#though do need to check on cordelia and the others so... | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

ricard-blythe-ffxiv · 4 months ago

Text

Of Announcements

The days had passed as any others following their official engagement, allowing Ricard and Cordelia some lingering privacy. They were able to draw out the quieter version of their lives a bit longer as they pushed off the inevitable conversation with Catherine Blythe until they could no more.

Ricard had told his father, Cordelia had told her half-sister and eventually the news would scatter among the curious citizens of the Ishgardian society they found themselves involved in since birth.

She had readied herself like any other day, devoid of nerves as she so often was. It helped not caring whether or not there was an approval from her soon to be mother-in-law but she had hoped it would go smoothly if anything for wishing not to have to deal with the nuisance of fighting with Lady Blythe but also for Ricard. “Any last minute preparations? You have one final moment to change your mind.” Cordelia mused as she rounded Ricard’s side to stand in front of him, reaching up to smooth his vest with her palm.

“If I was going to change my mind, I would have needed to do it before informing my father and well before the date for this dinner was set.” Even with her smoothing out his vest, he still gave the fabric a good tug, making sure it was adjusted, before taking a moment to check his tie, and then his time piece. Just…making sure everything that he could double check was in order.

This was all in his ability to control - what happened once they left the confines of the manor and ventured out to meet with his parents…specifically with his mother? That was unknown territory.

“You have the bracelet. I am dedicated to this course, come hell or high water. We have answers for the questions we know are going to be asked. I have potential answers for the questions I suspect are going to be asked. I believe we’re as prepared as we’re going to be.” A moment passed, his eyes closed as he set his hands on her shoulders, leaning forward to rest his forehead against hers. “Let’s go wade into this storm, shall we? I promise you a good evening once all is said and done.”

Just as his lids fell closed, so did hers as she leaned gently into him. “Yes, let’s. And Ricard -“ she tilted her head back slightly away from his so she could look up to him. “There’s no need for stress and concern, trust me.” Her body shifted, angling so her arm was toward him as if expecting his to be offered so she could loop her hand through. “If anything, I may take a bit of revelry in seeing your mother’s face when she learns of their surprise guest.”

“I’m certain it will be a fond memory after all is said and done.” He took a moment to gather himself, opening his eyes, sliding on his jacket and taking time to adjust his tie one more time, before offering her his arm, gently guiding them towards the door of her chambers. He could only delay in the name of preparations for so long. “And…I would also like to get through tonight without my mother killing my father or anyone else.”

He tilted his head down towards hers as they moved through the halls, the front hall coming into view. “Seeing her be caught off guard does seem worth the risk though, even if she may be a bit agitated with me…Or my father…preferably my father.” He gently lifted her hand, pressing a kiss to the back of it. “All of this is worth her agitation - and she’ll see that as well. I hope.”

“No casualties, understood.” She piped up playfully, glancing up to him with a smirk as they came to the door of the estate. Tilly stood waiting, prepared to see them off and ensure the remainder of household chores would be seen to before her return. And with that, they were off on the walk they both had easily grown accustomed to. Surely the travel could be made quite briskly if they arrived by carriage but the chill in the evening air allowed for them both to relax and enjoy their final moments of lingering secrecy from Lady Blythe. Arriving at the door of his childhood home, She glanced over to him with a wink and subtle nod. “Let’s have a fun night.”

Hand on the doorknob, Ricard paused, glancing at her with that lopsided grin of his - the only indication that he wasn’t completely wound like a top. “I will be content if we all survive the evening with all bits and pieces intact. And should we manage to accomplish that, well - the entertainment value should be significant and the fun can come after. For now?” He took a deep breath, turning the doorknob and slowly pushing the door opening. “I can’t recall a time my mother has ever been speechless, so this should be - at the very least - interesting.”

“We take ours wins where we can get them.” She whispered softly as they entered through the door, her chin lifted pridefully while making her arrival known that she wasn’t doing so meekly. Slowly beginning to shrug from her cloak and removing the gloves from her hands, her attention continued to glance toward Ricard curiously.

“That we do.” He stepped into the front hall behind her, offering a nod to the staff member awaiting them, and shrugging out of his jacket as the door closed, handing it off before offering her his arm once again. “Let us be about it then.” Whatever anxiety had seemed to plague him on the walk over seemed to have melted away as he glanced towards the sitting room - where he could barely hear the muffled voice of his parents. A small nod was offered as he gently tugged Cordelia close. “You may announce us - my parents are expecting our arrival.” He leaned down towards her with a light chuckle. “...or my father is at the very least. Here we go.”

The elderly man offered a small bow before turning on his heel and moving into the sitting room. “My Lord and Lady Blythe - Your son, Ricard and the Lady Cordelia Gray have arrived for the evening.”

Cordelia uncharacteristically leaned up to press a kiss to his cheek, a comforting gesture if anything. Again, ensuring that her posture was lifted even more so than she naturally held herself, she fell in line at Ricard’s side as they breached the space between the foyer and the sitting room just nearby. Rounding the corner, she fell into her role effortlessly as she greeted his parents with a gentle smile and a low nod in greeting. “Lord and Lady Blythe, it is splendid to see you again.”

Ricard felt his mother’s gaze on him the moment they crossed the threshold, he didn’t need to turn towards her to know exactly the look he was being given. Perhaps a bit unintentionally he shifted, taking the brunt of his mother’s gaze for the moment and offering his parents an easy smile - appearing unperturbed. “Mother, father - you both remember Lady Gray, I hope?”

His father was the first to speak, Gerald standing and approaching, with a small smile. “Of course. You were last here not this past Starlight, but the one before, yes? A pleasure to see you again, Lady Gray, you look lovely this evening - doesn’t she, dear?”

When he was met by silence he turned to glance towards his wife, clearing his throat gently, “Catherine?”

“I heard the question, Gerald. And yes, you do look quite lovely, Lady Gray. You’ll have to forgive me, I just am a bit surprised at your presence is all.” She stood, her hands clasped in front of her as her narrowed gaze shifted between the three other individuals present. “Last I was aware you and my son had nothing to do with one another and here you two are arm in arm once again. Would someone like to inform me of just what is going on?”

Ricard shifted his grip to take Cordelia’s hand in his, bringing it to his lips and pressing a light kiss to her knuckles. “There was a point, yes, where we had taken some time away from one another…and that was the last you were informed of the matter, mother.” He turned his attention towards the older woman, jaw set and unflinching. “While away on my…travels over the summer, Cordelia and I ran into one another once again and discussed the situation further, making the decision to quietly give things another go. See if perhaps this time things could be different, and they have been.” He gave a smaller tender smile - a rarity, “Better than I ever imagined. I’ve offered her the bracelet, mother. And she’s accepted. We’re getting married.”

A glimmer of surprise sparked in Cordelia’s grey hues as she slowly turned to look at Ricard. The bemusement faded quickly to pride with the feeling of his lips against her skin. “Straight to the point, I approve. Unaware, but approve.” Her words were but a whisper meant solely for him until she turned to address his parents. “Unfortunately, timelines do not always align as we wish due to unforeseen circumstances. There has never been any intention to have a break between our courtship, but truly that is neither here nor there as we have arrived at the same place nonetheless.” The tone was calm but held a firmness to it all the same.

Catherine’s eyes moved past her son at the woman beside him, her gaze critical, stony almost as she took a step towards the pair. “Timelines? Unforeseen circumstances? And what assurances, Lady Gray, can you provide that such ‘circumstances’ will not occur in a few months time? In a few years time? When things become challenging? When children are involved? Or should I expect that my son will be returning the bracelet once again. What makes this any different than the last attempt?”

A hand on her shoulder drew her attention for only a moment as Gerald stepped up beside her. “…Catherine, you wanted him to settle down and be happy….”

“A moment, Gerald, I would hear Lady Gray’s response.”

“She doesn’t owe you a response, mother. The separation was a mutual decision, as was the decision to return to engaging with one another, and ultimately the decision to move forward together. Approve or don’t - that is up to you, and given how hard you’ve pushed to see me with someone I would think this decision would please you.” Ricard’s gaze was as stony as his mothers, an arm slipping protectively around Cordelia’s waist.

Cordelia leaned closer to him, the arm furthest from his side reached over so that she could place a hand to his chest. “I can speak, Ricard.” She chided softly, flashing a brief smile to him in thanks for having her side. Turning her attention back to Catherine as she took a deep breath and set her sights on the woman. “I cannot guarantee these issues will not rise once more, I cannot guarantee very much in life truly. Though, I can say for certain that as long as Ricard and I are on common ground with our goals and plans in life, our needs and desires, then we will see those issues and circumstances head on together. As you know, I was married once before. Awfully tragic end, mind you -” She flicked a brief glance to Ricard with a smirk. “An arranged marriage that I had no say in whatsoever. Not before and certainly not during. I learned a lot from that…delicate situation that has led me to where I am today. Ricard respects this and likewise I respect him. As he said, all in all a mutual understanding where everyone, including you and your husband, is receiving what we desire.”

“And what is it that you assume I desire, Lady Gray?” Catherine moved forward, pulling away from her husband’s hand on her shoulder, her blue eyes - so much like her son’s - meeting Cordelia’s unflinchingly. “You offer no guarantees, speak in grand vague terms, and yes - now things are fine because as they stand now the two of you are in alignment. And what happens when they are not. Because I can guarantee that there will be moments when you are not. Will there be another tragic end, only this time my son will be on the receiving end of the tragedy?” She stopped just short of the couple, not glancing at Ricard at all, despite the way her son bowed up at her approach.

“Mother…”

“Hush, Ricard. You’re thinking with your heart, I’m thinking with my head. And I would hear her answer.”

Cordelia did her best to mask the amusement in her features, though the attempt was only partially successful. She, too, stepped away just as Catherine had, moving toward the Blythe Matriarch with confidence. “You desire for your line to continue, for your son to secure that line with a profitable match, but above all you wish for him to be settled and happy, do you not? If I am incorrect, you are free to adjust my thought process.” A brief pause came where she considered letting Catherine respond but instead she took another deep breath as she placed her hands over one another at her front just at her abdomen. “We may not always agree but we will always be aligned, there is a dividing concept between the two. We choose to trust one another in that despite what differences we may encounter or how many moments where we are not entirely connected, as you suggest, we will remain steadfast in the commitment to not only one another but to our responsibilities thrust upon us by our families and station. I am aware marriage is imperfect, Catherine, but perfection is not what we strive for.”

Another pause came as she glanced back to Ricard with a nod and beckoned him forward so that they very pointedly returned to standing side by side. “Now, admittedly, I do favor a union that is wise and mutually beneficial, I have not done all the work I have to get where I am to simply squander that away. Ricard and your family provide that while I bring to the table benefits of my own for you and yours. However, that aside, I do care deeply for your son, Lady Blythe and if it were simply a business transaction I sought after in this marriage, I would not have gone about the process the way that I have. The time we took apart was … well, it did us both good to take time to understand our meaning to one another, to accept things as such and when it was most lucrative for us, our lives intertwined as they should be. Ricard has already spoken that we do not need your approval, but for his sake, it is still important that we receive it.”

Catherine’s attention cut to Ricard as he started to move forward, her eyes narrowing. “Gerald, Ricard…I’d like a moment with Lady Gray, if the two of you don’t mind.”

“Mother…I don’t know if that’s - “

“The longer you delay, the longer this will take, dear.”

“Catherine, are you certain that’s…”

“Positive. Out.”

Ricard’s attention shifted towards Cordelia, pressing a kiss to her temple lightly before leaning down to whisper where only she could hear. “...she’s being over protective for no reason. No maiming, remember….and there will be rewards later.” He straightened, once more narrowing his gaze at his mother before meeting his father near the door and stepping just beyond the threshold, leaving the two women within.

Catherine waited for the door to shut before turning her attention to the younger woman, eyeing her critically. “You’ve said all the right things, and I’m sure Ricard has told you all the things he’s heard about for years. About how I want him to settle, want him to be happy…the insistence regarding the importance of the line continuing. Easy enough answers. So let’s try a bit of honesty, shall we? Just how much do you really care for my son, hm? Enough to give up something you want? Enough to delay a goal that you’ve been working towards? Because if I’m to hand this house over to you, Cordelia Gray, if I’m to hand my son over to you, I need to know that he, and the house are going to be well cared for and that what you are providing this evening is not simply the lip service of a well trained business women. Because that speech was a very nice speech. Now let’s try something a little less polished, shall we?”

Cordelia’s attention only faltered from Catherine long enough to offer Ricard an unreadable flash of a smile, taunting him to leave him to his thoughts as he joined his father outside of the room. Once Catherine began speaking, her grey hues leveled on the woman sternly, her features as hard to read as ever. “It is no secret that my personality and reputation waiver a bit from the stereotypical noblewoman. Fawning over and dedicated fully to one’s spouse, expressing bouts of love and affection in grandiose gestures and selling oneself over to bow to their husband. That woman is not me, it never will be and Ricard is aware of that.” Her hardened demeanor softened ever so slightly, just enough for someone like Catherine to pick up on.

“That being said, I am willing to make sacrifices for him, for the continuation of both of our families and not simply just out of expectation but out of genuine desire. Are you suggesting something specific that I should be willing to trade away for your son’s hand?”

