#valentina isn’t telling them the meaning behind any of their missions

[daisytrails]

i want the plot of thunderbolts to just be bucky beating the shit out of valentina because she hired them to destabilize wakanda for her

i want it so bad

[bisexualsforprompto]

What’s in a Family?

Would you believe that I actually wanted to get through more content? This “Drabble” got a little out of hand lol. Honestly I don’t think I’ll continue this, sorry!

Thank you @abrx2002 for this amazing idea! You rock!

~~~~~

‘Playboy billionaire Bruce Wayne does it again.’ Thought Valentina Cross as she shoved her skinny jeans back on her. She looked back at Bruce who was still out like a light and sighed. She had a feeling she’d never see him again, but did she want to?

Almost a full month later Valentina cursed the rich man. She was pregnant.

Her parents would not be happy, not when she was only in her twenties. Valentina considered turning to her other family members, her grandparents would certainly tell her parents and her aunts and uncles as well, but there was one woman Valentina could always trust.

So Valentina showed up at her elder sister’s doorstep in Paris fresh off the boat from America. Only three months pregnant at the time, her sister vowed to look after her for the last six months and even take her newborn child.

But things didn’t go as planned. Some sick, cruel hand of fate dealt its cards. When Valentina was only one week away from her due date her sister went to run some errands and... never came back.

Callia Cross was pronounced dead from a car accident on the very day that Valentina went to the hospital. What felt like years later a newborn child with tufts of blue hair like her mother’s and beautiful bluebell eyes like her father’s was born. At first the doctor’s were afraid the child wouldn’t make it, but the lucky young girl did.

Valentina wasn’t so lucky.

Not even five minutes after her child was born Valentina was dead.

The unnamed baby was sent into the nursery while the doctors debated where to send her.

Valentina had no identification on her, she was a Jane Doe to everyone in Paris except her sister who couldn’t say a word unless it was to the worms.

Sabine Cheng and Tomas Dupain only wanted a child and one was sitting right before them. After years of trying to get pregnant with no success Sabine was ready to give up until she saw a small blue-eyed little girl staring at her with wide eyes as she was carted into a nearby room.

“Mother was a Jane Doe, we’ll have to send her to an orphanage or put her in foster care.” Sighed a petite doctor to her male coworker.

“It always breaks my heart with cases like these.” He responded before walking the baby into the nursery.

“Doctors Richmond and Poppy please report to the ER, code red.”

The doctors absentmindedly left the door open as they dashed past Tom and Sabine.

With shaky hands Sabine walked over to the baby girl who had never made it into the nursery. She picked her up and without a spoken word to Tom they silently made their way out of the hospital.

Sabine and Tom had underestimated the weight of having a child. They treated the baby from the hospital, who they named Marinette, as more of a burden than a blessing especially after Sabine succeeded in getting pregnant and brought Brigette Dupain-Cheng into the world.

With all the negligence her parents showed her in favor of her little sister, Marinette had a lot of free time on her hands. She was an inquisitive kid with practically nothing to do, so it was no surprise when she turned twelve, she started noticing things.

First off that she had blue eyes when her parents didn’t and Sabine had no blue eyes in her family so she didn’t even carry the gene. She also noticed that her blood type wasn’t possible when her Tom and Sabine couldn’t have possibly made AB blood.

Marinette kept digging, it took her two years but she finally figured out who her biological mother was under the noses of her “sister” and “parents”.

In a way Marinette was almost happy that Tom and Sabine weren’t related to her, they never acted like family to her. The only downside that Marinette could think of was that her mother had been categorized as a Jane Doe whose child was stolen. There wasn’t much to go on and there was no trace of who her father could be.

She was originally going to ask Max for help finding her birth father in hopes he was still alive and would want to meet his daughter, but it wasn’t possible when all that her class gave her since Lila came to the class was the cold shoulder. It was also the only thing her parents gave her, they didn’t even need Lila for an excuse to pay attention to Brigette over her.

Some days she wouldn’t even get back to the house because she was patrolling and fighting as Ladybug or cleaning up one of Chat’s messes and they didn’t even notice.

Chat was a whole other thing. After a few months of being the guardian of the miracle box Marinette, with the help of Tikki, found out that she had the power to make things better for herself. Maybe she couldn’t do anything about Tom and Sabine or her friends but she could make being Ladybug, the best part of her day, bearable for her.

She took Chat’s ring away. She wasn’t going to tolerate being sexually harassed and cleaning up after someone who was supposed to be helping any longer. She couldn’t say she was surprised to find Adrien the pacifist behind the mask. He was sad and slightly angry but he said he understood. Marinette wasn’t sure if he really did or maybe he had his own fantasy of why she had taken it away.

It was irrelevant. She should’ve known she wouldn’t last long as the sole savior of Paris especially with all the media asking about the former black cat wielder. She couldn’t survive much longer without help and Bustier’s class couldn’t be trusted anymore.

She was utterly alone. Lila ostrichsized her in class, her parents isolated her at home and she got rid of her partner. It got to the point where Marinette asked Tikki if she should give Adrien his ring back to which Plagg butted in and said no way in hell.

So Marinette did what she did when she felt alone, she researched. A big city in America sounded promising for her objective.

Kaalik opened her a portal for Gotham City. Ladybug’s mission was to find Batman or another hero and ask for something she hadn’t asked for in years: help.

It didn’t go as planned.

So there she was standing in front of a hero of Gotham, Robin, who she tied to a street light with her yo-yo.

“Are you ready to listen now?!” Marinette spat in perfect English. Robin scowled and furrowed his brows making him seem older than he actually was. Marinette was slightly annoyed that he had attacked her on sight and was acting all holier than thou on her when he couldn’t have been any older than her!

“I’m a hero from France named Ladybug, we are currently fighting a terrorist named Hawkmoth. I am the sole hero of Paris and I need some help.”

“TT. Not likely.” Frowned the boy. Marinette was about to blow a gasket when she heard a series of thuds behind her. She spun around to see the rest of the Batfamily in all their heroic glory.

‘I’m in for it now…’ Marinette thought when she realized that when the Bats saw Robin was tied up behind her they’d think she was a villain just like Robin did.

Batman stepped towards her slowly and held his hand out. Marinette looked at it quizzically.

“B you can’t be serious.” Said Nightwing.

“Yeah, that story’s obviously bullshit, we would’ve known about a crisis in Paris.” Red Hood frowned.

“We did.” Was all Batman said pressing his communicator into Ladybug’s hands, “Take this. The number for the Batcave is programmed into it. I assure you we will look into the situation. I was told by my colleague that it was nothing more than a hoax so if you’ll excuse me I have a green lantern to skin.”

“Thank you monsieur. I really mean it.” Marinette smiled blinking back tears. “Voyage.”

Ladybug placed on foot through the portal before remembering Robin. She retracted her yo-yo and stepped completely into it.

Marinette had no idea what to expect when Batman had said he would check Paris out. For all she knew the American army could be on their way.

What she wasn’t expecting was to bump into a boy the next day who looked very similar to her in facial structure. She pushed the thought away, he was only like her in stature and facial symmetry, she shared nothing else with him so it was probably just a coincidence.

He scowled at before going into Bustier’s room, she realized he must’ve been a new student.

She didn’t pay that much mind, he’d probably be a part of Lila’s web soon enough so there was no point in befriending him. She walked into the room to see her prophecy was already coming true, the emerald eyed boy was right at Lila’s desk.

She walked to the back of the class where she had been banished to. She shoved her books down before catching the conversation Lila and the new boy were having.

“So Damian, since you’re from America I bet you’ve heard of Bruce Wayne. Well…” she giggled and paused for dramatic effect, “I know him. I actually used to babysit his youngest, David.”

Damian rolled his eyes, “Unlikely as his youngest is your age and his name isn’t David.”

“Uh- I- ha ha!” Lila sputtered before laughing obnoxiously, “It seems we’re probably thinking of different Bruce Wayne’s.”

“It seems I don’t care, don’t talk to me again, got it?” Lila burst out into fake tears causing the rest of the class to glare at Damian. He simply rolled his eyes and went to the back of the class and sat next to Marinette.

“They’re like sheep.” He noted. Marinette nodded, “I think they’re dumber.” She mumbled under her breath. Damian smirked and turned to her.

“Damian Grayson.” Marinette beamed, “Marinette!”

“I think we’re going to get along fine.” He said before turning his attention to the front of the class.

A frazzled Miss Bustier ran into the class shortly after.

“Sorry class, I got a bit held up! Now I hear we have a new student!” She squinted at where Damian was sitting, “Damian why don’t you come down here and sit next to Lila?”

“The liar? No thanks.”

“Damian, that kind of behavior will not be tolerated. Marinette has been seen bullying Lila and I just want you to have a positive experience at DuPont!”

“Really? It seems to me like you’re an enabler. Marinette is perfectly capable and seems to have more brain cells than the rest of you.” Damian sneered with a ferocious protectiveness he hadn’t felt before except with his brothers and sisters.

Miss Bustier went into a flustered frenzy, opening and closing her mouth before she finally announced, “Alright class open your books to chapter three.”

“Predictable.” Damian scoffed beneath his breath.

“Thanks.” Marinette whispered.

“Don’t mention it.”

For a week Marinette and Damian’s small back and forth dialogue became increased. It made him a target for Lila but he didn’t seem to care. They’re friendship almost thrived on mocking Lila’s threats. Damian had many choice words for the flock of Lila’s followers as well. Marinette had been feeling a pull to him as if it was magic.

One night she thought it over, long and hard, could it have been miraculous magic?

“Tikki?” Marinette called.

“Yes Marinette?”

“I was wondering...I feel very connected to Damian but it’s hard to explain, it’s not like what I used to feel for Adrien, Luka or Kagami.”

Tikki sighed. “I’ve had my suspicions for awhile but this confirms it...I think Damian is your black cat. Every Ladybug and cat bond is different, more times than not it’s romantic but I think yours is platonic or even familial.”

“I guess that’s a relief in a lot of ways. Besides, dating Damian would be like dating my brother if I had one,” Marinette wrinkled her nose, “Though maybe I do…” She let out a long groan, “I wish I knew my birth father.”

“There, there Marinette. I’m sure you’ll know someday,” Tikki patted her back. “But as guardian it’s your decision to give Damian a miraculous or not, so we should focus on that. I know you’ve known him for a short time but do you think you can trust him?”

Marinette paused. Damian wasn’t an open person, in fact quite the opposite. He dodged the subject of his past, or gave her some small tidbits out of context. Damian had a good heart, that she could see, but it also felt tainted. But Marinette knew what made her a good guardian wouldn’t be stressing out over the choice or overanalyzing everything. That wasn’t how magic worked. “I think I can…”

The next night Kharaab made his debut as the new black cat. It was on the news and the Ladyblog quickly and spread like wildfire. She had given Damian a heads up beforehand, she had a feeling that when the news came out they’d have to face another akuma.

She was right. Chat Blanc, a jealous Adrien who missed his power, took hours to even make any slight headway. The moment Ladybug cast her lucky charm Chat Blanc had made a nasty gash in her stomach. Damian had trapped him out of pure rage and knocked him out. Disregarding the lucky charm which was nowhere to be found, Damian took Marinette back to the makeshift apartment he had been staying in. After detransforming, Damian consulted Plagg. The god of destruction told him that the only way she’d be saved was from a blood transfusion. Ladybug was passed out on his couch and if she detransformed it was likely that Marinette would bleed out faster and even die.

He took a test for her blood type himself, he had brought the necessary kits with him thank kwami. He quickly found out her blood type was AB, which was odd considering how rare it was and that he happened to share the same type. Though maybe that was just the luck of the miraculous...either way Damian didn’t waste time, he quickly fixed her and waited until she woke up.

“Damian?” Marinette asked groggily.

“Yes?”

“W-what happened?”

“Chat Blanc hit you, he’s currently unable to escape so I patched you up and gave you a blood transfusion, luckily we share some of the same DNA.” Marinette’s eyes lit up.

“D-Damian, Tom and Sabine...they aren’t my parents.”

“What?” Damian was taken aback.

“No...my birth mother died when I was born and I think Tom and Sabine stole me. I don’t know my birth father.”

Damian cleared his throat, “Well I guess now’s a good time to tell you that I haven’t been entirely truthful. My real name is Damian Wayne and my father is Bruce Wayne. I’m also Robin.” Marinette gaped. “Don’t look so surprised. The point is, it’s possible we are related but we probably aren’t, either way...I’d be proud to call you my sister.”

Marinette brushed a tear from her cheek, “T-thanks Damian.”

“Whatever,” He said avoiding eye contact, “Let’s go, we still have an akuma to beat.”

They made short work of Chat Blanc once Marinette found her lucky charm. She returned Adrien safely home and took Damian to her home to get Kaaliki.

“Are you going to tell your parents where you’re going?” Damian frowned as Marinette got ready to open the portal. Marinette gave him a small smile.

“T-they don’t really love me. They’ve never been my family…”

“I can get my father’s lawyers for a lawsuit. Stealing a child is illegal.”

“I know Damian, but Brigette. They love her. She’s the closest thing I’ve had to a sister even if they always chose her over me. I don’t want her to grow up alone and hating the world because her parents are out of the picture.” The dangling ‘like I did,’ that Marinette hadn’t spoken was deafening.

“If my father is yours...I’m going to face him with my blade for not giving you the life you should’ve had.”

“Thanks Damian, but if my hunch is correct whoever my father really is had no idea I existed.” Damian nodded before making a motion as if to say, ‘go ahead.’

“Voyage.”

They were standing in the bat cave. Marinette quickly undid her transformation in front of the many bats before her.

“Father, this is Marinette.” Damian introduced as he walked near his father, “You know her better as Ladybug but I believe you could also know her as your biological daughter.”

