#[ic] he smiles and guards the hopes and dreams of children with fun

[star-girl69]

I Loved You Like the Sun

a/n: i’ll admit i had to do several rewrites of this chapter until it came out how i wanted it, and even then i don’t think it’s my best work. but regardless, this was really fun to write and i absolutely adore this series. i hope you all enjoy!

warnings: swearing, abuse (not physical), forced isolation, mentions of forced starvation, violence, mentions of sex, incest, tell me if i missed anything!

Chapter Two - Blind Me

—-

You woke the same way you always did. Alone, cold. Empty.

Rhaenyra had taken your heart with her, and you found yourself incapable of loving until you were reunited with her.

She haunted you.

She looked like an angel, but perhaps she was the angel of something dark. The angel of pain, you thought. The angel of longing, yearning.

The angel of remembering was the most likely. Seeing as you remembered every inch of skin she had ever let you touch, every line on her skin, every scar.

But you remembered her hands the most of all.

How they would splay across your skin, pressing you tight to her on cold nights.

She haunted your thoughts every day, in the morning and at night. You thought of her while your husband was right next to you.

Sometimes, if you were lucky, she haunted your sleep. She would visit you in your dreams, do nothing but hold you and tell you how much she missed you. It felt so real.

You could hide your mind, but you could not hide the aching in your hands, fingers always splayed around nothing, wishing her hand was with yours. Lips always soft, always ready for hers to be placed upon them.

You missed her more than life itself.

The door opened, and light flooded your room.

“Good morning, Lady Chambers.” You didn’t speak to the handmaiden. You tried to, when you had first been married, but no one was her. No one was Rhaenyra.

You remained silent as she coaxed you out of your cold bed, into the cold air, and you smiled to yourself. Was Rhaenyra as cold as you right now? Or perhaps she was warm, snuggled under the blankets in the arms of her husband.

You heard the rumors. You knew about Harwin Strong, about her bastard children. You knew about the scandal she had participated in, being married to her uncle so shortly after both their partners deaths.

Maybe they were happy together. Maybe she had forgotten about you. It’s not like you could have sent any letters to her, your husband laughing in your face when you asked to borrow a raven to send them. He forbid you from sending any correspondance.

He liked seeing you like this, you realized. Alone and in pain, a weak woman with no one to save her. No one to warm her bed, no children to care for. He was cruel, cruel, cruel.

You hadn’t done anything to deserve it.

After being dressed in a dark blue dress, showing that you belonged to your husband, you made your way downstairs. You decided you would skip breakfast as you did most meals, not ready to see your husband unless you had to.

You walked past his chambers, stopping in front of the door.

Tears welled, but you refused to let them fall. You stood tall, fixed your dress and turned to go to the library. It reminded you of Rhaenyra.

A scream came from your husbands chambers, and a barely clothed woman ran out, wrapped in a sheet.

Guards swarmed past you, into your husbands chambers you had never even been inside of.

One stood by you, grabbing your arm. You pushed yourself into him, letting fear rest in your viens like ice.

What had happened to him? Would they come for you next?

The head guard, a man by the name of Ser Wolland, left the chambers with a grave look on his face.

“Lord Chambers is dead.”

—-

Your husband was not dead.

No, of course, Kyle Chambers would never leave this world, not while you were alive and had the chance of being happy. Instead, you and your husband’s court was whisked off to King’s Landing, where he would receive the best care from the Grand Maester.

The House Chambers had always been good friends to the crown, so with a bit of begging, this gesture was allowed.

Everyone knew that with the marriage of Aegon and Helaena, to happen later this week, the Greens were making a play for the throne. Tensions grew between the Blacks and the Greens, and your husband was determined to play both sides.

He was stupid.

But you were grateful for his sudden illness, his diagnosis not known to you, seeing as you were a “weak” woman who could not possibly understand.

Your best guess was that something was wrong with his heart.

But just as something was wrong with his, something was wrong with yours. During the carriage ride, as you had grown nearer and nearer to where she would be, your heart fluttered ridiculously.

It was good timing, your husband’s illness. You had to travel to King’s Landing for the royal wedding regardless, so the preparations had already been made.

You didn’t know of Rhaenyra would be there. Maybe her hatred of the Greens would be too strong, and she would feign sickness and send her sons in her place. You hoped she did not.

Gods, you hoped she was there.

—-

The carriage stopped in the courtyard with a large thump, and your husband exited first. Practically carried out by guards, he was getting weaker and weaker by the day.

His pulse dropped so low that the maester would proclaim him dead, only for him to awaken a few hours later. But with each awakening, he was weaker and weaker.

He still had enough energy to entertain his whores, as long as he could lay on his back while some poor woman struggled to wrap her legs around his wide frame from above.

“Lord Kyle of House Chambers, and his Lady Wife.”

You despised that title, but exited the carriage regardless. Your husband demanded that you wear his house colors the entire trip, royal blue, to show everyone that you belonged to him.

He probably had half a mind to just lock you away in your chambers, collect you when the trip was over.

He often did that when other lords were visiting, saying you were sick while he hid you in your bedroom right above them.

You used to hope that someone would notice, that someone would save you. But you soon realized that notion was foolish, and forced yourself to accept your new reality.

You prayed each and every night for his demise.

The sun was bright in your eyes, but as they adjusted, you looked around. The courtyard buzzed with activity, the carriage rolling off behind you, swords clanging in the distance.

You turned, in awe, letting yourself be taken by the current of people. It was so nice to be back in King’s Landing.

Perhaps color would return to your face, here in this bright and sunny place.

You turned around, almost laughing like a wild woman at all the activity. You had not felt this alive in years.

Your joy came to an abrupt end as you slammed into someone, almost knocking them over. Gods, you almost knocked over a small child.

“I’m so sorry!” You rushed out as the boy steadied himself, looking quite proud.

“Jace! Did you see that? I didn’t fall over!” Another young boy ran over, perhaps some years older, looking at you with an accusing gaze.

“I’m so sorry. I- I haven’t been to court in years. I fear I’m not quite accustomed to all this hustle.” The young boy you had knocked into shrugged, looking up at you with a smile. The older boy, Jace, who you assumed to be his brother; placed a hand on the younger boy’s shoulder.

“It’s alright. I’m Prince Lucerys, My Lady. I haven’t been to court in a while either.” You froze at the name. Oh, oh Gods. This was Rhaenyra’s child.

“Y-you’re the Prince? And you are too?” You looked to Jace, which must be a nickname for Jacerys. “Oh, I knew your mother many years ago. I was her Lady-in-Waiting.”

“Really?” Jace perked up, looking at you with a curious fascination. “What was she like back then?”

You were sure these two boys didn’t want to hear about how their mother was the sweetest lover, so you blushed, trying to think of an answer.

“Yes, what was she like?” Lucerys grabbed your hand, and slowly you fell into a walk with the two boys at either side of you.

“Well, she was beautiful. And she was always very kind to me. She was ambitious, in a way. She knew what she wanted and she went out to get it. She was very inspiring.”

Both boys seemed to hang on your every word, eager to hear more. You were about to retell the story of how you met, when the voice of your husband scared you to the bone. He stalked over, his anger for you suddenly healing his heart.

“Y/N! I told you to go straight to your chambers. You’re very tired after our journey, aren’t you?” He hadn’t told you to do anything of the sort.

Your hand started to shake in Lucerys’ grip, and he frowned, squeezing tighter.

Jace, on the other hand, immediately didn’t like this man. Although you had bumped into his brother, it was a accident and you were very kind about it. He doubted you deserved this harsh tone from your husband.

“I’m sorry, husband.” You extricated yourself from the two boys, and you were quite sad to do so. “It was lovely talking to you two boys.” You offered a kind smile, and the two returned it.

“Goodbye, Lady…”

“Chambers. Lady Y/N Chambers.” Jace nodded, finishing with his goodbye. Luke waved to you, and you smiled as you turned to follow your husband.

—

“Mother, do you know who we met today?” Luke anxiously kicked his feet under the table, eager for his mother’s attention. Rhaenyra could barely contain her smile.

“Who, my sweet boy?”

“Lady Y/N Chambers. She said she used to know you, that she was your Lady-in-Waiting!”

“I really liked her. She was nice.” Jace chimed in, spooning a bite of mashed potatoes into his mouth.

Rhaenyra felt her heart stop.

Her Y/N- back in the castle. So close to her, after all this time.

“Y-yes. I remember her. How- how did she look?”

“Her husband was very mean,” Luke frowned, playing with the food on his plate. “She was talking to us and then he came over and started yelling at her.”

“It was… odd,” Jace agreed, thinking back to the interaction.

“Oh, I see. Well, perhaps I’ll see her again soon.”

Gods, Rhaenyra might go crazy if she didn’t see you again soon. Her thoughts were consumed with you, the memory of your touch, your kiss, forever ingrained into her very soul. She had lived too long without you. The need for you grew day by day.

From across the table, Rhaenyra exchanged a glance with Daemon, wordlessly reminding him of his promise.

He looked almost annoyed with her, as if saying: of course I have not forgotten, my dear wife, that you wish to take your childhood lover and wed her to us in the ways of Old Valyria.

Rhaenyra let the grip on her fork go, not even realizing she had been gripping it since your name was mentioned.

You were here, in the palace. Soon, what Rhaenyra had been waiting so long for would fall into place. She would have her Y/N, and her Daemon. What she had been waiting so long for.

—-

#daemon x rhaenyra #daemon targaryen x reader #daemon targaryen #rhaenyra targaryen x reader #rhaenyra targaryen

[frostgrin]

@crazydazeymuses​

      ❝ You’re a literal cell and I’m old man winter.  What could go wrong? ❞

#[ic] he smiles and guards the hopes and dreams of children with fun #no i was not seconds from shutting my mac down and going to sleep #wdym??? #me logging back on just to throw jack at ozzy #no surely *sweats* youre *sweats* mistaken *sweats more* #crazydazeymuses

[honey-milk-depresso]

Can I’m have the dorm leaders x male reader who is the guardian of innocent hopes and dreams of children his job is to guide and make dreams come true and protect the hope and innocent of children his guardian form looks like a angel with stars and stars in his eyes and he was created by the innocent of children headcanons please

JACK FROST ASK? JACK FROST ASK- But without the ice :')))) Also I guess it's like Man of the Moon-

But gender neutral, hope you don't mind! ^^ And I did the dorm leaders I feel need an S/o like that- or that I can write better for them-

You're a loner for most of your life, and a rebel without a cause. You're sarcastic and mischievous, and very, very chaotic.

But all you want to do is have fun, with no rules and obligation. But even despite your "punk" attitude, you're gentle and generous soul, using your powers to guard over children and their dreams, protecting their hopes and wishes. Perhaps, you can still protect even the ones all grown up.

TWST The mischievous yet giving s/o (Jack Frost + Man of the Moon)

***Basically Jack Frost without the Frost, and replace it as Jack Moon- NEVER a ship- just combo in one person- I guess-

Riddle Rosehearts

You annoy him to no end it seems.

You just want to have things your own way, you don't abide to ANY rule, you don't even where the school uniform- WHAT DO YOU WANT???

It angers him EXTREMELY, and no matter how long he nags, scolds, heck, BURN THE BUSHES, you just tuner out the next second.

After his overblot events, he was stuck in his room, still shaken and upset about his overblot occurrence. He couldn't believe that happened to him.

"Hey, Liddel (on purpose).." "GAH! D-don't scare me like that.." Riddle exclaimed, trying to wipe his tears as fast as he can so you wouldn't see. "You ain't good, huh?" "Why did you come here unannounced.." he harshly whispered. "Hey," you let yourself perched on to the window ledge. "You're getting nightmares."

Riddle gulped in his spit. He was. And... he was scared of what might happen to him. "Close your eyes," he heard you tell him. "Why-" "Shhhh-" you interrupted him, as you gently pushed him back down on his bed. Riddle was now facing the ceiling, eyes still quite sore from crying. Then... a floating gold star appeared above right in front of him.

"W-what is.." he turned his head to see you, your fingers intertwining with more stars as he saw the faint, glowing gold wings behind you. "W-what... H-how..." "I read your dreams, they were all suppressed. It seems... from when you were a kid," you stated, a soft yet serious expression on your face.

"This one's cute. You wanted to dive into a room filled with strawberry tarts~" you teased him a little, as he blushed in embarrassment. "Just rest, Liddel. I'll take care of the rest."

As Riddle settled to close his eyes, he wandered into dreams too good to be true. But once he woke up, he knew they were real.

Real when he woke up to see you smiling at him. <3

Vil Schoenheit

You're just infuriating.

You just like to crash into everything (maybe a little literally) with that chaotic attitude of yours, don't you?

Vil hates the constant distractions you make during every rehearsal he has.

You just irritate him, so you're unimportant and a nuisance for him.

After his whole overblot, he hasn't admit to anyone, but he's scared. Scared after people saw how ugly and disgusting he looked. Even if it didn't seemed like it, he felt the judgment of the crowd even if his overblot was resolved.

"Hey, Prince Charming." "What on earth..." he looked at you, snapped out of his daze for looking so long in his mirror.

“You upset?” He frowned lightly at you comment. “What do you want, s/o?”

You perched yourself up on his bed frame, looking at him with an unreadable expression. “Sorry about what happened.”

Vil only sighed. “It doesn’t matter.” As he was reorganising his make up essentials, he saw a twinkling gold dust spawning from air, which turned into a glowing star. He was stunned, pulling his hands back away from the star. “W-what?”

"Go to sleep on your bed," he heard you tell him. "Why-" "Shhhh-" you interrupted him, as you guided him to his bed while making him float, letting him lie on his bed. Vil saw more stars floating above him.

"How are you doing this…" he turned his head to see you, your fingers intertwining with more stars as he saw the faint, glowing gold wings behind you. "I was just born to do so," you stated, a soft smile on your face.

“Now, sleep well,” his eyes widened at your last comment, a dream he once had as a child, “hero.” <3

Azul Ashengrotto

God, were you always on his nerves.

You’re a second Floyd without the mood swings, combined with every other delinquent of this school. You were rebellious, always thwarting all he has, annoying him with your sarcastic attitude and childish nature.

It drives him INSANE.

It was even worse when you thwarted his plans and all his contracts, resulting in his overblot.

And even after, he was so depressed of everyone seeing him. Well, I mean, he recovered a little, but it still didn’t help that people saw how he looked like and that he doesn’t know how to shake the thought of of becoming that puny octopus he once was.

“Hey. Glasses with money.” He heard that familiar voice from his door, as he sees you shutting it.

“What are you doing here…” he muttered, clearly not happy to see you. “Look, I came here to say sorry, and also you gotta sleep. It’s late.” “First of all, how did you get in? Secondly, how did you know I wasn’t asleep, and thirdly how dare-” “Okay, look,” you cut him off, pushing him back to his bed as his head laid on the pillow with a very soft thud.

He grumbled a little, stating how weird you are when he saw a golden, floating star hovering above him.

“What is- what is that?!” He looked towards your direction as he saw more golden stars spawning from your figures like a mist. Gold wings shimmered like light from heaven, as they were made from what seems to be some magic gold dust.

“H-how are you doing this..?” “I was made to do this,” you teased him, using a finger to poke his nose lightly making him flinch and blush. “You had such innocent and passionate dreams. So aspiring..” you whispered. You looked back at the dumbfounded and in awe Azul with a soft smile.

“Now, go to sleep,” you stated, using your hands to cover his eyes as he felt the warmth of your hand on his face. It felt… peaceful, and for once, he had better dreams when he is with you. <3

GOD THIS WAS SO WEIRD SINCE I DIDNT KNOW HOW TO WRITE BUT REALLY LIKE THIS SO KDKSKSJDK-

Reblogs help! ^^

#twst #twisted wonderland #twst x reader #twisted wonderland x reader #riddle rosehearts x reader #riddle rosehearts #vil schoenheit x reader #vil schoenheit #azul ashengrotto x reader #azul ashengrotto #twst headcanon #twst x reader headcanon #twisted wonderland headcanon #twst fluff #twst x reader fluff #twisted wonderland fluff #fluff #headcanon #self insert #x reader #twst azul #twst azul x reader #twst vil #twst vil x reader #twst riddle #twst riddle x reader

[tokoyamisstuff]

Meant To Be - Loki x Fem! Reader

Summary: Much to your displeasure, your parents have promised you away to the God of Mischief of all people.

Tags: Arranged Marriage AU, Light Elf! Reader

Warnings: Aside from Loki hating himself, nothing.

Words: 2878

I Masterlist I

A/N: Some good old-fashioned, ‘redeemed after The Avengers and the other movies didn’t happen’ Loki. Like, really cheesy, self-indulgent 2012 stuff. I just want to ignore all misery that happens in the series okay?

“Ew! Stop it!”

You were eight at the time when you and Loki first met, by means of negotiation between both your parents.

If only you knew that this encounter should be the first impression of what should be your husband in the near future...

Frigga and Odin could only plead for their son to be on his best behavior - but well, it’s the God of Mischief we’re talking about. Must be hard to inherit such a title from your very birth.

Just when you put the little bonquet of flowers he had picked up for you towards your face to admire it, several little spiders emerged from the blossoms.

“You’re no fun.” The raven-haired boy stood a safe distance away from you, arms crossed as his gleeful laughter turned into a broad sulk. "And your ears are weird.”

“I hate you!” you screeched in your childish rage, throwing the flowers to the ground and trampling onto them. “Where’s your brother? Thor is way nicer than you!”

“Well, why don’t you marry him then?!” he mocked to cover up his hurt pride, picking up a handful of dirt and throwing it in your direction. 

“I don’t need any friends anyway...” the little boy whispered to himself, running away from the scene with tears filling the corner of his eyes. 

“I don’t need anyone. I’m way better than all of them!”

Not even Frigga was fast enough to catch up with him, while Odin uttered some fake apologies to your parents, promising them that everything will go as planned.

You on the other hand were running towards your mother, tightly grabbing onto her dress. “He’s mean! I wanna go home!”

As Queen of the Light Elves, your mother was a being full of grace and composure - and you were hoping to one day become such a formidable person as well.

She bowed down to your height, petting your hair as you rubbed the mixture of tears and dirt from your cheeks. Just her bright smile alone would sometimes be enough to make you forget about your worries - but not today.

“My sweet child” she cooed, cradling you in her arms. “One day you’ll understand.”

However, this would be the last time you paid Asgard a visit - at least until now. Because no matter how deeply you wished to never meet him again, the words your mother spoke on that day haunted you all those years:

“For this is your duty as a princess.”

[Present Day - Asgard]

It felt so unreal when you stuck your head outside of the wooden carriage, the wind playing with your hair as your glare wandered over the rainbow bridge you were crossing.

Silence strained the air, your parents unable to do even so much as look into your eyes. Hel, how you wished this was only a dream.

Behind you was a whole company of Light Elves, transporting all of your belongings to what should be your homecountry from now on.

Now there was no way back, that much was sure.

You were supposed to meet your soon-to-be husband on that very same day, one day before your wedding to be precize.

One could only guess why you weren’t allowed to visit Asgard again for all those years, even though you were practically born just for this reason - for this person.

To become Loki’s bride was your involuntary purpose, and you couldn’t help but wonder what it would be like to be truly free.

Maybe your parents thought the God of Mischief to have a bad influence on their growing daughter, pulling you into his harmless yet dishonorable schemes. Or they simply feared you to refuse marrying said man if you got to know him better, finding out just what kind of person you were promised to.

Not that your parents were pleased either...everyone in the Nine Realms knew the stories.

To Odin, there was no point in hiding the disgrace his adoptive son had brought over Asgard. Not only was he responsible for an attack on Midgard, sacrificing thousands of lives for his own sake, drunken by greed for power.

But all of you were shocked to hear that Loki Odinson - or rather Laufeyson - was never Asgardian to begin with.

A Frost Giant.

Among your kind, they were known to be one of the most terrible abominations in the nine realms, and murderer of countless of your kind - and this should be the father to your future children?

Only thinking about this cruel twist of fate made you want to vomit...

So why did you agree to proceed with the preparations as if nothing had happened? How in Alfheim’s name could you reject their offer to wed you to Thor instead of that lunatic?

Was it that through your upbringing and royal duties, you had lost your own free will? Or simply fear of stepping aside the path that everyone had prepared for you?

It was probably the fact that you didn’t want to get into true love’s way...you and Thor stayed in brief contact through Heimdall, and you just knew how much that human girl meant to him.

You were kinda jealous, though...the concept of being in love was foreign to you, having a vague idea of it from novels only. But real life just wasn’t meant to be that was, was it?

You couldn’t escape your fate, that was what it was - for this treaty would unite both kingdoms, bringing peace and wealth for all of their inhabitants.

No way you could be so selfish as to decline...even if it meant you had to suffer for the rest of your life.

“My Ladyship, we have arrived!” a guard spoke as he knocked on the carriage door, with your parents hinting that you needed to step out first.

The very same guard now yelled from the pit of his lungs, making you feel the whole Kingdom of Asgard could hear. “Now arriving: Lady Y/N Y/L/N, eldest Princess of Alfheim and heir to the throne.”

You heared the people whispering as you took your first, insecure steps, blinded by the bright daylight.

“She’s so pale, like ice” or “Why are her ears like that?” were rather nice comments compared to others plainly calling you ugly, scary or a ‘disgrace’.

Of course your Kingdoms had been in a war for several decades, but this was long in the past - before your very birth, even. So what’s the reason you should bear with such hostility in the place everyone expected you to call ‘home’ from now on?

One thing was clear from the very beginning: You would never belong here.

“May I?” a dark, husky voice interrupted your self-pitying. You blinked heavily, still trying to adjust to all those golden surroundings, until your blurry vision finally cleared up.

“C’mon.” The voice belonged to the man in front of you, looking gravely nervous with sweat dripping from his forehead. He was reaching out a hand for you to take, and you gladly accepted since you didn’t want to embarass yourself further by falling out of the carriage.

And still, you managed to somehow miss a step and fall right into his arms. “Oh my, so clumsy” the man snickered as he catched you, clearing his throat as you grabbed onto his chest to regain balance. "Not very graceful for someone of your status.”

“And you are-” The words got stuck in your throat when you stared back into those eyes, their emerald green awaking memories you’d rather forgotten entirely. “L-Loki!”

“Exactly, my dear. The one and only.” Smooth and calm, he  pecked a kiss on the back of your hand, andyou couldn��t help but admire just how well he had aged: His wild locks were combed back, sharp features complimenting his face as he tried his best to give you his most innocent smile.

Yet you kept your guard up, always expecting him to somehow embarass you just for the fun of it. “When it comes to him, always expect the unexpected” Thor once warned you, and you won’t forget about it that easily.

“It’s a pleasure finally meeting you” was your firm declaration, only to be rewarded with a scoff. “You are speaking to the God of Lies, Lady Y/N - there is no use in trying to deceive me” he whispered into your ear, making you shiver in unpleasant anticipation.

“Carry her belongings to my rooms” he dismissed the servants with a simple gesture of his hand, offering his other arm for you to cling on as he escorted you through the palace.

The giant halls were almost empty, nothing like back on Alfheim where you and your brethren would enjoy each other’s company in midst of nature. A sole tear escaped your eye when you thought back to those carefree days, which are now over.

“Are you alright, m’lady?” Much to your surprise, your fiancé sounded honestly concerned about your well-being. “If you are tired, we can postpone our tour of the palace until you’ve rested.”

 “May I speak from the heart?” You gulped after finishing that sentence, scaring yourself with all the stories you’ve heared about this mad troublemaker.

Somehow you had the feeling that if you were to overstep your boundaries with that brute, it would have consequences beyond your imagination. He might seem generous and polite right this moment, but what would someone like him do if you enrage him? Countless images were circling in your head, one worse than the other.

Loki furrowed his brows, exhalinge deeply. For him, your expression was an open book to what you were thinking right now.

“Y/N, my dear Lady, if you want it or not: Starting tomorrow, we share a bond. I am deeply sorry that a veritable flower as you are had to end up with someone like me, but I promise to treat you as well as possible.”

Turning around so you’d not detect how it hurt him to speak from the heart, he added with a shaky voice “Yet there is no reason for you to hold back your hatred for me. No harm will come your way, I swear upon the little honor I have left.”

Even though his words made you feel a deep sympathy with the god, you weren’t quite sure if you could decipher truth or deceit in them. Maybe he just wanted to lure you into saying what you truly thought of him?