“Do I strike you as the type of woman who simply sits at home and fawns over my husband day and night, Lady Gray? That is not the relationship I have with my husband and that is not the type of relationship I would expect my son to seek out. I don’t know what irons you’ve in the fire, nor do I need to. That is not the question. The question is whether or not you are willing to sacrifice in order to take care of this family.” Catherine’s head tilted ever so slightly considering the younger woman for a moment. “I can’t say what that sacrifice might be, what it would entail, when it would happen…and yet I can almost guarantee there will be a moment when there will be the question of your business interests versus the needs of your family. Who do you choose?”

A nod in concession was offered to Catherine with her point taken in regards to perhaps their shared similarities. There was a drawn out silence between them as Cordelia considered her response and considered it thoroughly. “I married Ambrose Gray for the needs of my family. A wicked, abusive, and manipulative man who found a way to corner my family into cowering and I accepted the responsibility to ensure they were taken care of. Not financially, but in all other ways. And while my parents did not live long enough to see the light at the end, I took the necessary actions to avenge all the wrongdoings done to them by Lord Gray.” Her eyes bore into Catherine’s, making sure her point was heard and understood. “While my business interests are important to me and will become the interests of Ricard and the family by integration, my family will come first over myself and anything that happens to me as an outcome. I choose him.”

“Hm.” A moment passed, and one could almost see the wheels in the older woman’s head turning. “It’s easy to say you choose him now, standing in front of me in my sitting room. I can’t help but wonder if that will be the case when things are difficult, when you are faced with having to hand over decisions because of situations at home that can’t be ignored…will it be so easy to choose him then, I wonder.” There was a sharp exhale as she reached up for a moment to pinch the bridge of her nose. “I ask these questions not to be intentionally difficult - but as a mother who cares about her son - even if he doesn’t bother to share the choices he’s making until the last minute.”

Cordelia took a deep breath, sighing slowly as her hands came to fall at her sides. “I understand your hesitation, Lady Blythe. If I were in your position, I would certainly be the exact same. But I am marrying your son…” She reiterated sternly, chin lifting just as to enforce the declaration. “And I will be resolute in not only that but my dedication to protecting my assets and family which includes Ricard now. It includes everything from Corvin to Gray to Blythe. My part will be done to look after it all.”

“Do you understand, Cordelia Gray?” Catherine stood toe to toe with the younger woman, unphased by her stern tone or declarations. “I never intended to have children. Gerald’s family business was in finance and financial institutions and advisors come and go in this city as easily as the seasons used to. The intention was to grow the business, to live our lives in comfort, and what became of the name would be what it was. And then I found out I was pregnant and all of that came to a screeching halt. Every priority shifted. Every goal changed. It was no longer about me, or Gerald or about what we wanted to do with our lives. It was about him. And grown as he is, it remains about him. Do you understand what I am entrusting to you? House, name, assets aside.”

“You’re right, perhaps I don’t understand on the same level. I am not a mother, I cannot begin to assume to understand to an equal depth.” She took a breath, gesturing over her shoulder as she steadied her composure and patience, doing her best to be…not herself. . “But what I do understand is how precious to you the man that is on the other side of that door. You can let go now, I have him.”

“My concern for him does not stop simply because you claim to “have him”. Perhaps you will understand when you have children of your own.” Catherine moved past the younger woman, towards the door. “My hope for him is that he is happy - in whatever choices he makes. And I know full well that he is perfectly capable of taking care of himself. That doesn’t mean that I won’t be watching how things progress with a bit of caution…the bracelet has made its way back to me at least once when he had intentions of giving it to you before.” A bit of acceptance, it seemed - mixed with caution. “I suppose we should consider letting them back in, lest they start to wear a hole in the carpets.”

Cordelia held steadfast where she stood even after Catherine moved by her, her patience in understanding was waning with every passing moment but she held it together. She allowed her kind and softer facade to fade briefly now that her back was to the other woman, closing her eyes to take in a steadying breath before her face was back to as it had when she turned back around. “I suppose we should.” An agreement in the latter of Catherine’s words, opting to leave their prior conversation at rest for the time being.

The older woman’s gaze cut back over her shoulder for a moment before she reached for the doorknob, turning it without another word and opening the door only to come face to face with her son - who stood wide-eyed, and blinked a bit owlishly now that the door no longer remained between him and the sitting room.

“...Ricard.”

“Hello, mother. I see all body parts are still where they’re supposed to be, that’s good…” He flashed her an overly bright smile before squeezing past her to Cordelia, cupping her face for a moment and giving her a quick once over. “No injuries, nothing was thrown or anything right? We didn’t hear anything outside…”

Behind him, his father moved into the doorway, having a quiet conversation with his mother.

“No, nothing physical, anyways.” She replied softly as she smiled up at him. “Lady Blythe and I simply came to an understanding of sorts, sometimes necessary conversations are truly left best to the women, dear.” Her words became a bit louder now so that Catherine could hear as she moved to stand at Ricard’s side instead of in front of him, taking him arm so that he would turn with hers

Ricard paused, his gaze clearly concerned. “Cordelia…stop for a moment. Look at me.” He gently turned her back towards him, reaching up and gripping her chin. “What did she say? I know she can be overbearing, but we don’t have to be here, we don’t have to have her approval. If she hurt you in any way…” His gaze cut over towards his parents, his jaw clenching tightly - the pair oblivious to his glare as they were both speaking lowly, his father apparently also having words for his mother and her behavior.

She was surprised by his endearment, pinching her brows together as she shook her head. “She can’t hurt me, Ricard.” It was a statement not necessarily of reassurance but more so her way of expressing in kind how little anyone’s approval really meant to her. While her words were initially hushed, the tone rose yet again to a normal speaking volume. “She’s your mother and simply doing her job as such with concern for your best interest. Luckily for us all, I am.”

His attention had been focused on his mother’s back, and it was only as the words registered that he slowly turned back to the woman in his arms with a small - very small, one almost wouldn’t notice it if they didn’t know what to look for - smirk, and when he spoke the volume was low enough for only her to hear. “Such humility.” The amusement lasted only a moment before he pressed a kiss to her forehead, turning his once again narrowed gaze over towards his parents.

Cordelia shrugged her shoulders lightly. “ What can I say.”

He couldn’t see his mother’s face, but he could read her body language - arms crossed, defiant - whatever his father was saying she was not in complete agreement with, but as she shifted and sighed she apparently had to concede that he had some points. Ricard didn’t bother to turn away when the pair finally stopped their conversation to step further into the room, he didn’t bother hiding his irritation either.

“Well, are we done with the theatrics? Can we have an adult conversation now?”

Gerald sighed, resting a hand on Catherine’s lower back lightly. “Ricard…your mother is understandably upset that she wasn’t informed that you were courting someone earlier and that this was as much of a surprise as it was. Something I believe we both knew was going to be a point of contention before this evening. It is my understanding that she and Lady Gray have come to an understanding…is that correct, my lady?”

The pair stood side by side once again as she offered Gerald a simple nod, her features soft and kind once more. “Yes, it would seem we have. As I have mentioned in understanding, Lady Blythe is simply doing her job as a protective mother.” Her arm lifted to place a hand to Ricard’s chest as she held her attention on the opposite pair.

“And Catherine - regardless of your upset, surely you’ve an understanding that Ricard, as a grown man, has made his choice.”

“A choice that I am happy with, I will note. She makes me happy. Is that not what you have been pushing for years? That you wanted me to be happy? To settle down and have a family? Is this not the first step in all of that, mother?”

Catherine’s gaze shifted between the pair, lingering on her son for a long moment. She tilted her head ever so slight before offering a nod, “Well then…it seems, Lady Gray…Cordelia - that you and I will have quite a bit of time to get to know each other quite well. For better or worse.” Beside her, Gerald exhaled and visibly relaxed. “Welcome to the family, my dear…I do believe something a bit more festive than the usual arrangement of drinks is in order, don’t you, Gerald?”

“Hm? Yes..yes, just a moment.” A quick nod and he stepped out, his voice heard calling to one of the staff while Catherine’s gaze remained on the couple, still sharp - one could see the questions brewing.

“So…since this courtship was done in such secrecy and haste - should we expect the same of the ceremony and all that comes after?”

“Yes, we have plenty of time and thank you.” She replied promptly through a smile as she leaned into Ricard’s side, lowering her head to Catherine in respect. Glancing up to Ricard with a lofted brow, taking a breath before continuing. “Ricard and I relish the little privacy we do have, however things do not have to be entirely secret. We would prefer to keep things quaint, but we are open to some sort of ceremony all in all. As for everything else…” She conceded the continuation of thought to Ricard now with a grin.

There was a brief pause as he did a bit of a double take - realizing that the both of the women were now looking at him rather expectantly. Well that was terrifying. He slipped an arm around Cordelia’s waist before facing his mother’s gaze, “Everything else comes in time. Including children, mother. There is no mad dash to create an heir and I won’t have you pressing either of us for when it’s going to happen.”

“Well, you’re not getting any younger, dear. And I would note that it’s much easier to have a child - or multiple children if the two of you plan on having more than one, which I would recommend lest the one be a bit of a trouble maker…like someone we all know - and to raise them the younger you are.”

“What are we discussing?” Gerald walked in - a staff member trailing behind him, tray in hand holding four glasses and a bottle of champagne in the middle.

“Ricard was just insisting that I not press them on when to expect grandchildren, and I was gently informing him that his stamina would not last forever.”

“Catherine!” “Mother!”

“What? It won’t. Besides, I doubt they’ve been celibate, dear. I was just going to suggest they take advantage of it.”

Ricard sighed heavily, letting his head drop to Cordelia’s shoulder for a long moment. “...this is payback for not telling her…I know it is.”

“A very high possibility.” Cordelia retorted with a smirk, wagering on her response to the party when she finally made the decision to perhaps give Ricard a bit more embarrassment while also maybe offering Catherine the reassurance that grandchildren would arrive in time. “I highly doubt his stamina will run out anytime soon, I have very little concerns in that regard. However, marriage comes first, wouldn’t you agree? We would not want any sort of scandal to follow us into a new union of houses.”

“Don’t tempt her with a good time…” Ricard’s voice was muffled from his location on her shoulder, but it was loud enough where she alone could hear him.

She shifted her shoulder to nudge Ricard upright gently. “We don’t have to rush anything, but go at a normal pace as all others do. After our nuptials, we will plan accordingly to what follows. I should think that is a fair compromise on everyone’s part?”

It took a moment, but Ricard did eventually straighten up, turning once again to look at his mother. “You did, on multiple occasions, mention how tightly timed your wedding was to my birthday. And how I needed to be careful not to repeat your mistakes in that arena. Would it not be a wise decision that we be allowed to space things out a bit?”

He watched his father give a low hum and also turn his gaze towards his mother with a small shrug before beginning to hand out the glasses off the tray. “...He has a point, Catherine.”

Her eyes narrowed as she took the offered glass from her husband, “Convenient that now he wants to follow our advice…but fine, I will acknowledge that it would be best to wait a bit, that does not mean years Ricard.”

“No one said years, mother. Just a bit.” He physically relaxed, offering a small nod towards his father before turning his attention to Cordelia with a small smile - glass in hand.

Cordelia had taken her drink delicately, smiling softly to Gerald as he made his rounds. She found him pleasant, so far, at least. She waited to take a sip from the contents, in the event that a toast was to be made, despite very much so wishing to down the liquid. “Not years.” She reiterated in agreement, still the idea of children gave her a slight shiver. “We will see to the necessary preparations for such following the ceremony, allowing ample time between our marriage and conceiving for us to enjoy a moment for simply us. Get all of our affairs in order to ensure all is settled for when children are at play.”

An amused hum left Catherine as Gerald found his way back to her side. “One may argue, dear, that the two of you have had plenty of time for simply you. But I won’t belabor the point.” She slipped her arm around her husband’s waist, lifting her glass, her gaze meeting Cordelia’s across the room. “To the happy couple - may your union be long and prosperous.” She didn’t bother hiding her smirk - it was clear where Ricard got it from, “And your time in bed, never boring.”

“Catherine!” “MOTHER!”

Cordelia seemed unbothered by the toast, raising her glass gladly in agreement. “I will certainly toast to that.” She said lowly, leaning closer to Ricard to speak even lower. “Not that the wishes are necessary.” Clearing her throat she stood straight, lowing her glass to take a small sip from the contents, savoring the drink a she ran her tongue over her lips. “Truly, I am pleased we were all able to come to a pleasant understanding. Ricard truly wished for the evening to go well and he has put forth the effort to ensure all is handled smoothly. Sincerely, Lady Blythe, you have done a splendid feat with him.”

Another hum, this one as she took a sip of her drink. “It would have gone significantly smoother had he informed me of his intentions prior to this evening.” Her eyes narrowed in the direction of her son momentarily. “And we do what we can with what we have. We’re here, the information has been shared and we will make the best of it. I appreciate the compliment in the spirit it was shared in, dear. Though sometimes I do wonder if there were some lessons I may have needed to teach him a bit more thoroughly.”