~~~~~~

Taglist

@northernbluetongue

@queen-of-the-trash-planet-tm

@luciferge

@legendaryneckjudgestudent

@interobanginyourmom

@beaversuenightly

@worlds-tiniest-spook-pastry

@mochinek0

@shamefullove

@emjrabbitwolf

@actual-disaster-human

@littleredrobinhoodlum

@elijahcoser

@daminett4life

@mochegato

[writings-from-the-hart]

Its Tender Tuesday! Spill the beans on meaningful touches--doesnt have to be erotic (but can, if that's their thing), just any special little touches your special someones share with each other <3

Tender Tuesday! 

*Clasps hands together and puts on my WIP’s love playlist.* Alright, you want me to spill the beans I’ll spill ALL the beans and make these people turn 50 shades of pink. These are characters from my current Wip Renegade! There’s probably more ships to sail in this Wip but these are the main two that get the spotlight the most and they just make my heart so full. I promise I’m writing an action thriller and NOT a rom-com, so I don’t know where all this sappy romance came from.  

Eric and Valentina 

Their relationship is a complex one ranging from enemies to friends to something a little more than friends, back to enemies, and finally a hinted relationship possibly. So when it comes to meaningful touches there’s a very broad range of what ANY touch can mean, but that could be because touch is a very taboo thing in the world of Renegade unless the other person is an established family member. However, they do share a few touches that defiantly convey that there is something defiantly going on between the pair. 

- Whenever Eric and Valentina are seen on the battlefield they can almost always be seen together. Valentina will often trail behind Eric watching his back and she will lay a hand on his left shoulder (his dominant hand) so he knows that she is behind him, keeping an eye on their surroundings. If there is a problem she’ll squeeze his shoulder; each number of squeezes means a different kind of situation, for example, one firm hold means stop and three quick squeezes signals “we are being followed.” 

- Valentina likes to create constellations out of the freckles on Eric’s shoulders, an area of skin that rarely seen but is when he’s boxing. And Eric likes to braid strands of Valentina’s hair, if she let’s him, because it reminds him of his younger sister, plus Valentina’s hair is also super soft. 

- When Valentina feels like someone is threatening or degrading Eric in her presence she will stand between him and the other person (granted she’s shorter than Eric) acting as a sort of barrier between the two things, she’ll even place a hand on his arm to gesture that she’s “guarding” him. She won’t admit it but Eric’s presence has kept her from getting into many fights that she would have gladly taken part in to “defend his honor.” 

- There is a small blessing in having to wear a helmet 24/7 because it means there can be more stolen looks at the person who you’d wish to do nothing more than devote your whole being to. Eric has lost count of the amount of times he’s spaced out at the wrong time or used Valentina’s presence as a means of staying present in the moment during a panic attack. It’s a wrong thought and he knows it (defiantly toward his second in command) but he swears he has Valentina’s every curve and edge as well as movement memorized to the finest of details. However, Valentina is just as guilty as Eric is when it comes to stolen looks. She swears to herself that she still hates him for dragging her into the mess she and the rest of the Cards are trapped in, but how can she hate someone that she literally stares at and recalls what it feels like to be hugged by him when she should be listening to a mission brief. “It’s complicated.” That’s all they can really say. 

- The most intimate and tender touch Eric and Valentina have ever had is something the both of them often remember and wonder if it actually happened. It was a mission gone wrong Eric offered Valentina his jacket so she wouldn’t freeze to death in the rain and pressed his forehead to hers, an act of love and a “kiss” in the culture of Renegade, while admitting he “needed her.” 

- Based on the above, since Eric and Valentina never talk about the “kiss” thing or talk about their feelings in general (this is a very very slow burn romance that kills me but I love it) Valentina has found a way to convey to Eric that she does “like” him. Whenever the both of them are present and standing next to each other Valentina will stand on Eric’s left side (his dominant hand), conveying to everyone in the room that she is the next in charge person, and if she is scared about a certain situation or notices Eric is she will reach over subtly and grab Eric’s hand and squeeze it twice meaning “I need aid” (if it was his shoulder) or in this case “I need you.” Because instead of saying the big L word they just say “I need you.” 

Brazen and Xavier 

This is a relationship that is rather. . . Hidden because these two people have had a great deal of trauma and abuse cross their paths when they were younger, so they try to keep anything they value as loving and sacred hidden. So it’s a lot of subtext and hushed whispers shared in the dark or locations people don’t know about. Then again Brazen is a criminal and knows how to work around and bypass the system quite fluidly, while Xavier is high up in the Republic so he has access to many things others don’t.  

- Brazen almost always stands behind Xavier like a bouncer stands at the entrance of a club. If anyone wants to try to hurt Xavier or think about being rude and mean they’ll have to deal with Brazen and he isn’t known as the “God of Death” for shit’s and giggles, he will gladly murder for Xavier whether he’s told to or not (he rather have Xavier tell him to). And if he notices Xavier is tense, worried, or scared he’ll place a gentle hand on the small of Xavier’s back in reassurance that he’s behind him and won’t let anything happen to him.

- These boys are so touch starved it unreal, like lemme tell you about it! ALL the gentle touches mean the world to these two, like Xavier holding Brazen’s giant hand in his smaller one so he can look at the scar tissue where Brazen’s pinky used to be sets sparks off in both of those boy’s hearts. Brazen putting a hand on Xavier’s bony hip to move the slender man to the left so he can slide past him in the lab makes Xavier blush harder than a 15 year old school girl because “omgmycrushtouchedme.” Or the times where Xavier has to examine Brazen for wounds from a mission that went sideways, feeling his hands ghost the skin of Brazen’s body makes the two of them forget what words are and how to speak. ALL of the smallest, most subtle gestures of kindness mean the world to these boys who had to grow up too fast and starve for love. 