He’s right - you will have to spend the rest of your life with him, so don’t mess this up from the very start!

“I-I don’t hate you!” was the first thing you blurted out, grabbing onto his cloak. Loki turned around, rising his eyebrow as he scanned your face for any hint of a lie.

Althrough it was the truth, at least to a certain extend. You’ve seen each other only once, when you were still little. The rest is all tales and rumours, but you personally don’t have a reason to despise him.

There was no way you could promise to accept his past or heritage, let alone forgive him - yet as long as he’d treat you with respect, you’d return the favour.

“T-There’s just a question on my mind this whole time...aren’t you mad? I-I mean someone like- well...like you...” you gestured around awkardly, almost making him crack a smile. “I mean...I thought you wouldn’t let your parents dictate your life.”

Another deep sigh escaping his mouth, this times with his eyes closed. “This isn’t about Asgard or my adoptive parents. I choose my own path.”

Suddenly, Loki wrapped one arm around you, flicking his fingers with the free one.

“Hold onto me” he ordered indifferent as he casted his spell, teleporting both of you away before you could even comprehend, let alone ask him what he was doing.

It happened in the fraction of a second, yet felt like hovering through an empty space for an eternity.

“Now open your eyes.” You hadn’t even realized that you squeezed them shut during the shift, slowly opening them while Loki lifted your chin with his index finger.

The environment was magnificent. Had you ever seen something this beautiful in your whole life?

Obviously you had no clue where you were, but this was the first time seeing so much untouched nature on Asgard. There were flowers blooming in all colours imagineable, clear rivers crossing the lands in between grassy hills, and animals nearby a small forrest.

“It’s not like I didn’t educate myself about the Light Elves and their way of living” Loki stammered, unconsciously intertwining your fingers with yours as he watched you admiring the view. “So I could make you comfortable here, I mean.”

He plummeted down on the grass, still a little wet from the morning dew, and gestured for you to do the same. It was weird, actually, but also somehow adorable - how the infamous ‘Silver Tongue’ had lost his ability with words. “I’ve done very little right in my life full of wrongs. Hurt a lot of people.”

“Mmmhh” you hummed approvingly, not knowing what else to say - yet for some reason, you didn’t let go off of his hand, squeezing it ever so slightly.

“And even though I can’t possibly redeem myself, I wish to change for the better.” he muttered, rubbing the back of his head. “I just never knew how to start.”

Loki Odinson really was full of surprises. He was nothing like the child you’ve met long ago, and the complete opposite of what you imagined the ‘God of Mischief’ to be.

You had expected a power-hungry, selfish and cruel man to wed you - and yet there he was: Insecure and broken, only a shell of the person he once was.

Just what had you missed all those years? What things happened to break someone’s will like this?

And was he truly beyond repair?

“Those past weeks, I have visited Alfheim more times than you could comprehend” he giggled nervously, avoiding your eyes. “Concealed, of course.”

Well, that sounded kind of weird, but you knew better than to talk someone down who was just opening up to you. So your sole answer was “What for?”

“There was no way a criminal like me would still be seemed fit for this ceremony - and yet I was given this chance anyway. My mother told me that it was you who insisted on carrying on the arrangement, so...I just wanted to know what person would be willingly ruin their life.”

Something different was shining through the god’s orbs, and you couldn’t quite decipher it. Was it hope? Hope, that if you had given him a chance, his life could lead into a different direction? To change himself from the burden that was his birth title?

“I-I guess I don’t want to mess this up like I always do” he whimpered barely audible, before staring at you in shock and embarassment. Until now, he hadn’t realized just how vulnerable he made himself.

Just what the hell would you think about him now? You probably had lost any respect, or thought himself to be crazy. How weak...

So he was quick to put on the confident facade again, wearing his smug grin as if that all was just part of a big joke only he’d understand. But even though you barely knew him, he couldn’t fool you.

“Sometimes it’s enough just to try.” Your head turned from the sight of nature to your fiancé and back several times, before you brought up the courage and put a hand on his shoulder, whispering “So you can’t really mess this up.”

“Gladly you don’t seem to know yet just how much misery I cause.” He kept that thought to himself, to not scare you away.

“I am aware that you could never love someone like me, Y/N. But I can provide for you, dedicate myself to making you content with being my wife. My newfound purpose.”

The purpose of a war criminal - that sure put yourself under a lot of pressure. And still, it made you somewhat proud, and grateful as well. Because it was the first time someone valued you as a person, and not the princess of Alfheim.

Unaware of how much time had passed, both of you would get used to each other’s presence in silence, enjoying the nature while you processed this eventful day.

Exhausted from the long travel and all that rollercoaster of emotion, you soon found yourself dazzling into sleep onto Loki’s shoulder. If only you could see him adore you, staring in awe that someone could actually feel so safe in his presence.

Carefully, the god picked you up, gently lifting you on his arms to make your way back to the palace, where everyone was frantically searching for both of you. Well, Loki was used to trouble -  but right now, it was worth it.

May it be right or wrong, and even though you couldn’t explain this sentiment, you had a good feeling when it came to the things that were just about to come.

“You won’t regret your decision, Y/N Y/L/N. On my side, I assure you a bright future.”

#Loki #Loki x Reader #Loki x You #Loki Odinson #Loki Laufeyson #Loki Friggason #Loki/Reader #Loki/You #Self Insert #Fanfiction #Arranged Marriage #Writing #Marvel #Asgard

[restlessfandoming]

“ice fishing” (pt. 4) (chilumi fic)

[part 1] [part 2] [part 3]

“Childe invites Lumine to the annual Snezhnayan holiday dedicated to the Tsaritsa. There, she meets his entire family, and all the conflict that comes with them.”

hey all sorry for the delay in update my brain went brrrr the past few days LOL :’)

[Fic Masterlist]

“ice fishing” (pt. 4)

The town square was bustling with various food stalls and merchants as the family weaved through crowds of celebrating Snezhnayans. Childe carried Tonia while Teucer held Lumine’s hand; Anthon held Teucer’s other hand, and Lumine and Childe’s hands were joined in the middle. Misha stayed a few steps behind them. Alexei decided to venture out to the countryside, alone, and Feliks and Galina remained at home. 

Childe had his face obscured by his red scarf brought up to his nose, along with a winter hat, as he wanted to avoid recognition as a Harbinger around his younger siblings. 

Lumine stepped in closer to Childe. “I can feel Misha’s disapproving glare burning into my skull,” she whispered. 

“Yes, I don’t think I’ve ever seen her satisfied with anything in the world,” he whispered back. 

Teucer tugged on Lumine’s hands. “Look at those toys, Lumine!” he said, eyes set on a colorful stall displaying various dolls, stuffed animals, and other children’s knick-knacks. The group stood in front of the stall, and the children ogled over the bright colors and playful patterns. 

“Children, I think you have enough toys already,” Misha said. “I think it would be better if you found something more practical to buy.” 

“It’s Lyublyu,” Childe interjected. “It’s a time for festivities; whatever they want, I’ll get it for them.” 

The older sister turned to him. “You spoil them too much, Ajax. How are they supposed to learn and grow up if you keep babying them?” 

His eyes narrowed. “They’re children, Misha. Let them have their fun and dreams.” 

Misha frowned, turned, then walking away. 

I have to know if she’s working with Alexei. Without a second thought, Lumine started following her. 

“Lumine! Where are you going?” Childe called out behind her. 

She turned back, only to see her view of Childe and the children become swallowed up by the intense crowd shuffling around her. 

She cursed, turning back to where she saw Misha’s back receding. Guess I have to follow her now…

Lumine’s tiny frame was jostled around as she tried her best to push through, keeping Misha in sight. The crowd thinned out at the edge of the town square with only a few people dispersed around. Lumine started to pick up her pace to catch up to Misha. 

Suddenly, a tall, blonde man stepped in her way, obscuring her view. 

“You don’t look like you’re from around here,” he said with a smile. 

“I’m not,” Lumine answered simply, moving to get around him.

He stepped in her way again. “You look very beautiful.” 

Great, a creep. “I’m in a bit of a hurry,” she told him. This time, she moved quicker and got around him. 

But he grabbed her wrist and stopped her. “Let me take you out, darling.” 

No, allow me. Lumine charged up Anemo energy in her hand, blowing his grip away. In his shocked state, he stumbled back a bit, where she conjured Geo energy to pull up some stone and tripped him. He fell on his back. 

“What the—?” He looked at her, a mixture of fear and confusion, then got up and scurried away. 

Lumine let out a sigh. The sound of a sword sheathing turned her around. 

Misha stood there, hands on the hilt of her sword. “And here I was, ready to help.” 

“You were going to help me?” the traveler asked. 

“Perhaps,” Misha said. “But it seems like you’re strong enough to handle it on your own.” 

“Oh, uhm, thanks,” Lumine responded awkwardly. Did she...did she just compliment me?

“So, why were you following me? Did Ajax send you?” 

“No. I wanted to ask you something.” Lumine took a deep breath in, then looked Misha in the eyes. “Why are you here?”

A scoff. “Why am I here, at my own home?” 

“Why did you come back? Childe told me you left.”

“Did he now?” Misha took a step closer to Lumine. “And did he tell you why?”

“Your mother got sick. You didn’t want to deal with her weakness. Or your father’s.”

“She’s running out of time. And so is my father. They’re shells of who they used to be.” She clenched her sword’s hilt. “I left to train. To learn. So I could come back and raise my siblings properly.”

Lumine crossed her arms. “I would say Childe is doing a much better job than you are.”

Misha’s jaw clenched. “Teaching them a false reality of the world? That the world is made up of glittering childhood dreams and endless toys? That the world is always kind, no matter what?” She grimaced. “No. That only teaches them weakness. And then they’ll be like our mother and father: weak, empty shells.”

The traveler frowned. “You don’t think children deserve those dreams? You’d rather shatter their illusions of the world?” 

Lumine and Aether hadn’t experienced normal childhoods, no experiences of motherly or fatherly love. Misha wasn’t wrong: the universe could be a cruel place, full of people who wanted to hurt and lie and steal and break—betrayals, heartbreak, blood. Lumine knew that firsthand. But if she could stop someone from going through that, going through what she went through, she would. 

“If it makes then stronger,” Misha’s expression hardened, “then yes.”

And what was her strength? Where does my strength come from? 

She closed her eyes and imaged a vast, endless sea of clouds. Of the air whistling past her as her wings flapped. Seeing one beautiful world after another. With one person by her side. Aether. 

She saw an ocean, felt the misty spray around her, heard the metal clanging of blades. She tasted sweet love and felt power—respect—flowing through her veins. Gloved hands and an illuminating smile. Childe.

Strength. Love.

“It’s easy to hate,” Lumine said. “It’s harder to love in the face of evil. Your parents are strong, Misha, not weak. They have so much love for you and your siblings, no matter what.” Her hand hovered over her chest. “Anthon, Tonia, Teucer...they will be stronger with love and kindness. Not by shattering their childhood dreams.” 

“This is love,” Misha said, her voice as sharp as a knife’s edge. “I love my siblings enough to make them strong enough. So they won’t have to suffer when the world decides to bite down on them, to feed on them.”

Lumine stepped closer to the elder Snezhnayan. “You’re making them suffer now, Misha.” Another step. “They’re just children. Let them be warm, let them have their innocence. You’re right here to protect them. Childe is too.” She held out her hand. “And I will be here too.”

Misha looked down at the outstretched hand, her own hands still hovering her sword’s hilt. She then took a deep breath, and grabbed Lumine’s hand. But, instead of shaking it, she yanked her closer until their faces were inches apart. What—?!

“You...You defeated Ajax?” Misha asked, her voice low. 

“Yes, I did,” Lumine replied, ignoring Misha’s vice grip on her arm.  

“He’s a powerful Harbinger. He’s been fighting for a long time, since before he was even a teenager.” Misha’s eyes narrowed. “And you, a mere traveler, with no vision, bested him in combat?” 

“I did.” 

Misha’s mouth twitched like she was about to laugh. “If there’s one thing I admire about Ajax is his limitless strength—his absolute power. How masterful he is on the battlefield. And yet...you beat him.” 

“And I could easily do it again.” As my powers return more and more...

A pause. Then, a laugh. An actual laugh from Misha? “I can see why he likes you, traveler.” Her grip on Lumine’s arm loosened a bit. “Perhaps what you say is right. Your strength...it doesn’t come from cruelty.” Her icy blue eyes seemed the softest they’d ever been.

“Thank you,” Lumine said, overjoyed she had won Misha over. 

Suddenly, a hand came down between Misha and Lumine, splitting their hold. Childe stood between them, an obviously fake smile plastered on his face. Anthon, Teucer, and Tonia stood to the side, confused. 

“Oh, sister Misha, what are you doing with Lumine?” His voice sounded sickly sweet. “If I didn’t know any better, it would appear like you’re trying to steal her away from me.” 

Misha readjusted her gloves. “If she was so easily stolen from something like that, she would’ve been mine long before you intervened.” She had a tiny smirk on her face. 

Lumine’s jaw almost dropped. Is this...Is she joking?!

Childe’s hands flexed, ready for a weapon. “It’s been a long time since I’ve heard you joke, Misha.” Another fake smile, his eyes dark. “At least, I hope for your sake, it was a joke.”

Misha looked at her brother then laughed. “Of course, Ajax, you don’t have to worry about a thing. I don’t take things that aren’t mine.” She turned to the children. “Come, little ones, let’s go find some toys to buy.”

Teucer’s eyes widened. “Really?” 

Anthon’s brows furrowed. “Is this a trick?” 

“No, it is not a trick, Anthon,” the eldest sister replied. “Maybe some toy swords…?” 

Tonia gasped, jumping to Misha, and hugging her legs. “Thank you, thank you, thank you, sister!” 

Teucer grabbed Misha’s hand and started dragging her back to the vendors. “I think I saw some toy swords over here!” Soon, Misha, Anthon, Teucer, and Tonia disappeared back into the crowded town square. 

“It’s a bit shocking to see Misha so...happy,” Lumine commented, her gaze still fixed on the crowd. Silence. “Childe—?” As she turned towards him, he grabbed her chin—his other hand on the small of her back—pushing her close into a deep kiss. 

Lumine broke away, her face flushing. “What was that for?!” 

His eyes were still slightly dark, arms still wrapped around her. “What did you and Misha talk about?”

...

“...Childe...are you jealous of Misha?” 

“No, of course not.” 

She reached up and pulled his hat down over his eyes. As he tried readjusting his hat, Lumine stood on the tip of her toes, grabbing the collar of his shirt, catching him off guard with a soft kiss. 

“You idiot,” she muttered. “I love you. Just you.” 

Childe pulled his hat back, his eyes meeting hers. “What can I say? You draw people in. It’s hard not to notice.” He rested his forehead on hers. “The thought of you...and...someone else…” He let out a hard laugh. “Well, let’s just say it wouldn’t be a pretty sight.” 

“Well you don’t have to worry about that,” Lumine reassured. “My stupid heart chose you.” 

“Mm, as did mine. I guess we’re just stuck together.” 

Together.

Forever? Her heart questioned without hesitation. 

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

[part 5]

#genshin impact #genshin childe #genshin lumine #genshin tartaglia #Childe #Lumine #tartaglia #childe x lumine #lumine x childe #childe x traveler #chilumi #lumichilde #fanfic #me

[briswriting]

『 the three times you kissed kuroo and the one time he kissed you 』

pairing: kuroo x fem!reader genre: angst, fluff warning: characters are 18 when there is underaged drinking wc: 3709

a/n: i’ve been planning to write a 3+1 trope and here it is hehe this is dedicated to my ibff @mikwrites because today is our 6 month friendiversay hehe iykyk! i love you so much mik babie mwah i am so so so glad that we are friends <3 also this is my longest fic oof it was lots of fun to write though!

Elementary school, fifth year; ten years old

The bright sun shining harsh rays of light down onto the opened field, shrieks of laughter drifting through the jungle made of deteriorating metal and plastic. A playground worn down year after year, used by smiling children, then years later used by their own smiling children.

The gleeful expressions shown when seeing a friend approach the park, the sound of cheers when someone was found during a game of hide and seek, and the sorrowful thoughts when it was time to leave the playground, head full of fantasies and dreams for when and what you’ll do the next time you visit this field of happiness once again.

This time you were at the playground alone, sitting on the faded seat of the swing, kicking your legs back and forth as the rusted chains softly creaked from the movement. Minutes felt like hours while you sat there waiting for your friends, Kuroo Tetsuro and Kenma Kozume. The former calling your house phone the night before telling you to meet him at the park, something about wanting to show you and Kenma a new volleyball move he learned.

Lost in thought, you didn’t notice your two friends approaching the swing set you were currently situated at. The young bed headed boy sneaking up behind you, putting a finger up to his lips so the other young boy wouldn’t say anything, before jabbing his index fingers into your sides.

“Boo!” His small voice screams into your ear, a wide grin on his face from your shriek of surprise as you almost fall off the seat of the swing.

With a pout on your face, you jump off the swing and turn around to face the two boys. “Kuroo that was mean. Why didn’t you stop him Kenma?” you whine, arms crossed in front of your chest. The later shrugging, mumbling about how Kuroo probably would have made him do some volleyball moves with him if he said anything about their approach from behind you, also stating that he was only here because his parents told him to play outside for once.

It was hours later, the bright sun finally setting for the day, leaving a soft glow of light on the three kids still at the playground. Hours of watching Kuroo try to do volleyball moves he saw on tv, hours of talking about nonsense with your two best friends in the open field.

“Alright, Kenma, toss the ball as hard as you can. I swear I’ll receive it this time!” And with those words and a roll of his eyes, Kenma tosses the ball into the air and hits it towards Kuroo with all the strength he could muster.

As the ball flies towards the crouching raven haired boy, rather than receiving it with his forearms as he planned, the ball rebounds off the side of his face, startling the young boy and causing him to fall flat on his bottom.

“Omg Kuroo, are you alright?” You quickly rush off to the boy as he sits on the ground, still in a daze. Kneeling beside him to check for any injuries, the hit to his face could have caused.

“Woah, Kenma! I didn’t know you could toss that hard!” He grins, quickly standing up and brushing the dirt off his clothes. “And I’m fine, Y/N, it was a hard toss but wasn’t too hard to knock me out or anything.”

“Are you sure? Should we go to my house and get some ice?” You question, a bit worried that the hit to his face would cause swelling and bruising.

“Nah, it’s alright. If it bruises, I’ll just tell people I got into a fight or something! Imagine how cool people would think I am for getting into a fight with someone.” The expression on his face full of excitement at the thought of him telling people he got decked in the face because he got into a fistfight with someone.

“You should just kiss it better, Y/N. Maybe that’ll shut him up,” Kenma states sarcastically. His words don’t even process in your head as sarcastic, as it’s still full of worry.

From your place by his side, you reach up to plant a quick kiss to cheek that got hit by the volleyball, pulling back with a grin. “There, all better!”

Junior high, third year; fourteen years old

A comfortable silence surrounds you and Kuroo as the two of you sat in his bedroom, waiting for Kenma to come over with the new video game he recently purchased and was eager to show the two of you.

You were seated on the edge of his bed, Kuroo situated behind you as he tried his best to braid your hair. Looking in the mirror every once in a while, you caught glimpses of his concentrated face as he tugged on your hair to try and create the perfect braid.

“Have you had your first kiss yet, Y/N?” His question breaking the silence enveloping the two of you, catching you completely off guard as you look back into the mirror and make eye contact with him.

“I mean, if I did, I feel like I would have told you and Kenma every detail about it,” you laugh out, giggling at the disgusted face he makes due to your words. “Why do you ask?”

“Hmmm, just curious, I guess. Also, there, I finished the perfect braid!” He exclaims, a proud grin on his face as you turn your head to check out the braid in the mirror.

“Kuroo, this braid is terrible!” You cry out, laughter falling from your lips as you examine the braid with pieces of hair sticking out and a large strand of hair not intertwined with the rest of the braid.

“I know its terrible! Braiding is hard; I don’t know how you do it.” With a loud sigh, he dramatically throws himself backward, flopping down on his bed, back to the mattress as he stares up at the ceiling.

Taking your hair out of the braid, mumbling as you work out the tangles with your fingers, you lay yourself down next to him, accompanying him in staring at the blank ceiling of his bedroom. His previous question still floating around in your mind, had he had his yet and was trying to find a way to tell you? “Hey Kuroo, have you had your first kiss yet?”

“Not yet, but almost all the guys at school have already. We’re about to go into high school, and I haven’t even kissed someone yet,” he sighs again, closing his eyes to try and get rid of the thought of not having kissed anyone yet, his braining thinking it was something to be embarrassed of.

From his body language, you knew he was thinking about how embarrassing it was to not have his first kiss yet. Shifting to your side, you focus your gaze onto his face rather than his ceiling. “Hey, it’s not embarrassing to not have kissed anyone yet! I mean, we’re still young, and don’t you want your first kiss to be with someone you care about, and not just some lame kiss to get it done and over with?”

“I guess that makes sense. I don’t know I was just thinking.”

“What you thinking for the first time in your life?” You playfully tease, prodding his side with your finger, a playful and mundane action between the two of you. “Did you bring it up because you want me to be your first kiss?”

Your question causing him to open his eyes quickly, shock evident on his face as he shifted his gaze to look at you. The shit eating grin on your face letting him know that you were just teasing him and his thoughts.

“Don’t say things like that, gonna get my hopes up,” he teases back, a grin on his own face as he shifts to his side, the two of you now facing face to face with each other. “But all jokes aside, if you hypothetically wanted to be each other’s first kiss I wouldn’t be op-”

And with that, you interrupt his words by closing the gap between the two of you, placing a quick peck to his lips before pulling away with a grin, the same kind of grin you made when you had first kissed him on the cheek all those years ago.

A blush evident on both your faces, Kuroo a stammering mess, still trying to process what just happened. The door to his bedroom flying open, causing the two of you to jump apart from your close proximity.

“Hey guys, sorry I’m late, but I have the game! Wait, did something happen? What did I miss? Why does Kuroo look like that?”

High school, third year; eighteen years old

The sound of blasting music and loud chatter filled your ears as Kuroo opened the door to the house of a graduation party the two of you were invited to. Graduation. It was a couple more weeks away, but once it arrived, you would go your separate ways from your friends, Kenma still having another year in high school and Kuroo going to a different university than you.

Although the three of you wouldn’t be too far away from each other, you were all staring different stages of your lives without each other. You were no longer going to have them right across the street from you when you needed comfort; the next step in life was going to be different. Different from the last ten years that the three of you had spent together, side by side.

“Hey, I’m gonna go grab us some drinks. Go find Yaku and Kai, yeah?” Kuroo shouted over the bustling noise of the party.

“Yeah, I’ll go look for them. I’ll text you where we’re at, but please nothing too strong, Kuroo! We have to walk back home,” you warn him as he starts to leave your side.

“Yes ma’am,” he teases, giving you a playful salute then walking away, towards the kitchen where the drinks were located.

After a quick glance around the house, you heard Kai and Yaku’s familiar shouts coming from the backyard. Peaking your head out the sliding door, you were relieved to finally find your friends, occupied by a game of beer pong with a couple of people you had recognized from school.

“Hey Y/N, you made it! Where’s Kuroo at?” Yaku greets you, pulling you into a hug before taking his turn at tossing the ping pong ball, it lands with a soft splash into the last cup on the opposing team’s side — his and Kai’s shouts of victory ringing in your ears as they high five.

Before you can answer Yaku’s question, you feel a familiar poke to your side, quickly turning around to see Kuroo behind you with two cups.

“You were supposed to text me where you guys were at Y/N. Made me go searching for you guys myself,” he fake pouts at you, handing you your cup before greeting everyone that was outside.

Taking a sip of the drink, he handed you, you were surprised to find that the drink had no taste of alcohol. “Hey, what’s with the surprised face? You said not to make it too strong, and you make it look like I don’t know how to make a drink or something,” he teases, nudging you with his elbow as he stands next to you.

“Oh right, sorry, I forgot you were a professional barista,” you joke with a roll of your eyes and a grin on your face before taking another sip of the drink he had made.

After a few more rounds of watching people play beer pong, socializing with your classmates, and a few more drinks that Kuroo had made you, you suddenly find yourself getting dragged into a game you didn’t want to play.

“Come on, Y/N, it’ll be fun,” Kuroo frowns, tugging at your hand to try and pull you down into the empty spot next to him, an empty spot of a large circle, with an empty beer bottle in the middle.

