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smolvenger · 11 months

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A Court of Mischief and Purpose, Chapter Three (Loki x fem! Reader series, A Court of Thorns and Roses Hiddlesverse AU)

Series Summary: Sarah J Maas's A Court of Thorns and Roses series is reimagined with Tom Hiddleston's various characters. You are dying of tuberculosis right before your upcoming wedding to the Lusty Vicar of Aldwinter, Will Ransome. As you lay on what could be your deathbed, the god of mischief Loki appears before you with a deal. He will heal you in time for the wedding...if you spend a week of every month with him. Opening you to a world of more magic and danger than you ever could imagine...

Chapter Summary: Your first week to live your end of the bargain. It brings you an awareness of "variants" and you meet another prince with the same look as your fiancee. Then your worst fears and doubts about your fiancee are proven true...

Chapter One//Chapter Two

Content Warnings: Cheating (not Loki, but...* takes a long sip of a fun little drink with a straw*...dealing with Will Ransome's canon cheating and portraying it as bad so Will fans and Lusty Vicarettes you have been warned). Period Typical Attitudes. Mentions of sex and religion and grief and angst. But some fluff and humor.

Word count: 8K

A/N: Oh, the sweet irony of revising this while traveling as my brother drove and the playlist playing "Getaway Car" as I work on this. Heh heh. And of course, I figure out how to use my babygirl, Prince Hal! Here, he's the stand-in for the character of Mor for those of you familiar with the ACOTAR books! I hope you like it! Comments, DMs, asks, and reblogs are always appreciated! :)

Taglist: @evelyn-kingsley @jennyggggrrr @five-miles-over @fictive-sl0th @ladycamillewrites @villainousshakespeare @holdmytesseract @eleniblue @twhxhck @lokisgoodgirl @lovelysizzlingbluebird @raqnarokr @holymultiplefandomsbatman @michelleleewise @wolfsmom1 @cheekyscamp @mochie85 @huntress-artemiss

Loki began to strut forward like he owned the church. Eyes were wide over him. Any who tried to step forward to block him, Loki flung his wrist and sent a bit of magic their way. Whoosh! They were knocked over. A couple of people screeched and ran away from the church.

He approached you with a wink and then turned to see the congregation and wedding party.

“I hate to interrupt such a lovely ceremony, but this lovely, stunning, ravishing lady here wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for me..."

He turned to you, fidgeting with his bow tie again.

“I’m not too overdressed am I, Y/N? Well- what should it matter to a god.”

William stepped forward; he put his arm protectively over you.

“Who are you!? Leave her alone!” he threatened.

Loki raised his eyebrows, never losing his smile.

“Why-she told you outright! I am Loki- God of Mischief and rightful heir of Asgard and your world too, perhaps.”

William’s face turned red and then white. There were a crash and a few people rushed over- the bishop, at the sight of a pagan god before him, had fainted.

“What…what is going on!?” your father demanded. He added to the protective party to put an arm over you. You stood there like a statue, eyes wide.

“You see here- Y/N made a deal with me. She was about to die of consumption. I offered to heal her in exchange for just one short little week every month where she’ll stay with me. Well, it’s now one month since I saved her from death- time for me to call in her end of the bargain. Y/N, it’s time for a little trip!”

“Let us finish the ceremony, please!” Father insisted.

Loki pulled out an ornate gold pocket watch from his jacket and checked the time.

“If I am correct, it has been exactly thirty-one days to the minute of Y/N being healed. Maybe I’m a few hours off. But it’s time to collect my deal with the About to Be Mrs. Ransome…”

He glanced over at the unconscious bishop as guests fanned and fetched him water.

“And I think this ceremony is about over.”

He turned over to the people who had remained in their seats, gesturing to them. He spoke loudly, keeping his hands in his pockets. But still spinning around to make sure everyone got the message.

“Oh-by the way-no serpent, everyone! I checked and rechecked- There never was a serpent! And no Leviathan, either. No giant, magical, fanged, man-eating, girl-abducting snake. It’s just a dead whale! Thought I might save all of you the trouble while I was here! Don’t get yourselves in a big fuss over nothing- Just a whale carcass!”

They gasped and murmured among each other. Your jaw lowered to where you could have eaten a fly and not noticed. William’s lips quivered and he looked around with big eyes. He tightened his grip on you.

“This…this is real? Are you seeing this too?” he asked you.

You felt tears brim your eyes.

“Yes, Will…it is real…I told you the truth. And now it’s happening.”

You then looked at the god. You kept shaking and processing all of this was real.

William stepped forward. “We’ll…. we’ll compromise. Think of a bargain!” he said.

Loki folded his arms, “And what kind of bargain are you proposing? I have to warn you- I’m not in the mood,” he said the last word like a snarl.

“No…” you murmured. The first words you spoke.

They all looked at you. Not a passive pawn to be tossed and turned around. But a real person is deciding their fate. You broke from the arms of the men.

“Papa, Will, stop! I promised him I would go-and I will go. It’s only a week. I gave Loki a promise as he gave me his. It’s only a staying over somewhere else- I’m not being sacrificed or anything!”

You stepped forward. Loki smiled, keeping his hands in his pockets.

“Well…say your goodbyes and come along, Y/N darling,” he said.

William gave Loki a glare.

“If you try to harm her-.” He threatened.

“Don’t worry-I’ll return her safe and sound and unruined…. unless she would like that…” Loki interrupted.

You shot Loki a look with a stubborn frown, despite a couple more whispers from the people sitting down.

You looked at your parents, your friends, the bridesmaids. Stella’s own eyes were big too and she was quiet. Despite slight trepidation, she looked at Loki in fascination. As did the few others. You approached them.

“It won’t be long; I will be right back. There’s nothing to be scared of.”

You then turned to your parents.

“You-you cannot do this!” Your mother cried.

“I must. I’d be dead if I said no…” you replied.

You then looked up at William. Part of you wanted to touch his face, take his hand in yours…. but you couldn’t. The letters, the words still swimming in your mind. It kept you from giving him a farewell kiss. You only looked at him, tears in your eyes. You felt his grip tighten like he was going to pull you back to him.

“I’m so sorry…Will…”

Sorry that your own emotions, your weakness, your doubts made your feet stop from completing the marriage. Sorry you went into his office. Sorry you saw those letters. Those were the words you wanted to say. But instead, you said more.

“Please, Will…there’s no other way…and he won’t hurt me…I told you this would happen. I’ll be back soon.”

Your fiancée said nothing but gave a curt nod. He let you go. You then turned to Loki. The god reached out.

“Take my hand, Y/N.”

You took it. From his pale skin, you expected a cold touch. But then he wrapped an arm around you- soft and warm.

“Hold on,” he whispered.

You squeezed onto his hand. White and golden magic swirled over all of you. Before a single person could yell out “what the hell actually happened?!?” The white and brown church and everyone in it faded away in it. You felt weightless for only a minute. The colors of the rainbow swirled around you, and you gasped in shock.

You wondered, even dreaded what Asgard looked like. Would it be dark, like Loki? Depraved? Full of all sorts of trickery- fruits that would turn into beasts and whatnot? Why didn’t you read that book about Norse mythology further?! But when the colors faded, you saw somewhere…light. There was the glow of the sunset. It was a lovely palace. Comfortable even. Golden and majestic. There were tall marble columns and outside was a whole city with buildings like tall spikes. But the columns of the building shone. And the marble floors showed your reflection.

Loki swept out a theatrical arm.

“Welcome to Asgard,” he greeted. You took a few steps out to look around.

“This is not quite the place I imagined….” You confessed.

You tipped your head up to see the ceiling.

“This is my home, the palace itself. What were you imagining?” he asked.

“Something….dark and dangerous…” you shrugged.

Loki swirled on his heels, putting his hands in his pockets.

“We do have dark, and we do have dangers like any other place. But not here-there are guards everywhere…”

You turned and saw a flight of stairs leading up to a large golden throne room. It shone so much it almost hurt your eyes.

“Will you ever tell me a ‘thank you?’” Loki asked.

You turned around, blinking at him.

“What do you mean? For healing me?”

“Y/N, my dear, I thought you would be grateful for calling in the bargain when I did.”

“Grateful?!” you asked, turning around.

“I heard you. You were begging for someone, anyone to help you. To get you out of here,” he said. Though there was earnestness in his voice.

“What do you mean you heard me?” you asked.

“I heard your own voice- clearly in your head as I hear your words now. You were practically crying out for someone to get you out of your own wedding….”

You widened your eyes.

“I didn’t say anything! I didn’t say a word when the ceremony began!” you refused.

“You were…upset. But you didn’t want to reject William right in front of his entire congregation. But you didn’t want to go through with the marriage. I thought the timing was perfect-and I wanted to give you as much time as you would need. Not call it in until the last minute…and if I recall, you did call me ‘a sweet, handsome fellow’ when you were a cat…where is that attitude now?”

“I hate to tell you, but I didn’t know that cat was a bloody trickster god!”

With a tit of his head, his tuxedo was melted to his normal green, black, and gold robes. Then he folded his arms. He circled around you, looking you up and down. You couldn’t help but follow him.

“Hmmm…what is that thing you’re wearing?” he asked, his nose scrunching.

“It’s a wedding dress,” you answered.

“This is a wedding dress?” he scoffed in disgust.

He went behind to the skirt in its back and picked it up. You swatted his hand away.

“And what is that skirt?” he asked.

“It’s a Bustle. Every woman wears one. Me included,” you explained.

“Is this what Midgard women wear when they get married from your time? This…this is not a wedding dress it’s…it’s a monstrosity of lace,” he insulted.

You then jerked around.

“I bet you will enjoy having me as a prisoner in your dungeons clad in nothing!” you cursed. If you had to go here, you would not go without a fight.

He chuckled for a second, and then smiled.

“You honestly think I am that callous to throw you in the dungeons!? Oh no-you are no prisoner here. You’re definitely no servant or slave. You’re a guest here at the palace. And you will be comfortable. You will have your own rooms, be fed, and you may spend your free hours however you would like. And have some clothes other than this…bustle thing you call it.”

“So, a gilded cage then?” you asked.

He raised an eyebrow.

“And your upcoming marriage was not a gilded cage?” he asked.

You shook your head, tightening your jaw.

“I understood the responsibilities of being a clergy wife when I said yes to Will’s proposal-I’m not naïve and I’m not a fool. I was ready…” you argued.

You bunched your hands into fists, holding your ground before him.

“I did this…for William. It was a sacrifice I had to make for him!” you said.

Loki frowned. His eyes serious as he spoke.

“And would William sacrifice himself for you?”

You had had enough.

In a rage, you took off your slipper and hurled it at Loki. He ducked it over his dark head, and it crashed into the floor. You did your best to ignore the tears in your eyes.

“I guess you’d rather have the servants take you to your rooms than me. And I won’t ask for that ‘thank you’…I can guess you aren’t willing to give one now…”

“You’re a pig,” you spat.

Sure enough, there were servants who led you over to a bedroom. It had golden walls and marble floors. There was a door leading to a bathroom. It had a bathtub the size of your old room. When you turned on the water, it came out hot. Taking off your shoes and stockings, you had to dip your toe in to make sure it was not too scalding. But as you peeled off each layer of your clothes and got in, it was so relaxing you felt yourself sigh from it. There were soaps that smelt of honey. You rubbed yourself clean and sat in that tub, watching the suds over the water. It was so peaceful with the steam and the sound of the rushing water and perfumes of the soap, you forgot for a moment about the letters.

A servant knocked on the door and you jumped. But they only spoke from the privacy of its closing.

“Would you like to dine with the prince tonight?” asked a light, female voice.

“With Loki? No thank you!” you said.