“You taught me just fine, mother. I’m just a bit hard headed is all. We are here, you do know now….Can we enjoy the rest of the evening. You’ve my entire life to give me grief for not telling you sooner.”

“And I will.”

“I know you will.”

“So long as we’re on the same page.” She motioned towards the couches and chairs. “Why don’t we all go sit…I think we’ve been standing around posturing long enough…don’t you?”

As his parents turned to go make themselves comfortable, Ricard sighed, finally relaxing a bit before dipping his head down - at this point not giving a damn about the audience in the room - and capturing Cordelia’s lips with his. The kiss was far from chaste, and went on a bit longer than it should have with company present…and he didn’t care, giving a small smile when he finally pulled away. “...for not killing my mother…and a small indication of what happens as soon as we get back to the estate.”

Cordelia had begun to move with the others before Ricard caused her to pause, pleasantly surprised by the unexpected kiss. Even before now, she wouldn’t have cared if they were in the company of others as she leaned into the gesture, pressing her body closer to his. “Please, Ricard, were you truly concerned that I was going to harm your mother?” Her tone edged of the side of teasing, a smirk settling on her features. “Come, we’ve a reason to celebrate and must get through dinner before we can do so.”

“I know just how well she can find and press buttons - but you’re right.” He turned, with a lazy grin, new goal in mind as he gently tugged her against his side. He had one before, of informing his mother of their engagement and everyone getting through the evening unscathed - and now, with one objective complete his goal had shifted. “Let us be about it then.”

Collaborative Writing with @promethea-silk

#« careless whispers on porcelain »#/ eros in black and white #the perceptive smartass #ffxiv edition #collaborative writing #momma blythe strikes again

5 notes · View notes

mrs-barnes-rogers-writes · 2 years ago

Text

A Second Chance Is A Better Chance - Christmas As A Roamer - The Sixth Christmas

Pairing: Alpha Steve Rogers x Omega Witch Reader, eventual ? x Omega Witch Reader and Alpha Steve Rogers X Omega Witch Reader

Summary: Rejected by your true mate at 21, you’ve given up on the Fates and the Moon Goddesses giving you a second chance. Being a Roamer for the last 9 years, you’re an Omega hardened by the world. You’re safe on your own because of your witchcraft, but it doesn’t stop Alphas and plenty of others sniffing around, especially when you’re an unmated Omega witch, who’s wolf also happens to be white, the rarest kind. You don’t need anyone, but why do you keep coming back to Brookville and why do you keep walking into trouble and helping people that you don’t know but for some strange reason feel like family. And where is that smell of apple pie coming from?

Warnings: A/B/O, eventual smut, violence in parts, witchcraft, shapeshifters, talk of assault and torture

Fiona was right. Things got worse before they got any better.

Hydra had fallen or were on the fall at least. A bunch of the key players and Agatha had been caught a couple of hundred miles from the Fiona and Cordelia’s. Blocked in by S.H.I.E.LD there had been a bloody fight and it had taken five S.H.I.E.L.D witches to take down Agatha and a special task force to take down the Hydra rogues.

It had come to light that corruption was rife and powerful families and packs with archaic views had funded Hydra to power. Everyone and anyone with money was scowled at and suspected by those of you that didn’t have much.

It turned out that billionaire and former playboy, Tony Stark, hadn’t just been taken by terrorists in the Middle East. They were Hydra funded. Shareholders with Hydra connections had staged the arms selling trip to get rid of him after he’d started to question his own staff, deputies and shareholders.

At first, a ripple of relief had spread around the world as Hydra fell and Stark returned but the questions continued and trials started. Stark had somehow escaped with the help of a Special Ops Commando that was still missing in action. He’d brought a bunch of data with him, extracting it with the tools Hydra had tortured him into using for their own gain. It exposed CEOs, politicians and even a few European royals and everyone connected to them. Stark had been locked away with his mate since.

Then there were rumours of a military unit going rogue. It had been quickly dropped from media outlets and downplayed but there were whispers among the witches forums that the Special Ops unit were now looking for their missing and releasing hostages and missing witches as they tore through the world.

As a result Cordelia’s mate had returned, battered and bruised but home at least. A photo sent to your phone of him holding their son confirmed the rumours.

You smiled as you’d shuffled down further in the back seat of your ageing car. The blankets pilled on you your only form of warmth. Hydra might have been falling but getting supplies, fuel and a place to stay was still hard. So was getting a regular job. You’d taken to doing card readings here and there, which certainly wasn’t your specialty but it got you food and the odd room for the night. It wasn’t easy though, as everyone’s future showed a cloudiness to it.

You reached your finger tips out to check your phone again to find it dead. You couldn’t even face turning on the engine to charge it or to mess with your powers to get it to work. The messages would be few and far between. Most of those still checking on you now used to your growing stubbornness, only asking once if you want to join them for Christmas or an overnight break from dusty motels and the backseat of your car.

It’d be Christmas on your own this year. A cold Christmas. A Christmas in a random town, car hidden away round the back of a deserted shopping mall. A spell to protect you and a shot of Fiona’s latest tipple to keep you a little warmer.

This was the worst it had been since you’d become a roamer and as the realisation hit you of how very alone you were, you wondered how much worse it would get.

Last year you thought things were hard, delivering babies as explosions sounded in the distance, as the war with Hydra raged, but at least you weren’t alone.

But you were a roamer and alone was the path you’d chosen. You roughly wiped away the stray tear as it fell down your face, summoning the bottle from Fiona and taking another swig before burrowing yourself back under your blankets. You strengthened the spell as you picked up the scent of a roaming alpha nearby.

Everything was OK, right? You’d be fine. Everything was fine. Right?

Meanwhile somewhere in the Middle East.........

Bucky was not going to die. He couldn’t die. He had to get home. He needed to make sure his sisters were OK, that his Mom and Dad had been able to keep them safe. That Stevie had got himself killed or burnt half the world down trying to find him. He needed to tell Sam what had happened to Riley.

He couldn’t die. He needed to get the fuck out of this cave. He pulled at his arm again to try and release it from the clamp the enemy had placed it in. They hadn’t bothered with the other arm, seeing the broken wrist and fingers as a reason not to. They would soon learn that would be a mistake. Bucky had already picked out which of the enemy he’d take down first. The one so keen on water boarding him was such a fan of torturing him he’d started to leave his left side exposed and with it his knife. He’d be the first to die Bucky decided.

But he had two shifts to wait until that piece of shit reappeared. He just needed to wait until then and fight off what he thought was sepsis crawling up his arm.

He pulled his arm harshly again, his eyes fluttering shut as his consciousness slipped. A fever dream led him to a bed, his lips on another as they straddled him, white hair tickling his face, a sheet pulled over their heads. The kiss became more heated before the body slipped down his, leaving a trail of kisses.

“Luna” he gasped.

Bucky jolted himself awake, sighing heavily when he realised he was still in the cave.

A wave of amusement came over him as he heard a familiar set of footsteps headed in his direction. The scent confirmed it.

He was getting out of here. Whether he had to chop off his own arm and kill a few of the enemy, he was getting out.

He needed to find Steve. He needed to find the white haired omega that haunted his fever dreams, his luna, his mate.

He smirked at the enemy agent as he entered, a bucket of water in hand. He was getting out and this fucker had no idea who was dealing with.

#the avengers #avengers au #steve rogers #steve rogers x reader #alpha steve rogers #alpha steve rogers x reader #alpha steve rogers x omega reader #alpha steve rogers x omega #bucky barnes #avengers fanfiction #christmas in july

59 notes · View notes

zwy01 · 2 years ago

Text

Noble OC! Raskreia’s mom doodles!!!

Finally got to do Raskreia’s other parent lol. Very excited to introduce her! She’s alive in the present day in my Millennium AU (check out my pinned post for more info) and while she doesn’t really have an active role in the foreground, she is quite influential and does move things around in the shadows.

Her outfit is lined with black feathers, which gives her the image of a mysterious raven.

Desdemona Kravei: often addressed as Lady Desdemona, Mona, Moni (by friends) or simply just Desdemona. Never addressed with her surname. She’s Raskreia’s mother, and the Previous Lord’s childhood friend. She and PL were not romantically involved; she offered her soul fragment to PL when he needed an heir, and they co-parented Raskreia as friends. She’s part Kravei, part Agvain, and part other clans. Her exact heritage is a mystery but she’s Roctis Kravei’s not-too-distant relative and their blood relation is close enough for the Kravei soul weapon Lantheart to go to her after he and Ignes died, though she constantly rejected it and Lukedonia had no choice but to create Cordelia as the next pure blooded Kravei heir and Clan Leader. Desdemona is an extremely beautiful woman with a calming and sometimes creepy aura. Her appearance mostly suggests that she is a Kravei, though her signature long black hair glitters a gorgeous dark red hue in the sun, which is a very prominent Agvain trait. She passes this trait (which skips her daughter Raskreia) onto her grandson Reiner, who looks a lot like her.

Desdemona is quite unusual for a noble, for many reasons. First of all, she rejects everything that could possibly be tied to her identity, which includes her surname Kravei. It’s not that she dislikes the Kravei clan members or anyone in particular. There are no personal grudges or complicated issues. It’s more that she just feels like she doesn’t want to belong to them, or any of the nobles clans, for that matter. Her heritage is there and obvious when people look at her, but she hates it when she gets associated with them. She wants to be alone, by herself, without any particular identity. Desdemona’s simply… herself. Literally. That’s all she needs. The second reason is that she doesn’t care about Lukedonia at all. Her clan members, fellow nobles in general, whatever drama’s going on… nope, she’s having none of that. She simply doesn’t care nor does she have the patience for any of it. So abandoning her surname is “her way” of saying that she has separated herself from the rest of Lukedonian society. It was a clear message for all the other nobles to back off and not bother her, no matter what their latest affairs were. Even in urgency she wouldn’t act. Sure, you could go to her and ask for objective advice, as she is great at giving them and doesn’t mind the act of talking. But don’t expect her to get up and actually do anything to help. Lukedonia could prosper, and she’d still prefer to live in the shadows. Lukedonia could burn down and perish, fine then; she’d die alongside them with no resistance. If that is to become her fate then bring it on. So be it. This mindset is essentially her philosophy of life. This leads to a lot nobles thinking Desdemona doesn’t care about them. Which is pretty much true, because she doesn’t exactly feel much kinship with her own kind, if at all. Even she herself feels foreign in her own skin sometimes. Her identity as a noble is one she doesn’t exactly want go along with, and she isn’t too keen on being referred to as one either. If you reminded her that she in fact is a noble too, she would simply answer “…yes, perhaps that is what I was born as, nothing more. Did you seriously expect another answer?” In a way, you could say that she has separated herself from most of Lukedonia, aside from the several specific individuals whom she genuinely cares about. Desdemona would’ve abandoned her first name too, but then she realized people would have a very hard time referring to her at all, so she begrudgingly decided to keep it in the end. Desdemona staying completely neutral and uninvolved in any of Lukedonia’s affairs means that she is, unintentionally, a very powerful balancing force in the background. She was never out there in the open screaming “I don’t care about any of you”. Rather, she remains silent and stays loyal to the shadows, essentially creating a barrier between herself and the rest of her world. One could go to her and tell her blablabla is going on with blablabla clan, she’d nod and then forget about it. One could even tell her about their plans to betray Lukedonia and slaughter a good portion of their own population, cool. She doesn’t care. She is known as the wise to her people, as she would give advice to just about anyone. Want to do good? She’ll give you a wonderful way to do that. Want to commit genocide? Here’s the most efficient way to do it without getting your hands dirty. It goes in both extreme ways.

She isn’t good, nor is she evil. Desdemona, to her very core, is impartial. She knows things, and will let you on her knowledge too if you ask. But just because it’s an answer doesn’t mean it has to align with any morals, it is what it is, an answer. That was her way of thinking, which was mesmerizing and fearsome at the same time. In the shadows she has the power to move things around, as a single piece of advice had the potential to inspire people to do either extreme good or extreme evil. For this reason, even though PL was her friend, he was wary of her as he knows what she’s truly like. Desdemona preferring to stay in the background doesn’t mean that she rejects people completely. Specifically, aside from guests and/or advice seekers, she does in fact have a social life and friends whom she cares about, as they are individuals that matter to her. But Lukedonian society and general politics as a whole? Nope. Unless it’s a very very close friend, if she passed by an injured or dying person, she wouldn’t extend a helping hand nor would she kill them out of mercy; she would simply keep walking on her path. This extends to herself. If she is ever in danger, she will not expect any help to come, and let fate decide it for her. In other words, she is only truly terrifying because she is so fair to everything in the world.

Personality wise, she is generally pretty aloof and distances herself from the average noble, though she can be both physically and verbally affectionate with people she’s close with. If she makes the conscious effort, of course, because this doesn’t come naturally to her. Which extends to several individuals, and they are extremely flattered to receive this “special treatment” from none other than the Desdemona. But even her relationship with her loved ones are a bit special. If she cared about them, they’d definitely know. But say they need to do something to save the world, and want her to accompany them and fight together so the chance of success is higher and risk of failing/dying is lower? Sorry, she won’t come with you, that’s on you and you alone. Not any of her business, even if she does care about you. Of course she’d want you to be safe, but if you died, then… too bad. Hopefully you didn’t go painfully. That’s where Desdemona draws the line, and her friends and loved ones are aware of it. There are almost no exceptions, and they know to expect that from her. She isn’t purposely trying to unhelpful, that’s just how her logic works. In terms of fighting capabilities, she is quite skilled and powerful. She still won’t help, though. Which is exactly why she does absolutely nothing during the Invasion of Lukedonia arc, leaving her own daughter Raskreia and her Clan Leaders to fend for themselves.

