#the struggle between loyalty to the commander and to the state??

[quia-nominor--leo]

decided to read some Schiller so that I can keep up with beloved @burritofriedrich (and also take a break from classics) and Wallenstein's Death blew me away so much that I now, unfortunately, have opened the wikipedia page for the Thirty Years War.

[pure-smut]

radioactive.

featuring: Togame Jo x f!reader

contains: angst with comfort, mentions of a fight, blood, oral (male and female receiving)

word count: 2.6k

note: all characters are aged up to 21+!

MDNI | 18+ content

series: 1. off limits | 2. radioactive

masterlist

Your eyes are on the TV but they’re not focussed, your nails chewed down to the quick. You’d gone out to buy yourself a new phone but now you wish you hadn’t because you keep looking at it every two seconds, checking for a message.

Togame Jo had gone to talk to your brother, Choji, about an hour ago. He’d promised to message you when they were done but you haven’t heard anything yet. You’d cleaned your whole studio apartment, went to buy groceries, picked up your new phone, and you still couldn’t stop thinking about him.

You’d wanted to be there while he did it but Togame didn’t think that was a good idea – he didn’t want Choji to feel ambushed. So he’s gone by himself, leaving you to anxiously wait.

Your phone buzzes and you immediately grab it, only to see it’s a message from your phone provider. Grumbling, you throw it back into the couch cushions and turn to the TV, drawing your knees up to your chest.

And then you hear a knock at the door.

You leap off the couch and sprint to the door, flinging it open. Togame stands there and your heart jumps into your throat.

His face is bloody and he’s holding up his phone, the screen smashed.

“Sorry,” he says, his lazy smile still somehow on his face. “Couldn’t message.”

“Oh, Jo,” you sigh, shoulders sagging.

It’s not the first time you’ve seen Togame in this state – he’s second-in-command at Shishitoren after all – but it’s the first time it’s made your heart ache. You usher him in, closing the door behind him as he sits heavily on the sofa.

You wet a cloth and bring it over, kneeling on the sofa next to him. Togame stares straight ahead as you start to gently wipe the blood from his face.

There’s a gash across his nose, he has a split lip, and there’s a fresh bruise blooming under one of his eyes. You cup his face tenderly with one hand while the other cleans him up.

“It didn’t go well, I take it?” you gently probe.

Togame’s green eyes slide over to you. He catches your wrist, pulling your hand away softly.

“I should have challenged him,” Togame says slowly. “When he said no. I was weak.”

You swallow hard, looking at the injuries on his face, pretending it doesn't break your heart. You glance down at his hands and notice his knuckles are clean. He didn’t fight Choji – Choji fought him.

“He would have put you in the hospital,” you say, shaking your head. “You made the right call.”

Even as you say the words, your voice shakes. Togame watches you carefully so you try to smooth your features into something more neutral. You try to pretend you didn’t get your hopes up.

“So, I guess that means…” A lump forms in your throat but you swallow past it. “Friends?”

A notch forms between Togame’s brows. You can see the internal struggle in him. He’s fiercely loyal to Choji, his best and longest friend. But when he locks eyes with you, there’s a flicker of something there. A spark you don’t quite recognise but makes your breath catch.

“I don’t want to make you break your loyalty to my brother,” you eventually say even though it feels like broken glass in your chest. “I won’t make you choose.”

You give him a watery smile.

“It was a long shot anyway.”

You make to stand up but Togame’s hand shoots out to grab your wrist again, this time firmer. Before you realise what’s happening, he pulls you towards him and kisses you.

You gasp with the sudden movement as Togame drags you onto his lap, his lips never leaving yours. He kisses you like he’s suffocating and you’re the only oxygen he has, his hand at the back of your head while the other wraps around your back.

You know it’s a bad idea, you know it’s only going to break your heart, but you can’t help yourself. You open yourself to him, feeling his tongue slide over yours, his lips so soft and familiar even though you only kissed for the first time yesterday.

You taste blood from his split lip, the coppery tang mixing between your mouths. Togame pulls you closer, deeper, his lips flush against yours. You only realise you’re crying when you taste salt.

“T-Togame,” you half-sob against his mouth. “Jo.”

“It’s okay,” Togame says, kissing the tears from your cheeks. “It’s okay.”

“It’s not okay.” You sniff and pull away. “We can’t do this.”

“Y/n-”

“I’m off limits,” you say and the words are choked. “No, more than off limits – I’m fucking radioactive. You shouldn’t even be here. If Choji knew-”

“Choji doesn’t have the right,” Togame says and his voice is louder than you expected, cutting you off.

You blink at him and realise his face is different. His easy smile is gone, his jaw is set, and his eyes… they’re sharp enough to slice skin. You’ve never seen Togame in a fight but you get the feeling this is what he looks like.

“He doesn’t get to choose for you,” Togame says. “Or me.”

You go quiet, sagging. Togame sits back, his grip loosening on your waist.

“I’m not giving you up,” he says quietly. “Choji’s been on the wrong path before and I didn’t say anything. I’m not doing that again.”

You sit with his words for a few minutes, silence falling over you both. Fresh blood is smeared across Togame’s face from his split lip so you reach across and gently brush it away, thumbing the corner of his mouth. The first hint of a smile plays on his face.

“Come here,” he says and you do.

You lean forward, wrapping your arms around his neck as you rest your head on his shoulder. Togame envelops you in a bear hug, squeezing tight.

“I’m not giving you up,” he repeats.

“I’m not giving you up either,” you whisper back.

When you draw back, Togame kisses you again but this time softer. The hardness has gone from his eyes, leaving only the sleepy, relaxed Togame you know so well. His kiss is sweet, his tongue dipping into your mouth as his arms stay around you.

You melt into him, your back arching slightly as you press your chest against his. Togame’s hands start to wander, moving lower until he reaches your ass. Still locked in a kiss, he slowly gropes the plush flesh of your cheeks, making warmth pool between your legs.

You haven’t discussed what this means for you, what’s crossing the line and what’s not. But when you pull back slightly to ask Togame, “Can I take care of you?”, he gives you a wide grin and says, “Absolutely.”

You press a few more chaste kisses to his lips before sliding off his lap. You kneel between his legs and when you look up at him from this position, Togame’s semi-hard cock immediately goes full mast.

He reaches down to trail his fingers along your jaw before thumbing your bottom lip. You lightly catch his thumb in your mouth, sucking on the tip, keeping your eyes on Togame.

“Fuck, you’re beautiful,” he says, his voice low and throaty.

You smile, his praise making your cheeks tint pink, and run your hand up his inner thigh. You palm his cock through his sweatpants, surprised to feel how hard he is already.

“Is this all for me, Jo?”

“No one else in the world even exists right now, sweetheart.” He grins down at you, resting his arms on the back of the couch.

You try to stem the explosion of butterflies in your stomach to no avail. You tug down the hem of Togame’s sweatpants, watching his cock spring free. It’s as beautiful as the rest of him and your mouth waters at the sight of it.

You lean forward to lick along the fat vein running up the underside of his shaft, feeling his cock twitch as you do so. The tip is shiny with precum so you lick that up too before swirling your tongue around the sensitive head. Togame groans, his hips bucking slightly. When you look up at him, you see him watching you intently.

You lick your lips before wrapping them around the tip, your hand clasping him at the base. Softly sucking, you start to bob your head up and down, slowly taking more of him each time.

“Ah, fuck,” Togame grunts, his hands fisting the top of the couch cushions. “That’s it, baby. Fuck, you’re so good at that.”

You pull back to dribble more saliva down his shaft before taking him in your mouth again. He feels so hot and hard against your tongue and every throb makes the heat between your legs grow.

You push him deeper in your mouth, splaying your hands on his thighs to angle yourself better. Togame’s groans of pleasure spur you on, encouraging you to go further. When he hits the back of your throat, you gag slightly, your throat constricting around him.

“Shit…” Togame’s hips buck again on instinct.

He reaches forward to tangle his hands in your hair, holding your head in place.

“Stay there for me, baby.” Togame starts to thrust up, sliding his cock past your sweet little lips. “Look at me, angel.”

You look up at him through your lashes, your eyes watering slightly. Togame’s never seen someone as beautiful as you, his eyes locked on yours as he fucks your mouth.

“Fuck,” he gasps. “Fuck. Fuck. You ready, baby? You want my cum?”

You moan around his cock in affirmation. Togame’s lips part, his cock throbbing as he unloads his cum down your throat. It’s thick and tangy and you struggle to take it all but you try your best, swallowing his load.

When Togame pulls his softening cock free, some of his cum spills from the corner of your mouth. He grins and swipes it away with his thumb, letting you lick it off him.

“Good girl,” he says and you beam up at him.

You pull Togame’s sweatpants back up and make to climb onto his lap. But before you can, he stands up, picking you up easily.

“Ah!” you squeal at the sudden movement.

Togame crosses the few steps to your bed and throws you onto it.

“Your couch is too small for this,” he says with a lazy grin before climbing on top of you.

“Maybe you’re just too tall,” you giggle before his words catch up to you. “Wait, too small for what?”

Togame says nothing but his eyes glint. He presses soft kisses against your neck, making your eyes flutter closed as you sigh contentedly. His mouth trails down slowly, lazily, taking his time with you.

“I’m gonna take care of you now,” he whispers in your ear.

Your heart sets off at a gallop at his words. You watch him as he kisses his way down your body, hooking his fingers under your pyjama shorts and panties to tug them off. The cool air tickles your bare pussy, your lips glistening with arousal. Sucking Togame off had turned you on more than you expected and as soon as he plants soft kisses against your inner thigh, you find yourself suddenly desperate for his touch.

Togame teases you, kissing you everywhere around where you need him to. You whine and buck your hips as he smirks at you.

“What is it, sweetheart?” he coos. “What d’you need?”

You make another desperate whine.

“Your tongue, Jo, please.”

“Well, when you ask so nicely…”

Togame dips his head, inhaling the intoxicating scent of you. The fact that you got so wet from giving him head is enough for his cock to start hardening again but he’s focused on you right now. You were so good to him, took him so well, he’s more than happy to return the favour. And he’d be lying if he said he wasn’t going to enjoy himself too.

You’re not surprised that Togame moves slowly. You inhale sharply as he licks a stripe along your glistening lips, parting them with his tongue to gather your slick. He hums happily when he tastes you, wrapping his arms around your thighs to hold you in place before dipping his tongue between your folds once more.

You want to buck your hips again, want more of him, but he holds you tight and you can’t compete with his strength. You fist the bedsheets instead, needing to hold onto something.

Togame moves down to your needy hole, pushing his thick tongue inside you. He flicks it against the sensitive nerves at your entrance, tasting your arousal before pulling back to suck on your puffy lips.

“You taste so fucking good,” Togame mumbles against your pussy before dipping his tongue inside you again.

You struggle against his grip, desperate to grind against his mouth as Togame continues to lazily make out with your pussy. He’s driving you crazy, pushing you to the brink of an orgasm but not letting you tip over.

“Jo…” you beg. “More.”

“What’s the rush?” When he grins up at you, his mouth is shiny with your arousal.

You let your head fall back against the pillow, making a desperate noise from the back of your throat. Togame takes pity on you, wanting to play with your hole a while longer but he can see how needy you are for a release. He licks his way up to your throbbing clit, brushing a few tender strokes over the sensitive bundle of nerves.

“Oh, fuck.” It’s just what you need.

Togame laps at your swollen bud, each stroke of his tongue sending a million little sparks of pleasure coursing through your body. You tangle your fingers in his hair, pulling it at the root as Togame keeps up a steady, languid pace with his tongue. The moans you make are magical, making his cock stir again. He releases his grip on you slightly, just enough so you can grind against his mouth.

“Ah… Jo, that’s it… that’s it!” Your back arches as Togame swipes his tongue over your clit. “Fuck!”

A tsunami of pleasure crashes over you, almost threatening to drown you, washing through every muscle in your body. Togame doesn’t let up, feeling your thighs tremble as you come undone on his tongue. He licks up your slick, his mouth flush with your pussy as you writhe against him.

He only pulls back when you whimper, pushing his head away from being too sensitive.

Togame watches you collapse against the bed before crawling up to lean over you, an easy smile on his face.

“That was hot,” is all he says.

“Yeah,” you half breathe, half laugh. “It was.”

Togame grins and dips his head to kiss you, letting you taste yourself on his tongue. You snake your hand around to the nape of his neck, scratching your nails over his scalp. When you break the kiss, Togame presses his forehead to yours.

“I’m not giving you up,” he repeats from earlier. “I care about Choji but I care about you too.”

“I care about you,” you say, voice soft.

Togame looks at you like you hung the moon in the sky. You cup his face, looking at the marks and bruises on his face, and your chest aches. You know you’re hurtling head first into something deep, something that you can’t come back from. But when Togame brushes your hair from your face and kisses you again, you know you don’t care.

If it’s Togame, it’s worth it.

