#which is something that i wish was talked about more when it comes to haytham

[haytham-loves-chocolate]

“I wish people would notice you more.”

A/N: This is a John Pitcairn birthday special. This involves my OC, Enola, but it is not in the style of Assassin’s Creed Forsaken this time.

Includes: Angst/Comfort scenario.

Warning: Suicide mention

Summary: Enola tried to commit suicide in the middle of the night, but Pitcairn was there in time.

“Enola-“

“Pitcairn, stop it! Just stop it, please! I can’t deal with this anymore! I can’t! I-“

“Enola, if you will allow me to explain-“

“Why should you care?” She retorts, followed by a fit of rage, “Why should you care about me?!” Pitcairn stays attentive as though it does not faze him at all. She presses her fingertips on her left hand close to her chest, eyes slit and voice raised in a way that could annoy anyone else in his place.

“I’m a nobody. I’m a loser, a depressed, selfish bitch that thinks everyone around her hates her! When no one talks to me, I think I’m too annoying. Or when someone has nothing to say to me, I think I’m in the way of their time, their life.”

Her voice lowers to a quiet snivel, a weak smile appears from her lips.

“I think of you, John. I wish I was like you.” Enola takes in a huge, deep breath, waits for a few seconds, then lets it out to be masked with a sob. “I wish I could do something more than this! I wish I wasn’t afraid! I-I do things and I regret them immediately afterwords because it’s all I know.” She immediately raises her left hand to wipe the tears flowing down her cheeks , sniffling. “Regrets are my fear, John.”

Enola points to the small, ivory dagger on the top of her drawer. Pitcairn glances over at the weapon for a split second, taking in the beauty and the polished silver of the blade. He turns his head back to her direction, letting her continue her ranting.

“I tried cutting myself because I know if I’m not here you will all be happy. No more of me. But seeing you stop me, seeing you standing there… looking at my selfish side.”

She frowns now, her mind seething with thoughts as she continues,

“You think I’m doing this for attention aren’t you? You think I’m a mistake, don’t you? That I should travel back home, stay home, never come back. Oh god, what have I done? What have I done, I’m so sorry! Im sorry!”

Enola wails on, placing her hands on her face to hide her face from him.

Pitcairn can see she is going through another mental episode, something that has been troubling her for some time now periodically.

So, he stands in front of her, his hands go out to touch her arms but she backs away in fear.

“Don’t touch me, Don’t touch me! I can’t live like this anymore! I can’t keep trying to get his attention, but I love him too much, but then I just wanted to jump off a fucking building and-“

“Enola, stop this nonsense and listen!”

Pitcairn’s hands lightly shake her arms after he pins her to the wall. He bores his eyes deep into hers, his eyebrows furrowing to make it seem like he is frustrated at her, which is not the case here. Her hysterical crying stops at his words. Her glossy eyes observed him, not knowing what is going on inside his head. She lets out a sniffle and her bottom lip quivers too.

“M’eudail, dear.” Pitcairn cooed out, his hand brushing her hair as if he was comforting a newborn child.

“You are someone. You are strong, you’re not a coward at all. You-“ He licks his lips in a nervous kind of way, and his grip on her arms loosens.

“Haytham, okay?” He continues, his voice gentle and caring. “You don’t need Haytham. You definitely do not need him. He will never be with you.” Enola starts to cry again but he hushes her, wiping the tears rolling down her eyes and cheeks.

“Let me tell you why, Enola.” His hands wrap around her hands, intertwining his fingers with hers.

“Because you are worth a whole lot more than the attention of one nobleman. Your worth is priceless. A king’s charter can’t claim you. Please take heed of my words. I am only a man, I am only a soldier fighting for his country. But I will fight for what I believe in. I believe in you. If you want someone to listen to you, all you have to do is ask. If you want to write to me, do it. I’ll reply as soon as I am able to. To lose you Enola is to lose the war and I will not lose you. You hear this right? Nod yes.”

Enola nods her head quickly and sniffles again. His lips make a smile at her head nod, his hands still on hers in a supportive way.

“You are enough, you are great. Please let me show you why you are.”

“What do you mean show me?” Enola’s voice and her eyes are soft and curious.

Suddenly, he pins her down to her bed, having her yelp out and blink her eyes quickly in a surprised reaction.

“J-John, what are you-“

She gets interrupted by his lips, gently pressing them to her nose. Her eyebrows raise slightly as keeps silent as he continues his tour of kisses on her face. Not one part of her face goes bare with his caresses. They maybe slow, but it’s something that makes Enola giggle at to make her happier.

The last part of her face he kisses are her eyelids, his hands cupping her cheeks and his thumbs placed close to her nose. With a sweet smile, she glances his way to see a sweet smile also on his face.

“Tha gaol agam ort. Tha thu a’ ciomhead Bòidheach.”

Her face gazed in confusion at his words, and a small chuckle escapes from his lips.

“I love you. You look so beautiful.”

“How do I say I love you too?”

“Tha gaol agam ort cuideachd.”

“Tha goal agam ort cuideachd.”

A smug look appears on his face after she repeated what he said to her.

“I guess the lessons have paid off, don’t you think?”

Enola lets out another giggle and she wraps her arms around his neck, kissing his cheek as she does so.

“Mum only let me learn Irish.”

“I guess being British has some of its perks.”

Pitcairn lets out a soft chuckle at this joke, his arms already wrapped around her body.

“Yet, I wouldn’t have met everyone if it wasn’t for… for the past.”

“Don’t worry about the past. The past is over now. All that matters is what you do in the future.”

He moves his body away from the hug but he is still in reach just incase she needs another one. He tucks a lock of hair behind her ear and he slowly grazes his fingertips over her jawline.

“You’re a good woman, Enola. You only need a helping hand.”

“You have been too kind to me. Caring and understanding. I wish people noticed you more.”

Enola admired him, still admires him. Maybe even more now. He always was a man of his heart, caring about others in a way that made him well respected in a large group setting. But this one-on-one talk with him seems to have gotten through to her. More than ever.

[prctectedlegacy]

To be absolutely unoriginal on main, aka jumping on the bandwagon that @finnegansson created, Abagail Horningold and Charles Lee

First, read Teou's post here: X

The best way to describe Charles Lee and Abagail Hornigold's relationship is, they don't like each other. She thinks that he is overly pretentious for the role that he had been given, and the fact that he immediately assumes that he is the second in command after Haytham makes her roll her eyes to heaven.

But let's talk 1776.

The Order in 1776 looked different than the one in 1743-if there even really was an Templar Rite on the continent in that year. 1743 is the year that Abagail herself became a templar at the age of 20, and so she spent the first few years in Europe and the West Indies, until 1752 when she arrived on the continent.

Charles Lee, in a way, took a lot of the roles she had gained in Europe for his own, and for the most part was ye olde sexism of the time.

But in 1776? The Order had been losing members for years thanks to Connor and Achilles, and then the pivot to go to the patriot side rather than stay on the side of the red coats and the British. Abby, having Declan (@finnegansson) as a brother and knowing that he would remain a red coat no matter what the Order said, simply...left.

And I know that seems anti-climatic, especially for her, but she dislikes arguments. She is stuck between two worlds, that of a Sage and that of a templar, and she is unwilling to chose between two people who are her family.

So, she leaves. Gathers her family and leaves. She sees it as better than having to feel like she's betraying one of her family members and knows that, in leaving, she'll be considered a rogue, sure. But I would be better to explain that, than her betrayal.

[night-eagle-flight]

Just Go For It! (Modern AU)

Connor Kenway x reader

So this one-shot is a modern AU but I hope you enjoy!

“That’ll be all for today. Everyone is dismissed.” Shay said as he ended the meeting. As everyone left you began to put away the notes you had taken for Shay.

“That invitation to dinner is still open if you want to join me lass.” Shay said as he looked over some of the notes you had taken. 

You smiled, “I’m grateful for the invitation but I have some things to do today after work.”

Shay made a side smirk, “Next time then.”

You stood up and began to head to your shared office. When you opened the door you were greeted by a tall man with greying hair who was accompanied by a younger man with dark hair.

“Um... Can I help you?” You asked wondering how they got into the locked office.

“Good Evening,” the grey haired man stood up, “My name is Haytham Kenway and this, “he gestured, “is my son. Connor.” You shook both their hands as Haytham looked towards you, “We are here to speak with Shay Cormac regarding a couple upcoming projects.”

“Here I am sir.” Shay said as he walked in, “Sorry for the tardiness, but I was-”

“Busy flirting with your assistant, yes?” Haytham said with a smirk.

Shay blushed slightly, “N-no sir.”

You couldn’t help but blush as well but Haytham simply smiled at you and looked back at Shay, “Let’s get down to business.” 

You sat down wondering how Haytham knew and that’s when you caught Connor’s eye for a second before he looked away. You smiled and began to sit down to take notes.

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“Excellent.” Haytham said as he stood, “It seems everything is in order. Connor? Have you anything to add?”

You looked at him curiously. During the whole meeting whenever Shay would look at you Connor would glare at him and whenever Shay’s eye lingered he would clear his throat to regain Shay’s attention. 

“No.” He looked over to you and smiled, “I look forward to working with all of you for this month.”

“Month?” Shay asked slightly surprised.

“Did I forget to mention that Connor is starting up his own business and wanted to see how we worked ours?” Haytham stated.

“Might have slipped your mind sir.” Shay said with a small deadpanned expression. He gave Connor a side glance and asked, “I thought you’d be taking over the family business?” 

Connor shrugged and offered no answer.

“Connor wishes to show me that he has better ideas that will help the community far more than what I do. I am simply playing along to humor him.” Haytham gave Connor a smug grin which made Connor’s eyes roll.

“Um.... Is it ok if I go? I don’t want to miss the last bus.” You said as the banter continued.

“I can take y-” Shay was interrupted.

“Nonsense. You and I still have a few things to go over privately.” Haytham interrupted, “Connor, perhaps you can drive the young lady home?” 

“I don’t want to impose!” You said slightly startled. 

“It is alright if you allow me.” Connor said looking away slightly as he put on his coat.

You could see Shay shooting a small glare at Connor but you acted like you didn’t see it seeing that Haytham looked far too amused and was enjoying the show. 

“If it’s ok with you.” You said as you followed him. You looked back, “I’ll see you tomorrow Shay and it was a pleasure to meet you Haytham!”

“Goodbye (Y/n).” Shay said with a sigh.

“Goodbye dear.” Haytham said as he put his hand on Shay’s shoulder.

When you and Connor were gone Haytham chuckled, “In love with your secretary?” 

Shay dropped his head, “We went to school together sir.”

“Ah. The classical college crush then?” Haytham smirked.

“You can say that.” Shay chuckled a bit, “But then you come along and added competition.” He sighed, “Looks like your son has taken an interest.”

“To be fair, Connor was the one who asked me to intervene. He was going to knock on your door and he saw how you looked at her when you asked her out for dinner. Something about you not being able to take a hint.” Haytham put on his coat as Shay’s face pinched, “Besides. I doubt he’ll be able to woo her anyway so I wouldn’t worry too much.”

“What makes you say that sir?” Shay followed Haytham out of the office.

“Simple.” Haytham smiled, “My son can’t flirt.”

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Connor was certainly a gentleman. He opened the car door for you before getting inside and he asked if you were too hot or cold to adjust the car AC. But after that... it was utter silence. So you tried to make conversation,

“Thank you again for driving me home.” You said.

“You’re welcome.” He said warmly.

................ utter silence once more.

“Your dad said you were shadowing him to start your own business, correct?” You asked.

“Yes.” You noticed Connor’s hand tighten a bit on the wheel, “I know that my idea will be beneficial to everyone but my father insists that it’s a waste of time and that I should stay with the family business.”

“I see.” You thought for a second, “Well, I don’t know if this means anything but... I’ll cheer on and support your dream.” You smiled at him, “If you need help with notes or just need someone to speak with I’d be more than happy to listen.”

Connor felt his heart thump but a smile finally appeared on his face, “Thank you.”

The silence became comfortable and soon you were home. Connor waited until you were inside to drive off and he couldn’t help but wave when you unlocked your door to go inside.

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“You both drove in utter silence didn’t you?” Haytham said as soon as Connor stepped inside the presidential suite.

Connor glared at his dad who was reading the newspaper, “It was not utter silence.”

“I see. So you said maybe 30 words or less?” 

“I.....” He thought back, “Be quiet father... It was 34.”

Haytham barked out a laugh, finally putting down the newspaper to laugh harder at his son’s expense.

Connor rolled his eyes. 

He was ready for bed.

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It had been a week since Connor and Haytham came by and you found out that Haytham’s sass had bite and Connor was probably one of the nicest people you ever met. They were like night and day.

“Daydreaming lass?” Shay asked from across the lunch table you sat in. You blinked at he continued, “You’ve seemed a bit distracted lately.” He placed a bag in front of you, “I noticed you weren’t eating and figured you forgot your lunch again.”

“Oh um...” You smiled, “Thank you Shay.”

Both of you ate together as you chatted and as both of you finished Connor approached your table.

“(Y/N), when you’re done with your lunch can you meet me in my office?” He asked.

“Oh Su-”

“She’s busy.” Shay interrupted, “I need her to take notes for a conference call we’re having.” 

Connor gave him a side glance, “It was cancelled an hour ago.”

You saw Shay toss him a glare but you kicked his foot lightly under the table and gave him a pleading smile when he looked at you.

“Fine.” Shay said with a sigh, “But when you’re done (Y/N) we do need to prepare for our conference tomorrow.”

You nodded as you stood up, “Lead the way Connor.”

Once both of you were at his office he started to speak, “Are you still interested in taking a few notes for my business?”

“Yeah!” You immediately took out your notepad, “Ready when you are.”

Connor began to talk about his plans and would often asked about your input. What you thought, what you suggested, and so on. Soon 2 hours flew by. Yes you had been taking notes but both of you would get slightly side tracked when one topic would jump to something personal or a slight side joke.

“I see you 2 must be done if you’re laughing.” Shay said as Haytham stood behind him.

“Oh!” You stood up, “I’m sorry Shay. I didn’t realize the time.” You gave the notepad to Connor and walked off in a hurry to Shay’s office. Shay stared him down for a second before he soon followed you.

“Well then Connor.” Haytham said as he entered, “I hope you didn’t get her into trouble for nothing.” He sat down on the chair in front of Connor’s desk and leaned in on his arms, “Let me hear about your 1st week in my company and your first draft of your proposal.”

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“You and Connor seem to be getting close.” Shay said bluntly.

You paused and looked at him, “He only asked me to take notes for him and help him with his draft.”

“So laughing was part of his draft I assume?” 

You rolled your eyes a bit, “Shay. You and I talk and laugh when we work together. I can’t do that with a new coworker?”

He looked away, “You can. Just...” He sighed, “Nevermind. Let’s just keep organizing.”

You continued working and whispered, “We’re still friends... right?” 

“We are lass.” He looked over and smiled, “We are.”

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“This is painful to watch.” Shay told Haytham as he watched Connor try and fail multiple times in putting his hand over yours on the lunch break table.

“She’s no better.” Haytham said, “Whenever (Y/N) tries to compliment my son her voice becomes too quiet and she stutters whenever Connor asks her to repeat herself.”

“Today is the last day you’re here isn’t that right sir?” Asked Shay.

“Yes.” Haytham sipped his tea, “If he doesn’t make a move he’ll miss his chance.”

“Let’s hope.” Shay muttered.

“What?” 

“Nothing sir.” Shay said.

The day continued awkwardly and whenever you and Connor would look at each other you’d both blush and look away. 

Soon it was time for them to leave and you walked to Shay’s office to give them you farewells.

“Ah. Ms. (Y/N).” Haytham said when he turned around. He walked over and stretched out his hand, “It was a pleasure to work with you and I look forward to seeing you grow in this company. Perhaps one day you’ll have Shay’s job.”

You giggled as Shay rolled his eyes with a smile.

“Goodbye (Y/N).” Connor said as he went for a hug but stopped midway when he saw you stretch out your hand for a handshake. Both of you laughed nervously and the you went for a hug when he went for a handshake.

This was awkward...

You hurried and shook his hand, “It was great to meet you Connor. I know your company will flourish with you at the helm.”

“Thank you.” Was all he could say as his mind was racing, ‘Say something else!’ He thought, ‘Here’s my number! I enjoyed working with you! Something!’

“I will... see you again one day.” Connor said.

“Yeah.” You said with a smile, “Take care.”

You took a few steps back and then turned to walk away leaving the men alone. Connor’s eyes lingered while Haytham and Shay shook their heads.

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You were sad to see Connor go but you knew his stay would be temporary. When you had gotten home, you showered, changed into regular clothing, and headed out for the night to get your mind off him.

“Maybe a movie will get my mind of him.” You whispered.

There had been a movie rerun that you had really wanted to see in theaters and tonight would be the last showing. You had been so busy at work that you thought you were going to miss it. You bought your ticket, got your snacks, and sat down on your seat.

What you hadn’t noticed was the 2 men that had been sitting 3 rows behind you. 

“She’s here.” Connor whispered.

“Well it’s not like you’re going to do something about it.” Haytham popped a popcorn in his mouth, “As soon as you like a girl you start to shy away and become painfully awkward.”

“No. I’m not going to miss this chance.” Connor said to his father.

“Well if you don’t hurry you will.” Haytham stated, “Shay has been pursuing her for quite a bit and by the looks of it, he’s planning to sit down next to her.” He looked at Connor, “If you don’t decide to go out with her now, Shay will.”

Connor saw Shay had walked in and was looking for a seat. So he stood up after grabbing the bucket of popcorn from his father, jumped down the 3 rows making popcorn rain, and sat next to you. You were clearly startled but you calmed down once you saw who it was.

“Connor?” 

“Hi.” Connor said as he offered you the bucket, “Popcorn?”

“Um.. sure?” You said as you picked one from the now half full bucket, “You like kettle corn too!!!???”

“Yes. I... uh...” He saw Shay glare at him as he walked towards Haytham, “they’re my favorite.”

The movie started and you took a chance to lean your head on his shoulder. He smiled as he took a chance as well and intertwined his fingers with yours. As the movie progressed he looked at you and you turned when you felt him staring.

“What is it?” You asked

He leaned in and pressed his lips against yours. You reciprocated making the kiss that much sweeter. 

“Perhaps... we can be more than friends?” He said slightly shyly.

“I’d like that” You smiled and both of you leaned closer to each other to enjoy the movie.

“Finally.” Haytham said, “Took him long enough to just go for it.”

“Aye sir.” Shay sighed, “Guess we weren’t meant to be.”

Shay smiled when he saw how happy you looked.

“Sir?”

“Yes?”

“If your son breaks her heart I’m breaking his neck.” Shay said pretty bluntly.

Haytham snorted, “Protective as always.”

They were quiet for a second.

“Shay grab me a bucket of popcorn will you.” Haytham pretty much ordered, “Connor stole mine.”

