#what can i say i think having one of your lords (azura is a lord to ME!!) be a dancer is fucking awesome

[sieglinde-freud]

🔥 dancers I guess lmao

i think fates having an early game dancer is a really neat concept that rev and especially conquest utilize really well! i get the criticism that “dancers are busted and should be mid/late game only” but without azura being there the game would have to be designed a lot differently and things like chapter 10, one of the best maps in fire emblem, would be fundamentally different without her. early game fire emblem is unique due to your lack of resources, so i think giving intsys another stab at incorporating a dancer into that having learned from fates would be really fucking awesome. i love dancers <3

also idk if this is unpopular but everytime i see someone say “i bench [dancer] immediately because their combat sucks and theyre useless” i wanna gouge my eyes out. its one thing if they just dont suit your playstyle like thats super valid!! but saying theyre objectively bad is just. wow! um!!! okaaaay… sorry you struggle with positioning but thats not ninian’s problem actually

[xerith-42]

Some things we may have forgotten

I've been rewatching MCD and taking extensive notes on it in hopes that I'll never have to watch it again and this is just a list of things that I don't see mentioned or brought up very often/ever that we should talk about and think about more

In the first episode Garroth tries to attack Vylad (angst potential) and Vylad literally just combat locks him by logging out of the game. This is objectively funny and should not be rewritten in any capacity. This should be canon as it is in every universe.

Aphmau's cat Meowki gets randomly killed in Episode 12 by a skeleton while Kiki is right upstairs. Just saying, there's some angst potential there.

In episode 11 Garroth reveals that he knows some medicine. Pretty sure this is never brought up again, but we could always bring it up.

Logan is apparently good with a bow while Zenix is trash at it despite being a self proclaimed "expert archer" which I think is very funny (I know this is part of Zenix's cover but what if we took it seriously it would be so funny)

Zoey is originally from the river village, as is Donna. Pretty sure they retcon that for Zoey, but I like to think the two of them could have been friends before Phoenix Drop.

Garroth actually almost dies in episode 15. Like Dr. Doctor says he will probably die soon at the start of the episode. And he doesn't get healed until episode 20. He literally spends 5 episodes laid up in bed dying.

Brendan's at his side probably angsting the entire time I'm just saying if you want sad gay fanfics, it's sitting right there!

Azura and Garroth were friends as kids??? Hello???? I think this is just a massive plot hole considering what Garroth's actual backstory ends up being asjfgshjdfgjk

Okay but if we twist it a little bit, they were friends as kids as in like at the guard academy??? Bc they're like vaguely teenage/young adult so maybe that's what she means? In which case I wanna think about that more because childhood friends to lovers is one of my favorite romance arcs ever. But is it really childhood friends if you met when you were like... 18?? And you're in your like mid to late twenties probably, I wouldn't really classify that as childhood friends.

WAIT IT GETS WORSE!

I don't... I don't even have a joke here, this is just a massive plot hole. Like all of this is just not true to Garroth's backstory as we know it. Grew up in the same village? You mean O'Khasis?? Where Garroth also FAKED HIS DEATH????

I literally don't know what to say to this I was just trying to find silly little facts to try and incorporate into my rewrite and instead I found a massive gaping plot hole

Moving on, in episode 19 when Aphmau confronts Zenix and they fight, he actually apologizes to her. As if he regrets having to hurt her for the sake of his/the Shadow King's goals.

The Lord of Brightport says the Shadow King "used to be a lord". Which like... Okay, I can bend backwards a few ways to say that he could be referring to how Shad started Falcon Claw, but how the fuck does this dude know that??? I feel like Laurance constantly just stumbling into plot holes by complete accident

Dale is apparently a Garmau shipper, going as far as to ask Aphmau if she plans on hooking up with Garroth. I like to think that he and Molly have a bet going for how long it takes for one of the two of them to finally fess up.

Raven's mom tried to eat him??

Okay then.

[saetgvia]

spark | wriothesley

in which you and wriothesley find an unlikely spark.

CHAPTER ONE: A NOT SO MEET-CUTE

prince!wrio x fem!noble!reader, invented country au

✧ genre: fluff, angst...? maybe...? if you squint...?, arranged marriage trope

✧ tw: none, if you see any lmk <3

✧ word count: 1.32K

✧ playlist: spark - taeyeon, radio - lana del rey, deja vu - txt, darl+ing - seventeen, invu - taeyeon, agora hills - doja cat, killin' me good - jihyo, i like you (a happier song) - doja cat & post malone, fever - enhypen, eleven - ive, hype boy - newjeans, hard to love - rose, sour grapes - le sserafim, oh my god - adele, my head & my heart - ava max, nonsense - sabrina carpenter, the feels - twice

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i. a not so meet-cute

'what.' you stare in disbelief at your parents. 'there's no way. NO. WAY.' arranged marriages only happen in books. of course you'd heard of them in your country of azura, some distant cousin being married to some lord or other for alliances or whatever, but you'd always been free to do what you wanted, marry who you chose. your parents never put any restrictions on you, but this out of the blue is so- 'unexpected! what? i thought-' 'circumstances change.' your father replies shortly. 'i- you- you can't do this!' you cry, becoming more and more panicked. you wanted to fall in love, marry someone you chose! and now, you were going to be pawned off to someone you didn't even know. wait...

'can you at least tell me who i'm being given away to?' 'you're not being given away-' 'oh mom, it's fine. i know how this works. so, who is it?'

wriothesley. the prince of emeia. a name that struck fear into your very soul. not because he was a terrible ruler or a womaniser. he was, in fact, the complete opposite. you'd heard tales from all over the kingdom in the form of gossiping ladies giggling behind fans, sipping their tea and gushing to your mother. she, in turn, laughed daintily, and turned to you with a pointed look. how could she even know? his parents kept him hidden away from the world, their precious son too perfect for mere commoners. no, you were afraid because you didn't know him. because he seemed too good to be true. and most of all, because he was about to become your life. you should have seen this coming.

'i won't go.'

your father's eyes narrow, and you can see his neatly trimmed beard bristling in anger. you've never seen him like this before, and over something as silly as an arranged marriage? your mother puts a placating arm on his bicep, and he shoots her a look, both of them communicating through their gaze. finally, he exhales, evidently trying to calm himself, and speaks.

'we... we're in debt. remember that deal with ceria? the cherry liqueur? they've been selling it for exorbitant prices without giving us any of the profits, and we've been depending on that to get us out of last winter's snowstorms. emeia noticed us struggling and have so kindly offered to refill our coffers in exchange for your hand.' there's a hint of annoyance in his tone, and you begin to understand just how much this is weighing on him. but still, how can you throw your life away like that?

'i'll think about it.'

⭑⭑⭑

'but i don't WANT to!' you shriek into your pillow, kicking your feet in true spoiled girl fashion. your maid, or rather, your friend, giselle, winces, and tries to comfort you.

'hey, maybe it won't be so bad! everyone says he's a sweetheart!'

'but everyone ISN'T BEING MARRIED OFF TO HIM!'

'think about your parents, hon! you can always divorce him later, run away, fake your own death-'

she breaks off at your deadpan gaze, and starts to giggle, until you start to giggle, and you're both in your bed cackling uncontrollably. you wipe tears of mirth from your eyes, and look at giselle over the rumpled sheets, her eyes twinkling, and you wish there were more people like her in the world. sitting up, you clasp her hands between yours, and trace the lines on her weathered palm. you exhale, and make up your mind. you have to marry wriothesley.

'giselle... i'll marry wriothesley. but only if you come with me.'

⭑⭑⭑

'woah woah woAH-' you cry as you stumble. your beautiful, floor-length cherry-red dress, so stunning to look at when you were standing in one place, was nothing but a nuisance when you were walking. for comfort, you'd opted for soft velvet flats instead of the heels sent for you; you could see the flaws in this decision now. but instead of breaking your nose, you're met with shoes. shiny leather shoes, buckled with silver, and a pair of strong - warm - arms gripping your own. slowly raising your head, your eyes land on a beautiful face. chiseled jawline, chiseled nose, chiseled forehead, somehow his neck is also chiseled. but his lips, so plump and pink and soft, and his eyes, like chips of blue ice, hold a twinkle of mirth.

'woah there, careful. wouldn't want you to get hurt.'

his voice is honey, smooth and sweet, and it washes over your ears. you can't stop staring, enthralled by his gaze.

'cat got your tongue?'

you snap out of your daze, realising you're still half on the mysterious stranger, and stumble backwards. you brush your hands over your dress, the gold embroidery rough under your fingers.

'sorry. i uh- i have to go.'

you picked up your skirts and hurried back towards the throne room. you didn't think you could get so lost trying to go to the bathroom! stopping before a mirror adorning the wall, you take a quick look at your appearance. the crimson dress fit your figure wonderfully, golden embroidery curling up the sides and front of your dress, forming a pattern of flames that ended just below your neckline. your hair, so lustrous and thick, had managed to escape its tight bindings, so you gasp heavily as you catch your breath and tie your hair up at the same time, the ribbon cherry-red to match your dress. adjusting yourself one final time, you nod to the guards outside to open the door for you, and walk into the throne room.

you're once again taken by surprise at the grandness of it all. absolutely everything inside is scarlet, a stark contrast to the cool blue drapes of azura. you'd always found it funny how blue was your dukedom's colour and yet your primary export was cherries, something so very opposite. the floor, carpeted in lush red and cream formed a pathway up to the raised thrones, all three of them cushioned by velvet and adorned with gold scrollwork and filigree. behind the thrones and all around, rich tapestries decorate the walls, vermilion depictions of the kingdom's greatest victories. you weren't sure if they were there to celebrate or intimidate. maybe both. a big, booming laugh reaches your ears, and your gaze is drawn to the antechamber towards the back of the room. ah, so that's where they've gone to. you scurry towards the chamber, nodding with as much regal-ness as you could muster towards the servants who caught your eye and sank into a deep curtsy or bow. straightening your dress, again, out of habit, you step into the room.

your parents are laughing, your father releasing his great guffaw and your mother tittering behind her gloved hand. the king of emeia, a warm, welcoming person with greying ebony hair and soft blue eyes was telling some kind of story, while his wife, the queen, sat, watching the scene with adoration and satisfaction. the queen noticed you first, her brown eyes crinkling into a sweet smile as she noticed you.

'oh there you are! we were wondering where you'd gone.'

'sorry... i got a little lost.' you take your seat on another velvet sofa, picking up your cup of tea. the servants appeared to have brought more plates of food in, the table once again covered in delicate china piled high with macarons and pastries and little sandwiches cut into perfect triangles. you pick up one of the treats, a golden swirl of pastry with colourful fruit peeking out, and bite into it. it's heavenly, deliciously flaky and sweet on your tongue. you pick it up and munch happily on it again.

'ah, here he is. wrio! here is the girl we wish for you to marry.'

you choke. because when you look up, you see the same chiseled features, the same lips, the same eyes and the same smile.

'THAT'S wriothesley?'

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from saetgvia: i have never started writing a fic so fast oh my god??? very excited for this fic and i hope you are too <3 stay tuned will have part 2 coming out soon!

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please like and reblog my work! tumblr relies on reblogs to function, so help my work be seen by more people <3 my spark taglist and overall is now open, drop an ask if you want to be added! just specify which one.

© saetgvia 2024. do not copy or repost.

[the-martyrfication-of-the-matron]

So... SKs...

I need to talk about my positioning on the Zenix/Vylad/Malik Death thing too because i may have changed that opinion a teeny bit with a tiny bit of speculation... but i digress. that'll be another post, i'm just warning you that the yap travelling circus is coming to your city

anyways

SKs!

tw, this is discussions about SKs, and so will be talking about themes involving death, torture, and manipulation.

Lore about Sks really becomes defined after Laur becomes one, because he's a major character and it really makes sense that way, but we do get a lot of lore even before he becomes a recurring character, really. Especially through Zenix and the storylines adjacent to him. I really do think that Sk lore was peaking when Zenix was one of the major antagonists for the series, because it was just very interesting to have to explore that he was experiencing it away from the main storyline, and Aphmau would have to make an active effort to understand and build that knowledge, and even as she is starting to know more she is still kind of in denial that he is capable of the things he is doing.

And this becomes especially interesting that she is learning this through other people, when we compare it to what Zenix himself says about being a Shadow knight.

SKs have been around since episode one, maybe not in the way they were later developed to be, but the idea of this little band of antagonists that follow 'The King' and want lords dead, and are stunting villages, and we don't really know why except for monarchism. And as we build upon our knowledge over the episodes we find out they don't live in an active monarchy, but that the King is some supernatural force, and that the little band of villains are too, and they're trying to bring him back.

And then we get, in episode 31/32, that not all SKs are guards, and they don't only kill lords. Of course, the baker is only a knight in training, but the idea remains. The following of the King is ideological, they don't only recruit guards off of some need for the bond between lords and guards, they will recruit whoever is willing to do what they want, kill who needs to be killed.

In fact, the first time we ever really get the guard/lord talk in regards to Shadowknights is in episode 35, by Zenix. Zenix seems to have this idea that Guards and Lords are intrinsically connected, that the life of one is dependant of the death of the other, and there is always this idea that guards are expendable and so they are the ones to die and the lords live. However, if the guards kill the lords instead, they become the King's loyal servants, blessed with power, with immortality.

He cannot be killed like when he was human.

This is the origin of the idea that Sks are not only immortal, but have to kill the one they love most to transform into that immortal state. And it's not exactly what he's saying. He's saying that guards are always expected to die for their lords, but then the King tells them 'hey you kill your lord, i'll let you live forever' and then they're like 'oh neat' and kill their lords to gain that immortality and power.

I understand how this little rant of his later turned into that lore, but i think the implications here are much more interesting. Again, he says 'No one can touch me! No one can kill me like when i was human' and whilst you can take that to mean that he is no longer mortal, it also kind of reads like he has been killed or at least severely harmed before before... which has been implied by Azura earlier on, and sort of himself in the same conversation, where he says 'Garroth told you... didn't he? How he found me?' 'I wasn't in such good shape then either.' What this all overall implies upon SK lore is that the King preys upon victims to find followers, he takes those who have been victimised before, and he offers them the chance to not have to suffer that way again, they just have to do as he tells them to.