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[todorokis-girl]

It's MY Body - Chuuya Nakahara x F!reader

Soulmate AU

When Chuuya Nakahara and Y/N, a member of the Armed Detective Agency, wake up in each other's bodies, they are shocked to discover they are soulmates. Navigating their opposing affiliations, they must find a way to reconcile their feelings and work together.

masterlist

The morning sun streamed through the window, casting golden hues across the room as Y/N stirred awake. She blinked groggily, feeling unusually heavy and disoriented. The bed beneath her felt foreign, the room unfamiliar. Panic surged through her veins as she bolted upright, her breath hitching. She looked down at her hands—hands that were calloused and larger than her own. She was feeling stronger, more agile, and surrounded by the masculine elegance of Chuuya's apartment, though she didn't know it was his quite yet. His hat was perched on a stand by the door, his coat neatly hung, and the lingering scent of his cologne enveloped her. She walked to the mirror, her reflection showing Chuuya's piercing blue eyes and signature red hair.

“What the hell?” she muttered, her voice deep and commanding. Familiar.

Meanwhile, across town, Chuuya Nakahara awoke in a similar state of confusion, in a world entirely foreign. He groaned, rubbing his eyes, only to find them softer and more delicate than he remembered. He sat up, feeling an unaccustomed lightness and the silky sensation of long hair brushing his shoulders. He looked down at himself, eyes widening in shock. he stood up to look at himself in a near by mirror, the reflection staring back was of a young woman with hair cascading around her shoulders, eyes wide with shock.

“Y/N?” he whispered, his voice unfamiliar and soft. "This has to be a joke," he muttered, his voice higher and more feminine.

The two spent the first few hours in a state of utter bewilderment, trying to come to terms with their new realities. Y/N, now in Chuuya's body, felt an overwhelming surge of power coursing through her veins—an intensity she had never experienced before. She struggled to control it, fearing she might unintentionally unleash his ability, Corruption.

Chuuya, on the other hand, found himself in awe of the gentle yet profound connection to nature he felt within Y/N's body. He could sense the wind whispering secrets to him, the plants responding to his emotions, and an innate ability to influence the weather. He marveled at the raw, untamed power that seemed to flow so naturally through her.

After a frantic exchange of phone calls and a hasty meeting, they stood face-to-face in a secluded alleyway, away from prying eyes. The air between them crackled with tension and unspoken questions.

"How did this happen?" Y/N asked, her voice shaky "Did you do this?" The accusatory tone, evident.

"I have no idea," Chuuya replied, crossing his arms and trying to appear composed despite the turmoil inside. "I didn't do this, But we need to figure it out. Fast."

Their eyes locked, a mixture of distrust and curiosity flickering between them. They had always been on opposing sides—Y/N, a dedicated member of the Armed Detective Agency, and Chuuya, a formidable executive of the Port Mafia. Their encounters had always been fraught with tension and conflict, but this was different. This was personal.

As they navigated the complexities of each other's powers, they began to notice subtle, inexplicable connections. Y/N could feel Chuuya's memories and emotions, his fierce determination, and his loyalty. Chuuya, in turn, experienced Y/N's gentle compassion, her unwavering resolve, and her deep connection to the world around her.

It was during a particularly tense moment—when Y/N, in Chuuya's body, struggled to control his ability—that the truth dawned on them. As she faltered, Chuuya instinctively reached out, his touch grounding her, stabilizing the overwhelming power within.

Their eyes met, and in that instant, they knew.

"We're soulmates," Y/N whispered, her voice filled with awe and disbelief.

Chuuya's eyes softened, a rare vulnerability breaking through his usual tough exterior. "Looks like it," he murmured, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Fate has a twisted sense of humor, huh?"

The realization brought a mix of emotions—shock, disbelief, and a strange sense of completion. Despite their differences, despite the chaotic circumstances, they felt an undeniable bond, a connection that transcended their individual selves.

But the weight of their affiliations hung heavy between them. Y/N looked away, her expression conflicted. "Chuuya, we're on different sides. This—this complicates everything."

Chuuya sighed, running a hand through his borrowed hair. "I know. But maybe this is fate's way of telling us there's more to this than just sides."

As the day wore on, they learned to trust each other implicitly, relying on the newfound understanding that being soulmates brought. By the time the sun set, casting a warm, golden glow over the city, they had grown closer than ever before, their shared experiences bridging the gap between their worlds.

When the world shifted once more, returning them to their original bodies, they stood side by side, the weight of their experience settling between them.

"So," Chuuya began, a mischievous glint in his eyes, "wanna come back to my apartment?"

Y/N laughed, her heart lighter than it had been in ages. "Absolutely. Not. I'm still with the Agency."

"And I'm still with the Mafia," Chuuya replied, his tone serious. "But maybe we can find a way to make this work. The universe has spoken, and I'm not in the habit of saying no to a beautiful woman."

She rolled her eyes, overwhelmed and exasperated. "You're impossible, you know that?"

Chuuya smirked, the usual confidence back in his stance. "I've been told. But seriously, Y/N, this is... something neither of us can ignore."

Y/N sighed, her mind racing. The idea of being soulmates with someone from the Port Mafia was ludicrous, yet the connection she felt with Chuuya was undeniable. "I guess we can figure it out as we go," she said, her voice softening. "Just... don't expect me to make it easy for you."

"Wouldn't have it any other way," Chuuya replied, his eyes glinting with determination.

As they stood there, side by side, the lines between their worlds blurred just a little. It wouldn't be easy, and the path ahead was uncertain, but for the first time, they felt a flicker of hope. They were bound by something greater than their affiliations—something that defied logic and expectation.

And together, they were ready to face whatever came next.

[yoonavii]

Father of boys

Context: The heavenly demon and his devil sons

Doflamingo’s feelings towards his twin boys would likely be ambivalent, torn between his responsibilities as a father and his pursuit of power and control.

Given his manipulative nature, Doflamingo might try to mold his twin sons into following in his footsteps and becoming part of his grand schemes.

He would likely have high expectations of his sons, enforcing strict rules and discipline to shape them into powerful individuals.

He would emphasize the importance of strength and power, teaching his sons to see themselves as superior to others.

Doffy might keep an emotional distance from his sons, viewing sentimentality as a weakness.

He would teach his sons to survive and thrive in the dangerous and ruthless world they inhabit.

Doflamingo might test his sons’ loyalty and dedication to him, ensuring they are truly worthy of his legacy.

The twin boys might experience sibling rivalry as they vie for their father’s approval and attention.

As they grow older, the twins might struggle with conflicting loyalties between their father and their own desires for a different path in life.

Doflamingo’s role as a father might evolve unexpectedly as he witnesses unforeseen developments in his sons’ personalities and aspirations.

——————

In a grand and opulent chamber within the depths of the Dressrosa palace, Doflamingo sat regally upon a lavish throne, surrounded by the intricate patterns of his sinister birdcage. His twin sons, Don and Marco, stood before him, both adorned in attire befitting their royal lineage.

Doflamingo’s eyes surveyed his sons with a mixture of pride and calculation. “Don, Marco,” he addressed them with a smooth and composed voice, “you are the heirs to the Donquixote family legacy. Remember, strength and power are the cornerstones of our existence. Embrace them, and you shall command respect and dominion over the world.” Don, the older of the two, maintained a stoic demeanor, absorbing every word his father spoke. He knew the expectations placed upon him were immense, and he was determined to prove his worth. Marco, however, displayed a glimmer of defiance in his eyes, his spirit not entirely aligning with his father’s vision.

“As heirs, you must learn to navigate the treacherous currents of the world,” Doflamingo continued, his tone becoming more commanding. “Weakness is unforgivable, and the strength to crush your enemies is paramount.” Don nodded solemnly, internalizing his father’s teachings, while Marco’s expression remained guarded. He was not convinced that the path laid out before him was the only way. Sensing Marco’s hesitation, Doflamingo’s lips curled into a predatory smile. “You doubt me, Marco?” he questioned, his voice taking on a colder edge.

Marco hesitated for a moment, then straightened his posture, meeting his father’s gaze with newfound determination. “I believe strength can be found in different forms, Father,” he stated, his voice firm yet respectful. “There is more to power than merely crushing one’s enemies.” Doflamingo’s eyes narrowed, intrigued by his son’s defiance. “Explain,” he commanded.

“Strength can be seen in compassion, in protecting those who are weaker, in forging alliances rather than instilling fear,” Marco explained, not backing down. “A ruler should inspire loyalty and admiration, not just fear.” Doflamingo’s hand clenched on the armrest of his throne, torn between pride in his son’s assertiveness and irritation at his audacity. He recognized that Marco had a point, even if it challenged his own beliefs.

After a tense moment, Doflamingo’s demeanor softened slightly. “You have a will of your own, Marco,” he acknowledged. “Use it to prove yourself worthy of the Donquixote name.” As the conversation concluded, the twin boys exchanged a knowing glance, each acknowledging the unique challenges they faced as the sons of one of the world’s most feared and enigmatic figures.

©𝐘𝐀𝐘𝐎𝐎𝐍𝐀— Any sign/evidence of plagiarism made from outside this name will be dealt with by whatever means necessary. Legal action may occur if non fanfiction works are plagiarized.

[oddcryptidwrites]

A floorboard creaked beneath the carpet, and Piers leapt a mile in the air, heart racing. Whipping around, they scanned the hallway behind them. No one else was there. [...] Their last shred of common sense screamed at them to get out of there, that they’d seen too much, that someone was- The cold metal of a pistol pressed against their skull.

General Information:

Genre: A weird mix between politics, sci-fi, and a thriller

POV: Most likely 3rd limited

Setting: Post-Apocalyptic Georgia (as in the US State) in the year 2211

Content warnings: severe injury/gore, death, graphic scientific experimentation, paranoia, drug use and abuse, alcohol use, child abuse (physical, verbal), relationship abuse (verbal, manipulation), sex (consensual), cannibalism

Synopsis, Characters, and more below the cut!

Synopsis

Although originally planned as a standalone novel, NYTF has now expanded into three separate books: Knight of Dawn, Queen of Noon, and King of Dusk. There's an additional collection of short stories/untold stories planned as well, tentatively titled Pawn of Midnight.

Knight of Dawn

Piers Hall is the newly crowned monarch of the post-apocalyptic State of Georgia, after their mother, Queen Adele, was declared unfit to rule. Despite meaning well, they find themself unprepared for the role, especially as political rivals, like North Carolina’s President René Dubois and Councilmember Shanna Miles, close in on their tail, seemingly threatening to topple their rule. When various palace staff start to show where their real loyalties lie, it seems like Grady Yensey, Commander of the Royal Guard and their closest friend, is the only one they can trust. Piers and Grady must scramble to uncover the truth behind Queen Adele’s questionable associates, Piers’ missing past, and President Dubois’ shady activities

Characters

Monarch Jillian "Piers" Hall (they/them)

Piers (19) is a primary character within Not Your Typical Fairytale. They are the newly crowned Monarch of the State of Georgia, a title inherited from their adoptive mother, Queen Adele Hall. After having studied and trained for the role for years, Piers knows exactly what they have to do, but struggles following through in practice. In political and personal matters, Piers is extremely manipulative and controlling, yet somehow appears personable (and the textbook presentation of ADHD). They regularly get in the way of their own objective to fix what Adele broke. Adele's legacy leaves them with a lot to work through, both politically and personally, driving most of their internal conflicts and growth. Through all this, their long time best friend, Grady, sticks by their side no matter what. They would do anything for her, knowing she'd do the same for them. As the story progresses, and their own paranoia about the situations surrounding them and their past builds, Grady becomes the one of the few people they perceive they can trust.

Commander Grady Juniper Yensey (she/her)

Grady (22) is the other primary character in Not Your Typical Fairytale. She's the youngest ever Commander of the Royal Guard Special Operations, and she will do anything to keep her prestigious military position. She can be extremely tight laced and controlling when on duty, fearing failure and the fact no one will take her seriously. Grady feels an obligation to do her best, and refuses to accept anything less from herself, often leading her to break down when alone, unsure of her purpose when not on duty. When with friends, she is notably softer and kinder, but pushes them to achieve at the highest level like herself. The only thing she cares about more than her job is her best friend, Piers. The two are inseparable, and they are one of few people Grady feels she can be vulnerable around. As Piers' life is put in danger through the story, Grady makes sure to always cover their back and keep them from harm, knowing they'll always do the same for her.

Palace Residents

Queen Adele Hall (she/her)

Adele is Piers' adoptive mother, and can be credited for most of how Piers behaves. As the former Queen of the State of Georgia, Adele stripped many social programs and left the state in ruin, for seemingly no rhyme or reason. She bullied and manipulated the Council to her whims, a trait which Piers has somewhat picked up on much to the dismay of the Councilors. Her personal life was fraught with grief and poor life decisions, which is oftentimes credited as the reason for some of her behavior. Piers and Adele's relationship is strained, as Piers recognizes the negative effect their mother had on their people and on themself, but simultaneously idolizes her as a mother figure, as they never knew their biological parents. Adele isn't present for most of NYTF, but her presence is felt throughout.

HoPS Marcella "Marcie" Olson (she/her)

Marcie is Adele's closest friend and the Head of Palace Staff, a role she's served in since she was 18, after the death of her mother. Of all the characters, she is the one who has truly seen the good and horrible Adele's entire life, but also tends to ignore Adele's faults at the same time. Marcie is a very motherly character, having two kids of her own with Gavin Johnson (Gretel and Hansel Olson) and practically raising Grady and Piers as well. She ALSO tends to be pushy, controlling over Palace matters, and constantly talks down to others. Marcie just wants everything to stay the same, and to keep her own family safe, which occasionally puts herself and Piers at odds. However, when it comes down to it, she cares about Piers and wants to see them succeed.