“Right away sir.”

THE END

[alethiometry]

Edward Kenway for character asks!

ooooooo okay i should open this with a disclaimer: i have not finished black flag yet (about 2/3 of the way through i think? i need to level up my ship so i can beat the next story mission lol) so everything i'm saying here is based on the game up to thatch's death, and everything we know about edward in ac 3: forsaken and the comics that came out a couple years ago.

First impression

oh boy... to be honest, one of the reasons it took me such a long time to get around to playing black flag (it was one of the first ps4 games i bought when i got my console in 2016, and i didn't start until about a month ago) was because i didn't really feel particularly strongly about edward's character design. i was vaguely interested in That One Pirate Assassin Game after having watched (and loved) black sails, but was afraid i would be let down; to me edward just looked like Some Dude, and i was still hung up on the black sails gang. to me, black sails and its characters were so genre/time period-defining that any other piece of pirate media just seemed lackluster in comparison.

i'd also heard a lot of praise for edward and for ac4 in general so i was aware that it was a very popular and well-received game. but since i mostly heard that from reddit (didn't join tumblr ac fandom until odyssey in 2018) i kind of discounted it, bc gamer reddit tastes are... questionable at best.

Impression now

I LOVE HIM!!! i always think i want stories about virtuous characters who believe in goodness and kindness and aren't motivated by gold or glory but aren't afraid to do what needs to be done to help others who can't help themselves. and sometimes that's true (coughratonhnhake:toncough). other times i end up clowning on myself because i realize that it's so much fun when said good/kind character has a rough and rugged exterior, and is motivated by personal gain (i think edward and kassandra are kinda kindred spirits across time and space in that regard, but maybe that's another rant for another time). sometimes you just want someone to be a little bit of an opportunistic bastard, and boy does edward fit that to a T. he's an incredibly complex man, and i think what really got me was that even as he was impersonating assassins and then templars and then assassins again, all for personal gain (pickpocketing the templars in havana while he gains their trust and agrees to do their dirty work lmfao my beloved <3), his primary motivation for doing so was to prove to caroline and her family that he is someone worth a damn, that he is capable of great things and that he is worthy of their love and acceptance. and i know from ac forsaken that the marriage with caroline doesn't last (though i haven't played ac4 far enough to see if that happens on screen, or if it occurs between the game and the novel) which makes his backstory in the game all the more heartbreaking. but his optimism and perseverance and determination to prove himself are all what make me love him.

so that's edward the romantic. now let's talk about the way edward is with adewale, his crew, and his friends. and let's also put the rest of this behind a readmore bc girl i am RANTINGGGGGG

he has several lines that he says to adewale that make me physically cringe (namely: "many of [these men] wouldn't accept you as captain" or "what was it like being enslaved?" like i get that someone like edward would be asking that question in good faith and genuine curiosity but also JESUS CHRIST UBISOFT). but on the flip side - cringey as those questions are, he also takes the time to actually listen and learn, and i think he genuinely values the perspective that he gets from adewale allowing him to open these lines of trust and communication. there's a patience and mutual respect there that i adore.

i also love how much edward loves his crew and his other pirate friends. those scenes of him + kidd + thatch + adewale + hornigold (lol) drinking on the beach and having a grand old time and talking about establishing - to borrow one of my favorite chills-down-my-spine phrases from black sails - a nation of thieves, for people like them to live and prosper, free from the chokehold of civilization. and i know he's not as outwardly invested in counterculture/independence/anticolonialism as thatch and vane and kidd are, but the fact that he so wholeheartedly supports his friends' goals, lofty and impossible as they are, speaks volumes about his love for his friends.

Favorite moment

every scene he has with kidd when kidd casually and softly reminds him that they see that he is a good person beneath his opportunistic and rambunctious exterior. i especially love when they discover julien du casse's mansion containing orders for templars to go out and hunt down assassins: the way kidd immediately knows that edward wants to help the assassins as a way to make up for the damage he did while masquerading as a templar, even if he hasn't voiced it aloud himself. the way that they don't force edward to admit anything about himself before he is ready, but still constantly remind him that he has a good heart. they give him space to come to terms with his compassionate side in a world/environment that more often than sees compassion as something to be stamped out or cast aside. i don’t love when characters are forced to be the Moral Compass for a main dude character, but i think it works for edward and kidd.

Idea for a story

not an edward story per se, but there are 2 povs into edward's life that i would cut off (someone else's) limbs for:

jenny's pov growing up in the kenway household. from haytham's pov it seems that she knows way more about his past than haytham ever did (it was hinted at that there are rumors about edward’s past as haytham was growing up that he wasn’t privy to, but i don’t think at any point in the novel does haytham ever find out definitively that his father was a pirate) and i want to know how she knew so much, and more into what her life was like - through her eyes rather than haytham, who is like 10 years younger and by his own admission barely understands her and barely has a functional relationship with her. i'll expand further on edward and jenny in the next question/prompt/bullet point, actually, bc i have a LOT more to say.

connor's pov learning about his grandfather from... idk? who's around to tell him? what's so goddamn sad is that by the time connor rebuilds the colonial brotherhood he's kinda the only one left. sure there's aveline down in louisiana, but as far as we know everyone who was around in edward's generation is dead now, and i'm not sure how much of the kenway saga is preserved for connor to discover, or if all this information about their family line was discovered in the modern-day, by your abstergo employee character, and later by osto berg in the comics. which is why i so badly want a revelations-style game where connor traces his assassin heritage back to the caribbean, relives some of edward's memories, and then makes the trip to london to see his aunt jenny. it would have been such a cool way to round out the kenway saga.

Unpopular opinion

idk how popular or unpopular this is bc i rarely see other in-depth posts about it on my dash, but edward was a terrible father to jenny. he was every bit the wonderful and loving father to haytham for the 10 years that haytham had a father, but i wish we'd seen more of jenny's perspective than just a few lines of dialogue in haytham's diary: i hate the way edward sidelined her and raised her in the same manner that any other wealthy person of the time would have raised their daughter - that is, for the sole purpose of sitting pretty and marrying her off in an arrangement that would benefit the family. it's especially hard to reconcile because in ac4 there are female assassins in the americas, and there are female pirates in the caribbean, so it's not like edward isn't aware that women have as much right as any man to live life on their own terms. it just seems like by the time he returns to england and settles down with his family, he's reverted back to the societal norms and gender roles that the pirates fought (and lost) against, and it's hard not to be deeply disappointed by that.

to be clear, i don't begrudge edward settling down and becoming a Rich Society Man. dude deserves to live comfortably with his loving family. he has every right to dote on his wife and children, and leave behind the hardships of being a pirate. but i think "fightning against deeply-ingrained cultural norms/expectations is a long and bloody struggle, and after losing so many people he cared so deeply about, i think it's understandable that edward wouldn't want to continue that fight alone (and also adewale is still fighting the good fight) (do NOT @ me about ac rogue I Pretend I Do Not See It)" and "i don't love the way edward sidelined his daughter into societally-expected gender roles she did not want; it makes me think that he did not continue drinking his Respect Women Juice as much as i thought he did/wanted him to" are two opinions that can coexist.

Favorite relationship

i don't know that i ship edward romantically with anyone, actually. i thought he and caroline were cute in the beginning, but it's hard to want to ship them knowing that she leaves him eventually. and ofc there'd edward/tessa in ac forsaken, and we know they were very happy together and that he loved her so so much. but we don't see that relationship except through haytham's eyes.

as for non-romantic relationships, i already talked at length above about his relationships with adewale and the other pirates and kidd, and i'll just leave it at that. i'm also vaguely aware that edward's got some upcoming scenes with anne bonny, but i'm not at that point in the game yet so i don't have much to say about the two of them. so far i've only seen them say a few lines to each other at the nassau tavern.

Favorite headcanon

kassandra absolutely rubbed shoulders with edward at some point during his time in the caribbean; i like to think that she needed to lie low for some reason (maybe she was with the assassins idk) and joined his crew. i just need my best stabby gal and my second-favorite stabby dude to be pals!

finally, this isn't a headcanon per se but it is obligatory that any time i talk about kenways i yell for a bit about the fact that EDWARD WOULD HAVE LOVED CONNOR SO SO SO MUCH AND I'M FOREVER DEVASTATED THAT HE NEVER GOT TO MEET HIM. at the same time, if edward hadn't been murdered and haytham not been indoctrinated into the templars the way he had, i'm not sure connor would even have existed. and in a way i'm glad that edward wasn't around to see how broken and cynical and depressed haytham became, because i think that would have absolutely broken his heart.

send me a character!

[ragingbookdragon]

You Can Take Off All My Clothes And Never See Me Naked PT. 3

A Haytham Kenway x Reader Story

Word Count: 4,400 Warnings: Explicit Language, Mentions of Assault

Author’s Note: This part does contain mentions of sexual and physical assault, so if that’s a trigger for you, please be advised. -Thorne

***Set One Year After Part Two***

           The usual grouping of Templars gathered in the backroom of The Ethereal Crew Tavern, that grouping being Haytham, Shay, Gist, (Y/N) and a few others she didn’t care to name. Most of them had arrived on their own, but she and Haytham had taken the liberty of getting a carriage together. Rather scandalous given that neither were married nor courting the other, but personally, she could care less about social etiquette governed by the elite who had their heads shoved up their asses.

           She kept herself guarded, one leg crossed over the other, her fingers curled around the handle of the dagger in her jacket. Haytham probably knew, but he’d yet to let her know, absentmindedly flipping through the pages of his journal. It drove her up the wall how he seemed to place enough trust in (Y/N) to actually sit in a carriage with her, alone—she hated the feeling. Hated that he cared enough. Sometimes she’d wished she’d never accepted his offer to join the Templars. It was too late for regrets though as through a flurry of group missions and her own personal ones, she’d managed to climb the ladder of success within the Templars, coming to rest just below Lee. No doubt (Y/N) had certainly upset the chain of command, especially with pushing half the men of the group from their positions to claim them as her own, and as much as she hated it, she had to acknowledge that it gave her a sick sense of pride to take them down a few pegs—fragility of male pride, she decided.

           “Is something on your mind, (Y/N)?”

           She looked up from her boot laces and to him, though he’d yet to take his eyes off the pages. “Nothing that would make you happy, Grandmaster.”

           Haytham chuckled and snapped the journal shut before meeting her eyes. “You’re more than welcome to call me Haytham when we’re not with the rest of the Order.”

           (Y/N) cocked an eyebrow and deadpanned, “Honestly, I’d rather stab myself in the thigh…twice…with a dull knife…but that’s just my personal opinion.”

           He let out a snort and stowed the notebook in his jacket before regarding her. “Why are you so adamant to keep people from being friendly with you?”

           “Why are you so nosey about my adamancy?” she retorted.

           “I’m simply curious.” His steel eyes narrowed. “Is that so wrong?”

           “Unhealthy, would be the better word.” (Y/N) shot back, but on a rare whim, she revealed, “I don’t trust you.”

           Haytham evidently hadn’t expected that because his eyes widened ever so slightly. “Truly? Even though we’ve served together for a full year?”

           She huffed and turned her gaze to the window. “Don’t take it personally, sir, I don’t trust anyone.”

           “Then what do you trust in?” he inquired.

           “Myself.” (Y/N) murmured with a deep breath.

           “And when you can’t trust in that?”

           She eyed him from the corners of her eyes. “Psychological warfare isn’t going to work on me, sir. Been there, done that. I’ve learned my lesson.”

           Haytham smirked and she instantly cursed herself at her carelessness. “So that’s your reason. You won’t allow yourself to be taken advantage of again by someone.”

           (Y/N) couldn’t help but glower at him and if looks could kill, he’d have been dead and buried. “You smug bastard.” He barked a laugh but didn’t respond, and the carriage began to slow.

           They climbed out, her first, still fuming, Haytham following in suit. She opened the door and walked inside, leaving him, but he wasn’t upset, far from it. By the time he got to the backroom, (Y/N) had already poured drinks and taken her seat between his and Shay’s, a glare still in her eye.

           They stood at his entry and when he sat, they did as well. “Thank you for readying the drinks, (Y/N).” he acknowledged, and her grunt of acceptance served as a reply. He looked to the others. “We’ve started with more practical pursuits of taking over the colonies.” Haytham gestured to Shay. “With Shay helping to claim New York, we’ve control over two major cities and ports of the Americas.”

           Shay tipped his head and took a sip of his beer.

           Haytham looked to (Y/N). “You’ve also been helpful to help claim the city too, taking out public menaces during the nights. It’s kept the people safe.” She looked in the other direction, feeling the warmth rise on her cheeks at the praise. “But I’d like to do more.” He waved a hand and Charles unraveled a map along the table and everyone leaned forward in their seats to gain a look. “We’ve most of the New England and Middle Colony territories, but I want to focus our attention to the South. Gaining leverage would give us control of the colonies and we can turn them any way we wish.”

           Shay raised a hand and the Grandmaster nodded at him. “Ports in North and South Carolina and Georgia could be decent routes to start with. If at least to get us a feeling of the locations.”

           Haytham tipped his head in agreement, then looked to (Y/N) who was busy dragging her eyes up and down the map. “Have you any ideas, (Y/N)?”

           She hummed. “I’d start with negotiations with Native tribes or go to Florida and start there.”

           Before anyone could ask, Charles snorted. “Why go to the natives for help? Do you doubt that we can’t do it ourselves?” His voice was haughty, full of arrogance, and it pissed her off.

           (Y/N) met his gaze and he audibly swallowed from the sheer anger in it. “Perhaps because they’re the ones who could help us further our goals farther than we could on our own considering the fact that they’ve lived in the Americas long before colonial intervention? Perhaps because this is their land we’re talking about controlling? Perhaps because colonists like you have your head shoved so far up your ass that asking for help from actual natives of the land is considered insane? Perhaps because you’re a stupid son of a bitch who thinks that that colonials are somehow placed high above natives because we’re ‘civilized’ solely based on the fact that we live in brick houses and speak the King’s English—which by the way isn’t even a universal language because more countries speak a multitude of other languages besides English—Spanish and French being two examples.” She leaned forward. “Have I got the point across or should I keep offering rhetoric about how idiotic your complaints are until it goes through your thick skull?”

           Charles face had turned at least six shades of red, each darker than the last and he fumbled for an answer but all he could sputter was nonsense. (Y/N) glanced at Shay beside her who’d long since put his face in his arms to keep from laughing hysterically. Only the shake of his shoulders told her, and she looked to Haytham. “Start negotiations for help with the Cherokee and the Creek or go to Saint Augustine and work up. That’s where I’d start.”

           Haytham merely wore a smile as he nodded. “Shay would you mind traveling down to Saint Augustine within the month?” The Irishman didn’t even raise his head, simply waving a hand in response. “Well then, we’ll start with finding someone who speaks the Cherokee and Cree—”

           His words were cut off by the door slamming into the wall, and immediately everyone grabbed either a gun or a sword to defend themselves with when they caught sight of a disheveled woman.

           (Y/N) let go of her dagger and stood from her seat, ignoring how it toppled over behind her. “Priscilla?” The woman ran over to her and upon closer inspection, she took in the sight of the torn dress and the blood and bruises along her skin. A breath of shock left her. “What happened to you?”

           Priscilla practically burst into tears and as if her strength suddenly failed, her knees gave out beneath her. (Y/N) caught her before she hit the ground. “(Y/N)!” she cried.

           The Templar yanked her gloves off and gently cradled the woman’s face in her hands. Bruises littered her amber skin, and (Y/N) saw handprints around her throat and arms. Anger welled inside her and she didn’t need to lift the woman’s dress to know what had happened. She opted for, “Who did this to you?”

           The woman sobbed and shook her head. “He’ll kill me.”

           (Y/N) removed her jacket and laid it around Priscilla’s shoulders, allowing her some decency in the presence of men. “Priscilla…give me his name.”

           “I can’t,” she whimpered, raising a hand to wipe her face. “He told me he’d kill my family.”

           She cradled the woman’s face once more. “Where is your family now?”

           “At home.”

           (Y/N) looked at Shay. “Shay.” Her voice was calm, quiet, and it made his blood run cold. “Just North-East of the gang headquarters in East Village there is a small home that stands on its own. You’ll recognize it by the blue painted door. I need you to go and collect the woman and young boy that live there and bring them back down here.” He didn’t move for a moment and she narrowed her eyes. “Now, Shay.” He rose and motioned for Gist to do the same, and the two of them disappeared from the backroom.

           She drew her eyes back to Priscilla. “Go to my room and look in the chest at the foot of my bed.” (Y/N) dipped so she could catch her eyes. “You remember the code?”

           “I do,” the woman whispered.

           (Y/N) nodded. “In the right corner there’s a little bundle of packages. Find the one labeled Queen Anne’s Lace. Open it and chew a handful up and wash it down with water.” She helped the woman to her feet. “I’ll tell Anita to draw a bath for you when I leave.”

           “Where are you—”

           “Give me his name, Priscilla.”

           The woman met (Y/N)’s gaze and her voice booked no room for any arguments this time. “It’s…it’s Lord Josiah.”

           “The one you’ve been providing maid services to for the last few weeks?”

           Priscilla nodded, fresh tears springing to her eyes. “I’ve been trying to avoid his advances but I wasn’t paying attention and he—and he—” she burst into tears once more and (Y/N) raised a hand to her own mouth clenching her jaw so tightly it began to hurt. “I should’ve listened to them!” She cried.

           After a moment she took a deep breath and rested her hands on Priscilla’s shoulders. “Go to my room and lock the door. Don’t open it unless it’s me or Anita, do you understand?” She nodded. “Come on, I’ll walk with you.” (Y/N) gently guided her towards the door and out of the backroom. They came across the stairs when a younger woman was coming down the stairs. “Anita, there you are.”

           She looked between them but didn’t say anything, an unspoken conversation that she simply nodded to. (Y/N) tipped her head to Priscilla. “Get her a bath ready. Hottest water you can get.” Anita helped Priscilla up the stairs and in an ungodly rage, (Y/N) headed for the doors of the tavern.

***

           She sat in the brush just outside the manor of Josiah Galbraith, silently watching the armed Regulars patrol the perimeter. So far, she’d counted two pairs of Redcoats go around, telling her that they were going clockwise and counter to keep anyone out. The first pair appeared from the opposite side and she waited until they got to the next corner to begin a mental timer. A minute and a half later, the second patrol appeared and as they reached the corner, she readied herself when a hand snapped on her shoulder and pulled her back.

           (Y/N) swallowed her own scream of fear, opting to spin around and immediately throw a curled fist to whoever had grabbed her. They let out a grunt as her hand collided with their jaw and they yanked her harder, toppling her off balance. She landed on the ground and before she could move again, they had her hands pinned to the ground.

           She started to struggle when they hissed, “(Y/N)! It’s me!”

           Focusing on their features with only the light of the moon, they soon became clear and she seethed, “Haytham, what the fuck are you doing here?!”

