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kashimalin-fanfiction · 2 years

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—𝘊𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘣𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘌𝘢𝘳𝘭𝘺 𝘈𝘳𝘦 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘉𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘊𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘣𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴

► SYNOPSIS:

It's the anniversary of the day peace came to Cradle, and it's also the eve of the day Ray, Sirius and Alice started dating. Despite the rough start, they find a way to enjoy themselves.

▍sirius x alice x ray ▍rating: E ▍tags: Polyamory; Modern AU; Banter; Fluff; Humor; almost everyone else makes an appearance; Dressing Room Sex; Non-Explicit Sex; Public Sex; Language of Flowers; Alcohol ▍wordcount: 2,699

▍masterlist

▍written for Ikemen Revolution Gift Exchange, hosted by @ikemenlibrary and @sunnyikemen ! Thank you for another amazing gift exchange ❤

▍a/n: @kashimalin-fanfiction , I had the pleasure of writing this gift for you! I decided to try and mash the ideas you provided into one (hopefully) beautiful mess, they were all amazing. Thank you for them and for giving me this lovely pairing to work with! I adore these three as a polyship. I had tons of fun making this gift for you - even if my sadness over ikerev's closing nudged me to add some additional sentimentality to it, haha :') It is partly inspired by ikerev's first anniversary event that recently had a rerun. Once again thank you and I hope you like this! ❤❤❤

"It makes me feel like I'm the only one making sacrifices for the sake of the group."

Ray is grumpy and still has his bedhair on that Alice only somewhat smoothed back into order. She'd given him the thumbs up while affirming that he has a "wild, liberated look on that suits him"... which got Ray at the last part. But still.

"It's not a group, it's a relationship!" She insists, lightly slapping his arm even if she continues to cling to it, making it harder for both of them to walk.

"…And it's not a sacrifice, you basically slept in. And now we're late."

Ray groans with what's remaining of his sleepiness coloring his voice hoarse. He thought he wouldn't need to explain this to Sirius, the one person who understands him at a glance alone otherwise. Well, as long as it resolves around managing the army, it seems.

"I slept in so you two don't call me a sleepyhead once the small hours come in." He has that trademark pissed-off look on his face that Alice (and maybe Sirius too) somehow finds hot. He's not exaggerating it on purpose, he swears - and goes on: "So that we could celebrate more."

Sirius can easily call out the inadequacy of that, but also, he knows his boyfriend. He just can't last long after midnight. He gets it.

That, plus, his temper has been greatly softened by a certain scene this morning - when barging into their shared room to finally wake up the sleepy King of Spades, he found him gloriously outstretched across the spacious bed, an alarm going off, likely for the nth time - and Ray sleeping unbothered through it.

A few seconds in it Sirius instantly recognized Alice's singing voice - it was a recording of him and Alice jokingly dueting for a clichéd love song while tipsy once at a black army banquet. Well, in Sirius' case, "tipsy" is an understatement. He didn't know Ray had this, much less that he used it as his alarm. He must've calculated that they both would be nowhere to be found by the time the alarm goes off, and subsequently, they won't hear. A miscalculation on his part being his actual waking up.

He fished out Ray's phone under the sheets successfully on the second loop of the song and turned it off before nudging his boyfriend awake - leaving him to think he himself turned it out between episodes of dozing off. Sirius' reason lies somewhere between being endeared to shyness and…blackmail material. He hasn't finalized his decision, and it highly depends on Ray's behavior today.

Today, the anniversary of the day the two armies got united.

And by great design, the eve of their own anniversary as a polyamorous couple. That would make twice the celebration, and consequently, twice the amount of chaos surrounding it.

"Sirius, not everyone has long legs like yours… slow it down."

He snaps back into reality.

Alice refuses to let go of Ray's arm which would make significant acceleration to her walking speed. But still, Sirius slows down, remembering that the shop is not going to close down for good five more hours, remembering that Luka and the red army chefs are taking care of the catering, remembering that Seth and a red army unit are taking care of preparing the venue, remembering that Fenrir and Zero are taking care of the security…

Remembering how Lancelot had snatched the folder with enlisted duties and who is in charge of them right off his hands.

He sighs but not of exhaustion, for once, keeping a little smile on his face and wishing he could be a little more like Ray.

"Okay let's make this quick, Alice chooses a dress then we go grab two suits, pay, walk out the store. Roger that?"

Alice knows better than to let Sirius's (bad) personality traits (yes, even he has some!) rub on her, but she can't help but mirror his grimace. WHY must men have just ONE official outfit in their wardrobe? While living under one roof with Fenrir Godspeed and his crazy gun collection, at least twenty of which are spraying paint and other liquids and double as a "crazy party trick", at that? One should have a backup suit. Ah, but, a little anniversary day shopping trip can be a wonderful bonding experience, and Alice who has plenty of dresses to choose from is still talked into buying another. It's on them.

"Roger that… should I pick a black dress and make it easier for you two?"

"Hell no." Ray shakes his head, hands still in his pockets rather than browsing the store. "We're not attending a funeral."

"Ray."

Sirius decides it will be taking it too far if he says, 'with the way this is going, it's going to be mine', because…it's not that bad? He looks at his smart watch and it's just 2 PM, they'll drop the clothes at the dry cleaner's, go grab lunch right afterward...

"…Okay then, why don't you choose it for me? And we don't really have to match… or it can be subtle. Like your neckties with my jewelry, or-"

"Let's match socks. You can pick a short dress and pair it with stockings?"

"No."

Ray groans again, he was clearly asking Alice and not Sirius. "Why not?"

Sirius crosses his arms, somehow less forwards than usual with his criticism. "…I've seen your taste for socks."

"He's right, Ray…"

Feeling betrayed, Ray's eyes widen, giving the two a clear view of his beautiful forest-green irises with a hint of fire in them. It's a forest fire they would want to put out, though, because Ray's rage is throwing flames at Sirius now.

"And you wear grandpa socks! You're lucky I gifted you a kitty print pair last Christmas or you'd remain with the same five ugly argyle print ones for life."

"But they're provided as part of the black army uniform…" Alice tries to back up for Sirius, but to no avail. They are far worse than Ray's crazy sock collection.

"Does anyone even wear these?" Ray scoffs, but is interrupted by Sirius grabbing his hand along with Alice's.

"Okay, timeout."

Making sure that no one is looking at them, Sirius leads them into a fitting room, closing it shut from the inside. He believes this is the best decision, even if undiscussed beforehand. Had he discussed it with them, one of his partners surely would've warned him that the fitting room is far from spacious enough for three people to get in. But Sirius knows how to get tough situations to work in his favor, with the King of Spades practically forced to meet his eyes instead of sulking and gazing away. Getting Alice to cooperate is much, much easier. He highly suspects that the deeper their feelings run for each other, the more the other man acts like a brat. Deep inside, Sirius sees the endearment of it - but right now he could use some cooperation.

"Your socks matching idea has potential. But maybe for some other occasion. Like Belle's birthday for instance."

"Hey, I will hold you to that."

"Fine." Sirius says blankly, impatient to move on. "And I suggest white and dark blue for Alice's dress. White for peace and blue for the army."

"That’s actually great. I think I want to see you in these colors, Alice."

Both pairs of eyes are on her now, and she just nervously chuckles. Gosh, she must be careful not to choose a dress with too much white or she'll become a blushing bride in the face of the mirror in the fitting room, imagination always running a little wild around these two. In the sweetest way.

"I love the sound of that! Are we ready to go out now?"

She thinks she sees them briefly exchanging a knowing gaze. In the next moment, two identically sweet smooches land on her cheeks.

***

Mission New Outfit is a total success. Alice looks like the goddess of peace she is, a deity they're supposed to worship. So stealing a kiss or two amidst the cascade of compliments is a must! Forgetting about how inconveniently cramped the fitting room was, the two of them gladly go in in order to help Alice out of the dress. They're in luck that she is characteristically a little clumsy or else her affirmations that she can manage alone would hold too much ground for this.

Either way, they end up in there again. Dazzled by her beauty, once the expensive dress is securely put away they share their fascinations in a way they see fit. Where words fail them, they use kisses - when they fail too, they use more than that.

It's not the first time they've been up to no good in places that are no good for that. Once it gets too hot to breathe and palm-sealed mouths still find a way to produce illicit sounds, they know they should stop.

It's a celebration started early, one of them says.A good couple of seconds afterward, the mark of orgasm staining another's voice, it is added:

Those are the best celebrations.

***

All guests are in the venue by late sunset, chatting around and helping themselves at the buffet. Friends living east and west of the civic center unite for the bright occasion, the word "peace" dancing off their tongues every now and then like candy that someone gives away. They indulge in it, knowing no fear and no censure. People high in the ranks blend with common folks. Selfie sticks are being raised in the air as often as toasts of champagne are - sticking out like antennas catching the same radio frequency of jovial laughter all around.

With pats on his back, Ray is sent off to the stage by the black army officers as his turn to hold a speech comes. He dislikes the idea of him and Lancelot coming individually in front of the people, and welcomes the King of Hearts on stage with him instead. It comes easy to them to combine it into one speech, the unnecessary clichés are cut off in favor of some honest, heartfelt words; of gratitude and bright hope for the future. The army officers are one by one named for their contribution to the peace, and of course, Alice's name is not left out either - the following applause heating her cheeks that almost hurt by smiling now. In the next moment everyone's attention turns to a flower cart being pushed into view below the stage - it's introduced into the venue by the whole Oswald family - well, minus one member who is at the black army table, - a pink-haired young man with a cheshire grin and someone that rarely shows up in public but whose face the people used to know from posters hung around town. Not a wanted man anymore and with all misunderstandings clouding his reputation shooed away along with the dark clouds of looming war, the public applauds the bunch's entry albeit with curiosity. Sporting a pretty suit, Harr has no hood to pull down and hide his face behind, but he doesn't feel too intimidated by the attention. He has Loki. Reminiscent of a mischievous cat, Loki skips his way up on stage and confidently steals the microphone.

From the name of Canis Major, the Oswald family flower shop, he thanks the members of the two armies, their kings, and everyone else present tonight. Apparently, there is a surprise done with the help of the citizens of Cradle who volunteered by joining in the preparation process today at the central plaza.

Watching as a flower crown is placed on Lancelot's blonde head, Ray knows he's next in line and spots Sirius in the public to raise a brow at. The latter shrugs in a nonchalant manner, visibly amused by the current events. "Oh, so now you're not uptight?", thinks Ray, a flower crown placed on his own head not long after. Next are the two armies' officers, much to Sirius' surprise. And finally, Alice.

To everyone else present is handled a white poppy, which appears on the flower crowns as well. Sirius chimes in to let those who don't know that the flower symbolizes peace. After its short journey, the microphone is finally back in Ray's hands and he expresses his gratitude, genuine surprise still marking his features - and the red army king is the same.

***

Soon everyone's back at their tables, live music fills the venue and many let it be the background noise of their chatter with one another. Sirius is swamped with questions if he truly didn't know about all of this. So is Ray, who is thought to know about the celebration's organization process. So is Alice, as their self-proclaimed aide-du-camp. Just like the two men, Alice shrugs, looking extra tiny in Sirius' coat that she took when a gush of wind came out.

Mainly, they get asked "where have you been all day to miss that!", and they chuckle. A hint of a knowing gaze is exchanged between the three, with noone noticing.

As soon as their friends give them a breather, the trio excuses themselves and makes it out of the crowd.

***

Whoever chose the location of the venue, Alice needs to thank them personally tomorrow. It turns out to be close to Cradle's beach, and she excitingly leads her puzzled boyfriends there.

