted this to work, if she wanted to remain hidden, then she would have to obey the rules set.

They drove through Inverness just as 5am hit and the sun rose across the extensive lochs and mountains.

“It might seem far-fetched, the idea that you’ll be located, but we can’t take the risk. We did look through your file, though, and found a name we hope has some resonance to you.” *but nobody else* he thought, but did not say.

“Thank you, I really appreciate it. Please pass that on to John, I didn’t even get the chance to tell him how grateful I am. For everything.” Her intrigue had been piqued about her new identity but once she knew who she was going to be for the next few weeks, it would all become real. Whilst they still hadn’t arrived, she could sit and pretend to be existing in an in between - half way between fantasy and reality.

As they pulled off one side-road and onto another her driver passed her an envelope. She could see a small smile lift the side of his mouth as an archway came into view in front of them. “Of course I will, Claire.”

“Claire?”

“Yes,” he returned, bringing his arm up and pointing his finger at the brown packet in her hands, “it’s all in there...the rest of it. Read it, keep the ID documentation and then burn anything you don’t need to use later.”

“Claire.” She whispered to herself.

And in one breath, as a rather large white brick farm house appeared beneath the now large ivy coated arch, Elizabeth Randall died and she instantly became Claire Beauchamp.

[adenei]

Finding My Way To You - Ch. 11

AO3 || FFN

A/N: In case something looks familiar to you, yes this does include the Day 8 prompt in this chapter with a few slight alterations to fit the rest of the chapter more accurately.

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

New Endeavors

Ron woke up the following morning to Hermione’s alarm going off. He reached over to her in an attempt to coerce her into having a longer lie-in, but he pulled back when he heard her squeal.

“No, no, no, no, I’m late! This is not good!” she said frantically. She jumped out of bed and ran to the bathroom. 

As much as he didn’t want to see her get moving, he could certainly get used to the sight of her walking around in just her knickers and one of his shirts. Ron closed his eyes as he heard the shower turn on and replayed the night before. After they had cleared the air and spent the rest of the afternoon exploring their new relationship, they’d gone to dinner with her parents. 

Hermione had suggested she spend the day with them today, and Ron was fine with it. He knew it was important to her to reconnect, and some of that needed to be done with just the three of them. So that’s where Hermione was getting ready to head now. He heard the door open and Hermione came out wrapped only in a towel.

“I forgot to grab clothes,” she said in frustration with herself. “Are you sure you’re okay with this?”

“Not if you keep walking around in just a towel, I won’t be,” Ron said. “Are you sure you can’t come back here for a little bit?” He knew she was referring to her leaving him alone all day, but he couldn’t pass up the opportunity to try and get a little extra time with her first.

Hermione had gathered her outfit in her arms and turned around to give him a look. “I’d love to, but I’m already late. And we both know if I crawl back in bed, I may not have the resolve to get up again.” She walked back into the bathroom. “What are you going to do all day?”

“I dunno. I’ll think of something. Don’t worry about me. Have fun with your parents.”

Hermione came out of the bathroom again and walked over to the edge of the bed. “I just feel bad.”

Ron sat up and swung his legs over the side to meet her. “Don’t. You need this time with them. That’s why we came. I’ll find something to do, and I’ll see you later tonight. Just...keep me updated, okay?” Slight worry etched across his face. He knew he was on good terms with her parents, but he still worried that she might not return. 

She must have noticed his concern because she leaned over and kissed him. “I will. I’ll see you tonight.” Ron nodded as he watched her grab her bag and head out the door. He laid in bed a while longer before finally getting up.

After getting ready for the day and finishing his breakfast, Ron made his way to to look through some of the brochures from the Australian Ministry. He nearly jumped out of his skin when he heard the phone on the wall ring. At first he wasn’t sure what to do. It wasn’t like he answered telephones often. He reminded himself not to shout into the receiver like that awful attempt at calling Harry when he was younger.

He picked up the phone and said, “Hello?”

“Hello, Ron? Is that you? This is Graham. Graham Jacobsen. I showed you to your flat when you first arrived.”

Ron had honestly completely forgotten all about the man. Now that he thought about it, they probably should have updated the Australian Ministry days ago. “Er, yes, hi. Is everything alright?” Ron asked.

“Yes, yes, of course! I’m just checking in to see how your search has been going and if you need any assistance!”

“It’s been great, actually. We’ve managed to locate Hermione’s parents, fairly quickly actually, and she’s been spending the last few days getting reacquainted with them.”

“Excellent, excellent! So the resources the Ministry sent over with the muggle teeth cleaners and addresses of Wilkin’s in the surrounding area were no doubt helpful, then?”

“Er, yeah,” Ron said. He wasn’t about to tell Graham that they’d actually stumbled upon Jean and Hugo by accident.

“Great. So anyways, like I said, I was asked to get an update. Since you’ve located them, we were wondering how much longer you were anticipating to stay.”

“I’m not sure. I can talk to Hermione and see if we can get a clearer answer for you tomorrow or the day after if that’s okay.”

“Yes, sure! No rush. It will just help to have an idea to prepare your portkey trip back. Let’s see, let’s see, oh yes! One more thing. You received a letter here from England through the Portkey Post. Wouldn’t want to make owls travel all this way. If you’re available, you can come pick it up at the Ministry anytime.”

A letter? Is everything alright back home? “Sure, yeah, I can actually be down there in fifteen minutes.”

“Excellent, I’ll meet you in the entrance hall. See you in a jif!” Graham said before hanging up.

Ron hung up the phone and immediately began moving around the apartment to grab his things. He figured he could spend a few hours walking around and seeing what else Melbourne had to offer from the magical side of things. Before he knew it, he was apparating to the spot Graham showed them almost a week ago, and walked the short distance to the Ministry entrance.

He had barely stepped a few paces inside when he saw Graham waving frantically. “Ron! Over here!” They met in the middle as Graham said, “So good to see you again! I hope you’ve been enjoying your stay here so far.”

“Yeah, it’s been great,” Ron agreed.

“Here’s the letter that came for you. If you want to send a response, we send our international post out at 13:00 every day. The drop box is over here.”

