#zoya nazyelensky

[she-posts-nerdy-stuff]

All I can think about recently is that there are three main career options for Grishaverse main characters:

A) Child soldier

B) Criminal

C) ✨Both✨

#and none of them are a choice #it’s very dependent on who your government is #shoutout to Nina and Matthias for really exploring all options available to them #my poor babies #inspired by convo with my sister where she said why is everyone a child soldier and I said some of them are criminals too(!) #as a side note it’s very unclear whether Grisha in Ravka get paid to be in the second army #I’m pretty sure they don’t #like at least if you’re a criminal you can make some cash #not that I’m endorsing criminal activity obvs #but at least there’s marginally more choice as a criminal #it would appear at least marginally more autonomy #crooked kingdom #shadow and bone #the grishaverse #six of crows #grishaverse #leigh bardugo #grisha trilogy #seige and storm #ruin and rising #kaz brekker #inej ghafa #jesper fahey #wylan van eck #nina zenik #Matthias helvar #alina starkov #mal oretsev #genya safin #zoya nazyelensky

[henrycavillary]

how did they ruined the Shadow & Bones - Six of Crows?!

*spoilers* might be in these areas IF you didn’t read the books

I don’t know where to begin but I’ll start somewhere;

and if I missed or said something wrong you can write me...

it was like they united last two books but at the same time they removed the middle parts that I think has really important effect on the story line. there are so much parts in Six of Crows books that they didn't put on the show to just make it suitable for the Shadow and Bone books. and also deleted many more parts from the second book Siege and Storm in the middle of somewhere when Nina met Kaz, they were supposed to save Mathias and go to a heist together at Ice Court to steal a DeKappel painting by making deal with Rollins that Kaz saved from Prison. but instead they went on some other robbery that even doesn't exist and Kaz just said that 'I can only give you a guards name and you can visit him.' that's all... and the story-line completely changed. “We’re going to untie you,” said Brekker. “I hope prison hasn’t robbed you of all your manners or good sense.” Matthias nodded, and the bronze girl took a knife to the ropes binding him. “I believe you know Nina,” Brekker continued. “The lovely girl freeing you is Inej, our thief of secrets and the best in the trade. Jesper Fahey is our sharpshooter, Zemeni-born but try not to hold it against him, and this is Wylan, best demolitions expert in the Barrel.” “Raske is better,” Inej said. The boy looked up, ruddy gold hair flopping in his eyes, and spoke for the first time. “He’s not better. He’s reckless.” “He knows his trade.” “So do I.” “Barely,” Jesper said. “Wylan is new to the scene,” admitted Brekker. “Of course he’s new, he looks like he’s about twelve,” retorted Matthias. “I’m sixteen,” said Wylan sullenly.

Jesper & Wylan happened too fast. there was a man  named Van Eck that becomig problem for Kaz at the beginning where he’ll deal too. what happened to him?! we only saw Rollins because he was the one who killed the brother. “Meet Wylan Van Eck,” said Kaz Brekker as the boy’s cheeks flooded crimson. “Jan Van Eck’s son and our guarantee on thirty million kruge.”

Inej says a line that "Inej shook her head. “When I go to Ravka, it will be on my own ship, piloted by my own crew." and also wanted to save refugees, so they made her leave like that in the show. Stupid! she wasn’t going anywhere in the middle of everything like that.

Alina suppossed to travel with Nikolai's men and Apparat at underground tunnels like a month or so, while they were running from Darkling but that wasn't in the story at all. in that moment there were times that Nikolai and Alina got really close to each other and like kissed etc. while Mal is feeling a little bit distant and blame himself that he can't give her much so let her decide some things etc. and in that process the Darkling's end came in a really stupid way! that it doesn't even suit his power at all. From miles beneath the earth to miles above. I could scarcely believe any of it, that Nikolai had found us, that he was safe, that we were all here. A tide of relief washed over me, making my eyes fill. “First vomit, then tears,” Nikolai said, coming up beside me. “Don’t tell me I’ve lost my touch.” “I’m just  happy you’re alive,” I  said, hastily blinking my  eyes  clear.“Though I’m sure you can talk me out of it.” “Glad to  see  you  too.  Word  was  you’d gone underground, but  it  wasmore like you’d vanished completely.” “It did feel like being buried alive.” “Is the rest of your party there?” “This is it.” “You can’t mean—” “This is  all  that  remains of  the  Second Army.  The  Darkling has  his Grisha, and you have yours, but...” I trailed off. “All that remains,” Nikolai repeated.

Genya and David with them at the underground too. David wasn't dying like that and he seemed much more strong and tough in the books, at least for me, in the show he's like weak and cry baby... not what I've imagined at all. Genya was getting that scars on her face by defending Alina on the ship when she's with her.

“You  will  remain untouched and  protected, Sankta Alina,” said  theApparat. “I  cannot extend the  same courtesy to  those you  would callfriends.” Apparat was this disgusting to let her hostage... in the end there was a part where it showed Alina's power turns Dark; that was happenning when she was linked with Darkling while they were escaping/fighting, not she kills him and use Mezost and her power turns dark.

when they were going for destroying the Fold Nikolai was with them too. not some trio women march was it.

Baghra wasn't with Alina when she was searching for Firebird. and... I don't remember that Mal being Sturmhond and getting away with one of Nikolai's flying boats and Inej going with them at all. THAT'S NOT EXIST!! Sturmhond never give up on his alias and Mal doesn't leave Alina like that. sure Mal is a Firebird, right? NO! I wanted to say this but they even made me doubt myself that he wasn't the Firebird!! so hear the lines on the books; “Mal!” I shouted. My pack was at the edge of the plateau, along with my rifle and bow. I made a dash for them, and the firebird came straight at me. It was huge, white like the stag and the sea whip, its vast wings tinged with golden flame. They beat the air, the gust driving me backward. Its call echoed through the valley as it opened its massive beak. It was big enough to take my arm off in one bite, maybe my head. Its talons gleamed, long and sharp. this was the time when Nikolai gets his scar on his shoulder, not from the fight in the palace; if I'm not wrong... A  shadow  soldier swooped down. In  horror,  I  saw  it  held Nikolai struggling in its arms. Any bit of courage I had evaporated. I couldn’t see Nikolai ripped limb from limb. “Please!” The word tore from me, without dignity or constraint. “Please don’t!” The Darkling raised his hand. I clapped my fingers over my mouth, my legs already buckling. But the nichevo’ya didn’t attack Nikolai. It tossed him onto the terrace. His body hit the stone with a sickening thud and rolled to a stop. “Alina, don’t!” Mal tried to hold me back, but I broke free of him and ran to where Nikolai lay, falling to my knees beside him. He moaned. His coat was torn where the creature’s claws had shredded the fabric. He tried to push himself up on his elbows and blood dribbled from his mouth.“This was unexpected,” he said weakly. “You’re okay,” I said. “It’s okay.” “I appreciate your optimism.” there was so many adventures with Nikolai's crafts etc. all that fight and excitement were gone. and all there was a fight with Grisha army of Darkling.

