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sydneekomspacekru · 3 years

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Hide and Seek ~ John Murphy x Fem!Trikru!Reader ~ Part 1

Inspiration: My shifting script lmao...

Summary: When you overhear your sister talking about an attack on the new arrivals called "Skaikru", you feel obligated to warn them. But when they don't believe you, and think that you're there to spy instead, things quickly go south. And you turn to the first person you could find to help you.

Warnings: Language, gore, torture, violence, self harm, smoking, drug use, self harm, lmk if I missed anything please.

Requested: No, but they're open and encouraged!

A/n: I changed a couple of things history wise, but they're very subtle. And I changed something rule wise for the commander rule stuff. I used like a translator thing for Trigedasleng and I'm loving it. Its probably not accurate but thats all good

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"Skaikru needs to learn who is in charge. And it seems that you do too." You heard your sisters voice ring through the door. You hadn't meant to eavesdrop, but you heard them mention the sky people, and you had an odd interest in them. "We march in one week. Get your soldiers together."

"Yes, Titus?"

"What route shall we take, Heda?"

"We will follow through this patch right here," you assumed she was pointing to a drawn out map, probably the one you made. That was her favorite, not because you were her sister, but because it was the best. It seemed egotistical, but everyone knew it was true. "Then here, and here. And we'll cross the bridge, surrounding them during the night. If they refuse to surrender and pledge their loyalty, then we attack."

You stumbled back, shocked. You accidentally kicked a sword that was set up on the floor. All of the clan leaders were required to leave their weapons outside, due to an attack that was attempted on Lexa by a former leader. The only ones who were allowed any weapons were Lexa, and you, when you were included.

"Quiet." Lexa commanded, and immediately any chatter in the room ceased.

You had no choice but to knock on the door. "Enter." The ambassadors from Podakru and Trishanakru stood in front of the table, poorly shielding it.

Lexa walked over to you quickly, speaking quietly. "Are you okay?" You nodded.

"I am sorry, Heda, for the interruption." You spoke to her. "I heard you say you were crossing the bridge to attack the people from the sky." Now you spoke to all of them, but you were still looking at your older sister.

You were speaking to your sister again, looking up at her just slightly. "I should be included in this. I am your sister, and more importantly, should you die, I will succeed you." Despite the lack of restrictions, there were rarely, if ever, Natblida siblings left after the Conclave. You had refused to act in yours and Lexa's. But you were allowed to live, thanks to Titus. It was odd, he was normally very rule-abiding. But since Lexa won, she chose to allow you to succeed her, since you were too old to go against the other children.

"Y/n/n, you know that I want to include you. But this is too serious for you, and you will not be succeeding me anytime soon. And if you shall, Titus will tell you everything. So shall my spirit." She spoke to you softly, but you knew that she would tell you later. As always.

But you had heard enough to know, Skaikru had no idea that the Clans were there. And they posed no threat to your people as long as your people were no threat to them. You knew what you had to do. You had to warn them.

"I understand, sister. Ai hod yu in." I love you, you said.

"Ai kik gon yu." I live for you. It was what your mother said to you both as children, anytime you or your sister told her you loved her, her reply was the same. Ai kik gon yu. Always.

After she died, you and your sister continued the tradition. You pulled her in, squeezing her. I live for you too, sister, You thought.

Then you went to your bed, sniffing as you went. You knew you would see your sister again, but you didn't know if she would still think of you as her sister. You truly hoped so.

You had to wait until night to leave, and you had to use the passages that you and Lexa found when you were children, poorly hiding from your mother, and screaming giggles when she found you. The thought made you sad, knowing that if you were found now, you would be found guilty of treason and most likely killed. It was the most deadly game of hide and seek you and your sister had ever played.

You had to pack everything you needed into a small enough pack to carry without it getting to heavy. Your bow, arrows, a knife, food, water, and anything else that was essential. It was a hot month, so you didn't need to pack anything to keep you warm.

Your stomach twisted, you wanted to, no you needed to talk to your sister. You never kept anything from her, you two shared everything. Every boy - or girl - you took a liking to, every hardship you faced. Everything. And the thought of keeping something as big as treason from her, made you sick to your stomach.

You sniffed, and willed yourself not to cry. But you felt the familiar sting of it in the back of your throat. So you stopped for a second, and calmed yourself back down. "Come on, Y/n. Breath." You took a breath in through your nose, and let it out slowly through your mouth. You repeated the process a couple of times until you were sure you could continue.

You stopped as you came across a little section where you, your mother, and Lexa used to write messages to each other. It was a fun little tradition you had.

"Momma!" You screamed. "You're back!"

Your mother smiled at you, scooping her girls into her arms. She was back from the bad place. Back from Azgeda. She looked different, like she was getting better after being sick. She had bruises, and her eyes looked puffy.

"Are you okay?" You asked, putting your chubby hand on her face.

"I'm perfect now that I'm back to my girls." She smiled so big. "Ai hod yu in." She told you.

"Ai kik gon yu." She kissed your nose after you said it, making you giggle.

"Ai hod yu in." She repeated to Lexa.

"Ai kik gon yu, mother." And mother kissed her cheek.

You smiled at the memory. You were six at the time, and Lexa was eleven. Already training for her conclave. You didn't understand at the time, but Azgeda had tortured her, and later came back to kill her. You grew up in a time of war, and you did not want to continue the tradition. It had been nearly eleven years since that night. Since your mother died.

She had carved out a message for you and Lexa that night. Ai don kik raun gon Yu. Nau kik gon Ai.

I lived for you. Now live for me.

It seemed odd at the time. But your mother didn't want you to grieve for her, she wanted you to live. She wanted you to enjoy your lives.

You took your knife out of your pack, and started carving a sloppy message into the red clay wall.

Ai hod yu in. Ai kik gon yu. Beja nou hate Ai, sisa.

I love you. I live for you. Please don't hate me, sister.

#John Murphy x reader #John murphy x reader fluff #John murphy x reader smut #Murphy x reader #Murphy x you #The 100 #Hide and Seek part 1 #H&S part 1

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thebigqueer · 3 years

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Ok, here we go. Dark!Bianca idea. Shortly after the events in the desert, a severely injured Bianca is found by agents of the Titans who were shadowing the quest party off-page. She is brought back to Titan HQ and is convinced to join their crusade against the gods while her friends and family think she's dead. Jump ahead to BotL, instead of Kelli the Empousa, it is a mysterious masked assassin who attacks Percy and Rachel at Goode. The events mostly play out unchanged until Geryon's (1/8)

ranch, where instead of Bianca, it is the ghost of Maria di Angelo who is revealed to be sending Iris messages to Percy about Nico, while also strongly hinting that Bianca's still alive. Jump ahead to Mt St. Helens, Percy fights the assassin again, and during his stint on Ogygia, Percy begins to put two and two together after the assassin demonstrated skills similar to the Hunters. At Antaeus' Arena, the assassin is finally unmasked to reveal a still-alive but scarred Bianca, replacing (2/8)

Ethan Nakamura as the demigod enforcer. Percy is convinced that Bianca is being mind-controlled and goes to Mt Tam to rescue her as well as stop Kronos. However, when he confronts her, Bianca reveals that she's operating of her own free will, feeling vengeful against the gods for robbing her of her life and having pledged her loyalty to her new Titan master. Kronos intends to make Bianca the prophesy kid, promising her the free will she craves so badly as well as promising not to hurt (3/8)

Nico. Going into the Last Olympian, Percy and Nico are both determined to convince Bianca that she's making a mistake, and this time Nico's duplicity is not to simply learn about his mother but to try and summon her spirit to get through to Bianca. At the same time, Kronos gradually starts treating Bianca as less of an ally and more of a tool, and the Titans' actions cause her to have doubts even though she dosen't know what else to do. It all comes to a head in the final battle.(4/8)

Nico returns from the Underworld by himself early, giving Hades an ultimatum to come and fight or hide. Just before the final attack, Kronos sends Bianca to infiltrate Olympus to disable the magic defenses, but Nico arrives to intercept her and make one last bid to save her. They fight, with both begging the other to stand down even as they slug it out. Finally, just as Percy arrives to chase Kronos, the battered siblings' duel ends when Nico gives another ultimatum. He throws down his (5/8)

sword and gives Bianca, now reduced to fear and frustration-induced tears, the choice between perusing her grudge and allowing herself to continue being Kronos’s slave or doing the right thing. Finally able to make a legitimate choice of her own, Bianca chooses to turn her back on the Titans. She still ends up wounded, but unlike Ethan in canon, Nico manages to save his sister while Percy and Kronos have their final battle. After everything ends, Percy petitions for Bianca’s pardon along (6/8)

with the rest of his list, though Bianca turns it down, realizing the harm she almost caused to the person she loved more than anybody else. She is given a reduced sentence in service to her father, and though she does not properly forgive any of the gods that hurt her, she does recognize that the spite and anger she felt would only lead to more death. Nico gets to visit her occasionally, and she starts a road to redemption that Luke never got the chance to take. In HoO, Bianca is (7/8)

more of a background character, but it is she that finds Hazel in Asphodel and alerts Nico to her. Overall, dark!Bianca is an anti-villain who’s affiliation with Kronos is clearly drawn from her pain and grief over the gods’ interference in her life, but her saving grace is her brother. Nico manages to pull her out of the darkness and save her from becoming the same monster Luke became. What do you think? (bear in mind, this is my rough draft) (8/8)

Okay, WOW. Anon, I am actually going to start a petition to make you the new Percy Jackson author because that was such an interesting plot to read.

First of all, I love that you replaced Bianca with Ethan. As interesting as he was in the series, and as much as I loved his character, after reading through your rough draft, I feel like Bianca would have been a much better character to use throughout PJO. Her arc could have been expanded upon and completed thoroughly, and it could have made a lot of sense. Ethan felt more like a representation of "demigods turned to the other side," which I get is the point, but I loved the way you used Bianca because with your plot, her character could have been used so well to properly show how easily the Titan army manipulated kids.

Furthermore, I feel like your plot with Bianca could have been a much better way to use her character throughout the series. From my interpretation, in canon she seemed more like a stand-in tool just to enhance Nico's own character arc and his motives, but your plot for her would have actually given her some kind of foundation and an actual arc for her to go through. You've given her such an interesting character and I think it really provides more justice to what she could have been.

I also love the way that not only did you give her a better arc, but you also enhanced Nico's own arc and the plot, too. Her death in the books seemed more symbolic to him and a turning point in his character, but with her character in your AU, it's both important to Nico and Bianca. You've given her an actual character, and you've set up such an interesting conflict between Nico and Bianca.

Additionally, I love the divide you've created between them. I think that - based on what we know about her in the books - as much as she loves her brother, Bianca also feels very limited with him because of how she's been forced to grow up and be his savior. She understands that he's only a child, though, which I think could also play into her own hatred for the gods - they've not only destroyed her family, but now they're forcing her to take the role of an adult when she's a mere child, too? She was never angry at Nico - she was only ever mad with the gods.

Maybe that's something that Nico also feels bad about, and maybe he tells her about it when they're standing each other down. Maybe she lets him know that she never hated him or felt that he was bringing her down.

Also, I want to add that I adore the way you put them on opposite sides. It sets up such an interesting dynamic to their relationship because here you have two people who love each other so much, but they're on two different sides of a large war. They're both too stubborn to go onto each other's sides, and Nico knows Bianca's only going to get herself into more danger. I just love the potential that has for both of their characters.

I know Percy had a large fear about Nico being another kid to join Kronos' army, so I bet Bianca being on his team would have left Percy incredibly terrified for Nico, too, because he knew how much Nico loved Bianca. Would he have been nervous for Nico's ability to change his mind? Nico knows he'd never join Kronos, but would Percy have known?

And, knowing that Bianca's now on the Kronos side, how would Percy react? Because he felt pretty guilty about her death in TTC, right? Would he feel guilty that she's on the other side now, too? Would he try to reason with her, only to push her further away? I'd love to see how Percy would deal with knowing that Bianca - an important child of the Big Three - would react to her being there. He was already nervous about Nico joining sides, but having Bianca there would have really scared him.

And the part about Bianca finding Hazel instead of Nico? That was mind-blowing. I love everything about that situation because now that introduces Hazel into the narrative of Nico and Bianca's story. My question for you would be how does Hazel's character change now? How does she fit in with Nico and Bianca? Because in Heroes of Olympus she's clearly very insecure about her relationship with Nico and how he views her, but if she actually knew Bianca, how would she feel? Would she feel more left out (knowing that Bianca and Nico have known each other much longer and have a stronger connection with each other)? Would she be distrustful? And how would the three of them adapt to this additional family member? I have high hopes that by the end they would all love each other very much, but I'm just really curious into how Hazel's addition would influence the dynamic of all three.

And, essentially, it all ends into a somewhat win-win situation. Bianca's still living; Nico's got two new sisters; Hazel now has a new family.

I think this is such an interesting concept, and I'd love to read it. If you ever post it anywhere, please do share the link! This was such an intriguing plot to go through and, again, I think this could have been a much better use of Bianca's character.

Thank you so much for sharing it with me.

#WOW #I seriously wish you had a Tumblr because I just know you would post the most interesting takes #anon tag #asks #pjo meta #nico di angelo #bianca di angelo #hazel levesque #rick riordan #riordanverse #nico di angelo headcanon #bianca di angelo headcanon #hazel levesque headcanon #riordanverse headcanon #pjo #percy jackson and the olympians #heroes of olympus #hoo

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noctis-noctua · 3 years

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I, Kaeya Alberich, Take Thee

Pairing: Kaeya x Fem. Reader

Count: 1976

Description: Kaeya knows that be does not deserve anything he desires. There is nothing he can do to make you his, but so badly does he wish there was.

Content: Unrequited love, angst, bittersweet ending, marriage.

Warnings: Slight spoiler for Kaeya's backstory but an addition of (non-canon!) Prince Kaeya.

In another universe, maybe I am not cursed so by the Gods. Kaeya resists the urge to nibble on the tail-end of his quill. It was unbecoming for a man of his stature to succumb to unsanitary habits. Plus, this particular pen hailed from a crow’s feather, hunted by the hands of a childhood friend. The intricate quill had not been put to use for a substantial amount of time, but it fits into Kaeya’s hand as if it came to shape its spine based on the curvature of his own grasp. He could get used to signing off documents and organizing civil affairs if it meant succumbing to such mundane sensations. The morning sun dripping onto his mahogany desks and floors, a faint scratch of keratin against ivory paper filling the empty space… It has been a long time since he’s made the decision to take over petty bureau duties. Today is a special day. Kaeya needs to focus on the satisfying echoes of paper and pen, on the sunlight heating his back, or he might just go insane.

The clamor of bells tugs Kaeya from his mechanical performance. Each ring is a song of desperation, a performance begging for his attention. Come out and celebrate! Indulge in the pain. He is not a man that falls prey to anger, but he cannot help that frustrated itch in his stomach as he hears the iron reverberating. Please just be quiet, Kaeya thinks. Let me forget. The hesitant croak of his door alerts Kaeya to the presence of the Acting Grand Master. She dons an outfit unique from her usual uniform - a cream-colored dress, embroidered by floral lace, a single azure ribbon tying at the waist. So even the straight-edged Jean has taken time off today?

“Kaeya, you can’t make these excuses forever.” He knows from how Jean closes the door with unperturbed silence that this is not a conversation regarding hilichurl nests or Fatui diplomats. He can tell from the way Jean drops the mature title of ‘Sir’ in favor of his childhood nickname, that it is a conversation Jean feels must be approached with gentleness as if Kaeya is a stray cat that claws at feeding hands. The Grand Master releases a heaved exhale because both of them dread this discussion as much as the other. There is an inherent wrong in seeing Kaeya distressed. He may not be shedding tears in solitude or resigning himself to the dormitories, but he is hiding, and that is enough for Jean to observe that he is not functioning as normal.

“Please, come for a little while. I know it’s not… something you want to see, but he’s your brother. Offer a small congratulations at the least.” Her heels tap on the polished hardwood.

“I was planning on coming by later this evening. Tell them I’m sorry for not being able to attend the main event. How could I? Just look at all this paperwork.” Kaeya’s signature chuckle follows, putting up a front of careless flirtation. It is not uncommon for Jean to rope the Cavalry Captain into his desk chair. Lord knows he’d never do it otherwise… yet now he claims servitude to the dulling labor. How ironic.

“I’ll tell them of your apologies… but both of us know that paperwork isn’t the reason you can’t make it.” Jean turns around, blonde hair trailing in the breeze left behind before Kaeya can quip up a rebuttal. She’s right. Jean is always right. The papers piling on his desk are from the drawers of his subordinates, filed away to be completed in another five months' time. There is no reason they had to be done today. He is hiding. He is a coward and a pathetic one at that. The thought alone provokes Kaeya to tug on his studded gloves and push out his chair. His sights are set on leaving because to be seen as a frail child is to fail at the sole thing he succeeds at. Being the chivalrous Cavalry Captain renowned for his beauty and failsafe charm is the one thing he cannot lose because he cannot let Mondstadt see how fragile he is behind the visage.

Mondstadt’s avenues are bustling. Oak tables identical to the ones across local taverns have been dressed in linen tablecloths and topped with miniature feasts. Children run between tables, tugging at each other’s shirts in a feisty game of tag as festive music tempts the adults to a dance. The tell-tale strums of Mondstadt’s No. 1 Bard’s lyre lead the crowds to the statue of Barbatos. Behind it, trails of petals line the paths leading to the limestone Cathedral. Couples, singles, and families alike make haste to enter through the carved doors. No one wants to miss this. Kaeya tugs on the collar of his fur coat, gazing at the entry before him. He can hear the music of an organ, romantic and rich, ricocheting from inside.

He steps into the Cathedral. The ceremony has yet to start and the pews continue to fill. Citizens scoot as close as possible to allow for more onlookers to take a seat. He finds a spot next to Huffman and a few other Knights, squished on the outer edge. It is three benches from the front. Too close for Kaeya to be comfortable. The croaking benches have long since met their capacity by now. Not a soul is missing, Kaeya reckons. Diluc Ragnvindr, the wine Tycoon, Mondstadt’s famous magnate, is marrying after all. It is no small occasion. Diluc’s brazen hair is a torch amidst fog, its perk hue garnering the eyes of all in the Cathedral. He is dressed in a suave black suit. It boasts minuscule gold embellishments followed by a hefty crimson cape draped on his shoulders. Even dressed in the furs and fabrics of royalty, one could sense a distinct awkwardness from him. If you’re going to marry her, at least look confident, brother.