           He released her and pointed to the opening at the brush. “Keeping you from getting shot by a guard on the rooftop!”

           (Y/N)’s brows furrowed and looked out. Sure enough, a lone guard appeared from the backside of the mansion, a musket in his hands, occasionally looking around. She let out a breath she didn’t know she’d been holding.

           “If you’re going to get at Josiah, you need to manage to not get shot trying to get in.” Haytham advised. “Let me help you.”

           She turned on him. “I don’t need your help. Get out of here.”

           “You need my help, (Y/N). Josiah has more training than you realize. You won’t stand a chance against him.”

           (Y/N) cocked an eyebrow. “You know this how?”

           Haytham let out a sigh, steel eyes watching the patrolling pair pass. “He used to be a Templar before I got here.”

           It did little to soothe her rage, but she managed, “He’s not anymore?”

           He shook his head. “The Templars of the colonies before I arrived had him removed. There wasn’t any reason I could find.” He met her eyes. “I know this is something you have to do but let me help you.”

           (Y/N) stared him down for a minute then nodded, and before he could breathe a sigh of relief, she had a dagger to his neck. “If you do anything to compromise the minute trust, I am placing in you right now, I will slit your throat. Do you understand me?”

           Haytham’s response was solemn, but it was trustworthy. “I understand.”

           She pulled away. “You help me take him down, but I’m delivering the final blow.”

           “Understood as well.”

           They sat next to one another in the brush and she quietly explained, “There’s two patrols that go around the manor. When this one hits the opposite corner, it takes a minute and a half for the next couple to show up.”

           Haytham nodded, eyeing the guards passing by them then up to the top. “There’s only one up top, but he goes back and forth every thirty seconds.” He looked down the street. “I’ll see about climbing the walls to take him out. When I come over the side, then you can move forward.”

           (Y/N) didn’t necessarily like the idea of being told to wait, but he had a point and she nodded. “Hurry then, the next couple will appear in a minute.”

           He was off at that, occasionally glancing up at the rooftop to make sure he was undiscovered. She watched as he disappeared around the side and when the lone gunman appeared, so did Haytham. He covered the man’s mouth to prevent any sound, then he fell over the side. When he hit the ground, (Y/N) couldn’t help but wince at whatever bones he’d broken, but he didn’t get up, and that was the important thing.

           She sprinted to the door and tried the doorknob, but when it clicked, she grunted and pulled the lockpick from her jacket. Softly she twisted the pick until it stayed, then she jiggled the lock a few times. Almost there. She thought. C’mon, hurry it up. Just a little mo—

           “Hey! What do you think you’re doing!”

           The sudden shout from behind followed by the bayonet pressed up against her backside made her blood run cold and she sucked in a breath, quickly stowing the lockpick in her sleeve. (Y/N) raised her hands beside her head and slowly turned, coming face to face with the pair of redcoats.

           She smiled. “I was trying the door, but it was locked, so I was knocking.”

           One of the guards sneered. “That’s not what it looked like to me.”

           “And what did it look like?”

           “Like you were pickin’ the lock.”

           (Y/N) internally winced but kept a smile on her face. “Pfft, I would never break and enter. That’s illegal!” C’mon Haytham, where are you? She wiggled her fingers. “It just looked like I was picking the lock, but I promise I wasn’t.”

           “Well if you weren’t pickin’ the lock,” the other guard sneered, “then what are you doing here?”

           She met their gazes. “I’m the replacement for Priscilla.”

           “For whom?

           Her eyes narrowed and she explained, “Priscilla. The woman that you two probably laughed at when she stumbled from the front door with a torn dress, bruised and beaten.” Their faces fell at her words and she saw Haytham sneaking up behind them. “The woman that you’ll die for.” Before they could react to her promise, they went down, Haytham’s hands at the back of their necks.

           He stood straight and slung the excess blood from his hands before retracting the blades into his sleeves. He met her gaze and she said, “I don’t know where you and Shay got those, but I want some.”

           Haytham chuckled and nodded towards the door. “Break the lock while I hide the bodies in the brush. The second patrol will notice two dead bodies.” (Y/N) didn’t wait to be told twice, immediately spinning on her heel to pick the lock once more. It broke with a click and she pushed it open to slip inside, Haytham behind her.

           They stood in the entrance and she whispered, “Do you think there are more guards inside?”

           He shook his head. “It’s possible but not likely. He’s probably paying for perimeter check only.”

           She hummed. “Unfortunate for him.” He glanced at her. “But very fortunate for us.” (Y/N) nodded to the stairs. “His room is probably upstairs.”

           As they made their way to the staircase a door opened and a servant came out, freezing as they spotted the two. Haytham pulled his flintlock out and pointed it at him. “If you want to live, go back inside and stay quiet. You are not our target.”

           The servant blinked but turned right around and walked back into the room. (Y/N) couldn’t help but snort. “And you say I’m threatening to people.”

           Haytham stowed the pistol and climbed the staircase, keeping close to the wall. “You are. But I only threaten people when I need to get the point across.”

           The lock sounded from the door the servant had gone through and she quipped, “I guess he got the point.”

           He hummed. “I’ve heard Josiah is a bastard to his staff.” He glanced back at her. “From he did to your friend, that’s proven true. I doubt any of the servants will weep at his passing.”

           “Murder.” (Y/N) corrected, passing in front of him as they reached the top. “At his murder.” He said nothing, and with a quick glance down the hall, Haytham’s probability had proven true, there wasn’t a guard in sight.

           They crept down the hallway to the door at the end and took either side. She looked at him as she held the doorknob and he pulled out his flintlock and cocked it, nodding at her. (Y/N) took a deep breath and opened the door with as much silence as it would’ve allowed; Haytham went in first, her following and they were shocked to find Josiah waiting for them.

           He looked up from the foot of the bed, ignoring Haytham outright to stare at (Y/N). “I knew you were going to come,” he said. “I knew when she threatened me with your name you would.”

           “You know nothing of my name.” She hissed.

           A chuckle passed his lips. “I know more than you think.” His eyes drifted to Haytham. “You’re the new Grandmaster for the Order, aren’t you?”

           “I am.” Haytham responded, flintlock still poised and ready. “You’re lucky you left before I came, else I’d’ve killed you much earlier.”

           “I’ve no doubt.” He stood and held out two sabers. He tossed one to (Y/N) who caught it and then he unsheathed the blade and pointed it at her. “A duel, then.”

           She took a step forward, ignoring Haytham’s voice of complaint and pulled the sword from its scabbard. “You want to fight me.” Her eyes narrowed, yet she got in a defensive position. “Why?”

           Josiah raised his blade like a fencer, one hand behind his back. “Engaging in duels is honorable practice.”

           (Y/N) scowled. “There’s nothing you could ever do that would make you honorable again, you sick bastard.”

           “And yet, you still engage in a duel.”

           “So that I can cut your heart out of your chest!” She leaped forward and swung the sword at him with enough force that he grunted and faltered back. (Y/N) didn’t let up, strike after strike, she sent him, and with each blot of crimson appearing on his pristine white shirt, she knew her blows were landing.

           For some odd reason, he didn’t seem to be fighting back and while it was only a minor concern in her mind, it soon became a major one. She made the mistake of leaving herself open when he parried her blade, and she paid the price when his fist collided with her stomach, taking the air with it.

           (Y/N) gagged and felt the blade go slack in her grip but it was all the time he needed to yank the sword away and spin her around, one hand coming around to lock at her throat, the other pointing the sword at Haytham, who wore a stern look, but she could see the fear bleeding in his eyes.

           Josiah chuckled in her ear and it made her stomach churn. “Anger makes you predictable dear.” She struggled against him, but the hand at her throat tightened, cutting off her air and she gasped. “You think I didn’t know you were outside, learning the guard patterns?” (Y/N) reached for his hand and pulled, trying to gain air. “I let her leave alive because I knew you’d come after me.”

           “Why?” she gasped as best she could.

           “Why? Because you’ve been a thorn in the elite’s side for years.” He shifted the hand that held the sword and flipped open her jacket, pulling the dagger out. Josiah took a few steps back, taking her with him, and Haytham followed. He put the dagger against her side and hissed in her ear, “You stick your nose where it doesn’t belong and mess up plans left and right. All in the name of vigilantism. And what good has it gotten you? Dead.”

           (Y/N) met Haytham’s eyes and she nodded at him. She swallowed and muttered, “You’ll die before I do, you sick fuck.” Her elbow jerked backwards into his gut and he cried out in pain, letting her go. She reached out. “Haytham!”

           Her fingertips brushed the barrel of the flintlock, but she closed them around it, pulling the gun to her. She found the handle and spun on Josiah. With how close they were, there was no space to flee and she pulled the trigger, watching as he stumbled backwards to the wall, a circle of crimson blooming larger with each second.

           He slid down the wall and chuckled, but it dissolved into a cough. “My death—wins you nothing.” (Y/N) stared at him and grabbed the handle of her dagger, yanking it from where he’d embedded it in her waist. Besides a grunt, she made no sound of pain. “I might die—but my legacy will still—stand.”

           She wiped the blood of the dagger and sheathed it, remarking, “No it won’t.” He met her eyes, fuzzy and growing dark. “I’ll run every trace of your name into the fucking ground. When I’m done, there won’t be a soul alive who’ll remember you. And if they do,” (Y/N) knelt down and whispered, “It’ll be because your crimes will outweigh it all.” He sucked in a breath and with a final gurgle, he went still.

She stood and pulled her jacket around her, stealthily pressing onto her wound to keep pressure. “We’re done here.” She handed Haytham his flintlock. “We should leave before the other patrol comes.”

           Haytham grabbed her arm. “Are you alright?”

           (Y/N) met his gaze. “No.” Pulling from him she made her way to the door. “No, I’m not.”

***

           It was well past closing time when they got back to the tavern and (Y/N)’s wound felt like it was on fire, and she herself could barely stand on her own feet. Still, she pushed on, knowing she needed to at least see Priscilla and her family before she took care of it.

           Stepping inside, she was greeted by Priscilla’s screech of relief and a bear hug from the woman. “You’re okay!”

           (Y/N) weakly patted her arm. “Yeah…I’m good.”

           The girl stepped away and looked at her, eyes full of concern. “(Y/N), are you alright? You look ill.”

           Haytham appeared by her side and peered at her. “She’s right. You look like you’re going to pass out.”

           She shook her head and swallowed the sickness climbing her esophagus. “I’m fine. I’m just tired and need some rest.” She looked at Priscilla. “Since you and your family are here, take a guest room and get some sleep. We’ll talk about moving you tomorrow.”

           (Y/N) ignored their concerns as she made way to the stairs and she’d barely climbed two of them when she collapsed. Hands grasped her shoulders and while she wanted to struggle, she couldn’t find the energy to do so.

           She vaguely felt them turn her over and she groaned as her back hit the staircase. Shay and Haytham appeared in her vision, their faces contorted with apprehension. Haytham’s lips were moving but nothing was coming out that she could understand, and she felt cool air rise under her shirt, telling her that someone had opened her jacket. Haytham looked down and back at her, eyes wide.

           Someone’s hand touched the edge of her tunic and with a renewed burst of energy, she gripped their hand tightly and squeezed with all the strength she had left. “Don’t take—my clothes off.” She hissed.

           Haytham’s hand touched her cheek and with a slow intake of breath, her head lolled backwards, consciousness fading from her.

[lunavadash-creates]

Have I ever told you that you are the sweetest cupcake ever?❤️ It’s impossible to not smile at your posts! I sincerely thank you for all your sympathy towards me! My heart just melts! It’s so rare to find such a pure and kind soul like you. Please, don’t change. Ever.

You made me worried a bit with your last paragraph - maybe I am oversensitive, but I am really worried. It breaks my heart honestly, I feel like you belittle yourself. Babe, you are wonderful! I am not saying this just for you to feel better, but because you REALLY are. Think for a moment about things you’ve already achieved! Darling, you graduated! It’s really something. It is even more something when you study two different majors at the same time and study in language school at weekends. It’s real hardcore! I am proud of you. SO FREAKING MUCH! You did so well and you did so much! Please, be aware of it. You are incredibly talented and creative. YOU are hard working, not me. And you know what? Please, have a proper rest. Don’t overwork yourself anymore. You have to have some space just for you. You have to rest and regain your balance. Don’t think about writing as your duty. I know you feel responsible for all requests you have. But they really won’t run away or disappear. They all will be waiting to be written when you rest. Don’t pressure yourself, I beg you. You know I love your writing. We all here love it. But we love you even more. Taking a break it’s not bad. It’s necessary. When you rest you will be able to concentrate, you will have a fresh mind and new ideas. Just remember that you are a priority.

Speaking of your visit to Prague. OMG, THIS ASTRONOMICAL CLOCK!! I envy you soooooo much! I wish I could see it by myself someday! Thank you so much for the photo! And geez, you are the very first person admitting that museums are wonderful! No one amongst my friends likes them and it hurts so much, because I couldn’t go to the Uffizi museum and Palazzo Vecchio in Florence. I would love to go to any museum with you then! Museum of sex toys sounds really interesting, mostly because it’s not about modern toys. Like, I would never thought that people could have such rich sex life! I heard that in Amsterdam and Paris there are similar museums. But! I bet you would love icelandic museum of punk. Ohh, I am pretty sure you would enjoy it! It’s really small, because well..Its former public toilet. Buuuut, if you like non-obvious museums this is definitely for you. Whale museum was also pretty good. Or I enjoyed it just because I love whales. I was also in a museum of teddy bears in Seoul and it was the cutest museum I have ever been in! Tell me more about that vegan restaurant! What good did you eat? I am not vege myself, but I avoid eating meat on a daily basis so it’s easy to make me excited with such things!

I am not sure if I am better. I mean, I changed my mind about being able to sleep all day. I am not able to sleep at all at the moment. I am tired and my eyelids are so heavy, but sleep never comes. I guess insomnia hits again, it's a never-ending circle. But I am concerned about your leg! I guess you had spoken with doctor since you got xray and usg. Did they say anything? Any ideas of what it could possibly be? It has to be something serious if you have problems with walking! How did you manage to go sightseeing in Prague? Babe, please, take care of yourself! And what does “health problem AGAIN” mean?! Have you had such a problem before?? It scares me like.. we just started adulthood? My friend sneezed and it made him lay in bed for 6 days not being able to move. Literally.

Yeah, I was in South Korea, but please, do not perceive me as your role model. Gods, it would be a terrible decision, really. But, I would love to share some stories with you if you want! I know it's a popular destination these days because of kpop. I used to listen to it, but I think a few years ago kpop was better? More interesting? Now I’m more into khh, but I think I can’t say that I’m into it anymore.

Talking about music! I discovered two new songs and I bet you know them already, but for me it was huge woah woah woah! First of it - Sabaton. Thay covered Metallica’s For Whom The Bell Tolls and they did it so good! Secondly - The Heart Asks Pleasure First. They basically made their own song based on one of my favourite piano songs. Oh my.. it’s sooo good!

And still talking about music! I just wanted to say that I also love our Wombo edits! That one with Ezio singing Stressed out was perfect! Mr Auditore looked very believably singing it. I liked the one with Edward and Haytham. I don’t know the song but it had such a christmas vibe! It made me think of Edward and Shay singing Last Christmas or some other shitty Christmas song together. Why them? No idea. I love Altair, but your latest headcanons could make me love them even more.

And! I just wanted to tell you that you inspired me to take japanese lessons on Duolingo. I am aware that such app won’t help me with learning such a language, but at least I can tell you that katakana sucks. Gods, I hate it so much. Hiragana is so pleasurable to learn. And I know katakana is visually similar, but it is a no no from me. I have learnt some basic kanji signs. And I just admire you so much more.

I hope you will have wonderful and peaceful week, Babe! Once again, please take care of yourself. Remember to have proper rest, sleep at least 8 hours and drink water! I hope your leg will be better soon!

🔪

Hey Knifey! I finally have the right mind set to respond to this ask!

So first of all thank you. You always make me blush with your kind words and I have no idea how to react! I want to squeaze you in a hug and give you all the sweets in the world!

As for the rest. You see i have always worked to hard on studying, so hard it actually burned out everything inside so now all i want to do i nothing! But i cant, i really want to go back to spending my free time in more creative way!

Omg Knifey! Finally i met a museum lover! And gods i want to visit them all! And you know? That Icelandinc museum sounds like such a goal, i want to go there 🥺 and Seoul museum of teddy bears?! I want to go there!

Honestly I love all museums and generally history. I enjoy visiting ruins of castles and villages, going to museums of everything! Art, machines, objects! There are always so many things and so many different ways to find the inspiration! And I always take so many photos for 'future references'. Some time ago i was in a gardens which showed different time of gardens of the world and there was this amazing exhibition of demons from Slavic mithology. That was so awesome! As well as Japanese garden!

In began restaurant i have this fried soy bites in some sweet-spicy sauce. So tasty! Im trying to recreate this recipe but so far its 1:0 for the soy :/

As for my leg. Its swollen AF bht i just... Put on my shoe and pretended it didnt exist. I can walk in good shoes but still im worried. As for that little again... I generally have some weird health issues. I had 5 surgeries for different stuff (spine, tumor, nose) so like... Generally i am healthy... Or at least i was until thst damned foot decided to show off. Its been 4 weeks and im still looking for a solution, running different tests and all. Hopefully they will figure out whag is going on.

Yes TELL ME ALL THE STORIES ABOUT KOREA.! I love stories, tell me everything!

Tbh i never listen ed to k-pop. I guess its just nkt my type of music but I enjoy some Japanese and Chinese songs (one i like is Arrogant by Xiao Zhang). I know songs you sent me and gods they are amazing! I love sabaton, rock/metal im general but I listen to all kind of music. Like Italian soundtrack from Winx, music from burlesque, Dragonforce, shanties. If there are k-pop songs you like you can always send then to me! Ill gladly listen to them all!

Im glad you like those wombos i guess i should make more! 😂😂

And gods. Katakana. 4 years of learning Japanese and I still need katakana board to remember those signs! And tbh i feel like Japanese duolingo has some mistakes ;/ but for Japanese i used lingodeer app and it was nice!

Knifey Im very sorry you have troubles sleeping. Is there something you can do to make it easier for you? Maybe you can take some melatonin pills? Maybe you are stressed? Can you maybe contact doctor, maybe they can help? I dont want anything bad to happen to you! Please take care of yourself? Pretty please?

Love you so much Knifey, you are such a sunshine and I just want you to be happy and healthy!

[ladye11e]

Deception pt 26

The conflict between the Assassins and the Templars is getting out of hand. Lies, deceit and subterfuge, now you must pick a side...

Forever tagging @geekgoddess813 @sweet-flash @ermergerd517 @i-wontgivein  @imakemyownblog  💕💕

If anyone else would like a tag, please ask 😆

The full fic so far is Here.

