#post Requiem fanfict

[loryn-art]

Hey everyone !

I posted my fanfiction on AO3 this week ! After a few months of preparation and a new title; A plague tale :" Redemption" the prologue is finaly available !

Read here on AO3 !

I don't know If I will finish this story, but let's see how much time I will have fun writing it !

Thank you !

#A plague tale #post Requiem fanfict #lucas the apprentice #Lucas is having a very bad day. #amicia de rune #Much OCs #writing

[khfankeri]

Prequel One-Shot to A Bond Greater Than Family

What happened the last time Lucas saw Amicia before a long seven year wait? I’m adding this prequel one shot as a Valentine’s gift to my fellow Lumicia shippers! *a day late* Written from Lucas’ perspective because Amicia is a blind idiot who doesn’t understand her own feelings and still has some trauma to work through. And yes, my chapter is still coming out this Saturday! I’m adding this one only on Tumblr till I finish the main story line since it would be a weird placement in my fic at the moment. Amicia is eighteen and Lucas is fifteen. 

February 14, 1351

Lucas sighed as he sat outside near the cabin in the woods. The de Rune family cabin held a breathtaking sight of the mountains and Lucas could see birds flying high above him. Today was a day that signaled the start of the birds' mating season. He had climbed the mountain with Sophia in hopes of meeting with Amicia before making his way to Paris to study. But she wasn't here, and his time was running out. He would have to leave the next day, and who knew when Amicia would return from her travels. He had already tarried too long, and he knew he couldn't push his travels off even one more day.

Sophia whittled some wood with one of her knives as they sat outside in the cold snow enjoying the last bit of the day's sunshine. Lucas wrapped his blue and yellow cloak closer.

"Don't worry. She'll be here. She must have just been held up." Sophia assured him as he watched the edge of the wood line.

"I hope you're right... I'm not sure when I'll be able to see her again, Sophia. Her travels and my studying... if I don't see her now... I don't know when I'll see her again."

"It can't be that long! You two are never apart for long if you can help it!"

The way Sophia said these words made his face feel a little heated. She gave him a knowing look. His mind had been increasingly on Amicia as the years passed. He had thought time might dull these emotions, but not only had that not happened, those emotions had now heightened as he grew into adulthood. He hadn't wanted to put a name to what he was feeling, but it was becoming hard to ignore.

"I don't know if that will be the case this time, Sophia. I hope you're right though."

"I guess you'll just have to study quickly eh, Alchemist?" She elbowed him in the chest making him double over.

"That's not how it works..."

"And why ever not? You're the smartest boy I know! And well not really a boy anymore... you're almost as tall as I am now!" Sophia replied measuring their head heights with her hand as they sat.

He had grown taller. And probably still had a good bit to grow. He wondered how he would look next to Amicia now...

"I bet you'll be taller than Amicia one day soon..." Sophia grinned as if she had read his mind.

"Oh well..."

"Speaking of which."

He turned to see Amicia walking through the snow towards them, looking very much like an Amazon with her crossbow on her back and her warrior outfit on. Her hair was growing out almost reaching her shoulders where her fur of her cape lay. A sign of healing to Lucas.

"Lucas!! Sophia!!"

He ran over to her embracing her. "Oh thank goodness you made it! I was worried I wouldn't get to see you before I had to leave!"

She pulled back and smiled at him sadly, hand on his shoulder. "I'm sorry, I got held up. Do you really have to go though? So soon?"

Sophia came up behind them and Amicia embraced her tightly. "Of course, he has to go! He's going to be a magister isn't he? He needs to put that big brain to work!"

Amicia sighed. "You're right. It's just hard to imagine not seeing you here, Lucas."

Lucas felt his heart clenching. To be honest, as much as he wanted to study, the idea of leaving her was almost too much. "Don't worry. I'll be back. I promise."

"Come on you two. That's enough sad talk! Let's make some dinner! It's getting late!"

Sophia led the way inside to the kitchen. "Lucas has become quite the cook since you've been away, Amicia! Show her what you can do, Alchemist!"

He felt his cheeks heating up again. "Hardly. But I appreciate your praise, Sophia."

"Well, you did learn from Andre didn't you?" Amicia asked, dropping a rabbit she had caught on her way up the mountain. She started skinning it expertly. "You're bound to at least gain some of his skill too."

"Ah! I forgot to get some goats milk! You two carry on! I'll be right back!" Sophia exclaimed, winking at Lucas who felt very much seen. He knew she was leaving the two of them alone on purpose. Was he that easy to read?? Did that mean Amicia knew too??

"Okay, we will continue cooking then!" Amicia replied smiling like normal. No, he didn't think she knew. Which he wasn't sure if he was supposed to be relieved or let down.

"I'll start the soup base." He suggested as Sophia left, rolling up his sleeves.

Amicia nodded and they worked in companionable silence for a few minutes as he cut the vegetables and she cut up the rabbit. Starting the pot on the stove, he looked around for the spices.

"Do you need the spices?" Amicia asked reading his mind.

"Yes, but I'm not sure where they've gone off too." He replied.

"Ah, they're up on the shelf. Hold on, let me get them." Amicia replied walking over to the other side of the kitchen and reaching for the jar. It was just out of reach. She sighed and looked around for her stool. Finding it, she brought it over and grabbed the jar off the shelf. Maybe one day he'd be able to reach it for her without need of a step stool.

Lucas felt a shock of warmth as she passed the jar to him, their hands meeting just for a moment. Startled, she looked at him for the briefest moment, but he looked away, unable to meet her eyes which were now on level with his. He saw a confused look cross her face as she turned away, and he cursed his awkwardness. He couldn't look at those beautifully intense eyes directly. It was too much. He might say something he'd regret.

"Will you look out for the Macula while you study?" Amicia asked suddenly.

"Of course. I can't let what happened to Hugo happen to anyone else ever again. I am an alchemist after all."

She nodded, her back turned to him. "Can I ask one more favor?"

"Anything, Amicia."

She turned to him then looking a tad reluctant. "I... I can only investigate so much by myself. If you hear of anything... especially since you'll be further north... would you mind investigating it?"

He knew this meant his studies would take longer. He also knew this might mean an even longer time till they saw each other again. But how could he say no to those eyes? How could he say no to her? Besides, he too wanted more answers.

"Of course. I will do everything in my power to see what I can find."

She looked relieved. "Are you sure? You know you don't have to agree to it if you don't want to..."

He reassuringly put his hand on her shoulder. "I do want to do this, Amicia. I want to solve this problem of the Macula almost as much as you probably do. Hugo wasn't my brother, but I still cared for him deeply. I don't want to see another Protector go through what you did ever again."

Tears filled her eyes unbidden. "Thank you, Lucas. You don't know what that means to me."

"Oh well, I'm glad I can be of service."

Lucas was caught entirely off guard as Amicia leaned in and kissed his cheek. "Don't sell yourself short, Alchemist. I can never ever repay you."

He cleared his throat and looked away, feeling as if he face was on fire. "Of course, you're family..." sure, just family. You see her as nothing else... besides, she's eighteen. What are the chances she'll stay alone forever? Let go, alchemist. The men must already be swarming her. Why would she even bother with you?

"Am I interrupting something?"

They turned to look at Sophia who had entered with a milk pail, watching them intently.

"Oh, Sophia! No, we were just discussing plans! He's agreed to help me look for the Macula up north while he studies!"

Sophia looked at him then, eyebrow rising. "I suppose that's unsurprising. Though I doubt most young men would agree to such things when there's so much to do while at the university." Students were well known for their drunken carousing and women.

"I assure you, Sophia, the only thing that interests me at the University is my studies. I can make time for this too." He had no interest in what his peers were doing. There was only one woman who would ever come close to capturing his interest, and she was the one asking this favor of him.

"Still... I'd hate for you to miss out on your life for me..." Amicia mumbled, looking dejected.

He touched her arm, causing her to look at him. "I wouldn't have said yes if I didn't want this too, Amicia. It's okay. Truly."

This seemed to help her a little because she smiled at him again. Sophia looked between the two of them smiling slightly. "Such dedication from a friend."

The way she said that word made Lucas cringe. Sophia was entirely too observant for her own good sometimes.

Amicia smiled at him. "He's more than a friend! He's family!"

"Hm, yes, family! That can take many shapes..." Sophia nodded sagely. Leaning over to Lucas, she whispered, "Family can also be a future wife..."

Lucas looked worriedly at Amicia, but she hadn't heard as she worked on adding the rabbit to the stew. "Sophia, please..."

Amicia looked at them in question, and Sophia just grinned, winking at Lucas so Amicia couldn't see.

"Anything the matter?" Amicia asked, eyebrow raised.

"No, no... Just giving our alchemist a hard time is all."

Amicia laughed. "When do you not?"

"That is fair." Sophia admitted.

"You know you can fight back right, Lucas?" Amicia asked him.

"She always knows where to strike. It's hard for me to block such attacks." Lucas admitted.

"It's my job to know." Sophia agreed.

They chatted while the stew cooked, and Lucas watched Amicia surreptitiously through dinner. He wasn't sure when he'd see her again, and he wanted to remember this night. She looked better. Healthier. Her short hair shown, and her weight looked healthy. If he was going to leave her once again, he wanted to make sure she would be okay. She smiled at him, and his heart filled with warmth. But her eyes looked sad, and he wondered if that sadness was his fault.

As he lay in bed that night, he tossed and turned considering all the things he could say to her before he rode away. But everything he could think of seemed worthless or too embarrassing to utter aloud.

The morning dawned cold and snowy to match the emotions Lucas was feeling. As he prepared to mount his horse, Amicia walked up to him handing him a rolled up parchment.

"What's this?" he asked curiously.

"It's a list of people and locations I trust that you can send letters or receive letters from me. If something is truly urgent, we can send letters to all these places to assure the other will see it sooner rather than later."

He gripped it tightly as if it were a lifeline to Amicia herself. The fact that she trusted him with this meant more than he could ever put into words. "Thank you."

"I'm the one that should be thanking you, Lucas. I..."

He suddenly felt concerned as she broke down into sobs, her head in her hands. Taking her into his arms, he held her close. Oh he didn't want to go. She was his home. Her hair tickled his nose, and he allowed himself to breath her in just for a moment. Looking up, he saw Sophia watching them with a bemused look on her face. He forced himself to pull back, and he placed his hands on Amicia's shoulders squeezing reassuringly.

"We'll see each other again, I promise. It's not like we won't be talking to each other... We just won't be in the same room for a bit."

Amicia sniffed, brushing tears out of her eyes. "I hate goodbyes."

"This isn't a good bye. It's just a... see you later."

