#they might talk of archery later

[thevikingwoman]

A chance meeting between WoL Aureia Malathar and Meryta Khatin, as Aureia is trying to find some help with her plant experiments.

@myreia thank you for being such a supportive friend, always. I wanted to figure out how Aureia and Meryta could meet, and I hope this works.

Fandom: FFXIV | Words: 955 | Read on Ao3

Aureia Malathar (wol) & Meryta Khatin (adventurer) | Heavensward | friendship Rating: Gen. Botany, meeting and friendship, popotos (no not lala, actual popotos)

Seed

Meryta Khatin is busy digging in the popoto rows, pulling out weeds and checking the plants for dark spots, when she notices the adventurer staring at her. She’s dark haired, one hand in the pocket of a dark coat, the other around a staff. Or a lance. Meryta isn’t sure. She continues the popoto inspection, and to her delight they all they all look good. She pulls up another weed.

The adventurer is still staring, fidgeting. Her hand smoothes her hair behind her ear, which marks her half-elezen, and Meryta notices it’s tinged with red at its ends.

There’s nothing up here besides the popoto experiment, so Meryta gets up, and wipes the dirt of her hands as best she can.

“Can I help you?”

“No.” Hand back in the pocket. “I was merely curious.”

“I was just checking the popotos. They’re for supporting the community here, if we find the right sort.”

“I’m sorry – are you an adventurer or not?”

The half-elezen pushes her hair behind her ear again. It’s studded with small rings. She reminds Meryta of someone, but she isn’t sure who. Meryta realizes she’s been too busy to change, and she’s still wearing her archer’s coat and dragonskin pants. She’s not really dressed for weeding, but then again – any outfit that can get dirty will do for it. It does explain the confusion, though.

“Oh! I’m both? I do some adventuring work, but I’m also a botanist of sorts, along with a few other things. I’m a student of Furfucha’s. In Gridania.” She sticks out her hand. “I’m Meryta, Meryta Khatin.”

The woman takes it, shakes in firmly. It’s warm, despite the cold wind blowing through Idyllshire.

“I’m –”

“You’re the Champion of Eorzea! Now I recognize you.”

The woman’s smile falls, then picks up again in flash. Her ruby eyes are a little harder than before.

“Yes, that’s – me.”

“Sorry I didn’t recognize you!”

“It’s fine. Do you like – plants?”

Meryta is a little intimidated by all she’s heard of the Champion of Eorzea and the Scions of the Seventh Dawn. She should have recognized her, how many red eyed, dark haired, half-elezen could there be? She’s striking, and now that she knows, it’s more than obvious.

“No surely, it’s an honor, I – um, I mean I’ve heard –”

“- doesn’t matter. Please call me Aureia. I just wanted to ask about the work with the plants.”

“You want to know about the popotos?”

“Yes! I mean – maybe? I like flowers, and there are so many pretty ones around here.”

“There truly is. The hinterlands are nice, aren’t they?” She rubs her hands together. “Well, when it’s not pouring or a windchill comes through.”

The champion – Aureia laughs a little. “True enough. I was mayhap looking to pick up some tricks. I’ve been trying to grow a few flowers from here.” The other woman pauses, and pushes her hair behind her ear again. “It’s but a personal project and the popotos here look like they do well.”

“They do now, but it’s been a bit of a struggle. It’s about the right sort, and all the growing conditions. With all the chill rain here.”

Aureia frowns a little. “I thought plants needed water.”

“Some, but they can also get too much. Depends on the plant really.”

“How do you know?”

“You have to learn or ask. If the plant gets drooping leaves with yellow spots and soil is wet, not dry, it’s probably too much water. Usually it’s good to check the soil before watering, especially for plants in pots or planters.”

“Check the soil?”

“I just stick my finger in there.” She holds up her hand and makes a clawing motion with her pointer finger. “Though sometimes it’s a disease and it’s harder to get rid of.”

“Mayhap I should just forget about it.”

“No, don’t worry, you can always try again. Trial and error, just like the popotos here. This is the fifth crossbreed and the first one that seems to work. Sorry I keep going on about the popotos. What have you tried to grow?”

“Just whichever I found.” Aureia brow furrows. “I think they were blue.”

“I wonder –"

It starts to rain, and as Meryta said herself earlier, as it sometimes does in Idyllshire, it pours in buckets. Aureia looks up and they share a look, and then they both make a run for The Hard Place. They’re only a little wet when they make it inside.

“Will the popotos be alright?” Aureia asks. “With the rain, I mean.”

“The soil should have enough drainage. We’ve been working on it, and with the new strain too. It’s a cross breed of some a variant from the Sea of Clouds, so it’s more cold resistant, and hopefully able to withstand…” Aureia’s eyes look distant, and Meryta trails off. “I guess you don’t care that much.”

Aureia chuckles. “Yes, not that much. But I did want to ask for help with the flowers?”

“I’ll be happy to help.” She really is, she likes helping – whether it’s the farmers here or a single person. That Aureia is a the Warrior of Light is a little intimidating. “I’m sure you’ll soon have plants overgrowing your lodging.”

“I highly doubt that.” Aureia snorts and her eyes sparkle. “I could use a drink. Join me? Tell me of these plants that are so easy they will grow everywhere.”

“Gladly.”

Soon, they’re sitting in a cozy corner, Aureia returned with a bottle of red wine Adkiragh produced from who knows where. Meryta sips slowly, and tries to think of all that can help Aureia. Soon, however, their conversation drifts to other matters, as the Taverns hums to life with other patrons seeking refuge from the rain.

[writers-potion]

Writing Female Fighters

The Heroine Must. Fight.

Today's female protagonists cannot sit on the side crying and breaking down or whimpering as the battle ensues.

Readers want to see autonomous female fighters who can at least defense themselves with courage and adequate skill.

Not all women are the same, but the heroine should get her butt moving.

Less Muscle, but More Flexibilty

The average woman is shorter than the average man, which makes it more difficult to wield a long sword or slam something down on the opponent's head.

A woman who works out can plausibly be stronger than a male couch potato, but if her male counterpart works out as much as her, the man is going to be much stronger.

On the other hand, the center of gravity in a woman's body is lower than a man's which makes it harder to knock her off her feet.

She is also more flexible, which gives her advantage in grappling fights, making use of complex landscapes, or deflecting blows.

A woman's small size can also be an advantage if her opponent has only ever trained with male opponents. His big hands might not get a good grip on her slender limbs.

In historical fiction, giving your heroine good muscule build can be tricky as exercise was generally considered harmful for women, with some exceptions for horseriding any maybe archery at best.

In such cases, make your heroine an accomplished dancer or an eager horsewoman, or the only girl whose father considered to be son replacement and thus, gave her a boy's education.

Women of lower classes who couldn't afford to be fashionably weak will be plausibly stronger, perhaps even more than an idle gentleman.

More Room for Negotiation, but Prolonged Ruthlessness

In the Suspense part of your fight scene, females are more likely to negotiate and talk more, strategically trying to descalate the situation rather than attacking on a momentary impulse.

Generally, women are less aggressive than men and remain level-headed longer than her male counterparts, opting for non-violent methods first before using force.

Exceptions apply if she is trying to protect her children (or someone who she cares for as a child). Mothers can be tigresses.

A female pre-fight conversation may be: "If you had not done so-and-so and betrayed me with so-and-so, we could have been good friends as I thought we would be." "What do you mean? It was in fact you who brought bad blood between us. I can still hear you laughing with so-and-so, taunting me, purposefully making me look bad -" "But that was so long ago! If you want me to say sorry about something so insignificant, you should have just said so: I'm sorry. There. Satisfied?" "Ha! I can't believe you say that so easily. You still don't get it, do you?" "Who's being petty and unreasonable now?"

A male pre-fight conversation will be shorter: "Who's the coward now?" "You're wrong." "Prove it." "Bastard."

Compared to men, it will take more time for a woman's fight hormones (adrenaline, neurotransmitters and such) to kick in.

She would be slower to engage initially, throwing reluctant punches and thinking, but she'll grow more and more violent and lose all rational thought and compassion, and once she's in full flow, may not stop even when her opponent begs for mercy.

When writing a male-female duo, you can show him going for the first blow while she observes and strategizes first. When he's past his peak and panting, she is flying about left and right. Later when the tension wears off and she becomes wobbly and teary, she can rely on him to have recovered faster and distract other teammates so that they won't see her cry.

Plausible Skills and Backstory

In many cultures and time periods, the general attitude of society towards girls is that they have no place in fist fights or martial arts, unlike how it is encouraged for boys of the same age. So if your heroine has physical prowess that surpasses typical 'fitness' or is hidden, build a backstory of how she's obtained it.

For modern heroines, it can be as simple as signing her up for martial arts classes or yearly membership at the local gym. For historical fiction or girls with strict 'feminine' upbringing, it can be trickier.

It can be related to profession: maybe she was an erotic wrestler, catfighter, or an assasin who thought killing was more honorable than prostitution. They may have dabbles with it for a short time and is now trying to hide their past from their respectable employer or fiance.

It can be family backstory: Perhaps her mother was an accomplished martial artist or she had to fend for younger siblings on the streets from an early age. Maybe she was the only girl in a family of many boys who refused to be the punching bag.

Inexperienced Female Fighters

A woman with no fighting experience or training is likely to resort to one of these on instinct:

Try to talk herself out of the situation, attempting to persuade or negotiate for her life.

Grab something to use as a weapon. This instinct seems to be stronger for women than it is in men.

Use her hands to try and break free, or kick (often wth little success)

Pull hair

Scratch.

In a serious fight, pulling hair and scratching won't be helpful, except when the police come to find her body, they would find the opponent's DNA under her fingernails.

Plausible Weapons and Clothing

All of the above applies to scenes where both parties have no weapons, or has the bare minimum (like one dagger each).

Weapons are equalizers, and if your heroine is pointing a gun at her opponent she will definitely NOT hesitate to be the one to shoot first.

When giving your female character a weapon, choose one she can plausibly use. It would take an unusually brawny woman to wield a great medieval longsword.

For historical fiction, give your heroine something she'll plausibly own. Swords and firearm were a no-go for women, but archery was borderline acceptable.

For clothing starters, you definitely CAN NOT dress her in a tight miniskirt and chainmail bra with long, flowy hair and multiple silver chockers. Unless she's trying to seduce her way into her opponent's bedroom, and he has a chainmail bra fetish.

A practical heroine will have her thighs covered, preferably with leather but at least with fabric, since a lot of blood flows through the thighs and a slash would be critical.

She'll keep her hair tied, tucked under a helmet, braided back, etc. so that it won't impede her vision.

She'll support her breasts with a strong sport bra. In a historical eprioid, she'll either tie her breasts tight with a fabric bandage or support them with some kind of leather corset.

Invent a female version of male fighter clothing of the time you are writing about if it doesn't exist.

If you like my blog, buy me a coffee☕ and find me on instagram! 📸

[gh0stsp1d3r]

Luke Castellan x daughter of aphrodite reader who comes back to camp with scandalous new sets of lingerie and tries them on for Luke who gets absolutely turned on and flustered 😇

ℒ𝒾𝓃𝑔ℯ𝓇𝒾ℯ

love this sm, adorable divider by @s-hyia!!

MASTERLIST

PART 2, part 3

Warnings- mdni, perv!luke, best friends crushing on each other, pining, fem!reader,

“Luke!” You yelled out. He furrowed his eyebrows, looking for you in the crowd of campers. He knew that voice from anywhere.

He found you, coming over and his eyes widening at your many bags.

You sighed in relief as he grabbed them for you. He laughed and walked over to cabin 10 with you.

“Hey, y/n,” He said, “I see someone did some shopping over break.”

“Not just any shopping.” You giggled, he looked at you confused.

“Just wait until later, I’ll show you.” A small smile on your face as you said that. He was still lost and confused but just nodded and put your bags on your bunk.

"You still up to be my sparring partner this year?” he asked you, as you both sat down on the edge of your bed. He always had these tricks to show the kids.

"Luke, you know I'm not good at sword fighting."

"I know, I know. Just for them?" You were more like a God at archery, you taught all the new demigods.