You were not in the mood to deal with him now. The wedding, or attempt at a wedding, was done. The course of your adrenaline was done, and you felt too tired. He was not going to bat at you like a toy for him to torment. Or let him ask questions you weren’t ready to answer. Ready to deal with.

“Well, would you like a tray delivered?” she asked.

“Uh…yes…” you replied.

“One shall be brought to you,” she confirmed.

After taking a moment to soak up that warm tub, you emerged and dried yourself. A robe was made available-silky and golden. Once you went out to your bedroom, you peeked through the curtains to see it was now dark. There was a sky full of stars littered across the sky. Like sparkles on diamonds. You felt your breath stop at its beauty. On the bed was laid a nightgown- a long, light pink dress with long sleeves. There were even silk ribbons tied into a bow at the collar. Far silkier than the cotton ones you lived in when you were sick and far prettier. It was hard not to feel princess like as you put it on inside the palace.

The servants brought a large dinner over to you on a tray. There was even wine brought up to you so strong, you could only sip a little of it at a time. Only half of that meal and you were stuffed to bursting. As your dinner digested, you enjoyed a glass as you admired the stars. It was strong enough, that it washed away your worries about what you read-about this horrid possibility of Will’s. And soon you crashed asleep onto the soft bed.

When you awoke the next morning, the sun shone through the curtains like melted gold. Out the window, you saw a city like no other. How…beautiful it all looked. Opposite of what you thought Asgard would be like. You gasped to see two planets floating in the sky. Like they would kiss the ground, yet they didn’t.

It wouldn’t do to stay inside. For your insistence to not be treated like a prisoner, you were about to turn your room into a prison. No Loki influence needed. You had slept well-you were refreshed and re-energized- even to deal with him.

They brought you a gown of green. Perhaps it quoted him. But how…strange it felt! Silky and long and flowy! Where was a shift? Petticoats? Corset? Stockings? Buttons? Gloves? Hats? No-the servants brought you none of those. Those weren’t part of Asgardian fashion. It felt wrong, it felt out of place. But when in Rome, do as the Romans do. Even if it felt odd to wear them. Though…they were comfortable. And light to walk in, too. As you walked out, they took you to a dining hall. You were seated on the side of the table as plates arrived. In strolled the swaggering footsteps of the prince Loki.

“Good morning-and don’t you look lovely, Y/N.”

There was no one else arriving. You looked around nervously.

“Where is a chaperone?” you asked.

“We don’t have every move of a young woman being constantly watched here,” he said.

“So, I must eat with you and be with you unchaperoned?” you asked.

“You will be fine…we have another coming up. No one is going to take advantage of the honored guest of the palace…” he said.

He sat himself onto the chair next to you. You felt as if a bird was flying around in your stomach. He did lean closer, with that same smirk.

“Rest well Y/N?” he asked.

“I…I did…” you admitted.

You went over and sat at dinner with them. Though as you passed, a strong, metallic smell caught your nose. Loki’s eyes glimmered as you turned your head. There was a servant carrying several brushes and a can of grey paint. They walked by and then vanished into the next hall.

“What…what’s going on? Is everyone in Asgard a painter?” you asked.

“Oh…you are not the only guest here. There is someone else…a troubled gentleman. It seems that painting on walls right now is his consolation. But! We do have another guest joining us…perhaps. He does love a good party. Might still be sick.”

There was the sound of footsteps.

“Ah. Here he is,” Loki smiled.

In walked another gentleman clad in more strange clothes. He had a red leather jacket and a red cap over his head with dark pants. Beneath his cap was a head full of beautiful ginger curls. Though he had a smirk on his face, there was a dagger to his side. He plopped himself on the chair.

“Did you rest well…unless you’re still drunk,” said Loki.

“To your shock, I stayed here last night. And only went to one tavern,” the stranger retorted.

He picked up an orange from the table and began to peel it with his dagger. Though something was undeniable- he had long, curly auburn hair, high cheekbones, and bright blue eyes. His face, his hair, his eyes…it seemed you never left Will.

“Oh, I should introduce you both- Y/N, meet his royal highness, Prince Henry…” Loki began.

“Bosom companions call me Hal. And my brothers call me Harry,” he said.

“You might know him from your time as his majesty Henry the Fifth,” Loki continued.

You almost dropped your fork.

“Henry the Fifth! The warrior king who won Agincourt!?”

“What is Agincourt?” Hal asked.

You backed down. Loki did say he was a prince- so he was not the king yet.

“And Hal, meet the beautiful, generous, and charming Y/N.”

You bobbed your head in greeting and Hal smiled and acknowledged it. But your yes darted between them, astonished.

“It’s not polite to gape, Y/N.” Loki said.

“I know but…Hal, I’m so sorry. You look a little…familiar…” you apologized.

“Oh, yes. We’re all supposed to look alike, my lady. The reason- we’re all apparently variants,” Hal replied.

You widened your eyes. Loki waved his hands, explaining.

“My variants- variants of me across time, across space. Yet each becomes different people, makes different choices and even take on different looks. Well, at least, in their hair! Why do you think Hal and I resemble your dear vicar so much?”

“A vicar? Dear lord and lady, may I ask-what is a vicar?” Hal asked.

“He’s a priest, he’s my…my fiancée,” you explained.

But soon you’d have to return…but why were you dreading it? Dreading completing the marriage?

“Why is a priest getting married? I thought they never could!” Hal asked.

“Oh, dear. Your country is still entirely Catholic. Your split and the ability for priests to marry won’t happen for another good century…” you reasoned.

“The church shall split! Fie-who would ever imagine!” Hal cursed.

Loki laughed with a toothy grin. Hal still looked with a tilted head and hypnotized eyes. He would ask more, but you would have to discuss the four hundred years of events later. You took a napkin to your lips and wiped off your mouth.

“Why are you gathering your variants?” you asked.

“It’s not to have a good drink and celebrate…if only it could be,” Hal cut in.

Loki’s eyes hardened. He folded his hands and looked at you.

“Because a war is coming, Y/N.”

You paused.

“A…a war?”

“Wars between worlds. Between planets,” Loki said.

“And you are gathering your variants because of this war?”

“Precisely.”

Hal wiped off the orange peel from his dagger and set it aside it. He tore apart the fruit, chewing on it solemnly. He leaned in his seat and kicked his feet on the table.

“Then why haven’t you kidnapped Will and brought him here instead?” you questioned.

“You looked like you needed help…. desperate help. Far more than he did. Think of your wedding day- you were crying for it. Begging for someone to take you away.”

“I didn’t say anything! I didn’t say one thing aloud- remember! What are you going on about?” you insisted.

He then looked up. Hal raised his eyebrows in amusement.

“When I arrived, you didn’t look particularly happy at your wedding,” he replied.

“Most marriages I know of aren’t for love, Loki,” Prince Hal suggested.

You curled a fist on the table.

“It was for love! I love Will! I do! More than anything! And I wanted to marry him!”

The letters. The blonde hair and grey coat of her-the one who chose with Will to uproot you. The hot, stifling wedding dress. The words of the mothers around you. The oppressive smell of incense and candles. Will in a tuxedo. You felt your stomach sour at the memories. Perhaps you only saw the letters. They were a dream. A vision. Or they were old letters. But…part of you knew the truth. You didn’t want to face it. You realized you were looking forward to this. One more minute away from your fiancée, another minute of hoping, another minute he was your faithful Will. To dream. To give into the illusion of hope and the peace it brought.

But right now, you didn’t feel peaceful.

“Not want. Wanted. Was there a change?” Hal asked innocently.

“It was just…It was because…because…I…” you began to mutter.

They looked at you. Faces so much like his. Eyes like his. It was too much. You felt tears well up. Then you pulled yourself from the table.

“Excuse me gentlemen-I’ve had enough. I need to go,” you excused yourself.

You ran down the hall. You felt yourself crying despite yourself. You didn’t want to seem like a hysterical, emotional, irrational woman in front of these men. You took one of the long sleeves of your dress and wiped them. Wondering if there was one corner to be left alone.

Then there was a booming, deep voice, and heavy footsteps so loud it made you stop your tracks.

“Brother! Where is she? Where have you been hiding her!? I must meet her!” the deep, masculine voice announced excitedly.

In ran an incredible specimen of a man. He was only barely taller than Loki and Hal, but he was ginormous with ripped, bulky muscles and bright blonde hair and blue eyes. You looked up like him. Then he smiled with the enthusiasm of a rather friendly bear.

“Why! There she is! The woman from Midgard! Our guest!” he cried in his theatrical baritone.

He went up to you and wrapped you in a hug, picking you up like you were made of paper and giving you a hug that crushed your bones. You gasped from the contact from both a stranger and a man! Then he set you down.

“Hello there! You are this Y/N, right?!” he checked.

“Yes! Yes, I am! But sir- we-we haven’t been introduced!” you insisted.

“Oh, right! I am Thor- Prince and Future king of Asgard and God of Thunder, of course!” he laughed, hands on his hips. Oh, how his laugh itself was like thunder and echoed down the castle!

“It is nice to meet you too, sir!” you replied. His joy was infectious.

You heard two footsteps right before you heard Loki and Hal run up to you.

“Ah. I’ve seen you met my brother,” Loki commented.

Thor continued, gesturing to the tall marble columns.

“But Y/N, I SHOULD take you on a grand tour! I gave one to Hal and I should give one for you! Asgard is a beautiful place here- would you like that?!”

You nodded, “yes, I would. But I’m…I’m just a little…a little frazzled. I only arrived yesterday.”

“Hm, yes. That is understandable. But do not hesitate to ask me should you need it, little mortal Y/N! I’m sure you would love it!” he added.

You held your hands and began to fiddle with your thumbs. It would be very boring here. You had to have something to do this week.

“But…could you show me to the gardens? And is there a library here? I do like to read,” you said.

Thor lit up.

“Ah! Yes, of course! I shall show you the way! The garden’s mother’s domain but you can go there any time! And the library! I’ll take you there right away! And I’ll tell you ALL about the history of Asgard!”

He offered his arm, and you took it, walking by him as he chatted away. Hal folded his arms and laughed a little. But you did notice Loki scowling slightly.

It was hard to sleep that night. You found you struggled to drift off. You tossed and turned constantly. Then you finally got out of bed. With a large sigh, you got out of bed. You wrapped a blanket as a shawl and wandered over to the library. You still remembered the way; your ears were still ringing from Thor’s excited chatter.

Though as you walked down the halls, you heard footsteps. You kept turning. You saw no one, but that didn’t mean there was no one there. But you could almost hear a grunt. Then as you turned-there was a flicker. A figure-in the dark! Your heart picked up. Clutching the blanket, you hurried over to the library and shut the door behind.

It was incredibly warm. The fireplace crackled and it smelled old, musty-safe. To think even in another universe, people (and gods) still loved books and stories and knowledge, too.

But as you turned around, you saw no one else on the red seat by the fire than the prince himself-that is, Prince Loki. With a hardcover on his lap. He looked up but did not jump. He only smiled.

“Good evening, Y/N,” he greeted.

“Good evening…what are you doing here?” you asked.

“It’s a late night and without the solace of sleep, I have the solace of books.”

You didn’t want to admit it was the same as you. You only walked forward, going to a book you noticed on the mantle of the fireplace. You opened one book, and to your surprise it was full of writing. Writing about Loki:

“Loki is the handsomest god.

Loki is the most charming god.

Loki is interesting.

Loki is gorgeous.

Loki is flawless.

Loki is a fierce warrior.

Loki is the best lover in bed.”

Scowling, you slammed it shut. But you heard the slight stifle of a laugh from behind. You turned around.

“I would rather not spend it reading about your praises like it was scripture,” you hissed.

“We do have stories here. I’m not as full of myself as you think,” he replied.

“You’ve done very little to prove it,” you dismissed.

He softened his gaze.

“Y/N…are you having trouble sleeping? How come? Is something…something troubling you?”