 Instead of going straight to Templar headquarters like you were told, you decided that you would go to the Mandarin first to at least get a change of clothes, as you had left everything on the ship and Gist said he would take your belongings there for you.

The second you stepped foot in the hotel, the concierge ushered you to the front desk and waved over to the receptionist; who immediately looked terrified when he saw you, but he hesitantly came over none the less, stopping a good two feet away from you and slightly trembling.

"I-I'm dreadfully sorry miss, but Mr Cormac is no longer with us... His, erm, employer is no longer paying the bill."

Rolling your tongue in your cheek and sighing at Haythams pettiness, you tapped your fingers on the counter as you wondered what you could do about it, (apart from the obvious) then went to ask if they could call you a cab, figuring that Shay would have gone back to the Morrigan. You didn't even get the chance to open your mouth before he picked up the phone and dialled quickly, behaving somewhat more professional as you didn't blow up in his face this time.

You threw the driver an extra twenty and got him to wait as you clambered out and ran down the dock, spinning around on the spot when you got to the end, as you couldn't see Shays ship, anywhere. Pulling your phone out of your jeans pocket and hastily typing a message asking where he was, you had just managed to hit the send button when you almost jumped out of your skin, as a hand laid gently on your shoulder that made you turn around slowly.

"Connor! You're back! You scared the crap out of me."

He chuckled softly as you threw your arms around him and squeezed tightly, before slipping your phone slyly in your back pocket when you saw that the screen had lit up with a reply.

"Yes, we were later than expected as we ran into some trouble. What are you doing here? You are supposed to be on vacation?!"

"Got bored and came back early. I paid the harbourmaster to call me when he saw you coming."

Linking your arm through his when he started walking back down the pier, you mentally chided yourself for getting so distracted, that you hadn't noticed that you had run straight past the Jackdaw on your way down here.

"Well, it is a pleasant surprise to see you. Would you mind helping me with something while you are here? It involves Jacob."

Stopping in your tracks when you got to the Jackdaws ramp, you raised your eyebrow as he gazed at you hopefully, gesturing for you to come aboard the ship.

"Fiiiine. You know I can't say no when you give me those puppy dog eyes." You chuckled, following him up when he flashed you a beaming grin. "What's the matter with him now?"

He didn't say anything as you went down the steps and headed down to the sleeping quarters, but that didn't matter as you had already guessed what he wanted you to do, confirmed when he opened the door to Jacobs room, and he was busy yelling at one of the crew.

"Get away from me you prick! I'm not going to the hospital!"

You cautiously poked your head around Connor when he moved out of the way to let the now fraught crew member past him, and shook his head with a soft sigh, biting your lips together when Jacobs' eyes widened at you being there, then scowling at Connor a split second later.

"Ohhhh, I see how it is, bringing out the big guns now, are we?! Sneaky bastard. Well, it makes no odds, I'm still not going."

"Bloody hell, what happened to you!? Grope the wrong barmaid?" You jeered, trying not to laugh when he stuck his fingers up at you and slowly laid down on the bed.

"Haha. Such a comedian. No actually, got into a brawl with that asshole Templar from back home if you must know. Fuckers definitely at the top of my list now."

Grimacing as you sat down at the foot of the bed, you stared at him pointedly when he winced and held his ribs, hoping you could convince him to get checked out quickly, as you had far more important things to do than deal with his stubbornness and you were running out of time.

"Take it you didn't catch him then. Why don't you want to go to the hospital? I thought you would be well up for getting looked after by nurses."

You knew you'd instantly won when his face lit up and he gingerly got up to sitting, grabbing one of his arms to help him stand up while Connor took the other and draped it over his shoulder.

"We could just stay here, and you can be my nurse. I'm sure we can get you one of those outfits..."

"You wish." You taunted when he wiggled his eyebrows suggestively, narrowing your eyes at Connor when you saw he was on the verge of bursting out laughing.

"Hey, no harm in asking. And you big guy, throwing me under the bus like this. Think we need to have a chat about the bro code."

It was you who bubbled out a chuckle this time, as Connor now looked thoroughly confused as he helped you bundle Jacob in the taxi that had been sat waiting impatiently for you.

Now that Jacob was laying on a gurney and waiting for someone to come over and see him, you took the opportunity to slip away for a moment so you could check your phone. Leaning up against the wall when you found a secluded spot, you pulled it out and unlocked it, chewing at your lip when the only message was an 'Unable to deliver' report. You hit the resend button as you hoped it was just because you had terrible signal down at the docks, but you had no such luck as after only a few seconds, the same message pinged back again, making your brow crease into a deep frown.

Wandering back as you ran all of the possible scenarios that could have happened in your head, from Haytham sending someone out to kill Shay off, (least likely) to he had been sent out on another mission, (most likely) you saw that you now had the chance to leave, when you noticed that Jacob had been moved to a room, and was not at all happy that he was being attended to by a doctor who could easily pass for his grandparent. Poking your head around the door and nodding your head to Connor; who seemed relieved that he had gotten an excuse to leave for a moment, you pulled him to one side so you could talk to him.

"Everything okay now? I really need to go, got a few things planned."

"Yes. Thank you (name), I couldn't have done it without you. I shall see you on Monday?"

Giving him a thumbs up as you pace walked out of the hospital, you broke out into a sprint when you got outside and pushed in front of a businessman who was at the front of the queue in the taxi ranks, stealing his cab and slamming the door shut to cut off his ranting at you. You slumped back in the seat and stared at the floor after giving instructions to the driver, to take you to the one place where you might get some answers about what the hell was going on.

Pacing in front of Haythams door as it sounded like he was on the phone, you began to wonder if being here was actually a good idea, or if it would make the situation worse. It had been a couple of days since the, 'incident', but by the sounds of it, he was still in a terrible mood, given by how much he was yelling to whoever he was talking to, before slamming the receiver down harshly. Pulling yourself straight, you knocked on the door loudly, figuring the sooner you got this done, the better.

"Oh for the love of god! Now what?! Come in!"

You walked in confidently and took your usual seat, ignoring his glare while you glanced over at him to take stock of his injuries. Black eye, slumped shoulder; which probably meant he had dislocated it but was too stubborn to wear a sling, and his hands were bruised and scabbed over. Not as bad as you had initially thought.

"What are you doing here? I have no desire to speak to you." He growled, pulling his keyboard towards him and typing slowly, which was apparently a pretence to make himself look busy.

"Oh don't be so grumpy. It doesn't suit you."

"I have every right to be! I had to cancel several important meetings because I was in no condition to go, and I haven't slept in two days because of the pain in my shoulder no thanks to you!"

You bit your tongue and took a deep breath so you didn't blurt out what you wanted to say, because as much as you would love to wind him up right now, you knew that it would only aggravate him more, completely the opposite of what you came here to do. Your only hope what that you could make him see reason before he threw you out and, you could find out where Shay was.

"Haytham. I didn't punch you, nor did I ask you to do what you did. I tried to stop it, remember? If anyone has the right to be annoyed, it's me after that promiscuous comment."

Raising your eyebrow when a glimmer of guilt washed over his face, you soon replaced it with a frown when it didn't last long, and he gave up pretending to type, slumping back in his chair and sulking.

"Alright, I might have gone over the top with that, but you have played me for a fool. And that I don't appreciate. I thought we had something, that you were mine."

Sighing as you slowly got up out of your chair; your skin prickling at the way he said, mine, in complete contrast from when Shay had said it to you, you walked over to the other side of the desk and perched on the edge of it right next to him, swallowing hard as he lay his hand on your knee and stared at his keyboard.

"I don't belong to anyone. I'm not some sort of property that can be passed around like the way you do with your lackeys. I do what I want, when I want. I thought I made that clear."

"Oh, that's abundantly clear now after your little escapade in my elevator. My dear. Now, if you would please leave, I have a lot of work to do."

Almost stumbling over as he pushed you off the desk so he could get to his computer, you turned your back to him and stared out of the window instead of leaving, knowing that there was no way you could go without fixing this. Trying to appeal to his rational side hadn't worked, threatening him definitely wouldn't get you anywhere, so that left just one thing...

Closing your eyes briefly and whispering, forgive me... under your breath, you turned around and quickly spun Haythams chair, so he was now facing you, leaning over and crashing your lips against his. He just sat there for a moment in a state of shock, unmoving until you went to pull away, but you were stopped by him eventually returning the kiss, weaving his arms around you and pulling you into his lap. You tried not to flinch when he grabbed your hand and pressed it over his already throbbing erection; making your fingers squeeze tightly around it, but he obviously noticed, as he suddenly pulled away and narrowed his eyes at you slightly.

You gasped, and your gaze snapped to the side when you heard a loud knocking at the door, sliding off him and under the desk with lightning speed when he rolled his chair back a few inches, just managing to conceal yourself as whoever it was burst into the room.

"Ya wanted to see me? Sir?!" Shay spat, making your eyes widen and push yourself up into the corner of the space you were in, holding your breath.

Now. As far as you could see, you only had two options. One, reveal yourself, salvage your relationship with Haytham and save your mission, but lose Shay forever in the process. Or secondly, stay hidden, and somehow communicate with Haytham and beg him not to say anything, but throw away the last six years of your work. This was the only loyalty you had left to the assassins, but that had been completely thrown out the window when you had made the decision to bed your target. Technically you had already done the first part by actually locating Shay, but there was no way you could do your second task. Not now, not ever. So many lies, so much betrayal, you barely knew where you stood anymore. You would have been banging your head on the desk, if not for the predicament you were in. Making your decision quickly when you could hear Haytham chuckling at Shay; most likely getting ready to out you, you leant forward and grabbed his hand, squeezing it firmly in hopes that he would look down.

You snapped your hand back when he kicked his chair further back from the desk and pressed his fingers together, tapping them on his lips as his gaze dropped to his keyboard in front of him, so he was now able to see you without it being evident at what he was staring at. Looking up with pleading eyes when you realised what he was doing, you lowered your head somberly when he got up out of his chair now that he was able and walked around to the other side of his desk, presumably sitting on it judging by the creaking above you.

"Yes. I wanted to speak to you about (name)."

Well, this is it then. Everything was blown to bits. At that moment in time, you were incredibly thankful that you couldn't get angry, as you were already imagining how Haythams eyeballs would look on a cocktail stick. Getting ready to clamber up and face the music, you stopped in your tracks, and your jaw dropped as Haytham continued, not moving a muscle so you didn't miss a word.

"You had better not hurt her Shay. Or I swear to god the last thing you will ever see is the end of my blade. Do not make the mistake of thinking that you are the only one who cares about her. I know your type, dismissing people whenever they are no longer useful, or you become bored of them."

"Ha! Beggin' ya pardon, Sir. But you don't know fuck all about me. Sir. You knew... You saw how I felt about her, but you still did what you wanted anyway. YOU should be damned grateful I didn't cut ya down after you used her like that!"

"I did nothing of the sort!!"

You winced when you could tell this was escalating quickly, most likely ending up in another brawl, and then you would really be screwed. In any normal situation, you would feel pretty damned smug that two men were still fighting over you, but as ever, there was nothing normal about this. Your ears pricked up after a few more threats to each other, the conversation changing to something that made you extremely confused.

"I know you kept those recordings, as soon as I find proof, that's it. Threaten, blackmail me all ya want, but you're puttin' (name) in danger, an that you're not gettin' away with."

"Shay. I have no idea what you are talking about. I can see we are getting nowhere, so I suggest you go. Now."

"Aye, I am. Didn't have time for this anyway with ya booting me out the hotel, and then havin' to run away an hide from them assassins down at the docks. I'm sick of this shit."

Sitting there and staring at the floor, even after you heard the door slam, you wracked your brain to try and figure out what Shay was talking about, until Haytham dropped back down in his chair with a heavy sigh and rubbed his temples.

"He has gone, you can come out now."

Slowly clambering up and sitting on the edge of the desk again, you stared out into space not knowing what to say, until Haytham leaned over and slid you across the wood; stopping when you were directly in front of him, tapping his chin and his eyes flickering over you in trying to read your expression.

"You almost had me fooled."

"Haytham... I- "

You were cut off by him raising his finger and his steel eyes boring into yours in a battle of wills as it were, neither of you looking away for several moments, the air between you so thick with tension you could have cut it with a knife.

"You have never been able to deceive me (name), although I must say you have gotten better at it. Not quite as good as myself though. You love him. Don't you?"

Your lips parted as you attempted to reply, but nothing came out, not even a whisper. So you closed them and swallowed hard before trying again, Haytham smirking to himself as the same outcome occurred, your face mimicking that of a dying fish.

"I see. As much as you think of me, I am not a complete bastard. What you were willing to do, to gain back my favour speaks volumes, and hasn't gone unnoticed I assure you. For that, I won't make you jump through hoops to regain my confidence like I usually would."

"Thank you?" You whispered, with as much sincerity as you could muster at this moment in time.

"I hope you realise what you are getting yourself into (name). There is a reason Shay had to fake his death, there is a lot of red in his ledger."

The corner of your mouth twitched as you knew you had one up on him, after spending months researching every little scrap of information that the assassins could gather on this so-called 'hunter'. You knew precisely why Shay had fabricated his death. He was the one who had managed to track down Duncan Walpole and kill him, along with any other assassin who threatened to hurt innocent people, and even though no one had ever been able to catch him, he had drawn far too much attention to himself in the process. The only thing that you hadn't found out was that was an assassin before, and what happened to make him change sides, but that didn't really matter now.

"I am well aware of what I'm getting myself into Haytham. The difference between him and you? That he is sorry for the things he's done, he feels remorse."

"Is that so?" He grumbled irritably, drumming his fingers together as he looked deep in thought for several moments. "As an apology for the, promiscuous comment, I shall allow Shay to have his room back at the hotel. You may go."

Sliding off the desk with your eyebrows raised and slowly walking to the door, you lay your hand on the knob and hovered there for a moment, knowing you shouldn't push your luck, but you couldn't help it. You had to try.

"Haytham, Shay said something about recordings?..."

"Leave. Now. Unless you wish for me to reconsider my generosity?"

Shaking your head and leaving as quickly as you could, you groaned and rubbed your face harshly after smacking the elevator button, already scheming a way to find out what he was hiding.

[katherineshep]

I was tagged by @voidslantern , thank you, dear! 😘

Three Fandoms:

1. Mass Effect

2. Doctor Who

3. Assassin’s Creed

The First Character You Loved:

1. Garrus Vakarian. Love from a first talk.

2. Ninth Doctor in the episode "Dalek"

3. Altaïr Ibn La-Ahad

The Character You Never Expected To Love So Much:

1. Miranda Lawson. Her story and the choices she makes, and also her strength amaze me.

2. Rose Tyler. I can't say I disliked her, no, but at first I had nothing to grip at in her. Then, in time, her kind heart and adventurous soul have shown themselves, and I fell in love with her. She is my favourite Doctor Who companion of all the newschool DW.

3. Ezio Auditore. His path was laid in darkness and had so many mistakes, but up to his last journey he found the essence of the Creed and walked a way of assassin leader. I respect him greatly for this.

The Character You Relate To The Most:

1. I wish it was Shepard, but no, there's so much to learn for me to be at least partly like Shepard... The most of me is in Garrus Vakarian: "So many things in my life went wrong", we have similar life principles, we both were betrayed in our lives, we both hope to do some good in this life despite how hard it is, we both have rebellion souls, we both wish there was more justice in this life.

2. The Doctor. Ninth particularly. I've had my hard times, I've got a hole in my chest just like he has. I wish it took some Rose Tyler to heal that hole, but I don't know. Maybe in real life those holes aren't healed with people.

3. Guess there isn't a character in AC that I can relate.

The Character You’d Slap:

1. Kaidan. Horizon mission. Please, man, just listen to Shepard, trust her as you did before!

2. Of RTD era? Martha Jones. Okay, I can understand that love not always comes in convenient time and not always with the right people, but goddamit, Doctor has just lost the one he loved and who he died for once, could you pleeease be more careful about Doctor's feelings?

And of Moffat era - Clara. There are lots of things I'd slap her for, but the moment when she has thrown the keys into lava, she died for me. I don't care that Doctor cares about her so much to forgive her for that. I love him. And I don't let anyone hurt the ones I love. Clara almost left Doctor without his life and his home. She demanded him to rewrite the timelines which is the worst thing to do as there's a danger of paradoxes (the fact that after that time Doctor messed with time freely is BAD WRITING). There's no excuse for treating Doctor with such a cruelty. He deserved for a better companion and friend.

3. Connor Kenway. For Haytham. For hot-headedly made decisions.

Three Favorite Characters (in order of preference):

1. Shepard, Garrus, Liara

2. Ninth Doctor, Rose Tyler, Tenth Doctor

3. Ezio Auditore, Altaïr Ibn La-Ahad, Haytham Kenway

A Character You Liked At First, But Don’t Anymore:

1. Tali. Idk why, maybe there's something to do with Freedom's Progress meeting. Shepard not only needed help of an experienced soldier - she needed a friend (though she'd never admit that), a person she could trust. Tali wasn't there for her. I understand why, but I do not accept it - because my heart hurt for Shepard then.

2. There isn't such a character in all RTD era. I never liked any of Moffat's companions. Something about writing.

3. Connor.

A Character You Didn’t Like At First But Do Now:

1. Miranda Lawson. She pissed me off so much at my first ME walkthrough! But then, in time, when we spoke enough and it became clear why she seems so uppity at the meeting, I understood why she has such an attitude. And due to her decisions in ME2 I knew what person she really is, so she earned my respect and love.

And Jack. She's amazing. Of course she behaves in ME2 like a cutthroat bitch, but well, there were reasons for that and she worked much on becoming more like normal human.

2. Martha Jones. She's good. I don't like her much, but she made great things and sacrificed much for tge Doctor.

3. Ezio Auditore. His path of bloodshed and anarchy in AC2 was pointless. But in ACB he becomes a clever leader and in ACR he finally learns what the Creed is really about. That's where, in the last game, he earns my love.

Three OTPs:

1. FemShep/Garrus Vakarian (I don't know how I lived without this beautiful pairing!!!), Liara/Javik (from her side at first, then mutual, lol), Joker/EDI

2. Ninth Doctor/Rose Tyler, Tenth Doctor/Rose Tyler, Thirteenth Doctor/Rose Tyler (I don't give a damn that it's almost impossible, it just has happened inside my head and I can't stop this train anymore, lol)

3. Altaïr/Maria, Ezio/Sofia, Desmond/Lucy

I'm tagging: @shepurdvakarian, @tarysande, @illusivesoul

[sleepyfan-blog]

Two-part Drabble Game: 10 - After a near-death experience & 16 - “There’s nothing to be scared of, okay? I’m right here.” for Connor/ConHayth uwu

@balsaminaceae​

Fandom: Assassin’s Creed

Characters: Connor and Haytham Kenway

warnings: incest tw, modern au, stabbing tw

pairing: ConHayth

word count:1,930

summary: A normal work day for Connor ends terribly.