"Fine." You sighed, and he smiled at that.

“You going to the bonfire later?” He asked.

“No, I was actually gonna ask you for a favor…” you said. He was curious as to what you were talking about.

“Okay…”

“So, over break I bought all of these adorable lingerie sets, but, I need to know which ones look best on me. So I was gonna ask, if I could model them for you?”

His eyes widened as you asked, it sounded like something straight out of a wet dream.

The bell rung for the bonfire to start, and he nodded. “Okay. Yeah. Sure.” He tried to keep calm, but inside he was bursting like a damn firework.

“Yay!” You squealed, grabbing the bags and heading to the bathroom. You shut the door and he sighed heavily, running a hand through his curls.

Okay, this is okay. Just stay calm, she’s your best friend. This is normal. He thought, he felt like a hormonal teenager all over again when he saw you step out of the bathroom.

He had to control himself from letting out a groan. He nodded and swallowed the lump in his throat as you twirled.

“So? Out of 10?” You asked him, he didn’t hear you however.

You seemed perfect in it, you always did. The pink bra that left little to the imagination, topped with a little bow on it, and the underwear that hugged your figure perfectly.

“Luke!”

“Sorry. Sorry. What’d you say?”

“What do you think?”

“It’s…” he tried to find a word to say good without sounding like he was a perv.

“It’s nice.” He said, nodding and looking down at the floor. you smiled at him and then walked back to the bathroom.

He watched you move into the bathroom, staring at your plush thighs and ass. He quietly groaned once the door closed, and he grabbed your pillow, putting it on his lap to hide his problem.

“Okay, what about this?” You opened the door again, this one had little strawberries plastered on both pieces.

“It’s nice.” He said quickly, he felt his cheeks getting hot and he avoided eye contact. “I like it. That one might be my favorite so far.”

You gave him another sweet smile, and went over to him for a second, giving him a quick kiss on the cheek.

“Thank you for doing this, by the way.”

You were going to be the death of him.

[petew21-blog]

Ready to be the villain?

The actor and character are both adults and of age.

Inbox request:I've always been passionate about the ancient tales of greece and rome mythology. So when I was a teenager and find about Percy jackson I was all in. Since that day I've been dreaming, begging and praying to be able to have this life of quest, adventures and friendship. And don't get me starting on the perfect physique you would get living a life like that. The muscles, the golden tan, the curly lucious thick hair. I would give anything to have a chance at this. Can you help me? Maybe swap me with one of the half blood? I won't disapoint you. Please...

It seems like it's your lucky day. There is someone ready for you to take over their life.

You woke up in the Hermes cabin with many people chatting in the morning. Not sure where you ended up, you decided to go with it and to pretend that you knew what was going on.

After eaves-dropping to some of the conversations you found out that you were now indeed in camp Half-blood a place for young children of the Olympian Gods. Your dream finally came true!

Only after waking you realised that this was your new reality and on top of that, you noticed that your body looked different.

You made your way to the bathroom and locked the door to get to know your new body. You were now in the body of a tall handsome, curly haired, muscular young man with a visible scar on his face.

Later on, you found out that your new name was Luke. You are the 18 year old son of Hermes that stayed in Camp Half-Blood and helped run things. You felt the respect others gave you whenever you passed them.

Your day went on smoothly. Not talking too much to others, your day went on. You managed to practice sword fighting, archery and even riding a horse. Luke's muscles memory was fascinating to you and helped you to maintain the imagine that nothing changed with Luke.

On the next day, you decided to go for a walk around the camp. Expecting nothing of it, you didn't take your sword with you.

While walking through the forest, you heard a quiet, but deep voice calling your new name. You decided to investigate. In front of you appeared the Iris message - a long distance form of communication used. In front of you was a dark figure.

"IS everything ready for my plan?!" the deep voice asked angrily

You waited a bit to respond, overthinking every option you could answer. "I need more time" hoping you could get some information.

"I CHOSE YOU, LUKE, FOR YOU HATRED AGAINST THE GODS. YOU WILL BE THE ONE TO HELP ME BRING THEM DOWN AND BRING THE AGS OF TITANS. DO NOT FAIL ME!!!" the voice screamed at you and after that the Iris message stopped.

You thought about what just happened, but quite soon you realised that the voice, talking to you on the other side was someone more dark. Someone powerful. What scared you was the fact that Luke had intentions of helping this dark figure. Luke was planning on sabottaging the camp.

Luke was helping Cronos...

Now you have a choice to make. Continue what Luke intended and get his revenge for him or become an average member of the Camp Half-blood hoping for a quest that might one day make you famous?

Make your choice, demigod.

[skywalkerslvt]

wait… PLEASE I need more of camp counsellor ellie and reader

Ahhh thank you so much for the request! I have another camp counsellor Ellie fic in the works but that might take a few days so here are some head canons while I keep you guys waiting lol! Hope you enjoy <33 original fic linked here. 18+ smut ahead

Camp counsellor Ellie who gives you quick kisses when nobody's looking, testing the boundaries of your secret relationship

Camp counsellor Ellie who takes you stargazing, hands stroking your thighs as she points to random stars in the sky and makes up constellations to try and impress you.

Camp counsellor Ellie who runs her hands up your thighs under the table at meal times, watching you squirm and stutter over your words as you talk to other counsellors.

Camp counsellor Ellie who can't resist your teasing, engages in playful competitions during archery lessons with the campers, where each bullseye earns the winner special rewards once the campers are tucked away for the night (it usually ends in one of you getting head later that night)

Camp counsellor Ellie who drags you to the cramped supply closet during breaks to have her way with you because she just can't wait. She says it's your fault for looking so delicious as she drops to her knees and starts sloppily eating you out.

Camp counsellor Ellie who will still find a way to fuck you when the two of you have to share a tent with another camp counsellor during tent night, curling her fingers deep inside your cunt while her other hand covers your mouth. “Keep quiet, baby. We don't wanna wake anyone up, do we?” she whispers, her hot breath on your ear making you shiver as you hold back your moans.

[thefreakpanda]

"Nesta favors Elain"

Everyone favors Elain! And most of all Feyre.

If you want to point the finger at Nesta, don't use that argument. Don't complain about how differently Nesta treats her sisters because in reality, Feyre might be worse.

“Elain sometimes just… didn’t grasp things. It wasn’t meanness that kept her from offering to help; it simply never occurred to her that she might be capable of getting her hands dirty.” (ACOTAR, ch.2) Elain gets excuses and most importantly, is never even asked to help for anything. If Feyre is going to teach someone archery, it's going to be Nesta. She needs wood to be chopped, it's going to be Nesta.

When Lucien accompanied her back to the Night Court, he asked her about Elain and says he wants to see if she's worth fighting for. (To each their own opinion on the matter). Feyre doesn't respond but thinks so. Later on, when Cassian flies her to the House of Wind and they talk about Nesta and how he comes to see her every other day, Feyre asks : “Why do you bother, Cassian?” Elain is worth it but Nesta isn't?

When the sisters are moved to the townhouse, rooms have to be picked. “And a third for Lucien — on our side of the hall. Well away from Elain’s.” (ACOWAR, ch.24) Because Elain staying away from her mate whom she hasn't yet said she wants nothing to with is fine and perfectly understandable. But when Nesta says over and over and over again how she wants nothing to do with Cassian, she's just going to have to suck it up and be locked in a house with him.

Rhys, being true to himself, tells Feyre the bond between Elain and Lucien can be used to ensure his loyalty. “I don’t like that Elain is a pawn in this.” (Feyre in ACOWAR, ch.18) But using Nesta as a pawn to ensure another Vanserra's loyalty, though... As a matter of fact, when dancing with Eris is proposed she even says : “Elain doesn’t go near him.” (ch.55)

In ACOSF, after we learn that Elain will try to find the Trove if Nesta doesn't, Feyre says : “It wasn’t an easy choice for me to ask Elain to endanger herself like this.” (ch.21) But asking Nesta is easy, right? It's been like this forever after all. Feyre was never going to ask Elain to tell her story to the High Lords. Poor thing was depressed. But asking Nesta to put herself in the worst danger possible, even though she was destroying herself just two weeks ago, even though she si still depressed and hurting... Feyre doesn't hesitate then.

Yes, Nesta has her faults. Yes, Nesta has said mean things to her sister. But if we look at the text, at the amount of times Feyre has been unkind to her sister, you'll realize that she is much worse.

[bvrnesher]

۶ৎ ── Strawberry Milk !

first post! tap there for chb masterlist ! here for reqs info

warnings: fluff, mutual pining and blushing competitions, brief accidental touches (feat. sparks of electricity, literally), reader struggling with a milk carton (very tragic, but jason saves the day with grace)

ㅤ୨ৎ —˳ jason grace ! reader

summary: jason never planned on talking to you—it just kind of happened. A carton of strawberry milk, a shy smile, and a little bit of awkward charm later, and suddenly, he's standing in the infirmary, trying (and failing) not to blush every time reader smiles at him. Maybe it wasn't such a bad idea after all.

𝗜𝗧 𝗪𝗔𝗦𝗡’𝗧 𝗦𝗢𝗠𝗘𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗝𝗔𝗦𝗢𝗡 𝗛𝗔𝗗 planned; it just kind of happened. You and Jason weren’t exactly close.

You’d see each other around camp occasionally, but you never really interacted, at least not the way you’d wanted to. Sometimes, though, he’d catch himself glancing your way, finding you at the archery range or just watching you with a small smile whenever he noticed your hair catching the summer sunlight.

Could you blame him? You were probably the most beautiful girl he’d ever seen, and he knew his share of pretty girls. But you... He wasn’t sure if it was just your looks or the fact that you always gave him a smile every time your eyes met. That smile? It could light up the whole damn Olympian world.

It didn’t take long for him to notice that every morning, without fail, you sat at the pavilion for breakfast with your half-siblings. And every morning, you had a carton of strawberry milk in hand, no matter what you were eating.

Jason knew today was one of those days when you helped out in the infirmary. The days when you usually skipped breakfast, staying busy taking care of the campers who were hurt. He didn’t think much of it, just figured it would be a nice gesture—something that might cheer you up a bit.

After breakfast, he grabbed an extra carton of that strawberry milk. Not much, but enough to break the ice. With the carton in hand, he made his way to the infirmary, where he knew he’d find you. Not like he’d memorized your schedule or anything—he did.

When he reached the infirmary, he peeked inside and saw you organizing bandages.

A smile tugged at the corner of his lips. "Hey, you're busy?" he greeted gently, lowering his gaze to meet yours. "I noticed you’ve been working hard in here, so... I don’t know, thought you might like a little break." He smiled, charming but a bit shy, scratching the back of his neck.

When you heard him speak, you glanced around, half-expecting him to be talking to someone else. Maybe he’d made a mistake? But no, it was just the two of you in the infirmary. It took a second for your brain to catch up.

Oh. Oh, he’s actually talking to me. Well, that wasn’t something you expected today.

"Oh—no, no!" You waved your hands frantically, shaking your head maybe a little too fast. Embarrassment flooded you as you felt your cheeks heat up. You gave him an awkward smile. "I mean, yeah, I’d love a break."

Perfect. That’ll scare him off.

Jason’s smile widened slightly at your reaction, and for a moment, he completely forgot why he was even here. He just kind of stood there, staring at you like an idiot—until he realized you were looking at him expectantly, waiting for him to say something. A faint blush dusted his cheeks.

He cleared his throat, flashing you a shy but undeniably charming smile. Gods, was this man even real?

"Oh, good," he said, then hesitated, like he was trying to figure out what to say next. You stood there, unsure how to respond to that incredibly deep, meaningful statement.

Your gaze flickered over him, taking him in from head to toe—something he definitely noticed, because he straightened up slightly, looking a little uncomfortable (or more like flustered) under your scrutiny.

Your eyes landed on the carton of milk in his hand—strawberry milk. Your favorite. You raised an eyebrow. Jason Grace didn’t exactly seem like the type to drink strawberry milk.

"Oh, you like that?" You asked with a small smile, latching onto the first topic of conversation that came to mind.

He blinked at you, clearly confused.

"The milk," you clarified, nodding toward the carton in his hand. Jason mentally cursed himself.