Desdemona has two distinct hobbies. She lives alone in her own place, a massive estate all to herself. Occasionally she’d get visitors who come for advice, or she’d bring her daughter Raskreia back home when it’s her turn to watch her, but other than that, she has no one else living with her. One of the things that she does is record history with giant stained glass panels. Times of war, times of peace, the rise and fall of noble factions… anything really. She isn’t deliberately trying to be artistic, but she is very talented. Looking at her stained glass panels filled with story and the wonders of the world would get people emotional and they’d start crying. Her home is generally very dark, with no light at all other than sunlight or moonlight that shines through her glass panels at specific times of the day. For this reason, Raskreia didn’t like staying with her mother/soul fragment donor because to her it was suffocating and gloomy. Desdemona on the other hand thinks her home is a safe place and the perfect cave for herself. Whenever kid Raskreia didn’t want to stay with her mother anymore and wanted to leave, Desdemona would just set her daughter free and have her run back to PL. I did my part and watched my daughter, now that she doesn’t want to be here, my job is done. That’s how she thinks. Desdemona’s other hobby is making ephemeral artwork, the kind of stuff that’s not supposed to last. She’d go on a walk and rearrange fallen leaves, pebbles, etc. It brings her a feeling of contentment. Most of the time her works go unseen and eventually destroyed with the natural passing of time but every now and then, someone would come across her “artwork” and go “Ah, Mona was here”. In a way, this is a parallel to her philosophy of life. She takes and uses what’s there, and if it shall perish and be forgotten forever, then so be it. It is beautiful to some, and haunting to others. Desdemona doesn’t care about what anyone thinks though.

Moving onto her relationship with the other nobles. Only going to list the more relevant ones. For ones that are not mentioned, feel free to ask!

The Previous Lord: her childhood friend, obviously. Desdemona used to be even more indifferent towards her own kind prior to meeting PL (when they were both children) and in a way he changed her a LOT. For the better. Much better, actually. Desdemona’s parents had a very hard time with their daughter. She’d always ask things that made people question her morals, such as “why give sick people medicine? Why not let nature take its course and decide their fates for them?” and “unforeseen events are entirely the person’s own fault because they were not wise enough to predict it. Why spend your own resources to help them clean up their own mess?” And so on. She wasn’t trying to be cruel, that was just what made sense to her. On the other side, PL was a bright and optimistic child who was open to many things. Perhaps he was able to show Desdemona not necessarily an answer, but a different perspective to her clear-cut world view of everything. And he did succeed. Desdemona’s core was never influenced but she did change the way she acted, specifically that while she would still be indifferent towards most things, she’d just do so quietly without saying anything to people’s faces. And PL was the first person ever in this world to be affectionate with her (her own parents were too scared of her and avoided her at all costs) and she was able to experience something, which was the first ever fuzzy, warm feeling, right there in her chest. And for that Desdemona was extremely grateful. PL would also be physically affectionate with her, which she reciprocated. The truth is, she simply copied the act of hugging or hand holding but she essentially never does it intuitively. She just knew that people liked these kind of things, and not the why part. And it did feel nice to be cared for, so might as well do it too for someone she cares about. PL knew this and was more than flattered to know that she’s essentially saying saying he’s important to her. The two would grow up to be close despite the massive gap between their characters and such. PL was aware of Desdemona’s true nature, and she knows he knows. They’re both okay with it. In a way PL appreciated Desdemona’s straightforwardness, as she was as genuine as anyone could get, in a good and bad way, because her impartialness was both impressive and unsettling. And Desdemona appreciated PL for acknowledging her for who she was, and that he was the first person to show her kindness. People still got weirded out whenever they saw the two of them together because there’s the kind angelic one and then the cold creepy one. They themselves didn’t mind, though. Desdemona didn’t even hesitate when PL announced that he needed an heir. She volunteered her soul fragment immediately, much to everyone’s shock, because usually she never involves herself with any affairs. Surprise surprise, she actually cared enough for someone to cut her own lifespan shorter to give them her soul fragment. Maybe she wasn’t so indifferent after all.

Raskreia: Her daughter. While Raskreia was the result of Desdemona simply donating her own soul fragment to PL as a friend, and not a child born out of romantic love, Desdemona still viewed Raskreia as her daughter, and loved her like one, though it probably wasn’t obvious on the outside. Just as Desdemona constantly made the conscious effort (and not out of intuition) to be affectionate, little Raskreia could sense that her mother’s actions were unnatural. Forced, even. Perhaps that was what it felt like from a daughter’s perspective. The sudden pauses, and the stiffness in her mother’s movements. Perhaps Mother doesn’t want me here, she thinks. And it doesn’t help when Desdemona’s home is all dark and gloomy. Raskreia dreaded when it was her mother’s turn to watch her, because she’d bring her back home and it was nothing but scary to her. In general, her mother was just creepy. Little Raskreia wasn’t trying to be mean, her instincts were just telling her to avoid these things at all costs. So one time, Raskreia decided to tell her father PL that she didn’t want to be at mom’s anymore. To Raskreia’s horror, her mother was there and heard the whole thing. Desdemona’s only reaction was basically “Hmm, okay. I’ll peace out then.” And simply just. Left. Desdemona didn’t mind at all, actually.

Yes she loved Raskreia but she also understood that if her daughter didn’t want to be in her presence, then she shouldn’t force it because letting things fold out naturally is the way to be. That was the way she loved her daughter…to just let it be. Desdemona’s not against Raskreia returning to her voluntarily if she’s ready for it again or somehow wants to stay in contact, but she doesn’t mind if Raskreia never comes back. In her mind, she already did her part as PL’s friend and maybe she wasn’t needed anymore, and that’s fine too. She just never actually verbally told her daughter that she’s welcome at any time. Raskreia misunderstood it and took Desdemona leaving as a sign of her mother not wanting her as a daughter either, which is not true. This causes little Raskreia distress and their relationship changes permanently, and they never clear up the misunderstanding. Desdemona since then was out of the parenting picture and Raskreia was basically raised by PL. Prior to PL’s death, he asked if Desdemona wanted to stay behind to see the world after him, and with nothing better to do, she agreed. After adult Raskreia succeeds her father as Lord, Desdemona is still lurks in the shadows just like she has always done so. Raskreia usually still avoids her mother, but whenever even her advisor Gejutel couldn’t offer her a solution to things and she’s desperate for guidance, she reluctantly visits her mother. Then they would have a very formal exchange. Desdemona would salute her daughter and address her as Lord. Not my daughter, not Raskreia, just Lord. Which bothers Raskreia a lot because she wonders if this is her mother’s attempt to tell her she still doesn’t see her as a daughter, by refusing to call her by her name, which is not the case at all. In truth Desdemona really is just showing respect to her Lord as a citizen of Lukedonia, even if this Lord happens to be her own kid. It’s the standard procedure, and she is merely adhering to it. To Desdemona, Raskreia is her Lord before she is her daughter, therefore she acts accordingly. Nevertheless, Raskreia takes it personally, though she never shows it. Then Raskreia would ask for advice, and after she gets answers, she leaves. There is nothing more to their exchange. No more words. No questions of how are you doing, is everything alright, I’ve missed you, etc. None of that. Raskreia secretly hopes that there will be something more to their interaction, only to be disappointed each time. Sometimes she would even hope that her mother would scold her a bit, just tell her that her reign is ineffective, as it is. But her mother never says anything, just as silent as ever, only answering questions being asked of her. Nothing more. Desdemona in fact does believe that Raskreia’s reign is a shit one, but as usual she doesn’t care about Lukedonia’s drama so no reason for her to say so. The general silence from her mother just tortures Raskreia even more, but with her own sense of pride, it is hard for her to bring up any of this. If Mother doesn’t make an effort, then neither should I, she thinks. In general, their mother-daughter relationship is a really unconventional and strange one. They obviously care for each other, but the way it manifests just leads to misunderstanding and a lot of guessing, especially on Raskreia’s part. Their relationship remains the same way throughout the storyline of my Millennium AU. Cold and ever so distant. Nothing less, nothing more. P.s. To this day, Raskreia is bitter because she suspects that her mother definitely had something to do with Reiner suddenly leaving Lukedonia, because her son is not the type of person to come up with that by himself, and someone must have given him the idea. But there is no proof. Out of respect, she does not mind-read her mother, but she is definitely suspicious of her.

Reiner: Raskreia’s son, and her grandson. Now this is where things begin to get interesting. Desdemona was fairly uninvolved with parenting Raskreia (well, Raskreia thought her mother was creepy so) and the total amount of time they spent together all added up wasn’t much honestly. But with her only grandson Reiner? She was very much involved in his life, and at a very a young age too. You see, Raskreia was often busy as Lord and didn’t have much time for little Reiner. During the time they did interact, she was always very strict on him, treating him more like her heir and subject rather than her son, a child who needed affection and attention. And Reiner’s other parent Razark just… didn’t really do anything about Raskreia’s relationship with their son, because being the blindly loyal husband he was, he believed that whatever Raskreia’s doing, was the best, and he had no reason to change the way things are done. In a way by not intervening (like he really should have) he was practically enabling Raskreia’s not good way of raising their son. While Reiner does love both of his parents (in a mildly twisted and unhealthy way), he isn’t sure about whether he trusts them. But with his grandmother Desdemona, he both loves and fully trusts her. She’s actually the only person to whom he feels this way in the entirety of Lukedonia and the Millennium AU in general. Their initial grandmother-grandson meeting was a completely unintentional one. When Reiner was born, Desdemona had the news delivered to her by another noble so she was aware of the birth of her grandson. She didn’t make an active effort to meet him though, as whatever happened out there still wasn’t any of her business, even if it was the birth of a new family member, someone who shared her blood.

When Reiner was old enough to wander around on his own, whenever he got tired from his momlord’s suffocating strictness and his father’s blind loyalty and enablement, he would walk around Lukedonia’s territory by himself to get a breather. By chance, he happened to stumble upon Desdemona’s home. It was dark and empty, with the only light source being the light that shone through the beautiful stained glass panels. Normally people would find this to be eerie but to Reiner, it was strangely comforting. He would calmly sit in the darkness and observe the globs of colorful, dim light on the ground that moved around slowly as the angle of the sun changed. There was no company for him here, but at least there was no one to tell him he’s a disappointment either. Turns out, there was someone lurking in the dark. The owner of this place. The silhouette did not move though, as if it were trying to not disturb him. Reiner would then greet the figure in the shadows with a full introduction of himself and apologize for intruding their home. Curiously, the figure stepped forward and revealed itself as a mysterious woman. Reiner had never met her before, yet he felt a sense of familiarity to her. She first asked Reiner if he knew who she is, to which he answered no. She then asked him if he would like to know who she is. He answered yes. That was how Desdemona revealed to Reiner that she is his maternal grandmother. Reiner was just. Shocked because his parents never told him he had a living grandparent. But at the same time, he was happy. Because now he had a new family member, and family is what makes you stronger, just like what his Kertia father had always been telling him, right…? Then Reiner remembered that he should be home now, and hurried away. But not before cheerfully saying, “Goodbye, Grandma Mona!” to a now very intrigued Desdemona. He also promised to come back again. Desdemona didn’t take this seriously and thought Reiner was just saying that to be polite. Though she didn’t pay too much attention to him, she found that this “Reiner” kid kept appearing on her mind once in a while for some reason. Perhaps this was fate. To her surprise, he did come back, and very excited too, to talk to his new “Grandma”. The occasional back and forths became a regular thing, and fast forward to Reiner as an adult, they’re basically best friends. Grandma and grandson. Truth be told, Desdemona had never been so close with anyone in her entire life, until now. Not even PL, her childhood friend, and of course not her daughter Raskreia either. And neither was she this close with her ex-lover, and all of her other friends whom she spent time with back in the day. For the first time in her life, she felt the feeling of “I love this person and I am willing protect them with my life” which was very surprising to her. For the entirety of her existence there had never been a single exception to her philosophy of being completely uninvolved and impartial to the world, but it seemed like that has changed too. And that person is her precious grandson Reiner. Reiner loves her back. He would confide in her his woes, family issues with parents, feeling like a disappointment, being extremely burnt out from the pressure of maintaining himself as the perfect prince… etc. and she would feel sad for him. The neutral Desdemona is actually sad on someone else’s behalf. Reiner doesn’t even know that this type of reaction from her is the rarest sight ever. As time goes by and Reiner’s mental condition worsens, he asks his grandmother for advice. And…. Boom. That’s where everything started, where the idea was first put into his head. She suggests that he leaves Lukedonia. If this was the source of his pain, then leaving everything behind and going to somewhere else for a fresh start, is the best idea. Reiner brushes it off at first, not even thinking of it as an option, but it slowly becomes a reality for him. Maybe grandma is right.