Connor was in the break room, eating lunch with his fellow coworkers and watching the tv. His father was at a press conference and they’d decided to tune in to see what he was talking about. Most of his coworkers seemed to be only half listening, but Connor, as ever, was completely focused on Haytham… Although the young man could readily admit that he was enjoying listening to the sound of his father’s voice, though the fact that Abstergo was expanding their veterinary clinic program from the initial three clinics that they’d opened last year to another eight - three outside of the US, in other countries that Abstergo had offices and other work buildings in - was rather exciting.

The young man had been tempted to apply for one of the veterinarian positions at the first three clinics… But they were a bit far from where he and his father lived - and with a closer Abstergo Employee housing… It was possible that he might have been tempted to move… At least while his father was jet-setting around the world for work purposes, although it would be very strange to be living in two apartments, and not something that Connor was very interested in… Besides while Connor had loved working as a vet in the small village that he had settled into while he had been there…

The setting of being back in a veterinary clinic might remind him of the small village, and while he knew that the anarchists were working against his father and would very clearly do anything in order to achieve their goals… Including and especially if they had the chance to kill his father, the young man still occasionally felt guilty for just up and leaving them as he had done … In order to protect himself from kidnapping… But still. Occasionally the feelings of guilt would remain, despite the fact that Connor was very much aware that he had left in order to protect himself… The young vet worried that he might feel guilty working in such a place - or it would remind him of where he’d worked previously…

Besides, he really enjoyed working in the research department with the raptors. Connor made sure to focus more on Haytham again as the other continued to talk, doing his best to not get distracted by the small smile on his father’s face - or the way the other’s tie brought out the blue in his father’s eyes. Haytham concluded the speech and was met with dozens of questions - each of which his father expertly answered. Once the press release was over, Corbin - one of his coworkers - switched the channel to a music channel while everyone finished the last of their lunches.

~

The young man was headed home from work - it was about a mile walk, but Connor enjoyed it, and it allowed him to exercise his legs a little before and after work every day. He stopped for a moment, frowning a little as he thought the saw someone familiar, sitting at a nearby café table. Was… Was that Myriam? He blinked in surprised and frowned a little, glad that he was on the other side of the street - even if she wasn’t Myriam, the resemblance was uncanny - and given the fact that she’d been directly involved in stealing the… Piece of Eden? That’s what the bitter old man who’d tried to take it from him had called it. Not that Connor had let him do such a thing.

He cautiously made his way down the sidewalk, hoping that if Myriam was, for some reason, at that café, that she wouldn’t notice him among the dozens and dozens of people walking on both sides of the streets - or through the cars that honked and slowly rumbled their way down the road. Not that he glanced at her more than one or two more times, as he didn’t want her to potentially see him looking at her, having recognized her if the person he was trying to get past really was Myriam.

A lightly accented voice sounded in his ears, right behind him, causing the young man to startle and try to get out of the way, but for several moments, whoever it was managed to hold him completely still which was a rather terrifying feat in and of itself “It’s a pity that he’s got you so deeply under the spell of the Piece of Eden. Hopefully this will wake you from it and you will realize the truth.”

“Let me g-mmph!” Connor tried to yell as loud as he could, but the person muffled him with one of their hands, as he felt something cold and sharp stab into his back. There was a cloth in the other’s hands and he tried not to inhale, but as he struggled, he found that he desperately needed to breathe and something that was quite possibly chloroform caused a deep darkness to overtake him. He heard shouting and felt the person let him go - and the sound of running as he passed out.

~

Connor woke up with a pounding headache, in a room with too much white and too much light. He covered his face with one of his hands as he groaned and tried to sit up, hissing in pain as his lower back ached. Memories of what had happened last filled him and the young man sat bolt up right, eyes switching to his second sight, despite the pain and the dizziness that was coursing through his body. He didn’t see anyone who was an enemy nearby… But he also didn’t see anyone who was a definite friend, either, which made the young vet rather nervous.

He switched his sight back to normal, and it was clear that he was in a hospital of some kind. There was a saline drip attached to his arm, but it had a rolling base to it, which was why Connor started to get out of bed. Someone had taken his clothes and everything else that he had on him and placed it in an open-faced cubby on the far side of the room, and he was going to get to it. He didn’t know if his father had been contacted - if the hospital he’d been taken to even knew that was necessary or not..

Had he been stabbed and kidnapped by the anarchists, so that he wouldn’t be able to escape as he had the last time they’d tried kidnapping him? If so -why was he in a hospital? Unless he was in an Assassin-controlled hospital? Connor had no idea how long he’d been out for, which was why he was very carefully swinging his legs over one side of the hospital bed and very carefully shifting so that bit by bit, he was starting to put his weight on his feet, one hand on the metal post that his IV bag was attached to, the other hand firmly gripping onto the hospital bed.

Haytham burst into the room, arguing quietly with someone in scrubs - either a doctor or a nurse, Connor couldn’t entirely tell “- and I’m telling you, I am very certain that my son is in this room and I will be seeing… Connor get back into bed. Now. You were just stabbed in one of your kidneys.”

“I… Rake:ni! I… I wasn’t sure if I’d gotten kidnapped again and was hoping to get to my phone to call you.” Connor murmured gratefully, leaning back against the bed, pulling his feet up carefully. 

Haytham moved further into the room, and the young man gratefully held tightly to his father’s hands when his beloved drew closer to be touched. He hadn’t realized that he’d been trembling until his father murmured gently “There’s nothing to be scared of, okay? I’m right here. I won’t let anyone try to cause you any harm.”

The younger man nodded a little, feeling himself relax a little, as he tugged the blankets up higher. He felt really cold. He blinked a little, feeling tired. “Okay. I’m glad that you’re here.” He wasn’t sure how long it would take for him to heal, but the young man was well aware that he healed a lot faster than most people. He wondered if they were in a normal hospital, or in the place where his father had been taken to, when the other had been dying. “Where are we? I mean… I know that we’re in a hospital but… Which one?”

“Meridian Park Hospital. A dozen people witnessed you suddenly collapse and start bleeding out - one of them thought to call for help - but not before someone stole your wallet - which is why no one here knew who you were, as none of them thought to go through your phone. I tracked your location through the phone and came as soon as I could. I knew that something was wrong when you weren’thome and was an hour and a half later than when I usually get home, and you hadn’t texted me about working late, orstaying out with coworkers or friends. So  I’ve already dealt with the potential identity theft issues on the drive over here, so you need not worry about that… And I informed your place of work that your work-badge had been stolen when you were injured, so you need not worry about that either.” Haytham explained, and the medical staff member frowned a little at that, although Connor couldn’t imagine why - perhaps that someone would steal his wallet and ID badge, but not his (very expensive) phone?

He nodded, still feeling dizzy. “Okay… Thank… Thank you for taking care of everything and coming to find me. I… I’m tired…” Connor yawned softly, though he hid it as best as he could, not wanting to be rude.

“Then rest. I will be here when you wake, I promise.” His father murmured, voice warm and gentle as the other lightly brushed a stray lock of hair that had come undone from his braid, tucking it behind one of his ears.

Connor nodded sleepily, sending the other a small smile as he settled into bed, grumbling a little “Wish I could sleep on my stomach… Stupid cord won’t let me.” His father chuckled softly at that, a wonderful sound that helped the young man fall asleep within moments.

[arlaina28]

The Life Of An Assassin

Fandom- Assassin’s Creed

Relationship- Jacob/Female Reader

Rated- Mature

Warnings- Attempted rape. Kidnapping. Torture.

Forever tags- @vergils-waifu and @afterglowingassassin

part one here (if the link works lol)- https://arlaina28.tumblr.com/post/157619339609/the-life-of-an-assassin

READER’S POV

  I’m halfway to the meeting spot, wondering which descendant it is I’m protecting, when my phone rings. I frown as I see Rebecca’s name flash on the screen and then I answer it.

 “What’s up? The assassin with the descendant hasn’t left early have they? I’m not even running late.” I say in a rush down the phone.

 “No, no! That’s all fine. The thing is, this wasn’t a real mission. Someone has been changing the schedules which is why you’ve had so many missions.” Rebecca says, sounding worried.

 “What? How is that possible? We both know those schedules are made up by Connor and sent straight to you.” I gasp down the phone.

 “Hold on, they’re all coming into the room right now.” Rebecca says, voice going tinny as she puts me on speakerphone.

 “So, what the hell is happening?” I growl down the phone.

 “We don’t know. Whoever it is, is good enough to break into Rebecca’s personal computer and change the schedules that she copies and saves on it but is unable to break into any of the mainframe computers.” Connor says over the line.

 “That’s why you’re all okay with still talking over the phone.” I sigh, figuring it out.

 “Wait, why are you still on your way to the meeting spot? You left a while ago, long enough to be there already.” Rebecca says shrewdly.

 “I decided to take a slow walk.” I reply defensively.

 “You’re hurt, aren’t you?” She snaps.

 “Don’t be ridiculous.” I snort, wincing as it causes my ribs to give a twinge.

 “I’m not being ridiculous! You need to come back, now. This isn’t a real mission anyway.” Rebecca sighs.

 “Nah, I’m here anyway and it’s an easy job to do.” I reply stiffly.

 “Can you listen to me for once, please?” She snaps at me.

 “Bye.” I sing song down the phone, hanging up on her.

 I can’t give up a mission, no matter what they say. They never would’ve, they would’ve just powered through it. They never had days off, never had a schedule for rest. I’m the youngest in the group, Rebecca being ten years older than me, and I HAVE to prove I can be just as good as them.

     A few hours later, the descendant is safely back at home and I actually had fun. She was a nice older woman and all she wanted to do was do some shopping. I even spotted some nice bits I want to get on payday. She was quite a fun woman too, good sense of humour. I’m moving along the rooftops but I’m exhausted so I’m moving sluggishly. When I almost fall from a roof for the third time, I decide I’d better walk. I land in an alleyway so I’m not noticed and sigh as my phone rings.

 “Yep?” I snap into it, wishing I could be left alone for a little while.

 “You should be back by now.” I hear Altair’s calm voice state.

 “Oh, I’m sorry, I wasn’t aware I was grounded! Did I break curfew?” I reply sarcastically.

 “Do not be like that. We’re just concerned about what is happening and how it seems to be centred around you.” He replies.

 “You do all realise that I’m actually an assassin, right? I’m not some weak little mouse that needs protecting. I’m just as good as all of you.” I snap.

 “No one is doubting that.” He says sternly, a trace of shock in his voice.

 “Yeah, sure you’re not.” I hiss.

 I hang up before he can say anything and start to walk again, this time in the opposite direction to the Brotherhood compound. I shouldn’t have gotten so upset with him, shouldn’t have had a go at Altair like that, but it’s just so much to live up to sometimes. They’re all these big legends and I’m just me. I’m just…good but they’re all great. All this circles around my head as I just wander. My phone keeps ringing so I turn it off, even if it’s against the rules. We’re supposed to always have them on so that Rebecca can track them in case something happens.

 “He said you’d get depressed and make a mistake.” I hear from behind me.

 “Who said that?” I snap, spinning round.

 I blink rapidly as the world tilts, making me realise just how exhausted and in pain I am.

 “You’ll find out soon enough.” Another voice says, close behind me.

 Before I manage to turn around I feel a pinch in my neck. The world begins to swirl and I realise that I’ve been drugged. I’m going to die and all because I wanted to prove something. A few seconds later I hit the floor and the world goes black.

     I groan as I come around, realising I’m chained to a hook in the ceiling and my ankles are chained to the floor. Even if my bruised ribs weren’t screaming in agony at me, I’d have a hard time escaping from this. I glance up at two male Templars that are standing in front of me with grins.

 “Aw, look, she’s finally awake. That means we can finally have some fun with her.” The taller one says.

 “Why aren’t I dead?” I ask, trying to think of a way out of here.

 “Firstly, because our little helper made a deal to keep you alive.” The shorter one smirks.

 “Secondly, because you know who the assassins are being run by.” The taller one grins.

 “I’ll never betray the Brotherhood.” I snarl.

 “We were hoping you’d say that.” The taller one grins.

 They walk over to me and all I can do is try to let my mind wander as they rain down punches, slaps and kicks.

 “Stop!” I hear from the doorway.

 I cough and spit out blood as two more figures wander into the room.

 “We were told to have a talk with her.” One of the blurry figures says.

 The original Templars move and the new two step right up to me. I blink until I can focus on their faces, gasping in shock.

 “Shay Cormac? Haytham Kenway?” I breathe in disbelieve.

 How is this possible? Altair never said anything about telling either of them. Never said anything about either of them touching the pendant. Haytham never even followed the Assassin’s Creed. As my mind races, I still take in every detail of my surroundings just like I was taught to. They seem…off. They seem ill or less healthy than the others.

 “The Templars have found a way to make people immortal. Tell us what we want to know or else they will make you immortal so the torture can last forever.” Haytham states but he sounds weak.

 I feel panic for a few seconds but then something clicks.

 “Then why just you two?” I gasp out.

 “What?” Shay demands.

 “If they can make anyone immortal, why you two? I mean, you have an impressive record each but there are other Templars who were better than you.” I laugh, choking on my own blood.

 “You do not need to know our plans, only the consequences to not telling us who is in charge.” Haytham states.

 “Nope. See, I think it’s just you two. I think you are the only ones who are immortal and no one knows why.” I reply slyly.

 “Tell us who leads the Brotherhood. You won’t like what comes next.” Shay says, actually looking sorry.

 “Screw you all!” I snap.

 The original two step back inside the room as Haytham and Shay leave with sorrowful shakes of their heads.

 “Stop!” A familiar voice calls out as the two are about to start beating on me again.

 “Why should we?” The taller one snaps.

 “Because she’s my reward and she’s no good to me damaged.” The voice says.

 The two growl and storm off, back out of the room. I blink as I see who called them off, everything clicking into place.

 “You son of a bitch!” I shout, wincing in pain.

 “Now, now. No need to be like that. I did all this for you.” Bradley, Rebecca’s PA says.

 “Me? How did you do all this for me?” I ask in bemusement.

 “They promised me that if I led them to the brotherhood’s boss, they would make both of us immortal.” He grins manically.

 “And you believed them?! Are you insane?!” I chuckle.

 “Shut up! For years, I’ve loved you, wanted to be with you, but you just ignored me! So, I came up with a way for us to be together. Forever. All you have to do is tell them who we work for.” He says with a cheery grin.

 “No.” I state with a sneer.

 He storms over to me, slaps me across the face and then unchains me. I groan as I slam against the floor, causing even more pain to my other injuries. My head swims and I can’t get my body to cooperate, the pain and exhaustion becoming too much.

 “At least I’ll be able to claim my prize now.” He smirks, standing over me.

 All I can do is blink at him, trying to get my body to work again. He kneels between my legs and starts to undo my jeans, tugging them down.

 “No.” I murmur weakly, trying to squirm away as I realise what he’s planning on doing.

 “Come on, Baby, you’ll enjoy it.” He grins.

 I try to push at him but I’m too weak. He begins to undo his own trousers and all I can do is whimper as I try to get my body to do SOMETHING. Just as I’m sure I’m about to be raped, and there isn’t a damn thing I can do about it, he’s grabbed and pulled away from me. I blink as I see Jacob standing there and then he starts beating Bradley, leaving a broken and bloody corpse on the ground by the time he’s finished. Jacob rushes over to me, pulls my jeans back into place and lifts me up in his arms, just as the others come into the room.

 “What are you all doing here?” I question quietly.

 “Saving you, Lass. What else would we do?” Edward smiles but it doesn’t reach his eyes.

 We head out of the room, walking down unfamiliar hallways. I hate they’ve had to do this, put their selves in danger because of me. Putting their secret in danger because of me. As we’re about to leave we hear two male screams, screams whose voices I recognise.

 “We have to help them.” I gasp, struggling against Jacob’s hold.

 “We can’t. There’s too much risk of getting caught.” Edward says, regret burning in his eyes.

 “It’s Shay Cormac and Haytham!” I tell him sternly, heart breaking at the look in his eyes.

 “H-Haytham? H-how?” Edward stutters.

 “I don’t know but it is them. They are just like all of you and judging by those sounds, the Templars have been torturing them the whole time. We have to help them.” I say, trying desperately to fight against my own body’s weakness.

 “I have to go to him.” Edward declares to the others.

 “I’m going too. I may have been the one to kill him but he’s still my Father.” Connor insists gently.

 The others all nod, understanding how much family means.

 “Shay too. I know what he did but no one deserves this.” I pant, finding it hard to stay conscious now.

 They both nod and then turn towards the screams, Ezio and Altair going with them. Jacob and Desmond continue out with me and we head straight to the compound, moving as quickly as possible with my useless weight slowing them down. Jacob takes me straight to the medical wing, laying me down on a bed as he collects the medical supplies. He starts patching up my injuries, growling in annoyance when he sees how many are from the last few weeks.

 “I’m sorry.” I gasp, pain and meds taking their toll on me.

 “For what?” Jacob asks, barely glancing up from my wounds.

 “For being weak enough to get captured. For needing to be rescued. For putting you all out in the open. For not being as strong as any of you.” I sob, emotions running riot.

 “You think you’re not strong because you got captured?” Jacob asks calmly.

 “I’m not as strong as any of you, obviously. I got caught stupidly easily and needed to be rescued!” I sob harder, trying to breathe at the same time.

 “And you think it couldn’t have happened to any of us? That we can’t have ever dropped our guards and been caught?” He demands, fingers running over his eye reflexively.

 I just stare at him as I realise the stupidity of what I just said.

 “I’m sorry.” I whisper, feeling stupid.

 “Look, Love, you are every bit as fast and strong as us. There is no shame in being captured, hopefully it will not take as long for you to realise that as it did for me to.” Jacob says softly, wiping my tears away with his thumbs.

 I smile at him as my eyes begins to drift shut.

 “Sleep. You need rest to heal. That’s what Evie always told me.” Jacob smiles.

 Just as I drift off I hear Shay and Haytham being brought in, they’re battered and covered in injuries but I know they’ll be fine now. I smile at them as I finally allow the darkness to take me.

[night-eagle-flight]

Hidden Gem Chapter 3

Thank you so much for reading and the likes everyone!!!! Here is the next chapter and if you’d like feel free to leave a comment! I’d like to hear what you think. The likes are also very much appreciated! :) 

When you woke up a dress was laid at the foot of your bed. A short gasp escaped you when you saw your window had been barred to stop you from any thought of escape. You stood up and decided to head for the bathroom but when you tried to open your door, it was locked.

You backed away and then felt your body drop. You didn’t even look up when Haytham opened the door.

“Wallowing in self pity hm?”

You didn’t answer.

Haytham got on one knee and hugged you, “You will continue to be under observation until the day you leave with Shay. If you pull another stunt like the one from last night, you will be severely punished. Understand?” He felt you nod which made him frown slightly, “You know I prefer a verbal response.”