“It doesn’t matter,” I said firmly. “I’ll pay it.” Nikolai considered this, then said, “Very well.” “That’s it? No sage words? No dire warnings?” “Saints, Alina. I  hope you  weren’t  looking to  me  to  be  the  voice of reason. I keep to a strict diet of ill-advised enthusiasm and heartfelt regret.” He paused, his grin fading. “But I’m truly sorry for the soldiers you lost and that I didn’t do more that night.” Below us,  I  could  see  the  beginnings of  the  white reaches of  the permafrost and, far beyond, the shape of mountains in the distance. “What could you have done, Nikolai? You would have just gotten yourself killed. You  still  might.” It  was  harsh,  but  it  was  also  the  truth. Against the Darkling’s  shadow soldiers, everyone—no matter how brilliant or resourceful—was close to helpless. “You  never know,”  said  Nikolai. “I’ve been busy.  I  might have some surprises in store for the Darkling yet.” “Please tell me you plan to dress up as a volcra and jump out of a cake.” “Well, now you’ve ruined the surprise.” He pushed off the railing. “I need to pilot us over the border.” “The border?” “We’re heading into Fjerda.” “Oh, good. Enemy territory. And here I was starting to relax.”“These are my skies,” Nikolai said with a wink. Then he strolled across the deck, whistling a familiar, off-key tune. I’d missed him. The way he talked. The way he attacked a problem. The way  he  brought  hope with  him  wherever he  went. For  the  first  time  in months, I felt the knot in my chest ease. Nikolai's father The King wasn't dead but just has inflicted from the poison by Genya and says those line himslef after the attack. “I poisoned my skin,” Genya said harshly, “my lips. So that every timehe  touched me—” She  shuddered  slightly and  glanced at  David.  “Everytime he kissed me, he took sickness into his body.” She clenched her fists.“He brought this on himself.” “But the poison would have affected you too,” Nikolai said. “I had to purge it from my skin, then heal the burns the lye would leave. Every single time.” Her fists clenched. “It was well worth it.” Nikolai rubbed a hand over his mouth. “Did he force you?” Genya nodded once. A muscle in Nikolai’s jaw ticked.“Father?” he asked. “Did you?” “She is a servant, Nikolai. I didn’t have to force her.” After a long moment, Nikolai said, “Genya Safin, when this war is over, you will stand trial for high treason against this kingdom and for colluding with the Darkling against the crown.” The King broke into a smug grin. But Nikolai wasn’t done. “Father, you are ill. You have served the crown and the people of Ravka,and now it is time for you to take the rest you deserve. Tonight, you willwrite out a letter of abdication.” Mal was like this; “What changed?” “You. I saw it that night in the chapel. If I hadn’t been so scared, I could have seen it before.” I thought of the militiaman’s body falling in pieces. “Maybe you were right to be scared of me.” “I wasn’t afraid of you, Alina. I was afraid of losing you. The girl you were becoming didn’t need me anymore, but she’s who you were always meant to be.” “Power hungry? Ruthless?” “Strong.” He looked away. “Luminous. And maybe a little ruthless too. That’s what it takes to rule. Ravka is broken, Alina. I think it always has been. The girl I saw in the chapel could change that.” “Nikolai—” “Nikolai’s a born leader. He knows how to fight. Knows how to politic. But  he  doesn’t  know what it  is  to  live  without hope. He’s  never been nothing. Not like you or Genya. Not like me.” “He’s a good man,” I protested. “And he’ll be a good king. But he needs you to be a great one.” I didn’t know what to say to that. I pressed a finger to the window glass, then wiped the smudge away with my sleeve. “I’m going to ask him if I can bring the students here from Keramzin. The orphans too.” “Take him with you when you go,” Mal said. “He should see where you come from.” He laughed. “You can introduce him to Ana Kuya.” “I already unleashed Baghra on Nikolai. He’s going to think I stockpile vicious old  women.”

#shadow and bone #shadow and bone s2 #s&b spoilers #spoiler #me #six of crows #my thoughts #kaz brekker #inej ghafa #jesper fahey #nikolai lantsov #wylan van eck #darkling #alexandre morozova #alina starvok #sturmhond #malyen oretsev #nina zenik #zoya nazyelensky #i know it is long and understand that if you do not wanna read it but i had to write it

[syllvane]

mobile masterlist

the collection of all my grishaverse writings. updated as often as i remember!

six of crows

kaz brekker

touch

the lovers

wanting

halfway

graphology

i’ll be the one if you want me to

can’t shake the devil sitting on your shoulder

inej ghafa

in the shadows

matthias helvar

longing

shadow and bone

tamar kir-bataar

constellations

nikolai lantsov

beginnings pt 1

beginnings pt 2

beginnings pt 3

a dwindling, mercurial high

zoya nazyelensky

forget-me-nots

tolya yul-bataar

soldier, poet, king

familiar hearts

request guidelines

#shadow and bone #shadow and bone imagine #shadow and bone x reader #grishaverse #grishaverse imagines #grishaverse x reader #six of crows #six of crows imagine #six of crows imagines #six of crows x reader

[korolnichevoya]

❝ zoya nazyelensky. if you don't get that damned ribbon out of your hair this instant, i simply cannot be held accountable for what i do next. ❞