“We’re seriously going to play spin the bottle? Aren’t we about to graduate high school, this game is childish. Can’t I just watch or something,” you whine, keeping your feet planted outside the circle.

Maybe it was the alcohol coursing through your veins, or perhaps it was the hidden feelings you held for your best friend all these years, but it only took Kuroo flashing you a pair of puppy dog eyes and rubbing his thumb over the back of your hand to finally comply and take a seat next to him.

“Alright guys, let’s get this game going. Remember, you have to take a shot if you don’t kiss the person the bottle lands on,” he grins, shouts of approval from everyone else following his words.

Spin after spin of the empty bottle, it never appearing to land on you much to your satisfaction, you watched as multiple people exchanged kisses, kisses ranging from quick pecks to full on make outs.

Your heart clenching every time the bottle landed on Kuroo as you sat there watching the person you liked kiss someone else, someone who wasn’t you. The grin on his face whenever his lips detached from someone else’s, causing you to regret even coming to the party. If you stayed home, you wouldn’t have witnessed all these heartbreaking kisses.

It was hard to avert your eyes from him when he had to kiss someone, hard not to imagine the girl in his lap being you instead of them. And maybe it was a mixture of jealousy and the alcohol you kept drinking, but you were silently hoping that when it was your turn, the bottle would land on Kuroo so that you’d be able to stake your claim on his lips.

And to your surprise, when it was your turn, the bottle spinning in countless circles, it slowly came to a stop, pointing to the person next to you, the person you had wanted the bottle to land on. But now that the bottle had landed on him, you were nervous, nervous of what could come after the kiss. What if this kiss ruined everything between the two of you? What if he liked kissing the other girls better than you? What if by some miracle this kiss caused him to find out about your feelings and he didn’t want anything to do with you again?

After a couple moments of you not averting your gaze from the bottle, Kuroo broke the silence. “You don’t have to kiss me, Y/N. Just take the shot instead.” His gaze meeting yours when you turn your head to look at him.

With those words, your heart broke. He didn’t want you to kiss him, your buzzed mind believing that his words clearly meant that he’d rather have you take a shot than have your lips on his. Unbeknownst to you, Kuroo had said those words because he thought you didn’t want to kiss him, thought that you didn’t share the same feeling for him that he had for you.

Quickly you finished the small amount of liquid courage left in your cup, needing an extra boost of bravery for what you were about to do next. Cupping his face in your hands, you swing a leg over him, straddling his lap before you press your lips to his in a hasty kiss, the taste of alcohol on his lips, your hands moving to tangle themselves in his hair and his own hands place themselves on your hips as the two of you indulge in each other’s touch for just a moment.

As you pull away breathlessly, Kuroo gives you a grin, a grin that in your mind looks eerily similar to the ones he had been giving to other girls he kissed during this stupid kissing game. A grin stating that this kiss was nothing more than a meaningless make out to him, just like all the other meaningless kisses he gave away earlier that night.

To everyone else witnessing the aftermath of this kiss, it was obvious that Kuroo’s grin was a smile of love and adoration towards you. Still, the two of you were too blind and oblivious to the mutual feelings the two of you had for each other as you quietly situated yourself next to him again, acting like what just happened did not occur at all. Heartbreak evident on both of your faces as you both pretended not to be affected by the heartwrenching kiss you had exchanged just moments before.

University, second year; twenty years old

You were back at the same playground, the playground that brought back years and years of happy memories with your best friends. The situation seeming like deja vu from elementary school all those years ago, you sitting on the swing set that got older and rustier with years of ware as you waited for Kuroo and Kenma to show up, not having seen them in person for a while.

And just like in elementary school, you felt a pair of fingers jab into your side, causing you to jump off the swing and quickly turn around to face the messy haired boy. A large grin evident on both of your faces as you let out a screech, instantly launching yourself into his arms. Arms of familiarity and warmth, arms of comfort when you needed consoling, the arms of the boy you have been in love with for years.

“I missed you so much, Kuroo,” you whispered, wrapping your arms tighter around him, still not believing that you were finally seeing each other in person after such a long time.

“Y/N, we text and video call like every day,” he chuckles, but even with his teasing words, you can feel him wrap his arms tighter around you as well. “Also Kenma said he won’t be able to make it tonight, something about his parents pestering him about wanting to know everything his first year of university. But he said we could come over tomorrow.”

“That’s fine, guess tonight will be just the two of us.” Looking up, you catch a glimpse of Kuroo’s smiling face, sending him your own grin before finally pulling away from his embrace.

“Oh, I actually brought this,” he grins, picking up the volleyball by his feet that you hadn’t noticed until now. “Thought we could toss it around like old times.”

And with those words, you followed behind him as you walked to your spot, the spot in the open field where the three of you shared secrets, laughter, and tears. The field that brought back years of loving memories with your two best friends, a field of happiness.

As the two of you approached your spot, Kuroo quickly spin around to look at you. “Hey Y/N, think fast,” he shouts before quickly tossing the ball in your direction before running away.

Used Kuroo’s antics after all the years of friendship, you easily catch the ball before grinning at his retreating form. Letting out a huff, you quicken your pace to catch up to him, knowing he was running slow in order for you to catch him. And as you approach from behind him, you drop the ball and jump onto his back, catching him off guard as the two of you tumble to the ground in a fit of laughter.

Large smiles on both of your faces, the two of you lying in the grass side by side, trying to catch your breaths from all the laughter you shared together. Side by side, like how it used to be before the two of you went different ways.

A comfortable silence encompassed the two of you as you laid there next to each other. “Did you umm happen to read what was on the ball?” Kuroo’s question breaking the silence.

Eyebrows furrowing in confusion, you turned to him before asking, “There’s something written on the ball?” He slowly nods his head at your question, and you can tell that he’s nervous.

Sitting up from your spot, you reach over to grab the ball on the other side of you, noticing that there is indeed something written on it. Your eyes widening and mouth slightly agape at the words scrawled on it in Kuroo’s messy handwriting. I love you.

Your mind wandering, still trying to process the three words written on the ball. “You should close your mouth, might catch some bugs with the way its hanging opened,” Kuroo whispers with a nudge to your shoulder with his, breaking you out of your trance.

“Y-you love me?” You squeak out, hands gently touching the written words before looking up at Kuroo besides you.

“Y/N L/N, I have always loved you. I was just too scared to say anything, but I finally thought that it’s better late than never, right? I hope you feel the same way; otherwise, this would be really awkward.”

“What would be awk-” And with that, Kuroo is leaning in, cutting off your words as he places his lips on yours in a loving kiss, reminding you of the time you cut him off and kissed him for the first time that one day in his childhood bedroom.

As you reciprocate his kiss, he slowly lays you back down on the ground, hovering over you as the two of you exchange a kiss full of longing and love. A kiss that revealed the mutual feelings the two of you had bottled up all these years.

Pulling away breathlessly, the two of you smiling at each other like love struck idiots, you whisper out your own confession to him. “I love you, Kuroo Tetsuro, always have and always will.”

And with your confession to each other, the two of you laid in your field of happiness as the sunset, hand in hand, exchanging sweet kisses here and there as the two of you caught up on all the missed years of loving each other.

haikyuu taglist:  @shinsousama @samwritesss @atsumubabie @zoppzoop @the-black-birb @dumbassbrigade @kokogxddess @cocoa-bitter @ladyinmoon @unstableye @rcbert-downey @wemissyou3000 @rintarhoe @hq-cuties @bokuto-simp @hqmakkitrash @allywritesimagines @nekoglasses @asweetpotato1 @seijhoes @shoutokageyamafan @yams046 @sugawsites @seijoh​ @moon-390​

#haikyuu x reader #haikyuu imagines #haikyuu!! #kuroo tetsuro x reader #kuroo x reader #tetsuro kuroo x reader #kuroo tetsuro #tetsuro kuroo #haikyuu fanfiction #haikyuu #hq!! #hq x reader #hq imagines #kuroo

[avaritia-apotheosis]

Phantom Children [DP x Batman Crossover] Ch. 1

Disclaimer: It's been a while since I watched DP and the only Batman/DC stuff I've interacted with are B:TAS, the JL cartoons, and what I got from fandom osmosis so don't expect any sort of canon compliance.

In Which: the author takes advantage of the passage of time in Nanda Parbat being wonky and Danny doesn't give up, per se, but is sort of resigned to being stuck with the League of Assassins until further notice.

AO3 | Prologue | [ 1 ] | 2 |

CW for descriptions of non-consensual drug use (if there's anything you guys would like me to tag, please tell me)

-----

WHEN SOMETHING WENT WRONG WITH DANNY’S LIFE, it was usually because of one or two things: Ghosts or Vlad. And considering their truce and how even Vlad wouldn’t go this far (at least, Danny hoped), Danny was kidnapped because of ghosts. Or his association with ghosts.

Though how an organization of ninja-assassins got wind of his ‘unique’ circumstance was beyond him. The shackles they slapped on his wrists were more a formality than anything after the second time he tried to escape them with intangibility. The only reason they managed to get him contained the entire trip from Amity Park to wherever the fuck Nanda Parbat lay was because of the cocktail of drugs they pumped into his system spiked with blood blossoms.

Danny had to give it to them. The League of Assassins might not have any anti-ecto weaponry, but they did their homework.

He barely remembered the trip. He catches flashes—blurry figures and words he couldn’t comprehend. A warm hand holding his, a thumb rubbing smooth circles on the back of his palm and calloused fingers running through his hair.

When he awoke, it was in a room bigger than his bedroom. His ankle was shackled to a bedpost, and the only door leading out was locked. There was a separate room for the bathroom off to the side and a shelf stacked with books decorating the otherwise bare walls, but other than that there wasn’t much else. Not even windows.

Intangibility, he learned, wasn’t an option. The blood blossoms in his bloodstream were still in circulation, rendering his transformation useless. If his nose was right, his captors were pumping blood blossoms from the vents. The sickly sweet of the flower was faint in the cool air, but the slight red haze that persisted in the room was unmistakable.

He tried, regardless. The rings barely made it half-way before his knees buckled and he started retching all over the floor. At least his stomach was empty.

-------

Danny doesn’t know how long he’s been in Nanda Parbat. Time moved differently here. Faster, he thought. He doesn’t really understand how or why, though sometimes he wondered what Clockwork thought of all of this.

(There are times, in the darkness and solitude of his cell, when Danny would call for Clockwork to rescue him. Quietly, so quietly, it was barely even a whisper. But Clockwork would hear it—Danny was sure he would. Clockwork helped him out before, so this time shouldn’t be all that different. But at the end of the night, nothingness would answer him. And Danny had to learn over and over again that even the Ghost of Time had his own rules to follow.)

It had taken a few days and Talia nearly biting the head off of the League’s physician for them to realize that blood blossoms would be an awful way to contain him. Effective at immobilizing him, yes, but the flowers left him about as helpless as Superman in a kryptonite cave.

“It all works out in the end,” Talia would say. “The blossoms were never going to become a long-term solution; you might end up developing an immunity to them given enough exposure.”

Though knowing now what Talia’s ‘long-term plan’ was for making sure Danny didn’t slip through the walls of the headquarters and fly across the ocean, Danny would rather take his chances with the blood blossoms.

Danny might not have been as smart as Vlad, but he was tricky and creative when he needed to be. He knows he’s powerful. And sure, he might forget some of his own abilities every now and then, but that doesn’t mean he can’t use them. In the time he’s been stuck in the Leage’s lair (and coherent), Danny had thought of a dozen escape plans, each one with a high chance of success. If he made an attempt, he could guarantee the League wouldn’t notice until he was a quarter-way across the globe.

Escaping wasn’t the problem. That would be the easy part.

His core burned at the thought of it. And it hurt—as if his entire being was dunked in a vat of dry ice and left to freeze. He hated how he was here and everything that he was protecting was far. Away.

Danny wanted to go home. Wanted to read comic books in his bed, play Doom with Tucker and Sam, sleep in class and make fun of the Box Ghost. He wants to eat his mom’s food, even if there’s a fifty-fifty chance that it would come alive and try to eat him instead. He wants to listen to Jazz try to psychoanalyze his problems. Wants to go fishing with his dad and eat his famous chocolate fudge. Wants to fly above the skies of Amity Park and touch what little he can of the universe before he’s called down again.

Amity Park is his haunt. His Home. The soft hum of the Ghost Portal in the basement a lullaby he’s listened to for so long that sleeping without it was next to impossible. Every fiber of his being craved to go back because how is he supposed to protect Amity if he isn’t there?

But to go back meant sacrificing everyone.

Danny doesn’t risk it.

(The—the last time was an accident. If Danny isn’t—if he isn’t careful, this time it may be an assassination. He refused to have his family’s death on his hands again.)

He has faith in Sam, Tucker, and Jazz to hold down the fort until he could find a way to escape. They’re smart. Smarter than him. They’ll work something out and—in a worst-case scenario, they’ll find a way to shut down the Ghost Portal to stop the ghosts from coming through.

Logic meant nothing to his ghost core, though. The next best thing to do was to drown out his worries with the League’s rigorous education.

Hand-to-hand and weapons combat. Geography. History. Dozens of foreign languages. Poisons and herbology and basic first-aid. His days are packed with new things to learn and to repeat until it’s drilled into his skull so deep he could recite the information in his sleep. (Hyosycamus niger, aka Henbane. Every part is highly toxic and can cause dizziness, stupor, insanity, and eventual death. It’s medicinal uses range from--)

The League demanded perfection. The Demon’s Head demanded even more than that.

Talia oversaw his education. Sometimes, there would be another, older, man by her side, observing his regimen with cold calculation. Whenever that man arrived, Danny’s instructors were always stricter.

His teachers made little effort to interact with him outside of their set schedule, and during his lessons they only ever answer pertinent questions. He supposed there would be other students of the League in Nanda Parbat, but he’s seen neither hide nor hair of them. His rooms (a bedroom + bathroom combo that led out into a large indoor space for training) are separate from everything else.

Danny slept alone, ate alone, and trained alone. And for a boy who has had his two best friends stuck to his side like glue for as long as he could remember, it’s a terribly lonely experience.

His shadow guards don’t count. They might as well be another piece of furniture. Another stone in the wall.

-------

Talia was the only one that broke his new mundane routine, as much as she was the cause of it. She was his only source of companionship in this hell hole; the only one who would really speak to him. And yeah, he knew why that was. Jazz had rambled on enough about Stockholm syndrome to know that this ‘arrangement’ was Talia’s attempts at forging a bond between them. But godit’s just so hard to be stuck inside your own mind all day when. It made him think too much. Worry. (Whatifwhatifwhatifwhatif).

And then—

And then.

Danny had asked Talia a multitude of questions, but only two did she ever answer. Both asked when he was still trying to flush the drug cocktail and the blood blossoms from his system.

The first was when he asked, “Why am I here?” She answered that it was because Ra’s al Ghul, her father, wanted him. He had knowledge the Demon’s Head wanted; powers that Ra’s could only ever dream of. The man was curious—though Talia assured him over and over again that Danny wouldn’t be vivisected and studied for science.

The second answer came right after when Danny asked her “How could you be so sure?”

Talia smiled. Lacquered fingers coming up to brush away the dark strands that fell over his face. Her hands traced the curve of his jaw, cupping his cheeks to raise his eyes to hers. “Because you are my son,” she said, voice honey sweet.

He jerked from her hold.

Burned by it.

“You’re lying,” he spat. “I’m already someone else’s son. Try again.”

Talia let her hands drop to her sides. “You are my son.” She took a step closer towards him. Steady. Firm. “That is why you are here.”

“I don’t believe you.”

A pitying smile. “Be that as it may, you cannot change the truth.” She approached him, slowly backing him against the wall before she reached out to tilt his chin upwards. Some traitorous part of Danny’s mind catalogued her features. Made connections that shouldn’t exist. “I have carried you in my womb, Daniel. You were a part of me for so very long and I loved you more with each passing day. You are of my body and of my blood—not matter how much you may deny it.”

“No.” He pushed her hands away and raked his hands over his hair. “You’re lying.” She must be. They don’t look alike. Not at all. Everyone always said he was his dad’s—Jack Fenton’s—exact copy. Black haired and blue eyed and sharp-jawed. Awkward but well-meaning and with a heart of gold, his mother said. It was once of the facts of life; Danny took after his dad, and Jazz took after their mom. Simple as that.

(There is a memory resurfacing from his early childhood that Danny is desperately trying to repress again. Memories of kids teasing him on the playground, innocently cruel in the way only children can be as they tried to convince him he was adopted. That his skin looked nothing like his parents’. Dusky where his parents and sister were fair. He went home crying to his parents that same day, and they soothed away his worries with hushed words and a well-timed distraction.)

He asked no more questions after that. Talia was lying to him for some reason, and no answer she could give would be trustworthy anyways. What little of him he could see in her was only a figment of his own imagination. His mind playing cruel tricks.

Then his hopes were dashed aside when Talia showed him a picture of his father a day later.

The man in the photo looked like him. Black haired and eyes the same shade of too-bright blue. There were differences, of course. The man in the photograph was fairer, unlike Danny. He was taller and broader where Danny was lean and lanky. But despite this and all the other minute differences, this man who was supposed to be Danny’s biological father looked like him.

The same slant of the brow. The same shape of the eyes. The way the man held himself with this sense of gravitas and power that Danny couldn’t yet do in his awkward teenage years but had seen before. In a monster another man.

Danny’s future self was terrifying in its inhumanity, but it didn’t take that much of an imagination to know that he looked almost exactly like the man in the picture.

#danny phantom #batman #danny phantom x batman crossover #cw; drug use #phantom children.txt

[shortkingzuko]

title: the ocean on a gentle night

relationship: bato/hakoda

post-canon, mutual pining, 3 +1

for day 1 of @bakodafleetweek !!

summary: 3 times Bato and Hakoda pine for each other and the 1 time they don't have to -- For all the fear and terror the ocean inspires, Bato thinks that she tries to make amends with nights like these.

read under the cut or on AO3 for the rest of my tags! :~)

 3.

 The sea shouldn’t be as comforting as it still is. They’ve spent years out on her endless waters, away from families, safety, away from the simple joy of being in their homeland. They’ve lost dozens of men while out on the chaotic waves, have lost a good few just to the waves themselves - taken by the sea’s cold embrace, her damp claws clutching their lungs and hearts. Whether it’s the uncertainty that she possesses - her penchant for turning smooth horizons into the greatest storms - or because her damp fog brings with it illness and coughs, Bato knows that he should be tired of the sea, be disillusioned of her and her power.

 Yet, he isn’t. For all the fear and terror the ocean inspires, Bato thinks that she tries to make amends with nights like these. Nights that have just a slightly cloudy sky, with the barest hint of wake, and stars shining so beautifully that it couldn’t be anything except an apology or a love letter. He thinks of the sea not as a terrible mistress but more like a petulant lover, one who, despite the fits she throws, does love them with all her heart.

 He tells this to Hakoda, who stands silently, contemplating beside him. The theory earns him a chuckle, as he hoped.

 “When did you become such a poet?” Hakoda asks, tilting his head to catch Bato’s gaze as he raises an eyebrow.

 “Maybe I always was, and you just weren’t paying attention.” Bato huffs in fake offence, before breaking out into a grin. The decks of the ship are mostly silent, a few tribesmen milling around, but giving their chief and second-in-command a wide berth. They’re expecting to dock their ships soon, and their intelligence hasn’t indicated any sightings of Fire Nation fleets, so there’s a slightly unusual calmness in the air. A star twinkles down from the sky. Hakoda sighs.

 “What’s wrong, Koda?”

 He shrugs. “Nothing.” He catches Bato’s unamused expression. “Really, it’s nothing. I’m just, you know.”

 “Thinking of Kya?” Bato asks, feeling his heart clench at her name. Even after all this time, Bato feels the loss of her presence like a missing limb, like a piece of ice pressing on the inside of his chest. He may not have loved her like Hakoda did (not like he loves Hakoda), but Bato loved Kya fiercely, with all his heart and soul. He only wishes he could think of her without feeling sorrow.

 “Yeah, I’m thinking of Kya,” Hakoda confirms, smiling a bit at the sky. “She used to love nights like this.”

 “I recall.”

 Hakoda hums. “Remember that time she made us get on a canoe and ride out that iceberg to watch shooting stars? That night was a lot like this.”

 Bato nods at the memory. Kya acting as a navigator at the front of the canoe, Bato and Hakoda both making the boat spin in circles to annoy her. Their laughter rang through the night and attracted the attention of tired seals and curious birds. When they made it to the glacier that Kya was trying to lead them to, the moon was high and bright in the sky, and stars rained across the dark canvas of space. Hakoda and Kya were already dating by then, and Bato looked away every time they kissed, ignoring the dark curl of envy that squirmed between his ribs and coursed through his veins. Ignoring Kya’s apologetic looks that she gave him in between fits of giggles and jokes. He regrets the feelings of resentment he harboured at the time, especially towards her. The envy was long gone by the time Sokka was born, but even now, thinking the anger he felt towards her brings with it a wave of shame.

 “She was so mad when we kept rowing backwards,” Bato says, after a few seconds too long of silence. Hakoda laughs, tilting his head to bump it against Bato’s bicep.

 “Spirits, she was! You’d think with all her shouting at us that our parents would have caught us.”

 “They did catch us, Koda,” Bato reminds him, dryly. Hakoda rolls his eyes.

 “Yeah but not because of her.” Hakoda presses his head against Bato’s arm again, and this time he leaves it there. After a moment Bato brings his arm around Hakoda’s shoulder, softly brushing some of Hakoda’s hair behind his ear. The strands are coarse by nature and by the salt spray of the sea, yet they feel soft and smooth beneath his roughened fingertips. They fall out of place, refusing to go where Bato directs them, prompting him to try again and again.

 “I think she would have made us do something similar on a night like this,” Hakoda says. He doesn’t mention Bato’s hand in his hair or the fact that Bato is gripping him tighter. Wherever her spirit is, Bato hopes that Kya would be okay with this, that she wouldn’t be upset with how he still feels.

 “Yeah,” Bato agrees, feeling Hakoda shift to look up at him. “I think she would too.”

 “Maybe you would have more fun this time around.” Hakoda looks back to the sky, and Bato feels like a fish on the end of a line, mind reeling as he tries to decipher what Hakoda could mean by that. Before he can ask - before he can even think of      how    to ask what he means by that, one of their warriors approaches them, tearing them away from the beautiful sky and the safety of their memories. The warrior tells them that they’re approaching the town they mean to dock in.

 Hakoda nods, steps out of Bato’s embraces as if it’s nothing (and, really, isn’t it nothing?) and goes to do his duties as chief. Bato looks at the sky once last time, looks at the playful waves, and the winking stars, wishing that he had done so all those years ago, before turning and stepping away too.

2.

 Bato’s memories of Sokka and Katara are a bit jarring. He remembers them as young children, toddling around, needing help and saving from everything -      especially    each other. He remembers them as grief-stricken, forced to grow up too soon. They stayed like that in his mind for many years, unchanging, ungrowing, even though every year he and Hakoda tried to send at least a letter home in time for their birthdays. Neither of them is sure if they ever made it. And then, suddenly, the two of them appeared in front of him at the Abbey, so much older, taller, and wiser than he could have ever dreamed. Such little mirrors of their parents, certainly having inherited their attitudes. It almost made Bato feel guilty when he remembers that he got to see them again before Hakoda.

 He knows that Hakoda struggles the same way he does when he thinks of his children. Despite their rational understanding that they’re older now, that they’ve fought hard battles, survived out in the world      alone    and without adult supervision, it’s so hard to separate that from the urge to treat them as the children they were, and still are.

 It causes more than a little friction, and whether it’s because Sokka and Katara see Bato as part of their family (after all, he      is    over for dinner more than anyone else), or whether they would be willing to drag their heels in the snow in front of anyone, they’re not afraid to start arguments with Hakoda in front of Bato.

 He tries to stay out of it but sometimes he just can’t help it.

 “You can’t go boating tomorrow - it’s set to storm,” Bato says, replying to Katara and Sokka’s request to go out. Hakoda had already given a tentative no, but the two of them kept pushing for an answer.

 “So? We’ve dealt with worse weather before,” Sokka says, raising an eyebrow and leaning his head against a hand.