Dr. Charoen Panya (xe/xir)

Dr. Panya is the very well-trusted Royal Physician and one of Adele's old friends. During xir youth in Athens, Dr. Panya studied to become a medical doctor, before falling in with the wrong crowd. After being given a second chance by Adele, xe has never looked back and faithfully served the Royal family and other high ranking officials since. Dr. Panya tends to be erratic and reclusive, confining xirself to the basement of the Palace. If not actively providing medical care, xe can be found dissecting the corpses of plague victims, searching for a more accessible cure. The only person xe allows to assist them is Marlowe, who xe has bonded with over the past ten years. Piers trusts Dr. Panya to an extent... but in the way two crazy people do.

René Dubois (he/him)

René is the Former President of North Carolina and an old friend of Adele's, and he arrives at the Palace near the beginning of the first book. Having never met him before, Piers immediately has suspicions, especially as he seems to know Marcie, Adele, and other palace residents very well, despite none of them ever mentioning him. Those suspicions grow into outright paranoia and hatred as he plays their exact game back at them, refusing to answer questions and seemingly turning their allies against them. René, like Piers, is manipulative and controlling of others, although he hides it better, which has served him well in his career. During his time in North Carolina, he served as both Senator for several years and President for seven years, before resigning. He keeps his personal life private, and has no family he mentions, besides his husband, Darcey.

Gretel Olson (she/her)

Gretel is the oldest of Marcie and Gavin's kids and works as a pastry chef in the Palace's kitchens. She has a similar attitude to Grady, constantly pushing herself to be her best, but takes care of herself better and knows her limits. While Marcie desires that Gretel follow in her footsteps, Gretel doesn't care to become HoPS, instead setting her eyes on becoming the Executive Chef of the Palace's kitchens, like her maternal grandfather. This often puts her at odds with her overbearing mother, a situation her father, Gavin, is not willing to get involved in. While friends with both Grady and Piers, she's definitely sister-close with Grady, and not so much with Piers. Gretel is romantically involved with Marlowe, although no one besides Dr. Panya knows (unbeknownst to them).

Hansel Olson (he/him)

Hansel is the youngest child of Marcie and Gavin. He loves fashion and currently works as a tailor, serving primarily Piers but also others within the Palace. Despite how much he loves his role, Hansel has his sights set on a bigger one: Head of Palace Staff. Marcie refuses to see him potentially fulfilling the role, instead placing her hopes in Gretel. Most characters, including Marcie, see him as ditzy, disorganized, and too childish to make any real impact. Piers, however, sees themself in him, and recognizes Hansel as both a trustworthy friend and a valuable asset to their information gathering, entrusting him to listen in on whatever is being said while working with the Councilors and other political leaders within the palace. Hansel doesn't have any friends beyond Piers, although he was the only one of this generation (Piers, Gretel, Grady, Hansel) to attend a public school (in the Royal District).

Royal Guard

Captain Charles "Gavin" Johnson (he/him)

Gavin is the Captain of the Royal Guard, a rank he achieved after his brother, David, became Councilor. After years of being under his brother, both in rank and academics, Gavin is glad to finally be able to be himself and show what he's capable of. He's very warm and fatherly, but also knows what he's doing and when to act, making him a great leader. Most people in the Palace love him and he's easy to get along with, compared to most of the other people here. His relationship with Marcie can get rocky at times, as they really are friends not lovers, but in the end, they would die for each other. Gavin is the father of Gretel and Hansel, and the adoptive father of Grady.

Commander Mateo Lopez (he/him)

Mateo is the Commander of the Royal Navy, and quite possibly the only person who doesn't like Gavin. As the longest-serving officer of the group, Mateo thinks he should have become the next Captain, and was betrayed when David, his close friend, promoted Gavin instead of him. Despite all this, Mateo and Gavin have continued to hook up for the past 15 years, behind the backs of the other officers. (Marcie knows. She knows everything.) Mateo ranked out of the Academy at 19, and quickly worked his way up to the Navy Commander due to his excellent strategical abilities. Mateo is one of very few characters here to not be born in a Zone, having come from the Brunswick settlement, a daughter settlement of the Savannah Zone of Safety. He can be difficult and a bit of an asshole. That's it.

Commander Giaan Sei (he/xe)

Giaan is the Commander of the Royal Army and Councilor Adel's husband. He's a bit of a silly guy but he knows what he's doing and can be trusted to stay loyal to the Palace. He followed a more traditional military track, ranking out of the Academy when he was 20 and working his way up to serve as the Army Commander. He and Nyla have three kids, the youngest of which just ranked out of the Academy and is a low-level Army officer. He and Nyla also took part in raising Grady when they were around the Palace, as they are the only high ranking Palace figures to live outside the Palace (in the Royal district of ATLZoS).

Commander Bexley Benjamin (he/him)

Bex is the Commander of Royal Guard Perimeter Operations, the least prestigious of the four commanders. Nevertheless, Bex does his best to keep the seven Perimeters of the Zones up and running, as the first line of defense against invading forces and mindless plague victims. He is most often in Command Central, sitting cross-legged in his rolling chair and constantly monitoring all the Perimeters. The other three commanders and Gavin swear that the man never sleeps. Bex has an off and on relationship with Meghan, which is known by the other commanders and Gavin. Piers isn't so sure what to think of Bex, but throughout the story he proves himself to be a vital player in Piers' game.

Darcey Olson (he/him)

Darcey is a former Navy officer, and now serves as a military advisor. He grew up in the Palace with his older sister Marcie, but was unjustifiably blamed for the death of their parents when he was 13. He grew angry and violent, often lashing out physically. David pushed him into enrolling in the Academy when he turned 16. Darcey turned his life around and ranked out in a record year and a half. He served under Xavier as Captain, before fleeing when he was 25 due to an "incident". Once arriving in North Carolina, he established a new military career for himself, eventually meeting René thanks to Marcie's intervention. The two have been inseparable since, with Darcey serving as René's Secretary of Defense. Softspoken and kind-hearted, you'd never know what kind of past Darcey has.

The Council

Councilor Shanna Miles of Savannah (she/they)

Miles is the Councilor of Savannah and serves as the head of the Council as its now-longest serving member for the past 22 years. She was first elected as Mayor when she was 37, and served in the position until her election to the Council when she was 42. During their tenure, however, Miles has been consistently bullied and picked on by Adele, and in return, became the biggest thorn in her side. After her abdication, Miles is fully prepared to take out years of pent up rage on an unsuspecting Piers, who she views to be an extension of everything she hated about Adele. Piers feels similar, knowing only their mother's side of things during her disagreements with Miles.

Councilor Marlowe Sidney of Athens (they/them)

Marlowe is the Councilor of Athens, and also its "Blessed Heir", the next of the Sidney Family destined to govern the Classic City. After their grandfather was murdered and their father ascended to the Chancellorship, Marlowe took over Councilor duties in Atlanta at age 19. Marlowe grew up sheltered within the cult walls of Athens and didn't spend any time outside the city until becoming Councilor, causing them to feel out of place and betrayed by the state of the world outside. Their history studying genetics led them to meet Dr. Panya, who they quickly bonded with due to their mutual histories in Athens. As they've been exposed more to the outside world, Marlowe has created a new persona, one they can't take back home to Athens without repercussions from the Chancellor and their stepmother, Dr. Levine. Marlowe and Gretel have been romantically involved for the past few months, but Marlowe knows that it won't last as soon as they're called home to become the next Chancellor.

Councilor David Johnson of Atlanta (he/him)

David is the Councilor of Atlanta, elected to the position only two years prior by the people of ATLZoS. Although the newest Councilor, David has been a longtime presence in the Palace, having served as the Captain of the Royal Guard and Commander of Special Operations prior to his current role. It was his steady and very frugal hand in these positions that earned him the respect of military and civilians alike in Atlanta. David has never been married, although he and Adele had a close romantic relationship during the last few years of her life, unbeknownst to most. David and Gavin respect each other's military strengths, but David does tend to hover over Gavin's shoulder frequently, as he misses being part of the military. While coming off as grumpy and cold, David has a heart of gold. Piers trusts his judgement for most matters but still has reservations about his intentions.

Councilor Fantasia Mason of Macon (she/her)

Mason is the Councilor of Macon. She is extremely socially conservative, which puts her at odds with the rest of the Council. No one likes her, not even Miles, not even Adele, not even Meghan. The only reason she can't be ignored is due to Macon's position as an economic and population powerhouse. Piers would do anything to get rid of her (and they aren't alone, most of the Council would like her gone).

Councilor Callum Meghan of Valdosta (he/him)

Meghan is the Councilor of Valdosta and is quite a charismatic figure. He was elected at age 30 to serve in the Council, and has held the position ever since. Unlike most of the others, Meghan is a strong anti-monarchist, which earned him his own personal hell from Adele. Now, with Piers in charge, Meghan has changed his strategy just a little bit, trying to weave his policies into those he knows Piers will like. Piers sees right through him, but appreciates the effort and gives him credit where it's due.

Councilor Nyla Adel of Albany (she/her)

Nyla is the Councilor of Albany and a former Commander of Royal Perimeter Operations. She served under David's captainship, before being elected to the Council by her native Albany. Unlike David, Nyla truly fits into the world of politics and has been serving for six years. She and Giaan have three kids, and she hopes all will follow in their parent's footsteps, although only her youngest has attended the Academy. Grady respects Nyla quite a bit, recognizing the role she played in Grady's achievements. Grady often goes to her for military advice (and political advice when she's trying to help Piers).

Councilor Esther Green of Rome (she/her)

Green is the Councilor of Rome, the newest of the Zones of Safety, serving for all 12 years. She often misses Council meetings, working to help stabilize Rome's city government after a recent political attack. When she is in meetings, she often is busy working on other things or sleeping and just votes alongside whatever Miles is voting. Piers really isn't sure what to think of Green.

The Others

Lennox (they/he)

Lennox is an outsider who Piers happened to befriend when sneaking out of the Palace and Perimeter. The two almost killed each other out of fright during their first meeting. Since then, the two have developed such a tight bond, and would do literally anything for each other. Lennox is oblivious to a majority of what's going on politically, and doesn't even know who Piers is, much to their relief, allowing them to relax and be themself around him. Piers knows Lennox works as an assassin, but it allows them to keep tabs on whoever his boss is, while simultaneously not knowing who they are. Outside of murder, Lennox creates a variety of art, preferring fashion design and music composition the most. He dreams often about moving somewhere where he doesn't have to hurt anyone anymore and can just create art for the rest of his life.

Louise Ledet "Lou" (she/they)

Lou is another outsider, who is a little less friendly to Piers. The two have had several encounters. All Piers knows is that she carries a shotgun and rides an electric motorcycle. She is great at appearing from nowhere and seems to be a motherly figure to Lennox. Lennox, however, doesn't like to talk much about her (and doesn't seem to like her).

Jules Ledet (she/her)

Jules is an old Academy friend of Grady, who was discharged on Conspiracy Against the Crown charges, barring her from military service. Since then, she's been working as a hired gun for various people, before approaching Grady after being hired to kill Piers. She's a bit of a tortured soul, hiding behind a flirty goofball persona. Piers takes a liking to her, somewhat trusting her after she tells Grady about the plot.

Dr. Bergeron (he/him)

Dr. Bergeron is the mysterious former research partner of Dr. Panya. Not much is known about him, as Dr. Panya is hard to talk to, let alone get information out of.

Worldbuilding

The Plague

The Plague, or Incarnareum repartus is the cause for the apocalypse. It resembles most zombie diseases from fiction, however there's a weird thing within the NYTF universe around calling them "zombies". The fungi was created in a CDC lab as an experiment in the early 2030s, but escaped in 2035. The initial "apocalypse" happened from 2036-2040. Survival rates are low without extensive (and very expensive) treatment, causing revolts among the lower and middle class which overthrew several governments (including the United States, which fractured into its individual states). By the mid-2040s, the world settled down and began to adapt, using preventative measures and concentrating populations within "Zones of Safety" (in Georgia). These Zones have strict rules but provide safety and sanitation which keeps the plague victim population at bay and outside the Perimeters. By the time of NYTF, it still exists, and their are occasional outbreaks, but it's not actively causing an apocalypse.

The State of Georgia

The State of Georgia is the third post-Apocalyptic iteration of Georgia's government. The first was run by corporations and was overthrown by David Greene. Greene's dictatorship lasted only a year, and was ended with the Second September Revolution. This was led by James and Kylar Hall, who were instated as temporary leaders. After proving themselves to be worthy, they were made kings. Until Adele, the Hall Royal Family has actually been very productive, democratic, and well beloved by the people of Georgia. Within Georgia there are 7 Zones of Safety, who all receive representation in the Council, the democratic body which is supposed to "check" the monarchy (however, Adele gutted their power). There are also 14 settlements, which don't meet 3/5 requirements to become a Zone, although some of them are on their way.