@starsloved

#{ welcome to the crack } #starsloved #starsloved zoya

[awanderingtortoise]

grishaverse artbreeder (KoS/RoW)

just remembered artbreeder existed and decided to mess around as a procrastination tactic :D so here are the characters (as i imagine them) in the nikolai series! i have no idea what im doing Zoya Nazyelensky

Nikolai Lantsov

Tamar Kir-Baatar

Tolya Yul-Baatar

Genya Safin (with both eyes because i cannot figure out how to remove 1 on artbreeder)

David Kostyk

Ehri Kir-Tabaan

Mayu Kir-Kaat

some dont feel as exact as others (david and tolya-- were a major struggle and getting nikolai's vibe into nikolais face was a pain) but im happy with most of them, hope this was fun to see <3 would love to know which of these feel accurate for you guys and which dont it would be very interesting

#king of scars #rule of wolves #nikolai lantsov #zoya nazyalensky #genya safin #david kostyk #tolya yul bataar #tamar kir bataar #ehri kir tabaan #mayu kir kaat #me #may do a p2 sometime hehe this is fun

[jackhues]

my fandoms + who i write for!

below is a list of my fandoms (that will probably be updated regularly loll). names listed under the fandom are people who i write for. i mainly write for male characters, but you will see a few female characters on here. if a certain character is canonically ace/aro then i will not write romantic/sexual scenes for them (depending on their sexual orientation). you may request platonic scenes. if a certain series has no names, that means i do not write for any characters, but i may post about it anyways!

the cruel prince series

cardan greenbriar

jude duarte

caraval series

legend

julian santos

riordenverse series

percy jackson

leo valdez

luke castellan

six of crows series

kaz brekker

inej ghafa

jesper fahey

nina zenik

king of scars series

nikolai lantsov

zoya nazyelensky

vicious series

victor vale

sorcery of thorns

nathaniel thorn

an enchantment of ravens

rook

marvel cinematic universe

loki

tony stark

natasha romanoff

steven grant

marc spector

dune

paul atreides

a darker shade of magic

the maze runner

the poppy war

the mortal instruments

#the folk of the air #the cruel prince #carden greenbriar #jude duarte #caraval #legend #dante santos #percy jackson #six of crows #king of scars #vicious #victor vale #sorcery of thorns #nathaniel thorn #an enchantment of ravens #mcu #marvel cinematic universe #dune #a darker shade of magic #the maze tunner #the poppy war #fantasy #naqia's fandoms #who naqia writes for

[evasjacks]

Zoyalai 2 on random if you’re still doing prompts

Anon, I have so much respect for you right now

Prompt: “Sharing is caring, now give me the hoodie!”

Ship: Zoyalai

Zoya crossed her arms over her chest, just as much to glare meaningfully at Nikolai as to protect the warm green hoodie from being stolen.

“Sharing is caring, Lantsov,” she said. They had been arguing for a full ten minutes- ever since Zoya had woken up from their supposed study date lying on the couch of Nikolai Lantsov’s ridiculously large bedroom. She had discovered it wrapped around her once her mind had made sense of the fact that something- someone, really- was missing. That Nikolai had gotten up at some point from where they’d both fallen asleep, with her head against his chest, the steady rhythm of his heart tugging her into oblivion.

For her sanity, Zoya tried not to remember how good it had felt to let her guard down, how comfortable it had been. How nice.

It didn’t matter, she told herself. She and Nikolai were classmates. Group-mates at worst, with an Economics project sure to be the death of them both.

“Really, Nazyalensky, you’re using that?” Nikolai drawled, his voice still tinged with a thickness that came from sleep. It made him sound... different, and Zoya ignored the way her heart jolted at the sound, raising her chin instead.

“Golden rules. What, did you fail kindergarten?” she responded with a raised brow. She wasn’t noticing things, despite the way her eyes moved and the connections her mind was forming. She did not, for example, notice that Nikolai’s hair, when mussed, looked darker, almost brown save the streaks of gold that caught in the light.

She also didn’t notice the way his hazel eyes were specked with green like shards of glass. This, she would not have seen at all had Nikolai not taken a few steps closer to her, the look on his face somewhere between surprise and... something else. Restraint? Maybe she was reading him wrong.

“Alright,” he said slowly, the corner of his mouth twitching upwards when she stiffened. His breath was minty, and she had to wonder if he’d gone to brush his teeth at some point. She wanted to laugh at him for it, but something about his proximity, the way he was looking at her, stopped Zoya. 

“Sharing is caring, now give me the hoodie.” Nikolai said at last, voice low. Without the hoodie he’d been wearing, Nikolai was left in a thin white t-shirt that did little to conceal the lines of muscle that traced his body. 

Not that Zoya noticed any of this, really.

“It doesn’t even suit you,” she informed him. A lie.

“No?” he raised a brow, gesturing vaguely at himself, “I’ve yet to find a piece of clothing that doesn’t suit me. I’m told I have just the right complexion.”

“People lie.” Zoya responded. She didn’t notice that he was somehow even closer. She didn’t notice the way her heart sped up, either.

“Are you lying to me now?” Nikolai said, his eyes flicking over her face. They lingered on her lips, and Zoya might have noticed that had her phone not began buzzing suddenly in her back pocket, making her jump and turn away.

Zoya glanced at the name. Lillyana. The time? Shit. She was late.

“Oh, crap,” she murmured, silencing the incessant vibrations and closing the phone. She turned to face Nikolai, but he was no longer standing in front of her. Instead, he’d moved nearly a foot away, leaning against one of the high, golden bedposts, arms crossed, his expression troubled.

“I need to go,” she said, unsure why that bothered her at all. “I’ll write up the rest of the research today, and you could finish the model?” 

Nikolai looked up, nodded. Zoya hesitated for a moment, feeling like she was leaving something unfinished, though she could not pinpoint exactly what. She shook off the feeling and headed straight for the door, phone in hand. Just before she turned the knob, she realized the hoodie issue had been left unresolved.

She looked back at Nikolai, still leaning against the bed, then said, “No more ‘sharing is caring,’ Lantsov?” 

“Keep it.” he said, an easy smile coming over his face, though it seemed to Zoya slightly strained. “It looks better on you, anyway.”

