#zsakuva zaros

[faeskiss]

the way that zaros ACTUALLY said “is hand holding all you’ve been able to muster? If you ask nicely, I can offer to teach you more” WAS UNHINGED????? LIKE OMG DO U HEAR URSELF??? DO YOU WANT ME TO DIE?????? DO YOU WANT ME TO KMS??? WHO SAYS THAT TO AN ENEMY?????

#sakuverse #zsakuva #zsakuva zaros #zaros #HE THINKS HE IS SO SLICK #HE IS SO SICK AND TWISTED I HATE HIM

[chilliesillie]

Zaros Atha’lin ˚₊‧

˚₊‧꒰ა ☆ ໒꒱ ‧₊˚ I Don’t Miss You at All - FINNEAS

“all but forgotten about those eyes,

a shade of green that if he’d seen

would make F. Scott Fitzgerald cry”

here’s the speedpaint if anyone wants it

#zsakuva zaros #zsakuva #sakuverse #fanart #im declaring this my magnum opus #i cant see straight anymore #zaros #boyfriend audio #uhhh i think thats it. #zaros atha’lin

[xzhdjsj]

Zaros x Reader

You leave Serulla, only returning when danger threatens your kingdom

This fic is based on THIS brilliant theory by @astralbulldragon13. I simply couldn't get it out of my head and had to write about it I have to say I'm not very happy with the way this came out, but I spent too much time on it to not post it😭

Also, this is really long (almost 3.5k words) idk how it happened🤡 when I started writing it, I just couldn't stop. Plz let me know if i made any mistakes

✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧

"There, you win. Your son is now the Eminence, but know this, if you try to rule my kingdom vicariously through your Zaros, or control his new life in any way, there is no where you could go, no hole you can hide in, that I won’t find you."

-

The realisation dawned on you, way before the trials began. You weren’t interested in the throne; that wasn’t where your heart lies. That position was polished and refined for your brother, but guilt has its ways of twisting one's mind and kept you fighting for a life that was stolen from him, replacing a prodigy child that was stolen from your mother.

Zaros' insults and demeaning remarks only contributed to your mindset, though that didn’t make them any less hurtful. How could they not be? Especially when coming from someone you admired and cherished. They were fuel to the fire, a constant reminder of how unfit you are.

It was hard to imagine yourself as a good ruler anyways. Sure, you were knowledgeable, but what good is education with no real experience or empathy for the struggles of your people? Not to mention being cloaked by a porcelain mask 24/7, designed and altered to meet the needs of the people around you.

Zaros, on the other hand, was different. His pernicious attitude cracked the corners of your mask, forcing raw emotions to erupt to daylight. It was a distasteful experience considering your position, but deep down you never felt more alive than when you could be yourself with him, throwing insults right back into his face. It forced the masked persona to face the real you and come to terms with what you wanted, before it was too late.

You wanted a life that was yours to live, a life where you could be yourself. Not one you are forced to live, or a person you are required to be. There were things you had to let go of and things you needed to learn.

By himself, Zaros would be a skillful leader capable of building a successful future for Serulla. He had the experience that you lacked, that alone could potentially secure Serulla a brighter future than you could ever offer. The only threat was his mother, Nira Atha’lin. She was obnoxious, quick to point out every miniscule flaw and mistake in your ways, if Zaros was unbearable, she was enough to push you to insanity. Her personality was sour and ugly, like biting into a mouldy rotting fruit. Her intentions are unclear, but it isn’t hard to see her abusing the authority of her son and the crown.

Though that didn’t matter, you trust Zaros, he would never put the wellbeing of Serulla at risk. He’s headstrong and stubborn. It’s no wonder you admire him, in some way or another he’s just like you.

He has become a decent acquaintance in your life. Looking back, he could have easily double-crossed you in the trials and spited his way to the top, but he didn’t. Every last minute of it was fair and just. Maybe that’s why you felt so strongly for him now.

-

Outside the hall, minutes away from a final decision, both Zaros and you stood. If you had something to do, now was the time to do it.

He reaches for the heavy gold handles of the door, but he doesn’t get to push it open.

"Zaros", you take his hand.

He ignores the door, turning to face you.

"If you are indeed the victor, which.... I have no doubt you are; I need you to promise me something."

His eyebrows perk upwards, and he steps closer, taking your hand fully in his.

"We don't know that yet. You gave me quite a challenge during the trials you know. Don't tell me you're giving up now?", signature smirk plastered to his face, though you no longer feel the need to punch it off.

“Please listen to me.”, you sigh, "I need you to promise me you'll never let Serulla suffer. I know I'm not capable of helping all the people who deserve our help, but you are. I’m certain of it, so promise me."

The seriousness in your eyes was enough to stifle his usual sarcasm.

"I... I promise." He barely mutters, no longer smiling. It’s an unusual sight, the kind that makes you feel nauseous. He's even more alarmed when you offer a pinkie to him, like you used to do years ago when you were just kids roaming the corridors and sneaking into the kitchen.

"Pinkie promise?" You smile.

He caught his own pinkie onto yours. "I promise, I'll do my best."

He knew what you were about to do. But he also knows how stubborn you are and there was no way he could stop you, no matter how desperately he wanted to.

After facing Nira that day, you smiled at him and whispered a gentle "Take care of yourself and my home for me". You swore that from that moment onwards, you’d never mask yourself again.

Those were your last words to him before you'd vanished, leaving behind only a letter. In which, you asked that he looked after your mother and detailed an apology as well as a segment of feelings you'd harboured for him. It was an intended goodbye before he forgets about you, lest you have a reason to return. You hoped you wouldn't.

-

Throughout your travels you faced many hardships, the expected reality of being a lone traveler. But you grew from those experiences. You learnt from the people around you and made friends.

You sharpened your survival skills as you traversed the lands, a melody of experiences of new cultures and flavours, from continents you'd only dreamt of, melted on your tongue. Those fleeting dreams were nothing compared to the reality you held in your own two hands. You learnt to appreciate life and how to trust.

The last place you ventured was the Northern Nation, though their reputation is scandalous, their culture is rich. What you weren’t expecting was to meet see a familiar face, a palace staff, an informant no less. Only now he worked for Nira, delivering letters to the most dangerous kingdom of all the nations and had informed you that you were banned from the home you grew up in.

After 8 years, it was time to turn back. It was time to head home.

-

There was a masquerade ball being held in Serulla at dawn, the perfect opportunity to tiptoe into the palace unnoticed. What was the plan? You weren’t entirely sure but one way or another you had to speak to Zaros. If you marched in like you own the place, you would be promptly kicked out a few feet upon entering the gate. It’s a good thing you knew your way around every crack and crevice like the back of your hand. It shouldn’t be too hard blending in once you’re inside. But first you needed clothes and a mask, nothing extravagant, just enough to blur into the masses.

Learning to walk silently made slipping in as easy as dreaming, before you could blink you were in the ballroom. Oh, did it feel nostalgic, you remember the times you were the main focus of these elaborate events. Now look at you, sneaking in and avoiding any attention whatsoever. You missed these walls, they look the exact same since you’ve left them, grand, luxurious and unchanged. You couldn’t help but take a minute to reminisce and admire.

“Can I ask for a dance later, mysterious stranger?” a young man snapped you out of your trance.

“I’m afraid not sir. I have prior arrangements for the evening”, you bow. “My sincerest apologies.”

What a nuisance, you thought, abruptly turning and leaving. You had to find Zaros. As King of Serulla he had to be here, his presence is of utmost importance and entirely compulsory for this kind of event. Perhaps he’d show up later in the evening, all you had to do was wait amongst the crowd. Maybe a drink would take the edge off while you do, maybe it would help you ignore the eyes you felt burning holes into your back.

Hours later the arrival of the king was finally announced, and there he was, fashionably late in all his blond glory. He’s just as captivating as you left him all those years ago, just as beautiful and refined. It was like staring at the sun, glowing so brightly it just might blind someone. Yes, you were staring, but so was everyone else. Who wouldn’t stare when graced with the presence of the King himself? His lips moved as he acknowledged his audience, but your mind was too preoccupied with gawking at him to hear a single word. You’re yanked back to reality when the crowd scatters at his dismissal, so you retreat to a space further away, where you could keep an eye on him as he conversed with guests. It would be unwise to approach him now, there’s too many eyes on him this early into the night. Once the crowd has had their fill of wine and was no longer capable of seeing any further than their nose, you’d seize the opportunity to steal him away.

Lay low, keep an eye on him. Two simple tasks to accomplish. But the fool you’d rejected earlier in the eventing, now a drunken fool, apparently doesn’t understand the meaning of two simple letters, no. You rejected him twice already but he keeps coming back.

“I’m not taking no for answer hic- you simple must dance with me”, before you could reject him again, he’s dragging you to the floor. If it weren’t for the fact that you didn’t want any attention tonight, his arm would’ve been broken on the spot.

You struggle in his grip as he swayed you, haphazardly and arrhythmic to the music, and FUCK you lost sight of Zaros. If only this imbecile would let go of you! And cease his gooselike movements!