- This one really isn’t a tender touch thing but it makes my heart so FULL so I have to mention it to you guys. Xavier is a clothes thief, he steals all of Brazen’s clothes when given the chance to so if he is seen wearing any kind of shirt, jacket, or sweatshirt that looks too big for him that’s defiantly not his and most likely Brazen’s. 

- Brazen is Mr. Macho man and tries to always be super tough as much as possible but as soon as Xavier starts messing with his hair or scratching his scalp he becomes a big ball of mush. Brazen just melts underneath Xavier’s touch and loves his hair to be played with by the other man’s slender fingers and for his head to be scratched like he’s a cat. Xavier’s big love language is acts of service as well as touch so he loves to, when he can, to give Brazen back scratches and massages. . . But he’s been known to put Brazen to sleep by doing so. 

- Xavier is awful when it comes to going to bed in his own bed, he’s more likely to fall asleep at his drafting table than on a mattress so Brazen always has to make sure he doesn’t or Xavier will do nothing but complain his back hurt or something. The pair love to snuggle together on a very old and very worn down couch that was put in the lab by nobody knows for sure who, Brazen is a space heater and once Xavier is carried to the couch he’ll do nothing else other than snuggle up close to the bigger man and drift off into an undisturbed sleep. 

And those are some of my tender touches for these two ships in Renegade! I hope you liked them, I’m pretty sure there are more and I’m forgetting them at the current moment. So excited to be involved with this writing prompt, helps me take my mind off college stuff which is a definite must. 

Happy Writing! 

[formerprincess]

A tale written with fangs and claws || Chapter 36

Chapters: 36/? Fandom: Teen Wolf (TV) Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Relationships: Liam Dunbar/Theo Raeken, Corey Bryant/Mason Hewitt Characters: Liam Dunbar, Theo Raeken, Mason Hewitt, Corey Bryant, Nolan (Teen Wolf) Additional Tags: Alpha Liam Dunbar, Slow Build, Friends to Lovers, Dunbar Pack, Bisexual Liam Dunbar, Werewolf Theo Raeken, Alpha Theo Raeken, Canon-Typical Violence, Smut, Mates, Liam and Theo are mates Series: Part 1 of Morning Dew Pack

The situation with Clarisse is still hanging over the pack's head but Liam still finds time to think about his future with Theo. We learn a little bit more about Lana and Byron. Mike struggles with the fact that he has not learned to take pain yet.

“I just want to be prepared and that’s why it is important to run through this.”  Liam looked at the council and his mate. They all nodded along to his words and Liam felt a little bit of the weight on his shoulders being lifted. He nodded too, probably to assure himself as well they had a plan in case everything was going to shit.

After Clarisse felt the insatiable need to inform Liam’s old pack about Theo having been bitten by Liam, Scott and his pack had left the cabin relatively fast and now they were back to a very tense mood between the two packs. Alec was the only bridge between the packs because he still hung out with Nolan and they talked, but the others were quiet and Liam hoped it was just because they needed to overcome the surprise of Theo being an actually bitten werewolf. Not that Liam could understand the surprise. Maybe a little bit but he really didn’t get the big deal. Theo had just shrugged when Liam voiced his thoughts and a sad frown had pulled the corner of his mouth down and alone for that they all deserved a slap. But Liam had more important things to do than to go around and slap sense into people and so he had grabbed Theo’s hand and called the council together in the meeting hall to discuss the newest events.  “I hate this Clarisse chick and when she really works with Celia it is good to have a plan to bring kids and injured or weak people out of harm's way as soon as possible.” Liam sighed. “I don’t force anybody to fight, so whoever wants to leave with them, can leave. You others should be prepared for a very heavy fight.” “Cedric, Bernie, and I will bring them to a safe place and return as fast as possible to help you here,” Valentina promised and Liam smiled at her. “You’re not doing this alone, Liam.” “He’s not alone!” Theo corrected. Liam gave him a look. 

“I am aware you would stay by my side but if things really take a turn for the worse, you all will leave and I will stay and fight as many demons off as I can.” Theo crossed his arms over his chest and scoffed. “If you really think I would leave you when demons actually attack, you have lost your fucking mind. You can go Alpha on me all the way you want, you’re also my mate and there is no way in hell I would leave you behind!” Liam knew Theo wouldn’t and he was aware no matter how much he was demanding it in his Alpha mode when things got worse Theo would simply flip him off and ignore him altogether on his mission to protect Liam. So Liam decided to end this discussion now by leaning in and pecking Theo’s lips.  “Let’s talk about this when it comes down to it. There is no use in talking about this now.” “Good choice, Liam. No use in stressing this now, you have other things to worry about now,” Shana agreed with an affirmative smile. “Just know if you need us, we will be there, Alpha.”

Liam nodded again. He felt better to have his whole pack around him. He still didn’t trust Clarisse and with the whole tension between him and Scott now, he had no idea how else to go from here. He currently expected the worst outcome possible since they still had the thread of hunters or whatever attacked the jeep looming over them. So Liam worked on making sure his pack knew what to do in case anything happened and he had made necessary arrangements. 

He gave the sign for the meeting to disperse and ran both hands through his hair when his pack members left the hall, only Theo stayed back. He still sat at the table and watched Liam. “This whole situation sucks, huh?” Liam barked out a laugh. “You can say that.” He leaned against the table and groaned. Theo reached up and rubbed his hand over Liam’s side. “I’m sorry,” he said sadly. “What are you sorry for?” Liam asked incredulously.  “The whole situation is because of me.” “Theo! No! This isn’t because of you! This is because this bitch witch doesn’t know how to mind her own business. And my dear old pack really needs to get their shit together as well. But none of this is your fault.”  Theo pulled his shoulders higher almost as if he wanted to shield himself a bit. “I’m not sure. They have these prejudices against me, so it is my fault.”

Liam knelt down and took Theo’s hands in his. “None of this is your fault at all! Okay? Please, don’t  think that!” He put his hand on the back of Theo’s neck and pulled him into a soft and loving kiss. “I love you so much. You are a good person, Theo Raeken. Anybody who can’t see this is dumb.” He pressed small kisses against Theo’s lips until he felt Theo kiss back and slot their lips together in a soft and deep kiss. 

“Liam, are you here? I...Oh.”

Liam sighed and pulled away from the sweet kiss to turn his head towards the entrance where Lydia had appeared and finally got to his feet. The redhead had a kind smile on her face and watched the couple. “Sorry for disturbing you.” “It’s okay,” Liam waved it off. “Can I help y...” He yelped in surprise when two arms wrapped around his waist and pulled him onto Theo’s lap.  “Sorry.” Theo kissed his neck. “Didn’t mean to startle you.” “Nah, it’s okay.” Liam smiled lovingly and wrapped one arm around Theo’s shoulder while he looked back at Lydia. “Once more: How can I help you?”

Lydia played with her fingers. “I wanted to talk to you. We had a pack internal talk and I wanted to have yet another talk with you. I’m sorry for how things ended last time.” She sighed. “I personally think it is important for you to know we are not against any of you. We’re not against you, Liam, and we are not against you, Theo. Neither as a chimera nor as a werewolf.” Liam growled. “Could have fooled me,” he snarled.  “Liam, we know Theo is not evil and we made our peace with him. We were just surprised by the sudden revelation. You have to understand that.” 

Liam scoffed and shook his head. He was too stubborn to be reasonable for now and just tightened his hold on Theo.  “You have to understand that we stick together and protect each other,” Theo retaliated and wrapped his arms around Liam. “And maybe you are surprised by me becoming a real werewolf but let it be known, I am not the Theo I once was. You don’t have to be scared of me or worried I might snap. I just want to protect my pack and my Alpha, my mate.” Lydia smiled at him. “I know that and the others knew that as well. And Scott also understands why Liam didn’t tell him from the start but he’s still surprised. This is so much new information, cut him some slack, Liam.” Liam grumbled and then sighed.  “I know it was all a bit too much and I’m sorry you guys felt overwhelmed but I stand by what I said. Theo becoming a werewolf is something that affects my pack, not yours, so it’s not necessarily important to your pack. And I hate Clarisse.” “I don’t think anybody aside herself likes her,” Theo scoffed. Lydia rolled her eyes. “Tell me about it. Malia growled at her the whole time and Alec says he finds her creepy.” “True words,” Liam muttered. 

“I still stand by my words, we will help you sort out this problem with the hunters or whatever,” he then added and Lydia smiled at him. “Thank you, Liam. And...I’m sorry. You are right, we all have been treating you like you’re still a baby and not a young adult.” It meant a lot to Liam that Lydia apologized to him and he smiled and nodded. “Forgive and forget, we have more important things to worry about.” “Spoken like a true Alpha,” Lydia said approvingly. “Liam is a great Alpha. He cares deeply and is always ready to protect his pack,” Theo chimed in and Liam smiled at his mate before he kissed him lovingly. “Thanks,” he muttered against Theo’s lips and Theo stroked his back in a silent reply. 

Lydia cleared her throat softly. “I will leave you two to it and tell Scott you’re still standing with your offer to help. And probably make Scott come over and apologize, maybe followed by Stiles.” Liam laughed. If there was one person who would be able to make Scott and Stiles do it, it was Lydia.  “Lyds? Thank you.” Liam meant it and she smiled before she smoothed down her skirt and turned to leave. “Don’t mention it. That’s what friends do.”