Her phone lit up in her hand, vibrating once more as Lillyana called again, and that alone was the reason Zoya didn’t answer.

As she made her way out of the Lantsovs’ mansion, down the grand staircase, and through the gates to Lillyana’s beat-up minivan, Zoya wondered if maybe she had been wrong. Maybe her and Lantsov weren’t classmates or group-mates.

Maybe they were friends.

#aHHHHHH #i love them so much #can you tell? #Zoyalai #Zoya Nazyelensky #Nikolai Lantsov #Lillyana Garen #Grishaverse #King of Scars #The Grisha Trilogy #tgt #kos #writing #ada writes #fics #one shot #m:fics #m:w.zoyalai

[six-of-cringe]

Minor RoW spoilers but the fact that Zoya doesn't even remember Wylan's last name when they're in Ketterdam has insanely hilarious implications because girl you were there?? Were you not fully aware of the fact that Jan Van Eck was at the center of the whole international Kuwei debacle that you were in Ketterdam to address?? Were you not literally sitting in the room during the whole "Jan Van Eck kidnapped his own son who then appeared at the auction to condemn him" thing??? What were you doing girl? This paints an exquisite picture of Zoya sitting in a pew filing her nails while the most batshit scandalous plague-ridden political drama in Kerch history unfolds, thinking about what she's gonna have for dinner later.

#the amount of unbotheredness contained within zoya nazyelensky is astronomical #honestly? wylan would be thrilled she didn't remember his last name #to zoya he's just some guy whose face got rearranged by genya #zoya nazyalensky #wylan van eck #six of crows #soc #shadow and bone #six of crows memes #soc shitpost #rule of wolves #RoW spoilers #grishaverse shitpost

[kazandthecrows]

All I’m Asking For Is A Day of Peace and Quiet

a/n: Hello everyone! I’ve been working on this for a while for @grishaversebigbang ! I hope you all enjoy reading it as much as I loved writing it :) I’ve had the pleasure of working with some insanely talented artists on this project and I hope that you love the final product! 

Beware spoilers for all the Grishaverse books! The first chapter is up and I’ll keep updating it over the next couple of days! 

Corporalki (my badass beta reader): @purns-art

Materialki (the coolest artists I know): @aureatepaper (art link)   @alittleartistic (art link)  @crownofnight (art link)    @nataliert (art link)

Summary: 

Nikolai just wants to find the perfect way to actually propose to Zoya, but literally everything gets in his way. When the long lost ring he’d been planning to propose with shows up in Ketterdam, he finds himself going on an adventure with Kaz and his crows.

Here’s the link to read it on Ao3: 

https://archiveofourown.org/works/33702874/chapters/83764771

Or read chapter one below: 

Chapter One 

“I don’t need to go on a vacation, Nikolai.” A stressed Zoya Nazyelensky exclaimed. Nikolai didn’t believe one word of that sentence. They were currently walking through the halls of the Grand Palace because the only way Nikolai could get a word in with her is if he met her in between going to one of her several meetings with diplomats, rulers of other nations, or anyone who needed to request time with the new Queen of Ravka.

Zoya wasn’t one to outwardly show her stress, but Nikolai knew that something was up. She looked immaculate. Her hair was perfectly done, she was dressed the part of a young Queen, her dark blue dress made her look as if she was wearing the night sky itself, and she carried herself with confidence and never let anyone see her falter. But Nikolai could often see what others couldn’t. The forced smiles, the way her shoulders fell a little whenever they were behind closed doors. The responsibility was weighing on her in the same ways that it weighed on him, and on this occasion, he was grateful for his experience as a royal so that he could help her through it as best he could.

“Yes, you really do.” He pushed. He had caught her in a rare moment of peace. She had just left a meeting with a number of Zemeni diplomats, and she was on her way to another meeting with some ambassadors from the Wandering Isle. He matched her pace easily, walking alongside her in hopes it would make her slow down a little.

“I can count the number of times I’ve spent time with you in the last two weeks on one hand, and 90 percent of those times you fell asleep.” Zoya stopped in her tracks, catching Nikolai off guard.

“That’s not true.” She said, crossing her arms in front of her.

“Think about it, Zoya.” He pressed. “You’re tired, stressed, and I can see the early stages of burnout starting to take over.”

“I’m fine, besides, I don’t have the time to take a break.”

“If you can’t take a few days off, how about an afternoon?” He asked. Zoya stayed silent, but if Nikolai could just have a few hours of her time, that would be enough. She sighed, nodding in acceptance.

“I’ll see what I can do about clearing tomorrow afternoon.” Nikolai could have exploded with joy. Progress, he thought.

“Perfect, meet me in the gardens tomorrow, then.” He moved towards her gently and pressed a feather-light kiss to her cheeks. When he pulled away, he swore he could see his former general blush.

“I’m looking forward to it.” She said quietly. Nikolai smiled fondly at her as they went their separate ways.

“Good luck with your meeting, my love, I hear the Kaelish ambassadors can be quite charismatic!”

----------

The garden of the Grand Palace had quickly become one of Nikolai’s favorite places. It was large enough that you could hide from anyone you were avoiding and quiet enough that it felt as if you weren’t in the palace anymore. It was an area of sanctuary, and Nikolai knew that Zoya would find it easier to relax here.

He’d set everything up perfectly. He had laid pillows and a picnic blanket down with snacks and tea in an alcove almost completely hidden by azalea bushes. He and Zoya had already come out here before, and he knew that it was unlikely they would be bothered here.

The sound of footsteps alerted him to her presence. His face lit up at the sight of her. Zoya’s hair was down from all the pins and ribbons she was wearing previously, and she had replaced her dress with a much more comfortable-looking white shirt and a pair of light brown trousers. Her small smile grew into a grin as she spotted him lying casually on the blanket.

“Goodness Nikolai, did you do this all yourself?”

“I had some help.” He said sheepishly.

“Well, I’m impressed.” He laughed as she lowered herself down onto the blanket. It had been an extremely busy few months, and he honestly couldn’t remember a time where they’d ever done this. All their time spent alone together felt so fleeting.

“Please tell me that nobody knows we’re here.”

