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animebabe301 · 4 years

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Rekindling the Fire

Warning(s): NSFW, smut

Pairing(s): Kakashi x fem!reader

Word Count: 5,923 words

A/N: This is for @allthingskakashi cause I put it in her reqs and now I’m the one who ended up writing it haha! :)) ENJOY!

Summary: With Kakashi as hokage and you as an academy teacher, each passing day gets harder and harder until one day, a surprise approaches and you and Kakashi get a vacation together.

You didn’t know how hard it was to have Kakashi as hokage and you as a teacher at the academy. That was where you both had met a few years ago. He was teaching team 7 while you were in charge of your own team. You had heard how cold of an instructor he was-never passing any team he was assigned, so you avoided him at all costs to stay on his good side--or just simply stay away from his bad side. It wasn’t until your team and Kakashi’s team had to complete a mission and work together that you both grew somewhat closer as friends.

Naruto had been the one to point out the fact that everytime you and Kakashi were together, Kakashi was the one who shied away. It was one night that you and Kakashi had stood watch while your students were sleeping, and you finally spoke to him about personal likes and dislikes and befriended him. As it turned out, you both had more in common than you’d thought, and although you could only see one of his eyes, you knew his emotions in that moment from just that one eye. That was how you both fell in love.

As time moved on, you both dated and your bond grew stronger and stronger. You both trained together, lived together, taught together. Everyone knew you both were the unstoppable power couple, in battle and romance. You both decided that marriage was good before the war and tied the knot through a simple but modest wedding-the way both of you wanted. All was well after the war, and Kakashi had been appointed as sixth hokage. Kakashi didn’t think he was fit to be hokage, but you and Iruka insisted that it would suit him well. That was... until recently. You’d been busy as an academy teacher and as a mother to your five-year old twins while Kakashi was spending many nights out of the week doing hokage duties. The twins were the sweetest children anyone could ever ask for. They had Kakashi’s silver hair, meanwhile they had your big (Y/E/C) eyes. They were born premature as you had problems during your pregnancy, but they were the healthiest two eight-month-old babies could ever be. If they didn’t pop out any time sooner, you could’ve sworn your stomach was going to pop.

But... there were nights where you felt like you couldn’t do it anymore. It was hard for you, but you knew it was hard for Kakashi as well. There were even nights where he wouldn’t make it home and would sleep on the couch in his office. It made you sad, but you knew you could never talk him out of taking a day off from his hokage duties. He worked too hard for his own good and he truly didn’t know what else he could do to make everyone happy. The days just seemed to drag on longer and longer, but you knew that you had to keep going or else you were going to be a wreck.

Unfortunately, you broke down. You didn’t feel right, and you weren’t happy at all. You’d just put the kids to sleep and you sat on your couch, staring at the empty wall behind the TV. It had been only four years since Kakashi had been appointed as hokage, but it felt like it’d been decades. You missed him by your side every night, his smell, his touch, everything. It made you yearn for him even more. You couldn’t do anything about it-you just had to deal with it. Sure, there were nights where you could please yourself if you had time alone after the kids slept. But it was nothing like the nights you and Kakashi would share in bed.

After sitting on the couch for what felt like hours, you decided to shower and get some sleep before the next day came. As you stood up, you heard your front door open. There he was, no longer the young man you fell in love with, but a hardworking man who needed to shave and groom himself just a bit more to look presentable, but you didn’t mind-he’s too busy taking care of everyone else but himself. Surprised that he was home, you rushed up to hug him, asking him if he had eaten already, if he wanted a massage, or if he wanted to sleep. Chuckling behind his mask, he looked at you, smiled, and explained that he had eaten already and just wanted to take a warm bath before going to sleep. Without hesitation, you started walking away to start a warm hot bath for him until your thoughts were interrupted.

“(Y/N)?” “Yes?” you said while turning around. Before you knew it, Kakashi was already standing in front of you, staring into your eyes. Trying to avoid his gaze, you looked down. He made you look up, taking your chin into his hand. You didn’t want him to see you like this, you wanted to be the perfect wife for him-no complaints, no tears, no worries. “Were you crying?” he asked while stroking your cheek. With the silent air between the both of you, he already knew the answer. “Why were you crying? Is it because of me? Did I do something wrong?” Concerned, he kept pestering you while you turned on your determined path to start the warm bath for your husband. Grabbing you roughly, he stopped you at the door of the bathroom. “(Y/N), what’s wrong?” “It’s nothing,” you said while trying to get away from his grip. “Don’t lie, (Y/N), you and I both know that you are the worst liar in the universe, yet--” “Okay, yes! I was crying!” you yelled a bit too loudly, “I was crying because I can’t do this anymore, Kakashi, I can’t stand being home alone all the time, I can’t stand being in bed by myself and not having you here to hold me to sleep. I can’t stand not feeling your warmth by my side in the morning, and I can’t stand that you put so much effort into being hokage that I can’t even see you as often as a wife should see her husband!” “Well then, what do you want me to do, (Y/N)?! Grow eight tentacles and juggle everything at home AND at the office?! I’m trying my best to be your husband and as the protector of this village! I didn’t choose to become hokage, you and Iruka put this on me! You both were the ones who said that becoming hokage would definitely make the village a better place, well here I am-trying to make it a better place for others, yet no one would understand simply because they don’t!”

Tears were starting to well up in your eyes again. Kakashi and you never argued like this. He was always so calm and collected. You instantly regretted yelling at him. You didn’t know where that outburst came from, and you certainly didn’t mean to raise your voice at your husband. Without another word, Kakashi grabbed the towel from your hand and closed the bathroom door. You felt so bad. It wasn’t your husband’s fault. You were the reason he took the calling of being the sixth hokage, yet here you were complaining that you were alone. You knew the risks, you knew the challenges you would face, yet you were blaming your husband for the selfish desires in your heart. You sat on your bed, ashamed of the words and actions that made Kakashi go angry.

The water finished draining, and within a few seconds, Kakashi appeared in your shared bedroom. He’d wrapped himself in a white towel and had another towel in his hands drying his silver hair. The silence between the two of you was unbearable, but you didn’t know what to say, so you fixed the bed and told him to turn off the lights when he was done getting ready for bed. That night, Kakashi didn’t hold you, he didn’t even turn your way. He probably wasn’t mad, but was probably saddened by your sudden outburst. Or, he could’ve been angry that you were being selfish. Either way, you were thinking too much which made your head hurt, and before you knew it, you were drifting off to sleep.

The next few days were the same-wake up, get the twins and yourself ready, cook breakfast, and out the door the three of you went. It was a continuous and basic routine. After the argument, you made sure to be asleep before Kakashi came home, and you were sure Kakashi wanted to avoid coming home in general other than to sleep and rest.

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Waking up from your slumber, you looked at the time on the alarm clock on your nightstand. It’s 7:30 a.m.! The kids were supposed to be out of bed and eating breakfast by now! You thought as you rushed yourself out of bed, putting on your robe. Looking into the twins’ room, they were nowhere to be found. “Boys! Where are you?! We need to be at the academy in a few minutes!” You looked everywhere, but to no avail. Eventually, you made your way downstairs to the kitchen, the glorious smell still beckoning you.

Turning the corner, you realized that the boys were already dressed and ready for school. They were eating their breakfast, and you turned to see Kakashi in an apron, making more food on the stove. You didn’t know what to do-you were still running off the adrenaline of waking up late, that you stood there, dumbfounded. “What’s the matter, babe? Cat got your tongue?” Kakashi teased as you silently tried to approach the three boys you loved so dearly in your life. Shocked that Kakashi was home, making breakfast for the family for the first time in awhile, you silently sat at the far end of the table. The twins were unexpectedly quiet this morning, but you knew that since the argument the other night, the boys hadn’t said much lately. The other night. When you yelled a bit too loudly at Kakashi for taking upon himself the name of hokage. Guilt started to creep in again until the younger of the twins, Yuma, broke the silence.

“Mommy? Daddy?” Which caught yours and Kakashi’s attention. With yours and Kakashi’s attention on Yuma, he continued, “Are you going to get divorced?” You and Kakashi stared at each other and looked away, ashamed that your children had heard the arguing the night before. Before you could both reply, your other son, Riku asked, “So it’s true? Mommy and daddy don’t love each other anymore? But why--” “Who told you that?” Kakashi said, cutting the two curious boys off, who were pouting with tears welling up in their eyes. “Well... the kids from school said that when parents argue, they’re going to end up divorcing,” Riku explained. Kakashi smiled while walking towards you-the two boys deeply distraught in their own small worlds. Kissing you on the head, Kakashi explained to them, “Well, when adults argue it doesn’t mean that they’re going to divorce, it just means that there’s a problem. And if that problem doesn’t get solved the right way, then the adults argue about that problem.” Wiping their tears away, Yuma and Riku looked at you with their big eyes, waiting for another justifiable and hopeful answer from you. “That’s right, boys. We were arguing because we weren’t happy, and we needed to solve a problem. But now, that problem is fixed, so you both don’t have to worry.” “Really?! So... mommy and daddy AREN’T going to divorce?!” the two boys exclaimed together. While looking at you, Kakashi assured them, “Nope! Mommy and I are going to be together forever! Just like the day I promised I would love her forever on our wedding day.” Cheering, the boys got up to hug each other-which in turn, turned out to be Kakashi pulling you in as well while squishing the two adorable boys in between you two.

After celebrating for a few minutes, there was a knock at the door. Opening the door, Iruka walked into your living room. “Uncle Iruka! Uncle Iruka!” the boys cheered together. “Are you ready boys? School’s about to start soon! Get your bags, we need to head out ASAP!” Confused, you looked at Iruka and said, “Oh, sorry Iruka, you must be confused with the days, I’m actually taking them today. You’re just a week early on picking them up, I’m afraid.” With a smile, Iruka simply looked over at Kakashi and winked at you, “don’t worry about it, I’m sure there’ll be another one on the way real soon-or maybe another two.”

Before you could say anything else, Iruka and the boys were already on their way to school. You were left behind, stunned by the words that had come out of Iruka’s mouth. Looking up at the clock, you realized that you only had ten minutes before classes were starting, and you panicked, rushing up the stairs to get ready for work. Stopping you dead in your tracks, Kakashi stared at you and simply said, “you’re off of work today,” before walking down the steps. For sure, he was the hokage, but you had your duties and he had his. He wasn’t going to use his power against you. Before taking another step, Kakashi warned you, “I told you that you’re off today. Just get dressed to travel.” “Why? Where are we going?” you asked curiously. “Just get dressed.”

While you were busy getting dressed, you realized that there were two packed bags in your closet. The ones you and Kakashi had last used for your honeymoon, where you’d conceived the twins. Just thinking about your honeymoon made you think of the things you and Kakashi had done. Things that made you feel a certain way-the only certain way Kakashi could ever make you feel. Things that couldn’t be explained, and things that should never be explained about. You couldn’t think about that right now. You were even surprised that Kakashi had been home this morning-or even that he’d spoken to you.

Waiting on the couch in your living room, Kakashi brought the luggage downstairs and checked all the doors in the house to make sure no intruders could enter. You were confused and had so many questions, but that’s what Kakashi hated-questions. Sometimes, you had too many, and he’d get slightly impatient with you. Seeing as though he seemed to still be a bit distant since the argument, you decided to go along with whatever it was he was planning.

Walking out of Konoha, you were wondering where the boys would be staying-who they would be staying with. As if reading your mind, Kakashi interrupted your thoughts saying, “the boys will be with Iruka while we’re gone.” With a content state of mind, you decided to let that thought go. Iruka was a trustworthy person who knew how to take care of children, and he’d taken care of the boys before. If he ever needed help, he knew that Asuma and Kurenai would be of help since they had a little one of their own as well. Hearing the rustling of the leaves around the both of you, you weren’t afraid. They were simply members of the Anbu black-ops who had to stay by Kakashi’s side no matter where he went. You weren’t bothered by them, but you weren’t comfortable enough to make conversation with them either.

You walked silently behind Kakashi, afraid that asking any questions would anger him even more than you already had the few nights ago. Kakashi didn’t seem mad, but he did seem occupied in his mind. After walking for a whole day, Kakashi stopped at a private sauna bath. As you both walked in, you didn’t see anyone other than workers there. Wondering where other customers were, you asked the ladies at the front desk while trying to make small talk. The women then explained that the hokage had made arrangements that it be reserved for the two of you only. Surprised, you were speechless. Kakashi wasn’t one to make these types of arrangements. While settling down into your suite, you and Kakashi changed your clothes from what you wore to travel into bathrobes to enter the hot bath.

While sitting in silence and enjoying the hot relaxing water on your body, you heard a simple “I’m sorry.” It was so quiet and subtle that you weren’t sure you’d heard Kakashi correctly. It wasn’t until he looked up at you that you realized he was speaking to you. His eyes were tired. His body exhausted from the constant slouch he had when sitting in his chair in his office. You never had time to look at your husband, you just knew that he was never endlessly working and never home. You were simply selfish from your desires and struggles that you were only finally realizing how much your husband had been through these past six years. Sure, you’d been through hell and back throughout the years as well, but Kakashi had double the pain in the rear end you had.

You had tears forming in your eyes as you thought back to the night of the argument. “I’m sorry too,” you finally expressed with a smile toward your husband. Relieved of the tension between the two of you, Kakashi motioned for you to cuddle with him in the water. Sliding your body toward him, you put your head on his chest while he laid on the outer wall of the sauna. “You didn’t have to do this, Kakashi. We could’ve just had a day to ourselves at home.” “No, we both needed this, (Y/N). Plus, we’re going to be here for a bit, so we might as well appreciate that Iruka was willing to take care of the twins while we’re gone,” Kakashi replied. Kakashi went on, “we’ve both been stressed over little things, it’s about time we’ve been spending more time together. We’re not getting any younger, and I don’t think our minds can last any longer without each other.”

For the rest of the night, you both caught up on things you were unable to say to each other for the past few months. There were tears and laughter mixed into that night. For the first time in awhile, you felt happy. Not that you weren’t happy with your life at home, but you needed a break from being the perfect wife, mother, and teacher. Anyone would understand, but you knew Kakashi would understand the most. Although you’d never been hokage either, you understood the stress he went through as leader of one of the most powerful villages in the land of fire.

“(Y/N),” Kakashi said while stroking your hair, “I hope you never feel like I’m neglecting you. I know I’m not the best husband, but I love you. And I may not always be home, but just know that--” “--that there’s always an anbu black-op watching over us at home?” Shocked at your words, Kakashi just simply sighed to himself. “So you knew...” “Silly! Of course I knew! You and I were the most formidable couple in Konoha back in the day-and you think I wouldn’t notice that an anbu black-op is simply pit-patting on our roof daily?” With a small O formed on his mouth, you simply calmed his racing heart, “I appreciate that you did that, Kakashi. It makes the boys and me feel safer at home. That’s how I always knew you cared-from hearing the anbu on the roof. That was your way of showing you cared about us even though you couldn’t be there yourself at home.”

With that, you pulled Kakashi’s mask down, revealing his rose pink lips. Kissing him felt like it was the first time again. It’d been so long since you felt his strong arms around you, holding your waist as though you were going to disappear if he didn’t hold tight enough. Your kiss turned out to be more than you both thought it’d be-a make out session. Kakashi grabbed you and lifted you up onto his lap. You looked away and blushed, being reminded of the weight you’d gained since you both had been married and had the twins. “What’s wrong?” Kakashi asked, clearly concerned. “Nothing, I just got fat--” Cutting you off with a kiss, Kakashi’s lips left yours as he made it clear while looking into your eyes, “you are beautiful. Probably even more beautiful than the night we first made love. Look at me.” Blushing, you finally looked at your husband, making such intense eye contact that caused for you to look down. Kakashi was impatient and unsatisfied with the way you were acting, and flipped you over onto your back. With a yelp, you were under your husband’s muscular body, under his mercy.

Kakashi started kissing your neck, making sure to leave marks. No one would be able to see them as you were both the only people at the sauna (other than Kakashi’s anbu guards), but you knew they were going to leave a mark for at least a week. You made small whimpers as Kakashi kept nibbling behind your ears and collarbone. “Don’t hold back, baby. I’ll make you feel even better than I did on our honeymoon. I want to hear you,” Kakashi softly said against your skin. Slowly peeling your silk robe from your body, Kakashi made sure each part of the surface of your skin was well taken care of. He traveled down to your breasts, caressing one of your mounds in his hand while bringing his mouth down on the other. You couldn’t hold back anymore. You were finally making love with Kakashi again but without anything holding you back; no kids sleeping in the next room, no next door neighbors.

When Kakashi flicked his tongue against your nipple, you felt a noise leave your lips. It wasn’t a small whimper, it was a moan that had been hidden inside for the past few years. You took Kakashi’s silver hair in between your fingers and pulled, signaling to him that you wanted more-no, you needed more. Kakashi kept nibbling and flicking his tongue against your breast and moved onto the other, giving it the same love. You were already a moaning and wet mess as he moved further down to your lower abdomen. He kissed your stomach, making sure to leave a wet trail of his saliva, marking your body as his. “Please, Kakashi. Stop teasing,” you begged breathlessly. “Not yet, baby. I’m going to make sure you feel loved. I’m going to take it slow-it’s been too long.” Groaning at the painstakingly slow pace Kakashi was taking with you, you could only sit there and wait for whatever he was going to do to your body next.

Kakashi continued to slowly kiss all of the sweet spots on your abdomen, making you even wetter. You forgot how this all felt, the way Kakashi’s mouth felt on your skin, his rough calloused hands holding your waist down, and the way you could moan freely out in the open. Lifting himself up hovering over your body, he kissed your lips slowly and sweetly, then pulled away and got out of bed. He reached over into the nightstand and pulled something out. A piece of cloth-made of silk, and put it over your eyes. He then got up again, grabbing something else out of the nightstand. Wondering what it was, you turned your body-attempting to somehow see out of the silk cloth over your eyes, but failing instead as you felt Kakashi’s hands on your waist. “Stay still, baby,” he hushed as you whimpered from the random contact, “tonight’s all about you. I just need you to be a good girl and stay still for me.” Grabbing both of your wrists, he tied another silk cloth around your wrists and brought them against the headboard. As he tied your wrists to the headboard, you could feel his hard cock rubbing against his pants- as if it was teasing you without needing to be inside you.

After successfully tying up your wrists, he continued to worship your body. He kissed over your body another round, causing for you to whimper louder and louder the lower he went, closer to your sopping core. You wanted to touch Kakashi-it was unfair that only he could touch you. Attempting to free your wrists from the silk ties, Kakashi stopped all contact. Whining from the loss of contact, Kakashi’s voice came beside your ear and all you heard was, “I told you to be a good girl and to stay still. We’ll get to where you want to be in a bit, baby.” After a long pause, he continued, “--will you be a good girl and stay still?” Nodding your head adamantly, he simply whispered, “good,” and continued his painstaking process.

You tried to stay still as his lips ended up on your thighs, making sure to get each and every corner of your body. The moment he spread your legs to get a better view, you closed your legs. It’d been too long since someone else other than yourself had seen your naked and bare body. “Sorry, I--” “It’s okay, baby. It’s just me. I know it’s been awhile, but I’ll make it up to you tonight,” Kakashi assured you while peeling your legs apart. You let him spread your legs apart, feeling the cool air hit your wet, sopping core. Kakashi kissed your left ankle, making sure you felt his wet tongue gliding down your calf; trailing his mouth up your thigh, getting closer to your core. Just when you thought he was going to surely reach your dripping core, he pulled away which caused a whine to leave your mouth. He then did the same thing to your right leg, kissing your right ankle, trailing his mouth and tongue down your leg to your thigh. The air hitting differently than before from his saliva on your legs.

You whimpered at his painstakingly and patient actions. Kakashi then put your legs down, and started kissing your inner thighs, teasing you where he knew you were most sensitive. Because it was your sensitive spot, your legs reacted by closing around Kakashi’s head. Using his strong hands to pull your legs apart, he asked in a deep voice, “Are you going to quit? Or do I need to leave you dripping here for the rest of the night, baby?” “No, please. I’m sorry, Kakashi,” you pleaded as you laid there, making sure your body was his to toy with for the time being. He waited until you were done fixing your posture before he brought his hand to your sopping core. With a moan leaving your mouth, you slightly squirmed under his touch before stopping, remembering to stay still. “You’re already dripping so much for me, baby. It’s making me go crazy,” Kakashi said as he starting rubbing your throbbing clit, making you moan louder and louder with every small movement.

The pace of his hand picked up against your clit, making you moan louder and louder, meanwhile attempting not to squirm. While rubbing your throbbing clit, Kakashi took your left breast into his mouth and the other in his left hand. He eventually slowly inserted one of his fingers into your dripping core. With his right hand working on your core, his mouth on your breast, and his left hand on your other breast, you felt your orgasm coming. He proceeded to insert another finger into your heat. Closer and closer. It was coming closer and building up. You felt it coming, your whimpers and moans a sign to Kakashi. Within a moment, Kakashi removed himself from your body, denying you of your orgasm. “Kakashi, please let me cum,” you begged, “why’d you do that?” “Not too fast, baby. I told you I’m taking my time tonight,” he said before kissing your lips softly. Clearly frustrated, you pouted, making sure that even though you couldn’t see Kakashi, he could see your anger and frustration.

The next thing you knew, Kakashi’s soft lips were on your pussy, making you moan and writhe while he held your hips down-both of his arms around your thighs, making sure you weren’t going anywhere. “Ka-kakashi,” you moaned at the random sensation. While eating you out, Kakashi made sure he was hitting each and every sweet spot he could reach. He made sure to lick you up and down, swirl his tongue, and even write the alphabet while holding you down. “Kakashi--please, just fuck me,” you begged while practically on the verge of tears. They weren’t tears of pain, they were tears of pleasure-from the pleasure that was almost releasing again. Your moans were getting louder and louder. It would’ve been embarrassing that the workers and anbu could hear you, but you could care less. At least they knew that Kakashi was good in bed, and that you were Kakashi’s woman.

Nearing your orgasm, Kakashi pulled away again. Disappointed, you were about to whine and complain, but your tied wrists were pulled off the headboard of the bed. Kakashi had you on his lap, both of your wrists still tied together, wrapped around his neck. Both of your legs wrapped around his waist. Before you knew it, Kakashi had both your legs over his arms and was slowly guiding you down onto his throbbing cock. Filling you up, you moaned at how much you’d missed being stretched out by Kakashi’s cock. Guiding you slowly up and down on his cock, Kakashi kept whispering into your ear how you were such a good girl for listening to him, and that you were doing such a good job. He eventually picked up the pace, making you a loud mess. Each of your moans were met with his lips on yours-attempting to at least silence some moans.

After a few more thrusts, Kakashi lifted you off his cock, taking your arms and pinning them back up onto the headboard. Forcefully flipping you onto your knees, your ass in the air, giving Kakashi a perfect view of your core. Slapping one of your ass cheeks, Kakashi kissed the other while teasing your core with his cock. Whining and attempting to push yourself onto his throbbing huge cock, Kakashi disappeared off the bed and grabbed something from the nightstand again. “Open your mouth,” he demanded. Without hesitation, you opened your mouth and felt him put a finger in your mouth followed by a gag ball. Tying the back of the gag ball onto the back of your head, Kakashi returned behind you on the bed. Grabbing a fist full of your hair, Kakashi forced you to lift your head- making the perfect arch with your back. Within a second, Kakashi was pounding into you, making you moan against the gag ball-tears forming on the rim of your eyes. Kakashi kept pounding into you, harder and harder, bringing your orgasm closer and closer, again and again. A few more thrusts and you were sure your orgasm was going to come crashing down on you. Sensing that you were close, Kakashi took your wrists off the headboard, flipping you around while you were still on his cock. Still thrusting into you, slowly this time, he took the gag ball off your head, and put your tied wrists around his neck, taking you in missionary position. Kakashi wanted to see every part of you. Picking up the once slow pace, each and every thrust getting rougher and rougher, Kakashi was about to reach his limit as well.