Ron followed him over to the box that had a small slot in it. He was curious how this system worked. Whether it was his lack of knowledge about other cultures and customs or not, he always assumed the owls just traveled the distance to their destination. Though, for a continent like Australia that was so far away from other places, he supposed this system made sense. It’d be hard for an owl to travel over an ocean with no resting points.

“Thanks.” 

“Absolutely. Well, I must be getting back to my obligations. Like I said, feel free to call if you ever need anything. Just press 9 on your dial pad and it will transfer your call to my office. A little magical touch so you don’t have to memorize a ten digit number. I look forward to hearing from you!”

Graham shook Ron’s hand before walking away. Ron looked at the letter in his hand. He didn’t want to return to the flat just to read it, so he decided to walk around a bit to find a place to sit and read what it said. There was a small park a few blocks away that Ron stumbled upon. He chose one of the vacant benches and sat down. The handwriting looked like Harry’s.

Hey Ron,

I hope you and Hermione are having luck finding her parents. It’s odd here without you two, but I’ve been keeping busy. Listen, I’m not trying to rush the process, but I wanted you to know that I met with Kingsley yesterday, and he said they’re looking for recruits in the Auror program. The other letter that I sent with this is from him. He’s inviting us into the program if we want. I think I’m going to go for it. We have to complete the screening process by the end of the month, so I’m hoping you’ll be back by then to start with me if that’s what you want to do. By the way, are you and Hermione sorted yet? Ginny wants to know. Well, anyways, let me know when you decide. 

Harry

Ron reread Harry’s letter a few times before pulling out the second piece of parchment that he now knew to be from Kingsley. Was this actually an invitation to join the Aurors? Would he be able to achieve his dream? Did he still want to pursue that dream? He slowly peeled off the wax seal and unfolded the official Ministry parchment.

Mr. Weasley,

I hope this finds you well and that you are having success on your current mission. I am reaching out to you to personally invite you to join the Aurors. As you know, we are woefully understaffed as a result of the war, and your integral efforts make you a prime candidate for the program. Typically, the training period is an extensive three years, but given your experiences, you will have an opportunity to pass out of the training program after a year, and be promoted to Junior Auror status. 

I understand that you are predisposed on a mission, but this offer is time sensitive. The Auror department has agreed to honor this offer for select people, yourself included, but they are requiring all candidates to begin on 3 August. Paperwork and a screening, however, must be completed by 1 July. I have attached the preliminary paperwork for you to set up your appointments with the Ministry, and they will be in touch should you be interested in pursuing this avenue. 

Please take the time to think about this, but do not wait too long to reply. The Aurors will be lucky to have someone with your skillset in the department. Best of luck on your continued search. All my best,

Kingsley

Ron’s hands were shaking slightly at the letter. He had a personal invitation from the Minister of Magic to join the Aurors. His finger followed the application that he looked over. It seemed straightforward enough, and the prospect was certainly appealing. He knew deep down that he absolutely wanted to try, but something was preventing him from returning to the Australian Ministry to fill out the paperwork and send it back that same day. 

Ron thought it through to make sure he’d have enough time to discuss with Hermione first. He reviewed the application, and it said he could return his paperwork from Australia, and it said that he could request a timeframe for his appointment. That was good. Maybe he could return next week, but his heart wrenched at the thought of having to leave Hermione here. Ron folded the contents of the two letters and tucked them in his jacket pocket for safekeeping. 

He looked around the park, thinking about what to do next. It was a beautiful, crisp day, just like every other day had been since they’d arrived, even if it was colder. He smiled, thinking Hermione would be cold, but he was perfectly comfortable. The weather here differed so greatly from the weather in England, and Ron was slightly envious of how nice it seemed to be year round.

He finally decided to walk around. This part of Melbourne wasn’t as familiar to him, but Ron figured he could always apparate back to the flat if need be. A smile spread across his lips as he stood up and began walking back towards the Ministry. He’d gone from not knowing what life had in store for him now that the war was over to having a career prospect. Nothing could break his mood as he looked around at the places to explore. 

About an hour later, Ron found himself wandering aimlessly around Melbourne’s streets. He’d gone in several of the shops that interested him along the way, and had just finished up a light meal he’d gotten at a cafe. The food was great, and he wished Hermione had been there to. He told her he was fine with today’s plan, but he still missed her. They’d been spending so much time together that it felt odd to be apart from her, even if it was just for the day. Even when her mum had whisked her away to shop, he still knew exactly when he’d see her next.

As he made his way down another new street, Ron stopped outside the window of a unique looking jewelry shop. He knew it was still early in their relationship, but he walked inside anyways to see what the display cases held. Most everything would probably be out of his price range, but maybe he’d gather an idea or two for Hermione.

“Good afternoon,” a bright and energetic salesperson said to him.

“Hello,” Ron said.

“Is there anything I can help you find today?”

“Oh, er, not really. Just looking,” his ears turned red. 

“Not a problem at all! I’ll be around if you need anything,” she smiled and went back to her work.

As he walked around slowly, browsing the selection, he was appreciative that there seemed to be a wide variety of items and price ranges. Ron avoided the section with the rings. It was way too early for that, and he didn’t want to get his hopes up with wishful thinking. So, he found his way over to the earrings, which he was pretty sure she never wore often, though he was certain her ears were pierced, and then the necklaces. He shuddered at the recollection of Lavender giving him that horrifying ‘sweetheart locket’ back in sixth year, and swore to himself that he wouldn’t get anything like that for Hermione. 

Once he’d finished circling the perimeter of glass cases, he moved to the center displays, which appeared to be bracelets. There was a small display among them that had a variety of blank bracelets and little pieces scattered all around. 

Ron looked around and caught the salesperson’s attention. “Find something I can help you with?”

“Er, yes. What are these?” Ron asked her.

“Oh! Great question. These are charm bracelets! Are you familiar with them?” she asked kindly.

“No, not really,” Ron admitted.

“No matter! You see, you pick out a bracelet first, though I’m sure you would have gathered that, and then you have all of these amazing charms to choose from. We have hundreds of them on this display for you to choose from.”

“So, the charms are like symbols, then?” Ron asked for clarification.

“Precisely! They are becoming increasingly popular.”

Ron nodded as an idea was forming in his mind. He was unable to get anything for Hermione’s last birthday, and Christmas for that matter. Maybe this could be the way to make it up to her. “How much?”