The letters. The letters. The letters. But he…he wouldn’t understand. After all, it was Will’s variant, and it was pure luck he chose to whisk you away instead. Maybe another face about to laugh at you.

“I’m…I’m not ready to talk about it. Much less with you,” you answered.

“Very well then. Y/N…there is something here-a special drink. It has a little magic in it, and it helps with sleep…should I ring for a servant to bring one to you?”

“I…uh…yes. Yes, it would be,” you replied.

You didn’t want to be the one he beat every time. But it would be foolish to refuse his help. He fetched a servant outside the door for the drink. Soon, there was a chalice with a dark purple drink inside. It smelled like fruit and had the consistency of wine.

“This should help you, Y/N darling…and of all the books here.”

His curled black head looked around at the shelves.

“This one! I recommend this one.”

He gave you a small black one.

“Should I trust your taste?” you asked.

“It’s not about me. Unless you would like to read that too. Should change your mind about me.”

You said nothing but accepted the book. You got the chalice in your other hand, but before you tuned out, you went to him.

“Loki…I thought I heard something. I thought I heard someone going around right before I got inside. Someone’s…someone’s sneaking around! It could be an enemy…or…or something!”

He let out a half smile and put his hands in his pockets.

“Aren’t you concerned?” you asked.

Loki let out a half-laugh, “oh- must be him again! Old habits die hard! I’ll have a chat with him- he doesn’t mean to scare. Don’t give me that face, Y/N! Here-I’ll escort you to your rooms.”

As you turned around and returned to your room, you realized you forgot to ask who ‘he’ was. Shrugging it off, the drink was semi-sweet like milk. You felt it lull you into a deep sleep quickly.

The week was very quiet and eventless. Though Thor did give you a grand tour of the castle and even some of the city of Asgard. You got to observe court in session a few times and you were introduced to the king and queen. King Odin was only polite. But Frigga was warm and curious about you. Often, she would be in her gardens and would ask you every question about Midgard one could ask. You ate your meals. You went to the gardens and the libraries. Even Hal, when not nursing a hangover, asked you questions about what would happen to England. Before you knew it, seven days were done. Thor, Hal, Loki and you had gathered in the hall.

“Do you have everything?” Loki asked.

You nodded, your wedding dress and clothes in a box for you to take home. You insisted to not get rid of your old clothes. You were dressed in a pink dress that flowed down you like a sunrise. Even Hal nodded and smiled at it.

“I’m sure you would have loved the taverns here. I already found and filtered the best one, Y/N!”

“No thank you-but I appreciate the thought,” you dismissed.

“May your travels be swift, and safe, little mortal!” Thor wished.

“Very good. I will miss your company, my dear.” Loki said.

You gave him a scowling frown. Loki only smiled back, unfazed by your look.

“See you next month, Y/N,” he wished as he snapped his fingers.

There was a rustle of golden light. The castle and the men disappeared within its mist.

Suddenly, you realized you were back. You were in the middle of Aldwinter-your home. Yet how…ordinary and plain those white houses looked in comparison. Rather than the marble floors, beneath you were the dirt streets. Instead of a sunny day where the sky showed two planets, there were only grey clouds. It was starting to rain, and the dirt was turning to mud, staining the end of your skirt. You fled to your house before you could get the worst of it.

You knocked on the door. Your parents ran forward with a shout. They both embraced you at once.

“Y/N! What are you doing?! And what in heavens name are those clothes?!” your mother questioned.

“Dear heavens! We should have believed you! I’m…I’m sorry my girl,” your father apologized.

“It’s alright. I forgive you. I forgive you all…” you said, hugging them back.

Your father had run out to alert Will. Mother raised an eyebrow at the pink dress. Though she led you into the parlor and sat you down, insisting on a blanket for warmth. She looked at your dress curiously. You didn’t have the usual parts of dress you were used to, but it had a long skirt and long sleeves and was by all accounts appropriate.

Father returned with Will-both soaking wet from dashing out in the rain. The news of your return seemed to make them forget to grab an umbrella. Will’s dark sweater clung to him, his curly hair dampened from the storm and clinging to his face. They set you down and fixed you tea and biscuits. Will grabbed two in his large hand and stuffed them in his mouth.

You explained to them everything that happened.

“I dined with him in a palace. I had my own room. I met Thor, Frigga, Odin, and even Henry the Fifth himself- alive. I know I sound mad-but I am serious. And after the wedding, all of you should know I am serious.”

They nodded; glad you were unhurt. They asked questions. You spent so much time talking that the sky soon became dark. Will gave you a kiss on the hand and said his goodbyes-no word on when the wedding could be rescheduled. You returned to your old room after dinner. As you got back into your old familiar nightgown, your mother entered the room. She patted your bed for you both to sit on it beside her. She rubbed her hands nervously.

“Now Y/N…tell me. You can tell me and be honest. You don’t need to fear pleasing your father or William right now. Did this Loki…Did he…force himself on you?” she asked.

“No,” you answered plainly.

“Did you lie in bed with him?” she pressed further.

“No! I’d never do that! He didn’t lay a hand on me,” you insisted.

She let out a deep breath, but her eyes never faltered.

“I am glad. But Y/N, you went to the house of another man. You stayed there though you are still…still engaged to another. Whatever may or may not have happened, there will be talk, you know…” she warned.

“I understand…but I will tell William. I know he’ll believe me and Mother…I only…I…”

The lie sputtered out of you.

“I was feeling unwell. And I was worried about Loki, was all. We will reschedule the wedding.”

She embraced you and kissed the side of your head.

There was a glimmer of hope. Perhaps it was just a misunderstanding. No- not William. Not Will. Not Will who confided of his secret swims in the ocean. Not Will who you sat beside as each person lined up and presented their yearly tithes to him. Not Will who was good with children and spoke of wanting to be a father someday. Not Will who pet his dog and whistled for him to return with a wagging tail. No- it was a misunderstanding.

Yes, it was a misunderstanding. You didn’t see anything- just some papers. Maybe it was long over, even. He did write-it could be a novel, perhaps. Maybe it was just a small infatuation that faded. He knew what the right thing to do was- he studied and preached the Bible after all.

Or he would…would have ended things. Something felt but never acted on. Or a vision of your wedding nerves projected to where your imagination ran wild. Or maybe…Loki! He must have planted them to fool you into running into the god’s arms!

Scoundrel, you cursed silently.

But sleep was hard to achieve that night. And the few nights after that. And no Asgard medicine to help. When you did manage to fall on the third night, you awoke the next day very early-while it was still dark. And you could not fall back asleep. Your mind racing despite those thoughts of hope.

Maybe you needed some air. Especially as the sun was still rising. The grey clouds made their journey over the pink-orange sky. Wrapping yourself warm in a shawl, making sure there were slippers on your feet. You walked outside and you sighed with the beautiful, crisp air of the morning and the sound of the ocean. The kiss of a spring morning. You did miss this place, after all! You went down to some of the woods and its walking path- a carved pathway through the grass. The sound of birds and squirrels and animals stirring through the trees comforted you.

Sometimes you saw a rabbit darting across. You heard the grass bend and itch against your bare legs. You missed the shade of the leaves and everything. The smell of the wind and feeling the sun made it warm as it rose. It greeted as it peeked over the horizon. Now that it was confirmed no Serpent was slithering, you could walk about in peace. Maybe it was another trick of Loki’s. Maybe even he himself was the Serpent in the first place, the villain! Despite the heaviness and fog of lack of sleep, you found yourself at peace.

You knew the marshes and fields were not too far away. It felt nice-perhaps you would just drink strong coffee when you returned. That along with the air would make you feel more awake. You found a path full of beautiful wildflowers growing free, and you began to pluck them. What a nice little bouquet it would make. You kept an eye out for any blue ones- gifts for Stella to press into books. You went over, gathering them. You went along it like it was a path-just as you once did as a little child. It did feel good to be a child every now and then.

You thought you saw one blue one growing, right near where the fields started. What good luck! You walked over there, bent to pick it up. You heard the beating of wings of the bird above you. Out of instinct, you turned your head up.

You shouldn’t have looked.

There was William- extremely handsome as always. His white shirt was open. His tan coat. The sight would make you giggle and grin with swooning love and even lust.

Usually.

But he was with Cora, dressed in red.

They were embracing. She grabbed his face and kissed him in the field.

You felt your heart begin to race and your stomach turning, the shock making you see stars on the fields of your vision. You felt as if you were stabbed in your stomach. Your throat turned into a lump. You watched as he kissed her back. They kept on kissing. And kissing. Him. Your William. Your Will. You paused as you watched in horror, blinking, rubbing your eyes- realizing what you were seeing wasn’t a vision. But real. Would…would this be a prank of Loki’s? It had to be. You looked around.

But it struck you. The truth you didn’t want to face. And here it was right before you.

William was having an affair. He was unfaithful to you.

You were so filled with utter grief and shock that you couldn’t move. You couldn’t take another step forward.

You wanted to scream. You wanted to barrel yourself forward. You wanted to take your fingernails and claw it into Cora’s pale face. Until bloody scratches ruined her lovely face. To rip out each golden strand of hair on her head. To pluck out her small eyes with your bare hands. To punch and slap her round, ivory face until it bruised. You wanted to strangle William where he was. To run on him and punch his handsome face as tears ran down your face. Or find a stone and finish the deed until he was nothing but a handsome, bloody corpse on a field.

No-that was being a typical, hysterical, emotional overreacting woman. And you still on the spot. Then, turning away, you immediately began to run. Yes- run like your Will used to like to do.

Only he was not your Will. Not anymore. He would never be your Will.

You ran so hard you nearly tripped over some rocks on the ground. You caught yourself on the trunk of a tree. You hugged it and then sank down to the dirt. You let yourself cry. You rolled yourself into fetal position, hugging your legs, and sobbed so hard you were gasping for breath.

You rushed back home and immediately ran up to your room. You fell on the floor again. Your heart racing. Trying to forget it, but not able to. Not letting yourself even cry. Crying meant someone would knock. Someone would ask what was wrong. And having to tell someone what had happened. But one thought made you feel sick again.

They were probably doing more than just kissing by now.

If he acted like this when you were engaged…how would he act when you were married? You should break it off now. You wanted to break it off. But… If you broke it off…it would mean your reputation as a woman would be tarnished. It happened to a girl named Jane who lived in the next town and now she was labeled as forever ruined and unmarriageable. There was enough talk for it to sweep from her place to here.

But how…how could you marry a man who was unfaithful? Which was it? Damned if you did, damned if you didn’t.

You had to talk to him. Had to discuss it soon. Confront him.

You sat in a daze all day. Speaking to no one. Only saying “yes” or “sure,” to your parents. Not speaking of what you saw. Your parents flitted around you, chatting about perhaps rescheduling the wedding and what might happen. To make sure it was soon so it would be done and there would be no interruptions. It was at noon when you said to your mother you both were embroidering.

“Could I…could I talk to Will? In private?” you voiced.

“Not in his house, Y/N!” father dismissed.

“I know but…I just…want to have a word with him…”

“Only if you both are walking.”

Walking. Walking like you used to. Only now, he walked with…with…with…No. You didn’t feel like walking with him today. Not when you knew he would rather be with.

And you were the one to permit his searches with her! You encouraged him to dance with her when you were sick! You practically threw him in her direction! How could you have been so stupid? You swallowed back another tear as you kept embroidering.

Your mother then turned to you.

“We will meet with Reverend Ransome to see about rescheduling dates. Tomorrow is Sunday, Y/N. You will sit in the front row, as always. Won’t you? There will be a luncheon and the other women will discuss your duties as a rector’s wife more in detail. They’ll let you know everything,” she announced.

You thought since William was a priest, he would be a faithful man. But how did the horrible truth of how the world worked not show you in its face?