“Unfortunately, good sir, they’re not available to dance with YOU this evening.”, you’re backed into a hard wall, a clothed wall? A familiar smelling wall. A speaking wall.

His sticky hands are gone from your body in an instant, he even backs away from you.

“You-your Majesty”, he stuttered.

“All of their dances are promised to me tonight. I’ll assume you weren’t aware and turn a blind eye just this once.”, the wall speaks again, replacing unpleasant hands with a gentle yet possessive grip. It's very obvious who this wall is.

“Now if you’ll excuse us, I’ll be stealing them away now”, he doesn’t wait for a response, pulling you further onto the dance floor. You’re still facing away from him as he guides your body to the tune that swirls the room.

“Welcome back Earis” he whispers and you can just hear the smirk he’s wearing.

“A bit of a lost cause on such title now, aren’t I?” you answer. “How did you know it was me?”, he moved your body effortlessly, like it was made specially to fit beneath his palms.

“How could I not? I could feel your eyes on me all night.” Following the music, he spins you around to finally face him. “Even if death took me, I’d still remember those eyes.”

You scoff, “How charming. But everyone’s eyes are on you tonight.”

“Hmm you think so? A shame, none are as captivating as yours.”

“I need to speak to you Zaros.”

“We’re speaking right now, are we not?”

Fuck, why does he always have to be so difficult?

“Not here. I need to speak to you in private.”

There was too much attention on him for you to speak freely, it’s a surprise guards haven’t escorted you out the room yet.

“Sounds alarming. And just when I thought you came back to see me.” he fakes a frown, and let’s go of your hand as he ends the dance. You curtsy, and he leans closer to whispers for you to follow him. He leaves first and you linger around the corners before disappearing yourself.

Eventually you’re back in the abandoned hallways of the palace, walking with Zaros.

“So why are you back?”

“I’ve made a recent discovery, and I was worried. I needed to talk to you about it.”

“Worried?”

“You’re aware of the notoriety of the Northern Nation, correct?”

“Who isn’t? Their name stains chapters of history text with the blood they’ve spilt.”

“Yes, that’s why it was a surprise when I found out your mother exchanges letters with their King and his court.”

He halts, “What? What are you talking about?”

You turn to him, removing the mask from your face. “While I stayed in the city of the Northern Nation, I recognised a familiar face. A Surullian informant. I’ve seen him work for my mother for years, naturally, I was confused by his presence there.”, you sigh. “I tried to get as much information as I could from him, but he knew nothing. He had simple instructions from your mother to deliver the letters to and from the Northern Kingdom. Unfortunately for me, he had already passed on the letters, so I did not get a look. He swore to never tell a soul of our encounter to avoid any further issues, but I also found out I'm blacklisted here.”

“What are you saying? Why would she even want to converse with the Northern Kingdom? An alliance with them is like an alliance with hyenas. They bring nothing but war and bloodshed. And what on Earth do you mean ‘blacklisted’?”, he shouts in frustration. “She’s my mother, I trust her. I find it all of this hard to believe.”

“Hah of course you don't believe me." you look around frantically. "Follow me.”

He stomped after you as you made your way for the nearest set of guards.

“Wait here, and watch.”

You walked up to them, as if to inquire something, only to be quickly apprehended.

“Let go of them immediately! What do you think you're doing?”, Zaros march in their direction.

“Apologies, your Majesty. We’re only following orders!”

“Whose orders?”, he yells.

“Lady Atha’lin, you Majesty!”, the fear is evident in their voices, and you give him a knowing look.

“Fuck”, he whispers under his breathe. “You’re dismissed and inform every guard in this palace that no one is to lay a finger on them. Do you hear me?”, he says, curt and unforgiving, as they shuffle away clumsily.

“As I said, blacklisted. Do you believe me now mama’s boy?”

If looks could kill, you’d be dead in milliseconds the way he glared at you. He's angry as can be, it’s not every day the tables are turned.

“A shame, had I been kicked out at the gates, you’d be oblivious to your mommy’s devious little plans.” You push.

“Oh what do you care? You left Serulla for 8 years. You’re back to warn me once and suddenly you’re high and might?”

“Hah, I was not just here to warn you. No Zaros, my initial plan was to meet your mother directly.”, you roll your eyes.

“Allow me to refresh your memory, 8 years ago, before I left, I made a promise to Nira Atha’lin that if she threatened Serulla in any way I’d be back to drag to her to hell with me. For your sake, I wanted to meet you first. But know this Zaros, if you’re incapable of handling your mother, I am not. I have no qualms in removing her by force, with or without your permission.”

You went overboard, but it was too late to take it back. The anger in his eyes boils over, as does the internal turmoil, but he keeps silent. He paces back and forth, and it might be better if you left him alone with his thoughts for a while.

“I’ll leave you be for now, when you are ready to find me again, I’ll be in the garden.”, a vast contrast to the tone you had previously.

-

You leave Zaros to decipher his feelings alone, it would be better if you weren’t there. You were annoyed at him for doubting you, yet that was no way for you to speak to him, especially considering the amount of information to process in such short time. How did it even progress that quickly? Sometimes old habits are hard to kill. You needed to apologise to him later.

The garden is still as beautiful as it always was, flourishing healthily despite your mother’s absence. You had heard of it, the news circulated Serulla and its neighbouring nations with the passing wind. The Queen was no more, and her child was absolutely vile for leaving her. People will always talk.

But it looks like Zaros kept his promise to take care of your home.

The garden was silence, as you stood before the two memorial tablets mounted there. One for your brother, another for your mother. You prayed that somewhere in her heart she’d forgiven you for leaving her alone. You wipe away the tears that warmed your cheek.

“She kept speaking highly of you, to the very end.”, his voice startles you, relaxed and calmer now.

“I don’t deserve it, I left her. But there was no point in returning then, if anything it made me not want to return at all.”, you replied, kissing the top of the stone with your mother’s name carved into it.

“I’m sorry.”, he sounded sincere, the most sincere you’ve ever heard him be.

“It’s not your fault, we all have to die one day, do we not?”

“No, for not stopping you from leaving.”

“What?”, confusion thickens your voice. “What are you talking about?”

“All these years you were gone, I couldn’t help but believe it was my fault. I felt guilty, like I pushed you out of your own home. Like this was never truly my place, but yours. I’d found you again after 8 years, only for you to slips through my fingers for another 8. I really am sorry.”

“Zaros.”, you stand directly in front of him. “That was not your fault. I chose to leave. I wanted to, I had to find myself. If anything, your stupid insults helped me, although they still hurt, don't get me wrong. Besides look at how well off Serulla is! You are more of a ruler than I ever would’ve been-”

“And I missed you.” He cuts you off and silence ensues, save for the soft howls of the wind. You didn’t expect him to confess that to you so openly and easily.

“I… I missed you too.” He takes a breath and smiles, not one of his devious smirks or teasing grins. A real genuine smile that once again showed a sincerity you were unfamiliar with. You sit with him in silence for a long time, admiring the stars and flowers. and you remembered a conversation you had a long time ago. He was right watching them in the moonlight was comforting. You could only hope he feels the same way right now.

“Remember how you told me to look at the flowers in the garden at night? It was so long ago; I almost don’t remember their name. What were they called again? Bitter bell something?”, you reminisced.

“Bitter bell dureni” (sorry ik I probably butchered that idk how to spell)

“Right, yes those. I got to see them tonight. They really are beautiful.”

“I’m sorry for how I reacted.", he confessed. "I promised you I’d keep Serulla safe, and I intend to keep that promise, even if it means revoking all authorities from my mother.”

“I’d much rather not use violence too. I apologise for provoking you.”

“I suppose it was a taste of my own medicine”, he laughs and you join him. “Does this mean you’re leaving again?”

“What? Do you want me to leave that badly?”

“Ha-ha, very funny.”

“No, I plan on staying a while, as long as your guards keep their hands to themselves of course.”, he laughs again and you can see yourself getting addicted to it. He sounds serene.

“Then, it’s my honour to have you.”, he reaches for your hand. “Come, your old room has been vacant for 8 years. It’s about time someone used it.”

“You kept my room vacant?”

“I may have had a little hope you’d return some day. To Serulla. To me.”

It’s hard not to smile when he says such things.

You take his hand, placing a gentle kiss on his cheek, and he averts his gaze, though not enough to hide the dusty pink shade of his skin.

“I have another question.”,

“Yes?”

“Did you really mean all those things you said in your letter?”

It’s silent again as you walk the familiar path to your room. You both knew the answer to that.

#zsakuva #sakuverse #asmr #zaros #zsakuva zaros #zaros x reader

[literary-motif]

Black Daffodils

Zaros Atha'lin x Reader

You're poisoned. Thankfully, Zaros knows his way around plants.

“You cannot be serious,” you said, looking at Zaros as if he had just proposed burning down the library.