It hurts. He cannot lie to himself - not that Kaeya was trying to in the first place. There is a pain associated with seeing the woman he loves marrying the brother that no longer desires to even speak to him. Now, Kaeya regrets standing up from his busy work. These thoughts won’t stop their festering, and it punches a hole through his stomach. Kaeya is all-too-aware that tonight, you will climb into Diluc’s sheets. He’d treat you kindly, of course. He grew up with Diluc and has seen his rigorous nobility tutors shape him into the gentleman he is today. There is no doubt that you will live a lavish life of luxury. A life Kaeya could never afford to give you.

In Khaenri’ah, Kaeya’s title of ‘Prince’ holds as much merit as it does in Teyvat. His people are dead or suffering. His city has crumbled into dust and shards of a forgotten legacy. Kaeya himself serves one purpose, and that is to bring glory back to the Eclipse Dynasty. It is in these times that Kaeya regrets being born royalty to a lost nation. In the solace of his chambers, Kaeya would stare at the painted ceiling and ponder. If I were born someone else entirely, would you give me a chance? But who is he kidding? Kaeya knows he’s handsome. It’s stupid and unreasonable to be so self-deprecating. He isn’t the one marrying you because he wasn’t Diluc Ragnvindr. He wasn’t from a line of Mondstadtian heroes; he was from the ashes of sinners and embers of civilization. He was Kaeya Alberich, Cavalry Captain of the Knights of Favonius, caught between familial loyalty and a stinging betrayal. Of course he wasn’t marrying you.

The Cathedral doors groan as the nuns heave them open. Light floods in and frames the feminine body of the lady of Mondstadt. In your hands, a bouquet of calla lilies. On your body, a silken robe of pearls and diamonds. It flows at your back, fluttering in the blessed gales of Barbatos’. Kaeya swore that as a Khaenri’ahn, he would never see the Gates of Celestia. But this… this, he thinks, might be the closest glimpse he gets. No one dares to speak. She is beautiful. She has always been beautiful. Time slows as Kaeya lets himself take in the sight of you pledging your livelihood to his brother, and his brother’s livelihood to you.

Then, as if he is an innocent child once again, Kaeya closes his eyes as you two kiss. Clapping and cheers fill the atmosphere.

“To the Ragnvindr’s! Oley!”

“Say, Kaeya, do you ever wanna get married?” The girl questions from Kaeya’s backside.

“Maybe. Then I can show off in front of my lovely wife! That would be cool, wouldn’t it, Diluc?” Kaeya jests, elbowing his step-brother’s chest. Diluc rolls his eyes, ever the prodigy.

“We’re still young. There’s no use thinking about such things. Shouldn’t you focus on training?” He grumbles. Kaeya knows that he will never have a lucky wife. He will never have a healthy family, or a thriving home, or a genuine relationship. Those are nothing more than dreams to Kaeya.

The girl grabs Kaeya’s arm and begins running into the fields of grapes and firs. There is a childlike giggle dispersing for all in the neighborhood to hear, fading out as they lose sight of the manor. Reaching the edge of the cliffside, they halt. It overlooks a sapphire river below, fit for one of Master Crepus’ paintings. Diluc had been abandoned long ago.

“Hey, Kaeya, the water kind of looks like your hair.” The girl remarks, nuzzling closer to him. He feels his heart thrashing in its cage, begging him not to react, begging him not to ruin the fate of his country. To the girl, he smells of linen, lampgrass, and sweat, much as a kid his age should. Silence settles onto their shoulders, both of them catching breaths that had been stolen in the wind. “I didn’t ask before because I thought Diluc would get mad, but… Kaeya, how about we get married when we grow up?” How silly, Kaeya thinks. I couldn’t marry you if I wanted to.

“Hmm, okay. So you’ll be my lucky wife then?” Kaeya plummets down onto the grass and grins. It tickles the back of his neck and stains his blouse a verdant green. He dreams of dreaming, because that is all Khaenri’ahns like him can do. He dreams of coming home to your embrace or trudging back from battle hand-in-hand. Either one is okay. Anything with you is okay.

“Of course, stupid. That’s what marriage is. So you’ll be my lucky husband!” Lucky husband. It fills his heart with an immature pride too chaste for a traitor of his caliber.

“Deal!”

“Deal.”

They are naive children making impossible promises, but a part of Kaeya has never unlatched from those delicate whispers. Khaenri’ahns dream of dreaming, but just this once, Kaeya wished he could dream of you.

“So, Sir Kaeya, are you going to marry soon? Youth is fleeting! Get a wife while you’re young.” One of the Knights suggests, sliding him a suggestive beam. Kaeya let’s himself open his eyes. He processes the blinding light from colored panes of glass spilling over him, the jovial expressions of the citizens he has sworn to protect, and you grasping onto Diluc’s arm, a longing of adoration phasing across your features. Happy. You are happy. He turns towards the knight, cracking a smile.

“Don’t be silly - I’m already married, Huffman.” He lets the novice soldier ogle at him for a few seconds. “I’m joking. Lighten up.” Huffman releases a hearty chortle, commenting on his Captain’s sense of humor and putting a hand to his chest. He laughs along, but Kaeya knows there is no joke.

Don’t be silly. I’m already married. It was a deal, after all.

#kaeya x you #kaeya x reader #genshin kaeya #kaeya alberich #genshin impact x reader #genshin #noctis-noctua

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fangirlings-things · 3 years

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Ocean Eyes I

OCEAN EYES MASTERLIST

Word count: 3.9K

SET ON 5x12

A/N: guyssss here is the first chapter!!! i want to thank you all for the positive feedback, the comments and reblogs, likes thank youuu so much!!! hope you guys like the beginning of this story, love love love 💖

tag list: @castielsangelsx ; @ritual-unions-gotme ; @freckled-lass ; @irrelevantyettopicalusername ; @charming-merlin ; @pieces-by-me

Vikings tag list: @maggiescarborough ; @charmingvalkyrie

TAG LIST IS OPEN || ALL GIFS USED IN HERE BELONG TO ME

─━─━─「⊱✠⊰」─━─━━─━─「⊱✠⊰」━─━─

They were brought in by the guards in a group of four. Two women at the middle and two tall men, the sons of Ragnar, at the edges.

From your spot, close to one of the great walls alongside with your mother, Judith, and your brother, Aethelred, you took it upon yourself to analyze all of them as you tried to calm down your heart, that was beating incredibly fast inside your chest.

It had been like that ever since the moment Alfred had gone to your chambers, to tell you that he had made a decision regarding the Northmen and that he had a plan. He knew what to do. Although in fear, you trusted your brother. More than anything or anyone in the whole world.

And also, your grandfather had prepared him to make tough decisions like that one. He had given Alfred his every ruling knowledge, the wisdom of a great King. If someone could ensure your family prevailed, that person was Alfred.

"I am aware of who you are" Alfred's voice filled the great hall. On the throne, with Bishop Heahmund standing by his side he looked a lot like Ecbert, when he used to make announcements with Bishop Edmund's Christian council. "I'm not foolish enough to not recognize your potential for my kingdom" just like you, he ran his eyes through the four of the Northmen as he spoke. Not in threat, but respect. "If you were willing to fight with us against the armies of your countrymen"

After hearing your twin brother's words, the men who was closest to where you were standing, Ubbe, the son of Ragnar, smiled and looked at the ground with a silent laugh escaping his lips. That disturbed you, made you feel even more worried about what Alfred would try to do, what agreement he would propose to them.

As if he had sensed your intense stare, the man, Ubbe, turned his head slightly and fixed his eyes right back at yours, in retribution for your own gaze. His eyes were blue. So deeply blue.

"We may" Bjorn Ironside spoke for the first time at the other edge of the group and that broke the eye contact you and his brother were exchanging. You swallowed hard because of how nervous that look had made you feel. "On the condition, that you allow us to settle in the part of East Anglia King Ecbert gave to us"

Aethelred huffed, and you wished to hit him for that, having a second reason to apologize for afterwards. Bjorn Ironside's tone was already threatening enough and worthy of caution. You all did not need him to think he was being disrespected.

Luckily enough, the Northmen did not notice that.

"I have every intention of honoring my grandfather's pledges" Alfred made that very clear to the blond man, clenching at the throne's arms like they were his support. You admired him. To have such coldness and calmness to deal with the same people who had killed thousands of Englishmen before, that was something worthy of admiration. "But first you must demonstrate your worth and your loyalty to our cause in battle"

Exactly like Ubbe had done before, Bjorn Ironside laughed and looked down at his feet, licking his lips in something that came close to amusement. Again, it made you worried. More than you already were. If they did not accept the deal Alfred was offering, their fate would be prison or death. And even though the sons of Ragnar were at war, you doubted that absolutely no one would seek revenge for them. That was the way with them.

"We have the legal right to that land" Bjorn raised his eyes again and they pierced Alfred like blades, such was the ferocity in them.

You knew what your grandfather had done in the past to his people. How he had killed all the people in the settlement he had gave them to live in peace. How he betrayed Ragnar and Lagertha's, the older woman who now stood in that hall, trust. You knew that in the verge of his death, your grandfather was not proud of that decision. Perhaps he did not regret it, but he for sure resented it. So, as much as it cost you to admit, you understood Bjorn Ironside's clear doubt in your brother's words.

"We accept your offer" Lagertha surprised everyone by saying it.

Instantly all the eyes in the hall were on her. Bjorn Ironside and Ubbe turned their heads to her and Bjorn mostly, seemed angry by her jumping to decisions, especially one that seemed too reckless as to trust again, a King of Wessex. And although they clearly did not agree with her, both of the men did not argue and she did not pay them any attention. She made the decision and they accepted it. You could not help but admire her determination and influence over them.

"I am glad" Alfred sighted, in relief. You knew very much your brother was not someone who supported violence or the wrongs of people in the past. Although he had been raised by your grandfather, he was not Ecbert. He would not make the same mistakes or break his promises. And although you did resent Ragnar's sons for your grandfather's death, you felt relief as well for that deal. They had wanted to avenge their father, that you could understand. But still, the pain of your loss made it difficult to acknowledge it out loud. "It was Bishop Heahmund who proposed this solution which seemed to me wise"

Slowly and respectfully, Heahmund turned his head a bit and nodded in Lagertha's direction, a sign of respect and duty. She did the same to him. And even though their movements were stern and cold, you could swear you saw a spark in both of their eyes. Something hidden there, carefully.

"So" Alfred regained his speech and that made you stop paying attention to the woman and the Bishop. "As long as we are allies and friends you are free to use the royal villa as you wish" at the back of the hall, you saw some of the Lords who were a part of the Witan, exchanging horrified looks. "My servants are also your servants. My kitchens and cellars are there for your use. I believe you have two young children with you"

That, made you turn your head completely and focus on your twin. He had not told you about that. The thought of young children in the cells of the palace, cold and hungry, made your stomach twist and shame take the whole of your being.

The other woman, the one who had not spoken at all since they had been brought before the King, nodded her head confirming his words. Instantly, for the look in her eyes, you knew she was the children's mother.

"Let us have a care for them also" Alfred stated and the woman's face seemed to light up gratefully like she had just received the best news in the world.

"Thank you, Lord King" she said with the utter most respect.

Alfred turned his head to the corner of the room and with one of his hands, made a sign for one of the guards to step forward. "We have fought against you and now we shall fight together, with you" he said as the guard started to take out the Northmen's chains and release them. "I know my grandfather King Ecbert would approve for I know the love he bore King Ragnar"

At your grandfather's mention, you could not help but feel a sharp emotion run through your whole being. Your eyes got blurry and a tear streamed down your face. Your mother looked at you discretely but did not say a word, just smiled tenderly. You looked down at your feet and cleaned the tear with your fingertips, taking a deep breath to regain your posture. When you looked up, you saw that Ubbe was looking at you again. He had clearly seen you crying and it angered you.

You did not want to seem weak in front of them.

Without any other words, the Northmen were dismissed and left the great hall. Alfred watched them leave, getting up from his throne and taking a few steps forward. All the eyes were on him.

"Can I trust them?" Alfred asked as soon as the Northmen left the hall and the doors were closed behind them.

"You can trust Lagertha" the Bishop answered almost instantly, because he knew the question had been made to him.

Alfred nodded and started to walk away. Before he could though, Heahmund called for him to solve one more matter. As they discussed it, you felt your mind slip further away by every instant passed.

"If you would excuse me, my King" you bowed to your brother and only after he nodded, giving you permission to leave, you turned away and did so.

─━─━─「⊱✠⊰」─━━─━─━─「⊱✠⊰━─━─

You walked through the corridors of the palace, one long corridor after the other, looking for Alfred. You had just met his soon to be wife and she seemed to be a good person, so it gave you some joy. At your mother's request, you had the responsibility to take Alfred to meet her as soon as possible.

You had already searched his chambers and others rooms, but did not have any luck. So, your feet got you to the corridor on the south side of the palace, which lead to a room you knew Alfred liked to be in sometimes. The view from the windows calmed him, he always said.

"Brother, are you here?" you opened the doors and entered the room. As soon as you did so, you regretted it. Alfred was there, but not alone. Bjorn Ironside and Ubbe were with him and the tension in there was anything but calm. All their eyes fell upon you and you sighted for your own stupidity. You should have assumed he would be settling matters with them regarding the new alliance. "I am sorry to interrupt"

"(Y/N), what is it?" Alfred interrupted the matter to give you attention. To him, there was nothing more important than you.

"The Lady is here" you said and he understood of whom you were talking about. Ubbe and Bjorn Ironside just stayed silent, both of them with their eyes still on you. You did not stare back to any of them.

"If you just wait for a moment, sister, I will accompany you and go meet her" he suggested and pointed to an empty chair on the other side of the table, across from him. You nodded and just when you sat down at that chair, he looked at Ubbe. "Please, continue"

It took a moment for the son of Ragnar to speak and risking a quick glance, you saw that he was looking at you. As soon as your eyes met his though, he averted his quickly like you were intimidating. That made you frown.

"Now, you are the King" Ubbe slapped Alfred in the arm with a forced smile on his lips and walked towards a near smaller table, grabbed a writing quill and ink and placed it in front of Alfred, next to a document you assumed to be the one that 'proved' the Northmen's claim to East Anglia's lands. You knew that was a lie, also. Your grandfather had already given the crown to your father, Aethelwulf, when he signed the document and therefore, had no legal right to give them those lands. "So, you can sign it over to us and you can grant us those lands right now"

You noticed how Alfred sighted heavily. "In theory, yes, I could"

"What does that mean?" Bjorn Ironside raised his hands in the air, exasperated. You had to admit that he scared you. A simple word said in a higher tone by him made your heart beat faster.

Alfred placed one of his elbows on the table and leaned towards the blond. "There are important people here who do not want me to grant lands to those who in the past, have attacked and raided us"

"So why would we fight for you when everything you say is just a lie?" Ubbe placed his hands on the table between his brother and Alfred, the expression on his face made you wish to tell your brother to have caution.

"I am not lying" Alfred turned to him with a expression as serious as the Northmen's. "I am being more honest with you than you have any right to expect!" he looked at Bjorn and then back at Ubbe. He seemed so strong, facing the older men as an equal in strength, that you felt a burst of proud run through you. "You have thrown yourself upon my mercy. So, do not presume anymore upon my charity" he got up from his chair and you instantly did the same. "When I can, I will grant you that land. In the meantime, I must go and meet my future wife"

So together, you and Alfred left the room. The both of you could sense the Northmen's eyes burning holes in your backs.

─━─━━─「⊱✠⊰」─━━─━─「⊱✠⊰」─━─━─

"I think what troubles Bjorn Ironside the most is that he lost the war against his younger brothers" with arms crossed over your chest and your back against the wall behind you, yours eyes were on the ground beneath your feet as you thought deeply about the last few days where everything had changed.

"Yes, I can see that. But I suppose we cannot blame him for having suspicions about us. Our grandfather betrayed them in the past" Alfred had his eyes sat on the fireplace, thoughts lost in the flames. "I really wish this alliance to work, my dear sister"

"Me too" you said but noticed that Alfred had fixed his eyes on your face and searched for something hidden in there. "What is it?"

"I thought you would not want them here. Because of grandfather and what the sons of Ragnar did. Honestly, I wondered if you would support Aethelred if he suggested we should punish them" he admitted, and the supposition made you shrug.

"I thought about it" the fire, crackling, was the second sound in the room behind your voice. You could feel the cold of stones in your back through the thin cloth of your dress. "But our grandfather was not perfect like I thought when we were just children. He made mistakes. He should not have handed Ragnar Lothbrok to King Aelle. He should not have killed those poeple in the settlement he promised to leave in peace. How can I blame Ragnar's sons for seeking revenge for such things?"

"I am glad you think so. I share your opinion on the matter and that is why I wanted you to be here, not mother or our brother" Alfred opened up a smile to you.

His statement made you frown. "Why would you want me to be here?"

"We are expecting a visitor right now. I sent one of my men to bring him here. You are very wise, my sister, so I will need to hear your advice on this as much as he wil" Alfred's eyes went back to the flames.

"What visitor, Alfred?"

Before he could answer, the doors of the room were opened and Ubbe walked in, seeming unsure if he should keep on walking or not. He looked around, saw no one but you and your brother and the confusion and uncertainty on his face seemed to grow by the instant.

But he walked towards you both anyway, stood a few feet away as Alfred turned around and like you, placed your eyes on the Northmen. You found yourself struggling to look away from the son of Ragnar. Again.

During the earlier feast, your eyes had met his many times, for no reason at all. When you would look, he would already be looking. When you were looking and he would notice, you turned away quickly to try to distract yourself. There was just something about him. He was not like Bjorn Ironside, with all his anger. Nor like Ivar, whom you had met when you were just a little girl. There was something different and intriguing about him. Captivating, even. Not that it did make you trust him, though.

"You asked to see me" he frowned at Alfred, joining his hands in the front of his body casually.

"Yes" Alfred quickly agreed. "Please, sit" he pulled the chair at the table a little back and motioned for Ubbe to sit. Still suspicious, the Northmen did not move, just sighted. Alfred accepted the defeat by clearing his throat. "Some wine?" he poured some into a cup and helding it in hand, turned back at Ubbe. You just stayed still and waited as you did not know what was happening. "I think your brother Bjorn has set his heart against me"

"He feels..." Ubbe started, thinking about it for a moment. Then shrugged. "betrayed"

"I understand that. But what can I do? It was not of my doing" Alfred averted his eyes for a moment and sighted. "And for the time being it is not easy for me to grant you those lands. Many are against it"

"So what are we supposed to do?" Ubbe questioned, still not seeming to see the point of that private reunion of the three of you.

"A consilium" you spoke, having finally understood where Alfred was going with that sudden meeting. It made sense. He knew that alone, against the two of you, Ubbe would more easily see reason. Ubbe's eyes were on you in that moment, and your arms fell to the sides of your body graciously as you walked closer to the both of them. "You could publicly renounce your pagan gods and be baptized as a christian"

Ubbe seemed shocked, by the way his gaze kept holding yours until the point he averted his eyes and sighted. "I can't imagine Bjorn would ever agree to that" he turned away to leave, but Alfred stopped him.