You stiffened a bit but yielded, “I understand.”

“Good. Now get dressed.” Haytham stood up and headed out locking the door behind him, “Shay will be joining you soon.”

By the time you were dressed Shay came into your room ready to enjoy the tea the newly hired maid brought in.

Since that day, everyday was a routine. You remained locked in your room with your attire of the day chosen in the morning. Haytham and Shay would join you at specific times of the day to keep you company or to escort you to the bathroom. You were expected to smile and keep up conversation with them and if you ever showed sadness, Haytham would reprimand you.

This went on for 2 weeks until the day you were to join Shay on the Morrigan. Your new home was kept a secret from you but you knew it would be a long voyage due to everything that was being packed.

“Ready to go?” Haytham asked as he entered your room.

“Yes.” You said as you stood up from the vanity and looked at him with the best smile you could muster.

Haytham walked up to you and lifted your hand to kiss it, “That’s a good girl.”

Shay appeared and raised his elbow so you could be escorted. You wrapped your fingers around his appendage and were whisked away to the carriage where all your remaining bags were.

The ride was too short for your liking and a small frown appeared on your face when you saw the Morrigan. The carriage stopped a small distance away and the crew began to off load your bags.

“Looks like this is goodbye.” Haytham smiled at both you and Shay, “I wish you safe passage and a promising future.”

“Thank you Master Kenway.” Shay smiled as he shook his hand.

“Thank you.” Was all you could say as you bowed your head while clasping your hands.

“Is that all?” Haytham asked coyly.

You looked up at him as you approached and gave him a light hug. Haytham patted your back, “Be good to Shay.”

“I will.” You backed up a bit, “What other choice do I have?”

“None.” Haytham stated with a smile.

You wanted to run at this point but how could you get away from them? Your courage and confidence were stripped away that night.

“Shall we be of-” Shay was interrupted by loud shouting from a crowd that was forming along the Morrigan. Haytham and Shay gave each other knowing looks.

“What’s going on?” You asked as you were slowly pushed back by them to the carriage since the dock to get on the ship was blocked.

“Get inside the carriage and close the curtains.” Shay said, “You will be safe there for now.”

You didn’t hesitate and went inside. Soon after you heard swords clashing and people yelling hysterics.

“You bloody red coats!!!!”

“We do not fight for the crown!” Haytham yelled, “But if you refuse the truth and continue your attack the only thing you’ll be dealt is your end.”

You yelped when you were suddenly knocked over your seat as the carriage began to move rapidly.

“(Y/N)!!!” You heard Shay call out.

He did his best to get away from the crowd but the numbers kept adding on even with the help of his crew. It took some time, but they managed to beat down the riot. Many people began running away once they saw the people they were fighting against had gained the upper hand.

Haytham was furious, “Clearly assassins don’t know the amount of time put into a plan like this.” He clenched his fists, “Come along Shay. It seems your stay has been extended.” He began to walk toward the Captains quarters.

“That’s not possible.” Shay ran next to Haytham, “I took down the Colonial Brotherhood. There shouldn’t be anymore assassins alive.”

“Leave one alive Shay and you give them the chance to grow once more.” Haytham stated.

“Achilles.” Shay muttered.

“Let’s start planning how we will get (Y/N) back.” Haytham opened the door, “Even with both our skill sets we must tread cautiously.”

Shay nodded and went in with Haytham, “Does she know about Templars?”

“No.” Haytham said, “She wasn’t meant to find out about the order until it was too late to turn back from her assigned role.”

“I don’t understand Grandmaster. How does that help?” Shay asked as he closed the door.

“Because if I know her well enough,” Haytham sat down, “She would have tried much harder to escape had she known prior to this day. A shame... by the looks of her expressions the last couple weeks she had accepted defeat.” His eyebrows furrowed, “They are most likely headed for the homestead. I assume you recall its layout?”

Shay nodded, “Ai Sir.” 

Both began to look at a map Shay had pulled out and began talking about what to do to get you back.

With You

You had been in the carriage for about an hour. You thought that at least once the robbers would have peeked inside already to see what was inside. But nothing.

“Just grab everything and bring it on board! We don’t have the time to rummage through it now!” Someone yelled in the distance.

The door opened and a shocked expression crossed their faces. The shock however turned to a glare when they saw the necklace you wore.

“Templar.” One of the men said.

“What?” You asked

“Don’t play dumb!” The other yelled.

You got angry, “I don’t know what you are talking about!!! I’ve never heard of that title!”

���Let’s bring her in. Maybe she knows something about the cargo.”

They grabbed you and pulled you out of the carriage. You began to struggle but stopped when a knife was placed on your neck.

“No point in resisting.”

You let out a sigh of defeat and boarded the ship. You were lead down some stairs to go below deck and were taken to one of the small rooms. You were sat down on a chair and your arms tied behind your back.

“FULL SAIL!!! FULL SAIL!!!!!” You heard from far away.

“Looks like we’re taking off.”

Nothing else was said for about an hour. You were starting to wriggle around to try to stretch out for a bit when one of the men spoke,

“You stay here while I get the captain. He’ll want to talk to her. She was with the Grandmaster and his lapdog.”

The wait was shorter this time and you felt your nerves get the better of you when you saw the Captain. When he walked in his presence could be felt around the room. He stood tall by the door frame and as he walked towards you each step seemed to have purpose.

“Leave us for now.” He said.

Both men walked out quickly and shut the door.

The captain grabbed a chair from the side of the room and dragged it in front of you. He sat down with the back side of the chair in front so when he sat down it was similar to riding a horse. The tail of his navy blue coat dragged to the floor and his tricorn remained prominent on his head.

“What were the Templars planning on sending off on that ship?” His tone was serious and the look in his eyes showed he wasn’t there to play.

“I-I don’t know what the Templars are!” You half yelled.

His eyes narrowed, “Lies will get you no where.” He pointed at your necklace, “You wear their very symbol!” He yelled, “Do you really expect me to believe that you don’t know who they are?”

“YES!!” You yelled, “I don’t know what it is you seek but I swear all I know was that I was being sent away! That’s all I know! They told me nothing else!!!”

“You were staying with the Templar Grandmaster of the colonial right and you didn’t know?” He scoffed, “You continue to lie-”

You had begun to weep, “I give you my word. I did not know Haytham was a Templar.” You looked up, “I only wear this necklace because the man I was betrothed to sent it as a sign that I was his.” You sniffled but went on. “Haytham saved me when I was a child and he kept me by his side since then. But as years went by he only got stricter and stricter. Obedience was all I knew... It’s all I know...”

The captain looked at your eyes searching for any sign of deceit but all he saw was your sorrow. Both of you maintained eye contact until you could no longer handle his strong gaze and looked down.

You quietly sobbed, “Please don’t look at me like him.”

The captain was confused, “Him?”

You looked up but quickly tore the gaze once more, “Like Haytham.”

He remained quiet as he digested all this information. After a couple minutes he spoke up,

“What is your name?” He asked.

“(Y/N).”

“Do you have any family?”

“No. My only family was my parents but they were both killed when I was a child.”  

“If I offered you a place to work and stay would you be willing to accept it?”

You looked up shocked, “Yes! Anything to avoid going back! Thank you uh...”

“Connor.” He stated simply.

You managed to smile a bit, “Thank you Connor.”

Connor stood up and went behind you to cut the ropes that held you down, “Please stay in this room for now. It will be safer for you here.”

You nodded in agreement and sat down on the bed that was on the side. Connor took his leave and shut the door behind him. He saw one of his fellow assassins and approached them,

“Keep an eye on our guest. If she does anything suspicious let me know immediately.”

“Of course.”

That’s it for now! Hope you enjoyed!

[ragingbookdragon]

Under Enemy Fire

A Shay Cormac x Reader One-Shot

Word Count: 2,435 Warnings: Explicit Language, Mentions of Violence and Death

Author’s Note: I love making badass female readers. It’s so much fun. Enjoy! -Thorne

“I do apologize that you have to bring me along today Master Kenway. I know there are many things you would rather be doing than having to look after me.” The man gave her a small smile, gently patting her hand where it rested on his arm.

           “We’ve known each other for some time now, you may call me Haytham, Lady (Y/N). And it’s no trouble. Besides, your father has wished me to introduce you to our newest member.” She couldn’t help the grimace that came across her features, but she was quick to cover it with,

           “Of course he has…might I ask for some knowledge of this possible suitor?” Haytham chuckled, halting their movement as a carriage passed in front of them.

           “You may…but I would rather talk about how you won’t stop your father from trying to marry you off.” (Y/N) hummed, eyes shifting to the road as they started walking again.

           “Master Haytham, you know as well as I that I have no say in this.” He narrowed his gaze, taking a quick glance at her.

           “And yet you still persist in rejecting every match he finds.” She bit her lip, unsure of how to respond, when he added, “Here we are.” (Y/N) looked up at the building in front of her, eyes widening at the size.

           “My…this is a rather sizable mansion.” Haytham nodded.

           “Fort Arsenal. It’s owned by the man you’ll meet shortly.” She craned her neck, looking around for him.

           “Is he meeting us here?” He tipped his head to the docks and she turned her eyes to it, seeing the ship docked. “Oh, we are sailing.” (Y/N) frowned and looked down at her dress. “I should have worn something more suitable for sailing.” Haytham chuckled, escorting her towards the docks.

           “Have no fear Lady (Y/N), it’s just a sail around New York.” She hummed, and as they arrived, a man stepped down the walkway, addressing Haytham.

           “Master Haytham, you’re here a bit earlier than I expected.” The two shook hands, and Haytham said,

           “Ah, Lady (Y/N) was ready when I arrived, so I suggested we go ahead and make our way.” At that, the man turned his eyes to her, and under his gaze, she felt warmth creep up her neck.

           “I was wondering who this lovely lass was you were escorting.” He held his hand out, smiling, “Shay Cormac, at your service.” (Y/N) placed her hand in his, watching as he pressed his lips to her gloved knuckles.

           “(Y/N) (L/N). Thank you for allowing me to join you and Master Haytham today.” Feeling the embarrassment rising across her skin, she looked away, focusing on the ship. “I must say, your ship is a fine one. What is her name?” Shay grinned, turning to look at the brigantine.

           “The Morrigan.” (Y/N) nodded, inquiring,

           “I do hope it is not too presumptuous of me to assume she is named after the goddess Morrigan from Irish mythology?” He turned back around, an impressed look etched onto his face as he remarked,

           “Not at all. You know your mythology.” (Y/N) offered him a polite smile as he gestured for them to board.

           “Thank you. I enjoy reading about mythologies from other cultures. Though…many people today are not as interested in it as I am.” She gently squeezed Haytham’s bicep, quipping, “That being said, Master Haytham has indulged my ramblings from time to time.” Looking at Shay, she said, “It is a surprise that he has not yet keeled over from boredom.” The two men snorted at her words, making her smile, and they stood at the quarterdeck, Shay giving commands to the crew to pull out. (Y/N) shifted, pulling her hands away to rest them on the railings, watching the waves lap at the sides of the ship.

An Hour Later:

           “Well, try to understand, Medusa in Greek means ‘guardian’ or ‘protectress’, and even though Athena knew that Medusa was not at fault for what happened to her, Athena was bound by her duty to ‘punish’ Medusa for ‘defiling’ her temple. In order to make a ‘proper punishment’, she turned her into a gorgon. Many think it was a punishment, but if you think about it, she was giving Medusa a way to protect herself and other women so that it would not happen again.” (Y/N) gestured in front of her, finalizing, “Medusa was not turned into a gorgon as a punishment.” The two men stood in complete silence, pondering her words, then Shay acknowledged,

           “I’ve never thought of it that way.” She nodded and he asked, “How do you think Athena came up with that idea?” (Y/N) tipped her head to the side, thinking for a moment, then offered,

           “Well, she is the goddess of wisdom. She had to come up with something that could certainly pass as a punishment, but underneath, be a protection for Medusa and her sisters.” She looked over at Haytham, who pulled a satisfied look and nodded.

           “That does sound clever enough to pass in the eyes of the other Olympian gods.” She tipped her head in acknowledgement, falling silent between the two men until Shay asked,

           “Lady (Y/N)? You are aware of the order in which we belong to, yes?” She nodded.

           “Absolutely. The men in my family have been apart of the Templars for some few centuries.”

           “Are your brothers apart of them as well?” (Y/N) lowered her gaze to her hands, murmuring,

           “I am afraid I am an only child…my siblings passed from illness when we were younger.” Shay’s face dropped and he lamented,

           “I apologize, I didn’t mean to bring up such grief.” A heartfelt smile crossed her lips and she reassured,

           “Their deaths were heavy on my heart when I was a child, but the burdens have since eased, so please, do not apologize. You could not have known.” He matched her smile, changing the subject with,

           “What does your father do?” (Y/N) shifted her weight between her feet, replying,

           “My father is a master blacksmith. Our occupation has spanned several generations, and we have built our wealth and business worldwide.”

           “That’s mighty impressive.” She hummed in appreciation.

           “Thank you.”

           “Is he a swordsman as well?”

           “If you are asking if he can wield the blades he makes, yes, he can.” He cocked an eyebrow, asking,

           “Can you?” (Y/N) hesitated in her answer, then remarked,

           “No, I am afraid not.” He regarded her a moment, leaning between asking her if she was lying or not, instead, he opted for,

           “So why are you traveling with Master Haytham today?” At that, she turned her gaze to Haytham, who’d suddenly found the sails more interesting than her glare, and she hissed,

           “You mean to tell me that you brought me here under the assumption that Master Shay was a possible suitor and he does not even know it?” His mouth opened and closed as he looked at her, then he answered,

           “I mean, he does now.” (Y/N)’s face pinched and she sighed,

           “Master Haytham, this is quite improper. Both parties are supposed to be aware of the circumstances in which they are meeting under.”

           “I’m still here…I just thought I should clarify that.” She turned back to Shay, embarrassment coloring her tone as she said,

           “I am so sorry Master Shay. I had no idea that you were unaware of my reasons for being here.” He huffed a laugh, shaking his head as he turned the wheel.

           “There’s no trouble Lady (Y/N). I’m honored that your father thought me well enough to be a suitor for his lovely daughter.” She felt her face flush with heat, and she looked to the open water, ignoring their gazes. “If it’s not too rude, you don’t seem too fond of trying to marry.” (Y/N) sighed, countering calmly,

           “It is not that I am opposed to marriage. It is just-” He cut her off, inquiring,

           “You just haven’t met the right man yet?” She nodded, but clarified,

           “Many of the men my father has introduced me to have been more than suitable…just…not for me.”

           “Why do you say that, if you don’t mind me asking?”

           “Most men expect their wives to be obedient and ever-faithful servants…I believe that if I am not being listened to, I am not being respected. Marriage is a partnership, not one placed high above the other.” Haytham took a moment to cut in,

           “Many think that’s a rather incendiary thinking process for women to have.” (Y/N) giggled, catching his eye.

           “I do think it is why I have rejected most of the suitors I have had. I think-” Before she could continue, an ear-splitting explosion rocked the air, and a moment later, the side of the ship was hit with cannon fire. Caught off guard, most of the crew hit the ground, along with (Y/N) and the two templars beside her. Shay and the others were quick to rise to their feet, Haytham helping her stand.

           “To your battle stations men!” Shay twisted the wheel, and with a sharp twist, (Y/N) fell back into Haytham’s chest with a sharp intake of breath; he turned to them, yelling, “Get her to the captain’s cabin! Now!” Haytham nodded, taking her by the arms to lead her down the stairs. Panic surged through her as Shay shouted, “Brace for impact!” Immediately, Haytham tugged her to the ground, shielding her body with his as cannonballs tore into the hull. He pulled her to the doors, shoving them open to lead her inside. (Y/N) spun around, eyes wide with fear and he pointed at her, commanding,

           “Do not leave this room until either Shay or myself comes to get you, do you understand?” She nodded and he turned, slamming the door after he left. (Y/N) backed into the room, gasping as she bumped the table behind her. The ship shook as it returned fire and she crouched to the floor, hiding under the table, heart racing every time shots were fired and returned. For a moment, the battle calmed, then an even bigger blast sent her to the floor, head slamming into the stand that held the model ship on it. (Y/N) reached up and hissed as the pain bled through her head, and faintly, she heard,

           “We’re being boarded! Prepare for personal combat!” This time, the fear that came over her was nerve-racking and she crawled along the floor to the desk, hiding behind it. She could hear the gunshots and clashing of steel from inside, and she shut her eyes, burying her face the fabric of her dress. For a moment, the world faded, and she thought back on a memory from her childhood.

           “Papa, why do we always train?” The older man looked down at the young girl, barely older than seven, the wooden training sword clutched tight in her hand.

           “Because little lioness, one day you might have to pick up the sword to defend yourself and the people you care for. In order to do that, you have to know how to fight.” She cocked her head to the side, looking back at the wrapped grip.

           “But women do not fight? We are supposed to stay home?” The man crouched in front of her, pointing a finger to her heart as he said,

           “Your job as a (L/N) is not to adhere to societies rules on women. You will be a path maker in your life (Y/N). Forging new ways for women to live.”

           “So, I do not have to be a wife?”

           “You can be anything you wish to be.” She went silent a moment, then took a step backwards, getting into a defensive position.

           “Then I want to be fighter.” The man chuckled, matching her stance as he commended,

           “Then you will be the mighty lioness of the (L/N) family.”

           Her eyes snapped open and she looked up from her dress, seeing the weapon rack in the corner of the room. Something burned brightly in her chest and she rose from the floor, hands stripping herself of the heavy layered dress and undergarments she wore. (Y/N) pulled on the leather pants and tunic, adjusting them until they fit her well enough so she could move without hindrance. She strapped the holsters to her, tucking the powdered flintlocks in them before she yanked the saber from the rack, turning to the door. As she made her way to it, the doors flew open and she was greeted with a French officer who’s smile instantly fell when he caught sight of the lioness armed to the teeth.

           Shay let out a curse as he caught a glance of an officer heading to the cabin. “Haytham! One of them is going to the cabin!” The grandmaster cursed, and before either of them could move, a shot tore from below and the French officer stumbled out backwards, hands clutching his gut. Their eyes went wide when she flew out, saber sinking into his chest. With a mighty yell, she yanked the sword back, shoving him away. He hit the ground, and for a moment, the fighting seemed to stop as all the fighters gaped at the woman. She didn’t waste a second, pulling the dirk from its scabbard. She flipped it in her grip and threw it as hard as she could, watching as it sunk deep into the throat of a man wielding an axe; with a strangled gasp, he hit the ground, and she raised the saber, shouting defiantly,

           “Fight me you bastards!” The enemy combatants seemed to take her challenge, a group rushing her all at once. Shay and Haytham started towards her, but (Y/N) didn’t need any help. She twisted and swung, dodging each strike as she returned ones of her own, and before anyone knew it, the group fell before her. The two templars joined the fray beside her, and in mere moments, the enemy began dropping their swords in a surrender. Her chest rose and fell fiercely with each intake of breath and she stood before Shay and Haytham as she sheathed the sword; Shay stared at her with wide eyes, sputtering,

           “I thought you said you couldn’t fight?” Her answer was cut off as a cry sounded from beside them and they turned, seeing the French captain coming their way with his saber ready. As the two men reached for their swords, she pulled the second pistol from the holster and took aim, firing a single shot. The captain staggered as the bullet sunk into his skull and he dropped to his knees, collapsing onto the deck. (Y/N) stood there, gun still smoking and countered firmly,

           “I lied.”