“The bracelets are 50 dollars, and then the charms range anywhere between 15 and 50 depending on what you’re looking for.”

Ron thought about what the salesperson said as he felt the wallet in his pocket. Bill and George had both given him money before he’d left. He was determined not to use it unless he had to, since he felt guilty that he was taking it to begin with. Maybe he’d splurge a bit, and when they got back to England, he’d take up a part-time job at the shop with George in order to pay him back, and then earn a little spending money of his own.

In truth, he was about to use it to pay for their posh dinner the other night, but Hermione had insisted she use her parent’s card. He’d need to make it up to them, too, at some point. Focus, Ron. Okay, I could get her the bracelet, and a few charms. No more than five. He knew if he didn’t set a limit, he’d blow all his money on this one gift.

“Okay, I’d like the silver bracelet, I think. Is there a list of charms, or will I need to look through all these individually?” Not that he minded, since he had nowhere else to be today.

“We have a list right here!” There was a stack of laminated papers that she grabbed one from and handed to him. “When you’ve decided what you’d like, I can take them out for you and we can put them on the bracelet at the register.”

“Great, thanks!” Ron said as he began to work his way through the list. 

She wasn’t kidding when she said there were hundreds. They were broken down into categories on the double sided sheet. He knew he definitely wanted to get her the book charm. That was without a doubt. He saw that there was also a heart with roses engraved in it. It looked fancier than the other charms, but he figured he could splurge a bit on it since it held a special meaning for them both. 

As his eyes skimmed the list he noticed an assortment of animals. I wonder…, he thought. He saw there was definitely a dog, which he wasn’t surprised by, but he was even more pleased to see that there was an otter charm! “Well, they are quite cute,” he muttered to himself. 

Four charms down, one more. He initially looked for an elf, but didn’t have any luck there. He wasn’t surprised, and he worried that even if he saw one, it’d be one of those Christmas looking ones. Giving up on that, Ron ended up finding a seashell charm which instantly brought him back to Shell Cottage. That was no doubt the turning point in their relationship, and it also represented the place where Dobby was buried. It could definitely serve a double meaning, for sure.

He brought the paper up to the counter and told the kind salesperson his choices, watching as she bustled around to collect everything. She rang the items up, and Ron pulled out his wallet to pay for the items. He carefully tucked the receipt away so he could keep track of his purchases.

“Would you like this wrapped up in a gift bag?” she asked him.

“Yes, please,” he said, glad to have her assistance.

He asked if the charms could be arranged the following way on the bracelet: book, otter, terrier, seashell, and heart. It represented the chronological order of the charm’s meanings to their relationship. The salesperson finished wrapping up the bracelet and handed him the gift bag when she was finished. “Thank you so much for your business, and best of luck. I’m sure your special someone is going to love this!”

“Thanks for your help,” Ron said as he exited the shop.

He figured he should probably head back before he spent any more money that day. Ron could watch the telly, and there was enough food for him to make something at the flat. There was an alley nearby that he decided to turn into, so he could apparate back to the flat. Better to be safe than sorry, since he really had no idea where he was. He turned on the spot and appeared at the apparition point nearby. He approached the building, typed in the code and let himself into the foyer. 

When he made it up the stairs, he unlocked the door and walked into the main living area, just as a silvery ball floated toward him. At first, his heart constricted and he immediately became on edge. He was even more worried for Hermione’s safety when the ball transformed into Hermione’s otter patronus.

A moment later he could hear Hermione’s nervous voice. “Hi! I hope this works. It’s the first time I’ve tried to send a patronus message. Anyways, I’m having dinner with my parents and will be back after. Most likely between seven and eight. I hope you don’t mind. See you soon.” 

The silver otter pranced over to him and moved in a figure eight pattern around his legs before nuzzling him and disappearing into a wisp. Ron couldn’t help but smile with pride. Hermione was okay, and she’d produced her first corporeal patronus complete with a message. He checked his watch as he set the bag down on the table. Only a few hours until he could see her again.

[nooneelsecomesclose17]

You are the absolute best idea I ever had - part 1

Ok so I’m still not sure about doing the chapter thing because it’s been so long since I wrote anything I have no idea how long my inspiration will last (or my fingers for that matter) but let’s go for it. *bites nails nervously*

Thanks as always to @amandaj718 for listening to me ramble about this and convincing me it was a good idea. It’s based on Red, White and Royal Blue, probably fairly loosely in some bits and more in others. We’ll see.

(They’re a similar age here and about Aaron’s age on the show when they met, maybe a bit younger, but it’s not vitally important)

AO3 Link

*******

Robert looked round the room as he dumped his bag on the bed. It did look comfortable he supposed, but that didn’t mask the fact that he didn’t want to be here. The room itself was nothing special, nothing like most people would expect in the home of the British Prime Minister he had no doubt. It was bigger than he expected, no doubt thanks to the Blairs and their renovations back in the day. It wasn’t his home though. He had a flat, a perfectly nice flat in the middle of the city that suited him and yet here he was.

“You’re here then.” He turns to see his Dad standing in the doorway, suit as immaculate as always. He doesn’t think he’s ever seen him look casual, even when his Mum used to force him into a sweater or polo shirt during the summer.

“You didn’t give me much choice.” He’d expected the call, as soon as he’d woken up to a phone full of news notifications. He supposes it’s not every day the son of one of the most popular Prime Ministers in recent history is caught red handed with the sister of his beloved wife. It didn’t matter that in private their marriage had been over for months, that Chrissie was already with someone else. No, he was the one at fault, all manner of rumours doing the rounds, because they’d kept their separation private so as not to harm his father’s reputation.

What rankled most, as it had most of his life, was that his Dad hadn’t even called himself, not even his closest assistant had been the one to make the call, a lowly staffer was all he got, telling him that ‘the PM thinks it best you move into 10 Downing Street for the foreseeable’.

It wasn’t that he wanted to be front page news, he didn’t go looking for it like some, but ever since his father had swept to power on a promise of reuniting the country, the press had been on him like bees round a honeypot, half the time making up their own gossip without him even leaving his living room. He wasn’t like his brother, the fine upstanding Andy, who still ran the farm that their Dad had grown up on, Andy with the sick daughter who everyone doted on, including Robert, he’s not that terrible a human being. Then there was Vic, the darling of the press, who smiled and waved every time she left the building, who would often take some of her newest creations out to the waiting press gaggle for them to try. Robert was just trying to live his life, but that wasn’t good enough, never had been.