It's not some urge they cannot shake off, it's not this feeling deep inside of them that they cannot remove. They have been hurt they have been offered to not have to never be hurt again. It's a choice, through and through, but in the same way it isn't. It's not this primal hunger for blood, so much as a scrabbling for survival, it's fear, and desperation, it's a needing to not suffer through that trauma again and so they say yes. They say yes, because they will do these awful things because it's better to do bad to others than them do bad to you.

Later lore has them do these things because Shad has taken their bodies, and brought them back, changed their memories and given them the urge and the want to kill. He preys on victims because he can only turn those in his clutches into Knights. Earlier lore has him turning people by ideology, he is preying on those who he knows are already vulnerable, he is not limited by scope of domain, but merely by how convincing he can be. And that is terrifying.

Guards aren't killing lords because they need to kill who matters most to them, because they can't stop themselves no matter how much they try.

they're doing it because he told them to.

[trickstarbrave]

WIP Whenever

hiiiii i got tagged by @boethiahspillowbook

this is what i got so far on the azura and nerevar piece. not much further bc im still trying to figure out shading and how i want it to be. oof. also unsure abt azura's halo fsr it just looks.... off on her. and i think i wanna make some of the blood a brighter red to tie in together with all the rest of the red. lots of things im considering...

also for written wips. uh.

unfortunately i only have the. fucking cursed omegaverse nerevoryn im working on. once again never consider anything as like a joke or ironically that is the devil talking and you will start doing things for real.

in my defense though omegaverse is such a wild concept that trying to go "okay but seriously how would this work in a society and why would it be this way" is actually entertaining. very fun to go "yes, and...." over and over. oh, fated mates exist? what if they weren't just a cheesy soulmates thing but had a logical explanation. how would these dynamics effect various social classes? how would different cultures be effected? i have world builder's disease clearly

ALSO i tag anyone who hasnt been tagged yet and wants to :> i cant keep up with which of my mutuals have been tagged or not.... let me see ur ideas pls

--

“... In all honesty,” The healer began, sounding exacerbated, “I have never seen a case like this in all my years. But there is only one answer I can come to based on everything else.”

“Go on.” Nerevar tried to keep his voice level rather than annoyed. Azura knows how terrified most people got when he was angry. 

The healer pinched the bridge of her nose. 

“How familiar are you with fated mates?” At her question, Nerevar froze, stunned, before he gave a loud bark of laughter. The healer, however, did not laugh or smile back, and instead only looked more resolute. 

“... Be serious with me.” 

“I am being serious, Lord Nerevar.” 

“Are you--are you seriously trying to say Voryn is my--”

“I understand how strange it sounds at first.” The healer cut him off. “Typically when someone meets their fated mate they determine it quickly. It only takes a few heat or rut cycles before the draw is undeniable.” She sighed once again. “I can only assume because you knew Lord Dagoth before either of you presented, the draw was less noticeable.” 

It kind of made sense, to a degree. When people wrote about fated mates it was usually that they had a scent that was undeniable. Even passing by them on the street, you couldn’t get the scent out of your head for days on end, trying to find it again and again. Even those who tried to deny it couldn’t refuse the pull forever; heats and ruts were unbearable, the longing overwhelming the pair. No one had ever recorded an account of a fated pair who knew each other prior to presenting though; fated mates were absurdly rare, after all. They were more common in fiction than real life, and only the most hopeless of romantics ever went out actually looking for one. Most people just found a mate they liked rather than chase after some destined person, and why fated mates even existed was a mystery. Did everyone have one but distance kept them from finding one? That didn’t seem likely; the most common belief was that some people were born with them--not many members of the population, anyways--and even fewer actually found their ‘other half’. Someone meeting a fated mate before presenting, when you were children not off exploring the wider world yet, was even more unlikely. How would you react if you could constantly smell and see them before either of you presented?

Dumac told him the dwemer scholars believed it had something to do with ‘reproductive compatibility’. Not that it was a mystical, god given connection like some believed, but rather those with a fated partner were less compatible with most of the population, so when they did find someone they could produce children with easily, the desire to mate was enhanced strongly. Nerevar didn’t know if he liked that explanation either though. He found the ideas the gods made destined partners to love each other forever as too romantic of an idea for reality yes, but presuming there must be something wrong with them wasn’t much better. 

It didn’t seem likely that he and Voryn could just ignore the draw for decades though, right? Surely that wouldn’t be possible. The draw was supposed to be strong, impossible to deny past a certain point.

Sure, when he was younger and Voryn was in a rut he always came by to check on him before he was shooed away, but that was just boredom. And when he was in heat Voryn would pass him notes under the door from time to time that he’d bury in the nests he made, but that was just because being in heat made him feel sensitive and sappy. Nothing more. And shouldn’t there be something more if they were a fated pair?

“Your other symptoms make me more certain of it.” The healer continued, pulling him from his thoughts.

“How so?” Nerevar raised an eyebrow. 

“It isn’t healthy for an unmated omega to be around an alpha in rut.” She replied, a fact that always made Nerevar roll his eyes. “It causes excess stress, even if it doesn’t trigger a heat. Unless you are drawn to the alpha in question as a potential partner, usually a rut is off putting, distressing, or nauseating for an unmated omega.”

“They’ve never bothered me to that extent.” Nerevar snarked.

“Precisely.” She locked eyes with him. “You handle it more akin to an omega who’s already been mated, despite not having the scent of one.” Nerevar tensed at that. He hadn’t thought of it like that in the slightest; why would he? He wasn’t mated. Anyone could smell on him that he wasn’t. “Those who have met a fated partner experience mated behaviors before the bond is even set. Rejecting other suitors, unbothered by others in a heat or rut,” She sighed. “Lord Vivec even explained you are giving off the same scent as a bonded omega whose mate is absent.” Nerevar’s cheeks flushed at that. 

“That’s--” Nerevar tensed slightly, “I wouldn’t go that far.” Surely Nerevar wasn’t. He wasn’t fucking bonded, why would he be throwing out the same scent as an omega who went into heat, begging for their mate to come tend to them? 

“You are.” She asserted, though she did have some sympathy in her gaze at least. “Unfortunately, the best I can do is, if you truly don’t want the bond, I can give you suppressants. They won’t actively stop it given you already went into heat, but they should calm some of the worst side effects.” Nerevar already knew what she was going to say next though. “But your next one will be much of the same. The side effects will continue to worsen.” Short of running away to the other side of the continent and burning anything he owned that Voryn had ever so much as touched, he would be able to smell Voryn faintly, after all. In the palace, on his belongings, anywhere Voryn had been might trigger the worst of the symptoms all over again now that he had a heat triggered by his rut no doubt. 

“At the very least, Lord Dagoth is in control of his emotions.” Voryn’s eyebrow twitched at that, his arms tightening. “You can spent ruts and heats together without actually mating, until you come to a decision on how to proceed. It should alleviate both of your struggles.” 

Shit, Nerevar hadn’t even considered what Voryn must be going through. Was his irritation and lack of eating because he subconsciously knew Nerevar was supposed to be his but wasn’t there by his side? When he was younger was that out of character, violent rage because he knew, right there in the stronghold, his mate was being kept from him? No doubt the next rut Voryn would be uncontrollable; before he could hold back because he wasn’t consciously aware of what he wanted, but now that he knew it was Nerevar… 

[randomkposts]

I remember the starfish

I love Fire Emblem Fates. My favorite is Awakening, but Fates has a special place in my heart for all of its flaws, and plotholes I love to poke at. No malice meant, if I didn't care, I'd probably just leave it alone. Instead it takes up so much brainspace.

So I think I might want to write something a bit more themed another time, but for now I want to write some scattered thoughts.

First, If I were going to change just one thing, I would give Azura ,Kaze as a retainer. And Shura.

Why? It bugs me that she didn't have any retainers, and Corrin has 3 household staff, their teacher, a childhood best friend, and a Ninja, most of whom are willing to follow them even if they defect. That's pretty excessive, that they just have a small- personally loyal fighting force. And Kaze's just hanging around, a trained retainer not assinged to anyone. And really Mikoto, Azura is your niece, you can give her one retainer at least.

Kaze defecting to Nohr to protect his charge makes arguably more sense then his reasons for defecting to Nohr on Corrins behalf.

Azura recruiting Shura as a retainer, fits with the older of the Nohrian sibilings having a criminal retainer. They also have a personal history between them that would be intresting to explore in a support. A support with Ryoma would also be intresting, as Shura states his family used to serve the royal family until his principality was taken over by Mokushu, so learning more about that would be neat.

Speaking of retainers, Despite three Nobrian Siblings havinging a criminal as a retainer, the person with the weirdest retainers is Hinoka, for having the least retainer-like retainers in the game. And Ryoma has 2 ninjas as retainers, which perhaps says some odd things about his diplomatic choices.

Hinoka does her own chores, protects her retainers, and seems to barely know anything about Azama beforehand. Until we learn from her support with Niles in Revelations that Hinoka hired Setsuna for her skill in archery, I was almost convinced she was hired to annoy Takumi.

And yet they are the last retainers sticking around the Hoshidan royals when they are recruited in Revelations.

Hillarious. Baffling. Lends a diffrent weight to Hinokas support with Saizo in this route, not that it wasn't already weird, but there was more cause for suspicion.

Speaking of supports, Sakura takes Corrin's amnesia as a sign that Silas is cursed. Meanwhile, in Birthright Takumi gets mindwhammied and dragon posessed, and Sakura does nothing to try to help. Which to be fair, nither instance lasted long. Who knows if she could have done anything effective, but in the Conquest one she doesn't seem to take note of his dirastically changed attitude as something to worry about, yet was far quicker to diagnose Silas as "something was off. Maybe its cause Silas a stranger, and she doesn't want to see anything wrong with her closest brother, but I wonder what got her attention in the first place to draw that conclusion.

I haven't played Engage, but even without that I am pretty sure Corrin is the most watched avatar we have ever played. Their big sister Camilia and her retainers makes it 3 in a lifetime, as said by Selena/Severa.

"Selena: Lady Camilla! Sorry we got ahead of you. But you should have heard the horrible things Lord/Lady Corrin said to us. Even though we used to watch over them, they don't remember us at all. Sure, we always stuck to the shadows and never introduced ourselves... but still! I could cry right now. Really! I really could!

Beruka: All that time hovering... caring... watching... it was all for naught. They has no heart.

Camilla: Now, now, you two. I'm sure they didn't mean to hurt your feelings. I'm certain they would remember, given more time. You simply must forgive them."

No wonder Corrin is so chill with Ryoma's Ninjas and other people following them around.

A headcanon, Odin/Owain can use dragon Veins. Anankos can hide his brand, but he can't undo that he is decended from the Exalted line of Ylisse, a heritige who also formed a pact which presumably involved drinking dragons blood. (That does seem to be a series consistant for how one gets a stats edge, with consent of the dragon being pretty important in how well they control it. )

He uses it once by accident. Leo did see it, but never confronts him on it. Maybe they might be siblings, but if this is what kept him alive and he's happy with living his life, then Leo isn't going to be the one to tell anyone. One of them may as well be happy.

If I were going to change something about the Fates Kids, I would mess with Shiro. Ryoma never told him until recruitment that he was royalty. So what if Shiro, figuring Ryoma is impotant, but not connecting the dots (as in cannon) comes to the (incorrect) conclusion that he is the next Saizo. And so comes with the Ninja class, alomg with some family drama, lol.

I would also tone down Soleil's supports, and add some depths to the other kids, but ninja Shiro creating some family drama with the retainers is a concept that amuzes me

I'll end it here for now. Might write a second at some point.

[wellthebardsdead]

The mourned and the heretics pt5

Part 4 here

———

Voryn: *groans rubbing his forehead after finally managing to sneak away from his family for a few moments of peace away from his constant study and the ringing of ritual bells and chimes* Azura why did I have to be born first?… *sighs and looks up at the small but rapidly growing city around the great temple of house indoril, taking in its serene peace and beauty as he sits up on the railings of the bridge in his usual spot to read* Why can’t I just be left alone… *opens his book and flicks through the pages to find where he’d left off, completely oblivious to the sound of rapidly growing footsteps and the screams of outrage from the high councillor to lord Indoril, until a golden flash suddenly bumps into him, sending him falling from the bridge and into the river below* UGH!! *gasps for air, heavy robes soaked and pulling him under* HE-ggll- *chokes as his head dips beneath the water, his hand flailing as the only thing to show him there before sinking under it too… only for another hand to to suddenly reach in and grab it pulling him back up onto the surface, right into the arms of the young lord of house indoril, nerevar* Iggh- *coughs up water and gasps for air, utterly drenched*

Nerevar: Oh gods I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to bump you in like tha- *recoils as he’s suddenly slapped hard across the face*

Voryn: *stands up nearly falling back into the river* L-Let go of me Y-you clumsy oaf! I almost die-

Nerevar: *quickly stands and catches him again pulling him away from the water* Woah- don’t make me save you a second time heh.

Voryn: S-save me?! You’re the one who pushed me in y-you *finally wipes his soaked hair out of the way to see who he’s actually addressing* l-lord nerevar I. *golden skin turning bright red* I- I’m so sorry I didn’t- I didn’t mean to hit you I-

Nerevar: *smiles* Id say we’re even but- *reaches into the river pulling out his now destroyed book* I think I owe you a new book-

???: VORYN!

Voryn: *jumps and looks up to see his father on the bridge with house indorils high councillor* f-father- I-I can explain.

Lord Dagoth: explain what?! How you fell into the river and struck lord nerevar for saving you?! Come here this instant!

Voryn: *sheepishly takes the book from nerevar and obediently comes to his fathers side, whimpering as he grabs him by his arm and forces him to bow to the councillor with him*

Lord Dagoth: Forgive our house for my petulant sons transgressi-

Nerevar: Lord Dagoth it was my fault!

Lord Dagoth: *glances back down at the younger chimer* you need not defend my son my young lord. He is a troublemaker far beneath you.

Nerevar: I’m defending him because he’s innocent! He was right to be cross with me. I knocked him into the bridge by accident and he almost drowned because of it. Please spare him your ire sir… we’re even.