“Just Genya, but only so she can keep everybody out.” Zoya said cheekily.

“Perfect.” Nikolai chuckled, moving closer to plant a gentle kiss on her lips. Zoya’s eyes drifted shut, savoring the moment.

“I really do think that we should take a few days off and go somewhere.” Nikolai said earnestly. They both deserved a few days with each other, that’s all he was asking for.

“Nikolai, I already told you, I don’t know if I have time.”

“You know, I find that one of the best things about ruling a country is being able to do as you please.” He poked fun at her, but he knew her reasoning.

“Where would we go?” She asked seriously. Nikolai was pleasantly surprised, this was the first time she’d actually expressed interest in going anywhere.

“There’s a cottage about halfway between Keramzin and Balakriev, it’s technically ours so we could go there whenever you wanted. It’s in the middle of nowhere, no one would bother us, and we could even pay a quick visit to Alina and Mal if you’d like.”

Curiosity filled Zoya’s features. It had been a while since they’d seen their friends. It would feel like a break if they went to visit them.

“We’d have plenty of time to ourselves, and then we can also see some friends. It’s a perfect mix of hiding from our responsibilities and socialising.”

“That would be really nice.” She said, but Nikolai could sense she wanted to say more.

“But?”

“But, it just doesn’t feel right to leave.”

“Sleep on it, Zoya.” He urged, “it won’t be for long, and you have a support system here who can help keep things running while we’re gone.”

She was silent for a moment, and Nikolai was hopeful that he had gotten through to her.

“Alright, let’s do it.” She said stubbornly. Nikolai felt like jumping for pure joy. Finally, he thought, he’d finally managed to do what others had thought impossible. He’d managed to convince Zoya Nazyalensky to go on holiday.

----------

Nikolai paced across his room, picking up different items and placing them into the assigned bags as Genya helped him organise. The two had almost everything ready. They crossed each other several times in comfortable silence, until Nikolai stopped and looked up.

“Genya.”

Genya continued to gather items, but turned her attention towards him slightly, to let him know that she was listening.

“Yes?”

“You wouldn’t happen to know of a sapphire ring that my mother used to own?”

She stopped what she was doing and looked at him, questions filling her eyes. That didn’t exactly give him much hope, considering he was the one with questions to ask her.

“She had a lot of jewelry, Nikolai.” Genya said pointedly. Her time spent working for the Queen had meant she knew the ins and outs of everything she did, and everything she wore.

“Yes, but it was a very sizable sapphire ring.”

“What would you need with a sapphire ring?” She asked. Nikolai looked at her for a few moments, saying nothing. It was enough for her to realise why he was being so insistent.

“Oh!” She exclaimed, dropping the folded shirt that she was holding.

“Yes, oh.” Nikolai said, falling dramatically into the chair at his desk, one arm draped across his forehead.

Genya grinned. “I bet you regret giving Alina the Lantsov emerald now.” Nikolai scowled at her, only encouraging her laughter.

“Alina deserved the emerald, and she had a better use for it than I ever did.” He sighed.

“I didn’t realise that things had been moving so quickly between you two.”

“The last few months have certainly helped us grow closer.” After Zoya had become Queen, Nikolai had done everything he could to make sure that she wasn’t struggling, and they had spent even more time than normal together. Truthfully, Nikolai missed it, but everything that had happened, from the Darkling’s return to Nikolai being able to control his demon and his General turning into a literal dragon. He knew he wanted her to be his Queen, but now that things had settled down he had never been more sure of anything; he wanted to propose to her.

“I’m so happy for you Nikolai, you both deserve the world.”

“She’s my world, and she’s far too good for me.” He spoke softly.

“You and I both you’re perfect for each other, and also, there were many Lantsov heirlooms, there are some that were bound to have gone missing.” Genya said.

Nikolai vaguely remembered talk of a sapphire ring he was hoping to find, but he’d only ever seen it once in a box on his mothers' vanity. Thinking back on it, it reminded him exactly of Zoya. The ring was a beautiful, vibrant dark blue, and it would suit her perfectly. The only problem was that he hadn’t seen it since he was a child, and anything could have happened to it.

“Whichever ring you’re talking about, I don’t think I’d seen it on her.” Genya said, giving him a sympathetic smile.

Nikolai racked his brain, trying to come up with places where it could have been. He began pacing again.

“It would have been the perfect item for someone to steal and sell on the black market, wouldn’t it?” He said.

“Sure, but it could be anywhere.”

Nikolai smiled, his plans slowly coming together.

“If there’s anyone that could locate a lost ring, it’s Kaz Brekker.” Genya sighed, her head falling into her hands.

“Zoya is going to be so happy once she finds out that you needed Kaz Brekker’s help to get her engagement ring.”

“I’ll send word to the Wraith, perhaps Captain Ghafa will be of help.”

Perhaps if Nikolai and Zoya were away long enough, he hoped she would fail to notice that he’d been looking for her engagement ring across Ravka and Ketterdam.

“I’m glad that you’re going on this trip, but have fun convincing Zoya to take a break.”

“Don’t worry, she’s going to love it.”

----------

“This is a terrible idea.” Zoya stated, watching Nikolai step into the small cottage. He looked back at her only to see an unimpressed scowl on her face.

“I happen to think that a little break away from all the duties and responsibilities of a Queen might be exactly what you need.” He said, grinning. Zoya wanted to smack that grin off of his face.

“I shouldn’t have said yes to this, you caught me in a moment of weakness.” She had been half asleep when he’d brought up the idea, and she’d only agreed to it because at the time nothing had sounded more appealing than some peace and quiet. But she was the Queen of Ravka, and there was too much to do.

“Zoya, please relax.” He smiled, resting his hands on her shoulders softly. “Genya has everything sorted and it’s only for a few days. She wouldn’t let anything bad happen while we’re gone.” He hoped that would be enough to assure her that everything would be alright and that after all they’d been through she deserved a few days of rest, but Zoya Nazyelensky and rest were two things that did not seem to go together.