She left the meeting hall and Theo looked at Liam. “And what are your plans now?” “I can’t sit around and wait for something to happen.” Liam let his eyes travel in search of something to pass time. “I think I’ll go on a hike, a walk through the woods surely will help me clear my mind.” “A hike?” Theo sounded surprised but then he smiled. “Sounds nice. Am I allowed to accompany you?” “If you want, you are allowed to accompany me, of course.”

Liam smiled and got to his feet to leave the hall, Theo trailing behind him. They just stopped by their cabin to grab something to drink, then they left the cabin again and guided their steps towards the woods. Liam inhaled the fresh air around them.  "You okay?” Theo inquired. Liam nodded. “Yeah. I just can’t sit around and wait for whatever it is we’re waiting for. An attack or a solution to this whole mess, Clarisse showing her true colors. I’m going crazy if I just have to sit around. You know me, I’m not good at waiting.” They both pursued the course of the waterfall from the time Liam had been asked to become Byron’s successor. Nobody said a word and Liam just concentrated on the nature around them.   Theo chuckled. “I know you’re one impatient puppy but I was more talking about you in general. A lot happened and you’ve been through a lot of emotional stuff lately. Are you coping well?” Liam gave him a look. “Don’t you think you would be the first to know if I wasn’t okay?” “Liam,” Theo muttered with a light scold in his voice. “I am okay. I want nothing more than to kick Clarisse’s ass, find Celia and rip her and her demons apart, but I am okay. I promise I will tell you if that changes.”

Theo seemed to be satisfied with his mate’s answer and just sped up a bit so he could walk right next to Liam. They passed the way to the waterfall but instead of choosing the path to the waterfall they walked further into the woods. It wasn’t a path they ever took before but a part of Liam was excited to explore the woods he grew to love so much.

“What about you? How are you? You’re still getting used to being a real werewolf and the pack’s reaction to you as a werewolf has not been that positive.” Theo shrugged. “I don’t care about them. I was never part of Scott’s pack and I understand why. But my pack thinks greatly of me and that’s important.”  It was heartwarming to hear that and Liam turned his head to smile at Theo. “I love you and you are a great person. A good person.”  “You really plan on telling me this as often as you can, huh?” Theo sounded amused.  “Of course I do.” Liam grinned. “Because I know you stubborn little shit and that’s why I know I need to tell you this as often as possible. Maybe one day you will believe me.” Theo looked at him and slowly his lips curved into a fond smile. “You are incredible, Liam.”

Liam just grinned and climbed up a smaller hill. “Now come on, my dear Beta, sped up a bit, I want to see what’s up the hill there.” He fell into an easy jog and soon enough Theo followed him. Liam was not moving too fast so Theo could keep up with him. It was nice to be in the woods with Theo by his side.

The woods around them changed slightly, more conifers and a distinct earthy scent in the air, while the air itself became even clearer and fresher the higher they went up the hill. And then the woods cleared lightly and gave rooms for a smaller hiking path uphill. You could see the lake down in the valley and the cabins all around looking like little toy houses. It made Liam realize how far up they already were but he was determined to take the last part as well and rest on top of the hill. He only stopped when they finally reached the top of the hill and he sat down on a boulder to rest and drink some water. Theo settled next to him and the mated couple just enjoyed the breathtaking view in front of them. 

“I still don’t know what to make out of Clarisse’s actions. I am sure now she works with Celia or is just as evil and I hate her with a burning passion.” Liam suddenly said and Theo snorted. He pushed himself off the boulder and walked closer to the edge to balance on some smaller stones and boulders. “She’s a bitch but if she works with Celia - and I’m sure she does - her tactic is remarkable and very effective.” “Huh?” Liam frowned at that. “Going to Scott of all people? Any other pack would have been not half as effective. You and Scott have history, and Celia obviously knows things about us, she probably watched us for weeks before she made her move. So going to that one Alpha that is incredibly righteous and has a tendency to help strangers and even people who did him wrong once or twice and was your former Alpha holds a lot conflict potential. And with Clarisse being able to read minds, she knows how things are between Scott and you and that you have not told him everything. Perfect premises to cause trouble.” “I’m not sure what’s more upsetting. You admiring our enemy’s tactic or that you are actually right.” Theo grinned and spun around on one foot to balance to the other side of the boulders. 

“Can you stop dancing on the edge like that? Werewolf or not, I’m sure you won’t survive a fall. No matter how graceful your balancing looks.” “Aw, puppy, I’m careful and the edge is still a bit away from me. Even if I stumble, I won’t fall down, don’t worry your pretty head.” To prove his point Theo jumped from the boulder and landed beyond it. Despite his words, Liam had almost gotten a heart attack. “Stop that!” He hissed.

Theo snickered and climbed the boulder again. “It’s safe, puppy, okay? Stop worrying so much. Do you really think I would do it if it was that dangerous?” “Want an honest answer to this?” Liam suspiciously watched Theo jumping and climbing. “You’re such a nursery child sometimes. Always running around, never able to sit still.” “I’m the perfect match for you then, huh, puppy?” Theo retaliated and jumped off the boulder in a perfect backflip.  Liam had to laugh. “Showoff!”

“Let me boast a bit in front of you, Alpha!” Theo shouted back and ran towards a tree with some lower hanging branches. He leaped up and used the tree trunk to jump even higher and pull himself on the lowest branch. He sat down, legs hanging off the branch, and grinned at Liam. “See, my mate is around, I have to show off a bit in front of him. Show him I’m a worthy mate and all.”

“Oh, your mate already knows you’re worthy. Think I would plan on marrying you otherwise?” Liam leaned back on his hands and watched Theo. 

Theo smiled at him. “I like when you say that.”

“I like to imagine it,” Liam confessed. “Us getting married I mean and how life would change. And then I find it wouldn’t change much, not now at least. We would still be Theo and Liam, would still be absolutely in love, and would still have each other’s backs. I would still worship the ground you’re walking on, the only difference would be that even non-supernaturals would know we belong together because we share the same last name and each have a ring on their finger to prove it. And then I’m thinking about our future when we both have stable jobs and are older and I think about coming home to you after a long hard day. I think about the most ordinary things, like simply telling someone you’re my husband when they ask or how it would be to look at my hand and see the wedding band there.”

Theo played with a smaller twig sticking out from the branch he was sitting on. “Are you thinking about children?” He finally asked in a small voice and when he looked up he seemed unsure. “I told you my point of view on that one. Yes, I sometimes think about children because seeing you as a dad would be amazing, but I can imagine our life without kids of our own as well. We would be the cool uncles because our pack surely will have some kids in it in a few years and they need cool uncles to do all the stuff with their parents are not allowing.” He grinned cheekily and Theo laughed but then grew serious again. “I feel like I rip you off the possibility to be a dad yourself if I ever decide against kids.” Liam shook his head. “You’re not. There is nobody else I will ever love more than you and if you decide you don’t want kids, I will be fine to live my life with you and only you. You’re not ripping me off anything.”

Theo looked astonished. “How can you love me so much? How is that even possible?” Liam blushed and shrugged shyly. “Have you met yourself? I fell in love with everything about you over the years and the closer we got the easier it was for me to love you like this. You deserve the world, Theo Raeken, and I’m willing to give it to you.”

Theo jumped from the branch and walked over to Liam to grab his hand and pull him to his feet before he wrapped both arms around Liam’s waist. “You are my world. And I will love you until the end of time.” He smiled lovingly. “I know you have this strange deal with Mason about who gets married first but I’m seriously considering asking Mike for his parents' private jet just so we can fly to Las Vegas and I can marry you when we managed to repel the witch problem.” Liam chuckled and wrapped his arms around Theo’s neck. “I’d love that actually,” he admitted. The thought of finally getting to call Theo his husband was alluring. “If you fly in mom too because she demanded to be the hysterical crying mother on my wedding.” Theo laughed loudly, undoubtedly picturing this. “Deal!”

They kissed softly and for a moment Liam forgot everything around them. Every threat, every quarrel with his former pack, it all was forgotten in the bliss of kissing the love of his life. Theo was the key element of his entire being and Liam belonged to his mate with body, mind, and soul.  He smiled at Theo when they broke away from the kiss to catch their breath and leaned his forehead against Theo’s, their breaths mingling. “I can’t describe how much I love you,” Liam muttered. “You’re doing a great job at showing me,” Theo replied and pressed a soft and chaste kiss on Liam’s lips again. “I hope I show you how much I love you as well.” “You do,” the young Alpha assured him. “I know how much you love me and you show me every day, future husband.” “I love it when you call me that.” Theo laughed happily and Liam leaned against him, a big smile on his face. 

They enjoyed the view some while longer, arms wrapped around each and content with being close.  “I know the situation with these two bitch witches is serious but we will manage, just like we managed everything else to this point. As a team and we’re a pretty great team,” Theo muttered after a while and Liam nodded softly.  “We really are.” The couple looked at each other again, then they shared another sweet kiss before they finally made their way down the hill and back to the cabin again. On their way back Liam took Theo’s hand again and swung their hands back and forth a few times.

“I remember our first stay here when the pack showed us the meeting point up the hill, and you carried me back to our cabin. I felt safe back then and it was nice to be so close to you. God, I was so in love with you back then, and it was so sad because I never even imagined you returning my feelings.” “Yeah, when you were so sure I wasn’t feeling the same way, why did you kiss me? Not that I’m not happy you did, but why did you do it?” Liam thought about the particular moment. He still remembered what he had been feeling and thinking right before he kissed Theo. “You were always there for me, always by my side, and we just managed a very difficult night. Our Betas had learned control and I was over the moon. It was a kneejerk reaction and at the same time the only thing I could think of doing at this moment. I wasn’t even scared, didn’t even think that far, and it only occurred to me I may have crossed way too many lines when you didn’t kiss me back in the beginning.” “I was surprised. You did something I never thought you would do, so forgive me for not reacting immediately. And I kissed you back relatively fast.” 