 “You don’t know that,” Bato replies, already regretting getting involved when he sees Katara’s pursed lips and drawn-in eyebrows. “You two      know    how hard it can be to navigate during a storm in the ice fields. And the other times you’ve piloted through bad weather it was in the sky, with other benders. Tomorrow, all you would have is Katara.”

 “I can handle it,” Katara says confidently, crossing her arms across her chest.

 “I’m not questioning your skill,” Bato tries to placate, knowing it won’t help him. “But all you need is to get caught off guard for a moment and that’ll be enough to throw you off or to capsize the boat. No matter how skilled you are, the water is cold enough to knock you out quicker than you can regain control.”

 The two of them are silent for a moment before each of them launches into a spell of arguments and rebuttals. Bato sighs and glances over at Hakoda, who seems to have enjoyed his moment out of the hot seat, though his eyebrows are furrowed in thought. He catches Bato’s eyes, and smiles slightly, before looking back at his children, waiting for them to run out of things to say. It takes a minute.

 “If Bato doesn’t think it’s a good idea, then it’s not a good idea,” Hakoda says, with a rare finality that shuts makes the teens huff and grumble, but not argue back. His gaze sweeps over the table, landing on Bato and softening, warming, like a frozen river in the spring. “I trust him. His judgment, I mean.”

 The admission is enough to warm Bato’s face, making him get up and take his dishes outside to wash in the snow, to avoid having to deal with the pounding in his chest. As he leaves, he can hear Hakoda saying, “You      know    we both just care about you two-”

 It storms the next day and when Bato battles his way through the wind and snow to go to Hakoda’s house to do some work with him, he sees Sokka and Katara sitting by the fire, annoyed but safe, and Hakoda looks at Bato like he’s the sun.

 1.

 The two of them barely get a moment alone anymore. Between having Sokka and Katara within arms reach now, and all the work that has to be done has to be approved, has to get      started,    it’s not uncommon to have at least one or two people in the room with them at any given time. Hakoda isn’t so childish as to be upset about this; he’s ecstatic about the fact that he has his children again, that his mother was waiting for him when he returned, and that there are so many willing and eager members of his village that want to help rebuild their strength.

 But he does miss the quiet nights alone with his best friend. Misses the soft, innocent touches that he received when there were no prying eyes. Every time he thinks he’ll get a moment of peace with Bato, a moment to maybe sit down and      talk    and      think    about what they’re doing after all these years, something gets in the way. A proverbial - or sometimes real - fire that needs him to put it out. It would be kind of funny if it wasn’t so frustrating.

 Because, and it’s shocking to admit it to himself, Hakoda      wants    to talk to Bato about the soft, innocent touches they used to share. He wants to talk about the playful, happy loving gaze that Bato looks at him with when he’s found something that Hakoda has done particularly amusing. He wants to talk about it because, as much as he hates to admit it, he feels old, too old to be playing this ‘will they, won’t they’ game that they’ve been playing for years - probably more years than Hakoda wants to admit or have even noticed.

 How ironic, he thinks to himself when he’s awake too late into the night, with only the sounds of his family sleeping peacefully to remind him that he isn’t the only person left alive, that feeling too old is what stopped him from pursuing his friend for so many years, and now it’s what compels him to settle the matter once and for all. For so long, too long, Hakoda felt the weight of his wife’s death, the weight of his children’s lives, the fate of his village, pressing down on him, ageing him down to his bones, and pulling him away from the thought of finding another lover.

 He had a life, he often told himself, a wonderful, happy life, with Kya and Sokka and Katara. It would be selfish, foolish, to ask for a chance at another one, to try and fan the spark in his chest into the burning ember that lived there now. Lovesick pining and pursuits were a young man’s game, a game meant to be played when the stakes were low and an endless war wasn’t raging.

 Of course, Hakoda hadn’t banked on the war ending, certainly not in his and Bato’s lifetime, and with both of them surviving. Nor did he bank on the spark in his chest growing into a constant warm glow. And yet, here he is, survived a war with his family alive, and unable to get a moment’s worth of quiet to try and piece together feelings that he’s      certain    he and his friend have shared for decades.

 Hakoda is so focused on his inner turmoil, that he almost doesn’t notice when he walks into a tent and finds it empty, save for Bato. The taller man looks up from his work, smiles when he sees Hakoda and jerks his head to tell him to come and sit.

 “Where’s everyone?” Hakoda asks, almost wincing at the question. Just like him to look a gift ostrich-horse in the mouth. Bato shrugs and scoots over so that Hakoda can sit on the floor cushion next to him.

 “Some hunting groups went out and decided to show some of the foreign ‘diplomats’ around.” Bato rolls his eyes at the word ‘diplomats’, happy to not have to fake respect that he doesn’t hold. “Everyone else, I think, saw this as an opportunity to relax with their families for a day.”

 Hakoda hums as he sits down next to Bato, all too aware that he’s close enough that he could bump knees with the other man. “What do you think it says about us that we’re here?”

 Bato snorts. “It says that we’re some of the only men that came home and didn’t immediately sire more children.”

 Hakoda lets out a small laugh at that, leans over the chabudai to get a closer look at what Bato is working on. They work in relative silence for a while, Hakoda passing his work over to Bato to be looked over, sometimes commenting on some of Bato’s, both of them trying to make some headway in the mountain of reports, requests, and agreements that need to be looked over and approved. If it wasn’t all necessary, Hakoda doesn’t know how he would stand it all.

 It doesn't mean he has to like it. He groans in exhaustion, leaning over to rest his head on Bato’s shoulder, burying his nose in the soft fabric. Bato lets out a hum in acknowledgment before tilting his head slightly to get a look at Hakoda.

 “Something the matter?” His voice is soft, gentle in a way that it so rarely is, such a departure from his usual deep candour. From this angle, Hakoda can see his face in such fine detail. The dip and deep colour of his lips, chapped and stress-bitten. The fine wrinkles that adorn his face, proof of a life hard and well-lived. The darkness of his hair, slightly wavy and soft, only now starting to get a hint of shining silver in the roots. Hakoda thinks back to Bato as a teenager, his face slender and smooth, hair dark and finely braided before it was shaved, eyes and wit sharp enough to stop anyone from arguing with any of his decisions. It’s almost funny how so much has changed, and yet Hakoda can so clearly see the ghost of their pasts in every detail of Bato.

 “No, nothing is wrong,” Hakoda whispers, finding himself so much closer to Bato’s side than he remembers. He feels the whisper of Bato’s hair brushing his cheek, the warmth of his breath against his nose, and yet he still finds himself leaning closer, can feel Bato tilting his head down to meet him.

 Hakoda feels a soft brush of lips against his own, gentle and shy despite the roughness. For a moment, Hakoda thinks that that might be all there is, before Bato leans down again, pressing himself against Hakoda with more force, more warmth, more      everything    . A hand goes up to cup Bato’s cheek, thumb rubbing the cheekbone gently, and he feels Bato’s slender fingers as they slide through his head, tugging it slightly before it comes to rest behind Hakoda’s skull.

 The kiss is gentle, exploratory, and feels well won, less like a dam bursting open, more like a meadow receiving sunlight after a long, dark winter.

 And like a cold snap, the warmth is gone, and Hakdoa feels Bato pulling away, trying to remove his hand from Hakoda’s hair without hurting, but certainly with a panic that wasn’t there before. He stands up quickly, without looking at Hakoda’s confused and hurt face and starts to leave.

 “Bato,” Hakoda tries to call out, knowing that his friend’s stubbornness will stop him from turning. “Bato, come back-”

 “I don’t want to deal with this right now,” Bato calls over his shoulder, voice a strangled mix of hurt, worry, and regret. “Just. Just let me think.”

 He’s out the door before Hakoda can reply, and he sighs, body slumping against the table. The room already feels colder without Bato by his side, though his heart still beats fast and the flush remains on his cheeks. Everything haunts him. The ghost of the war, of the men that he boarded his ships with who never returned, the ghost of Kya, the ghost of his children who have grown up so much without him. He thinks that the feather-soft feeling of chapped lips against his own, the burning heat of breath on his mouth, the stillness of the air between them; he thinks that feeling with be another ghost that haunts him

 Hakoda remains slumped against the table for a while longer before he finally pulls himself up to return to his home. He looks out at the sky when he leaves, the wind brisk but gentle, the horizon clear. It feels like a shame to waste what will sure be a beautiful night on self-pity.

 +1

 The night sky glitters with stars, shining through the faint layer of cloud, and the tide is gentle, waves batting playfully against the side of the canoe. There’s a chill in the air - standard for this time of the year, this far south - but even after years being home, the years at war have tricked Bato into thinking that warmer weather was the norm.

 A part of him is certain that he’s too old for this, to be rowing a boat so late in the evening, when the wind wants nothing more than to worm its way inside his parking, gnawing at his sore joints, in a way that he knows will be miserable tomorrow morning. He’s too old to have allowed himself to be goaded out onto the water.

 Hakoda turns to look at him and he smiles so brightly that the stars look pale by comparison. Bato can’t help but smile back.

 “I don’t think we’re going to find the glacier,” Hakoda admits, bringing his orr back into the boat, twisting himself so that he sits facing Bato.

 “Of course we’re not,” Bato says, voice as dry as winter winds. He brings his oar into the boat as well, only barely resisting the urge to smack Hakoda with it. “It’s been, what? Twenty? Twenty-five years since we last went out to it?”

 Hakoda huffs crosses his arms across his chest in a way that makes him a perfect mirror of his teenage self (and both his kids, Bato thinks, amused). In a voice that Hakoda would never allow Bato to categorize as a whine, he says, “I know.”

 “Then why drag me out onto the water?” Bato pushes. Hakoda lets out a sigh and looks up at the sky again. His hair falls away from his face, the light highlighting the peaks and valleys of his face. He’s filled back out, now that they aren’t rationing food and being starved, and his strong cheekbones produce graceful shadows across his face. In the moonlight, Bato can only see the faintest hints of the wrinkles, crows' feet, and laugh lines that he’s memorized.

 “I thought it would be nice, you know? To get back out on the water on a night like this.”

 “A night that Kya would have liked?”

 “Yeah.” Bato remains silent, but he too looks up at the sky. There are no shooting stars, no arctic lights in the sky, but it’s beautiful in a way that Kya always appreciated, and above all else, Bato and Hakoda both loved everything that Kya loved.

 Maybe they loved more of what Kya loved than they thought.

 “She would have liked this,” Bato finally chokes out. The wake of the sea feels comforting, like a mother rocking a child to sleep. He sees Hakoda tear his eyes away from the sky to look at him. “We would have had fun on a night like this.”

 Gently, Hakoda brings his hand to Bato’s knee, letting it rest there for a moment. Bato freezes, unsure of what boundaries exist between them now. So many people think that his silence is one of understanding, yet after their kiss, after      everything    , Bato feels nothing but hopeful confusion.

 “Even you?” Hakoda asks. “Would you have had fun too?”

 “I always had fun with you and Kya,” Bato defends, finally bringing his eyes away from the heavens and back to Hakoda. He sees Hakoda’s raised eyebrow and sighs. Almost shyly, like he’s a teenager on his first date again, and not the old man that he is now, he places his hand on top of Hakoda’s. “Yes, Hakoda. I would have had fun.”

 Hakoda smiles. Bato thinks that Kya would have smiled too.

#m #bakoda #bakoda fleet week #my fic #bakoda fic #atla

[anigodd]

The Deal

Here it is, the crossover I said I would do like 3 weeks ago. Sorry about that. anyway, first and foremost, I’m a Captainsparklez stan, so he is the main character. Also, if you don’t know anything about Mianite, this aint for you, sorry. 

Let’s get started! It’s super long, but enjoy!

Summary:

Jordan would not consider himself a cruel man, but when he saw that children, especially Tubbo, were being forced to fight in a war? Well, if he made a seemingly harmless deal with JSchlatt in order to...persuade him to end the war, then that was his own decision to justify. After all, what was a war without a little bit of psychological torture?

Most of the time, people forget that Jordan, better known as Captainsparklez or just The Captain, was old. I don’t mean in his 40s or 50s, I mean thousands, maybe hundreds of thousands of years old. He’s fought for balance for as long as his lady had accepted him as her Champion millennia ago. Most don’t know simply because they don’t ask.

Most of the time, people forget that he is not entirely human. He’s immortal—it come with the job description—and has spent so much time in the End that it was bound to affect him eventually. His Lady, ever the one to always worry about him, changed him ever so slightly so that he was not susceptible to most human weaknesses: he didn’t need to sleep as much, better stamina, strength, etc. He complained that she did not have to do that, to save her power for something more important than him, but she stared him straight in his eyes and said with such conviction and with such sadness in her eyes that he was stunned,

“You are the most important thing to me, Jordan. Please, never forget that.”

He never did.

Most of the time, people forget that Jordan was dangerous. You don’t remain the Champion of the Goddess of Balance without having a few perks, nor do you simply kill a god and not absorb some of their power. In his dreams, he could see snippets of the future, not like his Lady, but just enough to influence his actions in wars or in everyday life to help maintain balance. Jordan could feel a deep ache in his soul when balance was disrupted. He can travel to and fro from the end without the need for a portal—he teleported like an enderman (he wouldn’t stop scaring Tom with this new-found power for days). He knew how to use a bit of magic, some was taught to him by the Ianite in Ruxomar. Just simple spells, such as small barriers or being able to communicate with endermen. He really had to hone his magic at some point. What was most interesting was his control over some of the Darkness’ domain. He never figured that he gained a little bit of something from killing World Historian all those years ago, he just thought he was mentally prepared for the next years to come.

Turns out he was wrong again.

The Darkness, before their final battle, had brought this to his attention. The deity would always poke into his head and whisper to him, but Jordan would push him out of his head when it got too much for him. After a few times, the Darkness said that Jordan had more power over his mind than he thought. The deity’s voice sounded intrigued by this development and soon worked harder to get Jordan on his side to no avail. However, what the Darkness said lingered in the back of his mind until one day, after the war, his Lady brought it up.

They were quietly sitting in her temple in the End when she spoke.

“Captain, I don’t want to pry, but I know that you’ve been thinking about what the Darkness told you and, if you wanted, I could help you control it?” She hesitantly offered. Jordan froze.

The Darkness told him a lot of things. He promised him weapons of infinite power, nights of peaceful rest, a break from the voices in his mind—a break from fighting. He promised him a peaceful life if he joined him. The Captain composed himself but stopped.

‘Control what?’ he thought. Now he was confused. It must have shown on his face because a smile blossomed on Ianite’s face.

“I wanted to teach you how to control your mind. The Darkness noticed you were able to block him from your mind. That does not come from years of experience, Captain. It’s more of a gift...or perhaps a curse. This power is why, when I was being influenced, I was unable to communicate with you,” she explained.

“Unable to talk to me? Why? I never intentionally pushed you away,” Jordan questioned. He would never ignore his Lady, even if she wasn’t really herself.

She chuckled. “I know you wouldn’t, Jordan. Thank you for that. What I mean is that you subconsciously blocked out all influences if the Darkness, including me.”

She watched as his eyes widened, but he nodded slowly in understanding. He waited for her to continue before he asked his questions; she could feel his curiosity.

“I could either help you control and develop this power, or you could leave it as a sort of unconscious barrier for your mind. There are many aspects that come with this gift, not just protection for yourself. If you wish, we could start immediately?” Ianite inquired.

She hoped he accepted. The Captain was like a son to her and it would mean the world to Ianite if she could finally teach him something as a mother would teach her son to ride a bike. She wanted to see him grow into his power and watch with pride as he mastered magic. Yes, she hoped he would accept.

Ianite watched as he thought about it. He stared at her. She could see his burning curiosity and the look of hope on her face. The truth was, the Captain craved knowledge more than power. He wanted to know anything and everything that he could, and this was something he wanted to learn. It may come in handy in the future.

He nodded. “When do you want to start, M’lady?” he asked with a smile.

She grinned. “We can start immediately.”

Oh, she couldn’t wait to see what he would become. No matter what, she would be proud.

—————— Nobody knew the extent of Jordan’s power or what he was trained to do. Rumors spread of the great hero who learned how to harness old magic from the teachings of the Goddess herself. Others say he went mad with power and tormented her with visions of destruction. Some say he does not look human anymore. Some say he guards her temple in the End and is still loyal to her thousands of years later. Others say he got to live his life in peace after training.

Some of those rumors are true. After all, all myths come from a seed of truth. Nowadays, though, The Captain does live in relative peace. He gets to participate in tournaments, such as the newest one called Minecraft Championship, where he really just plays for fun. He never got to make friends or have fun for his years under the gods, but the Universe has calmed down and his Lady wanted to see him have fun and socialize.

Most of them recognized him or had heard of him. He was always so uncomfortable with attention or praise but thankfully—THANKFULLY—their starry-eyed looks stopped after a while. Unless, of course, he said something that they recognized as one of his catchphrases all hell broke loose but...well...it was pretty funny to watch them yell and laugh good-naturedly when he said something like that.

Some asked him a million questions about his life or his adventures, especially this...child? His name was Tubbo and, apparently, Jordan was his role-model. He was flattered and a bit flustered. Most people that came up to him were older than 16 and usually asked about his fighting tactics or the wars he fought in. But this kid asked about none of those. Tubbo was the nicest kid he had ever met and tried to give him the best answers that he could, even if the were a little vague at some points—he didn’t want to scar the boy.

Tubbo didn’t seem to care. He always stared at him with the most excited smile and genuinely interested expression that he nearly cries thinking about it. Only a few people look at him so kindly it hurts. Tubbo is always bursting with questions and the Captain is always happy to answer. It became a thing for Tubbo to follow him around, prompting Jordan to call him ‘duckling’ in his mind.

He has started to become a bit worried about Tubbo and his loud friend, Tommy, though. The two are usually so boisterous and loud that it was hard to miss them. Nowadays, when he sees them, the two teens are more subdued and they look....exhausted. He’s seen that look. He knows they are fighting a war they cannot win.

Jordan knows he has to put an end to the fighting. If not for Tubbo, then for his own peace of mind. He finds Jschlatt on his own private server and strikes a sort of a deal with the man.

His smile is ice and his eyes are as dark as the Void when they shake hands. Purple tendrils and sparks emerge from their handshake, giving Jordan access to Jschlatt’s every move. The magic let Schlatt know that there was no backing out of this deal.

Their souls were intertwined until the deal was done. —————— Nobody knew that Jordan was a deal maker. Not that he did it much in the first place—there wasn’t anything that he wanted from others and he hated exercising his power over others.

This time, however, was an exception.

He knew what Schlatt had done to Tubbo and the others on Dream’s SMP. He knew that they were hurting. He hated seeing families torn apart and children being forced to grow up and fight. They should’ve had a childhood. They shouldn’t have to be forced into a war, and for what? Power? Glory? Honor? No honorable soldier would endorse using children to fight. No honorable leader or nation would do so either.

He noticed the shadows on the walls growing and harmful magic beginning to swarm around him.

Jordan heaved a sigh. He had to calm down before he did anything he would regret. He looked back at Schlatt from where he was hidden in the shadows. The hybrid was sat at his desk in the White House, languidly drinking from a glass as if there was no war going on; as if he isn’t responsible for the suffering going on in his lands.

He gave Schlatt two weeks to fulfill his end of the deal before Jordan fulfilled his end, but it doesn’t seem like Schlatt was even slightly worried about their agreement.

The Captain watched as he filled out paperwork and discarded peace treaties or ideas for that may improve Manburg. The lack of care for his nation made Jordan’s blood boil.

How careless.

How cruel.

How sickening. —————

Most know that Jordan, at his core, is kind-hearted and humble. He would never attack without a reason, but even before then, he would try to negotiate. It’s why he has been the Champion of Balance for so long: it’s in his nature.

That being said, Jordan is not a cruel or sadistic man. But to him, this deal was important to him. It would bring peace and protection to those in Dream’s land. They have been fighting for too long and are beginning to lose themselves. It had to be stopped.

As another few days went by, and soon, with 5 days left for Schlatt to fulfill his end of the deal, Jordan knew he had to give a bit of an....incentive to Schlatt.

He smiled. While he hated using his powers over the mind, now looked like a good time for some practice. The Captain waited until Schlatt was asleep to enter his mind. Since their souls were intertwined because of the deal, his plan was much simpler. His eyes glowed a deep purple.

After all, what was a little bit of psychological torture on one person if it benefitted the masses?

The Captain left the man to sleep. He had a feeling he’s be hearing from Schlatt in the next few days. And maybe, if Schlatt heard clocks ticking a bit louder than normal and seemed to echo in his mind, well, that was for Jordan to know, wasn’t it? ————————

Schlatt woke up with a killer headache and an unsettling feeling. The hairs on the back if his neck stood up and his shoulders tensed. Was he being watched? He looked around his room with a steady gaze. The room was quiet save for the birds outside and his clock. Had it always been that loud?

No matter. He couldn’t see anyone but that didn’t mean he was safe. Maybe he should have Tubbo stay by his side for the day until his paranoia passed?

Something caught his eye. He could have sworn he saw the shadows grow in his room after that thought. He shrugged to himself. He definitely needed more sleep if he was starting to see shadow demons.

Ha.

He took a deep breath and began to get ready for the day. He had paperwork to do and meetings to plan. If Manburg were to be under his rule, there had to be a few new....rules put into place.

‘Yes,’ he smiled. ‘New regulations wouldn’t hurt anybody.’

He walked down the hallways of the White House quicker than he usually does. Why does he feel like someone was watching him? Was Pogtopia planning an attack? The thought made him snort.

‘Right, like they could plan a decent attack,’ he thought.

When he looked outside to where the seats in front of the podium were located, he didn’t see a nice grassy field with a peaceful waterfall. Instead, he saw ashes falling from the sky like snow, a red haze filling the air, and fires burning with. The birds chirping distorted into echoed screams of agony. The podium was blown to bits and Tubbo...oh god....—

He blinked and the scenery reverted to normal.

“Sir?” a small voice asked from behind him.

Schlatt jumped and tried to control his breathing. When did he begin to hyperventilate? Why was he shaking?

He stared into the concerned and slightly wary eyes of Tubbo. Jesus, the kid was quiet.

He let out a breath and put his hand on his chest.

“Christ, Tubbo, you’re gonna give this old man a heart attack one day,” he tried to joke.

Tubbo cracked a small smile, but it didn’t reach his eyes.

“Are you alright, Schlatt? You were staring out at the lawn like someone died.” Tubbo said.

Schlatt froze. He did see someone dead. But it wasn’t a memory, what was it?

He looked at Tubbo and put his hand on the kid’s shoulder. Geez, he was just a kid, wasn’t he.

“Whatever happens, Tubbo, just know that it’s not your fault,” is all he said before walking into his office and closing the door. Tubbo was so confused, but Schlatt has done weirder and so he let it go. He wanted to see Tommy.

The clock in Schlatt’s office echoed in his mind as he worked. ——————

The one thing that Jordan hated was being mistaken for a kind-hearted fool.

He watched as Schlatt worked for another 3 days while enduring the visions of what may become of Manburg.

He watched as Schlatt ignored the shadows on the walls and the ticking of his clock.

He watched as Schlatt jumped in his seat when the whispers of the End began to echo in his ears.

He watched as Schlatt could not sleep for the rest of the 5 days.

He watched as the man slowly broke down. The visions kept him awake, the clocks were too loud, the whispers were in a language he couldn’t understand and the feeling of being watched drove him to the brink of insanity.

The others began to notice his quickly deteriorating health.

Schlatt had dark bags under his eyes that nearly looked like bruises. He was constantly looking over his shoulder and nearly broke all of the clocks in the White House. While talking to someone, his eyes always darted to the corners of the rooms. Most worryingly, he would just stare at something that looked normal, say an open field, and nearly put himself into a panic attack. The residents may not like him but they hated seeing anyone reduced to shambles. They tried to help him but all they get is incoherent mumbles or snippets of what may be Schlatt’s imagination.

Whatever it was, it had to stop.

The first time Wilbur heard of Schlatt’s health, he laughed. He laughed so hard he cried and couldn’t breath for at least 5 minutes. Tommy and Tubbo joined in, though their laughter was much weaker. The times after hearing about it, though, something changed in Wilbur. He could see how it was scaring Tubbo and at the rare times Niki visited, she expressed her genuine concerns over Schlatt.

“We may not like him too much, Wilbur, but you haven’t seen him. The poor man looks like he’s gonna run himself to his grave. We’re all worried about him,” is what she said to him when he asked why they were so concerned about him.