The two of you were taking a stroll by the garden, having just finished eating dinner together. Zaros had taken the opportunity of the meeting to fly into one of his rambles, explaining his grand visions and plans for the future if he were to succeed in the trials and ascend to the throne. It had been straining to keep your composure and smile politely at him to keep up appearances, especially since he had put it into his head to tease you relentlessly and with such vigor that you were sure ‘mocking’  would be a more appropriate term.

Zaros raised an eyebrow, shooting a sidelong glance at you. “Yes, sure. You think just because something has been a certain way for centuries that it should not be changed — it gave you a position of power, after all. It suited you to keep the common people groveling at your feet like the spoiled brat you are—”

Your laugh made him pause. It was not the usual incredulous amusement coming from you as he told a truth you did not want to believe, this was real, genuine amusement, laced with a pitying heaviness that made him feel as if you had found a chink in his armor.

“And here I thought you were smart beyond your botany,” you said, shaking your head, “you’re so naive.”

Zaros exhaled incredulously. “Me?” he asked, disbelieving, “really?”

“You are, with your values and ideas and utopias,” you said, holding his gaze to convey how serious you were, “they are all great, honestly. I’m happy for you if you know what to believe in and what to fight for, but it’s all theory. What do you think will happen if you take the throne and change the very foundation our nation is built on overnight, dismantling the societal classes, tearing apart the system and the political principles we govern by?”

“How rich. So we should just keep the status quo because it suits you? That’s not—!”

“Shut up for a moment, Zaros,” you snapped, taking hold of his arm to halt his steps, “Do you really think the throne gives you power? You need to play the system, in it rather than against it, and twist it out of shape enough to incorporate your ideas, but never break it. Do you honestly believe the entire nation would not revolt against you the moment you start dismantling our society according to your wishes? The nobility hates you already, you’re right about that. Do you think you can rule without them? Alone?”

“I rule for the people the nobility has forgotten about and never even looked at in the first place,” Zaros answered coldly, “I’m not alone.”

You chuckled. “Keep telling yourself that, but remember that people hate sudden changes. It will only be a matter of time until your policy of revolution starts annoying them and then, you need strong allies to appease the masses and back up your right to rule. If you discard the entire nobility as self-righteous snobs, you’ll be alone against the world.” You started walking again, leaving Zaros to follow with furrowed brows. “And you know how fast solitude kills in our lives.”

Zaros was deep in contemplation, looking through the stone arches of the courtyard to view the garden. He stared at the nobles strolling through it in the darkness of the evening as if they held the ultimate truth and shook his head, meeting your gaze briefly in the dim light coming from the palace wall. 

“I think you’re wrong,” he said, smiling at you so disingenuously that it made your mouth twist in distaste. You had hit a nerve. It was evident from how he turned his gaze to look straight ahead, picking up the pace to walk briskly across the paved part of the courtyard adjoining the garden. “I would reform the system for the people it systematically oppresses. I— I don’t need the nobility to back me up if I have the favor of the many!” 

The conviction in his tone was almost comical. It felt good finally being able to get under his skin. It was your time to tease him and, adjusting your pace to follow closely behind him, you smirked to yourself, wondering which buttons to push to get Zaros to snap. “Leader of the masses, oh popular one?” you baited.

Zaros growled, “Mocking me, are you? Well, not everyone had the privilege to be born into the spotlight. We common mortals need to earn favor and respect, and I intend to do just that as I topple the injustice in our world!”

You hummed in acknowledgement of his words as if they were a mildly interesting expression of an idea you had already discarded. “You would have a revolt on your hands as fast as—” 

“As fast as what?” Zaros asked challengingly as you cut off, “Have you run out of similes?” There was no quick, angry reply as he expected, only silence. He could no longer hear your footsteps following behind him, so he turned, puzzled.

In the dim light, he could see you leaning against the stonewall separating the courtyard from the garden, your eyebrows furrowed and breaths labored. You were pale, one hand resting against your chest as if you had difficulty breathing, the other placed against the stone to hold yourself upright. 

“What is it?” Zaros asked in confusion. 

“I—” you began, but could only gasp as your knees buckled. Your hand roamed across the stone, trying to find purchase as you crumbled to the ground. Zaros rushed forward in an instant, catching you in his arms.

“Help!” he yelled, causing the nobles strolling through the garden to turn their head at his panicked cry. “Someone get the chief curer, hurry!” his eyes were wide with worry, searching your face hastily for any indication of what was happening to you.

Some of the nobles had gathered around the two of you, gasps and murmurs flying through the crowd at seeing you slumped against the wall with half-lidded, delirious eyes and a wheezing breath. Zaros paid them no mind, focused entirely on you.

“What’s wrong? What happened?” he asked, cupping your cheeks with unsteady hands, “Hey, look at me. I’m right here.” 

You mumbled something unintelligible that sounded somewhat like his name.

Tilting your head to the side slightly, Zaros saw a faint discoloration on your cheek, spread across it in the form of a tree branch. “I—” he breathed, his brain taking a moment to connect what he saw to a poison he had been forced to study. “I know,” he whispered in a sudden epiphany, tearing his gaze away from you to look towards the garden. “A moment, I’ll be right back, my heart, only a moment,” he rushed out, dropping his hands from your face and darting into the garden, ignoring your muffled whimper of protest.

When he returned, the chief curer had just kneeled next to you, starting his examination. “Move!” Zaros said briskly to the nobles barring you from him and pushed through the crowd of onlookers. Ignoring the curer, he tilted your head towards him, placing a few green petals in your mouth. “Don’t swallow them,” he instructed gently, leaving a hand on your cheek as the other found yours, squeezing comfortingly, “These petals are a natural remedy for various types of poison. You should be better in a moment.”

“What is the reason for this commotion?” Queen Roena’s clear, sharp voice cut through the murmuring crowd, silencing them in an instant. The curer sprang up to bow and explained hastily that he could not yet tell.

Zaros did not leave your side, helping you sit up properly once the antidote allowed you to move again and holding out a handkerchief for you to dispose of the petals. “Help me up,” you whispered to him after regaining your breath, and Zaros obliged, keeping his arm firmly around your waist to hold you upright. 

“It will take some time for you to recover completely,” he said quietly, putting more of your weight on him, “You’ll likely be weak for a day or two, but no longer than that.” You groaned in reply.

“What happened?” Queen Roena asked, looking at the two of you with confusion and worry. Her gaze lingered on you, silently checking you over. 

You cleared your throat. “Well, your Eminence, that’s not easy to say. You see, one moment I was engaged in a most pleasant debate with my— my acquaintance here, and the next I found myself on the ground, out of breath and unable to move.”

“They were poisoned, your Eminence,” Zaros said, but before he could add anything, the chief curer interrupted him.

“And how would you know that?” he asked, distaste evident in his tone. 

“I have studied the poison that evokes exactly these symptoms,” Zaros said to him before turning his gaze back to the Queen, who was looking at him intently. “That is why I knew which antidote to search for in the garden.”

“How very convenient,” the curer observed and a tide of new whispering erupted from the crowd. Zaros could feel his blood starting to boil at the suspicion turned on him. 

“Zaros,” you said breathlessly, closing your eyes briefly to stop the world from spinning around you. “I need to lay down. Walk me to my room?”

“Of course.”

“Your Eminence, is that wise?” the chief curer’s voice was faintly audible to you, moving away from the crowd with Zaros by your side. “What if he's only waiting to be alone with them to finish what he started, to eliminate his contestant for—” Zaros huffed beside you, continuing to lead you away. 

No matter how much he insisted that he did not care about what those around him thought of him, you could see beyond his carefully constructed mask and had always noticed how much it bothered him. Although he never acted on it, choosing instead to remain passive and seemingly nonchalant at their words, the epitome of calm collectedness. Deep down, you had seen it gnawing at his heart, and it did still, evident in the hurt shining in his eyes. 

“This one,” you nodded toward a wooden door to your right, leading to your chambers. “Right, thank you. I’ve got it from here. I’ll just—” You twisted out of Zaros’ arms, bracing yourself against the wall to keep from falling. You underestimated your strength, however, and would have collapsed to the ground if Zaros had not caught you again. 

He chuckled hollowly but without malice, as he adjusted his grip and led you into your room. “Yes, I can see how well you’ve got it,” he said, setting you down on the bed, “Stubborn like always. What is it with you and thinking you’re above such feeble things as being helped? A side effect of your upbringing, I’m sure.”

“Shut up,” you whispered, leaning back on the pillows with a groan and closing your eyes. The feeling of a hand on your forehead made them snap open again. Zaros was looking at you with an unreadable expression, perched on the side of your bed. “Like what you see?” you murmured, trying to crack his serious demeanor. He did not smile, mouth twisting into a tight line.

“Here,” he helped you sit up slowly, handing you a glass of water. “Drink, it helps.”

“Oh, does it?” you teased, taking small sips, “Did you poison that too to get rid of me and start your top-down revolution?”

His reaction was immediate. “Seriously?” he raised his voice in a near scream that made you jump, “What, you think I’d kill you for my own gain? You think I’d go over your dead body to implement my ideas?” Zaros leaped to his feet, looking down at you with rage and betrayal shining in his eyes. “You’re just as bad as everyone else!”