"It's so nice to have two of you." She jokes, contently seated on Ray's coat on the sand as Sirius' one is dappled warmly around her shoulders at the same time. It's a mystery how none of their flower crowns fell off as she practically took them for a run towards here.

Seated next to her, Ray turns his attention to the polaroid camera hanging from his neck. Seth just couldn't help himself - he went ahead and gave them their anniversary gift way ahead of the others. He mentioned that there was a surprise in there.

"Tsk. It's the three of us on stage but I have that goofy surprised expression." Ray frowns as he pulls out the tiny photo that was last made. Seth had mentioned something about the three of them making some memories with it but this is in no way a good start.

"C'mon, come closer." Ray beckons, reaching to wrap his arm around Sirius on Alice's other side while holding the camera to face their way. They all smile and the shutter is clicked.

Alice holds the tiny polaroid photo with both hands like the prized possession it is, already back in their shared room in her mind and wondering where to put it. While admiring it, she misses the way Sirius and Ray lean in close to each other behind her back and meet their lips for a tiny kiss.

She hands back the camera to Ray and gains their attention again.

"I brought something, too."

They wait for the big reveal as she reaches inside the XL-sized dark blue coat. Another early gift?

"Ta-daah!" Alice exclaims, bringing into view…a bottle of champagne. Snatched from the buffet, most likely.

Ray and Sirius do another round of non-verbal communication put to test many a time during their years of knowing each other. It's the "no, I didn't see when this happened either".

Sirius is faster to crack into laughter than Ray this time, proceeding to open the bottle. The cork flies off with a loud 'pop' and to everyone's surprise, Sirius takes the first sip without being talked into this by his lovers. As if taking Ray's advice of letting loose, he even forgoes his own rule of avoiding alcohol - likely leaving himself in the hands of his trustworthy lovers to stop him before he becomes a different person.

Alice cheers on for him and he actually listens to her and chugs more. They’re a ridiculous but lovely sight. Their anniversary is not until a good hour or two, but Ray definitely feels like they started celebrating early.

"Wow. Alice steals a bottle and now you're drinking like no tomorrow. I'm clearly not the biggest troublemaker of the group."

"There he goes again!"

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#not my writing!#a reblog to promote mo's stunning work and support them and the Ikemen library mission of supporting one another!#thank you SO MUCH AGAIN i love it!#ikemen revolution fanfiction

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kashimalin-fanfiction · 2 years

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A Dream, or Three (Luka/Alice/Edgar)

Summary: Three kisses, three dreams, three people in love.

Pairing: Luka Clemence / Alice / Edgar Bright

Count: 4902 words.

Rating: General

Warnings: None.

My gift for the @ikemenlibrary Ikemen Revolution exchange! My gift is for @chaosangel767 - please enjoy!

Luka, Alice, and Edgar’s relationship was a curious one.

It was not because the three of them were dating – polyamorous relationships were not uncommon in Black Territory – but the fact that their relationship involved two high-ranking officers from two separate armies across the country. While many officers with spouses and families opted to stay in a family home, it made less sense for the three of them.

When they were not able to spend extended time together, their current arrangement was for Alice to switch between the two territories once a week. With the three of them being the liaisons between the two armies, the arrangement made perfect sense. However, the three would still find time for each other, either going on dates in Central, taking day trips if the days off lined up, or ensuring they made a little bit of time for one another.

But this week, Edgar had dropped her off a day early, citing a mission in another country that he had been asked to go on. He was not sure when he would return, so Alice would be staying with Luka and the Black Army for the foreseeable future.

The thought of being unable to see Edgar at all made Alice feel terribly lonely. Luka could see the concern on her features as she worked to hang the laundry outside in the morning sun.

“He’ll be home soon, Alice,” he said, placing a hand on her back to comfort her and support her as she lifted onto her tip-toes to put the clothespins in place.

“I know, but this is just the first big mission he’s had since the Magic Tower…” She let out a sigh. “I can’t help but worry. It just makes me sad to think about how we won’t see him at all for a week, or even more. But!” She snapped the sheet in front of her with a flick of her wrist, standing up straight, “Like Fenrir and Seth said, I can’t be worrying!”

Luka smiled gently at the way she motivated herself. He reached up to pet the top of her head before going to get the next set of laundry to hang up. “That’s right. We’ll make sure to have a nice time together, and then greet him when he comes home. He’ll probably come riding right in on horseback the moment he does…”

Alice laughed. “I can definitely see Edgar doing that.”

With that hope in their hearts, the two resumed their duties, idle chatter filling the warm scene around them.

Later that evening, Sirius had given them full reign over the menu for dinner. Originally, he had been slated to help Luka, but with Alice’s early arrival – and his keen eye for detail noticing her forlorn features throughout the day – the Queen removed everyone from the kitchen and left Luka and Alice to be on their own.

Luka couldn’t help his smile. While he did miss Edgar as well, he cherished these quiet moments with her. They were hard to find in the bustle of military duties, at dinnertime, or even when Edgar was around. He was an endless fountain of teasing and conversation, which they both loved him for.

But in this moment, it was only the ambient noises. The boiling water in a pot on the stove, the hissing of oil in a pan, the rhythmic beat of a knife hitting the cutting board. Then there was the quiet way she carried herself – her professional baker roots showing as she pressed the dough down with a satisfied smile, deft fingers tucking the edges into a roll shape. Ray and Fenrir had begged her for her famous dinner rolls earlier that day, and Luka knew they would be inhaled within moments of the basket hitting the table.

He thought about these quiet moments found in the middle of their hectic lifestyles, and reflected on a topic Ray had brought up last week.

“You have a home in the Black Army, always, Luka. But I know you have also brought up moving to Central a couple times. Have you considered it any further?”

Luka chewed his lip as he mulled on the idea. Would Alice like such an idea? What kind of house would they seek? Would it be in Central, or in one of the territories? It might make getting to work a bit of a hassle in the mornings, but Luka could easily rattle off a list of all the soldiers who went home at the end of the day. Ray had done the very same last week, suggesting he talk to them for advice.

“… Alice,” he quietly murmured, breaking the ambient silence, “What do you think about living together over a restaurant or bakery?”

“Eh?” She looked over at him, the dough cutter in her one hand pausing. “You mean, all three of us?”

“Yes. Ray and I were talking about living away from the military barracks last week. It came up. I’ve just been trying to think about what it would be like for the three of us to share that time together.”

Alice mulled on it as she shaped the last few rolls, before stating: “I think the Black Army would starve a little bit without you.”

Luka let out a soft laugh. “That’s true.”

“But…” Alice opened the oven, placing the rolls in, “they have Sirius, and Ray’s getting better at cooking, so it wouldn’t be all bad. I think Edgar would also like having a new place to come home to. Oh, though, he did mention he has his house back in Red Territory now. But it would be hard for you to live there, right, Luka?”

“Probably a little bit. That’s why I was thinking Central. And I wouldn’t want to wear you down with the commute either when you help both of us out. So that’s why I was wondering about living over a restaurant… something we could do when I leave the Black Army.”

“Then, let’s talk about it when Edgar’s home.” She lifted herself on her tiptoes, catching Luka’s attention. He turned his head her way, and was met with a brief, chaste kiss. “What do you think?”

Luka’s cheeks became a dusty pink, but he nodded. “That sounds like a great idea.”

The whole affair had been her idea.

Alice had expressed an interest in taking courses at Central School over dinner one evening, as more of a general statement. When Lancelot inquired as to why she would want such a thing, she declared that, while she was now a permanent resident of Cradle, she still had many gaps in her knowledge that made it difficult at times to assist with her duties. She also thought it would be a good opportunity to go back to school and learn a bit more about magic or history.

The praise from others was swift – Zero and Kyle both thought it to be a good idea, with Jonah following up that it would be good for her to only take classes that pertained to her interests and needs. Edgar, seated next to her, expressed a slight concern about taking classes with other residents younger than her, but she merely shook her head and said not to worry about it.

Lancelot offered to write to the School, and it was then decided. Edgar offered to accompany her on his next day off, and they both travelled to the school together. They visited several teachers between their courses, Edgar leading the way to ensure she didn’t get lost in the massive building.

After talking to several teachers, getting a meal in the cafeteria, and visiting some of the school grounds, the final bell had rung. Students were now free from their classes, and had left their classrooms to either study in the library, go into town, or return to their dorms. The lively school had now become quieter.

“Do any of the classes interest you?” Edgar leaned over Alice’s shoulder as they walked down the hallway, peering at the list in her hands. She had covered the margins in notes, her tidy script outlining the classes she was interested in, the opinions that the teachers had shared, and if the times they were offered would conflict with any of her weekly duties.

“I think so!” She pointed to one that she had circled and starred – a class for younger students on the basic principles of magic casting. “I can only use magic crystals through other technology, and would like to learn how to use them properly… oh, and this one, too!” Her finger trailed up to a class geared towards the children of merchants. “To learn more for Luka’s café dreams.”

Edgar couldn’t help the smile rising to his lips, his hand lifting to wind his fingers about her elbow. “I think that’s a very lovely idea. Luka wanted to take the very same class, but it conflicted with some of the military training classes. That may have been around the time he set his heart on joining the Black Army, too.”

“Exactly! And that’s why I want to learn so we can support him! But I’m most interested in the ‘History of Cradle’ course we just spoke to Professor Dean about.”

“Ah.” Edgar’s mouth went to a thin line at that reminder. They had just left Professor Dean’s office, and he had wasted no time tempting Alice to join his course. He spun it well, heavily suggesting that it would be beneficial to study Cradle’s history now that she was becoming a more permanent resident of Cradle. Edgar wished he could warn her proper about Dean’s strict coursework and his harsh grading style, but a stern look from Dean when she looked down to take notes stopped him from saying anything but.

He opted to tell her when they were back at home in Red Territory.

“I think it would be useful too, but we can review them later. For now… do you want an extra tour?”

“Hm?” She looked back at him as he came to a stop. “What do you mean?”

He tugged on her arm, hand still tucked into the crook of her elbow. “Why don’t you come see?”

And just like usual, there was no way she could resist the glint in his eye and the smile on his lips.

“This is our spot.” Edgar grinned as he opened the door to the roof, relieved that it was still unlocked like the old days. An expansive blue sky greeted them overhead, billowing white clouds lazily rolling by. The old benches were still there, and the tall fence that guarded the edge. A few more items had found their way up here, but Edgar was happy to see not much had changed at all.

“It’s so quiet up here!” she exclaimed, stepping out onto the roof. Edgar was quick to follow, holding onto her hand despite the barrier around them that would keep her safe. “So you and Luka would sneak up here all the time?”

“We would come here for any old reason. To chat, to skip some classes, to get away from Jonah when he started chasing Luka down or nagging me… I think we even had fights up here once or twice. … Mock fights,” he clarified, when Alice looked to him with shock. “Just to practice what we learned in class. Luka was always determined to get stronger. It was a miracle he had any friends at all, because he was so focused on carving out an independent life for himself.”

“And you, Edgar?”

“… It was probably a miracle I had any friends, either,” he answered with a sad smile. “School was the one place my Uncle didn’t have much control over. He would often bring me home for missions, parties, and the like, but… when here? I could do whatever I wanted.”

Alice gave a little tug on his hand, squeezing it tight. He responded in kind, letting her lean against him.

“Sometimes, I wonder what life would have been like if you were here with us when we grew up. Coming to school with us, chasing after your dreams, being the source of light that you are now. But I am sure life would have been very different. So, I settle for knowing that you came into our lives at the perfect time, Alice.”

“I think I did, too. While I do wish I gotten to see both you and Luka when you were younger, and been there to help you through your troubles… I think I fell into Cradle at the perfect time.”