Atlanta Zone of Safety (ATLZoS)

Status

42k/100k, currently in the second iteration of the modern era

Further Commentary

Oh hi! Welcome back to the chaotic world of Not your Typical Fairytale! This story has been going for a long time but I really polished up some shit this time around and it's more cohesive. With that said, here's a few notes I have:

Yes, the intermissions are back

Characters who use multiple sets of pronouns will most often be refferred to using the one which is the most clear writing wise (EX: Using she for Councilor Miles when she's in a scene with Piers, they for when they're in a scene with Grady)

Yes this is going to be three books + a collection of untold stories

London Larson = Lou. I had to change her name for my sanity

Also June = Jules. Another name change for my sanity that JUST happened so if you see June in things....sorry :(

Athens has gotten SO much weirder. Be prepared for cannibalism.

More will be added soon to worldbuilding, I'm just tired from characters.

Here's some character art!

CHAPTERS

The Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

New chapter published each Friday!

Tag List (reply or dm to be added or removed; I pulled from the old tag list + the call post): @author-a-holmes, @soul-write @flowerprose @ceph-the-ghost-writer @theglitchywriterboi @when-wax-wings-melt @thechaoticflowergarden @lyralit @penspiration-writing @samatedeansbroccoli @charlesjosephwrites @italiangothicwriteblr @thetruearchmagos @pineapple-lover-boy @unilightwrites @sanguine-arena @bardic-tales @joshuaorrizonte @blind-the-winds @circa-specturgia @hymnonlips @aloeverawrites @the-stray-storyteller @writeblrsupport @starlit-skys @kyuponstories @guessillcallitart @magic-is-something-we-create @talesofsorrowandofruin @writingonmymind @imslowlydisintegrating @worldsfromhoney

[loving-n0t-heyting]

when i 1st watched the bridge on the river kwai as a child, i instinctively interpreted the conflict of the first arc in the camp (over the use of officers for manual labour) as basically a struggle between two potent but singular personalities, saito as the unstoppable force and nicholson as the immovable object, with maj clipton as the "voice of reason" trying and failing to mediate between them. this is obviously a natural reading, which the text deliberately invites

but this sort of requires ignoring the actions of the enlisted men, which in fairness are more stated than depicted. factoring them in, its less a clash of personalities than a conflict between a highly organised association of workers on the one hand (including but not at all limited to an extremely charismatic leader commanding intense loyalty) and their hostile manager on the other, whom they successfully slowdown strike. its striking from this pov that at two crucial points its clipton, not nicholson, who apparently prevents saito from simply liquidating-by-death the officers or the enlisted troops en masse by appealing, not so much to anyones overpowering moral resolve, but to the simple fact that the men responsible for actually building the bridge would then not be available (either thru outrage or thru death). meaning he is less failing to mediate between two intransigent commanding officers than successfully mediating between a dedicated base of labourers plus their charismatic figurehead and a manager over whom they collectively enjoy considerable leverage

[redrydersrequiem]

The Raven and the Vampire

Chapter 2

Updated 11/21/25

Previous chapter _______ Next Chapter

This is a jasper Cullen x oc reader daughter of Loki

The scent of earth after rain fills the air as the ethereal glow of the Bifrost opens, illuminating a hidden clearing unnoticed by the unsuspecting humans. It is unwise to draw attention to their presence at such a moment. 

Elara steps forward, her presence commanding yet serene. Close behind her, her two loyal attendants shadow her movements, their watchful gazes scanning the surroundings, ready to protect their charge at any moment.

“So this is Midgard. How beautiful, just like the ancient Forests of Asgard.”

“My lady, if you and Mila will follow me, I have already scouted the area. Up ahead is an area without much foliage; it's secluded enough for us not to be detected easily but not so far to draw suspicion. It will make a perfect homestead.”  one of Elara's attendants responds. 

Lucas Himilson stood as Elara's primary guardian for this new adventure. A formidable warrior within the vast armies of Asgard, Lucas had long suppressed his innate magical abilities, which were instilled in him by a family that revered brute strength above all else. For years, quiet magic simmered beneath the surface of his being until one fateful day, it burst forth uncontrollably. In that moment of chaos, her father discovered him, recognizing that he was not just a raw force but a young man needing guidance. 

Thus, Loki took Lucas under his wing, and a deep friendship blossomed between them, forged through shared struggles and camaraderie.

Eventually, Lucas desired to serve as one of Loki’s guards, a proposal met with enthusiastic approval from the cunning god himself. Loki saw in Lucas not just a gifted warrior but also a magician of untapped potential, a crucial ally who could offer protection to his family when he could not be present. With a strong bond now cemented, Lucas embarked on his new role, ready to defend and uphold the safety of those he had come to care for deeply. 

While Lucus was Elias' protector, his other half, Mila, was her caregiver.

Mila knew the young girl first, having stood out as one of Sigyn's most cherished companions, embodying grace and loyalty in every facet of her being. With cascading waves of rich brown hair that shimmered in the sunlight and warm, expressive brown eyes that seemed to hold the wisdom of the ages, she exuded a gentle radiance. Much like the skilled healers of Asgard, Mila possessed a nurturing spirit characterized by an innate kindness that put others at ease. However, her talents extended far beyond healing. Being a talented defense mage as well. To Elara and her two brothers, Mila was more than just a protector; she was a figure of unwavering support and guidance, akin to a beloved aunt who had woven herself into the very fabric of their lives. 

Elara and Mila follow Lucas up ahead, the clearing coming into view. It was a decent clearing, perfect for setting up a home without destroying native foliage or wildlife.

“Perfect as always, Uncle Lucas”

“Truly, my dear, with the little gizmo Mr. Lang gave us, we should be able to make quite a decent home.”

Mila says, taking the small toy out of the supplies and handing it to Elara to read the instructions. 

“Ok, the instructions state to set the house where we want it and throw the small blue device at it. Let me make a shield just in case, and then we can start moving in.” 

After a simple barrier is erected, Elara sets the model on the ground before throwing the small round blue device that came with it.

The small toy house begins to blossom before their eyes, transforming into a charming abode. Its large bay windows, framed by elegant trim, invite natural light to flood the interiors, while the slanted roofs elegantly direct rainwater away, ensuring the house remains dry and inviting.

 “It's missing a few touches, Elara states before waving her magic at the home.

A spacious porch begins to stretch across the front, overlooking a lush forest filled with chirping birds and rustling leaves. The deep, rich tones of the dark wooden exterior add a touch of sophistication and warmth, making the house genuinely enchanting.

Mila steps up as well. Her soft yellow magic gently softens the landscaping, adding a welcoming front step leading to the door, a smooth driveway that invites visitors to pull up quickly, and an arrangement of polished rocks glistening in the sunlight, imbuing the scene with a sense of permanence and charm. The transformation creates an atmosphere that feels both inviting and lived-in, completing the picture of an idyllic home.

“There we are, home sweet home... away from home. Now all we have to do is get comfortable, and come Monday, thanks to Auntie Natasha, I'll be able to start at the local high school.”

”Are you sure you're ready, little raven?”

“Yes, Uncle, I'm sure. This is where I'm meant to be.”

Monday rolls around with a seemingly never-ending cloudy sky. Light rain hits my cheeks as my favorite motorbike, a gift from Stark, propels me toward the local school.  The wind whips through my hair as I drive. No longer resembling my father, my black locks are now glamoured a gentle auburn red like my mother's, with my once purple eyes now dark brown. I look like an average human; my Asgardian glow now dimmed.

As I pulled into the parking lot, I realized that most teenagers avoid riding motorcycles in the rain, ice, and snow. The chill in the air didn’t bother me thanks to my heritage, nor did the thought of slick roads after over 700 years of training, I've faced much worse.

Not standing out was not going as planned but I couldn’t help it. The bike spoke to me this morning; oh well, adjusting my outfit, I moved into the brick building, not noticing the confused looks of the seven people across the parking lot.

Cullens POV

“Well, they said we were gonna get a new girl, and damn does she know how to make an entrance, look at that bike.”

“Emmett, I’m pretty sure, judging by her face, she didn’t mean to make a big entrance,” Rue Cullen exclaims as she stands next to her cute little girlfriend Alice and the rest of their coven.

“It’s odd, though. I couldn't hear her thoughts, not a single peep.”

“Do you think she could be like Bella?”

“No idea.”

“Either way, we should probably be careful around her. The last time we met a new person Edward couldn’t read, we had to defend her from a pack of rouges.”

“Rosalie babe, chill; it will all be fine.” Emmett throws his massive arm over his wife, trying to comfort her.

“What about you, Jasper? Did you get any readings from her?”  Silence echoes around them 

“Hello, earth to Jasper,” Alice says, waving her hand in front of her best friend's face.

“What, what were we talking about?”

“The new girl, cowboy, did you get anything from her?”

“ No, nothing, just like Edward.”

“ Well, I don’t know about the rest of you, but I feel like something good will come with this girl. And I'm sure Bella will be glad there is a new person to take more attention off her.”

“Sure, Alice, whatever you say, sweetie.” 

Jasper, still in a daze, silently agrees with Alice and Rue. There’s something about this girl, something almost pulling him towards her. The other Cullens share a look as they wait for Bella Swan to join them so they can start another tedious day of high school.

Elaras Pov

The building itself is old but well-maintained. Opening the door, she heads to the front office to retrieve her new school schedule. The front lobby is brightly lit and slightly warm, and the office is small, with a small waiting area. Ugly padded folding chairs, orange-flecked commercial carpet, notices, and awards clutter the walls, and a giant clock ticks loudly. 

An extended counter cut the room in half, cluttered with wire baskets full of papers and brightly colored flyers taped to its front. The only saving grace for the poor space was the multitude of plants that grew everywhere in large plastic pots. Behind the counter was a large, red-haired woman wearing glasses.

“Can I help you?"

"I'm Elara, Elara Mani ,"

Immediate awareness lights the women’s eyes. Thankfully, I was expected. Mila had come earlier in the month to help set up everything for my human cover because although Uncle Thor, Father, and everyone were well known and respected, I was not and wanted to keep it that way, at least for now.

"Of course," she said. She dug through a precariously stacked pile of documents on her desk until she found the ones she sought. 

“You must be brilliant. Most of these classes are advanced.”

“Yes, ma’am, school has always been important to me and my family,” and the 750-plus years of experience I had over the oldest person here didn't hurt either. 

“Well, I have your schedule right here and a map of the school."

She brought several sheets to the counter to show me what my classes were, highlighting the best route to each on the map and gave me a slip to have each teacher sign, which I was to bring back at the end of the day.  She smiled at me and hoped I would like it here in Forks. I smiled back as convincingly as I could before walking away.  Going around the cafeteria and towards building three was easy. The classroom was small, and people pushed past me to hang their coats on a long row of hooks. I copied them, hanging up my black leather jacket. 

Taking in the room, I notice how boring this world seems compared to Asgard; it's almost colorless. I also need to rethink some of the things I'm wearing, seeing as everyone is bundled up to fight the chill in the air. While I'm sitting in a simple shirt, I'm looking very much out of place. Before I can grab my leather jacket again, a tall, curvy woman I assumed was the teacher, Mrs Jones, walks in.

“Good morning. I’m the new student, Elara Mani.”

“Oh, hello, dear. Welcome to Forks and AP English. I’m Mrs Jones. Find an empty desk, and we can all get started. We are currently on page 394 of the textbook.”

I sat at an empty desk in the back, making it harder for my new classmates to stare at me openly. I kept my eyes forward and maintained a kind smile on my face. Once the lesson began and everyone's attention was directed at the teacher, I seized the opportunity to reach out with my aseir, hoping to feel the presence of my soulmate. Auras filled the room, but nothing stood out to me. That eliminated a handful of people from my possibilities. I couldn’t decide if that was comforting or boring. Well, it's only the first class; we’ll see what happens in the next one.

Jasper's pov 

Sitting in my first-period class as the teacher drones on, I feel a prickling sensation on my neck, as if an invisible hand is reaching out for me, even though I'm in the back corner. Rue nudges me and looks concerned, silently asking if I'm okay. I nod back and turn to look out the window, thinking again about the girl from this morning. Could she be the source of this feeling? It makes sense; she’s the only new variable in my life. I just need to make it to lunch to talk to Edward and Alice about their thoughts and see if they felt what I did.

Elara pov 

When the bell rang, a nasal buzzing sound, a gangly boy with skin problems and hair black as an oil slick leaned across the aisle to talk to me. He looked like the overly helpful chess club type.

"You're Laura Mani, aren't you?"  

"Elara, it's Nordic,” I corrected. Everyone within a three-seat radius turned to look at me.

"Where's your next class?" he asked.

 "Hmm, Government, with a Mr. Jefferson, in building six."

I replied after checking my bag and pulling out the schedule the woman had given me earlier.

"I'm headed toward building four; I could show you the way…" 

Definitely over-helpful.  

"Oh, and I'm Eric," he added, extending his hand for me to shake. I smiled tentatively, returning the gesture. 

"Thanks."

The next thing I knew, we packed our jackets and headed out into the rain. Several people behind us followed closely, trying not to be evident that they were eavesdropping.

"So, is this a lot different than where you're from?" he asked.

“Very, it's a lot darker here.”

“Oh, does it not rain a lot there,”

“No, it does, but I guess it feels more…. blue here if that makes any sense.”

“Oh no, I get that.” 

We walked back around the cafeteria to the south buildings by the gym. Eric walked me right to the door, even though it was clearly marked, and he could have just as quickly pointed me there. "Well, good luck," he said as I touched the handle, seeming slightly deflated, like he wanted to integrate me more.