“Sit down, Zaros,” you said tiredly, taking hold of his arm and tugging him towards the bed. “I’m only teasing.” Your eyelids were starting to drop of their own accord, exhaustion finally overtaking you. 

A part of you was afraid to rest, considering what had happened. You were poisoned, and although the realization had not entirely set in yet, the thought of laying asleep, defenseless against the poisoner, made you shudder. 

“I know you’d never—” you said, holding onto Zaros’ hand as he sat on the bed again. He had a frown on his face and you could tell he was biting back a sarcastic remark or sharp jab of some kind. “I know you’d never hurt me,” you finished, eyes drifting shut with a content sigh at having him near you. 

Despite your differences, you knew you could trust Zaros. He wore his ideals on his sleeve, and you had been acquainted long enough to get a feeling for the sort of person he was. 

Looking at your entwined fingers, he swallowed thickly, the frown on his face replaced with a soft expression as his gaze drifted over your sleeping face. He reached up his free hand to brush tenderly through your hair, contemplating how improper it would be to lay down beside you and keep you safe.

#sakuverse #zsakuva zaros #zsakuva #zaros atha'lin #yes I looked up his surname #zaros x reader #zaros atha'lin x reader

[belladonnadawn]

Is It Over Now?

“You dream of my mouth before it called you a lying traitor.”

Zaros x Reader

You catch yourself in a whirlwind of emotions after seeing him again.

When you were young, your future was already predetermined. You accepted the responsibility of being a future heir of Serulla. And after you met Zaros, you admit that you had imagined a future that includes him. But life was as unpredictable, bringing you to places you never thought you’d find yourself in.

You remembered the fateful day and how things unfolded. A familiar ache swarmed your body as if you were there once again. The scene replayed, fresh from the memories.

“You are a disgusting leech who won my trust, only to break me after. Knowing you is my greatest regret, I never want to see your face again.”

The grip in your glass tightened as the words echoed once again. A tinge of guilt and anger surged you once more. Before those ugly emotions consume you swallow it down with the drink, burning your throat. You shook your head, preventing those thoughts from lingering again. 

Instead, you turned your attention to your duties. Observing and relishing yourself at the lavish banquet filled with lords and ladies, and other nobles from across the land with a variety of delicacies you’ll gladly indulge. There's no time for sulking when you have subjects to attend to. You composed yourself, wearing the same smile you practised in the mirror. 

Walking down with your head high, you were greeted with such honour and respect. Some are welcoming, some are visibly intimidated. You paid no mind, you understand how high the tension was especially in the upcoming ascension. It was exhilarating, drowning in power that people bestowed felt akin to wearing such a heavy crown. 

Your heart skipped a beat as your eyes landed on him. A wave of irritation, longing, and nostalgia flowed through you. You had anticipated his arrival, but you never thought that it could feel this way. Zaros is as handsome and insufferable as ever. He walked towards you carrying himself with that familiar manner.

“Not enjoying the party? You look as bored as the dead.” You felt your teeth clench as you heard his smooth pesky voice. You took a deep breath before responding, “There’s no need to worry, I am enjoying myself thoroughly.” plastering a fake smile, you answered him as politely as you can.

“You look pitiful standing here on your own.” Zaros scoffed as he looked at you from head to toe. 

You didn’t give him the satisfaction of revelling in your reaction, so you just gave him a half hearted smile, hoping he’ll go away. But he never did.

Minutes passed and Zaros continued to talk about the upcoming ascension and the dominion. So far you also heard snide remarks, jabs, and insults to get reaction out of you– sometimes, bringing out the past to poke deeper. You decided to practice the virtue of patience and understand his attitude; so you put up with it for tonight.

All of the sudden, you saw him reach his hand out. “Want to dance?’ Zaros offered and all you can do is look at him as if he’s a madman. You tolerated his remarks and mockery, but a dance? It was beyond your endurance.

“Pardon?” You tilted your head, hoping that this was just one of his teasing.

“What better way to show we’re getting along?” Zaros smirked.

“A conversation just like what we were having.” You immediately answered.

“You don’t think so? You have everything to gain.” 

“What gain?”

“Like the love of your soon to be subjects. Knowing that you can dance with a leech and still keep calm.” He spoke with pride, using the same undertone. You almost groaned at that damned ‘nickname’, you used it against him and now he’s using it against you. Unbelievable. Nevertheless, you begrudgingly accepted.

Dancing with him was pleasurable– if he only knew when to close his mouth. You remembered what they taught you, and with Zaros, your bodies flowed smoothly to the rhythm. There’s a part of you that missed the closeness, one that found your longing satiated. The other part was still as bitter and dismissive, wanting nothing to do with him.

As you both swayed into the music, you can’t help but observe him and wonder. Eight years ago, you didn’t have to watch him from afar. There was no need for formality, nor acts of civility. No snarky remarks, hurtful banters, nor mockery thrown towards each other. However, time has passed; you can’t be the naive child like you were back then. While you understand that one day both of you would grow, you never anticipated that you’ll grow apart. You looked away, tightening the mask that you wear. Responsibility has no time for insignificant relations, and you’ll always remember that.

“Today we contest the seat of Ilves.”

Gasps and murmurs filled the room at Lady Nira Atha’lin’s declaration. Surprise filled your face as you witnessed it play out. You were prepared for any declaration of contesting, but you never expected that it would be from the family of Zaros. Looking at him, you watched him consent to the decision, it felt unreal. Who could’ve known that he’d be truly your rival?

You watched your mother accept the decision gracefully. “Then as per the law all contenders must reside in the palace until the trials are concluded. I shall retain my position in the meantime and will officially renounce my title when our future ruler is justly selected.” Reside in the palace. Your eyes widened, realizing that your interaction with him would be longer than anticipated. 

“Thank you for your patience and your support. Though my rule will soon come to an end the night has only just begun. So please enjoy the rest of your time here.” The room was filled with applause and cheers as Queen Roena concluded, but you can’t help but stand in shock. Having to interact with Zaros almost everyday after what happened between you felt like the biggest challenge despite the trial not starting yet.

A small glance was exchanged between you and Zaros. Life with him at the palace was new and unpredictable. And somehow, you’re looking forward to it.

Pattern banner from Cafekitsune.

#zsakuva #sakuverse #zsakuva zaros #zaros x reader

[astralbulldragon13]

A fun way the Noble Trials can end:

It is near the end of the trials, Zaros and the Listener are waiting for the verdict when the Listener steps forwards and says they forfeit. They say that he is more fit to rule the domain and they are not.

They turn to him, ask him to take care of their mother and leave the room as everyone starts to panic.

They pass by Zaros’ mother and give her a warning.

‘There, you win. Your son is now the Eminence, but know this, if you try to rule my kingdom vicariously through Zaros, or control his new life in any way, there is no where you could go, no hole you can hide in, that I won’t find you.’

And with that, they seem to vanish. Zaros and Mother look everywhere to find the listener, going to their room last to find a note on the bed, their duel swords missing, as well as a few articles of clothing.

The note says that Zaros was right, that they don’t know the plights of their people, so decide that to leave and learn how their people truly live, not behind a veil of charity. That by the time they read this letter, they had paid some staff to smuggle them out of the castle before anyone could look for them. And they will return one day, if they believe it is truly needed. They admit feelings of fondness for Zaros, and hope their mother could forgive them.

This could clear a way for season two when the listener returns if and when Zaros’ mother tries to take over. Now, I know Saku is on here and he may see this. But I also know that this scenario isn’t likely to happen, it’s just something I find cool. Thanks and good time zone.

#zsakuva zaros #zsakuva #zsakuva noble trials

[claiestve]

𝐋𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐙𝐞𝐫𝐨 ꨄ Zaros

˜”* ❝'𝘾𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚, 𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙮𝙤𝙪'𝙙 𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙬𝙖𝙩𝙘𝙝 𝙢𝙚 𝙙𝙞𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙖𝙧𝙢𝙨.❞

⎯⎯ ୨ ୧ ⎯⎯

ꜱʏɴᴏᴘꜱɪꜱ: ʏᴏᴜ ᴀɴᴅ ᴢᴀʀᴏꜱ ꜰɪɴᴀʟʟʏ ᴛᴀʟᴋ.

⎯୨⎯ " " ⎯୧⎯

You were going on a walk to calm you down. The trials have stressed you out to a ton and you could not sit still. However, you wanted company. You knew how much he irritated and aggravated you with his little tantrums about how ‘spoiled’ you were but you couldn’t help but feel relaxed around him. He was the one person you could be yourself around. Even though your guard was always up, mask always on, he got to see a more truthful side to it. 

It didn’t take too long to find him as he visited his favorite areas. And there he was, reading in the grass. You couldn’t grasp how he felt so comfortable doing such and so openly, but it wasn’t time for you to judge, not now anyway. 

“I’m going for a walk to clear my head.” You say looking at him sternly. However, he seemed quite unbothered. He didn’t ask anything or say anything witty. He just sat there. 