Edgar laughed, kissing her forehead. “Well, maybe a little earlier would have been better. I would have liked for you to avoid the war and the whole affair with the Magic Tower.”

Alice hummed at the thought. “No, I still think it was the perfect time.”

He sighed at her smile, at her gaze, at the way she tilted her chin up. At her lips, at the way she drew him in without resistance, and at how their lips fit together all too perfectly.

“Thank you for falling in love with us,” he whispered against her lips. “And for accepting both of us.”

III

A masquerade ball was in full swing. The whole affair was a celebrated idea of a year of peace between the two territories, with the added twist of masks and colorful costumes. The intent, as listed on the invitations, was to remove any identity or loyalty from individuals and let them mingle as one Cradle.

Of course, some were more recognizable than others despite their disguises – the King of Hearts and King of Spades both cut striking figures when they entered the room, their facial features only disguised by simple masks. Kyle, the Seven of Hearts, was easily located if one glanced towards the drinks section.

But Luka had found some difficulty in seeking his partners. The three of them agreed to come to the venue separately, and not say a word about their outfits ahead of time. He figured that Alice would get some support in whisking up a true disguise, but had not expected Edgar to be so difficult to find.

As he scanned the room for a few minutes more, he sensed someone coming up right behind him and spun about, frowning as he recognized the glittering emerald eyes before his own.

“There you are,” he muttered, taking in Edgar’s appearance. While his head was adorned with a musketeer hat at a jaunted angle, the Jack of Hearts had even gone so far as to dye his hair a rich black. A matching mask covered most of his face, sparing only his jaw and mouth, currently curved into a winning smile.

“And here I thought you would do the same since you dye your hair all the time,” Edgar commented as he scanned Luka’s outfit – a silver mask adorned with shimmering jewels, supplied by Seth, along with a brilliant, gilded cloak and uniform that caught the light as he turned. “Or, perhaps it would have been an even better disguise if you removed the magical dye from your hair.”

“Don’t even joke about it,” Luka spat. “I don’t need my idiot brother hunting me down at this party and praising me for taking the dye out.”

Edgar laughed. “Truly, we do not need that. So, I’ll ask: have you found Alice yet?”

Luka shook his head.

“Curious. She arrived before us, yes?” Edgar’s smile curled into a frown only briefly before coming back. “Then, let’s make a game of it. The first to find Alice and kiss her wins.”

Luka’s eyes widened. “Kiss? Do we have to go that far?”

“We’re all disguised here, right?” Edgar touched his hair, rubbing it between gloved fingers. “She will have to recognize us first and let us kiss her. So, there’s a bit of convincing in it as well. I also think it balances out our skillsets and costumes for this game.”

Luka made a face, but nodded. “All right. You’re on, Ed.”

“Let’s go, then!” Edgar patted Luka on the shoulder as he strode by, heading deeper into the party. Luka’s eyes narrowed as he watched him vanish into the crowd, before taking off in a confident stride. He had checked this place earlier, but perhaps…

“… Not here.” Luka scanned all the patrons currently at the buffet section, recognizing Sirius and Fenrir as they stood alongside. They gave him a wave which he returned, still trying to find Alice. Now that Edgar had shown him is perfect disguise, he took extra time with anybody who had long hair or was around her height, in case she had a similar idea to Edgar and dyed it.

I’m not gonna lose to Ed! He walked over to Fenrir and Sirius, leaning in to ask, “Have you seen Alice anywhere?”

Fenrir and Sirius mulled over the question for a moment, before shaking their heads.

“Why? Have you not seen the little lady yet yourself?”

“Not at all. I just want to make sure she’s here to make sure she made it safely. Thanks for your help.”

“Of course!” Fenrir smiled, lifting his glass. “I hope you find her soon. Let us know if you want us to start searchin’.”

“Will do. Thanks, Fenrir.” With that, Luka took off deeper into the party. He came across the other BA officers, asking each of them in turn if they had seen Alice, but to no avail. With each denial, his heart began to beat faster, an anxious sensation rising up in his throat.

Where is she? As he looked around the party, turning about – he felt someone bump into him from behind.

Edgar figured Luka would seek out the obvious places first as he walked away. So, he made a point of striding in the opposite direction from the buffet table and little eating areas, letting that be Luka’s turf. After all, Edgar had already checked there in his search for both his partners.

He ended up searching a couple of the balconies first, to see if Alice had stepped away from the noise and crowd. However, he only spied couples making romantic rendezvouses for his efforts, and stepped away to let them have their privacy. When she was not in any of the less-expected places, he trailed back into the party, briefly mingling with some of the upper echelons of both Red and Black society, wondering if any of them had attempted to speak with the coveted and infamous Alice the Second. As he wandered, he spied Luka talking to Seth, clearly inquiring about Alice from the way his lips moved.

That’s not a bad idea. Taking the cue from his boyfriend, Edgar went off to locate Zero and Kyle, easily located at the edge of the room. The former was barely disguised, wearing only his formal Red Army dress and a simple golden mask. The latter had done the same, but his mask had been discarded and was now being used as a fan to cool off his warmed face.

“You’ve already had too much to drink, I see,” Edgar said as he crept up behind Kyle, grinning as the man let out a shocked yell.

“Edgar! What the hell, man?” Kyle clapped a hand over the back of his neck, grimacing at Edgar as Zero sighed from next to them.

“My apologies, I couldn’t resist. I wanted to ask: have either of you seen Alice?”

“I haven’t seen her,” Kyle muttered, glancing around the room. “I’ve seen Luka around, though.”

“But he was alone, too,” Zero added, frowning. “Has something happened?”

“Just looking for her. I want to make sure she made it safe and sound.” Edgar smiled, giving a little bow. “I’ll go ask Jonah, then.”

Jonah had not seen Alice either, and seemed rather concerned about Lancelot’s current state as well – though, Edgar deemed it much less concerning as he had only been gone for the past ten minutes. Surely, he was just preoccupied elsewhere, possibly pulled into a private conversation by an official or some other.

Then, where is Alice? Edgar frowned further, beginning to wander through the party while scanning the room. She can’t have been taken, can she? We are at peace, and this masquerade was invitation-only. We checked them at the door and included an anti-forgery measure in every invitation. So no one uncouth could have taken her… unless…

The thought of someone on the guest list whisking Alice away for any reason made his blood run cold. He had half a mind to start investigating the hallways that ran deeper into the Civic Center, breaking open any locked doors in case someone had whisked her away. He could easily get Luka and Zero to come with if he made it urgent, and—

Suddenly, he bumped into someone. Opening his mouth to apologize, he recognized that it was merely Luka, equally lost in thought and concerned as he was.

“Have you not seen Alice, either, then?” he asked, not wasting a moment.

“No. Not even you found her, Ed?”

“I haven’t. This is terribly concerning. Do you think she was kidnapped while here in the party, or on her way? I’ve half a mind to start searching the place.”

“It’s probably a good idea, but maybe if we team up… I’m just more concerned that none of the others have seen her, too.”

“So maybe we should investigate outside, then. That’s the best idea. Let’s—”

“Luka? Who— oh, Edgar, is that you?”

A voice, clear as a bell and music to their ears, caused Edgar and Luka to turn and face the source. A young woman, her hair pulled up into a bun adorned with little star-like jewels, in a gorgeous pale blue ballgown that suited her perfectly, approached them with her hand looped in another man’s elbow.

Blanc, the recordkeeper of Cradle, merely smiled at them both as they turned their vicious gazes on him. “Gentlemen. I was merely helping this flower of the ball because someone accidentally spilled something on her dress earlier when she was at the buffet.”

“Exactly!” Separating herself from Blanc, she came over to Luka and Edgar, taking their hands in her own. “So he escorted me away in the blink of an eye, and even got Lancelot to come in and help me with magic! He was able to clean it up perfectly with magic!”

At her infectious joy, Edgar found his hostility softening all too easily. “He did very well. Just as I would expect from our King of Hearts.”

“Agreed,” Blanc said with a smile. “Well, I shall leave all three of you be. I am afraid I have others who are most likely clamoring after my company.” With that, the recordkeeper stepped away, and the two men gave their full attention to their significant other.

“You look gorgeous, Alice,” Luka said, unbidden and honest. His features had relaxed into a warm smile, his fingers squeezing her hand. “We were worried when we couldn’t find you earlier.”

“I’m sorry I worried both of you so much. I didn’t realize you would start looking for me as soon as you arrived.”

“I truly thought it would be so easy that I made a game out of it, even.” Edgar suddenly smiled wide, glancing between both of his loves. “Speaking of… who gets to kiss her, then? She’s the one who found us.”

“Huh?” Alice tilted her head. “What do you mean, kiss?”

Luka sighed. “Ed said the first person to find and kiss you won. But that’s irrelevant now because you’re the one who found us…”

She mulled on those words for a moment, before lifting her head and beaming. “Then, you just both have to kiss me!”

““Huh?!”” It was their turn to be surprised, but Alice only tugged on their hands slightly to draw them closer.

“You both ‘found’ me at the same time, and I haven’t seen either of you all day.”

Neither man could deny her request, then. They both leaned down in unison, pressing a kiss each to her cheeks – and then, taking advantage of their closeness, Edgar leaned over and pressed a kiss to Luka’s cheek, grinning as his boyfriend made a sound in protest.

For, in that moment, the three of them acted without a care for those around them. What mattered was the love they shared and the dreams they kept – together.

#ikemen revolution #ikerev #edgar bright #luka clemence #ikemen library

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kashimalin-fanfiction · 2 years

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All right, it's time for your fandom veteran to hop onto the IkeRev Closure Post Train. I've played since literal Day 1. Pretty sure I got it so fast I actually have an extra day compared to most Day 1 players due to when the rollover is. It's the game I have custom plush for, merch, a cosplay, etc. for. Gonna put a read more because I don't wanna clog the tag and because dang I get a lil emotional.

First things first, the hopeful statements: The game will still be active and playable, the servers still up - yeah, no new content hits very differently than replaying old content, but it means people can still come in and get inspired by the world and characters. This is a good thing compared to a game being removed entirely (PT Silent Hills, anyone?) for the preservation of the game.

Secondly: Fandoms do not die when a game closes, if the people are willing to continue it. The power of fandom is in the people, not the media. Sure, the media fuels the fandom, but it is nothing without those who engage with it.

I am able to say this with confidence, because I can tell you this is absolutely not my first encounter with a closing game. For those who have followed me a long time: I was a moderator and writer for a little known Atsume game called Notice Me Senpai. Maybe you heard of it - heck, maybe you even played it. I went through a tragic announcement of the company shuttering and closing the app with a month to spare back in 2017. You want to know something cool?

I still am part of the Discord. The blog is still up. We have people joining the Discord in 2022, who remember this game. The Wikia is something I am updating slow and steady to preserve the game's content, and at some point that will be archived too. There are other fans with me who I know if I go to and talk about this game they will know who I reference.

We probably would call ourselves dormant, as one friend suggested when I brought this up to them. That is what IkeRev may become: dormant. And that is okay.

You can still cherish something when it closes. You do not have to stop playing the game when there are no new events. Hold onto what you have. Don't let it go. I am not telling you to stop mourning or stop being sad, or angry: it's a natural state. I have vivid recollections of where I was and what I was doing when Notice Me Senpai shut down, and the aftermath. I remember being angry and upset a game that had done so much for me was going to be gone. But then, I channeled it into the preservation of Notice Me Senpai media from the blog, encouraging everyone to download it, and celebrating it with events.

So, I ask and implore you: what will you do now? Everyone will react differently. Maybe you will start that longfic you have been itching to write. Maybe you'll review your screenshots and preserve some of the lore. Maybe you will draw to celebrate the closure.