“I need you to come with me tonight. I think it would be a good idea for people to see you doing some good for a change. Diane is already attending a charity event.”

“Where is it?”

“The palace. Be ready for 7.” He turned to leave. “And Robert, I don’t want any silliness, not like last time.”

Honestly, you get slightly merry one time at a Downing Street party and you never hear the end of it. It’s not like he declared war on anyone, he just, well he might’ve broken a vase. It was hideous anyway and deserved to be broken, but apparently it’d been a gift from some country or other that the country needed to trade with. Robert really didn’t think that trade deals depended on a frankly ugly piece of china but as had been pointed out to him many many times he knew nothing about politics and should keep his nose out.

It wasn’t that he was politically ignorant, he voted, he read the news, he researched anything that might be relevant to him or his job, but after years of hearing his parents fighting because his Dad was forever away from home or spending more time sorting out his constituents problems than those in his own family, as far as he was concerned the whole thing was a pantomime. The happy family that had stood on the steps outside, smiling and waving, was nothing but a charade. He and Andy barely spoke, which was fine by him, his Dad could barely stand the sight of him and Diane and Victoria just wanted them all to get along and that meant Robert should shut up and get on with it.

“Robert?” He stops unpacking and turns to see his little sister leaning on the doorframe, hair done up in her usual braid, already coming loose at the front. She’s holding a plate in her hand, his favourite flavour of doughnut sitting proudly on top. He’s missed her. The downside to avoiding his Dad is that he doesn’t see her as much as he likes.

“Hiya trouble.” He pulls her into a hug. “That for me?”

“Thought you might need it. Dad said you were going with him tonight?” She hands him the plate before bouncing on the bed. Sometimes it’s hard to believe she’s a fully fledged adult.

“Not willingly.” He mumbles around his food. “This ’s good.”

“It’s boring is what it is. Why won’t you try some of my other flavours?”

“Because you do not mess with jam doughnuts Vic. Some things have to remain sacred in this world.” He smiles a little at her huff and licks the sugar from his fingers before joining her on the bed, staring up at the ceiling. “Are you sure you wouldn’t rather go tonight?”

“I went last time. Besides, it’ll give you the chance to stare at you know who all night.” He groans, regretting once more the late night conversation a few years ago when he was still living at home.

“I hate you.”

“You love me.”

“Debatable. Anyway I don’t want to stare at anyone, least of all him.”

“So the words His Royal Hotness didn’t pass your lips?”

“Vodka had passed my lips.”

“So you don’t fancy the second in line to the throne then?” He shakes his head at her, irritated but loving her all the same. She was the only one of them who knew he was bi, well no, he supposed his Dad did even if they’d never actually managed a conversation. He idly wonders what it’d be like to tell everyone what had happened, the see the scales fall from the eyes of the nation about their perfect leader. He’d never do it, would never hurt Vic like that, but sometimes the look on his Dad’s face if he did would comfort him somehow.

“No!” He could admit, if pushed that Aaron was good looking, he wasn’t blind, but so were lots of people.

“Hm.”

“The man never smiles Vic. Last year, at his cousin’s wedding, did you even see him without a scowl?”

“You took notice of him then?” He half heartedly smacks her arm, making her laugh. “I’m glad you’re here, Rob, I missed you.”

“I’ve been here.” It’s lame, because he hasn’t, not really.

“I mean more than a couple of texts and a phone call once a month. How long are you going to be here?”

“Until I’m not grounded anymore.”

“Idiot. I’m going, Adam’s picking me up at 4.” She’s gone before he can even ask who Adam is. It just proves how distant he’s been from her and he feels guilty all over again.

*******

“I meant what I said Robert, best behaviour tonight. I think you’ve made enough headlines with your dalliances for a while, don’t you?” It’s on the tip of his tongue to drag up Rachel, something else that no one knows but family, but he stops himself. It’s not worth the hassle. Hopefully if he gets through tonight he won’t be asked again for a long while.

“Just once it’d be nice if you pretended to have even an ounce of faith in me. You do know Chrissie is right now shacked up with someone else, don’t you? And was before I went anywhere near Rebecca.”

“No one cares about that. Just behave yourself. Is that too much to ask? This isn’t just some party, it’s the Queen and her family. Show some respect.”

Privately he thought that Queen Faith looked rather fun and would be quite at home gossiping over a few glasses of red rather than endlessly shaking hands but he keeps it to himself as they pull up the gates of the palace. He can’t help looking up at the building a little in awe. He’s wouldn’t really class himself as a monarchist, but he doesn’t wish any of them any ill, and he watches all the pomp and ceremony on TV like everyone else. He just doesn’t particularly want to spend the night minding his P’s and Q’s because he’s really not all that good at it.

He takes a deep breath as the car stops and the door is opened. As he watches his Dad step out he can’t help but think his world has really taken a turn in the last 24 hours.

[mysmesomefluff]

Believe Again: Chapter 31 (Preview)

A/N: Posting the first part of this chapter here first because the update is so overdue LOL sorry I’m honestly just sick of the plot part i just want to write mindless fluff where everyone is happy again T_T also been getting swamped with group projects/presentations already (everything stacked in the first half of the semester for me this time) so I’ll try to finish the rest of it this week if possible if not early next week. :”) 

***

Saeyoung ran the plan over in his head for what seemed like the thousandth time. Maybe he was being paranoid, but he was worried about forgetting something when he was panicking like this.

This mission had two aims: one, to rescue Saeran and his girlfriend and two, to erase all information in Mint Eye’s database relating to the twins and the RFA. The rest—namely Park Ha Yoon��would be dealt with by the Prime Minister’s men. Two teams were going in to save Saeran and his girlfriend, and both Jumin’s men and a small team of the elite forces provided by the Prime Minister would help with this rescue mission.

Honestly, he was still having a hard time wrapping his head around just this part. Never in his life would he have expected to be working with that man… the man his mother had always warned him and Saeran about. For as long as he could remember, she had refused to allow them to go outside freely, always reminding them of the fact that they had a father who would do anything to erase them from this world.