[ladye11e]

Deception pt 9

The conflict between the Assassins and the Templars is getting out of hand. Lies, deceit and subterfuge, now you must pick a side...

Shay Cormac/Reader

SFW

Tagging @geekgoddess813 @sweet-flash @ermergerd517  @i-wontgivein @imakemyownblog 💕

Link to the full fic so far is Here

Ten... Eleven.... Twel...

You stopped in your tracks and rubbed your eyes when you finally reached Pier Twelve, not quite believing what was in front of you. Not the run down little tug boat that you were expecting, but a very expensive looking yacht. You guessed that it was some fifty feet long, the water reflecting off its black and white hull making it look like it was sparkling, and its four huge red sails fluttered gently in the breeze. Walking down a little futher to check the signpost to make sure you were definitely in the right place, you leaned to the side to get a better look when you saw the name of the boat on the back in gold italic writing.

The Morrigan

The Irish goddess of war? Fairly fitting you supposed, given who it belonged to. Your eyes flickered over to the walkway when you spotted a tall, lithe man climb down the ladder and bound over to you with a wide grin, making you slightly perplexed as you didn't know that there was someone else coming along too. "

Ah, you must be (name)! Nice to finally meet you, I'm Christoper. Or Gist, eithers fine by me! I'll be going with you, I'm Shays best friend. He's down below making preparations to set sail, so I'll show you where you'll be staying." 

Smiling wildly at his enthusiasm, you handed him your bag when he gestured for you to give it to him, following him aboard and over the top deck. You were more and more awestruck at each passing step, eyeing up the numerous sun loungers and jacuzzi with a bar attached to the side as you were led down downstairs and through a warmly lit, long wooden pannelled corridor, coming to a stop at a door on the right just before you got to the end. You could have literally scraped your jaw off the floor as you stepped into your room, wondering how the hell Shay could have possibly afforded something like this. Second thoughts, maybe you didn't want to know. 

"Not bad hmm? I'll give you a few minutes to sort out your things, come back upstairs and I'll give you the grand tour ok?" 

"Umm, oh-kay?" 

Gist chuckled and dropped your bag on your kingsize bed; patting you on the shoulder briefly whist you continued to stare wide eyed at your surroundings, before almost skipping out and closing the door behind him. The second you knew you were alone you squealed and jumped onto the soft mattress, sighing as you sunk into the soft pillow top. Propping yourself up on your elbows so you could look around better, your enthusiasm wained slighty when you remembered just whos lavish abode this was. You were guessing that Haytham had ordered him to take you to London, so that would make life on board more uncomfortable than it already was, and your brow furrowed at the thought of having to make awkward conversation for however long this trip would take. Christopher seemed nice enough at least, so hopefully it wouldn't be too bad? Scooting yourself to the edge of the bed, you unzipped your bag and started taking out your clothes, scoffing when you realised that you were only going to end up using two out of the eight drawers, and less than a quarter of the large double wardrobe with your belongings. 

After quickly flicking through almost every channel known to man on the 50" TV in your room and doing stupid echo voices in your obscenely large en suite bathroom, you made your way back up to the top deck to find Gist sat on one of the loungers with a laptop perched on his legs, checking the weather for the next few days. Your mouth formed todays favourite dropped position when you glanced over the rail to see Boston a mere speck in the distance, looking up to see the sails at full mast and bellowing in the wind. 

"I didn't even know we had left, I didn't feel us move?" 

Christoper grinned as he snapped the laptop shut and stood up next to you, grabbing your arm and linking it with his as he walked you to the other side of the deck. 

"The Morrigan is a fine ship, as smooth as they come. The engine has been modified to more than double its original capacity, and with the sails, well lets just say there's none other that can match it, in either speed or maneuverbility. I've been looking after her while Shays been shall we say, in hiding? The weather looks good for the next few days, so we should be in London in less than a week. Now how about that tour hmm?" 

Feeling slightly exhausted at trying to keep up with Gists rapid pace; both in walking and talking, you leant on the wall as he opened yet another door to reveal the room to you, leaning forward to just poke your head inside. 

"And this is the sauna. Good for relaxing after a hard days work." 

A sauna?! A bloody sauna?? After seeing the jacuzzi and bar up close, fully fitted kitchen, gym, two dining rooms, internal and external lounge areas, AND three of the other five bedrooms on board, you shouldn't have been surprised really, but you still were. 

"What's next? Some secret lab hidden behind that wall? Oh god, there is, isn't there?!" 

He laughed and winked at you as he closed the door and nudged you so you would carry on walking back up the deck towards the stairs, linking your arm through his in a way that you had become more than accustomed to over the past hour and a half. 

"Unfortunately not, although thinking about it that actually wouldn't be a bad idea. We do have an armoury down below, but I'm assuming you brought your own weapons? The last place is the helm." 

"Of course, a girls gotta have her own toys." 

You smirked as his eyebrows pretty much shot through the roof at your last comment. 

You inadvertently tensed up as you climbed the steps to the uppermost deck, forcing yourself to relax when you realised you were squeezing Gists arm so hard. If he noticed your jerking reaction to where you were about to go, he obviously didn't care or chose to ignore it as he pretty much pushed you inside, making you stumble forward slightly as you entered the room. 

"Last destination on our grand tour, the helm. I presume you have seen the forecast Shay? Clear sailing for the next week." 

You stood there fidgiting with your cuff nervously whilst Shay and Christopher conversed about the voyage, unsure of what to say or do while you were in here so you settled on glancing at the numerous computers and instruments, of which you knew absolutely nothing about. Just as you were about to turn towards the door and make a sneaky exit while they were both distracted, Gist suddenly turned around and spotted you reaching for the handle; narrowing his eyes just ever so slightly, leaping towards you with amazing speed and blocking your only escape route out of the one place that you didn't want to be. 

"I Suppose I had better get on with checking downstairs, you will be alright finding your way back after you've done looking around dear?" 

Before you even had a chance to complain, he pushed his way past you and left the room to leave you and Shay alone, making you test the handle when you heard it click as soon as it shut; scowling when it wouldn't budge as you attempted to turn it.

"Asshole" you muttered under your breath as you let your hand drop, deciding it was pointless trying again to get out. Gauging Shays tense posture out of the corner of your eye, you did the only thing that you could do whist stuck in here; attempt the dreaded small talk. 

"Thanks for taking me. Nice yacht." 

"No problem." 

Shuffling to the other side of the room and staring out the window at the calm sea so you wouldn't get as riled up when he didn't even bother turning to you as he spoke, you wracked your brain to try and figure out why on earth he would be acting this way when it was him that led you on, not the other way around. Coming up with absolutely nothing, you grit your teeth and took a deep breath, trying once more to engage him in some sort of conversation so you didn't have to avoid being in the same room as him the rest of the way. 

"Christoper's nice, he said that it would only take five or so days to get to London?" 

"Yep."

Thats it!! Stamping your foot in anger at his one word answer, you stormed over to the door with every intention of ripping it off its hinges, suddenly very confused when you turned the handle and it opened straight away. Barging past Gist with a huff when he was coming back up the stairs, you ignored his startled expression and almost ran back down into your room, slamming the door shut with a resounding bang behind you.

Shays POV

"Well, she is a little firecracker! Pretty too, I can see why you like her Shay." 

He didn't say anything at first when Gist came in and sat down in the seat next to him, glancing at him briefly and sighing when he saw that he was staring intently and waiting for an answer. 

"Bit more than like mate, but thats been thrown out the window. She's avoided me like the plague since that do, and I'll be damned if I can figure out why. She wouldn't be here now if Kenway hadn't asked her to, and I'm not chasing after her." 

"Why not?" 

"Because I ain't done nothing wrong! She's the one who blew me off, not the other way around. An don't be an arse and hold the door shut so she thinks it locked again." Shay growled through his teeth, not at all happy at Gists meddling but calmed down slightly when he raised his hands and shook his head in defeat. 

"Fine, I was just trying to help. Maybe you should just ask her? There's obviously still something there, or you wouldn't be getting so worked up about it." 

Shay stared at the radar and turned the wheel slightly when he saw that he had drifted few degrees off course, wishing that he hadn't said anything to him now. But as usual, Gist was spot on with his observations. He couldn't deny the sparks between you whenever you were around him, getting stronger every day since he had first laid eyes on you. Even just thinking about you made him forget all of the terrible things that he had done in his life, and that night at the ball? Well. That wasn't just flirting, and he actually believed for the first time that there could have been more between you. So much more. He thought maybe that he had gone too far, gotten his signals mixed up, but whenever he closed his eyes and remembered the way you were when you had been dancing together he knew that he hadn't. Your dilated pupils, the way you trembled everytime he touched your body, not to mention the soft moans that passed your sweet lips that he longed to have morph into his name. And if that wasn't enough, the damp patch on his trousers after he pressed his leg between yours was a dead giveaway. You definitely wanted him as much as he wanted you, and judging from the whispers he'd overheard as he was pushing his way through the crowd to complete the mission, he wasn't the only one to think that. But since then you had completely rebuffed him, ignoring his messages and calls, not even bothering to let him know that you were alright after your assignment. And that hurt, more than he thought it would have done. It had been a very long time since he had let his guard down like that, with anyone, but now it was back up in full force, refusing to let anyone in again. 

"Well you're wrong, so stop interfering. She definitely didn't go back to the hotel?"

Christopher scoffed at Shay completely contradicting himself in a single sentence, shaking his head in reply as he silently plotted how to get you and his friend alone in the same room again. 

"No. Although I was busy for about an hour, but I would have noticed someone come in." 

 "Busy?! You didn't..." 

Shay scowled at his so called best friend when he shrugged his shoulders and adorned a huge grin, winking slowly in not so subtly hinting on what he had gotten up to that night. 

"You had some skank in my room?! Ya better not have been at it on my bed!" 

"Well, I needed something to do to pass the time, and as you weren't able to come back I thought it would be a shame to let such a lovely piece of furniture like that go to waste." 

"You dirty bastard." Shay grumbled under his breath. "I'm getting it burned as soon as we get back. Second thoughts, you take the wheel, I'm gonna call them right now." 

Gist erupted in laughter as Shay got up and literally threw every single profanity in the book at him before stomping off to call the hotel, making some obscene hand gestures behind his back before making his way outside to get a better signal. 

Taking off your jacket and throwing it on the sofa, you flopped down on the seat and rubbed your face briefly when it began to ache from frowning. Well what a great start. Not only would you have to spend the entire time avoiding someone- on a boat of all places, but you'd probably just annoyed the one person who would have made it at least tolerable being here. You completely regretted your decision coming here, but there was nothing you could do about it now. Finally getting your thumbprint to recognise so you could unlock your new 'Piece of crap phone' as you now dubbed it, you messaged Connor to tell him you would be in London by Wednesday at the latest; breathing a sigh of relief when he text back that he wouldn't be there until Thursday and to go straight to the Curio shop, not the Fryes train as previously instructed. That was just fine with you, as you had actually planned on staying there anyway. Glancing around to try and find something to distract you for a while, you snapped your fingers when you remembered that there was a gym down the hall. Yanking open your drawers to find something suitable to wear; not thinking that you would need exercise clothing whilst you were away, you had to settle on what you had brought along to sleep in. Getting changed into your black tank top and very short shorts, you grabbed a towel from the bathroom along with your phone and headphones, bringing up your relaxing yoga app as you left the room. 

Shay was pacing the deck whist he was put on hold yet again for making such an unorthodox request- he knew he was going over the top at what Christopher had done, but he really didn't care. Wiping his brow when a few spots of rain hit it, he ran down the stairs two at a time as he definitely wasn't in the mood to get wet, stopping at the bottom just as someone finally picked up his call. 

"At last! Yes, I'd like to arrange gettin' my bed changed. No, there's nothing wrong with it as such...." 

His voice trailed off as he spotted movement out of the corner of his eye, pushing the door next to him open just a little bit more so he had a better view, but still not be seen. 

"I'll call you back." He whispered, before hanging up his phone and almost dropping it as he watched you bend over to grab your ankles, quickly pressing his finger over his lips when Gist came bounding down the steps. 

"We've moored in Portland so we can finish gathering supplies.... Oh my, what a splendid sight. I do love yoga." 

Both men whimpered and cocked their heads in unison as you spread your legs to move into the downward dog position, but as you had your eyes closed and were concentrating on your breathing, you had no idea they were even there. 

"Shay, if you're definitely not interested anymore..." 

"Touch her and you're a dead man." He mumbled, not even close to joking. 

Gist held back a chuckle and grabbed him by the arm to drag him away and back upstairs so they could get the extra fuel that they would need to get to London, also now making it a personal mission to find out just what happened between the two of you, even though Shay had specifically said he didn't want him getting involved.

[ladye11e]

Deception pt 1

Well. Back again with what will no doubt be another stupidly long fic! I had a fair few requests for more Haytham/Shay, AND Jacob, so I thought, feck it, why not roll them all into one? 😉😉 Chapters will be SFW unless otherwise stated 👍

After rubbing your cheek on your shoulder to try and shift the itchy black fabric that was pressing against your face, you tried to squint through the weave when you heard someone enter the room, only just making out a silhouette of a tallish body looming just in front of where you were sat on the chair. You tensed up and struggled against the rope bonds that were around your wrists when you knew what was coming next, refusing to make any sound of pain when a heavy fist connected with your stomach.

"Ready to talk? Assassin?" The man hissed in a gravelly voice, obviously using something to distort it so you wouldn't be able to recognise him.

Your stomach was growling and your mouth was parched, so you knew that you had been held captive here for some time now, but still you kept quiet, a smirk adorning your lips as you waited for a certain someone to arrive. Then. You would have your retribution. As if right on queue, the door was kicked open with a resounding bang; echoing through what you assumed was a sparsely furnished room, followed by heavy footsteps and a bellowing roar aimed at the man in front of you.

"Just what do you think you are doing?! You have three seconds to explain yourself Charles, or I will cut you down where you stand!"

You jumped slightly in your seat when you heard a shuffle and a colossal thud against the wall to your right, unintentionally snorting as you imagined what was going on in front of you.

"I was... was... interrogating the assassin.... sir.... I..... thought...." the smaller of the two men stammered out in his natural voice, clearly petrified of what you knew to be his superior.

"You do not think! I do the thinking here! Your orders were to abduct and contain, nothing more! Disobey me again, I assure it will be the last thing you ever do!"

Tilting your head when you heard the man yelp as he was thrown out of the door and it was slammed shut behind him, you let out a slight huff of displeasure as you realised that you wouldn't be getting your revenge today. Hearing the all too familiar sound of a hidden blade being flicked out, you flexed your arms when your bindings were cut and dropped to the floor, the black hood being tugged off your head and following shortly after.

"Took your time." You chided to the formally dressed man in front of you, rubbing the sore marks on your wrists when they started to sting a little.

"I deeply apologise (name). I trust you know this wasn't my intention, Charles will be severely punished for his actions I assure you. Are you alright?"

Brushing yourself straight and catching glimpses of your, 'captor' out of the corner of your eye, you bit the corner of your lip when you liked what you saw. He was dressed in a tailored navy pinstripe suit, crisp powder blue shirt and a crimson red tie, secured with a jeweled pin in the shape of a cross. His slightly graying hair was groomed back perfectly and he was clean shaven, nothing surprising from what you knew about the man. Very nice. Very nice indeed. You thought.

"I'm fine Haytham, Charles punches like a girl. Ten more minutes and you would have been without a second in command though."

Grinning when he chucked softly and gestured towards the door, you grabbed your jacket off the table behind you and slung it over your shoulder casually, following him out of the brilliant white interrogation room. Your heels clacked on the marble flooring of the barren lobby as you made your way to the glass elevator, punching the button a little too forcefully to call the lift. Neither of you said a word as you travelled to the top floor of the building; which was much more elegantly decorated in red, creams and golds, in complete contrast with the rest of the complex.

Silently closing the door when you entered the office at the end of the hall, you chucked your jacket and purse onto the large black leather sofa next to you and slumped down into the chair in front of the lavish oak desk, kicking off your shoes as you propped your legs up on the arm rest.

"So, you have the locations I asked for?"

"Straight down to brass tacks eh? No, how was Russia (Name)? Did you freeze your ass off?"

Haytham chuckled as he sat down at his desk, propping his elbows on the edge and pressing his fingers together whilst trying to keep his eyes from lingering over your legs too long.

"Apologies, my ability for idle banter has been supressed of late. How was Russia? I can see quite clearly that you did not 'freeze your ass off' as you put it."

Smirking as you watched him shift his gaze to stare at a knot in his desk when you purposefully shifted in your seat so he had a better view of your rear, you realised how much you missed teasing the man. Your relationship was a platonic one, just, and you oh so enjoyed making his feathers ruffle from time to time.

"Not bad, boring mostly. Plenty of excellent vodka to drown out Shauns prattling though. And yes, I have all three locations of the newest Assassin bureau's you asked for."

Jumping up out of the chair, you leaned over the desk and grabbed the pad and paper that was next to his computer and resumed your position in your seat, jotting down the coordinates that you had memorised. It had been your one rule when you made the decision to betray the Assassins, zero trail of it leading back to you. No emails, calls or messages, nothing digital that would get you found out. With Shaun and his newest Elite tech team monitoring all of the Brotherhoods activity, it made it like that even going to the bathroom wasn't a private affair anymore. Sliding the pad onto the desk, Haytham snapped it up quickly and ripped off the top three pages; ensuring that there was no trace of words from the pens pressure underneath, and hastily typed the numbers into his computer. Once he had finished he pulled open his drawer and took out a rather ornate silver stick lighter, using it to set the corner of the pages on fire. You simply nodded and let out the breath you had been holding as you watched the flames consume the proof of your treachery, all evidence now in cinders at the bottom of Haythams waste paper basket.

"Payment in the usual form I'm assuming?"

"Why Mr Kenway, you know me so well." You giggled as he passed you a small, black velvet bag.

Tipping it's contents into your palm, you could help but admire how the diamonds sparkled in the light. So clean, so pure, much unlike yourself of late. In keeping with your principal of doing absolutely anything to assure you wouldn't be caught in your exploits, Haytham had made the suggestion of reimbursing you for your troubles in jewels and trinkets; something that could be easily hidden and fenced so you happily agreed. Slipping the gems back into the bag and sliding it into your bra, you breathed out an exasperated sigh when you saw that he wanted to ask you something, but was hesitating for some reason.