Yes, he was a priest…but he was also a man. And men were free to take who they wanted when they wanted. And it was women who had to stay behind, make every sacrifice, and do every bit of work back for them. It was men who had romance and valor and glory while women suffered in silence at their expense.

And when night arrived, you still couldn’t sleep. Your parents snored safely in their own rooms without a care in the world. Past midnight, you couldn’t take it. You got up and dressed. You put on a warm coat for the night’s chill.

You had to see him. You had to talk to him alone.

You went over to his house and knocked on the reverend’s door. William opened it up, warm and handsome in his dark sweater as always.

“Y/N, what are you doing up so late?” he asked.

“I could say the same of you…Could I…could I speak to you, Will? I wanted to speak to you alone. But I couldn’t find a minute of privacy today,” you blurted.

“Yes, of course!” he said.

He led you in. This small, dark brown house. The house that was going to be your house. No- his house. For once you married, everything that was yours would become his. His house. His property. And his money. If he wanted to spoil Cora with his money-money that could be used to provide for you and any children from the marriage- he could. And any money you made for yourself would go to him to spoil Cora more. None for your own- it was the law for a married woman. And if he wanted to run off with Cora and not leave you a penny, he could. As a man, he legally could. Your foundation was as broken as your heart.

With those thoughts, you both sat at his table, the light just over his head. He smiled warmly and in ignorance. The dog went up, tail wagging, to greet you. You scratched his soft head until the dog sat by you. You noticed papers with an open book about theology on it.

“No wonder you’re still awake. You work too hard,” you commented.

“Had to revise my sermon until it was right. What can I say- my job is a serious one. I take my own position and my place in the town seriously.”

But not seriously enough, you thought. Will, do you understand the scandal that would erupt if I were to tell one person right now? This is a small town. News gets around quick. People like nothing more than talking. All I need to do is tell one person, and your reputation and Cora’s and even mine too are done for, you thought.

But you held your lips shut. You wanted to do this. Here you were at last. So why was it so hard?

You squirmed in the chair, then let out a deep breath. Try to think of any way you could approach this subject. He sat across from you.

“I understand that it’s part of your ministry. I respect that. Your family didn’t approve of your choice to join the seminary…now here you are…and it’s…it’s fragile…” you began.

He took your hand. You once melted into the touch. And you should. You did in a way. But now…seeing the grass. The marsh. The field. The early morning. The red dress and blonde hair. The tan coat. The kisses.

You let out another deep breath and continued.

“I’m sorry I made that bargain with Loki. I know it would hurt you. But I wanted to be alive…for you. Don’t you understand? I did it for us, our marriage…and you…”

“I’m sorry-I should admit, I don’t understand what it is to be dying,” William admitted, keeping your hand in his. Two large hands overpowering your own.

“It will be a challenge…. I know what I signed up for when I agreed to marry you. That it was a calling for me as much as it was for you. To look after the town by your side. To represent God as best as I could. To be the leader among women, a role model, an example…William, do you even understand the immense pressure it takes to be the wife of a clergyman? To have every eye watching me every minute? That I must prove to be a godly, good, upright woman to everyone every day and to be-be…”

To be perfect. Perfect for you, you wanted to add on. Yet you could not.

He smiled. Such kindness. That was what made it worse. If he was cruel, wicked, unfeeling man to you all the time, it would make hating him easier. It would make confronting him easier.

“And I don’t doubt you will live up to them…you need only be yourself. I’ll talk to them.”

Then he put a finger to his lips and smiled. You raised your eyebrows.

“I have a gift for you, Y/N…”

You felt a little nauseous when he turned around. Perhaps it was a book. A book on faith he loved and found fascinating. A book that you would use as a vicar’s wife to show your great understanding, to the ideal woman in town everyone looked up to and admired because of your husband. Perhaps a small piece of jewelry like on your birthday. Something beautiful and shining and perfect- like you had to be.

No-it was worse.

They were flowers. Wildflowers. Wildflowers you saw in the forest, wrapped up in a red ribbon. The flowers you recognized in the valley. The valley you saw him betray you for Cora.

“I know how much you love flowers, Y/N,” he said.

He brought them to you. But you froze, looking at you. You felt heavy and dull, a slight buzzing in your ears. Your heart raced up. You couldn’t take them.

“You…. you don’t like them?” he asked.

You blinked, and then took your head. You forced a smile on your face.

“Oh, no! I love them. I do!” you said with the pretense of the old you. The you that didn’t know.

You took them, smelled them, and then set them down.

“How were things this week while…while I was gone?” you asked.

“Same old things, you know. Everyone managed to find the whale carcass discussed,” he answered. He kept smiling with his blue eyes alight.

“Then there should be a little relief…your search for consecration is done…”

“Oh, and Mrs. Seaborne!”

You froze in your tracks. He said her name right before you. You were just sitting, but your heart began to pound fast. Your stomach turning sick again. The words, the nice, quiet version of that phrase, “William, I saw you both kissing and found letters. Are you having an affair with her?” were there. But that couldn’t be said. He spoke more.

“Mrs. Seaborne accepted the evidence with grace. She is a magnificent woman, and she-she has suffered so much through her life, but she is learning to enjoy her life again!”

Yes. She is learning to enjoy life again. By taking away yours. Knowingly. Willingly.

And the audacity this man had to sing her praises to your face. You looked down at the table, at the flowers. But you heard him chat on.

“She is…an interesting woman…” you mumbled.

“She told me of how she grew up…” William continued.

How long of this could you take. All the praise. All the laudations. All hailing Cora Seaborne as a queen. A pedestal to beat you with. Something you could never attain, never reach. A joke waiting to be made in Will’s altar and bed. Because you would never be her. Because you would never be perfect- you would never be Cora.

“And to think, for years, they tried to train her and teach her to be a lady! She does so much to free herself of what ladies should do and be!”

You could practically see her before you. Smiling smugly. Ready to grab your beloved’s face and kiss him before you again and again and again. Wiping her superiority in your face.

You also saw the bitter irony. You had to be the proper vicar’s wife. Cora was the wild, spirited, unconventional woman. And yet it was Cora William preferred. Another person you had to force yourself to become. Another role to play. Because you own self wasn’t enough for William. Your own self was too boring. Too imperfect.

If you were imperfect, let you be imperfect. If you were a demon to Cora’s angel, so be it. If you were a monster, a hag, a freak, an abomination to Cora’s beauty, then so be it. If you were the bad to Cora’s good, you would go down as the absolute worst.

You looked at Will. He was smiling and leaning down to pet his dog. You were breathing fast. Your false smile dropped.

The words boiled in you. Before rationality, before self-control, and your better judgement could stop you, the words boiling inside you overflowed as he leaned down.

“Cora isn’t a lady- she’s a cunt.” You said.

He blinked rapidly, jumping up. His eyes squinted, making sure you said what you said. The aftertaste of the word felt bittersweet. Freeing.

“What did you say?” he repeated softly.

The cruel, harsh words- the cruelest, harshest words you ever heard yourself capable of- poured out of you- a dam long contained. You felt the cold fury in your own voice.

“Cora Seaborne is a cunt, and a bitch…”

You squared him in the eye, your gaze hardening.

“And a whore.”

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blackknight-100 · 3 months

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May I request another prompt, this time Ramayana??

Where after Sita's bhumi pravesh, Luv -Kush live at Ayodhya's palace. They are merely 8, feel scared at this new place and battle resentments against their father for abandoning their mother. Who love their mother but are angry at her for forsaking them. Grappling with loss of their familiar forest and pleasures of simple lives, find the city walls strangling them.

Hi there, and sorry, this is a little late. This is also a little depressing, and I do not apologise for it.

Prev ask: Karna and Arjuna character swap is here

This day Luv is eight years old, and the world is gray.

“You may play here if you wish to, you will be safe,” the King, their father, says, gesturing at the gardens. The trees are trimmed and gray, the walls are high and soot.

Their father leads them to the throne room; he doesn’t know it is their birthday.

“This is where we talk about... er, important affairs,” Rama explains, stilted and awkward.

High on the dias, a sculpture sits hard and cold upon the Queen's seat. It looks to him an ashen thing, but Luv has learnt it is a golden memorial to Sita's enduring place at Rama's side.

There is gold of the coin, and the gold of the wheat, and then there is the gold of Sita's smile. He thinks of his mother at the aashram, bent over the flour mill with calloused hands and crinkled eyes, and pities the statue that seeks to compare.

“Your eyes deceive you, Your Majesty,” he tells Rama. “That is not my mother.”

The King looks stricken, and Luv turns away. Perhaps this is what the King needs, a statue that is silent and chaste and dear.

“I know,” Rama whispers, kneeling by his side. There are tears in his royal eyes, and Luv has never loathed anyone more.

Angada's mother is tall and beautiful, and the quietest of all his aunts. She sits on the steps to her husband’s room, and beckons them closer.

“Greetings,” Kush bows, and Luv follows.

“Sit by me, my dears,” she says. Her hair is coiffed up in a high bun, and Luv imagines the pins in them gleaming with gems.

Urmila notices him watching, and plucks one from her head. It is gray in her palm as she holds it out to him, like all other things, and he takes it in silence.

“May I help you?” Kush asks, ever polite and well-mannered, and she laughs.

“I am not doing anything,” she says. “Do you want-”

The door opens, and Lakshmana appears at the end of the hallway. He rubs a hand over his haggard face, spots them, and staggers.

Kush jumps up, bows. “Greetings, uncle.”

Luv remains seated, staring at the soft gray carpet and the forbidding gray walls, and thinks of Lakshmana swooning at his arrow's end.

“Forgive me,” he says abruptly, “I have to go.”

He holds out the pin, a flower atop a long straight needle, and bows. Kush touches his arm in concern.

“Keep it,” aunt Urmila says. “It was your mother’s.”

Luv looks down at the little trinket in his palm, turns it over. Kush peers over his shoulder with hungering eyes.

“It is red,” his aunt says, as if she knows about the gray, “and there is a ruby at its heart.”

Luv clutches it to his breast, watches the colour spill across it like the red sun bleeding on a newborn dawn. The world is gray and he is a colourless blot, and Sita sits at the centre of it, burning in the fire's test, bright red and lost.

In his dreams, Luv is a weevil in the flour. Someone is shifting through it, running vivid gold fingers through the dusted grains. He bites at the right and bites at the left, lets the starchy sweetness flood his tongue.

Then there are great gold walls closing upon him, and it is his mother who hauls him out, who throws him to the grass to starve and die.

“Maa!” he calls, clinging to her hands, but he is weak, and he is lost, and he falls, and then he wakes up.

The walls are gray, but no less imposing, and he clutches at Kush's arm. His brother is draped in a blanket as black as a washerman's heart, and Luv crumples the fabric in his fist.

Kush sits up beside him, an ashen smear against an ashen world. “Did you have a bad dream?”

Luv twists the dark cloth between his fingers, contemplates on how to answer. Their uncles claim Kush takes after Sita; Luv knows he needs a little brother to lean on, just like Rama.

“You had a bad dream too, didn’t you?” he asks.

“Mhmm,” Kush hums, and Luv takes his hand.

“You first, then me,” he says.

Kush taps his lips and stares at the dark ceiling. “In my dream...” he recounts thoughtfully, “I was a weevil in the flour.”

Luv tugs on the blanket, wraps himself in their shared sorrow. The world is gray, his mother’s love is a flame, and his brother’s blanket is night.

At the furthermost wing of Ayodha’s palace sits a sunroom of dramatic proportions. The windows here are wide and open, facing the east, so mornings are warm and evenings cool, and Luv could stay here forever.

Uncle Bharata, who leads him with a hand on his back, settles on one of the footstools before a large canvas. Luv watches as aunt Shrutakeerti follows, and their spouses settle on the big couch to the side, pretending to be annoyed at having their portraits done.