"Thank you, and hey, maybe we can have some other classes together or something."He smiled hopefully as I continued inside. 

The rest of the morning passed in about the same fashion. My Trigonometry teacher, Mr. Varner, who I hated instantly, his arrogant personality grating on my nerves, made me stand in front of the class and introduce myself like I was five. It was easy to tell he hoped the new student would be embarrassed so he could show some sort of authority. Typical bully behavior; unfortunately for him, I was raised better; fortunately for him, I was raised better and was on a mission and could not put him in his place lest I get expelled.

After two classes, I started to recognize several faces in each class. There was always someone braver than the others who would introduce themselves and ask me questions about how I liked Forks. I tried to be diplomatic, but I mostly lied a lot. At least I didn't need the map anymore. One girl sitting next to me in Trig and Science escorted me to the cafeteria for lunch.

 She was tiny, several inches shorter than me, but her wildly curly dark hair made up much of the difference between our heights. I couldn't remember her name, so I smiled and nodded as she prattled on about teachers and classes. I didn't try to keep up; my thoughts were occupied as I still hadn’t found my soulmate, and it started making me think my spell must have been wrong. 

I ended up sitting at the end of a full table with several of her friends, whom she introduced to me—the boy from English, Eric, being one of them.

They all went around and introduced themselves. While they all seemed nice, I could tell they were only interested in me cause I was something new. I simply smiled and continued with the small talk and questions people had been asking me all day when the doors in the back of the room flung open, drawing my attention. Sitting in the lunchroom, trying to converse with seven curious strangers, I first saw and felt them.

A group of six newcomers swept into the cafeteria, their energy filling the air as they settled around a large table in the corner, far from my spot. They exchanged soft-spoken words, laughter intermingling with murmurs, yet their plates remained untouched, a curious sight among the bustling students around us. 

Unlike the rest, who often stared at me with unabashed curiosity, these students offered only fleeting glances, which I met with intrigue. Among them were three girls and three boys, all appearing to be of similar age, each radiating a distinct charm. 

The first girl was tall and statuesque, her figure elegant and poised, reminiscent of the mythical elves from Alfheim or perhaps an Asgardian goddess. Her long, golden hair flowed gracefully to the middle of her back, catching the light and framing her delicate features, highlighted by her porcelain skin. Next to her stood a shorter girl with an enchanting pixie-like frame, her demeanor lively and playful. Her deep black hair, cropped short in a wild, whimsical style, seemingly defying gravity, danced in every direction.  She followed the blond dragging behind a stunning girl with a full-figured silhouette, her rich cocoa-toned skin glowing with warmth and vitality. Her curly hair was a masterpiece, cascading around her face in bouncy, defined spirals, each curl adding to her captivating presence. 

As I was about to move to the males, another girl approached the table. She was normal while still pretty compared to the others, with an ashen complexion, long, straight, dark brown hair with a widow's peak, unique chocolate brown eyes, and a heart-shaped face. She sat next to one of the three boys sitting at the table. Like her father, he was lean, less bulky, with untidy, bronze-colored hair. He was more boyish than the others, especially compared to the big, muscled boy, who reminded me of my uncle, except with dark, curly hair. We even briefly made eye contact, and he gave me a gentle smile and a nod before slinging his arm to rest over the tall blonde's chair, playing with her other hand in his, before turning his head to the last boy.

The last boy was the one that caught most of my attention.

He was tall and lean, but it was clear he was also muscular. His beautiful honey-blond hair waved around his head. While the others were looking away and glancing back, trying to maintain decorum as they quietly conversed, he stared at me, and I found myself transfixed. Our silent staring contest was interrupted when a small girl suddenly stood up with her tray, passing between us as she walked away with a frantic look, drawing concern from the others.

"Who are they?" I asked the girl from my Spanish class whose name I'd forgotten.

Oh, those are the Cullens. It was a big deal last year when Edward Cullen, the reddish-headed one with the spikey hair, started going out with the brunette he had his arm around, Bella Swan; she was the new girl last year. It was a big shock to everyone when they started dating.” 

I can't help but note the hint of jealousy in her tone.

“Beside them is Emmett Cullen, his girlfriend Rosalie, and her brother Jasper Hale. The one who left was Alice Cullen, and the one she was sitting next to was her girlfriend, Rue Turner; they all live together with Dr. Cullen and his wife." She said,

 “Emmett's family were in an accident before they all moved here; what I’ve heard is that because he was dating Rosalie at the time, Dr. Cullen being the supper dad he is, he adopted Emmet for Rose since Emmet didn’t have any other family left. Same with Alice and Rue. Even though Rue isn’t officially a Cullen, she still lives with them. She came out to her parents, and the Cullens took her in when her parents kicked her out."  Her voice held all the shock and condemnation of the small town.

“You seem to know a lot about them.”I can’t shake the feeling that this girl knows a lot and is unafraid to discuss other people’s family matters. It made me uncomfortable for the group sitting at the table. I’ve been taught about etiquette throughout my life, and what she was doing felt incredibly rude.

"Not really. The things I've heard were all from a few years ago, and it was the biggest topic around here. I think Mrs. Cullen can't have any kids, which is why they’ve adopted so many," she added as if that somehow diminished their kindness. I thought she didn't like the doctor and his wife, even though she seemed to know a lot about them. With the glances she directed at their adopted children and their partners, I could only assume that jealousy was the reason behind her feelings.

Throughout all this conversation, my eyes flickered again and again to the table where the family sat. I moved towards the blonde, then the others as they continued to look at each other and back to me, no doubt trying to ignore the people talking about them. The lunch period was ending soon. I had to know why I felt this connection to the honey blond. Inhaling slowly, I let my aesir fill the room. I put out feelers for anything unusual, and as soon as it hit the family's table, they all looked towards me. Keeping eye contact, I genuinely smiled, for I knew two things. 

My soulmate was there; he and his family were not quite human. 

How interesting!

                                                      

this is how i picture rue

@reblogspostedheresoogcanbeclear

[warningsine]

This summer marks the 45th anniversary of the Nicaraguan Revolution, when the guerilla forces of the Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN) overthrew the Somoza dictatorship, the U.S.-backed dynasty that had ruled the country for more than 40 years. On July 19, 1979, after nearly two decades of struggle, armed Sandinistas entered the capital of Managua victorious, their red and black bandanas heralding a new era of socialist transformation.

The jubilation of victory was quickly tempered by the exigencies of war. From 1980 to 1989, a coalition of counterrevolutionary forces known as the Contras—who were financed and trained by the United States during the Reagan administration—waged a ruthless but unsuccessful terror campaign to unseat the revolutionary government. Between 30,000 and 40,0000 people died in the ensuing violence.

FSLN commander Daniel Ortega emerged as the leader of the revolutionary junta, and he was elected president in 1984. Six years later, Ortega was voted out by a coalition of opposition groups. In 2007, he was reelected and has served as president ever since, since the National Assembly modified the Nicaraguan Constitution in 2014 to allow for his indefinite reelection in contests widely recognized as shams.

Today, 17 years into Ortega’s rule, the 1979 revolution’s promise of liberation and equality has become little more than window dressing for another iron-fisted dictatorship. It is not one of the proletariat or of the people, but of another all-powerful family, led by Ortega and his wife, Rosario Murillo, who is often referred to as his “co-president.” But as the two tighten their grip on power, it seems to be slipping through their fingers, and their rule appears increasingly precarious.

For nearly two decades, “the commander” and “comrade Rosario” have consolidated power through a series of radical legislative and constitutional changes. Murillo has steadily increased her influence since 2008, when she was appointed president of the Councils of Citizen Power, party-state committees that ensured loyalty to the regime and distributed resources at the local level. She assumed Nicaragua’s vice presidency in 2017 after a constitutional reform allowed for her election despite being the president’s wife.

“Ortega’s dictatorship is unique insofar as he is singularly uncharismatic and is uninterested in direct appeals to the Nicaraguan people that other more personalist populist leaders rely on to bolster support,” said Michael Paarlberg, an associate fellow at the Washington, D.C.-based Institute for Policy Studies and a professor of political science at Virginia Commonwealth University. Instead, Paarlberg added, Ortega “has had to rely chiefly on repression, both to create fear and to shrink the pool of potential rivals within civil society, religious institutions, and NGOs,” or nongovernmental organizations.

Any inkling of dissent in Nicaragua has been met with ruthless military violence. In 2018, soldiers, police, and paramilitary death squads crushed a civil rebellion, leaving more than 350 people dead, at least 2,000 injured, and thousands more imprisoned, disappeared, or exiled. Ortega and Murillo have since further entrenched their dictatorship, clamping down on the opposition, securing control of the judiciary and legislature, purging the party-state apparatus of perceived traitors, and criminalizing civil society.

The government has outlawed public protest; seized the offices and assets of dozens of news outlets; revoked the legal standing of thousands of nonprofit organizations, universities, and churches—most recently in mid-August, when the regime banned 1,500 nonprofit organizations in a single day—and denounced hundreds of students, journalists, literary figures, and human rights defenders as “foreign agents,” stripping them of their citizenship. Since 2018, more than 300,000 Nicaraguans have sought asylum in neighboring Costa Rica—and U.S. Customs and Border Protection has encountered nearly 440,000 at the southern border of the United States. Many hope to win an asylum claim. Today, 1.5 million Nicaraguans—roughly 22 percent of the country’s population—live outside the borders of their homeland.

Recently, however, the Ortega dictatorship has appeared increasingly precarious as the presidential couple pluck away at the base of their own house of cards. Ortega and Murillo are getting old—they are 78 and 73, respectively—and the prospect of a democratic opening hangs over their hopes for smooth dynastic succession. All signs indicate that the couple is positioning their son Laureano to succeed his mother after she inherits the presidential crown from her husband.

But as Ortega and Murillo grow more isolated and self-destructive—executing mass purges and banning civil society groups—their popularity continues to wane, down to about 15 percent by last Gallup count in 2023. As their inner circle shrinks and their enemies multiply, a seamless succession appears increasingly unlikely.

For many observers, the question is not whether the dictatorship will implode, but when and how.

“There is no question that the dictatorship of Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo is getting weaker and weaker every day,” said Tamara Dávila, a leader of the opposition coalition Blue and White National Unity who is now exiled in the United States. Dávila believes that Ortega’s death or departure from office could create the possibility for a democratic opening despite the regime’s hopes for dynastic succession.

“The question is what that possibility will look like,” she said.

Since February 2023, when the regime released, banished, and denaturalized Dávila and 221 other political prisoners, Nicaragua has drifted out of the international spotlight. But repression and terror continue apace; according to the most current and commonly cited estimate, at least  141 political prisoners languish in Nicaragua’s prisons, according to the United Nations, enduring isolation, torture, and other inhumane conditions.

Dora María Téllez, a celebrated former Sandinista commander, was one of the 222 dissidents imprisoned and then exiled by the Ortega-Murillo regime. She said that the real number of political prisoners in Nicaragua is much higher than 141. “Families are afraid to report people as political prisoners. So there’s probably a little over 250 in total,” she told me in a recent interview. “But it’s a system of revolving doors: They let some out, they bring more in. … It’s a mechanism of repression that the Ortega-Murillo regime uses to keep the whole country intimidated.”

As recently as April, police intensified patrols in Nicaragua’s major cities, detaining five family members of protesters who were killed during the 2018 crackdown. On April 15, the body of opposition activist Carlos Alberto Garcia Suárez was found in a garbage dump in the city of Jinotepe. His corpse was badly burned, but police ruled out foul play, and the coroner ordered an immediate burial without an autopsy.

What is left of the opposition in the country is small and operates in secrecy.

Power in Nicaragua is structured vertically. Members of Ortega and Murillo’s loyal inner circle have some influence over decision-making, but their main role is administrative: All policy decisions lie in the hands of the ruling couple. Dismissals for perceived disloyalty are routine, and purges are increasingly common. Often, they are carried out under the personal direction of Murillo, maneuvering to eliminate perceived threats to her presumed succession.

No one is immune: Friends and close relatives of the couple have been branded traitors and remanded to El Chipote prison or exiled. In 2021, the former Sandinista commander Hugo Torres Jiménez, who risked his life securing Ortega’s release from prison in 1974, was prosecuted by the regime as a traitor. Torres had served as vice president of an opposition party led by ex-Sandinistas and was a vocal critic of Ortega and Murillo, calling the dictatorship “fiercer and more totalitarian than that of the Somozas.” He died in prison two years after his arrest, at age 73.

The presidential couple even went after Ortega’s brother, Gen. Humberto Ortega, a hero of the revolution and the former head of the Nicaraguan Army, accusing him of treason for criticizing the regime’s authoritarian drift and for questioning Murillo’s dynastic succession. On May 19, police surrounded Humberto’s home, placing him under house arrest. Later, after suffering symptoms of a heart attack, he was transferred to a military hospital in Managua.

“Just because we’re blood brothers, that doesn’t mean that Daniel and his group aren’t extremely uncomfortable with someone like me,” Humberto said in a recent interview with Infobae. “Some have even thought about eliminating me. I’ve never heard it from Daniel himself, but I’ve heard it from people who are close to him.”