He’d completely forgotten to give it to you.

"Oh—uh, not really," he admitted.

You frowned slightly, tilting your head. He quickly clarified, "I mean, it’s good, but it’s not for me." He extended the milk toward you.

Your eyes dropped to the milk carton on his outstretched hand, surprised by the unexpected gesture.

"Oh, thanks," you said, taking the small carton with a soft smile. "It’s my favorite. That’s really sweet of you." You flashed him a smile. A smile so bright that Jason almost swore his knees almost gave out.

"Huh. Yeah. No problem," he said quickly, trying to brush it off. "It’s nothing, really. I just… noticed you liked it, so I figured you might want one."

"Oh, no. It is something, Grace," you interrupted, "I mean, it’s thoughtful. Not a lot of people would even notice something like that. So, thanks." Jason smiled, shoving his hands into his pockets. A short silence settled between you before he finally spoke again.

"Need any help here? Looks like you’ve got a lot on your plate."

You nodded.

"Yeah, an extra pair of hands would be nice. Thanks, again." You shot him a grin and went to open your milk—except, for some reason, you just couldn’t get the stupid thing open.

You muttered a curse in Ancient Greek under your breath, still struggling, silently praying you didn’t make a fool of yourself in front of Jupiter’s golden boy.

"Let me," Jason said, taking the milk from your hands before you could protest. Your fingers brushed, and a small jolt of electricity sparked between you. You had to pray to all the gods not to start blushing like an idiot.

"Here," he repeated, handing you the now-opened carton. You took the carton.

"Gods, at this rate, the only word I'm gonna say while I'm with you is 'thanks.' And, thanks," you joked, managing to pull a laugh out of him.

"And is that a bad thing?" He tilted his head, looking a little more relaxed now.

You shook your head. "Not at all. Actually, it's sweet. You're sweet."

The last part slipped out before you could process what it meant. He blushed, but you were almost as red as the strawberries you loved so much. Was this a competition to see who could get a deeper shade of red than Superman’s underwear?

He caught sight of your reaction to your own words and tried to stifle a laugh. "Don’t worry. A slip of the tongue happens to everyone," he said gently. You didn’t need to look at him to know he was smiling.

"Yeah, sure. But I’m not taking it back. Honestly, calling you 'sweet' doesn’t even come close," you admitted, flashing him a smile.

He just stared at you, lost for words, until his brain finally caught up, and then he smiled at you, even more charming than before, a faint blush coloring his cheeks.

"Huh, you too," he said, quickly clearing his throat. "I mean, you’re pretty. I mean, sweet... I— Gorgeous," he admitted.

You might have died right then and there, but you would’ve died happy knowing that Jason Grace called you gorgeous. No doubt about it.

"Are you busy tonight?" he asked, finally.

"Nope. I’m free as soon as I finish here." You took a sip of your drink, courtesy of Jason.

[hidden-snow]

𝑆𝑘𝑖𝑛 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐵𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑠

Requested by @strongheartneteyam

Rating // +18

Warnings // Body insecurities / Smut teaser at the end/ Jealousy / Body image issues / Might be triggering for some readers

Word count // 1,950

You’d never been ashamed of your body before. You’d never had a reason to hate your body before. Sure, you were shorter than most Na’vi girls your age, and you weren’t as thin as they were. Your body held more flesh and you had a bit of a belly that went along with your thick thighs and curvy frame.

With Neteyam, though, everything about you was perfect.

Courtship was something every Na’vi girl dreamed of when growing up, fantasizing about how her future mate would ask her, as well as their future afterwards.

You were no different.

What you weren’t expecting was for Neteyam to be the one to ask.

You’d had a crush on him since childhood and, due to the close bond you both shared, it was no surprise when he started gifting you small intricately-designed bracelets and elegant necklaces, asking you into a courtship with him.

You’d have to admit, you tended to match a person with a stereotype and, even though you were thrilled out of your mind at the prospect of a happy family with the boy of your dreams, you’d thought he was into a different type of woman. A thinner type.

He was quick to snuff out that stereotype, showering you with praise and adoration, and constant kisses all over your body at night when you were expected to be sleeping instead. He knew your body like the back of his hand, having explored almost every inch of you. His favorite thing to do with you was to kiss your thighs, trailing his lips upwards to your belly, before resting his cheek against your stomach.

You would lay there, fingers gently running through the beaded thin braids of his hair, as his head rose and fell with your relaxed breathing.

Trouble didn’t arise until Neteyam started branching out with friends of the opposite gender. Girls would flirt with him in a desperate attempt to take him from your side. He was usually very quick to shut it down and, should you have happened to hear about it later, he made sure you heard about the situations from his own mouth first.

One day, though, you were headed to see him, a handful of picked flowers in your hands to give him as a gift. You had to do a double take, seeing him sitting on the ground while talking with a girl. A skinny girl with thin limbs and the same amount of fingers as him. A skinny girl with a tall frame and pretty black hair.

A skinny pretty girl.

You couldn’t remember him mentioning a new female friend, but it wasn’t like you were against it. You didn’t mind, as long as he made sure to keep her in the friend space and nothing more. You trusted him.

Shaking off your stupor, you approached and gave him the flowers, and the smile on his face was brilliant and dazzling, bright as the stars at night. Your heart fluttered at the smile and you couldn’t help but return it with a sheepish one.

The next day, he was with that girl again. Talking and laughing, as if the bestest of friends. Standing on the edge of the field, arrows drawn back tight, they looked at their targets for a moment before releasing the strings, watching the arrows sink into the bullseye of the trees they’d been aiming for. They looked at each other, smiling in pure pride and happiness, and you can’t help but falter.

Especially when you heard the whispers.

Whispers of people all around you, talking about how perfect of a couple they’d make together. That was the first time you’d begun to feel insecure. That was the first time you’d begun to compare yourself to someone else in the village.

Sure, you were a halfling, just like Neteyam and the other children. You were born from the union of a Na’vi mother and an avatar father. Like Lo’ak, you had five fingers on each hand, and you had the slightest dusting of eyebrows upon your face.

You weren’t the best at archery, nor were you very good at hunting in general. Sure, you’d passed your iknimaya well enough, but you still weren’t one of the best. Instead, you preferred helping with cooking the meals for your people or crafting jewelry and clothing for your fellow people.

This girl… she had more in common with Neteyam than you ever would.

Clutching the bracelet you’d made for him tight to your chest, that was the first time you’d ever fled from him.

It felt like your chest was on fire, like your heart was physically ripping in shreds. Because in that moment, you realized that the whispers were right; he deserved her. She would be perfect for him. You would have to let him go so that he could truly be happy.

When he came to find you, you were sitting in your hut, hunched over a loom, weaving a new top for your mother to wear. He’d asked you to go flying with him, something you both enjoyed doing with each other.

You’d kept your face down to hide the tears and the trembling of your lips as you shook your head, claiming to be busy at the time. After constant pushing for him to go and fly with his new friend, he left, but you could feel the disappointment that radiated off of him in waves. Each wave smashed against your tender heart like a hammer, cracking it more and more the longer you thought about it.

Thus began a new cycle.

You were pushing him away, trying to get him to realize that he’d found his match and she wasn’t you. Distance was what he needed. Distance and time. And then he’d see her and he’d fall in love and he’d be truly happy.

At least, that’s what you thought.

To Neteyam, you were simply being stubborn and cold. He had no idea why you were doing this or why you were behaving the way you were. The nights of snuggling, the days of talking and just being together, they were all over.

He missed you.

A lot.

In an attempt to figure out a solution to your sudden coldness, he turned to the wiser adults. First, he’d spoken to Mo’at. Then his parents. And finally, he’d sat down with your parents to find out what the root of this problem was.

No one had any idea what could possibly have caused this chaos between you and him. They were as stumped as he was.

One thing that did stick to him, though, was something his father had told him.

“Neteyam, girls are fragile, but they’re also strong willed and smart. They trust men with their lives, until they don’t. So if you’ve started doing things you know Y/n wouldn’t like, you need to figure out what it is and stop it.”

Was he doing something wrong?

He didn’t know. If he tried to ask, you’d brush him off and walk away, acting like everything was just fine, even if it wasn’t.

So, he turned to his new friend. Sitting down under the shade of a tree, he spilled out his heart to her, confessing his love towards you, as well as his confusion over your sudden coldness. She listened patiently, nodding as if she knew exactly what was wrong.

When he’d gotten to the end of his rant, she smiled.

“What is it? Do you know why she is acting this way?” he’d asked softly and she nodded again.

“I believe that she might be jealous of our friendship. Some rumors have started of late. Adults talking about how you and I would go well together. Even though we are only friends, I’m sure she has heard them and believes them.”

He was falling into a whole new level of confusion. It wasn’t like you to listen to gossip and rumors. You’d always thought that sort of thing was petty and cruel. So why would you listen to it now?

That was when he decided he’d had enough of it all. No more cat and mouse games. No more playing around. He was going to get down to the bottom of this with you one way or another.

He approached you in your little crook of the world, determination making it hard for you to push him away.

“Y/n, I’m not leaving until you answer me,” he stated, hands firmly planted on your shoulders as you stared up at him with wide eyes.

“Why are you behaving like this? Did none of this even matter to you? Everything we have built together, all of it. Does it no longer matter to you anymore?”

You were frozen, finally forced to face the conflict of your actions, and you didn’t know how to respond other than to break into tears in his arms.

“She would be so much better for you,” you sob softly as he cradled your body close to him. “She is skinny and tall and beautiful. She is good at all the things you’re good at and she has so much in common with you. She would make you so much happier than I ever could.”

You spill out every thought, every feeling that had been stowed away for weeks in your head.

He listened patiently, letting you ramble until you had no words left to speak.

And then, he pulled you over to your mat, pushing you flat on your back, hands planted on each side of your head.

“I love you. You make my life interesting, Y/n. No one could ever come close to replacing you. I love you and your beautiful body. Your funny jokes and your frustration. I love that cute little groan you make when you miss your target. I love helping you aim your arrows because I can feel your skin against mine and it fills me with warmth. I love cuddling with you at night and kissing every inch of your body. I love talking to you and listening to your exciting stories. Your mischievous adventures always thrill me the most. I’d rather listen to you talking about what you’ve done all day than talk to anyone else.”

He moved down to dust his lips lightly against your own, cupping your jaw gently with his hand.

“I think it’s time to remind you of how much I love you.”

His voice was soft, as quiet as a whisper, and it sent shivers up your spine. You were crying, but it was from relief. He wasn’t going to leave you because he loved you.

It was something he wasn’t going to ever give up on.

His fingers brushed down your body, light as a feather, touching every inch of your skin. And once he’d touched every part of you, he began to trail kisses down your skin, pulling your thighs up over his shoulders so that he could kiss the flesh of your legs. His teeth lightly graze the inner parts of your thighs and you just relish in his gentle kisses and light touches.

He returns his lips back to yours, drawing you into a deeper, more heated kiss. Fingers gently pull your tewng off, discarding it nearby, before he wiggled out of his own. His hands gently press against yours, fingers slotted between your own to grip your hands tightly as he rubbed his girth in between your thighs.

“I love every inch of you,” he whispered as he parted from your kiss. “Every inch of you belongs to me, just like every inch of me belongs to you. I will never throw you away for anyone else.”

[taylormarieee]

In my Feelings Luke Castellan

Summary: You find Luke talking to another girl and after taking action it backfires on you and now you might lose the love of your life...

Pairing: Luke Castellan x Fem!Aphrodite!Reader

Word Count: 1.4k

Warnings: Angst, fire, arrows being shot, hair burned off, threats, Luke being a douche and terrible boyfriend, sad reader, humiliation, drama, anger, reader being a badass, that's all enjoy!

Previously:

He faced your body away from the door and shielded you with his body that way if Chiron came in, he wouldn't see you.

"I got my eyes on you my pretty girl. Won't let anything happen to you baby."

He finally drifted off to sleep letting his dreams flow like a river, a river full of love and happiness.

He finally had a peaceful and loving dream rather than a nightmare. And he was grateful you were the cause of his fantastic dream.