Liam chuckled. “Relax, cutie, it worked out just fine.” Theo looked at Liam and made a face. “Did you just call me cutie? Really, Liam?”  The nineteen-year-old grinned and bit his lip. “I think I did. You are cute! Sometimes. One cute tough cookie.” “Please stop!” Theo pleaded and when Liam looked at him, he started to laugh. “Are you seriously blushing right now?” Liam was amused to no end. “I’m not! Stop making fun of me!” “Never! It is insanely cute that you’re blushing. There it is again! Cute!”

Theo growled playfully and let go of Liam’s hand. “Cheeky Alpha puppy! Run!” He prompted and Liam grinned and then picked up the challenge and started running. His wolf whooped inside his chest and howled happily when Liam looked over his shoulder and saw his mate chasing him. 

They ran down the hill and straight toward the cabin they shared with their pack. Mason was the first who came in sight, he seemed like he was searching for somebody.  “Liam! Hey, there you are!” He frowned when he saw his best friend running. “Is everything okay?” “Yeah.” Liam giggled. “Just Theo chasing me.” 

He had slowed down to talk to the human and Theo used it to tackle him to the ground. Liam laughed loudly and Theo joined him after a while when they rolled around on the ground and wrestled a bit. “Is this a wolf thing or are you just being silly?” Mason inquired. “I think that’s a wolf thing, the play-fighting, and the chasing.” Corey had stepped closer to the group and watched the Alpha couple on the ground. “It sure looks cute.” Liam laughed and allowed Theo to pin him down. He flashed his mate a happy smile and Theo leaned down and kissed his nose. “We are not cute,” the ex-chimera grumbled and Liam laughed loudly.  “We are. Deal with it, baby,” he said and pulled Liam closer to kiss his lips. Their kiss however soon turned deeper and more passionate. Theo moaned softly and parted his lips to grant Liam’s tongue access. Their tongues tangled and Liam raised one hand to card his fingers through Theo’s hair and deepen the kiss even more.

“Intense.”

Liam cursed Mason inside his head. He loved his best friend but right now Mason was disturbing them. On the other hand, he noticed how close Theo and he were pressed together. He had not even noticed they were rutting against each other but it was a common occurrence since Theo had been turned. Their wolves needed the close contact and especially when they were making out they got carried away. 

Theo bit his lip teasingly and sucked on it before he released it and looked up. “Oh, you’re still there.” Liam grinned and Corey giggled while Mason gave Theo a flat look. “Always so charming.” “Can we help you?” Liam inquired while Theo got to his feet and held out his hand for Liam to pull him to his feet. Liam accepted and let Theo pull him up. “Yeah, we wanted to talk especially to you, Lee. Have a minute?” “Sure.”

Liam was curious to know what Mason and Corey wanted to talk about. He tilted his head and looked at the other couple.  “I told Mason about me asking for you giving me the bite and we talked about the whole thing.” “That’s good.” Liam nodded. It would have felt bad to do it behind Mason’s back. “Did you make a decision?” “Yeah. We talked about the things speaking for Corey asking for the bite and the things speaking against it. There isn’t a complete chance the bite will take and this is way too risky.” Mason shared their result of the talk.  “Yeah. There is a chance the bite might kill you. Unfortunately, but you have to take it into account.” “And you still would have given Corey the bite, even if it could have killed him?” Mason sounded between incredulous and compassionate.

Liam raised his shoulders. “If Corey had come to me and told me he talked with you and you both agreed on this and he still wanted the bite, yes. It would have been unfair for me to decline.” He took a breath. “Despite, I would have rather give Corey the bite than having him asking any other Alpha.” Corey gave Liam a sweet smile. “Thank you. I really appreciate that and that you took it seriously.” “Anytime.” To Liam that was only natural. His friend had asked for something important to him and so he did his best to help him. “So no bite for you?” “No.” Corey shook his head. “I will learn to fight a little bit better. Maya said she can show me some self-defense techniques and Nolan also said he would help me and show me some things. And like you said, a bite is no guarantee for surviving an attack. Theo and you both almost died and you are supernatural.”

It was the sad truth. Being supernatural gave you some higher resistance but it didn’t make you invincible. You still had to be careful but since most supernatural bad guys were freakishly strong, it was still a dangerous thing to do. So Liam had understood why Corey felt the need to protect Mason more but Liam was also glad he did not have to give Corey the bite and face the possibility his friend might die from it. 

“Theo is also good at sparring, he could teach you some things too,” Liam offered and gave Theo a proud smile. Theo smiled back and then nodded his head. “I can help you too,” he confirmed.  “Thanks.” Corey gave the Alpha couple a real Corey sunshine smile. If Liam was a puppy Corey surely was a human ray of sunshine. 

A car stopped next to them and Lana wound down her window. “Hello!” She greeted cheerfully. “How are you?” “Good, Theo and I returned from a little hike uphill and we just talked with Mason and Corey,” Liam told her and smiled at the former Alpha’s mate. “What are you up to?” “Oh, just driving to the store, grocery shopping. Some other members asked me to bring them some things from the store as well. We do this around here most times. If one goes shopping, they bring things for the others as well so no everyone has to drive to the stores all the time.” “That’s nice,” Corey praised. Liam hummed. “Can I accompany you? I could help you carry some of the bags and since you’re shopping for the whole pack it’s only fair when the Alpha accompanies you, right?” Lana gave him a warm smile. “I surely would like for you to accompany me to the store, Liam. Hop in!”

Liam squeezed Theo’s arm and then got in the passenger seat of Lana’s car. He buckled up and then waved at his friends and his mate before Lana started driving again.  “I guess we’re driving into town?” Liam asked. Lana laughed. “No, we’re driving to a bigger store. I can get everything there. It’s one longer drive but after years of living in the area you got used to it.” “Okay, makes sense. City boy here. Beacon Hills is smaller than Seattle but we still don’t have to drive that far to go to the stores.”

He looked out of the window. “Theo and I climbed up the hill and admired the view from up there. It is truly beautiful. I understand why you love living around here.” “I have been living here for almost my whole life and I love it. It’s my home and while I understand when people leave to have better chances elsewhere, I could never picture myself leaving entirely.” Liam smiled. “Maybe we move here too when we’re older. Depends on what life has in store for us.” “You could have some weekend home here,” Lana suggested. “A home you can use whenever you have a few days off. That would also be a possibility.” “True,” Liam agreed. “We have to finish college first and then see what life brings. I still haven’t decided if I want to change my major and if I do what I should change to.”

Lana shook her head with a soft smile. “You young people always think you need to have an answer immediately. Liam, you are nineteen, your whole life is still ahead of you. You don’t need to have everything up to your sleeve right this very minute. The thing with your major is something that bothers you, I understand this, but you can do so much with history and as long as you like what you’re doing it will be okay. Life has a way of twist and turns when you least expect it. Take the core pack for example. Did you expect to become an Alpha and to gather a pack around you?” Liam laughed and shook his head. “God no!” “See? Liam, because you are so young your life is ever changing and you only have a few constants in your life. Your mate is one of them. Whatever happens, you will have Theo and I can tell you from experience this is more than somebody else can say. It is the source of your strength and your motive force.” Liam smiled while he thought about the man he was crazy about and wanted to spend the rest of his life with. “We talked about marriage. Getting married,” he shared with Lana and she let out a little squealing sound. 

“You two are adorable. It is refreshing to see such a young and yet strong love like yours. So, getting married, that’s exciting. Settled on a date?” Liam shook his head. “I want to get married to Theo as fast as possible but we are still so young. I know we are already mated but I can’t wait to call him my husband and yet there’s the age thing. But to have something that shows we belong together for all eternity even to non-weres who have no idea about mating would be amazing. Theo said we could take the private jet of Mike’s parents and fly to Vegas to get married after we solved the Celia/Clarisse problem. I almost accepted but,”, he sighed. “There are so many things speaking against that and I made this deal with Mason when we were kids, I can’t break it that easily. I mean, I could but I don’t want to.”

“You say there are things speaking against getting married right now and I agree you are just nineteen years old, Theo is twenty-two. By normal standards, this may be a bit young but we are anything but normal and you are already mated. Being mated is so much more than a simple wedding, though I don’t want to downgrade the value of a wedding, yet for us werewolves being mated is more binding than a wedding. So I wouldn’t let the age thing interfere with your wish to get married as soon as possible. The most important people know about you being werewolves, they will understand why you want to get married now.  And who cares what everybody else might think? They don’t matter. However, I don’t know what kind of deal you and Mason made when you were kids but it sounds adorable. And yet, he is your best friend, Liam, if you tell him how important it would be to get married to Theo, In Vegas or somewhere else, I’m sure he will understand.”

Liam sighed and turned his head to look at her. “A part of me wants to spend the next years just in a normal relationship with Theo, enjoy being boyfriends, before we tie the knot. Give us both the possibility to develop as persons without the duty of being a husband. But another part of me longs for this. I know it’s silly and probably obsessive but the thought of sharing his last name and calling him my husband is something that makes me smile every time. I am literally torn and I want to do the right thing, don’t pressure anybody, but I also know we both are already bonded for life so there is probably no use in worrying so much about it.”