“I feel like I should have Luv with me,” aunt Mandvi says, swinging her legs. “And Shatru can have Kush. The heights match that way.”

Luv does not want a portrait done, not when he would never know the colours again. Uncle Bharata beckons him to get another stool and says, “Next time perhaps, darling. Let him observe first.”

Luv plops on the stool with a thump, and studies his uncles and aunts. Shrutakeerti is sketching rough outlines, unlike Bharata, who meticulously draws one eye, then the other.

“Do you want to try?” she murmurs quietly. “You can say ‘no’.”

Luv twists his fingers, feeling warm and shy. He can say no, even though he has no mother and knows none of his family.

“I can try,” he mutters.

Shrutakeerti gives him a conspiratorial smile. “Let’s use brown for the walls,” she says conversationally, as if she knows the grays.

Luv takes the brush and swipes at the corner. It is the colour of earth and mud, of dates and cows and a potter’s clay. The world is gray, but his mother’s love is red and his sorrow is black, and his family is reliable and brown.

Rama wears a yellow dhoti – Luv knows this because the washermen mutter about it all the time. He keeps a close eye on them – they hate how easily the cloth stains, and they hate his mother.

Kush’s condemnation of this practice falls on unheeding ears. His brother is too sweet and too trusting, and Luv must protect what their mother could not.

Brinda, who is some washerman’s wife, brings them lunch at the river everyday. She bows when she sees him, all flustered with shame, and walks faster.

That day he returns from the river with quick steps, excited to see the browns on the barks and the black of Kush’s hair. He has found a pebble on the banks, a pale, smooth rock, and uncle Bharata, he knows, will tell him the colour.

Outside, the gardener burns a heap of fallen leaves, dried by the passing of the rains, and dead with the sorrow of oncoming winter. Some of them are red like his mother’s flower, stark amid the grays. They crumple in the flames and burn, and for a moment he sees Sita engulfed in heat, smiling.

“Maa!” he screams, throws himself at the soaring column of fire.

“Put that out! Now!” someone says, hard and commanding. A hand snatches his shoulder, draws him close and away. He can see no higher than their waist, but their dhoti is the yellow of sunshine and an oriole’s breast, a hundredfold more vibrant than the paltry fires.

Luv lifts his head and finds himself swung up in the air, to where his father’s cheek presses against his. Rama’s face is the brown and black of alluvial earth, and he smells of lotuses and rain.

“It will be okay, little one,” he murmurs, voice quivering. “I am here.”

The world is gray, but it recedes bit by bit, like hope rising from sleep; it is red with his mother’s love and black with his grief, brown with his family’s presence, and bright with his father’s refuge.

His cousins play in the royal gardens all day, unbothered by walls that choke him, unafraid of a parent dying. Luv sits in the shade with his bright red flower and dark black blanket, stroking a brown bark. The world is gray, and Luv’s dhoti is hay, and does not care.

Uncle Lakshmana comes to sit beside him with a huff, ruffles his hair distractedly.

“Will you not join them?” he asks, blunt as ever, and Luv sighs.

“Everything is gray,” he says, as if that makes any sense, but uncle Lakshmana shakes his head as if he understands.

“That is not,” his uncle says, pointing at a lonely little sapling poking out of the earth.

The ash leaches from it like rain clouds fleeing from sequestered plains, and it is the green that defies the winter’s chill.

“It is a weed,” he says weakly. "I have seen the forest."

Uncle Lakshmana scoffs. “Weeds, weeds, weeds,” he grumbles. “All arrogant words made by men who think to tame who grows where. There are no weeds, dear one, and no season either. You grow where and when you will, like all things in this world.”

It is too great a thing to hope for, but the gray is fading like dust blown off an old painting, and it is true. There is green on the leaf and green on the grass, green on the bower and green on the bough. The barks are brown and the flowers are red, and the sun of the Raghu clan shines bright yellow.

“Will you wait till the gray goes away?” he asks Lakshmana.

His sorrow is black, and Sita is gold; when he looks up, his uncle kisses his forehead with a smile. “Always,” he says. “Always.”

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bbiemochi · 2 years

Note

hey hey hey!!! i'm a new reader here in your blog and first of all, i just wanna say i love love LOVE your ritsu with a s/o who hasn't been paying attention to them because of a new game scenario! it was so fun to read and your characterization of ritsu is on point! second, is it alright for me to request prince ritsu with a gn! florist reader scenario? it's up to you how the plot will go, but i'll give my insight just in case. the plot is prince ritsu visiting the village in his kingdom and stopped by a flower shop because he wanted some roses, but the florist caught his attention instead :3. this request was inspired by his new cn exclusive card, if you haven't seen it yet here's the link:

https://twitter.com/ENSTAR_count/status/1555770550944800769?s=19

oof i talked a lot, i'm sorry QwQ. also, thank you in advance if you accept this request ♡♡♡

𝚖𝚎, 𝚢𝚘𝚞, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚐𝚊𝚛𝚍𝚎𝚗 𝚘𝚏 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚝𝚜 | ritsu sakuma x reader

[an]: FAVORITE REQUEST SO FAR WOOH~! THIS WAS SO FUN TO WRITE~! <3 hello there, darling…! sorry if you waited long for this </3 :,D i am sOO packed with a lot of requests and lack of motivation, i hope it’s understandable T^T

summary: from a kingdom far far away, stories spread that a certain young prince from a mysterious royal family rumored to be a clan of blood thirsting vampires are heard to have gotten his attention for a simple florist down town.

pairing: prince!ritsu sakuma x g/n!florist!reader

genre: fluff, royal au, lowkey love at first sight~ <3

once upon a time, in a land not too far away…

there lived a royal family of four. a mother, a father, an older brother, and a younger brother. all were rumored to be vampires due to their sharp fangs from the king and queen’s two sons. the kingdom was a huge town, villages helping one another along with the royal court to help and build their land more stronger, bigger and also supportive to the people around. keeping the atmosphere as lively as it can be. the queen, a deep dark beauty that catches the attention of many gentlemen, along with the king, who’s presence alone was enough for someone to kneel down in front. as for the children, the eldest son, rei sakuma, the next son who would be stepping on the throne after his father retires from the role of the king. and the youngest, ritsu sakuma, rei’s adorable little brother—the male loved to sleep around everywhere in the palace. due to this, his royal guard; isara, would often have a hard time looking for the sleepy prince. ritsu’s job as his role of the prince was to maintain perfection and patience. gentle manners and a a soft tone is always a must.

private royal lessons must be required everyday for ritsu. either royal lessons or piano lessons from different occasions. with his older brother now busy with learning how the role of a king works, ritsu was left alone by himself to learn. only his royal guard was always with him, as it is important that he is of course. isara had been a royal knight to ritsu since day one after his family entered as servants in the palace. he and the dark prince got along well quickly, yet there were always consequences made after the both of them were caught playing so messily around the royal garden. and due to that, isara had no choice but to train as a knight, who would protect and serve for ritsu. although, even if isara had knew ritsu since they were both children, there was one thing he couldn’t get quite right answer in his head.

“my prince.”

“ah~ maa-kun, didn’t i tell you not to call me that?”

it was a force of habit, he says. “why is it every time we would walk in the garden, we always have to go by the roses area? do you like roses?” ritsu gives him a lazy grin, arms resting at the back of his head as he stopped walking, both arrived at the just mentioned location of what isara had just said about his favorite flower. roses. isara still had no idea why he loved them so much, he still couldn’t get the answer till today. most of the time he would answer, ‘because it’s pretty,’ or ‘i like the color.’

those were too reasonable. if ritsu had a liking towards something…or someone, he had a deep reasoning behind them. and that’s on fact of what his royal guard knew.

today, it was a normal day. the day started off very nice, yet slow, is what ritsu thoughts. the kingdom was as busy as always, supply delivery from other kingdoms, farm and garden crops that are highly needed for the town folks living, new place building, etc. at ritsu’s place, the royal palace was a little busy due to them planning for the royal ball that was to be held next week in order to look for a lovely wife for rei to become his queen. surprising enough, rei has not been able to look for a spouse, as he is always busy with his given task by the castle tutors—ritsu had knew his older brother wasn’t the type to just marry someone that had been chosen by their parents themselves. the sakuma bloodline had an agreement that they’ll always leave the sons or if had by chance, daughters to pick their significant other. however, the job had to be done as soon as possible.

despite being quite the good looking and heart throb of every girl in the kingdom, rei was not interested in getting a wife. though here they are, watching as the king and queen along with the servants plan for the royal ball in order to search for the perfect one. ritsu sighs, the castle has been becoming more and more busier. they often even called isara to help out, so he was back to being alone. he hated being lonely, ritsu really did hate being all by himself. it…scares him a little.

standing up from his chair that was seated next to an open large window, allowing every sound from the outside to enter the palace walls—ritsu yawns before heading out to visit his favorite spot to nap; the royal garden. it’s been almost weeks since he hasn’t visited the garden due to the private lessons. the royal garden was not only a silent sanctuary where ritsu could fully enjoy his nap time at cold afternoons, but it’s also a place where he could admire the fresh roses that grew by the garden house. the maids that worked there were kind of old, not to mention that half of the castle maids had already been working here even before ritsu was born as the second prince.

as he walked down the huge hallway, ritsu tried his best to keep his composure up whenever a servant would walk up and bow at his presence. if it weren’t for the ridiculously long private lessons from those annoying tutors, he would’ve been napping for so long right now as he waited for isara to return. well, never mind for that—for now, what was on his mind was just to finally nap.

“what do you mean the roses in the garden withered? didn’t i tell you to always water them in every hour? goodness, those were ritsu’s favorite…”

ritsu’s footsteps came to a stop upon hearing the voice of his mother and the sound of the maids apologizing in sync. he turns his head, looking to the left of the main hallway. the roses withered? what did she mean by that? does that mean the roses he adored so much died just by a week of not being watered? wait, were they even watered before that? did the maids who took care of the garden even bothered watering them? he can’t help but feel a little upset from the news.

“w-we apologize deeply, your highness…after miss agnes died from a heart attack, we forgot to even take care of the garden since it was not on our job…”

‘miss agnes? oh…the old lady who took care of the garden…what a shame..’ ritsu’s frown shrunk even more. well…that just added up more to his horrible hour of the day. with another sigh escaping his lips, ritsu listens more onto the conversation.

“oh agnes…she had been working here in this castle for almost forever. she was already serving here ever since i was a princess…truly tragic news indeed. i’m terribly sorry for her loss…” there was a slight pain in his mother’s voice, showing real empathy towards the passing servant of the castle who had worked for many years as a maid. ritsu too was fond of her kindness and tender nature. she was kind of like a grandmother figure to him, gentle and old. he had no idea where the former queen is, yet from the stories of his father he wouldn’t dare to meet her.

clearing her throat, ritsu’s mother fixed her posture and wiped the small tears away from her eyes, “i must see my husband shortly. however, i would like one of you to go down town to the nearby flower shop and buy a new bouquet of roses to replace the withered ones. i’m sure you guys would start taking care of the garden soon and…i want to see agnes’ family first. anyways, which one of you will—

“i’ll do it, mother.” ritsu slowly stepped out from behind the castle walls, and walked forward to the queen who seemed surprised to see his presence. the maids were quick to take notice at this and bowed politely at ritsu, in which he only smiled softly at and nodded his head. “my son….” his mother started, “how long have you been listening there?”