Now:

Three weeks later your walking around Camp half blood and it's cooler than normal. Maybe it rained and brought cool breeze but the sun was still shining.

You were walking towards archery as this will be the first time you go back ever since the "Incident". The incident where that boy came onto you and when your heard Luke confess his love for you offically.

You both were now in a happy relationship that's been going on for a month now and personally, you think it's the best thing in the world.

He's handsome, smart, very sneaky, and a total goofball, but he's your goofball and that's all that mattered to you.

As you were walking towards archery you saw Luke there and your face lit up and you started smiling, but that smile sooned dropped when you saw him with a girl. It wasn't just any girl, it was Candice.

She was a demigod child of demeter, she was also head counselor of Cabin 4. You didn't mess with her or get on her bad side because you didn't want poison ivy in your bed sheets or some type of flower to put you to sleep.

He was laughing with her and she was touching him and was too close for comfort, way to close for your liking anyway.

You felt a little hurt, he never liked Candice, he always hated the way she acted so prissy and stuck-up. Those stuff he told you were clearly lies if he's laughing with her and letting her touch him like that.

You stared at the both of them before Clarisse and Percy came up to you. You and Clarisse became closer friends and you helped her and percy settle their differences, there not friends but they tolerate each other.

"What's up? You look sad." Percy asks, his face contorting into one of worry. "Luke and Candice. At Archery. Look." You say in pieces not even able to say a proper sentence. They both look to where your pointing and see what you see.

You hear Percy sigh and you can feel Clarisse roll her eyes. "Candice was always a bitch anyway, and Luke was too good for you. Let's go, it's almost lunch." She says grabbing your arm to try and turn you away.

You stay in place and look at percy, he has an apple in his hand. "Hey can I borrow that for a second? Thanks." You say not waiting for his reply and snatching the apple from him.

You hear him protest in the distance but just walk closer to the two. "Hey Candice!" you shout not even acknowledging Luke, you were pissed now, but you didn't wanna show it.

A couple of other campers were aware of your presence and were nosy enough to want to see what was happening.

"Oh, hi! What's up!?" She shouts but as you get closer, your nice facade drops. "Hold this apple and put it on your head and stay fucking still, got it?" You demand before finishing off your sentence with a charming smile.

Clarisse and Percy give each other a knowing look and sit back and watch not even attempting to stop you.

Candice, looking like the confused girl she is puts the apple on her head anyway and stands still. You smile at a little girl before asking if you can borrow her bow and arrow.

You get in position and hold it out, but of course you wouldn't be you without a little flair. "Light it up please." you ask politely. Candices smile drops and she gets scared.

Someone rushes over and lights the tip of the arrow on fire and you smile and thank them. "uh I didn't sign up for this." Candice says moving a bit. "Didn't I tell you to stay fucking still? You signed up for this when you decided to flirt with my fucking boyfriend." You snap back.

You ready the arrow and release it causing it to hit the apple but what you didn't expect was for the fire to burn some of candices hair in the back. Luckily Luke put it out with some water. She screamed and stormed off before looking at you one last time.

'She had it coming.' you thought. You looked at Luke, rolled your eyes and walked off before he could even chase you. You walk up to Percy and Clarisse and wrap your arms around them, "Anyone hungry?" You say with a smirk on your face. You and Clarisse laugh and Percy smiles.

It was a couple hours after the incident and Chiron decided to make an example out of you, in front of everyone.

"Y/N Y/L/N and CANDICE CAPONE! Come up here now!" He yelled, silencing everyone and making all their heads turn towards you and Candice. Your eyes darted around before they fall on Luke.

You were still angry but that anger would soon turn to sadness. You looked at Clarisse and then Percy and the Annabeth and lastly, Grover. You smiled at all of them as they had worried expressions because they've never seen Chiron so mad.

You walked up and Candice stood on the other side of Chiron. You two stop in front of each other but looked at Chiron. "You, y/n y/l/n did something extremely unexceptable. You shot an arrow at a fellow demigods head and burned her hair. Do you have anything to say for yourself?" He asked

"Yes, yes I do. Candice Capone, I'm extremely sorry for what I did. It was not nice and completely unfair to you. I shouldn't have done it, but I didn't think that was going to happen. So for that I'm sorry. Do you accept my apology so we can put this shit- sorry, this situation behind us?" You said.

You didn't actually mean it but you had to make it sound believable before you get stuck on horse duty for the rest of the week, month even. She stared at you for a few minutes not saying anything.

At that point you got tired of standing up there and was ready to sit down. "I accept your apology but I do have one thing to say to you. That's exactly why Luke doesn't even like you anyway."

The whole room gasps. Everyone literally knows you and Luke are the IT couple, you guys were perfect and everyone kew how much Luke loved you, or so they thought.

"He is so sick of you and your constant complaining, your random outbursts and just the way you always bother him with wanting to do cutesy stuff together. He said your annoying and he wants you off his back." She says with the evilest smirk on her face.

You were on the brink of tears. "That's all, but I do accept your apology because now we're even, you embarrassed me, I embarrassed you." She says before walking away to go sit down.

You stood there in complete shock. You know you shouldn't have believed it but lately the signs were coming back to you. Luke had an attitude with you yesterday because he was tired and you wanted to go swimming, you ended up going with Percy and Annabeth, and Clarisse tagged along for the fun of it.

You watched as everybody looked at you. Your eyes were dark and your expression emotionless. "Hey Candice, when your hairs all gone tomorrow and you can't grow it back, I'm gonna see whos embarrassed now. Watch your back." You threaten.

Her smile drops and you try so hard not to grab something to throw at her fucking face. You loom at Luke and that's when the tears come down. 'Don't cry, Don't cry, Don't. Fucking. Cry.' It repeats over and over again in your head but it's not working.

One tear falls and then you run off before anyone can say anything. You didn't wanna be in your feelings because then you would go into this isolation where you avoided help and avoided everyone.

You hated this and god why'd you have to be such a cry baby. You hated when you got in your feelings.

Why couldn't Luke just say something. ANYTHING! He just sat there, didn't even try to come after me and comfort me and tell me it's all a lie. Instead he sits there like a fucking jakcass and does nothing.

You wanted to drown, get struck by lighting, died in a war full of men or maybe just died in your sleep. Anything is better than this feeling. Anything is better than being in your feelings.

Slowly drowning in a pool you can't get out of. Stuck in a time loop of constant nightmares that fuel your overthinking and negatively shut you down physically and mentally.

'If only there was a way to get out. If only I could stop being in my feelings.' you thought...

Taglist: @elaratckker @lizziesfirstwife @angelicdanvers @prettyinsatiable @angelinajolie0213 @maryann2013 @kneehe-nehar7 @rhydianissuperior @urmomsbananabread @reader-bookling123 @istillremberthefirstfallofsnow @csifandom @repostingmyfavs @leo-lvr @glorywielder101 @aanoia @madelainelupin16 @ahh-chickens @callsignwidow @murdrdocs @bright-molina

A/N: i'M SORRY THIS ONE IS SO DEPRESSING STOPPPP! dw though they'll have their happy ending and their happily ever after in the last and final chapter! Love you guys and thanks so much for the support! MWAH💋

~COMMENTS AND REBLOGS ARE NEVER ASKED FOR BUT MUCH APPRECIATED~

[lunemai]

L I K E ?

Honey!Y/n x Luke Castellan

Summary: Luke likes honey? okay believable, but still, Luke liking someone? so impossible.

OR

Luke realizing he likes you.

Warnings; the term y/n is almost never mentioned in my writings so her widely known nickname is honey in this, it's HEAVILY implied this isn't her real name. she/her pronouns, fem!y/n, sweetness all over, physical touch, third person view at first, and that's it I think.

•••••••••••••••••••••★•••••••••••••••••••••

i. the reading thing

"How do you even read that?, I mean you do know nearly all of us suffer from something you might not know about called dyslexia, don't you find it prideful?" Luke was nearly tired of the girls who nagged you on and on mad about your skill in reading even with dyslexia.

"Yes, I do find pride in my reading skills. It's no different than the way you find pride in your archery abilities, Florence," you responded, never with irritation or sadness, you always lived up to the name granted to you.

They call her Honey. She's always been sweet and kind to everyone around her. Luke has known her for a while now, but he never really thought about her deeply. She's just always been there, like a steady presence in his life. Sure, he's been noticing things about her that he never really paid attention to before.

The way she smiles when she greets you, her infectious laughter, and how she never seems to have a bad word to say about anyone.

He doesn't know why he's suddenly seeing her in a different light, but there's something about her that's drawing him in. Maybe it's because she never spoils in a mood, or maybe it's because she's always been there for everyone without ever asking for anything in return. Whatever it is, there should be a proper explanation for it.

"Maybe you should stop staring and just walk up to her," Chris says nudging Luke as he moves his stare anywhere that isn't you.

Luke uncrosses his arms and turns to walk away, "I don't know what you're talking about man." Luke mumbles as he starts to walk away, where? don't ask him where he doesn't know, yet.

Chris walks along Luke matching his fast pace, "Okay, so you wouldn't mind if I asked her out?" Luke stopped in his tracks and turned his body towards Chris "Why would I? At least two guys ask her out, a day." Luke says nudging his head towards a son of Ares already moving to approach you.

Luke doesn't blame him, you're stunning, always glowing brighter than the sun, and somehow no daughter of Aphrodite draws attention like you do. Yet that's not all, you're smart, ambitious, and determined, how can someone be so amazing all the time?

After minutes of Luke staring off into space, Chris lets out an audible huff, "Wouldn't mind my ass."

ii. flowers

No, it's just a joke, he wouldn't actually be right. Why am I even thinking about this a day later?

Though I mean seriously, a son of Ares? pfft, as if.

He's not good enough for her.

Are you?

an ugly voice said.

Maybe not, but I do know I'm willing to try, for her at least.

Honey knelt in the wildflower field, her slender fingers delicately plucking vibrant blooms from the earth. The sun bathed the meadow in a golden glow, casting a radiant halo around her as she gathered the colorful blossoms, her focus entirely on the beautiful task at hand.

My eyes widened in awe at the sight of Honey amidst the sea of wildflowers, her quiet grace juxtaposed against the lively landscape.

I approached her with cautious steps, not wanting to disturb the tranquility of the moment.

"Hey, Honey right?" I ask, my voice is filled with fake curiosity. Startled by my sudden presence, Honey looked up, her cheeks flushed with surprise.

A soft smile graced her lips "Erm- yeah, but you already knew that Luke..." she said, yet there was no hint of judgment in her voice.

"Oh right, yeah I did." I rub the back of my neck, okay what? I've never been this nervous. Where's overly confident Luke when I need him?

"I was just wondering- I mean I've seen you around you know and I was wondering if you wanted to like go apple picking with me tomorrow or something? I don't know we've never even talked so we don't have to." yet again she gave me another soft smile, maybe in sympathy. I'm not sure.

Fuck this. I'm not a nervous guy.

I knelt down and plucked a wildflower, just as beautiful as her.

Her gaze shifts from the flower in my hand, to me.

"I know I'm being weird, of course, I know who you are." slowly just in case she wants to protest I reach up and pull a strand of her hair behind her ear.

"Every time you walk into the room, I can't help but watch you. It's like you have this light around you that draws me in, and I find myself captivated by everything you do. The way you smile, the way you laugh, even the way you get lost in your thoughts- it's all so intriguing to me. I just wanted you to know that you've been on my mind a lot, and I can't seem to shake this feeling of wanting to know you better." I say softly.

placing the flower there on her ear, I couldn't help but admire how the vibrant flower complements her natural beauty. The vivid petals of the flower stood out against her soft skin, creating a striking contrast that accentuated her loveliness.

feeling overwhelmed by the sight of her, awestruck by her beauty that outshone even the most exquisite bloom, I look away only looking back up at the sound of her soft laugh.

"Oh Luke, please don't feel embarrassed; if anything I'm flattered really," she gives me that smile again, gods I like the feeling of being the one who makes her smile like that.

"If it helps I've been thinking of you too, the way you carry yourself with such confidence, I've caught myself looking for you in a crowd, hoping to catch your eye and share a smile." Relief urges itself through my body, and hope swims in my eyes.