“Hm,” Lana hummed and switched lanes. “I hear you and those are very good reasons. A true sign of maturity that you take all this into account. I completely understand you.” She showed Liam her hand. “I’m wearing three rings as you can see. My wedding band, my engagement ring, and the third is a promise ring Byron gave me before we even got engaged. He handed it to me as an affidavit he would always love me and stand by my side, no matter what life may bring for us. He just had become an Alpha and we were just dating around that time and suddenly everyone expected me to be the perfect Alpha’s mate. I was freaking out because this was so far from what I saw in myself. But with Byron’s gesture, it helped me see that no matter what everybody else might think of and expect from you, what really counts is what the person you love thinks of you. He assured me I didn’t need to become the picture-perfect First Lady and could be myself and he would still love me. A promise in every sense of the word and it gave me time to grow to like us being a married couple. There is a difference between wanting to marry someone and actually getting used to the thought of marriage.” “It was somewhat like a trial for you. A trial before marriage.” Liam had understood that much. 

Lana nodded. “Liam, have you ever considered a shamanic wedding or maybe a Handfasting?” The young Alpha looked quizzical and shook his head. “A what?” “It’s a ceremony that could be held as a wedding but doesn’t necessarily has to be one. I know quite some couples who wanted to get married, belong together, but didn’t want to have a real wedding yet. It takes some of the stress away for those couples, you know? A real ceremony but if the one holding the ceremony is not legally approved as a legal wedding, it’s not binding in a legal sense.” “So you’re saying you can get married without actually getting married. Just have the emotional value of a wedding but don’t have to face the legal actions afterward.”  “Exactly. I know various types of Handfastings. One is for a year, see it as some sort of engagement. Or you can be having a Handfasting for as long as the love lasts without any strict time frame. Very good for couples who are not sure they really want to spend the rest of their lives together. And, of course, for all eternity. I don’t have to explain that to you I think.”

“Huh,” Liam leaned back. He now had a lot to think about because what Lana had just suggested was something he didn’t even think about. “Is not something religious, is it? Theo’s an atheist.” “You can have a shamanic wedding to your liking. Many shamans are very helpful when it comes to planning everything and you don’t have to incorporate any religious things if you don’t want to.” This was a whole new world and Liam made a very big mental note to research about this once he was back home. He beamed at Lana. “Thank you so much!” She beamed back. “Anytime, young wolf. You deserve a happy end as much as Theo and the rest of us do.”

It was heartwarming that he had so many great people in the last six months and he counted them all as a family. Talking to Lana helped him as much as talking to Byron because they saw things from a different perspective and Liam could learn so much from them. And Lana was also a very funny woman and going grocery shopping with her made Liam laugh so much, he was sure everybody at the store stared at them and he had to lean on the shopping cart to hold himself up. 

When they were done and on their way back, Lana cracked even more jokes. It was an easy atmosphere and she made him promise to come back with the whole core pack in the summer. Liam said yes (as if he would ever say no).

“I promise I will bring them all back when its warmer and we can swim in the lake.” Liam grinned at the image. That would be a fun vacation and so very different than the last one he and Theo had here. Lana was satisfied with his answer. They were close to the lake again when a wailing screech pierced the air. Liam tensed immediately and Lana stopped next to the road. “What the hell was that? That wasn’t a wolf.” “No.” Liam’s face darkened. “That wasn’t a wolf but a demon.” It had been the same sound the demon that almost killed Theo made and it was enough to make Liam’s blood run cold. “It came from the lake!” Demons were there. Demons were where his pack was. His wolf growled inside his chest and his eyes flashed red. He opened the door and got out of the car fastly. “I don’t know how many are there but we need to get to the others as soon as possible.” Liam pulled his shirt over his head and threw it into the car. “You’ll go and help evacuate the kids and the ones who can’t fight, I will come from the other side as a surprise element,” Liam ordered and undressed further, left his clothes in her car. “Be careful!” Liam instructed her and slammed the door shut. Lana just nodded and drove off while Liam dropped to his knees.

 The shift came fast and easy and soon Liam was on all four paws and ran through the woods. He strained his ears to catch any sound coming from the cabins. Being fully shifted gave him the opportunity to be faster and yet don’t cause too much attention while he was running towards the lake. Demonic screeches sounded up sometimes and the closer Liam got the more fighting sounds he heard. And he heard more than one demon and that worried Liam greatly. He just hoped his pack was okay. And his old pack was okay too. 

Liam broke through the undergrowth and found himself behind one of the cabins. He sniffed and strained his ears and then slowed down while he approached the fighting scene, still partly hidden by the cabins. It was all in the element of surprise. 

But when the fighting scene finally came in sight, Liam growled lowly. He could see several demons, they were moving too fast to really count them. Pesky ashy looking creatures with longs claws, and stumps for tails. Their amphibious-looking faces looked wrinkled in a normal state but when they opened their mouths they revealed two long rows of sharp teeth that could do some serious damage. They could jump very high and very fast and always screeched in a deafening tone. He wanted to interfere but first, he had to make sure everyone was still alive and breathing.

Liam saw Scott fighting them off, saw Ever setting a few of them on fire and burn them to ashes, saw Sadie and Maya beating the living crap out of those things, Nolan shooting arrows while Mike and Tim made sure he was free and could actually shoot. One demon was on the floor and got beaten up by an invisible force, undoubtedly Mason and Corey who had turned invisible and gave the thing a beating. Lydia kicked and screamed but the things just screeched back. Derek wrestled those things in the middle of the battlefield, just like Alec, Malia, and Theo, and Stiles was nowhere to be seen. He was either planning a surprise attack or was with Mason and Corey and therefore invisible. They would need Braden right now but Liam had seen her leave earlier, obviously following a trace to the hunters or whatever it was Braden did. 

Malia was running towards Scott who had three of those beasts on him but before she could even reach her boyfriend a demon jumped on her back and they toppled to the ground. The demon’s claws dug into her back and she roared in pain, eyes glowed blue and her fangs poked out. She wriggled and tried to get the demon off but the thing didn’t butch. Until suddenly Theo ripped it off her and slashed it’s throat, making it burst into black smoke. Malia turned around and blinked at him. “Thanks,” she rasped out and Theo nodded curtly.

“Against popular opinion, I don’t want to see you dead,” he grumbled and she nodded. Next thing Liam saw was his mate being tackled to the ground by a bigger demon. It looked like a crippled crocodile, had four stump legs, a blackish-blue body, sharp claws glistening in the winter sun, and from its long tongue dripped something Liam would consider poisonous, crusted scales stuck up from its back, the tail was long and had sharp edges and scales. Despite its stout build, it was fast and the impact with Theo had brought the werewolf to the ground and he groaned in pain. Liam bared his teeth and slowly moved closer.

“I was really peeved that you didn’t die on the first try. That would have been one less annoying werewolf to take care of and it would have totally destroyed Liam. Would have killed two birds with one stone but of course, you couldn’t die just like that. No, Liam had to save you.” Clarisse emerged from the shadows and slowly walked closer to Theo. The demon weaseled back to her and hovered by her side and another one of the things that attacked them in the store appeared on the roof of the nearest cabin. Another crocodile demon appeared next to Clarisse’s other side and hissed at Theo. The Beta glared at her and slowly got into a sitting position. One demon reached out and ripped his claws over Theo’s ankle, ripped the jeans apart and left bloody marks back. Theo hissed in pain and pulled his leg closer to press his palm on his wound. 

“But oh well, a second time’s the charm, I guess. And you know what?” Clarisse smirked and stepped closer to Theo and then suddenly her facial features shifted, her whole appearance twisted, and Clarisse turned into Celia. “This time I will make sure you die a very slow and very painful death and my demons will hold Liam down so he is forced to see and hear you scream when my demons rip you apart inch by inch.” Her glance was cold and completely lunatic. “The only thing I will leave intact is your upper body so Tara can rip your heart out again.” Theo growled. “Bitch!” “Oh, don’t try to act tough, I know about your nightmares. It’s pathetic, really. But I can’t wait to watch the light in your eyes die!”

The demon on her right side screeched and jumped to land between Celia and Theo. His long tongue lolled out and Theo barely avoided getting hit. He flashed his eyes and roared in warning, fangs out and ready to strike. The demon didn’t seem impressed but before it could even make its next move a howl sounded out and Liam dashed forward. He jumped the demon and pushed them to the ground; claws and teeth aiming directly at the creature’s throat. The demon buckled but when Liam’s claws pierced its throat and slashed it, it dissolved into black smoke. The wolf spun around and stood between his mate and Celia, teeth bared and ready to jump her. A menacing growl escaped his throat. Stay away from my mate.

“Aww, you think I’m scared of you?” Celia was not impressed at all. “Seriously, I couldn’t care less about any ghost wolves you have, any tricks up your sleeves. I am better, I am more powerful, and I have demons!” The rest of the pack, led by Byron and Lana appeared. “Yes, but we are still more than you. We killed al the demons you sent our way and we will kill these too. You are outnumbered!” Byron’s voice was firm and raised but he wasn’t exactly yelling. He was simply telling her she had not won this round. But Celia smirked and then looked at Liam in his wolf form. She raised one finger and pointed at Liam. The demon on the cabin screeched and then jumped. Liam roared and jumped too.

Demon and wolf collided midair and locked jaws. They fell to the ground in a heap of tangled limbs, their claws scratched each other, and they rolled around while Liam tried to keep this thing from his neck. The creature cried and raked its claws over Liam’s front paw. Liam howled in pain and raked his claws over the demon’s back in return. The demon pulled away and pushed Liam away to get a better point to jump and attack again. It would have worked but a loud Banshee scream threw the demon aside. Liam turned his head. Lydia stood there, arms raised and her breath was going heavy. Celia hissed and looked around. She seemed to realize she was outnumbered and her eyes narrowed. Liam growled at her and slowly shifted back in his human form to give her a cold look. He had cuts on his shoulder and his arm but he was fine overall. “Every single member of this pack will die a torturous death,” Celia hissed and waved her hands. A blinding light appeared and they all covered their eyes.