Voryn: *looking at him in visible surprise, cheeks flushed pink and eyes sparkling*

Councillor indoril: The young lord nerevar was running from his duties as well lord dagoth. I witnessed him send your boy from the bridge with quite an impact. *bows respectfully* no harm has been done, no apologies are needed further. *smiles at them* house indoril will compensate you a new book young lord dagoth. *turns to nerevar* Nerevar. At my side. This. Instant.

Nerevar: *sheepishly falls into line running to his side* y-yes sir…

Voryn: *shyly watches them leave before gasping in fright as his father drags him away*

———

Nerevar: *seated by the riverbank after his coronation, watching the stars dance in the waters*

Voryn: *now a respected member of the council even at a lowly rank, quietly walks up behind him and grabs his shoulders* boo!

Nerevar: *jumps and grabs him suddenly flipping him into his lap making him squeal in surprise* Boo to you too~

Voryn: *snickers looking up at him as he lay in his lap* I wish you’d stop doing that.

Nerevar: No you don’t~

Voryn: *smiles and laughs softly* Tsk, I suppose you’re right, Hortator~

Nerevar: *sighs* that’s… going to take some getting used to.

Voryn: *looks up past him at the moon* there is no finer Chimer in all of Resdayn more suited for the title than you, moon and star…

Nerevar: *smiles down at him, gently stroking his cheek as he turns his gaze to his* and I can’t imagine a more perfect chimer in all of nirn to pick for my high councillor.

Voryn: *sits up in shock, hands placed on his shoulders in surprise* What?

Nerevar: you, my high councillor.

Voryn: *puffs up his cheeks in annoyance* awe stop teasing me! First I fail my entry exams for a higher rank and now you do th-

Nerevar: *gently kisses his cheek hugging him tight* I’m serious Voryn… I can’t do this without you by my side… please?…

Voryn: … *kisses his cheek back and holds him closer* I’ll forever be loyal to you, Nerevar… I will be at your side forever…

———

Voryn: *steps out of the temple and into the empty streets of Mournhold, the entire city within the temple to witness the marriage and coronation of queen Almalexia to the Hortator* … *looks around forlornly before walking to his and nerevars spot by the river, sitting down on the banks as he feels his heart shatter and tears fall freely* A-Azura. Azura why have you forsaken me? Wh-why have you broken my heart like this? Why her? Wh-why not me?… *leans against the tree and weeps into its mossy bark, his cries mixing to the distant music and celebrations of a wedding he can’t bear to witness*

———

Voryn: m-my nerevar no- don’t do it please! PLEASE GET ME AWAY FROM HERE!!

Nerevar: *staring in mounting horror at what had become of his friend* Voryn. Give me. The tools.

Dagoth Ur: I was instructed to keep them safe. I will not hand them to you.

Voryn: *a prisoner in his own body, screaming and begging from inside for nerevar to hear him* NEREVAR PLEASE!

Nerevar: So. Be it. *draws his blade and lunges*

Voryn: NEREVAR NOOOOO-

“WAKE. UP.”

Riiju-Lei: *jolts awake as visions of nerevar striking him down flash through his head followed by images of the masks of Vivec and Almalexia then dagoth urs face, his face, staring back at him* NO!

Nerevar: *jumps up in a panic reaching for his sword* I- what’s ha-

Riiju-Lei: *drenched in sweat, tears pouring down his face, looking at him in confusion and fear* I-I was screaming at you not to do it- I was begging you- you didn’t hear me you- I-

Nerevar: shhh shhh hey I-it’s okay. *reaches for him slowly, not wanting to scare him further* we’re still in the temple you’re okay it was just a nightmare-

Riiju-Lei: I watched you kill me through his eyes. I was screaming for you to stop, voryn was screaming for you to stop but you couldn’t hear him, you couldn’t h-hear me- *cries softly and shakes his head* y-you’re the reason my heart was broken…

Nerevar: … *gently embraces him* … so let me be the one to put it back together…

[talldarkandroguesome]

7th of Hearthfire, Turdas

What wonderful news! Tel has sent word that they will be arriving next week!

I have let the children know and Sildras and Cariel are both very excited. Kuna, well, she is less so. She does not understand why anyone should be so excited about someone who chose Vivec over Almalexia to follow.

Honestly, I do not blame her. If I had to choose one of the Triune to pledge myself to, I would certainly select Almalexia. Despite her role in the fall of the Chimer, she has stuck to her word. She wanted to take on the role of Lord Boethiah and as far as I can tell, that is what she is doing.

Of course, Lord Boethiah is far more powerful, but for being a mortal trying to step in the footsteps of a god, Almalexia does manage to stay the course. She says she will help the poor, and while there is certainly a small element of corruption in the Temple, the poor do have their basic needs met. The city she protects with all she is. She has seen to it that threats are eliminated.

After seeing how quietly the Maulborn threat was put down, I am sure that there have been hundreds of small threats that she has protected the city from without anyone being the wiser of. I have great respect for that. And so our city sees great prosperity and peace as a direct result of what she does.

Vivec has that awful moonlet that he hangs over his city like a threat to the people. Worship me or I will destroy you all. It is all very doom and gloom. Pageantry with a threat of violence. Very distasteful if you ask me. And he mantles my Prince so poorly. It is pathetic.

Then there is Sotha Sil. Off in his own little hidden city, hiding from the world. Not very good as far as caring for your people. Does he wish to be Azura so badly that he must run off and try to have his own plane? At least Lord Azura will intervene to help Her people.

I was surprised to see a very spirited discussion of the False Tribunal today between my children. Cariel's ideas were much more rudimentary, she has heard much and parrots back what she can recall, but she is still very young. Sildras did well in letting his sisters have their discussion and supported Cariel in explaining what she meant. He mostly worked to mediate the discussion and when Mother came in to find this going on, she went from cross to fascinated. Like me, she did not wish to make her true beliefs known, but simply asked questions of the girls to sort out what they believed and why.

Kuna mostly seems to think that Almalexia is the best because she is a woman and women are inherently more powerful and amazing than men. Mother asked about Vivec, being that he is neither wholly man nor woman, yet somewhat both. Kuna did not seem to know what to make of this knowledge and eventually settled on that if he were half and half, that makes him half as strong as a woman, but half more strong than a man. But if he spends time as both, then he is very powerful only half of the time when he chooses to be a woman.

Mother was certainly concerned and I think is going to have some special lessons with her to talk about that while women are very special and every bit as capable as a man, sometimes more so, there can be men who are also very interesting and amazing.

Cariel seemed to think that it is because the living gods were once mortal that they can understand mortals better than other gods. They know what it was like to be mortal and can therefore better work as our gods by knowing our struggles intimately. Having gone through them, they anticipate our needs best.

I can only imagine how this conversation will expand when Tel arrives. I am sure they will be thrilled by the theology discussions of children. I do look forward to Kuna telling Tel that Vivec is not as cool as Almalexia and seeing what Tel has to say in defense of their beloved Vehk. To a child. A child every bit as stubborn as her mother.

It is going to be a very fun week once Tel arrives.

[pegasusknightsonly]

Azura & Diana support

C support

Diana: Hey! Lady Azura! Diana: C'mon, don't ignore me, hey- Azura: ...what? Diana: Whoo! I finally caught you! Lady Azura, you walk so fast- (Azura leaves) Diana: Hey!! I want to talk to you!! (Azura returns) Azura: I'm sorry, that was rude. Please, say what you wanted to say. Diana: It's just- it's only. I searched for you for so long! Diana: Remember Fort Dragonfall, what we talked about there? Well, as I promised, I went to find a window you could climb out of and when I came back.. Diana: … Diana: Even though the fort was empty, I didn't give up. I heard something about a graceful lady singer heading from Port Dia to Notre Sagesse, and I tried to keep up with the ships, but again… Azura: …I see. Azura: You were always one step behind. Diana: Yes, but that was then. I've found you now! And as your loyal knight and retainer, it will never happen again. Lady Azura, I promise you that I will do everything I can to stay by your side. Azura: … Azura: I have no need of a knight. You're dismissed from my service. (Azura leaves) Diana: Huh? Wha- oh, horsefeathers! She's so fast! Diana: Still. I can't stop being her knight if she never acknowledged it in the first place. Hehe! Wait up, Lady Azura! Your knight is never leaving you alone again! (Diana leaves) (Azura reappears) Azura: Never leave my side…? Azura: …That's what the others said. (Azura leaves)

B support

Diana: Lady Azura! Azura: (sigh) Hello, Diana.  Diana: And how are you today, my lady? Azura: I am well, Diana. Do you need anything? Diana: No, I just wanted to see you! Azura: …Well, here I am. Diana: Nice! Awesome job, Diana! You know, this retainer thing is pretty easy. I don't know what the others were complaining about. Azura: About that. Azura: [Corrin] and [their] siblings were assigned their retainers by King Garon. Although Queen Mikoto was always kind to me, she knew that recognising me as she did her other children would only cause problems. So where did you come from? Diana:  My lady, that's… Diana: It's not something I can explain right now. But I can tell you why I'm still your retainer. Azura: Go on. Diana: When I came to Hoshido, from far, far away, I had a mission that I needed to do. But we met, remember, on that spring morning. It was such a beautiful day, with the sun shining so merrily and those beautiful blossoms on the breeze. Diana: The royal family were having a meal amongst the blossoms, and you were there too, but… Diana: Where I come from, I saw people with no hope in their eyes. And I wanted to become someone who they could always believe in, a hero who would work her hardest to bring them happiness once again. Diana: Even out in the sunshine on that beautiful day, I saw that sadness in you. I promised, then and there to become your hero and bring you happiness. Diana: I'm sorry, it must be a painful memory. Azura: Oh, no. Quite the opposite. For me, it was an unremarkable day. No happier and no sadder than the last. Diana: Oh, Lady Azura… Azura: It's nothing. Here, I have some things you can do. Retainer duties. Diana: Ooh! My first real tasks! Lady Azura, I promise I won't disappoint you! Azura: Of course. (Diana leaves) Azura: What a strange girl. It really was just an ordinary day…

A support

Azura: Diana. Diana: Yes, Lady Azura? Azura: Do you remember that mission you told me about? What happens to you if you don't complete it? Diana: Hmm… well, I guess I don't know. I haven't really thought about it. Azura: But if I were to no longer require your services… Diana: If you got a new retainer? Azura: Or if something were to happen to me, and we were to be parted… Azura: In that case, would you still be able to complete your mission? Diana: Lady Azura, what is this about? Azura: It's nothing, I... As your liege lord, I should be thinking about your future, should I not? Diana: Well, sure. But Lady Azura, once my mission is done, I will return to my homeland. So I'm in no rush. The mission isn't the kind of thing that prevents me from being with you. Azura: I see… That's good to hear. I'm sure you have people there who miss you. Diana: … Diana: You know, I've been parted from people I loved before. Sometimes I was able to say goodbye. But others… Azura: Diana? What is this? Diana: It's the head of a javelin. You can think of it as a promise, from me to you. "As long as this javelin remains unfinished, one day we'll meet up again and finish it!" That kind of thing. Azura: But I'm no good at weapons maintenance. Diana: Oh, me neither.  Azura: Aha… ha ha ha! Diana: Hahaha! Azura: Diana, I can't say I understood what made you stop and introduce yourself to me on that day. But I am truly glad that you did. Diana: Seeing you smile makes it all worthwhile. Diana: I don't know what the future will bring, but I'm grateful I got to spend this time at your side. So look after that javelin head, okay? And no matter what happens to us after the war, one day we'll see each other again. Azura: Thank you, Diana. I'll look forward to it. Diana: Me too! But until then, have you got any more chores- I mean, retainer duties? I want to use the time we have to help you as much as I can!

[wintercloudyweather]

Its so good and I really like how some of them are much mote dangerous than the others. If I had to rank them and also to add my own ides it’ll be like this(based on their engage and heroes portrayal)

Celica (12th)- She’s probably the least threatening out of all of them, she’s way too peaceful. At worst she’ll get someone else (Alm?)to get rid of any rivals but she’ll probably won’t get get her hands dirty.

Lyn (11th)- Surprisingly she won’t be a bad yandere per say, she doesn’t have the influence nor the power that the others have, she’s also not clingy so she’ll probably be like your shadow watching you.

Roy(10th)- a bit hot headed but he’s still naive and isn’t willing to compromise his morals too much… he may go overboard when he spars with his rivals but he won’t outright kill them.

Marth(9th)- similar to Roy but a bit worse since he is more mature and unlike roy has suffered a lot that he is willing to compromise his morals more. And he may have a pick up a thing or two from Caeda, he’ll manipulate you

Ike (8th)- similar to Lyn but he isn’t alone. He has the same whole greil mercenaries watching over you. He himself is pretty decent, he’s silent most of the time but what gets him so high is… Soren. You basically have someone who shows yandere traits towards your own yandere and unlike ike Soren will force you to comply to ike’s wants

Leif (7th)- His game is probably the darkest in the entry and he lived his life in hiding. Unlike other lords he’s overprotectiveness is justified. He doesn’t want you to experience what he had but I think he (in a peaceful times) is quite soft but he has his triggers so you’ve got to plan your words right.

Corrin (6th)- Dragon instincts go brr… but actually his draconic traits can overpower their rationality so they can be quite intense. Not just that but you’ll also have to deal with their siblings… and some of them (Camilla) are quite terrifying so you have to better not make them unhappy. They got not one but two kingdoms backing them so its better to just comply. Corrin themselves are naive and a bit dumb so they’re like putty… its their siblings and Azura who you have to fear.

Sigurd (5th)- He’a Leif but harsher and more stubborn. He’s also more… darker… I guess? Based on his heroes portrayal he is quite overprotective. And if we’re talking specifically about engage sigurd then he has lost not just his wife but also Lumera so he won’t allow the same thing to happen to you

Lucina (4th)- yeah… this girl is traumatized so just like what you said she’s intense even in her best days.