Smiling through her tears, she nodded. "You're right as always. Be careful, okay Alchemist? Learn lots! Tell me everything you learn!"

He brushed some stray hairs out of her face and smiled at her. "Of course! That's my job!"

"Take care of yourself, Alchemist! I'm sure I'll be seeing you on my journeys as well!" Sophia called to him as he got on his horse.

"Yes, I'm sure I'll have use of you, Sophia!"

Looking back down at Amicia, his heart was telling him to jump back down and just stay put. But he knew he couldn't. He had to go. He had promised her after all. And there was so much yet to learn that he could use. "Good bye, Amicia. Be careful out there, okay?"

"I can take care of myself as you well know." she chided him.

"I know... Still. Look out for her, okay Sophia?"

Sophia grinned. "With my life, Alchemist. Now off with you! Otherwise you'll never leave!"

Amicia grabbed his hand as he was about to turn the horse around. He looked at her in question, his heart racing. "I couldn't do this without you... Don't forget to write, okay?"

He couldn't forget if his life depended on it. "I will."

Squeezing tightly, she finally let go looking resigned. Lucas turned the horse and started trotting. Looking back, he watched Amicia as he turned the bend. She too stood watching along with Sophia as they waved. As she disappeared from view, he knew one thing for sure. He was going to fight like hell to see her again.

*********************** Three years later Paris, France February 14, 1354

Lucas entered the pub that was so familiar to him now. It was the place he received most of his letters from Amicia, and it was in a part of town where many did not venture, helping aid in secrecy.

The bar maid eyed him as he neared, her blonde hair starting to come undone from her bun. Her chest was almost laid bare in an attempt to attract more customers. "The alchemist returns. I suppose you're here to see if there's a letter?"

"Naturally."

Smiling, she pulled out a letter that made Lucas' heart both beat with excitement and dread. "You two should get married already. It's been three years. How long can two lovers exchange letters and nothing happen??"

Mistress Ines was under the impression that these were love letters she was passing on, and Lucas hadn't bothered to correct her. It would take too long to explain, and he didn't want to share the secrets of their mission without Amicia's consent. And Amicia hadn't bothered to correct the woman either he thought a little pleased.

"What can I say? I'm a glutton for punishment." He replied, winking at her and taking the letter.

She just shook her head and went back to washing cups.

Sitting down in a booth in the corner, he saw he was garnering stares from the patrons. He was somewhat used to it by now, but he had started gaining unwanted advances from several women as each year passed, and that he had not be prepared for.

Looking at the letter, he steeled himself. He was always slightly apprehensive about opening a letter from Amicia. His fear was one day he'd open a letter to the words Dear Lucas, I have met a knight during my travels. He's a man of great strength, and he saved my life. I think I'm in love, and he's proposed to me and I've accepted. We are to be married in the spring. Would you do us the great honor of coming to our wedding? He had no right to feel such things, but yet his heart rebelled. If it made Amicia truly happy, who was he to object?? The woman deserved happiness after everything she'd been through.

So do you. Whispered an insidious voice inside his head. He pushed it away and opened the letter.

Dear Lucas,

I am well. Unfortunately the last lead I received ended up just being some tar from several jars that broke near the sea. Still, it wasn't a total loss. I have met a new friend. Her name is Bianca Medici. I saved her from some bandits on the road after coming across some men who ambushed her carriage. Luckily I had my trusty crossbow with me.

Of course she did he thought dryly.

I hope your leads have ended up being more fruitful than mine...

Unfortunately, he too had had no such luck so far. All his leads had ended up being dead ends or just a random sickness or two in remote villages. It wasn't all a bust though. He had learned a lot about alchemy and seen places he'd never dreamed he'd see before. His teacher Magister Moreau was very patient with him, and he too seemed very invested in the studies of the Macula. He found it very fascinating and concerning. He turned back to the letter.

But I'm trying to look on the bright side. I have made a new friend and ally, and she has offered to help me in any way she can.

That was a good stroke of luck. He'd heard of the Medici family. They were a very powerful family in Italy.

I have heard rumblings of possible black veins in the city of Calais. I hate to ask this of you since you have probably just returned from your last mission, but will you look into it? If there is another Carrier, I'd rather be the first to meet the person and not someone more nefarious. It may be nothing, but I'm not sure I can take the chance.

It seemed he had a new mission. His teachers would be very unhappy with him. He was already well behind. Though academically he was way ahead of most of his peers. And Moreau would be interested in his findings as per usual.

I am holding up alright. I am currently in Italy as you have probably gathered. My next stop is somewhere in Spain. However, I'd be lying if I said this has been easy. I miss you, Lucas. You always helped me look at the bright side of things. I hate that we keep missing each other in our travels. Hopefully we'll be able to see each other again soon.

Much love, Amicia de Rune

He smiled at the carnation symbol she had drawn rather roughly at the bottom of the letter. Sighing, he laid his head on the back of the booth causing people to look and stare. Closing his eyes, he felt his heart racing. This woman would be the end of him. And he'd probably thank her for it.

"Did the lady finally reject you, M'Lord?" One of the pretty barmaids asked as he sat there.

Opening one eye, he looked at the woman and laughed slightly. "I almost wish she would. No, it's worse than that. She gives me hope."

"So she's a tease then? Come, M'Lord! You deserve better treatment than that! Come with me! I can make the night well worth your time..." the barmaid practically pushed her chest into his face.

He gently took her shoulders and pushed her back. "I appreciate the offer, mistress. But I'm afraid I cannot accept."

What she offered felt like dirty water compared to Amicia's heady wine. Literally no woman had ever compared to her. They all seemed like cheap imitations.

The barmaid looked offended but backed away. "Fine. Don't say I didn't try to help. One day she'll find someone, and you'll be all alone. I suppose I'll be here to pick up the pieces, M'Lord."

If she did find someone, he probably would fall apart for a season. He would just dig further into his studies and ignore humanity for awhile. But she did not belong to him, and he had no right to her. She was not some possession to be owned.

Bending down to write his own letter, he gave Amicia all the details of what he had found on his own mission previously. He wished he had better news to report, but any excuse to write to her was enough for him. He found it a little ironic that he was penning a letter on Saint Valentine's Day. It was turning into a day of handwritten letters and romance in France and England though it wasn't quite as widespread as other celebrations. It had been a day of holy celebration for many, many years but was changing ever so slightly.

He would be lying if he didn't feel the temptation to throw caution to the wind and just write what had been brewing in his heart for years now. But he couldn't do that to her. And what if she didn't feel the same? He would have ruined their beautiful friendship and any chance of working together in the future to save the future Carrier. No, it was better he did not. Too much depended on this.

Finishing his letter, he wrote I miss you too, Amicia. I miss our days on the road learning and playing with you and Hugo. It's not the same without you. I will be on my way to Calais. However, I am at your bidding. I will be there whenever you call.

Your alchemist,

Lucas

Leaving the letter in the bar maid's hands, he walked out of the pub and took a deep breath. Yes, this was the right thing to do. He just wished his heart would get the message.

This may still need some more editing, but I’m pleased with it after only having a few days to write. Also, if you want to read the main fanfic, here ya go! :) 

https://archiveofourown.org/works/43754575/chapters/110027392

#a plague tale #a plague tale requiem #a plague tale lucas #a plague tale: requiem #amicia de rune #amicia x lucas #lucas x amicia #lucas the apprentice #lumicia #fanfiction #fanfic #ao3 link #aptr #aptr lucas #aptr amicia #aptr sophia #Sophia a plague tale #post canon #aged up

[writeblrfantasy]

taking a page out of chayscribbles book for this!

goals accomplished this month:

began preliminary edits on order of the ice and sent it out to beta readers! i'm still looking for beta readers, so if you're interested, read this post here!

chose and prepped my camp nano project!

edited the flame at the end of the world, but the thing is so damn long and in need of so much work that i got tired and took a break. i'm on page 164/350, and am almost done editing part one of the book, the hardest one. i'll return to it when i have the energy!

wordcount:

there's been 15k of preliminary drafting my camp nano wip and about 15k of fanfiction written this month

goals for next month:

camp nano. my project, rapture & requiem, (working title) is prepped and ready to go, and my preliminary exploratory drafting has gone swimmingly! my goal is to get a coherent and complete first draft together by the end of april. going for my usual loose goal of 2k a day, but i'm not gonna be mad if i miss that some days.

goals for the year:

get the flame at the end of the world fully edited

get order of the ice published before the end of the year

finish at least three books, preferably more like five

if you'd like to be tagged for these monthly updates, say so here. they're the most reliable way to see what i'm doing.

an excerpt from rapture & requiem below the cut:

GENERAL TAGLIST: @worldbuildng @muddshadow @nikkywrites @47crayons @directionoftime @chayscribbles @magic-is-something-we-create @rodentwrites @notwritinganyflufftoday

#writing #writeblr #fantasy #fantasy writeblr #original fiction #camp nanowrimo #monthly update

[evilcare]

Okay, so I had to make it into a post instead of spamming you in the DM’s @accidentalslayer 😂

1. https://archiveofourown.org/works/39034881/chapters/97642224

Yeah, this kinda takes place after Kol’s death. Honestly, this is the only thing I consider canon after 4x12.

2. https://archiveofourown.org/works/23774572/chapters/57108262

This is my favorite one. Caroline got cursed by somebody, I think it was one of the Gemini witches. And Damon being the lazy SOB that he is. Dropped her off Klaus' doorstep and dipped.

3. https://archiveofourown.org/works/23645335/chapters/56752315

I never finished it, but Caroline deserved better. 😫😤But the author does right by my girly. I have to finish reading it.

4. https://www.fanfiction.net/s/11570989/1/This-Love

This one is really good. I never finished it, but I remember Klaus doing something that pissed me off so badly that I had to take a break from reading it. I’m petty. I know. 😂

5. https://www.fanfiction.net/s/8920203/1/Time-Time-Again

This is my third favorite book from Wicked Schemes and The Devil’s backbone. It’s not really a time travel story like She Deserves Better and Truth Beyond Legend. It’s like Caroline reliving time loops of every moment she shared with Klaus.

6. https://www.fanfiction.net/s/10212882/1/Original-Sin

I don’t remember much about this one, but it’s really interesting. Caroline went to New Orleans after making a deal with Elijah.

7. https://www.fanfiction.net/s/10039231/1/In-My-Veins

I guess they’re supposed to be bonded by blood or something? I don’t remember. I haven’t finished it yet.