“not long, don’t worry. but i wanna buy the bouquet of roses you asked for. i think i’ll be able to handle it, besides, i nap at the garden anyways so…i guess all i could do to take care of them is to buy a new pairs of roses,” ritsu spoke, rubbing his eyes. the queen frowns, “no need to, ritsu. the maids will handle this job, you go back to your—

“mother, like i said it’s fine. i need to walk outside the kingdom too from time to time, being stuck inside this castle is boring. the lessons are getting a little boring for me as well…” slowly, ritsu looked over to the maids who stayed silent as he had a conversation with his mother, “don’t worry, i’ll handle in buying them. how about you guys start taking care of the garden while i go out to buy? is that ok?” ritsu asks. the maids exchanged glances at one another before looking over at the queen. at last, ritsu’s mother nodded her head and they bowed before taking their leave.

after they had left, the queen looked at ritsu with a sigh, “bring mao with you. i’ll ask one of the royal guards to fetch you the money.”

“thank you for this opportunity, mother, i’ll get going now. i’ll be back..” ritsu replies, waving goodbye to his mom as he heads out the castle gates. isara was already there when he arrived, money in the royal knight’s hand as he waited. “would you like to ride a carriage, your highness?” a maid questions to the prince. ritsu shakes his head, “no need. i wanna walk for a while. besides i’m just off to visit a flower shop with maa-kun. no big deal…” he says, and the maid bowed—respecting his decision.

the two headed off the beyond the castle gates, isara staying guard from behind while ritsu walked in front, leading the way. alas when they had arrived at the foot side of the villages, a lot of citizens greeted the prince politely, an old lady tried to give him some free pastry from their bakery yet he says that he’ll pay for it, ignoring her kind gesture of making it for free just because of his royal status. some girls were even asking if his brother had already found a partner (to which he just ignored and let isara distract them). the kingdom was indeed lively, his parents did a great job in putting their power together in order to create such a well established kingdom of villagers despite their appliances.

the flower shop was nearby, so ritsu hurried his feet. “it’s a little rare for you to suggest going out to do the task that was supposed to be for the maids,” isara started, now walking beside ritsu with his hands behind his back. ritsu just smiled in return, closing his eyes shut as he continued to walk, “it’s not rare~ do all of you think that what i do daily is only sleeping?”

“that’s what you really do though.”

“i-i mean yeah but, maa-kun you know what i mean. i like taking walks around as well, the sun warms me and i like it more better than the cold moon…” ritsu responded, waving at the people who were greeting him hellos. isara sighs, “i get it, but one more question, do you know where we’re going?”

“maa-kun you don’t trust me..? i’m a little hurt…” ritsu cooed at his friend, giving him those puppy-like eyes filled with sparkles in which it screams ‘adorable.’ his royal knight, flinches, and then shakes his head, “o-oh no, no, no…! my apologies…”

ritsu chuckles before facing back to the view in front of him, the sight of each folks going around town, shopping from nearby markets and food stalls along with the children running around the place. “the reason why i decided to buy the roses instead is because only i know where miss agnes buys the flowers for my garden.” isara glances back at ritsu with a slight surprised look on his face. “miss agnes? oh yeah, the one we would always see in the royal garden area. it’s a shame, really…i got quite upset when i heard the news of her passing…” ritsu hears him say, before going back to being silent.

the two of them kept walking front, ignoring the whispers of some people behind their back as they finally made it into the flower shop. the flower shop did change over the years. miss agnes would often tell both isara and ritsu how the flower shop was a little small before during her times when ritsu’s grandparents took over the throne—although now, it was much more bigger than before. the flowers that decorated over the shop designed like vines over trees and some were displayed from side-to-side, allowing passing citizens to admire their beauty. ritsu turns over to isara who looked back at him, “you stay guard here, i’ll be the one heading inside. it won’t take long…”

“huh? are you sure you don’t want me to come with you?”

“i’ll be fine~ you can watch over me from here. like i said, it won’t take long, maa-kun~” ritsu responded before playfully flicking the other male’s forehead. isara held the area where ritsu flicked him, and watched as his prince headed right inside the small flower shop, carefully avoiding the flowers that were too close. as ritsu entered right in, the scent of flowers were bombarded everywhere towards his nostrils. it was amazing, he won’t lie. no wonder why agnes decided to buy new bouquets here instead of the other flower shops. steadily, he walked towards the counter to be greeted by an old lady who seemed excited to see the prince.

“oh my great heavens, your highness! w-welcome to my flower shop…! what a rare opportunity for someone from the royal family to visit us—o-oh..! apologies, where are my manners? i-is there anything you’d like for us to give to you, your highness?” the old lady questions, stammering on her words with a bow. ritsu bows as well, smiling softly, “lovely afternoon. i would like a bouquet of your most fresh roses, please, if available,” he requested, and the old lady winces, “a-ah..! yes one bouquet of fresh roses coming up—uhh, y-y/n..! quick…! a bouquet of roses, honey..! it’s for the prince..!” the old lady shrieks to an individual whom ritsu couldn’t see from behind the large bombarded area of flowers and tall potted plants. with that, the old woman sent ritsu a smile before disappearing behind the flowers that block some views from the shop.

how odd. do folks like these usually not meet any royal attendants in person? ritsu was certain agnes knew this place quite well as a maid working in the sakuma palace for almost 30 years. yet again, he is one of the princes of the sakuma bloodline—and as one of the next prince to claim the throne soon, ritsu wasn’t sure if he’d be doing a good job in doing that.

“sorry for the wait, your highness…!”

the thoughts were quick to shaken off as a voice cuts through into his head, clear as day. appearing out from the side—a florist, who was around his age came out, holding a new fresh bouquet of flowers on their hands along with their hair flowing by into the direction where the wind blew.

ritsu felt like his world stopped at the moment their eyes met. all of a sudden, he felt warm and fuzzy at the inside of his stomach. the feeling of butterflies flying in his stomach almost made him fall down on his knees. his cheeks grew warm, and his red eyes were wide opened. the florist calmly fixed their appearance before taking a bow before the stunned prince. “i apologize for making you wait, your highness. here is your bouquet of roses. they’re newly fresh. i just cut them not too long ago,” the person says, a bright smile lingering of their face. ritsu wasn’t able to respond quick to their words, he was so distracted by their looks that he grew speechless.

h/l h/c hair, e/c eyes and with beautiful s/c skin…such perfection crafted by the hands of not only angels but by god themself. ritsu was indeed…attracted by their beauty. a simple florist working in a small flower shop. someone more lovely than each flower in a garden. nothing was compared—

“your highness?”

“huh?” ritsu was snapped back into reality just like that. the florist tilts their head, a little perplexed of what just happened to the prince. “is everything alright, your highness?”

‘their voice sounds so tender…something you could just fall asleep with…’

“oh, y-yes. apologies, i spaced out a bit there—here’s the payment,” ritsu took out the money his mother had lend to him onto the florist’s hands, trying his best not to stutter out with his words to show glimpses of nervousness. the florist once again, smiles at the male, and ritsu swore he saw heaven before his eyes. “thank you very much, your highness. please handle these roses with care.”

“will do. thank you too very much as well. these roses are divine, it looked like you tend to these very nicely. i’m impressed,” he says to the florist who bashfully laughs. “i-it’s not much, your highness. i’m a florist after all, it’s my job to take care of flowers and other plants to sell. we’re not here just for the tokens after all,” they say, and ritsu hums. no wonder agnes liked buying in this particular flower shop. unlike the other flower shops, this one doesn’t just do it for grand tokens or money—they really do love taking of flowers. and not only that, an attractive florist with a big passion for this type of job worked here as well.

“well then, i shall take my leave now back to the castle. once again, i am grateful for your hard work.”

“you are most welcome, your highness..! please do come back anytime.” the florist replies before bowing down. they had such a bubbly personality, friendly is what he’d like to mark it. he had just met them yet he felt like he and this person would get along very well. just as he was about to leave, ritsu stopped his tracks and turned around once again, his face a little red, “oh and hey.”

“yes, your highness…?”

“i haven’t heard your name, yet. pardon me, but…is it alright if i ask for your name?” ritsu says, his breath a little shaken. oh boy, this was the moment he’d waited for. there was a second pause before the florist smiles widely and says, “ah, i apologize for forgetting. my name is y/n, your highness.” they say with another bow.

those words repeated on his head. ‘y/n…what a pretty name. i’ll make sure to remember that…’

“y/n. what a lovely name. well then, y/n, i’d be delighted if i see you again one day. farewell…” and just like that the prince headed out of the store, not bothering to turn around to the two people inside waving goodbye. when he exited, isara was still there as asked. and when the royal knight noticed his presence, he was quick to question.

“finally. what took you so long inside there?” isara began. ritsu ignores him, eyes focused on the bouquet of roses handed to him by the lovely y/n. with that thought, his heart pounds a little, “y/n…”

“what?”

ritsu turns to his royal knight and smiles cheekily, cheeks turning into a blush pink. “nothing~” he replies to isara who rose a brow in curiosity. instead, ritsu hands the bouquet into isara’s arms as he began walking away, a small smile still lingered on his face like a permanent grin, “hold them for me, will ya…? c’mon, maa-kun. let’s head back.”

isara follows from behind, sighing as he held the roses properly in his arms. “you look happy. did something happened inside?”

“secret~”

“oh come on, you never hid secrets from me…!”

the two had a loud chatter on their way back to the palace. the king and queen were both bewildered of why their son was happy throughout the entire day.

***

the day of the royal ball had arrived.

royals from all different kingdoms had been invited along with all the citizens in the kingdom ruled by the sakuma family were allowed to come in the palace for the ball—in order to look for a perfect wife for rei.

ritsu was disinterested into this idea. yet at the same time, a certain person who he had been thinking about all week might be invited, too, with that thought ritsu was a little excited. he hopes y/n would arrive. the only main reason he decided to join in the party.

“so, any special guests arriving from different kingdoms?”

“prince leo tsukinaga from the tsukinaga family and prince tsukasa suou from the suou family, are both arriving with their royal knights izumi sena and arashi narukami. also along with prince subaru from the akehoshi family and prince hokuto from the famous hidaka family will be arriving as well with their royal guardians makoto yuuki and hajime shino.”

“well at least they’re coming…another reason to come along this ball party.” ritsu fixes his posture as isara calmly brushes his hair, along with fixing his attire for the royal ball party tonight.

“oh—and also, prince keito from the hasumi family with his two royal knights souma and kuro kiryu will be arriving as well to pay a visit to your brother. they’ve known each other since childhood if i remember quite well.”

“not like i care. keito is already skilled enough with the blade, i’m a little buzzed of why he needs two knight guards.”

“that saying much. look at your brother, he has one royal knight and two servants. twin pairs of you’d like to add it up…” isara says with a soft chuckle.

“meh. but i just wanna see my other friends again..i bet se-chan would wander over the palace along with prince leo to look for your friend. his name again…?”

“makoto, his name is makoto. considering they’ll be both arriving with their highnesses, i’m sure your prediction would be true,” isara replies, laughing a little. “also about prince leo, isn’t he going to have a coronation next month for his title as the king?” the royal knight questioned next. ritsu hums. “oh yeah…we should come over and visit him. we should also get him some presents to spoil him even more after he takes over his family kingdom’s throne. ahh~ i can’t believe how fast time pasts. i remembered the days he was just one loud prince roaming around the hallways of the palace. heh~”

“it’s crazy how it’s time for him to descend to the throne for the tsukinaga family. not to mention of how mature prince leo actually is as a prince once you get on his serious side…” isara comments, in which ritsu simply hummed in reply. he felt young when he’s around other princes. ritsu had no idea why, it was just a feeling he disliked despite being older than some of them. same age even. once the two were finished in getting ready, the clock struck at 6pm—meaning the ball was about to begin shortly.

dozens of guests had already arrived at the palace. some were even unmarried princesses coming in their best gowns to impress the one and only prince sakuma rei. familiar faces had also attended, like prince tsukasa who greeted ritsu with a warm embrace along with arashi, his royal knight. prince keito had also arrived shortly after, looking mature as always as he headed straight to visit rei at his room. duke adonis had arrived with a present for ritsu’s brother, and when one of rei’s guards, koga—saw him, he immediately shook his hand and walked away to follow him to where rei was currently at.

most of the visitors are not close with the second prince. and at the moment, it was only prince tsukasa, arashi, prince leo (soon to be king), and his royal knight izumi in ritsu’s room, getting ready and well rested before the huge party begins. not only were their presence made ritsu comfortable around them, but the way the topics they talked about was so familiar to his ears that it was satisfying for him to stay with them. isara had headed off to see prince hidaka who had arrived with prince subaru down the party that had begun.