Eirika + Ephraim (3rd)- what worse than 1 yandere well two yanderes who are close and are siblings. They’re enabled each other’s worse tendencies. Eirika is so coddling it’s suffocating… she’s also quite manipulative and is probably gaslighting you. Ephraim on the other hand is overly strict and is quite harsh… he’s the one that keeps every else way and isolates you even further. Also both of them are royalty so you’ll be dealing with their guards.

Miciah (2nd)- She’s already infamous for her morally gray actions so it won’t take much for her to snap and kill someone. She also manipulative to the core… she’s like Rhea from three houses but a bit more gentler. She also has a bunch of mercenaries and a literal goddess on her side so you can’t escape even if you want to. Also she’s like a prophet so she can at the very least know what you’re planning to do and put an end to it. Also she’s not afraid of actually hurting you… she has the mindset that even if your hurt she can just heal you afterwards .

Byleth (1st)- He’s the most terrifying and worse of the bunch. He checks everything on the list, he’s overprotective ,clingy, is influential and has a literal goddess inside his head. He can turn back time. He is the literally leader of the church and has emperors, kings, knights that are willing to do as he says. He’s manipulative and lives in a world where his actions may be justified.

I see your writing for fire emblem engage and I really love that game and I just finished it for maddening. I don’t know if this is a request or not but may I ask in the context of the base emblems, can you rank them based on how extreme they would be as a yandere like I think I would rate emblem Celica as 12th cause even if she turns yandere she still very passive and more so she’s just clingy but I would rate Byleth a 4th due to him being extremely manipulative and overprotective

Hii, welcome to the blog! I´d say normally I would consider this a request but I´m kind of in the mood to write for fire emblem right now so I thought this would be a fun little thing to do ^^

Now I must confess that for most of the lords ( which the majority of emblems are) I have some difficulty with trying to think of them as a yandere or in a self-shipping context in general. Don´t really know why that is. I also haven´t played all of the games yet so I can´t say too much about some of them, I hope that´s okay!

Also because I have a real hard time ranking things in order, here are just some thoughts on most of the emblems as yanderes ☺️

3.7k words

gn reader

tw yandere, obsession, worshipping, self-sacrifice, kidnapping, possessiveness

Characters: Marth, Celica, Sigurd, Leif, Roy, Lyn, Eirika and Ephraim, Ike, Micaiah, Lucina, Corrin, Byleth

How are the 12 base emblems like as yanderes?

Marth

Now I´ll have to be honest, I actually haven´t played any of Marth´s games yet so I´m not very familiar with his character. But as with most FE lords, he strikes me as a very kind and heroic character. In Engage he kind of takes the role of a supporter and protector of the Mc and we can see that in general, he is pretty gentle.

He probably wouldn´t be a very bad yandere to be stuck with, I can´t see him ever getting violent with his darling. He strikes me as a protective yandere (something that can be said for most of them) who will do whatever he can to keep you safe while trying to make your stay with him as comfortable as possible.

Celica

I haven´t quite finished Echoes yet because I´m very bad at finishing games but I agree with your take that she also wouldn´t ever harm her darling. She´s a very devout follower of Mila and I think that same mentality could also apply to her darling. Slowly but surely, she starts seeing them as a divine being worth worshipping. She´s been completely alone for most of her life and after she had to leave Ram Village, she´s been craving more human connections. So when she finally met you, it was like Mila had sent down an angel for her. You were so kind to her, so trusting and good-natured, Celica was immediately fond of you.

She will do whatever she can to aid you in your daily life, she has to repay you for everything you gave her. She´s not very likely to attack other people, even as a yandere, because above else she wants peace. Nonetheless, if a monster or a criminal were to try and attack you, she would kill them no questions asked. No one is allowed to lay their hands on someone as divine as you, she won´t stand for it.

Due to a certain spoilery scene that happens in Echoes, I believe that Celica would also be willing to sacrifice herself for you. If there ever was a point where she would have to choose between your or her own life, she would choose yours without any regrets.

Your survival is of the utmost importance and if that means giving up her life in exchange for yours, then she is happy.

Sigurd

I have only played the prologue and chapter 1 of FE4 and ragequit when Jamke was killing my units in the forest because I couldn´t get them out in time to recruit him. Oops.

Well from what I know with how his story with Deirdre develops, I believe that Sigurd would fall for you much in the same way: Hard and fast. And if nothing else, Sigurd is stubborn. Once he has his mind set on wanting to make you his, he won´t give up until he finally has you, no matter the consequences. I mean he was literally forbidden from getting with Deirdre and he still did it. He doesn´t care what anyone else says, he doesn´t care if you already have a lover. He knows that the moment you two shared together at your first meeting was magical for both of you. He knows the love between you two is true. And he´s willing to risk it all for you.

It´s a good thing if you actually do feel the same way about him and are single! Because even though he isn´t a bad person, he does conquer several territories in Fe4 without any specific orders to do so. He may not like doing it but if it means he can have you, he would be willing to kill any romantic rivals there might have been ( or any he might have imagined).

Once you´re actually with him, he naturally is very protective of you and doesn´t let too many other people get close to you.

Leif

Now I have to admit, Leif is probably the character I know the least about here. As I said, I never played Fe4 to the point where you would get him and I haven´t played Thracia either. So most of this is just the vibes I get and a few lines from Heroes.

Now Leif has quite a tragic story and has been driven out of his kingdom when he was still young. Ever since then, he had made efforts to try and reclaim what had been taken from him. Because of that, he also strikes me as someone who would fight for his darling. He knows what it´s like to lose people that are important to you ( his parents) and now that he has clawed his way back from the brink, he doesn´t want the same to happen to you, the person he has decided he wants to spend his life with. He´s pretty desperate to protect you actually.

Still, he´s pretty young and so the love he feels for you very much still is a puppy-love kind of thing. He likes talking to you and finds it comforting to do so. He´s very nice to you and you aren´t really in any danger when being with him. I think being with him isn´t all too bad, he´s just a bit over-protective if anything.

Roy

I´ll be honest, I know almost nothing about Roy so I´m sorry if this is short😭 Predictably, I haven´t played Binding Blade yet.

He´s also one of the younger emblems here and that shows itself in how hard he tries to impress you. He´s usually pretty dense when it comes to romance but he knows what he feels when he sees you. You make him happy. I feel like he could be a bit hot-headed because of his age but as far as I know, he´s actually one of the few lords that can potentially make peace with the final boss of the game so there definitely is quite a lot of kindness to him as well. He doesn´t really want to pick any fights with people he trusts, all he wants is to be with you and if you don´t resist then honestly, it´s all going to be okay.

Lyn

Finally, after quite some time, we get to some more games I´ve actually played! And here we go with Lyn! Fe7 was actually the first Fire Emblem I ever played and it really hooked me even back then <3

Now Lyn actually doesn´t strike me as the type of person who would really actively be looking for any sort of romance. She´s lived alone for most of her life and so she does crave some companionship, but romance is something she really doesn´t have any experience in.

When she meets you, she does feel a bit strange but doesn´t put a lot of thought into it. Quickly as you two spend more time together, she really begins to take a liking to you. It´s nice to not be alone and you´re good company. The more you stay together, the more she grows attached to you. If you can fight, she´ll want to fight along your side, if you can´t or are frail in some way, Lyn will prefer you to stand on the sidelines, where it´s safe. She doesn´t know what she would do if you were ever truly harmed. The attacker definitely wouldn´t be living for much longer, that much is sure.

So to sum it up, Lyn is very protective of you and only trusts a select few people with you, anyone else could be a potential danger and she doesn´t want to risk anything.

I think it would actually be kind of tough for darling to figure out that Lyn is obsessed with them. Lyn doesn´t strike me as very physically affectionate. Only if you watch very carefully can you see the way her eyes soften when she gazes at you or the way her hand around the handle of her sword tenses when a particular troublemaker starts hitting you up. She definitely won´t tolerate anyone trying to flirt with you. She´s known you for way longer than they possibly could have, who do they think they are?

Eirika and Ephraim

I know it´s mainly Eirika and Ephraim is only really present in the special attack but I thought this was more interesting.

So having one person obsessed with you is bad enough but two of them? And they´re siblings too? Things are about to get quite a bit more complicated. The thing is, you´re not really sure if this is better or worse than only having one of them?

Of course, having two people focus all of their attention on you is very overwhelming. It stresses you out, the way they both fuss over you, the way they look at you.

Eirika is definitely the gentler one of the two, speaking to you very softly and taking great care of you. She makes sure you aren´t lacking anything (except your freedom). She also isn´t very fond of conflict and would prefer to avoid it altogether.

Ephraim is the brash and more hot-headed of the two, always picking fights with people he deems a threat ("He doesn´t pick fights he can´t win" or whatever) and generally being bolder with his affections. He doesn´t hesitate to throw his arm over your shoulder to show off to others that you´re his while Eirika prefers to simply hold your hand in her own.

Them being siblings also causes conflict from time to time. After all, what kind of siblings never have any petty squabbles? Suddenly one of them believes that the other has been getting a bit more attention from you than them and the arguing begins. Wild accusations from Ephraim that Eirika is coddling you too much while Eirika complains about the brutish ways in which Ephraim disposes of rivals. It can get annoying really fast but it´s also something that you could potentially try to use to your advantage.

Playing clear favorites with them might make them argue with each other, potentially giving you an opening to try to make your escape while they´re distracted. Do be very careful with this though because once they realize that you´re gone, they´ll quickly get over whatever argument they were having and work together to find you again. Siblings tend to have petty fights with each other but they will have each other´s backs when it comes to the important things. They *will* find you again, who knows what dangers you might be getting yourself into?

Ike

Similarly to Lyn, I can´t really see Ike as someone who is very interested in romance. In Radiant Dawn, he only has two paired endings, which isn´t a whole lot honestly ( and they´re kind of vague on how romantic they actually end up being). So maybe he would be more of a platonic sort of yandere? He cares a great deal about his friends and his family of the Greil Mercenaries and he tries his utmost to protect them. It would be much the same for his darling.

Ike wouldn´t be very physically or vocally loving in the traditional sense, he strikes me as someone who would struggle a fair deal with expressing his feelings, especially if we´re talking POR Ike where he is still fairly young. In the end, his confession would be pretty blunt, a simple "I like you." or "You´re important to me." maybe but nothing flowery or dramatic, that just isn´t the kind of person he is.

That being said, Ike cares a great deal about your well-being, even if he isn´t all that great at putting it into words. So to show you that, he does the one thing he does best: Protecting you. Ike is a very strong and capable fighter and so he will be quick to dispose of anyone that tries harming you. I don´t see him as someone that would try to isolate his darling however, especially not the Greil Mercenaries. These people are his family, he trusts them dearly and he would want you to grow connections with them and enjoy being around them. It would shatter his heart if you didn´t like being around them.

Micaiah

Micaiah I see as another worshipper type of yandere. She´s had a rough life so far, only having very few people around her that she could call friends in the Dawn Brigade while fighting for the liberation of Daein. It´s a lonely life, even with Yune whispering into her ear that one day, she will meet the partner of her dreams, the one to make her happy.

And then, on a day like any other, she finds you. It´s a very unremarkable meeting, one you wouldn´t have thought much of afterwards, but to her, it was like all the stars aligned, as if all of her life and past suffering suddenly had a purpose. She was completely starstruck, a loud pounding in her chest when she laid her gaze on you. At that very moment, Micaiah knew that you were the one Yune had been telling her about all along. And so, she vows to let you know just how much you mean to her.

As a yandere, Micaiah is very caring and thinks of you as a higher being, someone who has more worth than any other mortal walking this earth. You are special to her and so she will be damned if anything were to happen to you. She refuses to allow it. If you were ever in any mortal danger, Micaiah wouldn´t hesitate to use Sacrifice on you to transfer over her own life energy to you.

But while she is very nice and caring with you, Micaiah can be quite a bit more snarky and ruthless than you might have initially thought. She doesn´t shy away from making negative or rude comments to people she thinks you spend too much time around. (Remember that scene where she snarkily calls Ike "the father of Sothe´s children" because Sothe talked about him so much? Yeah.) She´s also willing to do bad things if she feels like she has to. If it´s for you, then no crime is bad enough for her not to consider it. She doesn´t like hurting people but she will if her hand is forced.

Also, can we talk about her having a goddess on her side? Yeah, you´re going to have a very difficult time trying to get away from her anytime soon.

Lucina

Lucina is someone that I think actually has great potential to be a yandere. She comes from a ruined future, a world where all her loved ones and friends died and the entire world is doomed. Now she has travelled back in time to change fate and make things right.

A particularly tragic possibility would be to have her witness the death of her darling in her future. It was an event that deeply scarred her forever and one that she is now desperate to avoid. She can´t allow you to die again, she can´t let it happen a second time. She wouldn´t be able to go on if she ever had to experience that amount of grief again.

So when Lucina finally makes it back in time, her top priority is finding you again. To do that, she has to go back in time quite a bit. Maybe she makes it back to a time where you two aren´t dating yet, or maybe even back to when you hadn´t even met each other yet. You´re so overwhelmed and honestly confused when you´re just going along with your day when suddenly, a young woman rushes towards you and engulfes you in a crushing hug as she cries into your shirt about how much she has missed you.

It´s quite terrifying honestly and you don´t know how to react other than trying to rip yourself out of her grip, which only makes her cling onto you even harder. Her explaining to you that she´s from the future where the entire world has ended and you, her lover, had tragically died and that she now traveled back in time to make things right, doesn´t really put your mind at ease either. I mean, who would honestly believe that?

But no matter what you say, Lucina is determined to not repeat past mistakes. She had been too careless, letting you roam around freely without her at your side, it´s what led to you dying! She won´t let it happen again!

Lucina will try and be sweet to you, knowing how hard this must be for you to believe, but she won´t give you a choice in this. She´s going to stay with you and keep you safe no matter what. She´ll follow you wherever you go with her blade at the ready, prepared to strike at anyone who tries to take you away from her again.

Corrin

Corrin has lived a very sheltered life for the most part, never really leaving the Nohrian castle. Because of this, they had many opportunities to picture what life outside the castle could possibly look like. What else was out there? What adventures or new experiences could wait for them there? Yes, they were always loved by their Nohrian siblings but they couldn´t help but yearn all the same.