You couldn’t say much, just whimpering Kakashi’s name here and there but moaning louder and louder with each thrust, being overstimulated by how fast and rough Kakashi was taking you. Kakashi wasn’t kissing you to silence your loud moans anymore. In fact, he was moaning against your skin as well, groaning and growling deeply while leaving bite marks into your skin. Each and every one of his thrusts getting sloppier and sloppier, but you could care less as Kakashi brought his hand to rub your clit to get you off faster and faster. You felt the fire inside you burning up higher and higher, your moans louder and louder. With the mixture of your sweat dripping bodies, Kakashi’s cock throbbing and thrusting inside you, and your mixed moans, your orgasm was reaching. It came as a small release but grew more and more. You clenched around Kakashi’s cock as you came, breathless and speechless. He was hitting your g-spot over and over, you couldn’t contain your orgasm anymore. Your release came as you pulled Kakashi’s body closer to yours. You squirmed under Kakashi as your high came and you couldn’t contain it anymore. You could feel Kakashi cum inside you as well, filling you up and his thrusts slowing as he rammed the last few thrusts into you. Meanwhile, Kakashi was busy worshipping the other body parts of yours, making your orgasm even more intense. As your body came down from the high, you couldn’t remember much, just that everything went black.

This fire inside of you, one that had been rekindled tonight by Kakashi Hatake, your husband. It felt so good to find a release as well. A real release-not one from a pillow, your fingers, or a vibrator. It felt miraculous, but you were unsure of what had happened after being overstimulated. You woke up to the feeling of warm towels rubbing against your inner thighs as Kakashi stood above you, taking care of your worn out body. “Hi, baby,” Kakashi whispered as he kissed you with a smile on his face. With a weak smile on your face you asked Kakashi what happened after you both came. He explained that you blacked out from being overstimulated, but that you were going to be okay since he was going to take care of you for the rest of the night. Carrying you to the bathroom, you realized that Kakashi had a hot bath ready for the both of you to clean yourselves off in. Laying your head on Kakashi’s chest behind you in the bathtub, you both spoke softly about how you thought Iruka and the boys were doing and imagining what they could possibly be doing at the time as well.

After drying off, you were reaching for your suitcase to find your pajamas to wear to sleep, but Kakashi insisted that you both forget clothes altogether and sleep naked. You didn’t mind, but were afraid that an anbu or employee would walk in and see you both sleeping naked. “It’s okay, baby,” Kakashi explained, “they won’t be bothering us unless we call for them.” Pulling you into his strong arms, hot bodies pressed together, you couldn’t remember the last time Kakashi and you had spent the night simply enjoying each other’s presence and truly making love instead of having a quickie. “Baby?” you asked Kakashi, looking up at him. “What is it, babe?” “What did Iruka mean when he said that maybe there’d be another one or two on the way?” you asked curiously. “Well...we’re going to be here for an entire week, beautiful. So that means that this is only round one,” he explained and chuckled as he saw your wide eyes realizing what Iruka meant by one or two more on the way. Trying to avoid any other surprises, you laid your head back onto Kakashi’s chest. After laughing to himself, Kakashi whispered a gentle “goodnight” before kissing your forehead as you dozed off to sleep, dreaming about the next few rounds that were bound to come.

#kakashi smut #kakashinsfw #kakashihusband #kakashihatake #kakashi x reader #kakashihokage #kakashinaruto

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kingdomhearts-and-soriku-trash · 3 years

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Hi!! I'm finally writing another Soriku fic and this is for everyone and @whyarewecalledtheshipname I hope you enjoy this sleeping beauty sort of fic! A lot of effort went into the ending, and it's probably not too good, but I hope you like it! I love your blog, so I thought you would like this so yeah! Enjoy!

Author notes are at the end and kinda long but yeah. And I'd like feedback since I like getting it to improve my writing or know what you thought about it at least!

"Momma, will you read this one?" Sora asks.

He and Riku were both laying in their own pillow fort. They were laying on their stomachs next to each other, both in their pajamas, and looking towards Sora's mother. She was laying outside the entrance to their pillow fort with a smile. She was on her stomach, propped up by her forearms, and had a book between them.

"Do you know if Riku likes it? Will he even like to hear it again." She tilts her head and looks over at Riku.

Riku's eyes widen slightly before he nods with a small smile. "Yeah, I like Sleeping Beauty. It's a nice story," he says shyly.

Sora's mother sighs fondly. "Alright, then I'll read it." She picks up the book and shows the front to the boys. "Well, I guess we're reading Sleeping Beauty again!" She opens the book and begins to read. "In a far away land long ago lived a King and his fair Queen. Many years had they longed for a child and finally their wish was granted." She turns the book around to show the boys the picture.

"It's so beautiful," Sora whispers. No matter how many times he sees the pictures or reads the story, he finds it amazing each time.

She smiles and turns the book back to her and flips the page. "A daughter was born. They called her Aurora. Yes they named her after the dawn for she filled their lives with sunshine."

"So, Aurora means dawn? Do other names have meaning?" Riku asks with curiosity.

Sora's mother looks up at him and smiles. "Why yes it does. Isn't it beautiful? And some names do have meaning, but that meaning doesn't make you." She turns the book around so they could see the story being told in pictures.

"They look so happy!" Sora says with a big smile.

"Of course they would be. They just had their first kid!" Riku says with excitement. He wouldn't admit it, but he loves this story.

"Then, a great holiday was proclaimed throughout the kingdom so that all of high or low estate might pay homage to the infant princess. And our story begins on that most joyful day." She turns the book around for the boys to see again.

"That's a lot of people," Sora says with awe.

Sora's mother turns the book back to her and continues to read. "All sorts of people attended, including another king and his son, Prince Phillip. Celebrating Aurora's birth wasn't the only thing being done that day, it was also announced that Phillip was betrothed to the princess."

"He was going to get married to her, right?" Sora asks.

"Yes, he was. It was a common thing for many kingdoms to do."

"It's still weird," Riku says quietly. He's young and doesn't understand love, but he still finds it weird how people were forced to marry someone and didn't have a say in it.

She smiles and continues. "After the prince set eyes on his future bride, horns once again rang throughout the room as three fairies floated down to the king and queen. They, too, wanted to celebrate the princess's birth. They all floated over to her in a rush, crowding each other as they looked down at her crib. However, they weren't there just to see her, they were there to bless her. The first fairy, Flora, gave her the gift of beauty. The second fairy, Fauna, gave her the gift of song. And just as the third fairy, Merryweather, was about to give her gift, thunder rumbled through the room, causing panic as a glowing figure began to appear. It was green, but it slowly formed into another fairy, but a dark fairy." She emphasized "dark" with a scary look.

Sora gasped softly. "Oh no!"

"The evil fairy, named Maleficent, appeared in the middle of the room with her cane and raven. She walked to the King and Queen with a smile as she mentioned every person in the room. She stroked her bird as she told them her woes about not being invited. Merryweather, being the blunt fairy she was, told her how she wasn't invited, which stirred the evil fairy up. She in return decided to give the princess her own gift."

Sora and Riku both had looks of excitement mixed with curiosity. They both knew what it was, yet found it enjoyable to hear again and again.

"The fairies did their best to protect Aurora, but they failed. The evil fairy cast a curse on dear Aurora. "Before the sun sets on her sixteenth birthday, she shall prick her finger on a spindle of a spinning wheel and die," is what she told the whole room. The evil fairy laughed cruelly as she saw the panic around the room. The King ordered for the guards to apprehend her, but she disappeared before they could even touch her."

"But then someone comes and saves her!" Riku says.

"No saving is done yet, dears. However, they could help the poor princess. Flora saw the panic on the King's and Queen's face and reassured them that they could help her. Merryweather didn't give her gift yet and still had a chance to make things better. She went over to the crib and said, "Sweet princess, if through this wicked witches trick, a spindle should your finger prick, a ray of hope there still may be in this. The gift I give to thee, not in death but just in sleep, and from this slumber you shall wake when true loves kiss the spell shall break."

"But what if she doesn't find her true love?" Riku asks with a curious and concerned voice. It was a fake person, but he still feels worry.

"But she will! It's just how fate works!" Sora tells him with a smile. He grabs Riku's hand and squeezes it. "We all find each other through fate, so she would find her true love through fate as well!"

Riku looks over at Sora and smiles back at him.

The rest of the night is spent with Sora's mother telling them how the story went, but the most important part was the ending. When she was done reading and was getting ready to go to bed, Sora asks her an important question.

Sora yawns as he talks. "So, she would've been asleep forever if Phillip didn't make it?"

His mother ruffles his and Riku's hair. "Sadly, yes, she would have. But her prince's heart was stronger than Maleficent and he defeated her to save Aurora."

"Oh, then that's good," he says as he yawns once again. His mother kisses his cheek and leaves to go to bed.

He lays his cheek against the floor as he looks beside him. He sees Riku already asleep, still holding his hand. He smiles and squeezes it. "I'd fight a dragon for you, Riku," he whispers out. "Our hearts are already strong, aren't they," he says slowly. Only a few moments later, he falls into a blissful sleep.

Riku looked up at Sora's face through the clear glass of his sleeping pod. He could barely see him, but he could still see a smile on his face. It was small, but it was there.

This had been his third time checking up on Sora since he was put to sleep, and he always looked for a smile. It managed to put him at ease, but never erase the true pain he felt.

"I wonder what you're dreaming about. Is it good things?" He knew he wouldn't respond, but he still talked to him. "Are you thinking of the things I did?" He shouldn't have been thinking like that, but he still did. He was inexcusably rude to his best friend, someone he loves with all his heart, and someone who is precious.

He placed his hand against the pod. "I hope your dreams are good and that you can forgive me. Especially for the things I have to do." He knew what he had to do and it was things he didn't want to do, but he had to. He wouldn't be able to be without Sora, so he'd do whatever it took to save him...even if it means hurting someone else.

"I'm sorry."

He turned around and left the room, once again asking Namine to watch over him. He wished he could stay longer, but Sora wouldn't wake up unless he left, so he knew what he had to do. Even if he wished he didn't have to.

He never wanted to be away from Sora, even if his past actions didn't agree. This time felt painful, but when he had to watch Sora from afar? And look like Ansem at the same time? It was even more painful, but it was only the beginning.

Riku's legs felt like jelly as he continued to run. His dreams led him to an unknown world, and the only thing he knew was that it would lead him to Sora.

His beloved that had been missing for a whole year. It broke his heart to think about the time again, so he pushed it away as he continued to run and run and run. Every now and then he stopped so he could look around to make sure he didn't miss Sora, but he never saw him.

"I have to keep going," he said through panting breaths as he sat at a bench. He held his head in his hands as he thought. "Our hearts are connected together, but every time I think I'm getting closer, the connection goes away. It disappears all over again." He looks up as he finally realizes what he should do. "But if I just listen...maybe I can sense him better."

He quickly stood up, ignoring the pain his legs felt, and closed his eyes. He felt the connection to Sora, he could feel their hearts calling to each other, but he couldn't feel a direction. It should've annoyed him, but he stayed calm and cool. He only listened.

After a few moments, he felt a tug. A tug that's stronger than any other he's felt. He opened his eyes and looked at the road ahead of him. He felt the tug pulling him that way, so he goes. He ran, but not as fast as before since he didn't want to miss Sora. He looked around as he passed by buildings and shops. He kept going straight past many traffic lights.

However, once he got to another four way, he felt the tug go somewhere else. He felt it coming from a building. He runs over but then the tug comes from above. He backed up and looked up to see something on the roof.

He gasped and stared at the climbing he had to do. "I'm not as good as you are, Sora. But I'll do my best." He began to run up the side of the building, doing his best to not slip off.

He gets to the edge of the top and jumps so he can finally be on the roof, and what he saw makes him gasp with fear. He saw an array of spikes of ice surrounding each other, like a spell of blizzard gone wrong. He looked in the middle and his heart dropped.

Sora was frozen solid and laying in the middle. His eyes were closed and he looked like he was in peace, but Riku felt fear and terror.

He ran over to the spikes, which resembled a flower now that he was closer, and saw a little break through the array of spikes. He walked through the path and got on his knees beside Sora. As soon as he touched Sora, the spikes around him cracked and turned into silver flakes, disappearing into the wind. Sora's crystal form did the same thing as well. It made a cracking noise before falling off in flakes and going in the wind.

"Sora..." he said as he touched his cheek gently. It felt freezing and it made Riku feel even more upset.

He picked Sora up and held him bridal style and signaled to Fairy Godmother. He, within seconds, disappeared in a flash and reappeared in front of Yen Sid's tower. He was greeted by Mickey, Aqua, Terra, and Kairi. They all had a look of surprise mixed with relief, but when they saw Riku's face they were confused.

Riku walked towards them and kept his words brief. "I found him, but he's still not awake. He needs help."

Everyone nodded and all hurried to get Sora his own room. The room was at the top of the tower, far away enough from everyone else. They needed room to figure out what was wrong. They would tell everyone the news later.

Riku sat Sora down in the bed, Kairi started a fire in the fireplace to make the room warmer, and Terra got an extra blanket for him. They all stood in the room and waited for Fairy Godmother to appear. She was there within a matter of seconds and instantly looked at Sora.

She walked over to him and knelt down to be closer. She placed her hand against his chest and went silent for a moment before looking back at everyone. "His heart beat is very distant and his breathing is very slow. I can't tell what's wrong yet," she said with disappointment. She wanted to help him just like everyone else, but she needed time to do so.

Everyone felt disappointment and fear, but pushed it aside as they thought of what to do.

"So, should we leave him to rest? And see how he's doing in the morning?" Aqua suggested.

"But he shouldn't be alone, right?" Terra said with worry.

"Yes, he shouldn't be. I need time to research and see what's wrong, but he may get worse. I need someone to watch over him," Fairy Godmother said with firmness.

"I'll do it," Riku said immediately. He protected Sora ever since Sora saved him. He couldn't abandon him now. He knew Sora would never blame him for taking a break, but he couldn't. He couldn't bare the thought of having him here and not being able to see him in the morning if something went wrong. He trusted the others, but he had to do this.

"Riku, you haven't slept in so long. You need a break," Kairi said with worry. She stepped closer to him and grabbed his hand, gently.

He looked down at her and shook his head. "I just...can't leave him, alright? I need to make sure he's alright. Please," he asked the group.

"How about we do shifts?" Mickey suggested with a smile. He knew everyone cared about Sora, he did, too. However, he knew almost no one could care for Sora like Riku did. Mickey spent time with him in the Realm of Darkness and watched him find his strength with Sora. He understood the fear that Riku was feeling.

Fairy Godmother thought for a moment before she nodded with a smile. "I believe that's a good idea. How about we all go tell Yen Sid, just real quick, alright? Then you can come right back here and watch him," she said as she looked at Riku. She gave him a bright smile, doing her best to put him at ease.

Everyone turned around to leave, but Riku kept looking at Sora. He thought it was creepy, but he couldn't stop focusing on the way his breath was so shallow. He almost couldn't see it. However, he broke out of his trance when he felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned around and saw Aqua with a frown.

"You can take a minute. It's okay." She squeezed his shoulder before leaving the room and closing the door gently behind her.

He smiled slightly at her concern and understanding. It made him breath easier. Once she left and didn't hear any more footsteps, he turned around and walked over to Sora. He got knelt down on one knee and looked at him.

"You look like you're in peace, but are you really?" He asked, knowing he would get no reply. "We're going to do our best to save you, I promise. We will save you. I know we can. You've saved us plenty of times, it's our turn to save you." He moved his hand slowly to push aside his bangs.

He remembered doing this when he was a kid on the Destiny Islands. Sora would take a nap and let the wind mess with his hair. Whenever he let his hair grow out, his bangs would get in his face and cover his eyes. Riku would move them away, which always would wake Sora. He would look at him with a smile and thank him for moving his bangs. It would always embarrass Riku, but he'd continue to do it. He liked seeing those blue eyes look up at him, and now he'd love if they could.

He got up and looked out the window. The sun was rising and it was beautiful. He wished Sora was awake to see it since he loved to see the sunrise. He looked back down at Sora and smiled as he leaned in and kissed him right above his temple.

He pulled away and made sure the blanket was covering him, the fire was still lit, and began to leave. He walked to the door and had his hand on the doorknob, ready to open, but stopped when he heard a voice.

"Riku?" Sora said quietly with his voice sounding rough.

Riku turned around quickly and saw Sora rubbing his eyes. He looked around the room confused, but once they landed on him he smiled.

"Riku...you're here." He looked to his side to see the sunlight reaching the tower. "It looks so beautiful. I hadn't seen one like this in so long," he said quietly.

"Sora!" Riku shouted as he ran over to his side of the bed. He got on his knees and grabbed his hand. "You're awake!" He let his forehead rest against Sora's hand and he closed his eyes. "You're awake..." he said again.

Sora sat up and laughed. "You saved me," he said gently.

Riku looked up at him to see those blue eyes. They looked at him with such love and he felt like he couldn't breathe. He couldn't find the words to say, so he only acted. He wrapped his arms around Sora and buried his face in the crook of his neck. It took a moment, but Sora wrapped his arms around him too.

"I'm here, Riku. You don't need to fear anymore."

Riku pulled back enough to look at him, but didn't let go. He cupped his cheek with a shaky hand and smiled when Sora leaned into it. "How are you here? How are you awake?"

"You woke me up." He poked right above his heart. "I heard your heart calling out to me. Those spikes and the crystal was protecting me, but they broke when you came because I trust you. You," Sora paused for a moment and struggled to find the words. "You mean the world to me, so they fell away. And I fought my way to wake up, but I couldn't do it. But when you kissed me, it made me stronger," he said with a small blush.

"The kiss helped you?" Riku asked with confusion and slight disbelief.

Sora nodded. "Yeah. You helped me break through. I guess it's like Sleeping Beauty," he said with a giggle.

Riku smiled and gathered up his courage. "Then, can I kiss you again?" He blushed and felt like looking away, but he didn't. He held his ground and waited.

"It better be a proper one this time," Sora said with a laugh.

Riku laughed in return before he leaned closer and gently kissed him. It wasn't perfect, but it didn't matter. It was them. It was their kiss. When they pulled away, they didn't hesitate. They went back in for another kiss, and another, and another, until they had to stop to catch their breath.

They pulled slightly away and laid their foreheads against the others. It was peaceful and everything was beautiful. The sun was shining, Sora was awake, and they both finally confessed.

Well, halfway, but they did it.

"When are the others coming?" Sora asked.

"Oh!" Riku said as he remembered the others. "They should be telling Yen Sid about everything. I was meant to join them! Do you want to go with me or do you want me to stay?"

"Stay. Stay with me, please," Sora said with vulnerability. "I don't want to be alone, and I'm still a little cold." Sora slid over and motioned for Riku to join him.

He smiled and joined him on the bed. He laid on his side and wrapped his arms around Sora when he scooted closer and buried his face in the crook of his neck.

"I love you, Riku."

Riku's heart pounded with joy and he smiled as he rested his chin on top of Sora's head. "I love you, too, Sora."

And they laid together before the others came and got them. At first, they believed Riku was clinging to him, only to hear Sora wake up when they called out to Riku.

They all helped him up so he could hug everyone and make them believe he was really there and awake. However, they let Sora rest back in the bed when he began to feel weak again since he had been sleeping for awhile. But it didn't bother them. They were just so excited and happy that Sora was finally home.

But no one was as happy as Riku. No one.

OKAY SO! This was a little difficult to write. The opening was good and I kinda liked that part. That's actually where this idea started, since I just imagined Sora's mother reading him and Riku a story and then I saw your posts and was like, "oh...SLEEPING BEAUTY!!!" And then this popped out. These are some author notes.

Okay so like this took so long to come out because I wrote it but then I had so many different ideas. I wanted him to kiss him on the lips but I kinda thought that Riku wouldn't exactly do that since he didn't want to I guess do that to Sora?? Since he was asleep and couldn't say anything?? So he just kissed him on his temple and it woke him up. AND THAT WASN'T JUST MY IDEA!! I got it from the movie Maleficent that came out in 2014. In the end of that movie, Maleficent was the one to wake up Aurora. She kissed her on her forehead and she woke up!! I was like, "oh yeah that's perfect for Riku."

I wanted to include the times Sora was asleep, but I didn't see how that would help anything or contribute to the plot, so I didn't. I only included the time where Sora was asleep to get his memories back, so I could show that Riku suffered during that (Even if we already knew that) and say how it was going to get worse >:).

Thus took so many rewrites because like...the ending of where Sora is found in crystal was so difficult to write. At first, I had him finding him in the position he was in the Remind ending, but I couldn't write it good, so I just switched it to him laying down in crystal form :). Let's just say that I wrote this multiple times and finally got on this version! And??? We like?? Don’t know what caused the crystal (I believe), so I just said that it was meant to protect him and fell away when Riku came bc now he would protect him :).

Putting in the sunlight on the tower part was a little difficult since I couldn't write it properly but!! I hope you enjoyed this!! I love your posts and I hope you love this! It may not be the best, but I love it.

AND!! That beginning of the story is actually from the movie. All of it is from the movie until the, "On that joyous day," part. Like the part of describing the event is my own writing and such. But the quote of Maleficent cursing Aurora and the gift that Merryweather gave Aurora is actually from the movie and word for word so I hope you like that part :).

There is some proofreading, but I could've missed something, so sorry if I did miss something!

#soriku #my writing #sora x riku #riku x sora #kingdom hearts #kh #I hope you enjoy sweetie♥. I did like writing it even if it took me awhile lol. I lost motivation on the weekend and such BUT!! I gained #it again today so YEAH!! Enjoy!!

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sourcherrybomb · 4 years

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SoKai Week 2020 - Day 6 - One More For the Road

Synopsis: At an unknown time, in an unknown place, Kairi asks Sora for one more of his beloved stories.

(There are two more bonus sketches at the end of the oneshot!)

Sneak Peek: “What are some of the more… romantic ones you know, then?”

Tags: Romance, All Ages, F/M

Prompt for the Day: Connection / Fate

Words: 1k

Fanart by: Popipapepu (Fiverr)

---

“Hey Sora?”

“Yeah Kairi?”

“Tell me a story.”

“Right now?”

“Yeah, right now!”

“Kairi, as much as I’d love to-”

“Oh I know you would.”

“I’m just not too sure if there’s enough time for that right now.”

“Come on, please?”

“It’s just that I promised everyone that we’d be quick about this, I don’t wanna leave them worried, you know?”

“Listen, everyone’s doing fine right now! I’m sure they wouldn’t mind waiting just a little bit longer.”

“You’re really pushing- Oh come on, don’t give me that face!”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

“Yeah right! That’s the face you always make.”

“Nuh uh.”

“Yuh huh!”

“Sora you might as well just give up now, this face always gets you and you know it!”

“Get real! Look at my face and how your stupid one doesn’t affect me at all!”

“...”

“Okay fine, one story!”

“Haha! Score one for Kairi!”

“So which one is it gonna be this time around? Altair and Vega like usual?”

“Sounds tempting, but honestly I think I’d like to hear a new one.”

“A new one, huh? Did I ever tell you about Aquila? How about Endymion or Bismarck?”