"I am not talking about Bjorn, but about you" Alfred's tone was stern enough to make Ubbe turn back around and stare at the both of you. Motioning for the wine, he came closer. Alfred poured a second and third cup. One he gave to Ubbe and the other, to you. "You do that for me, Ubbe, and a part of my burden is lifted. Ragnar talked to me and my sister when we were children. He talked about your people and my people sharing the land"

"And we think that of all of his sons, you are the closest to him" you said and you saw Ubbe swallow hard, as if the comparison made him proud about himself.

Alfred nodded in agreement to your words. "He told our grandfather that he no longer believed in your gods"

The expression in Ubbe's face changed, and he raised his cup in the air and towards your brother's face. "That is not true"

"Our grandfather told us everything" you spoke again, wanting to take that dangerous attention away from Alfred. "He wanted to prepare us, especially my brother, for times such as this" as the words left your mouth Ubbe put the cup down, and a calmer expression took a hold of his features. "He loved your father, we know that. Your father's death broke him"

"Destroyed him" Alfred completed and in that moment as in many others, you two were working in perfect sinchrony.

Ubbe took a deep breath and leaving his cup at the table, got up and came closer to Alfred and stared deep into his eyes. Afterwards, he did the same thing to you. Stepped so close you could almost feel his hot breath on your skin. But you did not look away or step back, no. You looked up to meet his eyes and held his gaze for as long as he wished to.

"I will need time" he finally stepped back, and only then you allowed yourself to breathe again. Your heart was racing inside your chest like the most scared of horses. "to think about what you have told me"

"Of course. And (Y/N), please will you take Ubbe to the chambers the servants have prepared for him and his people?" Alfred suggested and it surprised both you and the son of Ragnar a lot. Your bother smiled reassuringly at you, he had indeed, told you earlier where he would place the small group of the Northmen. And then, he turned to Ubbe. "Your wife Torvi and the others will already be there, I also asked for some extra food to be delivered, for the children"

"Thank you" Ubbe motioned his head towards Alfred to show his gratitude, then turned to you. "My Lady" it was the first time he spoke directly to you and the respectful tone of his voice, actually made you give him a little smile.

"Please, follow me" you took the front and walked out of the room, Ubbe following you closely behind.

Once in the corridors, you two walked side by side in completele silence. Honestly, you did not know what you could say. You were certain Alfred had made you do this because he wanted you to see if Ubbe would probably accept the consilium, or if he would deny it. You had always been good in reading people. But still... how should you question such a man?

"Can I trust Alfred's word?" Ubbe said, speaking so suddenly that you stopped walking in surprise. The torches lit the corridor just enough to cast shadows on his face and when he also stopped walking and turned to fix his gaze on you, you suddenly realized that you two were completely alone in there. Just you and him.

"Yes, of course" you stated, surprised by the sudden question. You thought the way to his chambers was going to be totally made in silence.

You motioned to start walking again, but he stepped in your way, keeping you from going. Before you could say anything, the Northman's hands were closed around your forearms. Your eyes widened, but you were so shocked that no words left your mouth. His grip was not tight or bruising. It was almost gentle, as his fingetips just laid in your dress, not clenched at it.

Holding you, Ubbe got closer and closer until your chests were almost touching. He looked down at you, as you had to look up to meet his eyes. There was a real question in his expression, hesitation that he seemed to wish to let go. "King Ecbert said my father could trust him and he was lying. So I am asking you, my Lady, if I can trust Alfred. If I do this, become a Christian, will he grant me those lands and let my people live in peace?"

"My brother is not my grandfather" you said a few moments later, when you finally were able to regain your voice. His proximity gave you chills. You saw the doubt in his eyes. "I promise you, this settlement will not end as the other did"

He must have seen the honesty in your expression. The urgency in your voice. His hands slowly let go of your arms and for some reason you missed the warmth of his hands upon your dress.

You did not exchange more words, you just led the way to his chambers and wished him and his family a goodnight of sleep.

In your chambers, later, you felt extremely tired.

Before you fell asleep, the last thing you thought about were Ubbe's eyes. Intense blue eyes. So alive, so captivating.

Those ocean eyes.

#imagine #x reader #fanfic #imagines #vikings #vikings imagine #history vikings #vikings fanfic #ubbe ragnarsson #ubbe lothbrok #ubbe x reader #ubbe #ubbe imagine #ubbe fanfiction #ubbe fic #ubbe lothbrok imagine #ubbe ragnarsson x reader #ubbe ragnarsson imagine

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bloody-bee-tea · 4 years

Text

BeeTober 2020 Day 1

Cliff - Mid-Autumn Festival

It’s October and you all know what that means! Another writing event, where I will post a fic every day. Since the Untamed Fall Fest is happening at the same time, I combined the prompts! There’s a series on my AO3 where you can read all of these as well, if that suits you better.

This first fic is Mingcheng, and it will probably change everything, plot-wise, but like always, don’t ask me about it XD

I hope you enjoy this event with me!

Jiang Cheng has a bad feeling about this conference. Despite what everyone thinks, he is in fact able to read a room and what he reads spells trouble.

And going by the looks Jin Guangshan keeps throwing him it will come from him.

The conference is just drawing to a close and Jiang Cheng finally allows himself to relax—if only a little bit—when Jin Guangshan turns his eyes on him.

Jiang Cheng immediately stiffens again.

“There is one more matter to address,” Jin Guangshan says and Jiang Cheng feels relieved to see that he’s not the only one who suppresses a sigh.

“And what would that be?” Lan Xichen asks, when Jin Guangshan falls silent, clearly waiting for someone to inquire after that mysterious matter, and a cold shudder runs down Jiang Cheng’s back when Jin Guangshan smiles at him.

“The matter of the Jiang Sect,” Jin Guangshan sweetly replies and everyone in the hall falls silent.

“What is the matter with my Sect?” Jiang Cheng asks with a slight bow and when Jin Guangshan looks at him like one might look at a particularly stupid child Jiang Cheng has to fight the urge to throw himself off a cliff.

Or maybe he’ll just throw Jin Guangshan off one, that should solve almost the same amount of problems for Jiang Cheng.

“You’re recruiting, and heavily at that,” Jin Guangshan says, just as Jin Guangyao nods in agreement. “One has to wonder if there’s a hidden reason behind that.”

Jiang Cheng works his jaw, before he gets up and bows low to Jin Guangshan, aware that all eyes are on him. And not all of them are friendly.

Jiang Cheng never did deal well with attention like this.

“There is no hidden agenda,” Jiang Cheng promises and then his petty streak makes an appearance. “I know Lanling Jin didn’t suffer the same losses, but Yunmeng Jiang nearly got destroyed when Lotus Pier was burned. I barely have any disciples as it is. I’m just trying to fill the ranks again.”

“And for what purpose?” Jin Guangyao asks him, clearly picking up on Jin Guangshan’s thread of thought.

“Yunmeng Jiang is one of the Great Sects. There is nothing Great about Yunmeng right now, and I’m just trying to rebuild it,” Jiang Cheng says through clenched teeth.

“Recruiting at this point of time seems suspicious. One could think you’re trying to replace Qishan When,” Jin Guangyao says, a polite smile on his face and Jiang Cheng wants to do nothing more than wipe it off.

Preferably with Zidian.

“I am not actively recruiting, though,” Jiang Cheng forces himself to say, because he can guess where this is going. “People come to me to pledge loyalty. I am in no position to send them away.”

“Even when they already have a Sect they belong to?” Jin Guangyao wants to know and of course this is the whole problem.

“I don’t question where my people come from,” Jiang Cheng admits. “If they are willing to be loyal, then I am willing to let them wear purple.”

“How can they be loyal if they already betrayed one Sect?” Jin Guangshan says and Jiang Cheng suppresses a sigh.

“What do you mean?” Nie Mingjue suddenly chimes in and when Jin Guangyao looks at him with much the same look Jin Guangshan just gave Jiang Cheng, Jiang Cheng feels his skin itch.

“People are falling over themselves to join Yunmeng Jiang. Even disciples who already pledged their loyalty to one Sect.”

“Ah, I see,” Lan Xichen says and stands up. “I don’t think that is much of a problem,” he goes on and Jiang Cheng inwardly shakes his head.

Of course he won’t think of this as a problem. Barely any Lan disciples came to Jiang Cheng after all. But his Sect is overflowing with Jin disciples and Jiang Cheng is honestly not surprised about that.

“Er-ge,” Jin Guangyao gently chides him and Jiang Cheng sees how Nie Mingjue works his jaw at the patronizing tone.

“I don’t see a problem with that, either,” Nie Mingjue says after a moment and Jiang Cheng is honestly surprised he is speaking up for him.

“But you should,” Jin Guangyao says. “I heard some Nie disciples defected as well.”

“As they should, if they can’t serve under me,” Nie Mingjue gives back without a beat and for once Jin Guangyao falls silent.

Jiang Cheng sees a dangerous glint in his eyes, and he thinks it might be better if someone interferes.

“Sect Leader Jin, I apologize if I offended you in any way,” Jiang Cheng says with a low bow. “But I am not actively recruiting and I am not doing background checks on my disciples at this time. Anyone who wants to serve me is welcome. I hope you understand the need to rebuild what was lost in this gruesome war.”

Jiang Cheng bitterly thinks back to his burned home, while Jinlingtai stands strong and perfect as ever and he wants to shake Jin Guangshan until his head falls off.

Besides, it’s not his fault that Jin Guangshan is such a shitty leader that his disciples are coming to Jiang Cheng in flocks. At this point, there are probably more Jin disciples in purple than any actual Yunmeng people.

Jin Guangshan narrows his eyes at Jiang Cheng, who keeps his bow low and respectful, even though he feels anything but, and eventually he waves his hand.

“Just see to it that your actions cannot be mistaken for anything but rebuilding,” Jin Guangshan warns him and Jiang Cheng suddenly understands that Jin Guangshan is afraid of him.

Jiang Cheng lost everything; his parents, his home, most of his Sect. His sister will marry into the Jin Sect and only the gods know what Wei Wuxian is up to these days and yet Jin Guangshan feels threatened by him.

It’s honestly a better feeling than Jiang Cheng has expected.

~*~*~

Jiang Cheng is on his way back to his quarters when Nie Mingjue stops him.

“Do you have a moment?” he wants to know and Jiang Cheng nods, despite how uneasy he feels.

Nie Mingjue had seemed okay with the fact that a few of his people decided to serve under Jiang Cheng, but Jiang Cheng knows better than to trust it.

“Of course,” Jiang Cheng stiffly replies and when Nie Mingjue steps closer, Jiang Cheng is acutely aware of the fact that Nie Mingjue is a very imposing man and that Baxia is a very huge saber.

“Is it true? Did some of my people join your Sect?” Nie Mingjue asks and Jiang Cheng squares his shoulders.

These people came to him in hopes of finding a new home, and he will not sell them out to their previous Sect Leaders.

“And what of it?” Jiang Cheng snaps but Nie Mingjue only smiles slightly at him.

“Nothing,” he easily replies. “I meant what I told Jin Guangshan. If they found someone more worthy to follow than me, then I am fine with that. I only wish the best for my people and if I am not it, then I would always encourage them to go find it.” Nie Mingjue tilts his head slightly before he adds, “Unlike some other people.”

“I see,” Jiang Cheng replies, because he doesn’t quite dare to trust this.

It is still very fresh in his mind that the other three Great Sects now have a sworn brotherhood, while Jiang Cheng and Yunmeng Jiang are standing all on their own.

“I am looking for seven disciples,” Nie Mingjue says and holds out a small scroll to Jiang Cheng. “Those are their names. I try my best to give the families of my disciples an account of what happened to them during a fight, but I can’t find these seven. Maybe they are with you?”

“I will not sell them out to you,” Jiang Cheng hisses and Nie Mingjue seems honestly taken aback by the venom in his voice.

“I am not asking you to. If they are with you, then that’s okay with me. I just want to know if I have to tell their families that they are dead or not.”

Jiang Cheng mulls that over for a few moments before he snatches the scroll out of Nie Mingjue’s hand.

He quickly unrolls it and scans the names, before he rolls it up again and puts it inside his own robe.

“I recognize four of them,” he finally tells Nie Mingjue. “They are alive and well.”

“And the other three?” Nie Mingjue lowly asks and Jiang Cheng shrugs.

“I haven’t heard their names. I’ll have to ask around.”

“Would you?” Nie Mingjue asks and Jiang Cheng scoffs.

“Do I have a choice?” he bites out and he almost—almost—softens at the surprised look on Nie Mingjue’s face.

“Why wouldn’t you?”

“I might be a newly appointed Sect Leader but I am well aware of the consequences refusing you would bring for me. Especially with the support you have in your back.”

“You have nothing to fear from me,” Nie Mingjue says with a small frown. “You have support as well.”

“Oh, yeah, I forgot,” Jiang Cheng sarcastically says. “I have your support, of course. Is that the reason you and your two sworn brothers decided to forget about me?” he can’t help but ask and Nie Mingjue rears back as if Jiang Cheng had hit him with Zidian.

“We didn’t mean to—,” Nie Mingjue starts but Jiang Cheng doesn’t let him finish.

“It doesn’t matter, it is done after all,” Jiang Cheng bitterly mutters. “I will see if I can find your missing disciples, Sect Leader Nie,” he then says with a mocking bow. “And please be lenient with me in the future.”

“Jiang Wanyin, we didn’t mean to.”

“And yet you did,” Jiang Cheng gives back. “You isolated me and now I am without support. Jin Guangshan must really love this. No wonder he comes after my disciples now. Thanks to you, they are the only support I have left. Now, if you would please excuse me,” Jiang Cheng finishes, before Nie Mingjue can find his words again, and he simply turns around and leaves.

He can’t even find it in him to care that he was rude. They don’t respect him anyway, one bow more or less won’t change that.

~*~*~

Jiang Cheng is in the middle of the preparations for the mid-autumn festival, when a disciple finds him.

“Sect Leader Jiang, Sect Leader Nie is requesting to see you,” he politely says and Jiang Cheng let’s out a frustrated sigh.

This is the first major holiday since Lotus Pier burned, since Jiang Cheng lost everything. He had planned to spend it with the only remaining family he has left, had hoped to spend it with his disciples who will hopefully turn into a new family for him, and he was not prepared to have this all interrupted.

“Fine,” he still sighs. “Send him in,” he instructs the disciple, not even caring that it is incredibly rude that he didn’t go out to greet Nie Mingjue himself.

Well, better the other Sect Leaders learn to manage their expectations early when it comes to Jiang Cheng.

“Jiang Wanyin,” Nie Mingjue greets him when he enters Jiang Cheng’s study, and Jiang Cheng narrows his eyes at him.

“Sect Leader Nie,” he gives back, but Nie Mingjue waves him off.

“None of that, please.”

Jiang Cheng frowns but he doesn’t argue with Nie Mingjue.

“What brings you here,” he asks when it doesn’t seem like Nie Mingjue is going to talk, his gaze wandering around the study, and Jiang Cheng has a quick second to regret meeting him here.

But then remembers that this is Nie Mingjue, who is righteous and steadfast in a way not a lot of the other Sect Leaders are, and he reassures himself that he has nothing to fear from Nie Mingjue.

He would know it if Nie Mingjue wanted to harm him and his Sect, Jiang Cheng is sure of that.

“I have a proposal,” Nie Mingjue thoughtfully says but then stops himself. “But first I wanted to ask if you had any luck finding the other three disciples.”

“I did,” Jiang Cheng nods and gets the scroll. “Two of them are dead. I’m sorry. They died wearing my colours, which is probably why you didn’t find them. The third one is with me as well, and she is alive and healthy.”

Nie Mingjue scans the names and Jiang Cheng sees honest sorrow when he reads the names of the two deceased ones.

Jiang Cheng knows the names of all his disciples, makes it a point to learn them, even though due to the recent influx of them he is a little bit behind, but he didn’t think anyway else bothered to.

Jin Guangshan certainly doesn’t seem the type, and neither does Lan Xichen, if he’s being honest.

“Thank you for finding them,” Nie Mingjue softly says and then quickly puts the scroll away.

“Don’t mention it,” Jiang Cheng gives back, more threatening than he actually means to, but this is making him uncomfortable now.

He shouldn’t be thanked for simply being a decent human being.

“Now, what’s the proposal?” he gruffly asks, desperate to change the topic and Nie Mingjue straightens up.

“We were wrong to leave you out of our sworn brotherhood,” Nie Mingjue starts with and Jiang Cheng already wants this conversation to end.

He doesn’t need to be reminded that despite whatever Nie Mingjue is saying right now, they did leave him out of it.

“And I know we can’t make up for it, because it’s already done, but I have an idea.”

Jiang Cheng hesitates for a moment, but then his curiosity wins out. He wonders what Nie Mingjue thinks he can do, given that he is already sworn brothers with Lan Xichen and Jin Guangyao and a brotherhood of four is bad luck.

“Speak,” Jiang Cheng orders when Nie Mingjue falls silent again.

“You can swear brotherhood with Lan Wangji and Jin Zixuan,” Nie Mingjue proposes and Jiang Cheng shakes his head, because what?

“I know it’s not the same, since neither of them are Sect Leaders, though Jin Zixuan is the heir. But it would still strengthen your standing. It would also help you to protect Wei Wuxian, because I have seen the greedy look on Jin Guangshan’s face when it comes to the Stygian Tiger amulet, but I have also seen how Lan Wangji looks at your brother. I doubt he would let anything happen to him, if he’s given a chance.”

Jiang Cheng has to admit that Nie Mingjue is right about that—he had noticed it as well—but he still can’t help the bitter huff he lets out.

“And you get out of this without any bonds,” Jiang Cheng bitterly says, because it didn’t escape his notice that there was no mention of the Nie Sect in any of this.

“I wouldn’t,” Nie Mingjue gives back and puts a box on the table.

“What is this?” Jiang Cheng wants to know, eyeing the box with suspicion.

“A courtship gift,” Nie Mingjue easily replies and Jiang Cheng freezes.

“What? Don’t be ridiculous.”

“I am not. A sworn brotherhood can only get you that far, especially since you can’t swear with any other Sect Leaders. So I am proposing a marriage.”

“Between me and—?” Jiang Cheng wants to know, because he can’t quite believe that Nie Mingjue would sell Nie Huaisang like this, but on the other hand he can’t see Nie Mingjue accepting a spouse either.

“Me,” Nie Mingjue says, much to the surprise of Jiang Cheng and then chuckles. “I wouldn’t sell Huaisang. If I was proposing a marriage with him, he would be here.”