Wilbur wanted to see how Schlatt was fairing. Techno didn’t seem to care too much but he seemed interested in what happened to Schlatt.

“I’ll go along only because I wanna see what he looks like when he walks,” was Techno’s justification to visiting the White House. Okay then, Techno.

Tommy was coming along as well. He was practically dying from curiosity, but he also wanted to see Tubbo. Wilbur didn’t question his logic either.

However, they didn’t have to sneak into Manburg like they had planned to. They received an invitation to an SMP meeting in the community center in 3 hours. Everyone on the server had to attend, including Dream. This surprised Wilbur as he held the letter in his hands. Why would Dream have to attend if Schlatt was calling this meeting?

“Kinda sus of him, not gonna lie,” Techno said from behind him.

Wilbur hummed and turned around.

“Do you think we should go?”

Techno looked at him, practically expressionless. Wilbur stared back--- he was used to waiting for an answer.

“Tommy will complain for days if we don’t go, so yeah, we’re going,” is what Techno said eventually.

Wilbur sighed and crumpled the letter. He looked back at Techno, who was starting to head to the entrance of their ravine.

“Can you wait for Tommy and I before you go off and commit war crimes?” He joked.

Techno stopped.

“BruuUhhhH.”

Wilbur just laughed and went to fetch the blond gremlin from his room.

He just hoped this meeting didn’t go to shit. ———————— Schlatt felt like shit. He didn’t know what was happening to him or why but he just wanted it to stop.

Every corner he turned there was some depiction of an explosion or a massacre in that area. Quiet rooms were too loud with the whispers and the clocks. He kept the lights on at all times.

What was breaking him down the most was the constant feeling of being watched. Even with multiple people in the room, it was like a predator was watching its prey from afar. Waiting to pounce. He was at his wits end, but finally, hours before he called the SMP meeting, he got answers.

He was trying to do paperwork but was really just staring at the same paragraph for an hour. His mind was muddled and he couldn’t form a coherent thought.

He was so tired but every time he closed his eyes, it was another scene of death and destruction. He hands shook so badly that he had to put his pen down and place his head in his hands.

“You seem to be struggling, Schlatt,” a voice said from behind him. That feeling of being watched increased tenfold, causing Schlatt to tense and look behind him.

The Captain was standing in the corner of the room. The shadows obscured most of his figure but he could see his eyes—what happened to his eyes?—and his unnerving smile.

Schlatt tired to summon some of his dignity.

“Captain! Long time, no see. How’ve you been?”

Jordan’s expression didn’t change, but the room darkened a bit. Schlatt noticed.

“Have you been doing that? It’s been driving me nuts!” he angrily exclaimed.

Jordan cocked his head to the side.

“Have you forgotten about our deal, Schlatt?” Is all he asked. Why was his voice suddenly deeper? It rumbled in his ears and was vaguely threatening. His heart rate picked up and he had a feeling that Jordan was not just some guy he made a deal with.

He steeled his nerves. There is no way that Jordan is anything but human. He looked towards the Captain who was impossibly still with his creepy smile.

“No, I didn’t forget about it. I just....had better things to do,” was his defense. That apparently was the wrong answer.

Jordan was suddenly right in front of him, smile gone and eyes staring straight into him. Schlatt’s instincts immediately screamed ‘danger!’ and ‘run!’ but something was keeping him in place. He felt his heart pounding in his chest but he still couldn't move away. Purple eyes bored into his own. 

Jordan placed a deceptively gentle hand on his cheek.

“I don’t like being mistaken for a fool, Schlatt. We made this deal to benefit both of us, yet you exploit my charity,” he patronized. The power radiating from those words nearly had Schlatt tumbling to his knees but he stood firm.

“I’ll give you 24 hours, but,” his hand suddenly gripped his face tightly and forced Schlatt to look at him. What he saw terrified him.

“If you continue to fail to uphold your end of the deal, then, well,” he released his hold on Schlatt, “I hope you’ll be able to get used to the way your currently living,” he threatened. The Captain straightened and gave him yet another unnerving smile.

Out of nowhere, he summoned an intricate clock and began to wind it. It was a beautiful black with purple and gold accents. The outer design of the clock resembled...scales? At the center, there was an ender eye. The numbers weren’t exactly numbers but looked like writing one would find in an enchantment table. How in the hell did Jordan get a clock like this?

He finished winding the clock and Schlatt thought he was going to place it down on his desk. He was wrong once again. A deep purple aura surrounded the clock and it disappeared with a burst of particles. Unfortunately, he could still hear it ticking next to his ear.

“This should remind you of the limited time that you have,” he began to back away before he stopped and turned around with a thoughtful look on his face.

“I’m not a cruel man, JSchlatt. But I do believe in an eye for an eye. I hope you make the right decision,” he said, and he was gone in a flash of purple.

Schlatt shakily sat down—when had he stood up?—and began to draft a peace treaty for Manburg. The writing was shaky and nearly illegible, but it would have to do. Then, he called a meeting for all of SMP to attend.

He sat for 3 hours listening to the incessant ticking. It was becoming more and more distorted in his mind as the hours ticked by. ——————— Once everyone was seated at a round table in the community house, they all looked towards Schlatt for an explanation.

The atmosphere was tense, mainly from Wilbur and Tommy, while the rest tried to sit as comfortably as they could. Dream was practically lounging in his chair.

“So, Schlatt,” Wilbur practically spat his name, “what did you call this oh so important meeting for?” he asked and crossed his arms.

It was his first time seeing Schlatt since his exile and he felt...just a little bit of pity for him. His clothes were rumpled as if he had slept in them, his eyes were red—he looked about ready to fall asleep but always jerked awake at the last second. His eyes were darting to the corners of the room. Wilbur looked around but found nothing out of the ordinary. He could see the others glancing around the room as well, unnerved by Schlatt’s paranoia.

Schlatt, even though he was incredibly shaky and oh so tired, stood up. He was still the President, damn it. All eyes were on him as he cleared his throat.

“I have called this meeting to.....to....” he was having second thoughts. Did he really want to give up his power over Pogtopia and Manburg? He enjoyed the chaos and having control over everything. He wasn’t ready to give this up yet.

He saw the shadows move and the Captain manifested from the shadows. The ticking was nearly deafening. Jordan’s eyes were deadly, his smile nowhere to be found. He looked non-human without his glasses on.

Schlatt was so focused on his appearance that he missed when the Captain drew his sword—a near black blade that looked wickedly sharp. The handle was intricately carved with ancient spells and magic seals. Schlatt noticed too late that Jordan had heard his thoughts.

The Captain rushed at him with his sword raised and cold eyes boring into his soul. HIs smile was nearly feral as he charged. Schlatt shrieked and stumbled backwards into the wall and raised his hands to defend himself from the blows-

But nothing came.

He shakily looked around and noticed that the room was giving him nervous looks. Quakity and Niki were nearly out of their seats while Dream was sitting straight in his chair. Schlatt shakily let out a breath and began to stand.

“Schlatt...” Tubbo began but Schlatt waved him off.

“I’m fine, I’m fine. Just my imagination,” he easily lied.

Those in attendance saw right through this lie, but decided that once he begins talking, they may get an explanation.

Schlatt took a breath and tried to calm his racing heart. He was so tired. His whole body shook with adrenaline and exhaustion and, god, he just wanted to sleep but he couldn’t. Not with the state he was in now. The Captain’s words echoed in his mind: ‘I hope you can get used to this.’

Schlatt decided that he couldn’t live like this and made his decision. He sat down and took out the drafts of the peace treaty and set them on the table.

“The fuck’s all this?” Tommy quietly mutters while picking up a paper and scrutinizing it. But of course, Tommy’s version of quiet is still decently loud.

“It’s a peace treaty. If you read through this and sign, Manburg and Pogtopia will cease their fighting and hold another election. This time, however, two partied cannot combine their votes,” Schlatt explained. He saw the room looking at him with mixed reactions.

Some looked relieved that the fighting would be over, others were skeptical, and some looked elated at the chance to live peacefully again. Wilbur, however, was not convinced. He was looking at Schlatt skeptically while reading the treaty silently.

‘He’s looking for a loophole,’ was whispered in his ear. It took all of Schlatt’s willpower not to look to his left in fear of what he may see. He could hear the smile on the Captain’s face.

Finally, Wilbur spoke.

“And why should we believe that you would peacefully give up your power? We know that you love the fighting, the wars, the power,” his voice rose as he continued, “why should we trust anything you say?” he finished with a shout.

Wilbur was breathing heavily and glaring at Schlatt. The atmosphere became almost unbearably tense until Jordan finally decided to step in.

He had been silently watching from the shadows, making sure Schlatt stayed in check but also to make sure that the deal was completed. There was mistrust in the air, and to be honest, he was getting impatient. Jordan really wanted to get the treaty over with and go home, take a nap, and preferably not get up for three days.

“Schlatt’s telling the truth,” he says before he steps out of the shadows. He nearly chuckles at the bewildered looks he gets as he steps into view.

A very eager Tubbo is soon clinging to his waist and looking up at him with such relief that he does not regret even the smallest bit of what he’s done to Schlatt. He noticed the boy looked close to tears and was starting to bury his face into his coat.

Jordan placed a gentle hand on Tubbo’s head and he flinched. Oh, he was about to murder whoever hurt his boy. His Lady’s influence reminded him that no, no matter how much it would have been justified, he could not kill someone in this land. He took a deep breath and looked up.

“Does anyone have any questions or will you sign the contract?” he said more as a statement than a question. Tubbo’s arms tightened around his waist. Jordan should really ask him what’s been going on; he wanted to help him and Tommy in any way he could.

Dream, however, had a question.

“How did you get into my server? You’re not whitelisted and I know for a fact that Tubbo doesn’t have the admin power to invite you” Dream said, though he sounded a tad accusatory.

Did he not see what was going on in his server? Did he not care that people were being traumatized? Did he not care that they were losing hope?

The Captain chuckled. The sound caused everyone to shiver and for Schlatt to shrink in his seat. He noticed the clock had stopped ticking and his heart sunk. Fuck, was he too late?

“Dream,” the Captain took off his glasses and his whole visage changed.

His warm brown eyes were now a deep purple that held a small glow to them. His hair was impossibly dark—it looked like of you were put put your hand on it, it would sink right in like a shadow. The outside around his eyes were veins of crying obsidian, a stark contrast to his skin. His clothes floated almost as if he were in water and the pure power of magic that radiated from him was nearly stifling.

“I don’t need your permission to enter your lands when I feel that ethical and moral laws are being broken. I knew something was wrong when Tubbo stopped talking passionately about anything and everything. I knew something was wrong when those from here flinched and loud noises. And I knew something was wrong when you didn’t seem to care,” he spat.

He gently pulled Tubbo from around his waist and walked next to Schlatt. The air around him rippled like water and the shadows grew.

“Now,” he purred. “Schlatt and I made a bit of a deal. A peace treaty that stopped the fighting on these lands that also prohibited future wars in exchange for books on basic magic,” he explained.

The room listened intently.

“But,” he dramatically sighed and Schlatt tried to make himself as small as possible.

“Schlatt here didn’t feel like adhering to our deal very much, so I gave him a bit of incentive,” he stopped there and looked at the room as if that explained everything.

“What does that have to do with my lands?” Dream asked.

Jordan paused. How could he say this as delicately as possible? He sighed and cleaned his glasses in his coat.

“You have to understand that I’m not a cruel man, but I hate being mistaken for a fool. I told Schlatt this when he had five days remaining to complete his end of the deal. If you remember, he may have started acting a bit...differently?” he began.

Niki gasped.

“You were doing that to him? Making him go nearly insane?!” she exclaimed. While she may not like Schlatt, that was cruel of him.

“Yeah, we were really worried for him. What did you do to him, man?” Quakity asked. He was really not liking this side of the Captain.

“I think it was perfectly reasonable, especially when the lives of children were on the line. Honestly, you all should be ashamed of yourselves. Making children fight—who does that?!” he angrily exclaimed.

“They wanted to fight!” Wilbur defended.

Jordan’s dark eyes rounded on him and while he would never admit it, Wilbur was terrified. There was such resentment and disgust in his expression that he almost regretted the war. Almost.

“Have you ever once asked then what they wanted? You’re living in a hole for my goddesses’ sake! Tommy looks like he hasn’t eaten in days and Tubbo is on the brink of tears! Are you so blinded by greed that you can’t see you’re hurting them?” his voice rose as he pointed out the obvious states of the teens.

Tommy was so conflicted. He wanted to defend himself and Wilbur, but he was intimidated by the Captain. He usually never cared for being weaker than other people, but he felt if he used his usual snark he’d be vaporized or something. He looked to Tubbo. His best friend was struggling to keep his emotions in check ever since the Captain arrived, but he knew Tubbo adored the man to high heaven. If Tubbo trusted the Captain’s judgement, then so would he.

Wilbur hadn’t spoken yet, so he did.

“Wil,” he began quietly.

Wilbur turned towards the blond. He hoped he wouldn’t say anything that would confirm what Jordan said.

“Yes, Tommy?” wilbur sounded near accusatory.

The teen but his lip and looked towards Techno, who sat next to him. The pink haired man gave him a subtle nod to continue.

Tommy let put a deep breath. Techno was always right, wasn’t he.

“I.....I want to go home,” he admitted.

Wilbur was shocked. Go home? Why? They were fighting for their country back and Tommy wanted to go home?

“Why would you want to go home, Tommy? I’m so close to getting L’manburg back! If we could just-“

“I don’t want to fight anymore!” he cried. The room went silent.

“I don’t want to fight, Wil....” he said again in a small voice.

Wilbur didn’t know what to say. He couldn’t tell if he was angry or heartbroken at Tommy’s admission. He didn’t want to fight?

“We can go home if you want, Tommy. Just let me call Phil and we can head over once the meeting is done,” Techno said softly.

Tommy nearly cried in relief. He would get to see Phil again and sleep in a proper bed in a comfy house. He hugged Techno tightly, not caring if it ruined his alpha male reputation.

“Thanks, Techno,” he shakily said.

Tommy looked towards Tubbo.

“Do you want to come along, Big T?” he asked with a small smile.

Tubbo hesitated. He wanted to go with Tommy, he really did, but he just felt...safer with the Captain. Jordan must have sensed his conflict because he immediately changed the conversation.

“So,” he drawled and garnered everyone’s attention, “will you sign or subject Schlatt to some more mind games for the rest of his life?” he asked. It wasn’t a threat, but they knew a promise when they saw one.

“How do we know that you’ll continue to pester Schlatt and not just leave him be?” Quakity asked.

“Please, no, just sign the treaty! He’s legit, he’ll keep going!” Schlatt begged.

He was right, Jordan would have to keep this up if the deal wasn’t finished.

“He’s right. The deal wasn’t just a simple handshake. Our souls are temporarily connected until the deal is completed. Until then, I have power over him,” he revealed.

Quakity’s mouth formed an ‘O’ and immediately signed the treaty. Schlatt nearly sobbed in relief. He knew there was a reason Quakity was in his cabinet.

He passed the treaty to his left and it soon traveled all around the table until it got to Wilbur. He glared at the treaty, then at Schlatt.

“If this is a joke, I’ll kill you myself,” he warned.

Schlatt gave a shaky smile.

“Believe me, I’m really not joking about this.”

Wilbur stared at him a bit longer before signing and passing the paper on. It finally reached Schlatt.

He was about to sign when a pen was in front of his face. He looked at the Captain in confusion.

“This pen will help end the deal. It’s all magicy and stuff, pretty swick,” he explained with a less menacing smile.

Schlatt instantly took the pen and signed his name. The ink glowed red and blue before fading. Schlatt slumped in his seat, unconscious. Some panicked and went to check on him but Jordan stopped them.

“He’s fine, just overtired. He’ll wake up in a day or two with a completely restored mindset,” he soothed.

They nodded but still picked him up and took him to a room with a bed so he could at least rest comfortably.

Jordan clapped his hands together and smile happily.

“Welp, I think that settles everything for today! Unless you have any questions, you guys are good to leave,” he cheerily said.

Some immediately left while others took their time leaving. Niki hugged Tubbo and Tommy before leaving while Techno left to wait outside for Tommy. Wilbur, Tubbo, Tommy, and Jordan were the only ones left in the room.

It seemed like nobody would talk first, so Jordan took a seat next to Tubbo.

“You can go with Tommy, if you want Tubbo. I won’t be offended,” he softly offered.

Tubbo glanced unsurely between Tommy and Jordan.

“Could I...speak with Tommy in private? Please?” he asked.

Jordan nodded and motioned for Wilbur to follow him outside. The brunet hesitated, but with a stern glance he was leaving the room.

Tommy and Tubbo sat in tense silence before they spoke.

“Tommy-“

“Tubbo-“

The tension broke as they laughed with each other. Tommy began before Tubbo could say anything.

“Do you not want to come with me and Phil?” he hesitantly asked. There was an undertone of hurt but Tommy was trying to understand. This was Tubbo, and he trusted Tubbo.

Said best friend looked away as he fidgeted with his fingers and sighed. Tommy felt his chest tighten.

“Come on, just say what you want. I’m a man!” he joked, but it fell a little flat.

Tubbo looked at him.

“It’s nothing against you, Tommy, or-or even Techno or Phil, but, I just....I dunno, I feel....safer? I guess? With the Captain cuz he’s just great and he listens really well and you know how I get sometimes but-“

“Big T you don’t have to defend him,” Tommy cuts him off. It’s not often that Tommy is serious, but he was now.

“I want you to be happy, Tubbo. If you feel safer with the Captain than with us, I guess that’s ok. Just don’t forget about me, yeah? I’ll fucking kill ya, bitch,” he admitted.

Tubbo felt incredibly guilty for leaving his best friend, but he wasn’t staying with the Captain for weeks! Maybe just a few days. He said none of those though and settled for a hug. He buried his face into his friend’s neck and felt Tommy clutch at his shirt.

“Thank you, Tommy, for understanding,” he quietly said.

“No problem, Big T.”

They stayed like that until there was knocking at the door. Jordan popped in with an apologetic look.

“Just wanted to check in. Techno is getting antsy and Wilbur looks ready to demonetize something,” he said to the teens.

Tommy and Tubbo got up from their seats and headed to the door when Jordan stopped them. They looked at the man questioningly but he held no malice on his face. Instead, he was looking at them with some form of understanding.

“Tubbo, whenever you want to visit Tommy, just tell me and I’ll make a portal to Phil’s place. I know you’ll miss him,” he said softly.

Tubbo’s eyes widened and he looked towards Tommy with the biggest smile that the blond couldn’t help but smile back. Tubbo tackled Jordan in a hug.

“Thank you, Captain! Thank you so much!” he exclaimed.

Tommy rubbed the back of his neck and stood a bit awkwardly, “Yeah, thanks.”

Jordan smiled. “Of course.”

There was shouting from outside.

“I think Phil is finally here,” Jordan said.

They peeked outside the room and saw Phil hitting Wilbur with his sandal and the desperate attempts to deflect by Wilbur. Techno was cackling while taking screenshots.

Jordan turned to Tommy.

“I think they’re ready to take you home. Take care, kid,” he said as he nudged Tommy towards the group.

Tommy looked towards Tubbo and they shook hands.

“See you in a few, Big T.”

“As always, Tommy.”

They watched as he ran towards Techno and began to take screenshots as well with a growing smile on his face. His signature loud laugh seemed to brighten the area. Tubbo watched fondly for a bit before Jordan’s hand was on his shoulder. He looked up at Jordan who stared at him with a soft smile.

“Let’s go home, Tubbo. M’lady is eager to meet you,” he said. 

Tubbo immediately lit up.

“Does she like bees?! Could you teach me how to do cool magic stuff too?!” he excitedly asked.

Jordan laughed as he made a portal and stepped through with Tubbo.

-----------

There are many rumors surrounding the legendary Captain, but there are a few things for certain.

Even the most kind-hearted people can be cruel, and they can enjoy their own cruelty.

#mianite #jordan maron #captainsparklez #mianitian isles #dream smp #jschlatt #bamf jordan #i made him go a little feral i just love mind games he kinda drives Schlatt to insanity

[marshmallow-phd]

The Anormic

Part of The Experiments Universe

Genre: Lucky One/Obsession AU

Pairing: Kris x Reader

Summary: You were everything he needed to feel human. But not even your presence could keep the nightmares away. The years had gone by and it seemed his dreams were all that was left of his trauma. When his past comes back and snatches you away, the human mask he’d worked so hard to create will be ripped away and he’ll stop at nothing to get you back.

Part: 1 I 2 I 3

**

You stumbled back, tripping over your feet and barely catching your balance before you could meet the floor. You felt like you’d been tossed in front of an eighteen-wheeler. To keep you steady, you placed your palm against the cold cinderblock wall. No. It couldn’t be the same Kris that he spoke about, not your Kris. Sure, he had a mysterious past, but you took it as easily explainable; a bad childhood or dysfunctional family he was trying to outrun, maybe even a criminal record that he deeply regretted. This was something else entirely.

You racked through your memory, trying to find any sort of sign or clue that this man was telling the truth. Kris couldn’t have any powers or extraordinary gifts. He was an average person who worked a laborious job, who came home to you in the evening, and lived an ordinary life. But the dots were there to connect: the ambiguous past that he rarely spoke of, the quick reflexes, and lifting of objects that should have taken more struggle. This Dr. Brandt had said he was like a dragon – a possible hint as to what else Kris was hiding from you?

“Quite a shock, isn’t it?” Dr. Brandt said, amused.

The words to snipe back were far out of reach. Part of you wanted to jump him like an overprotective cheetah, clawing his face with your fingernails until you drew blood. But the meeker part of you couldn’t find the strength to attack, barely able to keep your knees from buckling under.

“He was one of the subjects that progressed quickly. A shining example for the other eleven.”

Other eleven? Tao. Did that mean Kris’ friend Tao was among them? Were the other men you saw leave part of that group as well? Dr. Brandt’s smirk deepened, if that was possible. He seemingly enjoyed your confusion.

“So… you want to cage them all up again?” It was the only question you could push out onto the surface. There many more – more details of the experiments, what he meant by Kris jumping sides. A deep labyrinth lied before you. While you had no idea what sort of Minotaur waited in the middle and you were left without a string, you knew you would have to move forward to get to the truth.

“Actually, we’ve made progress without the original subjects,” he said. “Much more than could have ever hoped from the first trials. However, we’ve hit a bit of a wall. If we are to keep forging a new way, we need to glance back. We need Kris’ cooperation to do so.”

You swallowed thickly. At least he wasn’t trying to be the mysterious mad scientist in the tower. He came right down and had no issues explaining to you his evil plans. “So what do you need me for then? To make him help you?”

“Unfortunate collateral. We know that getting Kris here would be more trouble than it's worth. You were the easier target, so we brought you here. Eventually, Kris will come to us and be more than cooperative. Then, when we have all that we need, the two of you can go on your way.”

Great. You were bait. Like a worm on a hook. The tension in your jaw made the muscles under the skin ache. Even your teeth were whining from the pain. “So, I’m guessing you left him a little map on how to get here?”

“Oh, no!” Dr. Brandt laughed. “That’s not nearly as fun. But we did leave behind a clue to get him started. He’s an intelligent being. He’ll find us… eventually. Until then, enjoy the hospitality.” Like a dancer, he whirled on the balls of his feet and exited the room. The door slid closed behind him, the click finalizing the idea that this would be your prison for the foreseeable future.

You were battling yourself. You wanted Kris to come rescue you, but him getting pulled back into this mess of a place was horrifying image. It was hard to wrap around the thought of Kris living a life of experimentation, of tests and needles and torture. And for what? What was the purpose behind all of this? You almost shouted for the mad doctor to come to answer the questions, but you held your tongue. Now wasn’t the time to draw attention to yourself. While the doctors and guards might be aware of your presence, you needed to fade into the background of their minds. If you were going to get out of here, you needed to become almost invisible. So, instead of screaming into the abyss where your words would fall on uninterested ears, you lied down on the bed, eyes focused on the slick white ceiling. Kris would come for you, but in the meantime, you would create your plan. Because you would get out of here and you refused to let Kris be caged ever again. In order to that, you would have to find your own way.