“As much as I love hearing you talking about stars and constellations, maybe something from one of the worlds you’ve been to.”

“I mean from our perspective right now, how could you even tell the difference between stars and other worlds?”

“Hey, don’t get smart with me! If I wanted snark I’d talk to Riku or Axel.”

“What can I say, they’ve rubbed off on me. Anyways, what kind of story would you want to listen to anyways?”

“I know I turned it down, but something like Altair and Vega. Except maybe a more happy ending.”

“It always comes back to them, huh?”

“What can I say, I relate to it. Especially after all we’ve been through. A happier ending would be nice, maybe one where the hero and heroine get to stay together.”

“Hmm, I might have to think about this. I’ve heard so many stories from a bunch of different worlds.”

“What are some of the more… romantic ones you know, then?”

“Romantic, huh? With the same vibes as Altair and Vega… Oh, I think I got one!”

“You do? Sweet!”

“Yeah, it’s one my friends Mushu and Mulan told me. It’s called The Story of the Red String of Fate.”

“Sounds mysterious… I like it!”

“I have a feeling you will!”

“Hey now, don’t look all satisfied when you haven’t even told me the story yet.”

“Okay, okay. Let me start then.”

There once was a young noble girl and the son of a stablehand.

Bored with her life, she desired adventure, something the boy and his horses were more than willing to entertain.

Over time, the stablehand became smitten with the noble girl. In secret, she returned his affection.

They kept this romance a secret until they grew into young adults. They planned to elope and leave by horseback when the time came.

However, war broke out in their country.

The noble girl and stablehand realized that they would be separated. She would have to stay in the safety of her castle while the stablehand would be sent to war.

Wanting him to always have a way to remember her, the noble girl asked the stablehand to close his eyes. Agreeing, she unwound a red string from her royal garments.

Cutting the thread in half, she tied one piece on her finger and the other on his.

Shocked by this, the stablehand declared that he would come back to her and return the keepsake hundredfold.

After this, the two were separated. For many years the war raged on, the noble girl becoming a noblewoman.

When the war finally came to an end, all the soldiers who survived returned home. In disguise, the noblewoman looked for her lover amongst the common soldiers, but could not find him.

After days of searching, she resigned herself to the idea that the stablehand had died in battle.

In memory of him, she decided to keep the red string tied on her finger.

The next day, the noblewoman’s father approached her and told her that she was to be wed to one of the war heroes that fought for their country.

Hiding her dejection, she thanked her father and followed him to meet her future husband. It was a soldier around her age.

When her father left the two alone, the soldier looked at the noblewoman. Smiling, he politely asked her to close her eyes. Uncaringly, she closed them.

When asked to open her eyes, the first thing she saw was a gorgeous red dress made of the finest silk. Surprised, the noblewoman asked the soldier why he had gifted her such an extravagant engagement present.

Laughing, the soldier simply responded that he was only keeping the promise that he made to her.

Briefly confused, it took a moment for the noblewoman to look at the soldier’s hand that was holding the dress.

On it was a red string, tied on the same finger as the one she had done the same to the stablehand all those years ago.

Realizing who this soldier was, she pulls the former stablehand into an embrace that, to the two, felt like it lasted for ages.

She and her husband would wear the red strings on their hands for the rest of their lives.

“So? How was- Kairi are you okay?”

“Hm? Yeah! Just… Something flew into my eye for a moment. Shouldn’t I be asking you the same?”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

“Geez, just don’t rub your eyes too hard like that. You’ll just make more come out, which will do the same to me.”

“I know, I know…”

“...”

“Hey Sora?”

“Yeah Kairi?”

“Thanks for telling me one last story. I can’t help but feel like it’ll be… a while until I could hear another one from you.”

“You’re not wrong about that. You were right about something, though.”

“And what was that?”

“That I love telling you stories like this. I’d love to tell you another one, but I think we’ve run out of the little time we’ve had left at this point…”

“I had a feeling… Hey Sora?”

“Yeah Kairi?”

“Come here for a sec.”

“Sure, but we’re going to have to- mmph?!”

“...”

“Sorry… Just had to get one for the road. Sora, promise me one thing.”

“Anything…”

“When you come back to me, you better return that a hundredfold. Promise?”

“Promise.”

---

This was another little experiment for my writing. Just dialogue, nothing else. This totally wasn’t a last-minute decision in order to get something out before the deadline for Day 6. Nope, not at all. Still, I had fun writing it.

Just like with my Day 5 entry, I got to make my own spin on a legend. The Red String of Fate is such a prevalent tale in modern romantic media that it’s fun to see how different writers and authors use it (with various success)

As I said, this was my entry for Day 6 of SoKai Week 2020! The themes for the day were “Connection” and/or “Fate”. Once again, shoutout to the Sokai: Destined Oath Discord server, and a special thanks to the server member Gee for acting as my Beta Reader.

Thanks for Reading!

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*Bonus Sketch Commissions*

#sokai #sokaiweek #sokaiweek2020 #kingdom hearts fanfiction #kingdom hearts #fanfiction #sora #kairi #oneshot #f/m #sourcherrybomb

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satorisa · 3 years

Text

Falling: Chapter 1 - In which the Hug is Finally Acknowledged

Rating: T

Summary: "I wanna forget all this burden in my past."

Alternate Reading: AO3

Lift the Veil? I don’t know her.

D.N.Angel ending? I don’t know her.

But that hug? Lives, rent free in my mind, man.

Warning: Spoilers for the DNAngel ending abound.

After Dark disappeared, the hours continued to flow as if the incident had never occurred. Satoshi brought Risa home that evening before he visited the Niwa household to brainstorm a story for Commissioner Hiwatari’s disappearance. Daisuke slept next to him that night and, while comforted by his friend’s rhythmic breathing and familiar warmth, Satoshi kept his tired eyes on the window, watching as the evening skies brightened to a morning blue.

Commissioner Hiwatari was declared missing the next day, and Inspector Saehara decided to take Satoshi in for the time being. He moved into the Saehara household that same evening, everything he owned packed in a duffel bag weighing on his shoulder, and Takeshi showed him around the house.

Satoshi met Mama Saehara through a video call that same evening. She worked as a fashion designer, and her job had flung her off to Paris this time. He quite liked her.

After they hung up, he had a warm dinner with Takeshi and Inspector Saehara. It was leftovers from last night, but he enjoyed the food nonetheless.

That night, Satoshi slept next to Takeshi, who snored in his ear while either kicking him or rolling on him. Satoshi kept his tired eyes on the window, watching as the evening skies brightened to a morning blue.

He went shopping with the Saeharas the next day. They bought a bunk bed, a desk, and whatever else they thought that Satoshi would need. After that, the days fell back into their familiar rhythm as if the incident had never occurred.

Satoshi slept in the top bed for privacy. Takeshi took the bottom bed since he didn’t quite care. Their desks sat side by side in front of the window: Takeshi’s impeccably spotless and Satoshi’s covered in manila folders and schoolwork.

Everyday, Satoshi woke up, went to school, and attended the art club that Daisuke finally convinced him to join. On some evenings, Inspector Saehara would ask him for help on a case, and they always headed home after work with fried chicken for dinner. For the most part though, Satoshi spent his time after school with Daisuke and Takeshi.

Then Riku moved away.

Risa began to hang out with Daisuke and Takeshi just as much as she hung out with Ritsuko and the other girls, but she still maintained the same distance she had with Satoshi prior to the incident. She’d greet him, cordial and courteous, and she’d smile and laugh with the boys, just like him, but that was the extent of their relationship: friends of friends.

And that was how Satoshi’s second year in middle school came to an end.

…

The last of the art club members finally left. They were a group of giggling girls who clearly only joined to get closer to Satoshi but, after realizing that he wouldn’t pay any attention to them yet again, they decided to call it a day.

Satoshi sighed in relief when the door closed behind them and ran his hand through his hair. Daisuke, president of the art club, laughed at the strands that were sticking up.

“How long are you going to let them stay here?” Satoshi asked, watching the group walk and giggle down below.

“They’ll get tired eventually.”

“I highly doubt that.”

“Just wait. They’ll eventually realize how boring you are and set their eyes on someone else.”

Satoshi shot Daisuke a look. He laughed before slipping off his stool.

“So what did you want to talk about?”

“My painting.”

Daisuke, eyes shining with curiosity, scurried over to Satoshi’s canvas. His jaw slacked.

Before him was the familiar visage of Dark outlined in pencil. The sharp angle of his eyes, his chiseled features, his charismatic smile, and his dark hair flowing around him: everything was detailed to utmost perfection.

“Oh my god.”

“How is it?”

“It looks just like him.”

“It does, doesn’t it?”

Daisuke nodded, awestruck, but that eventually gave way to a darker expression on his face. “…why are you doing this, though?”

Satoshi shrugged. “I don’t know. Still life practice got boring, so I decided to try doing something different.”

“You could have done something else besides starting on a portrait of Dark.”

“I know, but this is what I ended up making.”

“…are you okay?”

“That’s a rhetorical question.”

Daisuke sighed. “It’s just—we’re worried about you, Satoshi. We don’t want you to hurt yourself, you know? If you’re not ready to face it, you don’t have to.”

“What? Would a portrait of my father have been better?”

“No, Satoshi, I—”

“Sorry,” Satoshi said before getting off his stool. He grabbed his bag and made his way to the door. “I didn’t mean to snap at you like that.” At the entrance, he turned around to face Daisuke. “But when the hell am I going to ever be ready?”

…

The sun began to set, casting its golden hue on the busts and wooden stands by the wall. Since Inspector Saehara didn’t need his help that evening, Satoshi stayed after the club meeting to work on his painting. A palette full of varying hues of purple floated gracefully in his left hand while a worn brush sat precariously in his right, waiting to lay down another thoughtful stroke.

The door opened.

“Hello, Hiwatari-kun!”

He tore his eyes away from the canvas to see Risa standing there. She no longer had her customary pink ribbon tying her hair up; her dark locks cascaded down just like Riku’s. If she trimmed some off, she’d be the spitting image of her sister.

Perhaps that was why she changed her hairstyle.

“Are you heading home soon?”

He glanced at his watch: 6:04 PM.

“Maybe.” Satoshi noted the bag slung over her shoulder. “I’m assuming you’re on your way back?”

“Yeah.” She frowned. “Saehara-kun kept us all late today because our monthly issue is coming out. What a workaholic.”

Satoshi smirked. “Like father, like son.”

“His dad’s just like that?”

“Absolutely. His mom’s the same way, too, so it probably runs in the family.”

Risa giggled. The door opened again, and it was the man of the hour himself. He pouted.

“I’m not as bad as my parents.”

“Sure,” Satoshi sarcastically drawled.

Takeshi just shook his head. “Whatever, bro. You headin’ back soon?”

“Maybe. Don’t wait for me if you need to head out.”

“Nah. I kinda want to hit up the arcade for a bit before we go grocery shopping.”

“Can we drop by the bookstore, too? I need to grab a couple of things.”

“Yeah. I think I need some stuff from there, too.” Takeshi then turned to Risa. “You wanna stick around with us, then? No hard feelings if you need to jet, though.”

“Thanks for the offer, but I think I’ll pass. I don’t want to stay out too late and worry my parents.” She waved with a smile. “I’ll see you two tomorrow then. Bye!”

Risa skipped out of the room while Takeshi walked over to examine Satoshi’s painting. He whistled.

“Yanno, you’re a little too talented for someone who doesn’t like painting.”

“Shut up. You know how I feel about it.”

“And yet you joined the art club.”

“I have to start somewhere with that positive reassociation and all.”

“And how’s that goin’ for ya?”

“Terrible. I’m hating every second of it.”

“Well, uh, nobody asked you to make a painting of that Dark Mousy fellow, yanno?”

“Couldn’t help it. His handsome face kept bothering me.”

…

Mama Saehara popped up on his phone screen with the Parisian skyline behind her.

“Good evening, Satoshi.”

“Good morning, Saehara-san.”

“No need to be so formal with me! Please, call me Mama.”

“I’d rather not.”

She laughed. “Alrighty, hun. How’re you doing?”

“I’m alright.”

“And the therapy? Have you decided to go?”

“No. I don’t think I can.”

“That’s alright. You’re doing alright. No need to push yourself if you’re not ready.” She sighed. “I just need this project to finish and then I’ll take the first flight I can back to Japan. Just wait for me, okay?”

“No need to rush. Take all the time you need.”

“Oh honey, I appreciate the thought, but I don’t know if I trust those buffoons to take care of you. Speaking of them, how are they treating you?”

“They’re very nice. I like living here, Saehara-san. Thank you for taking me in.”

“I’m glad, Satoshi. And you’re very welcome! It’s the least we could do, truly.”

Her phone rang. Mama Saehara answered before launching into a furious tirade of French. After she hung up, she sighed and began to massage her temples.

“Sorry to cut this call short, but there’s an emergency. I’ll call again as soon as I can. Toodles!”

“Bye. Have a nice day.”

Satoshi saw himself reflected on his phone screen, and he took out his earbuds before leaving the room. He went downstairs to see Inspector Saehara at the table, can of beer open in front of him, while Takeshi began plating the food.

“How’s Ma?” Takeshi asked.

“Alright. Busy,” Satoshi answered. He grabbed some plates and bowls from the cabinets.

“Sound about right,” Takeshi said. “And you?”

“Hm?”

“How’re you?”

“Alright. Tired.”

Takeshi smirked. “Who isn’t?”

He patted Satoshi’s back before putting the plates full of table and hounding his dad about drinking: just another meal at the Saehara household.

Satoshi smiled as he began to set the table.

…

After the club meeting, Satoshi stayed behind to work on his painting, unrestrained by a request from Inspector Saehara. He mindlessly toiled away until the door opened.

“Hi, Hiwatari-kun!”

Risa’s voice broke his focus. Golden hour had passed and the blue hour settled in, dying the room a muted blue. Even Risa, despite her chipper demeanor, seamlessly blended in with the mood.

“Hey, Harada. Did the newspaper club meeting just finish?”

“Nope. It ended a while ago, but I stayed back to wrap something up.”

“So Takeshi’s already gone?”

“Yeah. I think he went to the arcade with a couple of our club members for some bonding time.”

“Ah.”

Risa swayed her head. “Are you heading home soon?”

“Yeah. Let me tidy up here, and I’ll leave with you.”

She smiled. “Thanks.”

Satoshi covered his painting with a tarp before leaving the room to clean his brushes and palette. He returned to see Risa on a stool, watching something on her phone. She laughed until she noticed he had returned, and she paused her video before offering a weak wave and smile.

Satoshi grabbed his bag. “You ready to head out?”

“Yup!”

She hopped off the stool. Satoshi closed the door behind them before they walked to the faculty office. He bowed before entering, leaving the keys to the art room with the frazzled student-teacher, and bowed after leaving. Risa trailed behind him uncharacteristically calm and quiet the whole time.

When they got to the shoe lockers, Risa finally broke her silence.

“Hiwatari-kun,” she began as he took off his slippers, “did you know him?”

“Know who?”

“The person I was waiting for that day at the lamppost.”

“It took you this long to ask me about that?”

Risa giggled. “Sorry. I couldn’t find a good time to bring it up.”

“Really? I thought you’d do it by screaming at me about hugging you and overstepping boundaries.”

Risa giggled again. Satoshi raised his eyebrow as he slipped on his shoes. “I was thinking about it, but I thought it’d be too rude to. After all, you appeared when I needed someone the most. Thank you for that.”

“I had a snarky reply to that but, since you’re being genuine, I’ll keep it to myself.”

They reconvened at the entrance. Risa’s smile looked more genuine that the one she had earlier.

Good.

“So, why bring it up now?” Satoshi asked as they began walking out.

“I tried to forget about it. Why should I stay hung up over someone I don’t remember? But, well, long story short, I couldn’t. I want to know who he was.”

They stopped at an intersection. Cars rushed by while commuters joined them, preoccupied with their own lives. Satoshi focused on the red light of the crosswalk, trying not to look at Risa’s expression.

“Are you sure you want to know?”

“Of course I do! Why else would I be asking you about him?”

“And what if I tell you that it might be overwhelming?”

“So? I’d still want to know!”

“Even if it’ll make you cry?”

“Of course! I don’t want to just forget about him!”

Satoshi sighed. The light at the crosswalk turned green, and they began to move. Risa’s head bobbed with each step, and Satoshi focused on the sidewalk to avoid looking at her.

“Harada, I’d rather not see you cry,” he said. “It makes me uncomfortable.”

“Okay then. I’ll try not to cry.”

“You? Who displays your emotions for the whole world to see? Forget it.”

Risa grabbed his arm, and he turned around. She forced him to look at her. He saw the determination in her eyes, burning just as much as it did when she was chasing Dark mere months ago.

“Hiwatari-kun, please.”

How could he say no to her?

“Alright. Fine. Just give me some time, okay?”

He brushed off her arm, frustrated by her stubbornness. But he saw the softness in her expression when he yielded, and he etched it in his memory.

#DNAngel #satorisa #satoshi hiwatari #risa harada #takeshi saehara #daisuke niwa #dn angel #d.n.angel #My writing #my fanfiction #falling #this was a long time coming but i can't believe it took the end of the series for me to finally write it

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chibi-mushroom · 4 years

Text

Just as a heads up, I wanted to add a disclaimer. This story is not necessarily canon to my AU's canon. I'm a long way off from these two getting to interact and I still have some things to think through. I also need to decide if Namine's backstory is going to stay the same or if I'm changing it slightly. So please bear with me and enjoy!

It was a warmer morning in Skyhold and for once there hadn't been a lot of snow. Riku and Ava were checking the Inquisition's mail when he heard the smaller girl chuckling a little to herself. He didn't know that he liked the smirk that filled her face.

"Did you get a love letter or something?" Riku inquired.

"Not at all. In fact, I think Namine's going to have quite the headache when she sees it."

"What is it?"

"Oh just another letter from Lord Odin in Kirkwall."

Riku rolled his eyes. Usually Namine handled all of the correspondence between the Inquisition and the noble class. After all, she had a knack for working with nobles, despite coming from a poor Antivan trading family herself. Still, this was the third letter this month from the man. Lea never liked to talk about Kirkwall even though he was a viscount there. Surely Namine would have told him if Odin had been reporting trouble, wouldn't she?

"He's been writing a lot recently. Is everything ok in Kirkwall?"

"As terrible as it's always been." Ava shook her head. "Listen, I have a job for you to do today."

"A job? But I promised Sora and Ephemer we'd-"

Suddenly Riku felt a very sharp point at his neck. He knew without looking that Ava had unleashed one of her daggers with the fancy waves on the hilt. She was good with a bow, but he had personally seen her be absolutely deadly with her daggers. The smirk that had been on her face once was now gone, but she still looked amused. He wondered what she looked like under that fox mask, and whether her eyes shone with good or ill intent.

"Ask Strelitzia to take you to the greenhouse and pick Namine a nice big bouquet of flowers." She instructed.

"You want me to…?"

The dagger pushed a little deeper into his throat. She hadn't broken skin yet, but the blade was really the only thing he could pay attention to.

"Pick the girl some flowers. I'm sure she would be grateful for them."

The bard removed her dagger and beamed at him. She was dangerous alright. He was relieved she was on their side, although there were days he had questioned even that. As she sauntered away with the letter from Lord Ordin, Riku rubbed the spot where the dagger had been just moments before. He felt a hand on his shoulder and turned to see none other than Sora himself.

"So, I guess we gotta take a rain check, huh little boss?"

"I told you to stop calling me that." Riku brushed the Qun's** hand off. "It's Riku."

"Force of habit. No more difficult to stop than Lea and his nicknames."

"I guess. So, what's going on with the ambassador? Ava certainly seems quite amused."

"Namine's got a letter from Lord Odin in Kirkwall. Again. So I'm supposed to go get flowers for her for some reason." Riku sighed. "You have a good idea about how women work; what's all this about?"

"Dunno, I'm not in on the war table conversations." Sora shook his head. "Hey, I've got an idea. I'll go visit Namine and see what's up. That way you can stop being shy and tell her how you feel."

Riku sputtered, trying to argue about the way he felt. They had gotten close, but it was out of a need, not a want, right? The sky was tearing apart and they still needed to find out about so many loose ends that hadn't been resolved yet. Besides, he had no idea how Namine even felt about him. It would make meetings at the war table much more awkward if he couldn't even look at the ambassador.

"I'll take your inability to speak as a yes then. Don't worry buddy, old Sora will figure out exactly what's going on with the woman of your dreams." Sora clapped him on the back.

Sora left behind a still sputtering Riku as he hurried over to the ambassador's door. Ava had just left and Sora took a moment to listen in at the door. He didn't know Namine as well as he probably should have; she was usually working on something at her desk while he was out with his chargers**. She seemed super sweet though, and harmless enough.

He did have to admit that his horns made it hard to actually get his ear to the door, but he managed to hear the faint sound of vellum being shredded while Namine muttered something. There was a movement. She must have been tossing the vellum into the trash. More steps- walking back no doubt. The room was silent now as far as he could tell, although knowing Namine, she was likely writing out some forced and overly polite response. It was how all nobles tended to write. He waited a moment and then knocked on the door.

"Come in." She replied.

"Hope I didn't catch you at a bad time or anything." Sora entered.

"No, just writing a response to a noble in Kirkwall. After that I have a few personal responses to send out. One of which is to my parents. They've been mailing me nonstop since your chargers swooped in and kidnapped my sister on her wedding day."

With a chuckle to himself, Sora crossed his arms over his chest. He recalled how Noctis had asked him for help to rescue his beloved Lunafreya from having to marry a man from some wealthy Antivan family. The chargers had been a little less….formal than they could have, running in while the ceremony was going. But the look of relief that crossed over the bride's face when she saw Noctis made it all worth it. They had even gotten a chantry** brother to marry them in a small but intimate ceremony a few days later.

"That's right; it was a lot of fun. Hard to believe it was only a couple of months ago." Sora smirked.

"No Sora, it wasn't fun. Swooping is bad."** Namine sighed. "It's been a headache just trying to reassure both sides that the other will come around eventually."

She paused.

"Although I'm happy for her. She smiles so much now, and I know that's because of Noctis and the other chargers."

"That's what we do. Brighten the world one smile at a time."

Namine held her tongue. Luna got off easy. Although her parents were fuming, her potential groom found someone to replace Luna rather quickly. The marriage was supposed to help the Montilyet family work their way back into being able to trade in Orlais again. If it hadn't been for that rival family… She breathed out a sigh. There was no way to turn back time. She just hoped when it came time for her own nuptials that she could avoid the worst.

Sora leaned in satisfaction on the table where she worked. Most of the tables here were quite sturdy- none as steady as the table closest to the commander's quarters, of course. But then, that table was hardly ever used for writing these days, it seemed. At least once he had heard some sort of magic being made between the templar commander and their apothecary- but he was just getting off on a tangent. Namine had eyed him as if to ask what he was there for.

"Why don't you give this Odin guy what he wants?" Sora asked, hoping to draw out what was in the letter and change the subject.

"Give him- Sora, this is politics. You can't just give people what they want at face value. There are usually strings attached. Things go wrong when you simply ask for what you want."

"Someone smuggling some ancient book out of Kirkwall again?"**

Namine tilted her head, unsure if she were supposed to understand what he was referring to. He waved off her confusion, looking over her desk. There, sitting on the top of a pile of papers was a letter written in very fine ink. There was a green wax seal on the envelope that held a picture of a lotus. The ink itself was also of a high quality. The letters didn't have an occasional blot from the way it came out of the pen. Someone had spent a lot of money on the supplies for this letter.

"Nevermind." Sora shook his head. "So, this one of your responses?"