“Have fun.”

“You don’t want to join me?” 

“Do you want me to?” He raised a brow, smirking. A stupid look that he always has on his face. It was utterly annoying but it did amuse you just a bit. 

You nodded to his ask and waited for him to get up. 

“You’re carrying the book around? Just leave it here.”

“I’d rather have it on me in case you try hurting me. Oddly, you would even want me to join you on this walk. Suspicious even. Are you planning on getting your competition out of the way early? That’s foul you know.” There he went with his blunt, arrogant, insufferable rants and accusations. 

You didn’t even care to indulge in him, you’d rather relish this peace. He must’ve noticed your unusual silence because he reciprocated it. Even though you were already a quieter person, often holding back, you’d snap back at him. 

“So, my Earis, what brings us here and on this stroll? You seem awfully peaceful and quiet today.” 

“Well,” You started hesitantly, “I know the trials have been utterly stressful, wouldn’t you agree?”

Zaros scoffed at your facade. He knew you weren’t as put together as you portrayed yourself to be. Unfortunately for him, you had no intention of arguing. 

“So you brought your rival on a stroll with you? That’s outright stupidity.”

“You’re free to leave, Zaros. You were invited to join me, not required.”

He stared at you in silence. Normally, he had a smart counterpoint but not this time. Not even one word no matter how bad he wanted to say it. For the first time, he was completely dumbfounded. 

“Apologies, I– the idea just confused me.”

You nodded in acceptance of his apology. Most of the time, you’d laugh at him for being so quickly flabbergasted; however, you didn’t have the energy for that. You didn’t have the energy to be as angry or snarky as you typically were. 

“But,” He started again, “You are very quiet today. Perhaps you want me to start the conversations?”

“That would be nice.”

“Ah, what am I most interested in asking you about today?”

“Please nothing that would make me feel guilty.”

The two of you laughed at that. It felt so odd but so right. After all, if a joke is funny, laugh. That was something you’ve taught him a long time ago. Around when you first met. Zaros wasn’t the best at expressing himself but you changed him completely. Whether that was a good or bad thing, you didn’t care enough to debate it. 

“Remember when we were learning how to skip rocks? Ah, you hated that. Always complaining about your hands being dirty and coming to me to help you clean them.”

“I remember that. I still loathe the filthiness of those rocks. I did turn to you a lot though, didn’t I?”

“Yes. Always going to me saying ‘Zaros, my hands are dirty again!’ I remember I would use my own clothes to wipe your hands and arms. I felt like your protector or some such.”

In a way, he kind of was. That’s how you used to see him. Oddly enough, that’s how he saw you too. 

He cleared his throat and walked closer to you, “That was when we were inseparable.”

You smiled at him, “The most free I've ever been.”

He looked at you in confusion. He knew you didn’t have the most freedom here but if anything, he thought you would enjoy it knowing your ‘standards’.

“You feel trapped here?”

“Not trapped, just very restricted.”

“Do you feel trapped right now?” Zaros asks, putting his hand on your shoulder, expecting you to push it off.

“No, not when I’m with you.”

You say as you keep his hand on your shoulder, enjoying his company. 

-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈

this was originally supposed to be an alex fic but... no! this was also going to go in so many different directions so it took me a minnn

#zsakuva #asmr #sakuverse #zsakuvaxreader #zsakuva zaros #zaros

[piffany666]

"the Nobel trials" headcanons cos I basically never talk about zsaku va on tumbler?......."the Nobel trials" headcanons cos I basically never talk about zsaku va on tumbler!

(BTW these are gonna be mainly about the listener as apposed to Zaros)

The listener writes ANGRY poetry about...well most things but especially Zaros

If you've read "the cruel prince" you'll know about the whole cardian writing Jude's name a bunch if times in a notebook cos he "can't stop thinking about her?"

Yeah that

Fun fact! Did you know that Alexander Hamilton wrote angry love letters to Lawrence? Saying things along the lines of "How dare you steel my affection without my permission!"

Yeah the listener writes the exact same sorta stuff exept they keep the letters to themselves

As like a coping mechanism for how to get the weight off their chest

It's definitely a "he fell first but they fell harder" situation in my eyes

Somone once said in the comments that the listener knows all about the meanings of flowers as opposed to Zaro's knowledge of them and I'd just like to reiterate that here

The listener has a LOT of unbridled rage that they don't know how to deal with or how to healthily process

Mf gose to BED angry

And as a result they claw at their bed a lot

The bedding, the pillows, the bed side

EVERYTHING

their servants can always tell if they've had a rough night cos they'll be changing the bedding and it'll literally all just be shredded

Which the listener actually dose feel really bad about

The servants that have to change their bedding are the only servants in the entire Palace that have heard them say "im sorry"

None of the other servants belive them tho

All of the servants violently ship the listener and Zaros together

Obviously neither of them know about this but any time the servants see them together its all "Uhh just kiss already!"

Also this is basically cannon (as seen by the way they treat Zaros) but the listener is kinda a violent slut shamer

That's kinda all for now but I'll probably add more on as more episodes come out

#zsakuva #zsakuva zaros #zsakuvatheroyaltrials #the royal trials #sakuverse #sakuva #zsaku listeners

[iloveasmr]

nobel trials 4

#asmr roleplay #asmr #audio roleplay #youtube #zsakuva zaros #zsakuva #ARGHHH #morals

[odasantiago]

“Let’s be Human together”

By Oda

Tw: Mention of Blood

︶︶︶︶︶︶︶

Zaros/Earis

(Authors note: this writing has POV changes)

In all existing timelines of the universe, you can only see one, you can only live in one, but with every second passing by, a flower in at least one universe loses a singular petal.

…

It was the day of the trial of strength, both Zaros and Earis have been training relentlessly a couple of weeks before the trial, usually by themselves training various singular abilities. Occasionally, they could duel again, but it happens less than more; since the neither didn’t wanted to know what the other was going to bring to the table once the trial arises,

…

After getting into your combat gear and clothing, you breathe in and breathe out walking along the road that led to the trial location; it was going to be an arena, filled with alot of the serula population.

Distant chatter could be heard not far away from where you were walking. Dread filled your heart, you didn’t know why;

It was nerve-racking every time before a trial. Of course, that was a given knowing your position and the things at stake. Endless questions on who would come out on top, but there were so many eyes watching this time. One wrong move, god for if you lose, it would start a wildfire.

Most of you wanted to win, to make your mother proud, to build more of your legacy and follow the old traditions of being the Earis. All the years of duels, scars and sore hands would all count to this moment. If you throw away your shot, what will become of you?

Then again, you worried every night if you were unfit to be a ruler—you were worried that if all the whispers and taunts were right, you should just let Zaros rule. It’s as if you felt deep down Zaros was right.

After all, it would be better if you vanished, sometimes.

Before you could get lost in self pitying thoughts, your mother looked you in the eye, and smiled. The cool air flowing through her long hair and gown.

“Like I have always told you, words can’t describe how proud of you I am, with every trial—even if you didn’t win all of them; you grow and grow.

“You grow our legacy.”

Those words brought a form of happiness to you, although you were prideful, praise could never make you prideful. At least, not again.

Soon after a couple of words exchanged from your mother and you, your opponent strides towards both of you—with his mother nonetheless.They were whispering to each other with his mother slightly shoving him from time to time, his mother looking back at you then him.

Zaros looked off into the side, in your direction as, and looked up and down to look at the combat gear you were wearing.

“Ah, it seems like you’ve arrived, welcome Zaros.” Your mother nodded to him politely

“Hello my eminence,” Zaros smiled,

“Why, hello my Earis.” He continued, while giving you a confident smirk.

You nodded without saying a word, weirdly, his mother didn’t throw any complaints in your direction. What was up with that?

Your mother explained while looking at the both of you, “this trial will be seen by thousands, you understand this, yes?”

We nodded, Zaros added on, “And, what if something catastrophic happens?” “I suppose, it’s a given for at least a small chance that something that dire could happen.”

Your mother looked at you, trusting for you to explain to him, panicking for a moment—you said something.

“I would say that’s very true, alas, the serullan guards will block the perimeters of the arena.”

You’re mother smiled at him and said,

“Exactly put—I highly doubt that we would need them to our aid, with so many civilians viewing the trial, if anything did something half-witted, they wouldn’t get past the guards, I assure you.”

Before you knew it, you two were already at the arena gateway. Your mom and Zaro’s mom already went up to their seating in the balcony of the arena.

The last thing you saw from Zaro’s mother was a silent stare, you could see a slight smile on her face if you squinted.

Suddenly, a large voice could be heard within the circle, everybody went quiet at the sound of it. Zaros patted your shoulder, a part of you didn’t know why, but you smiled at him—for once.

…

A man standing on a podium in the middle of the arena clapped his hands loudly to get everyone’s attention, and yelled

“Welcome to the trial of strength, Serulla!”

the crowd cheers.

“This is the first public trial, and the only trial containing combat! Remember to please stay in your seats unless due to a necessary conflict!”