Jiang Cheng gapes at Nie Mingjue because this is so far from anything Jiang Cheng had imagined that he can barely wrap his head around it.

“You must be joking,” he finally manages to say, but Nie Mingjue shakes his head.

“I assure you, I am not.”

Jiang Cheng allows himself to imagine it for a few moments; not only the support this would bring to him, but also the marriage in itself. He can see himself falling in love with Nie Mingjue—he’s a catch, really, if you don’t mention the qi deviations—but Jiang Cheng knows better than to expect the same in turn.

“I will not enter into a loveless marriage,” Jiang Cheng declares, thinking back to his own parents, but Nie Mingjue shrugs.

“You are a very attractive man, Jiang Wanyin. And I admire your strength, your resilience and your biting tongue, and how you all use it to hide the fact that you love your family and people. I can see myself falling in love with you, but that is what the courtship is for, is it not?” Nie Mingjue gives back and effectively renders Jiang Cheng speechless. “And even if it doesn’t work out, I doubt I’m going to live to old age. You’d be free of me sooner rather than later.”

“You actually mean it,” Jiang Cheng finally chokes out, deciding to ignore the last part for now, and Nie Mingjue pushes the box towards him.

“Of course I do. I do not have the time for lies and deception.”

“Yeah,” Jiang Cheng agrees, because that he actually noticed before.

Nie Mingjue is the most no-nonsense person Jiang Cheng has ever encountered, and he knows Lan Wangji.

Jiang Cheng reaches out for the box with shaking hands, and he lets out a startled laugh when he opens it.

It’s full of nails.

“I thought you could need some funds to rebuild Lotus Pier. This was the easiest to carry with me,” Nie Mingjue sheepishly admits and Jiang Cheng chuckles again.

“You’re not actually wrong,” he admits and closes the box again. “If we’re doing this, there will be a proper courtship, Mingjue,” Jiang Cheng dares to say, figures if this is really happening then they better get used to this sooner rather than later, and Nie Mingjue nods.

“I wouldn’t want anything else,” Nie Mingjue replies with a smile and Jiang Cheng is startled to see dimples appear on his face.

He didn’t know about that. It could be a problem.

“Stay for the mid-autumn festival,” Jiang Cheng finds himself saying and is taken off guard when the smile grows in its intensity.

“With pleasure.”

~*~*~

When Nie Mingjue insists that they send a lantern off together, Jiang Cheng is not as surprised as he would have been a week ago.

Nie Mingjue stayed the whole week in Lotus Pier, helping with the rebuilding, but also actively courting Jiang Cheng, and Jiang Cheng has to admit that he didn’t think Nie Mingjue even had one romantic bone in his body.

He had been wrong.

Sending off a lantern together, like only lovers would do, does not actually come as a surprise.

When the lantern drifts off, taking Jiang Cheng’s wish with it, he can’t help but to look over at Nie Mingjue.

The other man is already looking at him, and there’s something so soft in his look that it makes Jiang Cheng’s knees weak.

Jiang Cheng fights the instinct to run away and hide from that look—if this is going where Jiang Cheng finds himself hoping it will go he will have to get used to this, he’s sure of that—and instead he leans up on his toes to press a kiss to Nie Mingjue’s cheek.

Nie Mingjue freezes in surprise, Jiang Cheng can feel it, but he also puts a hand to Jiang Cheng’s waist, keeping him close and Jiang Cheng finds himself enjoying that more than he maybe should.

“I didn’t think my wish would be fulfilled this quickly,” Nie Mingjue mutters, much to Jiang Cheng’s embarrassment and he hides his face in Nie Mingjue’s shoulder.

“Yeah, I’m not used to getting what I wish for either,” he gives back and then feels how Nie Mingjue presses a kiss to the top of his head.

“Well, then it’s something we can get used to together,” Nie Mingjue decides and Jiang Cheng nods.

He’s actually looking forward to it.

Link to my ko-fi on my sidebar.

#bt writes #beetober2020 #untamed fall fest #mingcheng #the untamed #mdzs #canon divergence #hurt/comfort #marriage proposal #courtship #sworn brotherhood #jc is a good sect leader #and nmj knows to appreciate him for it

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buckysforeverprincess · 4 years

Text

New Plan of Attack Ch. 6

Dark Viking! James Barnes, Natasha Romonoff

Words: 1704

Warnings: None. This chapter is pretty tame but necessary.

A/N: Welcome back! Hope you’re enjoying this series as much as I am. This chapter is pretty mellow, but after the last few chapters, it’s needed. However, James is still dark and things are happening!!! Enjoy!

It’s mid-day when James leaves his home and begins to walk down the road and into the Viking village. He’d spent the morning trying to figure out how to unjumble the mess he made a week ago when he set the plan for Wanda’s death in motion to no avail. How did things get so complicated and what the hell was he going to do to fix his mistake? Gods, he never planned for this and the fact that he’d not is what was frustrating him more.

James waved to the people as he walked by, all of them smiling at their leader. Their failure as a leader, he thought in his head. He can’t believe his plan backfired on him. Well, it didn’t exactly go badly. Wanda was dead and that was supposed to be the result, but Steven was the one that was to take her life, not the Princess, and because of that he’d have to figure out a new way to get his plan to carry on.

Natasha is standing on the steps of her home, waiting for him as he gets closer. He can see her staring at him, most likely analyzing him, knowing his mood has been soured as of late, no signs of turning around.

“What’s with the long face?” She asks when he stands in front of her.

“Do you really need to ask?”

She chuckles and shakes her head, turning around and opens the door to her house. James follows and steps inside, the room warm and inviting from the fireplace. Natasha shuts the door and makes her way to the table and sits down, the brunette following suit and joining her.

“Why don’t you tell me what’s really bothering you.”

“Really? As if you don’t know!” He replies and Natasha rolls her eyes.

The redhead crosses her arms to her chest and shrugs. “I fail to see what the problem is. You got what you wanted, and Wanda is dead. Perhaps you'd be happier about this instead of sulking about.”

James sighs and sits silently for a moment, trying to will himself to calm down, feeling the frustration growing with each passing moment. “She wasn’t supposed to kill Wanda… It was supposed to be Steven.”

“So??!!” Natasha scrunches her face, not understanding why the who is important. “You got what you wanted. You no longer have to deal with woman you wanted nothing to do with, and her men are now loyal to you. What more could you ask for?”

James groaned, putting his head in his hands and stared at the table. Natasha was right. The plan to end Wanda’s life had worked. Once her men learned she tried to kill the Princess while she was with child, they immediately pledged their loyalty to the leader of the Viking clan, not wanting Wanda’s actions to reflect badly upon them. It was a solid victory for James.

The downside? Well the villagers immediately fell in love with the Princess. That wasn’t supposed to happen. When they heard it was self-defense, it touched their hearts and suddenly she had gained their love and trust. James was baffled by this. How could they love her when her family is the reason they lost everything? To him, it just didn’t make any sense.

James looks up and runs his fingers through his long brown locks and lets out a frustrated sigh. “It was supposed to be like this.”

“And why not?!” Natasha is quick to fire back. “So, what if it was her?! Would you rather not know she’s capable of murder?!”

He opens his mouth to speak but quickly stops before a sound can escape. Thinking back, he knows the Princess had made an attempt on his life not so long ago, but he wasn’t sure if she actually would’ve followed through. The force of the blow he’d stopped told him she might’ve killed him if he hadn’t stopped her, so maybe, somewhere deep down he knew what she was capable of when he set this plan in motion.

However, something about Wanda’s death felt different… like the Princess was playing at her own game. Was it possible she was beginning to figure out her place in his plot and if she was, how could he throw her off his scent? James couldn’t risk her putting everything into place just yet. It was too early in his plan and he’d already come too far to lose control and have everything come crashing down. There was way too much at stake now and James would have to come up with a new strategy if he was ever to succeed.

“She can’t be trusted,” James says with a sigh.

Natasha huffs. “Of course, she can’t. I think you’ve underestimated your Princess. So, what do you plan to do about that?” She sits back in her chair with a smirk.

That was a good question. He did underestimate his bride to be and that’s probably the one thing that’s got him the most bothered. If she could easily kill Wanda, then she’d have no qualms about slitting his throat in the middle of the night. He’d have to change things up if he wanted his plan to continue forward and that meant he’d have to change his tactics with the Princess.

“I’ll need to make her like me,” James tells Natasha, “she’ll have to learn to like me, maybe even love me.”

Natasha erupts in a fit of laughter, making James cringe and shift uncomfortably in his chair. “Oh… my… god!” She choked in between laughs. “Good luck with that!” She barks out and continues to laugh.

James knows it’s far-fetched after the treatment he’s given her but he’s pretty sure this is his only shot at redemption. “I think I have a new plan.”

The redhead stops laughing and quirks up her eyebrow, setting her elbows on the table and leaning in closer to James. “I’m listening.”

“The people have fallen in love with the Princess and want to see more of her. What if I give them what they want?” James grinned and sat back in his chair, waiting for Natasha to chime in.

“Hmmm…,” the woman replied, her face looking like she was in deep thought. “Okay, so you do that… allow the Princess more freedom. Then what? How’re you gonna make her fall in love with you?”

James twists his face and swallows hard, the words he’s about to say painful to think about much less vocalize. “I’m gonna give her my undying devotion and attention.”

Natasha snorts and rolls her eyes at him. “Yeah, I’m sure she’s gonna buy that. Excuse me if I don’t give you my blessing because if that’s seriously your plan, I see failure in your future.”

James lets out an exasperated sigh and lowers his head to the table, banging in into the wood for dramatic effect. “Help me, Natasha!! I’m desperate.” He looked up and found her staring at him, eyes fixated on him like she was digging deep into his soul.

“Maybe you’re onto something.” She clicks her tongue, her lips curving up into a smile. “Yes… we can work with this.”

The Viking perks up, raising his head and giving the redhead his full attention. “Go on.”

“You’ll have to change your tactics. No more cruel and mean James. It’s time to transform yourself into the Prince you’ll soon be, which means you’ll have to pretend to be utterly devoted to her and love her unconditionally. It’s time to place yourself in the game.”

James nods enthusiastically. “This I can do, but what else? There’s got to be more to this plan than me faking the perfect life.”

“Oh, there is...,” Natasha reassures him, “...you’re also gonna give her your best friend, Steven, as her protector and confidant. Insert him more into her everyday life. Let her learn to trust him, form a bond. One that you certainly won’t be able to break.”

“But why?!” James questions, not able to contemplate why Steven would be a key player in this new plan. “If I’m pretending to love and cherish the Princess, why would I want him involved? Wouldn’t that just screw with the entire dynamic?!”

Natasha smirks and raises her eyebrows. It takes James a moment but then he blinks rapidly and an “ahhh” comes from his mouth, like he finally figured it out.

“Now I think you understand. While the village sees you being the honorable, doting, loving, husband and father, the Princess will never forgive you for what you’ve done to her. By inserting Steven, there’s a very strong chance that through their time together and the bond they’ve created, they’ll fall in love with each other. Love equals betrayal and once that happens…”

James stands, grinning from ear to ear. “I can rightfully kill them both!”

“As the King to her lands, you can kill them both for betraying their King and Kingdom. No one would stand in your way.”

He begins to pace the room, his smile deepening with each turn, but then he stops and quickly sits back down in the chair across from his friend. “This is a plan that will take time. It’s not going to happen overnight.”

“You’ve got nothing but time. Besides, the more love you show her and the more kids the two of you produce, the more vile her act of betrayal becomes. You’ll have everyone sympathetic to your cause.”

James bites at his lip and nods, convinced this was the way to turn everything around and get exactly what he wanted. “She was always meant to die.”

“And this way, everyone will want her head and you will be the one to serve it on a platter.”

This new plan would work. He would pretend to love and honor the Princess and when the time came, he’d crush her and make her pay for all the vile things her and her father had done to them and he’d finally have the life he was once promised. All he had to do was play the waiting game, and it starts by pushing the Princess and his best friend together.

“Revenge and victory will be mine.”

Viking Tags:

@ellallheart @sebastianstansqueen @kaithezaftig

Forever Tags:

@jamesbarnesappreciationclub @kruscht @palaiasaurus64 @breezy1415 @sarahp879 @supernaturaldean67 @averyrogers83 @scarlettsoldier @lovely-geek @titty-teetee @geeksareunique @peaceinourtime82 @leosandbuckysgirl @the-goddess-of-mischief @mychemicalimagines @awkwardfangirl2014 @collette04 @notyourtypicalrose @onebatch--twobatch @miraclesoflove @kcd15 @xxloki81xx @death-unbecomes-you @thatfanficstuff @hotoffthepressfics @chuuulip @unlikelygalaxygiver @lancetuckershairgel @babypink224221 @mybabe-buckybarnes @shield-agent78 @the-real-kellymonster @caplanreads

#viking!bucky #viking!james barnes #dark!viking bucky #dark james barnes #james barnes #bucky barnes #james bucky barnes #bucky barnes x reader #james barnes x reader #james buchanan barnes #viking au #marvel au #dark fic #natasha romanoff

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kairos-in-wonderland · 3 years

Text

Day 2: Knights in Shining Armour

Right, today’s submission is going to be shorter than yesterday’s 😂 This is actually based on a wip I’m writing (but I have a habit of not writing in chronological order so it’s not being uploaded anywhere) and I thought it would be perfect for day 2, I hope y’all enjoy it!

Pairing: OC/Gwaine

Trigger warnings: violence, attempted kidnapping, strangling (only for a moment)

The princess entered the tavern in one of Camelot’s border villages, taking a glance around at the patrons before taking a seat in the corner of the room. She’d been there not much less than an hour, eating and relaxing after the long ride – but then a man approached her, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. She surveyed him out of the corner of her eye, there was a silver snake emblem on his shirt and her pulse immediately quickened. He was one of Cenred’s knights.

“Well, well, well…” he started, leaning on the table, “If it isn’t the little princess of Camelot, fancy seeing you all the way out here.”

“Well, it is part of my kingdom,” she muttered, “but I don’t believe that you live in Camelot,” the princess stood, finally turning to face him, “so, what is one of Cenred’s knights doing this side of the border?”

“Well, I was just here for a drink – but now I’ve got a much better idea,” he said, reaching to touch her face. She slapped it away and reached for her dagger, “ah, you think you can put up a fight?”

“I am the daughter of Uther Pendragon, of course I can put up a fight,” she smirked – the knight drew her sword and she ducked under it, using her dagger to slice across the inside of his arm. The princess managed to disarm him and they continued to fight, but the knight managed to catch her off guard. He took the dagger from her and pinned her against the table with it against her neck.

“Looks like Uther didn’t train you too well,” the knight laughed, just as another man walked towards them.

“Need some help?” he asked, looking to the princess.

“Back off,” the knight muttered; he switched the hand he was holding the dagger in, strangling the princess as he went to slash at the newcomer. But the man was too quick, before the blade even got close to him he had punched the knight square in the face, knocking him back so hard that he knocked himself out on the table behind him. The princess coughed hoarsely as she sat up, clutching her throat.

“I think you’ll be wanting this back,” the man commented, handing her the dagger.

“Yes, and it seems I owe you my life. Thank you,” she said, getting off the table. It was at this point that she finally got a look at him – deep brown hair that flowed down by his shoulders and hazel eyes that shone gold in the light of the candles. He had a sharp jaw line that was speckled with stubble, causing the princess’ pulse to quicken, “I’d buy you a drink but I should be heading home,” he grinned at her and took the knight’s sword.

“Allow me to escort you out then?” he suggested, and she smiled back as they left the tavern together. As they approached her horse, she turned to him and pressed a kiss to his cheek, “What was that for?”

“For saving my life,” she said, “sorry, I didn’t catch your name?”

“Gwaine, and you are?”

“Acelina.”

“That man in there, he kept calling you ‘princess’, are you?”

“Yes,” she nodded sheepishly, “and he’s a Knight of Essetir, that’s why he attacked me. My father is an enemy of Cenred’s, it would’ve been good leverage. So, thank you, Gwaine.”

“Perhaps you would let me join you on your ride back home?”

“Have you nothing better to do?” she laughed, and he smiled.

“Nothing better than escorting a beautiful girl to her home,” he smirked, and the princess flushed pink.

“I bet you flirt with every girl you see, Gwaine.”

“No, just you.”

“Alright,” she gave a nervous laugh and nodded before mounting her horse, “I’d appreciate your company, the ride back to the castle takes two days at best.”

“Well then,” he mounted his horse, right next to her own stallion, “let’s hope I can keep you entertained.”

Acelina couldn’t help but grin as she rode towards Camelot with Gwaine, him regaling her with stories of his exploits across the five kingdoms. It was a comforting feeling, having him there with her when they had to camp for the night in the forest of Ascetir, “So, Gwaine, where are you from?”

“Caerleon’s kingdom, my father was one of his knights.”

“You’re of noble birth then?” the princess felt a glimmer of hope at the thought.

“Technically. But I don’t like it. Caerleon didn’t give any help to my mother once she was widowed, left her penniless with a baby and no husband – he has the title but he’s not noble in anyway.”

“When did your father die? If you don’t mind me asking.”

“Early enough that I don’t remember a thing about him.”

“I understand, my mother died giving birth to me and my brother. I have this feeling of her, but my father never speaks of her,” she sighed, staring into the flames, “you should get some sleep, I’ll be on watch for now.”

“Okay then, goodnight my lady,” he joked, laying against a tree with his jacket draped over his torso. She couldn’t help but stare at him as he fell asleep – there was something about him that intrigued her, something that she couldn’t quite understand. Acelina spent the few hours of her watch making shapes in the fire, muttering spells under her breath to create different animals in the flames.

When Acelina woke the next day, she realised that Gwaine’s jacket had been draped over her during the night, and she smiled softly as she looked around for him. She couldn’t find him at first but as she cast her eyes to the side she saw him walking towards her, shirt in hand and shaking out his damp hair, “Sorry, went to quickly wash in the stream,” he shoved his shirt on and Acelina stood to hand him his jacket, “you were shivering while you slept, didn’t want you to be cold.”

“Thank you,” she smiled, blushing slightly as she looked up into his eyes. They kept eye contact for a few moments until she nervously cleared her throat and reached for her bag, “uh, have you fed the horses?”

“Yeah, while you were sleeping, thought you’d be eager to get home.”

“Do you honestly think your company is that unpleasant?” she joked, but he looked uneasy, “It’s not, I enjoy your company Gwaine.”

“You’ve only just met me,” he sighed, and she took a step towards him, “I can be a lot to deal with.”

“Well, I like what I’ve seen so far,” she assured him, tentatively reaching up to stroke his cheek, “I think, if you’d let me, I’d like to get to know you properly.”