One glance at the pile of papers told her exactly what he was referring to. She raced to cover them up, a slight blush on her face from embarrassment. He didn't need to know details of the Montilyet household. He had already learned of her parent's reaction to the scandal that was Luna's wedding. Seeing how everything happened there would likely cause extra precautions when it came her turn for matrimony. She was a caged bird with no hope of escape.

"Hey, sorry, I swear I was just trying to lighten the mood. I know you're frustrated about that Lord in Kirkwall." Sora softened his voice when he saw the way her face fell.

"If you must know, his name is Naveen. He lives in Tevinter and he's the son of a very prominent magister." Namine spoke just above a whisper.

"Is he helping the Inquisition?" Sora looked at her with a cocked eyebrow.

"Not….exactly." Namine responded.

She gripped the letter harder and her hands began to shake while she bit on her lower lip. It was just like her to ruin everything. Sora could likely understand everything now. It wasn't her place to tell about Naveen, and yet there they were. The Qun likely hadn't meant to see the letter, Namine hoped. Sora didn't seem to be the kind to snoop. Still, she hadn't told anyone about this yet and needed a chance to vent a little. The letters were coming more often and Naveen had been speaking more frankly of his heart in them. Whether that was sincere or flattery she had no idea. Namine quickly moved to the entrance. Before closing the solid door, she checked the hallway to see if anyone was coming.

"Hey, I didn't mean anything by it. Sorry, Namine." Sora pouted.

"No, please, it might be better this way." she wrung her hands together. "But anything we say can't leave this room."

"What's going on, Namine?"

"Promise me you won't laugh."

"On my honor as a Qunari"

Namine took a deep breath before sitting down and replacing the now crinkled up letter from Naveen. She wasn't looking at him, but instead at the hands she had neatly folded in her lap. Without realizing it, she was biting her lips again. Slowly, she looked up at Sora who was waiting patiently to hear what it was that she needed to get out of her system. Even if he couldn't tell Riku about the letter, he could at least assure his friend that Namine would be alright.

"Had you ever heard of the Montilyet family before you met me?"

"Well, not really, but I was also pretty busy doing jobs all over for the longest time." Sora shrugged. "Why?"

"Well, a long time ago, our family owned hundreds of naval ships. We protected merchants leaving and coming into Antivan waters. After a scandal, we lost nearly everything and had to settle being small scale Ferelden merchants. We get by, but I can tell my parents miss it." Namine explained. "Then when I was younger, I made some choices I'd rather not talk about before being invited to come join the inquisition."

"But…"

"But in all of this commotion trying to set my family up, I guess...I sort of lost who I am….and what I care for. Now there are important decisions to be made and I'm just expected to sit still and look pretty."

Sora nodded, understanding what it was she was trying to say. She continued on about how she had met Ava when she was younger and learned about the ways of the bard from her. Although Namine was slim on the details, she did mention how much of that training now helped her avoid having to pick up a weapon again. Still, all of that had come to naught, as she still had no leads as to where to find the contracts that would help regain their trade ability. There was a wistfulness that came from her voice; it wasn't about the trade at all, even though she hadn't said it straight out.

"I may not know what path will be best for you, but I do know this: you just keep on trying and you'll reach your goal."

"Do you really think so?" Namine asked.

"Of course!" Sora stood, placing a foot on the seat of his chair. "For the Inquisition!"

She looked at him with confusion. What on earth was he doing? Sora looked down at her in the hopes he could rally her to join him. When he looked down and saw that she didn't understand what he was doing, he held his hand out for her to pull him onto the chair next to him.

"For the Montilyets!"

He placed one foot from the chair to her table. She followed his lead and scrambled onto the table afterward. With more confidence, she repeated her own family name. There was something about Sora and his rallying cry that made her want to believe that she could restore the trade abilities before she would have to face her future.

"For Namine!" Sora raised a fist into the air.

She raised a fist as well, although she kept silent this time. A small smile played on her lips. Maybe there was hope after all. Odin would give up trying to marry off one of his daughters to Riku, and Namine would find a way for her family to trade again. There was hope, there was work to be done-

There were still papers covering her desk.

Subconsciously she had stepped back to get down from where she was standing. It was sort of silly how they were standing on the table, no matter how old and sturdy it might be. Besides, Sora never seemed to wear shirts, even into battle. Instead, he opted for the Qunari vitaar, which was a poison that was fatal if it touched anyone who hadn't been born into the Qun. He wasn't wearing any now, but Namine became aware of just how close they had been standing by the strong smell of the soap he applied to get it off afterward. He didn't want to risk Kairi touching it by accident.

It was the strangest thing. Somehow she felt like she had begun falling in slow motion. As she stepped back there had been a knock at the door. Something registered in her mind that someone had entered the room, and something dropped to the floor. She gave a yelp and closed her eyes, expecting to hit the floor.

But she never did.

Instead, the scent of firewood and smoke crossed her senses and she could feel a strong pair of arms around her, holding her up. She hadn't even fallen very far. When she opened her eyes, she saw the Inquisitor. Her cheeks went crimson and she looked back to Sora who was smirking like a cat.

"Did...I interrupt something?" Riku asked.

"No, not at all." Sora hopped off the table. He picked up the bouquet and turned around before taking a step out the door. "Saving these for anyone?"

"Actually, those are for Namine." Riku responded.

"Aww, what a kindly gesture. You'll have to let her go at some point if you want to give them to her. Unless you *wanted* to hold her this long. Here, I'll leave them here for you both to enjoy." Sora put them down and then headed down the hall a short distance so he could still hear what was happening.

Riku nearly dropped Namine upon hearing that, but after catching her again, he carefully let her down. She wasn't quite ready to stand on her own, so she placed a hand on his arm to steady herself.

So that was the result of so much violence. She thought, which caused her to only glow more red.

"H-here. Ava suggested I bring these over for you. They're from the greenhouse." Riku handed her the bouquet.

"Thank you. I-I'll have to send her my thanks as well."

There was silence for a moment.

"Is everything okay? Ava said you might get aggravated by that letter from Kirkwall." Riku inquired.

"Yeah, it was just another noble. With you being the leader of one of the most influential groups in Thedas**, it only makes sense that everyone wants you to marry their children, but I figured you'd want to focus on the rift for now."

He stared blankly at her as if he didn't quite understand what she had said. Namine looked away and bit her lip again. Maybe she should have just said something to him when she got the first letter. She had learned a lot from her past, but nothing like this was covered in her training. She wasn't sure if she even *should* be feeling anything in this particular moment.

"Namine I-"

Riku was interrupted when Kairi ran into the room, Sora attempting to stop her.

"I heard a scream. Is everything ok in here?"

"It's fine! Nothing going on!" Riku blushed.

"I was just trying to reach something and Riku caught my fall!"

Both spoke at the same time in a rushed voice that Kairi knew as being a lie, but with the way they were blushing and how Sora had been trying to stop her, she automatically understood what was going on to some extent. When she smirked the same way Sora had only a short time ago, the Inquisitor and the ambassador looked to realize that she hadn't let go of his arm since he put her down. Quickly they slid apart, blush laying heavily on their cheeks.

"Sure, sure." Kairi chuckled, now dragging Sora out of the room.

When they had closed the door behind them and walked a short way away, Kairi slipped her hand into Sora's.

"Let's sweeten the pot on our bet, shall we? An extra fifty gold goes to the winner if they get together before the empress's ball at the Winter Palace."

"My dear," Sora smiled as he squeezed her hand "I think you have a deal."

Okay, notes time!

So if you saw my picture for Sokai week, you'll have an idea of what Sora is supposed to look like. For those who haven't played Dragon Age, the Qun or Qunari is both a type of people who are born with horns on their heads (with a few very rare exceptions) and the religious lifestyle they lead. They're super interesting and I love learning about them.

Sora's chargers are his best friends/band of fighters. In this particular au it consists of Mulan, Noctis and the Chocobros.

The Chantry is the major church of the world, and it kind of controls the templars who keep the mages from letting demons possess them. Long story short, a lot of people have lost confidence in the Chantry in telling them the truth and doing the right thing.

For those of you who have played Dragon Age Origins, the 'swooping is bad' line should be very familiar to you. I laugh so hard at it with every playthrough that I was practically contractually obligated to include it.

Can't say too much about the book getting smuggled out of Kirkwall, as that goes into spoiler territory. But just know that the Qun tried asking for their book back and someone ended up dead. (in canon. Not sure what I'll be doing in the au yet, haha)

Thedas is the name for the world in Dragon Age.

#rikunami week 2020 #rikunami #namiku #Dragon Age #Inquisition #Josephine #SoKai

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dawnrider · 5 years

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Inuvember Day 4 - Inufamily

So this AU one-shot has been sitting around a long time with no hope for seeing the light of day. So here it is! Mild language, because Inuyasha’s mouth.

“This just... isn't working. I'm sorry.” Inside his heart broke as he watched her try to remain stoic even as he scented her despair. “You'll find someone...” She held up a hand and he almost bit his tongue to stop himself. She was right. What kind of asshole was he to break up with her and then offer her platitudes as if she should be pitied? “I'm sorry,” he repeated instead. The thing was, he really was sorry, even sorrier when he stared after her as she walked away. A large part of him tugged at him to go after her, to take it back, to tell her he didn't mean it. But he knew it was the right thing to do, for her. She deserved so much better than he could ever hope to offer her and so he let her go. Kagome didn't care about what was best for her, so he had to do it for her and keep her away from him. Inuyasha swallowed back tears, something he hadn't done since he was little, as he realized how much pain he was causing them both. Necessary pain, but pain all the same.

“Have a better life, Kagome,” he whispered aloud as he watched her car pull away.

The beer in front of him tasted stale at best. No fault of the brewer or the bartender. His tongue barely noticed anything these days, his whole world feeling flat and tasteless. “Man, my one night out this month and you're totally ruining it.” Inuyasha lifted his head to look over at his long-time friend. Miroku was teasing him, but it still made him feel guilty. “What is your deal anyway?” he asked more seriously.

“Nothing. Sorry. You're supposed to be living it up.”

“As much as a married man with three kids can live it up!” Miroku laughed, raising his glass in a toast to his wife and their beautiful children. Inuyasha shook his head with a wry smile. His best friend was living the good life these days. Sango had agreed to marry him about seven years before and they had gorgeous four-year-old twin girls and a son who was just under a year. Money was a little tight sometimes, but they made it work. Part of that included each one getting a night off to be away from the house and all the responsibilities. They hired a babysitter to help whoever stayed home and the other one got to go out for the night. Miroku took his “Day Off” very seriously and Inuyasha grinned a little that he was the one Miroku always chose to go out with. He knew his attitude wasn't always the best, but they still managed to have a good time. “What has you mopier than usual?”

“Hey,” Inuyasha protested. Miroku's raised eyebrow was all the apology he was likely to get. After a moment of staring into his glass again, Inuyasha let out a small sigh. “Does Sango still keep in touch with Kagome?” Miroku was unable to stop the other eyebrow from lifting to meet its partner in surprise. His friend had turned his back on the lovely Kagome about four years before and hadn't had any contact with her since. Mostly by his own choice, and partially because Miroku had promised not to bring it up, Inuyasha had not really told him what happened.

“I think so,” Miroku replied after a moment to collect himself.

“You're lying,” Inuyasha responded, almost offhandedly. Miroku rolled his eyes. Having a friend with an innate ability for lie-detection made things like this difficult. “Do you... do you know where I could find her?”

“No,” Miroku replied too quickly.

Inuyasha swallowed a growl. “Miroku...”

“The answer is still no. Even if I knew where she lived, which I'm not saying I do, I don't think it would be wise to seek her out now.”

Startled by his friend's vehement reaction, Inuyasha frowned. “If she's with someone else...” Miroku let out an overly dramatic sigh and threw up his hands in frustration.

“Don't you think it's a little late now to try and patch things up? Even if she isn't with someone, she's probably moved on with her life.”

While the thought had obviously crossed his mind many times, Inuyasha wasn't completely ready to dismiss the possibility that Kagome might still have feelings for him... might still give him a second chance. He was taken aback that Miroku seemed so adamant about him staying away from her. He knew he'd hurt her, he knew he'd completely screwed up, but had he done that much damage by ending it? “I just want a chance to see her again, talk to her.” His head drooped slightly. “Look, I know I fucked up big time. I ruined our relationship and my life because I was a coward.”

“She doesn't need any more heartache from you, Yash.” Miroku sighed more deeply and settled down on his elbows on the bar. He knew what a huge confession it was on Inuyasha's part to admit he was afraid. Maybe he did deserve a second chance, if only to talk to her. Even as he wrote down the address on the napkin, Miroku knew he was going to be working his way up just to get in the doghouse let alone regain the privilege of sleeping in his own bedroom for a while. “Do not mess this up. Sango's going to have my head as it is, if you mess it up too then I'm a dead man.”

“You're worrying over nothing, man,” Inuyasha brushed off his concern with a wave of his hand and a sparkle in his eyes that hadn't been there in a long time.

“I wish that were true,” Miroku mumbled.

The house was ordinary enough, nothing overtly threatening about it. Still Inuyasha hesitated outside for a long time. He couldn't really hear what was going on inside, but he knew she was home. That alone scared him more than it should. When he finally worked up the nerve to ring the doorbell, he almost made a run for it before the door could open. The lock snicked and the door opened, his feet stayed glued to the step and his breath froze in his lungs. There she was, more beautiful than ever and staring at him as though looking at a ghost. Her mouth dropped open after a moment as she obviously tried to come up with something to say.

“Kagome,” he breathed, unable to hide the longing in his voice.

“Mama, who is it?” a young voice called, accompanied by the sound of quickly padding feet. A young boy, no older than five, came to a skidding halt beside Kagome, wide golden eyes staring at the stranger at the door. His little nose wrinkled and he frowned, clearly confused. “Who're you?”

“Riku, go back to the living room please,” Kagome finally said. The boy opened his mouth to protest but she stalled him with a gentle hand. “Please baby, just go.” He looked reluctant, but went, dragging his feet the whole way. Kagome took several calming breaths before looking back at her unexpected guest. “I... What are you doing here?”

Inuyasha's eyes snapped to hers, finally able to pull them away from the child. Kagome had a child. Miroku didn't tell him there was someone in her life, let alone a kid. “Maybe I shouldn't have come. I didn't know you were...” Kagome frowned at him and he could easily sense her disappointment even through her pain at seeing him again. “I just thought that maybe...”

Showing that her ability to read him had not dissipated in four years, Kagome shifted her weight. “No, I'm not married and I'm not sure what you thought you were going to find here. I'm sorry if it surprised you.”

“How old is he?” he asked weakly.

“Three and half!” Both adults jumped at the little voice's interjection and the four pudgy little fingers thrust in between them, one bent slightly to represent the half. Inuyasha stared. “Mama, you mell tad. Is the 'tanger makin' you tad?” The little boy stared at him in turn, a tiny growl rolling in his tiny chest. Even though he told himself it was impossible, Inuyasha couldn't help looking for and finding similarities to his own features. His little almond-shaped eyes were all Kagome, but the color was too close to his own unusual golden amber to be a coincidence. His little nose, twitching slightly now and then, was a scale model of his own slightly upturned nose. Though it was cut much shorter, even his hair swept across his forehead in the same way Inuyasha's did. “Mama?”

“Don't worry baby, I'm fine, I promise.”

“You taid lyin' is bad,” he said with a frown on his perfect little features.

Inuyasha braced his hand against the door frame as a swoon nearly took him. This child, this little boy, was his son. There was suddenly no doubt in his mind. His eyes shot back to Kagome's, searching for the confirmation he needed. Tears clung to her lashes and she knelt down to scoop her son into a hug as a way to avoid Inuyasha's questioning gaze. “I know baby. I'm sorry.” She lifted him against her as she stood and eyed Inuyasha balefully. “You might as well come in,” she said quietly. He wasn't surprised when she turned away, hurrying toward what he assumed was the living room. He followed, giving her the space to calm herself even as he fought to lower his own heart rate.

A son. He... They had a son! Inuyasha stood in the doorway to Kagome's modest living room, watching her try to distract Riku with a video. He felt his breath catch at the way she seemed to so effortlessly handle the young boy's protests with firm affection. “But Mama...” She gently hushed him and gave him a choice of movie so he at least felt he had some control. “Just in the tichen, right Mama? You promised.”

“We'll just be in the kitchen, I promise.” Kagome got him settled before motioning for Inuyasha to follow her into the other room. Tempted to just sit and take in his son, he hesitated for a moment before following after her. “Make sure you keep your voice down. He has very good hearing,” she explained with a pointed look, leaning against the counter with her arms in a defensive posture across her stomach. Inuyasha knew he was caught. The one thing he had been trying to protect her from, hide from her, and she knew the truth without question.

“His sense of smell is pretty good already,” he replied softly. “Kagome... Why didn't you tell me?” he breathed, lifting pained eyes to hers.

Biting her lip, Kagome seemed to think over her answer. “You'd made your choice. I didn't want to burden you with a relationship you didn't want.”

“That's not the way it was, Kagome...”

“No?” she hissed, “Why didn't you tell me?”

Inuyasha cringed. She had him there. The whole reason they were in this position was because he couldn't tell her the truth about himself, a truth she'd learned on her own and the hard way it seemed. He still wasn't sure if he hadn't trusted her enough or if he truly thought he was protecting her. “No one knows except Miroku and Sango. It's dangerous for anyone to know what I am.”

“You think? It would have been nice to know while I raised my child. He smells emotions, can hear things he shouldn't and he's far stronger than any three-year-old should be.”

“But he's human,” Inuyasha protested.

Kagome shook her head in frustration. “He may look like it, but he's definitely not.” Sighing to release the tension in her shoulders, she looked him over again. “Why are you here?”

He'd avoided the question before, distracted by Riku, but now it was just him and Kagome. “I've been thinking a lot about... us. I really messed things up,” he admitted in a soft whisper. “We were getting too serious too fast and I knew I was going to have to tell you the truth. But I... I was...” He gulped down his words and stared at her. “I was afraid. I was afraid you'd...”

“That I'd reject you,” Kagome finished blandly. She stared at him in analytical silence for a while and he struggled not to fidget under her scrutiny. “Maybe we didn't really know each other as well as we thought.”

“I didn't give us the chance,” he admitted softly. Kagome's scent told him she was losing her anger toward him. He glanced behind him toward the little boy on the living room floor, avidly watching a cartoon movie. “He doesn't know not to tell people he can smell things.”

“I managed to get a diagnosis of synaesthesia,” she explained with a sigh. When Inuyasha turned to her with a confused frown, his head tilted slightly, she smiled a little. The gesture was so familiar to her it almost hurt. Not only did she recognize it from her time with him, but Riku did the same thing without ever having met his father. “It's a neurological thing where senses are wired differently. People 'see' music as colors, smell sounds, things like that.” The concern that flooded his face before he could stop it melted her heart a little. “People who have it lead normal lives. He doesn't actually have it,” she reassured him a moment later, “it was just the easiest way to explain why his hearing was so sensitive and he says he smells emotions.”

“That was smart.” Kagome shot him a dry look. “Hey, my parents just kept me at home all the time so I couldn't give myself away. Course, I didn't look like him.” He turned to stare at his son once more. “He's perfect.”

Kagome held back an emotional sob. Obviously she thought Riku was perfect, she was just a little startled that Inuyasha thought so too. Her mind went back over what he'd said and realized he'd admitted to more about himself and his family in one utterance than he had in the year and a half they'd been seeing each other. Why couldn't he have been this honest with her then?

“You knew when I ended things,” he said, still watching their son as he repeated words to the television. Riku laughed at something silly and the sound clenched his heart. Even his little laugh seemed perfect to him.

“Yes,” she breathed, swallowing her tears.

Inuyasha's head drooped slightly. “I would have told you the truth if I'd known. I'm sorry...”

“We manage ok,” she was quick to assure him. He turned back to her, taking in her facial expression and the way she held herself. Clearly they were doing ok, but he could tell she wanted to say more and refused to do so. “I'm glad you know.”

He bit his lip and glanced at where their son was glued to the screen. He made a slight motion with his head and moved further into the kitchen. “I should have shown you this a long time ago.” Kagome watched him with wide eyes as he reached into the collar of his shirt, pulling out the beaded necklace he'd worn as long as she'd known him. Even when they'd been intimate, he'd never taken it off. He took it off now and Kagome could barely contain a gasp as he changed right before her eyes. His hair, which was cut short and a little shaggy, had gone completely silver. It took her a moment of staring before she realized that his ears were gone, replaced by a pair of white twitching fur-covered ears on top of his head. When it was clear that she'd looked her fill, Inuyasha replaced the necklace. Kagome couldn't help noticing how he winced as his familiar features returned.

“It... it makes you human?” she breathed. He nodded. “Does... Does it hurt?”

“Pinches a little. I'm used to it at this point.” He sighed. “That's what I don't understand. As long as I'm wearing this, I'm as human as you are.” At Kagome's frown he realized she didn't understand what he was getting at. “Riku should be completely human too.”

Kagome shook her head a little. “But you have all your senses, even now. Maybe it's only your appearance that is affected. Didn't whoever made that thing for you explain how to use it?” she asked in slight wonder. She was startled when Inuyasha sat abruptly on the stool at the counter. She stepped to him without thinking about it, taking his slightly pale face between her hands. “What's wrong? You look like you've seen a ghost.”

“I... I didn't start wearing it until after my parents died. They had it made for me, but no one told me how it works. My senses are muted, but I still have them.” He took a shuddering breath. “I just assumed that most people's senses of hearing and smell were almost as good as mine are right now.” The realization that his concealment charm didn't do quite what he'd always thought was heavy, but more startling was the feel of Kagome's soft hands on his face. She hadn't touched him in years. Having her touch him now affected him far more than it should have. As if she suddenly noticed what she was doing, she pulled her hands back and curled them into fists at her sides. Inuyasha instantly missed the soothing warmth of her skin against his.

“If they're even remotely like Riku's, they're way better than mine. Even when I was pregnant and...” Inuyasha looked up at her sharply, the curiosity in his eyes penetrating. Kagome mentally smacked herself in the head for even mentioning her pregnancy.

Inuyasha wasn't about to let it drop. “And what?”

Kagome sighed heavily, sinking into a chair. “I thought it was just the hormones. They always say that you're more sensitive to smells. But I was more sensitive to them than was strictly possible. I could hear things going on in the neighbor's, whole phrases when I could only hear murmurs of sound before.” She glanced at him a moment. “After Riku was born, I was back to normal.”

Another giggle caught their attention and they both stared toward the living room in silence for a moment. “What did you tell him? About m... about his father.” Inuyasha swallowed his fear of her answer, needing to know what he was up against and yet not sure he was ready to hear it.

Kagome sighed. “Luckily he's young enough that he's not really aware that he's different from other kids. He knows he has to be careful around them so he doesn't hurt anyone...”

“You're avoiding the question, Kagome,” he interrupted.

“He only asked once when he could bring a daddy home. I don't think he understands the concept yet. He thinks a father is kind of like a pet.” Neither one of them could help the slight smiles on their lips at the thought. “I hadn't figured out what I would tell him when he's older.”

“Would you have told him about me... if I hadn't shown up?” He didn't want to give her the option not to tell his son who his father was. At least now Riku had seen him, would have a reference when Kagome told him his father had abandoned her. Inuyasha hated himself a little more.

“I don't know. Probably.”

“Mama? Tan he pay bocks?” They both gasped, neither one having heard Riku come in. Kagome glanced at her son and then Inuyasha, wondering how much the little boy had heard and understood.