Earis balled up their fists for what comes next.

“Now, with our first opponent—Our Earis of Serulla!”

Earis sighed, and walked onto the stage.

…

You saw the masses of everyone, all eyes were on you. As the host announced Zaros, he walked up to the stage, facing you directly. As if you could draw a straight line with you and him.

You could see a glint of nervousness in his eyes, his smile faltering just for a moment, fists balling up as he held his sword.

A sweat bead dropped down your forehead, you could feel the intensity of the situation, as you stood proud in front of him, waiting for the due to get in a fighting stance.

The host got off the pedestal, and yelled “Now, contestants, you may now be in a fighting position.”

“This will be the first round of fighting, whoever wins the majority of these three rounds, is the victor.”

You bend your knees, one in front of your chest; and one behind. Your hand so gracefully on the handle of your smallsword. The sheath was invaded in beautiful colors and strong material.

The moment of adrenaline finally arrives, you breathe in to calm yourself down. Zaros grips his handle tighter with a nervous expression.

The host started to count down,

“3…2…1” “GO!”

In a moment's flash, you and Zaros lunge towards each other, swords meeting and clashing, some swings were missed, Zaros was sure to put up a fight.

Blocking with skill, his moves were a bit rash—too quick and too unafraid, you could tell deep down; he was scared, almost terrified, you could feel his sword shake in his hands.

Being persistent, you held calm, holding the blade stable against his, looking into his eye for his next move, or maybe a movement that could symbolize it.

Slashing, two forces fought against each other, like it was two flowers fighting for sunlight.

Clashing, small cigs and bruises were made on both bodies.

It was all a chess game, a very fast, chess game.

Zaros made his move and lunged towards you with a side attack, your eyes widening by surprise—

Being unable to do anything else, you kicked his sword up into the air with a kick hitting his hand and handle, Zaros stumbling back from the shock, sliding towards him, ready to point your sword down at him to say that you won, a part of yourself felt bad for pulling a complicated move like a kick in the trial, but as they said—you could pull any move, if didn’t need to be a sword fight. As long as it Dosent kill the other person—

In the midst of your thought, you saw a sword, a dagger following lunge towards behind Zaros,

ready to kill him.

You screamed, “ZAROS, WAIT!” Zaros gasped and looked behind him,

In the middle of the swing down to stab him in the head; with another dagger in hand, you ran in front of the figure,

and that’s when it happened. The beginning of the end. Your last time to prove yourself as the Earis.

…

I saw the last day that my Earis lived. The day I lost one of my petals, the day that started a new world, at least in my eyes.

It all happened too fast, in one moment I felt like I was going to lose, my hands shaking from an uncharacteristic nerve in my emotions.

A heavy sword was pierced through Earis lower torso, the sword going through more and more, Earis body shifted in shock.

I couldn’t say anything, my throat was too constricted, the screams from the crowd could be heard a mile away; I could see the rage in the queen's eyes as tears streamed down her face, the guards catching her before she could collapse on the crowd or run away.

The air was so tight, the smell of blood, it made my eyes hurt. Everything was okay, everything had to be okay, wasn’t it just a few moments ago that me and my Earis looked into each other's eye, preparing for the fight of our lives?

Wasn’t it just a few days ago that we were chatting while looking in the ocean?

Wasn’t it just a few hours ago that we were preparing for another trial?

Everything rushed through my head, as my blood went cold. So quickly, but so slowly.

I managed to scream,

“My Earis..!” I ran up to hold their scarred body in my arms.

Earis coughed out blood, “I-I’ll be okay, Zaros don’t-“

I shook my head, and quickly said, “No, you won’t be, your b-bleeding, please don’t try to exert yourself too much, you’ll live..!”

Earis held out their shaky hand to hold my face, “A-are you.. fine.. though..?” There was silence. “Zaros-s, promise me somethi-ing.”

My eyes widened as their blood spread to my clothes, the Sun lighting their face beautifully. I interrupted them.

“No, stop, you’re not going to die! We both know that, you can’t die, you just.. can’t.. you can’t die..”

They coughed even more blood, their grip on my cheek became weaker.

“No.. no.. no..” I said, over and over, as if I could redo the whole story, rewind the clock.

I looked around, the guards were surrounding us, they knew it was too late to save them, but why? Why didn’t they do anything? Why didn’t they help?

I desperately tried to pick them up, but they stopped me.

“Stop it, please.. I.. did this for Serula, to save you. Let me s-save you, let me r-re-p-pay you.”

Their voices were so weak. It was so soft spoken. I didn’t want to believe anything, listen to anything.

“Shh.. you’ll live.. you won’t die.. you can’t die.” I said, ever so quietly. Hot tears stained my face, my voice so broken. I didn’t want to accept it, if only I could repay my life for theirs, if only I never consented to this stupid game, If only I wasn’t the Athal’ins perfect child.

“Save people, live for the side of good, p-please.. even if you’re not th-hroned, I’ll always love you.”

“If you never pick a side, you’ll fall into an indescribable void. If I could have anything now, it would be for you to live another day. Do anything you want, darling, I.. I love you.. so much..”

I gripped their hair, the guards lifted their bleeding out body and attempted to patch up their wounds, the Queen was beside them, silent with tears falling down her face.

All of the sudden, I heard screaming. I didn’t know what it was, or where it came from, but soon enough.

I realized it was me screaming. Almost tearing my throat out.

Falling to the ground, I could see their blood on my hands. I screamed as they took them away,

“I love you too..!! I love you, my Earis..!” I kept saying “I love you” and screaming as if I could have them back.

…That day, I lost one of my petals, and I never want to grow another again. Even in a garden full of exotic plants and painted with rich colors, I will remain alone.

#sakuverse #zsakuva #zaros atha’lin #zsakuva zaros #i love angst #death note au is coming soon #what should I write next #zsaku #asmr

[faeskiss]

ZAROS IS SO MAJESTIC HERE WTFFFFFFF

this photo is from the artist who drew the official artwork for zaros,on twitter @/keimoneuwu !!!

#zsakuva zaros #zsakuva #sakuverse #zaros #zaros x reader #IM CRYING HES SO BEAUTIFUL WTFFF

[chilliesillie]

I JUST HAD AN IDEA

a “who did this to you?” with Zaros and Earis

just imagine AAAGHH just a smidge of affection from zaros could keep me going

LIKE WHAT IF EARIS GOT ATTACKED OR POISONED OR SMTH

#i imagine the Earis fought someone #zaros #zsakuva #zsakuva zaros #boyfriend audio #zaros atha’lin #like imagine how he’d sound like if he was worried #take my phone away

[xzhdjsj]

Page 142

Zaros x Reader

Zaros is temporarily unable to lie.

For the sake of this fic, let's pretend alchemy and potions, etc exist in Zaros' world😭 Also, this gets suggestive towards the end (just a teensy bit nsfw), if you're uncomfortable with that you might wanna stop reading at the marked point or not read this at all!

I may write a second part for this, but I'm not sure. Lemme know if you guys want a part 2! I hope you enjoy! <3

✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧

It was a quiet day, unusually so. That's only because ever since Zaros’ arrival to the palace, a peaceful day has not gone by. His mouth is never closed. He always has something to say and not a care for repercussions. It’s annoying, extremely annoying, and it flares both your anxiety and anger.

Yet, somehow the peace and quiet feels almost wrong. Do you perhaps miss him?

You shake the thoughts from your head. Nonsense. Why would you miss him? Though, it is strange you haven't seen him all day, maybe it would be best if you looked for him. Only for the credit of being an observant host of course, nothing else!

-

  

You make your way to his door, slightly nervous to knock, but you do so anyways.

...

No answer. So, you knock again.

...

And again, there was no answer which is very unlike him. He may hate your guts but at the very least he’s polite enough to answer his door.

You scan the area for a quick moment, making sure you're all alone in the hallway, then press your ear to the door. How strange, not a soun-

"Can I help you my Earis?", a voice chime behind you.

You shout and turn to face its owner. A palace maid.

"Oh, I'm sorry! I didn't mean to scare you." She bows respectfully, "Are you okay?"

"Yes, yes I'm fine." You sigh and placed a hand to your chest, "You just spooked me. It's alright."

"Apologies your highness. Is there anything I could help with?"

"Uhh no, I was just about to leave."

You swiftly turn to leave, desperate to get away from her. Then you stop at a realisation, maybe she knows where Zaros is.

"Actually," you turn to her, "Have you seen Sarl Zaros today?"

"He was in the garden earlier, my Earis. Though, I have no idea where he is now."

"Right, thank you. That'll be all"

You scurry off, unable to shake the embarrassment you felt. You know she'll keep her mouth shut, after all, if rumours are traced back to her it would cost her quite a lot, but the icky feeling still haunts you mind. What were you even thinking?

-

You find yourself in the garden rather quickly, but there was no sign of his blonde hair or elegant garments. Just greenery and sunshine. That means there's one last place you may be able to find him, the library.

And sure enough, he's there.

You pick up a random book, not bothering to look at the colour or memorise the title, and take a seat across from him.