Maybe being read some romance books in their childhood led to Corrin developing a fantasy of one day meeting their ideal partner, the one that would shake up their entire world, the one they would spend the rest of their life with. They had dreamed about it a lot in the comforts of their own room, delving into daydreams about what meeting you for the first time might be like.

And then they leave the castle for the first time and they meet you. And just like they had always imagined, Corrin feels themselves immediately lovestruck when you send a smile their way. This was it. This is the person they´re meant to be with, they just know it!

They´ll immediately be very friendly and way too trusting of someone who is basically a complete stranger. But they just can´t help it, their sheltered life hasn´t really helped them in growing a healthy sense of suspicion. No, instead the thought of you possibly doing something shady is completely off their mind.

Ever since that first meeting, Corrin would want to see you again every day. It´s the first real human interaction they had with anyone outside of the Nohrian royal family and the servants in the castle and they´re hooked on you. Listening to you talk about your mundane life is so exciting to them, both because they love listening to you speak and because it is genuinely interesting to them to know what a normal person´s life might look like.

And soon enough, they just won´t leave you alone. They´re sweet and their curiosity is kind of charming, but they are so very annoyingly clingy. They will pout and beg you to stay around for just a bit longer when you tell them that you have to leave. After some time they start inviting you over to the castle and you can´t really refuse to go when a royal carriage is standing before your home one day.

And then suddenly, one day you just aren´t allowed to leave anymore.

" The servants have set up your own personal room for you. I made sure that everything was just to your liking! Now we can spend even more time together, isn´t that simply wonderful", Corrin will simply tell you one day and then it is a done deal. Whatever your life was before, you will have to abandon it to fulfill Corrin´s dream of a happy married life alongside the person they adore the most.

Byleth

Honestly, I´ve kind of strayed completely away from trying to rank them as yanderes ( sorry about that) but I agree that kind of everything about Byleht makes them a scary yandere.

First of all, they´re a trained and experienced mercenary, they have all the fighting prowess they might need to keep their darling in check or make sure that nothing happens to them.

Then, they have their affiliation with the church and a certain position of power. Whether you are a student or not, Byleth is still a respected figure in the monastery and has all the benefits that might bring. She has connections to the Knights of Seiros and even with Lady Rhea herself. If you ever were to run away ( or rather, if you were to be stolen away by bandits, is what they would tell everyone afterwards), several knights or even their students would be sent out to look for you. And do you really think you could get away with so many people looking for you? You´ll be back right by their side within 3 days.

Then there´s also the whole... a goddess is in their head talking to them and them having the ability to turn back time thing. Yeah, you´re very much screwed here. How are you supposed to fight back against someone who can simply turn back time? With this ability, they have so many chances to choose the right words when talking to you or to get rid of someone in secret, without you ever knowing these rewinds even happened. In-game we might have a limited amount of uses but I don´t think it´s ever been confirmed that this is actually something that Byleth needs to adhere to in the story.

And then last but not least, there´s the fact that Byleth is just impossible to read. They don´t show any emotions in their facial expressions and their voice is mostly monotone. You would not be able to tell just how obsessed they are with you from interacting with them. You think you´re just having a friendly tea party with them and suddenly you find yourself drugged and locked up in their room.

And even when they finally have you, they´re just kind of creepy with them staring at you for long amounts of time while not saying anything. They´re not very affectionate either.

But what help could you possibly count on now when everyone at the monastery loves the professor?

[wispstalk]

theft

(a silly discussion about daedric princes. cw: mildly nsfw text, reference to cannibalism)

Tanis and Coradri pass through the great hall, sweaty from their morning sparring session and deeply embroiled in conversation.

“—ripping off some kind of god or something, right?” Coradri is saying. “You can’t lie to save your life.” 

“Some kind of god,” scoffs the Hero of Kvatch. “We’ve been living at the temple how long, and— for fuck's sake, do you even know why we’re here?” 

“I’m just along for the wagon-ride, shorem.” Coradri punches his arm. “That’s exactly my point.” 

Martin closes the Xarxes and pushes it aside. “What are you two doing now?” 

“We’re arguing,” Coradri says cheerfully. “Irathi thinks he ought to go after the artifact himself, and I say he’s fucking dented. Maybe you can help us settle this, Brother.” 

Martin tents his fingers over his mouth, looking between the two of them. Tanis can certainly lounge, and the Sanguinites do a lot of that, but it’s hard to imagine him… frolicking. Reveling. For him, “cutting loose” likely means a good tavern brawl. Not the sort. Coradri, on the other hand: she plays the wide-eyed innocent when it suits her, but there is no missing the deviousness in her grin.

“It would be ideal if both of you could look out for each other,” he says carefully, “but that’s likely to raise some eyebrows. I’d have to choose Coradri.” 

“Guarshit.” Tanis folds his arms. “Why.” 

“Well, you’re… You’re a bit…” Martin circles a vague hand through the air.

"Spit it out, priest. I'm a bit what?" The Dunmer gives him a dead-eyed scowl, as if that itself doesn't put paid to the notion.

“The Daedra lords don’t take kindly to theft," he says instead. "It’s essential that our ruse is convincing.” 

“I like drugs and drink and fucking just as much as anyone,” Tanis says indignantly. 

“For gods’ sake, that’s not— I’ve said and said, you cannot touch anything they give you. Or anyone.” He tries not to make this sound petulant. “Only your own offering.” 

“Yes, yes, we heard you the first time,” Coradri says, exasperated. “I’ve got Emberbrand wine from our visit to Cheydinhal. That’s a real knee-walking drunk, Sanguine ought to like it.” 

“You mean I’ve got Emberbrand wine,” Tanis grumbles, “and it happens I like it.” 

“No one likes that gutrot, it tastes like lye and wet dog. The only thing you like about it is that you’re holding something the city watch will tackle you for.”

“Ha! True. You still can’t have it.” 

Martin suppresses a grin. She’s likely hidden it from him already. He sifts through the pile of books on his desk, looking for Modern Heretics. 

“I only suggested Sanguine because I can give you some idea of what to expect. Somewhere in here— ah. This one details the location of a few shrines, including Azura’s. Of all the Princes, she is least likely to involve you in something unsavory.”

“First of all, stop foisting books on me,” Tanis says, waving it away. “Second, if I got my hands on Azura’s Star, I sure as hell wouldn’t give it to you.” 

“Tanis!” Martin laughs. “With all the mortal realm at stake, really?” 

“Fuck the realm. You know what it costs to get your weapons recharged?” 

Martin scratches Nocturnal off his mental list, in that case. If Coradri gets hold of the Skeleton Key, he won’t see that either, to say nothing of the havoc she would unleash all over Tamriel. He won't be responsible for that.

“I know where Namira’s shrine is— Irathi, give me your map.” She squints at it, then points a little distance from Bruma, perhaps three hours’ walk. “In the mountains near here.” 

“And how do you know this?” Tanis says, squinting at her. 

“Walking around! There’s fuck-all else to do here. Anyway, the priestess said I was too pretty and charming to be let in— shut up, Irathi, she really did. Everyone there was hatchet-faced and mean. You could definitely take care of that one.” 

“Thanks.” He flicks the side of her head. “You know some of her followers eat human flesh? I’ve smelt burning bodies before and it’s… well, I’m fond of pork, let’s just say that. Best not to find out.” 

Martin shudders. “Namira’s out of the question. What about Meridia?” 

“What kind of things does she have?” Coradri says. That’s just lovely, Martin thinks, now I’ve piqued their curiosity about the artifacts they could acquire, the one I’ll have to destroy. 

He flips through Modern Heretics. “The Ring of Khajiti, but that one is rumored to be in possession of a famous jewel thief. And there’s Dawnbreaker.” 

“Dawnbreaker. Heard of it. Ebony sword, burns with some holy light, destroys the undead in a single blow?” Tanis shakes his head. “Yeah, you can’t have that one, either.”  

“Stealing from Mehrunes Dagon would be pretty funny,” Coradri puts in. “You know, given the whole mess we’re in.” 

“It would,” Martin is forced to admit. “Also most likely to end badly. And destroying it could create some kind of interference with the Xarxes, which will obviously be a problem.” 

One of the weaker princes: Peryite? Gross, says Tanis, and throws out Sheogorath's name. Please don’t, pleads Martin; that’s the last thing he needs in his Xarxes-addled state. Sending either one of these inveterate gamblers to Clavicus Vile seems unwise, and briefly he considers Hermaeus Mora — but no, now he’s beginning to sympathize with Tanis’s stingy dismissals. Any of the Black Books would be hard to give up. 

Coradri watches this debate with detached interest. These all-powerful immortals are just names to her, high-value theft targets. He still laughs when he recalls mentioning the ascension of Talos one night. Coradri cocked her head and asked, “Who?” Who indeed.

Mephala, Molag Bal, Boethiah, Vaermina, Malacath: all too bloodthirsty for Martin's taste. Tanis spends a hair too long considering Hircine, and Martin puts his foot down. He can already hear the argument upon Tanis’s return: It’s fine, piss off, I don’t need a cure, being a werewolf’s actually pretty class. 

“So we’ve gotten nowhere, then,” Tanis concludes. “Sanguine’s the most practical option, that’s clear.”

“And Brother Martin says I should do it,” Coradri says primly. 

“I don’t have to listen to him if I don’t want to.” Tanis fishes in his pocket and produces a gold septim. “Flip you for it. Three times.” 

“I call Martins.” 

“For gods’ sake. It’s not me on that coin, you know, and don't you think the stakes are a bit high to be settling this with—"

“Shut up,” they both say in unison, and they flip for it. Coradri wins. “Always bet on Brother Martin,” she says, elbowing her scowling companion in the side.

[harrenhalyuri]

for us, the wounds kissed long before the lips

23rd of Sun's Dawn, 1E 461, Alessian Empire.

During the coronation of Emperor Gorieus, the Hortator and the head of House Dagoth steal a moment for themselves.

tags: drinking & talking; angst; one-sided relationship; attempt at worldbuilding

ao3 version here

They stumbled forward laughing and shushing one another as the heavy oak doors closed behind them - the warmth and merry of the coronation feast left behind as the two stepped out into the garden.

Nerevar recalled walking the streets of Nirnbuldihr - the cyan glow of the giant mushrooms reflecting on the windows of several shops. One in particular caught his eye, and he crossed the cobblestone sidewalk to inspect it more closely. Blown glass sculptures, colorful and intricate in the way the dwemer favored.

His favorite had been a piece hidden in the back of the window, as if outshined by more complex, elaborate pieces upfront. It had been a white glass diorama, depicting a cottage surrounded by trees swaying in the breeze - the sort of simplicity the dwemer had no interest in.

The garden reminded him of that diorama - covered in a blanket of snow, completely undisturbed by the world around it.

Voryn pulled him under the arches that covered the path to the guest wing, but the Hortator held him back.

“No, let us stay for a bit.” He answered, arm still draped around the back of his friend’s neck as he stepped on the soft snow. Voryn sighed, yet allowed Nerevar to lead him.

“Frolicking amidst the cold? Do you plan on inviting the Nords to join us?” The head of House Dagoth said snidely as he crossed his arms to warm himself.

Nerevar laughed and shoved him away.

“The snow never belonged to those s’wits, you’re simply thin-blooded from living under the shadow of a volcano.”

“Perhaps, and rightly so.”

The snow softly crunched under their boots as they wandered near a tree - now completely stripped of leaves, its gnarled branches seemed to reach towards the sky.

“It always snows in Akamora.” Nerevar inhaled deeply, enjoying how his lungs burned as he took in the crisp, cool air. “In the mountains, at least. The paths are sharp and winding, and it freezes over during winter. No caravans may come or go, not until Sun’s Dawn.”  

The Hortator grabbed a handful of snow, the ice leeching the warmth of his skin through the kagouti leather gloves. Absent-mindedly he shaped it until a white sphere rested on his palm. Secunda and Masser bore down on them - the moon glow glinting on the high windows of Skingrad’s castle.

Nerevar recalled the moon glow glinting on the tip of ice spikes, sharp enough to be spears, at the highest peak of Akamora.

Azura had come to him then, for the first time, to bestow Moon-and-Star upon the captain - his fingers had been so stiff from the cold that he could barely feel them anymore, the goddess’s touch as foreign as the ring she had slipped on his finger.

When he came down from the mountain, the first ashlanders had hailed him Hortator, and it had felt just as foreign as the ring on his finger.  

“It must be rather grim.” Voryn commented, the cyrodilic brandy swirling inside the bottle as he brought it to his lips. The distaste in his face was plain to see - it couldn’t hold a candle to the Dagoth brandy.  

Nerevar smiled, his short-lived melancholia forgotten.

“How can you say that? Short-tempered caravan masters, cheap mazte and all the comforts of a straw bed...” The captain delighted at Voryn’s growing distaste as he spoke. The head of House Dagoth was a creature of comfort and status, something that had made the duo different as the sun and the moon.    

"Lovely, I'm sure." Voryn replied with a sour expression. Nerevar laughed.

"For a researcher, you spent far too much time cocooned up in Kogoruhn." The Hortator recalled several jars containing fungi species and creatures preserved in a strong alcoholic solution, one more outlandish than the other. In his curiosity, the captain had pestered Voryn with questions until he nearly dropped one of the jars. The head of House Dagoth had snapped at him to stop before he accidentally unleashed a deadly plague and got them both killed.

That had been many years ago, before the war, when Nerevar was still seeking support from the great houses. The somber, willowy lord that had greeted him in Kogoruhn had been the first to join him - his support had been won easily, but his friendship had not.  

"And due to that, couriers are eternally indebted to House Dagoth. Why would I waste my precious time wandering through mud in a thrice-damned swamp?” The councilor huffed, wiping his mouth on the back of his hand.

Nerevar laughed, the corners of his eyes crinkling in amusement.

“And what if your Hortator commanded you to?”

The previous distaste vanished in a second as the sharp, haughty aristocratic features softened; the ruby-colored gaze meeting his, warm as the liquor sloshing inside the bottle.

“I’d wander until time itself ceased to be if Muthsera willed so.” Despite the devotion, the lord councilor had steel in his voice; unwavering as the very core of Nirn.