“Really?” he laughed nervously, and she nodded, “I think you’d be the first,” there was a moment of eye contact, both of them unsure, before Gwaine leaned down to kiss her. Acelina responded eagerly and moved her arms to rest on his shoulders as his hands moved to her waist. When they finally moved apart it was with a deep breath and unmovable grins on each of their faces.

“Now I’m actually kinda glad that knight tried to kidnap me,” Acelina laughed, smiling up at Gwaine, “otherwise I probably wouldn’t have seen you in the tavern.”

“Well, I have to admit, that was a pretty great ‘thank you’ for saving your life,” he smirked, and she slapped his arm, “come on. As much as I’d love to stay here with you, your father will be expecting you home soon. I don’t think we want it to get to the point where he sends out a search party.”

“Okay, we’re just at the edge of the forest so it should only take a couple hours to reach the lower town,” she sighed, and they set about packing up and then riding back to Camelot. Gwaine stopped and dismounted his horse as the castle got closer, “you’re not coming with me to the castle?”

“I don’t think that your father would appreciate you being with a commoner,” he sighed, and she got off her stallion to go over to him.

“Do you really dislike nobility that much?” she asked, trying to mask her disappointment.

“I dislike people who think nobility just comes from the title, that those without a title can’t be noble in the deeds they do,” he explained, taking her hands in his, “You, Acelina, are not like that – you have a good heart. And beautiful eyes,” she laughed and shook her head at him.

“So, I take it that you don’t usually tell people about your father?”

“I’m surprised I even told you,” he admitted, “there’s just something about you that I knew I could trust. I’d like to see you again though.”

“Well, my father likes to send me to the different villages within Camelot quite often, especially in areas that are by his enemies’ borders. I’m expected to instil their loyalty to him, make sure that, if a man like Cenred decides to try and take Camelot’s land, they will only pledge allegiance to him. If you write to me about where you are then I can try to meet you at the closest village to where you are.”

“That sounds perfect,” he grinned, pressing a long, soft kiss to her lips, “I think I’ll travel to Howden, maybe you can meet me there soon?”

“I’ll see what I can do,” she assured him, stroking his cheek before getting back on her stallion, “just a thought… Address your letters to Mirabelle, she’s my maid. It’d be a bit suspicious if I was getting letters from someone who isn’t some kind of knight or prince, he cares a lot more about titles than I do.”

“Okay. I’ll see you soon, my lady,” he grinned, kissing her hand before she rode off towards the castle.

Once again, please let me know if I’ve missed anything that could potentially be a trigger and I’ll add it to the tags. Happy Camelove! 🥰💜💙

#camelove2021 #day 2: knights in shining armour #fanfic #violence tw #attempted kidnapping tw #strangling tw #oc/gwaine

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renee-writer · 3 years

Text

Win a Date Chapter 76 I'm Sorry

He sits by her as tears drip down his face. A promise not to hurt her had been broken and he has to fix it, if he can. She lays, her body curled up on itself, protecting, with a cover over her. Tracks of dried tears mark that ivory skin. It tears his heart out to see it.

She starts to stir after a few minutes. He keeps his eyes on her, his hands tightly fisted in his lap least he touch her. She slowly opens her eyes to slits, whimpering. “Gel?” her hands reach blindly out and land on his chest. She sits up as her eye fly fully open. “What, in the hell, are you doing here!” demanded as her hand goes to her head. “Damn it!”

“Lay back down.”

“You aren’t to tell me what to do.” But she does as her head is to heavy to hold up.

“Sorry. I am so God damn sorry.”

“For kissing her or being caught?”

“For placing myself in a position where she was able to kiss me. I wasn’t kissing her. I swear it.”

“Right. I know that move. Hands on face.”

“It is also the move I use to move people away. That is what I was doing. I would never kiss another lass except for work. Filming. We were drinking. She came up and kissed me. I took her face and moved her away. That is what would have been captured in the next frame, had the photographer keep going. They caught a mere moment of that night. Not the truth of it. I am so bloody sorry that it was published, that you saw it.”

“Why were you drinking with her?”

“It was an industry event. Drinking is part of it.”

“So every time you go to such without me, an I to expect such?”

'No. Never again.”

“They say you stumbled in to the hotel drunk.”

“I escorted her in. She was more pissed than me. So yah, I was holding her up. But that is all.”

“No stolen kisses in the lift. You didn’t feel her up or allow her to. Didn’t get a hard-on from her?” She questions. Her eyes are red from crying and drinking. Her hair a rats nest. At that point, she is feeling quite insecure.

“Jesus Claire. No. What you saw was all that happened. I love you. Want only you. You will be my wife, the only woman who will ever share my bed. That is, if you will still have me.”

She wants to throw her arms about him, pledge herself back to him. But.. “I am scared. You are surrounded by beautiful woman Jamie. They are in the same business, understand you. In a way I may never.”

“Then I will quit.”

“What? Jamie you can’t.”

“I can and will. You are so much more important to me then a job.”

“You are James Fraser, award winner. You can’t just.. “ He stills her, placing a hand across her lips.

“I love you.” He then draws out the small knife, the skindo, he always carries. He places, blade towards him. She gasps under his hand. “I swear to you by my Lord Jesus and by the holy iron I hold, to give you my fealty and loyalty. If I ever cause you pain or tears again, I ask this knife by pushed through me. For I would rather die or stop being James Fraser then cause you harm.” He pledges. He moves the small knife, laying it to the side.

“Oh God Jamie!” she is crying again.

“Is it enough baby. Do you trust me? Are we still us?”

*Yes. Yes.” She pulls him down beside her. “But can you not work with this Geneva person anymore.”

“Aye, mo ghraird, I can arrange that.”

She rest against him, sniffling. “I should have just trusted you but seeing that picture. She is so much prettier than me.”

“No she isn’t. She has nothing in you. Even drunk with your face all blotchy with tears, you are a thousand times more beautiful than she is. The woman I love. Your reaction is probably the same way I would have reacted. With one thing added, I would have found the guy and punched him out.”

“Thought about it.” They both chuckle

“Is there anything you need?”

“Just you right here.”

“I am going nowhere.”

#my writing #outlander fanfic #win a date #i'm sorry #jamie and claire #cannon divergence #modern au #outlander fandom

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gingrrfrog · 4 years

Text

these nights (12)

word count: 5.9k

warnings: none

summary: jaemin has to deal with the consequences of a promotion he never asked for--both professionally and personally

Jaemin wasn’t allowed at executive meetings, and for good reason. When he first started, he initially got into a lot of trouble with his brother because he spoke over their father during a meeting, which often led to a slap on the cheek from the older man. Jaehyun begged, pleaded Jaemin to hold his tongue just once, but Jaemin never once listened.

For that reason, their father demoted Jaemin from capo to a regular soldier, banning him from joining any executive meetings as well as being promoted. Jaemin didn’t care either way, he and his father never saw eye to eye anyway.

Even after his father died and Jaehyun took over, the same rules applied. Jaemin had no interest in attending executive meetings as he found that the relationship between him and his brother improved the less he was involved in upper tier involvement. However, since Jeno was injured, he found himself in his place, sitting in what he assumed was his spot as Yuta and Mark sat in their own spots, chatting mindlessly about the weather as if nothing was happening.

They seemed to be handling whatever this was better than him, despite his brother being next to them with a somber look to his face while he whispered to Johnny. Jaemin tried to make sense of what they were saying, but it didn’t work; Jaemin wasn’t able to read lips like Jaehyun could. Instead, he waited for Jaehyun o turn and face the table, sighing heavily as he ran his hand through his greasy, unkept hair.

“Alright,” he started, his voice traveling through the room. “I want to make this quick, I have a flight to catch soon.”

Jaehyun reached in the envelope and began taking photos of Jeno in a wrecked car out, Jaemin’s eyebrows furrowing as he took one in hand and studied it closely.

“A week ago, I got an envelope full of these pictures. Most of the were of Jeno before, during, and after wreck. High def photos as you can see, many of them before he was picked up by the ambulance and before he was found by Mark.” Jaehyun rubbed the underside of his chin, glancing at Jaemin, “the next night, I got a phone call from Jaem that someone had broken into their house. No sign of forced entry, so they knew the key code, or they found another way in. Nothing was taken, no one was hurt.”

“Last night, someone broke in to my home while Jihyun and the housekeeper were still here. No one heard anything, Jihyun didn’t even know someone was in the house until I told her. They left a stuffed animal in my daughter’s nursery,” Jaehyun threw said stuffed animal on the table. Yuta took it into his hands immediately. “He said it was a gift for my baby. I asked him who he was, to which he only replied he was sent by someone named the Whisperer. He said he wanted to protect Jeno, Jihyun, and the baby.”

“Jeno?” Jaemin repeated.

Jaehyun nodded, “I asked them what he wanted with him, but he just repeated what he said before. I took him out, I took off his mask and his face was burned beyond recognition. I thought maybe he wouldn’t have fingerprints either, which I was right about, but he didn’t have a hand and the hand he did have the fingerprints were burned off.”

“You don’t know anything about someone with burns and without a hand?” Mark asked.

“It couldn’t have been something I did, he looked way older than me.”

“Maybe your father? Grandfather?” Yuta pressed, his eyes glued on the stuffed animal.

“I don’t have a clue. The one thing I know is that this Whisperer has a hard-on for dogs.”

“The best thing about dogs is the they’re loyal no matter who you kill,” Jaemin read out loud, flipping the photo around. “Are they talking about Jeno?”

“I think so.”

“Jeno told Jaehyun and Jaemin last night that he didn’t get most of his injuries from the car accident,” Johnny interjected. “He told Jaehyun that he was taken first, barked at by both people and real dogs. He doesn’t remember how he got out.”

“Cool. So we’re dealing with a furry,” Mark scoffed. “Hyung, do you have any idea how insane this sounds?”

“Why did you think I called you here, Mark?”

“It sounds insane to all of us,” Jaemin reassured with a grumble. He looked at Jaehyun, his eyes slightly narrowed, “why didn’t you tell us about the photos earlier?”

“What good would that have done, Jaemin?”

Jaemin shrugged, noticing Yuta finally looking up from the stuffed animal with his eyes widened.

“Uh, Jaehyun?”

Jaehyun quickly walked to Yuta’s side, watching the older man pull out a heart shaped dog tag.

“…it says Hyerim,” Mark said quietly, looking up at Jaehyun.

Jaemin watched as Jaehyun’s neck turned red, his ears quickly matching the color. Jaemin took the dog tag in his own hands, noticing his niece’s name etched out in gold cursive. Jaehyun took a slow deep breath, his hand gripping the back of his head.

“Mark, look into any records on your side about this. Call everyone, every single person in your contacts.”

“Every politician, Kun, Xuxi, the goddamn Russians, I don’t fucking care,” he seethed. “I want him here, in a week. Do you understand? I want him here by the time I get back from New York.”

“Hyung, how are we going to find him we—"

“Did I fucking stutter, Mark Lee?”

Mark swallowed and shook his head, “No, Hyung.”

“Good. I didn’t think I did,” Jaehyun said quickly waving them off. “Leave. Dismissed.”

Yuta and Mark got up from their spots and walked towards the door robotically. Mark made brief eye contact with Jaemin, to which the latter grimaced and nodded. Jaemin was the only one who remained, watching his brother scrape at his scalp as he stared at the dog tag on the table.

Jaemin looked up at Johnny before he walked towards Jaehyun, sitting on the table, “Jaehyun hyung, is there something you need me to do?”

“I need your help, Jaem. Not just as your boss, but as your brother.”

“Anything.”

“I need someone under me, Jaemin,” he said gently, his hand on his shoulder. “Johnny hyung can only do so much without jeopardizing his position as my lawyer.”

“I need someone to take care of Jihyun while I’m gone, I need someone to take charge while I’m away. Not just now, but in the future…just in case something happens to me before we go straight.”

Jaemin furrowed his eyebrows, “I don’t…think I understand.”

“I’m making you underboss, Jaemin.”

Jaemin was sure that if he bit any harder on his tongue he would draw blood. He scanned over Jaehyun’s face to find any trace of a joke, just the smallest of signs for him to laugh it off. He failed to find any humor on his face as it was ridden with worry.

Jaemin swallowed, “but, Dad said I—"

“Dad’s dead, Jaemin. I’m boss now.”

“Don’t you think Mark hyung or Taeil hyung could do it better? I don’t think I can be underboss-“

The switch from worried brother to boss was made effortlessly, Jaehyun’s eyebrows lowering as his eyes narrowed slightly, “are you rejecting me, Jaemin?”

Jaemin shook his head, “no, sir.”

“I can’t trust anyone else, Jaemin. I need you to do this for me.”

Jaemin tried his best to mute the fear in his stomach. He didn’t like the idea of being underboss, sure, that was a given. But he also didn’t like the feeling that all of this was rushed, as if Jaehyun were planning something bigger than just making him underboss. Regardless, Jaemin nodded his head and held his brother’s hand, “I’ve got it.”

“Thank you,” Jaehyun looked at his watch before squeezing his hand. “I have to go, text me if you have any questions. Johnny hyung should help you answer most of them though.”

There was still so much Jaemin wanted to ask. He wanted to know why choose him when there were so many others that were willing to pledge their loyalty? He wanted to ask for a crash course in organized crime like he hadn’t lived his entire life in it. Jaemin watched him open the door to the office before he called out for his brother.

“Hyung.”

Jaehyun stopped in his tracks, “yeah?”

What if I mess up? What if I get someone we love killed? Do you really trust me this much? What if I ruin everything you worked for?

“Be...safe.”

Jaehyun gave him a weak smile, closing the door behind him as Jaemin fell in his brother’s chair. The weight of the world already felt like it was crashing on his shoulders, wondering how his brother had to deal with this every miserable day. Jaemin looked up at Johnny again, making awkward contact.

“Do you think I’ll fuck up?” Jaemin asked, a laugh on a lips as if he was expecting Jaehyun to come back inside and tell him this was just some sick joke.

Johnny shook his head, “you’re smarter than you think, Jaem.”

“I’m not ready for this,” he said quietly, “I don’t know what to do.”

“I’m here to help you. So is your brother and everyone around you. You won’t be alone.”

“Then why do I feel like I am?”

Johnny gave a soft smile, “the top is lonely.”

Jaemin bit his lip, clenching his eyes in frustration before leaving Jaehyun’s chair. “I think we’re done here, hyung. Let’s go home.”

“Are we going to meet here or at your father’s house tomorrow?”

“Here,” Jaemin replied. “I can’t go back there yet.”

It was late when Jaemin got back. The lights in their apartment were turned off all around as he shuffled around their home quietly. Jaemin sighed and dropped his jacket on the nearest couch before walking towards the bedroom, watching Yejin’s sleeping figure on the bed, steady rises and falls of her chest as she slept perfectly curled in the middle of the bed. Jaemin smiled to himself, kissing her hair before moving to the bathroom to wash out.

Even after his shower Jaemin couldn’t find the ease to fall asleep just yet. Instead, he laid on his side of the bed, watching Yejin sleep as he ran his fingertips ever so lightly across her face. He thought it was funny that she was sleeping so prettily today, especially since there were nights were Yejin was snoring rather unattractively. He laughed to himself at his joke, small shakes of his chest that Yejin recognized as life in her sleep. Like second nature, she fastened her arms around his waist immediately, breathing deeply.

He didn’t sleep at all that night, his fingers tracing over her spine as he thought of his next steps. He heard his phone vibrate next to him at around five thirty, noticing all the documents Johnny sent him in one fell swoop. His shoulders dropped, sighing heavily and reading over them.

By his last email, it was eight thirty, and Yejin was nearing the end of her sleep cycle judging by the way she was stirring in his arms. Jaemin felt dizzy, but he still didn’t feel tired, watching Yejin sit up in confusion and look around the room.

“Hey,” she yawned, leaning in to give Jaemin a kiss, “good morning.”

“Good morning. Did you sleep well?”

Yejin nodded, tucking stray hairs behind her ear, “I guess I was sleepier than I thought last night. I didn’t even hear you come home.”

“It was pretty late, around midnight.”

“Everything go okay?” She asked, running her fingers through his hair. Jaemin smiled and nodded, kissing her finger tips.

“Everything is okay.”

Yejin returned his smile, “do you want to go get some breakfast?”

“I’m not too hungry, I think I’ll have some coffee and go.”

“Go?” She pouted, “where are you going?”

“Work.”

Yejin whined, pulling his arm until Jaemin hovered over her, “don’t go to work. Quit so you can stay home and cuddle me.”

Jaemin laughed, snuggling his head in her neck and pressing kisses there, “I wish I could. Special orders from up top, though.”

Jaemin supposed he was “up-top” now. Regardless, Yejin knew that she couldn’t ignore his orders but still held Jaemin close to her chest. It was then when exhaustion crept up his spine and settled heavily in his head, a yawn forcing its way through his mouth. Yejin scratching his back didn’t help one bit, rubbing his back as she whispered in his ear.

“Take an hour nap,” she offered. “I know you didn’t get any sleep last night so take an hour and I’ll wake you up.”

“An hour turns into four when you’re timing them.”

Yejin shook her head, “no, I’m going to watch an hour of something on Netflix and I’ll wake you up, I promise. I know you have work to do.”

Jaemin could help it. His eyelids beat him faster than he could protest, falling heavy against each other as he dreamt of coconut shampoo and peach bodywash.

He woke up an hour later, as Yejin promised, but he felt more disgusting now than if he hadn’t taken a nap. He peeled himself off Yejin’s chest with a groan, rolling on his back and feeling a kiss on his forehead. He smiled and pulled her closer, a much sweeter, deeper kiss being shared between the two.

“Remember the coffee machine Jihyun unnie bought us?”

Jaemin let out a grunt in acknowledgment.

“It’s Bluetooth enabled, you can make coffee from bed.”

“Unnecessary,” he mumbled.

“It’s unnecessary until I tell you your iced americano should be done, all it needs is the ice.”

Jaemin peeked from an eyelid, “maybe it isn’t unnecessary.”

Yejin snorted, “go brush your teeth. Your breath can’t taste like coffee and morning breath.”

He laughed and rolled off from bed, walking to the bathroom to brush said teeth. Yejin walked to the kitchen to prepare the iced americano in question, pouring water in the cup and ice before snapping the lid on to hand it to her boyfriend. He pouted, noticing how clear it was in comparison to how many extra shots he would usually put in. Yejin shook her head, pushing him towards the door.

“That’s enough espresso, you psycho. If you’re still sleepy, eat some breakfast for energy and take a nap for lunch,” she scolded. “You can’t be drinking that much caffeine, it’s not good for you.”

“Yes, Mom,” Jaemin moaned. He looked at his watch and frowned, pulling Yejin in for another kiss. “I’ve got to go; I’ll probably be home late tonight too.”