You could say that the three of them are so eerily similar, with each of then so stubbornly loyal to their own beliefs and world view. That being Desdemona believing that everything should be left on its own to fate in a strong-eats-weak world, Raskreia believing she needs to reign with absolute control because stability is of upmost importance, and finally Reiner believing he needs fo free everyone in Lukedonia and make it a democracy where everyone has equal input in deciding how to live. Reiner’s final attempts to change Raskreia’s views fail, and feeling utterly exhausted and defeated, he decides to leave Lukedonia forever. But not before visiting grandmother one last time. They say their goodbyes, and Desdemona wishes him the best of luck. Strangely, she takes off her ring and gives it to Reiner, instructing him to wear it and never take it off. She doesn’t tell him why, but he could tell that she is serious. So he reassures her that he will, and that is the last they ever see of each other. What Reiner doesn’t know is that this ring has a special, single-use protection spell imbued with it. In the distant past, Desdemona had worked with one of her fellow nobles, a Clan Leader, to make this charm and only succeeded in making a single one after many, many years of trying. Desdemona correctly predicted that Raskreia would deem Reiner a traitor and go after him. The ring’s spell will protect Reiner from one single fatal blow as long as he’s still wearing it. To be precise, it will transfer the damage and fatal wound Reiner receives to Desdemona herself. Should Raskreia really land a fatal blow on Reiner, he will survive, and Desdemona will die. Desdemona on the other hand sees this as the last gift she can give to her grandson. She is willing to sacrifice herself for this child. While she hopes that this day will never come, she is fully prepared for it. She never told Reiner the truth behind this ring because then he would be heartbroken and not wear it. This is the only exception that Desdemona ever makes in her entire life, to go all out to save someone. And to her, it’s worth her everything. Grandmother and grandson both miss each other very badly, and they both know they will likely never see each other again. A beautiful yet tragic relationship.

Leona: her ex-girlfriend. Desdemona and Leona were on-and-off lovers, before Leona left for her mission. Leona adored her Moni for her weirdness and her very unique, clear-cut world view, and Desdemona appreciated her Leonie for her dazzling energy and ability to consistently switch between being super unhinged to being in total control. Their energy levels were completely different, with Leona being the very active and energetic one while Desdemona was the quieter and more passive one. The bright sun and the dark shadows. But they worked out somehow, and even though they weren’t together all the time, it was a time of happiness. Before Leona departed for her mission, she formally broke up with Desdemona. Even though Leona didn’t give any details, Desdemona knew that this was a serious thing. So she expressed her understanding, Leona thanked her, and they part from each other on good terms. Leona is one of the few people that Desdemona cares about. She is part of her inner circle. (apparently Leona’s type is tired people lmaoo)

Zephyrus: her old friend. And the secret person whom she worked with to create that magic ring she eventually gives to grandson Reiner, prior to his departure from Lukedonia. The Volo soul weapon’s ultimate skill is transferring a fatal blow from one ally to another, and after many years research, the two of them were able to replicate this skill onto a one-time artifact. This was long before Zephyrus and Leona departed for their mission. Desdemona’s instincts told her that she needed to do this, to make an artifact with this exact protection spell. And she was right, as she eventually gave it to Reiner. To this day Zephyrus honors his promise of keeping this ring a secret between the two of them, and not even his family knows about it. Zephyrus is one of the few people that Desdemona cares about. He is part of her inner circle.

Roctis: didn’t care about him. He was her relative, but that doesn’t change anything because she abandoned the Kravei surname long ago, so to her he was just like any other noble. As kids they did bump into each other more often than members of other clans. She never made an effort to get to know him, though.

Lagus: didn’t care about him. He was a frequent visitor who asked for her advice, before he betrayed Lukedonia. She actually put a lot of ideas into his head, as she would always answer honestly when asked for advice, even if the nature of the question is intended for evil. Lagus actually told her about him planning to take over Lukedonia one day, because he knew that she didn’t care and wouldn’t tell anyone else either. She just nodded and told him to do what he wanted, and if he succeeds, then that is because he is stronger than them and so be it. Lagus had planned to make her his advisor once he takes over Lukedonia, but that never happens because he died so.

Urokai: didn’t care about him. He was her relative because she’s also part Agvain. She never paid any attention to him but for some reason he was very, very scared of her. He believed that if he stared into her eyes, she would suck his soul out. Gave him quite the chills.

Zarga: didn’t care about him. Just like Lagus, sometimes he visited her for advice. She was the one who suggested that he should follow Urokai, when he asked what he should do about Urokai wanting to leave Lukedonia.

Luzia: Claudia’s daughter and the heir to Tradio. Desdemona is the only person in the entire Millennium AU to know about Luzia’s special secret underground lab, where all kinds of creepy illegal experiments are being done. Because Luzia willingly tells her about it, asking for advice on what kind of shady experiments to run, forbidden material to collect, etc. Luzia somehow just knows that Desdemona won’t share this with others, because the latter literally doesn’t care about what anyone does. This is the same correct prediction that Lagus made back then, when he consulted with Desdemona about his plans to take over Lukedonia. Same mindset. In a way, Luzia truly is Lagus’ granddaughter. And Desdemona is a surprisingly knowledgeable on shady topics. From there you can assume what their conversations are like.

Azurine: Zephyrus’ daughter and the heir to Volo. Same deal with Luzia, except Azurine comes to Desdemona with the intention to gain knowledge to help the world. As usual, Desdemona doesn’t care about whether you’re doing good or evil. Anyways, Azurine is here to ask questions like what poisons she should take next for her antidote research, how to increase her own poison tolerance etc. etc. Stuff for the good for of the people. Desdemona gives great advice on that too, which Azurine appreciates, but the latter just can’t help but wonder how the former even knows so much about things that are supposed to be the Volo’s specialty. What Azurine doesn’t know is the fact that in the past Desdemona had worked together with none other than her very own father and Clan Leader. To make a magic ring, or something. To this day Zephyrus honors the promise between himself and Desdemona, to keep it a secret between the two of them. Not a word to anyone, not even his own daughter Azurine. Azurine, and the rest of Lukedonia, would continue to be oblivious to this piece of knowledge.

Cordelia: the current Kravei Clan Leader, and the youngest of the fifteen nextgen nobles. Desdemona is very fond of this girl, to everyone’s surprise. The eccentric, aloof Desdemona who doesn’t even show much concern for her own daughter Raskreia, is being extra nice to this little Kravei girl. Perhaps it’s because Cordelia’s a fellow Kravei, but Desdemona abandoned her own surname a long time ago. Perhaps it’s because Cordelia looks like her grandson Reiner, but Desdemona isn’t the type of person to favor a someone just because they look like a familiar. No one knows exactly why. You could even say that Desdemona dotes on Cordelia. Cordelia is a bit confused but she appreciates this weird Lady who is seemingly even willing to take care of her. Cordelia is part of Desdemona’s inner circle. Though this affection indirectly puts Cordelia under immense pressure because the last time Desdemona was ever this nice to someone was when she was with Reiner, and Reiner ended up leaving Lukedonia. This leads to Raskreia (no so discreetly) keeping Cordelia under extra surveillance, because in her misunderstanding she suspects that Cordelia is up to no good either, because that woman is fond of her. Poor Cordelia.

…and that concludes relationships for now!! Yayy!! Maybe I’ll do the other characters in the future.

And in general a few quotes from Lady Desdemona, the great and terrifying:

1. “…Who am I, you ask? Good question. I don’t know either. Perhaps you can tell me.”

2. “Good and evil… the classic duality of nature. They are merely words people use to label and justify their actions. Such a concept simply does not exist to me. Do not associate me with such shallowness.”

3. (to PL) “A hug… that’s what you call this, correct? When I put my arms around someone’s body? I’m still learning it. How long do I leave them there? When do I pull them away?”

4. (to Raskreia) “That is correct. ‘Mother’ is the word people would use to objectively describe me, in relation to you. There is no need for you to address me as such, if you do not wish to.”

5. (to Reiner) “Go. Go now. Fly away from this place, and be free. Do not force yourself to linger here, where the only ending that awaits you is misery and madness. Leave before your soul withers here, where no hope is found. Or, you could stay here, if that is what you wish. Then I will be right by your side, and we shall witness the end of this world together. …Do not fret, child. There is no need to worry about me, or any of the others. The only person you can betray is yourself. Follow your heart. Set yourself free from this prison, or stay in it. The choice is yours…my little one.”

6. (to Leona) “Leonie, dearie, please come down. We can dance together somewhere else. Just please refrain from jumping around on my unfinished piece of stained glass. Hey! I can see a crack already!”

7. (to Zephyrus) “Thank you. Thank you accepting my unreasonable request in the first place. We really did it. You’re the only person I could trust for this. I will keep this ring safe with me. I have a bad feeling that I will need this one day.”

Aaaand that’s it for now!! I’m so excited to draw her again lol. Thank you for reading and see you next time!

#noblesse #manhwa #myart #oc #original character #millennium au #desdemona kravei

23 notes · View notes

mrktimes · 9 months ago

Text

YOUR WEEK IN MERROCK OCTOBER 20-26, 2024

We're kickin' off Hallo-Week later this week, so what better time for scarily chilly night time temperatures?! Alright, it's not that bad. But it will be a little chilly this week, and you should be starting to see more and more leaves drop off (the color is beautiful, though). Enjoy bingo night and a football game, and don't forget pumpkin day, but mostly, get psyched for Halloween fun! Check in with the Benefactor tomorrow to help out.

FORECAST:

Sunday: 65°F / 44°F - mostly sunny

Monday: 70°F / 48°F - sunny

Tuesday: 62°F / 50°F - sunny

Wednesday: 63°F / 51°F - partly cloudy

Thursday: 60°F / 39°F - partly cloudy

Friday: 55°F / 38°F - mostly sunny

Saturday: 56°F / 40°F - mostly sunny

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK:

October 22 -- Ryder Anderson

ON THE BULLETIN BOARD:

October 20 -- last day of Cage & Cordelia's Wedding

October 24 -- bingo night

October 25 -- home football game

October 25 - November 3 -- Hallo-Week

October 26 -- national pumpkin day

LOCATION SPOTLIGHT:

LAVENDER LANE -- we've put a spotlight on Lavender Lane many times, but with national pumpkin day coming up, and Halloween quite literally right around the corner, it's a good time to remind everyone to go out and buy some pumpkins, pick up some mums, and get any other fall flowers you might need!

THE FUN SPOT:

What do you look forward to most about Halloween?

#mrktimes #mrkweekly

3 notes · View notes

jvstheworld · 2 years ago

Text

The Buffy Re-watch: S2E6 (part 1)

Halloween

I have never gone pumpkin picking. Halloween isn't a big thing for me, not even as a kid.

Vampire videoing Buffy, should have checked your batteries before you left home.

Buffy is resourceful.

Other vampire just slinking off into the night before he can get caught.

Angel on a date. He is trying.

So Cordy is back dating Devon now?

Cordy and Angel do get on, and get better later when the spin-off happens.

Awww, Angel looks like a sad puppy when Buffy leaves.

Halloween is a no go for vampires? That doesn't ring true for every Halloween episode.

Larry is an asshole. His behaviour is him trying to overcompensate for the fact the he is closeted gay guy trying to avoid suspicion from the other people around him. It's the 90s, and let's face it, it wasn't great to be gay in high school. After he comes out he is a lot nicer to people because he doesn't have to keep up the pretence that he is some macho, woman loving dude. It's called character growth and I am here for it.

Xander, there is nothing good about getting beaten up. If your ego is so fragile that you won't let your friend, who is a girl, help you then that's a you problem and you need to fix it. Also, Larry was talking trash about Buffy, she definitely gets to bust in and scare him off.

'She's not his type.' Yeah, Cordelia is so not Angel's type, right now. But put them in a new show, give Angel a personality and Cordelia some character development where she dedicates her life to helping others, and in a few years she will be.

'It would be wrong' let's steal from Giles anyway. Also, how many times does this phrase get repeated by Buffy throughout the show?

Cross referencing is not a hobby, Giles.

Buffy panicking to distract Giles, so she has to resort to telling him that Jenny called him a babe. She probably didn't in front of students. Then you have Willow shaking her head in slight disappointment that Buffy had to do that. I love it though. At least Giles buys it and made him happy.

Cordy really has no idea Angel is a vampire. When does she actually believe them?

Yes, the point of Halloween is the free candy.

Ethan seems so charming. Makes for a good bad guy, yet he only appears in 4 episodes: this one, 'The Dark Age' in two episodes time, 'Band Candy' in season 3, and 'A New Man' in season 4.

Spike being smart by analysing how Buffy fights so he can be better prepared for later. He likes her too. This is just amping up his obsession over her.

Part 2 tomorrow.

#buffy the vampire slayer #buffy summers #rupert giles #willow rosenberg #xander harris #angel #btvs s2 #cordelia chase #buffy rewatch #tv show thoughts

7 notes · View notes

thatsonemorbidcorvid · 2 years ago

Note

Hi, I was wanting to ask a question if thats okay.