In October 2023, the regime dismissed 10 percent of all judicial branch employees, including the president of the Supreme Court, a devoted Sandinista militant personally disliked by Murillo. Even the judge who had dismissed charges brought against Ortega for sexually assaulting his now-exiled stepdaughter, Zoilamérica Ortega Murillo, was caught up in the mass firing.

High-level officials continue to fall as the dictatorship closes ranks around Murillo. In the past six years, she has assumed an increasing share of power in areas once managed by her husband, such as the judiciary and Foreign Affairs Ministry. She has also maneuvered to eliminate intermediaries between her and the leaders of key institutions, such as the Interior Ministry, the attorney general’s office, and the national police. The resulting loss of power among Sandinistas loyal to Ortega has increased internal struggles within the party.

Last month, Nicaraguan police raided the office and home of Finance Minister Ivan Acosta, who was forced to resign—allegedly for acts of corruption, but more likely because he had fallen out of favor with the presidential couple. Employees in the Finance Ministry now fear a wave of dismissals, similar to those that occurred following Murillo’s purge last year of the Supreme Court, which resulted in the mass firing of some 900 government workers—including magistrates, secretaries, janitors, drivers, and even Ortega’s first-born son, Camilo Ortega Herrera, who led the court’s technical services department.

On Aug. 6, Nicaraguan news outlet Confidencial reported that in late July, Murillo dismissed Ortega’s chief police escort, Commissioner-General Marcos Alberto Acuña Avilés, who had served as a loyal member of the president’s security team since the 1990s.

All this reveals “an internal crisis tied up with the growing power of Rosario Murillo,” said Téllez, the former FSLN commander, who served as Nicaragua’s health minister from 1979 to 1990. “Rosario is not satisfied with appointees who are unconditionally supportive of Daniel Ortega. She wants people who are unconditionally supportive of her.”

The dismissals, surveillance, harassment, and imprisonment—not only of opposition figures, but also of Sandinista partisans, including high-level members of Ortega and Murillo’s inner circle—are dramatically reconfiguring the makeup of power in Nicaragua. The presidential couple has generated discontent, distrust, and fear at every level of the party-state apparatus.

With institutions in chaos, what little support and perceived legitimacy the regime has remains tied to the increasingly frail and marginalized figure of Ortega, who is a lingering symbol of the revolution. The vast majority of the Nicaraguan population disfavors the dictatorship, and it appears increasingly unlikely that Murillo would be able to fill his shoes without creating a power vacuum that could very well spell the regime’s end.

“Murillo is perhaps the only person in Nicaragua with a less credible claim on authority than Ortega, given her deep unpopularity and having never been popularly elected in a legitimate election,” said Paarlberg, the fellow with the Institute for Policy Studies.

“She would have no choice but to double down on repression,” he continued. “Should she fail to hold power, such as by failing to maintain the loyalty of the Sandinista security apparatus, it would create the conditions for a regime transition.”

[annikasevenshots]

Seven and Raffi in Picard S3: What We Know

So Matalas has hinted that Saffi will be addressed “during one of [his] favourite moments of the season”, but explained during interviews that their relationship would probably better explained once the entire season was over and we’ve seen the whole arc. When asked about Saffi on Star Trek Day, Jeri and Michelle had giggled coyly, saying, “You just have to watch the season!” This leads me to believe that Saffi will have an arc, so I’m just going to track what we know, week by week, to see how it’s been designed to unfold.

Episode 1: Seven and Raffi are both in Starfleet, but living very different lives. In No Man’s Land, Raffi had said that “the only thing harder than loving a civilian is making it work with a fellow officer.” So that’s a promising start :^)

In Raffi’s psych eval (which I think was done between S2 and S3, before she returned for undercover duty), she states that she is currently single, and expressed regret about her relationships. She also says “my girlfriend left me” to an Orion, but many have suspected that this is part of her undercover story.

Seven is serving as commander on the USS Titan and is evidently struggling to reconcile her identity and her loyalties. Reminder here that Raffi was the first in this series to note that Seven would make a wonderful captain - Seven attributes Picard and Janeway to pushing her to join Starfleet, but would Raffi have said anything for or against that? It’s important to remember as well that last season, it was Raffi who helped Seven come to accept her Borg side and to stop running from it. Will Raffi help Seven again? Will Raffi give Shaw a good bop on the nose?

Bonus: Before Raffi met Seven, Raffi had stalked Janeway and gotten court-martialled for it. This is just funny to me.

[yeehaw-in-magic-space]

Lore Dump 4: The Sovereign Hierarchy

The highest ranking noble in the universe is the Sovereign Among the Stars. This is an individual descended from the previous Sovereign, responsible for management of all the universe. They collaborate with nobles, the church, and loyal companies to establish a lasting order that will maintain peace and security across the universe.

Following the Sovereign in rank are their children. Princes and Princesses are considered nearly untouchable outside of war in regards to influence and power. They are often given commanding positions within the military or the church, or are sent to be mentored by powerful dukes and duchesses on manners of state until they are old enough to help the Sovereign manage palace affairs.

Dukes and Duchesses are next in order of power. They manage entire solar systems in the name of the Sovereign Among the Stars. They usually live within massive ships that follow the orbit of the star named after their families and control the movement of supplies and troops within their regions. They are directly in charge of every planet within a solar system, but rarely focus on a specific planet for more than a few months at a time. They prefer to leave the managing of planets to those next below them in the hierarchy.

Counts and Countesses are the nobles who rule over planets. At the behest of their duke or duchess, they manage the distribution of supplies and information across their own worlds. They are responsible for maintaining loyalty and steady streams of whatever resource their planet may be known for. They often live within a castle on or just above their planets. Most counts or countesses rule over only a single planet, though in rare cases, some have ended up managing two or three worlds within a particularly large solar system.

Barons and Baronesses are the lowest of the nobles. They manage countries and continents on specific planets, particularly they are in charge of matters of military and planetary security. They tend to be the hungriest of the nobles. They can often get away with conquering the nations ruled by neighboring nobles and expanding their own domains—if they can prove themselves more competent than the competition. Barons and Baronesses are pitted against one another frequently in a supposed effort to make sure only the best noble families are responsible for the armies of the Sovereign.

Though Barons have a reputation for being the hungriest and most warlike of the nobles, war between noble families is not uncommon. Everyone has dreams of expanding or ascending in the order, and everyone wants to prove that they are worthy of the Sovereign’s attention. The power struggle is neverending, and no noble ever feels completely safe, especially with the rise of non noble families and companies in the final years of The Long War.

(if this one seems particularly binary in its gendering, that is perhaps refelctive of the society these nobles operate. Acceptance of gender in all its variance and fluidity is only really seen in scattered pieces across the galaxy in places where people simply don't care about what they've been told is "proper", or where they're so distant from the nobility and the church that they would be baffled to hear that they had such strict ideas about these things to begin with.)

[succiducus]

{uraz kaygılaroğlu, 34, agender, he/they/she} We are so glad to see you safe, ADVISOR ABDULLAH MACKENZIE of SCOTLAND! It’s dangerous out in the world these days, but I hear that you are CALCULATIVE and DEDICATED enough to handle it. Just don’t let your RECKLESSNESS bring you down! Stay on your guard, because with your secret being at risk for exposure, you wouldn’t want everyone to find out after the reckoning your heart is no longer in the rebellion.

b a s i c s //

birth name: murat abdullah mackenzie

nickname: abby

birthday: march 31st (aries)

occupation: royal advisor to the stuarts

orientation: demi-romantic / pansexual

status: single-ish

languages: english, scottish gaelic (native). persian, hindi, japanese (fluent). german, amharic, sanskrit (conversational).

character influences: brian kinney (queer as folk), link & ganondorf (tloz), aragorn (lotr), indra (the 100), uchiha madara (naruto).

tarot card: strength

p r o l o g u e //

crooked by nature, they have always had a knack for manipulation and persuasion - nurture worsened it. selfish; power-hungry; proud; a perfect canvas for the pursuits of the family that they'd been adopted into and admittedly for their own gain. freedom granted them invisibility and they remain clutched onto that to this day. they've slipped into and out of many empires, left impacts, bought loyalties but as chaotic as they are, they're not simpleminded. they make calculative decisions and take well thought out actions for the gain of themselves and the mackenzies. prepared, intuitive, controlled - sometimes they seem outwardly unapproachable, they led their army with a strong hand, charm their way through awkward situations, and work hard regardless of their reasonings for doing so. they have two faces and only those loyal to the mackenzies know which one is real. they will stop at nothing to attain what they want.

a c t i : l a l q i l a //

The Mughal Empire had always been, to him, a means to an end. After his discharge from the Scottish military, being reassigned to a new empire to help aid the rebellion in any way that he could, he thought that settling in Delhi was temporary, that he would not grow attached to the people, sights, and sounds that surrounded him on a daily basis, however, that was far from the case. Assuming a new identity, working his way through the ranks of their military, making connections and friendships (even if surface level), and getting acquainted with a culture that his birth parents had fallen in love with after leaving Scotland wasn't supposed to leave a mark on him, but it did. The Grand Memoriam; reconnecting with Cailean and his sisters; hearing the loud accents of the Scottish court in the dining hall; followed shortly by invasions, political fights, chaos, and watching his heart face death once more pushed Abdullah from a state of clarity into one of complete and utter exhaustion. He decided to resign from his position as commander, swear fealty to Claire Stuart, and return home. The Reckoning shook him far beyond exhaustion; it cemented his love for the empire in his heart.

t i m e s k i p //

Grief was not new to Abdullah. He had been mourning Scotland and his place within it for years before The Reckoning took the rulers of the Mughal Empire from him. However, the loss struck him harder than he thought it might. Grown accustomed to serving them, to his every thought encompassing their safety and safety of their empire, suddenly being without all of it made guilt trickle into the space between his ribs. He struggled with this for the majority of their journey home, tried his best to smile when he was supposed to smile; one might say that his years of pretending came in handy when asked if he was glad to be home by fellow clansmen and their family friends. It was interesting, he supposed, how being back on the moors of Scotland didn't remove the sting of having to leave India behind. With news of it's descent into chaos reaching him, the guilt of leaving it defenceless when he did, lingered. But, somewhere between training with his mother in the halls of Castle Stuart and sliding into bed next to the youngest Fergusson, his grief disappeared and was replaced by a warmth that was often threatened by the thought of what those he cared about most were doing behind the scenes. You see, even with the new reign among them, the rebels that he had once proudly stood with were strong, perhaps, even stronger than ever, and in the land under Stuart reign, whether by one monarch or by four, rebels careless enough to get caught were hung. Once a thought that made him chuckle, the reality of losing those he cared about to something they could choose to refrain from started to make him weary.

p r e s e n t d a y //

Exhausted by his days in the military and the monotony of daily life now that he's back home, when the opportunity to put his mind to use once more approached him, he took it. From Mughal Commander to Royal Advisor, Abdullah is settling into his position comfortably while still training under his mother's guidances to become Duke after her retirement - the most prominent issue? He's starting to see each Stuart as people and not monarchs, an issue for the once rebel still lurking under the surface. For now, he's keeping up appearances for the sake of his parents and lover, however, he's come to the realization that the exhaustion from years of pretending is finally catching up with him and if he had to be honest? He simply wished to wake up to the sun illuminating red hair, the loud purr of Mor, and the smell of grass fluttering in through the open window of their bedroom. He supposed, being so close to love and it's beauty had made him soft - he could no longer stomach the rebellion and what it had the potential to take from him.

c o n n e c t i o n s //

cordelia mackenzie (sister) - to be written

karolina mackenzie (sister) - to be written

cailean fergusson (soul-mate) - they have been caught in a dance of cat and mouse for decades, unable to shed their emotional attachment to one another. they fall apart, put distance between themselves, however the universe brings them back together, often stronger than the last time their souls tangled. once on the same side of the coin, they now faced the unique challenge of being on opposites. its led to countless arguments and skirting around the topic of the scottish monarchy yet underneath all of the anger and frustration, they make moves toward one another and for each other out of love, even if they cannot admit aloud quite yet.

[cyborg-squid]

The Albuquerque Holy Grail War

okay my sister and I’s had this extended Breaking Bad and Fate crossover idea that’s so stupid and silly i can’t help but share it. broad strokes of it is that it’s basically the plot of Breaking Bad but the cast have Servants, the fights and struggles over the meth and crime empires fits perfectly with the Servants covert fight for the holy grail.

Here’s what servants they’d have (probably)

Walter White: Caster Mephistopheles. Walt fancies himself a smart man so you would know he would go for a Caster class Servant, thinking it’s the right fit for someone like him, and his chemical expertise would pair well with a Caster’s Item Construction, along with Territory Creation (Meth Lab). Also bombs. Walt is also the guy who blames all of his problems on other people, rather than himself, and Mephistopheles, a literal devil, would be the perfect scapegoat at the end of that, and there’s nothing Mephistopheles would love more than watching a human throw himself into hell and then blame it all on the devil.

“Skylar, listen to me! It wasn’t me, I would never do this willingly, it was all Caster! You don’t get it, he’s a devil, he’s been manipulating me the whole time, he must have been using some sort of mind control or something! Please, Skylar, you have to believe me!”