 When the light disappeared again, Celia and her demons were gone. Liam looked around, took in the appearance of everyone. Corey, Mason, and Stiles appeared again and Stiles steadied Lydia, Malia kneeled next to Scott who held his stomach where some large cuts were visible.  “Full shift, huh?” The True Alpha rasped out. Liam nodded. “Any more surprises down the line?” Liam shook his head at Scott’s questions and the Alpha’s locked eyes for a moment. Scott’s lips curved into an almost unnoticeable smile. “Okay.” “Okay,” Liam said.

“Liam!” Mike had cried out his name and when Liam spun around, Mike was on the ground with Tim. Tim was on his stomach and in a bad shape.

Liam let out a curse and ran over to drop to his knees next to his Betas. Theo and the others followed him. Mike slowly turned him on his back and gasped at the demon claw sticking out from his best friend’s side. He grabbed it and slowly pulled it out from Tim’s flesh. The other Beta whimpered in pain but then laid there motionless. “He’s not healing! Why isn’t he healing?” Mike was close to being hysterical and Theo gave his shoulder a compassionate squeeze.  Liam let his eyes wander over Tim’s injuries. Blood was seeping out from the wound where the claw had stuck, he had cuts and scratches. But Mike was right, his healing wasn’t triggered yet and while Liam was no expert at all, he would guess it was because the claw in his flesh had delayed it.

“Keep him still! As still as you can!” Mike held Tim’s shoulders and Maya moved so Tim had his head in her lap and she could put her hands on his cheeks. “Why?” Mike asked. “We have to trigger his healing,” Liam announced. He took a deep breath. “And this will hurt like a bitch!” Nolan knelt next to Liam and held Tim’s legs as good as he could. Liam grabbed Tim’s arm and twisted it strongly. The sound of bone cracking could be heard and Tim screamed in pain, even surged up and struggle against his friends restraining him but then he fell back and a pained whimper escaped his lips. But now his healing would kick in at last.

Mike grabbed his best friend’s arm with both hands and inhaled. “What are you doing?” Sadie asked in a small voice. She had glassy eyes, suffered vicariously with her packmate and friend.  “I’m trying to take his pain!” Mike hissed. But it wasn’t working. The black veins would not show up. “Why can’t I take his pain? You said one needs to care to take the pain. I care about Tim, why can’t I take his pain?” He asked his pack with tears in his eyes and still had Tim’s arm in a tight grip. Sadie shook her head. “Don’t ask me. I never managed to take someone’s pain.” “I never learned either,” Maya muttered and stroked through Tim’s hair. “My parents wanted to show me but then they died and I lost interest. I had enough pain on my own.” Theo put both hands on Mike’s shoulders. “Taking pain isn’t easy, even if you care. It is difficult and it can be devasting when you really want to but don’t succeed.” “Oh.” Mason made a small sound and realization dawned on his face as he looked at Theo. Liam would have loved to ask what had gotten in his friend but he was more focused on the task at hand. Tim looked already a bit better, his healing was slowly picking up again. He would be fine again. Liam looked around.

“Are you all okay?”

“Yeah. Bloody and bruised but okay.” Corey had been the one to reply for all of them and the others just nodded. Liam let out a breathless laugh and fell back against Theo, leaned his head against his mate’s. At least they were all alive. 

I still can't believe that we have 36 chapters already. It feels like a dream and I squeal every time I see the chapter number.  I said it once and I'm gonna say it again: You guys are awesome. Thank you for the encouragement and the support. For the chapter, I am curious what you have to say about Lana's suggestion. Do you like how events are turning out at the moment? Your thoughts on Clarisse?

[endless-vall]

What if? - part four - Val & Claudius fanfic

Summery: What if we got closure not only for Kenna, but for the other characters too? Kenna appoints her master of arms, Val, to a joint training mission in Abanthus, with Fydoria. Val meets old friends and reconnects with them, and finds out a few interesting details.  Author’s note: It took me way too long to continue this series, but inspiration just hit me out of nowhere. This piece is Val centeric, but also tells the story of her and Claudius. If you don’t know who Claudius is, I recommend reading my other fanfic of them here, and checking out my fanart here 😄 ANYWAY, this piece also explores other characters from The Crown and The Flame, and what happened with them (Diavolos, Adder, Eda & Annelyse), and also features a new oc! 😊 Part One, Part Two, Part Three.

“Val, a moment?” Kenna was walking towards her with her son Adrian in her arms. The little brat was Val’s own favorite little angel, even though she would never admit that. Val never liked kids too much, they were always too loud and caused way too much trouble, but the little guy won her over from the first moment she saw him. Val stopped the training session with a few of her new recruits, all of them falling to the ground, hitting it hard, and thanking the lord for a little break, finally. Kenna couldn’t help but chuckle, as Val approached her.  “You should go easier on them.” She suggested, while handing her little prince to Val, who seemed very excited to have a few moments with him. “Huh! y’think? They’ll think i’m turning into a softie!” Val protested, while playing and amusing Adrian. “Right.” Kenna noted, making Val stop at her tracks, and look up at her. “Because right now they think you’re vicious.” Kenna motioned to the hand shadow bunny Val was showing to Adrian. Val snored at her, but nodded. “They might get the wrong idea.” She agreed. Kenna grinned, and ruffled Adrian’s hair. Adrian didn’t seem too happy with that, and made an adorable pout. “Can you blame me?” Val asked, as she kissed Adrian on his cheek, making the pout-y face fade away, and a huge smile spread instead of it. “Not at all.” Kenna agreed. “Well, as much as I adore this little guy over here, i’m sure this isn’t why you wanted to talk to me.” Val focused on Kenna now, while putting Adrian down. The little curious prince wondered out loud in awe, pointing at the stables and calling “Hoses!! hor... horses!!!” excitedly. “You’re right. And you’re also right, my little sunshine, there are horses in there. Do you want to go check that out with me later?” Kenna asked Adrian, who nodded enthusiastically and waited eagerly. “I wanted to have a word because king Diavolos sent this out.” Kenna now turned back to Val. She gave Val a piece of paper, looking like a royal letter. “What does it say? Is he declaring war again? Because I swear--” Val got heated for a moment, before Kenna shook her head and waved her hands in protest “No... No.” She giggled a little. “It’s alright. It’s just an invitation.” She said, showing Val the details on the letter.  “Oh.” Val nodded. “So... why are you showing this to me? I mean, with all due respect, shouldn’t you be showing this to Raydan? Or your advisers? Or even Jackson, for that matter?” Val wondered out loud. “No, silly, this is an invitation for a joint training session.” Kenna explained. “Ohhh...” now it made sense. “Between Abanthus, Stormholt, and... Fydoria.” Kenna explained further, winking at the end. “Uh, why would you say it like that?” Val was getting suspicious. Kenna could’ve decided to send anyone else from her army. While Val was appointed master of arms, she certainly wasn’t the best candidate to represent Stormholt at official matters. And also, pointing out Fydoria like this, made her suspect Kenna had something else on her mind, too. “Oh, no reason. Nothing out of the ordinary. Just... You know. Interesting people might be there.” And with that, Kenna left, not giving away any more details, and walking hand in hand with Adrian towards the stables. “I hate it when she does it!” Val ranted out loud, to herself. She looked back at the group of soldiers she was trying to teach some basic moves to, realizing they were too beated to continue, and decided to call it a day.