8. https://www.fanfiction.net/s/10831240/1/Requiem-of-Fire

Yeah, I just found this one. And I just wanted to share it. 😭

9. https://www.fanfiction.net/s/10971063/1/Linked

I had this in the stash. I gotta read it though. I think Care and Klaus are linked. It has KolxBonnie in it too. It even has a Katherine and Caroline friendship, a friendship I so wished would have happened in the show. 😩🥹

10. https://archiveofourown.org/works/4957696/chapters/11384194

Okay, this is a kc fic and I read it a while back. But it’s mostly Klaus busting a cap in everybody that played a part in Kol’s death I think? Well, everybody except for Caroline. The only thing he did to her was snap her neck. But I like the story, it’s very violent and very… criminal minds thingy. Sorry I took so long. 😅😂 I gotta make a Drabble one too.

#klaroline fanfic rec #Or whatever it’s called

[gabby-msr]

Is Mulder’s Quest Selfish or Selfless? Both? Neither?

Disclaimer: I love Mulder and Scully with all my heart, equally. This isn’t a post to dunk on one of them. It’s common to see Mulder blaming himself in fanfiction for everything wrong that happens to Scully and while, yes, I get it, the question of Mulder being selfish VS selfless has been bouncing in my brain for a while. This is my attempt at putting my thoughts on paper.

Mulder (and eventually Scully’s) quest is a costly one. It lasts for very many years and doesn’t exactly yield the expected returns. For this reason, a common interpretation of The X-Files is that there are terrible consequences to Mulder’s quest and they aren’t exactly “worth it.”  It isn’t a far-fetched idea because Scully has to remind Mulder THREE times over the course of the whole run that she wouldn’t change a day. Furthermore, one person can love the X-Files and also recognize that Scully’s life didn’t really get better for joining the X-Files - a lot of things were taken from her. 

But is Mulder to blame? This very determined man is alone (with Scully) fighting a nebulous evil that is actively harming people. I think we ought to look closer at what Mulder and Scully’s missions are, their repercussions, but also whether their fight is a worthy one. 

The Good Fight: Aliens and Men in Black

“Nothing else matters to me, and this is as close as I've ever gotten to it.”

- Fox Mulder, Pilot.

In the very first episode, Mulder opens up to Scully about his goal in life. It is not sprung upon her later in the series. From the get-go, we know that Mulder thinks that:

Extraterrestrials are responsible for his sister’s disappearance;

The US government is covering it up for some reason;

Proving this and finding Samantha are the only things that matter to him.

Over the course of the series, his focus changes somewhat. 

In seasons 2-3-4, he finds out about how women disappear, is returned with a chip in their neck, dies of cancer, and are left barren. He finds out because all of it happens to Scully and he is IRATE. In season 2, after her abduction, Mulder is out for blood to avenge Scully. At the same time, he feels guilty about her abduction, saying that he should’ve told her about the danger, that she didn’t know.

Meanwhile, in seasons 4 and 5, Samantha fades somewhat, and Scully becomes more important. He wants to hold accountable those who are responsible for the abduction and killing of women, as well as the medical rape of these women. There’s nothing negative to say about this. It appears to me to be an objectively good thing.

In the later years, after finding out what happened to Samantha, Mulder appears a little lost and less convinced by his quest. By Requiem, he wants to send Scully home from Bellefleur, saying that the cause isn’t worth it. That she should go home and carry on with her life, have children.  Why he “decides” to get on the ship remains a mystery to me, although a point could be made that once he was in the forest, he wasn’t a willing participant. 

In season 8, Mulder leaving the FBI appears, to me, as indicative that he’s kind of done. Whereas he would have fought tooth-and-nail to get the X-Files back, this time, he leaves of his own volition. Not only that, but this time, Scully is the one who has trouble letting go. 

Mulder reminding Scully that Dogget is a big boy and that she has to care of “the little boy” melts my shipper heart.

I wish the show had explored Mulder’s return more thoroughly in season 8 because he is still involved, but I get the impression that he has more to lose.

In season 9 and onwards, Mulder seems uber-focused on the end of the world in 2012. While we don’t get a good explanation for why Mulder and Scully broke up, this could be a reasonable explanation.

In the revival eras, Mulder appears to me as someone who isn’t as blinded by his quest as he used to be. Having lost Scully has probably shifted his priorities somehow.  

A Closer Look at the Syndicate: Was Mulder doing Good?

“CIGARETTE-SMOKING MAN:  I’m in the game because I believe what I’m doing is right.

MULDER: Right? Who are you to decide what’s right?

CIGARETTE-SMOKING MAN: Who are you?”

- The X-Files, One Breath, Season 2, Episode 8

So the X-Files world is doomed. Alien colonization is inevitable and would result in the extermination of humanity as we know it. Fortunately for us, a group of forward-thinking men in black, a type of shadow government, has decided to do something about it! Only this guy Mulder jeopardizes it all by threatening to expose them!

Umm... not quite.

A few times during the show, people tell Mulder that he is in the wrong for what he is doing, which begs the question: in the grand scheme of things, is Mulder doing something wrong? Is he threatening the very existence of humanity? 

- In Deep Throat, after being returned from the military base where his brain was wiped:  

“I just wanna say, everything you've seen here is equal to the protection we give it. It's you who have acted inappropriately.”

- The quote above from the Cigarette-Smoking Man, in One Breath. 

- In the episode Max, when Mulder is on a plane with a man who threatens to take it down:

MULDER: I'm sure all the other passengers on this plane would appreciate dying for your noble philosophy.

SCOTT GARRETT: Look out your window, Agent Mulder. You see the lights? Now, imagine if one of those lights flickered off. You'd hardly notice, hadn’t you? A dozen... two dozen lights extinguished. Is it worth sacrificing the future, the lives of millions, to keep a few lights on?

My understanding of the mythology is the following: The aliens will invade by infecting everybody with the Black Oil, and warned the Syndicate about it in 1973. They struck a deal whereby the Syndicate attempts to create alien-human hybrids. In exchange, the Syndicate members have to give up a member of their family to the aliens as collateral (in the Mulder family, that’s Samantha).

The Syndicate’s dilemma reminds me of the trolley problem in philosophy. However, in this case, it could be summarized as follows: Samantha dies, or, without Syndicate intervention, everybody, including Samantha, dies. 

So in the end, the Syndicate was only trying to save humanity? 

That’s debatable, and the means they used were absolutely ruthless and inhumane. Everybody was disposable. Abducting people like Max Fenig and Duane Barry, repeatedly, and causing them extreme pain and distress appeared to me to be absolutely despicable.  Likewise, abducting women, stealing their ova, creating babies with them, and leaving them barren and dying of cancer were also terrible. Furthermore, Samantha’s journals attest that she was tortured during the years between her abduction and her “death.” 

From my point of view, Mulder and Scully were the only people who took them seriously, who gave them some hope. 

At the end of the day, the Syndicate was looking to protect themselves more than humanity. And they hurt a lot of people along the way.

Mulder Fucks up Big Time

We cannot discuss whether what Mulder is doing is good without taking into account the times he FUCKED UP.

During the show, there are a few instances where Mulder is blinded by his quest. The most egregious example is from Paper Hearts, when he endangers the life of a little girl because he thinks there is a chance he might find out what happened to Samantha. Anybody else would have been sacked after this but this is the X-Files here.

One of his flaws is his impulsiveness. 

“Mulder, don’t get on the train.”

Mulder is somewhat aware of the dangers of his expeditions. One such example is when he goes to Arctica in season 2.

It’s a famous Scully ditch. In the end, Scully swoops in and saves the day, but Mulder didn’t intend it that way. He’d left her a letter explaining what he was doing:

“ Scully, when you get this message, I will be too far away for you to stop me, but where I'm going I cannot allow you to follow. I won't let you jeopardize your life and your career for reasons purely personal to me. You were right, Scully... you said a line has to be drawn somewhere. I'm drawing it for you here. I'll contact you when I can.” 

- Fox Mulder, End Game, Season 2 episode 17.

So he’s aware of the risks, especially in season 2, after her abduction. That doesn’t stop him from ditching her and needing her rescue, but he can acknowledge that a situation is dangerous and try to limit the damage to only himself. Given their bond, Scully rescues him, which could endanger her as well. 

The Cases in Between: The Flukeman, Vampires and Frankenstein 

And then there are the actual X-Files. What Mulder and Scully’s job should be. Between mytharc cases, Agents Mulder and Scully travel the USA to investigate the most outlandish claims. Sometimes their help is requested, but at others, they arrive at the scene of the crime and are treated like a nuisance. The entire X-Files policing universe, from the FBI to the average small-town sheriff, is rather hostile to Mulder and Scully’s unexpected methods, though as it often turns out, their contribution solves the case.

Exhibit 1: Squeeze/Tooms

In Squeeze, Scully’s help is requested by an old academy “friend” to solve a most bizarre string of murders. Mulder is drawn into the case too, although his ideas are not well received. Mulder is fought every step of the way and refused a surveillance details many times, only for Scully to be attacked. In this case, without Mulder and Scully acting like watchdogs, Eugene Victor Tooms would most likely be returning to the Baltimore area in 2023 to kill five more people.

Exhibit 2: Quagmire

This case turns out to be rather simple, and Mulder is also wrong in the end (or is he)? Regardless, the town sheriff they have to work with refuses to recognize there is an issue with the lake. His take on the multiple deaths occurring around the lake can essentially be summarized as people being drunk dumbasses around lakes. Even though Mulder turns out to be wrong about what is causing the deaths, he and Scully put a stop to it, and the lake is presumed to be safe again (though we never know on the X-Files).

These are only two examples of Mulder and Scully making their world a safer place. They barge in and are most often not welcomed, and yet, they end up saving people. If I were a victim of some type of monster, Mulder and Scully would be the ones I want investigating what happened. In a world of skeptics, Mulder shines. 

Repercussions: Deaths, losses, and sacrifices.

I will probably forget people/things. Apologies in advance.

Being in the close circle of Fox Mulder and Dana Scully has a huge disadvantage: a very high death rate. The following deaths can be attributed to the cause:

Melissa Scully and Agent Pendrell: the very definition of “wrong place at the wrong time.” Both their deaths are tragic and feel gratuitous. 

Fox Mulder’s dad: While his death is due to his decision to try and help Mulder for once in his life, it could be argued that he was the reason the Mulder family was on the path it was on in the first place. His involvement in the Syndicate was the reason for Samantha’s disappearance.

Emily: her very existence was a tragedy, and so was her death. She was created by evil people who never intended her to live. 

Honourable mention: Queequeg. 

Beyond death, Mulder and Scully sacrificed a lot of things to continue working on their quests:

Their lives: from the viewer’s point of view, it appears as though Mulder and Scully have nothing else going on in their lives other than the X-Files. While we can’t possibly know, especially considering we see very little of their personal lives, we know that neither Mulder nor Scully is “progressing” in their lives. Both are single without prospects despite looking really hot and their careers are at a standstill with “little to show for it.” 