“That’s okay, I’ll be with Jeno in the hospital tonight anyway. Come if you have the energy but go home to sleep if you’re tired.”

“I’ll text you,” he replied, giving her one last kiss.

Yejin hummed in reassurance as Jaemin left, his car keys in one and the straw in between his teeth, sipping at his coffee aggressively. He was finished with it by the time he made it to the car, tossing the lid to the side as he chewed on ice on the way to Jaehyun’s house.

Upon rounding the corner, he saw Johnny’s car parked in front, sat inside as Jaemin parked next to him and locking the door.

Johnny got out of the door next, grinning at Jaemin as he bowed, “good morning, boss.”

“Don’t call me that.”

Johnny laughed, following him inside the house.

“What? What’s funny?”

“Your brother hates when I call him boss too.”

There wasn’t much of a difference between what Jaehyun and Jaemin did (paperwork wise) is what Jaemin quickly noticed. He flew through documents easily, his hand resting on his chin as calculated numbers quickly in his head, handing the same document at the end to Johnny to correct him.

It was active boss work that made Jaemin nervous. Presenting himself as the authority figure made him nervous, which was why he brought Mark with him. Mark was always eager to remind people who was in charge, as his bright, boyish face shouldn’t be used to underestimate what he was capable of. Mark had killed, perhaps, twice as many people Jeno has, maybe more if he included the ones before he was involved.

Jaemin and Mark rarely worked together as they were two parts of a different sector, Jaemin focusing more on the logistical build of the group as Mark focused on reinforcement more often than not. For that reason alone is why Jaemin found Mark to be perfect to bring to his first warehouse check, the new made boss fidgety on their drive there.

“You don’t got to worry about anything, Jaem!” Mark tried to soothe him, “these guys are a bunch of low-classlosers. They hear anything about a Jung brother coming in and their assholes turn to this-“

Mark made a fist with his hand as Jaemin tried to laugh off the lewd expression.

Warehouses were in charge of almost everything Jaehyun helped export. Cocaine from Colombia, Weapons from Ireland, as well as contraband to North Korea and Northern Chinese ports. Jaehyun ran a tight ship, and Jaemin could see the work he put into it once he saw the scale.

Jaemin took a deep breath as he walked inside, two men bowing at Mark and Jaemin as he stepped foot on concrete floors, watching men bustling inside with boxes in their arms.

All Jaemin had to do today was talk to the warehouse owner, discuss route management and how everything was doing, and collecting invoices. Mark led him up the stairs to an office with a clear window, a fat, middle age man sitting in an unorganized desk.

Mark made his entrance first, a sincere smile on his face, “Youngsil, this is Jae-“

“Na Jaemin, what’s a pretty face like him doing here?” Youngsil’s voice rasped from cigarette abuse as his office reeked of chicken grease and tobacco.

“I’m filling in for my brother,” he said simply, sitting down in front of Youngsil with a small smile.

“You? That adorable!” Youngsil laughed. Jaemin smiled, looking at Mark who had his hands clasped together. Mark returned his smile, lifting up one finger.

Strike one.

“I’m sure you think so,” Jaemin cleared his throat. “I’m only here for a moment. I just wanted to recollect some data for this month’s profit.”

“I’ve got ‘em. The invoices, I know. Your brother told me about ‘em last week.” Youngsil appeared to have just finished his breakfast, licking his fingers off some sauce before reaching for his paperwork. Jaemin tried to conceal his disgust.

“Here we go,” he sighed, leaning over, “we got the shipment from the Colombians earlier this month. Everything looked smooth, 15 kilos like we asked.”

Jaemin nodded, “anything from Mexico?”

“Just a few kilos of weed, we don’t really buy from them anymore, the stuff smells like shit and kids aren’t as interested in it anymore,” Youngsil waved his hand. “Kids like coke. It’s a constant.”

Jaemin nodded, “shipments up north? How do the routes look?”

“Fine,” he reassured, reaching into his desk to pull out a cigarette. He offered one to Jaemin, but he politely refused. “You look a lot like your dad, you know that? Maybe more than your older brother.”

“I…get that a lot.” Jaemin blinked, “anyway-“

“How long are you going to pretend to be boss for, Jaemin?” Youngsil asked, taking a deep drag of his cigarette and exhaling with a greasy grin. “Is it fun playing dress up?”

Jaemin kept a smile on his face, and silently rose two fingers so that Mark could see. Strike two. “For a week. Maybe longer.”

“It suits you,” Youngsil nodded. “You really look like Jungmo, it’s kind of funny that Jaehyunie doesn’t.”

“Different mothers, I suppose, have that effect.”

Youngsil shook his head, “you know his mom was a prostitute, right?”

Jaemin swallowed, “the invoices...”

“Between you and me, I don’t think Jaehyun was even Jungmo’s. His mom was a real dime piece, cheaper than the next doll, but her ass—“

“Thank you.” Jaemin interrupted, “for the invoices. I’m very busy, as you understand.”

Youngsil watched Jaemin rise from his seat, “oh. I get it. No problems.”

Jaemin pressed his lips together in a forced smile before he left, pulling Mark aside and glaring at the him, “get rid of him. Now.”

Mark nodded, “wait in the car. I’ll be back.”

Jaemin bounced down the steps, invoices rolled in his hands as he didn’t even flinch from the sound of the gun in the background. Several men looked behind them and at Jaemin, going back to work as he heard Mark in the background call for two random workers to help him move Youngsil.

Jaemin sat alone in the car, fuming silently and noticing his phone ring. He quickly answered it, rolling his eyes at the sound of his brother tsking,

“Day one in the job and you already got rid of one of my guys,” Jaehyun playfully scolded.

“How did you know?”

“Word travels faster than light in this job, Jaem.” Jaehyun said, “I’m glad you did it though, it would’ve looked personal from my end.”

“It was personal.”

“Well, he’s dead. It’s not like anyone will find out.”

“How’s New York?”

“Just landed. It’s awful, as always. I don’t understand how Jihyun likes it here,” he grumbled. “I was on my way to meet Taeil hyung for a late dinner when I got the call. You’re doing better than I thought.”

Jaemin scoffed, “it’s been four hours.”

“Better than my first four,” Jaemin could hear his brother’s smile. “Have you gone to see Jihyun at all yet?”

“Not yet, I’ll be on my way after this.”

“Don’t let her see you mad. She’s better at perceiving than you think.”

“Is there anything you want me to tell her when I get there?”

“Just that I landed safe. I’ll call her tomorrow, around 8 am for you.”

“Okay.”

“Jaem?”

“What?”

“You’re doing great.”

Jaemin snorted, “are you going to tell me you love me next?”

“Do you want me to?”

Jaemin rolled his eyes, “I’ll call you later.”

“Text me. I will be asleep.”

Jaemin hung up first, looking at Mark walk around the car and fall inside out of breath. Jaemin laughed.

“You okay, hyung?”

“He’s like, fucking three hundred pounds. It took me four guys to just get him down the stairs,” Mark breathed deeply. “You know you have to replace him, right?”

“I’ll do that tomorrow.” Jaemin said, “do you know where Jihyun noona’s house is?”

It had been a good amount of years since Jaemin last stepped foot in Jihyun’s home. The last time was probably when he last picked up Jisung from being babysat, Jisung being only five at the time. The house hasn’t changed that much since then, Jaemin observed, waving Mark away as he walked to the front door.

He stood at the front door and rang the doorbell, waiting for a maid to let him inside before he took of his shoes at the front door. The slippers he originally used as a child were too small for him now, but they were still tucked away in the cubby along with Jisung’s tiny toddler ones. Jaemin smiled at the sentiment, walking through the hallways to look for Jihyun, finding her sat in the kitchen with her mother.

Park Eunhye was a small thin woman, her eyes widening at his appearance as she ran over to hug her son-in-law’s brother, patting him on the back, “is this Jaeminie? Look at how big he is!”

Jaemin laughed bashfully, returning her hug tightly, “you should see Jisung.”

Eunhye shook her head, “no! I’ll cry if I see that Jisung is any taller than my waist.”

“He’s taller than Jaemin, Mommy.” Jihyun smiled, “he and Jaehyun are about the same height.”

Eunhye frowned, “you were this big the last time I saw you! You were with Jeno! I’ve seen him recently, he’s so handsome.”

“We live together, so I see him everyday,” Jaemin smiled, rubbing her shoulders, “he’s not that handsome. Not as cute as me, at least.”

Eunhye smiled, patting his back, “you’re very cute, jaemin.”

“Mommy, can you leave Jaemin and I alone for a moment? Please?”

Eunhye made a face but nodded regardless, patting Jaemin on the back and leading him to a chair, mentioning to make himself comfortable. Jaemin smiled and thanked her quietly before she left, looking at Jihyun with smirk.

“Do you think she thinks I’m cuter than Jaehyun hyung?”

Jihyun snorted, “no. No one is prettier than Jaehyun in her eyes, not even her real sons.”

Jaemin laughed, “fair enough.”

“So then, what brings you around to my home?” Jihyun looked at his feet and playfully frowned, “I see you’re not wearing the special slippers I bought you.”

“The special slippers you bought me when I was seven, you mean?”

“I said you would grow into them!”

“I did, but I grew out of them now,” Jaemin teased. “Either way, I’m here because-“

“Jaehyun sent you? I know.”

“Then why ask?”

Jihyun shrugged, taking a sip out of her tea, “I wanted to see if you were going to lie.”

“It’s nearly impossible to lie to you, you’re annoyingly perceptive.”

“And I’m only your sister-in-law, imagine having me as your wife.”

“I think I’d end my life.”

Jaemin winced when Jihyun slapped his shoulder, pouting as he rubbed the spot, “Yejin already hit me there the other day.”

“For good reason, I imagine,” she grinned. “How is she doing? And Jeno?”

“They’re both fine. Jeno spends most of his time sleeping and complaining about the cable the hospital has, but, Yejin is there to help him not go insane. The days neither of us are there drive him insane I think, talking to random workers of ours.”

“Does he know about what happened the other day with the intrusion?”

Jaemin shook his head, a grimace on his face, “no. Not yet. I don’t know how to tell him without overwhelming him.”

“I think you’re going to overwhelm him either way, Jaem. The sooner you tell him, the more you’re going to be able to have his input. I have a suspicion you haven’t told him you’re underboss either.”

“How did you know that?”

“I snoop. It’s the only way Jaehyun tells me anything.”

“And he lets you get away with that?”

“Sometimes he scolds me about it, sometimes he doesn’t. I think he wanted me to know about it that time though.”

“How can you tell?”

“He left his phone opened on the messages with Johnny oppa.”

Jaemin blinked, “how do you know he didn’t just forget to lock it?”

Jihyun made a face, “no, that’s too easy.”

“Men have a one-track mind and you think Jaehyun hyung did it on purpose?” Jaemin scoffed, “you’re insane.”

“Regardless of how I found out,” Jihyun interrupted, “he also asked me what I thought about it the other day.”

“And what did you say?”

“I thought it was a good idea.”

“Why?”

Jihyun shrugged, “it has to be you, Jaem.”

Jaemin scrunched his nose at the lackluster answer. He looked at his fingernails before he said anything else, sighing deeply, “I think you’re the third person to tell me that today.”

“If you haven’t told Jeno I’m imagining you haven’t told Yejin either?”

“Nope. Not yet. I have a feeling she’s going to tell me that same thing…as well as freak out all night,” Jaemin tapped his nails on the countertop, “how do you think she’s going to react?”

“Not well, if you ask me. I didn’t react well when Jaehyun told me he was underboss all those years ago. But you could be pleasantly surprised.”

“I doubt it.”

“How ever you decide to tell her, I’m sure she’ll support you. You have to make the effort to take care of her though, I can see it being a lot for her, mentally.”

Jaemin remembered the conversation Yejin and he had when they argued that night, remembering how Yejin revealed how she worried constantly for Jeno and Jaemin. That was when Jaemin’s official position was a meager, crooked accountant. He didn’t want to imagine the mental implications of an underboss.

“Hey,” Jihyun said gently, resting her hand on his shoulder. “I didn’t mean to freak you out, Jaemin.”

“You didn’t freak me out. Nothing you said wasn’t true, I’m just…planning, I guess.”

Jihyun let out a soft laugh, “you and your brother have the same face when you overthink. I think it’s funny.”

“Who do you think looks more like our dad?” Jaemin asked suddenly, causing Jihyun to blink, “me or Jaehyun hyung?”

“Jaehyun,” she said without question. “It kind of freaks me out sometimes.”

Jaemin nodded, “that’s what I thought too.”

After lunch with Jihyun, Jaemin was picked up by Johnny to drive back to Jaehyun’s house. He had sent Johnny home about an hour ago, leaving him alone in the office as Jaemin packed up his things and put away the paperwork for the day. He glanced over at the photos Jaehyun placed all over his desk, smiling at the photo of him and Jihyun on their vacation before she got pregnant. There were pictures of all four of Johnny’s kids sitting next to a picture of the three brothers at Jisung’s middle school graduation.

The picture was taken weeks after their father died, Jaehyun trying his best to hide his fatigue and depression under a bright smile. Anyone could’ve looked at the photo and seen three brothers celebrating, but no one would’ve ever been able to guess that Jaehyun barely got any sleep the night before, barely peeling himself off a bender to attend his youngest brother’s graduation severely hungover. Jisung hadn’t noticed as Jaehyun sprayed himself to the nines full of cologne to hide the smell of alcohol, he was only happy that his brother remembered, also not knowing that Jaemin was the one to kick his brother awake before then.

It was a week after that that Jaehyun stopped drinking, deeming himself sober from alcohol and cigarettes a year after that.

Jaemin wondered why he picked this picture out of all the ones they had, especially since there were so many other pictures of the three of them where Jaehyun was happier and much healthier. Jaemin made a mental note to ask him about it later, when he was in a better mood. When this was all over.

Jaemin got up from his spot and locked the office door behind him, swinging the house keys in his hands as he walked to his own car, stepping inside and driving towards the hospital. He left Jaehyun’s house at around 9:30 and arrived at the hospital parking lot at 9:53, locking the car behind him as he made his way towards the entrance, past the welcome desk, and to the ICU unit, where he found himself in a strangely good mood.

Jeno looked to be asleep when he entered the room, Yejin laying her head close to his side and watching the TV on the other side, somewhat paying attention to the variety show on. Jaemin closed the door to make his presence known, Yejin’s head lifting up with a smile as she walked towards him.

“Hi,” she greeted with a kiss, wrapping her arms around his neck. Jaemin smiled and returned her kiss, wrapping his arms around her waist as she stood on the tips of her toes to give him another kiss.

“Hi,” he replied with a smile. “Is he asleep?”

“He’s taking a nap, I don’t think he’s going to wake up tonight though.”

“He will, and then he’ll complain that he woke up at 2 am,” Jaemin laughed, kissing her forehead.

“How was work?” She asked once they were settled on the armchair, Yejin sat on his lap as she played with his fingers.

“It was…work. I went to go check on Jihyun noona for lunch.”

“Yeah? How is she?”

“A little bored, Jaehyun hyung left for work in New York so she’s at her parents place ’til he comes back.”

“Is this another one of your brother’s overprotective measures?”

Jaemin laughed, “I don’t think so. I actually kind of agree with this one.”

Are you going to do the same with me when you and Jeno are gone for work? Send me off?”

Jaemin snorted, “not to be rude, but where am I going to send you off to?”

Yejin pursed her lips, “sometimes I forget I don’t have parents.”

Jaemin laughed again, much heartier, “yeah, me too.”

They were quiet for a moment, listening to Jeno’s steady breathing as Jaemin thought of what to say next. He rubbed her knuckles with his thumb before he pulled away to make eye contact.

“Yejin, I have to talk to you.”

“About?”

“I haven’t told Jeno this yet, so if he wakes up right now, it’ll be poor timing…maybe I should wait actually that might—“

“You’re rambling, baby,” Yejin kissed his hair, “it’s okay, just say it.”

“I’ve been promoted.”

“Oh.” Yejin pulled away to look at her boyfriend, “that’s good…right? That’s a good thing?”

“I guess. I’m not Jeno’s co anymore, but I’m not my own capo either.”

Yejin looked at her fingertips, counting on her fingers to try and remember all the positions, “so then? What are you?”

“Underboss. Jaehyun’s direct successor if something were to happen to him.”

Yejin’s eyebrows furrowed together, sitting up in Jaemin’s lap, “what?”

Jaemin bit his lip, “that’s why the meeting took so long yesterday. Jaehyun hyung made it official.”

“What does that mean?” She asked carefully, studying Jaemin’s face, “what now, Jaemin?”

“Well, for one, I’m acting boss until he comes back.”

Jaemin took the time to watch her react. He watched her eyebrows relax as confusion swirled in her eyes. She opened her mouth, once, twice, and a third time before she shook her head, “sorry, boss?”

“Yeah. Just until Jaehyun hyung comes back, then he’ll train me properly, or something like that. Until then, I’m just supposed to…survive, I guess? Johnny hyung was with me today, but I’ll be on my own tomorrow.”

“Jaem…”

“I know.” Jaemin cleared his throat, “if…you want to leave me-“

“Don’t be stupid, Jaemin. If I left you I’d have to leave Jeno too.”

“So you’re with me because you don’t want to leave Jeno?”

Yejin rolled her eyes, effectively ignoring his comment, “I’m not leaving, Jaemin. I just wish you would’ve told me last night so I could’ve eased the weight on your shoulders right now, baby.”

“I’ll sleep like a rock tonight, at least. I couldn’t sleep last night because I was worried about telling you.”

“Why?”

Jaemin shrugged, “I don’t know. I don’t want you to worry about me more than you already do. Not to mention, I’ll be gone more after this is over, especially when Jaehyun hyung comes back home.”

“I’m going to worry either way, but,” Yejin took Jaemin’s face in her hands, kissing the tip of his nose, “thank you for telling me. It means more that it came from you instead of someone else.”

“Of course.”

“Does Jeno know?”

Jaemin shook his head, “I don’t think he knows. Should we wake him up?”

Yejin shook her head next, holding Jaemin close, “no. Let’s let him sleep a little longer.”

Jaemin nodded, relishing in her touch as he closed his eyes next.

masterlist

#these nights au #jaehyun #jaemin #jeno #mafia au #nct mafia au

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rphelperblog · 2 years

Text

Originals Rp Meme

“To me, the very definition of the word "broken" suggests that something can be fixed.”

“No one hurts my family and lives.”

“I believe that when you love someone and that person loves you in return you’re uniquely vulnerable.”

“Death dances silently in everyone's shadow, and she doesn't give a damn. So why give a damn about her?”

“Let's make one thing clear, you'll never have this - loyalty. You can't buy it, you can't own it, you can't force it, it comes only out of love and respect for the people who believe in you”

“All of us live with a demon inside.”