When Val laid in her bed at night, she finally had some time to think about what Kenna could mean. “Pick your best group, you’ll leave tomorrow, first thing in the morning!” Kenna noted to her, somewhere along the day, after their talk. What could Kenna mean? Fydoria... Interesting people... Who was she kidding? Val knew what Kenna meant. She knew alright. The last time Val saw him, was at Tevan and Zenobia’s wedding. Kenna caught her looking too longingly at the man officiating the wedding. Then, Val told her about the bond and friendship they formed, and about a certain night at a tavern that still gave her butterflies in her stomach. But other then sharing a drink, and congratulating him on his promotion, they didn’t exchange much words that evening.  Ugh. This was stupid. And now Kenna was sending her, of all people, when she knew he’d be there? It’s not like she was thinking about him, all the time. She had flings with both man and woman in the past few years. But nothing of those things lasted, and she was fine with it that way. But when she did think of him... when they met... her heart fluttered. Val decided to gather her best group, just in case, but to also have a talk, with Kenna, in the following morning. To her luck, she didn’t need to look for Kenna, or even worse, wake her up. Kenna came out, along with Raydan, to wave them goodbye before their journey. “Kenna!” Val leaped to the front, when she saw them getting out of the castle. She was busy handling last preparations before heading out, but once she saw Kenna, she knew she had to ‘confront’ her about this matter. “Oops, that might’ve came out too excitedly.” Val blushed, when she remembered they were in front of many subject of Kenna. While she and Kenna were still friends, and Kenna never made her feel like she was less of anything, for being a former mercenary, or for not a from a noble family line, but Val had to remind herself sometimes that they weren’t on their journeys anymore, and Kenna wasn’t a queen without a kingdom anymore. Kenna just chuckled, and motioned her to get closer, like this wasn’t a big deal. “What, did you want a real hug before saying goodbye?” Kenna teased her, while Raydan found the situation really amusing, from her other side. “What? This is ridiculous. You know exactly what this is about.” Val eyed Kenna, who shrugged innocently. “I have no idea what are you talking about.” She played her role, but Raydan’s chuckle gave her away. “Kenna!” Val grumbled, not too loudly. “Fine! fine!” Kenna admitted defeat, bursting into laughter with her husband. “I’m happy you find torturing me amusing, you guys.” Val looked at both of them, staring them down. “C’mon Val. Don’t you think you’re exaggerating? I wouldn’t go as far as saying this is torturing you.” Raydan was the first to compose himself, and reply to her. Kenna followed closely after, nodding and agreeing with him. “You’re making fun of me, now ya?” Val sighed. “I don’t know what you’re talking about. We’re just sending you on a training mission.” Kenna nudged Val in her shoulder. “Now come on, you should be going.” She smiled, pulled Val into a quick hug, and then turned her around and pushed her towards her soldiers. “Fine.” Val muttered under her breath, and then got on her horse. “Let’s head out!” She called out, all of her soldiers riding behind her. “You’ll meet the Fydorian troops on the way. Then you’ll head together to Abanthus. You should find them by nightfall, but if not - here’s a communication orb.” Val remembered Kenna’s words, as she watched the beautiful purple orb in her side pocket. She wondered who would be on the other side of it. Or maybe, she waited to finally meet him again. Just like he was reading her mind, the purple orb lighted up and a familiar voice came out of it. “Val? Lady Valentina? Is that really you?” Claudius voice rang in her ears. Her heart beat fast in her chest, but she wouldn’t have it that way. “I though I told you to not call me that way, a long time ago. And I warned you about using my full name. I knew it was a mistake telling you about it.” She took the orb out of her pocket and answered him. “I deeply and sincerely apologize. I know I should’ve waited to meet you by nightfall, but I couldn’t wait any longer. I had to hear your voice. Even if you’re just scolding me.” He teased, and Val rolled her eyes, defiantly satisfied. “Oh. I’m not just scolding. You know i’m not just all talk. You’ll be punished when we bump into each other again.” Val warned him again. She heard Claudius chuckle huskily. She could imagine him smirking right now. “I’m counting on that.” He finally whispered. Val blushed at first, then bite her lip. Finally, she composed herself, all in a matter of a few seconds. She was glad she was leading the group, since no one saw her flushing right now. “I’m going to beat you ass, you know.” She said back. “Are you kidding? I was waiting for this re-match for years!” Claudius called excitedly, and Val bursted into laughter. “See ya later when i’ll be kicking your ass, dummy.” Val rolled her eyes, and put the purple orb in her pocket again. By nightfall, as promised, Stormholt troops met the Fydorian troops. They all set camp and started bonfires. Claudius embraced Val in a bear-hug, and she hugged tightly back. After boosting their soldiers moral, the two leaders went a little further from the group. They got to the edge of a low cliff, watching the starry night before them.  They both sat down, and their hands accidentally brushed against each other. It caught them both by surprise, and they both shot their eyes from their hands to each other’s eyes. In the darkness, it was hard to tell, but both were blushing. While they’ve shared a kiss before, this was entirely different. They weren’t drunk right now, and weren’t on the verge of possibly dying tomorrow by a lightning monster. Val opened her mouth. She didn’t know what to say, but she had to say something, right? “Uh...” Was all that came out of Val’s mouth. “So how about that re-match?” Claudius asked, suddenly. “Good idea.” Val swallowed, jumping back on her legs, letting go of his hand. He got up as well, and prepared himself, getting into a fighting position. “I can’t believe it! You beat me with my own move!! UGH!” Val complained, as Claudius sat on her back, holding both of her hands behind her. “What can I say? You’re a good teacher. Or do you want to call it cheating and demand another re-match?” Claudius teased. “Oh, don’t get too cocky. I’ll defiantly defeat you if you’ll give me another chance.” She said, as he released her. “You sure? I got pretty good at thi-” Before he could finish his line, Val leaped towards his, tackling him down and holding his arms under her legs. That way, he was completely immobilized. Under her mercy. “Hey! this was un-fair. We didn’t say we started. I was totally off-guard.” Claudius protested. “A warrior should always be on-guard.” Val simply noted. “I guess I still have a lot to learn.” Claudius agreed. Val freed her hold of his hands, but still stayed on top of him, straddling him. “I guess you do.” She said, and finally got off him. They went back into camp, and each went into their tent. Their journey continued, and they finally made it to Lykos. A messenger announced their arrival, and King Diavolos quickly came out, greeting them. “Hello, Val. Claudius. It’s nice to see you again.” Diavolos approached them, shaking their hands.  “Diavolos,” Val had to give credit to the man. He had proven himself and trust-worthy ally, and a honorably man. Something Val couldn’t ever possibly imagine happening. But a few good years had passed since the end of the war, and Diavolos haven’t disappointed them even once. Claudius bowed slightly, showing his respect too. “You must be tired. The staff will show you to your rooms. We’ll assemble later again, for the training session details.” Diavolos said, and none of them had any complaints. When they gathered again, after re-freshening, Val looked around the courtyard. “Where’s Adder?” she wondered out loud, searching around Diavolos. “Oh, we don’t see her that much these days. After my sister got out of the way, me and Adder got to agreements a lot easier, and she left the ruling part for me. She can run the Black Asps from wherever she wants, and she spends most of her time in Aurelia now.” Diavolos told her. “But you probably shouldn’t mention it near Eda.” He advised, eyeing one of his captains. “Oh. They broke up?” Val asked. While she didn’t remember if Adder and Eda were ever really official, she did remember seeing them dancing together at a few celebrations, as well as in Tevan and Zenobia’s wedding. “They did.” Diavolos confirmed. “Why Aurelia, of all?” Claudius joined in the conversation. “Well, let’s just say, Adder loves gold. Or, more specifically, a certain woman in gold.” Diavolos had a sly smile, while Val realized what he was saying. “No way! Adder and Annelyse got together?” She asked, making sure no to be too loud and upset that captain. “Well, i’m not sure about how Annelyse feels about it, and frankly, i’m not really updated on this subject, regularly. But Adder made it very clear how she feels about her. And, since she does spend a lot of time there, I guess it’s possible.” Diavolos shrugged. It was clear he didn’t know anymore about those two. Diavolos appointed Eda as the head of the training mission on Abanthus side, and left for his businesses. Along with Val and Claudius, the three agreed on a training technique, and started to practice. After a long day of practicing, even Val was ready to call it a day. She was known for being hard on her soldiers, but with good intentions. She was always pushing them to their limits, to be their best-selves. But handling all three groups was getting... exhausting. “Val!” Claudius called, as he and a few other soldiers were heading out, last but not least, from the training arena. “would you like to join us in the tavern?” he asked. A knowing smile spread on his lips. “Oh, I don’t think I could handle it.” Val admitted. “Oh no, are you feeling well?” He checked her for fever, jokingly. “Does the mighty Val refuse a drink just to head to bed early?” He continued. “Hey!” She scoffed. “I’m not saying i’m heading to bed early! i’m just saying I might need to cut on the booze for tonight to stay focused for tomorrow.” She added. “Alright. Boys, you should head without me.” Claudius called back to the group of soldiers, who disappeared so fast Val couldn’t even question it. “Who said I invited you to stay in with me?” She raised an eyebrow, teasingly. “I just thought you’d appreciate the company.” Caludius tried. “Maybe you’re right.” Val punched his arm lightly, and then he wrapped an arm around her shoulder. She enjoyed the touch, and leaned into it. “Where to?” A long moment had passed, until Claudius broke the silence and asked. “I think I saw a cozy spot in the garden, by the fountain, but it might be occupied.” Val suggested. “We could check it out.” Claudius nodded, and they started walking in that direction. They arrived at the fountain, to find Diavolos talking to a stranger. She was a beautiful woman with light hair, golden locks turned into a gentle hairbun, wearing a fancy blue dress. They were too far away to figure out what they were talking about, but it seemed like she said something snarky, and Diavolos chuckled, putting a hand on the back of his neck. The unknown woman raised her eyebrow at him, and then shrugged and took off. Diavolos immediately followed her, calling after her. “Lady Felicia, wait up!” They didn’t seem to notice Val or Claudius, and both caught their places near the fountain. “Lady Felicia, huh?” Val noted, before scooting closer to Claudius. “She looks familiar. If i’m not mistaken, she’s from Fydoria’s noble families. She’s known for being cunning and hard working, don’t let that gentle angelic appearance fool you.” Claudius told her. She sent a questioning look his way, but he just chuckled and shrugged. “I know everything King Tevan needs to know. This includes insight about the noble families.” Val nodded. “Interesting. And do you find Lady gentle angelic appearance attractive?” Val asked, not sure where she was going with this. It’s not like she was jealous, she had nothing to be jealous of, and even if she did, she didn’t have any right to be. “Hm... Pretty? sure. Attractive? Nah.” Claudius simply answered. Val was a little shocked, but it wasn’t showing on her. “Personally, the woman I find attractive, is a little more... rough.” He said, looking directly into her eyes. Well... now, her shock was defiantly showing. Along with a slight blush, she had to quickly shake away. “Oh... Interesting...” Val dared to look back at him. “But none the less beautiful.” Claudius added, his eyes drifted from her eyes to her lips, and to her eyes again. “C'mere. Dammit.” Val pulled at Claudius’s top, making their mouths meet in a clash. “Ouch!” They both burst into laughter, the nervousness faded away, and while the moment “was ruined”, both felt relieved. After they finished laughing it off, Claudius lifted her chin with his hand, and pulled her lightly towards him. She leaned in gladly, and their lips met in a soft and sweet kiss. This time it went smoothly, and quickly enough the kiss developed into a much hungrier one. As if it was making up for every time their glasses clinked and met each other instead of their lips, for every drink they shared instead of a night. They both were so into the kiss they forgot they were sitting on a wall without a backrest, and when none of them seemed to notice and stabilize themselves, they slipped and fell into the fountain. Although that didn’t stop them from kissing, there was some giggling and then they got back into planting kisses and soft bites at each other’s lips, Claudius laying on top of Val, both soaked wet, and completely content.