Mulder seems especially eager to dedicate his life on the X-Files, Samantha, and exposing evil people who abduct people and make them suffer.  On the other hand, Scully questions her role on the X-File and their mission more than once. She even tries to appeal to Mulder to lead a normal life - a foreign concept for Mulder.

Whereas Scully is seen having a little bit of a life in the first season - her friend Ellen, going on a date with a boring guy - in the later seasons, it’s Mulder and Scully VS. the universe.

Scully progressively withdraws from her family: in season 5, we can see how the quest is taking Scully away from the family. She’s there with her family, except that she isn’t, not really. Her job is causing a rift between her and older brother, and even her mother doesn’t seem to understand her at times;

Scully’s ability to have children: considering how her ova stolen during her abduction, Scully was robbed of the possibility for children. It is a very sad discovery for her, one she has a hard time coping with;

Their BABY: due to their involvement in their mission, the safest option for William is for Scully to give him up. Repeating just to make sure we remember: SHE HAS TO GIVE UP THEIR MIRACLE BABY, THE ONE WE NEVER THOUGHT SHE COULD HAVE;

So..?

With that in mind, is Mulder and Scully’s quest worth it? Is it selfish or selfless? This post is going all over the place, trying to argue different things. At the end of the day, here are a few conclusions I can come with:

- As far as the average X-File goes, Mulder and Scully are the people you want working your case. They will not give up, and they will most likely the only people in the whole world to be compassionate and understanding. They have put a stop to many monsters who would go on killing people. Their work on the X-File is not in vain;

- As far as the mytharc goes, their mission is a noble endeavour. They are the only ones looking and trying to figure out why people like Max Fenig or Scully are disappearing and suffering. There is SOMETHING there. Alas, they are fighting something that is a lot bigger than just them, and their mission comes at a great personal cost. Beyond that, it hurts other people and the quest can blind Mulder in a way that endangers other people.

I don’t have a concrete conclusion beyond this and would love to discuss this further. 

All the pictures used are taken from the wonderful screencaps website: https://www.xfilesarchive.com/index.html Shout out to the owner, who really puts in a lot of time!

#xfile #mulder and scully #thexfiles

[majorbaby]

Fic authors self rec! When you get this, reply with your favorite five fics that you've written, then pass on to at least five other writers. Let’s spread the self-love 🤍

thank you! i enjoyed reading through your list. in the order i would recommend them in:

Goodbye, Farewell and Amen to that Oliver/Trapper/Hawkeye, Rated E

This was the most fun I've ever had writing anything. Oliver and Trapper are in an established relationship (I called it friends with benefits, but i fully wrote them in love) when Ollie gets his discharge papers. They start to have goodbye (farewell and amen) sex when they're walked in on by Hawkeye and everyone goes to bed satisfied.

My interest in these three has never waned, they're hot, they're probably the MASH throuple I can best imagine cohabiting long term (they've had practice) and in MASH Goes to Maine Oliver and Trapper do move to Maine to help Hawkeye establish a clinic so like, in my brain it's canon.

cherry bomb! Trapper/Hawkeye, Rated E I wrote this for Valentine's Day this year. Hawkeye wears lingerie for Trapper while they're on R&R together, blowing his mind amongst other things.

It's kinky (feminization with a working girl/john RP) but I think when they do RP/kink/a scene it's more like they're doing a bit. It's a yes-and? activity, with room for improvisation and breaks, and roles aren't set in stone.

Prom Night Trapper/Hawkeye, Rated E

My very first foray into proper smut. I wrote this for the 50th anniversary of MASH. It's a post-ep for s01e03 Requiem for a Lightweight which I maintain is the horniest episode of MASH. Not my best work but I think it's a solid entry and it helped me work through my thoughts on what their sex is like.

A man ahead of his time

This is a Trapper multiverse anthology I used to add to on a weekly basis. It's not abandoned but it has served its purpose, which was to force myself to write after considering myself retired from fanfiction for many years. I still have lots of prompts and WIPs for it in the drafts and I may continue adding to it.

I've linked to the most recent chapter, which I published on the 40th anniversary of GFA's original air date earlier this year. It's an AU where Trapper didn't leave and is there for the final days of the war. For something I wrote very hastily to make an arbitrary deadline, I am quite fond of it. It's mostly a tense Trapper-BJ interaction that resolves as warmly as I can imagine it being between them, with Hawkeye's breakdown looming over both of them.

Keep me warm in your love, then you softly leave Trapper/Hawkeye, Rated T It's all right. I no longer pine for an in-person Trapper/Hawkeye goodbye scene beyond what we got in s03e07 Check-Up. But a special place in my heart for the first piece of writing that came out of me after a 7 year nothing. And I really would describe it as having "come out of me". It's special because I don't glom onto ships ever, but I was very affected by Trapper and Hawkeye. I'm still plenty interested in them separately, but they're the only time I've ever felt this way about a ship, so it's nice to know what that feels like.

--

i thank her all the time but a very special shout out to @marley-manson who frequently edits my work, is a willing sounding board for my head canons and has been along for most of my public fandom journey. and to my long-suffering trapper, @ummide who doesn't go here but enthusiastically yes-ands me every time i message them about The Blorbos anyway.

#im gonna share 'prom night' again in a few days for the one year anniversary but yeah #if there's any one of these i would like people to give a chance it's definitely oliver/trapper/hawkeye #i got sappy at the end because i was remembering the process of writing 'keep me warm' sijdfosjfo which was done in a vaccuum #it's nice to have friends who are as enthusiastic about your work as you are including you sarah #my fic

[postbadbadassqueen]

Kallen/Lelouch Fanfictions recommandations part 1

Here is a first post about my Fanfiction recommendations ! There will certainly be various post like that because if there is one thing the Kallen/Lelouch fandom masters, it's the art of writing; There are so many great fanfictions that explore this ship to the fullest, with both who stays in characters, be it as a subplot or as a shipping fic, we are blessed about that; Kallen and Lelouch's ones are really amongst the greatest. It kinda help that some of the best plot building fics have them as a pairing (even if in most case the big plot fics are unfinished, still, some have plenty of chapters or even some moments between them that makes it worth the reading even if you're in there just for the pairing (but you shouldn't cause some plot and stories are just too good.) So I'll begin with a first bunch of fanfiction recommandation mostly set during and after the last episode, so be careful, bawling incoming. (I'll try to make various post for AU fiction, earlier episode fiction, post R2 fiction or else it will be a mess lol)

Let's go o/

(Yeah a gif of Kallen breaking cause those fics will both make you glad or will break you if not both) ; Also review, even if those are years old ! To read them just click on the title ! Heaven so Far away; by YamipaladinofChaos

This one is, as the author said it, what most Kallen/Lelouch fan hoped for and didn't get to have ; a true, uninterrupted moment between them, where Lelouch can be honest, instead of lying to the very end. The whole moment is a dream come true and the ending is…well you have to read it, but after the airing of Turn 25 a lot of people speculated about some changed scene between Lelouch and Kallen because of Kallen's most important line having been cut (plus it's so frustrating that they never had a simple chance to talk because Lelouch was so keen on going to his death and not bring her down with him lol) so this piece of work is just perfect. (Bonus : Yamipaladinofchaos wrote some of the best Kalulu/Code Geass fanfiction and some of the few LuluC fiction with them in characters, which is like the rarest thing amongst their fics so as a fan of them, read his LuluCwork, you'll thrive) Towards Hell; by Shadowslasher13 This one is a longer version of the episode of Turn 18, with Lelouch getting his resolve to end everything with the emperor; It dwelves a bit on the various important people of his life he just lost and it's a very nice read. Breaking Queens; By Regenerate A retelling of the infamous Turn 22 kiss scene about what might be going on in Kallen's head. The author has this capacity to light up the innocence in Kallen despite her tough exterior and that's not something everyone manages to do (when that's exactly what she is.) Wonderful reading. The kiss goodbye; by Ryder77 Another work about the kiss, this time from Lelouch's point of view, with his various persona in the mix; It's a bit magical (not in the magical sense of the word, but the way his persona are displayed is super interesting, and once again the reading is very nice and just super sad. Time piece Chapter 2; by touchreceptors This one is a collection of drabble with Nunnally, Rolo and Kallen, all with Lelouch. While they alre are a lovely reading, the one about Kallen is focused on her will to kiss Lelouch. super short, but super great. (How did we survive the ending of this show lol ? drama, drama everywhere)

One More Chance; by Inconstant Heart This one is very special, as it's a collection of 4 scenes, between AU and various scene of canon and hopeful future; Snippet 3 is my favorite as it's the scene where Kallen get to say her gumline (this is still the most unfair thing that was cut off the show at the last minute) and the answer Lelouch gave is just so Lelouch. It's like 3 fics in one so it's pretty great. It's in the way you remember; By inconstant Heart A post R2 about Kallen trying to move on after Zero Requiem, inerrupted by memories of him and of everything that was (and could have been) Not to spoil anything but the part about the wish on a star…Ah damn, what a piece. Other side of the revolving door; by Inconstant Heart Another fic about a moment which could have happenned during the two months Kallen and the other BK were locked in Lelouch's jail. It seems almost impossible that Lelouch might have not spared a glance at Kallen or Nunnally being locked and since the gum line was cut and turn 22 didn't felt like a resolve, a lot of ideas about such a scene came to mind (and life) A wonderful read, pretty in character for both, and once again, quite sad.

That's it for the first part ! More incoming pretty soon, I am first focusing on Fanfiction.Net fiction since it was the biggest fiction website when geass aired and that'w where most of the work were posted; more of the AO3 work are from during and after the revival and there are much less work based on the anime there (but still, some golden piece can be found)

Adding the live on scene cause in japanese Lelouch says "Kallen, kimi wo ikirou" and it's actually pretty intimate so it's sad and beautiful

#code geass #kallen stadtfeld #kallen kozuki #lelouch vi britannia #lelouch lamperouge #lelouch of the rebellion #lelouch x kallen #code geass hangyaku no lelouch #c.c. #lelouch x cc #kalulu #lulukare #code geass fanfiction #fanfiction #ルルカレ #コードギアス

[readychilledwine]

For my Rhys Girlies-

Requiem for a Dream (part one) posts in less than 2 hours. Each part has a song I thought of once it was completed, but I did not attach it so you all can set the mood for yourselves.