In five years, maybe that fic will be completed. Maybe the Wikia will be updated to tell others what was there when the game was alive. Maybe your favorites will appear in your warm-up sketches.

Me, personally? I vow to finish "Fenrir Godspeed, King of Spades," and in probably a few years down the line when I have a boatload more cosplay experience, I will remake my Ray cosplay more dynamic than the first. (I'll actually make a sword, this time.)

Mourn, but don't forget. If you love what you have experienced, cherish those friends. Talk about the game still. Let the natural progression of a fandom take you through the motions. Come talk to me if you have anything you want to share. Make a discord. After your sadness or anger, utilize it to do something great for the game that has touched you so.

(And, keep an eye out, maybe I'll open requests exclusively for Rev for a hurrah. Still pending the idea.)

#this long as HELL but i had to say it all yup #on the fanfic blog because i think this is where more ikerev folks follow me tbh #i'd put it in the ikerev tag but we don't need another post cloggin'

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kashimalin-fanfiction · 2 years

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heyy i've been following you for quite some time now and i remember reading your ikemen revolution fics always made my day! and um i can't find your masterlist post when i try searching it on your blog, i really would like to read your works again since it helps comfort me back then. if its not a problem, can i possibly have a link to your ikemen revolution masterlist please? thank you very much, have a great day <3

Awww, Anon, of course! Find it below. I'm going to try and update it too, and repin this post. (I pinned the Kiss Post when there were a bunch of people asking after it in chats, but I'll swap it back out.)

Thanks so much <3 you have a great day too, please, and hope you are taking the news all right!

https://kashimalin-fanfiction.tumblr.com/post/617390543322923008/ikemen-revolution-masterpost

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kashimalin-fanfiction · 2 years

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Good evening IkeRev fans I'm bout to go through all my old ideas and get to writing

Also if any Blanc stans would like to send me some lore, fun facts, or things you have noticed about our White Rabbit, I'd love to hear them because I already have a Word Doc going for a fanfic route.

#ikemen revolution #a proper post will come later and maybe a crack open for ikerev requests because man #i am so sad about this

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kashimalin-fanfiction · 2 years

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Calling all Ikémen Revolution Content Creators!

(this gorgeous banner was made by our wonderfully talented @sunnyikemen)

All of you in the Discord server are already aware of this, but I am excited to announce that Sunny @sunnyikemen and I are have planned the next Ikémen Fandom Gift Exchange!

This time it will be for Ikémen Revolution, and I cannot be more thrilled to finally release the sign up sheet for this event.

You can sign up here!

The deadline to submit your answers will be due on August 17, two weeks and a few days from today (August 2) - if you’re interested in joining, please make sure to get your answers completed and sent in before then. You can edit your sign up form after it’s been submitted, but please make sure to let one of the hosts know you’ve done that, as we do not get notified when that happens and we want to make sure everyone’s happy with up to date information. Once the deadline passes, we will turn off the link to edit or submit so if you have any problems after then, please contact a host directly.

Just like before, once we get everyone’s information organized and sorted, we will be reaching out to everyone individually on August 28 to let you know who you’ve been assigned to as well as how long you have to create the project and everything to know about the due date.

Please note before signing up that we do have a Discord server we’d like everyone to join. We’d love for all the participants (us included!) to get to know one another and work together and potentially help each other out within the event. We also have some fun bots to play with such as a Jukebox and Marriage Hunter~!

If using Discord is something you are absolutely not comfortable with, please speak with a host before you send in an application.

Once your application has been accepted for the gift exchange, one of us will reach out with a link to join the Discord server.

Please let us know if you have any questions! We can be reached via DM on Tumblr or Discord (Brenna~#4948 and sunny🌻#0606).

Keep reading

#it's been a while huh everyone! i am debating participating but would like to #signal boost #ikemen revolution

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kashimalin-fanfiction · 3 years

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Beloved (Lancelot Kingsley/Jonah Clemence)

Summary: Lancelot has always wanted to try a pet name since hearing the Queen of Spades use one for his lady.

Pairing: Jonah Clemence/Lancelot Kingsley

Count: 501 words.

Rating: General

Warnings: None.

For Day 7 – Free Day, we’re going to call it Pet Names, at the suggestion of one of my JonaLot shipping friends! I hope you have enjoyed these fics throughout the week – thank you for your interest and support all week, I appreciate it so much!

“Beloved.”

Jonah froze from where he was seated at the vanity, brushing the bedhead out of his hair. A word that he had never expected to fall from Lancelot’s lips had just crossed into the typical silence of their morning routine, uttered as Lancelot turned from buttoning up his crimson shirt.

The silence that followed practically begged for a response. Turning, Jonah raised a curious eyebrow toward Lancelot. “Yes, Lancelot?”

The response appeared to satisfy him, a small smile rising to his lips. “That name suits you best.”

“Compared to what? And this is rather out of the blue. Where did the urge to call me something like that come from?”

The follow-up seemed to be the wrong response, as Lancelot shut his lips again and did not speak for several moments as he tucked in his shirt and shrugged his jacket on. But as he buttoned it up and attached the golden pin and chain to his lapel, he answered:

“Because Sirius has one for his significant other.”

“So why do I need one?”

Lancelot mulled on that for a moment more. Jonah found himself impressed at the apparent dedication and thought Lancelot had been putting toward this topic – briefly wondering how long it had been eating at him for.

“Because we work so closely together when we are working as the King and Queen of Hearts,” Lancelot finally said, his tone firm and assured. “But after work, I want to convey my love to you in a manner separate from work. So because I have always called you by your name, I feel as if I should use something else when we are not busy managing the army. The mere use of your name is not enough for me, I believe. Not anymore.”

Jonah only stared, the brush in his hand long forgotten as Lancelot stepped down, leaning down to press a kiss to the top of Jonah’s head.

“I do not expect you to call me anything in return, but I would like to ask that you allow me this one small pleasure, beloved.”

The name came again, dropped at the end of a sentence with an affectionate touch. Upon hearing it in such a way, Jonah knew then he was powerless against it.

“I would never want to deny you anything, my King,” Jonah responded, standing from the stool and pressing a kiss to Lancelot’s cheek. “Besides, I could get used to it, in time! You never know.”

Lancelot smiled, moving to kiss Jonah proper as his hand took the brush from Jonah’s fingers. “And I appreciate you very much for saying so. Now, sit back down. I want to try to do your hair again.”

“Huh? Again? But you did it yesterday! I can’t ask you to do it again, Lancelot!”

“I want to.”

Such a simple response was given with no room to refuse or deny, so Jonah huffed and sat back down again. “Just don’t tug too hard.”

“I promise you I will not.”

#jonalotweek21 #jonalotweek #jonalot #lancelot kingsley #jonah clemence #ikemen revolution

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kashimalin-fanfiction · 3 years

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When I Meet You Again (Lancelot Kingsley/Jonah Clemence)

Summary: In a more modern Cradle, Lance and Jonah find one another again and fall in love.

Pairing: Jonah Clemence/Lancelot Kingsley

Count: 995 words.

Rating: General

Warnings: None.

For Day 6 – Modern, I’m back to throwing my own twists in the shuffle! This is a Modern Cradle! Assuming that IkeRev takes place in the 1880’s, this is pushing it to a future late 1900’s-society where they have continued developing their country and all has been at peace for some time. Enjoy!

A dozen tall buildings lined the horizon that was visible from sea. Historic smaller buildings were nestled between some of the high-risers, some boasting their long-standing establishment on a sign in the window, the brick around it well-worn.

Around the edges of Cradle and winding into some parts of the territories, train tracks connected the two territories. They then expanded beyond their borders, connecting the Black Territory’s ports to the rest of the continent, promoting Cradle from a small country of magic to a port destination and popular trade hub. The country had flourished in the past century and a half, thanks to the efforts of the two armies that still commanded their respective nations.

The reason for such a connection and transportation boom was two-fold: the discovery of crystal refinement and operations at the Magic Tower, and the combined efforts of major families across Cradle. The Godspeed family was still at the forefront of construction, while the Windsors had established themselves in transportation by land.

Lance Windsor, the eldest son of a transportation company that spanned across Cradle, was set to inherit the business when his mother retired. A fine train system ran around each territory and deeper into the mountains, where tunnels had been crafted into the rock to ensure nobody had to either climb the mountains to traverse the formerly dangerous forests to the south to travel to other countries.

Because he had finished his schooling, it was time for him to take over a small portion of the business, which meant hiring an assistant. His father, a Black Territory citizen, had instructed him on how to find the good and hardworking in those he interviewed. They had narrowed it down to five impressive candidates, but Lance still was not sure if he could choose just one.

But the last candidate impressed him the most of them all. Jonah Labelle, a citizen from a Central family. He had come with glowing recommendations from all previous employers and his schooling. Lance recalled him from a couple years behind in the business program at the Cradle Institute’s University Division.

He really made waves, and it shows. Lance’s thoughts on Jonah never once wavered throughout the entire interview. The man answered with pose, refinement, and a becoming confidence that suited his attire and looks. All candidates had come prepared, but treated Lance as a stepping stone in their quest to achieve a higher position in the company later.

Jonah promised a more lasting relationship. So, Lance asked him directly.

“Do you believe you are prepared to inherit the role of right hand in this company? Understand that it will not come for some time, and that you may be stuck working with me for some time in a bit of an understated manner.”

“There is nothing I would wish for more,” Jonah answered, his first swift answer – a stark contrast to all others that he had given some thought to. “Ever since hearing about you at the university and seeing you at work in an internship, I have known that I would like to work at your side and help this company grow for the next generation. I want to work for you and the company, not just the company itself.”

The answer surprised Lance, but he did not let it show. Instead, he took the answer in stride with a polite smile.

“Then you are the most qualified to take on the position. Welcome aboard, Jonah Labelle.”

Jonah’s face lit up then, triumphant and proud – before he caught himself and gave a little cough as he stood from the table and bowed. “Thank you, Mr. Windsor! I look forward to working with you!”

“As do I – but, something to note now. Just Lance is fine for me.”

“… Mr. Lance, then. Thank you again.”

“Of course. I am sure that we will work well together.”

…

(But of course, neither knew the true meaning of their words and meeting. And that, despite the odds, the two had found each other, in a happier time.)

…

Jonah left the party that was in full swing in favor of stepping into a quiet carpeted hallway, where he had caught a flash of blond hair when Lance had escaped a few minutes prior. His love of two years now stood at the end of the hall, staring out a window over the vast expanse of Cradle.

Several parties together later and you still insist on escaping, Jonah thought with a smile as he came up behind Lance, winding an arm through his. “Hello, Lance.”

He jumped at the act, before relaxing as he saw Jonah’s face. “Hello. Apologies, have I been out too long?”

“No, not at all. I thought I would just come out with you this time. Spend some time together.”

“Well, you just missed a shooting star earlier.”

“Really? Then I hope you made a good wish for the both of us!”

Lance wrapped his arm about Jonah’s waist, tugging him closer. “I wished that we would meet again in the future and fall in love all over again. That we are soulmates who can never be parted.”

Jonah eyes glittered brightly at that, a smile rising to his features. “That sounds like a wonderful concept. I hope it comes true, because I don’t think you would take care of yourself if I wasn’t there!”

“Then I hope you are there to care for me, as you perhaps always have been.”

Jonah made a face at that. “… Well, I’d like you take care of me at least once if we come back. I shouldn’t always have to do the work!”

“You say that like I do not care for you now,” Lance said with a laugh, moving a little closer, lips nearly touching. “Should I do more?”

(Jonah’s only answer was to join their lips together in a blissful embrace, ignoring the party in favor of spending these precious moments with his love.)