"Earis, how nice of you to join me." He mutters, barely, as if he didn't want to speak.

"Is it really? Or are you just saying that?"

"It is... nice." He grimaces but swiftly hides it with the books he's reading. Something about potions and remedies, since when is he interested in alchemy?

"Oh uh- I see" you reply awkwardly. One unusual occurrence after the other, he's never outright nice to you, especially when you're alone. He's always giving you an earful of how spoilt and sheltered you are. What suddenly changed?

The silence engulfs you both, he has his head stuck in his book and you, well you're still in shock staring at him.

"Are you going to keep staring?"

"What?" You snap out of your daze.

"You were staring."

"Oh, no I wasn’t! I just zoned out for a moment. Sorry."

A pathetic lie, he knows it too. He doesn't even honour it with a response, or even look up from his books.

God everything is so freaking weird today!

"Are you alright, Zaros?" You blurt out before you can think.

He finds your eyes finally.

"What do you mean?"

"Nothing! I just- You don't seem like yourself today, I was just wondering if you're unwell."

He sighs, exasperated and tired.

"If you really must know, I was accidentally served a glass of wine containing an elixir of truth. I'm fine otherwise, I just need to get rid of its effects."

"Ahhh, hence the book. I was curious why you were reading that." The wheels in your head turned. He consumed an elixir of truth, which means he cannot lie. It’s no wonder he admitted your company was welcome earlier.

"Hmmm I didn’t think you were so keen about reproduction either my dear Earis.” He eyes the book laid out in front of you.

Confusion laced your expression as you looked down. The title hits you in the face like a brick. It reads

 “Reproductive Biology: Conception”

“Oh, dear god! No, I- I grabbed the wrong one!” Your face burnt of embarassment as you hurriedly returned the book to its shelf.

“Are you sure you didn’t just come here to find me then?” he chuckles at your dilemma.

You don’t answer, but no answer is still an answer. What an awful day! You turn to leave, having had enough of the awkwardness and embarrassment.

“Come sit with me.” He calls out to you, “It’d be rude of me to let you leave when you came all the way here to find me”

Reluctantly, you walked over to the table and sat with him.

“Did you miss me that much?” he pushed his book aside, casting his full attention onto you.

“Of course not, I just thought it was unusual that I haven’t seen you all day. That’s all.” You inform him, “Were you ignoring me on purpose?”

His expression shifts for a moment, but he catches it quickly.

“Why would I do that?” he dodged your question. “Did you miss me berating you?”

“I should’ve left when I had the chance.” You sigh and rest your forehead against you palm and he laughs.

“You’re the one who came all the way here to find me. It’s only fair that I have my assumptions.”

“Too bad they’re untrue.”

“Are they really?”

“You know what?” You retort, “If you want to ask so many questions, I propose a game.”

“A game? Go on, I’m listening.”

“We take turns asking each other questions and answer them truthfully. Not that you really have a choice anyways and I promise to be truthful as well.”

“You definitely have an unfair advantage, but I’m desperate for some entertainment, so I don’t see why not.” He leans forward, resting his face on his interlocked fingers. “Well then, I’ll go first. Did you come all the way here to find me?”

You sigh, “I did, but you already knew that, so why waste a question?”

“I wanted to hear you say it.” He smiled mischievously.

It started off tame, with harmless questions to tease each other. Pieces of memories from the past and truths to white lies once told, but as it progressed there was more than either of you bargained for.

(things get suggestive from here)

“Do you regret leaving all those years ago?”

“No, I don’t. Had I stayed, I wouldn’t know half the things I do now, and I wouldn’t experience the things I did. Besides, you made it clear you never wanted to see me again, I honoured your word for as long as I could.” His words only made your regret worse. “Do you regret being close to me back then?”

“No. Then, do you hate me for driving you away?”

His expression stiffens, and he just stares at you in shocked silence for a minute. “No, no I’ve never hated you. Do you hate me?”

“I could never bring myself to ever hate you. There’s too many memories attached to your face, fond ones that I cannot risk hating.”

“I see.” He murmured quietly.

“Did you think I hated you?”

“You did send me away and called me a leech. It felt kind of obvious. What about you? Did you think I hate you?

“Yes, and for some reason, it scared me. Did you… Did you ever forgive me for all the things I’ve said to you? They were awful, I know that now, and I'm... I'm sorry.”

“I did. As I said, I never hated you, and what good would it serve me to hate the person I lo- the person I grew up with.” He corrected himself. “Do you regret it? Sending me away.”

“Everyday for the past 8 years. I hoped you’d show up to every formal event we held, but you never did.”

“Wow are you sure you didn’t have some of my wine too?”

“Shut up. Did you think about me when you were gone?”

He tilts his head to the side slightly, “More than you’ll ever know.”

“How? What were you thinking?”

“Hold on now, you’re only allowed one question per turn. So I believe it’s my turn now. Did you think of me while I was gone?”

“Yes, I did.” You confessed quickly, “What were you thinking of when you thought of me?”

“So demanding. But I don’t think you want to know that, my sweet Earis.”

“It’s my turn, and that’s my question. If I did not wish to know, I wouldn’t have asked.”

“Fine, but you asked for this. When I thought of you, I often reminisced of our time together in school. Other times, my thoughts of you were quite… inappropriate.”

Your ear perked up like a kitten. “Tell me more.” You demand.

“Are you sure you want this?”

“Yes. Tell me everything.”

He leans back into his chair, “I thought of you when I was with others. That’s why I was never able to keep a partner.”

“Wha-“

“Every time I looked into their eyes I’d think of you, and I knew my adoration was never for them. Every time someone laid below me I’d close my eyes and imagine you instead. The thought of you and what we could’ve been followed me, haunted me, ate away at my very soul. I didn’t want anyone but you, despite my criticism, you are what I craved.” His eyes never left yours, every word, every truth he spoke made your bones feel soft and your stomach tie into an uncomfortable knot.

There should be another word that meant speechless beyond the word speechless, it would perfectly describe how you felt in that moment.

“Zaros I… uhm” Your face is undoubtably red, and you cannot bear to look him in the eyes anymore.

“My turn now, darling.” His body lifted from his seat, and he moved to sit next to you, so close you could smell the scent radiating off of him. “Did you think of me the same way I thought of you?”

You could lie, you could tell him you’ve never thought of him when you were with another and you can tell him you never thought of him when you touched yourself… but he was truthful and you should be too.

“I did” you whisper, barely enough for him to catch, being only a breath’s distance from you.

“Yeah, I thought as much.”

Your information processing is cut short when his lips landed on yours and a warm hand on your cheek. Your eyes widen only to flutter shut. His hand tangled in your hair while the other gripped your waist, desperately pulling you closer. You hold onto his arms for support, too engulfed in this feverish kiss to think of anything. He kissed you like a starving man, he kissed you with 8 years’ worth of longing and every second was deliciously eager-filled and greedy. When he finally pulls away you’re gasping for breath. Your fingers are still gripping into his biceps and his, your waist. He tugs you closer, a silent plea for more.

His breath was warm on your face, and your body felt hot. His body felt hot. There was a sense of urgency in the air, and the world around you faded away again when his lips met yours. Your chest is pressed up against him while he pushes your back into the wall behind, desperate attempts to be as close as you can, A thousand curses upon the layers of clothes that separate you.

Time was definitely slowing down, and every touch of his fingers lit fireworks across your skin. It was addicting, he was addicting. Neither of you could get enough, the longing was too much to ignore. His fingers were warm, so warm they melted into your skin. The buildup of passion was ought to come crashing down at some point but before his fingers could slip further past the fabrics on your skin a familiar voice ring out.

“Sarl Zaros? Are you in here?” The Queen gently called out.

Your bodies split apart in seconds. He scrambles to the far end on the bench, and you rush to wipe your lips. You look over at Zaros, and his chest is heaving, same as yours. God you wished you didn’t look. The way he desperately tried to calm himself down did things to your stomach that you’ve never felt before.

You promptly stand and turn to greet your mother who’s approaching.

“Mother, good afternoon.”

“Oh, you’re here too dear?” she smiles at you.

“Yes, I was just uhm chatting with Zaros.” You lie through your teeth. “But I’ll be leaving now, I have other things to attend to.”

You walk past your mother, hurrying for the giant doors of the library.

“My Earis,” a rasped voice calls behind you. “You forgot your book.”

You turn around and Zaros hands you the book he was reading. You didn’t question it. There was no time for questions.

“Ah thank you Zaros” You flush when his hands touch yours.

“I think you’ll find page 142 most interesting, do give it a read.” His eyes were filled with lust, green embers burning holes into you soul.

“Tha-Thank you.”

You ran. You ran all the way back to your room, locking the door and dropping into your bed face first. What the FUCK just happened???

You wish you could scream, instead you try to process everything that’s happened. It started off so innocently, tame questions and light teasing but evolved to so much more. HOW?

You remembered his words before you left the library.

“I think you’ll find page 142 most interesting, do give it a read.”