Nerevar let the snow sphere fall to the ground, the reverence in those words overwhelming as he broke his gaze away, before joining the councilor on the stone bench. The orange glow of a candle reflected on the windows above; a small flickering flame moving as a servant crossed the corridor. The former captain followed it until the speckle of light vanished behind stone walls.

“I miss it.” He blurted out, seized by a deep longing as the world seemed to be reduced into that snow-covered, unperturbed garden; as if its two occupants were the only souls in Nirn.

“By the Three, how I miss it! To Oblivion with those titles and thrones and crowns; I miss the road, I miss the ache after a long day’s march and falling on the straw at night too tired to think.” Nerevar leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees and covering his face with his hands. Azura had blessed him with the strength to carry the title of Hortator, yet he craved the simplicity of being nothing more than a captain, with no past nor future beyond the next town.

The Hortator missed walking through the crowded streets of the bazaars; the cramped food stalls with ill-tempered merchants that served meals with enough spices to burn his tongue; the shady cornerclubs where you had to watch both your tongue and your coin purse.  

Now he signed papers, spoke with lords, and followed the proper etiquette befitting his rank; he watched the streets through the high windows of his palace, as if his brethren were tiny ants. The former captain pulled his hands away and felt a tear roll down the bridge of his nose; the liquor was truly getting to his head. He placed a hand on his councilor’s knee; the several layers of red wool soft under his glove.

“Let’s leave - just the two of us and the road ahead, like it was before the war. We’ll name ourselves whatever we wish, we’ll sleep under the stars and chew on marshmerrow pieces as we travel.”

“Where shall we go, sweet Nerevar?” The young lord played along; his voice soft as a whisper, as if afraid to disturb the stillness around them.

“Wherever you desire - do you still wonder about Hammerfell? I’ll take you to see the dunes that stretch as far as the sun, you’ll study their beetles and giant scorpions for as long as you wish, then we can drink qishr and break bread with the nomads.” Nerevar found himself smiling as he recalled the heat of the desert and the loose, colorful fabrics the natives wore.

He turned around and reached for the bottle, fingers brushing against his confidant’s. Only then, Nerevar realized his councilor had forgotten his gloves inside the hall; the golden skin contrasting against the snow, the long, elegant fingers trembling with the cold.

“Oh, Voryn.” The former captain frowned, quickly pulling his own gloves off and taking hold of the other’s wrist; the scarlet nails vanishing into the supple leather as he adjusted the glove.

“Remember when you fell sick, five days after we departed Kogoruhn? We had to-” The sentence fell on deaf ears, vanishing under the branches heavy with snow as lips met his, swallowing his words with hunger. A hand connected with his chest, closing into a fist as Voryn pulled him closer; as if it weren’t enough.

Distant and haughty Voryn, who ate sparingly and never smudged the red paint he wore on his lips, bit the Hortator’s lower lip before pulling back; eyes half-lidded as he brushed the tip of his nose against Nerevar’s in a silent plea.

The ink-colored hair contrasted against the pale golden skin; the black fur collar brushing against the captain’s chin; a pale pink blooming on his cheeks, either from cold, the brandy, or something else-

Heart hammering against his ribcage, blood drumming on his ears; it was the slightest tilt of his face that thrice-damned him as Voryn’s lips smashed against his; a devotion he was unworthy of every time their tongues met; muffled prayers in form of sighs and whimpers.  

Unworthy, unworthy, unworthy. A voice whispered in his mind, taunting him; in his mind’s eye he saw peach-colored lips curled in derision, teeth bared like a wolf’s. Almalexia’s snarl.

Somewhere, a door groaned open and the sounds of the feast reached the garden, shattering their sanctuary; the weight of being Hortator came crashing down on his shoulders. Nerevar pulled back as if he had been burned, his palm on the young lord’s shoulder firmly holding the other back. He looked down, unable to face the confusion, the longing. Too much, it was too much. His hair was disheveled, pale strands falling against his face and he felt grateful for the cover.

“Nerevar-” The head of House Dagoth began, voice hoarse and breathless.

“Forgive me.”

“There’s nothing to forgive, I’ve wanted-”

“It was a mistake.”

“Oh.” Voryn inhaled sharply as if his lungs had suddenly been emptied.

“I’ve...I drank more than I should have. We both have.” His words feel hollow, and he can no longer tell if the bitter taste on his tongue belonged to the brandy, or the shame. The silence stretched; neither dared to move.

“I see.” His voice is flat, devoid of emotion; the usual aloofness reserved for others. Out of the corner of his eye, Nerevar watched him straighten his posture; the dark hair falling like a curtain, obscuring half of his face.  

Other guests left the feast; their chatter and laughter permeated the garden as they walked down the path to the other wing of the castle. Nerevar felt the red gaze pinned to his back, yet no words left his lips. He watched the snow under his boots; watery and muddy as it mixed with the dirt below.

At last, he heard the rustling of fabric as Voryn rose to his feet; impeccable posture as he towered over the Hortator.

“May this servant be excused, Muthsera?” The words rolled easily off his tongue; the sharp formality of it made Nerevar wince.

The Hortator forced himself to lift his head and face his long-time friend; clad in red wool and black fur, the snowflakes melting on the long, inky hair; the blank expression betraying nothing, except for his lips; the red paint had been smudged, contorting their shape.

“Yes.”

From the cradle, the heir of House Dagoth had been taught the games of persuasion and deceit; a master in concealing his thoughts behind a mask.

Nerevar took a hollow, cowardly comfort in it.

Voryn Dagoth bowed before him, as etiquette mandated, before vanishing into the corridor; the sound of his footsteps hammering inside the Hortator’s head until they vanished, leaving him with nothing but a headache and the cold.

After finishing the bottle by himself, the former captain laid in bed, watching the moons slowly crossing the sky through the windows; his dreams haunted by both his closest friend and his wife; one seeming to shift into the other as they pinned him against the sheets; ever-hungry as they sought out his lips.

It was late morning when he rose; mouth dry and head throbbing like it had been split open with an axe. The hearth had been tended to recently, the fire crackling as it consumed the logs. He turned in bed, still wrapped around the sheets.

Voryn will understand, he understands the importance of duty better than anyone. He reasoned with himself.

A single kagouti glove on the floor, as if someone had pushed it under the door.

Across the hallway, a lord painted his lips red; immaculately framing the natural shape of his lips. His unbalanced emotions shattered the mirror into a thousand pieces when his fingers trembled for a second and a smudge appeared.

Duty, he’s devoted to duty, the lord repeated mentally, as he collected the shards.

[thatwitchyaunt]

Makeup for Magick/Ritual p4: Litha - The Summer Solstice

Now that I no longer feel like lifeless goop, lets get this show back n the road! Litha! I originally waited so long to write this back in June because I was waiting for the Summer Goth Palette from Baby Bat Beauty to show up (it's even got a shade named Litha!). The have cool highlighters and the few metallic/shimmer single shadows I tried were good, but that palette was a nah.

Anyway, Litha, the Summer Solstice. The longest day and shortest night of the year, where we honor the Sun at it's highest point of power. At the same time, we honor the water as this is the time of year when we are drawn most to it, whether we're drinking it (stay hydrated!) or swimming in it. Yellows, bright golds, warm orange-reds, and blue/sea blues are good colors to reach for. However, bright rainbow colors carry over from Beltane. Think of the Sun's bright light filtering through a prism in a window and scattering rainbows all over the room.

The warm nude and rainbow palettes of Beltane are still in play, so I wont be including them in the list. Not my best photo shoot...

First! Tarte!

Tartelette Toasted Palette - It's really the perfect palette for that orange-red, fiery-nude, sun-scorched eye look that seems to be so popular at Litha (on social media, at least).

Be A Mermaid and Make Waves Palette - Fun fact, you can still buy this palette on the Tarte website, but you gotta use the search bar to find it. A good chunk of these shades a rose/nude rose shade of some kind, but no surprise. It's Tarte. HOWEVER! Some of the shimmers in this palette 1) would be really nice for a solstice eye look and 2) are just really pretty in general. "Shell Yeah" and "Mermosa" if you're leaning towards more Sun worship. "Lagoon", "Splash", and "Bubbles" are great for a look leaning more towards water and the sea. "Splash" and "Bubbles" are duochromes that make for a really nice single shadow look, as well.

BH Cosmetics is next!

Hangin' in Hawaii - One of the first Travel Series palettes I bought, specifically for the purpose of being my "light and airy" summer nudes palette. Is it my favorite BH palette? No, but I figured I'd toss it in.

Summer in St. Tropez - If you have this palette, you can definitely get a somewhat decent sun/water eye look from it. Maybe play with the two topper shades up in the top row to add something to it.

Trendy in Tokyo - Obligatory rainbow palette. Mhmm.

Chillin' in Chicago - Now called Amore in Amalfi, because BH are a bunch of cheeky little shites. This palette can lean Summer or Fall, depending on what other palette you pair it with. If you don't want to drop a crap ton of money on the Tartelette Toasted palette, this can give you a somewhat similar look. They're not dupes, not by a long shot, but they can give you that similar "sun-scorched" vibe.

Mimosa - If you already have this, you can get a good summer-sun yellow-orange look out of it.

Now for Give Me Glow!

Summer Vibes - This is an amazing go-to summer palette, solstice and beyond. Summery neutrals, sunny yellows and oranges, and a couple of nice ocean-blues. The metallic blue, "Summer Fling", has a really nice "Sun reflecting on the ocean" look to it. A bunch of the shades make great summer blushes too. If this palette is every discontinued, I'm buying backups!

Pastel Dreams - These brighter pastels can give off "sun bleached" vibes. Just as appropriate as bright rainbow colors.

Extra Spicy - Perfect for a brighter, more fiery-sun look.

Time for Juvia's Place!

The Masquerade Mini - The blues and green-blue in the top row, paired with the warm brown in the bottom two rows can make a decent "seashore" look that I like on solstice, usually with a pop of yellow in the inner corner.

The Zulu - A more summery rainbow palette. The turquoise shades are beauty!

The Afrique - Obligatory rainbow palette with a nice pop of gold.

The Saharan II - Does the same "Seashore" type of look as Masquerade, except you can go lighter. If I had to make a list of favorite summer palettes, this would be on it.

And now, ABH and Norvina!

Norvina Pro Pigment Palette Vol 2 - A decent amount of blues and couple of yellows if that's what your missing in your solstice look.

ABH Modern Renaissance - When I paired the matte pinky-reds with the gold shimmer, the first thing I thought was "Midsummer Fairy". And so, it made the list.

ABH Rivera - The colors in this palette lean more sun-bleached than a typical colorful palette. And again, I consider it appropriate for the sabbat.

"Our lord and savior, ColourPop!" - Theresa is Dead

Limoncello - It's yellow-toned neutral palette with a pop of green and a pop of blue. If you're leaning towards a more yellow-sun look, it's great! but if you wanna make a water-blue look, you're gonna need another palette. It's so damn pretty though. And the shade "Easy Peasy" is a dupe for the duochrome in the Natasha Denona Zendo palette.

Yes, Please! - I'd say stick to the first three columns for sunny, fiery Litha goodness, and pull in the last darker column for Mabon, but that's just me.

Dream St. - You know those scenes in movies, where they're trying to convey how sweltering hot it is by putting a sorta sepia filter over everything, and filming it through the heat waves coming off of the hood of a truck? Yeah, that's this palette. It always gave off that sort of summer vibe to me. So in the "sun-scorched" category, I guess?

As for specific CP monochromatic palettes; Blue Moon and Uh-Huh Honey are excellent blue and yellow palettes for water and sun looks. Also, fuck that yellow pressed glitter.

On to the solo palettes!

Urban Decay Beached Palette - Though it's got a couple ocean blues, it's better for the sun-scorched eye look.

Glamlite Ice Cream Dream Palette - A brighter pastel rainbow palette, and some shades can read 'sun-bleached", so that works great!

Too Faced Life's a Festival Palette - A bunch of fun, summery duochromes and shimmers, though the more yellow "Fun in the Sun" and "Beamin'" would be the ones I reach for for Litha.

Now the single shadows!

The top five are from Shroud Cosmetics. The middle three are from Terra Moons Cosmetics. And the bottom seven are from Looxi Beauty. As you can tell, my singles lean more towards watery blue-greens and less towards the for fiery sun colors.

Shroud Cosmetics

Ignite (fiery copper)

Vigil (yellow-gold)

Oracle (champagne gold)

Sea of Ghosts (a denim blue-based shimmer with a gold/green shift)

Azura (teal blue with a green shift)

Terra Moons Cosmetics

Skyfall (sky blue with a silver and lavender duochrome)

Meteorite (a golden, pink shimmer with hints of green)

Festival (vivid blue with gold shifts)

Looxi Beauty

Sleep Forever (turquoise blue)

Nectar (golden yellow with shifts of green, blue, and orange)

Catty-Pillar (orange with shifts of pink, teal, gold, and purple)

Dream On (aqua blue with a silver sheen)

Siren of the Sea (aqua, blue, green, and gold)

Slurp! (turquoise with a slight green shift)

Donner (blue with gold reflect)

Now onto the Give Me Glow singles. I'm doing something a bit different this time. Here's the concept:

All of my eyeshadow palettes have mysteriously disappeared and all I have left are my GMG singles. Now I have to use only those singles to curate a palette for the holiday. So mu curated GMG Litha palette is:

First (Top) Row: TBT, Fierce, Sweet Tea, Cream Lace, Cream Please

Second Row: Chili, West Coast, Spiked Punch, Havana, Peach Glaze

Third Row: Starboy, Sky High, Bubbles, My Sunshine, Beach Bum

Fourth Row: High By the Beach, Seaside, Mojito, Deep Waters, Halo

And that's it for Litha! Whoo.. Shop your stash and share your picks for Summer Solstice! Next I'll get the Lammas one done and dusted. Then once Henri fucks off, I can get started and Mabon! Lets go!

[authordgaster]

Chapter 1.2

The kids wandered about, deciding to meet the other students as Byleth continued to discuss matters with the other two professors. They didn’t know Byleth particularly well, but it still surprised them that such a blank faced guy had been picked to become the new professor for an academy housing the next rulers of the continent. Then again the ArchBishop did let a bunch of strangers into the academy without very much hesitation either.