I’ve recently been doing a lot of reading on radical feminism, and I agree with almost all the points, however I have self id as nonbinary for six/seven years now and I do agree with the radfem perspective on gender abolition, but I feel it’s difficult to strip myself of such a long term identity if you can understand that. I also disagree with a lot of the hate towards people who identify as transgender and i’m just overall confused about where my beliefs lie.

So a few questions:

1. Is is it possible my enby ‘identity’ is because of internalised misogyny? My dysphoria has never been extreme, just they/them pronouns have always felt right to me.

2. Is there any good masterlists/books/resources that i can use to learn more about radfem ideology?

3. How do I myself get more involved with feminism irl and make more of a difference?

Hi anon - it’s absolutely ok! These are really great questions and I appreciate being asked them, thank you. I’m going to answer them out of order because I think that will be easier to read.

Regarding question 2: check out @radicallyaligned ‘s pinned post for a simple overview, and @woman-for-women ‘s pinned post for more in-depth resources. The three books I personally recommend, in terms of those I’ve read which stayed with me and informed my feminist views most, are Invisible Women by Caroline Criado-Perez, Delusions of Gender by Cordelia Fine, and Letters From A Warzone by Andrea Dworkin.

3: I’d argue there are three main paths for this. The first is to find an organisation with feminist motivations that works in aid of women, and try volunteering with them. That might look like womaning a phone line, making funding applications, transporting period supplies, or something else entirely. If the organisation is overtly feminist you might find yourself writing letters or creating petitions for feminist causes. Choose an organisation doing something that is important to you.

The second is to find other feminists and create organic connections with them, then move towards your own action collectively. That might look like organising education or consciousness raising sessions for other women, creating a feminist event like a documentary film night, attending protests or vigils, or some other project.

The third is to bring feminism more to the fore of your own life. As you research more, let your knowledge of women’s ideas and feminist theory inform your decisions, and share what you learn and your opinions on it with other people.

1: I don’t have a window into your mind, so I can’t answer this - only you can. If it’s helpful, some questions you might consider asking yourself are: what associations do you have with the word “she”, and how do they differ from the word “they”? How do you feel when you call yourself “she”, or someone else calls you “she”? What difference has it made to your life, your actions, and the way others have treated you, that you have identified as non-binary and called yourself “they”? What does “identifying as nonbinary” actually mean to you, and what advice would you give someone who was considering that identity, or someone in the same position as you?

Obviously you don’t need to share your answers to these with me (though I’d be very interested if you decided to), but they might help you work through your thoughts on the topic.

I hope all this is helpful! Thanks again for the interesting question and feel free to keep in touch or ask something else.

10 notes · View notes

ljviolet · 2 years ago

Note

2, 6, 9, and 10 for therion!!! (I hope I did this right)

OTP: Alfyn/Therion

I know. I know basic. They just hit !! Every travel banter they have together I’m giggling, kicking my feet, twirling my hair.

Also, it’s been said before and will be said again as trust issues vs trust too much, and how they balance

Chefs kiss

The way they care AHHHASVBHf;uiabegfdvhucj aferuwdjpsVCbh8pg9urjsdnuxj

(It also doesn’t help that they’re the most popular on AO3 so they have the most content)

BROTP: Therion and Primrose

Another pick that is a pretty lukewarm take. They’re besties

They are the most sassiest sardonic pessimistic bitches

They need each other in this group. Or they’ll be overwhelmed by all these sunshiney bitches

They’re the type of besties to check their nails while verbally destroying a bitch.

MLM/WLW s

Favorite Dynamic (s) (Not Necessarily the same as OTP or BROTP)

Besides the alfion and primrose dynamics I do like the general dynamic of the “PATH” travelers. They’re the disastrous double-date to the chaotic family road trip of the “OCTO” travelers.

Tressa and Therion are really funny to think about. They bicker, a lot. The natural rivalry of merchant/thief.

*to Heathcoat* “You can’t tell me what to do your not Olberic….AND OLBERIC’S NOT MY DAD”

My LGBTQ+ HCS:

uh that boy is

1) gay

2) trans (he/they)

(but we already knew that)

Random HC

Not to be a Debby-downer, but I do believe that he (like Phili) is a war orphan. I think that his parents died, and that's why he had to learn how to fend for himself so quickly.

General Opinion (I love all the main 8 dearly, but I will answer asks about side characters if prompted)

I love you bebee!

I love his arc.

Even though I knew it was coming I did gasp when Darius pushed him off the cliff.

I feel like he is one of the characters who would benefit from the concept of the travelers interacting with one another and discussing that outside of travel banter, as much as I like the Cordelia-Heathcoat trust, I don’t think that was enough for him to suddenly have faith in people again. I think the unwavering found family he hypothetically gained.

I get why he’s the most popular character in the fandom. He is a tragic edgy boy. The rough exterior soft interior somehow never gets old

–

Number asks!!!:

More people than he’d ever fucking expect y’know.

He is the type to care from a distance, but how he shows he cares is really meaningful.

Of course Cordelia and Heathcoat depended on him, and I think even after he returned the dragon stones, they stayed in contact and asked each other for aid time and again.

I think in a group of a lot of yes-men (Alfyn, Ophilia, Tressa, Cyrus) it’s really helpful (while not always appreciated) to have a loud and stubborn “No man”. (Trust issues suck but they do come in hand)

Also in The Travelers, I think everyone depends on everyone. No one is not doing their part in the group project y’know.

He had his purple scarf before Darius, which means it’s something he’s had for a long time. Possibly a remnant of their parents, or maybe the first thing besides food that they stole for himself.

They don’t. Therion is the type to feel emotions and then immediately repress them. He is a trainwreck of trauma repression, and I think it takes him a long time to feel comfortable expressing himself again, even after traveling with the octogang for a long time. He’s the type to have a bad day and punch a tree. I think once he gets some healthier coping mechanisms in him they’ll open up little by little, especially to Alfyn and Primrose.

10:

With one eye open. He is on guard. You know how people say that for some animals sleeping openly is a sign of trust. It’s the same for him. He stays on watch until he’s certain no one is up to stab him and run. When he does sleep, it’s rough. A single noise can wake him, and he has constant flashes of Darius, the cliff incident, and other people who’ve probably treated him horribly. It’s not a fun time until let’s say it together now “he gets healthier coping mechanisms”.

When he does gain a healthier sleep schedule, he sleeps more peacefully but is still a light sleeper and an early riser.

He also goes to bed later because anyone can tell you it’s easier to steal in the dark.

#thanks for the ask!!#this was so fun!!#thanks for reblogging to Bean #let's resurrect this fandom together #:)#therion octopath #also you did it perfectly right.#Thanks thanks thanks

5 notes · View notes

gladsforthelads · 13 days ago

Text

CORDELIA'S THOUGHTS ON MELORA

How did we meet?

“I met the little phone addict at work.”

How long have we been friends?

“Only a few weeks, she’s fighting the course of friendship and giving me a hard time! I already know her favorite color is sour apple green, so she just needs to let me love her!” Pouts aggressively in the corner.

How well do you think you know her?

“The little phone addict is pretty good at remaining elusive, but her little friends have told me enough to know becoming her friend is going to be a challenge – but one I will take on.”

Do you think she’s a good friend?

“Pretty complicated, TBH. She almost purposely makes herself unfriendly, gets jealous when others try to talk to her actual friends, and she gets very upset if you bad mouth this Caleb person. Soooo maybe? If she would just let us be friends I could give you a better answer.”

Anything you think your friend should work on?

“Um, yeah, like dropping those walls and letting other people in! the man who lives in her phone can’t talk to her all the time, she’s gotta have some around the clock socializing!”

What do you do together?

“Other than the karaoke sesh, I’ve caught her a few times at kitty cards, but she stubbornly refuses to play with me and only plays with Selene or Lyla. I swear she’s as nitpicky as Rafayel.”

Any concerns for your friend?

“I do worry if she’s actually okay. I’ve seen her get reeeeee-ally spacy from time to time, blink with a panicked expression like she doesn’t remember where she’s at, checks her phone and seemingly calms down. I don’t knowwwww, someones got some surpressed trauma she’s dealing with and probably needs therapy.”

Is your friend single or seeing someone? Who are they seeing?

“She’s seeing whoever she’s talking to on the phone all the time. Caleb is his name, I believe.”

Do you approve of who they’re seeing?

“That’s soooo hard for me to say. I don’t know anything about him except for his name, and after looking up his name to find out the meaning of the name (faithful/whole-hearted/bold/brave/devoted) it makes him sound like he’s a good guy, that is if he’s living up to his name. Both Selene and Lyla seem to have varying opinions though.”

If your friend suddenly changed, for better or for worse, would you still love them?

“I think the little phone addict is running around traumatized, unmedicated, and desperately needs therapy. I’ll love her for as long as she’ll let me, but I would love her even more if she’d just go to therapy.

#love and deepspace #girls of lads #lads #just for fun #mc #mcs #oc #get to know me #cordelia #melora #Cordelia Ballad #melora fair #thoughts

0 notes

crabknight · 1 year ago

Note

I'm not entirely sure why I wrote this. It kind of hurts to read and wasn't quite fun to write either. It felt necessary though and I'm relieved that I wrote it.

It holds the record for being my longest inbox fic, at 1939 words or about 5 pages of text.

It was near the end of a battle when it happened. Henry and Tharja had been searching the battlefield for any wounded soldiers. As they searched and searched, Henry heard a squelch, followed by a ragged gasp.

Turning, he saw how a risen had plunged its sword deep in Tharja's back. He saw how it emerged from her chest, covered in her blood while she twitched and groaned.

"Begone!" he yelled and a flash of purple light killed the risen.

"Tharja, when Chrom said to find wounded soldiers, he didn't mean to become one if we came back empty handed!" he laughed, picking her up as best he could.

It was difficult figuring how to to carry her, for he wasn't particularly strong and knew not to remove the blade.

"H-H-He-" she tried to talk.

"Whatever you have to say, it'll have to wait because I can't understand you," he said rather carefree, "Libra and Maribelle will have you fixed in no time, and then you can tell me!"

When he reached camp, Frederick stole Tharja from his arms and ran to the medical tent. Not quite a silence, but a tension fell over the camp and Henry couldn't figure out why. Strange. He stood paralyzed, staring at the shut tent for gods know how long before Cordelia placed a careful hand on his shoulder.

"Henry," she started, though he noted how strange her somber voice was, "You've stood there for a long time and your clothes are covered in blood. How about you change? We're going to eat."

"What's wrong? You seem sad," he said.

"...Tharja is injured, she might die... I understand if you need some time to let it sink in."

He returned to the tent he shared with some of the other guys and switched out his clothes. While he was scrubbing Tharja's blood from his shirt, he wondered why Cordelia was so sad.

Tharja would be fine, even if she died. She would be in the next life, probably working on more interesting spells she could tell him about, or test on him. She enjoyed doing both. But she wouldn't die. Libra and Maribelle were the best healers he knew.

He left his clothes to dry and joined the others at the makeshift tables. Eating area. No one ever knew what to call it. He got his plate and sat in the corner where he usually sat with Tharja. Of course, she never came. Libra and Maribelle were likely still working on her stitches.

He had several things he wanted to talk about (crows, a fox he saw, the battle, a spell and so on) but resigned himself to eating in lonely silence. His bowl was almost empty when the bench creaked beside him. Gregor sat next to him, but had no food or even water.

"Aren't you eating? You fought pretty hard today," Henry said.

"Gregor already ate. I want to check on you," he replied.

"I'm fine! A have a few minor injuries but otherwise untouched."

"No, I mean with Tharja. She is your friend, correct?"

"She is. She'll be fine, she's durable and Libra and Maribelle know what they're doing!" Henry smiled.

"She did not look okay."

"She's fine."

Gregor let it rest and watched Henry as he finished his food.

"Interested in card game?" he asked.

"Not particularly. I have some reading to do," Henry replied.

"Suit yourself. I will play card game with others."

Once more, Henry retreated to his tent. He sat with a good book and read for hours and hours. He hadn't realized how much time had passed until the words became difficult to see in the dark. The sun had nearly finished its descent. He set his book aside and shut his eyes.

The sounds outside the tent weren't terribly unusual. Someone laughed by a cracking bonfire, someone talked whispered just far enough away that he couldn't make out what they said and several spoke normally.

And then a scream cut through the still dusk.

"No! NOOO!" Maribelle shrieked.

All other sounds stopped in an instant. The laughing, the whispering, and the speaking. Several dead silent moments passed before soft footsteps in the grass approached the tent. The flap opened as Libra entered.

"I must speak with you, Henry," he said softly.

"Sure, what is it?" the dark mage sat up.

"We- we tried to save Tharja. We got the sword out and slowed the bleeding, but there was too much damage done to her lungs," Libra sighed deeply, his breath uneven as he hesitated, "She didn't make it."

'Didn't make it'. People said that often as a euphemism for death. Strange that Libra would say it like that. They were soldiers in a war, they saw death everyday, there was no need to water down what happened to Tharja. Strange. Strange...