I nod with a smile on my lips,

"I'd love to go apple picking with you."

This felt like it took me YEARS to complete, I'm on summer break so i'll be on here more often. Thank you guys for reading and remember to follow me!! 😼

should I make a tag list?

REQUEST ARE VERY MUCH OBLIGED.

[caffinedragon]

The Wyld Ranger of Skalitz

Feral "werewolf" Henry AU

Chapter 1: That Wyld Blood just hits different.

Story Plot: A Wyld Blooded Henry looses everything in Skalitz. Lost and alone, with no way to calm the protect and provide instincts that demand to be appeased, he does the only thing he can think to do. Provide Sir Radzig his sword, one way or the other.

That is...until a bratty young Lord with a penchant for attracting trouble, comes waltzing into his life and brings back the wolf inside him he had thought died with his family.

TL:DR Chapter Plot: Henry, listing from his loss, with no one to protect and provide for, is lost without purpose. Grieving and restless, he meets Young Capon as he trains with Captain Bernard and sparks a rivalry that leaves his blood pumping and able to feel something other then grief and pain for once.

What he doesn't know is how his more feral tendencies and his DGAF attitude towards the Young Lord's rank has left the man flustered in a way he can't quite explain.

And after trying to wipe his memory form his mind through alcohol, he wakes up to realize, well... he might be cooked.

Fuck!

He really was shit with a sword.

But, that was why he was here training. If he was to do his job well and get the sword back from that prick, he would need to be able to fight.

And not just with his trusty bow.

He would also more than likely need to learn how to read, and have time to sneak back to Skalitz again and find that dovecote Kunesh was talking about.

But, that was neither here nor there.

He wouldn't be able to do any of it if he was slaughtered by bandits, so here he was.

"Good! You learn quick." Captain Bernard praised as he swung.

"Always been a hands on leaner sir." Henry admitted as he blocked the blow, the vibration of the strike running up his arm.

"And it shows. We will make a proper swordsman out of you yet!"

"Thank you sir."

"Captain Bernard?" A familiar voice called form the edge of the arena.

It was that Young Lord...Capen? Caper? Clipin?

Eh, he couldn't remember.

He had always been shit with names.

He did recognize his face though, and how irritated it was when Sir Radzig gave him this assignment.

Not that it was any of his business, mind.

He had other matters to attend to.

As Captain Bernard talked with the nobleman a familiar meow caught his attention. When he looked down at the fence he was leaning on, he found his faithful companion Leaf, her fluffy black fur and bright green eyes ever a soothing sight.

"Hey Leaf, come to watch me stumble around like a toddler, huh?"

She meowed and started purring as he gave her her recompense in pets and scratches. He continued to do so until he heard the young lord call him "Blacksmith's boy" and warn him "don't hurt yourself.", before he took off back towards the castle.

A few minutes later, Captain Bernard was walking him down to the Archery range where, sure enough, the same young lord was firing away at a target.

Huh. He hadn't been kidding when he said he was heavy handed lately.

Was his hand okay?

It looked off.

Ah, Oh well. No business of his. Probably get offended even mentioning it, knowing most nobles.

Once he was handed a bow and a quiver, he got to work, tuning out the insistent droning of the captain explaining things he already knew as he lined up to the target.

The training bow wasn't like his normal bow and was a bit awkward. But with Leaf's help he was able to get a handle on it, despite the insulting comments from the peanut gallery next to him.

Once he hit the target in the middle, the young lord spoke up.

"Lucky Shot. I doubt you can repeat it."

"I needed to get used to the bow. However..."Henry chuckled, turned and stared down the young lord with a smirk, before turning and launching off three more arrows in quick succession, each one clustering around the first at center mass. "I think I understand it now."

"Damn. I hate to say it but, that isn't half bad." Captain Bernard praised, surprised.

Out of habit Henry explained, "I used to hunt around Skalitz when i wasn't forging with my father. Came in handy when food was low."

"Hunting? You mean poaching. There is no way a peasant would be allowed to hunt on a whim."

Henry bit back the growl on his tongue and instead reached into his pocket and raised up the symbol of permission to hunt on Sir Radzigs land. "This enough proof for you?"

"How in the world did you get that?" HE scoffed, "You some noble's bastard?"

He snarled, unable to hide the pain in his chest at the thought of his father. In his anger, he let his mouth run away from him.

"At least I grew up with mine."

Henry immediately winced, regretting the words as soon as they came out of his mouth but it did nothing to soothe his anger.

Luckily, Captain Bernard stepped in. "How dare you speak to him like that? Do you want to end up in the Pillory?"

Henry let out a snarl before turning and grabbing the arrows from his target, hoping that he could loose some of his anger through firing a few more arrows and keep himself form running his mouth further.

Of course, the young lord didn't want to take the hint.

"Don't worry about it, Captain Bernard. he may have grown up with his father, but by the way he is acting, his mother was clearly a bitch."

He responded before he could catch himself and fired an arrow at the young lord, sinking it right between his feet.

Once he realized what he did, he hissed at himself and braced for Captain Bernard to drag him off to the Pillory.

But instead, much to his surprise and fascination, the young lord wasn't angry. Instead he looked at him in shock with a confused flush to his face.

He sniffed the air, subtly towards him.

Was that melon he smelled?

Huh. Interesting.

"That is it, boy!" Captain Bernard yelled right before the young lord stepped in.

"Clam yourself, Captain. Perhaps, since he is so keen to show off his archery skills, why don't we solve this with a competition."

His anger cooled as the wolf in him perked his ears up. "Oh?" He smirked as he stalked towards the fence line, the smell of melons getting stronger as he approached. "Interested in seeing if your skill can match to one who hunts for survival instead of sport?"

"You think your self taught skills can compete against classical training?"

Henry walked up into his space, unable to keep his smirk from turning feral. as he saw the young man's face heat further, his hunting instinct woke up for the first time since Skalitz, "We will just have to see won't we? What's the game?"

"S-seven arrows." He stammered out as he stepped back, shaking his head causing the melon scent to fade and Henry's smile to soften. "Highest score wins. My bow versus your coin. Deal?"

Henry nodded, "Deal."

As the young lord began firing, Henry closed his eyes and took a deep calming breath, banishing any remaining anger from his mind and letting his body still. When he opened his eyes, his competitor had already gone through half his arrows and by the time he drew his bow, only had one shot left.

Hans...that was his name...then stood proudly, his hip cocked against the fence after he was done and waited.

10. He had to beat 10.

He was used to shooting rabbits and deer. A still target would be easy.

One slow draw and release after another added points on the board.

With each thunk he saw the pride leak out of his eyes.

With each slow draw the smell of melons around him deepened until it soaked the air.

Out of the corner of his eye, he saw as Hans just stared at him, his eyes darkening and dilating with each pull, never once looking at the target.

With one final pull, he loosed an arrow and as it soared through the air, he locked eyes with him until it thunked into the bullseye.

Hans did not look away, his eyes blown wide.

His face was flushed.

He could hear his heart racing.

The melon scent, he realized, was coming from him.

And it had nothing to due with the cologne he was wearing.

"13!" Captain Bernard announced, breaking the spell that had fallen over the two men. "It seems Henry is the winner."

Henry shook his head and rolled his shoulders as the world snapped back into place around him like someone slamming a door.

"Of course he is." The venom in Hans's voice wasn't as thick as it had been before. "But I did tell you Captain, that my hand has been heavy since i fell during my last hunt."

"Perhaps another challenge then?" Henry offered, the wolf in him still desperately wanting to play after so long.

"That's a fine idea! I challenge you to a duel, do you accept?"

"Lead the way."

He knew that the chance of winning this bout was next to none.

Hans was clearly highly trained in the use of a blade.

But, when his blood started pumping and his adrenaline kicked in, it no longer mattered.

The wolf and he were one now, and the world had long since faded away.

All he could see was Hans in front of him, heaving and panting, sweat dripping down a slender neck he wanted to sink his teeth into.

There was no, Rattay, no Skalitz, no peasants or nobles.

Just the hunt.

And young Hans Capon was his prey.

A wide feral grin warped his face as he used what little bit of swordplay training he had and his superior strength and speed as a wyldblood to even the battlefield.

He had Hans on his back foot, pressuring him up against the fence. His eyes were wide, afraid, but his face was flush again and the smell of melons soaked his skin.

It made him want to tear the clothes from his skin and devour him until he was a quaking and shivering mess in the dirt.

Fuck he smelled delicious and he was starving.

However, the fantasy was broken as soon as his inexperience gave Hans the opening he needed to give back just as good as he got.

When he returned the favor, the young lord's face was as equally feral and grinning, eyes shinning as he beat him back with his superior training.

They went back and forth, two wild souls at play in the middle of the combat ring.

No status.

No world outside.

Nothing but them, and the combat arena around them.

However, despite his long marathon hunts, the stamina used while wielding a bow is much less than that of swinging a sword, and it is that that ultimately fails him.

In a moment of fatigue, Hans got the upper hand, knocking him into his back in the mud.

Before he could even think of getting up on his feet, Hans had straddled him, resting his blade across his neck.

Hans panted once, twice, then removed his blade and begun laughing.

"Ah. Jesus Chirst!" He sighed, "I haven't had a fight like that in...well...ever to be perfectly honest." With a groan he got up and sheathed his blade. "Everyone is so desperate to not anger me that they always coddle me. You are a surprise my good man. Here, take my hand. Let me help you up."

Henry took the help without question. "I honestly didn't think I would last that long. I am shit with a sword."

"If that is you being shit with a sword, i shutter to think what it would be like if you were actually good." he chuckled. "Nevertheless, since you beat me at archery but not with the sword, i get to keep my bow and you your grocen."

"Sounds fair."

"Well, after that, I don't know about you but I am famished." Henry noticed the slight shake in his voice and how strategically his hands and sword were placed and tried not to smile. "I think i will go and grab some lunch. God speed Blacksmith, and don't worry, this will not be the last time we meet. We'll have more fun like this again soon."

"Looking forward to it."

He then walked out of the arena, in a hurry, the scent of melons slowly fading as he walked away.

A part of him was saddened to see him leave but...

The rest was thoroughly enjoying watching him walk away.

"Don't be too beaten up about losing, lad. It was probably for the best. Noble's like him get real testy and are quick to anger. I doubt Lord Capon would have taken the loss well."

The words "noble" and "Lord" dumped a bucket of ice water on his head.

Fuck. Right.

He was a Lord.

Ah well.

Henry shook the thoughts from his mind before answering, "Win or lose, it was fun. I needed that, after everything. Anyway," he turned to face the Captain, "is there anything more for training?"

"Not today. What you need to do is pick up your kit from the guardhouse and report to the Bailiff. He will tell you what to do."

"Got it. On my way then."

Ever onward ever forward.

---

As soon as Hans reached his room and locked the door behind him, he grabbed the nearest pillow and screamed into it.

After his breath ran out, he removed his face from the fabric, took a deep breath, and repeated the process.

After the third scream was muffled with the pillow, he dropped onto the edge of his bed and started hitting his forehead with the edge of it as he groaned to himself.

Once the initial meltdown had passed he dropped the pillow to the floor and began pacing.

"Jesus Christ..." He grumbled to the open air, "What the fuck is wrong with me? He is a peasant! Some Blacksmith's son!" He pulled on his hair as he continued to wear a hole in his boots and the floor. "Besides, He is a man, for fuck's sake!"

His mind filled his head with the memory of him holding his bow, slowly drawing it back with a fluid grace even he couldn't manage. The muscles in his arms rippling, his eyes sharp and focused, right before gently letting loose the bow string.

"A man with...thick arms...nimble fingers...and gorgeous blue-" he grabbed the pillow again and doubled over as he screamed into the soft fabric square for a fourth time.

It did little to stop his mind from betraying him again as it replayed how that Blacksmith's boy had practically stalked over to him before the Archery competition.

It followed the image up with the feral and predatory smile the man had during their bout after. No fear. No holding back.

His blue eyes had been filled with so much untamed hunger and want that it had distracted him, allowing Henry to get the upper hand and backing him up against the fence.