**

It was hot. It was the kind of memorable hot where beads of sweat dotted the hairline in a way that was never ending and the sun shined up in the sky without any mercy from the clouds that had been dotting the sky for the past few days. Overnight they had either drifted off to another landscape or dissipated back into their individual water droplets. Despite the heat, it was still a beautiful day. The park was full of families and couples enjoying the fresh air, but it wasn’t overcrowded to the point of being suffocating. You took in the sights with a smile as you sat at one of the picnic tables by your lonesome. Textbook and pen at the ready, you were killing two birds with one stone by finally leaving the confining walls of your studio apartment while still getting plenty of studying done before your test next week.

After a few hours, your eyes were tiring from the glare the glossy paper gave off. The words were beginning to blur. You were no longer able to recite the previous sentence that you’d read. A break was certainly earned.

As your gaze wandered around the park it settled on a small food truck across the bike path. The signs all over the metal sides said their specialty was ice cream. Well, you’d worked hard for a treat, hadn’t you? Packing up your things, you threw your bag over your shoulder and made way to the truck expertly dodging children playing tag in the process. The line moved at a tolerable pace, giving you enough time to pick out a treat before approaching the front window. The woman inside the truck was friendly. She wrote down your order with a smile and, after handing your card back, pointed you off to the side where you could pick up your sundae. You were practically bouncing with anticipation as you watched from the opened back door; the employee scooped up the vanilla ice cream and torched the marshmallows until they were a perfect golden brown. The grin on your face was wide to the point of making your cheeks ache as you thanked the young man who handed the Styrofoam bowl to you. Not wasting time to find a spot to sit down, you walked down the bike path as you attempted to eat at a pace that was acceptable for the public.

All afternoon you had been hearing the typical noises of the park, most not bothering you in the slightest. You weren’t so easily distracted, but the blissful air you were currently in must have made you more susceptible. The chime of a bike bell caught your attention. You glanced over your shoulder to see a teenage boy peddling fast and laughing as he left his friends in the dust. But he wasn’t paying attention to where his bike was going, thinking that his bell was enough to clear the way as he stared behind him. Before he could collide with you, an arm wrapped around your shoulders. It pulled you out of the way in time but at the expense of your ice cream.

The bowl was cracked nearly in half. Chocolate syrup and melted mush covered both your shirt and the shirt of the wannabe hero.

“Well, that was nice while it lasted,” you murmured in disappointment.

“I’m so sorry,” a deep voice apologized.

You looked up and – as much as you hated to admit it – your irritation dissolved away, all because of the very handsome face that you were getting lost in. You waved his sorry away. “It’s okay. Better than being a bug squished on the cement.”

That made him laugh. “Let me replace it.”

“Oh, no, that’s alright. Thank you, though.”

“No, I insist.”

“Really, its-” You were completely ignored. The man – the very tall, handsome man – was already walking towards the food truck, wallet in hand. Nerves and butterflies took over your body as you stood there on the edge of the path, unable to walk away when you would have in any other situation. But there was something intriguing about this man. Not to mention, you were a sucker for chivalry.

The man came back with a new s’mores bowl balanced in one hand. Balanced wasn’t really the right word as what took two hands for you to carry rested nicely in his single palm. His other held onto a stack of napkins. The latter was handed out to you first.

“Thank you.” You took a few napkins shyly. Once you were cleaned up, you took the sundae. “Thanks.” You already said that. Clearing your throat, you tucked the used napkins under your arm and held out a free hand. “I’m (/y).”

He smiled broadly. “Kris.”

**

The building looked different. For over a year, the sight of the lit-up windows and the silhouette outline against the setting sun was a welcoming one – it loosened his tense shoulders, opened up his lungs. He felt stronger, even more so than he already was. A deep rest couldn’t do for him what seeing this place had. He always felt like he could live forever. Invincible, like Superman.

Now, though? Now it was simply a monument to his faults. Bricks and mortar that stood for nothing but loss. If he’d known that meeting you that day in the park would lead to this, he would have left the second he pulled you out of the way of the bike. He wouldn’t have smiled as you enjoyed the ice cream or even given you his name. Or, at least, he hoped that he would have gone the other way. As he walked up the stairs of the apartment building, he was bombarded with memories. The happy ones, most of all. But even the fights came pushing through. In those moments he’d been angry and frustrated, wanting to never have another scene like that again once you’d both calmed down and said sorry. In the present, though, he would give anything to have another fight with you. Back and forth he bounced, from wishing he’d never met you to praying he’d be able to hold you in his arms again. With unstable fingers he unlocked the front door and went inside.

The place was still a disaster. He hadn’t bothered cleaning up or even attempting to right any of the overturned furniture before he’d left. Dust was already starting to settle on every surface – something that would have driven you crazy. You couldn’t stand a dirty home. You wouldn’t be able to concentrate on anything else until it was spotless, just the way you liked it. Although, Kris had always thought that you simply used that as an excuse to procrastinate your studying. If it was you who had made the mess with your homework, then it wasn’t a dire situation. He’d always laughed at your pitiful argument against his statement. The lights suddenly flickered on.

“Kris?”

Turning around, Kris felt immediate relief.

Standing in the doorway were four of his brothers. He hadn’t seen them in quite a while. The exact amount of time was lost to him. Years, maybe? They all lived on the military base that kept them safe. It had crossed his mind once or twice to take you there to live. It might have helped drive the worry and the nightmares away. But that would have meant telling you everything. That inevitability haunted him even more.

“Chanyeol.” He tried to swallow down the shakiness in his voice. Thankfully, the younger hybrid took the first step, not even acknowledging the way Kris was barely holding it together. He closed the space between them with long strides and hugged Kris for the first time in years. Kris sighed into the embrace, even patting Chanyeol on the back. When they parted, Kris said, “Thank you for coming. I know this is probably the last thing you want to get involved in.”

“Hence why there’s only four of us,” Baekhyun huffed. The haughty air was clearly fake given the smirk dancing in the corner of his mouth.

“Nice to see you, too, Baekhyun.”

“So, Chanyeol said that your… friend was taken.” Minseok crossed his arms and leaned up against the door after shutting it behind him.

“My girlfriend,” Kris correct.

“And you both lived here?” Yixing asked.

Kris nodded. “Yeah. I don’t know how they found us. The apartment is under her name.”

“Does she know about you?” Chanyeol ran a hand through his messy black hair. “Does she now about us?”

“No,” Kris admitted. “Well, at least she didn’t before. Now- now there’s no telling what she does and doesn’t know.”

Yixing walked deeper into the apartment until he reached the living room. Crouching down, he examined the shards of glass sprinkled all over the rug. He scooped up a hand full, not bothered at all by the tiny cuts the edges made on his fingers and palms; they healed just as quickly as they were formed. “How long ago did they take her?”

“Day and a half ago. Why?”

“Just wondering. I wasn’t sure if they tried to come back and get you as well. Or if this was caused by them coming back.”

“Nothing’s changed since I left.”

“Did you find anything on your original search?”

Kris cleared his throat. Yixing and he… well, they never really had the closest of relationships, even back before they were separated. As thankful as he was that the latter had volunteered to help, Kris still couldn’t help against feeling the slightest bit awkward. “I didn’t do a thorough search, but I did find this.” He walked over to where his duffel bag was sitting on the floor and unzipped the pocket that held the frayed badge.

Baekhyun narrowed his eyes at the symbol. “What is it?”

“It’s the symbol for Regeneration Science, camouflaged unit for EXO. Wang told me about it. She considerate it their back up plan. I never put too much thought into it. The way she talked about RS made it sound like that’s where they would move everything in case something were to happen.”

Minseok took the patch, examining it closer. “Is it possible that they had a copy of the files that you didn’t know about?”

Kris shook his head. “I wouldn’t have thought so. Wang was protective of her research. She didn’t like the idea of copies floating around. While I was still undercover, I tried to find all the copies that I could. They didn’t exist.”

“They obviously still have something on us,” Baekhyun chimed in. “Why else try to come after us again after all these years?”

“That’s a good point,” Yixing said as he straightened himself back up. “If you found that,” he pointed to the patch, “without looking, then maybe there’s something else here. I think we should dig a bit deeper, maybe we’ll get lucky.”

“Sounds like a good idea.”

So, the four of them started searching around the apartment, checking under the couch and in the different rooms for any other clue the enemy might have left behind. Kris headed towards the bedroom, but found himself frozen in the doorway. His brain, adding to the cruel torture he was already in, imagined you sitting on the bed, covers draped over your legs, smiling at him as if he’d just come back from a long day at work.

“You alright?” Minseok asked. His sudden appearance made Kris jump.

“Yeah. Yeah, I’m fine.” Behind Minseok, he watched as Chanyeol picked up the bookcase and set it against the wall. On the floor were scattered papers and folders, creased from the pressure of the wood that had lied on top of them. “Excuse me.” Kris passed by Minseok to get to the living room.

“Is this yours?” Chanyeol asked.

Kris shook his head. “No, it was (y/n)’s. For one of her classes.”

Frowning, Yixing picked up several of the papers and skimmed their contents. “Are you sure about that?”

“Of course.” Why would you lie about something like that?

Yixing held up one of the papers for Kris to see. “I think this might have been how they found you.”

In a flash, Kris snatched the paper. His eyes flew over the words. Slowly, their meanings sank in. It was a list off all the previous places he’d lived, including the different aliases and variations he’d gone by. Only after meeting you had he gotten weak and used his real name. How did you find any of this? But more importantly….

Why were you looking for it in the first place?

#exo #exo obsession au #exo obsession!au #kris x reader #kris wu #wu yifan #exo lucky one au #exo lucky one!au #exo fanfic #exo fanfiction #kris series #exo series #The Experiments Universe #The Anormic

[whattodowithace]

It's Basically The Lion King [Chapter 2] (Seyoon)

Title: It's Basically The Lion King

Pairing: Seyoon x Reader

Genre: Angst; Fluff; Spice

Word Count: 15,072 Words [All Chapters]

Writer: Kpopmadness & Whattodowithkpop

Warning: Mentions of death

*****

The princess  awoke to the sound of her prison door  being opened. She had actually slept for the first time in the weeks following her brothers death.  She had spent many nights sobbing and wishing her brother would wake up. That this was all a dream. Or perhaps a prank, like the ones her brother used to pull on her as children. But reality always hit her like crashing waves. He was gone, her uncle killed her brother,  framed her as the murderer.

Something between sadness for her brothers death, and hatred for the man she had grown up with and had betrayed her,  stayed in her mind every hour she sat in that prison. It grew until she didn't feel shame over the false accusation laid against her. She didn't feel anything. Her emotions were worn out as a plan to somehow prove her uncle a liar formed in her swirling thoughts. Giving her a ray of hope. 

Her uncle had informed her of her departure to Exile Island. The thought of the island made her stomach burn and her heart race with anxiety.  She had read about it in her history books, but to actually be going there herself, for a crime she did not commit made her feel sick. The only thing good about the trip is that it would take them a month to reach the island. Giving her time to somehow break free and return to reclaim her kingdom. But if she couldn't do that,  she would never return. 

A guard stepped into her room and ordered her up. Once she brought herself up to full height, the guard put chains on her that cuffed onto her wrists and then had a longer chain for him to have a hold of.  The cold metal from the chains bit at her hot skin, causing it to itch slightly.

Without a word, he drug her from her old cell and out into the sunlight. Her eyes burned as they slowly adjusted to the harsh contrast of the dark prison. But her ears, her ears immediately heard the sounds of her former people, a people that once loved her and greeted her warmly, were now shouting and cursing her as the guard led her along.  

Even as shouts filled her ears she refused to cry. She refused to bow her head in shame and act like the criminal.  She saw her uncle dressed in royal attire just in front of her making a fresh wave of anger course through her as she met his smug eyes. She jerked against the chains slightly, wishing she could break them. The guard jerked her hard, pulling her to the front, her balance slipping slightly as she went to her knees. The crowd gathered around them laughed.

Her cheeks burned but the princess still brought herself up to full height as the guard handed his end of her chain to the solider in front of them. He stood beside a camel loaded down with bags and equipment for their journey. 

His dark eyes felt like they would see straight through her, making her shift her feet uncomfortably.  His face remained expressionless as the guard handed over her chains and the key to let her lose, which he promptly put in a breast pocket on his dark tunic. 

Her royal gown had been taken away and a dark pair of pants and a matching shirt with boots were given to her. The clothes were designed to block the suns rays and protect the skin from burning. They would be walking all the way to Exile Island. The thought of walking through the hot desert for several miles made her heart drop. 

The new king walked over to the blonde solider and put a hand on his shoulder, a proud smile on his face as if the man was his favorite nephew. Then he turned to her, his gaze turning to ice. 

"Well my dear, i hope you enjoy the island. It is a fitting place for criminals like you to go after all."

The princess met his gaze, a fire igniting in her heart. She opened her mouth to speak, since she was in front of people she could take this time to speak loud enough for people to hear her.

But the king quickly took a cloth and tied it around her mouth, stopping her words. 

"Don't even try, snitch. You are going to that island to die and that's final." He whispered darkly in her ear. "By the way," He added, "This is the rope i used to strangle your brother. Have fun living with this fact on your way to the island."

She jerked against the rope roughly, screaming against the cloth stuffed in her mouth. The solider that had a hold of her rope jerked her roughly, forcing her to walk forward to him. More soldiers walked up to her to place a long chain at the end of the rope to give the solider taking her away a more sturdy restraint.

The crowd cheered as they made their departure from the city, the new king encouraging the crowd to cheer louder. Slowly, the sounds of cheering faded as  they got further and further from the city.

They went on silently for some time. Slowly the lush meadow that surrounded the city and the palace faded, the trees slowly disappearing as the landscape turned into sand. The air turned more dry as the sun felt like it was steadily getting hotter the further into the desert they walked.

The princess took in the appearance of the man leading them. The solider was a few inches taller than she was and had much more muscle and physical strength than she. He had slightly wavy blonde hair that highlighted his tan skin. He seemed quiet but alert. His head turning continuously to check their surroundings. Every now and again he would look behind to her, his dark eyes only staying on her for a moment before turning his head back to look straight ahead. 

They went some time, the sun beating down on them harder and harder as the day progressed. A steady stream of sweat had begun to fall down the princesses face and back. Her white hair clung to her neck, making her wish she could put it up somehow. The cloth stuck in her mouth only made her lips feel chapped and her mouth dry. Her legs aching with every step taken through the thick sand. 

The solider came to a stop, pulling on the reigns of the camel, making it slow. The princess immediately sat down on the sand. Not caring that it was hot.  The solider took a skin bottle from one of the leather bags slung over the camel before crouching down in front of her. His hands reached up and untied the gag from around her mouth. A rush of relief filled the former princess at being able to fully close her mouth again.

"Drink." He said, putting the water skin into her chained hands. 

She took several swigs as she watched the man walk around the camel to retrieve a long scarf like material from another bag. He crouched down in front of her again and took the water from her hands before replacing it with the scarf.

"Put this around your head." He ordered as he stood up and took a swig of water himself.

"Why?" The princess asked, her own voice sounding foreign from not having used it in so long. 

"Because the further we go the hotter it will get. We need to protect our heads from getting burned by the sun." He answered shortly as he wrapped a scarf similar to hers around his head. 

The princess stood up, the chains rattling as she did so, causing the solider to take a defensive stance.

"How long are we going to walk today?" She asked, wrapping the material around her head, the shade it provided bringing her burning cheeks a measure of relief.

The solider  put the water away before making a clicking sound with his tongue, making the camel walk on. The solider gently tugged at her chains making her start walking.

She gave off a huff and fell silent for a moment. Then she asked, "Do you have a name?" 

The solider was silent, the only sound was the sound of his feet sinking in the sand slightly as they walked. 

"We're going to be stuck together for a month." She whined, "At least let me know who's leading me to a life of exile." 

The solider kept walking for some time, silence stretching between them. The princess had given up getting a name out of him before he said, "Mouse."

The princess stared at his back puzzled, "Excuse me?"

"At my regiment, the boys have a name for prisoners. We call them mice because the prison is located under ground. They only see the light of day if they're lucky. And at Exile Island, you defiantly won't be seeing the sun."

The princess let out a gasp, "I am not a mouse! I asked for your name." 

Silence answered her, making her feel more angry. "Savage." She muttered under her breath.

The solider stopped and turned toward her, "What did you call me?"

"Isn't that all you soldiers are? Savages determined to show off how skilled they think they are. People that obviously seem to get their fun from calling people names when they haven’t done anything wrong.” 

The solider who she had now deemed as a savage scoffed and started walking again. Then he stopped and pulled her chain extra hard so she fell onto the sand. Her face coated with the rough texture. 

She glared up at him, his dark eyes met hers evenly. His frame towering over her.

“Let’s get something straight, mouse.” He snarled. 

“I’m supposed to bring you to exile island, alive. But until we get there, you are under my supervision. So I would suggest you watch your mouth and do as I tell you. Because if I had it my way I would leave you here in this desert to die. Do you understand me?” 

She huffed and stood back up, brushing sand off her clothes. She could already tell this was going to be a long journey. 

Previous Chapter ~ Next Chapter

It's Basically The Lion King Masterlist

#ace #ace imagine #ace fanfiction #ace x reader #ace seyoon #ace seyoon x reader #a.c.e #a.c.e imagine #a.c.e fanfiction #a.c.e x reader #a.c.e seyoon #a.c.e seyoon x reader #seyoon #it's basically the lion king #acewriters

[frostgrin]

@isolatedfeline​   Jack on his way to bother Kyo

       ❝  Wanna talk about cursed?  Imagine not being able to be seen or heard for three hundred years.  ❞

#im sorry about him #isolatedfeline #[ic] he smiles and guards the hopes and dreams of children with fun

[razorblade180]

Rosebud part 14

Some days go by fast. Other days go by incredibly slow. For Ruby, it was the ladder. Deep in the woods of Anima she sat on the porch of Ren and Nora’s orphanage with kids around the age of ten circled around her in amazement as she told them stories of her adventures. Each one more amazing than the last until the Sun was setting on the crisp winter day. Funny, she’d never particularly loved the cold but lately it was so inviting. Most likely because she was in comfy sweatpants and being pregnant made her body feel like she was a furnace. The phrase bun in the oven never felt more real. Soon it would be over though. In fact, it would be considered a day over cooked right now.

Ruby:Ok, story time is officially over.

Children:Awwww!

Little girl:But I wanna hear more about the food fight!

Little boy:Yeah! Also how do you ride a locker. I wanna try!

Ruby:Hehehe, now, now, I gotta save stories for later. Plus I bet Ren is almost done with dinner. Don’t wanna miss that now do we?

Children:Okay….

They all slumped down with puppy eyes. Ruby wasn’t naive. She’s seen this tactic; she might as well be the inventor of it. Yet it was working on her!

Ruby:Tell you what, wanna hear the song I sing to my baby? It’s practically one of the few I can actually sing well.

Children:Yaaaaay!!!

Ruby:*clears throat* Dream of anything. I'll make it all come true. Everything you need is all I'll have for you. I'm forever, Always by your si-

The front door opened and Yang came walking out with baby Kovu in her arms. The little guy has gotten pretty big in just about a year. He was wearing a black onesie and enjoying being swayed.

Yang:Ren says dinner is ready for you little ankle biters. You have five minutes to get to the table if you want dessert.

Terror spread on the children’s faces before they ran inside.

Yang:Wash your hands!

Ruby:Look at that. You have one kid and now you know how to master them all.

Yang:I think you’re forgetting who helped raise you. If anything, you’re my first child Ruby. It’s actually very comforting seeing it like that.

Ruby:It’s also emotional and I’d appreciate it if you didn’t make me cry. I’ll need all the energy I can muster when this little procrastinator decides to be born.

Yang:Like mother like daughter.

Ruby:Ah! I don’t remember giving you this bedside manner when you were blown up like a balloon. Kovu, your mom is being mean to your aunt.

Kovu does nothing but giggle and wiggles his ears.

Ruby:Fine, take her side.

Yang:He knows better than to upset his food supply. Soon you’ll be on straight solids mister and I can be free.

Kovu looks at Yang for a moment in silence. She’s a bit stunned that he might’ve understood that. Then Kovu starts tugging on her tank top and Yang’s eyes squint at him while Ruby chuckles.

Yang:I don’t think he likes that idea.

Ruby:He’s a simple boy. Boobs are his life.

Yang:Don’t lewd my son or I’ll make fun of….whatever gender your kid is. Why can’t you be a normal person and know ahead of time.

Ruby:I like the surprise. Nora knows but that’s because her and the nurse here have done basically everything. I’m surprised she hasn’t told Jaune.

Yang:He still on patrol with the others? He should really be right by your side.

Ruby:I wish he was but we agreed keeping these woods safe is top priority. Can’t afford to get careless; not this time.

Ruby rubbed her stomach slowly as she remembered a time very similar to this. Hard to believe it’s been three years. Even so, the ache still felt somewhat fresh. Yang reached out and rubbed her shoulder. A comforting smile eased Ruby’s worries and she returned the smile genuinely.

Yang:Now is the time to look forward. Wouldn’t want your anxiety to harm the baby. Aren’t you the one usually preaching about hope?

Ruby:Yeah, the curse of being a good leader strikes again. All my advice coming right back at ya.

Yang:Gotta bring it up all the good ones so you’ll remember it for your little one.

Ruby:My little one had to come out first! I’m tired of being pregnant Yang.

Yang:Yeah I went through something a little similar. Due date was coming soon and this little guy stopped being as active. I started eating ice so the cold stirred him up. Ghira even tried spooking me into labor. Oh! Let’s try that. Kovu, scare your cousin.

Ruby:You’re so ridiculous sometimes.

Yang crouches down to Ruby’s belly and holds Kovu to it. His tiny hand reaches out and starts tapping it.

The two sisters laugh at his attempt.

Ruby:Sorry Kovu. Good atte-

Yang:Ruby?

Ruby:Yang...go get the nurse and Nora.

Yang:*eyes widened* Really!?

xxxx

Out in the woods, Jaune makes his rounds around his designated area like the others. The only thing distracting him from the cold was the thought of his wife. This was all for her safety and peace of mind and for that reason alone, he’d put up with anything.

Jaune reached for his scroll and brought it up. He checked on his friends' aura levels. Still high; little to no fighting has happened then. That’s all he could ask for.

Jaune:Everyone okay?

Blake:Yep

Weiss:Naturally.

Qrow:All clear.

Raven:Not so much as a beowulf on my side.

Tai:Really? I’ve killed like five.

Raven:Stop worrying about everything and they might stop seeking you out.

Tai:Mmmm nope. I need the exercise anyways.

Jaune:You need any help?

Tai:I’m just fine. Don’t worry about me for one second.

Qrow:Says the worry wart. Besides, I think you have something coming your way kid. Can you see the sky?

Jaune jumps on a branch to see above the treeline. What he saw was plumes of black smoke and the sight of birds fleeing the scene. ”Someone’s killing grimm? In my area?” He said, confused. ”Who could be out here besides-”

His heart sank to his stomach and he gripped his tight. Without a moment of hesitation, Jaune darted towards the scene. “I’m checking it out now. Everyone be ready for the worst.”

“Roger!” They all said with conviction in their voice.

It didn’t take Jaune long to get where he was headed. Each step he took brought growls and the familiar sound of metal striking bone armor. ‘It’s not them, it can’t be them. We took every precaution.’ He kept telling himself as he slowed down and crouched into the shrubs. ‘Relax Jaune, don’t get impatient. Observe and go from there.’

He took a deep breath and parted the plants in front of him. There was a forest clearing. Dozens of Ursa laid fading away while a massive one stood on its hind legs and roared. Below him was a figure in a cloak. Jaune could only see his back but it was easy to see how worn out the person was.

The cloak was all covered in dirt and their shoulders rose and fell with an intensity that could only mean deep breathing. Still it looked like they remained calm. Their stance low and poised as their hands ready their cane to the side. Wait, Jaune recognized that cane.

The Ursa slammed its weight to the ground and a shockwave blew cloak back along with the person. Jaune popped up from his hiding spot. “Ozpin?” The figure turned around. Yep, it was him.

“Hello Mr. Arc. How-“ another roar interrupted the headmaster and the Ursa charged. Ozpin was caught off guard.

“Look out!” Jaune screamed as he cloaked himself in aura and rushed over there almost as fast as Ruby. He slammed his shield right into the Ursa’s head; making it stumble back. He kept up the momentum by spinning forward and chopping the head off in one swipe.

Ozpin:Nice form. Oh how far you’ve come.

Jaune:Oz, what are you doing out here?

Ozpin:I thought that was obvious. Killing grimm like the rest of you. She’s almost due, right?