Just earlier, she had spoken of growing old and becoming a secretive wizard in a tower with dubiously spells and unethical experiments. She had said that Henry could visit and help with all her ideas. She wouldn't be able to do that now, at least not in this world.

Where was she anyway? Henry knew of the next life, but never quite understood the concept of multiple places one could end up. He didn't understand how one's destination was determined or if one could move elsewhere. What if-

"Henry," Libra said, "Do you want to see her?"

He nodded and followed the priest. It was short walk, only twenty or so meters, but it felt so strange. He found himself reaching for Libra's hand. They had never been close, but the priest took it and held it with care.

He didn't let go when he saw Tharja's body. He didn't want Libra to leave, it felt strange looking at her and he didn't want to be alone. A blanket covered her body and only her head, shoulders and arms were uncovered.

Maribelle sat in the corner of the tent. She had been staring at the blade pulled out of Tharja's back. It was massive, far longer than one even Gregor or Sully might wield.

"We covered her body because the wound is unpleasant to look at. You shouldn't have to see your friend hurt so," Maribelle muttered.

"She looks like she's asleep," Henry replied.

He wanted to shake her awake and tell her to come have a late dinner with him while they talked.

He took her hand and gently rubbed it, though it was ice cold. If she woke up to him comforting her so, she might be annoyed or uncomfortable, but now it felt right. She was probably lonely in the next world, whatever greeting he could send her, he would.

"I don't want to see her like this," he said.

"You don't have to, we can leave now," Libra answered.

Henry took his hand once more and they returned to their tent. They hardly exchanged more words that evening. They said a prayer together and Henry fell asleep rather quickly while Libra stayed by his side.

They hardly spoke before today. Henry knew Libra was friends with Tharja and he had seen him around camp, but they were only acquaintances. Strange how death drew them together when everyone said it was such a sad thing. Strange, strange, strange.

Henry awoke the next morning feeling just fine. He hummed as he got dressed and ate his breakfast with a smile. Tharja was still gone, he hadn't forgotten, but it was fine. She was off in another world having the time of her life making more spells, now without concern for if they may kill her for she was already dead.

"Are you alright?" Libra asked.

His eyes were red and he sniffled, one could only assume he wept for his fallen friend.

"I'm quite alright, I need to get my stuff packed though. We're heading to the next outpost soon," he said.

"Chrom said we'd stay here another day or two so everyone can process Tharja's passing. As per protocol, we're going to cremate her."

"Oh, that's good, I didn't really wanna pack anyway."

Libra narrowed his eyes, "Henry, are you positively sure you're alright?"

"...Yes, why?"

"Your best friend just died."

"And? I'll see her again in some years."

Libra seemed truly taken aback by his answer, which was strange. They both firmly believed in another life after the one they lived now, so why did Libra seem so sad? Tharja was fine, and so everything was fine.

"...Tell me if you ever wish to talk," Libra muttered as he left.

Some two weeks passed and the shepherds found a moment to rest. Everyone gladly took it, eager to sleep in the soft guest beds of a kind Valmese lord who hated Walhart more than they did.

Henry was happy to have his personal space back, finally being able to sleep in a room by himself. It was a nice little guest room. The bed was soft, the view was pretty and the walls were thick so it was silent as well. All it was missing was Tharja pacing back and forth, speaking of a wicked spell for some minutes before leaving.

But she had been dead a fortnight. She wouldn't tell him about more spells, or at least not in this world. Strange, strange, strange...

If he lived a long life like he planned, he wouldn't see Tharja for another sixty or so years. Perhaps seventy, or even eighty if he lived to be a century. Of course, those years would come to an end, but it was still quite a long time to spend away from her.

Strange. They had hardly been apart for more than a few days since becoming friends, but now it already felt like forever since their last talk. Strange. Two weeks wasn't a long time. Strange.

His heart ached thinking of her. He wanted to see her, give her a big hug and show off a little trinket his crows had found.

Strange. How strange it all was. He knew he would see her again, but he missed her too. Strange, strange, strange.

His eyes were watery and his cheeks wetted. Strange. He wanted to see her again. It felt strange crying, weak, vulnerable and defenseless. A foe could effortlessly kill him, but would that truly be so bad now? Tharja was dead, perhaps it would be better if he died too, perhaps it would be better if he could see her.

He wept, horrible cries escaping his throat as he thought only of Tharja and the now empty space she once occupied. He just wanted to see her again, why was that so much to ask? Was it truly so strange to the gods that he wanted to be with his friend once more?

He hardly noticed that someone had entered the room until Libra hugged him tight. The priest rocked back and forth, shushing him sweetly while his throat stung as he cried and cried and cried.

"There, there, Henry. It'll all be okay, I'm here for you," he said, though his voice was unsteady.

He knew why Henry cried, he knew why he was in pain but wanted to be an anchor when Henry had so few to rely on.

Perhaps it would make more sense with someone else. Libra knew his emotions, he knew all the words for the complicated things he felt. And he loved Tharja, he cared for her the same way Henry did. He found sorrow in the empty space one occupied by Tharja, just as Henry did.

Strange. Henry always imagined grief would be lonely.

I have no words, this was very well written

#asks #pie #inbox fic #crab emblem

1 note · View note

cagenewman · 1 year ago

Text

No, no, we'll have very strict rules about making sure that the stairs are clear at all points in time, since that's the last thing that we want. Too many two and four legged creatures will be going up and down those stairs every day for us to have to worry about someone falling. We're going to have a house that magazines wish they could put on their covers, that's the only thing you need to worry about. When the time is right, babe. Don't worry, I haven't forgotten. And you're allowed to talk about it, that's what engaged couples do. Hmm… you sure about that? You weren't bad! But there were some other people who… maybe should have stuck with sports or art or something similar. I've heard you singing to Rosalyn, I just don't think that you realized I was hearing you singing to Rosalyn, but that's okay, it was really sweet. He might. Mentally, I'm not ready to tackle that thought just yet, but I know that there's always the very real possibility that he could ask me if it would be alright if he called her, or met her. I just… don't really think she wants that, you know? Exactly, my dad was always pretty good at treating us kids like adults when we needed it, so it's something I try to do for him, but I think you do it even better, maybe since you didn't know him when he was a really young kid; somehow it ends up being easier to separate who he was with who he is now, if that makes sense? I won't, I promise. Honestly, if she starts calling me doofus and that makes her happy, that's good with me. Well… mostly. Maybe not doofus. I think that might actually make us bad parents, but you know what I mean. I'll find a fun way to talk to her, make it a game, but also serious, she seems to react well to that. That video does not come out at holiday parties, I don't know what kind of jokes you think you're telling over here, but absolutely not, Cordelia! I'm glad that you still have a relationship with both of your brothers, honestly. I know how important that bond can be, I don't know what I would do without Kellan, Elliot, Lou, Emmy or Clem, they're like… part of me, you know? I didn't think that you would… probably. But it's still good to know that you practiced restraint, thank you! … yeah, I've googled a lot of things about weddings and engagements and marriage, what do you think I do at night when I can't sleep and you're snoring away beside me? Not that you snore. We can set that as a tentative goal, how's that sound? I put enough work and money into this gala ensemble that I think I'm just going to wear it to every gala we have from now on, with little tweaks to make it fit the theme. But I can't wait to see what you've pulled together, I know you're going to look absolutely breathtaking, as usual. We can let him take over, I think. We'll just lock up the house, stock up with snacks. We will have someone on standby, though, just in case he gets nervous, but I think it'll be fine. We can call to check in, right?

There will be spills and accidents in a house lived in but that doesn't mean there needs to be mud all over if it can be prevented. As long as they don't have things on the stairs that will cause someone to fall and break their necks or ankles -- or you know, ours, I think we can live with a few things here and there. We aren't going to fall apart and need a home that is one out of a home magazine. Yep, just saying, I mean it could happen, us adding to the Newman family tree. Which would mean more toys on the floor, which means it's a good thing you don't mind the toys being around. My violin concerts were no where near bad as the Axe Body spray suffocations! I stand by that. I'll still sing from time to time, but mostly to Rosalyn these days you aren't going to really catch me breaking out into tunes too often anywhere else. Well I want to be that constant mother-like figure in his life, I know I'm not his mother nor am I here to replace that in anyway because he might want to find her someday. I don't want him to think because he has a bond with me that means he has to think of me as a mother. That's what I'm here for though to let him be seen and heard, different from when we were younger, or at least my brothers and I, and the whole 'kids should be seen and not heard' concept that was going around. If you can talk to her and make her understand I'm perfectly find with that! I want her to be able to feel ready to say whatever she want, and she might go back and forth with daddy and Cagey for awhile, so just remember that so you don't feel disappointed if she's calling you daddy and then Cagey comes out. I mean you'd look very cute in a tutu! But it'd be adorable up on stage with her and all the dads do it so you know you'll just have to go along with it and cringe at the videos of it later at the holiday parties. Sometimes the families we choose have far more importance and meaning, and that can also mean choosing our own family members. Like my brothers, I still choose to have a relationship with them despite my parents. I could have cut off everything even if they don't see them, because I didn't want to have any connection to the name, but I didn't. I chose my family and I like what we're creating for ourselves, as unorthodox as that might be. No we were good, didn't want to make you worry about overspending too much. I was thinking Taste I always do love going there when I have a chance to. Well I mean I still don't love the idea of port-a-potties at all regardless if people are getting drunk or not. Did you google how long an average engagement was? No, we're not going to make it fifteen months for sure, so I think this summer is sounding pretty nice. Even if that also feels so long away. All that's left for me is the last fitting and a few accesories to perfect everything and we get another lovely date night out together. What are we thinking, Colton takes his first longer babysitting job and have our regular babysitter on standby or?

#talking with cordelia

284 notes · View notes

drowning-in-deadlines · 3 years ago

Text

TID & TLH Incorrect Quotes

Cordelia: The best part of an oreo is the cookie part, not the frosting. Deal with it. Matthew: Darkness without light is an abyss. Light without darkness is blinding. You cannot have a coin with one side. Alastair: Yo Socrates, it’s a fucking cookie

*Tessa going to Will for help after Sophie knocks out Jessamine with a mirror in Clockwork Princess*

Tessa: Will, I need some advice. Will: You need advice from ME? Tessa: Yeah, frightening, isn't it?

Charlotte: We've got to find a way to cut down our expenses. What can we live without? Jessamine: Will, probably.

Matthew: How would you like your coffee? James: As dark and as bitter as my soul. Matthew, to someone behind the counter: I need one vanilla latte with extra cream and sugar.

Will: Goddamn it, the printer broke while printing out Jem's birthday invitations. Tessa: Well, what are they supposed to say? Will: "Jem's birthday". Tessa: So, what do they say instead? Will: "Jem’s bi". Tessa: Tessa: Works out either way.

Jem: That's ridiculous, Will doesn't have a crush on me. Tessa: Yes he does. Cecily: Yes he does. Will: Yes I do.

James: Matthew, fuck off. James: And by "fuck off" I mean "fuck off right back here and listen", you insufferable prick.

Matthew: Alastair, my old friend! Alastair: I think you tried to kill me at some point. Matthew: That was obviously just my way of getting to know you.

Cordelia: Look guys, I need help. Anna: Love help? Matthew: Financial help? James: Emotional help? Lucie: Help moving a body? *Everybody looks at Lucie* Lucie: What?

Jem: It's pretty cold outside.. wanna hold hands? We should stay close. Tessa, blushing: Okay. Jessamine: It's fucking summer.

Jem: Will, what does IDK, ILY, and TTYL mean? Will: I don’t know, I love you, talk to you later. Jem: Alright, I love you too, I'll ask Tessa. Will: Wait- Jem, no-

James: Can we go to a haunted house? Lucie: What’s wrong with the one we live in? James: Wh-what? Lucie: Goodnight, Jamie.

Lucie: *gets a text* Oh! It’s Grace. Malcolm: Did she get me the stuff? Lucie: Yeah, she says she got you the clown costume, the power drill, and 12 gallons of blood. Malcolm: Wow! Where’d she find 12 gallons of fake blood? Lucie: You wanted fake blood? Malcolm: Lucie: I’ll go call Grace.

Jessamine: Bet you can’t eat 15 crayons! Will: Bet you I can! Charlotte: *sips coffee, checks to make sure 911 is still on speed dial, and goes back to reading the paper*

James: I like to think of myself as a semi responsible adult here. Lucie: Matthew is 70% of your impulse control and you know this Jamie. Matthew: I feel like James is the more responsible one of us two, though. James: We are both 70% of each others' impulse control. Matthew: Just two lil beasts in pinwheel hats spinning on the merry-go-round at dangerous velocities, holding each other’s hands so the other doesn’t fall off.

Will: Would you take a bullet for me? Jem: ...yes? *Jessamine angrily burst into the room* Will: *running away* Great, thanks!

Jem: I’ve been dropping them the most insanely obvious hints for like a year now. No response. Will: Wow. They sound stupid. Jem: But they’re not. They’re really smart actually. Just dense. Will: Maybe you need to be more obvious? Like, I don’t know… “Hey! I love you!” Jem: I guess you’re right. Hey Will, I love you. Will: See! Just say that! Jem: Holy fucking shit. Will: If that flies over their head then, sorry Jem, but they're too dumb for you. Jem: Will.