I do not feel I dove as deep into the best friends sister taboo as I could have, but I left the door open to both continue their story and lay back story for them. Hopefully, you all love love the idea and mystery I left to Rhiannon, her powers, and their story enough to encourage me to stay with her and carve her further out of stone. I love the idea of Rhys with an Illyrian female. I adore Feyre, but I feel Rhys would be the high lord he has the potential to be if he had been more affected by the traditions that hurt his court. I also feel there is another character who Feyre is better matched for, but I honestly do not know how you all will feel about that crackship.

To everyone who's been showing Slow Hands so much love, I woke up to notifications and tears today. I've been writing fanfiction for my friends and personal hobby for a LONG time, and waking up to so many of you loving an idea I grew very insecure about posting made my heart so warm. I hope I can keep you all here and interested. 🥰 part two is being plot lined out. Let me know what you'd like to see.

#acotar #acotar x reader #rhys x reader #rhysand x reader

[txemrn]

Pour Two Glasses

Chapter 4: "... We Are One Breath Apart"

Need to catch up? Masterlist

Book: The Royal Romance (post series)

Word Count: 6070 (+/-)

Series Synopsis: In the midst of a violent political war, Queen Riley Rys’s life is dismantled overnight, forcing her to flee Cordonia to live in hiding as a commoner with a loyal, best friend

Series Song Inspo: “Pour Two Glasses” by the Movielife

Chapter Song Inspo: "Speak to Me" by Amy Lee

Series Warnings: 🔞 For Mature Audiences Only 🔞angst; profanity; major character death; grief and mental health discussion; discussion of violence & war; alcohol use; NSFW material

A/N: Characters and some plot references belong to our friends at Pixelberry. Special thanks to my sweet friend @charlotteg234 for brainstorming with me and helping me work out some sections; and special thanks to one of my fanfiction godmothers @ao719 for pre-reading for me.

~🖤~

"Are you sure we have permission to do this?"  Riley stands under an umbrella, trembling in the rain as she watches Drake unlock the large wooden door to the entrance of the Bossina Cathedral.

"For the last time," he stops fidgeting with the old, rusty key, looking back at his best friend's wife. "Yes. Why else would I have the key? Besides, you're the fucking Queen of Cordonia. What are they gonna do?'

That earns him a subtle smile before she continues to anxiously peer through the dark, overgrown courtyard of the church. 

Suddenly, a short shrill of metal reverberates into the night as the massive barrier is unlocked. Drake tugs on the ring pull, the swollen, damp wood of the door letting out a groan. He turns to Riley, motioning for her to follow him.

Once inside, she deposits her umbrella while her eyes adjust to the dimly lit vestibule. Top cathedral-shaped windows litter the long hallways, raindrops drumming their solemn chorus of a silent requiem against the panes. Candles dedicated to prayer and supplication for the deceased illuminate the stoned walkway, leading to the sanctuary, leading her to Liam. The familiar scent of stale air and burnt incense flood Riley's senses, sending her to memories from what seems like a lifetime ago.

As her personal guard runs on ahead to notify the other men of her majesty's presence in the building, Riley wanders around the entrance hall to the nave. Has it always been this grim? Her fingertips brush against the cold brick, showing its age through fine cracks and missing fragments. 

She turns to the opposite wall, noticing a large picture depicting the crucifixion of Jesus, framed in a rustic, yellow gold. Stepping closer, she focuses on the anguish of his face, his body strung out cruelly and naked. Blood pours out from his arms, his feet and even his side. 

Her lips twist, her eyes flinching at the painted brutality as she trains her focus to a brushed-bronze placard nailed to the frame: Questo é amore.

"This is love," she whispers to herself. She takes a tentative step back, soaking up the scene. Wearing Liam's favorite burgundy sweater, she hugs her body tightly, the light remnants of his sweet scent wafting to her nose. She looks at the painting again. The torment. The heartache. The loneliness. And all anyone could do was… watch.

Her lashes dust her cheeks as memories of that day swirl in her head: the gentle, scent of pink lilies she holds in her hand; the soft vintage pattern of white chantilly lace she wears on her arms; the romantic swell of Pachebel ushering the bride to her groom. The love she shared with Liam was overwhelming, oftentimes breathtaking, like diving into the deep end of the sea and never wanting to emerge. A love that was all-consuming, holy and perfect in its own right; a love that represented everything that was good in her life.

Or so she thought. 

In losing Liam, Riley has discovered that because of her love, she is filled with unspeakable anguish, being tormented day and night with a pain that she bears alone. God, she wishes her heart could be pierced by a spear… afterall, wasn't it?

This is love.

“...what matters most is that you found happiness…”

The sudden articulate voice from Ramsford has her whirl around, the enunciation so close, so real.

"Whoa," Drake holds out his hands, "I didn't mean to scare you. Are you… ready? To go in, I mean?"

Riley nods, watching her dear friend open the door. She looks back at the picture of the Christ one last time. Love? It wasn't just butterflies and stolen breathless moments. It wasn't just inside jokes, midnight tickles and surprise gifts. It was more than just knowing the number and placement of freckles on his shoulders, the cowlick that would never lay down on the right of his crown, or the hum on his lips when he was trying to conceal his concern.

She looks forward through the threshold into the nave, taking in the steep ceiling space, the uniform of empty pews, the bounce of the old crimson carpet. But as she looks towards the altar, it glows like a lighthouse in the night, like a single candle in a storm. At the end of the long aisle, a pristine white casket illuminates in the darkness. The Cordonian flag lays respectfully on top of the lid, accompanied with two white roses per tradition, representing the second day of Liam's Royal Wake.

But, something curious sticks out like a sore thumb in the sanctuary, something that is clearly out of place. Situated in front of Liam's casket was a cluster of pillows and blankets on top of an army cot.

Her breath catches. "Drake?" She looks to him with questioning, yet appreciative eyes. She anxiously chews on her lip as she glances at the intimate set-up.

He pivots around, noticing her bewildered expression. "Don't worry, your majesty," he kindly grins, offering his elbow as a single tear rolls down the slope of his nose, "he's … he's been waiting for you."

With her attention sealed onto her husband's casket, a pained look of joy washes over her, a grin crawling across her mouth. She takes Drake's arm, and together they walk down the aisle.

"Now, the cathedral closes to the public after dark, and the nave is locked to everyone until 9 AM. The church council has agreed to let you stay here at night during the Wake, and I've got you covered with extra security so, hopefully," he exhales fluidly, "you can get some sleep."

"Every night?"

His lips coyly curl, shoving his hands in his pockets. "Every night."

"Drake, I–" She looks to the pile of bedding before smiling back at him. "I don't know what to say–"

"Oh! One more thing." Drake digs into the front pocket of his chambray shirt, pulling out a single silver chain with two pieces of metal attached, gently tinkering together. 

"His rings," Riley gasps. "Drake–" her voice disappears into sniffles at the sight of these handsome treasures, now on a chain where she won’t lose them.  She steps forward, cradling the rings in her hand as Drake holds onto the ends of the necklace. 

He smiles proudly, motioning for her to spin around, her back facing him. He fastens the closure, pulling her espresso waves out from under the chain. She turns around to model it for him as he gives an approving nod. Seeing her attention fixed on her late husband’s wedding band and signet ring, Drake gives an appeasing grin, his fists finding his pockets.

"Well," he sighs, "is there anything you need? Something to drink?"

She threads the jewelry onto her slender fingers, a somberness floating over her as she watches her personal guard slowly mosey backwards up the aisle. "No, I… I guess not." 

"K, well…" He combs his fingers through his hair, pushing back a cascade of strands. "I'll be right outside if you need me–"

"Wait," Riley interrupts, taking a few stutter steps towards him. "You're leaving?"

Drake turns around, studying her. "Not leaving leaving. I'll be in the foyer with my sleeping bag."

"Oh," Riley responds dryly, trying to sound understanding. But as she glances around the still blackness of the nave, surrounded by relics and religious imagery, her heart becomes anxious.  “Hey, Drake,” she calls out to him. He glances up, gesturing with a shake of his head. Her eyes survey around the room, spooking herself with the shifting shadows. “You have been so kind, And–and–and I know you’ve already sacrificed so much for me already, and please know that I… well, I hope you know that I’m–”

“Brooks,” he holds up a hand to slow her down. He raises an eyebrow, the corner of his mouth turning up. “What do you need?”

Fidgeting with her new piece of jewelry, she swallows thickly. “Can you maybe stay in here with me–just until I fall asleep?”

Drake lets out a big, sardonic sigh, taking a seat in the front pew.  He pats the hardwood next to him, inviting Riley to take a seat. The antique furniture creaks under her weight as she pulls her knees up to her chest. Drake puts a friendly arm around her as she relaxes her head on his shoulder. Together, they fall into a quietness as they stare reverently at the casket before them.  

“Thanks again, Drake. This is all… just so special.”

Drake gently rests his chin in her hair, the subtle notes of lavender tickles his senses. His eyes float closed, a smile growing with each passing moment.

Riley yawns. “Your friendship… I feel like it’s the only thing I’ve got right now, one of the only things connecting me to Liam.” She quickly looks up at him, creasing her eyebrows. “How are you doing, by the way?”

Drake adverts his eyes quickly back to his best friend’s casket. “Uh…” he clears his throat. “I–I don’t know. Some moments… it’s like a bad dream.” He breathes out heavily. “Sometimes I think he’s just on his trip, and he’ll be barrelling through those doors any minute,” he chuckles. “And then other moments…” he stops, staring at the flag-adorned coffin.

Riley removes Drake’s arm from her shoulders, taking his large, calloused hand in her own as they both stare in silence at Liam’s resting place.

“Can I ask you another question?” The queen quietly requests. “A personal question?”

“Hrmmm?” Drake warmly hums, gazing at her with tired, hooded eyes.

“Do you… believe in God? The afterlife? In–” she motions aimlessly around herself with her hand, “–all of this?”

Drake bows his head for a moment. He then lets go of her hand, leaning forward to rest his elbows on his knees. Rubbing his hands together, he remains thoughtfully quiet.

“I–I’m sorry,” Riley whispers. “That was maybe too personal–and terribly morbid on my part–”

Drake subtly turns his head, shaking it. “No, no, you’re fine.” He turns back to face the altar, a large crucifix hanging above the choir stall. Not saying a word, he finally closes his eyes. 

Riley relaxes into her seat, folding her hands into her lap. A warming guilt rakes at her nerves, regretting that she ever asked the question. That is, until Drake took a deep breath.

“I lift my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come?” Drake smirks, opening his eyes to stare at the ornate cross on the wall. “My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” He falls silent again, chewing on his mouth, Riley’s full attention on him. He nervously looks down at his mindless hand-wringing as he takes another deep breath. “As kids, anytime we had a problem, Moma would say, ‘Fix those eyes to the hills. The Lord promises to help you.’” He becomes quiet again, his eyes rapidly blinking as he sucks in his bottom lip. “Then Dad died.”