#jonalotweek21 #jonalotweek #jonalot #lancelot kingsley #Jonah Clemence #ikemen revolution

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kashimalin-fanfiction · 3 years

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Like Father, Like Son (Lancelot Kingsley/Jonah Clemence)

Summary: Lancelot, in an attempt to resemble his father and connect with him, grows out a beard. Jonah loathes the new addition to Lancelot’s face and wants it off.

Pairing: Jonah Clemence/Lancelot Kingsley

Count: 621 words.

Rating: General

Warnings: None.

This is for @jonalotweek 2021 for Day 5 – Change. This ficlet is based on a few personal headcanons from a previous post of mine about JonaLot: I personally believe that Lancelot’s father had a beard, that Lancelot can grow one (but not Jonah), and that… oh, I don’t know, ten-fifteen years down the line, Lancelot tries growing one himself?

“I want you to shave it off.”

Lancelot glowered at Jonah again from where he sat at the head of the dining table. His husband and Queen sat to his right, as usual. The Jack of Hearts sat to his left, hiding a snicker.

“You repeating yourself is not going to change my mind, Jonah,” Lancelot said. “Besides, I never said I had any indication of keeping it forever.”

“But you said you were just testing it, to see how it looked! Isn’t the testing over?”

“It’s over when he says it’s over, Jonah,” Kyle piped up from the end of the table. “Now can we talk about something other than Lancelot’s appearance over dinner? I don’t want it two nights in a row.”

“Maybe we should talk about yours, Kyle,” Edgar suggested, smiling even wider. “I’d swear you’re looking twice your age.”

“And I’d swear you’re a vampire because the only thing that’s changed about your face is more wrinkles around your eyes.”

Zero glanced back and forth as the bickering continued, Jonah getting dragged in a moment later when Kyle called out that Jonah hadn’t show any signs of aging as well. When he launched into a description of his full routine, Zero’s eyes flickered over to meet Lancelot’s, who only smiled before going back to his dinner.

“Spare us the details!” Kyle cried out partway through, covering his ears. “Edgar, doesn’t this tick you off?”

“Oh? You can’t ignore what Jonah’s saying any time? I thought we all had that ability to let it go in one ear and out the other…”

“Edgar!” Scandalized, Jonah stood from the table, pointing accusingly at him. “How dare you! I can’t believe you would say something so rude toward your superior officer—!”

“Uh, Jonah?” Zero raised his hand slightly to get his Queen’s attention. “I don’t think he’s listening to you if he just said that…”

Before Jonah could launch on another tirade, Lancelot glanced at him and said, “Sit down and finish eating, Jonah. You don’t need to give into their desire to create a little commotion around here.”

Frowning, Jonah sat back down, picking up his utensils once more. “As you wish, Lancelot.”

The rest of dinner passed in relative peace – but not quiet – and Lancelot and Jonah retired to their shared chambers afterward. Jonah watched as Lancelot sat at the vanity and undid the short ponytail at the back of his head, letting his hair fall about his shoulders.

“Your father had shorter hair when he was King and had a beard,” Jonah commented as he came up behind Lancelot, wrapping his arms about him and meeting his gaze in the mirror. “Are you really matching him when you look like this? You look like your former namesake.”

Lancelot laughed softly, tilting his head back to look at Jonah. “You just don’t like this change. That’s no reason to call me a beast.”

“I never said I disliked it! I just think you… look better without the beard.”

“And I like when you push your bangs back, but you don’t see me clamoring for that.” As he spoke, Lancelot did just that – fingers gently brushing Jonah’s hair back from his forehead before pulling him down into a kiss. The awkward angle meant that the first kiss did not last very long, Jonah’s nose scrunching when his cheek brushed against the beard, but as Lancelot turned on the stool and kissed him proper, Jonah found himself sinking into the kiss nonetheless.

“I would brush them back if it pleased you,” Jonah muttered as they finally parted.

“But I would not ask that of you. You do what makes you happiest, Jonah. That is what I never want to change.”

#jonalotweek21 #jonalotweek #jonalot #lancelot kingsley #jonah clemence #ikemen revolution

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kashimalin-fanfiction · 3 years

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In Another Time (Lancelot Kingsley/Jonah Clemence)

Summary: All is well. And for the first time in his life, Lancelot wishes for a longer, brighter future.

Pairing: Jonah Clemence/Lancelot Kingsley

Count: 627 words.

Rating: General

Warnings: None.

Day 4 – Soulmates, where I wrote something short and hopefully sweet. And romantic. (I’ve denied these two their romance for almost half the week. I can’t do that to them anymore…!)

A laugh could be heard through the somewhat crowded Cradle streets. The night air was pleasant, a warm breeze coming from the south. Couples were linked arm in arm, and Jonah was no exception as he tugged Lancelot a little closer as he stifled his following laughs.

“My apologies, you just haven’t told a joke in some time,” he confessed, looking up at his husband. “That wasn’t too much, was it?”

“Not at all,” Lancelot answered with a gentle smile. “But it has also been a while since I’ve heard you laugh. Everything has been too busy as of late. I knew that after all our work was done, I was going to take you out on a date.”

“You did more than just take me out to dinner,” Jonah said. “You insisted we get dinner, then walk around the streets to visit my favorite shops, then got dessert at a café that is reservations only! It was only things I liked.” Pouting, he looked up at Lancelot, the unspoken words clear in his gaze: was there anything you wanted to do?

“And what I enjoy most is spending time with you. Especially since you have been waking up before I can see you. I fully expect you to stay in bed tomorrow morning.”

Jonah smiled, leaning against Lancelot’s shoulder. “I promise. I’ve missed seeing you, too. But I also know you have been skipping breakfast, so in return, I better see you in the dining hall in the morning.”

“I promise in return.”

The two walked in content silence for a little while after that, heading towards the carriage they had left on the outskirts of Central. Lancelot’s thoughts wandered as they did so, thinking back on the past five years and on their future.

The stars above their head made him think of how much time they had together, but how little they had in the grand scheme of the world around them. Their work now – dedicated to ensuring Cradle’s long future by strengthening ties with the Black Army, clearing out the Magic Tower, and connecting with other nations across the sea – would lay the groundwork for future generations.

In that moment, the future seemed so impossibly far away and close all at once. Instinctively tightening his grip on Jonah’s arm, Lancelot let out a heavy sigh.

What is the future Cradle will face? And how will we be remembered in its history? I only wish that we will be remembered in a more positive time for starting these peace talks and for moving Cradle into a new era? What will this land look like then? How will Jonah and I—

A squeeze on his wrist caused Lancelot to come out of his thoughts and look to Jonah, who was giving him a concerned gaze. “What’s on your mind, Lancelot?”

“… Nothing that should worry you,” he murmured, pausing in his stride. “I am merely thinking of the future we are working towards, and beyond that. And if our love will be remembered.”

“If you make it so, then it should stay,” Jonah scoffed. “In all our history books and on your texts.”

Lancelot smiled gently, leaning down to press a kiss to Jonah’s cheek. “Then I hope it will. And that whether it does or doesn’t, that we will meet again in the future and fall in love all over again. That we are soulmates who can never be parted.”

Jonah lifted himself up, returning the kiss to Lancelot’s lips. “That sounds like a wonderful concept. I hope it comes true, because I don’t think you would take care of yourself if I wasn’t there!”

It was Lancelot’s turn to laugh gently then. “Then I hope you are there to care for me.”

#jonalotweek21 #jonalotweek #jonalot #Jonah Clemence #lancelot kingsley #ikemen revolution

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kashimalin-fanfiction · 3 years

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One’s Legacy (Lancelot Kingsley/Jonah Clemence)

Summary: A solitary King makes his choice – but his passionate Queen refuses to leave him to his job alone. After Amon destroys all that Lancelot and his father had worked towards, Jonah is there to assist him in his journey.

Pairing: Jonah Clemence/Lancelot Kingsley

Count: 720 words.

Rating: General

Warnings: None.

This is for Jonalot Week 2021! A more somber theme for Day 3 – Dreams.

It was a week after his father had fallen into a coma no medicine or magic could ever hope to cure. Five days after the new head of the Magic Tower appeared in his office, having usurped the previous leader in a cruel, swift manner.

In the span of two sunsets, the hopes for Cradle shouldered by Lancelot’s father had been crushed.

...

Amon’s threats were potent and provocative. They forced Lancelot’s hand into accepting the burdens that came with the long-standing secret relationship of the Red Army and the Magic Tower. What had been a relatively equal relationship a century ago was now a forced power play, the apparent weaker forced to submit the to the stronger.

Lancelot knew he could not stand for it, but with the newfound title of King on his shoulders, he knew there was naught he could do until he regained his footing. He could not even confide in Harr nor Sirius – Amon had threatened their lives as well, should Lancelot ask for their assistance or advice. The Red King did not doubt for a moment that the Magic Tower had eyes and ears in all places, and that talking with either of them, even in confidence, could run the risk of alerting Amon to his plans.

I have to keep them safe, even if that means refusing to speak with them outright. That is the most assured way to keep them out of harm’s way, Lancelot promised himself one evening, striding back toward his office. He had just attended a dinner meeting with the Jack of Hearts, Claudius Bright. His nephew, Edgar, was set to take the position soon enough, and a meeting over food was necessary given the hour. With official business out of the way, more could follow.

But when Lancelot got back to his office, he found the door slightly ajar. Tensing up, he readied a bout of magic in his fingertips, ready to strike should the occasion call for it. Pushing the door open gently, crimson eyes examined the solitary office.

There were no lurking hooded figures or intruders in sight. Instead, Jonah, the new Queen of Hearts and Lancelot’s right hand, had his arms crossed atop the desk. His head was cradled in his arms, and it appeared as if he had fallen asleep.

Oh. Lancelot dropped his defenses, gently shutting the door behind him. A lone crystal on the desk illuminated the space, the remainder of the room dark. It’s no wonder you fell asleep, he thought with a smile as he approached. The glow from the crystal was a warm orange, a testament to the progress made in magic – the previous ones had all burned blue – and it perfectly enunciated Jonah’s features.

As he stood beside the desk, Lancelot could not resist staring for a moment or two. A few papers were settled to one side, a summary of notes next to them. Other papers that did not require Lancelot’s signature were already finished. The pen had rolled onto the floor some time ago.

Jonah’s hair danced slightly with each gentle breath. His features, normally either a scowl or a glare, were softened by sleep. Lancelot had long ago accepted that Jonah was handsome – but in this moment, he appeared more beautiful than anything else.

You mentioned Harr and Sirius in your threats, Amon, Lancelot mused, resisting the urge to reach out and rest a hand on Jonah’s arm or stroke his hair, but you neglected to mention my oldest ally. But perhaps that is a good thing. Because Jonah is the one who believes in our dreams. So…

Lancelot finally reached out then, gingerly touching Jonah’s shoulder.

… Even if I die and leave him alone, then I am reassured that he will continue the legacy I leave behind. Even if that means…

“… King Lancelot? Oh!” Jonah snapped to attention, standing from the desk and bowing with shame. “Forgive me! Did you see if I was drool— I mean, I didn’t appear unkempt, did I?”

“You are fine, Jonah. All is well.” The smile Lancelot gave at the sight of Jonah’s embarrassed blush had his Queen smiling for only a moment before he bowed again and apologized his behavior.

… Even if that means I have to push these feelings and you away to keep you safe, too.

#jonalotweek21 #jonalotweek #jonalot #lancelot kingsley #jonah clemence #ikemen revolution

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kashimalin-fanfiction · 3 years

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The White Rose (Lancelot Kingsley/Jonah Clemence)

Summary: When the young Prince of Hearts loses his voice in defending his people, his love in this fairytale devotes their existence to rescuing him from his fate.