Tatiana: Oh, so when crows remember people who wronged them and hold grudges, its “intelligent” and “really cool”. Tatiana: But when I do it, I’m “petty” and “need to let it go”.

Charlotte: Did you miss me while I was gone? Henry: You were gone?

Charlotte: I am in charge of this disaster. Will: I have a name, you know.

James, hungover: Please tell me I'm imagining that I claimed I was king of the ducks. Lucie: I would, but then I would be lying to the King of All Ducks.

Matthew: Do you think different paints have different tastes? Christopher: They do. Thomas: ...Why did you say that with such certainty?

Matthew: If I die, my funeral will be the biggest party ever and you're all invited. Thomas: "If" Alastair: Great, the only party I'm ever invited to and he might not even die.

Tessa: How do you do that? Will: I'm fearless. Jem: I saw you run from bees ducks yesterday. You flailed around and tripped over a chair. It was both hysterical and sad. Will: I'm mostly fearless.

286 notes · View notes

jvstheworld · 2 years ago

Text

The Buffy Re-watch: S2E15 (part 1)

Phases

The trophy from s1e3 makes an appearance.

Oz's opinion on some films being forgettable as soon as you leave the cinema is true and can apply to many films. Popcorn is always good though, I'm more of a sweet fan than salty.

Oz and Willow, still in their awkward phase but they do like each other, so that's in their favour.

Larry, still an asshole and still gross towards any woman he sees. there is something to be said about how homophobia and misogyny go hand in hand. He is scared about being found out and so harasses women to make him seem like a heterosexual guy.

I'm glad that Willow is moving on from Xander, she can do better than him. I honestly hate that part in season 3 where they end up cheating on Oz and Cordelia.

'Only girl in school without a real boyfriend.' You don't need to be in a relationship in high school. While developing social skills is important, you do not need to be in a romantic relationship to have the full high school experience. Also, probably not the best comment to make when your best friend's boyfriend has turned in to a soulless serial killer again. I do appreciate that Willow immediately sees her mistake, apologises and then checks on Buffy. That's some good accountability right there.

Willow is still bitter about Cordy and Xander, and Xander is sus about Oz even though he is only one year older than her.

Cordy describing the scenery and situation to Xander and then telling him to shut up. Who says romance is dead?

A werewolf! The first one of the show.

Xander needs to let go of his thing for Buffy and his jealousy over Willow go, it's getting old now.

No one got hurt by the werewolf, that's a first.

Giles is happy to do some learning about our new monster friend.

Sunnydale is getting more dangerous? It already was pretty dangerous before the werewolf. Did they hold self-defence classes to the other students that came before?

Is this a mixed grade class because Oz is there and her is a senior while Buffy, Willow and others are juniors?

Huge dog bit Larry, we think he might be set up as a contender for the werewolf, while Oz got bit by his human cousin and no one will think anything about it.

Larry realising he will be in the same group as Buffy and then remembering what happened at Halloween. It's not looking good for him.

I don't think Buffy should hide the fact she can fight in this instance. The class is about self-defence, she should be able to show that she can take care of herself, just not at full strength.

Larry had it coming. You don't get to sexually harass people and expect to get away with it.

#buffy the vampire slayer #buffy summers #rupert giles #willow rosenberg #xander harris #cordelia chase #btvs s2 #buffy rewatch #tv show thoughts

6 notes · View notes

sheloooveswomen · 3 years ago

Text

mine - cordelia goode x reader

masterlist

summary: fluff because everyone could use some positive affirmations. mostly delia talking. cuddles are great (so i've heard- i'm touch starved), but cuddles with the fucking supreeemmeee????

includes: cordelia x fem!reader, thoughts are italicized, all in reader's POV.

warnings: none

inspired by Dangerous ASMR's audio on youtube

2,128 words

Y/N POV//

Delia starts to stir, "Baby?" she whispers pecking the nape of my neck. She stretches her legs before curling back up to fit perfectly behind me. She groans then lifts her head quickly to check the time. "Shit. Honey? I'm already 2 hours late, why didn't the alarm go off?" she goes to get up.

"Nope." I don't let go of her arm.

"Sweetie, I have work to do—"

"Nope, this is mine." I pull her down by her arm, put my head on her chest, arm around her waist, and throw my leg over her, "I turned your alarm off last night, you're taking the day off." I mumble.

"But I—"

"Uh uh. I already talked to Zoe."

"But—"

"Shh. Mine."

"I have—"

I put my finger to her lips, "Less talking more relaxing, Miss Goode."

"Fine." she huffs.

"I love you" I smile and lay back down.

"I love you, too"

__________

We get around 2 more hours of sleep and decide to just stay in bed for a bit longer.

"This was a wonderful idea baby, you always know exactly what I need... you must be magic." she laughs at her own joke.

"Anything for my Supreme" I grin.

"It's true though, you are. I knew it from the moment we first met. Those eyes?" she hums, rubbing my back, "Pure magic" she kisses the crown of my head.

I search for her other hand under the covers, "You deserve to rest, Delia. You overwork yourself. Always putting everyone first- and we are beyond grateful for all you do, babe, but the coven can last a day without your all powerful guidance."

"Shhhh we aren't talking about me right now, my love. Just let me hold you and tell you how amazing you are as a partner and as a person."

"Not this again, Delia." I hide my face in her shoulder.

She lifts my chin to kiss me, "Yes again because you deserve to know today, tomorrow, and everyday for the rest of your life- if you can put up with me that long. I just want to be sure you know how lucky I feel to call you mine" she gives me a long kiss, "that's part of your magic: putting up with me" she laughs again.

"You're funny when well rested." I say sarcastically.

"Okay I'll stop teasing if you promise to stop arguing with me every time I try to pay you a compliment, deal?"

"No mmf-" she puts her hand over my mouth.

"Good." she gives me a swift peck to keep me quiet, "Now let me tell you every single thing you need to hear, you deserve to hear. Because every last one of them is true. Even if you don't believe me."

"I don't" I whisper.

"It's fine that you don't, ya know, because it doesn't make any of it less true. So just close your eyes. Relax with me and listen. Because you make me so incredibly happy" she kisses my hairline, "and I know you think that the things you do and say for me aren't anything special but nothing could be further from the truth."

I stay silent, per her request.

"You may not realize it but I feel so lucky for every day that I get to spend with you. You're just such a remarkable person. How did I win your heart, hm? Tell me." she cuts me off with a kiss, "No bargain that I'm aware of? Not that you wouldn't absolutely be worth it."

"You just took one for the team." I giggle.

"You may not be perfect, none of us are, but you're the closest thing that I've ever found to it. I mean it. I've never met anyone that makes me feel the way you do. And I never thought I would after Ha—"

"Don't you dare say his name." I point at her.

"Okay... after the divorce with what's his face" she smiles, "you brought out a side of me I never thought existed! You work so hard and put so much of yourself into the things you do, and manage to make me feel so loved on top of it all. Even when things seem impossible you always find a way. Even though you may sometimes take a break or you feel the need to give up, you don't stop fighting entirely."

She strokes my hair as she continues, "I admire that so much, you know. How strong you are. That even after something has knocked you down or made you feel you aren't good enough, you managed to pick yourself up and keep going. And I know -because I know you- that you're thinking, I don't know, any of the shitty things you tell yourself like struggling in the first place is weakness, am I right?"

I nod causing her to laugh, not in amusement but as if she somehow finds it endearing.

"Just so you know, that's total bullshit. Everyone struggles in different ways sure, we all do. Even if we try and hide it most of the time. And I know that isn’t helpful to hear but for me at least it helps to put things into perspective like that. The difference is you are mine so I've seen you go through your struggles personally. I've seen how you fight to overcome them, and that takes so much strength."

She kisses my head a couple times.

"Through your strength, you also make me strong. As a leader and as your partner. You inspire me to go on even when things are so incredibly tough because I've seen you do it. And I know that you will be right there alongside me if I need you. I can come to you with anything and I don't think you know how much that means to me. I've never had that with anyone but Myrtle. It makes me feel so safe with you. It's why I can be as open as I am about everything with you. Having your support means the world to me, baby."

I lift my head to kiss her.

"I hope you know and that I show you that you can always be vulnerable with me too." she wipes the tears I didn't know had formed in my eyes and kisses my forehead after I nod.

"Good. I couldn't bare to think otherwise. Because someone as incredible as you" she taps my nose, "deserves an outlet, too. It makes me feel close to you knowing what's going on in your mind. Even the darker stuff."

Delia rubs my back, taking a deep breath.

"Even if you think you can handle it alone, or that you don't wanna bother me."

I start to laugh knowing she's 10000% right.

She chuckles, "Sound familiar?"

"I don't mean to..."

"It's okay" she holds me tighter, "I know that baby." she gives me a soft kiss on my lips then my nose and my forehead, "It can be hard but I want to be here for you as much as you have been for me. Which is an awful lot."

She holds my cheeks and kisses all over my face.

"I love you Cordelia" I whisper.

"I love you, too. More than I can ever explain."

"Thank you baby, but you've already said more than enough—"

"Yeah.... but let's keep trying shall we?" she laughs as I groan, "you're not getting away that easy, I can do this all day."

"I don't know how you've gone on this long!"

"Well it's your fault for being so amazing! Next time don't give me so much ammunition for my compliment ambush!" she giggles holding me impossibly closer.

"The power must've gone to your head because you're becoming delusional."

"Excuse me?!" she laughs, "Where was I? Oh- you deserve to feel special. To hear every last amazing trait I see in you, no matter how much it might make you squirm!" she pokes my sides. "Because I know you need to hear it. Even if you deny it all now, some of it is gonna stick and eventually you will realize that I was right all along..... and getting to rub that in is gonna feel so good!" she attempts an evil laugh.

I gently kiss above her heart, speechless, but still wanting to let her know I'm thankful for what she's saying.

"I just want you to know how much you mean to me. How truly blessed I feel to have you in my life." she takes another deep breath releasing a content sigh, "I really am glad you're mine, you know."

Delia starts to play with my hair, "I think it can be hard for you to see from the inside looking out. You see all the bad parts, all the negative things you might've done, or the less than wonderful thoughts you had, words you spoke. You see them through a magnifying glass, and all those wonderful properties that you have just get completely overshadowed until all you see are those negatives. And then you think -because of course you do, you always do, despite how many times I do this- that the good in you is just completely outweighed by the bad. Which honestly" she sighs, "it makes me sad sometimes that the lens through which you see yourself is so....warped."

She plays with my baby hairs, "I mean, I realize I am biased but so are you. You look in the mirror and see an inferior version of yourself. One thats only ever existed inside your head. And I know I've done the same with myself for years but you have helped me through that."

Delia takes my hand, "Baby, everyone else looks at you and sees a strong, smart, capable, funny, kind, person. Who's an asshole sometimes, sure, but if you weren't then you wouldn't be dating me now would you?" she grins.

"You can be an asshole too, just ask Madison, she'll definitely give you a few more colorful words." I laugh.

"Is that so? Well at least we can be assholes together, then" she pulls me in for a kiss, "I mean you may be close to perfect, but thank god you aren't. I don't know what I'd even do with someone like that."

"I seem to be doing fine with you" I smile.

"Such a smooth talker. I'm nowhere near it, I'd probably be allergic to you if you were, though. I have something much better anyways: an amazing woman that is just fucked up enough to be the most fun I have ever had." she smiles into a kiss, laughing in between. “That and you're just the most amazing being that I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. So how could you doubt for one second how incredibly lucky I feel to be here with you?"

I hold her tighter.

"There's nowhere else I'd rather be. Today, tomorrow, whatever the future holds."

I look up at her and smile, "There's no one else I'd rather spend it with."

"You really are the most amazing person I have ever met, and I can't wait to see what your future brings—"

"Our future." I cut in.

She laughs, "Of course, my love"

We have a comfortable moment of silence, enjoying the embrace.

"I hope that now you can see a little bit more of what I see in you. Whether or not you do- don't you dare interrupt me!" she laughs, "whether or not you do, I'm still gonna do this again, and again, and again!"

"Oh gosh" I groan.

"Because every single word is true! You spent way too much of your life not hearing them and I aim to correct that if you let me."

"Do I have a choice?"

"No because I'm the fucking supreme."

I laugh, "I love you Cordelia"

"Oh my sweet girl, I love you more." she smiles, "Thank you, I know it isn't always easy for you to hear but it's really important. For now though how about we just sit and enjoy our little space in the universe, just the two of us." She turns toward me and tucks my head under her chin, "Uh huh, nothing better than me and mine" she intertwines our legs.

"This is perfect."

She hums in agreement, "Thats it, just relax with me, baby. I've got you."

I laugh, "This was supposed to be a day for you to relax—"

She shuts me up with a kiss, "Shhhh, go back to sleep and then we’ll go for lunch."

I listen to Delia's steady heartbeat and soft breathing. Closing my eyes to soak in the comfort radiating from her body.

Both of us falling asleep for another couple of hours.

#american horror story #ahs coven #cordelia foxx #cordelia goode #x reader #sarah paulson #cordelia goode x reader #cordelia foxx x reader

136 notes · View notes