Jesse Pinkman: Berserker. Now, I actually don’t have a specific Berserker Servant to pair with Jesse yet, but I was thinking something along the lines of the standard yell-y type (Zerkerlot, Darius III, Caligula, etc). Throughout the series, Jesse is used as a pawn by Walt, Gus, and others, and if he was paired with a volatile yet powerful Berserker class Servant, his usefulness as a pawn increases, especially with Walt often trying to keep Jesse from turning against him, because an off-the-chain Berserker could really fuck up everything Walt’s been working for. Jesse also has the potential to see himself within the Berserker, a himself being a ‘servant’ manipulated by a ‘master’. Pairs well with Jesse’s fraught emotional state throughout the series.

Mike Ehrmantraut: Assassin Yan Qing. The core theme behind this pairing is the loyalty one has to their boss/lord, and the search for a worthy one. Skill wise, these two would complement each other very well, with Mike’s own stealth and combat capabilities and Yan Qing’s face changing and martial arts. Imagine the shootout scene in Bolsa’s mansion, but Yan Qing’s also fucking cartel guys up with his punching. Yan Qing would also see similarities between himself and Mike, two men very loyal to their bosses, sometimes to their own detriment.

Gustavo Fring: Lancer Diarmuid. I actually changed my mind mid writing this one, originally I was going to have Gus with a more typical Assassin Servant, probably a Hassan, and while a Servant like that could still work for him, my sister suggested that Assassin Yan Qing is a better pairing for Mike, and that the Diarmuid I’d originally planned for Mike could work for Gus, even if someone like Gus would prefer an Assassin class Servant. In Diarmuid, you have a Servant who has been devoted to his lord to the point of his own detriment, in an attempt to make up for his past betrayal (Gawain could also work as Gus’ Servant). Lancer’s ideals of chivalry and honor would clash with Gus’ way of doing things, but Gus would not hesitate to use Command Seals or other forms of coercion to get Lancer to do what he wants. You can imagine the scene where Gus slits Victor, but he’s using a Command Seal to get Diarmuid to do it.

Saul Goodman: Archer Moriarty. Now this one was originally just a funny idea but then i actually realized it had a lot of merit. Despite Saul’s face being on billboards around Albuquerque, he’s a very behind the scenes guy when it comes to the drug trade, as well as his own past crimes. He also, importantly, as the guy helping everyone launder money, has his hands (potentially) on a lot of it, and Moriarty would be eager to take advantage of this. Not for Moriarty’s own benefit, he’d have no use for the money, but to see what Saul might do with it. Saul is already someone who has, at the start of BBad, put his old name and life behind him and continued to walk down the wicked path, something that Moriarty would be very keen to see the end result of. The conversations between the two would also be very fun.

The Salamancas: Rider Blackbeard (done seriously). The focus of the Salamanca Servant is less on the relationship between Servant and Master, and more on how the Master-ship is split between the Salamancas. Hector was the one who summoned the Servant and has the Command Seals, but gives control/usage of Blacbeard to Tuco, and later, the twins. When Tuco is killed, the other Masters think that the Rider Servant will have disappeared, only to be surprised later on when Teach is still around. This role of Hector’s in BBad, as someone who is often overlooked or looked down upon just because he’s old, wheelchair-bound, and can’t speak, can tie in well with the sort of front that Blackbeard puts up, both of them being overlooked by their foes, their actual capabilities ignored until it is too late.

I do know I’m missing a Saber-class Servant, and I’m not entirely sure who it’d be paired with. Could be Hank, the Servant gets killed either during the twins attack on Hank, or maybe the Saber dies saving Hank’s life during the stakeout. Either way, Walt and Jesse think Hank’s out of the War, with his Servant gone, but Hank still continues his investigation.

Or maybe the 7th Servant belongs to Kim! She’s not present (physically) in BBad but she still feels like a worthy Master candidate, and the non-appearance of a Saber during the main events of the Albuquerque Holy Grail War would have the rest of the Masters on edge and wary of a surprise attack, one that never comes.

[elodieunderglass]

Actually while I’m in an Aubreyad mood I want to point out that @aurpiment ‘s quote up there - “I hate to see a man hanged for it” - is from the Aubreyad aka the Aubrey/Maturin novels, Age of Sail literary adventure novels about the Napoleonic Wars. Published in 1969, the conversation happens in the first novel, “Master and Commander.” It is taking place between the good-natured and honorable Captain Jack Aubrey of the British Royal Navy, in charge of his first command. One of his colleagues is attempting to sound him out re: his position on “buggery” (anal sex, but homosexuality more broadly) stating that he views it as unnatural. In the time, era, setting and the Navy, it was understood that homosexuality could not be prevented, but people were very much hanged for having anal sex. The expected response is for Aubrey to agree with him and condemn practicing homosexuality as a crime punishable by death.

Aubrey diplomatically replies that “there is something in what you say”, but that he “hates to see a man hanged for it.” The other guy can’t do anything but agree.

This sets up right away that Jack is fairly straight himself, but unexpectedly progressive, holds a principle, and hates to see people killed for breaking certain laws even though a naval captain is expected to be the enforcer of the state on this. It’s in character and true to setting, shows off the captain in a favourable light, sets up an interesting tension given that Jack strives to be an otherwise “good” officer, and given that this was both your grandfather’s and your dad’s favorite book, it snuck entirely past the immune systems of the reactionaries and worked its way into their deepest hearts.

See also Captain Kirk, the literary and contemporary brother/cousin of Jack Aubrey: both captains explicitly drew from the same source material, and were used as the same kind of literary mechanism for the same intentions. “Here is a lens through which we expect the (straight male) modern viewer to project themselves as we explore social situations within his crew and outside his crew. You’ll notice that he’s chill about certain stuff, which is normal, because obviously you are too, right? A guy like this would have to be! Anyway…”

This stated principle of discomfort-with-the-act-but-sympathy-for-the-people also sets up the sweetly doomed crush that a gay crew member has on him, which is compassionately handled by the narrative, while Jack is completely oblivious to it. It also sets up an extremely funny scene later with the goats milk, which shows how Jack realistically treats a crime regarded as the same under law (it’s obviously not the same, but it shows how his discipline and honor are tempered by pragmatism; iirc he chooses not to hang the man). Throughout the book the gay crew member does his best with this raging crush on this giant blonde idiot, and while the openness of his infatuation is criticised by MANY crew members, this sets a useful foil to show the genuine innocence and obliviousness of Jack, who presents himself as a seasoned salty sea dog; this makes his eventual struggles and perceptions-in-other-people’s-eyes more compelling because we, the reader, understand that he is fundamentally gentle-natured, struggles with managing all the politics, and is often oblivious to how people perceive him. He’s perceived by some as encouraging the doomed crush to gain the crew member’s loyalty, which makes some of the crew lose respect for him, and others question his leadership. Later in the book, in a conversation about Jack’s honor/obliviousness about the big gay crush, there is a delayed-action hand grenade of a Jane Austen-phrased pun about anal sex which remains one of the funniest of its type BECAUSE it is in such period-relevant language and phrasing. It’s one of the best puns about buttsex that you will find in literature hands-down. (In fact I have just discovered a second, modern pun buried in the Latin one: mens rea or “guilty mind” keeps autocorrecting to “men’s rear,” hilarious.)

The textual handling throughout also highlights the compassion and progressiveness of Stephen (who regards homosexuality with complete neutrality, which we understand through his anarchistic character.) This handling is not modern or inclusive. However, it does a lot of work: revealing character, setting up tensions and conflict, and bearing on one of the subplots.

Anyway, that’s the context and origin of “I hate to see a man hanged for it”. It is in keeping with the period, while the narrative doesn’t shy away from being ugly and showing ugliness. It shows a LOT about the character who says it, and the resulting stress of his management of office politics and the harsh naval charter in the age of sail. It is an interesting way that a (straight?) male writer working in 1969 found to tell his story. And it is also delicious food for the three generations of Aubrey/Maturin shippers. Because the books try to represent Our Guys interacting and conflicting with the social contexts of their times, and mine that conflict for various plot purposes/character studies/puns, they remain interesting no matter how far we get from the Age of Sail (and 1969.)

Genuinely 90% of historical fiction would be so much better if more writers could get more comfortable with the fact that to create a good story set in a different time period you do actually have to give the characters beliefs & values which reflect that time period

[alexanderrekeda1]

The Role of Proxies and Mercenaries in the Ukraine Conflict

The conflict in Ukraine, ignited in 2014 by Russia's annexation of Crimea and the subsequent fighting in Eastern Ukraine, has since evolved into a complex war involving various actors and interests. Among these, proxies and mercenaries have played a crucial role in influencing the trajectory and intensity of the conflict. Understanding the involvement of these non-state actors sheds light on the broader dynamics of modern warfare and the challenges that Ukraine and its allies face in countering this multifaceted threat.

The Emergence of Proxies in the Ukraine Conflict

Proxies have been a significant feature of the Ukraine conflict from its inception. In this context, proxies refer to local or regional groups supported, financed, or directed by a foreign power, often to achieve strategic objectives without direct involvement. In Eastern Ukraine, Russian-backed separatist groups like the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) and the Luhansk People's Republic (LPR) emerged as key players. These groups were armed and supported by Russia, which provided them with military equipment, training, and even personnel.

The use of proxies allowed Russia to maintain plausible deniability while pursuing its strategic goals in Ukraine. Russia could exert influence over the region by supporting these groups without formally declaring war or committing its regular military forces to the conflict. This approach complicated the international community’s response and muddied the waters regarding responsibility and accountability.

The effectiveness of proxies in the conflict has been a point of debate. On one hand, they have enabled Russia to destabilize Ukraine and maintain a prolonged state of conflict. On the other hand, the lack of a cohesive command structure among these groups and their sometimes divergent interests have led to internal power struggles and operational inefficiencies.

The Role of Mercenaries in the Conflict

Alongside proxies, mercenaries have also been a prominent feature of the Ukraine conflict. Mercenaries, often hired by states or private entities, are professional soldiers who fight not out of loyalty to a nation but for financial gain. In Ukraine, mercenaries from various countries have been involved on both sides of the conflict, though Russian-linked mercenary groups have been particularly influential.

One of the most notorious mercenary groups involved in the Ukraine conflict is the Wagner Group, a Russian paramilitary organization believed to have close ties to the Kremlin. The Wagner Group has been implicated in various disputes worldwide, including Syria and Africa, but its role in Ukraine has been especially significant. These mercenaries have been accused of carrying out some of the conflict’s most brutal operations, including targeted killings, sabotage, and covert operations aimed at undermining Ukrainian forces.

The presence of mercenaries like the Wagner Group highlights the blurred lines between state and non-state actors in modern conflicts. While officially independent, such groups often operate with their home governments' tacit approval or direct support. This creates a complex legal and ethical landscape where traditional rules of war are usually circumvented.

The Impact on the Conflict's Dynamics

The involvement of proxies and mercenaries has significantly impacted the dynamics of Ukraine conflict. For Ukraine, the presence of these actors has made the conflict more difficult to manage and resolve. Unlike conventional warfare, where the opposing forces are clearly defined, using proxies and mercenaries creates a fluid and unpredictable battlefield. This has forced Ukraine to adapt its military strategy and seek new international support.

For Russia, the use of proxies and mercenaries has been a way to achieve its geopolitical objectives without facing the full consequences of direct military intervention. However, this approach has also come with risks. Using non-state actors can lead to unintended escalations, as these groups may act independently or pursue their agendas. Additionally, the international community's growing awareness of Russia's involvement through proxies and mercenaries has led to increased sanctions and diplomatic pressure on Moscow.

The impact on civilians has been profound. The presence of these groups has contributed to the prolongation of the conflict, leading to widespread human suffering, displacement, and economic devastation in the affected regions. The use of mercenaries, in particular, has been associated with increased human rights abuses and violations of international law, further complicating efforts to reach a peaceful resolution.

International Responses and Challenges

The international response to the role of proxies and mercenaries in the Ukraine conflict has been mixed. While many countries have condemned the use of such actors, the lack of a unified and effective international legal framework to address their involvement has limited the ability to hold responsible parties accountable. Sanctions, while impactful, have not been sufficient to deter the use of proxies and mercenaries in Ukraine or other conflicts.

One of the challenges in addressing this issue is the need for more evidence to prove the direct involvement of states like Russia in supporting these groups. The covert nature of their operations and the use of deniable assets make it challenging to gather the necessary evidence to take meaningful action. Furthermore, the geopolitical complexities surrounding the Ukraine conflict, with various international interests at play, have hindered the development of a coordinated global response.

The Path Forward

As the Ukraine conflict continues, the role of proxies and mercenaries is likely to remain a key factor in its progression. For Ukraine and its allies, countering this threat requires a multifaceted approach that includes strengthening military capabilities, enhancing intelligence and counterintelligence operations, and increasing diplomatic efforts to isolate and pressure those supporting non-state actors.

At the international level, there is a need for stronger legal mechanisms and frameworks to address the use of proxies and mercenaries in conflicts. This could include more robust enforcement of existing international laws and the development of new treaties or agreements specifically targeting the use of non-state actors in warfare.

The role of proxies and mercenaries in the Ukraine conflict highlights the evolving nature of modern warfare. As traditional state-on-state conflicts become less common, the involvement of non-state actors is likely to increase, posing new challenges to international security and stability. Understanding and addressing these challenges is crucial for achieving a lasting resolution in Ukraine and preventing similar conflicts in the future.