Riley endearingly pats his shoulder, tears slowly cascading down her cheeks.

“And–” Drake sarcastically chuckles, forcing away his own sobs, “I looked. I looked, and I fucking kept looking to the hills because ‘he promises to help you.’” He blows out a breath, wiping at his lower eyelids. “Dad was gone… and God was no where to be found.” His jaw becomes rigid, his words cutting like a blade. “The Crown cut the funds almost immediately after Dad died, leaving us stranded. I looked, but there was no help from… from God. And then Moma left us…” He sniffles, his hands casually balling into fists. “She just… left us. And I looked–I fucking begged for God’s help. If not for me, then at least for Savannah. But... ” He shakes his head.

Riley remains silent, taking in Drake’s painful memory.

“But,” his voice lightens, more hopeful, “I still keep looking–as fucking stupid as that sounds,” he laces his fingers together, “I have to believe and look for him–for God.”

“Why?”

“Because the thought of being alone–completely alone in this world with no one to turn to?” He peers intently into Riley’s eyes, his voice softening into a small whisper. “That terrifies me… but the thought that my dad is really gone? That–that I can’t talk to him in heaven–?” Drake chokes up. “And now Liam? And–and soon my… my Moma?” He runs his hands down his face. “I have to believe, Ri. I just… have to.”

Riley slips her arm around Drake's elbow, hugging his arm. Quietly supporting one another, both Drake and Riley stare towards the front of the church in reverent thought. Riley considers Drake’s words, her heart touched by his own hope in the midst of so much tragedy. But then, her forehead creases in curiosity. 

“Wait… you talk to Liam?”

“Well, I mean…” A rosy pink rolls across Drake’s neck and face, “Yeah… I try.”

“Does he… talk back?”

Drake sighs. “I don’t know. I’d like to think he does, and I just… can’t hear him.”

“What about your dad?” Riley gently asks.

“Yeah,” Drake snickers at himself, feeling slightly foolish of his admission. “Yeah, I talk to him a lot.”

“And?” Riley smiles.

“That man does not talk back; he fucking yells at me.” The pair fall into much needed laughs, kindly smiling at one another. Drake relaxes back in the pew, crossing his ankle over his knee to turn towards the brunette. “You should try it… talking to Liam.”

“What?”

“I’m serious.” Drake's expression is still slightly embarrassed. “If that boy’s gonna talk to anyone, it’s gonna be you.”

Riley chews on her bottom lip, not convinced at what her guard is suggesting. She looks away, towards Liam’s casket before turning back to Drake. “What would I even say?”

“What would you say to him right now?”

Riley giggles to herself, bowing her head as a flush overcomes her cheeks. Her eyes fill with more unshed tears, thinking of all the conversations that she was yet to have with her husband. Is it possible that she could still talk with him? Even now?  

God, I hope Drake’s right…

“Well, my good friend,” Riley stands up, smiling back down at Drake. “I think I’m going to try to get some sleep.”

“Are you going to be okay in here?”

Riley nods thoughtfully. “I think so. Thanks for talking with me, and… well, you know. Everything.”

“Anytime, your majesty,” he jovially winks. “Oh hey,” he stops her as she starts making up her cot. “What’s ‘PTG’?”

Her eyes widen. “What?”

Drake rakes his fingers through his hair, rubbing the back of his neck with his hand.  “Well, when I was fixing up the necklace–” he points to the new jewelry Riley was wearing “–I saw that there was an engraving inside Liam’s ring, and… well, they were clearly not your initials,” he titters. “What does it mean?”

Riley looks down at the etching inside Liam’s wedding band before fidgeting with her own ring that had the same inscription. “Pour two glasses.”

Drake raises an eyebrow. “Pour… two glasses? Of what? Like, wine?”

Riley snorts, shaking her head.  “It's…" She shakes her head. “It's silly."

"Oh, c'mon," he encourages. “It can't be that silly if y'all put it on your wedding bands."

Riley nervously chuckles. "Well, um… It was our promise to each other, that even though we may be apart,” she sucks in a sharp breath, her eyes fluttering to the coffin, “our love will always reunite us again. So, go ahead…” She smiles brightly, “Pour up the drinks: one for you and one for me,” she shrugs shyly. “And… we will be united again soon to drink together.”

“Hrmmm,” Drake thoughtfully takes in the romantic sentiments. “You two,” a crooked smile grows across his face as he massages his neck.

“We’re pretty gross–”

“Nah,” his eyes twinkle as he looks at Riley. “Y’all were just in love.”

------

Feeling emotionally exhausted, Riley crawls into her bed for the night, hugging a goose-feather pillow tightly in her arms. With the atmosphere becoming instantly still around her, she rolls over to face the grand white casket.

And he's there. She knows her husband is there with her, separated only by a few inches of distance, separated only by sturdy-aged oakwood and fire-pressed metal, separated only by a single breath.

Then why did she feel so alone?

------

Five Years Ago (During Liam's Social Season)...

"Lady Riley, are you out here?"

The American suitor quickly dabs her eyes dry from her anxious tears, hoping the moonlight wouldn't give away the rosy worry of her cheeks. 

"I'm here," she softly speaks. Adjusting the fullness of her petal pink ball gown, she stands from the balustrade, making her presence known. She forces a smile, but her eyes train to his loafers, unable to match his handsome gaze as she fidgets with her fingers.

"There you are," Liam strides closer in the moonlight with a bottle of champagne in his arms. "I've been looking every–" He stops, noticing her troubled look. His pearly white smile dissipates as he sets down the bubbly drink. "Riley? Is something wrong?"

"I–I’m fine," she sniffles into a forced smile. "I guess… I'm just a little homesick is all.” She dares to look into his powder blue eyes, glittering with pure adoration. She quickly turns away, biting her lip as a single tear spills onto her skin.

"Just a little homesick?" Liam echoes. He brushes the back of his finger against the soft planes of her face, offering her a crooked smile. "This would be easier if you would just tell me.”

She takes a deep breath, considering her words carefully. “You know I am so incredibly grateful for this opportunity. Because of your generosity, I am experiencing things I never–”

“Riley,” he takes her hands into his secure hold, “it’s me. You’re talking to me. Not ‘Prince Liam.’ Not the king or–or queen or any other noble for that matter… it’s me. It’s just you and me.” 

She sighs, slowly turning away from him, her heels clicking against the stone floor. She finally stops, pivoting to look up at the tall blond. “It’s just…” She exhales, tittering to herself. “This is foolish,” she waves her hand, walking towards the door to exit the balcony. “You have the other suitors to attend to–”

Liam grabs her arm, pulling her pack into himself. “And they can wait because I’m with you. Come on,” he brings her hand to his lips before giving her a toothy grin. “I happen to be an excellent listener.”

Through the curtain of her tears, Riley titters as she blushes at the touch of his lips on her skin. “I… I just…” She pulls her hand back; taking a big breath, she stares back up at Liam. "What are we even doing?"

"I… don't quite follow–"

"Us, Liam," she fixes the lapel of his tux, running her palm flat against his chest. "I'm talking about us. This… I don’t even know what to call this anymore." She shrugs, letting her arms fall carelessly at her sides. "Are we dating? Or am I being foolish? Living out some silly fairy tale fantasy?" She looks up, dabbing under lashes to keep from ruining her make-up. “And I know this hasn’t been easy for you either, having to abide by so many rules--God!” Riley covers her face with her hands, “how can I even be complaining right now?”

Liam gently takes her wrists, pulling her fingers from hiding her face. “Because it is hard for both of us.” He pulls her into his strong embrace, Riley instantly finding comfort in his warmth. He tenderly traces circles across her back. “I’m sorry. I… I wish there was some way I could make this easier for you–”

“I just want to know that this will all be worth it, which is so selfish of me. I have no right to demand that of you… I feel so selfish, vying for your attention even now… because you have several beautiful and intelligent suitors in there that could all make an excellent queen–”

Suddenly, Liam’s phone begins to ring in his pocket. Mouthing the word ‘sorry,’ Liam takes the call. With a nod, Riley quickly crosses to the otherside of the balcony to give him privacy, wrapping her arms around her body. She looks back out across the city. Is this her home? Could she someday be responsible for this, for these people? For their livelihood? For this country?

“I–I’m so sorry Riley,” Liam furrows his brow as she turns towards him. “I’m–”

“Needed elsewhere,” she sighs before politely grinning. “I know.”

Seeing the sadness in her eyes, Liam hastily grabs the bottle of champagne before gathering Riley into his arms. “Take this.”

Her expression turns inquisitive as she inspects the bottle before surveying his face.

“We will talk about this later, Lady Riley,” he nods, “and I promise you… I will prove it to you that this will all be worth it.” He cups her cheek tenderly before turning to quickly exit the balcony.

“Liam?” Riley holds up the bottle with an unspoken question as he glances back to her.

“Go ahead… and pour two glasses. I promise I’m coming back to you. Tonight.”

------

Unable to fall asleep, Riley reaches for her phone to check the time: 1:12 AM. She sighs to herself as she rolls over, readjusting her pillow under her head. Staring out her window, she notices the clean cuts of the crescent moon, its silver glow captivating her as the stars in the blue velvet sky dance and twirl for her entertainment to their own rhythm–that is until a different beat raps against her door. 

Startled, she sits up staring at the large shadow standing outside of her quarters. She grabs her satin robe, cinching it around her waist as she lightly pads to the entrance to her room.

The knocking becomes more vigorous, making Riley accidentally yelp. She grabs a stiletto shoe, hoping to use the heel as a weapon if needed as she reaches for the doorknob. But to her relief, when she opens the door, Liam is waiting for her, leaning his shoulder against the doorway.

“Liam!” she quietly shouts, her voice husky as she tosses her shoe to the ground. “You scared me.” She motions for him to come in as she reaches to turn on a lamp. With her back still to him, she continues. “What are you doing here so–?”

Liam grabs Riley’s hand, and suddenly she whips back, falling into his strong embrace. Before she can protest, his mouth blissfully pushes into her pout. Her eyes flutter close as her lips savor every tug, every lick of his fervent touch. Parting her lips, his tongue is hungry, but gentle; his mouth is greedy, but tender. He wraps his arms lovingly around her body as her fingertips wander to the back of his neck, her foot gently popping out freely behind her.

They abruptly pull apart, gasping for air. Staring longingly at one another, their chests violently rise and fall, desperately wanting more of each other.

“Whoa,” Riley pants, the taste of Liam’s tongue still intoxicating her senses. “You… you came back.”