“You should ask...” Kagome realized she didn't know if she could tell his own son his father's full name. She realized then that she was the only one she knew who used his full name. He had told her he didn't like it much and that the shorter nickname “Yash” suited him better. Now that she thought about it more, knowing what she did, he had made it seem like he was telling her a big secret, then trying to make it seem like an unimportant factoid. “Inuyasha. You should ask Inuyasha if he would like to play blocks with you.” Inuyasha glanced at her with such a pleased look, Kagome had to swallow back tears. She watched him turn to his son and address him for the first time.

“What are we going to do with the blocks?” he asked gently, scooting off his stool and crouching down to be at Riku's eye level. The three-year-old eyed him warily, glancing occasionally at his mother and sniffing in Inuyasha's direction.

“You mell like me, not like Mama does.”

Looking for help, Inuyasha was happy to have Kagome kneel down beside him. “Inuyasha smells like you and I smell like you, but we don't smell like each other,” she clarified, wanting to make sure both of them understood. Riku nodded. “And I smell like you because...”

“You're my mama and you love me.” Inuyasha bit his lip at the memorized response. Would Kagome use the boy's understanding of scents to introduce him as his father or simply brush over it? “But In-yata can't be a mama, he's a boy.” Kagome stifled a laugh at that, her hand coming up to cover her smile.

“You're right. Do you remember that sometimes little boys have a mama and a daddy?” she said, seriousness returning. Riku nodded, his golden eyes flicking to where Inuyasha remained crouched, holding his breath. “Well Inuyasha smells like you because he's your daddy, Riku.”

Riku's little nose twitched and his eyes narrowed as he took in Inuyasha's features. The older of the two released the breath he had been holding before sliding one hand into his shirt to pull the necklace back over his head. He stifled the wince and stared back into the tiny face that so resembled his own. The little boy's eyes grew wide and his little jaw dropped open. “Mama, tan we teep him?!” Inuyasha blinked a few times before sitting roughly on the floor. Not exactly the reaction he had hoped for. Kagome was desperately trying not to laugh and Riku was staring at her in complete seriousness.

"Mama, not funny!" the toddler scolded her, little arms crossing over his tiny chest.

“I’m not laughing at you, baby,” she soothed him. “I don’t think Inuyasha wants to be kept.” Her scent turned sad and both Riku and Inuyasha’s golden eyes focused on her sharply, the same concerned frown on their faces. The power of their combined stare was too much and she had to look away, shame at her runaway emotions filling her.

“I could be convinced,” the adult hanyou whispered. Kagome turned to look at him, her brown eyes startled and wide. “Riku, do you know what a dad is?” The little boy’s slightly confused look told him he wasn’t sure and that he knew the answer he had in his head wasn’t what everyone else meant when they used the term. “A dad is just like a mom. He protects and feeds his family, makes sure they have the things they need.” Riku frowned a little, looking at his mother for confirmation.

“But Mama taid you’re my daddy. You didn’t do dat.”

Kagome jumped in before he could. “Honey, Inuyasha didn’t know about you until today. That was mommy’s fault. She didn’t tell the truth.”

“You taid lyin' is bad,” he reminded her again.

“You’re right, I did. Sometimes grownups aren’t as honest as they should be.” She and Inuyasha shared a look. Both of them were guilty of that and they both knew it.

“Your mom and I need to talk about that, ok? Can you go back to watching your movie?” The toddler seemed to sense the seriousness of the request and nodded. “Sorry…”

“He almost never listens to anyone else.” Inuyasha smiled a little, glancing after his son. “Inuyasha, don’t feel like you have to… give us anything. I chose not to tell you because I didn’t want to burden you.”

The inuhanyou flinched. “Burden me? Kagome,” he breathed, reaching out and taking her hands, “This would never have been a burden. You and Riku would never have been a burden.” Inuyasha could see the skepticism in her eyes. He moved from his crouch to his knees, bringing himself closer so he could whisper. “The nights we had together were some of the most amazing moments I’ve ever had Kagome.” She blushed and he struggled to clarify. “Not just because of that. You accepted me, even if you didn’t know it. I… I’m still what I am, I guess, and you responded to me as any inuyoukai’s mate would. I finally realized that you would want to know why I bit you, if I had, and I had to stop our relationship before it got to that point.”

“Bit me?”

“To create the mating bond.” He let go of one of her hands to gently smooth his thumb over the soft skin above her collarbone. “Inuyoukai mark their mates with a bite that becomes a symbol of the couple. It initiates an exchange of energy, so that the couple’s lives are intertwined.” Her mouth dropped open in a faint gasp. "I thought what we had was already more than I could ever have hoped for. I... I was afraid to hope for more."

"You would have wanted that... With me?" she breathed.

Inuyasha let out a rough breath. "Only you. You're the only one the thought even entered my head with." Slowly, he pulled her closer, gathering her into his arms. "Let me start over. Let me prove to you and Riku that I can be a proper mate, a proper father." Kagome could only sob out a breath at first. “Please. Give us a chance to be a family.”

“Inuyasha…” She couldn’t help the tears trailing down her cheeks as she looked into the golden eyes of the man she had loved even when he told her to leave. Even when she struggled through carrying and birthing his child without him. Part of her heart had always kept a candle burning for him. Having him find her and beg for her forgiveness was more than she had hoped for, but to have him want to be a part of her and Riku’s life, to be a family?

As she struggled not to sob, Riku crawled into her lap and nuzzled himself into her chest with Inuyasha still holding her shoulders. The pair of them started making a soft whimpering noise at her distress. Kagome wrapped her arms around her sweet boy and finally let Inuyasha curl his arms completely around her. A small nod against his chest was her answer. She swore she felt him release a breath only to gasp a sob of his own. “Ok. Ok, Kagome. Yea. We can do this.”

“Yea,” she replied, squeezing Riku tighter.

“Mama. I tan’t breathe!” the three-year-old complained, pushing them apart. His parents laugh through the tears they tried to wipe away. It wouldn’t be easy, but they could do this. They could be a family.

#inuvember #Dawnrider fanfiction #inuyasha fanfiction #Inuvember day 4 #Inufamily

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maddrmatt · 4 years

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Kairi’s Epic Journey: The Quest for Sora

New to this fanfic? Click here to properly begin!

Chapter 3: A Talk with Mom

Destiny Islands

It was past sunset when Kairi and Pluto entered her home. The dog wandered off into the house while she took off her shoes and headed for the stairs. All she wanted to do was spend the rest of the evening in her room before going to sleep.

She was halfway up the stairs when she suddenly heard, “You missed dinner again, Kairi.”

‘Rats!’ thought Kairi as she turned and saw a blonde-haired woman with brown eyes and wearing glasses, a green shirt and skirt standing with her arms crossed in front of her. It was her adoptive mother Dorothy.

“Sorry, Mom. I guess I lost track of time.”

“You’ve been doing that a lot lately. Your father and I would like to see you at meals once in a while especially on days that he doesn’t have to work late at the office,” said Dorothy.

“Is he still up?” asked Kairi.

“No, he went to bed. He has wake up early to travel tomorrow to the north side to oversee a few projects. He would’ve really liked to see you before he left.”

“Again, I’m sorry and I’ll apologize to Dad when he comes home. But right now, I really just want to go to my room,” said Kairi as she began to ascend the stairs.

“Oh no you don’t, young lady. You need to eat something. Besides, you need to feed Pluto as well,” said Dorothy indicating with a nod of her head to Pluto who come alongside her with his dog bowl in his mouth.

“Oh. I’m sorry, Pluto. I’ll get your food right away,” said Kairi as she headed down the stairs, took the dog bowl from Pluto and headed toward the kitchen.

________________________________________________________________

“There you go, Pluto. Eat up,” said Kairi as she put the dog bowl, which was now filled with dog food in front of her canine companion. Pluto eagerly dug in.

With the dog fed, Kairi headed to the kitchen table where a bowl of soup was waiting for her. Her mother sat across from her as she began to eat.

“So, what were you doing this afternoon on the Play Island?” asked Dorothy.

“Oh. I was just finishing up a little art project I’ve been working on throughout the month.”

“An art project, you say. Well, it’s good to hear that you’ve been keeping yourself busy. You’ve been spending so much time over there. What is the project anyway?”

“It’s kind of personal so I’d rather not say,” said Kairi. ‘She’d probably worry more if she knew that I was carving and painting a picture of me and Sora.’

“Well, as long as you’re doing something other than just sitting around there, that’s good,” said Dorothy before she realized something. “Oh! It’s the end of the month. Don’t you usually send out a letter to Sora?”

Kairi suddenly dropped her spoon. A morose look came over her face. Dorothy became concerned.

“Kairi? Did I say something wrong?”

“I didn’t send out a letter at all, Mom.”

Dorothy looked surprised. “That’s unusual. Why not?”

“I don’t know. I must’ve sat there for at least a half hour with the pen in my hand and the paper in front of me. But I couldn’t write anything down and I’ve never been unable to do that before.”

‘Then again, aside from completing the picture, there really hasn’t been anything worth writing about this month. What would Sora think if I told him that Riku and the others had given up on finding him?’

Dorothy rose from her chair and walked over to the other side of the table. Sitting down in a chair next to her daughter, she put her hand on her shoulder and said, “Kairi, you know your father and I have supported this letter writing because we know what it means to you. So, I know what I’m about to say may not be what you want to hear. But don’t you think the reason you couldn’t write anything to write to him this time may be a sign that you’re starting to accept that he’s not coming back?”

Kairi almost burst out with rage. But not wanting to start an argument with her mother, she restrained herself and let her continue.

“I know you’ve kept hoping that he’ll come back, and I know you don’t want to accept a world where he’s not in it. Believe me, no one here does not even your father and me. It doesn’t seem right to not see you, Sora and Riku together like before. But as hard as it is, we all need to adjust no matter how much it hurts to. Even Jones and Hayley have to, and heaven only knows how much they’re hurting from the loss of their son.”

‘I can’t lose that hope, Mom. If I do, I don’t know what I’ll do.’

“We all still can hardly believe what you kids have been through over the past few years since that big storm. If you never showed us those Keyblades of yours and hadn’t introduced King Mickey and his friends to us, we probably would have never believed you. I can’t even believe that you were actually dead for a time. But I’ll always be grateful to Sora for bringing you back even if it cost him more than he anticipated.”

‘It wouldn’t have happened if I had been better and stronger. And then Sora wouldn’t have had to sacrifice himself again for me.’

“It’s just not fair, Mom. Sora did so much for so many people throughout the worlds. The worlds probably wouldn’t even be still standing if it weren’t for him. Doesn’t he deserve a happy ending of his own?” asked Kairi who on the verge of crying again.

“Yes, I think of all people, he did. I know you were hoping for so much with him, Kairi. When you told your father and me that you shared a paopu fruit with him, we were overjoyed because we always knew there was something special between you two that would have grown into something wonderful. But the sad truth is that we rarely get what we deserve.”

“That’s certainly true. From what the others told me, after all the pain and suffering he caused, Xehanort’s ultimate fate was to journey to the afterlife alongside Master Eraqus, his best friend who he murdered. Why did he get a kind of a happy ending when we didn’t?” thought Kairi bitterly as she recalled the man who had scarred her in so many ways.

“All you can do now, Kairi, is make the most of the second chance that Sora gave you. He wouldn’t want you to spend the rest of your life miserable.”

‘No. He’d want me to spend the rest of my life with him.’

“Time heals all wounds, Sweetie. You just have to let it. Now you just finish up your soup and then get yourself to bed.”

“Yes, Mom.”

Dorothy then got up and left the kitchen. Kairi just sat at the table staring at her dinner. She wasn’t feeling very hungry anymore.

________________________________________________________________

(Mood Music: Wherever You Are (End Title) by Barry Coffing and Vonda Shepard from Pooh’s Grand Adventure: The Search for Christopher Robin)

Much later, after showering and dressing in her nightgown, Kairi sat on the window box in her room. Pluto was laying down with his head in her lap as she scratched it while gazing out at the starry night.

Despite what her mother had said, Kairi often tried to delay going to sleep as much as she could. This was due to the fact that whenever she let sleep take her, the nightmares would come, and they would always have the same theme.

In all of her dreams, she and Sora would often be doing something together in one of the many worlds he had visited. They would be competing in the games at the Olympus Coliseum, swinging and sliding through the trees of the Deep Jungle or soaring through the skies of Neverland. They would be happy right before he would just vanish and leave her all alone in her sadness.

‘As bad as they all are, they were nothing compared to the first one. The one where we were all celebrating on the Play Island and Sora and I were watching the sunset hand-in-hand. He looked so happy and I was so relieved that we had made it that I cried. Then he just faded away.’

Looking out at the stars, Kairi thought about Sora’s other friends throughout the worlds. She thought of Rapunzel, Hercules, Jack Skellington, Aladdin, Ariel, Simba, Big Hero 6, Jack Sparrow, Mulan, Tarzan and everyone else and how blissfully unaware that a good friend of theirs was gone.

‘I wonder what they would think if they knew. Would they believe that he could be saved? Or would they think he’s gone for good?’

Pluto let out a whimper. She met his sympathetic gaze.

“Oh Pluto. I know Mom means well. But she doesn’t understand that finding Sora is the only way I can make it up to him. Of course, she doesn’t know that I blame myself. I wonder if Riku and the others knew that, would they have reconsidered giving up?”

Pluto just looked at her with an unsure look. Clearly, he didn’t have the answer.

Kairi let out a deep sigh. “I don’t know what to believe anymore, Pluto. Maybe Mom’s right. Maybe I finally am starting to accept that Sora’s gone.”

She then let out a sob. ‘But I can’t! I just can’t! Because if I do, then I’ll never see him again, I’ll never be free of the guilt and I’ll have wrecked things with my friends all for nothing!’

But on some level, Kairi knew that her hope was at an all time low. Her inability to write a letter was proof of that.

Kairi wiped away her tears. “Come on. Let’s go to bed. It looks like my dreams are the only way to see him now even if they all end badly. But it’s better than nothing.”

Pluto leapt off Kairi’s lap as she rose up and walked to her bed. Sadly, she climbed in and pulled the covers up to her chin. Pluto climbed up the foot of the bed and curled up in his usual spot.

With one final sniffle, Kairi finally allowed sleep to take her. As she drifted off, she wondered what dream would haunt her in the midst of her diminishing hope and increasing guilt.

________________________________________________________________

Onto the next chapter!

#kingdom hearts #kh fanfiction #sokai #kairi #pluto #kairi's mother #maddrmatt

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got2ghost-archive · 4 years

Text

ten ships and why!! I was tagged by @alienfuckeronmain AHH THANK U I LOVE TALKING ABT THIS SHIT

Half of my list is childhood best friends to lovers let's GOOOO

1. drarry

*deep shuddering inhale* I have thought abt draco and harry being foils before I even reached double digits. they could have saved each other and had so much potential to even just be FRIENDS!! if j*r wasn't like that, then she could have actually made a meaningful impact on draco early on. abt how you don't have to be your parents! and how to heal!! anyway I love them any way shape or form. I love reading dark gritty fucked up stories about them just as much as I love reading domestic silly fluffy stuff for them. draco would NOT put up with harry's bullshit and harry would NOT go easy on draco either but they're ultimately just two lonely boys who grew up in fucked up households who have much more in common than they realize!!! LIKE!!

2. wangxian

yes they're a new one but God their love extends so deeply. yes they r basically Chinese fantasy Kirk/spock!!

lan zhan is so in love w wei ying and is so devoted and everything he does is action or acts of service which js very much my love language!! but he also feels a deep sense of obligation to the rules and codes he's learned?? and wei ying loves lan zhan but it takes him a long time to accept it bc he DOESNT BELIEVE HE IS DESERVIG OF LOVE despite being so GOOD. AND THEY NEVER TALK TO EACH OTHER OR COMMUNICATE THEY WAY THEY SHOULD!!!! AND HE DIES and LAN ZHAN IS JUST. REPENTENT FOR 16 YEARS AND RAISES HIS SON AND IS SO INCREDIBLY SAD AND MISERABLE BUT THEN WWX comes BACK TO LIFE and they get to try again AND THEY GET TO BE HAPPY???? ANYWAY ACTS OF DEVOTION I!!!!

3. soriku

I've genuinely thought abt them since I was TEN when the first kingdom hearts game came out but it didn't solidify until KH2 came out when sora has to search for riku the entire game and when he finally does RIKU DOESNT EVEN LOOK LIKE HIMSELF BUT SORA STILL RECOGNIZES HIM ANYWAY AND HOLDS HIS HAND AND CRIES. THAT SHIT MADE ME GAY! I had never witnessed such tenderness and they are so inherently queer and subtle that it's one of the first stories I ever saw myself in. on top of that I also read that doujinshi that I consider Canon and it's so!! childhood best friends! with big complicated feelings of jealousy and betrayal and possessiveness when you start to grow apart from the person you care about the most!! and in game they're slowly... circling to become end game? the entire story revolves around them saving each other and RIKU LITERALLY CALLING SORA HIS MOST PRECIOUS PERSON? AHHHHHH

4. sterek

I will never forgive what the show did but the Fandom and the writing from that fandom is incredibly important to me. they're like my comfort pairing and I just love that Derek is sad and grumpy but it's because he's fucked up and needs to go to therapy and stiles is also kind of fucked up but happier and he's smart and beautiful and!!! they were obviously attracted to each other!! almost all of their stories involve CONSENT or Derek hale getting better slowly. they mean a lot to me bc my mom was dying while I clung to this fandom and wrote my grief fic and I always associate them with that time in my life. I could and did read like 30 stories abt Derek doing laundry and buying wooden spoons and trying to move on and be a healthier happier person.

5. taagnus

rarely have rare pairs but this is one of them and!!! look. I didn't ship them until the last two arcs of the show revealed that instead of only knowing each other for a few years and being idiots they in fact knew each other for 100 years+ and DIED A LOT together and saved each other. BUT COULDN'T REMEMBER IT YET THEY STILL KIND OF... FALL IN LOVE AGAIN? they balance each other so much. magnus is magnus - brave and GOOD. taako is so closed off, careful abt trusting people so when he acted on gut instinct to LITERALLY THROW HIS SOUL OUT OF HIS BODY TO SAVE MAGNUS I was hooked. I know that taako ends up w kravitz but bc we didn't get to see Krav much I couldn't grow attached to him? I love the thought of first love and exploring that - how it never goes away, really but you can still love other people!! plus! I love writing them as lesbians! they're butch/femme to me!

6. ruth/debbie

UGH. UGH!!!!! they're so obsessed with each other and it's so filled with repression and anger and betrayal thst has nothing to do with Ruth fucking her husband and everything to do with the trust of their friendship. it's such a complicated weird fucked up intense 'friendship' that I love to see and like!! sometimes my friendships w women FELT like that. the times I have felt the most hurt is when I lose a friend bc a part of me is in love w them in some way!! Ruth and Debbie are just. in love. though. and Ruth is never gonna admit it and she's gonna... be in a comp het relationship even tho she thinks Debbie is smart and sexy and she idolizes her GOD.

7. gene/finny

YES MOST OF MY PAIRINGS ARE SAD WHAT OF IT? I read this book as a sophomore in hs and I simply could not stop thinking abt how gay and in love they were. FIRST OF ALL THE metaphors!!!!!! gene as winter and finny as summer!! and how codependent and weird they were even tho finny KNEW gene broke his leg. he didn't want to believe it bc he WAS IN LOVE WITH HIM. THEY WENT ON A DATE TO THE BEACH? THE PINK SHIRT? finny being the embodiment of childhood innocence and Gene literally breaking that? and killing it? once again I just love reading abt how complex jealousy is and where it comes from and also REPRESSION!!!

8. forrden

yes I'm including my own OC with @dosalesbian

I wrote abt them for FOUR YEARS. they're childhood best friends who fall in love and marry and are in love no matter what universe and are so soft and tender and healing. forrest goes thru a lot of gender exploration and aiden is just the partner I want to be!! he's goofy and LOVES HER SO MUCH AND SUPPORTS HER SO MUCH GOD!!!!

9. kuroken

they r a new one and yes once again childhood best friends but in a FUN NEW WAY that I want to explore. kenma is like disinterested in most things except gaming and whatever kuroo wants to do and has a hard time socializing bc he's SHY and is too observant! and kuroo is big and dumb and passionate but was also a stupid anxious child. I think they're those friends who are dating but don't even know they're dating or their relationship is so indescribable to themselves and others that it's hard to take any step forward or backward bc theyre SO codependent and yes. I want to explore that and read abt them more.

10. don't look at me yes im putting ryden on here

THEY WERE IN LOVE BUT COULDNT ADMIT IT AND THEN BRENDON WROTE 3 BREAKUP ALBUMS ABT RYAN? AND RYAN RELEASED A SONG THE SAME WEEK BRENDON GOT MARRIED? they're never gonna be friends again bc they can't just be friends

okay!! I tag @scottspack @dosalesbian @pattern-pals hehe

#about me

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princekirijo · 3 years

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Yo I just going through some of your Riku stuff and found those asks about Rumi being a Kirijo and then I started thinking: in that combined au thing with your Riku one and Rui's Takuto and Ren one, how the hell would Riku react to the whole Maruki situation? Like I dunno if you've read Rui's Buried Memories series but Maruki's clearly gone off the deep end and is really protective of his son. Like Riku would know this dude as his I guess uncle? In this au so I feel like he'd be like "I understand how you feel... But bro chill the fuck out"

OK ANON I AM VIBRATING AT THE SPEED OF LIGHT HERE WE GO

It gets quite long my bad infodumping got the better of me again 💀 and ofc quick warning there's a lot of persona 5 royal spoilers ahead <3

Ok so I've actually been thinking about this a lot in the context of both the Kirijo Sisters AU (Mitsuru and Rumi are sisters and I think I might add this to the original Captain AU tbh) and also the Captain/Takuren dad AU (me and Rui's AU) and hoo boy do I have a lot of thoughts.

Now cut forward to the palace where they find out about Rumi and Riku is conflicted to say the least. He realizes his uncle has fucked him over by giving him a reality he DIDN'T want and he believes he kind of forced recovery on Rumi but at the same time he knows the pain Rumi was in and he can see why he did it. Important thing to mention here is that Riku has come to accept his trauma and realize that it hurt, yes but he got the help he needed and managed to work through it, making him a stronger person. Can you see how his ideals conflict heavily with Maruki's? Basically Riku would be angry but at the same time a little sympathetic? Like he understands wanting to fix everyone's problems by erasing all the pain but at the same time his pain and more specifically how he dealt with it has made him stronger.

Either way I think Riku would ultimately be pretty angry at Maruki. Unlike the other thieves I can't see Riku going to therapy sessions with Maruki because I feel like Mitsuru would get him the best professional therapist she can to make sure that he gets the treatment that he needs. So Maruki hasn't seen Riku since he was Rumi's lonely nephew (similar to Mitsuru he didn't have many friends growing up). However he does know that Riku's friends with the thieves because they keep mentioning him. Maruki then decides that he will include Riku in the "phantom thieves getting their ideal reality" thing BUT he bases it off younger Riku would want. Which is being happy at home in Port Island explaining his third semester which I've talked more in depth about here (possibly a little outdated but the idea is the same).

For the Takuren Dad/Captain AU I feel like while Riku is angry/upset at Maruki, ultimately? He'd be more concerned about Ren because he knows how hard this is for him considering you know that's his dad. So he'd put aside his own feelings (hmmm who does that sound like) and support Ren and be there for his cousin who he cares for dearly.