Pairing: Jonah Clemence/Lancelot Kingsley

Count: 1688 words.

Rating: General

Warnings: None.

This is for Jonalot Week 2021! Day 2 – Fairytales – puts a spin on the Cradle Fairytale about the Prince and the white roses! One day, I would like to make this into a full-fledged story, but for now… enjoy!

(And shh, yes, it’s a day late. I’m a busy soul.)

“There once was a prince who fought to protect his Kingdom. But, fearing his strength and goodwill, an evil sorcerer from a rival kingdom cast a spell on the prince.”

That was what Jonah had taken from the meeting. The Red Prince used his magic for the good of the people, vowing to bring back the people’s faith in wizards and magicians who had previously tried to overturn the governing forces of their kingdom. People had been against his rule from the start when he, too, was born with magic, but he had done all he could to prove himself the stronger, more humble man.

Jonah knew that Prince Lancelot was the greatest of all the wizards in the land. And that is what cost him his hearing. He repeated his story to a council whose responses he could not hear, whose outrage was only visible on their faces and in the way they gestured and rioted.

And as his right hand, Jonah merely sat at his prince’s side.

…

“The spell cursed the prince to ‘eternal isolation.’ The prince lost the ability to hear people speak. And soon, he lost the ability to speak himself.”

The week had passed uneventful. Lancelot had deigned himself to speak less and less as of late, his voice having grown hoarse sometime the previous evening. Afraid he was coming down with a cold on top of the current curse, advisors instructed him to go to sleep early.

Jonah was the first at his door the next morning, wanting to know if his prince had slept through the night and was as sick as he appeared to be last night. He knocked on the door to Lancelot’s chambers. “Prince Lancelot, are you there?”

No response followed, leading Jonah to assume that Lancelot was either still asleep or had left for an early bout of training. The latter, not being all that uncommon, caused Jonah to turn on his heel.

Then, there was a furious smashing sound from inside the room. Turning back, Jonah shoved the door open. “Prince Lancelot!”

A vase lay in pieces on the rug, Lancelot breathing heavily. As he looked to Jonah in horror, his mouth moved wordlessly. The syllables his lips formed did not come forth, but he could just make out the apology Lancelot was trying to provide.

“Your… your voice.” Realization pitched Jonah’s tone as he rushed forward, gripping Lancelot by his shoulders. “He took your voice too?”

Lancelot only stared down at Jonah silently, his features crumbling. Others rushed into the room a moment later at the commotion, but the Red Prince did not cry or mourn. He only stared at the floor and held Jonah in a tight grip, not moving for several minutes.

…

“The prince closed his heart to the world, making him truly alone. The greatest doctors and scholars in the land tried to break the curse, but they all failed.”

The king summoned all in the land to examine his son in an attempt to find a cure. From doctors to scholars to wizards, some of the most intelligent and skillful people in all the land had done their part to find a cure for the young prince.

None had succeeded. So still Jonah worked alongside his prince in silence, never speaking. The act was futile for the most part, as Lancelot still had difficulty reading lips and far preferred to keep to himself. In the early days, they filled three diaries with their exchanges, Jonah often speaking for Lancelot at important meetings or for requests.

But these exchanges took a rapid decline as Lancelot continued to shut himself off from the world, closing further and further in on himself. In time, he even closed his heart to Jonah, refusing to speak in their newfound manner.

All his attention turned inward, and it was clear to Jonah that Lancelot was planning something based on his burst of practice and research.

He just didn’t know how to stop it.

…

“’There’s no point in living like this,’ thought the prince. ‘But if I’m to die, I will do it protecting my people.’”

“And so, the prince went after the enemy that was trying to destroy his kingdom – alone. He ran faster than an arrow shot from a bow.”

A cabinet clattered to the floor behind him. Lancelot knew he could only use small bursts of magic to deter the soldiers that pursued him, having to conserve it. If he wasted too much of his energy now trying to escape, he would be out of magic by the time he reached the sorcerer on the outskirts of their nation.

So instead, he kept up his pace, this time destroying a crystal lamp overhead as pursuers rounded the corner before him. As the corridor was plunged into darkness, he darted down another hallway, thankful this one would still lead him toward the stables. Unable to teleport, it was his fastest way out.

He glanced back over his shoulder, assured that nobody was following him before still picking up the pace. A sword bounced against his hip while a large bag of crystals was slung over a shoulder. The less I must depend on my own magic, the better. If I can weaken that damned sorcerer, then attack at the final moment with all my magic…

He hastened his pace still further, breaking into the cold night air. Magically slamming and locking the door shut behind him, Lancelot ran across the empty field toward the stables.

… Then he will die, and I can escape this isolation.

…

“He was resolved to die. But a young man reached out and grabbed him by the arm.”

But before Lancelot could reach the stables, his arm was seized. He retaliated without hesitating, a blast of magic singing the grass and causing the person to scramble away.

However, when Lancelot turned his head, he was struck by the sight of Jonah standing before him. His chest heaved as he apparently caught his breath, having most likely still run after him.

But before Lancelot could reach for the sword at his hip, Jonah lunged forward, shoving him to the ground in one swift shove. Seizing Lancelot by the collar, he shook him furiously, his lips moving without being heard.

…

“He tried frantically to tell the prince something, but he could not hear his voice.”

“Don’t you know how important your life is?” Jonah cried out, shaking Lancelot by the collar. “Your life matters to this entire nation! The entire army was in an uproar because we refuse to let you do this alone! Just because you were cursed with eternal isolation doesn’t mean you have to leave the rest of us alone! I didn’t think you would dare leave me alone in a world without you!”

Yet Lancelot only looked back up at him with a placid gaze, unable to hear a word.

“Fine then!” Jonah finally dropped Lancelot to the ground, scanning the garden. “Then this should make you understand!”

He ran over to a nearby rosebush, wincing as he closed his hand around a thorny stem. Yet he endured the pain to pluck it from the bush and held it out toward Lancelot.

He did not try to speak. All he wanted to convey was in his expression, earnest and firm as he took two confident steps toward his Prince. Lancelot stared at Jonah’s features, frowning for only a moment until he understood.

…

“Furrowing his brow in desperation, he picked a single white rose from a nearby bush. He held it out earnestly to the prince. The moment the prince saw the rose…”

… There was a brilliant flash of light. And in a moment, all the sound of the world returned. Lancelot dropped all in his arms at the sensation.

The wind was the first thing he heard. He had felt it for so long through open windows and when traveling, but it rustled the trees and grass. There were the sounds of alarm bells ringing in the distance, of shouting men.

Of Jonah before him, holding out the white rose.

“Don’t you know the meaning of a white rose?” He recalled Jonah asking once, a long time ago as he decorated Lancelot’s desk with them. “They mean… Well, you should look it up yourself! It would be a good side project for you.”

He had, but only during his moments spent locked up in his room. It showed in every way now. In the rosy blush on Jonah’s cheeks. The devotion and care and concern shining in those golden eyes. The way his hands trembled as Lancelot opened his mouth to speak, to say, to promise, in a hoarse voice gone unused for so long –

“Jonah, you are the only one for me.”

…

“The prince was himself once more. He raised his voice and joined with his people to fight. He led them to victory and brought peace and happiness to the kingdom.”

…

It was then that Jonah awoke. His eyes flickered open as he caught sight of a maid tugging his curtains open, the morning light enough to rouse him from his dream. Lifting himself up onto one elbow, he rubbed at his eyes and stifled an unkempt yawn.

“Good morning, Mr. Jonah,” she said with a slight curtsy before exiting the room. He said nothing in return, only looking around his room until his eyes fell on the old picture book tucked between the other more impressive volumes on his shelf. He recalled the story from his dreams – aptly titled The White Rose – and how often he had read that particular story to Luka.

Did I dream of that tale because Luka’s just run off to the Black Army? Or because I…

Shoving the other thought away, Jonah worked to ignore the recent acknowledgement of his budding feelings toward Lancelot, which had occupied him in idle moments as of late.

I can’t think of those right now. He thought to himself as someone entered to help him dress. After all, I only acknowledge these feelings because it makes them easier to ignore and refute.

#jonalotweek21 #jonalotweek #jonalot #lancelot kingsley #jonah clemence #ikemen revolution

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kashimalin-fanfiction · 3 years

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A Promise Is Shared (Lancelot Kingsley/Jonah Clemence)

HAPPY JonaLot Week 2021! Today’s prompt is Childhood, and I opted to write from the perspective of them as children. I am going to be pushing the envelope with some of these prompts, some more shippy/romantic than others. Despite this, I hope you enjoy each story.

Summary: Jonah knows from a young age that his first and foremost duty is to protect the future King of Hearts that he serves. But the sentiment is returned.

Pairing: Jonah Clemence/Lancelot Kingsley

Count: 703 words

Rating: General

Warnings: None.

You are the last line of defense between a threat and your King.

Jonah had been proud of his accomplishments about befriending Prince Lancelot at the party a little over a month ago. He spared his parents the more pitiful details and intentionally picked out a longer sleeved shirt to hide the bruises on his arms.

So, you should not cling to the Kingsley heir so much. It’s unsightly.

But while his parents had first been full of praise at the sudden friendship, thankful whenever Lancelot offered to spend time with Jonah when he came to headquarters, they now treated it with a distasteful scorn.

You shouldn’t have to depend on him for protection and curry favor by groveling at his side.

Jonah never saw it that way, but he figured that if his father said it, it must be true.

…

Their conversation had taken place in the carriage as they rode to Red Headquarters for work. Jonah had been brought specifically at Prince Lancelot’s request, which thrilled him to the core. He kept that feeling locked down, not letting it show as they drew closer to the white and red building. I’ll have to remember to ask Prince Lancelot if he can ask to invite Luka next time, too.

These get-togethers had become a regular affair as Jonah came to observe his father during some of his less intensive duties. Lancelot had already started doing the same two years ago, and was brimming with advice for the future Queen of Hearts.

It was a slight opposition to the demeanor Prince Lancelot had showed at the party. There, he shone with regal confidence, telling off the bullies and protecting Jonah in the same swift, decisive maneuver.

Behind closed doors and over a luncheon or tea break, he spoke at length about all sorts of topics that initially had Jonah’s head swimming. Politics, agriculture, economics, and battle tactics were all fair game. And the future Queen had been doing his best to keep up – and thought he was doing a rather fine job of it.

The conversation he and his father had in the carriage only proved to make him all the more grateful that he was studying so hard.

…

And so, he brought that confidence and pride in with him, recounting his father’s speech to Lancelot. He parroted his father perfectly, even standing from his chair and standing tall for emphasis.

But after he had finished, Lancelot tilted his head to the side, appearing confused.

“What’s the matter, Prince Lancelot?” Jonah asked, smiling to keep the concern out of his tone.

“Why… should you protect me?” Lancelot asked slowly, sounding genuinely curious.

“What? Isn’t it obvious? Because I should be your last line of defense! Father says that we should be ready to give up our lives if it means protecting the King we serve!”

Lancelot set down his teacup then, looking up at Jonah. “That sounds backwards. The King’s duty is to protect his people.”

Jonah’s eyes widened then. “W-What?”

“Let’s look at this way.” Lancelot held up two fingers. “I had two options the night I saw you being bullied. The first is as your father says – that you should protect me. In that case, I would hold back and evaluate your strength for myself to see if you are capable of protecting me.”

“Which sounds fine.”

“But I do not think that is the correct answer,” Lancelot said, choosing his words slowly. “I know I made the right choice protecting you. A King should be sure of his ability to protect his people, and that includes those closest to him, such as his Queen. I would rather see you fight at my side than throw your life away to protect me, Jonah.”