The corners of Liam’s reddened mouth begin to curl. “Yeah.. of course, I came back,” he chuckles, a blush swirling up his neck. He finally steps forward, cupping the velveteen skin of her face with his hand, her body trembling at his touch.

“Liam, I–”

“Shhh,” he sweetly hushes her, painting his thumb across her lower lip. “I’m so sorry, Riley... I–I should’ve done this a long time ago. You have so many questions, so many fears,” he swallows thickly. “I should’ve told you the moment I knew.”  

Her eyebrows raise, her heart crescendoing in her chest. “Knew what?”

“The moment I knew you were the one.” He combs her hair behind ear as a solemn tear spills out joyfully on her skin. “I have to finish out the social season to maintain suitable connections with our allies… but damnit,” he bites his lip mischievously, “I’m in love with you, Riley Brooks.”

“I’m in love with you too, William Rys.” She wraps her arms tightly around his neck, pulling him into another heated kiss. His hand finds the back of her neck, his fingers tangling intimately into her raven waves. 

“Wait a minute,” he pulls away, “I almost forgot.” Liam quickly darts towards the door, stepping outside the quarters, only to return seconds later with a pink gift bag. There’s a subtle clinking coming from inside before he hands the surprise to Riley.

She raises a playful eyebrow. “What is it?”

“You’ll see,” he winks.

Riley carefully reaches inside, pulling out two finely etched pieces of stemware. She smiles widely, snickering at the sentiment.

“They’re champagne glasses… You know, so we can enjoy the bubbly together–”

“You goofball,” she giggles as she admires the brushed-gold rimming. “And forgive me if I’m mistake, but I do believe… well, at least according to Bertrand, that these are champagne tulips, your highness.”

He chuckles, pecking her lips. “No,” he leans in again, kissing her tenderly, “this is my promise to you.” He takes the glasses, and safely puts them on her dresser before taking her hands in his. “You don’t have to worry anymore, my love. No matter how hard this road gets for us, I promise you… I’ll always come back to you.”

------

Present

Riley clings to Liam’s metal bands around her neck, holding them close to her heart as his last words resound over and over in her head. 

“Pour two glasses, my queen. I’m coming home to you.”

What she wouldn't give to actually hear those words pass through his lips, to hear the tone and sultry timbre of his rich Cordonian accent, to hear him say, ‘I love you’ just one more time…

Remembering that final day when she saw him off in the motorcade, Riley wishes she could’ve known it was the last time. Maybe she would’ve paid just a little more attention to the smile she already knew so well. Maybe she would’ve savored his coveting touch, dedicating it more to her memory. Maybe she would’ve kissed him longer, harder, more passionately, memorizing over and over the restraining tug of his mouth on her lips. 

Or maybe she would’ve begged him not to go.

With these intrusive thoughts swirling around in her head, Riley is unable to fall asleep as she previously thought. She considers retrieving Drake, thinking that maybe having some company would relax her, saving her from her own mind. But as she sits up, she looks back to Liam’s casket.

You should try it… talking to Liam.

Riley nervously picks at her nails as she mindlessly surveys the dark, empty nave. Is she really doing this? She begins to rub her hands up and down the soft weave on her arms, finding a snagged, loose thread in her husband’s old sweater. As she fidgets with the string, twirling it around her finger, she hesitantly steps closer to the white casket. 

She carefully touches the polished exterior, her fingertips brushing against the gold handles and intricately designed filigree. Taking a deep breath, she pulls back the Cordonian flag before pressing her palms to the cold, sturdy lid where he lies.

“Liam?” Her voice is low, barely even a whisper as her eyes shift up and down his resting place. At first, she feels silly, her cheeks reddening despite her solitude. She’s not sure what to expect or what she even wants to happen by talking to Liam; but Riley can’t deny the sudden rush of comfort she feels calling out to her beloved. It feels nice to imagine, even if for a moment, that she’s conversing with him, as if life was back to normal.

Her breath hitches in her chest as storm clouds gather in her eyes, tears eroding across the curves of her face. She trembles as she traces figure-eights across the surface. 

I happen to be an excellent listener…

Riley drapes her arms across the top of the coffin, resting her head against the hard lid. She pinches her eyes closed, overcome with the torrential downpour of her tears. 

In her personal darkness, she sees Liam, those handsome dimples, the peaceful warmth of his strong embrace, the vast galaxy of stars in his eyes. She opens her mouth to speak, but her sobs rob her of her voice. 

It's just you and me…

Riley tucks a closed fist under her body. She nuzzles her head like a kitten against the lid as her bottom lip quivers. With her thoughts hazy on what to say, she finally chokes out in a single, desperate breath the one thing–the only thing–she can muster. 

"I miss you." 

Seized by her sadness, uncontrollable tears pour out as her hopeless cries reverberate through the sanctuary.

In the back of the darkened nave, a hidden pair of chocolate eyes takes in the scene as they begin to sting with bitterness at the sight of his best friend’s widow.

------

It has been a little over three weeks since Liam's death. Riley has spent twenty of the past twenty-one nights of his Royal Wake at his side, finding comfort in the memories of him, in talking about him.

In talking to him. 

Although the thick cloud of grief haunts stagnantly around her, the river of tears and the uncontrollable cries have become manageable. Discussing Liam, his honorable death and legacy has become slightly easier. Little reminders around the quarters, like his empty coffee cup, his untouched tennis racket, even his empty laundry hamper, aren't so jarring anymore.

As she slowly transitions into a new era of her life, Riley recognizes that she isn't healing or moving on from the death of her husband. Rather, she has become numb, barely existing. Her body gasps for survival, moment by moment, minute by minute, breath by breath.

Perhaps this is what happens when a beloved dies. The heart doesn't bruise or break; it's a treasure, sealed by love in the arms of a lover, never meant to be returned. But, what is life without a heart?

Riley's heart remains steadfast with Liam and always will. 

Today, he will be buried. He will be honored before the heavens in a televised mass before his body is escorted to his final resting place, next to the great rulers that came before him. 

Today, she slips on a knee-length black peplum dress with a modest black heel. She fixes her dark waves into a low bun while adorning a black fascinator to her crown, pulling a veil over her face.

Today, her family, her friends and her country will gather one last time to say those unimaginable words just one more time.

Goodbye.

The service is lovely, at least that's what Maxwell whispers to Riley as they form the processional for the exit from the cathedral. Her eyes refuse to leave Liam’s casket as six guards prepare to move him. With delicate precision, they fold up the Cordonian flag and gather the twenty-one white roses that once decorated the lid, and hand them respectfully to her.

She clutches the gifts dearly to her chest, her fingers finding her necklace with her husband’s rings. Her eyes well with tears as the men begin to walk Liam carefully down the aisle to the back of the nave.

A warm hand gently touches Riley's back, guiding her into the open aisle behind the casket. She looks up to see a tear-stained Drake, motioning for her to follow.

Without saying a word, she offers her arm, her eyes pleading with him  to walk with her.

Drake drops his mouth to her ear. "Brooks, I'll be along in a minute. It’s family first–"

"You are family." A corner of her mouth curls as Liam's best friend finally takes her arm.

Feeling more at ease, they somberly follow in the processional. Exiting the sanctuary, they continue down the stoned corridors, brilliantly colored by the stained glass in the daylight. Once they reach the antique, double wooden doors at the front of the church, they take a moment to ensure the lineup.

"Excuse me?" Riley softly calls to the guards. "I… I was wondering if I could just have a brief moment. With my husband? Just one last time while we’re here in the church."

With the nod of their heads, she steps forward to the pearlescent casket, laying a single hand on it. She begins to whisper sweet sentiments unheard by everyone present, tender words only meant for heaven’s ears. Riley then kisses her palm before pressing it once more over the smooth surface of the lid. She hugs the flag and flowers back to her body before giving a subtle shake towards the guards.

As the large doors swing open, the thunderous creak of the wood reverberates through the foyer. And in an instant, the Mediterranean sunlight pours in, particles of dust dancing amongst the golden rays. As the guards proceed with Liam, her eyes adjust to the abrupt punch of brightness to her swollen eyes. The warmth of the day washes over her skin as if to welcome her into a new life. She remembers once upon a time feeling this way, walking out of this very cathedral hand-in-hand with Liam, and the sweet bathing of the Cordonian sun felt like a renewal, as if the universe was greeting them into their new life as husband and wife.

As the cozy, familiar feeling melts over her senses, her long, dark lashes flutter shut as she remembers that special day, her wedding day. 

Riley Brooks, do you take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband?

“Riley?” Drake breaks her reverie, giving a kind, yet pained grin as he offers his arm again. “Are you ready, my queen?”

Unfortunately today signifies a different kind of beginning for Riley. A new life. Without her Liam.

Fixing her tiny hand to him, Riley takes a deep breath, and steps into the light. She sees the stairs and then a distinct pathway marked off with large crowds of people on either side. As she and Drake ease down the entrance from the cathedral, she trains her eyes onto her husband's casket as they make their way to the royal motorcade. 

The crowd is still, completely quiet as the late king passes by. Many bow their heads in reverence; others cross themselves in prayer.

Do you vow to love him, comfort him and cherish him…

Suddenly in the distance, Drake hears a familiar sound causing the hairs on the back of his neck to stand. He and Riley continue to proceed, but he anxiously surveys the crowd, both to his right, and then carefully to his left.

…for better or worse…

With the crowd still silent, Drake hears the distinct noise again, only this time it’s closer. Louder. Echoing off the side of the building.

A glock.

…for richer or poorer…

"Switch sides with me," Drake demands in a low, stern voice, trying to guide Riley from his left side to his right.

Riley knits her eyebrows together with curiosity, pivoting her body to face her dear friend. "What’s wrong?"

 ...in times of joy and in times of trial…

Drake looks over Riley's shoulder, his eyes growing wide as he watches a man dressed in a dingy military uniform with dark-complected skin step forward in the crowd, something hidden in his hand. A member of the Les Combattants. 

And now it’s clear what he hides: a gun.

"Oh, fuck me," Drake mutters, grabbing the queen’s shoulders. "Riley, get down!"

Violent echoes like the crack of a whip strike terror in the gathered masses. Frightened screams pierce into the air as people flee the grounds in horror. The gunshots continue, one after another after another, popping incessantly until the cries for help cease, and the grounds of the cathedral choke back into silence.

… till death do you part?

Twenty-one long stem roses scatter chaotically across the stoned pathway; crushed and bruised white petals have been ripped and casted into the wind like chaff.

The neatly-folded Cordonian flag that once adorned the late King's casket lays untucked on the ground…Only its sharp colors are no longer bold and pristine as a deep shade of crimson soaks into the fabric.

I do.