[drjameslongjr]

Article: Matthew 6:24-35 - Powerful Promises and Principles for Overcoming Worry

Matthew 6:24–35: Powerful Promises and Principles for Overcoming Worry

Introduction Anxiety is a prevalent issue in today's society. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, anxiety disorders affect 40 million adults in the United States each year, making it the most common mental illness. Worldwide, nearly 264 million people suffer from anxiety disorders (World Health Organization). In this context, the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 6:25–34 offer powerful promises and principles for overcoming worry through trust in God. To watch the message based on this article, follow this link to my Youtube page. Biblical Illustrations The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals who struggled with anxiety yet found solace in God's promises. Elijah: After his victory over the prophets of Baal, Elijah fled from Jezebel's threats, feeling alone and desperate (1 Kings 19:3–4). Despite witnessing God's power, his fear and anxiety overwhelmed him. Martha: While hosting Jesus, Martha became anxious and troubled with much serving, missing the opportunity to learn from Him (Luke 10:41-42). Her anxiety over serving distracted her from the peace of being with Jesus. Connection to Previous Section (Matthew 6:19–24) In Matthew 6:19–24, Jesus warns against materialism and coveting. He emphasizes that earthly treasures are temporary and insecure, leading to anxiety and misplaced trust. Jesus contrasts this with the need for a singular focus on serving God, as divided loyalty between God and wealth creates inner turmoil and anxiety. The Importance of Trust in God’s Provision In Matthew 6:25–34, Jesus shifts the focus from material concerns to personal anxieties about daily needs. He addresses common fears about food, drink, and clothing, emphasizing trust in God’s care. Prohibition against Worry (Verses 25, 31, 34) - Prohibition of Anxiety (Verse 25): Jesus commands, “do not be anxious.” He emphasizes the importance of life and the body, implying that if God has given these greater gifts, He will certainly provide the lesser necessities like food and clothing. - Prohibition Reiterated (Verse 31): Jesus repeats the command against anxiety to emphasize its importance, specifically listing common worries: food, drink, and clothing. - Prohibition of Future Fear (Verse 34): Jesus advises against borrowing trouble from the future. Each day has its own set of challenges, and worrying about tomorrow only adds unnecessary burden to today. Principles of Trust (Verses 26–30) - Principle # 1: Providential Care (Verse 26): Jesus uses birds as an example of God’s care. Birds do not engage in agricultural activities, yet they are fed. This illustrates that if God provides for the birds, He will certainly provide for us. - Principle # 2: Pointlessness of Worry (Verse 27): Jesus points out the ineffectiveness of worry. Anxiety cannot add time to our lives or change any circumstance. - Principle #3: Provision for Beauty (Verses 28–29): Jesus uses the lilies as an example of God’s abundant provision and care. Lilies do not labor for their beauty, yet they are adorned more magnificently than Solomon. - Principle #4: Perspective of Faith (Verse 30): Jesus uses grass, which is temporary, as an example of God’s care. If God clothes something as fleeting as grass, He will surely provide for us. Priorities for Peace (Verses 31-34) - Seek the Supreme (Verse 33): Jesus commands believers to prioritize seeking God's kingdom and righteousness above all else. When we seek God's kingdom first, all necessary provisions will be added to us. - Secure in Today (Verse 34): Jesus advises against worrying about the future, encouraging believers to focus on today’s challenges and trust in God’s provision. Practical Steps to Overcome Worry - Pursue God’s Kingdom (Verse 33): Establish God’s kingdom as the primary focus of your life. Make decisions and set goals that reflect God’s values and priorities. - Practice Daily Trust (Verse 34): Live in the present, trusting God each day. Begin each day with prayer, asking God to provide for your needs and guide your steps. - Pray with Persistence (Philippians 4:6-7): Replace worry with prayer. Paul instructs believers to counteract anxiety by bringing all concerns to God through prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving. Conclusion The teachings of Jesus in Matthew 6:25–34 offer profound wisdom for overcoming worry. By prohibiting anxiety, emphasizing trust in God’s providential care, and prioritizing His kingdom, we can find peace in His promises. Let us commit to daily devotion and trust in God’s provision, knowing that He cares for us more than we can imagine.

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[saphirered]

Hey! You asked for individual character requests, so how about Vex x Reader (I thought I’d give you a break from EXU as well), where the reader has a massive crush on Vex, but is unfortunately really scared of Trinket? And maybe something about Vex helping them to relax and bond? Thanks regardless! I love your writing x

Thanks for requesting! This was definitely a fun one to write so I hope you enjoy! 😘

-

You may or may not like Vex. Okay, maybe a but more than just like, closer to a major crush but how could you not? Vex’s intelligent, quick-witted, drop dead gorgeous and don’t even get started on the woman’s charm or you might just swoon. Gods above, you’ve fallen for the half-elf hard. The worst part; you know she likes you too. She’s stated so several times, flirting with you more than anyone else and not just to get something from you. She’s not shy about it and takes every opportunity she can get to make you blush. It’s great, or would be great were it not for your very reasonable fear for big hulking bears and Vex just happens to call one such bear her closest of buddies if not closer to a fur baby.

You’re not sure what to do. Trinket, you know, is nothing short of lovely but you cannot get over your fears no matter how much you may like Vex. You’ve kept your distance and retreated within your shell every time the big grizzly is around. Bears are scary. Sharp claws and teeth, super strong. They can climb, swim and run. They’re great trackers too so there’s really no getting away from them.

“Darling, do you have a moment?” You’re seated at the table scribbling away on some paperwork you needed to take care of. Someone has to assure there’s any food and drink left after Grog has one of his solo exclusive parties again. They’re not really parties and only consist of him inviting Scanlan and Vax for a night of binging food and ale until the sun comes up but you’re always out of groceries right after.

Vex peaks around the corner leaning on the doorpost arms crossed. You put down your pen and nod. Vex nods her own head to the hallways behind her and you get the message getting up and following her to wherever she’s leading you. There’s a determination in her step but she tries to cover everything else which leaves you worried just a bit. What’s she up to?

“Vex, where are we going?” You fall in line next to her as you begin to ascend the stairs.

“Don’t worry, darling. I’ve found the perfect sight I think you might enjoy and simply wouldn’t want you to miss out before the weather changes. I’d like to discuss some things with you too so, two birds one stone?” Okay that does sound like a reasonable explanation. Maybe almost a little too reasonable now you think of it. You continue walking until you’re stopped in front of a door, Vex opens it and allows you to step in.

Immediately you see the late afternoon sun shine through the clouds, casting rays of golden light upon the landscape contrasting with the darkened grey of the rain ahead. It’s an absolutely beautiful sight. You enter the room walking up to the window as Vex steps in and closes the door behind her. You hear a grumble and a soft but forceful ‘shh’ behind you.

“Just my stomach. I’m afraid I haven’t had lunch yet. Would you like to enjoy some with me?” You turn around at the offer, seeing the table to the side set with lunch for two and a huge plate of fresh fish. A brown grizzly tries to nibble on the tail of one fish in an attempt to pull it off the plates without his momma noticing and is quickly scolded.

“Trinket! What did I say! Stay hidden!” Vex scolds the bear as you squeal making a break for the door but Vex is quicker and grabs you by the arms stroking your shoulders in a calming motion as Trinket growls in shame, for disappointing Vex and being tempted by the delicious fish.

“Let me go, Vex.” You almost beg and Vex offers you a sad smile.

“I’m afraid I can’t just yet. I wanted to ease you into this but as we’re a bit short on time, we’ll have to take this route. Now calm down, just breathe, in and out. That’s it.” You do as she says, Vex guiding you and preventing a mental breakdown of being face to face with your fear in an enclosed space. Her presence makes it a little better knowing she at least is able to control Trinket to an extend and you know he won’t attack you outright but doesn’t get rid of the fear.

“Now, are you alright to sit down or am I going to have to tie you up to prevent you from running? I’m not opposed to the latter but I think we’d both prefer better circumstances.” Vex jokes, or half jokes. You know her well enough for that. You nod and she guides you over to the table, sitting you down on one chair while taking the other next to you, rubbing circles in your back to keep some nerves at bay as trinket makes himself comfortable, laying down, eyes closed but occasionally peaking, pretending to be asleep, much akin to a young child having been told to go to bed.

“Shall we eat?” Vex gestures to the set table and you have to admit the food does look divine, maybe minus the plate of fish though. You look between her and Trinket. You can do this. You’ve been in the same space as Trinket plenty of times before. Granted, those times the spaces were much bigger and there were several people between you and the bear at all times.

“Yeah. Yeah, I think I could do with some food.” Your voice shakes but Vex smiles anyway. Small steps are better than none at all. She half expected you to have made a break for the window. She took all the precautions and ‘fear-proofed’ the room just in case. Awkwardly you’re eating and if Vex has learned one thing from animals is they don’t eat when they really mistrust the company, so people can’t be much different right? Vex attempts small talk asking you about your day and such and while you replied you always keep an eye on Trinket not so successfully pretending to be a sleep even mustering a fake snore.

Halfway through Vex keeps staring at you absentmindedly playing with her food leaning her chin upon her enclosed fist. She’s got plenty of ideas running through her head but all are circumstantial. Maybe she’ll go for a hail Mary.

“Darling, do you trust me?” The question makes you look at her confused. Have you done anything to show that you don’t? You don’t think so.

“Of course I do. You’ve saved my life more than I can count. I trust you more than anyone.” You admit a bit wary of where this is going but it’s Vex and what you said is true.

“Could you close your eyes for me?” You look between her and Trinket biting your lip. You do trust Vex but within your own head a battle between that love and trust for her and your fear for the big fuzzy animal rages on. What are you supposed to do?

Vex sees your struggle and gets up from her seat. She gracefully walks around the table making sure your eyes stay focussed on her and kneels down in front of you. Taking both of your hands in hers she squeezes them softly and gives you a gentle comforting smile.

“I want you to know your trust is not misplaced so I’ll give you this.” Vex takes the necklace from her neck and puts it around yours.

“Now I want this back when we leave this room but for now you’re in control of it. Will you close your eyes for me?” She asks once more. Her expression says enough to let you know if you don’t want this you don’t have to and literally anything but closing your eyes will show her you’re not ready yet and that would be okay. There’s no shame in taking small steps or finding a different approach. She’d come to terms with that too but she’d be lying if she said she wasn’t relieved and happy when you nodded and closed your eyes.

Darkness. That’s all you see, and the occasional movement of light outside bleeding through distorting that darkness from time to time. You’re hyper focused on your other senses and you’re unsure wether that be because of closing one sense off or because you’re practically shaking with fear awaiting for that fight or flight reaction to kick in. You smell the sweet fruit from your plate, the gentle kick of the fermented grape juice, and of course the slight saltiness of fresh fish. You hear a grumbled moan and the sound of paws-no sharp nails hitting the fine stone floor step by step almost drowned out by the soft whispers of encouragement of Vex.

Trinket, as quietly and carefully as he can makes his way over to you. Vex shushes him a couple of times and the bear loyalty obeys the commands, laying down at your side. Vex takes one of your hands and you jump a little when she does so she turns to rubbing circles in the back of it as she guides your hand away from your lap towards Trinket.

“You’re doing great.” Vex can feel the gentle shake of your hand but you don’t resist so very slowly she guides you towards Trinket until your fingers touch his fur. You breathe in sharply holding your breath upon contact and freeze up, waiting for something to happen, be that a sharp claw slashing out at you, teeth munching down on you, a roar in your face but none of these come. Even Trinket awaits in suspense for your responses, his bear senses giving him enough insight in your discomfort.

Once you’ve gotten a moment to adjust Vex takes her hand off yours watching both you and Trinket. You don’t dare open your eyes yet but in the back of your mind you hear words of encouragement. You’re doing great. You got this and before you know it your fingers glide, all be it a little rigid and awkwardly, through Trinket’s fur.

“Perfect, darling. You’re doing absolutely wonderful.” You nod afraid to speak and break the spell you definitely must be under with this newfound courage.

Vex couldn’t be more proud of you. When you walked in here she wasn’t even sure she could have you be in the same room as Trinket for more than ten minutes and now you’re petting the bear. She watches as you slowly peak through one eye and when you deem the coast clear open the other too watching in amazement.

“He’s so soft…” You breathe barely audible and Vex laughs. Trinket grumbles at the compliment making you pull away your hand and jump a little but when no repercussion comes you put it back and continue petting the bear, who begins purring softly almost akin to an oversized cat. You can still feel your heartbeat in your throat but this is going relatively okay until you begin seeing spots and you start feeling dizzy. Vex notices and pulls your hand away from Trinket offering you your glass.

“Maybe that’s enough for now? We’ll take it easy.” You nod and feel the nerves subside as Trinket returns to his comfy spot by the window. It may be best not to push your luck and drive yourself into a panic attack.

“Don’t worry, darling. Before you know it we’ll have you riding into battle on Trinket’s back. Won’t you like that Trinket?” She shouts over her shoulder to the bear who replies in a happy moan. Vex pours you another glass of wine after she watches the colour drain from your face. Let’s stick to small steps. But for now, the first ones have been taken. Besides, she can’t deny you’ll look absolutely marvellous riding into battle on her favourite Trinket.