He had never been looked at like that by anyone. Even those who claimed to desire him had not had so much blatant and earnest desire in their eyes.

It had made him feel like a rabbit being bared down on by a ravenous wolf that wanted to be devoured.

He had wanted to bear his neck and let the wolf claim him, tear him apart and then leave nothing left but bones in the middle of the arena.

It was only when Henry had overextended his swing that his training had kicked in and the thoughts had fled his mind in favor of the fight at hand.

"God..." He whined as he sunk into the end of his bed and flopped back onto his back. "I am insane. I must be." He groaned as he rubbed his face with his hands. "He is a nothing. A nobody. A peasant."

A hunter.

A wolf in a man's skin.

A Wyld Blood that did not care that he was staring a noble in the face.

A man who did not see a noble when he looked at him.

As he rested his hands on his chest, his mind betrayed him again, filling his head with the guards he had spied in the stables when he was 16, reminding him of what could be possible between two men and setting his mind to racing.

He thought of the woods, his sanctuary away from all the noise and nonsense of nobility as he brought one hand to his mouth.

As the other began to slowly drift down, he imagined himself running through the green, the moon high and full overhead as he was being chased like a deer through the trees.

Behind him, hot on his heels, was Henry of Skalitz, eyes a blaze with the same fire and hunger he saw in that arena, gaining on him no matter how fast he got his legs to move.

He could hear his voice calling his name, beckoning him to just give up. To let him have him.

Hans, it is of no use. You can't outrun me. Just be a good boy and let me have you.

His hand slid lower to the edge of his breeches as he imagined himself coming to a dead end, trapped with no where to go as familiar boots prowled towards him.

His fingers play with the edge as Henry stalked up to him, licking his lips like had before and staring at him as if he was a slab of the juiciest and most tender meat and he was starving.

There you are. No where to run now, little rabbit. He purrs at him as he steps into the moonlight, blue eyes glowing and hungry, muscles rippling as he pulls himself through the trees.

In his mind He slips and falls onto his back as Henry pounces on him with a growl, clawing at his clothes, shredding them to ribbons as he-

Hans jumped up off the bed, violently interrupting his own thought as he grabbed and screamed into his pillow for a fifth time.

"Fuck!" He hissed as he dragged his free hand across his face, "What am I, a bitch in heat? Jesus fucking Christ. I literally just met the man!" He drops the pillow to the floor as he glances towards his door. "Fuck, I need a drink."

Several drinks, a bar fight and a full nights sleep later, Hans is on the edge of his bed again, lightly hitting himself with the flat side of his trusty hunting bow.

The clarity of a good nights sleep punching him in the gut.

"I am an asshole and a moron." He insulted himself as he stopped hitting himself and leaned on the bow instead, staring into the morning fire.

Not only has he treated Henry dishonorably for something that wasn't his fault, he was an absolute prick to the one person, in probably his entire life, that let him feel just like everybody else for once.

And now, because of a drunken tirade at the man's expense, he has to take him hunting with him.

It was a far sight better than having to sit in on one of his guardian's meetings but now he has to take someone who possibly hates his guts out into the woods alone with him.

Not that he would blamed him after the way he acted.

He had been a right prick.

But now...

"Oh god, i have to take him hunting with me." He sighed as he rested his bow across his lap in the wee hours of the morning. "Hopefully he doesn't hunt ME down and have me for dinner. We will be all alone in the woods, no one would kno-"

Wait...

He sat up straight as the craziest idea invaded his brain, foolishly fed by the fantasy from the day before.

Fuck.

No one would know.

No one would be around.

Just the two of them, sharing the same camp, sharing the same food, sleeping in the same-

"Stop it, me." He berated himself again. "He is more likely wanting to stab you in the back then do...anything close to that. The most you might get him to due is give you hunting tips. If he doesn't just stab you in the back first."

But the thought persisted and would not be denied.

He would see Henry in his element.

The wolf on the hunt, prowling the wilds in search of prey.

A creature of the Wyld, with beautiful blue eyes and a feral hungry grin doing as his nature bid him too do.

Running free and bound by nothing and no one.

Something he desperately wanted to do.

His eyes drifted over to the two most worn books on his shelf as his imagination started to run away with him again.

Of Wyld Blood and The Tale of Two Knights.

He knew what Henry was.

He knew as soon as he saw the strange black cat with piercing green eyes on the fence.

And he felt guilty for fetishizing him the way he clearly was doing because of it but...

With the way he had looked at him...

And how free he had felt in that arena with him...

Lord have mercy, but he couldn't help himself.

He tore his gaze away from the books to look back down at the bow in his hands and bit his lip, knowing what he would be doing in less then an hour.

"Oh God...I have to take him hunting with me... Christ give me strength not to do anything stupid..."

[starfall-dream]

Okok hi, I had more thoughts regarding this AU and a little headcanon I had about our poor little friend Withers... and also the Gods in this au- but mostly Withers. (Since I've been playing around with him for my own yan BG3 isekai thing)

I feel like this might be very different from what you have in mind for the worldbuilding (as I remember you mentioning how this isn't the game at some point but I might be thinking wrong), but I thought this was on my mind, and just in case this might inspire something, I thought about saying it. So don't feel pressured to reply to this. It's just me getting my thoughts out there because why not and I wanna hear your thoughts too!

With Withers I've been playing around with the idea that, since in BG3 he is the one who let's us play around with classes, stats, reviving long lost party members, stuff like that I thought it would be pretty neat if he actually knew of other timelines or had some sort of magic that had some sort of ability tied to it for Withers to know/look into the knowledge of things like stats, classes, and possibly the fact that reader is from a whole other realm/world. Possibly even knowing the meanings for when they talk strange. He definitely lets on for more than he shows in the early game at least.

So in my AU I sorta lean into that and have Withers and the reader character get really close as friends because, "at least someone has a sense of what is going on and can explain in a way that I can understand". Probably has to explain that they're a human fighter or a ranger (especially later on when characters like Wyll get way more protective, he might start trying to move them away from the front lines at some point. Even if he taught us swordfighting it's still 'too dangerous' for his darling out there so they gotta pick up being a ranger to even think about contributing to the combat)

That actually leads me to my second batch of thoughts! Reader's class. I know you said they were leaning towards a fighter class but as I said before I feel like soon enough archery or being a ranger might be more viable, or if they get the attention of a god they might just get cleric (not as plausible as ranger but one can assume). The thought of them playfully or jokingly making an oath and becoming a Paladin is also funny but just as impossible. Still, always fun to play around with, especially since clerics in general sometimes don't even get a say in becoming a cleric, poor reader might just suddenly become the cleric to someone like Sune who even covers more darker aspects of romance (as a god of romance)... at least from what I've read off her Forgotten Realms wiki page. For all we know, someone might just "you're my cleric now, we're getting soft tacos later" the poor reader and they'd have no say in it.

The possibilities could be endless!

Honestly I love withers, he's great.

In my head, reader technically doesn't have a class, they just fall into fighter since it would make the most sense in my head. I didn't even think about ranger though, even though that was the first class I played as. I feel like they would be a mixture of any class that doesn't use magic, since they really can't.

I think since withers has more of an understanding of things, reader and him and a nice relationship. I think reader just confides in him about a lot of things and he offers very wordy and lengthy advice. It's like a grandpa and grandchild relationship.

[linkemon]

Beauty and the Beast (Bakugō Katsuki x Reader) 9

ʙᴀᴋᴜɢᴏ ᴋᴀᴛꜱᴜᴋɪ ʜᴀꜱ ʙᴇᴇɴ ᴄᴜʀꜱᴇᴅ ɪɴᴛᴏ ᴀ ʙᴇᴀꜱᴛ. ʟᴏᴄᴋᴇᴅ ɪɴ ᴀ ᴄᴀꜱᴛʟᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴍᴀɢɪᴄᴀʟ ᴏʙᴊᴇᴄᴛꜱ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴡᴇʀᴇ ᴏɴᴄᴇ ʜɪꜱ ꜱᴜʙᴊᴇᴄᴛꜱ, ʜᴇ ꜱʟᴏᴡʟʏ ʟᴏꜱᴇꜱ ʜᴏᴘᴇ. ᴜɴᴛɪʟ ᴏɴᴇ ᴅᴀʏ, [ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ], ꜰᴇᴀʀɪɴɢ ꜰᴏʀ ʜᴇʀ ꜱɪꜱᴛᴇʀ'ꜱ ʟɪꜰᴇ ᴀɴᴅ ɪɴᴛɪᴍɪᴅᴀᴛᴇᴅ ʙʏ ᴏᴠᴇʀʜᴀᴜʟ ᴀʀʀɪᴠᴇꜱ ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴀꜱᴛʟᴇ. ɪɴɪᴛɪᴀʟ ʀᴇʟᴜᴄᴛᴀɴᴄᴇ, ʙᴏʀɴꜱ ᴀ ꜱᴛʀᴀɴɢᴇ ꜰʀɪᴇɴᴅꜱʜɪᴘ ꜰᴜʟʟ ᴏꜰ ᴀᴅᴠᴇɴᴛᴜʀᴇꜱ, ꜰʀᴏᴍ ᴡʜɪᴄʜ ꜱᴏᴍᴇᴛʜɪɴɢ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ɢʀᴏᴡꜱ ᴏᴠᴇʀ ᴛɪᴍᴇ.

The whole series can be found here. Part 1 is here. Part 10 coming soon.

When you go out

[Reader] stood before the enormous gates leading to the palace, pacing back and forth along the same path in restless impatience. The enchanted objects weren’t even sure anymore if it was worth waiting. She had insisted on staying just a little longer, hoping Katsuki would show up, though she no longer had much faith in that. That’s why she was genuinely surprised to see him standing before her. He held a woven wicker basket that, despite its age, somehow held together. Unsure of what to say, she started down the forest path.

— Do you like picnics? — she broke the silence.

— No — said the king.

Then what are you doing here? — she wanted to ask.

— His Majesty meant to say he didn’t like palace picnics — Kirishima corrected him, clattering with his wooden legs.

The enchanted objects darted in and out of the thickets, appearing sometimes ahead of them, sometimes behind. The girl kept her eyes on the ground, afraid of accidentally stepping on one of them. The Beast, however, didn’t seem particularly concerned.

Bakugō let out a heavy sigh. Kirishima’s intervention had forced him to elaborate, which he wasn’t happy about.

— The picnics my parents organized were... over the top. Tons of food, decorations and a whole lot of boring, pompous people I didn’t even know. I had to wander around, talk to them and try to win their favour just because I was the future king.

It was just another kind of party that restricted his freedom. Occasionally, someone would set up some archery targets as entertainment, giving him a chance to sneak away from the noble circles for a little while — but not for long. Usually, sooner or later, he’d be cornered by an advisor or a foreign noble with a proposal to marry him off to their daughter. He hated listening to them.

— Our picnic will be completely different. I only brought a blanket and some wine. And besides, you’re stuck with me instead of a crowd of boring people — [Reader] laughed. — What’s in the basket?

— I made sandwiches. — He shrugged.

He’d wanted to do something more, something to show her he could. But he hadn’t even been sure whether he should come on this strange outing and by the time he’d decided, there wasn’t any time left. So, he’d sliced up a big loaf of bread and made the first thing that came to mind. The enchanted objects assured him the distance wasn’t as great as it seemed but he felt as though something was pulling him back with every step. Ignoring the dull ache, he focused on the road ahead.

— Your mother was a very good queen.

The sentence immediately pulled his attention away from his discomfort. It had been so long since anyone had mentioned her. He often called her an Old Hag but he knew she was much better at being a ruler than he was. She annoyed him because she burdened him with responsibilities he hated. But that didn’t mean he didn’t recognize how hard she worked. He’d seen her fall asleep over ledgers or maps. Sometimes, when he snuck out of the palace late at night, he’d see his father approach her, drape a blanket over her shoulders and finish her speeches or edicts himself. Now, all that remained of her was a dusty chamber.

— After those picnics, there was always leftover food. She gave it to the needy. I even got some once. Back in spring, when my village was running low on food, I hadn’t eaten for days. She came and personally handed me a sandwich. At the time, I didn’t even know who she was. If not for her, I might not be here now.