“prince leo, please do watch your words…you’re going to be king soon, you mustn’t act like that.”

“i can’t help it…! not only did that prince tori got me into another word from my father but he even got his royal servant involved with our business…! argh..” leo leans down on his seat, crossing his arms as he muttered a few curses underneath his breath in complaint. “this is why i hate when the himemiya family comes to visit my father for a few royal talks…”

“yuzuru is not just an excellent servant for his highness tori but also a great knight. i’m a little jealous with his skills if i’m being honest,” izumi cuts in, comfortably resting his arm on top of the chair leo was sitting on. arashi hops in as well, still keeping her straight posture as she stood next to tsukasa, “a great knight and a good looking knight~! i’m jealous of the prince tori having such a handsome man like him to be his royal servant and knight…!” she exclaims, caressing both of her cheeks in awe.

“i can imagine dancing around the ballroom in the most beautiful dress…oh how i wish i was a princess…”

“i can request one of our personal dress makers to make you an outfit that’s similar to a dress if you want, narukami,” prince tsukasa tells the royal knight who bowed respectfully before him, “no need to, my prince. i’m perfectly fine the way i am. beautiful and brave.”

“that’s the spirit.”

“hey guys…i think we should head down now. the royal ball’s about to begin.” izumi began to fix his attire and waited for leo along with the others to stand up and head down as well. ritsu almost fell asleep on his bed, but good thing prince leo was able to wake him up.

the ballroom was exquisite. with a thousand glamour of each chandelier hanging from the ceilings, food placed across every table cooked by the most talented chefs in the palace, and not to mention the stunning women that arrived to hopes to be chosen to become rei’s wife for tonight’s royal ball. with a blink of an eye, everyone went in separate directions, leaving ritsu standing by his own. leo and izumi went straight to the food table, while tsukasa and arashi were both cornered by sudden strikes of conversations. and as for ritsu…he was bored. and alone. besides, the person he longed to see, was nowhere near his eye sight. with a yawn escaping his lips, he decided to just head outside as the party inside continued.

the air from the royal garden never failed to bring a smile upon ritsu’s face when entering. just the scent was enough to make him feel energized than before, striking up a straight posture as he made his way towards the roses section. he loved being alone at the royal garden. whether isara was available or not, he loves it. it was cold night, the sounds of loud crickets echoing in the wind while the other side was the loud blasts of classical music performing. he could some strangers’ loud chatting from out here, and ritsu grew a little annoyed. if only they would mimic their voices a little lower then that would be brilliant.

the male continued to walk down the path of purple tulips, with the most gorgeous patterned he had seen in the garden. his fingers brushed their soft petals, reminding him like a touch of a pillow case. he laughs at the thought, until his eyes caught a figure not too far away. ritsu stops right at his tracks.

‘hold on…they look…familiar…’ ritsu slowly adjusted his eyes. thank goodness the moon was shining bright tonight. within a further inspection, ritsu felt his heart racing like before.

the figure…it was them. it was y/n.

he can feel himself smile. he could’ve hardly recognized them. their attire…they looked so…amazing. with their hair fixed and a little brushed to the back, eyes looking to only the flower that seemed to be a peonie that lies around the other bushes. how their eyes reflected so tenderly beneath the moonlight that illuminated—ritsu felt like he was hypnotized by their appearance. he didn’t even felt like walking towards them due to how nervous he felt.

well, his prayers were definitely answered when y/n turns their head to his direction and immediately stood back up. “y-your highness…!” they say, a little startled as they bowed at ritsu, politely. “i’m really sorry if i somehow entered the garden area. i just couldn’t help it, i-i didn’t want to enter the palace just yet and—

“shh..” ritsu shushes them, a finger on his lips. y/n obliges. “it’s alright. no need to apologize, this area is allowed. for you that is…” now having enough courage to walk next to their side. y/n sheepishly fiddled with their fingers, eyes darting away from ritsu whom they thought was looking at them. turns out he was looking at the peonies.

“i don’t really like peonies…but they are pretty i must agree. miss agnes told me once that peonies can grow big and gobble me up if i don’t eat my vegetables…heh, i can’t believe i actually believed that….though, i was just a toddler during that time so i can’t really blame myself either…”

y/n looks at ritsu who then looked back at them, eyes meeting with one another. “miss agnes? oh wait, she sounds familiar..!” y/n spoke. ritsu smiles, looking over to the moon, “she was the garden taker here before at the palace. so whenever i visit the royal garden for a nap, i would see her taking care of the flowers no matter how many they are. but sadly…she passed away…”

“oh…i’m sorry.”

“you don’t have to be. it’s not like we’re that close. yet…yeah, i do kinda miss her…” ritsu’s face shifted into a frown, and the two were once again, clouded with silence. y/n didn’t know what to say. they were a little bewildered off what to tell the prince in order to give him some kind of comfort. they weren’t good at them…

“the roses..”

“huh?”

ritsu turns his face to y/n and smiles. “come with me, i want to show you were i placed the roses i bought from your store.” with a hand reached out, the intrigued florist took the prince’s hand, and they both sped out of the peonies section, onwards the rose garden. it was like a fairy tale, with the moon dancing underneath their faces that glows, y/n’s eyes could only follow prince ritsu’s hand that held on theirs, heart skipping beats.

as the two arrived to the rose garden, y/n’s eyes stopped to look at the entire bouquet of roses placed neatly on each collection, shaping into hearts and other shapes that caught her visible attention. the florist mouthed a small ‘wow,’ absolutely mesmerized by the sight. so…this was what the royal garden looked liked. so fancy, pretty and…mouth dropping. miss agnes and the other servants that took care of this garden indeed did a splendid job. “i like taking naps in here. if i don’t feel comfortable in my bedroom at afternoons, then i would sleep here in the rose garden. it’s more relaxing in the afternoon.” y/n somehow notices that when they saw an area on the side that’s able for someone to nap on.

“i see…”

“so, what made you attend this party? you certainly don’t look like someone to go out and wear amazing clothing.”

y/n lets out a sigh before answering. “after you visited, my grandmother heard the announcement of the royal ball that’ll be held next week. she thought that maybe i would make an amazing guest for the ballroom, since ‘we gave the most beautiful roses to his highness.”

ritsu chuckles, “is that so? then maybe your grandmother isn’t wrong.”

“you’re right, your highness. i don’t like going to events like this. i’d rather stay at home and help her work in the shop. my grandma could be so stubborn sometimes…she’s already old yet she still works so hard and often makes me head to bed first before she does…” y/n slowly sits down on a bench made out of stone, while ritsu did the same. “i work extra hard so that she won’t overwork herself. losing my grandmother is the last thing i’d want in this world…whenever she’d work a lot i start to feel worthless…it’s a pain sometimes, your highness…”

“don’t feel that way. look, you’re working extra hard just for her, you should feel better for that, already. it may not be noticeable, and i know i don’t always visit your flower shop, but i bet she’s proud of how determined you are just for her…” y/n’s eyes went wide a little, however they closed as they smiled softly. “t-thank you ever much for your words, your highness. that made me feel a little better…”

the conversation stopped when the sounds of violin and the cello began to play inside of the palace doors. the sounds of everyone’s footsteps in position, and the sounds of people dancing begun to run around ritsu’s ears in surprise.

ah, of course. it was time for the dance.

standing up, ritsu lends his hand in front of y/n who seemed stunned by the sudden action. with a deep breath, ritsu says, “the music is playing. now, may i have this dance with you, y/n?”

“eh? m-me?”

“well who else am i asking? it’s just the two of us in here. don’t worry, i wanna dance with you.”

y/n felt their cheeks heating up. as they took the prince’s hand, ritsu helps them stand up and now the two of them were in dancing positions. the music began to coordinate inside the room, and as it did, ritsu begun to lead the dance, making y/n yelp by how fast he was at doing so. the fear of stepping in a royal’s foot was on their mind at the moment. but ritsu cuts that off, “it’s fine. if you don’t know how to dance that is…” y/n blushes in small embarrassment. ritsu chuckles.

the two spun around blissfully in the garden, only the stars and heaven watching as the two danced beneath the moonlight. eyes staring at nothing else but at each other. it indeed came out straight from a fairy tail. a florist and a prince. how almost so cliche. but so lovely.

when the music stopped, the two stopped dancing as well—catching their breaths with small smiles. ritsu sends the florist a beam, and y/n smiles back.

“may i have another dance with you, y/n?”

“yes you may, my prince.”

a/n: omfg that took so long to finish

requests: closed :(

#ensemble stars #enstars #lucy works 🍕💗#lucy’s works 📚✨#ensemble stars x reader #enstars x reader #ritsu sakuma #sakuma ritsu #ritsu x reader #ritsu sakuma x reader #💌. lucyanswers

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suseagull04 · 2 months

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9 Questions to Get to Know Me Better

Thanks @wordsofhoneydew @14carrotghoul and @heybuddy-drabbles for the tags!

Last song: "No Rain"- Blind Melon

Favorite color: blue

Last film/show: Avatar: The Last Airbender episode 3! Which I need to watch again, I keep either falling asleep or multitasking- loved the first two episodes though, which was a pleasant surprise since I never loved the original.

Sweet/savory/spicy: I generally have a sweet thing once a day, if that tells you anything...

Last thing I googled: menu for an ice cream place

Last book: current book: House of Flame and Shadow, skimmed House of Sky and Breath before I started, and read the entirety of House of Earth and Blood before that- all by Sarah J. Maas

Relationship status: been in a relationship for almost a decade ♥️🤍💙

Current obsessions: RWRB, reading, writing, Crescent City series

No pressure tags for @firenati0n @read-and-write- @happiness-of-the-pursuit @myheartalivewrites @daisymae-12 @welcometololaland @celeritas2997 @theprinceandagcd @zwiazdziarka @inexplicablymine

#tag games

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oh-munda-kukkad-kamaal-da · 8 months

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How tf do you guys post "no one loves me" as a status on WhatsApp? Tumhare maa baap nahi dekh rhe kya??

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sada-siva-sanyaasi · 2 years

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jagadeka veerudu athiloka sundari - part two

masterlist

(this one's a little little longer, so yeah. enjoy :D - Juhi <3)

The kingdoms of Mahishmati, Kuntala, Sundarsi and a lot more of their neighbours were blessed by the gods to prosper and conquer. Mahishmati had the grace of the mighty goddess Durga, who according to Bhallaladeva also cherished his cousin over him. Which was the reason why the goddess had accepted Bahu’s blood over Bhalla’s buffalo as sacrifice in their war against the Kalakeyas.

He of course, never openly expressed his distaste for the unfair treatment by the goddess when Bahubali was alive, but after everything was out of his way, he would go and sit by the statue of the goddess, staring at her divine idol.

“You’ve always favoured Bahu, haven’t you?” He muttered once, slightly intoxicated but aware of his thoughts and actions. “You, as the mother watching over us all, liked him more than me, who is also your son. You gave him my mother, you gave him the people’s love, you gave him the girl I fell for and a death befitting a king too. And what did I get? A cripple for a father who only filled my mind and heart with poison. And now,” he stood up, glaring at the goddess who gazed back at him almost sympathetically, “I’ll poison the rest of the world.”

As he walked away from the goddess that day, he didn’t realise he was turning his back to who could’ve been his saving resort. Durga Maa watched him silently and sighed to herself.