And yet, here this man was, helping them.

Well, Saeyoung supposed it wasn’t exactly like he was doing God’s work either. All this was on the condition that he and Saeran packed their bags, left the country for good and buried the truth of their birth forever.

But at least he didn’t want them dead. Saeyoung supposed maybe that made him the better parent, at least when compared to his mother… which set the bar ten feet underground.

Nevertheless, it was clear enough from their meeting that things like kinship meant little to the seasoned politician. He had only become more agreeable after Jumin pointed out that Park Ha Yoon knew about the twins’ link to him and could reveal it at any time. A ticking time bomb, if he would.

So when the Prime Minister assured them that he would handle that part of the operation, Saeyoung had a shuddering feeling he knew what was going to happen. Only dead men could tell secrets, after all.

He just didn’t know how trustworthy Prime Minister Choi was. He could easily be plotting to get rid of him, Saeran and the RFA in the same manner after their work here was done.

At least Jumin had the foresight to make the necessary preparations beforehand. Once they got out safely, Jaehee would have their contact in the news station broadcast news of Mint Eye, Park Ha Yoon, and the truth of the human experimentations going on there. Hopefully, that would be enough to keep the politicians busy for a while, including the Prime Minister, and give Saeyoung enough time to escape with his family.

He and MC had spent the past few days packing and thinking of where they could go. There were so many considerations involved, like MC’s pregnancy, costs and accommodations, but too little time. Jumin had graciously offered his help, but that would leave a trail, and Saeyoung didn’t want him to suffer any backlash as a result of helping them. He had done more than enough. He had already risked too much just by being at the negotiation table with the Prime Minister about this.

“Saeyoung, how long more?” came Vanderwood’s voice in his bluetooth earpiece.

“Almost.” Saeyoung clicked his tongue. There were a few hackers on the other end trying to block his access now; at least they only just realized that he was infiltrating the system. He already found the files that needed to be deleted, it was just a matter of waiting now.

“Let us know when you’re ready.”

It felt just like old times. As partners, he and Vanderwood usually were put in the same team on missions, with Saeyoung playing the role of back-up and tech support while Vanderwood got his hands dirty out in the field. It was no different this time; Vanderwood would be accompanied by a team of men—thankfully, the ones under Jumin and not the military team—and once they received the green light from him, they would put the plan into action.

“You serious about coming with us?” Vanderwood asked.

“Of course.” It wasn’t that he didn’t trust Vanderwood. The man was a seasoned field agent, Saeyoung knew he could trust him with his life.

But he had to be there for Saeran. Every time Saeyoung attempted to imagine what Saeran might be going through in that building—brainwashing, being force-fed that elixir, being beaten and abused—he felt sick to his stomach. And almost immediately after that he would recall the time he had first brought Saeran to the bunker, and how he had tried to end his life when he finally got the chance to be alone…

That was the day it truly dawned on Saeyoung just how much his little brother had suffered for all those years that they were apart. The pain he saw that day in Saeran’s mint-coloured eyes went far beyond description that mere words could provide, and Saeyoung was deathly afraid that he would be sucked back into that despair like before, drowning in quicksand with no way of getting up again.

“He’ll be fine,” came Vanderwood’s voice again, interrupting his thoughts. Saeyoung’s lips turned up slightly, grateful for the reassurance. It was all he could hold onto for now, as uncertain as those words were.  

It reminded him of when he was young, telling Saeran about all those wonderful things they could do when they grew up and found the means to finally run away from that terrible, terrible house. All he had back then were a bunch of pretty words to share with his brother. With empty hands, all he could cling on to was hope, or maybe an illusory fantasy that was just nice to think about. He couldn’t do anything else, other than watch Saeran cry and hold him close at night when they were both too cold to sleep. And then when he joined the agency, he could only imagine and hope that his brother was doing well somewhere out there in this vast and seemingly empty world.

Things were different now. He had more than just words to offer. His hands weren’t useless any longer. Now, he had skills, strength, and the means to keep his once empty promises to Saeran. He wasn’t going to let his little brother down again.  

He just hoped he wouldn’t be too late.

[jonathanvik]

Starlight Dream - Chapter 8

“Yes, suffer more!” A girl hiding behind a pillar said, watching her evil plan coming into motion. Emiyo watched from the sidelines expectantly, curious.

Emiyo waited and waited, but still, nobody screamed or howled in pain. She scanned around the packed food court and saw people going about their usual daily lives, laughing and having fun. Everything seemed normal, making Emiyo furrow her brow in confusion.

“Yes! Their suffering is so perfect!” The girl said again, her fairy partner smirking in satisfaction. The girl was a tiny thing, standing shorter than most pre-teen-aged girls. Her hair was bright pink, cut into a quick bob.

“Am I missing something?” Emiyo intensified her search, but found nothing but an average day at the mall.

“I don’t see anyone dead or unconscious.” Nyx flew around, searching for anything out of the ordinary. “It must be so subtle it’s invisible!”

“What, come on!” An annoyed teenage boy with pimples said behind a counter at a burger place. “I just filled that!”

“Hey, what gives? Where’s the ketchup? I’m in a hurry!” A customer said. “My movie starts in ten minutes!”

The boy winced. “Sorry, sir. I’ll get some right away.”

“Victory!” The girl said, her fist pumping upwards.

“Victory in what, exactly?” Emiyo asked behind the girl, who yelped in surprise.

“Emiyo, uh, hi! You aren’t usually out in the field.” Himari said, wearing a nervous grin on her face.

“Yeah, it’s nice to see you!” Liam, her partner, gave a reassuring smile.

“You never answered my question.”

“You know, magical girl stuff!” Himari said. “Causing all the suffering I can.”

Emiyo gestured to the calm food court, her patience thin. “What suffering?”

“Lots of it! We stole all that store’s condiments.” Liam replied. “Remember how annoyed that man was? He might miss the beginning of his movie! Now that employee needs to refill the condiment stand! What a bother, right?”

Himari gave an emphatic nod. “Right! And that worker got yelled at! No one likes that!”

Emiyo fought the urge to rub her temple, feeling a headache coming on. “This is your idea of suffering? Really?! Suffering is having your body crushed and living in never-ending agony. Suffering is losing everyone you’ve ever loved and having nothing to live for. Suffering is living in a nuclear wasteland!”