As for the Buried Memories AU now THIS is juicy because I love this AU. OK so if I remember correctly Rumi straight up dies in this AU. So like I felt it was like important to mention that Riku would be really upset because he loved his aunt and ofc Mitsuru herself would be devastated because she's lost ANOTHER family member (and also her mother too because I imagine they share a mom and that's how they're related). And actually? I think Riku would be more angry in this AU. Because Ren was quite close to him and he felt like he finally had a friend. Then that gets taken away from him and he's even MORE lonely than he was before. So he finds out what Maruki did and I guess he sees it as Maruki almost abandoning Ren? He tries to understand because he doesn't want to hate his uncle completely but he can't help but feel he turned his back on Ren, instead of helping him through the trauma he just erases it and leaves him? Which actually even though it's not necessarily the same could be an interesting little parallel with Riku and Mitsuru in that she immediately gets him help and sticks with him (idk I'm kinda spitballing here). His reaction would probably be similar to Goro's actually but more raw I guess because Ren's his cousin.

These are my main thoughts at the minute there's a few loopholes here and there but I'm having so much fun thinking about this AU. Thanks for the ask <3

#persona 5 royal spoilers #asks #anonymous #persona 5 au #kirijo sisters au #captain/takuren dad au #riku kirijo #ren amamiya #takuto maruki #oc tag #au tag #that's enough tags i think #BUT THIS WAS SO FUN THANK YOU ANON ILY #it took me a while to answer because i went back and reread buried memories to rejog my own memory 💀#its so good honestly i love it #but tldr:#riku is angry at maruki but can also sympathize with the pain he's in and will ultimately put aside his own feels to help ren #although he does seem a little too eager to agree with Goro's idea to shoot him 💀#also like i was dead serious when i said that im thinking of implementing the kirijo sisters au into the main base one #because it would be so interesting and make a lot of sense #my other idea was having minako (who's a teacher at shujin replacing Kamoshita) recommending maruki to mitsuru for Riku's therapy #but i do think this one makes far more sense #either way lots and lots of pain :')#also i was writing this at different points because i kept getting interrupted so my bad if this seems disjointed 💀#and last thing but the words 'i was going through your riku stuff' made my day thank you anon ily

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rexelectus · 4 years

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● – || @moralhymn sent: 1. What makes you the most emotional about your muse? / 7. If you could “borrow” one aspect of your muse and apply it to yourself or your own life, what would you borrow? / 17. Why do you think you connect to your muse?

munday questions || accepting

Thank you for sending these in you precious peach! You are amazing and should have lots of great kisses and huggles!

● – || What makes you emotional about your muse? What doesn’t make me emotional about Noctis Lucis Caelum? That should really be the question. There are so many things that make me emotional about him. Since I got this question twice I’m going to talk about different things for each question. In this essay, I will discuss his relationship with Lunafreya. I refuse to write her out of Noctis’ story for the sake of having ships. I won’t do it. I’m going to spill some tea but I, personally, won’t follow a Noctis back {not from Iris or Cindy or any blog I run} if I see that Lunafreya is cast aside or rejected from someone’s portrayal for the sake of ships. While I understand how someone portrays their muse is their business, rejecting a major female character who is the basis of a muse’s personality and lifestyle for the sake of ships makes me annoyed. I’m really passionate about this, if you can’t tell.

Lunafreya’s existence is a huge portion of Noctis’ story. It is not only a huge point in his story but also in his character development itself. From the minute he was born he was told that he is going to be married to her. They grew up as close friends. Even when they were separated, they stayed in contact. Long before Prompto she was his closest friend. Yes, they were/are to be married but they were friends first. I firmly believe that he loves her. A lot. Whether it is romantically or just as a close friend for me, personally, depends on the Lunafreya I am writing with. I instantly default to that he loves her as a close friend unless we’ve talked about it. As they grow up they write to each other practically daily. They share that connection, whether near or far. She is a huge part of his life. He does so many things throughout his life, throughout his journey, just with her in mind. He’s dedicated to her, not just because of his duty to the throne, but because they are friends/lovers. He’s withdrawn as a person. He confides in her and she in him. While he was injured for a good portion of his life, Noctis only had Lunafreya. She got him to blossom and open up little by little.

While Ignis and Gladio taught him how to follow his duty, Lunafreya taught him how to follow his heart. She taught him how to feel and listen to what his heart was wanting. Also, can we talk about how he looks at her? Noctis, whether as a child or as a young adult, looks at Lunafreya with so much love. He’s in awe of her. Of her strength. Of her passion. Of her beauty. Of her wisdom. Of her ability to lead. When he sees her speak in Altissia, you can tell that, in that moment, he recognizes that he wouldn’t have any one else by his side. That their destiny to be together is the right one. He realizes, while looking up at her through the crowd of thousands, just how lucky he is to call himself her King and how excited he is to marry her.

Now, we get to get sad. He beats himself up when she dies. Yes, he’s partially still torn up about his father dying, but Noctis genuinely is devastated when she dies. “All I wanted was to save you.” He knew she was sick. All he wanted was to be there by her side and help her and instead he watched as Ardyn stabbed her and took her away from him. “I’m sorry .... I couldn’t be there for you.” Need I say more sad quotes? He loved her so much, whether as friends or lovers, that losing her after his father broke him. He didn’t get to say goodbye or to tell her how he felt about her. He didn’t get any of those things. He wasn’t able to save her or be there for her because someone took away that choice for him. Now, if we pretend video game canon doesn’t exist and the book does, Noctis does eventually get married to Lunafreya. They have children. They get the happily ever after that I firmly believe they both deserved. It’s really sweet and they have a very happy marriage. While yes, they were an arranged marriage, he did love her. It’s not a loveless marriage. It’s one of faith, warmth, love, and strength.

Thank you for coming to my Ted Talk.

● – || If you could ‘borrow’ one aspect of your muse and apply it to yourself or your own life, what would you borrow? If I could ‘borrow’ one aspect of Noctis’ and apply it to myself. . . Honestly, his bravery and his adversity. No matter what comes his way he always faces it with everything he has. While he may be small in stature, he uses what his father, Ignis, and Gladio have raised him on in order to “walk tall” every day. He carries himself well and faces every challenge he is thrown with his entire being. He doesn’t give up easily and doesn’t let people walk all over him. As a whole, his ability to “walk talk” paired with his bravery and adversity is what I want to apply to my life. Just like Noctis does, I want to be able to keep moving forward and walking tall regardless of what life throws at me.

● – || Why do you think you connect to your muse? I think I connect to Noctis for a laundry list of reasons. I think I connect to him because I love his story. I love the plot of his game and of his life. It’s really well developed and a beautiful story. Honestly? I love his personality. I love how he definitely walks in his father’s footsteps. He’s noble, courageous, brave, withdrawn, playful, wise, caring, passionate, strong. Frankly, I love that he is his father’s son.

I connect most to Noctis with his desire to being understood. While I’m not as withdrawn as he is, I’m still pretty drawn into myself. For both Noctis and I it is hard to ask for help because we are always told to stand on our own two feet. All Noctis wants is for someone to listen to him. He wants someone who hears him out, who he can talk to about anything no matter what it is. Who makes him laugh -- genuinely laugh and smile for real -- who he can also go to about the serious things without the walls of it being because he’s the Prince. He wants someone who understands him genuinely as a person.

While he can talk to the Luna, Ignis, and Gladio about those things, the person he can really fall on is Prompto. Yes, I know he can rely on Ignis and Gladio. Yes, I know he can really fall on Gladio {I refer to the ‘when you stop focusing I focus for you’ quote} because he’s his Shield. However, you can’t deny that his bond with Prompto is special just like Gladio’s with Iggy’s is special. No, I’m not talking about shipping. I’m just talking about friendship. All of the guys are close like brothers, don’t get me wrong. They’re all close and bonded until the end of time. Just in different ways. Prompto, though he’s not Ignis or Gladio’s number one choice for a friend for Noctis, is Noctis’ number one choice for himself. While Gladio and Ignis understand Noctis to a degree , Prompto understands Noctis through and through. He’s his best friend. Prompto makes Noctis laugh, is there for him when Noctis just needs a friend. Movie nights? Video games? Pizza by the lake? Prompto’s there. Gladio and Ignis understand Noctis from the point of him being their King. While all three of the guys are close to Noctis, Noctis knows that he can rely on Prompto who understands him as a person.

Sappy Taea time. I have my own Prompto. Some of you know her, some of you don’t, but her name is Rissa aka @strictomiles. While yes, she plays my main Shield/ GladNoct ship partner, she is also the Sora to my Riku {aka she’s @lightheartedwarrior and I’m @darkheartedprince}. In case you didn’t know, just like in the KH fandom, Rissa and I have matching URLS here too. Stricto Miles in Latin means ‘Drawn Knight’ and Avulsus Princeps in Latin means ‘Withdrawn Prince’. To quote my first promo on this blog, which was a dual promo for the two of us, “By the shadows you vowed to protect me, and by the light I vowed to lead you.” Just like Prompto with Noctis, all day any day if you ask who I’m talking to there’s a good chance the answer will be Rissa. Rissa and I met in a different fandom from Kingdom Hearts and Final Fantasy and instantly clicked. We can talk about anything and everything no matter what it is or when it is. Just like Prompto with Noctis we just get each other. We had no awkward friendship phase we instantly connected and I wouldn’t have it any other way. And, just like Noctis with Prompto, Rissa is my best friend and I love her to the ends of the universe and back.

So, that’s why I connect to Noctis.

#moralhymn #● opened letters || answered #● words from the princess || ooc answered

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wingedauthor · 4 years

Text

Enemies in the Morrow Alt Ending

Summary: Its the eve of the Keyblade War and Riku has nowhere to go. A surprise visit from Ansem changes that. Genre: Hurt/Comfort, Fluff and Angst, Forbidden Romance Rating: T Pairing: RiSem

If you’re not a fan of this ship, here’s an alt ending which is platonic (closer to their canon relationship)

AO3 Link

“Hey Riku, you doing okay?” Sora asked, standing behind his best friend with Kairi by his side.

It was the eve of the Keyblade war and the trio decided to spend their last night back home. The play island was picturesque as usual; soft pink hues bathing the sand as the last golden rays of sunset sank beneath the watery horizon. The smell of salt and hibiscus was carried along the warm evening breeze. Such a nostalgic scent the three friends hoped wasn’t their last time enjoying.

“Yeah… just mentally preparing for tomorrow.” Riku replied with a soft smile.

“You don’t have to prepare alone anymore you know. We’re here for you if you want to talk.” Kairi added, sensing Riku wasn’t really telling the full truth. He never was the best liar. “We’re heading back home now, we can all row together.”

“You guys go on a head. I just want to enjoy the sunset a little while longer.”

Sora and Kairi exchanged a look. Something was bothering their friend, but they knew if Riku really didn’t want to talk, nothing they said or did would open him up. “Well… if you’re sure.” Sora reluctantly said.

“Try not to stay out too late. We need plenty of rest before tomorrow.” Kairi advised.

“Yes mom.” Riku chuckled.

After a moment’s pause, the two hesitantly left. Out of the corner of his eye, Riku watched till both boats disappeared completely from his sight before letting out a heavy sigh. He pulled his knees up to his chest and buried his face in his folded arms. He did want to tell them the truth but, in this case, there was really nothing they could do to solve the situation. Maybe he could ask to stay with one of them, but he didn’t want to impose of their last night with their families.

Just when he thought things couldn’t get any worse, he heard the sound of a corridor opening behind him and his senses immediately alerted him to who it was. Without having to look up. He let out a small sigh as the familiar heartless stood to his left.

“Ansem. What are you doing here? Shouldn’t you be off conquering another world in the name of darkness?” Riku quipped, finally looking up at the other.

The Heartless chuckled as he sat down beside his former possession, “I should be asking you the same thing. Shouldn’t you be enjoying what might be the last night of your life with those you love?”

Riku cocked his head. Now that he thought about it, he couldn’t think of a time he had ever seen Ansem just sit and relax somewhere. He couldn’t sense any real threat and Ansem wasn’t sitting uncomfortably close, so he didn’t mention it. He also wasn’t wearing his organization cloak but rather his usual coats. “I asked you first.”

“Such an impudent brat.” Ansem chided with very little bite to his words. His face softened though as he looked towards the sinking sun. “I just wanted to watch the sunset from my home world… one last time.”

Riku’s eyes widened in surprise, “Never thought you’d be the sort for enjoying sunsets.”

“And why not? It’s watching the sun’s light willing succumb to the darkness every night. I believe that’s very befitting a heartless’ nature.”

Riku scoffed. Of course, that’s why. A moment of silence fell between them as the final glimmer of light gave way to the rich purple hues of the night sky. The stars began creeping out one by one keeping the world from going completely pitch black. There was also a slim crescent moon that appeared. The island was still as beautiful as ever.

“Of all the worlds I remember travelling to, Destiny Islands always had the best sunsets. Quite ironic given how much my younger self wanted to escape.” Ansem mused quietly, breaking the silence.

“Better than Twilight Town?”

“Mmm. A world in perpetual twilight loses its appeal quickly. I still can’t understand why those children are so fond of that world.”

Riku wasn’t sure either but he wasn’t one to question why something was special to another person. “I guess one who knows nothing, can never understand nothing.”

“Brat.” Ansem retorted smacking Riku upside the head. Riku glared rubbing his head but it wasn’t that hard. More messed up his hair than anything else. “Now I believe you are to answer my question.”

Discomfort forgotten, Riku looked down, pushing his boot further into the sand. He contemplated lying like he did to Sora and Kairi but Ansem would know immediately. Unfortunately, that’s what happens when a crazy humanoid heartless dwells in your heart for almost two years. It was practically impossible to keep secrets. He also wouldn’t back down till he got the truth.

“I don’t… have a home to go to… anymore.” Riku admitted in a quiet voice. He half expected Ansem to laugh at him or mock him, but the heartless simply remained silent; just staring at him and waiting for him to elaborate further.

“My parents disowned me.” He continued.

Ansem’s actually widened this time, surprise plastered all over his expression. While he had access to Riku’s heart, he got to experience a lot of his memories. But he had noticed that Memories of his family were tightly locked. All he knew was his home life wasn’t the best. Why else would a five-year-old be so eager to leave an island paradise? He still didn’t say anything, giving Riku room to speak.

“I thought, having been gone so long, that they might be happy to see me again. But I guess my absence only caused them more troubles than my worth. They thought they were getting their son back to finally take over the family business. I tried telling them that I couldn’t stay forever anymore. I ended breaking the World Order by telling them I’m a Keyblade master. I even showed them my Keyblade! But that just seemed to make them more upset… They gave me an ultimatum that either I was to stay at home or… never return again.” Riku explained.

He didn’t say which choice he made but Ansem easily picked up the context clues. It was unusual to see Riku so distraught, but he had an impression all these feelings had been bottled up and needed release. Either he was going to tell someone or take it out on a defenseless heartless or nobody.

It took Riku a second to realize he just blabbed a very personal issue to his enemy. He didn’t know why it was easier to talk to Ansem than Sora or Kairi. Maybe it was because they had shared a being for so long that Ansem was the only one who could truly understand. Though they still were on opposite sides and a part of him feared Ansem was going to use this information against him now. But when he looked into the heartless face, he was surprised to see compassion. Not even just pity but genuine benevolence for his situation.

“When I left these islands, originally, I was no older than you were. I didn’t even spare a second thought for my parents and honestly, I never saw them again. I missed them on occasion, but I had bigger things to worry about than them. One thing I learned is: blood may make you related, however true family is forged by connections. And you’ve made a lot of connections on your journey. Several you could consider your new family.” Ansem said carefully.

The younger man stared at Ansem in awe. “That’s… quite profound coming from you.”

“And whatever do you mean by that? Has not everything I’ve told you been beneficial to you in the long run?”

“Well… most of the time all I hear is darkness, darkness, darkness, submit, darkness, darkness, darkness.” Riku replied doing his best Ansem impersonations.

The two snorted before letting out a hearty laugh. Riku couldn’t recall a time they had laughed together either. But it felt good in spite of everything. A part of Riku wished things could have always been like this. It was nice having someone to talk to who understood. As the laughs faded, another moment of silence fell between them.

* “So where do you plan on staying tonight?” Ansem asked breaking the silence and glancing over at his beloved.

“I’m not sure… I guess here.” Riku replied gesturing behind him. Tree house wouldn’t be too uncomfortable.

Ansem paused a moment. “Would you like to stay with me?”

A small blush dusted Riku’s cheeks, as he looked down, “I don’t think that’s the best idea. I do need to be able to walk tomorrow.”

The heartless chuckled, “For once that’s not what I’m suggesting. Just offering a warm bed… beside me.”

“Why do you want to help me? Wouldn’t it make it easier to win tomorrow if I’m groggy and tired?”

“True, but it wouldn’t be nearly as satisfying defeating you like that.”

Riku rolled his eyes. But he couldn’t deny it did sound tempting. He thought a moment. They had a complicated history. Somehow in the last year they started a secret opportunistic affair. Riku had convinced himself it was out of a primal hormonal desire; nothing more. In the back of his mind, he knew they could really never have a normal relationship. Being on opposite sides was one thing but they both knew their time was limited. Whoever wins this war, the other would disappear as a result of that. One last night together, didn’t sound bad.

“Alright.”

They both stood up and dusted the sand off their clothes. Ansem opened a corridor, gesturing for Riku to step through first. Riku stared into the swirling abyss before taking one last look around the island. He hoped this wasn’t the last time seeing it. Taking in one final salty, sweet breath, he stepped through, shivering from the darkness skittering across his skin. The other side opened to a familiar dark room. Though calling it a room was generous as there were no walls. It was more of black bubble, the center of which sat a large king size bed. Surrounding the bed were four tall, silver candelabras; each with five black, lit candlesticks.

The light they provided was more for Ansem’s gothic aesthetic than an actual necessity. Though he’d never admit it out loud, he liked the romantic mood they set. It gave a warm feeling to an otherwise cold plane of existence. Then to the right stood a simple black and silver bedside table containing their ‘supplies’. Of course, there really was no such for that thing either as Ansem could summon pretty anything out of darkness. But Riku liked the sense of normalcy it gave.

Riku ran his fingers along the black and red, silk duvet, memories of all the nights spent here rushing through his mind. Another blush lit his cheeks but then he felt a stab of sadness in his chest. He stared at the red pillows. He remembered once when he was a child, an elderly friend of the family telling him, “You never know when the last time something is going to happen. The last time you’ll play together, the last time you talk with someone, the last time you see somewhere. You won’t truly know until you look back. So, try to enjoy every moment of life.”

He didn’t understand at the time but as he got older he did. He couldn’t really remember the last time he was here. It was recent and he knew what they did, but if someone asked him to recall all the specifics, he found he couldn’t. Riku didn’t want to forget tonight so he made a note to soak up every last detail.

“Riku?” Ansem asked in a soft tone, noticing Riku had been staring at the bed for a while now.

“Sorry, just trying to take everything in.” He said with a smile.

Ansem raised his arms, silently requesting Riku come closer. Riku happily obliged, stepping closer and into Ansem’s embrace. He breathed in the heartless’ familiar scent. It always reminded him of bitter dark chocolate with a hint of sandalwood and underline musk. Sharp to the nose but not unpleasant. He had grown to love it over the years. He almost fell asleep right then if not for suddenly feeling Ansem’s fingers pulling up his shirt. He jumped a little, pulling away.

“I thought we agreed-“ Riku started.

“We did, but you can’t very sleep in your sandy clothes. I have fresh pajamas there.” Ansem said, gesturing towards the foot of the bed where a white tank top and blue sweat pants laid out.

Riku felt a little embarrassed assuming the worst. They had worked past that a while ago. Ansem chuckled kissing Riku’s forehead as he pulled the white t-shirt off. He tossed the dirty one into a void where Riku knew it would return in the morning clean and folded. He always liked picturing Ansem having a heartless washing machine. Darkness flittered around Ansem’s gloved fingers as he moved them towards his own clothes, no doubt just going to dismiss his outfit to the dark abyss.

“Wait.” Riku said. “Let me.”

Ansem moved his hand away as Riku stepped closer He began undoing each of the clasps and buttons in a very slow manner. Teasing? Maybe. But he wanted to savor every inch of his dark skin being revealed. Once the top coat was free, Riku pushed it off his shoulders but used the opportunity to stand on his toes and plant a gentle kiss on Ansem’s lips. The heartless was surprised for a second before he kissed Riku back. It got a little more intense as their fingers got lost in each other’s hair.

But all Riku could taste was sadness. There was no hunger, no lust. Just the unbridled sorrow that they would be enemies again come the morrow. A few moments passed and Riku finally broke for air. He hadn’t even noticed he started crying until Ansem thumbed the tears away with his ungloved hand. They always were a hassle to take off.

“It’s getting late.” He whispered.

Riku nodded. He finished undressing and slipped on the pajama bottoms. Ansem dispersed the rest of his clothes in a puff of darkness, leaving only a loose, comfortable pair of grey sweat pants. That’s when Riku knew the heartless was serious on his word. The heartless usually preferred to ‘sleep’ nude. He didn’t say anything though as he removed blue with yellow stripe faux pillows from the bed and pulled back the covers. He slid in between the cool sheets, already feeling really sleepy. Ansem crawled in beside him, gently petting his shorter silver hair.

“Ansem, can I ask you a question?”

“Hmm?”

“If things were different. If we met under different circumstances… and weren’t on the either sides of a war, do you think we could have been something?” Riku asked.

Ansem hummed softly, thinking a moment, “That’s not an easy question. There’s too many variables.”

“Oh.”

“But if we had our way, I would like that very much.” He added.

Riku smiled. He could at least dream. He kissed Ansem’s cheek before rolling over to sleep.

“Good night Ansem.”

“Good night- Riku.”

Ansem snapped his fingers and the flames went out.

~*~

Riku had a dreamless sleep that night. That’s not to say it wasn’t a restful sleep but he had hoped to picture some pleasantries before the dawn. Most of the night, he felt the comfort of Ansem’s arm hooked around his torso. And that’s what woke him up, he realized he couldn’t feel Ansem’s body anymore. He sat up slowly in the dark void and could hear soft scuttling about. His eyes adjusted to the dark and he could see Ansem sitting at the edge of the bed, pulling his boots on. He already had his organization coat on though still unzipped.

He knew that was a stall tactic. Ansem could have very easily changed outfits and disappeared into a portal within seconds and Riku would never know. But his chest began to tighten. The reality hit hard. This was it. He crawled to the edge of the bed and wrapped his arms tightly around Ansem’s waist from behind. He swallowed hard, trying to stop the tears from rolling down his face. Once they left this room, they’d be enemies. It was easy to fake hating each other in front of others.

They had done that song and dance many times before. Still, Riku knew deep down it would hurt. He was on the side of light and they had to win. To protect the worlds Master Xehanort couldn’t win.

“We could run away.” Riku suggested half-heartedly.

Ansem chuckled, “Oh Riku. To have your imagination.”

Riku huffed out a laugh, “Yeah I guess.”

“You know we can’t. There’s nowhere in all the worlds we could go. Master Xehanort would find us. Or worse, take drastic measures to replace us.”

“I still don’t understand why you work with him. His plan seems counter-intuitive to your ideals.”

“Well- unfortunately I really don’t have much choice. He’s the original. Without him (or Terra) I wouldn’t exist.” Ansem tried explaining.

“Sounds like you’re afraid of him.” Riku said, moving up higher onto his knees so he could rest his chin on Ansem’s shoulder.

“It’s complicated.”

Riku didn’t press further just enjoyed being close. He didn’t know how long they sat like that but at some point Ansem patted his hands clinging to his chest. “We have to get going.”