At that, Jonah was at a loss for words.

As his mind kicked and struggled, he was briefly struck with a bout of inadequacy – ignoring his youth, sneering at himself for not being good enough.

But once again, his King protected him.

“You are fine just as you are, Jonah. And I’m looking forward to helping Cradle move forward together.”

Resisting the urge to cry with a loud sniffle, Jonah nodded once. “Of course, my Prince!”

#jonalotweek21 #jonalotweek #jonalot #lancelot kingsley #jonah clemence #personal #ikemen revolution #ikerev #sorry for not posting in a while guys! if you check my twitter i've got a cosplay going on #and writing has been real hard #i want to keep doing it but it may be infrequent! we'll see

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kashimalin-fanfiction · 3 years

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Jonalot Week is back once again this year to celebrate the royal couple! This year, the event will be held during 14 - 20 June 2021, so prepare yourself for more Jonalot yet again!

Daily Prompts:

Day 1, 14 June // Childhood

Day 2, 15 June // Fairytales

Day 3, 16 June // Dreams

Day 4, 17 June // Soulmates

Day 5, 18 June // Change

Day 6, 19 June // Modern

Day 7, 20 June // Free Day

Rules:

Keep reading

#just gotta participate #my schooling is over guys and this is my last 'education summer'#like a school determined summer #after this it's my last year of grad school then work all the time time #jonalotweek #jonalotweek21

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kashimalin-fanfiction · 3 years

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L’Éternel Cirque (Chapter 7: Her Choice)

A circus that only opens at nightfall. The same cast performs the acts, no matter how many years have passed. Individuals who once came as children recognize the smile of the lion tamer or the confidence of the acrobats, wondering if they are the same people from all those years ago. But of course, such a feat is impossible – even for a circus.

Elizabeth’s desire to stay remained even as the final night began, the flood of patrons at sundown a ferocious swell. She forced herself to enjoy the circus in a half-hearted attempt to ignore the feeling, spending her last evenings chasing Napoleon and Sebastian around through their favorite tents.

The Star Chaser tent had caught her attention when she had passed it by with Vincent and Theo earlier that week. It was rumored that incredibly lucky patrons might have the chance to catch a falling star while they wandered through the tent – the rare souvenir from the circus that did not come from a ticket stub or candy bag.

Under this faux sky, Elizabeth believed that they looked completely out of reach. Napoleon and Sebastian both confessed that they had yet to catch a star of their own, chalking it up to being members of the circus.

“All my wishes are already true, for the most part,” Napoleon admitted. “It’s just wanting to improve my magic now.”

“You still look so relieved when you say that,” Sebastian said, deadpan. “Are you that thrilled that she knows our secret?”

“Of course! Keeping it a secret this whole time, concealing our magic… it was more stressful than my first act!”

The three laughed, Elizabeth most of all. The now ever-present ache swelled up in her heart as she did so. She was going to miss moments like this, more than she could care to admit.

So when she opened her eyes and saw a falling star, instinct took over first. A silent wish trembled at the back of her mind, ever present since last night.

Then she remembered the stories of this tent.

A star would be something tangible to remember the circus by. To take home.

She went chasing after where she had seen it fall, leaving Napoleon and Sebastian behind. She knew that they would always be close, naturally following her two seconds later to keep a close eye on her.

The star had reached the ground. It was near-blinding up close, but began to decrease in intensity as she knelt down to pick it up.

Then she felt something else take hold. From one caught breath to the next, one moment ticking to another, Elizabeth was suddenly aware that her body was not her own. It forced her to hand, arms still stuck out awkwardly until pushed to relax.

Is this what Sebastian and Jean felt? When Vlad cast his spell? I— I don’t— I can’t—!

“Hello. It’s nice to get to see you again.” Vlad laughed darkly as he leaned over her shoulder, looking down at the star that lay at their feet. “You shouldn’t need to wish for something you can have so easily. If you just asked The Illusionist ever so nicely, I’m sure he would let you stay.”

She wanted to cry out – to demand that he let go of whatever foreign hold he had placed over her body – but instead he came and wrapped an arm about her waist.

“Forgive me, but I think we should wait for your ever-watchful protector to arrive. In fact…” He gestured down at the star at their feet. “He’ll be here soon.”

The star, which had been steadily dimming, now glowed even brighter, nearly blinding Elizabeth until she was permitted to close her eyes.

The Illusionist’s voice came before his figure did.

“I had to stop my show for this?”

He appeared when Elizabeth opened her eyes. Vlad let out a laugh as Elizabeth caught sight of The Illusionist’s dark and furious expression, unlike any face that he had worn before.

“It’s nice that you bothered to stop by and visit an old friend,” Vlad taunted, tucking his chin against Elizabeth’s frozen shoulder.

“I more see it as stopping a trespasser who knows that he has no right stepping foot into my circus.” The Illusionist gave Vlad a discomforting smile, all venom and no warmth. “You should have sent a notice ahead of time so that I could grind it into dust.”

“Still insisting on clinging to the circus, even when I know you’re just trying to fill the gap in your heart? Do you know how long I believed the lie I told myself? That you were gathering all these silly little students for another proper duel?” Vlad’s polite tone was soon spit through his gritted teeth, angry and harsh. “Only for you to disappoint me time and time again?”

“That’s what I was in the end – a disappointment. And that has not changed.”

“It changes tonight! I found two suitable candidates for the duel of a lifetime – the perfect vessels for my teachings. So, I saved you the trouble and found a partner with enough magic and mettle to fight them.”

“You know my stance on forcing students to take éternité.”

“Ever the gentleman to ask for permission. And that made your students weak. As soft as their master.” Vlad crushed the fallen star then, grinding it beneath his heel. “Too soft to offer this young woman a chance to change her destiny. Because I know he can sense how powerful you are. Can’t you?!”

The Illusionist stood resolute. “No.”

“What a load of shit. I know you can!” Vlad’s voice flared, frustration thinly veiled in his voice. Elizabeth felt a rush of instinct, pushing against his arm. She only earned a tighter grip for her efforts.

“Never,” The Illusionist declared, his voice thick with anger. “I will not force éternité on helpless people who do not know what they are agreeing to. Who do not know the difficulties that will come with such a life. I will not do as you do and force it upon others.”

“And what does that get you? It gets you people with useless powers. Has your little inventor been able to do anything on his own yet? What have your artists and ‘conceptualists’ given you? You are wasting the power of Latent magic. There’s enough magical potential in her to leave even your best and brightest pupils behind! You can’t let her power go to waste! Give her éternité, or I’ll do it myself!”

“You wouldn’t dare.”

“I know you can’t stop me. You have this whole circus under your protection. You used up enough magic this past week trying to prevent every single one of my purposeful accidents before they occurred. All you did was tell your little students to watch out for me. Never once did you tell them to use their own magic to watch their backs.”

“They shouldn’t have to fear someone like you, who is too weak to resist temptation. Now, let her go.”

The command was accompanied by a thundering roar from above their heads.

The stars in the false sky shuddered before falling in a grand waterfall. Vlad dove back, dragging Elizabeth with him – his grip and magical hold loosening for a moment.

That was all she needed.

She pulled back, separating and rushing toward The Illusionist. The cascading stars that separated them were white-hot, their heat growing as she forced herself closer to them. Any distance would do, she told herself, to get away from Vlad.

But just as the stars singed strands of her hair, someone else grabbed her hand, pulling her away from the falling star. Their hold was less aggressive, more welcoming. It was then that Vlad finally caught sight of her and her unknown companion, lunging forward—

— and his hand struck an invisible barrier that neither Elizabeth nor Vlad could see. As Vlad stared down at her, the stars finally finished their fall. The tent went dark.

“I’m afraid you’ve encountered one of my specialties,” Sebastian’s voice said from behind her then, the same polite tone he always had. “I’m the one responsible for those protections you encountered around the circus, not our resident Illusionist.”

Vlad scoffed, pushing off the barrier. “It’s easily broken.”

“Then I dare you to break it.”

The man looked as if he intended to do just that, but a crackling fire snapped at him a second later, forcing Vlad to counter with a well-timed crest of water that forced it back. The Illusionist still stood proud and tall, manifesting and throwing a dagger that aimed true for Vlad’s heart.

It missed with a swipe of the Vlad’s hand, heading off into the depths of the tent. The Magicians resumed their duel, more aggressive than before. Their magical attacks lit up their grim, concentrated expressions.

Shakespeare’s fortune, told just over a week ago, echoed in the back of her mind.

“A strong, powerful figure. Currently very prominent in your life. Or possibly influenced your life’s path. The reversal implies that the figure is also concealing something. About themselves or the circumstances. They didn’t tell you everything.”

The golden outline of The Hierophant on his gilded throne had once seemed impossible to decipher.

But now he could have been either of the men that dueled before her.

Neither showed an ounce of fatigue, but as Sebastian continued to hold Elizabeth’s arm, she sensed his fingers shaking against it.

“Sebastian?”

“Just stay still, Elizabeth. And forgive me if I do not offer my usual pleasant conservation.” He smiled, gritted teeth visible behind trembling lips, illuminated by the sparking magical attacks around them. “It is taking every ounce of my concentration to maintain this.”

Her hand went to his. “You can do it, Sebastian. Hold on as long as you can.”

The trembling stopped a moment later, a quiet acknowledgement passing between the two that Sebastian could still keep going.

The duel had now reached a feverish pitch. A large arcing slide cut the tent fabric open wide, the pitched black of the space now open to the blue night sky. All could be seen now.

And that included Napoleon, who finally appeared from the darkness. At his side was Leonardo, who appeared from the darkness flanked by others from the inner circle of the circus. The fighting did not cease, but Leonardo’s voice carried over it regardless, magically enhanced.

“Did you really think that he wouldn’t take his necessary precautions?” Leonardo declared, a wicked grin on his face. “Every one of us has got a bit of the circus now. And speaking of that, your ex-friend told me something interesting… that, despite your students being the better players, our resident Illusionist was always the stronger magician.”

There was a break in Vlad’s expression then – bleakness flickered in his red eyes for but one moment – then replaced with a fiery anger.

“That explains it, then,” he spit out, The Illusionist pausing in his attacks as Vlad continued speaking. “This fight has felt unfair since the beginning.”

“You always did want me to acknowledge how good you were,” The Illusionist said with a wicked smile. “I suppose you will have to hear it another time. Give it another millennium or two.”

Vlad took one, two steps back – then his gaze snapped to Elizabeth and Sebastian. With swift strides, he was outside the barrier once more, joined by six floating swords. One at his neck, another at his back, and the remaining four hovering over where limbs met his torso.

“One more move and you will leave in pieces,” The Illusionist said coolly. “And I would rather not let the lady see that.”

“I just wanted to perform one last act,” Vlad said, a smile tugging at his lips. “Perhaps a trick far more effective than anything either of us can do.” Leaning down, he paid no mind to the sword’s edge that touched his neck as he did so, drawing blood.

“You have magic, my dear. And you’re better than the rest of them because you can already use it. This barrier—” he rapped it with his knuckles, no sound coming from the act— “It’s only still up because of you. So I suggest you reconsider going home. There’s something here for you after all. You’re stronger than you could ever believe. You don’t ever have to leave.”

“Vlad!”

The swords sliced through a thick black smoke. The barrier collapsed then, Sebastian falling against Elizabeth for unprepared support. The two tumbled to the ground. The Illusionist rushed over to them both.

But when Elizabeth looked to him with a mixture of hope and fear in her eyes, The Illusionist heard her question before she uttered it in a single, stunned breath.

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“I have magic?”