“That boy seemed pretty miserable to me,” Himari muttered under her breath.

Himari coughed, regaining her confidence. “I think you’re a little confused. I’m actually playing the long game!”

Despite herself, this piqued Emiyo’s interest. Perhaps she’d misjudged the girl?

“Yeah, nuclear wastelands are great and all, but it’s tacky and too easy.” Himari puffed out her chest. “I’m destroying worlds with a thousand cuts!”

“Sorry, what?”

“It’s simple. I’m causing countless small instances of suffering so they’ll build into something greater and more explosive. People will bottle up their frustration until they burst and cause untold havoc!”

Emiyo’s eye twitched. “This is your brilliant plan, really?”

“Totally evil, right?” The girl and her partner gave an emphatic nod.

In her head, Emiyo’s headache intensified. “No wonder the suffering levels in your universes have only increased by .00000000001 percent.”

“I’m playing the long game.”

“For two hundred years?!”

“The very long game.”

You incompetent little! Emiyo wanted to throttle the girl but kept professional calm. An outburst would be unseemly. “If this is the caliber of sector 8’s magical girls, no wonder the suffering levels haven’t increased much.”

Of sector 8’s magical girls, Himari is one of the few remaining who still lived. Emiyo had found the others dead, killed by the rebel. Why didn’t she save Emiyo the trouble and kill Himari too? It’d be so easy!

“Look, I’m currently assessing the entirety of Sector 8. When I get back, your universes’ suffering better increase by at least twenty percent!”

“Don’t worry, I’ll just accelerate my plans somewhat.” Himari pulled out a small vial, smirking. “I plan to put this into the water supply!”

Hope sparked in Emiyo’s heart. Poisoning water was an excellent way to spread fear and panic!

“It makes the water taste funny. Not horrible, but still unpleasant.” Himari said. “It will force people to buy bottled water instead! What a needless expense, right?”

Emiyo put her face into her hands and screamed.

---

Takako howled in pain as her opponent tossed her onto the padded mat.

“Are you okay?” Seina asked, concerned.

“No, it’s fine.” She said, rubbing her bruised arm. Even without her magical girl powers, Seina hit like a truck. Takako returned to her feet, determined to go again. Her pride refused to leave until she’d scored several points against her rival.

“Darn it.” Takako cursed as her back struck the padded floor once again. “I’m much quicker than you. Yet, you keep beating me!” Somehow, the girl seemed more like a wall than a person, deflecting back everything Takako threw against her.

“That’s because you aren’t sticking with what I’ve been teaching you.” Mr. Kiyojiro said. “You always go for the dirty move rather than the practical one.”

“But it’s totally predictable and lame!” Takako waved a dismissive hand. “Not my style at all.”

Seina smiled. “I suppose, but you always leave yourself wide open. You aren’t working on your defense enough.”

Takako turned away. “Whatever. My genius is too brilliant for you to understand.”

Seina sighed, but a slight smile appeared on her lips. “Okay, Maeko. Fine. Want to go again?”

“Always, best out five?”

Despite her best efforts, Seina still won most exchanges, moving with lighting precision. Yet, Takako didn’t mind it. Instead, it only pushed her to work harder. She hadn’t been this excited in decades. Usually, she found her magical girl duties dull, but she enjoyed the challenge Seina presented. The fighting made her feel alive. It’d be a shame when Seina inevitably died in days ahead, but Takako would enjoy her company until then. They chatted as they walked across town, enjoying the scenery. People were working hard to rebuild, invigorated with a new purpose after the vampire’s fall. Despite herself, their grit and determination impressed Takako.

“Is that the new school?” Aiko looked down towards the skeleton of a building from their vantage point.

Seina flinched. “Yes, Lotus High School.”

“No way! The Prime Minister named a school after you?” Aiko beamed with pride.

“Yeah,” Seina replied, with little enthusiasm. “They wanted to call it Kamiyama High School, but I vetoed that idea. And the statue.”

Aiko rolled her eyes. “Please, you deserve some recognition! You saved the world!”

“I guess.” Seina said, still unhappy. Uncle Kenji is adamant I should attend it once it’s finished. Isn’t that the worst, going to a school named after you?”

“Don’t worry, I'll be by your side if anyone bugs you about it.” Aiko puffed out her chest. “Never thought I’d ever attend high school. I’m so looking forward to it. Do you think it’ll be anything like those mangas Maeko likes?”

“I hope so,” Seina said. “Clubs, romance, lunch on the roof, meeting with friends every day. It sounds nice.”

Takako rolled her eyes. The dullest, most ordinary things always infatuated Aiko and Seina. What next? Wanting to attend cram school too? Even thinking about it gave Takako bad memories.

“How about you, Maeko?” Aiko said. “What are you looking forward to in high school?” The two girls looked at her expectantly.

Shows what you know. I’m too old to care about things like high school! She paused, realizing, despite being several hundred years old, she’d never attended high school. Soon, both Seina and Aiko would have a much higher education level than her. Takako had run away from home long before high school age. Not that she cared, of course. Takako was smart enough without it.

“Eh, seems boring if you ask me,” Takako said, not impressed..

“How can you say that after the vampires basically starved us of any education?” Seina said, irritated. “I had to learn basic reading and math in secret! Uncle Kenji had to risk his life to teach me how to add!”

Takako took a step back, surprised by the usually meek girl’s angry outburst. “Okay, okay. Sorry,”

“I’m sorry too.” Seina said.” I lost my temper. It just frustrates me what basic things the vampires denied us. We were just things to them, not even people!”

“I know what you mean,” Aiko said, nodding. “But the vampires can’t stop us now! Humanity can’t be stopped!”

“Right! Oh, I can’t wait for high school to start!” Seina said dreamily. “Mr. Kiyojiro’s tutoring is great, but I want to learn from a real teacher! Uh, no offense, Mr. Kiyojiro.”

“I’m not offended.” Mr. Kiyojiro said, finally joining the conversation. “Teaching from random textbooks is awkward.” He rubbed the back of his neck. “I’m not a great teacher.”

“Oh, I don’t mind. Any chance to learn!” Seina replied, trying to reassure her bodyguard and tutor. “You’re doing an excellent job teaching me Japanese. It’s my favorite subject. And I’m not too shabby at English either.”