The two professors were named Hanneman and Manuela. Hanneman stated that he is something called a Crest Scholar, and Manuela said she was a former Songstress, reminding them of Azura. They were kind enough to explain the three different houses and their origins.

The Black Eagle House is for students from the Adrestian Empire. Their house leader this year is Edelgard, the Imperial princess, who is in line to be the next emperor.

The Blue Lion House is for students from the Holy Kingdom of Faerghus. Their house leader this year is Prince Dimitri. He is to be the next king of Faerghus.

Lastly, there is the Golden Deer House, which is for students of the Leicester Alliance. Their house leader is Claude, grandson to Duke Riegan, the leader of the Alliance.

The group reached the area in front of the classrooms, and saw the three house leaders standing around. Soleil immediately began to walk towards Edelgard, with Shiro right behind her to make sure she stays out of trouble. Selkie bounded towards Claude to say hi to him, and Dwyer was right behind her to keep her out of trouble.

Midori and Forrest exchanged a look before smiling and making their way towards Dimitri.

---

Edelgard smiled when she saw Soleil and Shiro approach her. “Ah, it’s you. I was pleased to hear that you will be joining us at the officers academy. I hope you decide to lend your power to the Black Eagles.” She said with a slight bow.

“If you’re the one in charge, then I have to admit that your house is quite appealing.” Said Soleil.

Shiro rolled his eyes at his friend’s flirtations. “You’re one heck of a fighter, our brawl with the bandits proved that. I definitely don’t wanna be on the wrong side of that axe.” Joked Shiro. 

“A smart choice.” Stated Edelgard. 

Soleil stifled a chuckle at that, Shiro turned to her and gave her an unimpressed look. “Next you’re gonna say, ‘Shiro and smart? Those words definitely aren’t used together very much.’”

“‘Shiro and smart? Those words definitely aren’t used together very much.” Laughed Soleil, who paused for a moment before sticking her tongue out at Shiro.

Edelgard watched the display with a bit of surprise. “That was impressive, how did you predict what she was going to say?” She asked. 

Shiro chuckled and scratched the back of his head. “My mom’s a fortune teller, I inherited some of her abilities when it comes to predicting the future, though it works a bit weirdly with me.” He explained.

“I see… your mother must be quite wise to be able to predict the future.” Said Edelgard.

“Yeah, she’s pretty impressive… when she’s not screwing with everyone for her own amusement. She definitely has a… unique sense of humor.” Said Shiro, making a face like he was recalling events that he would prefer to be forgotten.

“Oh yeah… like the time she tricked Midori’s uncle into revealing a story from when they were children and she scared him so bad he soiled himself?” Asked Soleil.

“Yup.” Said Shiro.

“Well… it sounds like your kingdom has quite a unique queen. Hoshito, was it?” Asked Edelgard.

“Hoshido, with a d, and yeah. But fortunately dad keeps mom from going too far, and she’s there to make sure he doesn’t have a stick up his bum at all times.” Said Shiro as he shook his head while smiling fondly at the memory of his parents.

Soleil laughed. “Yeah! I think the only one more serious than Lord Ryoma is Lord Xander! I’m pretty sure his face would actually crack if he tried to smile.” She joked. Shiro laughed as well.

“I’m amazed you can talk so nonchalantly about the rulers of your countries.” Said Edelgard. 

“Meh, I mean, we spent months fighting together in Lord Corrin’s army, that tends to break down most social barriers.” Said Soleil.

“I suppose that is fair…” Said Edelgard.

“Ah, Lady Edelgard, there you…” A gruff sounding voice caught the attention of the trio as a taller man with black hair that covered his right eye approached them. “Ah… I see that you are preoccupied at the moment. I assume that these are the ‘otherworlders’ that rescued you?”

“Oh, hello Hubert.” Said Edelgard. “Yes, this is Soleil and Prince Shiro of the kingdom of Hoshido, I fought with them against the bandits.”

“I see. Well, as Lady Edelgard’s retainer, I thank you for protecting my liege at a time where I could not, and I advise that you treat her with the respect that she is due, even if one of you is a prince.” Said Hubert calmly.

“Well… you’re a real ray of sunshine…” Said Shiro drily.

Hubert crossed his arms. “It matters not what you think of me, all I care for is Lady Edelgard’s well being.” He said.

Soleil chuckled. “Well, from one retainer to another, I can respect your dedication, and I look forward to seeing you in the future.” She said as she extended her hand to the tall and creepy man. 

Hubert looked at the outstretched hand, then at Edelgard who was looking up at him with an unimpressed expression. Sighing, he met Soleil’s hand with his own. This caused a smile to cross Edelgard’s face. “Hubert, I take it that there was something you wished to discuss with me?” She asked.

“Indeed.” Said her retainer. “Something I would prefer was discussed in private.”

Edelgard nodded her head.. “Understood. Soleil, Shiro, why don’t you meet the other members of my class. They’re located in the room on the far right with the red flag. I hope to see you and your friends again in my class.” She said before departing with Hubert. 

“See you Edelgard! Let’s get tea together soon as well!” Said Soleil as she waved goodbye to the princess.

“Why are you like this?” Asked Shiro tiredly.

“Because I am an adorer of all things adorable and girls are the most adorable of all!” Said Soleil proudly.

“Fair enough. Let’s go meet the others.” Suggested Shiro.

“Alright! I hope the class has more cute girls!” Cheered Soleil as she and Shiro made their way to the other Black Eagles.

---

“Midori, Forrest, it is wonderful to see you both again.” Said Dimitri with a polite bow as the two younger teens approached him.

“Hello Prince Dimitri.” Said Forrest with a similar bow.

“Hey Prince Dimitri!” Said Midori with a smile.

“Please, simply Dimitri will do.” Said the prince with a chuckle. “We are going to be attending the academy together in the near future, there is little need for formalities.”

“Very well.” Said Forrest with a smile. 

“Ok Dimitri.” Said Midori with a giggle.

“There, now if only Ashe could do the same…” Said Dimitri with a light chuckle.

“One of your classmates?” Asked Forrest.

“Ashe? Yes, he’s the adopted son of a lord named Lonato. He is a polite young man, perhaps too much so since he insists on sticking to formalities when referring to me.” Said Dimitri.

“Perhaps he is intimidated by you? You are a large man and from what I witnessed against those bandits, a powerful one as well.” Said Forrest.

Dimitri laughed awkwardly. “It is certainly true that I’m adept when it comes to combat. I remember that my friends and I would pretend to be knights and such when we were younger.” He said.

Midori giggled. “I bet you were a cute kid Dimitri.” She said. That only earned more awkward laughter from the prince of Faerghus.

“Come now Midori, no need to say such things.” Chastised Forrest.

“Oh come on Forrest! I was trying to be nice!” Pouted Midori.

Dimitri watched the pair with a soft smile for a moment before speaking up. “So, if I remember correctly, Forrest’s father is a prince of Nohr, Midori’s mother is the chief of the Flame tribe, and her father is a retainer to the king of Valla?” He asked.

“Yup! Aren’t my parents so cool?!” Asked Midori proudly.

“Indeed, though I am curious as to what Forrest’s mother does.” Said Dimitri.

“My mother? Oh, she’s an assassin employed as one of the retainers of my aunt Camilla.” Explained Forrest.

“An assassin?” Asked Dimitri.

“Indeed. It was not a life my mother chose, but one that circumstance forced her into and cost her her emotions to survive in. One day she found her way into working for aunt Camilla, and that led to her and my father becoming comrades in the war. After learning her story, my father decided that he would help my mother learn to feel again, and they developed a love for one another that eventually led to me. A unique love  story for two people as unique as my mother and father.” Said Forrest, a smile on his face as he recalled the story of his parents’ love. 

Midori giggled at the sight of her friend’s romantic side. “What about you? What’re your parents like Dimitri?” She asked, turning to the prince. All the warmth on Dimitri’s face vanished as he looked down for a moment. “Dimitri…?” Asked Midori worriedly.

Dimitri looked at the pair once more with a strained smile. “My parents are sadly… no longer of this world. They died four years ago in an event known as the tragedy of Duscur. I lost almost everyone that I cared about that day.” He said.

Midori gasped and covered her mouth. “Oh my gosh, that’s terrible!” She exclaimed. 

“Indeed. It was a tragedy, not just for me, but an event that would lead the people of Duscur to ruin…” Said Dimitri.

“A…and, here we are talking about are parents all happily while yours are gone… I… I feel terrible!” Midori was starting to tear up, causing Dimitri to panic.

“P-please Midori! Yes the loss of my parents caused me great pain, but I continue forward for there sake. So please, there’s no need to be upset on my behalf.” Said the prince.

Midori sniffled. “O…okay…” She said softly.

“Milord, is all well?” Everyone turned as a giant of a man approached the group. Forrest and Midori had to tilt their heads back to see his face.

“Ah, Dedue. All is well, I was simply speakingwith two of the people who helped me against those bandits.” Said Dimitri in a slightly shaky tone.

“…I see…” Said Dedue as he turned to Forrest and Midori, causing Midori to flinch a little. “You are the ones who aided his highness, against the bandits. It is not worth much, but I offer my thanks.” 

“It was no problem then and it is no problem now.” Said Forrest simply with a smile and a nod.

Dedue returned the nod before looking at Dimitri.

“Perhaps I shouldbe with you at all times so I will be there for you the next time an unexpected attack occurs.” Said Dedue.

“Dedue, while I appreciate your company, that is far from necessary.'' Said Dimitri.

“…as you wish.” Said Dedue calmly.

Dimitri looked at the smaller pair. “Ah, I realized I’ve yet to introduce you. Forrest, Midori, I would like you to meet my retainer, Dedue. He is not just the one who protects me, but he is also a close friend of mine.” He introduced him to the pair.

“It is a pleasure to meet you, I am Forrest, a prince of the kingdom of Nohr and this is my ally, Midori.” Said Forrest with a polite bow. 

“Hello.” Said Dedue.

“Good, now that you have properly met Dedue, perhaps you should come and meet the rest of our class.” Said Dimitri as he began to make his way to the center classroom of the school, with the others right behind him.

---

“CLAAUUDE!” The archer barely had time to process what was happening when the sentient fluffy ball of energy launched straight at him.

Dwyer watched Claude spit grass out as he stood back up after Selkie’s tackle hug. “You get used to it…” He said. “Eventually…”

“Common occurrence?” Asked Claude with a chuckle. 

“Very…” Said Dwyer. “It’s just my lot in life to follow after Selkie and keep her out of trouble. I’ve gotten pretty good at it over the years…”

“Yup! He may act tired and lazy all the time.” Said Selkie.

“Because I am...” Said Dwyer.

“But he’s still my best friend! And he heals me when I’m hurt!” Said Selkie.

“Which happens a lot. I’ve probably used at least a dozen staves and rods on you alone…” Noted Dwyer.

“Staves?” Asked Claude.

“Yeah, these...” Said Dwyer as he pulled his staff out. “It’s how we heal each other in battle. But they break after they’re used too many times.” 

“Uh huh…” Said Claude as he examined the item. “In Fodlan we simply learn spells. Faith, or White Magic for healing and Reason, or Dark Magic for hurting.”

“We use Tomes and Scrolls to cast spells in our world. I have some experience but I prefer using a dagger. It’s more my cup of tea. Even if I’m a coffee drinker…” Explained Dwyer.

“All I need is my Beaststone to get the job done!” Said Selkie proudly.

“Well who needs weapons when you can turn into a giant beast and maul your enemy…?” Noted Dwyer.

“So are shapeshifters considered normal in your world?” Asked Claude.

“Hardly… other than the Kitsune, the only races of shapeshifters are the Wolfskin and the Vallite royals that descended from Anakos…” Explained Dwyer. “And our army only has two of each… Kitsune and Wolfskin usually live in isolation because people try to hunt them…”

“People want our fur.” Explained Selkie softly.

“Oh… charming…” Said Claude awkwardly.

“Fortunately the kings have outlawed such activity, so now their kind can go about without as much fear...” Said Dwyer.

“And if someone tries to get me, I’ll just have to get them first!” Cackled Selkie.

“…so, you’re royalty?” Claude decided to tactically change the subject.

“Correct, our mothers are both the youngest siblings of the royal families of Nohr and Hoshido. Their friendship lead to Selkie and I meeting at a young age, despite our Deeprealms being separate...” Explained Dwyer.

“…Your Deeprealms?” Asked Claude.

“Yeah, we were born during the war so our parents hid us in different Deeprealms where we would be safe. Unfortunately due to the different flow of time, by the time a month passed for them, we were nearly at adulthood. Realizing that if we stayed there much longer we would die of old age by the time our parents ended the war, we were invited to join lord Corrin’s army…” Said Dwyer. “Some of us wound up becoming the same age as our parents. Our friend Rhajat is older than her own father now…”

“That is… really disturbing.” Said Claude. 

“Oh yeah, a lot of us were definitely… not happy with our parents. Apparently our friend Percy tricked a band of mercenaries into thinking the army was a band of bandits and attacking us. That was a fun story.” Giggled Selkie.

“The more stories I hear, the more insane your army sounds.” Noted Claude.

“Our army is filled with crazy weirdos…” Said Dwyer simply.

Claude couldn’t help but laugh at that. “Well, the Golden Deer definitely isn’t in short supply of those. Would you like to meet them?” He asked.

“Yes yes yes!” Said Selkie excitedly.

Claude continued to chuckle as he stood up, brushing grass and dirt off his pants. “Well then, let’s get going. Just a heads up, the purple one is very… stuck up.” He said.

“I will keep that in mind…” Said Dwyer.

---

Fire Emblem: Three Fates

[the-hero-unknown]

Summary : Haekhael bonds with Alandro Sul as he tells a story. Warning for murder in the story 👉👉.

______________________________

Haekhael held a small cup in her hands. She felt sick to her stomach. In the wilds, it wasn't safe to be ill. Alandro Sul had spared some compassion for her. It was sacred and kept behind closed doors. He gently set a cold cloth against her forehead. 