— My mother... was... — The lump in his throat grew, making it hard to speak. — She was different from me. She was suited for all of this.

That’s how he felt. She knew exactly what to do, how to speak and everyone adored her. He was never like that. He played a role he’d been forced into. He didn’t fit in at court. He didn’t know how to care for people like she did. He couldn’t care less about his subjects. They seemed like an indistinct mass far away. Charitable outings were met with grumbles of displeasure and he usually skipped them, leaving them to others. But now, having met [Reader] and realizing she might owe her life to such a gesture, it stopped being an abstract concept. It became tangible proof that such actions truly affected people’s lives.

— Overhaul seems to have plenty of money — he deduced from the man’s clothing and demeanor. — And yet, you starved?

— He didn’t. I did. I wasn’t always a lady — she accented the word with a small smile. — I grew up on the streets. From time to time, people let me stay with them in exchange for work. Then, one day, he came and offered me a permanent roof over my head, meals and new clothes if I was willing to learn.

As a child, she’d been enchanted by the life spread out before her. The orphanage was just a cover. The new life was full of opportunities to access things she’d only ever dreamed of — beautiful gowns, rooms filled with food, and countless new skills. Over time, however, she realized she could dress as she pleased but only if it aligned with current trends or Overhaul’s preferences. She could eat only dainty bites, at designated times and with perfect etiquette. Her education had to align with what Overhaul needed, so she could forget about learning swordsmanship.

In exchange, she had to smile and dazzle. Sometimes, she attended parties to steal documents from a rich man’s safe. Other times, she eavesdropped on gossip or confidential conversations. Occasionally, she delivered written threats to various places. It was a small price to pay for the basics of life.

— It was enough for me until Eri came into the picture at the residence.

— Your younger sister? — The fact that Katsuki even knew who she was genuinely surprised [Reader]. She rarely talked about her, certainly not to him. He must’ve been paying very close attention, unless one of the enchanted objects had explicitly told him. But she had a feeling they’d kept that detail to themselves.

— Yes. We don’t share the same mother but we still call ourselves sisters. She’s the one who told me I should demand more, speak up for what I want and that I deserved better. It was all so beautiful... but also naïve. I believed her. When I told Overhaul I didn’t want to continue etiquette lessons, he slapped me. After that, every cup of tea I drank was as if someone were watching me.

The memory reminded Bakugō of an incident in the kitchen long ago. A weight settled in his chest and he was almost certain it wasn’t because of the blue rose.

— Then I refused to marry Shigaraki, so he decided to starve me instead. The servants kept a close eye on me. I managed to get by for a while but eventually, he realized what he should’ve done from the start.

— He threatened your sister — the king finished for her.

— He said that if I don’t yield, he’ll start conducting experiments. The ones so far haven’t been that bad but his future plans are awful. I’m not sure exactly why he needs the rose but somehow it can replace what concerns Eri.

The Eight Precepts of Death sought power and dominance. The group saw an opportunity in forming an alliance with the League of Villains through marriage. For years, neither had been able to seize power on their own. Both managed to orchestrate a few conspiracies but they were usually quickly suppressed. Now, however, in a kingdom without a king and a council of nobles easily bribed, they saw a chance.

— We’re here — announced Gentle.

— Indeed — echoed La Brava.

The view was truly beautiful. A gentle breeze created ripples on the surface of the lake. The trees were covered in fresh green leaves. The group settled on a sandy patch of the shore. [Reader] took the second blanket from Katsuki's basket and tied it between two trees. The magical friends were delighted with the hammock and took turns swinging in it.

— I bet if I skip a stone, mine will bounce more times! — The girl knew nothing motivated Bakugō more than competition.

They raced to gather stones, combing the shoreline but staying out of the water. It was freezing cold. Just approaching its edge was enough to feel the chill, even though the sun shone brightly overhead.

They threw stones of all shapes and colours. Their enchanted belongings cheered them on. Denki, of course, shouted the loudest when [Reader] managed to set a new record. She decided she could even forgive him for spilling the beans in the library, convinced every bird around the castle had already flown away from his noise. Kirishima claimed that whoever won the little contest didn’t matter because everyone was having fun. That didn’t stop the girl from teasing the king about her victory.

— And that’s why I’m taking the first sandwich! — she declared, lunging toward the basket.

— Not a chance! — Bakugō raised the basket high, out of her reach. He immediately took out a sandwich and ate it whole, a smug grin spreading across his face.

— Did you see that? — she turned to their lounging friends. — That’s unfair! — she groaned.

— We’d love to help you — began Gentle, blowing steam from his spout.

— We really would — added La Brava, splashing tea left and right — but we’re busy.

The girl sat on the blanket with her arms crossed. She turned her head away but out of the corner of her eye, she saw a large brown paw offering her food. She didn’t respond, simply accepting the sandwich. In exchange, she slid over a bottle of wine, hoping the odd truce proposal would be understood. It was. They sat in silence for a while, watching their rowdy friends swinging nearby.

— Is this from the library? — Katsuki lifted a book of fairy tales.

She nodded.

He couldn’t remember the last time he’d picked up anything to read. He preferred learning from real-life examples. His mother had insisted he read many books to prepare him for his future reign. He remembered little from them now but he could recite most battle strategies and combat tips by heart.

His nights had never been great. He often had trouble sleeping. Lately, it had been worse. So, when he stumbled upon his mother’s favourite books while cleaning the library, he took them with him. The queen had a habit of jotting down her thoughts in the margins. He recalled how much the royal librarian used to scold her for it. Back then, he didn’t understand why she wasted time writing words on paper. Now, reading her notes in the moonlight, he felt as though he were having a conversation with her. It gave him strange, mixed feelings.

— I don’t like reading but Eri loves happy endings. That’s why I’ll read them all to tell her about when I return.

— What’s your sister like? — It genuinely piqued his curiosity since learning of her existence. From what he’d heard, she was little. And he wasn’t fond of kids. Most "brats", as he called them, usually got in his way or chased him around the palace, asking him to teach them something.

— Eri’s too good for this world. Cheerful and warm, like sunshine. I think you’d like her and she’d like you.

Somehow, he found that hard to believe but [Reader] seemed utterly convinced.

— Kids don’t like monsters. No one ever liked me back then and I doubt that’s changed.

It was true. In the past, those who associated with him at court were usually there for some benefit. Kirishima was a rare exception but Katsuki had recently wondered if, after the way he secured him his dream position, Kirishima still considered him the same friend.

He wanted to take back his words. They sounded sentimental, overly emotional and foolish — like he cared. But he wasn’t like that. He didn’t need others’ approval to be happy. Before he could add anything, [Reader] interrupted.

— Well... Most people don’t like pompous jerks. Who you are... — That sentence made a sharp retort dance on the tip of his tongue. — But Eri would like you anyway. Besides, you still have your subjects... and me... because I like you — she finished softly.

— As if I care — Katsuki shrugged.

His mind was in turmoil. He didn’t know what to cling to anymore. His heart beat faster and he couldn’t pretend it was because of the rose’s distance. The dull pain eased for a moment. It was such a strange feeling that it left him silent. When was the last time someone openly admitted they liked him? His gruff, unrefined self with the sharp tongue? And in this wretched form he hated to see in the mirror?

A loud splash broke his thoughts, followed by desperate cries from where his enchanted friends had been swinging. Something white flashed quickly and disappeared into the lake.

— It’s Ochaco! — Denki shouted. — She’s going to die! — he wailed.

— We’re all going to die! — added the teacup.

— Tea to calm everyone down? — the teapot asked calmly.

— Nobody’s dying! Calm down — the Guard Captain searched for anything that could help the drowning maid.

He looked for sticks but quickly realized that without hands, even with a branch, he was useless.

Without much thought, [Reader] ran into the freezing water. She took a deep breath and dove. The water was murky and muddy. The bottom felt like sludge. She couldn’t see anything but tried to feel around for something resembling her friend. Before she could search much, something yanked her upward. She blinked rapidly, rubbing her eyes. Bakugō’s paw held her above the water. In his other paw was a soaked, muddy Ochaco.

The three made it to shore, where they were immediately swarmed by their panicking friends. Everyone hugged the featherduster, apologizing profusely and promising never to swing the hammock so hard again.

— But could she really have died? — Kaminari had a sudden realization.

Everyone paused to process his words. They quickly concluded that objects don’t breathe. The worst that could have happened was her spending the rest of the day at the lake’s bottom among cattails and stones. Now [Reader] felt a little foolish. She’d jumped to the rescue when it wasn’t really necessary. She didn’t regret it, though. Even if she was soaking wet and the cold was starting to creep in.

— Thank you, [Reader] — Ochaco tried to wipe the mud from her light feathers. — And you, Your Highness — she added.

Katsuki felt strange. They’d barely spoken before. He knew why. Until recently, it hadn’t bothered him. But every time something reminded him of Midoriya, unease crept back. The thought that he might be responsible for his death haunted him. And this maid was the most vivid reminder of it all. She annoyed him. He realized why. He owed his survival to her, which hurt even more. If she hadn’t intervened with the old matron of her fiancé, would he still be standing here?

— I think we’ve had enough excitement for today — Kirishima announced.

The group agreed and began packing up. They didn’t have much. [Reader] wrapped herself in a blanket and handed the other to her strangely quiet companion.

— I’m not cold — Katsuki said, throwing his blanket over her head.

When she freed herself from it, she saw that all their enchanted friends had settled into the basket. A free ride must have seemed like a good idea. Of course, not without the king’s complaints. After all, they had legs of their own. But when it turned out they’d all fallen asleep, he stopped grumbling, realizing it was pointless.

— What would you say if you could leave this place? — Bakugō’s voice faded among the forest trees.

— If this is a rhetorical question to see if I’d run, I’m not falling for it — [Reader] laughed.

— If you want to leave... to see your sister or something... I won’t stop you. You don’t have to worry about my deal with Overhaul. I’ll keep my word.

Saying it made him wonder what he was even doing with his life. He still had a chance to break the curse and return to being human. The odds of someone like her showing up during the time he had left were practically zero.

And yet now, knowing so much, it was hard not to let her go free. He’d done to her what everyone had done to him years ago. They wanted to crown him, despite him not wanting it. And she was part of a transaction with even less say than he’d had. Besides, someone was waiting for her. His family had long since passed. If he could talk to that Old Hag again or see her one last time...

— I’ll think about it but for now, I don’t plan to leave. I miss Eri but as long as I’m here, she’s safe. Even if you kept your word, I don’t think Overhaul would believe it. The moment I show up at the estate, he’ll know. And then he’ll either resume his experiments or marry me off — or both. Do you really have to get rid of me? — she asked with a small smile.

They stopped before the palace doors.

— Looks like I’m stuck with you — Katsuki sighed dramatically.

With that, he disappeared down one of the long hallways.

— You really like her, don’t you, Your Highness? — Ochaco murmured sleepily. — I think there’s still hope for all of us...

He didn’t reply. He put the basket down and headed to his bedroom. That night, he wasn’t haunted by nightmares of blood-stained visions or blue rose petals. For the first time in a long while, he dreamed of something else. The kingdom from years ago. The throne room. And finally, hazy silhouettes resembling his parents. It was a good dream.

[sadsimp]

Hey! Hope you're having an awesome day/night!

I wanted to ask, that is, if your ask box is open, and if you wish to; could you list your headcanons/ideas of what Geo would be like as a romantic partner? Like love languages, how you get with him, etc. (or more if you want idc I just want Geo content...and how Sol and Crowe would deal with it teehee).

Thanks in advance Anon! Wishing you good health and a marvellous week! :]

Geo hcs~!

Not edited/proofread. 

No warnings?? Just pure fluff, and sorry I didn’t include smut :)

Thank you so much for the request! :D And thank you 🥺 have a good week as well~!

I’m still on the fence if requests are closed or not, since I get writers block easily, but I’ll try my best if you do request :)

With that, enjoy!!

  ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I feel like it would take a while before Geo even acknowledges that he might like you. 

He’d be denying that you’re even friends for the longest time and then it just hits up like a bus. If he’s doing something like his archery class when it hits him, he just pauses and stares off into the distance. His eyes widen ever so slight, you wouldn’t really notice unless you were right up in his face. 