Nikolai had brought them to a small cottage just outside of Os Alta. The last few months had taken a toll on them both. Zoya had been adjusting well to life as Queen of Ravka, but a break from them was long overdue. It was a beautiful day, the sun was shining, Zoya was scowling, and all was right in the world.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if we return and Genya is the new Queen of Ravka.” Zoya exclaimed, making Nikolai chuckle, his face suddenly turning serious.

“Yes, we should be afraid.” He said, and moved to put the bags they had brought into the living area. Nikolai thought it would be a good distraction for Genya to take over for a few days, they all needed some time to distract themselves. Zoya had barely had time to herself since becoming Queen, and more importantly, Nikolai had barely any time alone with Zoya. They never had enough time to relax with one another, so their trip was long overdue.

“Funnily enough, Genya actually helped me plan this.” He said, “So, the bedroom is to the left, the kitchen is through there, and the room you’re currently standing in is in the living room, although I can imagine you already came to that conclusion.” Zoya stared at him pointedly, still unconvinced.

“How can you be so relaxed about this?” She said as Nikolai sauntered towards her, and smiled softly. His fingers brushed her cheek softly as he glanced at her.

“Zoya,” he said in a hushed tone, “ you deserve to rest.” He cupped her cheek as she leaned into his touch.

“I’m well aware that resting is against every fiber of your being, but please try, for me?” The look Nikolai gave her made her want to melt into his arms and never leave them, so she nodded silently and sighed.

Although Zoya would never admit it, she was grateful to Nikolai for getting her away from the palace and taking a break for a little while. It had only been a day since they’d arrived, and they’d done nothing but eat, sleep, and lay in each other's arms and talk about the smallest things, from stories of both their childhoods, to Zoya’s upbringing in the little palace.

Zoya felt as though she could stay like this forever, covered in blankets, Nikolai’s arms wrapped around her. They had spent the whole morning like this, drifting in and out of sleep. Zoya glanced up at Nikolai to see his eyes were barely open, but he was looking at her. She smiled at him gently.

“You know, we might actually have to get out of bed eventually.” She said, bringing herself closer to him. Nikolai’s arms tightened around her, his thumb brushing her shoulder softly.

“Who says?” He mumbled, a content sigh leaving his lips.

“I say.” Zoya laughed. “The weather is beautiful outside, we should go and enjoy it while we can.”

Nikolai’s eyes widened at her request. “Well, it’s nice to see that your mood has improved since we arrived.”

“I have to admit, this is much better than having to rule a country.” Zoya said, leaning forward to press a soft kiss to Nikolai’s cheek. “But we should do something, or see something.” She insisted. Nikolai’s frowned, deep in thought. A thought came to Zoya’s mind, one that had even surprised her.

“We aren’t that far from Keramzin. How about we pay some old friends a visit?”

“You want to see Alina and Mal?” He said.

“At least this time it’ll finally be under better and brighter circumstances.”

The last time Zoya had been to visit Alina and Mal, she had brought the Darkling into their lives once again. Their appearance at her coronation was a welcome one, and while Alina and Zoya had their differences, the Darkling and the destruction of the Fold had changed them both.

“Alright, let’s go and see Alina and Mal.” Nikolai sighed, but only held onto Zoya tighter.

“Nikolai!”

“Just give me five more minutes.”

----------

The journey to Alina and Mal’s orphanage was short, and the fresh air and sunlight was welcome to Zoya, who was beginning to realise just how much she needed some time to do absolutely nothing but ride her horse and spend time with Nikolai. As they approached the orphanage, Zoya could make out a figure stepping out into the entrance. The figure stopped and waved a very Alina wave and shouted something inside. Momentarily, another figure trudged out the door. Mal.

Zoya could barely get off her horse before being enveloped into a tight hug. Alina was always more of a hugger than she was, but nevertheless, she found herself returning the embrace with the same fondness.

“Zoya, it’s so good to see you!” Alina said, her smile as bright as the sunlight she used to summon.

“It’s good to see you too, Alina.” Zoya returned the smile with her own, albeit a more reserved one. They turned to see Mal greeting Nikolai with a friendly grin and a handshake. Alina beamed at them and moved to take Zoya’s hands.

“I’m so glad that you decided to come and visit, it’s not often we get royalty for company.” Alina said, eliciting a laugh from Nikolai and Mal.

“I’m glad you still want me around, considering what happened the last time I visited.” Zoya said timidly, her mind wandering back to the Darkling.

“Firstly, it wasn’t your fault, and secondly, you’re always welcome here.” Alina said, her hands still grasping Zoya’s.

“Now, come inside, I even made tea for this.”

----------

Zoya and Nikolai had spent the entire afternoon catching up with Mal and Alina. It felt surreal, considering all that they had been through together over the past few years. They talked as if they were old friends who hadn’t destroyed the Fold, turned into a demon, lost all of their powers, or gained brand new ones.

Towards the end of the afternoon, when all the chatter had winded down and they’d caught up on each other's lives. Alina pulled Nikolai aside, asking for a few moments alone with him. Nikolai followed her out of the room and into the courtyard they entered a few hours prior. Once they were far enough away, Alina turned to him with an excited glint in her eyes.

“When are you going to do it?” She asked.

“Do what?”

“Propose! It’s about time, Nikolai.”

“Well, ideally I’d like to have a ring to propose with, and so far that’s not looking good.” Alina gave him a sympathetic look.

“You could propose holding a twig and she’d still say yes. It’s your fault you picked a long-lost ring.”

Nikolai and Alina and corresponded through letters in recent months, keeping each other updated on the happenings of Keramzin and the Grand Palace. He’d told her about the ring in case she’d be able to find any information, but they hadn’t had any luck.

“I’m well aware. Genya said she’d send word as soon as she hears something, and I still haven’t heard from my contacts, so if there’s nothing by the end of the month I’ll have to improvise.”

“You must really love her if you’re going to all these lengths to propose to her.”

“She deserves something fit for the Queen of Ravka.”

“Either way, she’ll be happy to marry you.”

----------

The next morning, the couple did not expect to find Tolya standing at the door, with a cloaked figure next to him. The figure lifted their hood, and the face of the Wraith became clear.

A very confused Zoya turned to Nikolai, wondering what the hell was going on.