The Illusionist had not wanted her to come to this realization. Their meeting should have been happenstance – a chance encounter at the circus, a later return within five years to reassess her progress. To see if she was willing to throw her entire life away to join their traveling troupe.

He had felt her potential the moment she set foot in his circus. In his tent, the sensation had been even more apparent. He knew that the peak performance he gave that evening was due to her influence. An old, unwelcome sensation gnawed at his heart – a desire to steal her away from her life entirely and push magical studies on her until she was the perfect magician.

That desire was crushed as swiftly as the pen he crushed to black ink next to her seat.

However, all his resistance had been for naught when Vlad forced her into his circus. He knew he could send her back across the ocean with magic, remove her memories, and leave her behind.

But perhaps a greedy, undesirable part of him had wanted to keep her. Just to see if she would stay.

───────── ⋆⋅♠⋅⋆ ─────────

“… Yes, ma chérie.” His words were tinged with a pained regret.

She did not ask her second question until Sebastian and the others had been safely tended to, and she was settled once more in The Illusionist’s tent.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” she asked as she stood next to him.

The obvious second question. “It was not a fact you were prepared to hear. Despite being part of this circus, despite being forced onto our train – it was not my place to tell you. This is not part of your life’s path, not yet.”

“But I could have helped! Maybe I could have been able to fight off Vlad or protect myself!”

“Do you remember what I said about éternité? It was purposefully manifested to grant our students the lifetime they needed to learn their magic. It is a curse and a blessing in equal force. You could not have mastered the magic needed to protect you against Vlad, not in the span of three days.”

“That…” Elizabeth’s gaze dropped to the ground, shame in her eyes. “You’re right. I’m sorry.”

“Do not apologize.” The Illusionist reached out, tucking a finger under her chin to lift her head higher. “The fault of your arrival and lack of return is all mine. Therefore, it is my responsibility to see you safely home.”

“… Will you at least tell me about my magic, then? Before I go. Am I like you and Leonardo?”

“Not in the slightest. There are two forms. My form – and Leonardo’s – are Potent Magicians. Our magic is passed down through our families. It is far stronger than the magic that exists in humans like yourself and everyone else in the circus. We’re able to access it from a young age.”

“But humans…”

“You cannot dream of magic like ours. You possess Latent Magic, which we refine into Manifested Magic. It takes years, longer than lifetimes to gain the full potential of your magic. That is why éternité exists. It exists because two very selfish men wanted to see who was the better teacher. And now it propels this entire circus.”

Elizabeth knew the regret in his gaze now. It was beyond her mortal comprehension – centuries of pain and suffering that would have killed a weaker individual a hundred times over. This man wore it beneath a smile and a cryptic turn of phrase, so practiced that it was as natural as breathing.

She did not prod further – and nor was she given the chance to, as a mechanical machine soared through the flap in the tent. Elizabeth jumped back as it came to a shuddering stop above their heads, only able to examine it proper once The Illusionist reached up to bring it down from the air. A tiny bird had been crafted from gears and spare metal bits.

“Enchanting and manipulating objects is a fondness of Leonardo’s,” The Illusionist explained as he took a paper from the piler-tipped beak. “Which falls perfectly in line with what I asked him and Isaac to finish for me…”

“What did they make?”

The Illusionist rubbed the small note between his fingers, letting it fade into a small shower of silver sparkles. “Would you like to come see?”

───────── ⋆⋅♠⋅⋆ ─────────

“Come look!” Isaac declared as they arrived. “We just put the finishing touches on. We were almost done, but…”

“No matter.” The Illusionist waved off the comment. “Thank you for doing it at all.”

Leonardo, clearly in the throes of wrapping up something, gestured vaguely towards the rest of the tent. “They’re on the table, Isaac. Get them for me.”

Last time Elizabeth had been inside this tent, it had been in order to help Jean after his horrific sword-swallowing accident. Now, she was permitted the moment to glance around the over-crowded space. Any surface was crowded with little mechanical parts, absent scribbles in two handwritings, and half-finished inventions that still miraculously moved on their own.

One invention suddenly jumped to life next to her – a large frog with pearl-like eyes – causing her to step back with a slight squeak. Isaac rolled his eyes, but picked up a box from next to the mechanical creature as it hopped off the table and out of sight.

“Here. These are for you. Leonardo helped to make them more stylish, since The Illusionist said we should. We hope these are something you’ll wear.” Isaac awkwardly thrusted the box towards her as Leonardo finally stood up from his desk, joining the group. “Let us know if you won’t.”

“Thank you,” she said with a smile, accepting it. When she opened the box, she gasped at what was nestled inside.

She lifted the golden chain out from the box, a small golden butterfly dangling at the bottom. Iridescent wings caught the tent’s hanging lights, sparkling in a thousand brilliant colors. Left in the box was a bracelet of a similar make, the butterfly dangling from one of the interlocked chains.

“Oh! Isaac! You should have at least said they were beautiful!”

“The butterflies were Leonardo’s idea,” Isaac confessed.

“And something you sketched out,” Leonardo teased with a smile. “But these bracelets are meant to protect you from harm. We wish we could have finished them sooner, but…”

As Leonardo spoke, Elizabeth could not help but be distracted by the occasional gear or part that whizzed across the room, perfectly slotting itself into one machine or another. When one whizzed just shy of her cheek, Isaac finally let out an irritated sigh and glared at Leonardo.

“Can you stop fixing your inventions for two seconds?”

“I’ll forget the idea unless I do it or write it down,” Leonardo said back, his tone unbothered. “Ideas always come to me when I’m doing something else.”

“As they do for the best of us,” The Illusionist agreed. “Now, you were saying?”

“Ah, right. Someone in the circus will be alerted if magic is used on you or around you, whether you’re a country or an ocean away. Because we can’t really do anything depending on the distance, though I’m sure they’ll try—” His glance to The Illusionist did not go unnoticed— “It also generates a protective field around you. It’s a weak one, so the best bet is to start running if it goes off.”

“How lovely,” Elizabeth said with a smile. “Thank you. I can imagine this took a lot of magic and time.”

“It was nothing.” Leonardo declared dismissively, Isaac nodding in agreement. “We even made some spares, in case something happens to the ones you’ve got in your hands.”

“The best thing to do now is put it on.” The Illusionist spoke as he reached out, taking the necklace in one hand and brushing her long hair aside with the other. He clasped it into place, letting out a relieved sigh as the charm fell against her collarbone. “There. Now I feel much more comfortable letting you go home.”

The weight of that four-letter word sank uncomfortably in Elizabeth’s heart.

───────── ⋆⋅♠⋅⋆ ─────────

Several hours later, they were on a train back to Europe.

Everyone noted that this pace was a bit faster than their usual trips. Footing felt a bit more unsteady than the usual ride that they were accustomed to. The unchanging ocean appeared to whiz by a bit quicker.

Most members made it a point of showing up to dinner, if only to ensure that they could see Elizabeth off. Jean and Leonardo, in particular, made a point of sitting at her table one night so that they could properly apologize for such terrible things being her last memories of the circus.

At that, Elizabeth shook her head. “It’s all right. I still had a wonderful time, and I am honored to have had such an experience. And I was even thinking…”

The Illusionist paused then, fork halfway to his mouth. He set it down, giving Elizabeth a pointed stare. “If you are about to say that you want to stay with us…”

“I’d been considering it! Nothing more. But both you and Vlad said that I had magic like everyone else here. If I stayed, it would give me the opportunity to make stronger memories, and help you keep an eye on all of me.”

The table was quiet, and as she spoke, the rest of the dining car fell silent, too. All eyes were on Elizabeth and The Illusionist, the latter of whom set down his silverware and laced his fingers together.

“Elizabeth. Joining L’Éternel Cirque means that you could never leave. You would stay here to study your magic, live for an extended time thanks to the powers that éternité would grant you. The outside world would become a much more troublesome place to be. You could stay a human – as Sebastian did, for a time – but with Vlad active, I’m not sure if keeping you out of contact with your magic, but within the circus, is our best move.”

“Would letting me out of the circus keep me safer, then?”

“It would be us effectively cutting ties with you. Vlad cannot track you, even if you shared a previous link with us at the circus. I recall you saying that you came to the circus from far enough out of town – he has no idea where you live. I believe it is the safest measure for you to go home, with these protections, but… the ultimate choice is up to you.”

Elizabeth was silent for a moment, then nodded once as tears came to her eyes. “I understand. Then I’ll go home. I haven’t wanted to worry anyone this much, and I’ll be sure to keep an eye out for myself.”

“Ah, chin up, Newt!” Arthur’s voice suddenly rang out, a hint of sadness in his usual chipper tone. “It’s not like Lizzy’s leaving forever! Who knows, maybe we’ll get to see her sooner than we expect!"

"I'm not upset, you idiot,” Isaac shot back, but as Elizabeth leaned to glance at Isaac’s face, she caught the way he was biting at his lip and trying to hold back tears.

“I promise I’ll try to visit again when you all return,” she said. “And then you can show me all how much you’ve improved with magic, right?”

“Absolutely!” Vincent said, beaming. “We would all be happy to escort you around every night of the week!”

“I doubt you could make it out to your area that much,” Theo added, “but we’d arrange something with you ahead of time if we knew we were in the area.”

As somber subjects turned to happier plans for the future, Leonardo leaned over to tap The Illusionist’s elbow. The two men leaned in close, Leonardo’s whisper barely audible.

“What did you say her magic was again?”

“Well, I don’t think I ever said.” The Illusionist smiled mysteriously, glancing once at Elizabeth. "But if I had to hazard a guess, I would say that she is nearly limitless. The kind of power that would be the envy of all. However…”

Leonardo glowered as The Illusionist trailed off, laughing when he caught sight of his friend’s frustrated expression.

“Her natural magic is bringing out the best in others. She brings people together in ways they never imagined before. You surely noticed how much less fighting and resistance there was with her here.”

“That would definitely explain it.”

“The circus members were also more powerful. I have no doubt that even her sleeping Latent magic allowed Theo to break that spell or inspired one of the most creative bursts I have seen out of any of you. I think that, if she had chosen to stay with us, this circus would have remained a much more peaceful place.” The Illusionist leaned back, resuming his meal. “But, as usual, that is not my choice to make. It is hers alone.”

Leonardo leaned back as well, nodding once. “Agreed, old friend.”

───────── ⋆⋅♠⋅⋆ ─────────

The Illusionist and Elizabeth watched as her proper train pulled into the station, prepared to take her home. He took those final moments to turn and ask, “Do you have all your belongings?”

“You double-checked before I left.”

“Do you have the bracelet and necklace that we gave you? Along with the back-ups?”

“I have them! I can show them to you.”

Letting out a gentle laugh, he waved his hand. “There’s no need. I know you have them. Just be sure to keep them safe and always know that you can find a way to contact me. Myself or Leonardo will answer.”

She cast a sidelong glance his way. “I’m thankful that you still trusted Leonardo and the others with more of the circus.”

The Illusionist shuffled his feet, coughing and turning away from her gaze. “They need to learn some independence. Leonardo in particular. I don't want to be responsible for him for the rest of his life.” Her laugh made her smile, and he found himself saying, “But you did that, too. I think you changed everyone at the circus, ma chérie. Whether you noticed or not.”

“If you say so,” she said, a sad smile on her lips. “I’m almost sad to leave. It was nice getting to know everyone, and the past week and a half just flew by. It was like magic – real magic.”

“And it’s a place you can always return to, should we be in the area.” Taking her free hand, he pressed a kiss to the back of it. “Now, don’t miss your train.”

The Illusionist released her, letting her take those last few steps toward her train car. Allowing her to make the final choice for herself, as he always wished for her to have.

(But, for a moment, it appeared as if she was turning around.)

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