"Be careful drinking that and lying down, you could end up burning from the tea instead of the fever." He said, moving his hand along her arm and to her own hand. He gently squeezed it, feeling how warm she was. "Rest well, you'll have need of it." 

Haekhael groaned and leaned back into the knapsack underneath her head. She set the cup aside,"What if I cannot rest?" 

Alandro chuckled a bit,"What are you, a child?"

 "No. I just can't sleep. Everything is sticky." 

The chimer soldier laughed a bit. Haekhael pouted, she crossed her arms,"Why are you laughing?" 

"No reason, I swear. Although, if you really are feeling restless, might I tell you a tale?" 

Haekhael sat up slowly, taking the wet cloth from her head. She grinned widely,"I'd love to hear one. Maybe two even."

"Lie back down, and I'll try to tell you one, eh?"

 Alandro gently nudged shoulder, Haekhael would comply,"Alright fine. What kind of tale do you have in mind to tell me?" 

"I've got a few from long ago. Though, most of them include Lord Nerevar." 

"I could do without hearing about him, I'd like to hear from a fellow warrior rather than a king." 

Alandro chuckled, picking up the cloth again,"This time, keep it on your head. It's supposed to help."

 "I will, I swear! Just get to the story." 

Alandro Sul set down the cloth on the woman's head once more. The bright baby blue that went against her dark brown skin. He began his long tale,"Long ago, when I travelled along the many roads of Resdayn, I decided to go off trail." 

"Why?" 

"I didn't think much of a why, suppose I thought myself immortal, suppose that's the Azura in me." 

Haekhael giggled a bit, shifting so her arms would be under her head,"And then what?" 

"As I was saying, I went off trail, right into a bandit camp. There were a few of 'em. Lots of Nords mainly. Some were even dwemer and chimer. Anyways, these lowly vermin were looking for a fight, and I was like an apple ready to be picked. I was a foolish lad, and challenged the largest Nord to a duel." 

Her jaw dropped,"No. I know you said you were foolish, but I didn't think you were the death thinking kind!" 

Alandro shrugged,"It happens to all of us at some point,  look at yourself. You stayed out all night in the rain like a s'wit." 

"Hey! I did not stay out on purpose. I just never woke up!" Haekhael defended herself quickly," You know I've slept through worse on the many roads."

Alandro picked up his own tea cup,"I know. You're a tough woman. But still, even you can get sick." 

Haekhael rolled her eyes as she leaned into the lumpy makeshift pillow,"Nevermind that, go on with your tale!" 

"Yes ma'am. And so, this large burly Nord comes up, as I have challenged him. He had light blond hair left all the way down to his back and a warrior's braid along his cheek. He had a long beard too, and red war paint on his eyes. He swore to Kyne that he'd beat me, but I said,'so long as Azura is my mother, you only have hope to keep you warm!' And he charged at me. He grabbed me by my neck and held me down for a good while. He had not taken account of my hands. And Azura led my blade to his heart."

"What happened after that?" Haekhael asked, listening well into the story. 

"Well, I had a giant nord absolutely crushing me and blood on my hands. The bandits were terrified. Their eyes only knew the wrath of Azura had been awakened by my word. Are you tired yet?"

"Not even a little, your story has thrilled my inner child. What did they do after they saw your victory?" 

Alandro sighed, he looked around for a minute. Once he made sure they were safe, he cleared his throat. 

"They ran away like prey. Scattered. Funny enough, I still have a pretty souvenir." 

Alandro picked up his knapsack, it was heavy and fortunately supplies were ready. They were not what he wanted. He dug through the bag and pulled out a circlet. It was golden, with a garnet in between two rubies. An enchantment had been placed upon it. A crimson aura surrounded the gems. 

Haekhael took a good look,"Was the Nord wearing that?" 

"By Azura, no, thankfully not. I found it in a chest. It's a beauty, isn't it?" 

"I was just making sure! Also, yes. It's beautiful. Who's going to deny that craftsmanship?" 

Alandro shrugged before holding it out the circlet,"It's enchanted. I asked Voryn what the enchantment had been and he said it extended your life. Maybe you should have it."

Haekhael glared, her lips pursed,"I'm sick not on my deathbed."

"I shouldn't have said it like that. I mean that I want you to keep it." 

The woman raised a brow, as she was unsure. 

"I mean that... I've had it for a long time, never made use of it." 

She picked up the circlet and inspected it. Haekhael brushed her thumb against a ruby. The woman snickered,"If I didn't know better, I'd ask if you were courting me." 

The mer scrunched his face,"Just take the gift without being weird."

Haekhael continued to laugh which led to a coughing fit. She covered her mouth with the inside of her elbow. Alandro remained unamused.

[omgkalyppso]

Honeyed Words

How many fics have this title? Probably a million. I wrote something featuring @esaari‘s tes breton oc Philip, and my imperial oc Oretia. Enjoy!

.

The grass was cold and wet from vestiges of the midnight frost puddling under the weight of the midday sun. Summer at Winterhold. The worst possible time to be a tome, or scroll, or a visitor. Inside the College, papers were kept magically dry and well kept, but as soon as you stepped one foot into the city, everything wilted with the humidity, including the people.

The citizenry was more amenable to the mages and their initiates since the reconstruction, after the civil war, but that did not forestall all of their prejudices, Philip had noticed. They phrased their suspicions of foreigners, of which he was no longer considered, as warnings of unstable mountaintops, roads that were thin with ice and awaiting unwary travelers, and beasts that roamed beyond their hibernal caves, but he heard the truth behind every bitter courtesy. ‘You are as unwelcome by the land as by our hospitality,’ they cried.

It was why they still lacked a dedicated blacksmith, a tanner, a wheelwright, fishermen — and Nine help that poor dentist who’d tried to move in four months past.

There were new bodies to fill the houses that had been built — carpenters and farmhands, tailors and midwives, but it was no wonder they still had to rely so heavily on the summer caravans.

The largest of the year was present now, the one that circled from Windhelm to Whiterun and Dawnstar, leaving Winterhold with both the last selection from Windhelm and the benefit of what the caravan had collected on its journey, just before they finished their circle and headed back home. The gamut of their venture was nearly complete, and so Philip felt triply insulted by the price being demanded of him to carry scroll and missive — which included a painstaking transcription of an extremely valuable book — to the new astrologer in Windhelm.

“Thirty gold is more than fair,” he insisted. “Twenty would cover a gold a day for the service, and fourteen was the cost last year.”

“Thirty might be fair,” replied the nord man, who was clearly dealing with other problems — but none of them were Philip’s, “but eighty is the cost.”

“Set by you, unreasonably.”

“Are you calling me unreasonable, my lord?” The title had been wrong, but Philip’s choice of words had been fumbling. He needed this, it was important.

“I misspoke. Surely, you are a man who knows his worth and his services, and so, you must know, that it is not up to the College to champion the losses of your caravan. You are headed to Windhelm anyway. I will offer forty, far more than you’d require.”

The nord nodded to someone standing outside of Philip’s periphery, and his shoulders tensed. The temptation to invoke others to grant weight to his title and his person was present, for he was on good terms with his Thane and his Jarl, and Skyrim’s champion of the war; but so too was he Archmage now, and whatever his personal insecurities, knew that he demanded his own respect. He shrugged his elbow towards the person who approached from his side, striking them, if lightly.

“I am not some common miscreant. Do not look to demean me. There are other couriers.”

“Then find one,” replied the nord.

Philip looked to the imperial woman at his side as she spoke and frowned in surprise. She was hobbling a little, unsteady on her feet, and not the manner of muscle he’d expected the nord to be summoning.

“And I wasn’t hired to help with customer service, Herknir. This doesn’t look like a case of banditry.” Her accent was thick and southern, and Philip flinched to look at her more directly as despite her words she still laid a hand upon him — but it was gentle, so much so that he couldn’t even feel it through his robes, on his upper arm, a signal to wait and not a reprimand. Philip took a step away from her anyway, disinterested in her reassurance.

“Take the illustrious Archmage for a walk, Oretia. I can smell the enchantments on him, and I won’t risk the safety of our men to the whims of secret, magical documents without collateral.” Philip blanched, he hadn’t expected Herknir to be thinking of anything beyond what he could get with the money. Herknir pointed a finger at him, to further cement his point, “If it were a message from one of your initiates back to their parents or their sweetheart in Windhelm, then that is one service; but you should know that your time is worth more, and you should be prepared to pay more in the future. Cool your head. Try Tilly’s honey-pops, and come back to me when you’re willing to talk business.”

“Sorry about him,” Oretia sounded exasperated, and Philip had to wonder if she had felt suitably chastised by Herknir over the course of her time with the man, as he did now, sent for a walkabout like a petulant child — though one who had been flirting with the crackle of magic on the edge of his fingers. “And me, I had assumed you were a nobleman. I should not have placed my hand upon you.”

“It is nothing,” Philip assured her, dismissing the perceived insult with a smile — tickled by the idea that she would more readily lay her hands on a Thane. They wove their way through a crowd, where the locals parted naturally by his presence. There was nowhere for Oretia to hide her stumbling.

“But perhaps I owe you an apology? Did I set you so off-balance?”

“Oh!” she laughed. “No, I— My legs are sore. I’d spent the last four days climbing up and down your mountains.”

Philip snorted, infected by his companion’s good humor. “Whatever for?”

She sighed, smiling, wistful. “To see my sister. It had been a few years and she’s settled up there. I thought that, seeing her would make it easier to accept, but now I’m less sure than ever about leaving; but you don’t need to hear about that. What was Herknir so upset about? Do you really have secret, magical documents?”

The way she exaggerated the word was light, teasing, and free of ill-will Herknir had managed to fit into the word.

“I—” Philip scoffed, “I suppose I do. The documents themselves aren’t magical, but few things that leave the College can be described otherwise.”

“Secretive?” Oretia prompted.

“For certain,” Philip assured her.

She seemed to take a measure of him then, a once over with suspicious eyes. Philip wondered what she saw.

“I could leave you now,” she suggested, tilting her head. “I rather doubt you need my company.”

Philip thought of the trader and patrons, and wondered whether for the moment she might need his. He wondered if she was asking for the freedom of privacy or to socialize with a friend from the caravan, but outside the College and inside Winterhold, his friends felt ever fewer, and Oretia had been friendly enough as to prove distracting from his other worries.

“There are a great many things I don’t need, but enjoy regardless. Of course, you’re free to go, and I’ll make my way back to Herknir in due time, but if you’d like to point me towards those honey-pops…?”

Philip felt any lingering stress melt off his shoulders when Oretia brightened.

“They’re very sweet, but delicious,” she insisted, directing them now with purpose. “There are some with raspberries caked in which are wonderful in tea, but they’re just as fine as a little delight.”

Philip bought ten for a gold piece, a strange assortment of things to pocket, even wrapped in wax paper as they were, but Oretia was right, they were good, as the two of them found a bench shielded by the cold of the sea, but still hidden by the warmth of the sun, as they each enjoyed one of the candies for a few silent seconds.

There was something about the way others seemed to have more time for trysts, and he wondered whether another person might take this time to proposition their companion. The pair of them with lips flush and spit slick from their choice in dessert, people might even think they had done something elicit when they returned to the main road. The air was thick and the blossoms were sweet, and Philip wondered whether he’d simply been surrounded by familiar faces for too long, that the blush upon a stranger’s cheeks would send his mind so far from his original intentions. He pat himself down, confirming the location of his missives, before plucking the honey-pop from his lips and assuring Oretia, “Thought I’d dropped something.”

He sighed, resting his hands on his knees. “Tell me about your sister? Might I know her?”

“No,” Oretia answered quickly. “Wylla Cosmotius — err, Wylla Ienith now, I suppose. She might have spent some time here, but wouldn’t have made a name for herself. Found the Shrine of Azura by accident, and then spent a few years “adventuring,” or whatever you might call it, with the priestess, to whom she’s now married.”

“Cosmotius?” Philip echoed. “‘Of the stars?’”

“Mm,” Oretia hummed in agreement. “A name I imagine Wylla was glad to be rid of. Pretentious ancestors. Not that the title of Archmage is any less assuming.”

“I?” Philip hesitated. “I didn’t choose that. And it’s practical, the position is what the title says, I oversee other mages, and am one myself.”

“I didn’t say it was wrong, I said—”

“You implied it was pretentious.”

“And you became defensive,” Oretia observed, amused. “Is my good opinion so important?”

“As important as any other,” Philip said, dismissive, shrugging. “There are a lot of things said about The Archmage, meaning both myself and my predecessors. I do my best to improve those rounds of gossip.”

“I apologize, I didn’t mean anything by it.”

“I know.”

Oretia bumped a knee against him. She went on, “My sister went through a lot, as a mercenary and … well as an imperial in Skyrim during the civil war. When I was a child I would think of how one day marriage might separate us, but I hadn’t expected to be lost to her when she needed me before that. To be treated as a guest, and not as family, when I would see her again. I worry that she could die on that mountain, and if I were to be in Windhelm, I should never know.”

“And so you’re thinking of staying?” Philip remembered. “Do you ply a craft? There are still incentives to settle in Winterhold.”

“The city is known for surviving winters without me. I don’t know how useful I could be, or how interested people would be in buying leathers, or how abundant the game is year round for the purpose of gathering supplies. I feel I don’t know much of anything lately.”

“If it’s any consolation I find that to be more true with each passing year.”

“Even for the Archmage?”

“Especially for the Archmage,” Philip groaned. “There’s much to learn and more to discover. That’s why I need to see my post sent to Windhelm.”

“I could take it,” Oretia suggested.

“As a reason not to stay?” Philip inquired, furrowing his brow.

She rolled her eyes. “I wouldn’t just stay all at once. I have employment and friends and possessions. But I might come back. Settle. It wouldn’t hurt to be owed a favor by the Archmage.”

He hesitated, surprised and unsure. Philip wondered whether he could get her in trouble with Herknir, and whether she was even trustworthy to begin with.

“I couldn’t make a pact like that,” he said quickly, in regret.

“I’ll take the fourteen gold?” Oretia offered. “And no favor.”

“Thirty then,” Philip suggested. “And maybe dinner, if you return?”