"Come on, out with it. I know you want something else. It's about the ball, isn't it."

Haytham slumped back into his chair and his face became awash with guilt, something you had rarely seen him do. He had been asking a lot of you recently, the conflict between the Assassin Brotherhood and the Templars becoming more unbridled every passing day, and at this moment in time, the Templars were winning.

"Figured as much. I'm not gonna ask how you know about it, I only found out yesterday. What do you need me to do?"

Swinging your legs down as Haytham rummaged through another drawer in his desk, you mentally prepared yourself to ingrain whatever information he was about to give you to memory, hoping that it wasn't much as you were still fatigued after a long flight, then being abducted from the airport minutes after you had landed. Your brow furrowed in confusion when he handed you a single sheet of paper, the only thing on it being a photograph of an old necklace. A circular jade stone, with a leather string for a chain.

"I don't understand, you want this old thing? It looks worthless, not to mention it's hideous."

"That my dear.." Haytham paused for a moment to dramatise the importance of the item to him and to get up and stand beside you, hoping to calm your temperment when he revealed his plan to you.

"Is more valuable than anything I have given to you so far, and is paramount to the Order that we have it in our posession. We have learnt that is is being held at Achilles estate, and the ball would provide an opportunity to retrieve it."

"Wait, you want me to...?!"

You were cut off by Hatham shaking his head slowly and flickering his eyes to the door, making you turn your head in the direction of it but become bewildered when you saw no one there.

"I do not wish for you to steal it (name), that would put you in great danger. My desire is for you to take someone with you, to help him infiltrate the manor, so he can procure it."

Feeling Haytham's hand on your shoulder to hold you in place when you went to jump out of your chair as a clicking sound came from behind you, rage began to fill every fibre of your being when a man walked silently through the door and closed it behind him, the Grand Master's promise of not letting a single person know who you were thrown straight out of the window. You inadvertently sliced through your gunmetal silk blouse as you flicked out your hidden blade in anger, looking up at Haytham like you wanted to gut him like a fish.

"Please my dear, calm down."

"Calm?! CALM?! How can you expect me to be calm! You broke your promise! Fucking Templar, I knew I couldn't trust you!"

Haytham dropped to his knees in front of you and held your arms to your side until you retracted your blade, wincing at your seething expression as you continued to glare at him.

"Mr Cormac here is taking just as big of a risk unveiling himself to you (name), until this moment the only person in the world who knew he was alive, was myself. He will not reveal your secret, as I am sure you will not divulge his. Is that acceptable?"

Pacified slightly at hearing this information, you nodded numbly, your temper disappearing as quickly as it had arose. Haytham was one of the very few people who knew how to dissolve your volatile disposition with ease; a sly grin creeping up your face as he cupped your chin and caressed your cheek with his thumb.

"Excellent. Now my dear, please let me introduce Mr Shay Cormac, one of the most trusted associates in our Order. Shay, this is (name) (last name), currently a member of the Brotherhood, and also working for us."

Sighing as you got up from the chair and examined your now ruined blouse for a moment, you extended your hand towards the man, your breath hitching when you laid eyes on him for the first time since he came in. He was dressed completely in black, shirt rolled up to his elbows and accenuated with a deep red tie pulled down loosely around his neck, and oh my he was devilishly handsome. His shoulder length brown hair was tied back, he was obviously a not a fan of razor blades as he had light stubble over his chiselled jaw, and he had a long scar over his right brow and cheek, making him even more dashing in your opinion. But what captivated you most were his eyes. Dark, with a hint of sadness behind them, but also a playful glimmer as he sized you up in the same way you were doing to him. Yet there was something about him that you couldn't quite place, and for some strange reason you had the initial feeling that you could trust him completely. An extreme rarity in your line of work.

One thing about working for the Assassins and the Templars was that they were never short of eye candy, making you wonder if it was a requisite when they joined. Know how to use a variety of deadly weapons? Check. Silently and stealthily kill a known assailant? Check. Can you distract any woman and will her panties into nothingness just by looking at her? Double check. You had been without company for some time now, and your libido was through the roof, the adonis like men in your vicinity not helping matters in the slightest. Dropping the Templars hand when Haytham cleared his throat beside you; making you realise that you had been staring, you only just managed to keep the heat rising up your face as you retook your seat, Cormac sitting in the one next to you.

"Now that the introductions are out of the way, shall we discuss your next assignment?"

"Guess so. I assume you already know where Achillies is keeping that thing? I have no idea." You grumbled as you got up yet again and went to the drinks cabinet in the corner, grabbing the carafe of water and a glass when your mouth began to remind you of a desert.

"I do indeed my dear, he has a hidden vault behind his office wall. Plan's or photographs however have been extremely difficult to come by to say the least."

Downing the glass of water in one quick swallow, you mulled over just how on earth you were going to get into the mentors office without being detected.

"Begging ya pardon Master Kenway, but surely (name) here would be able to find out what we're up against?"

Both men suddenly snapped their attention to you when the glass that was in your hand crashed to the floor and shattered, invisible shards flying everywhere around your bare feet. You tried to shake off the shiver that ran down your spine when you had finally heard Shay speak, his delectable Irish accent both surprising you and sending a tremor straight to your core. Crouching down to hide your humiliation and attempt to pick up the broken pieces, you looked up through your eyelashes to see Shay smirking at you, and Haytham jumping up from his desk to rescue you, so to speak.

"Do not move my dear, lest you want a toe shorn off."

"I'm, sorry. I must be more tired than I thought. Planes eh?"

You chuckled and tried to brush off your embarrassing moment as Haytham ducked down and picked you up bridal style, carrying you away from the broken glass and sitting you on the edge of the desk.

"We should carry on with this at another time Master Kenway, I'm knackered too, damned travelling does take it outta ya. I'm staying at the Mandarin Oriental lass, we could do this tomorrow?"

Your brow furrowed a fraction when you saw that Shay didn't look exhausted in the slightest, so he must have concopted it up to make you feel better. Something that definately wasn't necessary, and it annoyed you slightly. You didn't want, or need to be protected in any way shape or form. Leaning over to grab your shoes, you faked a yawn and gave him a thumbs up, watching him drop his business card on the desk and leave out of the corner of your eye.

"Now why do I not believe you are telling the truth? I have seen you go for three days without sleep before now, and only then did you look slightly fatigued. Is something troubling you?"

As soon as you had slipped your shoes back on you looked up and flashed Haytham your widest smile, throwing him a cheeky wink in hopes he wouldn't barrage you for the real reason of your clumsiness.

"What makes you think I haven't been up for that long? I do have a life outside of this you know." You huffed, gesturing around you to suggest that you meant working for the Templars.

"No, you don't my dear. The very reason you will not allow me to take you to my bed. Or had you forgotten your excuses?"

Cocking your head in a kittenish way when he began to stroke your legs through your leather trousers, you grabbed his tie and wove it through your fingers, pulling him down and closer to your face.

"They're not excuses Haytham. What we do is dangerous, risky, and time consuming, making a relationship is damn near impossible to keep. We've both tried and failed with other people before, so let's not spoil what we have, hmmm?"

Leaning in and kissing his cheek when he let out a downhearted sigh, sliding off the desk and walking over to the sofa and gathering up the rest of your belongings, you suddenly recalled Cormac's business card and grabbed it off the desktop, stuffing it into your back pocket haphazardly.

"I suppose you are right. Please allow me to admire that outfit you are wearing though, it is quite... titillating to say the least."

You chuckled and wiggled your ass at him as you walked towards the door, giving it a slap for good measure when you saw him bite his lip and slouch back down in his chair behind the desk.

"(Name), should you change your mind...."

"I know where to find you Haytham." You sighed as you opened the door and left, pulling it shut with your foot behind you.

[alethiometry]

kassandra, connor, edward

answered edward here! 😊

First impression

kassandra: loved loved LOOOOOVED her from the start! i saw a couple screenshots in a polygon review before i bought the game and thought she was just the prettiest damn jock i’d ever laid eyes on... and she still is. and from the very first line of the game (leonidas prologue notwithstanding) - the cyclops’ thugs yelling “HEY! SHITFACE!” to her while she’s just vibing on her roof - i was in looooooveeeee. her Scrappy Punk Energy is impeccable.

connor: i actually was kind of ambivalent towards him in the beginning! this was ofc coming off the way-too-long-and-boring haytham sequences, so although i was impatient to get to connor, i was also a little annoyed that there STILL seemed to be so much story before we could run around and be assassin-y. so although i liked him, it was hard not to be annoyed at the slow start of his story. i think it took until like sequence 5 or something for him to get a hidden blade. which, considering there’s only about 12 sequences in ac3, was kind of annoying.

Impression now

kassandra: i still adore her, but for even more reasons! i will never not love the feisty misthios with the conflict deescalation skills of a molotov cocktail side of her, but equally i love her devotion to her family in the main storyline, her justified rage and love for her son in the legacy of the first blade dlc, and even her exhaustion but eventual commitment to her (awful, no-good, horrible) destiny in the fate of atlantis dlc. it’s a little difficult to characterize kassandra definitively, because i think her development/arc is far more loosely constructed than other assassin’s creed protagonists, but in general she is presented as somebody who is humorous and loving and cocky and formidable and charismatic, and doesn’t buckle under the weight of all the responsibility she has taken on, or that has been thrust upon her. she rises to every challenge thrown in her way and comes out of it more resilient and always with that sardonic twinkle in her eye and a smartass comment at the tip of her tongue.

connor: WE STAN A CHARACTER WHO NEVER LOSES HOPE EVEN IN THE FACE OF LOSING HIS MOTHER, HIS HOME, HIS BEST FRIEND, HIS FATHER, HIS PEOPLE, AND HIS MENTOR. WE STAN A CHARACTER WHO SURROUNDS HIMSELF WITH PEOPLE HE LOVES AND WHO LOVE HIM IN RETURN, WHO DOES EVERYTHING FOR OTHER PEOPLE OUT OF THE KINDNESS OF HIS HEART AND BECAUSE IT IS THE RIGHT THING TO DO, WHO DEFENDS THOSE WHO CAN’T DEFEND THEMSELVES. WE STAN A CHARACTER WHO, WHEN BETRAYED BY PEOPLE HE THOUGHT WERE ALLIES TO HIS CAUSE, SEVERS HIS TIES WITH THEM BUT RATHER THAN SUCCUMBING TO CYNICISM CONTINUES TO DO GOOD AND FIGHT FOR JUSTICE AND FREEDOM FOR EVERYONE. WE STAN A CHARACTER WHO IS ANGRY AND STUBBORN AND CONFRONTATIONAL AND BRUTALLY EFFICIENT AT TAKING DOWN HIS ENEMIES, BUT IS ALSO BLUNT AND HONEST AND SELFLESS AND KIND AND COMPASSIONATE AND UNWAVERINGLY LOYAL TO HIS LOVED ONES.

Favorite moment

kassandra: i can’t just choose one are you fucking kidding me they’re all so good she is so good she is perfect and has literally never done anything wrong ever in her life and we know this and we love her

but her monologue/voiceover to elpidios at the end of legacy of the first blade as she sends him away for his own protection always breaks my fucking heart so maybe let’s go with that 😭

connor: there are once again so many to choose from, but if i had to pick just one... i’m really feeling that haytham-washington-connor scene rn. where haytham exposes that washington was behind the shelling of connor’s village and the death of his mother - clearly with the goal of getting connor to turn on the revolutionaries and see the world for the twisted, cynical place that haytham sees it as (he even says as much in his journal in ac forsaken). but instead of taking the bait, connor responds in his own way: he shows that he is not blind to the fact that washington has been using him this whole time, but also that he knows that haytham is trying to do just the same thing to him now. he immediately recognizes that haytham was waiting to spring this information on him and calls him out on it, and reminds both haytham and washington that he is not stupid, that his loyalty is borne out of his sense of right and wrong rather than naivete, and that his people come first. his people ALWAYS come first.

and maybe i’m just a sucker for monologues but the ac forsaken monologue that was recorded but never added into the game for some unknown godforsaken bullshit reason was so so so fucking good and if it had been included in the game i am sure it would be my favorite. “FOR AT MY SIDE WALKS HOPE??????????? T H A T  IS MY COMPROMISE???????????/” ✨🔥😲🌟🙌 ��� ⭐💯🙏‼😭👏😭🔥✨ BITCH WHAT THE FUCK!!!!!

Idea for a story

kassandra: i basically stuffed all my angsty kassandra ideas into one wip that i’m not sure if i’ll ever finish but love to daydream about. obviously endgame kassidas because, like, that’s my brand, but i also want to take the time to explore her relationship with natakas the way that ubisoft sure as shit fucking didn’t. it’s kind of an amphipolis fix-it and a legacy of the first blade fix-it all in one, if i can ever manage that. probably the most ambitious wip i’ve ever attempted. oh, and also she gets to raise her goddamn son and doesn’t get saddled with any of that keeper-of-memories bullshit. so in a way it’s just a fix-it for the entire goddamn game because kassandra deserved SO much better and i’ll never not be mad about it.

connor: in continuing the tradition of haytham leaving his journal for connor, i think it would be neat if connor kept a journal for io:nhiote. and i’ve rambled before about a connor sequel but you know what the more i talk about it the more i can maybe will it into existence. i think it would be neat if it was framed in a epistolic way where connor is preserving their family’s legacy as he discovers more and more about edward’s life, writing it all down for his daughter, similar to the way revelations was told through ezio’s letters to claudia. it would start in 1791 with connor traveling to the caribbean to aid the haitian brotherhood in the revolution, and it would take him all across the islands - to cuba, to new providence, to jamaica, to greater inagua. to all the places where edward had been. maybe there would be scraps of journals or message bottles with edward’s memories in them? and when the revolution has been won and connor has learned all he can about edward’s life, he travels to england to visit edward and tessa’s graves and to meet his last living relative: his aunt jenny. she’s old and dying at this point but she’s back at the kenway manor in queen anne’s square and after a little bit of trepidation (and maybe he shows her haytham’s journal or his hidden blade as proof that he’s not just some random dude) she lets him in. she tells him about her life and about haytham as a child, and the more she talks the more at peace she seems to be, and connor smiles and takes her hand and thanks her for letting him in, and she passes away quietly and painlessly. and the last thing he does in england before he heads back to his own family is visit his father’s childhood bedroom. he sees the same edward-ghost (like the altair-ghost at the beginning of acr) that he’s been following through animus-memory or eagle vision or whatever: only this time, it’s not some deep insight into assassin-ing or anything like that. all he sees is edward tucking haytham into bed on the night of his tenth birthday. UBISOFT FUCKING HIRE ME.

i also wouldn’t be opposed to a meet-cute type story for how connor meets his future wife, although it’s a story i would prefer someone else to write (to my exacting specifications ofc lol), rather than write it myself.

Unpopular opinion

kassandra: idk how popular/unpopular this is but i did find myself choosing a lot of the meaner dialogue options because although i think she does have a kind heart and feels genuine compassion for people, i think she is by nature a very blunt and often harsh person. i mentioned in the edward post that i think he and kass are kindred spirits, by which i mean i think they both have rough-and-tumble exteriors that they present to the world, and hold their loyalties and loved ones very close to their heart. they’re both exuberant and extroverted people who thrive as mercenaries but in their most vulnerable moments strive for something more long-lasting and stable and quiet. but where i think they differ is that kassandra is... just a little meaner/more abrasive?

connor: i don’t think i have any? i genuinely can’t think of any right now. connor is perfect and everyone knows it. nothing but respect to the king.

Favorite relationship

kassandra: romantically, obiviously it’s brasidas and/or roxana. i don’t think i need to go more into that. battle couples my beloveds 😍😘🥰

platonically, i of course love her relationship with her family. i would kill to have more endgame content with any surviving family members. i’d love a scene between kass and deimos and nikolaos, and a scene between kass and stentor and deimos. there is so much potential there and the game is so goddamn anticlimactic. and while i understand that some of that is because it’s already a long damn game and it’s difficult to program so many branching narratives and storylines and endings, i also... idk i just wish there was deeper relationship-building in the game

connor: i shipped him with miriam for a hot second until that french dude came along and swept her off her feet 😅 but mostly, as with edward, i don’t really him him romantically with anybody because i know he gets hitched later on in life and we don’t know anything about his wife. besides, there’s not a lot of hot singles in his area (rip). and he even says himself that he’s too busy to settle down just yet.

non-romantically, my favorite relationship/interaction is connor and haytham. they’re such a hot mess and i love it. i love how at odds they are ideologically, and yet despite the constant bickering and snapping at each other they still manage to work well enough together. and the fact that haytham can’t even define how he feels about the son he didn’t know he had and who seems to reject him at every turn, while connor continues to hold out hope that he can reconcile with his father.... but they’re both too goddamn stubborn to voice it... i should be angry with These Idiot Men for bottling up their feelings like this, but with these two, i get it. i get why they are the way they are, and i’m just here for the ride. they’re not passive-aggressive about it (well - haytham kinda is), they’re just aggressive. and i love that. the scene on the rooftop where haytham tells him “the only different - the only difference between myself and those you aid, is that i do not feign affection” is SO good. (i almost listed it as my favorite scene but i think i like the washington scene better bc it’s more indicative of connor’s character, whereas this one is more indicative of haytham’s)

Favorite headcanon

kassandra: can barely cook. it just wasn’t something myrrine taught her growing up, because as spartan nobles/royalty they probably had helots doing the cookiing (i think there’s at least one helot you see in one of the family flashback scenes), and she would have been way more interested in combat training with nikolaos anyway. and by the time she’s on kephallonia, i highly doubt markos would know how to cook much more than just the bare minimum for them to both survive. and she wouldn’t have access to the meats and spices that she probably grew up eating in sparta - just bread and cheeses, and fish if she can catch them. simple stuff that she can either prepare fairly easily, or that she can steal. essentially, my headcanon is that kassandra can prepare food just enough that she can feed herself (and eventually phoibe). but if you gave her like a chicken or a pig or some other animal and said “make it tasty” she would have no fucking clue what to do.

connor: i like to think that after achilles’ passing, he started taking in stray animals. the mansion is so big and lonely when it’s just him; he’s always lived in close quarters with other people, and as introverted as he is i think the solitude of the empty mansion is just way too fucking bleak. so obviously the solution is that he just starts bringing strays home. maybe it starts with an injured critter that he nurses back to health, or a dog or a cat that keeps following him around when he’s in boston/nyc. but much like how eivor eventually winds up with like 80 pets inside the longhouse, i like to imagine that at some point there’s like 3 dogs, and 2 cats that curl up in/around his bed at night, birds that repeatedly come and nest in the beams of the mansion roof year after year, deer that come by and nibble at the weeds/bushes by the cliffs, because connor may or may not go to great lengths to ensure that their favorite nibblin’ plants grow there year-round.

send me a character!