~🖤~

Tags (if you wish to be added/removed, please DM me; if your name is crossed out, Tumblr won't let me tag you):

PERMA

@alexabeta @ao719 @charlotteg234 @chemist-ana @differenttyphoonwerewolf @foreverethereal123 @issabees @jerzwriter @kat-tia801 @khoicesbyk @kingliam2019 @lovelyladyk88 @lucy-268 @mainstreetreader @mom2000aggie @neotericthemis @nikirennie87 @peonierose @schnitzelbutterfingers @sfb123 @shannonwrote @shewillreadyou @socalwriterbee @tessa-liam  

ALL TRR/TRH

@21-wishes @angelasscribbles @burnsoslow @gkittylove99 @iaminlovewithtrr @lovingchoices14 @motorcitymademadame @princessleac1 @rubiwalker @twinkleallnight

ANYTHING LIAM

@amandablink @bbrandy2002

POUR TWO GLASSES

@3pawandme @alyshak92 @alyssalauren  @debramcg1106 @ladyangel70 @walkerdrakewalker @veebug8

@choicesficwriterscreations

#pour two glasses #the royal romance #the royal romance post series #the royal romance au #liam rys #liam rys x riley brooks #king liam #king liam rys #choices trr #choices liam #drake walker #trr liam #trr drake #choices drake #choices fanfic #trr fanfic

[loryn-art]

Writting update~

Currently working on the third chapter of "Flame Tale", or : "The exciting life of two teenagers living in the mountains being in love but never really spoke about it because they are about to break up to live their own life each on their own." But I thought that title was a bit too long.

4k words are already written, guess it's gonna be around 6K~.

(Of course there will be smut included what the heck do you think)

#A plague tale #lucas x amicia #Amicia de rune #lucas the apprentice #plague tale fanfiction #post Requiem

[khfankeri]

Rising Like a Phoenix (Chapter 15 of a Bond Greater Than Family updated)

Revenge is an act of passion; vengeance of justice. Injuries are revenged; crimes are avenged. -Samuel Johnson

Rated: Mature

Pairing: Amicia de Rune/Lucas the Apprentice (aka Lucas de Rune of course...)

https://archiveofourown.org/works/43754575/chapters/114037063

#lumicia #amicia de rune #lucas the apprentice #amicia x lucas #lucas x amicia #a plague tale requiem #a plague tale #a plague tale: requiem #a plague tale lucas #Sophia a plague tale #apt Melie #melie apt #fanfiction #fanfic #ao3 link #read on ao3 #amwriting #video games #post canon #aged up

[theladylatias]

This year, one of my goals is to fully commit to writing my Pokemon fanfiction—a story and a set of characters that I have been working on and thinking about for almost 20 years now. It’s kind of a long term saga, but the story I am committed to telling first is a sequel to Pokemon Colosseum (the game and the fanfiction I worked on long ago, though I never finished it). While novelizing Pokemon Colosseum is something I definitely want to come back to, this original story of mine is so incredibly important to me and will be my priority. The working title is Final Requiem, which references the antagonists of the story.

I’ve already written a decent amount, but I’ve still got a long way to go! While I have standard writing goals/word count goals/etc., another thing I want to do is write some writing prompt pieces. Specifically about the Pokemon Colosseum main characters, Wes and Rui.

Alongside a couple OCs, Wes and Rui are among the main characters in Final Requiem. My challenge thus far is, while I love these characters dearly and know them in my head, I am having a hard time solidifying them on paper. To better get a sense of working with them, I’m going to try do a few romantic writing prompts with them, both to establish their personalities better and to practice how they interact with each other.

I do not ship canon characters much nowadays; few pairings interest me anymore, and I prefer to work with OC x OC or the occasional OC x canon character pairings. But Colosseumshipping has never failed to get me, and it’s one of the only ships I love dearly. So this means a lot to me and I’m excited to work with them again.

I know Pokemon Colosseum is an ancient game, but I’m sure there are old fans out there like me. xD I already have a couple prompts I’ve collected, but if you have any suggestions for a Colosseumshipping writing prompt—a simple idea for a one-shot, especially if it’s romantic or cute—please don’t hesitate to send an ask with the request!

I can’t guarantee I’ll do them all—especially if I just don’t vibe with it—and it may end up being a piece specific to my Final Requiem fanfiction setting. But I will definitely post any pieces I do here. :)

Wish me luck!

#writing #pokemon colosseum #colosseumshipping #Wes #Rui #taking requests #fanfiction #Pokemon #writing prompt

[atla-fandom-confessions]

Southsuns who has been a zutara role player and writer on tumblr for a long time and was previously known as seapruncs and as Blaise / spybenders on twitter was caught being very racist to other Zutara shippers who are poc. She is white and from the deep south and is allegedly married to a big time racist MAGA supporter so I have been told. Southsuns was using reverse racism in her language, sexually harassing people, including minors, bullying and intimidating people on twitter, and culturally appropriating. She also spoke over POC repeatedly and without remorse. She is a bully and mean and worst of all, exhibits racism and writes about characters who are POC and should be respected. Her most popular fanfiction is Requiem on Water and while people are free to enjoy things as they like and separate fiction from creator, I do not think that she should be supported in any capacity any longer in this fandom as this all comes to light.

posting this because i have received confirmation of this behavior pattern via receipts in the dms. all i can say is wtf is wrong with people, and what is with older white women in fandom being racist and sexually harassing people and being largely ignored over it. nasty. do better

#atla #atla fandom confessions #user drama #southsuns #fandom racism

[lovelybaka]

Hello the Tumblr world !!

It's been so long (almost 5 years. Lol. No.)

So I decided to be back here but in 5 years I've learnt to love new things (and keep on the bases obviously)

In my time we could ask people to reblog or like a post to say if you post/repost some things so I will try this:

If you post or reblog anything, like ANYTHING, on this list please like this post, reblog, react, and I'll follow you ^^

Disney (or anything related to animated movies)

Harry Potter & Fantastic Beasts

Mangas and Anime in general (fmab, fruits basket, sports anime, nana,...)

Pirates of the Caribbean

Fun facts and (I LOVE learning new things)

Fanfictions & Headcanons

Seiyuu related

Square Enix games in general (I'm into Bravely Default II at the moment)

Kingdom Hearts

A Plague Tale (Requiem too)

Merlin (BBC series)

Anything cute and aesthetic

Morning Musume, OCHA NORMA (Hello!Project in general)

I think it's a good begining~ So pleaaase, don't hesitate to let me know (and I hope I'm not being to old for this)

Thank you very much 😘

#own post #disney #anime #harry potter #fantastic beasts #fbawtft #fmab #fun facts #seiyuu #merlin #square enix #bravely default ii #a plague tale #a plague tale requiem #kingdom hearts #kh #hello project #morning musume #ocha norma #cute aesthetic #puppy #fanfiction #thank you very much #so many tags already #sorry for my english

[postbadbadassqueen]

Kallen/Lelouch Fanfictions recommandation part 2

Here we go for the second list of fics recommandation ! Always some heartbreaking Zero requiem and post R2 fictions recommandation with a lot of YamipaladinofChaos and at the end of the list, one of my all time Kallen centric piece (prepare your eyes, this one is hearbreaking)

Just like with part one, click on the title of the fic to read it ! Decode; by Magery Another version of the infamous jail scene everyone imagined by the oh so talented Magery. I mean some of her lines are...urgh. Unforgettable. Awakening; By Misaoshiru A short post R2 drabble about Kallen and the world after. short but sweet. Had I Known; by YamipaladinofChaos A collection of scenes with various characters happening before Zero requiem, 7 times characters talked with Lelouch and yet, didn't managed to save him. They are all super good (because YamipaladinofChaos is amazing) and Kallen's one is no exception, even though I really love them all. Also Suzaku's one, oh dear. Why didn't it happened in the show ?

Quid pro Quo; By YamypaladinofChaos

A work that dwelved on the feelings of Lelouch and Kallen during the last part of the show, from their own point of view. Some line are just brilliant and have been stuck in my head for a decade so it's really a must read (Anything Yami wrote is a must read anyway)

Easier than Goodbye ; by YamipaladinofChaos

…Yes, him again. A short drabble about the Turn 22 kiss from lelouch's point of view. And when you read the information about the kiss from the staff it just clicks absolutely right. Sad, as usual.

Electric Feel; by piston heart

Another version of the "Lelouch visit Kallen in jail" fic, with a much more tired Lelouch, his death is just so close and Kallen is just so angry, but not broken. Another sad reading.

With you Gone; by Corrosionz (Oh you'll see other fics by Corrosionz, some of her work just scream canon too much lol)

Kallen's thoughts after the end of show, as she remembers about various moments and how she tried to move on. And it's difficult.

For Two ; by Regenerate

Okay be warned, this is one of the most (if not the most) heartbreaking post R2 story i ever read; It's a work about Kallen and how she tries to cope and go on after what happenned with Zero Requiem. It's a beautiful piece, filled with sadness and relief and a little bit of hope, I think I really felt like crying when i first read it, it's a masterpiece and every Kallen fan should read that (and leave a review. review take no time and even after 16 years authors deserve feedback for their work.) Thank you for this one, Regenerate

That's it for second list of fics recs ! Next list should be maybe more joyful/hopeful/whatever xD

#code geass #kallen kozuki #kallen stadtfeld #lelouch lamperouge #lelouch vi britannia #lelouch of the rebellion #codegeass #code geass hangyaku no lelouch #lelouch x kallen #lulukare #kalulu #it's all in the original and not in the alternative #code geass fanfiction #fanfic

[mapsareforbraindeads]

18 and 4 for the ask game, if you wouldn’t mind!!

4 - what was the last straw that made you finally block that annoying person?

okay so i don’t actually have a lot of people blocked lmao. i don’t really know anyone annoying enough for that. the only people i’ve blocked are people who were weird in asks and/or dms and actually controversial people.

18 - it's absolutely criminal that the fandom has been sleeping on...

okay, so there’s this really underrated fanfiction called true successor- lmao jk. i’m going to come right out and say one of my hottest death note takes. REQUIEM IS THE BEST SONG IN THE MUSICAL. there. i said it. requiem is a genius conclusion to the death note musical and it’s so hauntingly beautiful. but EVERYONE FORGETS IT EXISTS. it’s not on spotify, it’s not mentioned in any ranking posts, IT’S NOT ANYWHERE. also ohba and obata approved it as the best ending for the musical and everyone just. forgets that? i mean i don’t like them but that’s pretty cool. anyways LISTEN TO REQUIEM. IT’S SO UNDERRATED.

#vari answers #mutuals #⭐️shiny (genderfluid icon) #sorry for the requiem rant i have had these opinions since august 2021