“Private tutor, you’re lucky. I just wish I could understand half of my lessons.” Aiko rolled her eyes. “Ms. Inouye still hasn’t created a coherent study plan yet.”

“Hey, the adults are working hard to teach you youngsters.” Mr. Kiyojiro said. “A few kinks in the plan aren’t unexpected. You’ve already lost too many years. How can you become proper adults without the proper education?”

“No argument here.” Aiko said, and Seina nodded.

“Sure, but being a proper adult means getting a job and paying taxes and rent.” Takako said, piping in.

Mr. Kiyojiro coughed into his fist. “Well, yes. But, that’s part of growing up. You can’t stay a child forever.”

“Except, Seina will stay a child forever,” Takako said, pointing out the flaw in the bodyguard’s logic.

“Not in my heart. I can get a job anyway!” Seina said, retorting the point.

“You actually want a job?” Takako asked in disbelief. It sounded like such a needless bother. “You’re a magical girl! There’s nothing stopping you from doing whatever you want.”

“Yes, actually,” Seina replied, puffing out her chest. “I’ll still be an adult, even if I appear ten!”

Colten’s eyes lit in awe. “You’re so responsible, Seina!”

Takako snorted. “Stupid if you ask me.”

“Trust me, Maeko,” Seina said. “Being a magical girl isn’t as appealing as it sounds.”

“Whatever. Well, I better get going.” After all that hard training, Takako wanted to gorge herself on shaved ice and watch some anime.

“Later!” Seina and Aiko waved as she left.

“You’re too comfortable with those two,” Lilha said from an alleyway. “You’d almost think you’d become friends.”

“Friends? Not likely.” Takako was too evil and hardhearted for such nonsense.

“Good,” Lilha replied. “Come. There are matters we need to discuss. It won’t be long until we’re ready.”

“You’re acting already? I’ve barely learned anything. Mr. Kiyojirois still teaching us the basics!”

Lilha raised an eyebrow. “Are we meant to wait years while you play with Seina?”

“We are both immortal.” For someone who was ageless, Lilha certainly was impatient. “Is it that important for you to return to your nightmare world?”

“We are vampires. We rule.”

“Okay, but why ban schools? Why make children work 70-hour weeks?” Takako couldn’t resist asking these questions any further.

“The humans needed to know their place. My husband was always adamant about grinding them down as much as possible.”

“Why? Aren’t these policies more likely to cause humanity’s extinction?”

“It wouldn’t get that far. We’d keep them alive. They are our pets.”

“You didn’t answer my question. Why?”

“You’re a magical girl. It’s your job to make people suffer.” Lilha gave her a pointed look, making Takako hesitate. It was true. Why was she caring about this?

“Well?”

“Have you lost your nerve? Don’t you hate Siena as deeply as I do? I’ve seen how she humiliates you. Are you happy always being her inferior?”

Takako stood straighter. “I’m the strongest. Always will be. We will kill Seina.”

“Good. I see no further use in having you train with Seina. You’ve learned enough. I fear you’re getting too cozy with her. It’s time we enact our plan.” Lilha shone with excitement. “By tomorrow, Seina Kamiyama will be dead!”

Takako nodded, realizing her doubts were foolish. This was what they’d agreed upon. She glanced back, watching Seina talking and laughing with her friends without a care in the world. It left a strange bitterness in Takako’s heart. But no, for the sake of the magical girls and Starlight Dream, Seina’s death was necessary. After giving the girl a final look, Takako focused on the task at hand. No more useless doubts or distractions.

---

“A day out? Sounds great!” Seina said. Mr. Kiyojiro had given them the day off, and they were debating how to best spend it.

Aiko beamed. “I know this cute little place that’s becoming really popular. It’s super trendy!”

“Clothes shopping?” Colten sighed from his perch on Seina’s head. “Okay.”

Seina patted her fairy friend on the head. “It won’t be long, then we’ll get some ice cream.”

Colten perked up. “Really?”

Aiko snorted in amusement. “You spoil him too much. Yes, I promise it’ll be quick. I haven’t forgotten you, Colten. I have some activities planned for you too. There’s this street performer I heard about that might interest you. He does Kamishibai.”

Colten’s eyes lit in excitement. It also piqued Seina’s interest. Since DVD players and working TVs were still rare, the art form had reemerged on Osaka’s streets to entertain people. Though because of her training, she hadn’t caught one yet. The art form used still pictures accompanied by the performer, who narrates the story. Her fairy partner bounced on her head, unable to contain his excitement, making Seina giggle.

“Kamishibai?” Maeko said, showing genuine interest. “I haven’t seen one of those in forever.” Mr. Kiyojiro nodded in agreement, also genuinely interested.

Seina blinked. “Really? How?” The vampires were strict about punishing anyone who dared defy their edicts. Even singing could get you killed. Maeko’s past was so bizarre. Did her taskmaster even do his job?

Maeko coughed into her fist. “When I was really young. You know, before the vampires.”

Seina nodded, embarrassed by her misunderstanding. Unfortunately, most of her memories before the darkness were scarce and blurry. Worse, they consisted of people she’d rather not consider. Their presence tainted her childhood worse than anything the vampires had done. It sent blazing furious hatred through her and almost brought tears to her eyes. Why had her parents’ betrayal hurt her so much? Despite trying to forget them, thoughts of them returned at random moments, hurting her all over again. Sensing his partner’s distress, Colten rubbed her back, calming her.

“Are you okay?” Maeko said, worried by Seina’s sudden change in mood.

“It’s fine.” Her parents didn’t matter anymore. Besides, she had a new family and they wouldn’t hurt her as they had.

“There’s this ramen stand that recently opened up. I’d like to try. Would you mind having lunch there?” Mr. Kiyojiro said.

“Sounds great. Is there anywhere else you’d like to go?” Seina felt guilty for dragging her bodyguard around town without his input. Was he as bored by girls shopping as Colten was? But Mr. Kiyojiro only waved his hand, indicating his wishes didn’t matter. After some consideration, Seina decided she’d at least allow him to pick where they’d eat supper too.