Reluctantly Riku let go and sat back on his heels. Ansem tossed him his cleaned clothes. Riku got dressed slowly, trying to stall for as much time as possible. His fingers fumbled with his boot laces. Without a word, Ansem knelt down and finished the knots. The atmosphere was heavy. This was it. They stood up, facing each other. Ansem gently cupped his cheek.

“Better put on a good show.” He whispered.

“You too.” Riku pulled Ansem down by his lapels and kissed him one last time. “Do me a favor? When we fight, wear your old coat. It’s a lot more flattering on you.”

Ansem snickered, “As you wish.”

#kingdom hearts #fanfic #hurt/comfort #risem #kh riku #ansem sod #xehanort's heartless #i actually really like both endings #not a fan of this ship just don't read

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is0gild · 4 years

Text

Ice Cream and Fire Oven Pizza - Chapter 10

Pairing: Elsa x Lea/Axel || Side Pairing: Riku x OC

Summary: Modern AU. She's an introvert ball of nerves who works at Ice Palace, a mall food court ice cream shop. He's the outgoing, sassy goofball who works at the Pizza Planet across the way. Hilarity, snark, and fluffy romcom hijinks ensue.

Word Count: 7,783

FIRST CHAPTER || PREVIOUS CHAPTER || NEXT CHAPTER

Credit for super friggin’ cute and super friggin’ amazing cover art goes to the super friggin’ talented ky-jane here on tumblr!

It’s times like these that I really do wonder which is more nerve-racking: being thrust into a social interaction unwillingly with a whole bunch of people? Or unwittingly with just one single, solitary person?

With the large group, it was definitely and without a doubt overwhelming. Just finding the strength alone to speak up and join in the conversation was a skill that still escaped me. And even if you did manage to get so much as two words out, that meant all eyes were suddenly on you. What if you talked too much? Or too little? What if you forgot what you were saying at all? Or worse, what if you said something stupid? What if you embarrassed yourself so bad that there’d be no showing your face ever again in the light of day, much less to another human being?

Which, if I’m being totally honest, I would probably find kind of amazing.

Hermit for life, yo.

But then, there were also advantages to the crowd. The biggest one being that an antisocial, cave-dwelling troll like me? More often than not could get away with saying nothing at all. Everyone else could handle all the chit-chat while I simply faded into the background and soaked up the ambiance. That way, I could just make an appearance and give the illusion of being socially active without actually being socially active.

One-on-one exchanges, on the other hand? Now those were a whole other beast. No, make that whole other species.

There was no fading into the background here. There wasn’t even a background to fade into. All there was was you and the other person. A person you were expected to carry half of the conversation with. When put on the spot like that with someone I barely knew, forget having a back-and-forth dialogue like a normal and well-adjusted friggin’ adult, I was lucky if I got anything out of my mouth more sophisticated than “uh” or “um.” Then there were the awkward silences where I’d frantically try to come up with something, anything to say only to have my useless lump of a brain play possum and draw a total blank. I died a thousand and one deaths in those damn silences.

And okay, sure, this was Lea we were talking about. An individual who by now I’d shockingly, and on more than one occasion no less, made reasonably successful small talk with. But a few minutes of a lunch break here or some brief, friendly banter while I was taking his order as my customer there was completely different than now finding myself alone with him in a booth at some random pub on a Friday night.

And besides, it was Lea. Lea, who I’d seen shirtless and slathered in ice cream. Lea, whose lips my lips had thrown themselves at within the first five minutes of meeting him. Lea, who-

Damn it, brain, really? Was now really the best time to be playing the highlight reel of Elsa’s Greatest Embarrassing Hits?

Needless to say?

Was.

Terrified.

Anna Fryse, if you could please report to the table in the back right corner, your older sister is waiting for you and is in desperate need of someone to hide behind right about now.

Also, Anna, if you were ever planning on developing the ability to psychically read thoughts, particularly mine, now would be the time to do it.

...of course, for her to hear that message, she’d need to already be psychic.

And if she was, that meant she was ignoring me.

Which she totally would do.

Brat.

Checking back into reality momentarily, it was in this second that it came to my attention that I was staring at Lea without realizing it. Well now I realized it. Particularly because he was looking back at me with a smile. My heart flatlined, my face paled and my eyes darted away.

Oh god, I had been staring. Did he know I’d been staring? ...of course he did, Elsa you dope! That’s generally what two people do when they're sitting together at a table talking.

Talking. Right. That was a thing I should be doing.

Alright, brain, I know you’re doing your best impersonation of the sound of a mime convention in there right now, but I’m going to need you to work with me here. Think of a word. Any word. Just something to get the conversation rolling. Oh yes. I can feel it. Here it comes. And that word is…

Flamingo.

...seriously, brain? Hadn’t we already said all that there was to say on the subject of flamingos earlier during the little palm notes debacle? Need we bring that back up again? I mean, I do see where you’re coming from - once you ask a man what he does in his flamingo, what else more is there to discuss with him, really? Might as well just-

“Fabracadabra?”

Lea’s voice broke through my thoughts, drawing my eyes back to him.

Wow. Now that was a really good word.

Way better than my lame word. Pssh, flamingo? What was that even about?

Wait… his word was also the name of another one of our ice cream flavors.

He took a swig from his ale as he studied me for a second, cocking his head before at last shaking it. “Nope. Too fruity sweet. You’re the type o’ gal who likes something with a lil more...” he clicked his teeth together with a smirk, “...bite to it.”

I blinked, some of my tension relaxing. Then my lips were doing something strange. Was it that crazy thing all the kids were doing nowadays, what’s it called? I believe the term was… grinning? “You’re… still trying to guess which one is my favorite?”

“Just you wait and see,” he scooched around the booth to sit closer to me, sliding the Ifrit bottle along the table with him, “I’m gonna get it. Mark my word.”

Turning my head slightly, I gave him some side-eye. “...you seem pretty sure of yourself.”

“With good reason! I’m twelve-and-oh, baby. Haven’t been wrong yet. Trust me, your top pick off the Ice Palace menu is as good as called.”

“Who ever said it was an Ice Palace signature flavor?”

His head rocked back at that, then he narrowed his eyes, “You play dirty.”

I hid a smile behind my fingers. “Want a hint?”

“Nah,” he leaned back, propping his elbows on the high back rim of the booth and stretching his long legs out under the table, crossed at the ankles. “Hints are for game show contestants and lame-os who lack self-confidence.”

“And you certainly have no shortage of confidence.”

He beamed, closing his eyes. “Nope! Who has two thumbs and is one cocky ass mofo?” Said two thumbs pointed at himself. “This guy.”

A soft snort escaped me and I shook my head. “No doubt about that,” I murmured as I looked away.

You know what? Maybe this wasn’t going to be so bad afterall. Actually, it was turning out kind of... nice.

My gaze settled on Anna and Kristoff out there. It was all the poor boy could do to keep up with my sister on the dance floor. She even tossed him out into a spin at one point, much to his surprise if the face he made was any clue. But he seemed to be coming around to the whole experience. It even looked like he might be, dare I say it, having fun. They both did. Watching the two of them had me feeling an upward tug at one corner of my lips.

“So how ‘bout it?” I heard Lea ask.

I looked back at him, quirking an eyebrow. “How about what?”

His eyes crinkled as he nodded towards an open spot out in the middle of the pub. “Wanna dance?”

Cue sound of shattering glass.

“Ack! My drink!” Rayne yelped from the booth behind me. “Sorry, I’ll pay to replace the cup!”

As for me? I’d choked. On what? My heart launching itself up into my throat would be my guess.

“W-with you?” my mouth blurted out without consulting me first.

“No, with Grand High King Fuddy-Duddy over there sporting the scar,” he tapped a finger to the bridge of his nose, rolling his eyes. “Yeah, with me.”

Why? Why would he ask-? What could he possibly be- Oh! Oh I get it now! He was just being nice! Yeah, that had to be it. He just wanted to make sure I had fun tonight. That I felt included. He was being a good friend. He really was a very sweet guy.

But me? Dance with Lea? Me? Who cowered and fled at the first sign of any form of human contact? Nope. Couldn’t do it. Quite simply no way, no how. Dancing with Lea meant I’d have to get close to him. That I’d have to touch him. Er… not to say that there was anything wrong with touching him! I mean, it actually might be quite pleasant to-

Wait, what?

Uh… let’s just put a pin in that wayward thought there and come back to it later, like say, oh I don’t know… never. In the meantime, Lea was still waiting on my answer.

I opened my mouth to give it.

All that came out was a squeak.

...let’s try that again, shall we?

Clearing my throat and snatching a wisp of my hair to tangle around my fingers, I at last got out a hasty, “No, I don’t think so.”

Was that harsh? It sounded harsh. Ugh, this is why I don’t do people!

He tsked and sighed. “It’s cuz I’m ugly, isn’t it?”

“What?!” I blanched before quickly shaking my head. “No! No, no, no! That’s not it! Not because you’re ugly! I mean, you’re not! Ugly, that is! Not at all! Far from it, you’re very-” I slapped both hands over my mouth, face roasting.

Shut up. Shut up right now.

I watched him bend forward, planting one elbow on the table and chin in his palm as he now eyed me with a wide, cheshire grin. “Do go on, I’m all ears. I’m very…?”

Oh this smug, son of a…

My eyelids drooped and I lowered my hands. “...very manipulative in fishing for compliments.”

“Guilty,” he snerked, leaning back once more and slouching a bit into the cushions. His grin twitched wider, “So, that’s a hard no then?”

I couldn’t help a tiny smile of my own. “Sorry. I... just don’t dance.”

“No worries. Figured you might say something like that. But couldn’t pass up the chance to ask either,” he winked, taking another sip of his drink. Then he paused, pursing his lips to one side and rubbing the nape of his neck. “...so what is your story anyway?”

Brow furrowing, I asked, “My story?”

He struck up a finger, “You’re twenty-two. Fresh outta college. Guessing Ivy League no less just by the look of you, but total shot in the dark there. And you just got your first job… in a mall food court. Which, ya know, absolutely nothing wrong with that, but it’s the type of gig that only teens, university students, and college dropouts go for. Take it from me, a dropout twice over now, but back at it again for round three hoping it sticks this time,” up the hand went again, now with index and middle digits crossed.

“Why didn’t it the first couple times?” my head tipped to one side.

Who, me? Trying to take focus off myself? Deflecting? Psssh, I would never!

He splayed a hand out over his chest, “Believe it or not, I wasn’t always the well-adjusted, level-headed and responsible individual that you see before you today.”

“Really?” I snorted, squinting at him. “Is that what I’m seeing before me? I hadn’t realized.”

“Shush, you. Trust me, six, seven years ago? I was a real punkass troublemaker. The kind of boy you don’t bring home to your parents, all about the sex, drugs and rock-n-roll scene, ya know? That whole college thing sounded lame to me, but all my friends were doing it, so figured hell,” he shrugged, “why not give it a shot? But me and college didn’t really play well together. I didn’t take it seriously, not really. So eventually decided it wasn’t for me and kicked it to the curb. Few years later? Thought myself older, wiser, ready to give the big ol’ four years and a diploma deal a second chance. But I was just fooling myself, I hadn’t changed one bit. Wasn’t long before we were parting ways once again.”

I folded my arms on the table, “So what’s changed? Why is try number three going to be different?”

Lea frowned up at the ceiling. “I guess you just hit a point in your life when you realize you don’t want to be slinging pizza dough at minimum wage forever. Even a screwup like me’s got dreams. Nothing too fancy... just maybe something like owning and operating my own place. Maybe a lil ice cream parlour by the beach, a real mom and pop kind of store.

“Ah, it’s silly,” he chuckled, shaking his head, “but either way, I know jackshit about running a business. And that’s why I’m back to hitting those books once again and this time I’m doing my damnedest to hammer some knowledge into this thick skull of mine,” he pointed to his temple. “I’ve really buckled down and, uh…” his eyes darted away, “...shall we say, kicked some old habits.”

“You sound like you really want to make it work this time.” I propped one elbow next to the Shiva, leaning my cheek into my hand. “I haven’t known you that long, but based on what I do know about you, I’m guessing there isn’t much you can’t do once you’ve really set your mind to it.”

“Thanks!” he laughed. Then his smile turned a shade wry, “Don’t think I didn’t notice you trying to change the subject on me.”

...fudge.

He went on, “You got my story, now I’d love to hear yours.”

“I told you already,” I frowned, my hands reaching for a napkin to start twisting between them. “My, er… my major didn’t work out. This job… it’s temporary and-”

Lea cut me off with a wave of his hand, “Yeah, yeah, I know what ya said. I’m more interested in what wasn’t said.”

I grimaced, my fingers strangling the poor paper napkin harder. “It’s… a long story.”

“I got time. Loads of it. Only if you want to talk about it though. No pressure, it just looks like you need it.”

Did I? What was that supposed to mean anyway? “...It’s kind of personal. I’m not even sure if it’s something I really should be talking about.”

His forehead wrinkled. “What, like it’s a secret?” Then his face brightened. “I love a good secret! Okay, how about this. Let’s do a trade. I’ll give you one of my secrets, you give me one of yours. Could be anything, big or small, just whatever you want.”

I blinked at him.

Apparently, he took that as a yes, for now he was hunching forward, bringing his face closer to mine and whispering, “So here’s one that only one other person knows and only cuz he’s known me since he and I were in diapers. Not even the kiddos are in on it. Okay, so, my first name?” He gave one more quick glance around to make sure the coast was clear before lowering his voice even further, “Not actually Lea.”

My eyebrows knit together. “It’s not?”

“Nope,” he shook his head. “Middle name. Go by it cuz I hate my first name.”

“Which is?”

His face pinched. “Axel.”

“...Axel,” I repeated flatly, one eyebrow arching.

“Yup. Apparently, my folks were total diehards for Guns n’ Roses. But the real kicker? The couple o’ useless junkies that gave me life were apparently too high off whatever drug o’ the week they were on to even make sure the name was spelled right on the birth certificate. So instead of having a rockstar singer for a namesake, I’m named after a goddamn skateboard trick all thanks to one stupid E that wasn’t s’posed to be there,” he grumbled, throwing himself back into his seat and slumping down, crossing his arms.

I just stared at him for a second, silence stretching. Then I spluttered and burst out in laughter, trying to smother it behind my hands.

“Wow, rude much?” he deadpanned.

“I’m sorry, I really am! It’s just, with the name and that whole story and your pout…” Oh gosh, that pout! I thought he was supposed to be twenty-five, not five. Still giggling but sobering somewhat, I continued, “I just couldn’t help myself. I really am sorry though, I know I shouldn’t have found it funny.”

“Bah, it’s fine,” he brushed off with a grin. “I’ve had my whole life to get over it and yeah, it’s a lil funny. But now it’s your turn, Missy. Gimme a secret. Anything’ll do. And don’t worry, I’ll be a lot nicer about it than some insensitive clods at the table,” he gave me a pointed look, smirk still in place to show he was only teasing.

Oh. Right. That. I’d almost forgotten. Though technically, I’d never agreed to anything. Then again, he did just kind of bare his soul to me. And I did just kind of ridicule him when he did. So maybe… in a way, I sort of owed it to him?

“I…” My voice wavered as I hesitated, hands mangling the napkin again. I gnawed my lower lip, looking down, hearing the thudding in my ribcage get louder. Finally, I squeezed my eyes shut and opened my mouth, not fully sure what was going to come out. “My parents… have no idea where I am right now. They haven’t for a while.”

His eyes widened slightly at that. Whatever he’d be expecting, apparently it hadn’t been that.

Hey, same boat here, buddy.

“Oh… I see,” was all he said at first, taking another slow pull from his drink now as he turned this new little tidbit over in his head.

And that wasn’t even the half of it. I hadn’t mentioned the type of family I was from. Or that’d I’d been in a relationship, no, engaged with a fiancé. Or that’d I’d left him at the altar on my wedding day. Or that when I had, I’d made the split second decision to abandon the only existence I’d ever known and was now stumbling through life with absolutely zero clue as to what the frick I was actually doing.

...yeah, that would have been a lot. Perhaps a bit too much for sharing time. I think I’d made the right call with dropping only this one tiny piece of the puzzle. At least for now. And who knows? He seemed pretty perceptive, maybe it’d be enough for him to read between the lines and answer some of his questions about me. Then again, maybe not.

At last he leaned forwarded onto his elbows, one arm tucked behind the other, and said, “Alright, I’m gonna take a crack at this and you can let me know if I’m right. Or not. You don’t even have to say jackshit, you can just let me blather on like the big lunkhead that I am who likes the sound of his own voice too much, which I’m used to so no worries, totally your call.” He paused, steepling his fingers to his lips as he seemingly gathered his thoughts. Then, “Up ‘til now, I’m guessing you’ve probably led a pretty sheltered life. One where you were maybe used to having all the decisions made for you. But then, for whatever reason or other, you recently decided to cut the cord. So now you find yourself out in the big, bad world that no one really prepared you for, scrambling to find a foothold, scared shitless and just trying to figure out what the hell to do with yourself, let alone with your future.”

Holy… how on earth did he…?

Swallowing hard, I fiddled with the straw in my cocktail and mumbled, “Wow, you are good. Ever consider becoming one of those windup psychics in a box that spits out fortunes on little cards?”

He snorted. “Sure did, but was too dang tall to fit into the glass case. Too bad, those lil dudes have it made.” Then he tilted his head. “...want some unsolicited advice?”

I shrugged, now absently stirring the blue liquid of my drink. “Sure, why not.”

“Get out there. Explore. Try new things. Right now, I’m guessing your worldview is very small, so you need to expand it. It’s the only way you’ll figure out what to make of your life. Cuz as glamorous as it is, I suspect you’re like me and don’t exactly want to be working the food court all the way up into your golden years.”

Now I looked up at him, a crease forming between my eyebrows. “...are you telling me to get out of my comfort zone?”

Lea chuckled, scratching his cheek, “Sure, I guess that’d be one of way of putting it.”

“That’s actually something I’ve been hearing a lot lately,” I sighed, sinking further down into my seat. Sure, it sounded good in theory. But in practice? Easier said than done. “...any suggestions on where to start?”

He gave a low hum, rubbing a curled knuckle to his chin. Then his eyes lit up and he snapped his fingers. “Got just the thing! Be back in a jiff!” Then he sprung up to his feet, one hand on top the table to catapult himself over it and out the booth. As soon as his shoes hit the floor, he raced off, disappearing into the bar crowd.

...okay?

Should I be afraid? Yes, I think I should be afraid. Very, very afraid.

My eyes squinted, scanning the crush of soberly-challenged people out there, searching for that distinctive fiery head of hair. Should have been easy given Lea was a living embodiment of Mount Fuji, but even so, I was having trouble spotting him.

A sudden blur darted out of the throng and landed hard on the cushion beside me, crashing into my side and distracting me from my hunt.

Said blur was Anna. Surprise, surprise.

“Whew!” she puffed out happily, sweating and fanning herself with one hand while the other crammed fries into her mouth. “That boy… Kristoff, was it? Man oh man, would he be in trouble if I didn’t already have a boyfriend!”

Both eyebrows shot up my forehead. “Boyfriend?” That was news to me. “Since when?”

She froze mid-bite, shoulders stiffening and eyes going round. Then she snatched up her drink, slurping it down as her eyes shifted rapidly about. Then with a loud gulp, she at last let out a weak laugh, “It, uh… it’s new! Yeah, we… met… at the wedding! Sorry I didn’t tell you, I just didn’t want to say anything because I, er… felt bad! With, ya know, your love life all in the toilet and the bombed engagement and whatnot, so… heh…”

“Oh,” I averted my gaze with a tiny frown. At the wedding, huh? Was it someone from his side of the family? Or maybe a friend of his? Regardless, it didn’t really matter I supposed. I directed a soft smile her way, “I’m fine, really. There was no need for you to hold back. You know you can always tell me anything.”

“I know that!” she laughed, flicking one hand dismissively. “But please, it’s me. I have a new beau like every other week, so it’s hardly anything to stop the presses over! No, the real scoop here is what’s the deal with you and Lea? I wanna know everything!”

“Lea?” I creased my brow, making another quick visual sweep for the guy in question. Still no dice, but I did see Yuffie across the way playing a game of Darts with Meg and Terra. Though… could it still really be called Darts when the projectiles being used were more of those little ninja stars? Either way, it came as little to no shock when next a scowling Leon could be glimpsed making a beeline for the trio. “What about Lea?”

“Don’t play coy! I saw you two getting all cozy-like in this booth here all by yourselves just a minute ago!” her eyebrows waggled.

I scoffed. “There was nothing cozy about it. We were just talking.”

“And smiling. Like, a lot.”

“So? People smile when they talk.”

Anna rolled her eyes. “Yeah, people. You don’t. Except for with me and Ray-Ray. Plus,” and here she got in my face, jabbed a finger into my collarbone and paused with all the drama of Sherlock Holmes about to reveal the key piece of evidence at the climax of an epic murder mystery. “...you laughed.”

Eyelids drooping, I grumbled, “I laugh all the time.”

“Nu-uh! And not like this, you don’t! Gawd, it’s been… I don’t even know how long since I heard a noise like that out of you. You can’t fool me, there’s definitely something between you two. A… a spark!”

A half groan, half huff escaped me. Anna was always like this. She’d binged one too many romantic comedies in her as of yet short existence on this earth. I’d been considering telling her about the Kissident, but now? Bad idea. Like, in all the history of bad ideas, it would just be the absolute worst. She’d have a field day with that one. Better to keep it on the hush-hush for the time being. “There is no spark! There’s not even a… a flicker! Or a glimmer! Or a glint! Not even a fizzle, okay? We’re just friends. Besides, I just broke up with a fiancé not even a month ago, so alleged sparks are the furthest thing from my mind, understand?

“Methinks the lady doth protest too much,” she slyly brought the Golden Chocobo back up to her lips.

Eyes narrowing dangerously, I cracked my knuckles, “Methinks if the little sister doth enjoy breathing, she’ll knoweth when to zip it.”

“Methinks the little sister is zipping it forthwith!” Anna chirped with a two finger salute. There was a lull as she plucked another fry to give it a nibble. Then, “Sis, can I just tell you how amazing this is?”

My head dipped to one side. “What is?”

“This!” Her arms spread out wide before bringing both hands in to gesture at me, “You! Being out in the real world! Making it on your own! Meeting new people! Having a job! All of it! You’re different! It’s a good different! And this is just the start too, I can already see it, you’re gonna do great things. I’m so proud of you,” she cooed, pinching my cheek.

I swat her hand away, “Great things? Please, Anna… I scoop ice cream at a mall.”

“Yeah, for now! But that alone was a huge step for you. I mean, c’mon, if someone had told you a year ago that you’d be out from under Mom and Dad’s tyrannical thumbs and doing the whole independent thing, you’d probably would’ve just thought that person was spouting crazy talk.”

“I suppose that’s true,” I murmured, feeling the hint of a grin pulling at one side of my mouth. “I guess… I never knew what I was really capable of.”

“Well, now you’ve had just the kick in the rear you needed to find out!” Her smirk then slowly faded into a tiny grimace. “Listen… I’m so sorry about what happened. If I’d known how unhappy you were, I never would’ve let you get all the way up to the day of wedding bells before-”

“No, it’s okay. You don’t have to apologize,” I shook my head, putting my hand on top of hers. “It wasn’t your job to save me, it was mine. I just… should have done something about it sooner. Then maybe things wouldn’t be the disaster zone I imagine they are now back at home,” I puffed out a heavy sigh.