“Some days you control your demon, and sometimes it controls you.”

“If I tell you who I really am and you refuse to believe me then I can hardly be blamed for your disappointment.”

“You rant and rave about the monster I have become, but you are the author of everything I am.”

“If the definition of insanity is doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting different results then surely my quest for your salvation ranks me as one of the maddest of men.”

“Every family has a legacy, and this is mine. I intend to fight for always and forever, even if it destroys me.”

“Everything we love, we turn to ash”

“I can give you a list of people who've underestimated me. None of them have done it a second time. “

“You can't trust me, which means you cannot love me. Not as I love you.”

"In that case, you best kiss me before I go."

“It must really suck to have to be you all the time.”

“In every moment a choice exists. We can cling to the past or embrace the inevitability of change and allow a brighter future to unfold before us.”

“Hurting the ones we love, it’s just what we do.”

“You’ll find bourbon on basically every horizontal surface.”

My family's about to be pulled apart and there's literally nothing I can do about it.”

“I actually pity you. Over the course of our long lives together, I could see you were broken. I used to think it was my fault, but in time, I learned your ability to love died long ago”

“A man can’t be defined by anyone but himself.”

“Always and forever.”

“Sometimes the things you want aren’t worth the price.”

“I’ve known you a thousand years and this is the first time you have ever done the right thing.”

“I hereby pledge my allegiance to you. You have the keys to my kingdom. It's yours. “

“It seems you're always willing to watch the world burn as long as you survive.”

“You pretend to be so confident, but I know the truth. You're afraid everyone can see what you really are - an animal. A beast. Why don't you show us your real face?”

“I can help build peace or I can burn our enemies to the ground.”

“I’m not a little girl anymore. I don't run from anyone.”

“Sorry I would like to help but I am busy mourning another boyfriend.”

“Sometime, whats more important is not who you are siding with but who you are siding against.”

“Family does define you even if it requires sacrifice.”

“Might I recommend you release him before I opt to release you from your mortal coil.”

“Loneliness. It’s a reminder that in the end we are left infinitely and utterly alone.”

“There are consequences for those that care. I will not have you pay the price.”

“I loved her and you have broken me.”

“Sometimes, he needs her in ways even he does not understand.”

“You are the legacy this family always desired.”

“You are the promise we fought to protect.”

“We will be heroes or villains?”

“Family is power.”

“Which one of us is the people person?”

“Sod off.”

“you could have been nicer to people or leave less survivors.”

“oh I had that nightmare once.”

“What a nice normal family gathering.”

“I used to find it insulting I was barred from your precious little club.”

“I had that nightmare once.”

“This family makes me want to murder people.”

“Isn’t that the point of a fortress? to stay with in it’s walls”

“we need to talk.”

“do we indeed.”

“children please.”

‘When did I get elected supernanny?”

“As a devout feminist, I refuse to say you hit like a girl.”

“You have hit your complaint quota for today.”

“well thats going well.”

“Are there anymore inopportune deaths you would like to throw in my face.”

“The one time I needed you.”

“Am I supposed to go to the toy store and pick up a slingshot?”

“He finds all work demeaning.”

“I will use you as a shield.”

“shh, grown ups are talking.”

“Perhaps try a different approach. Fewer references to murder.”

“It is about time you brought a gentleman home to meet the family.”

“on a scale of one to ten. how much am I gonna despise this plan of yours?”

“Mabye after she reads your palm, she will let you palm her.”

“never underestimate the allure of indoor plumbing.”

“To be absolutely clear, he definitely could go alone.”

“My most disappointing minion.”

“I thought I smelled swamp.”

“I’m quite happy to stand here and watch you die or you could invite me in.”

“should we discuss a dowry?”

“touch me again and I will tear your arm straight off.”

“Old friend? old acquaintance.”

“I’m the prettiest urgent problem you will ever meet.”

“Are you saying that leaving me felt like the end of the world?”

“You look ravishing.”

#mine #rp meme #open rp #open starter #rp musing #rp #ask meme #roleplay meme #roleplay musings

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greenwaterskeeter · 4 years

Text

i finally have a coherent personal narrative, and here it is. It’s quite long, but i think of some interest, and might be encouraging!

-Mentions of suicidal ideation, emotional and financial abuse, emotional incest, fatphobia, misogyny, capitalism. Whatever the qpr equivalent of romance is. Ends happily-

I felt for a long time that i should have died when i was 20. Not in the sense that i deserved to, but in the sense that by then i’d accomplished as much as i ever would and was therefore obsolete– taking up resources unnecessarily.

When i was 13, i felt forced to choose between my parents. My bus driver/karate teacher, a kind person who i very much admired, advised me to flip a coin and then, if i didn’t like the result, pick the other. I chose my mother and (privately) pledged absolute loyalty to her (I was obsessed with LOTR at the time and felt that it was the purpose of my life to be a Sam for somebody).

While she was single and struggling to keep the farm and raise my brother (a toddler then), that devotion was used and rewarded. There were times i thought with satisfaction that i might as well be her husband, as well as a parent to my beloved brother. I was proud. I felt righteous. The joy of supporting and protecting her was real. The intermittent anguish of being a minor who could legally only do so much to help was also real. (I believed in laws then).

When I was 17, she remarried (a perfectly nice, wealthy man, as devoted as me and much more powerful) and i went to college. I slowly imploded across all four years, though I didn’t realize that until nearly the end. I think now it was because nothing i could offer her was needed anymore. Every time she treated me like a child instead of the valued partner i had been, i was crushed. Emasculated. i began to feel positively Tortured without understanding why. It sounds like a villain’s origin story, doesn’t it?

When it started affecting my performance, i could only think the trouble was that i was pining for a married professor, as you do. I had fallen in love with him, and made myself his best student (and then his TA, and then began to feel gross about it, quit, and started avoiding where i knew he’d be, all without telling anyone). Once my decline became known and answers were demanded, this was all i could offer in explanation.

I didn’t blame anyone consciously then, but i think now i felt betrayed by how my friends and family reacted. They all thought i must have seduced him (or vice versa if they were generous) to be so torn up. It was too foolish to become suicidal over a crush. They didn’t believe me, or accused me of grandiosity, when i said the professor didn’t even know how i felt. I have always struggled to keep in touch with people, and once my oldest friends gave me the Adultery is Bad talk, it was hard to keep trying.

Everyone did their best and we were all very young. I didn’t understand any more than they did. But still, i can acknowledge now what it would have meant to have just one person who believed in me regardless of understanding. On a deeply hidden level, i felt that my mother, at least, owed me that, after years of faithful service.

But horribly, once it became clear my suicidality was almost entirely passive, she turned on me. She was very frightened. I guess she had also been thanking her lucky stars all that time that i wasn’t turning out like my dad, but here i revealed myself at last to be a freeloader, just like him. I was supposed to go to medical school. I had been the pride of the extended family, the eldest and purest of my generation, a marvel of the local intelligentsia, and i wound up dragging myself back home inept, directionless, cringing, the same as so many unfortunate young cousins and neighbors who’d used to have me pointed out to them as an example. Who would my brothers look up to now?

I endured living at home for a few years. My mom couldn’t keep up the punishment constantly, so although there was no telling when she would start in on me again, or whether she might finally go through with evicting me, there were beautiful things too.

I worked for her husband’s business for no pay, which i understand now was abusive, but i have always enjoyed working with my hands, and when they left me to it, it felt like the old days, like i had a use, even if it was now peripheral. My brothers weren’t sure what to do with me, but we still had fun when we could. The animals comforted me, and it’s special to be able to give affection and gentleness to a creature who depends on you. The woods and mists and early mornings and silent moonlights were still beautiful, and gradually i could appreciate them again. When i was with people, i felt my disgrace abjectly. But on the farm there were many chores to be done alone.

The more i recovered, the more trapped i felt. I even, very alarmingly, spent about two hours one afternoon silently consumed with resentful feelings towards my mother (this hadn’t happened since i was 10). I began to be afraid of losing control and doing something desperate (I totaled two different trucks during this time, on roads i knew well, for no apparent reason). I had given up my spot at a medical school i would not get into twice, and the obvious escape was to reapply elsewhere. I attempted this, and sabotaged it, multiple times.

I got a job at a nursing home, which was hard on my back but full of wonderful people, and was forced to quit when it made me late to my shift at my stepfather’s business too many times. By this i understood that a local job was not getting me out of there. I asked for money to get an EMT certification and was refused. I applied to many online jobs, none of which i had enough time to make money from. I called up one or two branches of the military, and was rejected for being too fat, thank God. I applied to medical school again, and managed to not sabotage it enough that i was accepted into a master’s program instead. It was across the state, five hundred miles away.

And still it might have come to nothing, as i had no conscious plans, actually, of staying away once i was done with this master’s program. The expected thing would be to go on to medical school, but i was only anticipating the first day of being free and couldn’t imagine anything more than a week in the future. I looked at the amount of debt i was taking on for this, knowing in my heart that i would not get a job that could pay it back, and was only relieved that they hadn’t caught onto me and i could still get loans.

There are a lot of things in my story that aren’t what they say is healthy or proper. I shouldn’t have romanticized my own parentification, i should not have had feelings for a 50 year old man, i should have kept trying with my friends, who have good hearts and only made one mistake before i ghosted them, i should have kept telling the truth, i shouldn’t have taken moral injury from things that weren’t my fault, i should have been properly angry with my mother at some point, i should not be grateful that my tendency is to harm myself rather than others.

One person alone should not have been able to save me.

In the second month of my year away, i was in a study group with my roommates and some of their acquaintances, and i laughingly shared some anecdote or other that i thought was harmless. I don’t remember whether anyone else laughed, but one person said: “That sounds kind of fucked up.”

“Oh,” I said, embarrassed. “Eh, well.”

Nothing more was made of it, and we went on studying. Later, this same person saw me sitting in the cafeteria alone and came to sit with me. We met to study again, just us two, and they showed me a video about white tears and watched me closely for my reaction. We compared ideals and found them the same. We came up with a project to collectivize flashcard-making for our class and had to meet frequently to carry it out. “We’re colleagues,” my new friend said, firmly, when people asked if we were together. We discovered ethical problems with the program and protested them, formally and informally. We were accused of being too insular. We talked about our families, and they said things like: “That’s not okay, you realize that, right” and “I think if more people loved the way you do, I’d have a reason to smile in the morning.” It became normal for my eyes to be sore from crying.

Neither of us got into medical school that year. We got an apartment together after graduation, and worked together too until i was fired (I was new to challenging authority and not very subtle in my distaste for our bosses). My friend’s parents wanted them to quit too, to come home while they reapplied, but they said: “Not without Autumn.” So after some negotiating, we went to live with their folks for a while…

We’ve been together for 5 years now. At first I did the same as I’d always done, but my partner made it clear they don’t want self-abnegation from me. I started trying to have boundaries, paradoxically, to make them happy. I’ve dipped into therapy as money allows. I’ve been reading and thinking and writing. Above all, I’ve been loved.

And all this time, I’ve still been deeply ashamed. I’ve spent the last ten years in some degree of emotional pain 24/7. But somehow, two weeks ago, another thing happened that shouldn’t, and i suddenly knew that i was a human being like any other.

I still feel that I should have died when I was 20, but now it’s in the sense that people say, “You shouldn’t have survived that! What a miracle!” Still existing feels like a bonus. I might live a long time from now and i might not. Either way, I’m incredibly lucky to turn my face to the world and know that i am a creature in it, like other creatures. I am well. It’s good that I’m alive.

#by auti #hopefully this is something good for someone :)#long post #yikes i hope this isn't just me rubbing it in that i hit the jackpot #idk i feel good about it so i'm posting it #please watch dr. gabor mate btw #that's part of this #and the untamed is part of it too #i still have problems lol don't get the wrong idea #but still everything's different now #the euphoria has worn off a bit but #it's like... it's like i'm meditating all the time?#it's not painful to be present is what i mean #i have the distinct feeling of being un-nerfed #feel free to rb!#although adding commentary might be weird #still i can imagine certain kinds that might not be so. your call!

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relanah-qahs · 4 years

Text

I’VE GOT YOU

Whumptober 2020 no.7 Title: I’ve Got You Fandom: Final Fantasy VII Prompt: Support| Carrying | Enemy to Caretaker Rating: T, Characters: Elena, Tseng, Vincent Words: 1586

Tags: Hurt/Comfort

AO3 Link Summary: Tseng and Elena are rescued by Vincent Valentine in the Forgotten City. Tseng has something to confess to Elena.

Elena felt herself calming down as the cooling effect of the healing spell washed over her injuries, both external and internal. The crimson-cloaked man was focusing his concentration onto the Full Cure materia that he pressed lightly against her temple. It was an impressive feat, Elena had to admit, to concentrate his energy to a powerful restorative spell through a larger organic materia. And he managed to perform this spell not just once on her but also on Tseng’s gunshot wounds. Even experts of materia and magic would have trouble performing even one Full Cure spell, it required a far greater amount of magic potential than what most humans could possess.

Perhaps he wasn’t human. His red eyes, deathly pale skin, and long black hair made him downright unsettling to look at. Elena’s mind was admittedly still in a fog, but she could have sworn that this man seemed to shape-shift from the red phantom that had carried them to the safety of this ancient house.

“You don’t need to scowl like that,” said the stranger, his voice deep yet soft. “Just trying to help you.” He tucked the materia into the slot of his armband, next to a pink ribbon that seemed out of place with the rest of his outfit.

“What are you?” said Elena. Her fear was subsiding along with the pain, yet she was still cautious.

The man made a noise which may have been a short chuckle, though it sounded more like what a monster trying to mimic human laughter would sound like. “What indeed. A lab rat, a freak show, an undead abomination, a disgruntled ex-Shinra employee; all of those are true to some extent, so take your pick.”

“Ex-Shinra employee? Well, with everything else you said, that just raises more questions than answers.”

“Don’t feel like answering.” He leaned back into his chair.

“Oh come on! You can’t just say shocking stuff like that and just expect me to accept it. How do I know you really want to help anyway? How do I know you’re not one of those Jenova freaks and you’re just waiting to torture us some more?”

He shrugged. “Why would I go through all the trouble of saving you if I was allied with Kadaj’s gang? I can assure you we have the same goals. We both want to put an end to the madness plaguing this planet, Elena.”

Elena’s head shot up while she clenched her fist tightly, instinctively ready for a protective stance. “Why do you know my name?” “Sorry. Guess it’s time to tell you. For the past year or so I’ve been trailing the current Turks trying to gather information about geostigma alongside you. Don’t worry, he knows.” He nodded his head toward the bed. Tseng was laid upon it, still unconscious but seeming to sleep soundly now that his wound was mended. He was sickly pale, a sign of the massive blood loss he had suffered from the gunshot to the artery in his leg.

Elena closed her eyes and shook her head. What was going on? Who was this guy and why did Tseng allow him to follow her? “Who are you? And what do you mean by ‘current Turks?’”

“Vincent. By current Turks, I mean you and Tseng as well as the other two men who are still loyal to the son of the late President Shinra.” Vincent paused for a moment, allowing Elena to process his words. “Elena, how long have you considered yourself a Turk?”

“Well, I was hired after Sector 7 was destroyed. So I guess it’s been a little over two and a half years now.”

“And why, after everything you have been through, everything you’ve seen, do you still pledge your life and loyalty to a company that’s in ruins?”

Elena opened her mouth to protest but found she couldn’t find the words. Who did this Vincent guy think he was to ask something like that? What gave him the right? Why did Tseng let him follow her? How could he possibly understand?

But still, his question burned through her mind. Why was she still so loyal to Shinra? Even after all the harm and pain they had caused the Planet and her people? After they had nearly destroyed the lifestream out of greed? Why did she continue to dedicate her entire life to the Turks even in spite of her complicated history with them and her family?

Because we are trying to fix the mistakes of the past. Because I believe Rufus and the Turks are capable of rebuilding this world. Because Dad and Emma are gone, and Tseng, Reno, and Rude are my family now. Because without them, I wouldn’t have a home to go to. Wherever they are, that is where my home is. Because together, we are going to stop this madness and save this Planet.

“Don’t feel like answering you,” she said, furrowing her eyebrows.

Vincent showed a hint of a half-smile behind his cowl. “Fair enough.”

They sat in silence. Elena focused her attention on Tseng. He was still sound asleep, some of the color had returned to his cheeks. The Full Cure spell was running its course through his body.

“Will he be okay?” she asked, fighting to control the shaking in her voice.

Vincent shrugged, “Don’t know. You should really consider getting some rest yourself. I’ll keep watch, so you don’t need to worry about intruders.”

A slight groan came from Tseng, slowly returning to consciousness.

“Tseng!” Elena whispered. She stood beside the bed and placed her hand on his shoulder.

Tseng blinked, taking in the sight of the ancient room. His eyes met Elena’s and he took a deep breath. “Elena,” he said, his voice hoarse and brittle. “Are you alright?”

“Yes, I’m fine. Way better than you, that’s for sure.” She tried to force a smile, trying desperately to take the attention off herself. She didn’t want to be reminded of what that silver-haired freak had done to her.

Tseng looked past Elena, making eye contact with Vincent. “Surprised to see you here.”

“I was just stopping by and happened to see you getting roughed up,” said Vincent. Elena was surprised at his humor and casual speech.

“Thank gods you got there when you did. Thank you, Vincent.”

Elena pulled her hand back to herself and looked away from Tseng in shame. “Tseng, I’m sorry. I was too weak and I couldn’t fight back. And you got hurt because of me…” She dared not show any emotion in her voice. She was truly sorry, and she really did believe it was her fault Tseng was hurt and that danger was now headed towards their friends.

“Elena, stop.” Tseng reached and pulled Elena’s hand back to him, his grip tight. He spoke quietly through his heightened emotions and labored breathing. “You did nothing wrong. You did everything you could.”

“Going to check outside,” said Vincent as he stood up and walked to the door. “Shout if you need anything.” He left the two Turks alone in silence.

Tseng gripped Elena’s hand tightly over his heart. He stared into her eyes, trying to find the words and the strength to say what he needed.

He sighed. “Elena, you are an excellent Turk, and you always were. Did I ever tell you how proud I am of you? Well now you know.”

Elena lowered her gaze. Tseng had never complimented her before, she felt pride but also unease at his honesty.