“I have a suggestion.” Maeko had been quiet throughout the entire conversation, drawing everyone’s attention. “Before going anywhere else, there’s this manga shop nearby I’d like to try. I heard it sells brand new manga. I’m curious if the rumors are true.”

“Sounds fun.” Aiko replied. “It will give Colten something to read while he’s waiting!”

Brand new manga? That sounded interesting. It brought a smile to Seina’s heart. Little by little, humanity was reclaiming their lives. The vampire’s reign was becoming a distant memory.

“Is this the right place?” Aiko glanced around, eying their surroundings with curiosity. They’d entered a part of Osaka that still remained mostly abandoned. The streets were empty, but Seina couldn’t help but feel she was being watched. Yet, when she looked, she spotted no one around. Odd.

“Just down this alley, and we’ll be there,” Maeko said, pointing towards a colorful sign that showed the shop’s name, Shinobu Manga Emporium. Seina peeked down the alley and saw an open door, seeing shelves of colorful manga ready for purchase.

A sense of wrongness overcame Seina, and she stopped her step. The feeling of being watched intensified, but she still couldn’t locate its source. Aiko picked on her anxiety.

“Is something the matter?” Aiko glaced around, a worried expression on her face.

Maeko snorted. “Nothing’s the matter. It’s just a manga shop.”

She gave her bodyguard a meaningful look, and he nodded in agreement. He’d also sensed the prevailing wrongness. “How about we go somewhere else? This place seems kinda sketchy.” Before Maeko could offer a retort, Seina jumped aside as a humongous axe flew towards where her head had been a moment earlier. It flew past and crashed into a nearby building leveling it with a resounding crash.

A large vampire emerged from literally nowhere, brandishing an axe almost larger than his body. “You got lucky. Next time I won't miss.” Several more muscular vampires emerged, surrounding them. Aiko screamed in terror and hid behind Seina.

Maeko rubbed her temple. “Jentin, you idiot! Your eagerness alerted her to the trap. Never mind. We do this the hard way instead!” Much to Seina’s shock, her friend pulled out a brooch similar to hers. “Change Change, Magical Love Genocide Dress Up!”

What the heck was happening? The veil of illusion disappeared, revealing a face she hadn’t expected. “Takako?”

The dark magical girl smirked. “Is it that shocking? Now be a good girl and die.” She pointed her black pistol point-blank towards Seina’s midsection and fired

[weshallc]

Bonfire Night.

A Crown Jewels story. Call the Midwife AU

Chapter One: Light up, Light up.

“You’re The Only Thing That’s Right.”  Run by Snow Patrol.

To @lovetheturners and @h4t08 who wanted to learn more about bonfire night and to all American friends who are expecting fireworks one way or another on November 5th and for the rest of us who would just like to put a rocket up someone’s arse.

“Well bugger me,” the curse was uttered in a jovial tone ringed with anger and just a hint of despair.

“It was expected, it was in all the Tory newspapers at the weekend, that we would be going into a second national lockdown.” Tim was the only one who seemed to think his father’s statement required a response. It could be he was still young enough or just too familiar to think one was necessary.

“Why are you buying that shite?” The quick stinging reply made everyone who heard it either shift their position or take a sharp intake of breath. Apart from Tim, still young, still familiar.

“I don’t. There's this mystic thing called the internet, Dad.  That's where most people discover what’s going on in the world.”

“I don’t need to know what’s going on in the world, I just need to know what is going on in my pub.”

“Sod all, after Bonfire Night by the looks of it.” The voice was not a Turner’s but a Buckle’s and the tension decreased a fraction.

Trixie shut the lid of her laptop. Much to Tim and most of his friends' annoyance, his father still refused to add television and Sky Sports to the Crown. Tim repeatedly argued over the loss of custom due to the lack of Premier League coverage. Paddy didn’t argue back, just simply stated when the local football team actually got to the top tier of English football he would think about it.

They had gathered around the bar to watch the Prime Minister’s announcement. The usual crew, battered and slightly bruised from navigating the new decade, but still loyal to their captain and his ship. 

Buckle’s Brewery were represented by Fred and his nephew Reggie. Vi too, the chef and protector of all things Buckle. Evie the previous owner and now cleaner, temp and all-round God-send. Then the bar staff; Val, who could run the country better than the current contingent in Paddy’s eyes, but he would never tell her she would hate it. Jack, the ‘bit of a lad’ needing direction, he had been pushed on Paddy by Sargeant Chummy. He now had the makings of a decent bar manager. Trixie was there, of course, no show without Punch. The laptop was iMac. How much was Mount Busby paying her? Then there was Bernie.

Bernie, who had been perched on her favourite stool, leaned over and steadied Paddy’s hand, saving the squished beer mat he was clenching from further disfigurement. He gave her a weak smile, and she raised it with a reciprocal smile that lit up her face, reddened her cheeks and flashed across her baby blues. We will manage, we always do.

Bernie Mannion had learned since moving into the Crown at the beginning of the first lockdown in March, not to take these father/son exchanges to heart. She soon understood that if Tim didn’t wind up his father, every now and again, Paddy would bury his rage, disappointment, despair or whatever it was? Deep inside. Tim’s cockiness just poked the beast enough to prevent total hibernation, but not to provoke raw aggression.

A thought Bernie was not as comfortable with was that Paddy and Tim’s relationship was not unlike hers and Trixie’s. The blonde southern alpaca queen wound her up enormously. She still couldn’t understand why the public school, poor little rich girl addict, she had tried to help as a mission worker was still in her life. 250 miles away in sleepy Tweavenside. Most of Bernie’s family had either died or just sent a Christmas card, so maybe Trixie was family. She did keep Bernie genuine, like Tim did Paddy.

Bernie was broken from her musing by the thick silence that was shrouding the bar. Pubs are only quiet when empty, not with people in them. Paddy was doing that thing he did where he seemed to be trying to rub a pen mark off her thumb with his own thumb. The stroking was becoming more intense, and she shifted slightly uncomfortably on her stool. She had never liked these Primark knickers. 

The voice of reason broke through the suffocating silence, “Right Chicks best get started then.”

They all looked at Val. 

“Started for what, exactly?” Paddy managed to ask, and Bernie felt the effort it took him via her thumb.

“Bondie night, of course! If the Crown is going out, it’s going out with a bloody great bang!”