Anna laughed, “You got that right! Mom and Dad? Still hella pissed! So any thoughts on when you’re gonna talk to them?” I winced, looking away. She hastily tacked on, “No rush or anything! And you don’t have to worry about me spilling the beans to them either about where you’re laying low! Take all the time you need. I just think-”

“Sorry to interrupt ladies!” We both jumped slightly in our seats as Lea made a sudden reappearance, skidding to a stop beside our table, eyes bright and ear-to-ear grin splitting his face in two. “But I’m gonna need to borrow El here for a minute!”

“Of course!” Anna giggled, standing up from the booth to clear a path out for me. “She’s all yours!”

Um… excuse me?

Don’t I get a say in this?

“Thank you!” he singsonged before snatching my hands in his and yanking me up out of the booth and onto my feet. “Come on, we’re up next!”

Up? Up where?

He started to turn but stopped, tapping a finger to his pursed lips. Then the smile was back with a vengeance as he picked up the Shiva and shoved it into my hand. “Lil liquid courage never hurt!” he gave a firm nod before taking my other hand in his once again and sprinting off, me doing my best not to spill the drink as I stumbled and tripped after him.

I had a bad feeling about this.

“Where are we going?” I called out as we weaved a path through the crush of people, ignoring the soft, weird buzz I was feeling where my fingers were interlaced with his.

Not breaking stride, he turned his head just enough to glance at me out of the corner of his gaze, eyes crinkled. “You’ll see.”

My bad feeling now had an added side of gut-wrenching dread thrown in on the house.

Particularly because I was pretty sure we were heading straight for the-

“Next up on the karaoke stage,” a female voice suddenly rang out over the speakers high above while the music coming from the jukebox faded away, “we have Elsa and Lea here to sing a duet for us! Please welcome them with a round of applause, everyone!”

The room erupted in cheers and clapping as we at last broke out of the dense crowd to find ourselves directly in front of the stage.

Aka my worst nightmare.

Well… at least at the moment.

My nightmares had a tendency to pass around the highly coveted and sought after “Worst” title, depending on which one was most pressing at any given second of the day.

There wasn’t that much to it. The stage was made of dark, polished hardwood with maroon, heavy velvet curtains hanging behind it to decorate the back wall. There were a couple of stands for the cordless mics accompanied by a lone barstool between them. And of course, the karaoke machine itself, front and center with a large screen on top of it for displaying the lyrics. As a whole, it was almost deceptively innocent looking in its simplicity.

But I knew better.

I’m on to you, you miniature torture chamber cleverly disguised as fun for the whole family.

“Surprise!” Lea beamed down at me. Then another tug at my arm and I was staggering to keep up once more as he brought me around to one side of the stage and up its stairs. I tried to put on the brakes, but my legs had turned to jelly, rendering them useless. Instead, it was all I could to stammer and splutter as he chipperly explained, “So as far as available songs go, it was slim pickings when it came to duets, nothing but cheesy love songs. But I think I picked the best one of the bunch, super energetic, should be loads of fun and-”

“No!” I at last managed to get out, jerking my hand free, whirling on my heel and marching back down those steps at warp speed.

He was quick to follow, grab me by my shoulders, spin me back around and guide me up again, still with that stupid grin in place. “Aw, c’mon! You asked me for ideas on new things for you to try! So here you go!”

“Who says I haven’t done this before?” I hissed, feet now scraping across the stage as he slid me along it.

Lea snerked through his nose. “I took a wild guess.”

“That was awfully presumptuous of you.”

“So what, you telling me you’ve sung karaoke?”

“No, but that doesn’t make you any less presumptuous!”

We came to a stop now next to the mics. He stepped in front of me and bent down to my eye level, his hands still firmly gripping my upper arms to keep me from bolting. “Come on, El! Do it for me! As a favor to a friend!”

I shot him a deadpan look. “Fun fact: we’re no longer friends.”

“Since when?”

“Since ten seconds ago when you dragged me up here against my will.”

“Pfft, you don’t mean that,” he finally released me, ruffling my bangs and rolling his eyes before stepping over to the mics, unblocking my field of vision. That’s when I saw it.

All.

Those.

People.

Watching. Murmuring. Waiting. I’d already known the bar was packed, but now, up here, sensing every single last one of those eyes on me, the place seemed to be all but bursting. There were just… just so many! I-

Wait, was the crowd shrinking? And not as is thinning out, but were the people actually getting... smaller?

“Oof!” I wheezed out a surprised grunt as my back collided with something.

Oh.

That’d explain it.

Apparently without me even realizing it, my feet had taken it upon themselves to back me away from the edge of the stage, away from the people and straight into the curtained wall behind me. My hand started groping about, looking for the edge of said curtain, latching on when I found it and sweeping it out for me to hide behind. Everything went dark.

I am stealth.

A ghost.

A ninja.

Sneakiness personified.

Unseeable, unknowable, and-

The curtain whipped away and I winced as light returned, revealing Lea standing before me. He laughed, “There you are!”

I squeaked, grabbed the curtains and yanked them in front of me once more.

Now where was I? Ah, that’s right… ahem! Unseeable, un-

The velvet curtain flew to the side once more and Lea hooked his hand in my elbow, pulling me out and back towards the karaoke machine. “Trust me, you’ll be fine! You got nothing to worry about! I’ll be there the whole time, hamming it up and just in general making a big idiot outta myself, so no one's even gonna be looking at you. All you gotta do is stand there and sing your parts when they come up, 'kay? Song’s super short too, so it’ll be over before ya know it!”

My lips parted to tell him exactly where he could take his “super short song” and stick it, but was interrupted by the spotlights suddenly flicking on. One zeroed in on Lea, the other blasted me like a paralyzing ray and I just stood there, eyes wide and unblinking, mouth hanging open and alcoholic beverage still in hand.

Another wave of applause went up for us as Lea tossed me a mic. Frozen stiff, I made no move to catch it, instead just watching it dumbly as it arced up through the air before streaking straight down in front of me to clatter against the stage. He snorted, bent down to pick it up and put it in my free hand, pressing my numb fingers to close around it before he moved to stand in front of the other mic.

My breathing was shallow, my heart was a jackhammer and my feet no longer seemed to work, now just glued to this spot.

Oh god, was this really happening?

That’s when the music started.

Apparently, yes. Yes it was.

The tune was led in by a quirky, rubbery bassline and a playful piano. Wait… I knew this song. Yeah, it was from a musical. The one full of leather jackets, summer lovin’ and grease lightning. Musicals were a good thing. Musicals were a thing I knew. Kind of a guilty pleasure of mine. Used to sing along with them all when I was little. It could actually be considered kind of pathetic, the sheer percentage of my brain that was still to this day crammed full of all the words to famous Broadway hits.

All that said though… it did absolute friggin’ zilch to calm me down.

“I got chills, they’re multiplying,” Lea started off, dipping his mic stand dangerously low and giving it a wide sweep around before straightening back up and removing the mic from the base. He was no Travolta, but his voice actually wasn’t half bad. “And I’m losing control,” he sang on, spinning on one foot once, twice, three times before abruptly stopping to point at me with a smirk, working some hip action. “Cuz the power you’re supplying… it’s electrifying!” His whole body spasmed from head to toe as he fell to his knees then full on faceplanted at my feet, causing me to jolt back a step.

...hamming it up? Please, more like going whole hog! Jeez!

My part was coming up in about five seconds. I could hardly hear the music anymore over the thundering of my heart or the hiss of breath hyperventilating in and out of my nose. That’s when it happened again.

Everyone and everything around me was suddenly in slo-mo.

Man, I really needed to get a handle over my powers of time control!

It was in this uncanny second of my wildly burgeoning mutant ability (ha, if only) that I spotted them. Rayne and Anna, in the front row of the crowd with big smiles to root me on. As I locked eyes with one then the other, my sister gave me an excited nod of encouragement while my roommate was mouthing something to me. Couldn’t be sure, but it looked suspiciously like the words ‘comfort zone.’

Then I looked down at my hand holding the Shiva.

...liquid courage, huh?

...fine. Let’s do this.

Nostrils flaring, I raised the drink to my mouth, knocking back several gulps before slamming the glass down on top of the barstool. Still shaking, I jerked the mic up to my lips, knuckles white around the handle. Like a dam bursting, the words started flooding out before I could even think them. “You better shape up,” oh gosh, was that a quiver I heard in my voice? My free hand down by my hip clenched tightly. “Cuz I need a man, and my heart is set on you.”

Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed Lea still flat on the floor but now propped up on his elbows and gawking at me. I looked away, heat flooding my face. Come on now, I know it’d been a while since I last sang so I was rusty, but I couldn’t be that bad. Stubbornness flaring, I took a deep breath and continued, words stronger now, “You better shape up! You better understand to my heart I must be true…”

“Nothing left, nothing left for me to do,” Lea came back in with a fierce grin as he scrambled up onto his feet. “You’re the one that I want!” we both sang the chorus as he landed to my right, doing the iconic dance from the scene in the movie, with a thumb hooked in the waist of his pants and swinging his hips to and fro. “Oo-oo-oo, honey, the one that I want!” In a shuffling side-gallop, he passed by in front of me to my other side and repeated the move. “Oo-oo-oo, honey, the one that I want!” Again with the side-gallop, this time behind me, and again with the little jig. I was biting back a smile. Well, at least he was true to his word… he really was making a big idiot out of himself. It was getting harder to stay mad at him. Harder… but not impossible. “Oo-oo-oo, the one I need, oh yes indeed!”

Lea now moved several steps over to his side of the stage, giving me room as the song shifted in preparation for the second verse that I was going to be starting off. I tensed, spine ramrod straight as I recalled what the next lines out of my mouth were going to be. Feeling my blush creeping all the way down to my toes, I wrung the mic in both my hands now as I stiffly brought it back up and squeezed my eyes shut. “If you’re feeling affection,” I wasn’t here, I wasn’t me, “you’re too shy to convey.” No, I was Olivia Newton-John at the school carnival, oozing confidence in a smoking, skin-tight outfit showing off her killer bod. “Meditate in my direction.” Oof, the next part. How did Olivia pull off that breathy purr? Maybe something like, “Feel your way.”

Harsh feedback screeched through the speakers, making my eyes snap back open. Apparently it had come from Lea’s mic, which he was clumsily fumbling to keep from dropping it. Now having it firmly back in grip, he brought it back up in time to croak out, “I better shape up!” He cleared his throat, banging a fist to his chest and now looking a little red in the face. I guess all that prancing around must have been catching up to him. “Cuz you need a man…”

“I need a man who can keep me satisfied,” I sang back, quirking an eyebrow at him.

Whatever his malfunction had been, he was now bouncing back, face brightening as he ran into a knee-slide, stretching a hand up towards me, “I better shape up if I’m gonna prove-”

“You better prove,” I rolled my eyes and shook my head at his antics, “that my faith is justified.”

“Are you sure?” he asked, hopping back up before my voice joined with his, “Yes, I’m sure deep down inside! You’re the one that I want!” The chorus started again and Lea grabbed my hand, catching me off guard and twirling me into a spin. “Oo-oo-oo, honey, the one that I want!” Now he pulled me up against him, flashing me a cheeky grin as one hand wrapped around my waist and the other took hold of mine, mic sandwiched between them. “Oo-oo-oo, honey, the one that I want!” Unable to resist any longer, a laugh bubbled out of me as he swept us around in circles in time with the upbeat music, bringing his mic up between our lips whenever we needed to sing the next line. “Oo-oo-oo, the one I need, oh yes indeed!”

The chorus repeated a couple more times, Lea continuing to dance us about the stage the whole time. Once when I was able to catch a glimpse out into the audience, I even spotted Rayne and Anna busting a move themselves on top of one of the tables, Riku on the ground frantically gesturing for his wife to get down. When the song finally started to fade, the room erupted in applause and whistles. Lea released my waist, but didn’t let go of my hand, instead tugging me towards the edge of the stage. There he raised my arm up high before he bent into a flourishing bow for the adoring fans, pulling me down into one as well. As we both straightened back up, a smile tugged at my lips and I breathed a sigh of relief as my heart rate finally began to calm down.

I’d done it. I’d actually sung in front of all those people and lived to tell the tale. And oddly, I was even... almost kind of giddy about it? It couldn’t be that I’d actually enjoyed that? No. No way. That was just the adrenaline talking as it still coursed through my body which was finally getting to relax now that the danger had passed. I was just happy it was over with! Yeah, that’s all it was. It had to be.

As the bar quieted down once more, Lea returned the mics to their holders before jumping down off the front of the stage and pivoting around to smirk up at me, “Damn, El, why didn’t you tell me you were packing a gorgeous set o’ pipes on you?”

There that blush was again, creeping back up my neck. I gave a soft harrumph, “Stop, I do n-”

I was startled into silence as he picked me up by the waist, my hands hastily going to his shoulders as he lowered me down off the stage and deposited me on the floor beside him.

Okay… so that happened.

“I’m serious!” he pulled his hands back, planting them on his own hips as he hunched forward slightly. “You’re trying to figure out what to do with your life, right? Well, I think we hit a ringer here! Ever consider being a singer?”

I turned my back on him with a snort and walked away, heading towards our booth. “Oh, sure. I’ll just have to hire professional wranglers to drag me kicking and screaming up to the mic for every performance.”

“Oh, c’mon, it wasn’t that bad, was it?” he caught up and fell into step beside me. “You had fun and really got into it, I could tell!”

Only because Lea had been distracting me the whole time. “It doesn’t matter either way, only fools try to make a career out of singing. Do you know how hard it is for most people to make it big in the music industry?”

“Yeah, but most people don’t have a voice like yours.”

I groaned, “Please, can we just drop it?”

“Fine, fine, dropping it,” he raised his hands in surrender. Then, “So… are we friends again?”

I side-eyed him, wrinkling my nose. “...probationally.”

One corner of his mouth twitched upward and he slipped his hands into his pockets. “I’ll take it! And hey, at least something good came outta our lil musical adventure.”

I gave him a questioning look, to which he grinned wider.

“I got to dance with you after all.”

Author's Note: For those who don't know it, the song they sang is called "You're the One That I Want" from the musical "Grease" - a rather problematic musical at that (as I discovered from rewatching the movie while writing this chapter after not having seen the movie in over a decade) but I still love this song and you can pry it from my cold, dead hands xD Also I may or may not have watched 50 (thousand) youtube videos of couples singing this song at karaoke for IMPORTANT RESEARCH reasons before writing up this chapter. I must say, just simply writing the karaoke scene felt almost as mortifying as if I'd actually had to go up on stage and physically sing the damn song myself! I don't normally write songs lyric for lyric in my stories, but I just figured with what an anxious bundle of nerves Elsa is in this story, it was kind of important not to just gloss over and hand-wavy the karaoke. So yeah, I don't usually write singing scenes, but hopefully this one turned out halfway okay? Anyhoo, on another note, Elsa is a lot better at this whole holding-a-conversation thing than she gives herself credit for… once she gets over her crippling anxiety at the very idea of stringing more than two words together! And lastly, I found a way to give Lea both his names in this fic, woooooooo!

Next chapter, this thrilling night out continues! What further adventures in Friday night drinks await our hermit heroine? Is a career in singing ACTUALLY on the table for consideration or will it forever remain a pipe dream? Will Elsa ever perfect her ninja skills, which seriously leave something to be desired currently? Stay tuned!

Thanks for reading, I super duper appreciate it! And an extra BIG thank you to those of you hit that like button last chapter, seeing that always brings the biggest, goofiest smile to my face!

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mellz117 · 4 years

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Mellz plays KH Re:Com on PS2, Reverse/Rebirth (Riku’s campaign) Part 2

Yeah I hate Larxene. She’s mean for the sake of being mean, she has no redeeming qualities. Xemnas at least has a goal, Larxene is just an asshole just to be so. She reminds me of Agent South from Red vs Blue, whom I also can’t stand lmao.

Now that THAT’S out of the way....

Check out part 1 of Riku’s campaign if you’re joining me for the first time! Also linked there is the beginning of my time with Sora’s part of the game. Otherwise, let’s continue.

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Snibbs shout out to you for warning me about Wonderland. LETS GO THERE RIGHT NOW!

Ok I think I know that you meant. I have like 20 cards but only 9 show up in battle.

Oh wow ok. I only ever have 9 cards to work with in Wonderland which sucks against the boss. So I died.

I'm getting so mad right now. I died 4 times. Ok. After reaching the next floor a cut scene plays and Lexaeus tells Zexion that Vexen is dead, which he already knew because "his scent is gone". Some convoluted bullshit gets talked about, if the hero of light loses his path the Organization might find use for the hero of darkness. If the hero of light goes astray YOU STILL HAVE ROXAS.

……………………………………………………………………………………………

So I'm at the Olympus Colosseum and after a while I started wondering out loud

"Can Dark Firaga heal Hades?"

And my sister, who's been eating Ferrero Rocher says "Dark Ferrero?"

Thanks, Rose. Do they make Ferrero Rocher with dark chocolate? I kinda want that.

I do not struggle with Hades at all. Ever. Especially when I don’t have a stupid DUCK casting fire spells.

……………………………………………………………………………………………

When we finish the Colosseum Riku meets Lexaeus, who's already got his tomahawk out. He's ready to kick ass and take names. Nobody here has any time to stop and smell the white, ceramic roses do they?

He calls Riku an infantile coward (a wussy baby) and battle ensues.

Oh ho-ho on battle attempt number 5 we both had one hit left in our HP bars. Guess who won!

NOT ME!

Death count with Lexaeus was 6 after a bunch of grinding. My card count wasn't a problem it was my HP.

Jesus christ, Lex. Hes 15, give him a break. No, not shatter his back on the ceiling...

Well now you done it. Ansem took over and kicked your ass for Riku.

Rose: "Sorry, Ansem, I don't think you're his type"

Please stop talking. Seriously. Someone call the feds omfg

Zexion laments Lexaeus’s defeat. He sounds so sad about it. Were they close?This melancholy mood is quickly shoved aside when Axel appears. They both casually discuss who of the remaining Org13 members in this castle is gonna die next. Zexion leaves to confront Riku himself.

It doesn’t take long before Marluxia's dead, which is enough power to SHAKE THE WHOLE CASTLE and Zexion shows himself to Riku. "Sora's destiny is to fight the darkness, including you, Riku". he says and peaces out until we get the Destiny Islands.

Poor Riku, constantly being bombarded with reminders of his mistakes. These bad guys REALLY like to give him a hard time. LET HIM LEARN WITHOUT HURTING HE’S TRYING HIS BEST.

The Darkside is also a super easy boss. Especially at this point in the game. It's like a bull against a mouse, and the mouse wins. The mcguffin card showed up at the end when it wasn't necessary but I used it anyway.

There’s a door. Oh I get a choice? I don't remember that door. I always just went up to "Sora". What happens if I pick the door?

God damn imagine how BEYTRAYED Riku feels, thinking Sora has turned against him. Hm, well Sora sure knows how it feels now Riku does too!

He looks so sad...

A figment of Kairi appears before Riku. “There is no power than can defeat you” she says. So Riku is OP? She means like, one nor the other has to be his downfall. She tells him the darkness will make him stronger but that’s what ANSEM has been telling him this whole time. And Riku just believes this illusion of Kairi… why? She’s parroting Ansem and Riku’s like “...Yeah that sounds legit”

……………………………………………………………………………………………

What does darkness smell like? Like a damp towel? Stale potatoes?

Battle ensues. So I didn't realize Zexion was stealing my cards to use against me. So what a surprise when I paused to do something and he's got Soul Eater in hand!

Upon exiting the Destiny Islands a cutscene in the darkroom plays. Zexion is scared half to death by Repliku before he realizes Axel is there too. Oh how short that wave of relief lasts... Axel manipulates Repliku and has him kill Zexion. Axel is a bastard. How would killing Zexion help Repliku? What does he know too much of? Isn't he still loyal to Xemnas? Or did he defect like Marluxia and was considered a traitor? Is AXEL even still loyal to the Organization at this point?

Poor Zexion.

The disembodied voice of Ansem Seeker of Darkness calls out to Riku. "Who's there?!" Riku asks, totally forgetting the fact he has seen this man talk with this voice. Canonically it's the same voice. It may be different to the audience but in canon it's the same!

Mickey is at full opacity.

I really like seeing this side of Riku, more silly and cute.

Riku just really needs a hug.

Riku is just completely overcome with relief and his legs give out on him. He’s not alone anymore. When did they get the time to bond between the end of KH1 and CoM?

I'm reading this aloud and Rose says, when I'm done. "No, no, you have to do the voice”

Ok so I went back and reloaded the save before the Darkside fight and the door just leads you to the previous room in case you want to save. Now with that over with, we go to Twilight Town

……………………………………………………………………………………………

DiZ tries to be all "ooh Im evil, I’m Ansem, be very afraid Riku". They battle pose and nothing happens for a too long an awkward moment of time and Riku sees right through this farce.

"You're not the true Ansem" ACTUALLY HE LITERALLY IS THE TRUE ANSEM THE ANSEM YOU KNOW IS TERRANORT’S HEARTLESS LMAO. Look if any of you reading this don’t know Diz and Ansem the Wise (not seeker of darkness) are the same person, what are you doing here?

Oh look it's that ho. I know I keep dragging Repliku but I'm just remembering his death scene and I'm really sad again. I honestly feel so bad for him. He needs a hug. He's super distressed and it's just so heartbreaking. Help!

“Your own darkness doesn’t scare you anymore”

“How can you tell?”

How many of you have played Sonic Adventure 2?

Repliku’s feelings of existentialism hurt me.

I stop feeling bad for him with every death I face

I was grinding for level ups and this happened

I’m barely within its despawn range lmao

……………………………………………………………………………………………

I did it! I don't know how but I beat Repliku! Guess a lot of dueling is the technique? Because I ended up doing that a bunch.

So Repliku is dying. I gave him a lot of crap and drug him through the dirt but the fate of Repliku is a heartbreaking one. He's just laying there and accepts his fate. HE DIED SO YOUNG.

I’m suddenly reminded of this omg

Let’s get back on track.

What DOES happen if a replica dies? Riku ponders as well, perhaps they go to the same place as a normal person. THIS SCENE MAKES ME SO SAD [video]

After all this anger and drama I'm glad that Riku feels pity the replica. He's not heartless. We now enter the mansion and into the... Basement? Is the pod room in the mansion’s basement?

Omg shes so cute.

She shows Riku the pod Sora’s in and Riku's wigging out, thinking Namine's done something wrong with him. Riku, you’re scaring her!

She explains what he's doing there and offers to use her power to make Riku forget the darkness. Riku is concerned he could forget his loved ones as a result.

Riku is king of sass

God damn I love this kid. Little shitlet half the time but I love him. My son. My boy. That stupid finger waggle

DIZ! YOU'RE 3 FEET I FRONT OF RIKU. JUST HAAAANNND HIM THE CARD LIKE A NORMAL HUMAN BEING. THIS AIN’T YU-GI-OH!

GEE I WONDER! Think back what, 10 years ago? Is that when BbS took place?

Riku is ready once and for all to fight Ansem and tells Mickey to stay behind because there’s no point in fighting him if Riku can’t win with his own power.

He’s like “Hey do me a solid? if I don't defeat Ansem, just kill me.”

Riku-interrupting Mouse interrupts him “Sure I’ll save you if that happens”

“No, no. If I lose, DESTR-”

-”Nope!”

……………………………………………………………………………………………

Here’s [part 3] of Reverse/Rebirth, as well as my final thoughts.

#kingdom hearts series #kingdom hearts chain of memories #mellz plays kh recom #kh recom #kh re:com #square enix #Playstation 2 #mellz post

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