Jaune:H...How did you know we were here in the first place? This was supposed to be tight lipped.

Ozpin:It is. The only one who was supposed to know I was here was Mrs. Rose herself but as you can see, things got a bit messy.

Ozpin took a knee and held his head down with his cane supporting him. If it wasn’t for the eye and white hair, He’d looked exactly like how Oscar did after training.

Jaune:How long have you been out here?

Ozpin:Not too long. About a month.

Jaune:A month!?

Ozpin:Yeah. That Ursa Major was number 257 by the way. All the office work is making me rusty.

Jaune:You know if the other’s saw you here then they might have some choice words with you right? I appreciate you being there for Ruby but your agreement-

Ozpin:I’m well aware. It’s why I’ve been trying to remain inconspicuous. This isn’t me trying to build good karma and I have no intention on asking anybody for anything. If anything this should be my way of thanking you all for your years of service and making sure you can continue living life the way you want. It’s the least I can offer. Besides some advice.

Jaune:I think I’m a little old to be your student.

Ozpin:Hardly. Humanity might as well be kids compared to my age. You’re never too old to learn regardless; you’ve all taught me many things for example. I’m grateful for that.

Jaune:....Fine, lay it on me professor.

He sat down in front of his old professor to humor him. Oz couldn’t help but smirk as he stood up like he was about to give a lecture.

Ozpin:This part of Anima is known for slow moving grimm that are spaced well enough apart that the success rate of a traveler running away is pretty high in comparison to other places. I imagine that is one of the reasons why the orphanage was built here.

Jaune:That’s right.

Ozpin:Not a bad idea. When I arrived, I killed thirty grimm at most in my first week. Next week they were more agitated and mobile. Makes sense; Mrs. Rose was here and so were you. Childbirth is an anxiety filled event that happens by nature. However, the grimm kept showing up by the dozens and I got very busy as you can see. Which means...

Jaune:More people showed up? I knew that. Practically everyone is here by now.

Ozpin:Yes but you have to think a bit bigger than that. More people showing up isn’t the problem. It’s everyone who showed up is on edge and attracting the grimm; you all are causing the dangers that you’re trying to prevent. No doubt you could handle them together but if it wasn’t for me then at least half of you would be needlessly exhausted. That would be a real problem if a grimm of frightening destruction showed up, or a rogue maiden out for blood.

Jaune felt his heart stop for a moment. Oz was right. He’d been so caught in his head that instead of being proactive like he thought he was being, he was actually just reacting to his own fears. The only reason the plan was working was because everyone was more than skillful to handle most problems.

Oz walked over to Jaune and got him on his feet. He put away his cane and rested his hand on Jaune’s shoulder.

Ozpin:Strength and diligence are very important but not the most important right now. You all have that in spades. I bet there’s a million things on everyone’s minds right now. All valid fears no doubt. Give them a chance to get it all off their chest. A leader protects the mind along with the body. Just you do as a husband, and just like you’ll do as a father. *smiles*

Jaune:You think that highly of me huh?

Ozpin:Well you are the one who has done the most growing. Then again, that’s only natural seeing how you were….let’s say a late bloomer.

Jaune:That was almost a complete compliment.

Ozpin:Hehe, my fault. You know, I never had a son but looking at former students like you and Ren really makes me feel like…

Oz’s words trailed off and he stopped speaking. Instead he stood right in front of Jaune and examined him thoroughly. Hair, clothes, frame. He’d really grown from his first day. Jaune looked a little embarrassed and confused as Ozpin nodded and smiled with what seemed to be pride. Then, he walked off. Jaune said thank you and got only a wave goodbye. Class was dismissed.

Jaune almost wanted to call out to him but stopped; his scroll ringing nonstop like an alarm. Everyone was messaging him. Yang most of all. ‘How have I not noticed this?’ He thought answering Yang’s call.

Jaune:Hey what’s-

….

Jaune:RIGHT NOW!?

xxxx

Yang:Yes right now! I know we had this system in place but I think you should be-

Ruby:AAAAAAAHHHH!

Yang:I think you should be here for the birth!!!

Jaune:I’m on my way! We all are.

Yang:What about-

Jaune:I’d Cinder wants to show up then that’s her death wish. We’ll handle her together.

He hung up before Yang could even respond. The girl sighed to calm herself before looking over at her sister. Ruby was sweating bullets on a hospital bed they have gotten earlier. The nurse was going back and forth with clean attire for the baby and making sure Ruby’s vitals were okay. She’d been healthy all through the pregnancy but better safe than sorry. Natural births could get tricky sometimes.

Nora had the honor of actually being the person delivering the baby. She’d done it more than anyone around and it was showing. Her face displayed laser focus on the task at hand and she was dressed in proper hospital attire except for her hair which was pulled back into a bun. Truly she was the rock Ruby needed right now.

Nora:You’re doing great Ruby! Keep it up!

Ruby:Agh, you...you’d think this would be easier the second time. Hehehe….

Yang:*grabs her hand* Jaune’s on his way. All of them are by the sound of it.

Ruby:That’s good...wouldn’t mind some more happy faces in here.

Nora:Then let's make them really happy by making them to the party. How about they see you with a beautiful baby in your arms? Ready?

Ruby:*tightens grip* To get back to a life of combat skirts? You bet.

Nora:*smiles* One...Two...THREE!

xxxx

‘Almost there. I can’t believe this is actually happening.’ Jaune thought as he sprinted through the forest. Jumping over tree roots and gaining speed along the way. The man didn’t miss a step.

The sounds of his boots going across the floor began to get drowned out by other footsteps. With each passing moment a friend came into his peripheral that joined him in the journey back to Ruby. Weiss was the first, followed by Blake, and then Tai.

Blake:You nervous?

Jaune:Hell yeah, but it’ll all work out. I have you guys. I don’t know how far I would’ve made it otherwise.

Weiss:Think nothing of it. This has always been a group effort.

Jaune:Not Just with this. I mean everything. School, adventures, regular life problems, you’ve helped so much in so many ways. I couldn’t ask for better friends and family.

Tai:That goes both ways you know? We’re thankful for you just as much as you are for us.

Weiss:We love you, you dunce. I can’t imagine anything we wouldn’t do for you or Ruby honestly.

Blake:And we know it’s mutual. Now and forever, we’ll watch each other’s backs.

Jaune:Thanks guys. *smiles*

Tai:Hey, where’s Qrow and Raven?

On que a bird flies right past them and gains some distance. “That’s totally cheating” Weiss pouts as she can feel the heels of her shoes getting a bit worn. The bird flies around a tree and transforms back into Raven. “Need some help you slow pokes?” She grabs her sword and opens a portal. The group smiles and happily jumps through it. They come out the other side in front of the orphanage with Qrow leaning against the door waiting.

Qrow:Good thing I looked so you all could just leap. What if I was inside the house when Raven made that portal?

Tai:Sounds about on brand really. The kids would’ve had a good laugh.

Jaune:Never mind all that. Is Ru-

“Waaaaahhh!”

A cry from inside was heard loud and strong. Jaune’s eyes widened. It could’ve any kid. From the small kids to Kovu, but somehow, he knew it wasn’t. The cry, it belonged to someone new.

Jaune said nothing and walked towards the door. Everyone fell in line behind him with cheerful smiles on their face. They gave him space. It was his moment more than theirs after all. Ren stood with a child in his arms when he noticed them coming in. He gave his best friend and leader a smile then pointed upstairs. Jaune nodded then went right towards them; the crying getting louder as he got closer until it reached its peak with him right outside a wooden door. His heart felt like it was about to fly out of his chest. Jaune grabbed the door knob but felt too anxious to turn it. A fire in his chest that didn’t frighten him, but made this moment surreal. Then, a voice cut through it all.

“Don’t worry, I got you. Nothing will ever harm you…”

Without anymore thinking, he walked in. From that moment on, the winter night felt incredibly warm. There she was. His closest friend. His wife. Holding their newborn child in her arms with such grace and gentleness that it took his breath away. Despite what Ruby would probably think, Jaune doesn’t think he’s ever seen her look this angelic. She hasn’t even noticed him yet. Her attention focused on soothing the baby with the same song she used all pregnancy; the same song for Dustin.

“I’m close by, I’ll stay here. Through all things I will be nea- Hmm?” Ruby finally felt the presence of multiple eyes and looked up. It was a pleasant surprise to see so many loved ones staring in awe from the door while. Then there was Jaune. Speechless in front of her bed with tears in his eyes. Ruby had already been crying for several minutes and smiled back at him. Though she hadn’t realized just how happy he was; why they were all thrilled. It wasn’t just the baby. It was Ruby herself. Jaune was looking at deep pools of silver that shined like the moon’s reflection on a still lake. For the first time in a long time, Ruby finally looked like herself again.

Jaune:H...Hey…

Ruby:Hey there stranger. Looks like you were right this time around. Come say hello to your daughter Carmine.

Jaune’s smile grew even bigger. He’d forgotten all about that silly wager from long ago. Slowly he walked to Ruby’s side and she held the little one up so he could see the new addition to their lives. What he saw was beautiful. Carmine had come out with already a full head of blonde hair that grew darker and red at the tips. Her cheeks were all rosy; he’d assume from crying but he hoped that maybe she had a natural blush.

Regardless, what really captured him was when she opened her eyes. Purity couldn’t describe them. They were eyes that stole his heart in an instant. Maybe it was because he was already so emotional. Or maybe, it was because it was because they were just as captivating as Ruby’s. An intense silver that showed him anything possible.

Jaune:Hey Carmine Arc Rose. Welcome, to the best family ever.

Part 13

#rwby #rwby rosebud #ruby rose #jaune arc #ruby x jaune #rwby lancaster #weiss schnee #blake belladonna #yang xiao long #taiyang xiao long #raven branwen #qrow branwen #lie ren #nora valkryie #ozpin

[shedreamsofstars]

our union is a secret i’m hoping, dreaming, lying to keep - chapter six

you’ve all heard of ‘pretending to be married when you’re not’, now get ready for ‘actually married but pretending you’re not’

When Tohru and Kyo accidentally find themselves married, they must keep their new union a secret from their friends and family. That’s easier said than done when you’re both newlywed dorks who just want to spend some quality time with one another whilst said friends and family are always one step away from discovering the truth.

Start from the beginning | Previous chapter | Next chapter

Dinner was a simple affair.

That was, if you could call the several courses Shigure and Akito had requested be brought over from the annex kitchens simple.

Tohru and Kyo sat across from Shigure and Akito, a spread of food ranging from dumplings to grilled fish placed artfully between them. As the conversation dropped, Tohru reached for rice ball and noticed that Shigure was giving her a strange look.

"Uh …" she started, accidentally knocking a spoon in a nearby dish. "Is everything okay Shigure-san?"

The man blinked slowly and purposefully before leaning forwards and resting his chin in his hands. "I'm not sure," he said contemplatively, his eyes still on her as if he was trying to figure something out. "Have you done something different with your hair? I could have sworn it looked different when we were outside."

Panic fluttered in her chest and it was suddenly very difficult to breathe. "Oh, it's just that-"

She was saved from finishing her sentence when Kyo interrupted, an adorably grumpy look on his face that she couldn't help but appreciate. "What do you care about her hair you dirty perv," he grumbled with a deep frown as he picked at the food in his plate.

There was absolutely no doubt Kyo was annoyed that their quiet evening together had been cut into by Shigure and Akito's unexpected arrival, but she knew from his relative silence that he was at least trying not to be completely hostile.

From Shigure's responding grin, he knew it too.

"My, my, Kyo. You really are in a foul mood today aren't you. I'm sorry dear Tohru, I hope he isn't this horrid to you every day. I worry, since the two of you are all alone in that house all the time with no one to protect you."

Even without the older man emphasising his words for dramatic effect, it wasn't hard to catch onto where his mind was wandering. 'A little too close to the gutter,' Tohru could almost hear Yuki saying.

His remarks brought a hot flush to her cheeks and she chewed her food frantically to keep from having to respond instantly. Kyo didn't respond to the comment either, but Tohru did feel him tense up beside her, and when she risked a look at him he was stabbing at his chicken rather roughly.

"Is that a blush I spot, Tohru? I didn't mean anything indelicate I assure you, just an innocent comment over an innocent dinner. Unless there's something I'm missing of course?"

That seemed to be the last straw for her new husband as Kyo suddenly slid his chair back and stood up, slamming his fists on the table as he did so. "I just remembered there's somewhere else we have to be," he declared loudly, gritting his teeth.

"Oh really?" Shigure responded. "I was certain Tori said that-"

"Gure," Akito warned quietly, her face the picture of annoyance. She had been silently listening to her boyfriend throw around aimless comments this whole time, but it seemed even she had had enough. "Let them be."

"Ah, you're no fun," the older man moaned, leaning back in his chair and pouting at his girlfriend. "Besides, we're staying in the annex so it's not like we'll see them again before they leave. Sit down Kyo, you're starting to make me antsy."

Kyo's stomach grumbled traitorously, and despite his obvious desire to escape, he retook his seat with a defeated sigh. As soon as he was seated, he returned to openly glaring at Shigure. The tension between the two of them was rife, and Tohru had lived with the two of them long enough to know that if she didn't do something soon, it would only end in an argument.

As inconspicuously as she could, she reached under the table and placed her hand on Kyo's knee. His eyes drifted towards her at the touch and she leaned towards him. "It's just a meal," she whispered encouragingly.

The gesture seemed to appease him for the time being as he nodded, placing his own hand over the top of hers in response.

"She's right Kyo. After dinner, the two of you will have all the privacy in the world and you can make each other blush in whatever way you fancy. Isn't that right dear?"

If looks could kill, the glare Akito flashed at Shigure would have had him cold and dead on the on the floor in half a second flat. But as it was, he only grinned shamelessly and began to serve the next course.

Luckily, the food created a buffer for any disagreement that could have arisen from that particular look as the four of them dug into their over-laden plates.

"This tastes amazing," Shigure noted, lifting a forkful of grilled shishamo towards Akito. "Here, try some." She gingerly took a bite, blushing wildly at the obvious display of affection and Tohru couldn't help but smile at her friend.

Kyo however seemed to care marginally less about the scene before them. "Stop being all gross and cutesy Shigure, it doesn't suit you at all. Just finish eating and go," he griped, shovelling a much too large bite of food into his mouth.

"So, Akito," Tohru interjected loudly as their two partners began to bicker ceaselessly. "What was it that you wanted to talk about?"

"Oh," the other girl murmured, frowning at her food as she tried to figure out a way to put her thoughts to words. "Actually, it was about my wedding. I don't have many people I can call 'friend' … but you already knew that," she said with a nervous laugh.

"That's okay," Tohru said softly, nodding to encourage her to continue.

"We set a date for next year, and I was wondering if … maybe …"

Akito bit her bottom lip and frowned intently at her food. Tohru gave her a moment to finish her sentence, but it became pretty clear that she didn't plan to. With a concerned expression, Tohru leaned forwards but she needn't have worried.

As if sensing her distress, Shigure momentarily paused whatever argument he was having with Kyo and turned to Akito, casually wrapping an arm around her waist and leaning in close to her ear.

Tohru straightened up to give them some privacy, and even though she had no idea what Shigure said, it seemed to have been exactly what she needed to hear. Akito's face relaxed instantly, and a ghost of a smile appeared on her lips.

When she looked up at Tohru again, there was a determined fire in her dark eyes. "Tohru, I'd like for you to be my maid of honour," the girl said before any doubt could creep back into her tone. "If you want to that is … obviously. You don't have to if -"

"I do want to!" Tohru said excitedly, forgetting all about the food and almost knocking over her drink as she stood and reached across the table. "Akito, I'm so excited to get to be a part of your wedding," she squeaked, unable to contain her joy as she enclosed Akito's fidgeting fingers in her own comforting hold.

Kyo and Shigure, who had earlier promptly returned to squabbling, stopped once more at Tohru's excited outburst and turned to the two girls with intrigue. It didn't take them long to figure out what had happened.

When she retook her seat, Tohru caught Kyo flashing her a cryptic smile. He was happy for her. And even if he could never quite let go of his past with Akito completely, he was happy for her too.

As the conversation lapsed into various wedding planning details, talks of dresses, venues and flowers filled the room as even Shigure and Kyo put their two cents in and agreed on a few points despite their earlier animosity.

Whilst the two men discussed whether all the Sohma's would be wearing matching suits, Akito caught Tohru's attention with a gentle tap to the knuckle.

"So," she started, her voice pitched low so only Tohru could hear. "Have you two discussed marriage at all?" she asked, looking pointedly between Kyo and Tohru.

Tohru freaked out a little at the question, and in an effort to think of a response, she shovelled some mochi ice cream into her mouth and ate it as slowly as she possibly could. "Um … actually, we have," she replied eventually, hoping that the head of the Sohma's wouldn't push the topic further.

"Oh that's great," Akito responded. "I suppose it won't be long till the two of you tie the knot and have little Tohru's and Kyo's running around then."

Tohru choked on the spoonful of dessert in her mouth, coughing wildly as she tried to regain her composure. Kyo had her in his arms in seconds, rubbing her back with gentle soothing motions as Akito handed her a glass of water.

She took a sip, the cold seeping through her insides in cool wave of relief. "Thank you," she sighed softly before clearing her throat.

"Geez, would you take it easy. That dessert ain't going nowhere," Kyo said with a teasing grin, his hand still on her back. And then, more softly. "What had you eating like a maniac?"

Oh god, was she really going to have to talk about this.

"I'm afraid that was my fault," Akito stated. "I was just pointing out that I was looking forward to seeing more younger Sohma's in the family soon, and I seem to have caught Tohru off guard."

"Younger Sohma's?" Kyo repeated slowly, his confusion evident in his tone. "Is someone having another baby or something?"

"No, she meant your children Kyo," Shigure clarified, and this time it was Kyo's turn to cough in embarrassment. He mumbled a response quietly, but no matter how she strained to hear him, Tohru couldn't make out a single world he said.

"What was that?" Akito asked, frowning in confusion at his response.

"Nothing," he said, voice strained as he refused to make eye contact with Tohru. "Kids are great, but shouldn't you two be more concerned about your own?"

"Ah, we haven't fully decided on that front yet have we my dear," Shigure said, turning to his wife-to-be. "Besides, everyone's already convinced that the pair of you will beat us all in that department." He grinned wickedly at Kyo. "No pressure."

"Uh," Tohru smiled nervously. "We haven't actually talked about kids, but like Kyo said, they really are great."

"Oh. I was under the impression you'd already discussed it," Akito said quietly, looking more than a little embarrassed. Her other half on the other hand only grinned smugly, and from the look Akito gave him, it was clear where her misinformation had come from. The look was enough to make any normal man fall to his knees and beg for mercy, but Shigure's grin only widened.

"And with that, it seems we must be off," the older man said, standing and helping Akito to her feet beside him. It didn't take long for them to clear the table together and soon the four found themselves standing in the courtyard under the stars.

"Thank you again for such a lovely evening," Tohru said as she pulled Akito into a parting hug. "The food was amazing, and it was wonderful seeing you again."

"The same for you. And uh, Tohru," Akito said softly, holding onto her a little longer than needed. "Please ignore all the baby comments. I thought that …" she sighed softly, an air of suffering in her tone as she grumbled her fiancé's name.

Tohru couldn't help but giggle. "That's okay. I think he was just trying to make the evening a little more interesting and … it definitely worked."

"Yes, but still," Akito said, shaking her head as she pulled away from Tohru. "I'm sorry for bringing it up."

Kyo and Shigure were standing by the car that would take the older couple to the house at the annex, and Tohru couldn't help but watch with a full heart and quiet pride as Kyo and Akito shook hands and wished each other well in parting.

As the headlights of the car disappeared from view, Kyo sighed heavily and fell against the low wall dramatically. "That was one of the most painful experiences of my entire life," he groaned, words slightly muffled as he pressed his face squarely into his hands.

"Oh, definitely," Tohru giggled in agreement as she perched beside him. "But I'm so proud of you for going along with it anyway."

Kyo turned his face towards her with a shy smile and Tohru almost slipped off the wall as her heart stuttered at the sight. She didn't think she'd ever be able to put to words how beautiful her husband looked when he wasn't putting on a mask for the rest of the word.

"Do you think they figured us out tonight?"

"No, I think we pulled it off," she said, nudging him with her shoulder. "We make a good team, right?"

Kyo lifted his head and sat up straight, gazing up at the stars twinkling above them as he took in a deep breath.

"I sure hope so."

... xxx ...

thank you so much for reading! let me know your thoughts if you have the time. i hope you enjoyed this chapter as much as i enjoyed writing basically *everything* shigure said and did lol. until next time, stay safe guys x

#kyoru #kyoru fanfiction #fruits basket #fruits basket fanfiction #our union is a secret i'm hoping dreaming lying to keep

[carryonmywaywardwriters]

One Day At A Time - Jensen x Reader

A/N: Part Five! I jumped on to edit tags, so have it half an hour earlier than it was queued for. If you’d like to be tagged, please send an ask or message. As always, feedback is incredible. And, I hope you all enjoy <3

PSA: I am NOT a minor friendly blog. If you are below 18, please come back when you’re older. I don’t want to lose my blog because you were too eager to grow up. If I discover you, I WILL block.

Series Masterlist

Warnings: Widower!Jensen. Unrequited feelings. Sexual awareness. Guilt. The usual, at this point. We’re about to pick up!

Word Count: Roughly 2,800

“Papa Ackles!” You were hugged by the older man, tightly when you opened the door. The name had been adopted by you teasingly and had somehow stuck for the one and only Roger Alan Ackles. He liked to kid that his son was the prettier of the two, but the family resemblance hadn't been spared. Namely in that smile. Then there was the crinkles by his eyes. His genes were every bit as present as his wife's. “I didn't know you were coming over. Is Donna here, too?”

“Nah, she's busy checking in on Mackenzie.” A wink sent your way made you chuckle. You could only imagine the drilling the younger sister was busy getting from the sweet, mother hen. “Is my boy busy, or can I bug him for a bit?”

“He's in the pool with the kids.” Your thumb pointed towards the back, as you opened the door further to allow him inside.

“And why aren't you out having fun, too? Too old?” To the patriarchal figure, you weren't a housekeeper and nanny mix. You were part of the family and that was that. And, it was his and his wife's duty to look over the herd. Which meant you weren't spared from the loving questionnaires. “My son overworks you.” He knew it wasn't true. Was just trying to get a reaction. You simply tsked, not taking the bait as you got back to work. “What're ya working on today, missy?”

“I'm only thirty. Who're you calling old, Pops?” You teased, lifting up the laundry basket you'd set out. You'd gained the response you wanted. That tossed back, full bodied laugh his son had inherited. If it ever came to you leaving? You'd miss that over exuberant old man.  “And this?” The laundry basket was kicked forward a bit for emphasis, “This is the last thing I've got queued up. Now, go harass your son. He'll love it.”

A pat to your shoulder and an affectionate kiss on the cheek left you alone as he moved down to the pool room. You knew the moment the kids had spotted him. The echoing 'papa's sounding loudly up the stairs.

You moved down to the old cellar to pick up the discarded clothes from the kids. Or so you told yourself. It had nothing to do with the desire to be one of them. Nothing at all.

There wasn't even ten minutes of peace that passed before another, younger, Ackles invaded your alone time. A still damp Jensen walked in, rubbing his hair with the towel. Shirtless and completely at home in his skin when away from the camera, he padded over to the wine cellar. Searching out his favorite stash. You wanted to believe that you were strong enough to not lift your gaze away from the cleaning repeatedly. But, you weren't.

The sinewy muscles across his arms and back were outlined as he moved. He could be a little shy about the less than chiseled belly, but he had no reason. Mouthwatering still accurately described the being in front of you. Small drops of water trailed down as he grabbed two beers from the mini fridge he'd installed some time back. His swimsuit was dry enough to not drip, but damp enough to cling to the curve of his ass.

Every fan girl's wet dream was less than a foot away. And you couldn't touch. Shouldn't have even looked.

As he turned back around, you forced yourself to stare down at your hands. Not letting the lust you were sure was obvious anywhere near his eyes. “You're not gonna visit?”

There. That I can handle. With a shaky breath, you yanked your mind off him. Back to reality, instead.

“No,” You answered easily, folding the little dinosaur shirt that Zeppelin had almost destroyed neatly. “I already said hi.”