“Captain Ghafa, to what do we owe the pleasure?” Nikolai asked. It had taken a considerable amount of effort to get in touch with her. As it turned out, the Wraith truly lived up to her name. She seemed to appear in the most random places. Nikolai had to request the help of allies in the Wandering Isle, Fjerda, and Novyi Zem to find her. Once he could contact her, he explained the situation and asked her to get into contact with anyone who might have had information on the whereabouts of the ring.

“I received your letters.”

“I must admit, I’m very surprised you’re here, you’re notoriously difficult to get a hold of.”

“I have a lead on the item you asked me to look for.”

Excitement coursed through Nikolai. Has she found it? Was this all coming together?

“And?” He asked eagerly, ignoring Zoya’s perplexed gaze.

“It’s in Ketterdam.”

#gvbbfic21 #grishaverse big bang #shadow and bone #six of crows #rule of wolves #king of scars #zoyalai

[grishaversebigbang]

#49 - All I’m Asking For is a Day of Peace and Quiet

#49 - Nikolai’s Crows

Project Info

Gang name: Nikolai’s Crows

Working title/description: All I’m Asking For is a Day of Peace and Quiet

Synopsis: Nikolai just wants to find the perfect way to actually propose to Zoya, but literally everything gets in his way. When the long lost ring he’d been planning to propose with shows up in Ketterdam, he finds himself going on an adventure with Kaz and his crows.

Short excerpt: “This is a terrible idea.” Zoya stated, watching Nikolai step into the small cottage. He looked back at her only to see an unimpressed scowl on her face. 

“I happen to think that a little break away from all the duties and responsibilities of a Queen might be exactly what you need.” He said, grinning. Zoya wanted to smack that grin off of his face. 

“I shouldn’t have agreed to this, you caught me in a moment of weakness.” She had been half asleep when he’d brought up the idea, and she’d only agreed to it because at the time nothing had sounded more appealing than some peace and quiet. But she was the Queen of Ravka, and there was too much to do. 

“Zoya, please relax.” He smiled, resting his hands on her shoulders softly. “Genya has everything sorted and it’s only for a few days. She wouldn’t let anything bad happen while we’re gone.” He hoped that would be enough to assure her that everything would be alright and that after all they’d been through she deserved a few days of rest, but Zoya Nazyelensky and rest were two things that did not seem to go together.

Gang Members

Etherealki

@kazandthecrows​​

Coroporalki

@purns-art​

Materialki

@alittleartistic 

@crownofnight​

@aureatepaper 

@nataliert​

#gvbbgangintro #gvbb21 #all i'm asking for is a day of peace and quiet

[she-posts-nerdy-stuff]

Did someone say Zoyalai coded songs by indie artists who deserve more attention? Probably not but I’m going to give you some anyway

Kanej version - Helnik version - Wesper version

Blossoms by The Amazing Devil Zoya of the garden vibes but also works very well for both of them- “I climb up the ladder, had I taken more care I might’ve seen all the rot in the rungs” “And I stare at the soldiers before me, all my blossoms that have waited to fall, and I walk and I walk and I walk and I walk knowing every last one of them is painted in light as I make myself acquainted with the Saint of Never Getting It Right”

Drinking Song by House Phone actually planning a crows edit to this one but it still fits - “I might have grown to be a king, more mighty than the kings you’ve known, who led us through a peaceful time and never simply occupied the throne but out of castle light I’d still be such a sight for sorest eyes, I’d be a pauper in disguise. I might have led the cavalry into glory in the battle field, and they would cast a monument in silver of my weathered shield but now, with all my medals pawned, no proof except my silver tongue to tell of all the valour I have won”

King by Florence + the Machine - “I am no mother, I am no bride, I am King. I need my golden crown of sorrow, my bloody sword to swing, I need my empty halls to echo with grand self-mythology. I am no mother, I am no bride, I am King”

Not Yet/Love Run (reprise) by The Amazing Devil - “It seems, oh it seems, to me, that you can’t sleep” “Sing me awake with a song about pirates and I will try to harmonise, and sip the sunlight from your eyes, oh sing me awake with all the things we’ll do today but instead we’ll build a den out of pillows and get drunk again” “It seems, oh it seems, to me, that you… you can’t dance for shit” “Where is god, ma? Where’s the vodka? If my old mum could see me now, oh how she’d howl” “Love run (love run) Love run (love run) For all the things you wished you’d done, run for all you know that’s coming, run to show that love’s worth running to”

Howl by Florence + the Machine - “If you could only see the beast you’ve made of me, I held it in my heart it seems you’ve set it running free” “The Saints can’t help me now, the ropes have been unbound, I hunt for you with bloodied feet across the hallowed ground” “A man who is pure of heart and says his prayers by night may still become a wolf when the autumn moon is bright” “Be careful of the curse that falls on young lovers, starts so soft and sweet and turns them to hunters”

King by The Amazing Devil - “I’ll keep the king, when you are gone away. Into darkness and howling I’ll keep him from drowning when our boat is untethered from the dock” “And the waves made of fingers and the darkness that lingers rips into the bark of our bones” “the sea and its waters, every unwanted daughter” “but our voices collide with each howl of the tide singing all hell and its fire waits for us”

As usual I might come back and add more if I think of them, and please always feel free to add more

#zoyalai #nikolai lantsov #zoya nazyalensky #zoya nazyelensky #nikolai x zoya #grishaverse #leigh bardugo #king of scars #rule of wolves #shadow and bone #seige and storm #ruin and rising #zoya of the garden #dragon queen #Ravka #save shadow and bone

[evasjacks]

I wrote another thing! This is my Nikolai Takes A Last Trip On The Volkvolny + Inej Cameo Fic also known as The Last Sail!

This project is part of the Grishaverse Mini-Bang with @grishaversebigbang

AND THERE'S ART! @phy-be and driiz (insta) have each drawn a fantastic piece for this and you should definitely go check them out!

This was such a fun project to work on, and I'm so happy I got to be a part of it! Thanks to the two wonderful people who made my idea come to life

#Grishaverse Mini Bang #2020 #Grishaverse #The Grisha Trilogy #Six of Crows #King of Scars #Nikolai Lantsov #Zoya Nazyelensky #Leigh Bardugo #fanfiction #fic #ao3 #one shot #ada writes #userada #m:fics

[evasjacks]

Zoya: Every lover I've taken has asked about those scars. I make up a new story for each of them.