I’m sorry you have to confess 😭 His reaction depends on how you confess/ask him out. 

If you are in a public space- He’s eyes would go wide most likely and glance around at everyone anxiously. If he sees people noticing you two, he’ll probably reject you💀😭 

If you accept and apologize, he’d find you later in the hall and ask to talk to you in private. He’d explain why he rejected you, which he was overwhelmed and would’ve much rather preferred a clear and empty space. 

He’d say you can restart with his face not as harsh looking. He’s essentially saying to ask again in a much better space.

Of course, you ask again and then he actually gives the answer he would’ve liked to say before. 

If you do it in a quieter, more private setting- He’s slightly suspicious on why you’re asking to talk to him in private. 

He’s very pleased that you’ve asked him without the staring eyes of others once he hears your confession. 

He just..stares at you for a few moments before nodding slowly. 

Either way, congratulations! 🎉🎊🍾 You’ve got him!!

The relationship will go slow for sure. He’s very cautious when showing his affections and doesn’t want to overstep any boundaries you may have. 

Which is why he’ll want to put it all on the table: both of your guy’s boundaries, wants, etc.

He’d lock pinkies with you when you walk 🥺

I don’t think he’s much for cuddling. At first ;)

If he’s not feeling up for full on cuddles, he’ll just hold your hand or lay an arm over you while still keeping some space.

I feel like once he’s in the mood to cuddle, he’s on top of you with a death grip. He will definitely not let you go.

He’s big on Acts of Service. If he sees your apartment slightly messy, like unclean dishes, he’ll do them for you.

He probably won’t do much else like organizing because he understands everyone has a system and doesn’t want you to get upset. So dishes, dusting, and sweeping/vacuuming/mopping is what he’ll do :)

I feel like he would love to do dishes with you too. Put on some music in the background and have deep conversations and he’s night is great.

How will Crowe react???

He’s shocked for one.

Like?? When did this happen? How? Why? 

He’s not going to be a jerk about, and he’s happy for you. He can see that Geo is treating you well and you seem so happy, how could he not be happy for you? 

He’s slightly jealous though, but he gets over it :)

How will Sol react???

He’s so mad. He’s immediately plotting Geo’s death I’m sorry 😭

He can see how happy you are, but he only wants him to make you happy. No one else.

If you two are doing your project and Geo comes to pick you up? Sol glares at him and doesn’t even attempt to be polite. He definitely digs his nails into his hand, and the same thing happens just like in Episode Two

His eyes soften when you tell him goodbye, but the second you interlock yours and Geo’s pinkies, he’s glaring at him and sticks his tongue out. 

I suggest making sure he isn’t following you and lock your doors and windows :)

~~~~~~~

I’m sorry this took so long 😭 I’m also sorry this is all I got :,) 

[syn4k]

BREAKING NEWS: The queer-themed superhero Arrow Ace has been out on a justice-fuelled rampage this Valentine's Day Morning, sniping villains from above and appearing randomly to whack people who are being rude to the happily single on the day of love.

This is the first appearance that the Arrow Ace has made since October of last year, and we now go to our field reporter Devon, who has managed to get an interview with the enigmatic hero.

Devon: Thank you Gary! I'm here on the corner of 12th and 7th street in downtown Placeville and next to me is the Arrow Ace, who has graciously agreed to be interviewed. AA: Hello. Devon: Sir, many of our newer viewers want to know who you are and what you do. Do you have an answer for them? AA: Yes. Hi. I'm the Arrow Ace, but you can just call me Ace. I was the sharpest shooter in my archery class in college and later decided to make a pun regarding my identity and thus, the hero personality was born. Devon: So do you have any supernatural abilities or are you just really good with a bow? AA: None whatsoever. I'm just a normal guy 99% of the time. Devon: [short pause to listen through her earpiece] Ah. Yes. A question from the studio. Viewers, Ace is most likely referring to the pun his alias makes when talking about his identity. AA: Yes. I am indeed an aromantic asexual, commonly shortened to aro/ace. Devon: Could you perhaps elaborate on that for those watching who might not know what that means! AA: Of course! A person who is aromantic experiences little, decreased, or no romantic attraction to other people. This may manifest as them not getting crushes, not wanting to participate in dating, or being adverse to romantic activities in general. A person who is asexual experiences little, decreased, or no sexual attraction towards other people. They might not want to participate in sexual activities and may be uncomfortable when the topic is brought up in real life or in media. Devon: I see! Thank you for explaining. Does this have anything to do with your backstory? AA: Yes. I originally took up the mask because as a young man, although I didn't have a word for what I was yet, I was often excluded in school both intentionally and not for not having an interest in dating people. In high school, someone who heard I wasn't interested in sex but also hadn't tried it out yet assaulted me to try and "convince" me otherwise. Ever since, I've been trying my best to be a beacon of light for those going through similar or worse ever since to let them know that there's nothing wrong with them and that you can be happy without those types of relationships. Devon: I see! Is there any reason why you're out and about on Valentine's day specifically? AA: I get asked a lot when seen alone in public if I'm single on this holiday. Most of the time, when I answer with yes, the response is something like "oh you poor soul! May you find love soon!" While the person undoubtedly means well, it still annoys me, so I've decided today to be the guy every aro or ace person wishes they had during that conversation.

[B-roll footage filmed on someone's phone of two person having a conversation. The first person asks "So, got any plans this evening?" The second person uncomfortably replies, "No, not really." The first person responds with "Oh, no! Well, better luck next year. Maybe you'll find someone," promptly cut off mid sentence by the Arrow Ace running up behind them and pwhacking them over the head with a paper towel tube. "You're not less whole or less of a person for not having a romantic or sexual partner," he says to the first person, pointing the tube at them. "That is your business and your business alone. I love you. Have a good day." The two people having the conversation stare after him, perplexed, as he runs off out of view of the camera. The video cuts back to Devon and AA.]

Devon: One last question: how do you know if the person in those discussions is aro or ace? AA: I don't, and I never put them on the spot for it. However, whether you experience attraction to others or not, it's never fun to be judged based on the circumstances you may be in at the moment. Devon: A bit of wisdom for us all. Well, sir, it appears that my time is up, but I appreciate you coming to answer these questions. AA: Of course. And, to all who participate, Happy Valentine's day! The shops always have discounts on chocolate the day after. Go treat yourself if you have the means. You deserve it. Devon: This has been Devon of Lucky 7 News. Back to you, Gary!

Thank you, Devon. I have received reports that a new development is unfolding in southeast Placeville- the Nefarious Anglerfish's cat-fish army is leaping up from the docks to attack unsuspecting couples on their walks. I've been told that the Arrow Ace is on his way to get involved. We'll be right back after these advertisements.

[angelitadiaz]

You were sitting under a tree when you saw a girl falling from the sky. She wore an all black cloak, a white blouse, black trousers, and brown boots. Her hair was messy and filled with leaves. You saw Beatriz and her gang going close to the girl, making fun of her look.

You quickly made your way over to her and introduced yourself. "Hello, I'm Y/N White, daughter of the White Queen. Who might you be?"

"Agatha."

She looked you up and down. Your hair was white under the sun, your skin a lovely shade of s/c, your dress a silver adorned with white roses. Then she looked at your nails, "black nails?"

You smiled gently at her, looking down at your nails. "They are my mothers favorite, and they remind me of her too."

"Now, Agatha, let me take you to Professor Dovey so she could help you with your schedule and hopefully get you a pair of clean clothes."

The fairies surrounded her but you scolded them to be nicer. Being the daughter of the White Queen earned you everyone's love except Beatriz.

Beatriz used to be your friend until she found out Tedros had a massive crush on you. In his eyes, you were gentle, beautiful, nurturing, and a princess who could take care of herself.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

"Professor Dovey, this is Agatha, Agatha. This is Professor Dovey. Professor Dovey, could we please get Agatha a dress, maybe a simple one?" You said while you took a look at her when you heard a voice.

"Y/N!" You quickly turned around and looked at Tedros, who quickly made his way towards you. He hugged you, then picked you up and spun you around. You smiled at him and gave him a peck on his nose.

"Hello, Tedros. I was looking for you in the morning but you weren't there for breakfast. Where were you?" You looked at him with concern as you brushed his hair with your fingers.

"Oh, I was, umm, I was doing archery, yeah. You know Gregory needed help. We don't want him to fail, do we?" He looked at you with passionate eyes but a guilty smile on his face.

"Oh, of course, Tedros, we wouldn't want anything bad to happen to him. I'll talk to you later. I have to go back to my friend." You hurriedly made your way to Agatha and Professor Dovey, who were making their way to the dorms.

"Agatha, you will be staying here with Y/N. She will make sure your stay at this school is wonderful and memorable. Now, Y/N, why don't you help Agatha get into a new dress and help her get ready for tomorrow."

"Of course, Professor Dovey. Come Agatha let me show you where the bath is and where the shampoo and conditioner is." You said as Professor Dovey left.

"Y/N, you do not think of me as a witch?"

"Of course not. Why would I think of you as a witch if you have not done anything wrong. Actually, my mother is quite fond of potions, as is her sister, the Queen of Hearts."

"Why is it that everyone seems to think of me as a witch?"

"They are not used to seeing someone with dark hair with dark clothing around here. It's normally nevers who are seen with that type of clothing, but trust me, it's refreshing to see a change once in a while. Now why don't you take a bath and I'll pick out a dress for you."

"Thank you, Y/N, for your kindness."

"That's what a friend is for." You gave her a sweet smile and quickly turned her around and pushed her into the bathroom.

"I'm your friend already?" Agatha told you amused.

"Well, you are in my room right now. Or should I say our room?" You giggled towards her.

As Agatha finally went to take a bath, you went to the closet and looked through many dresses. The one that caught your eye, though, was a pink dress with an a-line skirt that had embroidered flowers and leaves. You then pulled out a pair of chunky heeled white heels that only had an inch on them. You heard the bathroom door open and made your way to Agatha.

"Your bath is really nice."

"Haha, thank you, but it's the school's bath. Now, do you have undergarments on?"

"Yes, why do you ask?"

"So, I won't see your lady bits. Now come so I can fit you into this dress for this evenings presentation."

"Oh, I don't really like dresses. Especially pink ones."

"Well darling, you really don't have a choice. It's all I currently have other than pajama pants. Hang tight. This might hurt a little." You said as you pulled on the corset.

"A LITTLE!"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

"What is this presentation about Y/N?"

"It's the beginning of the year assembly, and where the ever boys present their bravery to us princesses."

"I am no princess."

"Nonsense, we are all princesses in our own way. Plus, any friend of mine is considered one in my book." You said as you gave her a gentle smile.

As Professor Dovey and Lady Lesso finally presented the ever boys, you couldn't help but stare sadly at Tedros. As they threw the roses at the ever ladies, you saw Tedro's land in Beatriz's lap. She smiled widely and quickly became smug about it.

Agatha quickly took notice and looked between you and Tedros in confusion.

"Isn't Tedros like your boyfriend?"

"Yes, he is. We've been together for a year now."

"Then why isn't his rose with you right now?"

"My dear Agatha, can I trust you?"

"Of course, you can tell me anything." You smiled at her answer.

"Tedros has been cheating on me with Beatriz."

"Wait... WHAT?" She screamed loudly, gaining everyone's attention. "How could have Tedros cheated on you of all people?"

Both Evers and Nevers were shocked to hear that the ever so loyal, brave, and kind Tedros Pendragon had been unfaithful to Y/N.

Tedros froze in his spot and quickly looked at you. You locked eyes with him and smiled sweetly in his direction. He began walking closer to you slowly but urgently. When you lifted your hand, signaling for him to stop. Your smile never fated as you mouth the words, "It's okay let me go."

You gracefully got up and walked away, followed by Agatha not far behind.

"Y/N!"

You heard from your ex lover. You stopped for a moment but then remembered that you deserve someone who wouldn't betray you. You heard Agatha's name being called. You knew it was her friend, so you let them be and continued your way to your room.

♥︎~End of Part 1~♥︎

~♥︎Part 2♥︎~