A low hum was all you got for a moment. Leaving you to believe that was the end of the discussion. But, he hadn't walked away.

“Are you alright?” The troubled question took you by surprise well enough that your head lifted. That was a mistake in itself. It left you to stare temptation down. “You've been...different.”

“I...” Clearing your throat didn't get the lump out of it when that bearded, overly attractive bastard's unreal pine gaze seemed to bore into your very soul. “I'm...I'm fine.”

“No, you're not.” That finally gave you the strength to jerk the pile of clothes upwards as he set down the beverages. Before you could make it out of there, a hand gripped around your arm. You froze at the firm touch. “Y/N...what's going on?”

His hand was ice cold from the both drinks and pool. You shouldn't have felt so warm. Yet, the contact made your blood pump faster. Looking down, his fingers weren't tight enough to leave marks. Simply catch your attention. And, boy, did it.

Breathlessly, you finally found your voice, “Let me go, please.” You were dropped as if he'd been burned. You knew the feeling well. The flesh he'd touched felt as if he'd branded you. “I said I'm fine.”

“Did...Did I do something?” He was trying to understand the distance that had sprung up over the past few weeks. His tongue wet his lips as he stared you down. Only making it harder to focus.

Even with the kids, you seemed to have taken a step back. They assumed you weren't feeling good. He was just clueless. As often as you were there, and as much as he knew, there was still a whole lot of empty resting between you two. It could have been anything.

“No.” That didn't help him piece it together, any. He wanted to know. Needed to. “Look, I'm okay. I just...I need to finish this up.”

Your eyes continued to evade him. Seeking a way out. As if he'd held you trapped in his home. Immediately, he wondered if that were the case. You hadn't said anything. But you wouldn't. He knew that beyond doubt.

“Look, the kids and Pops were hoping you'd join us back there.” He pointed towards the door. Hoping that the old man could see past your guard. Get you to open up.  “You can take a beer. Wind down a bit. Socialize with someone other than us.”

Arguing the point was useless, then. Unless you wanted to look like an ass, anyway. Jensen, bless his heart, was truly unaware of what was plaguing you. Even if half the world seemed to see right through the wall.

His obliviousness was both endearing and maddening. The loyalty to his late wife so sweet that it ached. Blindness to you? Scalding. Even though it never should have mattered.

“Okay,” Your shoulders wilted as you said it, making him frown further. Settling on the defeat. So confident that he'd solved the riddle.“Give me a minute and I'll be out there.”

“About time!” Roger boomed, drawing eyes your way.

You'd taken your time about it. An extra few minutes to clear your head. Long enough that everyone acted as if you'd been gone for weeks rather than had a few extra moments to yourself. Kids chattering all about; beyond excited that one of their favorite humans had finally decided to join them.

“Yeah, but I brought food.” The tray you carried held chicken salad sandwiches, some fruit, and some more drinks. It gave you the out you'd needed. “It's excused.”

“You keep this one around,” Papa Ackles hummed happily as you set the tray down in the middle of the large picnic table that rested on the perfectly manicured lawn. Rubbing his hands dramatically as he dug in.

The kids joined in, but Jensen waited. His eyes latched on you as you sat across from him. Careful not to bump your legs with his bowed ones. As if a single touch were more than you could stand.

You tried to ignore him. Focusing on the munchkins that were determined to make up for lost time. Talking with mouths full. Spraying water from their bodies everywhere as they fought for their feast. Not the food. But, your attention.

Texan sun beat down on your back. Hot and heavy in only the way the south could accomplish during the summer. Scalding through the clothes. You slipped the flannel you'd been wearing down over your arms as you managed a slightly average conversation with the older gentleman over the desperately goofy children.

The sun kissed skin wasn't anything that Jensen hadn't seen before. Yet, he found himself gazing over it as you patted down his curly coated dog. Imagining himself burying his face against the place where your neck met your shoulder. Pressing a kiss to the pulse point that would be racing. It was so vivid that he couldn't quite shake it away.

What the fuck? He came to his senses as you tossed the shirt over to the chair at the end of the table that had his clothes. However, it was soon lost when he focused on the pile. All he could picture was the bare skin meeting just as fabric had under the sun. Maybe Cliff is right...maybe I do need to get laid.

His body couldn't agree more as it awakened for the first time while he wasn't buried in his subconscious. The cold water that still clung to him doing nothing to slow his blood. A mistake in the making.

His mind tried to rationalize it away. You were too young. A young thirty just that year. There was the fact he was technically your employer. You'd been his wife's friend, for fuck's sake. A million reasons why it would never work. Yet, the longer he sat there, the more he found himself studying you.

There was the curve of your neck that came into his line of vision when you turned to address Zeppelin on one side, or Arrow on the other. The way the top of your breasts peaked out of the tank top as you leaned over to pour some homemade lemonade for J.J. How soft your legs were against his when Oscar knocked under the table.

“Jensen,” His name was said in confusion. Not the feminine, lust hazed moan he'd imagined. Slowly, he blinked away every piece of carnal sin that lined his deprived brain to stare at his future face. Roger didn't hesitate to investigate. “You okay?”

“I'm good,” The crack of his all too high voice said otherwise, but you didn't call him on it. Instead, you simply frowned a bit before excusing yourself. Making him feel ever the heel.

–

“Night, love.” You whispered back to Zeppelin as you shut his door. Sighing in relief. Everyone's worried gazes were getting to you. As if you were going to fall apart at the slightest inconvenience.

Sneaking out the back, you practically ran to your escape. Only to be caught by a looming shadow. There wasn't time to scream before the fuzzy beast beside him made it clear who it was.

“Can we talk? Without the kids, around?”

“About what?” You wheezed, holding your hand over your heart. Still trying to recover from the shock. There wasn't an option given. Instead, you were dragged to your home by your wrist. “What the hell is up with you?”

As soon as your door shut and light flicked on, he got down to business, “I could ask you the same thing.” Oscar danced around your living room. Sniffing the aquarium housing the clawed frog as he ignored two of his favorite people. “What's going on, Y/N?”

“Nothing.” You shrugged out. Refusing to make eye contact.

“Right...Okay, let's approach this differently.” That made the E/C sweep back his way. Distrust lining them. “My name's Jensen...not Mr. Ackles.” The commanding tone went straight to your ovaries as he stepped closer. Looming over you as he made his point.

“Really? Because right now? All I see is Dean Winchester.” The sass fell short as you caught your breath. Swallowing tightly, you got to the point. Hoping it would give you some space. “You want the truth?” A simple, stern nod was your only response. “You were right.”

“On what, exactly?”

“You're all about to switch up your lives completely, Jay.” Heavy defeat seemed to line your face as you backed away. Plopping on the couch in clear exhaustion. The poodle mix waddled your way. Reaching up to sniff your cheeks while his owner stared in utter confusion. “You're going to have all the time in the world....and...You guys aren't going to want me around, forever.” Your fingers pulled out a small knot in the coat you'd brushed just that moment. “It just seemed easier to back off, now, than to just walk away later.”

“Huh...” As he processed what you said, he turned away. Looking back around the room. Taking in all the pieces of you for the second time. “You really think those kids,” His fingers pointed to a selfie they'd taken with you, “are just going to let you walk away because I'm home more?”

“They have you,” Was shrugged out. As if it were really that simple.

“Yeah...but they want you, too.” Your head bowed at that. You'd known they had. But, that didn't mean it had to last forever. “I didn't mean to make you think that the ending changed...this.”

“It does, though.” The words were soft, but sad. Tearing through the air like a bullet as you focused in on the dog. “I'm a nanny...that's it. The second you're done? My job isn't as important. You can take on the brunt of it, and still be fine.”

“If you were just a nanny? I wouldn't be here right now.” Slowly, your gaze lifted. “Hell, Y/N...even if you decided to leave on your own? That door'd always be open for a visit. You've gotta know that.” Something in your eyes said you hadn't quite believed him. “Not everyone is just going to boot you out and never look back.”

“It doesn't feel that way.” The vulnerability on your face was unexpected. Jensen didn't bother to hesitate. Plopping down beside you. His arm flung around your back. Tugging you into a friendly hug. “What're you doing?”

“Trying to get past those feelings,” He huffed out. Resting his chin on the top of your head. “Besides...pretty sure my dad loves you more than me.” The small laugh against him made his lips kick up. “If I tried it? He'd off me.”

“You're probably right,” A gentle sigh left your lips as you held on tightly for a moment. But, then, you pulled back. “Thanks...I needed that.”

“Anytime, Y/N...” A short whistle followed. Immediately, the doodle turned tail. Diving to his owner's command. “And...I was thinking.” His hand stilled the squirming beast as he moved to open the door. “Maybe you'd wanna help me take the kids out. Laser tag, family night?”

“Count me in.”

–

“We're all ready,” Your hands pressed on your hips as you looked over the packed up SUV. Filming was about to begin. And with it? Would be the announcement. Things were speeding up and no one quite knew what to do with it all.

It had taken over a week to get everything ready. The kids had stayed with Danneel's family while you and Jensen worked on packing up for them and the dogs. You stocked up for the house sitter while Jensen finished rounding up the heathens. And then? It was time. You were all due to meet Jared at the airport.

“It's kinda bittersweet,” Jensen stepped up beside you as the kids fastened their seat belts. Awaiting their annual trip to Canada. The dogs wagged their tails eagerly from inside. Crowding in a fashion that screamed all American family.

“Focus on the sweet,” Your fingers squeezed his arm. An action that was nothing more than a way to express empathy before your name was cried out from inside. “And, that's my cue. You got the last bag?”

“Yeah, I got it,” A crooked smile made his stomach twist. A problem that hadn't ebbed since the day at the pool. As you climbed in, he focused a little too long on the way your shorts rode up when you bent over to help Arrow buckle up. Jensen shook his head before lifting the final bag. “You're losing your damn mind, Jay...”

“Sure as shit,” Cliff barked beside him. Making him jerk in surprise. “But, what's new?”

A glance your way seemed to catch the security guard's attention, “We'll talk later.”

Part Six

ODAAT: @winchester-ofthe-lord​ @smoothdogsgirl​ @ima-be-a-mongoose​ @briagallen​ @agusdoti​ @my-proof-is-you @thevelvetseries @blacktithe7 @sucker-for-dean @deanwinchestersmydaddy @sociopathtime @deans-baby-momma @aomi-nabi @brandinicole911 @demonqueen47 @c-ly-g @bakabozza​ @socalgem1124​ @hillface89​

Dean/Jensen: @akshi8278​ @screechingartisancashbailiff​ @woodworthti666

Forever: @dean-winchesters-bacon​ @supernaturalginger​ @lilulo-12​ @awesome-badass-cafeteria-sauce​ @michaelneedssomemilk​ @lemondropirwin​ @fanfictionismydeath​

#supernatural #SPN #supernatural fanfiction #spn fanfiction #Supernatural angst #spn angst #supernatural reader insert #spn reader insert #Jensen Ackles #jensen #jensen ackles fanfiction #jensen fanfiction #jensen ackles x reader #jensen ackles x y/n #jensen ackles x you #jensen x reader #jensen x y/n #jensen x you #jensen x danneel

[msjr0119]

The American Adventure

Prologue

A/N: I swear choices is taking over my life, I’m dreaming about TRR characters. We watched ‘The Parent Trap’ last night, and my subconscious dreamt of an alternative version including the Cordonian Gang. So I’ve decided to do this. In my usual series Drake is older than the other characters, however because most camps only go up to the age of 17, they are all 16/17.

Prince Liam and his closest friends are sent to a summer camp in America for a month, whilst in Cordonia the nobles are preparing for Prince Leo’s social season unknowingly to him. During their time there, Liam and Drake become besotted with the same girl- Riley Brooks.

Characters all belong to Pixelberry; apart from Lola Hughes, Bethany Hughes, Nate Cooper, Andy Brooks and Jackie Brooks.

Warnings: Please do not read if you are under 18, if you do you are consenting that you are over this age. If any of the follow trigger warnings affect you please don’t continue to read. Swearing, mention of sex, bad habit- smoking.

Word count: 2,400

Tags- as always for prologues I tag my combined tag list and people who I think will be interested. If you don’t want to be included in further chapters please let me know. I won’t be offended. If you want to be added, again let me know.

@pedudley @kacie-0156 @loveellamae @annekebbphotography @kingliam2019 @texaskitten30 @bascmve01 @kimmiedoo5 @yukinagato2012 @i-bloody-love-drake-walker @burnsoslow @ladyangel70 @drakewalker04 @axwalker @nikkis1983 @walker7519 @lodberg @cmestrella @hopefulmoonobject @rafasgirl23415 @notoriouscs @cordonianroyalty @custaroonie @seriouslybadchoices @rainbowsinthestorm @princess-geek @jared2612 @desireepow-1986 @twinkle-320 @queenjilian @princessleac1 @bebepac @drakewalkerisreal @ravenpuff02

*****

Liam, enjoy this opportunity with your closest friends. I’ve spoken to the camp director- he is aware of your titles and has promised to treat you all no different. Or to disclose this information- Bastien will be staying on site for extra protection with a few other guards. I’ll see you in a months times, my son.

The youngest prince of the small country, Cordonia- couldn’t imagine what to expect from being at a summer camp for a whole month. For him, it was a month of freedom. Away from the palace. Away from the small amount of royal duties that the Prince’s had to do. Having a good excuse to not attend Royal events with his father the King, and his step Mother the Queen.

Drake Walker, Liam’s best friend was more than happy to leave Cordonia. To leave the noble lifestyle behind. He never fit in anyway. Madeleine and Olivia constantly reminded him of this. Three years ago, he lost his father. Jackson Walker was the head of the King’s guard who lost his life in the line of duty. Summer camp, was everything Drake enjoyed in life. Being outdoors. Camping. Besides it was in the country that his mother was born in. America. He was half American, being here- he should feel right at home.

Maxwell Beaumont, the spare heir. The fun brother. The outgoing one. You could take him to Timbuktu and somehow he would be enthusiastic- making the most out of it. He was feeling excited about attending a summer camp, most of the time his older brother Bertrand would be ashamed of him. Criticising him, for even breathing. This was a break that he was looking forward to, without the lectures about being etiquette- especially when it included forks.

Olivia Nevrakis- this girl never held back. You annoy her, she would openly insult you. Drake Walker should know this. Not wanting to attend this break from Cordonia, she had no choice. King Constantine practically gave her no option but to go. As much as Olivia tried to fight against it, it did mean that she got to spend time with her closest friend, Liam. When they was younger, she would follow him around like a lost puppy. Now they were older, she had grown feelings towards him. But she wouldn’t tell him, not yet anyway.

Madeleine Amaranth- the epitome of prim and proper. The true definition of a well raised noble for court life. She was fully aware of the description of a summer camp. However, she knew that she wouldn’t abide by the timetables that they would strictly provide. Madeleine was cunning, she knew how to get her own way, and she was fully intending on using this to her advantage.

****

Breathing in the fresh air, Andy and Jackie Brooks enjoyed this day every year. Yes, they enjoyed the traditional American holidays such as Thanksgiving and The Forth of July- but this was the day that summer camp started. This was where their love story began. The camp had been run by his family for many decades. Jackie came one year, and Andy was immediately attracted to her. Every year since then, he had hoped that she would attend - which she did. They were childhood sweethearts- both losing their virginities to each other. As soon as Jackie was old enough, she moved to New York to be closer to Andy. They were soon married, and raised two daughters; Lindsey and Riley.

“Now I can trust that you all will make everyone feel welcome, encourage them to participate in the activities. After all, I am paying you all a small wage. Enjoy yourselves even though you are all working.” The director of Camp Beaver Brooks said to the teenagers. For the last couple of years he had enlisted his children and their friends for this extra support to keep the camp running.

“Yes, Father. We will go over to the registration hut and help everyone get settled in.” Pulling his youngest daughter into his embrace, he held her tightly- knowing that she wouldn’t let him down. Out of the two sisters, Riley was a hard worker. Always pushing herself further. Always up for a challenge. Never letting anyone get in her way to achieve her ambitions.

“Thank you, Riley. I love you, sweetheart.”

****

Riley, Lola, Beth and Daniel awaited for the campers to arrive. At times they had an influx of people arriving at the same time, then it was quiet. So quiet, that they could hear the tranquility of the lake in the distance.

Witnessing a limo pull up, they all rolled their eyes back in unison. Each one knowing the usual scenario. People that turned up in style were the most obnoxious spoilt brats who refused to partake in activities.

“So it’s not the Coopers. They have a different type of limo. Mayors kids? Rich business mans kids? What are we betting?” Daniel asked the three women.

“They are arseholes. I can bet you all that...” Lola responded. Biting their lips they all attempted to not laugh, knowing that Lola was probably correct. Even if she wasn’t correct, she was still right. She would never acknowledge that she was wrong about anything.

“There’s five of them! I bet their parents are celebrating getting rid of them for a month.... oh, it gets better.. look...They’ve got a personal driver and a personal bodyguard!” Riley took a deep breath, ready to do the introductions to the people who had clearly never been to camp before. Not this one, anyway.

“Fake smiles, guys... we can’t let them ruin it for everybody else. We will bitch about them after.” Lola winked at the group of friends after saying this. They all knew that she was probably already making notes about the strangers. Making assumptions up.

****

“This is so exciting... is anybody else excited? I think I need to pee... maybe too late for that actually... but guess what? NO Bertrand for a month...” Clapping his hands enthusiastically, he was like a big kid in a candy shop.

“Li, please tell me that he’s not sharing with us?” Looking down at Maxwell’s damp trousers, Drake pleaded with Liam to not bunk up with anyone else but him.

“I’m glad he’s not sharing with me. I’m already stuck with ‘I can’t break a nail. I’m too precious.’ Eurghhh, count yourselves lucky gentlemen.”

“I’m stuck with Miss ‘look at me in the wrong way and I’ll slit your throat’...”

“I can’t wait to see you all pretend to not be noble.. this is going to be classic.” Sinking back into the chair, Drake laughed to himself- loudly. Deep down he had hoped that the girls would suffer during this trip. Just due to their horrendous attitude they have had towards him all of his life.

“Well you’ll feel right at home here... in the states where you actually belong.” Olivia smirked at Drake, knowing every time she criticised him about being a commoner it irritated him. Prior to his fathers death, it didn’t affect him - as he had his fathers support. Since Jackson’s death, himself and Savannah were criticised for still being in Cordonia- described as outcasts by the majority of the nobles. There was no reason for them to be there anymore, as their mother shortly abandoned them after tragically losing her husband, they all believed.

“I hear that there’s a lake here, Livvy. It’s apparently ice cold- just like your heart.” Scowling towards Drake, she didn’t think that he would respond with an insult. She hated him. He hated her. The feeling was mutual, and would be for the rest of their lives.

“Call me Livvy one more time, Walker. I dare ya!”

“That’s enough! Can we just enjoy this time. It’s the first time that I’ve been allowed a bit of freedom.. we’re here anyway. Remember, I am not a Prince and you aren’t nobles. We are all just normal people. Normal teenagers.” They all nodded in agreement, knowing how much this meant to Liam. For him to be free.

****

“Hey, welcome to Camp Beaver Brooks. My name is Riley. Myself and my friends will help you all get settled in. If you have any questions, just grab one of us. There are forms to fill out over there. If you all do that, then we will escort you to your dorms.”

“Charmed to make your acquaintance, Riley. My name is, Liam.” Pulling her hand towards his lips he kissed it tenderly. Dickhead, quit with the Prince charming act. Drake whispered in to his ear reminding him that they were no longer in Cordonia. “Erm, these are my closest friends; Drake, Maxwell, Olivia and Madeleine. We are from a different country, and are thrilled to be here.” Stepping backwards, she smiled at them all. Even though she was a bit freaked out by that introduction, she put it to the back of her mind- acting professional. Once they had all signed in, Bastien left them- phoning Andy he explained that they had arrived. Andy gave instructions for Bastien and the other guards to stay in a bungalow close by.

“So girls, Daniel will escort you to the girls dorm. Boys, myself and Lola will escort you to your dorms.” Fucking girls, we are nobles you fucking Yankee. Olivia took a sudden dislike to Riley. As she did with Drake. I hate commoners.

****

Maxwell latched onto Riley as she escorted them on the short walk to the dorms. He was acting as if he had known her own his life, Drake and Liam were both panic stricken that the Lord would accidentally disclose their true identities.

“Here you go, you will be sharing with a close friend of ours- Nate Cooper, when he arrives. He takes a disliking to people easily, but you’ve just got to defend yourself against him.”

“What Riley means, is Nate Cooper is a wanker. Good luck, boys.” Lola decided to abandon her post and sneak out for a crafty cigarette whilst Riley continued settling them in.

“Just ignore her. She accidentally drops the ‘f bomb’ and other swear words a few times. Quite a lot actually...” shrugging her shoulders, the men all laughed. Maxwell eagerly unpacked his suitcase and bagsed the top bunk of one of the bunk beds. Placing his teddy bear that he had since he was born, he would be more than annoyed if this Nate tried to steal his territory that he had marked.

“Ignore him, he’s still a child...” Drake explained, acting like the father figure of the group. As he said this, Riley locked her baby blues on to his dark eyes. Noticing him stare back towards her, she focused her gaze elsewhere. Not wanting him to realise that she was already hypnotised by his presence.

“So what is on the agenda for today, Riley?” Maxwell asked as he leaped off the top bunk, risking breaking a limb.

“Erm, well because it’s arrival day. You have this time to explore camp independently. Then we have dinner between six and seven. After that there’s a ‘welcome meeting’ then we all gather together around the campfire for a couple of hours.”

“Sounds fabulous.” Liam said, softly smiling at her.

“I hope that you all enjoy your time here. There’s a map in the top drawer. Don’t get lost on your first day though...see you all around six.” Waving goodbye, Liam followed her through the door- closing it behind him.

“Riley, I have a question.”

“Shoot.”

“Do we have any free time? Where we are not following a typical day agenda.”

“Yes, we have one day off each week. That day will change each week. There will be updates on this at reception. Why?”

“Oh, I just thought we could all ‘hang out’ as you Americans say.” Attempting to act like a normal ‘cool’ teenager, he hoped that she wouldn’t be offended by his upfront attitude.

“Sure. See ya.” Unable to erase the smile that was fixed onto his face, he entered the dorm. Grateful for his father suggesting this little adventure for them all.

****

Riley knew exactly where Lola would be, hiding behind the ‘bent tree’ as it was known. It was a common location for everyone to sneak away for a cigarette. Dodging all the tab ends that had been piling up over the years, her friend looked relieved that she had finally showed up.

“About time, I’ve chain smoked a whole packet nearly! What were you doing? Fucking them all?”

“LOLA! One, I highly doubt that you smoked a whole packet in five minutes. Two, I must be superwoman managing to have sex with all of them in that amount of time. Three, get a life!”

“So the tall dark handsome one, the blue eyed boy or the dopey one... which one would you sleep with?”

“Go fuck yourself. Or rather, Daniel. Come on, we need to get back.”

****

“Here you are ladies... this is your home for the next month. Dinner is at six.....”

“There’s room service, right?” Madeleine interrupted, as she scowled at the dirty room. Tracing her finger along the window ledge, she collected too much dust for her liking. Straight away she washed her hands in the cracked sink- then retrieved the hand sanitiser out of her handbag. I’m going to die.

“Erm, no. This isn’t a hotel.” The blonde nearly hyperventilated due to his response. Expecting for some elaboration, expecting for it to be some kind of sick joke- Daniel remained silent, shocked at her reaction. I’m a noble- get me out of here!

“Where’s the bathroom? I need a bath.” Olivia demanded to know as she folded her arms.

“If you turn left as you leave here and walk five minutes, there is a shared restroom. After dinner there will be a short ‘welcome meeting’ before we all gather next to the campfire. I’ll leave you to both get settled in. Enjoy ladies.” Both jaws practically dropped to the floor, before looking at each other with the same expression. Disgust. For the first time in their lives, they actually agreed on something. Why did we agree to come?

Daniel giggled to himself as he left the two snobs as he described them in his mind. Running back to the hut, he couldn’t wait to inform the girls about the newbies responses to being at camp.

This is going to be a long month. They are going to have a big reality check.

#choices trr #theroyalromance #trr fanfic #riley brooks #maxwell beaumont #liam rhys #olivia nevrakis #drake walker #trr madeleine #trr the american adventure #tw swearing #tw mention of sex #tw smoking #drake x ? #liam x ? #riley x ? #long post