He continued speaking through shaking breaths and fighting through the pain. “Back there, I thought it was all over. I was afraid. I didn’t want to die alone. But you helped ease my fear. And there was so much I wanted to say to you. I realized I never showed you my appreciation for being with me since Meteorfall. I wanted to thank you for everything. And I wanted to apologize to you for hurting you so much over the years. “We Turks traded our humanity for the job. Our souls belonged to the company. Stoic professionalism is what we strived for. And you exemplified all the strengths of the perfect Turk. But Elena, I think we let it consume you. Shinra is gone. It’s never going to be rebuilt and it’s time we accepted that. If I make it out of here alive, I’m going to reclaim my humanity. I want to show my soul, my true self. I want to tell the others how much I love them. “And Elena, I hope you can cast away your Turk identity. I want to know the real you.”

Elena felt tears stinging her eyes, but turned her head away so he couldn’t see. How could Tseng hide this side of him all this time?

“Tseng, I...I don’t know what to say.” Her voice was shaking now, almost on the verge of breaking all her barriers.

“If I survive this, I hope you can stay by my side.”

And with that earnest request, all of Elena’s barriers were destroyed at once. Sobs escaped her throat and the tears burst from her sore eyes. It was as if she was finally crying for everything she had repressed for the past few years. All the trauma, the heartbreak, the grief--everything was flooding out now. She buried her face in his chest. Tseng wrapped his arms around her and stroked her hair.

“Tseng, of course you will survive this. Of course I’ll stay with you, you dumbass!”

#whumptober2020 #no.7 #support #enemy to caretaker #final fantasy vii #ffvii #elena ffvii #tseng ffvii #vincent valentine #fic

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writinglionqueen · 5 years

Text

My King | Pledge

After your sword fight with your king, after a night filled with him holding you, making it feel like everything was good again, once more, after your tears had subsided and he sang to you, everything fell into a lull.

Like...a silence, thick as stone fell between the two of you...like a wall...but not as quite separating as it once had. He treaded carefully about you, as if anything would set you off. And you....you for once didn’t understand where the two of you stood.

But, you’d allowed him into bed, allowed him to wrap his arms around you, allowed him to hold you and love you before he had punished you. Not as though it had never occurred, however.

It had happened. It had caused a rift between you and him. It had scared you, because, for once, he had hurt you, raised a hand to you. A promise broken.

He must’ve realized that. For he had changed from your threat.

He acted like the Drew you first met. The Drew who held you tenderly. The Drew who made sure you never seen him angry or downright brutish. The Drew who held you as if you’d break.

But you had been broken.

But it was by his doing and he knew that. He had that guilt in his eyes ever since you held the dirk against his throat and told him how you’d kill him if he ever did it again. He knew he had screwed up...and he had screwed up big time.

He’s done a lot to make it up to you. He had the servants bring breakfast to bed, full of your favorites as the two of you ate together. Even in a tight silence. He told the council to not bother him for he was going to spend the day with you. He walked with you to the library and you allowed him to hold you as you read silently to yourself. Lunch was silent as well as the time before and after dinner.

It wasn’t....uncomfortable silence, though....not really.

However, the silence was deafening. You didn’t like it. But you could tell he didn’t like it either. You didn’t know how to fix it. You didn’t know how to break down the rest of the wall that stood between the two of you. You didn’t know what you needed to accomplish for that wall to be completely demolished.

So you kept quiet, even as you got yourself ready for bed, getting out of your dress piece by piece. You could feel Drew’s eyes on you, though, every step of the way, even as you made your way to your bed, sitting upon the edge to wait and see what your king would do.

Drew said nothing as he strode to your side. Your eyes watched his every step, you watch his calm, solemn expression keep to his features as he knelt before you. You watched in surprised as he took his dirk from its sheath and presented it.

You were...confused to what he was doing until he pressed the pommel to his forehead, bowing his head...like he did when he took his oath as king.

“I, Drew McLean Galloway McIntyre IV, king of Scotland and all her people, here swear upon this holy iron in my hand to give my queen fealty and pledge my loyalty,” he said with confidence, he said with certainty as he turned the blade so the tip was pointed towards his heart and it’s handle was presented towards you. His grey eyes were lit with the flames of the hearth and of his passion that you could feel, dripping from his words. “My queen, if I ever raise my hand against you again, then all I ask of you is to take this iron and pierce my heart with it.” He bowed his head again, waiting for you to take the dirk from him....to say something...anything.

You could only look between your king and the dirk.

You did understand what he was doing. You understood at what length his actions had caused him to kneel before you....showing you he was sorry....begging to be ended if he were to ever smite you again. You knew what this meant...he was deeply sorry and he was demonstrating it to you...the length he would go to tell you...to show you how sorry he truly was.

But you remained silent. Even as you watched him look to you, uncertainty dimming the fire in his eyes.

“My queen,” he murmured. “Is....is this not enough? Can you....can you not see how...sorry...how hurt I am for doing what I did?” You kept quiet as you contemplated his actions....you contemplated what he’s shown you of his true nature, his “duty” it is to be your king, your husband.

Was this not enough to show you that he meant every word? That he would end his life if he dare hurt you again?

You knew he meant it. Every word. You’ve found, with time, Drew was one to say what he meant...do as he set out to do. Your king was always straight forward, but always allowing actions to speak louder than his words. It would take some future convincing on your part....but....deep down, you forgave him the moment he looked sorry the yesterday in the training field. You forgave him when he pledged himself to you just now...you forgave him even as his dirk was sheath once more.

“My queen...do you still want me?” he asked. The pain in his voice, in his words, was enough to break you. You’ve never heard him hurt like this. You’ve never seen him so hurt...so vulnerable, so pained emotionally like this...ever. It was new. But it was him and it was real. He was sorry and he meant it.

“What you did...hurt me worse than any pain I’ve ever felt,” you said quietly. “I should....should hate you for what you did. That I should fester in that hate....but I don’t want to.” You leaned forward, pressing one hand to his chest, right over his heart while the other one cupped his face. Drew gripped the hand that felt his heart beating steadily. His eyes held his pain, unshed sadness that you wish he would release. “I love you Drew...from....from the moment you handed me that circlet you made...to our ceremony...to....making love to me after...then here; making this place feel like home. I no longer have the feeling of...longing for my old keep...you’re my home here, Drew.” The last part you whispered, afraid to cry once again for your pain. But, this time, it wasn’t by Drew’s doing.

Instead....it felt like a weight was lifted from your shoulders, out of your bones and lungs and you could breath again, knowing Drew understand how much being hurt by him was worse than anything you’ve ever felt.

Your king clenched his eyes shut, knowing how deep the pain he caused ran...but knowing you were willing to forgive him.

“And you’re mine,” he whispered back. “Without you...I don’t know what I’d do if....if I lost you as well, my queen.” You closed your eyes at that, pressing your forehead to his, feeling his shuddering breath mingle with your own.

The pain was seeping out from the both of you, slowly but surely. It wouldn’t be gone...erased from memory easily. It was going to remain there as if etched in stone...all the two of you needed to do was move past this. Learn from it. The past can’t change but the future was still uncertain. The two of you know now what it takes to not hurt the other....that his pledge was still there....and your promise lingered in each other’ minds.

It would definitely be discussed, revised, in a way to benefit the both of you. A compromise needed to be struck in order for the two of you to be happy, to not let this terrible scar in time haunt you two.

And as you thought of it, Drew knew it as well. It was unspoken as your eyes opened to see his storm and fire and passion there, ready to take on your might and power and love...allowing each other’s strength, each other’s weaknesses to engulf the other as you embraced in his strong arms that felt like home and you kissed him deeply with your love as he took you to bed that night.

The two of you made slow and sweet love that you felt in every fiber of your being, down to your core...you even thought you could feel it in your soul. Something so deep and meaningful like his pledge. It made you weep to feel again.

Drew let you, asking if he was alright, to continue and you told him not to stop, to keep on loving you and holding you and embracing you and he did, with everything he had.

And, after, he held you in his arms again, whispering sweet nothings and promises you knew he would try and keep now, as he stroked down your body, still on its euphoric high. You cuddled into him, feeling his heart beating fast and for you with his own love that tried to escape his chest.

For once you feel asleep with a heavenly smile on your face, knowing the two of you would overcome this scratch in time, take on his pledge if you see fit, for you are his queen and he was your king.

The two of you had pledged that already; to love each other, to take care of each other, to take on each other....

Till your lives shall be done.

And it wasn’t over yet.

~End~

(please know that the pledge Drew gives is the fealty pledge [I don’t know how fealty pledges are worded] from Outlander and his question of being wanted comes from the show as well. Everything else is my idea)

Tag: @adriennegabriella @alwaysbenhardysgirl @amariemoore @andie01 @annoyingasian @artemisapalla316 @aspiringhorrorfilmmaker @balorstrowmanblackmurphy @biforbecky2belts @blackmoonrising @br0th3r-n3r0 @burning-coco @calicina @calwitch @claymoreme @darlingambrose @dcnmarvelgamergeek @demonqueen29 @desstehhnee @detectiveramen @drewmcintyreinarefereeoutfit @finnsauroraborealis @fireyegale @fivefootxo @flawlessglamazon @haharollins @hardcoresweet45 @homeorbust @i-have-saracasm @itsicantbelievethis666 @kalliravenne @king-drew-mcintyre @lilred91 @littledeadrottinghood @littlesuperstar @lolorockstar101boom @madamaholmes @madebypointlesswerewolves @meishaabae @meremaidqueen @moxleysbaby @moxley-unhinged @moxtiel @neversatisfiedgirl @new-zealand-chic @nicolewoo @nothinginlifebutgreif @number1120 @queenofthearchitect @reigns420 @rollynch-roman-empire @sassymox @sassyspacedust @savemeroman @scuzmunkie @shieldgirl18 @snowtroopergirl @softmoxymuffin @superrezzy00 @taryn-dibiase @thatpanpal @the-beastslayers-queen @thehoundsofjustice @thewrestlingwarehouse @theworldofotps @trashofambrolleigns @trent7thirsting @twistedbeautifully @unprettypeony @voidstrugh @writing-reigns @writtingrose @xbreezymeadowsx @xladyxfatex @xprincessofthefallenangels @yaint-me @youcantreignonmyparade

#drew mcintyre #drew mcintyre x reader #such mass #my king #my king series

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dragonrajafanfiction · 4 years

Text

Dragon Dancer III: Moths

“Why is it on fire?” Akira looked up through the trees at the thick smoke rising out of the Paradisio Inn. People were fleeing the flames, rushing by them.

Chisei, Sakura, Yasha and Crow looked up with grim expressions at the sight. Already, some flames licked up through the windows to scorch the facade of the multistory oriental style building. The night was well along. The Inn was clear from the street in a wooded area in the hills of Japan.

Yasha crossed his arms. “They may have fled up the mountains already, or perhaps used an underground escape route?”

Chisei lifted his head. “Do you hear that? It sounds like... someone’s singing.”

Akira focused. “A recording?” He asked.

“No...”

Weary -- oh...

Long ago...

The emperor his favor did show

A hairpin he did bestow

Remembering my loving feelings

He returned them for a while

With deep kindnesses.

The voice grew louder and clearer. The singer was coming out the entrance of the burning building, flanked by two boys.

They boldly marched out to meet the members of Hydra face to face, unafraid.

Chisei turned to Akira. “Move back and conceal yourself. You’re only allowed to act in self defense.” The young man immediately complied, disappearing within the cover of the surrounding trees.

Looking back, all was in vain...

We can’t go back

There’s no way out

The shadow of the moon

Melts away...

They stopped at an ornamental footbridge. The woman was dressed in her beautiful Juunihito, an extravagantly layered colorful kimono often used in stage performances. Her hair was done up. Her makeup was flawless.

In contrast, next to her, the two boys stood in casual clothes, smirking with confidence.

Chisei gave a signal and together, he, Sakura Crow and Yasha stepped forward.

For a few moments, they faced each other in silence. Then the woman gave a slow stiff bow, lowering her painted eyes. “I welcome you. High Patriarch Chisei Gen. I did not expect to come in person.”

The roar of the flames was becoming audible now. The light reflecting in the water of the pond under the bridge turned it crimson.

“Is it just you, ma’am?” Chisei asked.

“Hey!” said the boy with golden hair. “Are we not people?”

The silver haired boy sighed. “When it comes to this guy, no. We’re just ghosts.”

“I heard your singing.” Chisei said, his voice soft and gentle. “It sounded like you were fondly remembering someone.”

She closed her eyes and smiled, nodding. Then she raised her fan to her face. “Have you come to inquire of the General and the Dragon Lord?” She closed it. “I’m sorry, but there is no General. And there is no Dragon Lord. Only us.”

Chisei crossed his arms over his chest. “Twenty years ago, a new leader rapidly rose to power in the Devil Clan ranks. Are you trying to tell me that twenty years ago, when you were still an infant, you somehow took over the Dragon Clan?”

Chisei’s response was met with silence. The woman lowered her arms to her sides, and hung her head.

Crow spoke up. “You three are only acting as placeholders, taking orders from the General and the Dragon Lord!”

She lifted her head up and smiled. “You could always take me into custody and torture me if you want information.”

“I don’t use torture.” Chisei responded with a slight smile of disbelief. “We have a drug that will allow you to give us the answers to the questions we seek.”

Her expression shifted, she suddenly seemed as small and young as she was. “But... I’ll go insane afterwards. Right?”

Both groups stood silently for a few more moments. “Not necessarily insane. There might be some side-effects if you have a pre-existing condition.”

Still, she wavered, her eyes shifting away from him. Pieces of the building started to collapse, crashing down over the entrance.

“You have a choice. You’re a beautiful girl who can sing lovely songs.” He lifted one hand to her. “You should go to a place full of sunshine and live there with the people you dearly love. You don’t have to die for the people you’ve pledged your loyalty to.”

She shook her head. “However, our clan chief threw open the doors of your prisons and welcomed us. Don’t forget. We might be devils.”

Chisei pressed his lips together and took a breath. “If you tell us the identities of the General and the Dragon Lord then I will guarantee your freedom! The Hydras will only send someone to monitor you.”

The golden blonde gave a bitter laugh. “You were throwing our kind into prisons, but you would offer us the freedom of being labeled as dangerous devils?”

Their eyes abruptly flashed a dangerous yellow-orange that shined bright in the dark.

“Do you have any idea what kind of organization the Devil Clan is? In your eyes, we’re nothing but a group of devils come together to resist you!” The silver haired hybrid began to cackle.

The woman smiled broadly, revealing her fangs. Her laugh was high pitched and crazed. “Oh Great Amaterasu-no-mikoto! You’ve always stood in the sunlight!”

She drew her blade from where it was hidden in her long wide sleeves. “How can you ever understand the frigid night!”

Scales crawled up her arms and up her neck to cover her face, her hands twisted into claws. Spikes burst from her back, tearing her Kimono apart.

Yasha gaped. “I didn’t see them use the Dragonblood Serum!”

Chisei drew his blade, his voice soft and broken. “They used it before they got here. They already made their choice.”

“Am I too hard to look at now?” She asked, raising one hand to display the inches long talons.

The two boys charged forward, running on hands like beasts. Yasha and Crow rushed to meet them blocking them with their swords. The scales on their hands were hard, like iron, sent off sparks when they met the steel.

The golden one lashed out at Crow, scoring a bloody mark across his face. Unflinching, he arched his sword down in a counterattack, severing the boy’s arm.

Trembling in pain, he still managed to smile, lying there bleeding out. “Carli... you came a little too late... for me.” He moaned, right before the blade pierced his neck. A moment of pain and breathlessness.

Darkness.

And then nothingness.

Crow turned to Yasha who’d already finished off the silver-hair and was walking back to him. Together they watched Chisei face down the young woman. “You think he might need help?”

Yasha pursed his lips. “Nah man... you know how he gets. Besides, she can’t really fight in that get-up anyway.”

Proving Yasha correct, she rushed him, sword forward, screeching a battle cry.

Chisei took one step to the side and hooked his blade up through her back.

Agape with shock, unable to breathe, her arms went limp. Her sword clattered to the ground. Blood trailed from between her lips and tears from her eyes.

“There was no other way for this to end.” Chisei’s quiet words were a statement, not a question.

The fact she could still speak was a testament to the strength of dragon’s blood. She gasped. “Our lives... are of moths in the dark.”

“Even if we burn to death, even if our wings are scorched... We... still do our best... to dance...”

Chisei withdrew his blade and lowered her body to the ground. The claws retracted, the spikes disappeared. She looked like a normal girl, who’d fallen asleep.

Sakura approached, reading off a tablet.

Referring to the golden hair, she said: “Feng Mojin, 16 years old. At 3 years old, he tested positive for an unstable and dangerous lineage and was sent to an asylum. At age 10, he ran away from his family and joined in support of the Devil Clan.”

Referring to the silver hair, she said: “Quan Shanyin. He tested positive for a dangerous lineage at age 4 and was sent to the asylum. At age, 11 he ran away and joined the Devil Clan.”

Referring to the woman, she read: “Sakurai Xiaomu. 24 years old. At age 5, she tested positive for a dangerous lineage and sent to the asylum. At 14, she ran away and joined the Devil Clan. She was Sakurai Akira’s older half-sister by the same father.”

“Register their deaths with Kaguya.” Chisei turned and walked away.

“Uh... shouldn’t we call someone about the fire?” Yasha asked following him.

Chisei didn’t reply. He’d paused, looking into the dark of the woods. He tilted his head, a little smile playing on his lips. “Are you crying?”

Akira’s eyes suddenly glittered in the dark from the bright light of the burning building. He was leaning his back against a tree. “Not about them.”

Chisei turned to the others who walked off to give them a moment. “I wanted to make sure you understood what this really is here. And how I plan to do things. You’re a little bit of a hot-shot.”

“Hai, Aniki... only... turns out... I already kinda knew. When that lady turned... it reminded me of someone else I saw. Who did the exact same thing.”

“Who?”

Akira’s tears tracked down his face. “The person I cared about.”

Chisei’s eyes unfocused and drifted downwards. “Did you... kill her?”

“No... neither did the people with me. None of them had it in them to do it.” He said. “They were going to leave her... I... he... fought them. He was going to die with her. Or save her... something. In the end... they were too strong for him. They dragged him off.”

When Chisei lifted his eyes to look again, he saw how Akira’s long hair drifted over his face. He saw how he looked at him, seeking for answers he didn’t have. A poignant echo of a memory he couldn’t forget. “Do you still think of him as a coward? The real you?”

“Yeah... a little. Maybe not so much any more. He definitely needed to be stronger than that. In the end, he couldn’t save her.” He pushed himself away from the tree, wiping his eyes on his sleeve. “If I get a second chance... I want to make sure I’m strong enough.”

“There was someone who was strong enough to save Devil Clan children from the asylum. She used that strength in their behalf. For that, Tachibana hunted her.” Chisei tilted his eyes down at him. “There is truly no easy way around the problems we face. Stay close to me.”

“Hai, Aniki.”

#Chisei Gen #Sakura Yabuki #Akira Ryuu #Dragon Raja #Fanfiction #Writing

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