You pick up the book he handed you, flipping the deckled edge to page 142. Obviously, there was nothing interesting, just a piece of paper that flutters to the floor. You pick it up, unfolding it carefully, to find a message written inside.

“If you wish to continue, meet me in my room at midnight. I’ll be waiting, my sweet sweet Earis.”

#zsakuva #sakuverse #zsakuva zaros #zaros #zaros atha’lin #zaros x reader #asmr

[literary-motif]

Hear The Bluebells

Zaros Ahta'lin x Reader

The last of the trials makes you search for a flower on a mountain with Zaros. It does not go as planned.

“How does it feel being so close to the throne?” you asked teasingly, only slightly out of breath as Zaros stumbled over yet another rock. He was breathing heavily next to you, the steep path to the top of the mountain more challenging than he would have thought. “Savor it while it lasts. After today, the succession will be settled.”

You had been searching for your designated flowers for at least an hour now, not daring to stray too far from the path, lest you should get lost in the thick woods of the mountain. 

“In my favor, I’m sure,” Zaros panted, glancing to the side to make sure the spots of color dancing in his vision were not the Fire Lily he so desperately yearned to find. You pushed aside some of the bushes yourself, wondering silently how hard it could be to find a Burnt Orchid.

Hopefully, the flower took less time to appear near the track than it took Zaros to find his. 

He groaned, stopping in his tracks as he swayed on the spot. You reached out to steady him. Zaros was pale, his eyes shut tightly as if trying to block out the world spinning around him. “Are you alright?” you asked in concern.

“Fine,” he said, pushing your hands away to walk briskly past you. “Don’t try to distract me!” As if he was worried you were trying to hide the flower he needed, Zaros took a thorough look around.

You scoffed, rolling your eyes. “Alright,” you said, “I tried. If you collapse from overexertion, don’t you dare pout.”

“I never pout,” he said, not finding any lilies and walking up the path once more, catching up to you only because you waited up for him.

“Sure, Zaros.”

Silence stretched between you, causing your thoughts to wander as your eyes roamed the ground, occasionally meeting Zaros’ tired ones. What would become of the other once the successor was crowned? Of course, you wished that the honor would fall to you, but it made you wonder what the Kingdom would do to Zaros then, what his mother would say.

It was almost sad, knowing the trials would come to an end today. It made you melancholic, reflecting on the many years you had spent with Zaros before you two broke apart.

“Yes!” Zaros exclaimed, startling you out of your thoughts. The butterfly you were observing flapped its wings quickly and disappeared. He emerged behind a tree, a single orange flower gripped securely in his hand.

The frown of confusion dropped from your face immediately, all peaceful musings of the past forgotten as your eyes and heart hardened. Zaros held the Fire Lily in his hand. You were losing the throne. 

Zaros smiled slily at you, despite his best efforts his lips trembled a little and he was still dangerously pale. “I told you,” he said, voice considerably less strong than before, “I’m ahead of you.” 

The panic rising within you was palpable. “Right,” you spat with a forced smile, “Let’s see who delivers it to her Majesty first, shall we? After all, that’s when the trials are over.” Without waiting for a reply, you continue marching upward along the trail.

Zaros laughed, calling after you as he started making his descent, “You’re just sour that you lost.”

“Haven’t lost anything yet,” you mumbled under your breath, shoving aside bushes with more force than necessary. 

Stupid flower! How dare it grow further up the mountain than the damned lily! A Burnt Orchid. Why did the scholars pick this flower in particular for you? You had seen countless others near the path. Snowbells, edelweiss, butterwort, bluebells. Why didn’t they choose one of those?

“Come on!” you said exasperated, pushing aside a branch forcefully. At the foot of a nearby tree, you saw the dark reddish-brown and white of the flower you were looking for. “At last.”

You plucked it quickly, admiring its beauty for only a brief moment before darting towards the track again. There was no time to lose. Who knew how far ahead Zaros was already? If he got to the foot of the mountain before you, the throne would be officially lost to you.

The path was uncomfortably steep. You slipped a few times, sliding down entire parts in your haste, only catching your footing again with effort. You nearly stumbled over Zaros’ leg, not seeing him slumped against the tree to the side of the trail.

“What are you doing?” you asked, taking a moment to catch your breath. 

Zaros was panting heavily, eyes half-lidded as he looked up at you unfocused. The Fire Lily was softly resting in his open hand. “I—” he breathed, “Just need— moment.” 

You frowned, kneeling next to him. Sweat was coating his forehead and you could feel the exhaustion radiating off of him. You doubted he would be able to make it down the mountain on his own, doubted he could take a single step without collapsing again. Zaros needed to drink some water, eat a bite, and rest. The mountain had taken everything out of him, evidently.

“Alright,” you said, thinking about what to do. It should not be far from the foot of the mountain now. You glanced down the path. It was still steep, but you would make it work somehow. “Alright,” you repeated, shifting the Burned Orchid to your other hand and sneaking your arm around Zaros’ waist, helping him up and holding him steady with a tight grip on his hips. You slung his arm around your shoulder, shifting a little to take more of his weight. 

Zaros gave a noise of surprise but did not protest. You took a few steps before stopping, turning your head to look at where he had sat a moment ago. The Fire Lily was still lying on the ground. 

“Can you stand on your own?” you asked, receiving a groan from Zaros. “Only for a moment, alright. Here, lean on the tree, just for a moment.” You disentangled yourself from his arm, leaving his side for a second to collect his flower. “Here, I’ve got you. It’s alright. Lean on me again, I’ve got you.”

Together, you made your way down the mountain, both flowers clutched tightly in your right hand. 

“You should probably let go of me now,” Zaros said, looking ahead at the small crowd of people waiting in the distance to pronounce the successor. The Regent sat in their center, the golden chair brought out here for the occasion shimmering in the sunlight. 

“Sure,” you said, “If you can assure me you won't fold and crumble to the ground the moment I let go of you. Can you do that?” Zaros remained silent. “Thought so.”

“But you—” he began confused. For the life of him, he could not understand why you did not seize the opportunity and leave him behind to claim the throne for yourself. “It’s gonna be—”

You shushed him gently as you neared the crowd.

“I’d like some water,” you called out, stepping closer to her Majesty. Your mother tilted her head when she saw you with Zaros, narrowing her eyes in confusion. His mother gasped when she saw the two of you, her mouth falling open indignantly. 

“Impossible,” you heard her murmur.

“Your Majesty,” you said, inclining your head and tightening your hold on Zaros when you felt him shift in your arms. “We have returned.” You stepped closer to her, whispering to Zaros, “Put your hand on mine, on the one holding the flowers.” After all, you did not wish for a technicality stated in the fine print to ruin your plan.

He looked at you for a long moment, gaze indiscernible, before complying with your request. 

You offered the flowers to her Majesty, Zaros’ hand resting over yours. “Both of the Flowers, your Majesty. Combined. The Fire Lily and the Burned Orchid, as you requested. Since they were delivered at the same time, I can only assume we—”

Your mother looked at you, a small smile gracing her lips as pride shone in her eyes when she exclaimed loudly and for all to hear, “We have a tie.”

#sakuverse #zsakuva #zaros x reader #zsakuva zaros #zaros atha'lin #zaros atha'lin x reader

[soscarlett1twas]

Thoughts while listening to the latest Noble Trials:

- Firstly, as much as I would’ve loved it, thank you Saku for not making the test into some large infodump lol

- International politics had a strange relevance, different countries/regions may have a growing importance to the storyline. Makes sense: If any country is particularly involved in Serulla they’ll want tabs on the possible next leader

^ Maybe even some possible collusion… I doubt Earis or Zaros would take any deals but their mothers may.

- Speaking of the Queen, the “darker’ side to her was really interesting. Her “I’m still Queen and I’m always your mother” attitude twisted her benevolence to more personal matters

- Zaros’ mom is still a bitch though

- Zaros will win debate. Not a doubt in my mind. And if/when the combat trial happens, Earis will dominate.

^ The question is how they’ll respond to victory. Since they’re being judged on character as well, how they respond may be paramount to their judging (I only say this because Zaros is a teasing bastard, Earis seems to have anger issues, and both talk shit - their flaws may come to the forefront, win or lose)

- Zaros and Earis seemed to be more friendly this episode. Still obviously competitive, but their jests felt more between friends than strictly mean, as they had been before. Possible rewarming back up to eachother? Old connections being reinvigorated?

^ “Beautiful things capture my attention just as much as mundane ones.”

- Finishing this off with an AU idea I had: Zaros wins the trial, but Earis keeps their reputation with the tournament. Excellent swordsman? Great. They become a general and host the newly-revamped version of combat tournament.

#sakuverse #zsakuva #zaros atha’lin #zsakuva zaros #earis #thoughts on latest episode #zaros

[mybl0odiedvalentine]

This is me eating every last bit of Zaros contents that has ever been created

#zsakuva #I LOVE THE FICS #I LOVE THE FANARTS #thank you saku for creating zaros #sakuverse #zsakuva zaros #the noble trials