Like Mahishmati, Sundarsi was devoted to Lord Shiva, who actively showered his blessings and love onto the kingdom, ensuring Sundarsi’s consistent power and prosperity. Sundarsi grew as a queen-ruled kingdom where Shiva himself would choose the new queen and write her destiny as a prophecy for the kingdom to know, appearing a day before the new crown princess was born by their sacred book written in gold.

When Aarya was born, there was no four lined prophecy like her predecessors; she instead received a question written in blood red- “Will it not be?” which worried her parents and the rest of the royal family. Aarya grew up with her parents not wanting her to be queen, hoping for one of her little sisters to turn out as the heir apparent instead of her. Aarya didn’t mind, she trusted her Mahadev fully.

Aarya turned into a young princess well versed in arts, both performing and martial, while her sisters Aradhya and Abhaya were scientific and mathematical geniuses. Realising that the kingdom was going to safe hands, both the King and Queen passed away peacefully in their sleep together, leaving Aarya responsible for Sundarsi.

But the question and its hidden meaning never settled well with Aarya, waking her up in the middle of the night covered in cold sweat countless times. She walked to her balcony again, a day before her coronation, drenched in sweat as she watched the nearly full Moon shine bright in the clear sky, the cool breeze making her shiver and curl into herself. The next day was the biggest day of her life, and she was possibly going to meet her biggest problem too. Aarya sighed to herself, walking back inside. It was going to be a long coronation.

— — —

When Bhalla arrived at Sundarsi with his father and Kattappa, he had expected a lot of things, but what he saw was clearly different. Sundarsi greeted him on the banks of Narmada, a beauty with such stark contrast from Mahishmati that it took his breath away. Other than the palace which was visible from the banks, every house was built monotonously in the same beige with brown roofs, while the palace stood tall on top of hills that seemed to never end, waterfalls spouting from them.

Bijjaladeva walked up to his son and stared up at the palace in awe, not a sound leaving him. Sundarsi guards and their prime minister greeted them with folded hands and led them to their carriages, Kattappa closely following behind. “The princess wanted to apologise for not arriving herself to pick you up,” Anjasi looked at Bhalla with a tight smile. “She’s been busy with the preparations of the coronation and is actually also not allowed to leave the palace until the end of the ceremony.”

Bhalla nodded wordlessly and looked out his carriage, watching people bow to Anjasi and turning to him with a hostile expression. He quickly realised that the Queen-to-be might have invited him to her kingdom, but the people didn’t want him there. And he knew why too, which made things uncomfortable for him in ways he couldn’t fathom.

“It’s beautiful, your kingdom.” He said as he watched a kid play with stones in front of his house, the stones miraculously holding their position despite how they were placed. With one rock in his hand, the kid managed to make the stones scatter violently, an almost electric shockwave passing through them all.

“Thank you very much, Your Majesty. We will be arriving at the palace shortly, please rest.” Bijjaladeva moved closer to Bhalla and Anjasi got out of their carriage to go to hers, and whispered, “This kingdom is glowing Bhalla, have you noticed? These fools have given their scum some of their magic too, instead of protecting it like us.”

Bhalla silently watched the townsfolk and their activities, the atmosphere of Sundarsi so opposed to what he had grown accustomed to in Mahishmati. Kattappa behind their carriage on his horse watched Sundarsi with a wistful smile, knowing Bahu would have loved to see this kingdom so much.

As they reached the palace, Bhalla observed the place with an unreadable expression on his face. The palace that he heard the townsfolk call Mahadev Mahal truly seemed like it was built for Lord Shiva, the air in the palace chilly and the colours around him cool and grounding. Where Mahishmati had statues of elephants, Sundarsi had lions and bulls around the palace, all of the people inside dressed in grey and silver as they greeted the prime minister, passing him almost scathing glances while they bowed to him too. Bijjaladeva cleared his throat, turning to glare at Anjasi as they all walked further inside the massive palace. “It seems like your people are not the most welcoming, Mantri. We are getting nothing other than anger and hostility from them.”

“We’d like it if you referred to our prime minister with respect, Your Majesty. It’s Mantriji, not just Mantri.” The voice made them all turn as they saw two girls walking towards them. Anjasi dropped onto her knees, all guards bowing instantly as the girls smiled at Bhalla and his father. Anjasi stood up and smiled, turning to the men. “Meet princesses Aradhya and Abhaya, Her Majesty’s sisters.”

Bijjaladeva smiled, or more like sneered at them while Bhalla just looked at them. The girls stared back with neutral faces as Bijjaladeva’s smile melted away. “If you insist, shall we go in now, Mantri… ji? I believe the palace tour is still left.” Anjasi merely nodded and gestured to them to follow her as they all walked through the palace, passing by the temple in the middle when Bhalla stopped, staring at the temple. Anjasi followed his gaze and smiled, walking to stand beside him.

“That’s our Mahadev temple, built in honour of our Queen-to-be’s birth. Would you like to see it, Your Majesty?” Bhalla nodded as they all walked inside, praying to the huge idol of Lord Shiva inside. Bhalla opened his eyes first, the moment the scent of sandalwood and hibiscus hit him. Another woman, perhaps the most heavenly woman he had ever laid his eyes on, walked out from behind the idol of Mahadev, pouring milk onto the statue as she murmured prayers under her breath.

His father opened his eyes too, scoffing as he turned to Anjasi. “I didn’t know even priests in your kingdom were women, Mantriji. Women sure are put on a high pedestal here aren’t they?” Anjasi frowned, opening her eyes, before all Sundarsi citizens around them dropped onto their knees, heads down.

“That’s Her Majesty, our Queen-to-be Aarya.” Bijjaladeva’s eyes widened as they both turned to Aarya, who still kept washing the idol with milk. She stepped back and folded her hands, praying for a while before bending down and taking a little of the sandalwood near Lord Shiva’s feet to apply it on the neck, walking out of the mandir.

She smiled at everyone, folding her hands and greeting Bhalla and his father. “Your idea is actually not bad, Your Majesty. Female priests are there in our kingdom but not in this temple, maybe I should have a word with our head priest regarding it.” her remark made Bijjaladeva flush as Bhalla kept staring at her, all air seemingly knocked out of his chest. Aarya patiently smiled at him and looked down, her smile widening just a little as she stepped towards him, resting her palm on his still folded hands. “You don’t have to do that to me, Your Majesty. We pray to Gods, not to each other.” Bhalla’s eyes widened as he looked down, dropping his hands to his sides. He cleared his throat, straightening as he towered over her. She greeted everyone else and turned to Anjasi.

“Have them escorted to their rooms by our general, Mantriji, I need you for a little while. After our work, I’ll show our guests around myself.” She smiled one last time at Bhalla before leaving, only pausing in front of Kattappa. “I heard tales of your skill and valour, Senadhipatiji, would you do me the honour of sparring with me once? Only when you’re free, of course.”

Kattapa’s eyes widened as he nodded once, bowing to Aarya. “Of course, Your Majesty. Whenever you’d like.” Aarya nodded and walked off with Anjasi as Sadhana walked forward, bowing once to everyone. “Allow me to escort you, Your Majesty. Your rooms are on the top floor.”

Bhalla’s eyes drifted back to the corridor the princess went through as he walked to his room, heart racing.

— — —

The coronation was the grandest Bhallaladeva had witnessed, much more so than when he had been crowned and Bahu was made Senadhipathi and the kingdom cheered for him. His eyes stayed unblinking on Aarya throughout the ceremony as she knelt and prayed to the black statue of Kala Bhairava, moving to drink a golden liquid from a chalice while the crown was placed on her head. She glowed amongst the others in the ceremony, her royal black and golden saree shimmering after she drank the liquid.

He also noticed how he, his father and Kattappa were the only outsiders in the ceremony, everyone else a citizen of the kingdom cheering and roaring for their new Queen. Bijjaladeva rolled his eyes and turned to his son. “These pathetic people don’t even know that soon this will all be under us, that this queen of theirs will just be our puppet.” Bhalla sighed and offered a glass of wine to his father. “Just shut up, drink and watch, will you?”

Aarya smiled as she approached Bhalla, nodding at both of the seated men. She turned to Kattappa and frowned, pulling a chair out beside Bhallaladeva and motioning for him to sit. He shook his head once, feeling Bhalla and his father stare at him as Aarya sighed.

“You have to sit when you eat with everyone, Senadhipathiji.”

“I’m of lower birth, Your Majesty. We can’t sit amongst our kings and eat.”

Aarya’s frown deepened as she cast Bijjaladeva a glance, before taking Kattappa’s hand and leading him to a seat drawn out beside Anjasi and Sadhana. “You can sit beside people of your rank and value, right? Because I frankly don’t understand upper and lower birth. Sit beside my army general, Senadhipathiji. Please.”

Bhalla followed Aarya’s every movement as she forced Kattappa to sit and got the food, serving it to him with a smile. She got to Bhalla and his father and served to his father first, moving to him when he smirked, leaning back.

“I didn’t know your people were so accommodating of everyone, Aarya.” Everyone froze, eyes wide as they registered Bhalla’s words. Anjasi and Sadhana stood up, Bijjaladeva shocked and Kattappa aghast as the air held its breath, all eyes moving to Aarya. She looked up once, a small smile on her face as she served Bhalla his food. “You learn new things everyday, Bhallaladeva. It’s not too late, really.”

Bhalla’s smirk widened as she straightened, the smile leaving her face as she walked off. Bijjaladeva gulped his wine and glared at his son. “Did you-” “I tested the queen, Nanna. And I was right. This one's a fighter, and she’s deadlier than the akandas she uses to worship Mahadev.”

Bhalla’s eyes stayed on the queen for the rest of the feast, his smirk ever present whenever Aarya’s eyes met his.

— — —

“I’ll be there with our guests as they go to their rooms, don’t worry.” Aarya smiled at Kattappa who nodded and took a few steps back as she walked beside Bijjaladeva and Bhallaladeva, her own guards trailing behind Kattappa. Bijjaladeva cleared his throat and turned to Aarya, a sickly sweet smile on his face. “The ceremony was wonderful, really. We have never seen a spectacle so grand, that too just for a coronation of a queen.”

“We respect our queens here. Why do you think no one has been able to conquer us?” Bhalla glared at his father and nudged him to the side, looking at Aarya. “I’m sure there is another reason why you’ve invited us to your coronation. It can’t be just to see your beautiful kingdom.” Aarya smiled, opening a door and turning to Kattappa. “Isn’t this your room?” he nodded and walked in, casting a last glance at them. Aarya remained silent even after Bijjaladeva was sent into his room, and only then she finally turned to Bhalla.

“You’re right, it’s not just to see my kingdom or witness how grand coronations get here.” The smile left her face as she stepped closer to him, not caring about the proximity. “Stop trying to learn about Sundarsi and what we can or can’t do, this kingdom is never going to be yours. Stop dreaming about conquering us like you did your neighbours, Your Majesty, it’s futile.”

Aarya turned to leave, but stopped at his words. “Even if I say I’ll make you my Queen? And in Mahishmati you wouldn’t be a queen, you’d be an Empress.” Bhalla noticed the torches and lights flickering in the corridor as he approached her, Aarya’s back still to him. “You’d live a life so royal none of this could compare, I promise you that. Sundarsi could never offer you what I can give you.”

Aarya turned back to him, the blizzard stone in her necklace glowing dangerously as she glared at him. “I thought you were trying to test my patience when you called me by my name today, but it turns out you’re an actual fool. My loyalty lies with my people and their prosperity, not with power and luxury like you. So go propose this idea to some little girl who’s naive enough to listen.”

Bhalla laughed as Aarya stormed off, her saree vanishing from his sight as his words echoed in the corridor. “Let’s see who will win this game, Aarya.”

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