*meanwhile in Keramzin*

Alina: So, Zoya's afraid of cats??

Mal: Terrified.

#This is all I could think of for some reason #Grishaverse #Shadow and Bone #Siege and Storm #Ruin and rising #the Grisha trilogy #Leigh Bardugo #Malyen Orestsev #Mal #Alina Starkov #Alina #Zoya Nazyelenski #Zoya #King of Scars #kos

[evasjacks]

Beat The Odds Chapter 2 wattpad

“Stop bullying those poor Elves!” said a voice, and a second later, a hand snaked out, reaching for a waffle.

Nina moved the plate away and aimed her wand at the boy who had appeared amid the crowd. “If you try to touch my waffles again, Fahey, I’ll twist that tongue of yours into so many knots you’ll never get a date again” her tone was syrupy-sweet.

The Headmaster sat back down, having just bid all the students goodnight. The plates disappeared from the tables, likely off to the Kitchen where the Elves would take care of them. 

“Not my waffle!” Inej turned in her seat to see Nina, a girl in her year who had two ambitions; her studies and her food. To Inej’s surprise, the taller girl retrieved her wand and muttered a spell she’d never heard of under her breath.

Pop, pop, pop. Three waffles landed in her plate.

Nina smiled gleefully, her green eyes shining. Her dark brown waves seemed to reflect the light from the candles. Though she was only a few inches taller than Inej, Nina's robes were three sizes larger, to contain all the curves, sweety as Nina once put it.

“Stop bullying those poor Elves!” said a voice, and a second later, a hand snaked out, reaching for a waffle. 

Nina moved the plate away and aimed her wand at the boy who had appeared amid the crowd. “If you try to touch my waffles again, Fahey, I’ll twist that tongue of yours into so many knots you’ll never get a date again” her tone was syrupy-sweet.

Nina smiled, even as Jesper took a step back, looking very much afraid of Nina’s threat. He knew better than anyone that she was willing to make good on it. While he towered over them both, a result of his long legs, any wise man would cower before Nina. 

Nina took a bite, crumbs falling onto her robes, and said “Besides, it’s not bullying. I’m not forcing them to do anything. That spell only sends them a little message, albeit a persuasive one.”

Inej didn’t think the elves were persuaded by her words, more likely they’d heard of what happened to that one poor sap that took away Nina’s food mid-bite back in Year Two, but she said nothing. Instead, she slipped away from her table, from the Gryffindors, and began walking towards the far end of the Great Hall. She weaved her way through the mixture of students, many only just reunited after a long break. It usually took about fifteen minutes for everyone to get organized and head back to their Common Rooms.

Zoya Nazyelenski, the Gryffindor Head Girl, was too busy putting the fear of God in the hearts of the poor First Years to notice her. The Slytherin’s Captain was too busy watching her to pay Inej any attention as she approached their table.

Kaz was sitting at the end of the table, and though he was watching the students, she knew he felt her presence. He was, perhaps, the only one that ever could.

“It’s true. Just like you said. Apparently Vasily’s coming to visit and its meant to be held in his honor.” Inej watched his fingers drumming along the head of his Cobra-shaped cane. He’d known, of course, that a ball would be held in exactly two weeks.

Kaz nodded, his dark eyes still trained on something far away. She suspected it wasn’t the dancing he hoped to accomplish at this ball.

“Interesting thing about our Headmaster,” he said, his voice low and raspy. “He used to be a professor here, nearly thirty years ago. He was sixty at the time. Tell me, Wraith, how old does he seem now?”

Inej ignored the nickname, something he’d begun calling her when rumors about her being a ghost reincarnated began to spread. Inej was light on her feet, sure, but she couldn’t go through walls… at least, not all of them. When she looked up at the Headmaster, resting on his chair, she tried to analyze his age. He was old, for sure, his skin was drawn and his hair graying. He may have looked younger with a beard, if only to hide the layers of fat that made up his neck.

“Sixty? Maybe a little older?” she replied, her thoughts wandering to his unhealthy habits. Shouldn't he be dead by now?

Kaz didn't confirm her guesses, instead turning to face her completely. His dark, coffee-brown eyes stared into her.

"Will you go with me, then?" He asked. It was so casual, as though this were an assignment, something he wanted to check off his list.

"And what do you hope to achieve at this ball?" She asked, evading the question.

"Just trying to enjoy my life as an able-" he tapped his cane against the tiles once "-young man."

She raised a brow at that, but didn't comment.

"Who else?" She said, not bothering to elaborate. This was a job. A mission. Kaz was often asked to do these, from people he'd met at Hogsmeade's bar usually, but sometimes from within the school itself. Haskell, the bar's owner, had agreed to set up correspondence with him in exchange for a cut of the money.

It wasn't the first time Kaz had recruited her for one, and it wouldn't be the last. She just needed to know who else was on.

"I need Jes and Nina for this one, and I've already talked to Muzzen and Specht about it. But that's not everyone." 

Inej nodded, unsurprised. That was the usual for these kind of jobs.

"Anyone I know?"

"A fourth year from Ravenclaw-" he began when a loud bang interrupted him. Inej whipped around to see what was happening.

The doors to the Great Hall were thrown open, and at their center, flanked by two high-ranking Wizards, stood a boy. He can't have been much older than Inej, maybe in his Sixth or Seventh year. He had a large build, and his head was completely shaved. His eyes were icy blue and he was wearing a Wizarding school uniform.

Durmstrang.

Inej raised her brows at that. They almost never got transfer students.

But Kaz didn't look surprised at all, in fact, it seemed the boy arrived a little behind schedule. She watched as Brekker gave him an appraising look. There was the edge of what might've been a smile on his face when he said:

"And him."

#Beat The Odds #Six of Crows #sc #Crooked Kingdom #ck #Leigh Bardugo #Grishaverse #Shadow and Bone #Kaz Brekker #Inej Ghafa #Jesper Fahey #nina zenik #Mathias Helvar #Hogwarts #Hogwarts au #Harry Potter #beat the odds fic #ada writes #m:fics